Book Review: Soul In Darkness by Wendy Higgins

Soul In Darkness

By: Wendy Higgins

Published:

Feb. 12, 2019

Source: Purchased

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Book Synopsis:

People travel from afar to the small isle in the Aegean Sea hoping for a single glimpse of Princess Psyche. Their adoration for the mortal woman is so all-consuming that citizens begin to shower her with the very gifts and offerings they once left at the alter of Venus, goddess of love and beauty. 

But gods are known for their jealousy. 

Cupid, the god of love, takes pleasure in causing strife and mischief in the lives of humans. He uses love as a weapon, humoring in the weakness of people at the whims of their feelings. When his mother Venus approaches him about punishing the human girl who dares to steal her offerings and affections from the people, Cupid gladly accepts. 

Psyche's punishment is to be given to a mysterious creature who only comes to her in the dark of night under the pact that she will never lay eyes on him. She is terrified of this stranger, who the oracle described as a serpent. Her mate, however, is masterful in his dealings with his bride. He takes his time, morphing her fears into different sensations completely. 

Based on the Roman/Greek mythology of Cupid and Psyche from Lucius Apuleius, New York Times bestseller Wendy Higgins brings the tale to life, weaving layers that show exactly how a sacrificial lamb can be enchanted by an unseen monster.

My Thoughts:

Soul in Darkness by Wendy Higgins was a wonderful read.  It is the retelling of the love story of Cupid and Psyche.  I enjoy Mythology, and Wendy Higgins is one of my favorite authors, so I was excited to buy this ebook and dive right in!  This is a one sitting type of read, so I highly suggest not starting it unless you'll have enough time to finish it; because you won't want to put it down.

The story takes place on a beautifully breathtaking Island in the Aegean Sea during the Roman Empire.  Venus the Goddess of Love blessed Psyche's barren mother with three daughters, because her parents had beautiful souls and were amongst her most devoted of followers.  However, after they have their youngest daughter, beautiful and flawless princess Psyche, they forget all about Venus.  

Everyone on the island and even people from afar adore Psyche.  She is as beautiful and pure as a soul can be.  Pretty soon, people are sending offerings and an abundance of gifts, but the Princess just donates them to the poor.  She is humble, kind, and unassuming. Venus becomes jealous, enraged, and wants revenge on Psyche, and enlists the help of her son Cupid.  

What follows is a very beautiful and erotic love story, full of plot twists and surprises.  Soul in Darkness had a fairytale feel, and reminded me of Beauty and the Beast.  Psyche reminded me of "Belle," in the way she was kind, beautiful, and willing to sacrifice herself for her family.  Cupid reminded me of the "Beast," in the way that everything was not as it appeared. 

If you enjoy mythology, fairytales, and a great erotic romance, Soul in Darkness is an excellent choice for your next read.  

Purchase At:

Amazon | Barnes & Noble 

About the Author:

Wendy Higgins is the USA Today and NY Times bestselling author of the SWEET EVIL series from HarperTeen, the high fantasy duology THE GREAT HUNT, her independently published Irish Fantasy SEE ME, and her indie NA science fiction UNKNOWN trilogy. After earning a Creative Writing degree from George Mason University and a Masters in Curriculum and Instruction from Radford, Wendy taught high school English until achieving her dream job as a full-time writer. Wendy lives on the Eastern Shore of Virginia with her husband, daughter, son, and little doggies Rue & Nessie.

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Release Day Blitz : Sweet Temptation (The Sweet Trilogy, #4) by Wendy Higgins

SWEET
TEMPTATION

Author: 

Wendy Higgins

Pub. Date: 

September 8, 2015

Publisher: 

HarperTeen

Pages: 

485

Format: 

Paperback, eBook, audiobook

Find it: Amazon, Barnes & Noble, iBooks, 



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Bad boy Kaidan Rowe has never wanted for anything—money, popularity, musical talent…hot girls—but seducing them is part of his duty as a Nephilim, slave to the demon Dukes. As the son of the Duke of Lust, Kaidan has learned his father’s ways, becoming a master of passion, a manipulator of chemistry. Disobeying his father would mean certain death. Thankfully for Kaidan, he’s good at his job. And he enjoys it.

Until he meets Anna Whitt—sweet, smart, feisty, and inexplicably good—the one girl seemingly immune to his charms. The daughter of a guardian angel and a fallen one, she has a certain power over him, one that makes him wish for more than he could ever deserve.

Determined to save all the Neph from their dark lives as the influencers of sin, Anna joins forces with Kaidan to overcome the demons’ oppressive ways. In the light of her affections, Kaidan must undergo his toughest test of all, a battle of the heart.

Sensual and swoon worthy, this companion volume to the acclaimed Sweet Evil series from New York Times bestselling author Wendy Higgins, told from the perspective of the irresistibly sexy and mysterious Kaidan Rowe, gives readers revealing insights into his struggle, his intense connection to Anna, and most of all, the true emotions that drive him.

Author Note:

Sweet Temptation will encompass the entire trilogy in a condensed version, beginning with Kai's life before he met Anna, and taking readers through the epilogue of Sweet Reckoning. Sweet Temptation is a companion novel, not meant to be a stand alone story. It will definitely be a richer experience for those who have read the original trilogy.

Go HERE to read an excerpt fro SWEET TEMPTATION!

Also check out Wendy's PINTEREST board for KAI!

Giveaway Details:

1 Paperback of SWEET TEMPTATION and a signed bookplate and bookmarks. US Only.

Ends on September 18th at Midnight EST!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

About Wendy Higgins:

Wendy Higgins is the USA Today and NYT bestselling author of the Sweet Evil series from HarperTeen and her independently published Irish fantasy, See Me. She is a former high school English teacher who now writes full time, and lives on the Eastern Shore of Virginia with her veterinarian husband, daughter, son, and doggie Rue. 

Wendy earned a bachelor's in Creative Writing from George Mason University and a master's in Curriculum and Instruction from Radford. Writing Young Adult (YA) stories gives her the opportunity to delve into the ambiguities of those pivotal, daunting, and exciting years before adulthood.

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Book Review: Sweet Reckoning (The Sweet Trilogy #3) by Wendy Higgins

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Sweet Reckoning

The Sweet Trilogy #3
By:  Wendy Higgins
Release Date: April 29, 2014
Publisher:  Harper Teen
Source:  Publisher

GR's Summary:

It’s time. 

Evil is running rampant and sweet Anna Whitt is its target. Nobody knows when or how the Dukes will strike, but Anna and her Nephilim allies will do anything necessary to rid the earth of the demons and their oppressive ways.

The stakes are higher than ever, and Anna is determined that the love she feels will be her strength, not a liability. But trying to protect the ones she loves while running for her life and battling demonic forces proves to be perilous—especially as faces are changing and trust is fleeting. When the Duke of Lust sends Anna’s great love, Kaidan Rowe, to work against her, Anna must decide how much she’s prepared to risk.

In the most sensual and fast-paced installment yet, Sweet Reckoning brings all the beloved Neph together one last time to fight for their freedom.

The Sweet Trilogy:

My Thoughts:

The Sweet Series, by Wendy Higgins, is one of my favorite YA Paranormal Series.  My love and addiction to these books all began after I read Sweet Evil, the first book in the series.  In that story, we were introduced to the main characters, Anna, and the delectable, and oh so sexy, Kaiden (Kai).  We learned about a world where fallen angels that worked for Lucifer specialized in perpetuating certain sins on earth and that they used their Nephilim children to assist them in this endeavor.  Kaiden's father was Pharzuph, "The Duke of Lust."  This meant that one of Kaiden's largest moral weaknesses was fighting his lust, and that he was a pro when it came to getting others to indulge in their lust for him.    Anna's father was Belial "The Duke of Substance Abuse."  Drugs and alcohol were very difficult for Anna to resist, and she was expected to "work," and get others to indulge in drug and alcohol abuse.  Anna and Kai are the main characters in the series, but along the way we meet a special and colorful cast of "Dukes," and their Nephilim children.  

In Sweet Reckoning, the conclusion on the trilogy, we get an amazing story.  Anna and Kai are finally together, but have to keep their communication and meetings to a minimum, as they cannot be caught by any of the "Dukes," or "whisperers," the demons that work for and report back to their superiors.  Anna is working with her allies Kai, Marna, Ginger, Blake, Kope, and Zania to develop a plan to take down the Dukes, and send them back to hell.  Her father, Belial, is helping her gather more allies, and information that may be of use.  I loved being reunited with all of the amazing characters in this series.  I felt closer to Anna's adopted mother, Patti; my love for Kai grew ten-fold, and the time that Anna spent with her Nephilim friends was very precious.  There were many special moments in this story, and I didn't want it to end.

Things heat up a lot between Anna and Kai in this installment, and I for one was one very satisfied reader!  The beautiful love story between Anna and Kai really evolved an d matured in this story.  We didn't get all of the angst, and back and forth between the two of them.  They knew that they loved each other, and wanted to be together.  Their time was spent on working together to overcome the Dukes, and on enjoying the love that they had for each other.  There were some really magical and beautiful moments between these two, and I found myself with a big goofy grin on my face whenever these two were together.  There were a few plot twists in this story, that kept things interesting.  We end up meeting new Nephilim, and do not know if certain characters are friend or foe, until the end of the story.   

The final battle wasn't as large or complex as I had hoped for.  I felt like the ending was wrapped up a little too quickly and easily.  However, I adored the epilogue in the story.  It was emotional.  I was filled with hope and happiness for Anna, Kai, and their future together.  It was very touching, and I think fans will love the glimpse we get in to Anna and Kai's future.

My Rating:

I give, Sweet Reckoning, by Wending Higgins, 4.5 Emotional, Romantic, Loving, and Beautiful Stars!  If you are a fan of Young Adult, Paranormal stories, I highly recommend, The Sweet Trilogy!  If you love stories about angels, read this series, it's one of my absolute favorite's!  You will fall in love with the main characters, as well as the secondary characters.  This series has it all; great world building, a plot full of twists and turns, it's fast-paced, and there is never a dull moment!  I can't wait to see what Ms. Higgins plans to write next!

  

My Favorite Quote:

"He let me undress him, and in that moment, as I acquainted myself with all of him for the first time, I learned the power of being a woman--the weakness in his eyes brought on by my touch--and the underlying trust and love I saw there."  (eARC, Loc. 1968)

~Anna

Preorder At:

Amazon | Barnes and Noble 

Books-A-Million | Book Depository

About Wendy Higgins:

After earning a Creative Writing degree from George Mason University and a Masters in Curriculum and Instruction from Radford, I taught high school English until becoming a mommy. I've always had a heart for teens, and writing YA stories gives me the opportunity to delve into the ambiguities of those pivotal years before adulthood.  I live in the D.C. area with my husband, daughter, son and puppy Rue.

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Review: Sweet Peril (The Sweet Trilogy #2) by Wendy Higgins

Sweet Peril 

(The Sweet Trilogy #2) 

by 

Wendy Higgins 

Pub April 30th 2013 

by HarperTeen 

Nook Purchase 

Anna Whitt, the daughter of a guardian angel and a demon, promised herself she’d never do the work of her father—polluting souls. She’d been naive to make such a vow. She’d been naive about a lot of things. 

Haunted by demon whisperers, Anna does whatever she can to survive, even if it means embracing her dark side and earning an unwanted reputation as her school’s party girl. Her life has never looked more bleak. And all the while there’s Kaidan Rowe, son of the Duke of Lust, plaguing her heart and mind. 

When an unexpected lost message from the angels surfaces, Anna finds herself traveling the globe with Kopano, son of Wrath, in an attempt to gain support of fellow Nephilim and give them hope for the first time. It soon becomes clear that whatever freedoms Anna and the rest of the Neph are hoping to win will not be gained without a fight. Until then, Anna and Kaidan must put aside the issues between them, overcome the steamiest of temptations yet, and face the ultimate question: is loving someone worth risking their life?

The Way I See It

I had insanely high expectations for Sweet Peril and I was slightly let down. I definitely felt like this book fell victim to the dreaded sophomore slump everyone is always going on about. I read Sweet Evil in Oct of 2012 as a book blogger I read a lot and since then I’ve read close to 200 books! That’s a bit shocking right? Well, I remember this epic ending with angels and what not and I remember devouring the first book. Not the case with the second, it took me quite a few days to finish. I was confused about the characters and what was going on within the story line. It was slow building and then the action took off. There was supposed to be a love triangle but I was happy to see that Anna stayed true to her heart. I do however recall being a big supporter of Kopano the second love interest. Please keep in mind my memory is a little fuzzy on the deets of the first book so I spent a lot of time trying to figure out who is who and what lead everyone to this point. There were several things I felt need more explaining. Don’t get me wrong I’ve enjoyed this series and I’m looking forward to reading the final installment my biggest recommendation would be read these books very close together if not back to back. I absolutely loved all of the side characters they added character to the book! LOL I’m looking forward to all of the alliances being formed and I can’t wait to see what comes of it. Anna has been training hard and I can’t wait for that super Kick A$$ moment that I know is in her horizon. The writing was great Ms Higgins has a way of pulling your feelings into her words. The pain was palpable and I hurt when the characters hurt. Bravo! Do recommend this series? Yes. Was the book good? Yes. I really enjoyed the ending, there was a big reveal and the set up for the next book is in place. I just hope it doesn’t take me 16 months to read the next…I’m going to be stalker mode, the second the final installment comes out I’m reading it! By gosh, by golly! 

My Fav’s 

Kopano

This guy is amazing! He is so respectful and kind and charming and yummy I want him to find happiness. Of everyone in this series I think he has worked the hardest and he deserves some sweet reward. 

Anna 

Her heart is spoken for regardless of what the smart thing to do is she has given it away. She is forced to lead a life she hates but she tries to make up for it. Unfortunately she is being watched by dark beings and does not have a choice. She has so many temptations and she almost gives into them we see her struggle and feel for her pain. Anna is someone you will cheer for and want to succeed I’m very excited for her character. I can’t wait to see her in action. 

Kaidan 

Oh I wouldn’t dare leave this guy off. YUM he is a Nephilim of lust and boy oh boy is it known! This guy knows what he is doing and his heart is spoken for. Let me tell you I had my doubts and for a majority of the book I was angry with him for hurting Anna. Towards the end we find out his reasoning and it is justified. He completely redeems himself at the end by the promises he makes. I know he is being sincere and I can’t wait to see what happens. 

My Rating 

3.0 Secret Alliances, Party Girl, Demon Whispers, Alcohol Addiction, California Dreaming, Graduation Surprise, Rescue Mission, Secret Island, Freezing Water, Body Heat, Summit Gathering, College Bound, Declaration of Love filled Stars! I’m ready for the action to really get going! Let’s do this y’all! Looking forward to the next!

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Book Review: Flirting with Maybe by Wendy Higgins

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Flirting with Maybe

By:  Wendy Higgins

Published:  March 5, 2013

Published By:  HarperTeen Impulse

Nook Book, 92 pages

Source:  Purchased

GR's Summary:

He was fifteen and she was seventeen. 

When sophomore Ryan "The Kid" McPhearson makes the Varsity baseball team, he finds himself submersed into the life of upperclassmen, and falling in love with senior Brooke Bennet. To Ryan she's his dream girl, perfect. Maybe to the outside world a two-year age difference doesn't matter, but this is high school. Everything matters. 

Ryan soon realizes Brooke's life is not so perfect. He becomes her closest friend, her safe place to fall when she needs to escape. Ryan seems to be benched in the friend zone with no chance to bat.

Time is both a curse and a blessing. It ushers Brooke away to college, and Ryan into the arms of his first girlfriend. It alters Ryan from a kid to a high school graduate, ready to venture to college himself. But when Ryan sees Brooke again he realizes there are some things even time can't touch.

Though much has changed, one question still remains. Will the things that mattered in high school always stand between them?

My Take on this Journey:

This is a wonderful little Novella about Brooke Bennet, a hot 17 year old blond, with a great body, beautiful eyes, and very unassuming nature.  Brooke has a natural look, and hardly wears make up.  She is a senior in high school, and is part of the in-crowd.  Brooke has many friends, her best friend being Jackie.  Brooke is going to manage the Varsity Baseball team this year, and decides to reach out, and introduce herself to underclassman Ryan, (Ry) McPhearson.  Ryan is in so much shock, he can't speak, so Brooke thinks he is shy.  Ryan is only 16, a sophomore, and has made the Varsity Baseball team.  He is very serious about baseball, and has a huge crush on Brooke.  Whenever Brooke is around, Ryan practically went into a "Vanilla Cookie Coma."  Brooke smells so great that he can't think when she is in close proximity.  

Little by little these two become friends, and Ryan begins giving Brooke rides home.  They first they stop by the State park, and talk about things she has never discussed with anyone before, not even her best friend Jackie knows about her step father, "Ron the Con"and how he is verbally abusive with Brooke, or how he never wants to spend money for her education or anything else.

Right from the start, the reader knows that Ry is madly in love with Brooke.  Brooke goes off to college, and there is confusion and insecurity that overwhelms her.  Her step-father has always told her she was a loser, just like her drunken father, and she always has always believed him.  She has low self-esteem, and has unknowingly made a reputation for herself that she doesn't want or deserve.  Ry always tries to reach out to her, but he is always looked at as the younger guy, "the kid" as everyone calls him.

This novella had so many different obstacles, leading from Brooke's upbringing, the fact that her dad left at an early age, and always had an excuse why he wasn't coming to see her.  He was always getting his act together, but never quite made it.  Brooke's real father was an alcoholic.  Throughout her stay in the dorm at college with her sorority sisters, alcohol was always a problem, too much partying, bad grades, and self-loathing, that stood in the way of what she wanted.  She is always running away when things get tough with Ry, and always leaves him hanging.  Yet, he is always still hopeful, and waiting for her.

Ryan is a great character.  He tries to find his way, get a girlfriend, Michelle, though Brooke is always in the forefront of his mind, and he tries to move on.  Michelle, is very insecure and very neurotic.  We see Ryan grow away from her, and mature throughout the short novella.  I'm hoping that Ms. Higgins will honor us with a sequel.  This is a great short story that is worth reading, and is worth making into a series.     

I give, Flirting with Maybe, a big 5 Sweet, Heartfelt, Longing, Passion Filled Stars! 

My Favorite Quotes:

"You're not your dad," Ryan said through clenched teeth.  Her eyes watered.  "But I'm like him."  He ran his hand down her soft, straight hair and she closed her eyes.  "You're not him.  And you won't end up like him." (eARC pg. 59)

"I'm still not sure you won't walk out that door and forget about me," he said.  Pain settled on her face.  "I'll just have to prove myself, then."  He paused.  Since they were being honest, Ryan reached out to stroke her cheek, and said quietly, "you can start by not drinking anymore."  He waited for an indignant response.  The drinking thing was for her, not him, but he knew it was a hurdle in her life that she'd have to get over." (eARC pg. 67)

Purchase At:

Amazon | Barnes and Noble | Kobo

About the Author:

After earning a Creative Writing degree from George Mason University and a Masters in Curriculum and Instruction from Radford, I taught high school English until becoming a mommy. I've always had a heart for teens, and writing YA stories gives me the opportunity to delve into the ambiguities of those pivotal years before adulthood.  I live in the D.C. area with my husband, daughter, son and puppy Rue.

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