Great start from a new author, can't wait for the next book in the series
925865
Occasionally, I like to gamble on new and unknown indy authors. Sometimes Im disappointed; sometimes I find talented authors with enjoyable writing styles. This author is from the latter category. The Capuan by Martin Jameson is a great read. It was full of excitement, intrigue, cultural and historical analysis, mystery, and emotion. I enjoyed the protagonists attributes and perspective: definitely not a white-knight hero, but also not the clich&eacute;d anti-hero. The main character has both intense compassion for others and an inner darkness and rage that animate him. I was sad when the journey ended, though the book seems to be the first in a forthcoming series, so hopefully there will be more adventures to come.

I bought this book because I was interested in the merging of the science fiction and historical fiction genres. Additionally, I enjoy books about simulated or artificial reality. This book blended these genres and tropes very well. Too many sci-fi novels can be over-the-top and cheesy, but The Capuan uses science fiction merely to get the story rolling (though small clues and reveals about the sci-fi elements throughout the story kept me interested and wanting more answers). While the science fiction undertones were always in the back of my mind, I was more captivated with the historical fiction aspects of the story, which comprise the bulk of the book. The author can get a little preachy at times, but I found myself agreeing with the philosophy and worldview of the protagonist (and presumably the author). While the protagonist is from the 21st century and inhabits the simulated world of the first-century BC, the social and political commentary is surprisingly relevant to the present. The reader gets to explore the past and future in order to better understand and appreciate the present.
4647026
First, let me say that I didn't pick this book myself, it was in my suggestion list by Amazon based upon my past reading history. However, once I read the synopsis of the book and that it was the first of this author's work, I thought I should at least give it a try. I was not disappointed. Although keeping up with the back and forth between characters in the beginning was a little annoying, I quickly became engrossed enough in the story to push through.  I'm looking forward to the next book in the series. I already have it flagged on my Kindle.
1565307
Love this book.  I can't wait for the next in series
4156547
Excellent first book, looking forward to reading the second in the series.
4763278
This is the start of a new series by a great author.  I really enjoyed this book, this author has the ability to carry me away into another happier world.  Well worth reading, I highly recommend it. I received a free copy of the book from the author. This review is voluntary.
1527438
Very enjoyable story, looking forward to more from this author.
3729669
I haven't read a great deal in this genre, but am definitely looking forward to the next book.  The plot and characters were engaging and I can't wait to find out how Nightingale evolves, along with her superhero cohorts.  There are a lot of mysterious things left hanging to keep the reader looking for more.  Great first book - keep them coming!
541733
This is great fun to read, and I loved the world, characters, and system of magic that Islington created.  The plot has many twists, which made it more interesting than a typical fantasy novel. I just hope the author can keep all of it straight as this story develops.  I don't give hardly anything 5 stars, so 4 stars is a high rating coming from me.  The only downside is that this novel is the beginning of a series that feels like it will take multiple novels to complete, and it just came out.
2300378
Born in Blood is the first book in The Sentinels series by Alexandra Ivy, and it is a good solid start to this new series. It follows Duncan, a tough homicide detective working a new case, and Callie, a talented necromancer who's been brought in to find out the victim's last thoughts. Duncan and Callie have worked together before, so there is already an abundance of sexual tension from the beginning but this case just ends up speeding things along for the two of them.
  Duncan and Callie have a lot to work through in this book because although normal humans know how different high-bloods are, high-bloods all have different supernatural powers, and they're willing to use them for their powers they are still a long way from accepting them as equals in society. Most people call the high-bloods freaks, so the main characters have a lot of prejudice against them from the get go. Combine that with a mad man killing people and trying to raise the dead and they are definitely up against some major adversity.
  Born in Blood had an awesome plot and some hot chemistry between the two main characters. The world building was unique and I am excited to read more because there could be so many different kinds of supernaturals in further books, so it has some awesome potential. Overall it was a very entertaining read that was very well written, one that didn't slow down from beginning to end, and I will be waiting for the next Sentinels book to come out.

***Review copy provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review***
4131218
I'm going to start this review by noting that I've already read and reviewed book 2, so my review is influenced by my feelings towards the sequel.

That said, this book was a wonderful start to a series.  The characters aren't presented in a way to allow you to get to know them, but in many cases that was a very deliberate choice of the author, who wanted you to be caught up in the uncertainty he was having the main character live through.

And that made this an extremely compelling book.  You have a main character who is more than a bit of a jerk at times, but still ends up being a tragic and heroic figure due to what happens to him.  The supporting cast helps build that same uncertainty with actions that won't always make sense when you read them, but which clear up later once the hero understands more.

Well written, and with surprisingly good characters.  I rated this highly and quickly got book 2.

However, I'll note that there were things that bothered me.  I give this book 4 stars.  It deserved it in my mind, but I could have easily justified a much lower rating if I had chosen to focus on the flaws rather than the good points.  In this case the writing helped me get past the flaws, but not everyone will
4105311
Awesome story, cant wait to read more from this author.
4526099
A great start to a new series. I can hardly wait for book two.
1709806
A really enjoyable first book. I'm looking forward to the next in this series.
950774
What an interesting start to a great new series.  Ms. Barton has created some unique characters and some interesting twists and turns.  When I start a new series from this author I am never sure what to expect as her mind works in mysterious ways.  :).  As always, she doesn't disappoint and I have found some new characters to fall in love with.  Jake is quiet and seems like a pushover , but underneath that unassuming demeanor is a powder keg ready to blow. Forrest is the shifter but he seems like he is uncomfortable with his power.  Together these two shy guys are going to be a force to be reckoned with.  Jenna was a surprising character, she was solid, strong, fierce of those she loved and quite a charming old lady.  She had me smiling and snickering with her wit and quirky sense of humor.  Nothing ever comes easy to Ms. Barton's characters , Jake and Forrest will have to overcome some trying circumstance before they can have a HEA.  The story was fast paced, easy to read, keeps your interest and leaves you with questions.  I look forward to finding the answers in the next book.
I volunteered to review this story for my honest opinion.
1785288
I really enjoyed this new series, looking forward to the next book.
4592435
Wonderful first book in what (I hope) will be an ongoing series.  Great writing, great characters and a great story...can't wait for more!
4748457
In this story, we follow Runa through her self-discovery; however, the person she discovers in far from the norm. Runa struggles with an extreme case of insomnia and sleepwalking; which greatly contributes to her twisted problems, with all aspects of life, family, trust, and relationships. She is completely messed up! Thankfully, her best friend will always have her back, and her Mom will always love her, regardless.

This was a quick and easy read, there were a few errors in the writing that caused me to read over the sentences or paragraphs twice, but it didn't affect the story too much. There was suspense, action and a lot of mystery in her uniquely paranormal world. This is a great start to a new series: I strongly suggest you go ahead and grab Prying Eyes, Book 2; you will be left with a cliffhanger and the need to for answers, which Im hoping to find in book 2.

Overall, I loved Scratching the Surface and rate it 4 Boundless Stars....Beth