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Zodius #1
The Legend of Michael
HE IS A LETHAL WEAPON…
One of an army of human soldiers injected with alien DNA, Michael is a legend within this new race, split between good and evil. Untamable, he has walked on the dark side and returned to the light. Feared and misunderstood, he leaves everything behind, including the one woman destined to be his mate.
HE IS HER ENEMY…AND HER DESTINY…
Fate leads Michael back to Cassandra Powell, for she holds the key to defending his comrades. With their loyalties divided between duty and the people they love, only together can Cassandra and Michael overcome insurmountable odds to save humanity from the wrath of a madman.
But no ordinary woman can control a creature such as Michael, and only one thing is clear—the world will never be the same…
One of an army of human soldiers injected with alien DNA, Michael is a legend within this new race, split between good and evil. Untamable, he has walked on the dark side and returned to the light. Feared and misunderstood, he leaves everything behind, including the one woman destined to be his mate.
HE IS HER ENEMY…AND HER DESTINY…
Fate leads Michael back to Cassandra Powell, for she holds the key to defending his comrades. With their loyalties divided between duty and the people they love, only together can Cassandra and Michael overcome insurmountable odds to save humanity from the wrath of a madman.
But no ordinary woman can control a creature such as Michael, and only one thing is clear—the world will never be the same…
382 pages, Paperback
First published May 1, 2011
333 people are currently reading
2062 people want to read
About the author
Lisa Renee Jones
373 books14.6k followersNew York Times and USA Today bestselling author Lisa Renee Jones is the author of the highly acclaimed INSIDE OUT series. Suzanne Todd (producer of Alice in Wonderland) on the INSIDE OUT series: Lisa has created a beautiful, complicated, and sensual world that is filled with intrigue and suspense. Sara’s character is strong, flawed, complex, and sexy - a modern girl we all can identify with.
In addition to the success of Lisa's INSIDE OUT series, she has published many successful titles. The TALL, DARK AND DEADLY series and THE SECRET LIFE OF AMY BENSEN series, both spent several months on a combination of the New York Times and USA Today bestselling lists. Lisa is presently working on a dark, edgy new series, Dirty Money, for St. Martin's Press.
Prior to publishing Lisa owned multi-state staffing agency that was recognized many times by The Austin Business Journal and also praised by the Dallas Women's Magazine. In 1998 Lisa was listed as the #7 growing women owned business in Entrepreneur Magazine.
Lisa loves to hear from her readers. You can reach her at www.lisareneejones.com and she is active on Twitter and Facebook daily.
In addition to the success of Lisa's INSIDE OUT series, she has published many successful titles. The TALL, DARK AND DEADLY series and THE SECRET LIFE OF AMY BENSEN series, both spent several months on a combination of the New York Times and USA Today bestselling lists. Lisa is presently working on a dark, edgy new series, Dirty Money, for St. Martin's Press.
Prior to publishing Lisa owned multi-state staffing agency that was recognized many times by The Austin Business Journal and also praised by the Dallas Women's Magazine. In 1998 Lisa was listed as the #7 growing women owned business in Entrepreneur Magazine.
Lisa loves to hear from her readers. You can reach her at www.lisareneejones.com and she is active on Twitter and Facebook daily.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 153 reviews
August 10, 2011
This book was so awesome! I truly loved it. I would have given it 5.5 if I could. Michael and Cassandra were so perfect for each other. Everything was pretty clear cut as to what was going on. Alien DNA was used to make super soldiers. The whole lifebond thing was pretty cool. Although the women have to suffer when the get their double circle tattoo on their necks. While the men become super possessive . Not to mention that they both have souped up sex drives. I loved that Michael was different from the others. Everyone feared him. I believe he was called "The Dark One".lol
There was some serious business of people double crossing each other and so much plotting...gezz. Powell I hated and by the end I seriously hated him. Adam and Ava were some that I wanted to hate but then was so interested in that I couldn't. Plenty of action, lots of hot sex.. The ending was left that you know the war between good and evil are going to be around for awhile. I cant wait to read Sterling's book. This had to be one of my favorites ..
There was some serious business of people double crossing each other and so much plotting...gezz. Powell I hated and by the end I seriously hated him. Adam and Ava were some that I wanted to hate but then was so interested in that I couldn't. Plenty of action, lots of hot sex.. The ending was left that you know the war between good and evil are going to be around for awhile. I cant wait to read Sterling's book. This had to be one of my favorites ..
October 17, 2011
Wow! This book is amazing. It comes in two parts. Part one is like a extended prologue where you learn some back story about the world Ms Jones takes you into. You also learn about Cassandra and Michael and the other characters. Part two is where things get really interesting.
Michael is a soldier that was injected with alien DNA and is now part of a group of soldiers called GTECHs. Cassandra is the daughter of the man who changed these men. When they first meet the chemistry burns up the pages. They quickly become an item and things are going well until one day all hell breaks loose and they are both forced to make decisions that may change their lives forever.
I loved this story. It was well written and the plot made sense. There were a lot of complicated scenes and everything still seemed to flow. There are actually three groups of people that you are reading about and I loved the fact that you get an insight into all of them. You don't just get to hear from Cassandra and Michael, you get to hear from a lot of different characters good and bad. It really helps you understand what is going on throughout the whole story. All the characters are strong and interesting. The chemistry is explosive, the action keeps you interested, and the suspense keeps you on the edge of your seat. This book left me wanting more! A must read!!!
Michael is a soldier that was injected with alien DNA and is now part of a group of soldiers called GTECHs. Cassandra is the daughter of the man who changed these men. When they first meet the chemistry burns up the pages. They quickly become an item and things are going well until one day all hell breaks loose and they are both forced to make decisions that may change their lives forever.
I loved this story. It was well written and the plot made sense. There were a lot of complicated scenes and everything still seemed to flow. There are actually three groups of people that you are reading about and I loved the fact that you get an insight into all of them. You don't just get to hear from Cassandra and Michael, you get to hear from a lot of different characters good and bad. It really helps you understand what is going on throughout the whole story. All the characters are strong and interesting. The chemistry is explosive, the action keeps you interested, and the suspense keeps you on the edge of your seat. This book left me wanting more! A must read!!!
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April 27, 2011I read 100 pages of this book before I decided to quit and the main reason I couldn’t continue is because we are never shown of this romance between Michael and Cassandra. Michael is this super, elite, genetically altered GTECH soldier who first meets Cassandra at the beginning of the book. They are instantly attracted to each other. But right at the beginning, instead of letting us see how this relationship develops, we skip ahead two weeks (where we miss four dates of theirs but we are told they had a nice time) to their first sex scene (which only lasts a very brief moment – we skip over much of that too).
Chapter three starts six months into the future where Cassandra and Michael have been living in bliss – again – so we are told. They have become Lifemates, like a bonded couple. At this point one of the GTECH soldiers starts to lead a revolt, and Michael disappears, but right before he does, he makes Cassandra swear to not tell anyone they are a bonded couple. He then disappears.
Two years later (oh yes, we skip ahead AGAIN) Cassandra finds Michael again. I’m frustrated because this plot relies heavily on the angst that Cassandra has not seen Michael for two years, but honestly, about 70 pages in, and having skipped ahead SO many times, I felt absolutely no chemistry between Michael and Cassandra. Their romance is never built up. We never see their love, or their lust, or their friendship. We only are told of it. I had no care or interest about them as a couple at this point.
I did find the revolt led by another more dangerous soldier interesting, however, we are bombarded with information, and terms, and rules and it weighed down that aspect of the story too.
Chapter three starts six months into the future where Cassandra and Michael have been living in bliss – again – so we are told. They have become Lifemates, like a bonded couple. At this point one of the GTECH soldiers starts to lead a revolt, and Michael disappears, but right before he does, he makes Cassandra swear to not tell anyone they are a bonded couple. He then disappears.
Two years later (oh yes, we skip ahead AGAIN) Cassandra finds Michael again. I’m frustrated because this plot relies heavily on the angst that Cassandra has not seen Michael for two years, but honestly, about 70 pages in, and having skipped ahead SO many times, I felt absolutely no chemistry between Michael and Cassandra. Their romance is never built up. We never see their love, or their lust, or their friendship. We only are told of it. I had no care or interest about them as a couple at this point.
I did find the revolt led by another more dangerous soldier interesting, however, we are bombarded with information, and terms, and rules and it weighed down that aspect of the story too.
May 1, 2023
Purch Amz Dec. 5, 2022
I expected this to be better. It's okay but I'm bored with it. Putting it on my backburner for now. May come back to it later.
Made it to page 126, about 35%. I'm DNF'ing.
I just can't take all the 'Much about Nothing'. This is about the 3rd book I've read by this author and quite frankly I'm very disappointed. They all seem to be written with a lot of filler and very formulaic. I don't have the patience to deal with this. The other's I read were contemporary. This one is supposed to be Sci-fi.
What they all are is BORING.
I'm done with this series and this author.
I expected this to be better. It's okay but I'm bored with it. Putting it on my backburner for now. May come back to it later.
Made it to page 126, about 35%. I'm DNF'ing.
I just can't take all the 'Much about Nothing'. This is about the 3rd book I've read by this author and quite frankly I'm very disappointed. They all seem to be written with a lot of filler and very formulaic. I don't have the patience to deal with this. The other's I read were contemporary. This one is supposed to be Sci-fi.
What they all are is BORING.
I'm done with this series and this author.
February 12, 2012
My paranormal bar is pretty high, especially since the GhostWalkers rocked my world when it comes to enhanced soldiers. I hate comparing books, but the GWs continually came to mind, and this just didn't satisfy the way those books do. Nevertheless, the ideas were interesting, and this series does have some promise. I will definitely give The Storm That Is Sterling a try.
Reviewed for Bitten by Books. http://bittenbybooks.com.
Reviewed for Bitten by Books. http://bittenbybooks.com.
May 12, 2011
I liked this first book of the Zodius series. It had lots of action, hunky hero, villains, and left the door wide open for the next book.
Lisa Renee Jones is a very good writer, and I can't really think of any off-putting errors or misspellings.
Here's the basics:
A military experiment at Area 51 in Nevada, run by a General Patton, injected Special Forces troops with what the troops were told were vaccines against chemical warfare. In reality, DNA taken from the Roswell crash aliens was injected into the soldiers in the hopes that they would turn into 'Super Soldiers'. The soldiers changed in profound ways, including some having uncontrollable rage, along with more strength, being able to 'wind walk', sense thoughts of others, etc. They were called GTECH. It was finally decided that they should all be imprisoned, or terminated, as there was no way to control some of them. Before that could happen it was leaked to the soldiers and an uprising occurred in which Area 51 was overtaken.
The soldiers split into two groups: the 'Zodius' group run by Adam Rain, kept Area 51 and want to dominate the world to rid it of weak humans. The 'Renegades', led by Adam's twin brother Caleb don't want to dominate anyone. Adam wants Caleb to join him, but Caleb knew Adam was unstable even before the uprising. Caleb and Michael had considered killing Adam before the revolt, but didn't act in time.
This book is about Michael Taylor, a very powerful GTECH soldier and his 'mate', Cassandra Powell. She is the daughter of the power-hungry General Powell who was in charge of the experiment.
Unfortunately, I didn't think this was quite as good as the 'Underground Guardians' books, even though this is essentially the same story, just started from an earlier point. I read them right before this one... big mistake on my part.
Still, this would be a 5 star book for me, except for a few things:
- The guy on the cover doesn't look at all like the Michael in the book (in fact I don't find the cover guy very good looking at all, but Michael is supposed to have long hair and be devastatingly handsome, and not just to Cassandra). Covers DO matter!
- Michael was just too dark and brooding and angst-ridden. He almost had no identity or personality... if it weren't for their attraction as mates, I don't think Cassandra would have been able to put up with him, even as submissive as she was. He didn't talk to her much at all. It was like reading about Clint Eastwood in his spaghetti westerns... this is the quietest, most upset man I have ever read about in a romance/action novel.
- Speech was really stiff for Michael... GTECH or not, contractions would still be part of his speech pattern, just like it was for the rest of the guys. At times he sounded like a foreign vampire talking. Then, near the end of the book, he started talking 'a little' more normally... just saying!
In spite of that, the story was really good. Cassandra was pretty likeable (not crude).
Some of the characters from the 'Underground Guardians' books are in this book - some with their names changed, some as they were before. I think it probably was a difficult call as to whether to change the really superb names of David and Mason Alexander (from the other books) to Adam and Caleb Rain (not so hot) in this one, and the only reason I can think of to do that is to give a later book to Caleb Rain (Mason Alexander had found a mate in a previous book). It certainly couldn't have been because the names are better... Caleb??? REALLY!!! I almost wonder if Michael is Micah from the other books...
The 'leaders' of the 'Renegades' seemed a little too cautious and not as dominant as Michael or Adam, which makes me wonder how they will ever win this war against the Zodius. These are soldiers, but they didn't really step up appropriately, especially Caleb. We don't read anything in this book that tells us why Caleb is the leader... he doesn't seem to have more powers, etc.
If I were to do it again, I would not have read the 'Underground Guardians' books before this one. This one begins before those do, and I kept comparing the books.
I will still read the next one the day it comes out...
Lisa Renee Jones is a very good writer, and I can't really think of any off-putting errors or misspellings.
Here's the basics:
A military experiment at Area 51 in Nevada, run by a General Patton, injected Special Forces troops with what the troops were told were vaccines against chemical warfare. In reality, DNA taken from the Roswell crash aliens was injected into the soldiers in the hopes that they would turn into 'Super Soldiers'. The soldiers changed in profound ways, including some having uncontrollable rage, along with more strength, being able to 'wind walk', sense thoughts of others, etc. They were called GTECH. It was finally decided that they should all be imprisoned, or terminated, as there was no way to control some of them. Before that could happen it was leaked to the soldiers and an uprising occurred in which Area 51 was overtaken.
The soldiers split into two groups: the 'Zodius' group run by Adam Rain, kept Area 51 and want to dominate the world to rid it of weak humans. The 'Renegades', led by Adam's twin brother Caleb don't want to dominate anyone. Adam wants Caleb to join him, but Caleb knew Adam was unstable even before the uprising. Caleb and Michael had considered killing Adam before the revolt, but didn't act in time.
This book is about Michael Taylor, a very powerful GTECH soldier and his 'mate', Cassandra Powell. She is the daughter of the power-hungry General Powell who was in charge of the experiment.
Unfortunately, I didn't think this was quite as good as the 'Underground Guardians' books, even though this is essentially the same story, just started from an earlier point. I read them right before this one... big mistake on my part.
Still, this would be a 5 star book for me, except for a few things:
- The guy on the cover doesn't look at all like the Michael in the book (in fact I don't find the cover guy very good looking at all, but Michael is supposed to have long hair and be devastatingly handsome, and not just to Cassandra). Covers DO matter!
- Michael was just too dark and brooding and angst-ridden. He almost had no identity or personality... if it weren't for their attraction as mates, I don't think Cassandra would have been able to put up with him, even as submissive as she was. He didn't talk to her much at all. It was like reading about Clint Eastwood in his spaghetti westerns... this is the quietest, most upset man I have ever read about in a romance/action novel.
- Speech was really stiff for Michael... GTECH or not, contractions would still be part of his speech pattern, just like it was for the rest of the guys. At times he sounded like a foreign vampire talking. Then, near the end of the book, he started talking 'a little' more normally... just saying!
In spite of that, the story was really good. Cassandra was pretty likeable (not crude).
Some of the characters from the 'Underground Guardians' books are in this book - some with their names changed, some as they were before. I think it probably was a difficult call as to whether to change the really superb names of David and Mason Alexander (from the other books) to Adam and Caleb Rain (not so hot) in this one, and the only reason I can think of to do that is to give a later book to Caleb Rain (Mason Alexander had found a mate in a previous book). It certainly couldn't have been because the names are better... Caleb??? REALLY!!! I almost wonder if Michael is Micah from the other books...
The 'leaders' of the 'Renegades' seemed a little too cautious and not as dominant as Michael or Adam, which makes me wonder how they will ever win this war against the Zodius. These are soldiers, but they didn't really step up appropriately, especially Caleb. We don't read anything in this book that tells us why Caleb is the leader... he doesn't seem to have more powers, etc.
If I were to do it again, I would not have read the 'Underground Guardians' books before this one. This one begins before those do, and I kept comparing the books.
I will still read the next one the day it comes out...
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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December 30, 2013
The Legend Of Michael is the first book in Lisa Renee Jones's series Zodius. If I were the author's PR person, I would gush that this is a thrilling tale patterned after romantic superhero fantasies crossed with a subtle dystopian vibe and sprinkled with the author's trademark sensuality. Since the author isn't paying me to lie to you, however, I'd just say this: the entire series is what happens when Lora Leigh's cat people decide to wear Superman's spandex trunks, only with enough bad science to make Lora Leigh look like Charles Darwin.
In the 1950s, the US government discovers a batch of alien DNA. Since they know that there is hardly any market for a series of kick-ass women in the romance genre, these people line up as many guys as they can - guys that look like they are juiced up without really using juice, like Chippendale dancers without being gay porn actors - and inject them with this DNA while telling these future beefcake fantasy pee-pees that they are just being vaccinated. I guess these guys must not have read their contracts too closely, because these naughty scientists aren't being subtle at all, as the whole project is called Operation GTECH Super Soldiers.
The end result is these men's virility being enhanced to near-burst engorgement point with super strength, super healing powers, super speed, and even the ability to vanish and move like the wind (you can call them hot "Wind-walkers"). Shockingly enough, some of these dudes decide that, since they are so much better than everyone else, they want to rule the world. These are the Zodius dudes. The good guys form the Renegades, your standard "band of beefcakes with bigger penises, supposedly charged to protect the world from superpowered bad guys, mostly by drooling after the heroine like a stalking idiot" band of sequel baits.
Our hero Michael Taylor is the best, strongest, humongest... at least until the next book, because we can't have a romance hero who isn't the most perfect ever. Anyway, since this is his story, let's pretend that he's the most awesome human in existence for now.
The heroine... do I even need to describe her? This book - this series - is, like all those books by Kresley Cole, JR Ward, and the rest, all about penis worship. It's labeled as paranormal romance because Wal-Mart and other family outlets may balk at the more accurate "penis worship fantasy" label. The guys are the best, most virile, most awesome, the hottest stalkers in the world, and when they do fight, it's an excuse for them to flex their sweaty biceps and thrust those thighs to make our sexually unfulfilled lives explode in onanistic bliss.
Oh, okay, let's pretend that the heroine matters. She's Casssandra Powell, the new head of clinical psychology at the Hot Big Peen Factory, er, GTECH Super Soldier Industrial Plant. On her first day, she falls onto the floor after bumping into Michael's wall of muscle (she's too busy reading to see where she is going, you see) and her skirt hikes up to show off her thighs. This is, of course, romance at first sight and Michael immediately makes it clear that his penis would like a first hand introduction with her. The heroine is like, oh, so hot, so hot, besides, she was created to be the adoring chalice of Michael's hot molten loving anyway, so she may as well love every minute. Michael is so hot, every woman wants to be cheerleaders that play with his pom-poms! Squeal!
Oh, the plot? The bad guys - there are a few factions here - are doing something bad to interrupt the coital melodrama of Michael and what's-her-name, so he gets to flex those guns and rescue her while dramatically pouting and looking murderous when he thinks that she may die, and really now, people, worship the penis. It can heal itself, wind walk, and do all kinds of special ninja pee-pee tricks.
Bask in the fantasy of being owned by these men! Women that have sex with them and succeed in making these guys fall in love with them get branded with a special tattoo that I'm sure we are all proud to show off if we are ever so lucky...
... To swap body fluids with guys that have alien DNA, that is. Seriously, early on, Cassandra tells me upfront that no one knows what long-term effects may show up in these guys. And yet, I'm supposed to buy that women have no problems throwing themselves at these guys. Or that the people in charge of mass-manufacturing these guys for the romance market have no problems letting these guys spread the love around? Okay, I'm told that these guys are sterile, but still, these women are taking in body fluids with alien DNA. Who knows what will happen? And what's to stop these guys from mutating into things that only women in creepy Japanese pornographic cartoons can love?
The Legend Of Michael is another take on the tropes of life-mates and branding and mental bond and what not that worked for the best for authors like Lora Leigh and Christine Feehan. There is nothing groundbreaking here. The only catch here is that you have to be fine with the idea of sleeping with a guy who has alien DNA in his genetic make-up and nobody is certain that he won't one day transform into that alien-human hybrid thing in Alien: Resurrection. Try as I might, I just can't overlook this aspect of bad science permeating the story to read the sex scenes without thinking of some of the more heartwarming scenes from those Alien movies.
Besides, the bad guys are far more interesting here anyway. But that's what having heroes that are practically unkillable will do to a story: it kills all suspense in the story and makes it a dull read for anyone who isn't interested in the fantasy of worshipping pee-pees with alien DNA.
In the 1950s, the US government discovers a batch of alien DNA. Since they know that there is hardly any market for a series of kick-ass women in the romance genre, these people line up as many guys as they can - guys that look like they are juiced up without really using juice, like Chippendale dancers without being gay porn actors - and inject them with this DNA while telling these future beefcake fantasy pee-pees that they are just being vaccinated. I guess these guys must not have read their contracts too closely, because these naughty scientists aren't being subtle at all, as the whole project is called Operation GTECH Super Soldiers.
The end result is these men's virility being enhanced to near-burst engorgement point with super strength, super healing powers, super speed, and even the ability to vanish and move like the wind (you can call them hot "Wind-walkers"). Shockingly enough, some of these dudes decide that, since they are so much better than everyone else, they want to rule the world. These are the Zodius dudes. The good guys form the Renegades, your standard "band of beefcakes with bigger penises, supposedly charged to protect the world from superpowered bad guys, mostly by drooling after the heroine like a stalking idiot" band of sequel baits.
Our hero Michael Taylor is the best, strongest, humongest... at least until the next book, because we can't have a romance hero who isn't the most perfect ever. Anyway, since this is his story, let's pretend that he's the most awesome human in existence for now.
The heroine... do I even need to describe her? This book - this series - is, like all those books by Kresley Cole, JR Ward, and the rest, all about penis worship. It's labeled as paranormal romance because Wal-Mart and other family outlets may balk at the more accurate "penis worship fantasy" label. The guys are the best, most virile, most awesome, the hottest stalkers in the world, and when they do fight, it's an excuse for them to flex their sweaty biceps and thrust those thighs to make our sexually unfulfilled lives explode in onanistic bliss.
Oh, okay, let's pretend that the heroine matters. She's Casssandra Powell, the new head of clinical psychology at the Hot Big Peen Factory, er, GTECH Super Soldier Industrial Plant. On her first day, she falls onto the floor after bumping into Michael's wall of muscle (she's too busy reading to see where she is going, you see) and her skirt hikes up to show off her thighs. This is, of course, romance at first sight and Michael immediately makes it clear that his penis would like a first hand introduction with her. The heroine is like, oh, so hot, so hot, besides, she was created to be the adoring chalice of Michael's hot molten loving anyway, so she may as well love every minute. Michael is so hot, every woman wants to be cheerleaders that play with his pom-poms! Squeal!
Oh, the plot? The bad guys - there are a few factions here - are doing something bad to interrupt the coital melodrama of Michael and what's-her-name, so he gets to flex those guns and rescue her while dramatically pouting and looking murderous when he thinks that she may die, and really now, people, worship the penis. It can heal itself, wind walk, and do all kinds of special ninja pee-pee tricks.
Bask in the fantasy of being owned by these men! Women that have sex with them and succeed in making these guys fall in love with them get branded with a special tattoo that I'm sure we are all proud to show off if we are ever so lucky...
... To swap body fluids with guys that have alien DNA, that is. Seriously, early on, Cassandra tells me upfront that no one knows what long-term effects may show up in these guys. And yet, I'm supposed to buy that women have no problems throwing themselves at these guys. Or that the people in charge of mass-manufacturing these guys for the romance market have no problems letting these guys spread the love around? Okay, I'm told that these guys are sterile, but still, these women are taking in body fluids with alien DNA. Who knows what will happen? And what's to stop these guys from mutating into things that only women in creepy Japanese pornographic cartoons can love?
The Legend Of Michael is another take on the tropes of life-mates and branding and mental bond and what not that worked for the best for authors like Lora Leigh and Christine Feehan. There is nothing groundbreaking here. The only catch here is that you have to be fine with the idea of sleeping with a guy who has alien DNA in his genetic make-up and nobody is certain that he won't one day transform into that alien-human hybrid thing in Alien: Resurrection. Try as I might, I just can't overlook this aspect of bad science permeating the story to read the sex scenes without thinking of some of the more heartwarming scenes from those Alien movies.
Besides, the bad guys are far more interesting here anyway. But that's what having heroes that are practically unkillable will do to a story: it kills all suspense in the story and makes it a dull read for anyone who isn't interested in the fantasy of worshipping pee-pees with alien DNA.
April 27, 2011
The Legend of Michael by Lisa Renee Jones
Paranormal Romance –May 1st, 2011
4 ½ stars
The Legend of Michael is a thrilling debut in the Zodius series. I never wanted it to end. The men are hot, hard and hunky! I can't wait for more heroes, please keep them coming!
Cassandra is hired to work at a top secret military base to evaluate men who have been injected with alien DNA. They were unknowing victims and now have 'super' powers. These men are now being used for their special abilities by the government. But some of the men have become increasingly unstable and aggressive, and it is Cassandra’s job to evaluate them. However, she fears hostility since it was her unscrupulous father who secretly injected them!
When a section of them is deemed too volatile, some of the men are slated for termination but they find out about this treachery and escape, plotting to take over the government in revenge. During the evaluations, Cassandra has come to care for the enigmatic Michael. Strong and silent he opens up with her and she quickly finds herself in love, but she discovers too late that he is to be eliminated. Luckily, Michael escapes but joins the band of renegades that plan to over throw the government. Can she trust him? Was their time together a lie or will they forever be divided?
Fast-paced, exciting and easy to read, paranormal fans will quickly get addicted to this new series. I loved the hot hero, Michael. He realizes his powers are dangerous and tries to keeps a tight rein on his emotions. However, I really liked that he could not control his passion for Cassandra. The instant attraction between the two characters and their sizzling scenes together were off the charts. I also liked that their relationship was very mature, and they really respected each other. I liked that there weren't a lot of silly misunderstandings.
This was a complex story as two opposing sides fight for power and Cassandra and Michael are caught in the middle. I hope the author's next book will be about Caleb, who much fight against his evil twin brother. I would also love to hear about how this plays in future books. I also liked that there were good and bad soldiers because it added a lot of tension and depth. The story was almost like a civil war with friends pitted against each other. This series has a lot of room to grow as there are so many plot twists and conspirators to keep it intriguing.
Intense and scorching this new series is one readers of alpha warriors will adore!
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
Paranormal Romance –May 1st, 2011
4 ½ stars
The Legend of Michael is a thrilling debut in the Zodius series. I never wanted it to end. The men are hot, hard and hunky! I can't wait for more heroes, please keep them coming!
Cassandra is hired to work at a top secret military base to evaluate men who have been injected with alien DNA. They were unknowing victims and now have 'super' powers. These men are now being used for their special abilities by the government. But some of the men have become increasingly unstable and aggressive, and it is Cassandra’s job to evaluate them. However, she fears hostility since it was her unscrupulous father who secretly injected them!
When a section of them is deemed too volatile, some of the men are slated for termination but they find out about this treachery and escape, plotting to take over the government in revenge. During the evaluations, Cassandra has come to care for the enigmatic Michael. Strong and silent he opens up with her and she quickly finds herself in love, but she discovers too late that he is to be eliminated. Luckily, Michael escapes but joins the band of renegades that plan to over throw the government. Can she trust him? Was their time together a lie or will they forever be divided?
Fast-paced, exciting and easy to read, paranormal fans will quickly get addicted to this new series. I loved the hot hero, Michael. He realizes his powers are dangerous and tries to keeps a tight rein on his emotions. However, I really liked that he could not control his passion for Cassandra. The instant attraction between the two characters and their sizzling scenes together were off the charts. I also liked that their relationship was very mature, and they really respected each other. I liked that there weren't a lot of silly misunderstandings.
This was a complex story as two opposing sides fight for power and Cassandra and Michael are caught in the middle. I hope the author's next book will be about Caleb, who much fight against his evil twin brother. I would also love to hear about how this plays in future books. I also liked that there were good and bad soldiers because it added a lot of tension and depth. The story was almost like a civil war with friends pitted against each other. This series has a lot of room to grow as there are so many plot twists and conspirators to keep it intriguing.
Intense and scorching this new series is one readers of alpha warriors will adore!
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
July 31, 2011
Legend of Micheal, the first book in Jones' new Zodius series, is a scifi-ish romance that has a paranormal romance feel, the heroes are solders, who without their consent, have had their DNA altered by injection of alien DNA. The genetic changes have given them super strength and other powers, but has also had the effect of bringing out the evil in some of the men.
Since I just finished the rereleased Underground Guardians: Protector, which is the first book in the 2005 series that inspired this new Zodius series, it was interesting not only to see how the seeds of the story in the earlier books grew into Legend of Michael, but to also see how Jones has refined her writing in the last 7 or so years.
Jone's story telling is definately stronger, there is actually a fairly well developed plot in the background - the background plot was pretty thin in the original - and I would say that I really enjoyed the whole first half of the book, and the romance between Cassandra, a scientist in her own right, who is the daughter of the man who first created the super soldiers - her father now wants to control them at any cost - and Michael, one of the most powerful of the soldiers, who has a talent for controlling and traveling on the wind. But I was less happy with the story when the conflicts keeping the pair apart shifted from external ones - Michael's absence - and switched over to internal ones complete with tiresome repetative self-talk - hers: "I can never trust you again, since you abandoned me, but you are still so attractive I can't keep from wanting you" and his: "I am a monster with a dark past, I need to keep you at a distance to protect you, but I can't stay away".
This, along with just a bit too much detailed time in the bedroom, really made the later scenes between Michael and his heroine drag a bit, so my final impression of the book was 'ok plus' or 'pretty good' more than a whole hearted 'liked it'. In case you were wondering, even though Legend of Michael reinvisions the earlier Underground Guardians series and Michael does appear in the older book, the romance is all new, as is the next book which features Sterling (oh now I am just being the Queen of 'nits') who is set up much better in the original series than he is here.
Since I just finished the rereleased Underground Guardians: Protector, which is the first book in the 2005 series that inspired this new Zodius series, it was interesting not only to see how the seeds of the story in the earlier books grew into Legend of Michael, but to also see how Jones has refined her writing in the last 7 or so years.
Jone's story telling is definately stronger, there is actually a fairly well developed plot in the background - the background plot was pretty thin in the original - and I would say that I really enjoyed the whole first half of the book, and the romance between Cassandra, a scientist in her own right, who is the daughter of the man who first created the super soldiers - her father now wants to control them at any cost - and Michael, one of the most powerful of the soldiers, who has a talent for controlling and traveling on the wind. But I was less happy with the story when the conflicts keeping the pair apart shifted from external ones - Michael's absence - and switched over to internal ones complete with tiresome repetative self-talk - hers: "I can never trust you again, since you abandoned me, but you are still so attractive I can't keep from wanting you" and his: "I am a monster with a dark past, I need to keep you at a distance to protect you, but I can't stay away".
This, along with just a bit too much detailed time in the bedroom, really made the later scenes between Michael and his heroine drag a bit, so my final impression of the book was 'ok plus' or 'pretty good' more than a whole hearted 'liked it'. In case you were wondering, even though Legend of Michael reinvisions the earlier Underground Guardians series and Michael does appear in the older book, the romance is all new, as is the next book which features Sterling (oh now I am just being the Queen of 'nits') who is set up much better in the original series than he is here.
December 4, 2011
Cassandra works at a facility run by her father to create super humans, GTECH soldiers using alien DNA. She is working on a gene called X2 that leaves the modified soldiers with an anomaly of a special unique ability but her father isn’t as accepting of this ability and decides to lock up all the soldiers with this gene, including her lover Michael, but things don’t go quite to plan when fellow GTECH Adam who also had the X2 gene revolting and planning to start a colony of Zodius;
Not is all that it appears with Michael and as Cassandra soon finds out, Michael didn’t betray her, he needed to go along with Adams plan and Adam soon finds out about Michaels false loyalty which has dire consequences for Cassandra. So many times I wanted to hit Michael over the head and get him to wake up to himself and just be with Cassandra and stop trying to protect her when she was capable of doing that for herself and deciding what she wanted, but I was glad how it all turned out in the end. It was sick what Cassandra’s father was prepared to do to get what he wanted, even it if meant hurting his daughter, total nut job. Adam and Ava aren’t exactly on the sane side either, though Ava was particularly unlikable.
There are plenty of twists and turns in this book, one of them being who Michael’s mother is doing the dirty with. There are plenty of hot steamy scenes, mixed with some butt-kicking action which is just the way I like my romance. I love the way this was written, it flowed perfectly and even though the story had plenty of detail, it wasn’t hard to keep up with or follow. Lisa Renee Jones knows how to write a great read and I cannot wait to pick up the next in the series.
“As you know from prior conversations,” Adam announced, “we are here today because our government is failing our people, and you want to be a part of a better nation. You want a country free of corruptness, free of human illness.” He tapped the table. “You want a Zodius nation...”
Not is all that it appears with Michael and as Cassandra soon finds out, Michael didn’t betray her, he needed to go along with Adams plan and Adam soon finds out about Michaels false loyalty which has dire consequences for Cassandra. So many times I wanted to hit Michael over the head and get him to wake up to himself and just be with Cassandra and stop trying to protect her when she was capable of doing that for herself and deciding what she wanted, but I was glad how it all turned out in the end. It was sick what Cassandra’s father was prepared to do to get what he wanted, even it if meant hurting his daughter, total nut job. Adam and Ava aren’t exactly on the sane side either, though Ava was particularly unlikable.
There are plenty of twists and turns in this book, one of them being who Michael’s mother is doing the dirty with. There are plenty of hot steamy scenes, mixed with some butt-kicking action which is just the way I like my romance. I love the way this was written, it flowed perfectly and even though the story had plenty of detail, it wasn’t hard to keep up with or follow. Lisa Renee Jones knows how to write a great read and I cannot wait to pick up the next in the series.
May 12, 2011
My thoughts:
Not an easy book to find a genre for. The world is the same, present day, but there is one thing that is different and that is that aliens did crash and the US government hid the fact. Then later they injected soldiers who become something more. Strength, the ability to travel with the wind and other things is what they gained. But the soldiers split into two groups, the bad and the good. So there is sci-fi paranormal, romance and suspense.
There was a lot of suspense in this one, and the whole book felt like a starter to something more. Things gets explained, why they are fighting, what lifebounds are (the men and their women connect in a special way), and how the Renegades (the good guys) build something new. We also meet Michael, the dark one. I am never sure what to think about him, but I am sure drawn to him. Cassandra is the daughter to the man who was there to start this whole mess of these extraordinary soldiers, and I do grow to like her.
I have heard some complaints about that the romance was short and so, but I did not mind. Things moved forward and then when these two were together it was passionate.
The men are out of this world. It was a fastpaced moving book.
Conclusion:
A book for those who like suspense in their books. There is danger, plots, conspiracies and interesting men. When the book ended I did feel that this series might have something to offer. A battle is coming.
Rating:
I do like suspense and romance mixed with sci-fi like aspects
Not an easy book to find a genre for. The world is the same, present day, but there is one thing that is different and that is that aliens did crash and the US government hid the fact. Then later they injected soldiers who become something more. Strength, the ability to travel with the wind and other things is what they gained. But the soldiers split into two groups, the bad and the good. So there is sci-fi paranormal, romance and suspense.
There was a lot of suspense in this one, and the whole book felt like a starter to something more. Things gets explained, why they are fighting, what lifebounds are (the men and their women connect in a special way), and how the Renegades (the good guys) build something new. We also meet Michael, the dark one. I am never sure what to think about him, but I am sure drawn to him. Cassandra is the daughter to the man who was there to start this whole mess of these extraordinary soldiers, and I do grow to like her.
I have heard some complaints about that the romance was short and so, but I did not mind. Things moved forward and then when these two were together it was passionate.
The men are out of this world. It was a fastpaced moving book.
Conclusion:
A book for those who like suspense in their books. There is danger, plots, conspiracies and interesting men. When the book ended I did feel that this series might have something to offer. A battle is coming.
Rating:
I do like suspense and romance mixed with sci-fi like aspects
April 14, 2011
My thoughts:
WOW…Just WOW!
Lisa has created a wonderful world of drama, suspense and romance starting with the first book of the Zodius series, The Legend of Michael: Sin and Satisfaction.
It took me a few days to read this book because of life’s everyday happenings making me stop. Otherwise I would have finished it in one sitting.
I love the way this book made me feel. My emotions ranged from feeling Cassandra’s trepidation, happiness, wonder and love, to her feelings of being deceived, abandoned, of sadness and heartbreak. Then, there were Michaels feelings of hope, injustice, worry, possessiveness, and love. His need to do the right thing, no matter what it takes, except, any harm coming to Cassandra.
There are so many great characters in this book, Cassandra, Michael, Caleb, Sterling, Kelly, all good guys. Even the bad guys, Adam, Lucian, Tad, Powell, Ava and others had me in a hold.
This is a must keep read for me and I can hardly wait for the next book to come out.
WOW…Just WOW!
Lisa has created a wonderful world of drama, suspense and romance starting with the first book of the Zodius series, The Legend of Michael: Sin and Satisfaction.
It took me a few days to read this book because of life’s everyday happenings making me stop. Otherwise I would have finished it in one sitting.
I love the way this book made me feel. My emotions ranged from feeling Cassandra’s trepidation, happiness, wonder and love, to her feelings of being deceived, abandoned, of sadness and heartbreak. Then, there were Michaels feelings of hope, injustice, worry, possessiveness, and love. His need to do the right thing, no matter what it takes, except, any harm coming to Cassandra.
There are so many great characters in this book, Cassandra, Michael, Caleb, Sterling, Kelly, all good guys. Even the bad guys, Adam, Lucian, Tad, Powell, Ava and others had me in a hold.
This is a must keep read for me and I can hardly wait for the next book to come out.
April 25, 2011
Michael is a human soldier that has been injected and changed with alien DNA by the government. Among his fellow soldiers he is legend and one not to cross. When Cassandra & Michael meet for the first time, they literally crash into each other. From that first gaze and touch he rocks her world. Instantly Michael knows that Cassandra is his mate and will do anything to protect her... even if that means leaving her behind.
This book holds a story of soldiers drastically changed by alien DNA, but also a story of life mates. Something that always draws me in. For me The Legend of Michael was a surprise. I wasn't sure I was gonna like it. I don't read many books with military type settings. But it was a much more than a military story. It was one hot story, and an exciting new world. Original, full of action with fun steamy scenes. Michael's commanding presence sizzles and jumps off the page.
This book holds a story of soldiers drastically changed by alien DNA, but also a story of life mates. Something that always draws me in. For me The Legend of Michael was a surprise. I wasn't sure I was gonna like it. I don't read many books with military type settings. But it was a much more than a military story. It was one hot story, and an exciting new world. Original, full of action with fun steamy scenes. Michael's commanding presence sizzles and jumps off the page.
August 13, 2016
Ich hab mir dieses Buch vorgenommen, weil ich die Idee ganz gut fand und auch immer noch finde. Natürlich ist es nicht neues, aber mir hat der Gedanke gefallen, das Soldaten eben mit außerirdischer DNS "infiziert" werden und zu "Super-Soldaten" werden und damit eben auch Änderungen bei der Partnerschafts-Findung und Bindung entstehen... Gute Romantasy eben! Kann man mal machen...
Und weil ich nicht weiß, wie sehr ich bei meiner Meh-Rezension spoilern werde packe ich das ganze eben weg, lest es oder lasst es ;)
Insgesamt waren für mich einfach zu viele Unstimmigkeiten vorhanden, als das ich das Buch hätte wirklich genießen können... Idee gut, Umsetzung gerade noch mangelhaft. Meh, einfach nur meh, wenn man mich fragt.
Und weil ich nicht weiß, wie sehr ich bei meiner Meh-Rezension spoilern werde packe ich das ganze eben weg, lest es oder lasst es ;)
Insgesamt waren für mich einfach zu viele Unstimmigkeiten vorhanden, als das ich das Buch hätte wirklich genießen können... Idee gut, Umsetzung gerade noch mangelhaft. Meh, einfach nur meh, wenn man mich fragt.
on-kindle-to-read
March 6, 20173/7/17 freebie
May 16, 2011
Knights of the spirit; warriors in the cause
Of justice absolute 'twixt man and man.
- Richard Watson Gilder
somewhere in Nevada, a top secret military operation called Project Zodius exists. ordinary human soldiers are converted into efficient killing machines after being injected with alien DNA. Cassandra Powell, daughter of General Powell, takes over the job for the former head of Clinical Psychology. she meets and pairs up with Michael Taylor. he is one of the GTECHs or Super Soldiers with skills and abilities that set him apart from the rest. his fellow GTECH Adam Rain stages a mutiny that splits the soldiers into two groups - Zodius and Renegades. Cassandra is devastated when Michael joins Adam. two years later, Cassandra finds herself working in a German military hospital. she is off to a new start with her life when her father suddenly shows up asking for help. dutiful as ever, she flies back to the United States without realizing that her nightmare is about to begin.
the book is divided into two parts. the first section provides a detailed background of Project Zodius and the people involved. the second part is where things get really interesting. there is also a very useful glossary that helped a lot with the terms used throughout the novel. i had to think of the Renegades though as "Renegoods" just so i would not confuse them with Zodius - the bad guys.
notwithstanding some of the soldiers' supernatural abilities as a result of something alien infused into their systems, i found the characterization quite realistic. it seems that good and evil are part and parcel of everyone's genetic makeup and choices play heavily in every action that we do:
- Michael's emotional struggles contrast with his physical strength and test his loyalty.
- Cassandra's sense of familial duty makes her naive and blind to the truth.
- General Powell's greed compels him to be self-righteous.
- Adam's power trip leads him to degenerate further.
overall, i had fun reading The Legend of Michael. "wind-walking" - what it is and how it is done - is one of the most brilliant concepts i have ever encountered.
i have to give credit to author Lisa Renee Jones' imagination in building a world where conspiracy, secrets, betrayal, passion and ambition are fused together in this part sci-fi, romance, suspense thriller.
Disclosure of Material Connection: i received an eARC of The Legend of Michael - Sin and Satisfaction (Zodius 1) from the author herself. i did not receive any payment in exchange for this review nor was i obligated to write a positive one. all opinions expressed here are entirely my own and may not necessarily agree with those of the author, the book's publisher and publicist or the readers of this review. this disclosure is in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255, Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.
Of justice absolute 'twixt man and man.
- Richard Watson Gilder
somewhere in Nevada, a top secret military operation called Project Zodius exists. ordinary human soldiers are converted into efficient killing machines after being injected with alien DNA. Cassandra Powell, daughter of General Powell, takes over the job for the former head of Clinical Psychology. she meets and pairs up with Michael Taylor. he is one of the GTECHs or Super Soldiers with skills and abilities that set him apart from the rest. his fellow GTECH Adam Rain stages a mutiny that splits the soldiers into two groups - Zodius and Renegades. Cassandra is devastated when Michael joins Adam. two years later, Cassandra finds herself working in a German military hospital. she is off to a new start with her life when her father suddenly shows up asking for help. dutiful as ever, she flies back to the United States without realizing that her nightmare is about to begin.
the book is divided into two parts. the first section provides a detailed background of Project Zodius and the people involved. the second part is where things get really interesting. there is also a very useful glossary that helped a lot with the terms used throughout the novel. i had to think of the Renegades though as "Renegoods" just so i would not confuse them with Zodius - the bad guys.
notwithstanding some of the soldiers' supernatural abilities as a result of something alien infused into their systems, i found the characterization quite realistic. it seems that good and evil are part and parcel of everyone's genetic makeup and choices play heavily in every action that we do:
- Michael's emotional struggles contrast with his physical strength and test his loyalty.
- Cassandra's sense of familial duty makes her naive and blind to the truth.
- General Powell's greed compels him to be self-righteous.
- Adam's power trip leads him to degenerate further.
overall, i had fun reading The Legend of Michael. "wind-walking" - what it is and how it is done - is one of the most brilliant concepts i have ever encountered.
i have to give credit to author Lisa Renee Jones' imagination in building a world where conspiracy, secrets, betrayal, passion and ambition are fused together in this part sci-fi, romance, suspense thriller.
Disclosure of Material Connection: i received an eARC of The Legend of Michael - Sin and Satisfaction (Zodius 1) from the author herself. i did not receive any payment in exchange for this review nor was i obligated to write a positive one. all opinions expressed here are entirely my own and may not necessarily agree with those of the author, the book's publisher and publicist or the readers of this review. this disclosure is in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255, Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.
April 11, 2011
Lisa Renee Jones has created a new world ~ a world where Super Soldiers, or GTECHs, are being created by the US Gov't, and General Powell ~ these soldiers were tricked into being, and are being tested, and experimented on by Gen. Powell, to the degree that they've begun to rebel.
Psychologist Cassandra Powell has agree to come work for her father on Project Zodius, evaluating the soldiers ~ on her 3rd day on the job, she meets Michael Taylor, GTECH, and MORE. Against all her instincts, Cassandra is drawn to Michael in a way she can't control, and he's more than returning her interest...they've only begun to build a relationship when the unrest between the GTECHs, and General Powell, her father, hits an explosive point. The GTECHs have split into two groups, led by twin brothers, Caleb and Adam Rain, Good and Evil ~ and it appears to Cassandra the Michael has sided with the Adam, the Evil GTECHs, or the Zodius.
Two years pass, and the Gov't and Gen. Powell are ready to take on the Zodius, led by Adam Rain ~ and his second, Michael Taylor. He's convinced Cassandra to come back to the states and help him subdue this evil ~ but when Cassandra runs into Michael again, she can't control her feelings, or the Lifebond they had only begun to form when he'd left her two years before. She's quickly thrust into the war between the 3 factors, and realizing that Michael is not the bad guy she thought he was, but someone she wants to love...
I could SO go on about this amazing and wonderful story that is so full of secrets, lies and loyalties torn ~ but I don't want to give anything away! Ms. Jones did an amazing job of introducing us into the world of GTECHs without an information overload ~ when I read the glossary, I thought I'd be overwhelmed, but she seamlessly weaves details into the story where we pick them up naturally, withought having to think about it.
She totally drew me in, and the relationship we see build between Cassandra and Michael is at times wonderful, at times painful and frustrating, but 100% believable. I zoomed through this book ~ and already can't wait wait for the next! I'm totally imersed in the war that is quickly escalating between the two fraction of the GTECHs, and with General Powell...........
Don't think twice about buying this one ~ Michael is a hero to die for!
Psychologist Cassandra Powell has agree to come work for her father on Project Zodius, evaluating the soldiers ~ on her 3rd day on the job, she meets Michael Taylor, GTECH, and MORE. Against all her instincts, Cassandra is drawn to Michael in a way she can't control, and he's more than returning her interest...they've only begun to build a relationship when the unrest between the GTECHs, and General Powell, her father, hits an explosive point. The GTECHs have split into two groups, led by twin brothers, Caleb and Adam Rain, Good and Evil ~ and it appears to Cassandra the Michael has sided with the Adam, the Evil GTECHs, or the Zodius.
Two years pass, and the Gov't and Gen. Powell are ready to take on the Zodius, led by Adam Rain ~ and his second, Michael Taylor. He's convinced Cassandra to come back to the states and help him subdue this evil ~ but when Cassandra runs into Michael again, she can't control her feelings, or the Lifebond they had only begun to form when he'd left her two years before. She's quickly thrust into the war between the 3 factors, and realizing that Michael is not the bad guy she thought he was, but someone she wants to love...
I could SO go on about this amazing and wonderful story that is so full of secrets, lies and loyalties torn ~ but I don't want to give anything away! Ms. Jones did an amazing job of introducing us into the world of GTECHs without an information overload ~ when I read the glossary, I thought I'd be overwhelmed, but she seamlessly weaves details into the story where we pick them up naturally, withought having to think about it.
She totally drew me in, and the relationship we see build between Cassandra and Michael is at times wonderful, at times painful and frustrating, but 100% believable. I zoomed through this book ~ and already can't wait wait for the next! I'm totally imersed in the war that is quickly escalating between the two fraction of the GTECHs, and with General Powell...........
Don't think twice about buying this one ~ Michael is a hero to die for!
April 11, 2011
Lisa Renee Jones has created a new world ~ a world where Super Soldiers, or GTECHs, are being created by the US Gov't, and General Powell ~ these soldiers were tricked into being, and are being tested, and experimented on by Gen. Powell, to the degree that they've begun to rebel.
Psychologist Cassandra Powell has agree to come work for her father on Project Zodius, evaluating the soldiers ~ on her 3rd day on the job, she meets Michael Taylor, GTECH, and MORE. Against all her instincts, Cassandra is drawn to Michael in a way she can't control, and he's more than returning her interest...they've only begun to build a relationship when the unrest between the GTECHs, and General Powell, her father, hits an explosive point. The GTECHs have split into two groups, led by twin brothers, Caleb and Adam Rain, Good and Evil ~ and it appears to Cassandra the Michael has sided with the Adam, the Evil GTECHs, or the Zodius.
Two years pass, and the Gov't and Gen. Powell are ready to take on the Zodius, led by Adam Rain ~ and his second, Michael Taylor. He's convinced Cassandra to come back to the states and help him subdue this evil ~ but when Cassandra runs into Michael again, she can't control her feelings, or the Lifebond they had only begun to form when he'd left her two years before. She's quickly thrust into the war between the 3 factors, and realizing that Michael is not the bad guy she thought he was, but someone she wants to love...
I could SO go on about this amazing and wonderful story that is so full of secrets, lies and loyalties torn ~ but I don't want to give anything away! Ms. Jones did an amazing job of introducing us into the world of GTECHs without an information overload ~ when I read the glossary, I thought I'd be overwhelmed, but she seamlessly weaves details into the story where we pick them up naturally, withought having to think about it.
She totally drew me in, and the relationship we see build between Cassandra and Michael is at times wonderful, at times painful and frustrating, but 100% believable. I zoomed through this book ~ and already can't wait wait for the next! I'm totally imersed in the war that is quickly escalating between the two fraction of the GTECHs, and with General Powell...........
Don't think twice about buying this one ~ Michael is a hero to die for!
Psychologist Cassandra Powell has agree to come work for her father on Project Zodius, evaluating the soldiers ~ on her 3rd day on the job, she meets Michael Taylor, GTECH, and MORE. Against all her instincts, Cassandra is drawn to Michael in a way she can't control, and he's more than returning her interest...they've only begun to build a relationship when the unrest between the GTECHs, and General Powell, her father, hits an explosive point. The GTECHs have split into two groups, led by twin brothers, Caleb and Adam Rain, Good and Evil ~ and it appears to Cassandra the Michael has sided with the Adam, the Evil GTECHs, or the Zodius.
Two years pass, and the Gov't and Gen. Powell are ready to take on the Zodius, led by Adam Rain ~ and his second, Michael Taylor. He's convinced Cassandra to come back to the states and help him subdue this evil ~ but when Cassandra runs into Michael again, she can't control her feelings, or the Lifebond they had only begun to form when he'd left her two years before. She's quickly thrust into the war between the 3 factors, and realizing that Michael is not the bad guy she thought he was, but someone she wants to love...
I could SO go on about this amazing and wonderful story that is so full of secrets, lies and loyalties torn ~ but I don't want to give anything away! Ms. Jones did an amazing job of introducing us into the world of GTECHs without an information overload ~ when I read the glossary, I thought I'd be overwhelmed, but she seamlessly weaves details into the story where we pick them up naturally, withought having to think about it.
She totally drew me in, and the relationship we see build between Cassandra and Michael is at times wonderful, at times painful and frustrating, but 100% believable. I zoomed through this book ~ and already can't wait wait for the next! I'm totally imersed in the war that is quickly escalating between the two fraction of the GTECHs, and with General Powell...........
Don't think twice about buying this one ~ Michael is a hero to die for!
April 18, 2011
This is a exciting new paranormal series that originates at area 51. The book starts with a glossary of sorts that explains different terminology you'll read throughout the book. It's alot to remember but i found it helpful as i read the book. The book comes in two parts. The first part is a extended prologue of sorts to intro to the characters and the 2nd part really gets into the meat of the story. I'll admit i wasn't sure about the whole alien DNA thing. It kind of put me off at first but once i got going into the story it's nothing really to do with aliens per say at all. Follow that logic? Michael is one of the soldiers injected with alien DNA that's meant to make him a better badder soldier. It works too but it enhances what you already are. For Michael he's not sure what he's becoming when it becomes evident that some soldiers that were bad before are wholly evil now. He's not sure if he's bad or good based on his family history. He meets Cassandra and her father is the man who started all this. For the soldiers injected with the alien DNA there is this thing called a lifebond in which the male soldiers find a link with a female and there is a primal need to bond. Cassandra is Michael's lifebond but he thinks being with her will put her in danger and tries to avoid the whole thing. His inner demons work him through the book on this as a set of twin brother face off on opposite sides for control of the GTECHs which is what the soldiers injected with alien DNA are called. This is a really complex story will with love determination and inner struggles. Even so it was easy to read and once you figure out all the terminology ( which isn't hard) you really can get into it. I really enjoyed it. Michael is one tough SOB but Cassandra is just as tough in different ways. I look forward to the next story in this series. You can check out a couple excerpts for "The Legend of Michael" and the next two books in this series by going to Lisa Renee Jones website by clicking here. Right now i can't think of anything i didn't like. I thought it was well paced the characters interesting and a great story. I'm looking forward to some of the other characters stories now and getting to know them. PS. There is a excerpt to the next Zodius book at the back of "The Legend of Michael".
May 4, 2011
I have to first get off my chest that this was another book cover that bugged me. I don't find the guy on the cover appealing at all and he weirds me out. Still I have to say I really enjoyed this book! So don't judge it by its cover. I'm a huge fan of Christine Feehan's Ghostwalker series and this book follows pretty much the same formula. So if you like that series I highly suggest checking this one out. You have along the same lines a bunch of strong, military men who were experimented on and given these extraordinary abilities. The one responsible has some less than savory plans for them and soon it becomes a battle between various factions. Of course, some of the alpha males who are afraid of what they are becoming are soothed when they find their "match" or mate.
I loved the characters especially Michael and Cassandra. Michael is sexy with just the right touch of overbearing protectiveness without being irritating. Cassandra is a well balanced portrait of spunk, strength and vulnerability. I thought the chemistry between the two was great and I become completely invested in their story. Cassandra's father was an interesting character as well. At first he seems like a well meaning but slightly misguided man and then slowly reveals the depth of his sick god complex. This story will keep you engrossed until the very last page.
My only gripe with this book is what happens with Cassandra. We are given hints as to how females who bond with these men may develop their own powers and skills but we don't get to see very much of that. I would have liked to see Cassandra's developing powers take more of a part in the story. Still this is a promising new series that I will be following.
I loved the characters especially Michael and Cassandra. Michael is sexy with just the right touch of overbearing protectiveness without being irritating. Cassandra is a well balanced portrait of spunk, strength and vulnerability. I thought the chemistry between the two was great and I become completely invested in their story. Cassandra's father was an interesting character as well. At first he seems like a well meaning but slightly misguided man and then slowly reveals the depth of his sick god complex. This story will keep you engrossed until the very last page.
My only gripe with this book is what happens with Cassandra. We are given hints as to how females who bond with these men may develop their own powers and skills but we don't get to see very much of that. I would have liked to see Cassandra's developing powers take more of a part in the story. Still this is a promising new series that I will be following.
November 1, 2015
3.5 Stars. The Legend of Michael is a little bit sci-fi, little bit paranormal book. The book centers around Michael who is a soldier who was injected with alien DNA and now has enhanced powers and is part of the GTECHs. Some of the GTECHs are showing signs of massive aggression and additional powers due to a new chromosome. Michael is worried that he will eventually loose his humanity. Cassandra is the daughter of the general who changed the soldiers and she wants to believe the best about her father but she struggles with some of the decisions that he is making. (This book reminded me alot of Rebecca Zanetti's Sin Brothers, although not as good).
Michael and Cassandra are attracted to each other and start a relationship and things are going well until a faction of GTECHs decide to take over the base. Both Michael and Cassandra find themselves in a position they never wanted but have to make the best of.
I really liked Michael and I liked Cassandra although she could be a little naïve at times. You can't help yourself but to root for these two to get their HEA but it isn't going to come easy with the tough decisions that Michael has to make. This book sets up a war between two factions of GTECHS and also the military. It was interesting and I liked it however as I mentioned it was really reminiscent of the Sin Brothers (The General's daughter, the female scientist who is an important character's mother, the enhanced soldiers working for the gov't until they find out they are being used).
Still overall, I enjoyed it and will probably read the next book since I do want to know what happens especially between Adam and his twin.
Michael and Cassandra are attracted to each other and start a relationship and things are going well until a faction of GTECHs decide to take over the base. Both Michael and Cassandra find themselves in a position they never wanted but have to make the best of.
I really liked Michael and I liked Cassandra although she could be a little naïve at times. You can't help yourself but to root for these two to get their HEA but it isn't going to come easy with the tough decisions that Michael has to make. This book sets up a war between two factions of GTECHS and also the military. It was interesting and I liked it however as I mentioned it was really reminiscent of the Sin Brothers (The General's daughter, the female scientist who is an important character's mother, the enhanced soldiers working for the gov't until they find out they are being used).
Still overall, I enjoyed it and will probably read the next book since I do want to know what happens especially between Adam and his twin.
April 13, 2011
Readers, prepare yourselves for a fantastic new book, the start of a new series. The Legend of Michael is a blend of romance, paranormal, and science fiction. Lisa Renee Jones heats up the pages with this amazing new book.
When Cassandra Powell meets Michael, she is both intrigued and weary of the man. Yet she can't seem to keep away from him, to stop thinking about him, even when she knows she should. He is part of the project of soldiers who have been injected with alien DNA. He is no good for her. He is walking a thin line between good and evil....but she is wildly attracted to him, despite his betrayals.
Michael is not anything like his other people. He is special. He is feared, intimidating, but sexy as hell. Michael must make a decision to where his loyalties lie. He knows Cassandra belongs with him, but the happy ever after for the pair is far off. Things must be taken care of first, and he must prove to Cassandra that he is indeed one of the good guys.
Danger lurks behind every corner. In this intensely fast paced novel, Michael, Cassandra, and a few others must keep ahead of the danger and fight for their lives. You never know who to trust and not to trust. The Legend of Michael is a great new paranormal read, one that takes a different spin in the current paranormal trend. If you're looking for something a little different, then I'd highly suggest Lisa Renee Jones' The Legend of Michael.
I am most definitely looking forward to the next installment in the series.
When Cassandra Powell meets Michael, she is both intrigued and weary of the man. Yet she can't seem to keep away from him, to stop thinking about him, even when she knows she should. He is part of the project of soldiers who have been injected with alien DNA. He is no good for her. He is walking a thin line between good and evil....but she is wildly attracted to him, despite his betrayals.
Michael is not anything like his other people. He is special. He is feared, intimidating, but sexy as hell. Michael must make a decision to where his loyalties lie. He knows Cassandra belongs with him, but the happy ever after for the pair is far off. Things must be taken care of first, and he must prove to Cassandra that he is indeed one of the good guys.
Danger lurks behind every corner. In this intensely fast paced novel, Michael, Cassandra, and a few others must keep ahead of the danger and fight for their lives. You never know who to trust and not to trust. The Legend of Michael is a great new paranormal read, one that takes a different spin in the current paranormal trend. If you're looking for something a little different, then I'd highly suggest Lisa Renee Jones' The Legend of Michael.
I am most definitely looking forward to the next installment in the series.
April 10, 2011
Project Zodius is the Code name for the government’s top-secret operation—two hundred Special Operations soldiers who were assigned to Groom Lake (Area 51) and injected with what they believed to be immunizations, but which was, in fact, alien DNA.
The Super Soldiers created under Project Zodius are called GTECHS and are divided into two groups—Zodius (bad GTECHS) and Renegades (good GTECHS). GTECHs are stronger, faster, and more agile than humans; they heal rapidly and have low fatality rates. They can wind-walk. Over time, many are developing special gifts unique to them, such as telepathy, ability to communicate with animals, and more.
The GTECHS have a LifeBond with their women. They are bonded physically for life and death. If one dies, so does the other. This bond allows the GTECH male to reproduce, and it offers the females the same physical skills as their male Lifebond.
I was lucky enough to get an ARC of this book. I was really looking forward to reading this and I wasn’t disappointed. Once I started reading this book, I didn’t want to put it down! I totally got sucked into this world. Michael is a strong sexy warrior and Cassandra is his match. The chemistry between the two is hot! The story is full of action and moves right along. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series!
The Super Soldiers created under Project Zodius are called GTECHS and are divided into two groups—Zodius (bad GTECHS) and Renegades (good GTECHS). GTECHs are stronger, faster, and more agile than humans; they heal rapidly and have low fatality rates. They can wind-walk. Over time, many are developing special gifts unique to them, such as telepathy, ability to communicate with animals, and more.
The GTECHS have a LifeBond with their women. They are bonded physically for life and death. If one dies, so does the other. This bond allows the GTECH male to reproduce, and it offers the females the same physical skills as their male Lifebond.
I was lucky enough to get an ARC of this book. I was really looking forward to reading this and I wasn’t disappointed. Once I started reading this book, I didn’t want to put it down! I totally got sucked into this world. Michael is a strong sexy warrior and Cassandra is his match. The chemistry between the two is hot! The story is full of action and moves right along. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series!
February 11, 2012
Really wanted to love this as it is vampire- and shifter-free, but, it's just so mediocre.
The potential was all there, using Area 51 (and the long-standing belief, in some quarters, of an alien/UFO crash in Roswell, NM, the remains of which were subsequently housed and studied at Area 51) as the setting for creation of an army of super soldiers. There were actually several unique ideas introduced here that, again, had the potential to elevate this PNR/fantasy/scifi series above the usual that flood the market on an hourly basis. Unfortunately, the best word I can use to describe this book is 'meh'. It's like craving a hot shower, stepping in, and getting a lukewarm dousing instead. It's really not what you want, and it's disappointing. The largest building blocks of the story did not live up to their potential, and the characters seemed pale and lifeless. There was no spark.
I will admit, this genre is not normally my first love, but, I do know a 'keeper' when I read one. Of the few series in this genre that I read faithfully, I'm really sorry to say that this one will not be included.
The potential was all there, using Area 51 (and the long-standing belief, in some quarters, of an alien/UFO crash in Roswell, NM, the remains of which were subsequently housed and studied at Area 51) as the setting for creation of an army of super soldiers. There were actually several unique ideas introduced here that, again, had the potential to elevate this PNR/fantasy/scifi series above the usual that flood the market on an hourly basis. Unfortunately, the best word I can use to describe this book is 'meh'. It's like craving a hot shower, stepping in, and getting a lukewarm dousing instead. It's really not what you want, and it's disappointing. The largest building blocks of the story did not live up to their potential, and the characters seemed pale and lifeless. There was no spark.
I will admit, this genre is not normally my first love, but, I do know a 'keeper' when I read one. Of the few series in this genre that I read faithfully, I'm really sorry to say that this one will not be included.
May 19, 2018
Michael a solider the government experiment on with alien DNA making him a G-Tech. Michael was tall, dark and lethal they called him the dark knight he was no nonsense. He met Cassandra Powell the psychiatrist at Area 51 her first day and immediately was drawn to her.
Cassandra Powell was General Powell daughter the man that was over the G-Tech soldiers. When Cassandra agrees to go out with Michael their connection was explosive.
General Powell tried to cage the soldiers that had different genes and their was a rebellion Adam lead the aggressive G-Tech’s n his identical Twin Caleb lead the renegades G-Tech’s that was about order and the American way against his brother Adam.
Michael left Cassandra behind to join Adams cause for 2 yrs while she was in Germany now she is back in the states summoned by her father General Powell to work on his team to control the G-Tech’s. Now that’s she back Michael wants her back but he must protect her no one knows about their powerful life bound connection so he must keep her safe.
Cassandra Powell was General Powell daughter the man that was over the G-Tech soldiers. When Cassandra agrees to go out with Michael their connection was explosive.
General Powell tried to cage the soldiers that had different genes and their was a rebellion Adam lead the aggressive G-Tech’s n his identical Twin Caleb lead the renegades G-Tech’s that was about order and the American way against his brother Adam.
Michael left Cassandra behind to join Adams cause for 2 yrs while she was in Germany now she is back in the states summoned by her father General Powell to work on his team to control the G-Tech’s. Now that’s she back Michael wants her back but he must protect her no one knows about their powerful life bound connection so he must keep her safe.
September 27, 2015
Couldn't do it. I tried, I really did. Made it halfway through.
The hero is an ass of epic proportions. There is no real attraction between the leads, the bad guys are charicatures, the language is often formal and out of place, and I don't buy for one minute Michael is a soldier.
I love his POV in a romance, and I love a good hero. I found nothing good or appealing about this hero. The PNR trope of uber-alpha-possessive male does not work in this type of setting. Heck, the trope doesn't really work anywhere but it *really* doesn't work here. The only good thing I can say is I got it from the library instead of spending money on it.
Then there's the whole issue of how Michael REPEATEDLY borderline rapes Cassie. Including in a public restroom. And she's all "Oh, Michael you're so hot I can't slap you away even though you're doing this when I said no." RAPE IS NOT ROMANCE!! And it is NEVER something to be glorified and shown as desirable because the hero is so damn good in bed.
The hero is an ass of epic proportions. There is no real attraction between the leads, the bad guys are charicatures, the language is often formal and out of place, and I don't buy for one minute Michael is a soldier.
I love his POV in a romance, and I love a good hero. I found nothing good or appealing about this hero. The PNR trope of uber-alpha-possessive male does not work in this type of setting. Heck, the trope doesn't really work anywhere but it *really* doesn't work here. The only good thing I can say is I got it from the library instead of spending money on it.
Then there's the whole issue of how Michael REPEATEDLY borderline rapes Cassie. Including in a public restroom. And she's all "Oh, Michael you're so hot I can't slap you away even though you're doing this when I said no." RAPE IS NOT ROMANCE!! And it is NEVER something to be glorified and shown as desirable because the hero is so damn good in bed.
October 25, 2016
Not stand alone
This is definitely not a stand alone story? It's only a beginning to a series without anything being resolved. Lots of open ends. As much sexual situations as science fiction. It is a fair read but I really hate when you're promised a stand alone and it's anything but.
This is definitely not a stand alone story? It's only a beginning to a series without anything being resolved. Lots of open ends. As much sexual situations as science fiction. It is a fair read but I really hate when you're promised a stand alone and it's anything but.
March 25, 2011
Intense. Carnal. Original. An absolute must read! If you like Christine Feehan's Ghostwalker Series then you'll love The Zodius Series. I can't wait for the next one! I'll be featuring this book on Romance Roundup this week!
April 22, 2014
While I was waiting for some books to come in, I got side tracked with trying out this series. I am so glad I did, it reminds me of Lara Adrian's series. Awesome!
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