Location: United States
Member Since: Sep. 16, 2012

Donna

Smashwords book reviews by Donna

  • The Athena Effect on Feb. 17, 2013

    I just finished this book and I can't wait for book #2! That being said, I was a little hesitant to like the book. Mainly because the synopsis really didn't do the book justice. It actually only covers the first half of the book, which started out slow. But the whole idea was to understand Cali, which you definitely do. She lives an isolated life, only surrounded by her immediately family and one or two other people. Once she lost her folks and went to live in the city, we then see how difficult it is for her to adapt: strange city and people. Add her ability to see people's aura's and you can understand how overwhelming it could be. And especially once she meets Cal, who comes with his own baggage, we see how hard it is for her to trust someone completely. Regardless of the pace in the first-half, it was still a page turner. I was quickly invested in Cali and Cal - who they are and where they're going. I quickly wanted the best for both of them, knowing that they are good people. Literally, I couldn't put the book down. The second half of the book went by quickly. Her relationship with Cal developed at a fairly realistic pace considering both of their hang-ups and the ending... well, there were several points where I was biting my nails. And truthfully, I really have no idea where the second book is headed. The anticipation will drive me to seek out book 2... which leads me to say that I would really like to read The Mackenzie Legacy. Like yesterday. If you like books that make you smile, laugh, cringe and (almost) cry, this has it all.
  • To Stand Beside Her on May 28, 2013

    I just have to say before I begin my review that I cried. Yes, I did. I cried at the end of this book. It was bittersweet and I cried because I was sad and happy at the same time. This book follows Leila and her strong independent ways. She's a courier, the best the country has. She takes assignments and delivers things (or takes things) making sure no one knows she was there. It's part of her adventurous spirit, the one that doesn't want to settle down, and never be still. But when her friend, Kay, is captured, she strikes a bargain with king Nalick. A bargain that she has to come to terms with it. Having had her heart broken by love, the story unravels just as the walls she's built up around her, preventing herself from becoming hurt again. But Nalick is persistent and truly loves her. It warmed my heart to see that he wasn't just trying to get into her pants, but honestly wanted her to be happy. So happy that he was willing to forfeit everything for her. And the twist that is Anatolio can't be forgotten. How could it be, he's such a big part of it all. The friendship that develops between Leila and him is sweet and warms my heart. The ending of this book is like I said: bittersweet. I love that the author did that. It definitely made me cry, my heart is still heavy the next day, but I love it. I was prepared for the ending, but I didn't want to read about it, if that makes sense. Reader: if you want to read a book that is adventurous and sweet, this is it. flag
  • Aversion (Book One of The Mentalist Series) on June 15, 2013

    What a great novella. As soon as I began the book, I was drawn into Gemma's world. She's an Averter, the only known female Averter. She lives with her father, who's another Averter, and although there's a lot of love between the two of them, there isn't a lot of honesty. Her dad is harboring a secret that eventually comes out and shatters all she knows. And then there's Russ, who she develops feelings. But she's never felt this way before and although she feels connected to him, she's unsure if it's the connection or just being a teen that's making her think of him constantly. I really enjoyed this book. It was a quick read and one that was original. The only negative thing I have to say about it is that it was pretty teen-ish. These were very innocent 15 year olds (which is a good thing...)! But I do recommend it because it is a good read!
  • Wolf Sirens Forbidden: Discover the Legend (Wolf Sirens #1) on July 05, 2013

    I have to admit that I was drawn to this story by the blurb. It sounds so itriguing: a young woman drawn to a mysterious girl in a small town, a group of people with luminescent eyes. Sign me up! I want to read it! And truly, with the preface and first few chapters, I was hooked. I found the back story of Lila interesting, but also sad in that she was basically alone. Although the background story was somewhat lacking - I wanted more. I was also left a little confused by some of the things that happened: what's up with the tattoo? Why did her folks split?, etc. When the story continued, I was still a little confused by what was going on. I felt lost with Reid and Sky. She liked Reid, but also liked Sky. Hmmm. She liked Sam but liked Cresida. I mean, she kinda needed to make up her mind. But I took it in stride. I mean, she's a teenager, so that was okay. I can deal and eventually the story evened out and it became clearer. However, it took a few chapters for it to happen. Anyhoo, all in all I liked the story. I think the idea of having a Hunter in this town was pretty neat. Add to that the inevitable romance that was brewing, and you have yourself a story! I'm hoping the next book will show off Lila's newly acquired Hunter finesse (& continue the romance!). Thank you for allowing me to read and review this book!