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The Empath Trilogy #1
Empath
All she wanted was to disappear…
Claire Martin is an empath. She’s lived her entire life as a slave to a constant barrage of emotions that weren't hers. Off to college she hopes simply to blend with the crowd where she can best hide her curse. Within her first few weeks at school Claire meets Stephen Andrews, a small, fragile looking boy who changes her life forever.
Stephen, a boy with a secret of his own, instantly recognizes Claire for what she is. It is through Stephen's aid that Claire meets James, a vampire with a talent of his own. As soon as they touch, their abilities connect in a way that has not occurred in over three hundred years forming a bond that cannot be broken.
Follow the trilogy:
Bonded
Secrets
Be sure to check out the other books by HK Savage:
Life Blood
Blood Bound
Claire Martin is an empath. She’s lived her entire life as a slave to a constant barrage of emotions that weren't hers. Off to college she hopes simply to blend with the crowd where she can best hide her curse. Within her first few weeks at school Claire meets Stephen Andrews, a small, fragile looking boy who changes her life forever.
Stephen, a boy with a secret of his own, instantly recognizes Claire for what she is. It is through Stephen's aid that Claire meets James, a vampire with a talent of his own. As soon as they touch, their abilities connect in a way that has not occurred in over three hundred years forming a bond that cannot be broken.
Follow the trilogy:
Bonded
Secrets
Be sure to check out the other books by HK Savage:
Life Blood
Blood Bound
367 pages, ebook
First published December 15, 2010
About the author
H.K. Savage
9 books141 followersHK lives in the frozen hinterlands of the far North. The long, cold months provide ample opportunity to hunker down with her computer and create adventures far more enticing than scraping ice and getting frostbite.
Between books HK reads voraciously. Anything with a good plot and compelling characters are her broad parameters. One is as likely to catch her with a copy of Don Quixote as with the latest Kristen Ashley.
When not writing or wowing the corporate world by day, HK practices martial arts, plays with her dogs and matches wits with her teen. Next winter she intends to brush up on her Spanish and escape the cold for somewhere more tropical.
Paranormal is her favorite genre and science fiction because both address the possibilities we have not yet realized and the darker things we have. Her favorite premise: “what if?”
Between books HK reads voraciously. Anything with a good plot and compelling characters are her broad parameters. One is as likely to catch her with a copy of Don Quixote as with the latest Kristen Ashley.
When not writing or wowing the corporate world by day, HK practices martial arts, plays with her dogs and matches wits with her teen. Next winter she intends to brush up on her Spanish and escape the cold for somewhere more tropical.
Paranormal is her favorite genre and science fiction because both address the possibilities we have not yet realized and the darker things we have. Her favorite premise: “what if?”
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 142 reviews
April 2, 2012
Straight away, we learn that Claire Martin isn’t quite like other 19-year-old girls. She is prone to experiencing the pains, anguish and other emotions of nearby people. “… the stabbing pains in my head and wrenching in my stomach, reminding myself none of them were mine.” She’s an empath, though she keeps this fact secret. Touching anyone exacerbated the sensations and feelings she absorbed, so in order to cope, she hasn’t any close friends and she’d never been on a date. And now her problems were just beginning. She's going to Augsburg College, a small private school in Minneapolis, where she encounters Stephen Andrews and touches him – and isn’t able to snatch even a glimmer of any emotion from him. Claire’s puzzled. Moreso when it’s plain that Stephen can somehow detect Claire’s ability…
At this point, where boy meets girl, you might be forgiven for believing that this was a standard romance, with the added mystery of extra sensory perception. You’d be wrong. More surprises lie in store for Claire – not least, the existence of werecats, immortality, and … the vampire James.
Because the narrative is in the first person, this intimacy helps suspend disbelief and the reader feels what Claire feels. Indeed, the reader empathizes. There are several good passages that reveal just what being an empath can entail. Although this is the first in a series, it’s a self-contained story that gathers both pace and excitement as the end draws near.
At this point, where boy meets girl, you might be forgiven for believing that this was a standard romance, with the added mystery of extra sensory perception. You’d be wrong. More surprises lie in store for Claire – not least, the existence of werecats, immortality, and … the vampire James.
Because the narrative is in the first person, this intimacy helps suspend disbelief and the reader feels what Claire feels. Indeed, the reader empathizes. There are several good passages that reveal just what being an empath can entail. Although this is the first in a series, it’s a self-contained story that gathers both pace and excitement as the end draws near.
January 14, 2014
I loved the beginning of this book, the build up was great but I felt as soon as she met James it all started going down hill. I don't think there was enough description of them "falling in love" it was kind of go to a club and the then wake up the next day job done. I felt like I'd missed a chunk out of the story and after that I felt myself really struggling to continue with it. I couldn't really care less about the characters as I felt no connection with them. I do prefer my books with a bit more spice than this, I didn't realise it was a YA book! Shame because the story line concept was so good.
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May 30, 2013This series was such fun to write. The support it has received has been tremendous. To commemorate the third edition, we've created new covers and made book 1, Empath, FREE!
May 23, 2013
Claire is ‘special’. My heart went out to her immediately. I couldn’t even imagine having to isolate myself from my family and the world. Boy, her life was tough. Poor Claire missed out on so much and my heart broke for her, and her family.
Claires ‘gift’ is being able to feel the emotions of those around her, a constant buzzing in her head. Not only can she feel them, she becomes them. Stephen is a were and part of a clan that is bonded to a vampire Henry, and can tell that Claire needs help to protect herself and prevent herself being used as a weapon in the war that’s coming between vampires & humans.
Stephen and his clan introduce Claire to the world of paranormal and I loved her reactions. I had a huge laugh out loud moment when she was introduced to James. They made my heart flutter. Love at first sight. It didn’t feel corny, it felt right.
I enjoyed learning about each of the weres and about the vamps powers. I am in awe of Henry and am looking forward to finding out more about his background.
Claire had a tougher time yet once she started training with James to shield herself. She was continually surrounded by protectors which was huge as she was so used to self imposed isolation, as she was ‘wanted’ by the baddies. She was forever on the lookout for the wannabe kidnappers. I loved Claires fearlessness but not cockiness – she was so brave even during her captivity. She panicked, but could still function enough to think of a way to save herself. Her bond with James was incredible and amazing. I’m so jealous
I was unsure of Stephens role in everything that happened throughout the book and kept expecting him to be traitor to the clan and coven. I am still not sure he is who he says, but he’s just another reason I am itching to begin the next book!
So much happened in this book (never a dull moment. Action packed!) I am so happy that Claire is finally able to share touch and time with others rather than hiding away from the world.
HK Savage is a phenomenal author, the descriptions weren’t noticeable as I was reading (cause I admit I am know to skim those) but I found I could picture everything as it were happening – Edinborough, Miranda, the Court, and even the family gathering. Well done!
I’m going straight onto the next book “Bonded” to see what happens with The Court, Bradley & Gaston!
PS Jodie - I mean - Claire & James Forever :D
Claires ‘gift’ is being able to feel the emotions of those around her, a constant buzzing in her head. Not only can she feel them, she becomes them. Stephen is a were and part of a clan that is bonded to a vampire Henry, and can tell that Claire needs help to protect herself and prevent herself being used as a weapon in the war that’s coming between vampires & humans.
Stephen and his clan introduce Claire to the world of paranormal and I loved her reactions. I had a huge laugh out loud moment when she was introduced to James. They made my heart flutter. Love at first sight. It didn’t feel corny, it felt right.
I enjoyed learning about each of the weres and about the vamps powers. I am in awe of Henry and am looking forward to finding out more about his background.
Claire had a tougher time yet once she started training with James to shield herself. She was continually surrounded by protectors which was huge as she was so used to self imposed isolation, as she was ‘wanted’ by the baddies. She was forever on the lookout for the wannabe kidnappers. I loved Claires fearlessness but not cockiness – she was so brave even during her captivity. She panicked, but could still function enough to think of a way to save herself. Her bond with James was incredible and amazing. I’m so jealous
I was unsure of Stephens role in everything that happened throughout the book and kept expecting him to be traitor to the clan and coven. I am still not sure he is who he says, but he’s just another reason I am itching to begin the next book!
So much happened in this book (never a dull moment. Action packed!) I am so happy that Claire is finally able to share touch and time with others rather than hiding away from the world.
HK Savage is a phenomenal author, the descriptions weren’t noticeable as I was reading (cause I admit I am know to skim those) but I found I could picture everything as it were happening – Edinborough, Miranda, the Court, and even the family gathering. Well done!
I’m going straight onto the next book “Bonded” to see what happens with The Court, Bradley & Gaston!
PS Jodie - I mean - Claire & James Forever :D
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 6, 2012
Empath is the first in a trilogy. Claire is a college student who is an Empath and very socially akward. Because of her empathic abilities she is unable to handle being around people. Her life up until she leaves for college has been very lonely. She believes she will never be able to have a normal life and definietly will not ever have friends or a love life. Well she is about to be introduced to a totally knew world for herself.
Once Claire gets to school she meets Stephan. He instantly knows she is special and once he takes her home she is about to learn how special he is also. They are instantly friends and through the trilogy they remain best friends. Stephan introduces Claire to his family which are shifters and also to James and Henry. James and Claire bond immediately and so the journey begins.
From the moment Claire and James met it's something at first sight. LOL Claire learns quickly James and Henry are vampires and being around the supernatural puts a hamper on her abilities and she is able to start having a normal life. Well as normal as she can being around all of these supernatural beings. What she doesn't know is that even though James helps her learn how to shield herself and find love, being in this new crowd is going to prove very harmful to herself. She must decide if the connection she has with James is going to be good or possibly get her killed.
Once Claire gets to school she meets Stephan. He instantly knows she is special and once he takes her home she is about to learn how special he is also. They are instantly friends and through the trilogy they remain best friends. Stephan introduces Claire to his family which are shifters and also to James and Henry. James and Claire bond immediately and so the journey begins.
From the moment Claire and James met it's something at first sight. LOL Claire learns quickly James and Henry are vampires and being around the supernatural puts a hamper on her abilities and she is able to start having a normal life. Well as normal as she can being around all of these supernatural beings. What she doesn't know is that even though James helps her learn how to shield herself and find love, being in this new crowd is going to prove very harmful to herself. She must decide if the connection she has with James is going to be good or possibly get her killed.
January 19, 2019
so talking about this book i told my friends that i work with that its like twilight but with the main character being a empath hence the title... and this was BEFORE i read a thing out of this book.. and i am quite proud to say that i was right. to give you some thought about this book ill compare the characters to the twilight people if that is alright (from someone that has never read any of the books btw)
we first have our 'bella' character who is named Claire Martin, who is the empath of this whole story who is quite a character and has a sense of humor in the start despite her abilities she also has a love interest named James Thomas who is the 'Edward' the book his care for her is so sweet and i should point out that Claire is in collage and she is 19 in this novel. then the last person i can talk about is Stephen Andrews who is the 'Jacob' of this story but in this case he is a werecat and Stephen at least of all the Andrews is the only gay one mention.
this book is so good if you like paranormal romance books and want to understand empaths better you should read this book honestly while i can't say for certain that i have ever felt the way claire feels about her 'power' this is an amazing book about how empaths react to situations.
we first have our 'bella' character who is named Claire Martin, who is the empath of this whole story who is quite a character and has a sense of humor in the start despite her abilities she also has a love interest named James Thomas who is the 'Edward' the book his care for her is so sweet and i should point out that Claire is in collage and she is 19 in this novel. then the last person i can talk about is Stephen Andrews who is the 'Jacob' of this story but in this case he is a werecat and Stephen at least of all the Andrews is the only gay one mention.
this book is so good if you like paranormal romance books and want to understand empaths better you should read this book honestly while i can't say for certain that i have ever felt the way claire feels about her 'power' this is an amazing book about how empaths react to situations.
April 23, 2015
I received a free copy of the book from the author for my honest opinion.
Claire is a young girl that has just left home and started college. Claire has been so happy to get away from her home town, her family and everyone else. Growing up Claire never had any friends or a boyfriend. She preferred to stay off to herself. Claire is an Empath. She can feel what other people can feel. Like if they are sad, happy, scared ect... Claire likes to stay away from people and she definitely doesn't want anyone to touch her. Claire is just like any other girl; she wants to have friends and a boyfriend someone who cares about her. But she believes in her mind that this will never happen that is it not possible.
Until she gets to college a meets a young man at the college that she can't feel but knows that she has an ability. He knows that she can feel other people's feelings. Stephen is a very good friend to Claire and teaches her how to block what other people are feeling. Claire likes Stephen a lot and is very grateful that he has taught her to block out other people so now she can live her life in relative peace. But Claire soon learns that Stephen has a secret that he is trying to hide from her. But ole' Claire is a pretty smart girl; she is very determined to find out what his secret if it kills her.
Just as soon as Claire steps off into another world one that she has never seen much less believed in. A world that she always thought was not real. She soon learns that most of the fairy tales that she grew up with are not fake at all they are very much real. In this new world that she has discovered with the help of Stephen of course she meets a very handsome dude whom she comes to care for a great deal. But she doesn't believe that someone as nice looking as he is will ever have anything to do with here.
Claire runs into a lot of danger in this new world of hers. The creatures in this new world don't like her because she is human and they want her dead. Claire has to go in hiding and have a babysitter 24/7. But Claire is a very tough chic and really loves her freedom and independence. This independence of hers could very well cost her; her life without her even knowing it.
I know I say this all the time but this is one book that I have really and truly loved reading. I learnt a lot of things from this book. Most people don't think that you can learn from reading fiction books but I learn something just about everyone I read. I have learned very much from Empath and more than grateful that I got to read it and can't wait to start the second book in this trilogy. Empath may be a fictional book but I have learned a lot from it. This is one trilogy that I don't think I will ever forget I will take some of it with me almost every day. Thank you H.K. for writing the Empath trilogy. I can't wait to read Bonded and Secrets to find out more about Claire, Stephen, James, Henry and the rest of the crew. You know I like Stephen but for some reason I am having a hard time believing in him and trusting him. Something just seems off about him.
Empath is one amazing book and if you have not read then all I can say is you don't know what you are missing. If you love reading books with paranormal creatures and humans with a little romance and special abilities thrown in then Empath is a book that you will totally won't to read. I highly recommend Empath to anyone who likes books of this genre. As a matter of fact I was telling a friend about Empath and she went straight away and bought ii that very moment.
Claire is a young girl that has just left home and started college. Claire has been so happy to get away from her home town, her family and everyone else. Growing up Claire never had any friends or a boyfriend. She preferred to stay off to herself. Claire is an Empath. She can feel what other people can feel. Like if they are sad, happy, scared ect... Claire likes to stay away from people and she definitely doesn't want anyone to touch her. Claire is just like any other girl; she wants to have friends and a boyfriend someone who cares about her. But she believes in her mind that this will never happen that is it not possible.
Until she gets to college a meets a young man at the college that she can't feel but knows that she has an ability. He knows that she can feel other people's feelings. Stephen is a very good friend to Claire and teaches her how to block what other people are feeling. Claire likes Stephen a lot and is very grateful that he has taught her to block out other people so now she can live her life in relative peace. But Claire soon learns that Stephen has a secret that he is trying to hide from her. But ole' Claire is a pretty smart girl; she is very determined to find out what his secret if it kills her.
Just as soon as Claire steps off into another world one that she has never seen much less believed in. A world that she always thought was not real. She soon learns that most of the fairy tales that she grew up with are not fake at all they are very much real. In this new world that she has discovered with the help of Stephen of course she meets a very handsome dude whom she comes to care for a great deal. But she doesn't believe that someone as nice looking as he is will ever have anything to do with here.
Claire runs into a lot of danger in this new world of hers. The creatures in this new world don't like her because she is human and they want her dead. Claire has to go in hiding and have a babysitter 24/7. But Claire is a very tough chic and really loves her freedom and independence. This independence of hers could very well cost her; her life without her even knowing it.
I know I say this all the time but this is one book that I have really and truly loved reading. I learnt a lot of things from this book. Most people don't think that you can learn from reading fiction books but I learn something just about everyone I read. I have learned very much from Empath and more than grateful that I got to read it and can't wait to start the second book in this trilogy. Empath may be a fictional book but I have learned a lot from it. This is one trilogy that I don't think I will ever forget I will take some of it with me almost every day. Thank you H.K. for writing the Empath trilogy. I can't wait to read Bonded and Secrets to find out more about Claire, Stephen, James, Henry and the rest of the crew. You know I like Stephen but for some reason I am having a hard time believing in him and trusting him. Something just seems off about him.
Empath is one amazing book and if you have not read then all I can say is you don't know what you are missing. If you love reading books with paranormal creatures and humans with a little romance and special abilities thrown in then Empath is a book that you will totally won't to read. I highly recommend Empath to anyone who likes books of this genre. As a matter of fact I was telling a friend about Empath and she went straight away and bought ii that very moment.
July 20, 2013
I'm having a difficult time verbalizing why I didn't like this book. Was it the fact that Claire never even tried to figure out how to control her powers, though she had previously tried to do research? Was it that she was in denial about paranormal populations regardless of the fact that she belongs to that group? Or was it that she passes out every other chapter? Okay, that's a bit of an exaggeration, but she does pass out at least 4 times throughout the book. Not only does it get repetitive, it's fairly lame for a heroine.
Other reasons:
The plot has very little movement.
The connection between Claire and James is so eerie - at least this is explained a bit towards the end of the book.
Claire likes to jump to conclusions (mainly about Stephen).
Speech patterns are the same, regardless of characters' ages or backgrounds.
Claire always chooses the wrong information to keep to herself, putting her and others in danger.
**SPOILER ALERT FOR THIS NEXT LINE ONLY** I really detested that Claire traded her v-card in so easily.
Overall this book lacks action, adventure, mystery, danger, etc. I found the protagonist to be irritating - not overly irritating, just irritating enough to be disliked.
Other reasons:
The plot has very little movement.
The connection between Claire and James is so eerie - at least this is explained a bit towards the end of the book.
Claire likes to jump to conclusions (mainly about Stephen).
Speech patterns are the same, regardless of characters' ages or backgrounds.
Claire always chooses the wrong information to keep to herself, putting her and others in danger.
**SPOILER ALERT FOR THIS NEXT LINE ONLY** I really detested that Claire traded her v-card in so easily.
Overall this book lacks action, adventure, mystery, danger, etc. I found the protagonist to be irritating - not overly irritating, just irritating enough to be disliked.
November 27, 2012
Clair is an Empath, it causes her a lot of problems and all she wants is to be normal, to fit in. She heads off to college hoping that she will finally be able to at least seem normal. Alas her gift/curse will not be ignored. It is there that she meets Stephen, a boy that recognizes her as an Empath and takes her into a world of paranormal awesomeness. I loved the introduction to this previously unknown world, a world where she isn't a freak. While there, Clair meets James, a vampire with his own gifts. They have an instant and unbreakable connection that won't be ignored, but will cause all kinds of trouble for them. This book has some very delicious were's in it as well. I loved this story, it's characters are well developed, it has just the right amount of description vs interaction. I hate when a good story is ruined by 15 pages of how her hair looked. This book doesn't do that. The author knows how to balance information with character interaction. I loved the book and will be following this series like a stalker. If you are a lover of anything paranormal, you will love this.
May 30, 2012
While I don't read strictly paranormal romance as a rule, I was intrigued by the idea that the protagonist can "feel" the emotional state of those around her. Add in the vampires I imagined, not those sparkling ones, and this book took me on a very entertaining ride through the eyes of a girl who is just learning what it means to have these abilities.
Now that I've finished, I am compelled to venture into the next book in the series to see where Claire is headed and what James is willing to do to keep her safe.
A typical paranormal romance reader I am not, but I am definitely hooked on H.K. Savage's series and will continue to read her unique take on the world of vampires and the paranormal.
Now that I've finished, I am compelled to venture into the next book in the series to see where Claire is headed and what James is willing to do to keep her safe.
A typical paranormal romance reader I am not, but I am definitely hooked on H.K. Savage's series and will continue to read her unique take on the world of vampires and the paranormal.
August 1, 2013
Meh...I like character development and depth and this book felt a little flat and the story line felt way to reminiscent of Twilight and other vampire-ish genre. All of a sudden Claire becomes BFF with a cat, quickly gushes over how much love and protection she feels for her family (the cats and vampires...not her actual family) and the fast forward pace of her budding relationship felt way to rushed.
What I did like...that Claire wasn't a weak character always getting James in trouble. I hate when they do that to female characters. Secondly, I love a budding relationship and James fit the bill without being made to be too perfect.
What I did like...that Claire wasn't a weak character always getting James in trouble. I hate when they do that to female characters. Secondly, I love a budding relationship and James fit the bill without being made to be too perfect.
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January 2, 2014I was looking for books to read with characters having empathy ability as part of my research. What made me to put this down was when I've read about werecats, vampires, werewolves, and such.
I'll try to finish this once I find time.
My reactions were, while reading the first few chapters of this book, ugh... uhm... whatda? The writer had some gaps needed to fill to justify the sudden change of reaction/decisions of the protagonist. I can't seem to agree that a person would gladly jump in with the situation wherein she had a very opposite reaction in the first place.
I'll try to finish this once I find time.
My reactions were, while reading the first few chapters of this book, ugh... uhm... whatda? The writer had some gaps needed to fill to justify the sudden change of reaction/decisions of the protagonist. I can't seem to agree that a person would gladly jump in with the situation wherein she had a very opposite reaction in the first place.
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January 24, 2014Just good enough to keep me reading
I felt as though the author was following a formula or perhaps a checklist, including the tried and true elements for an urban fantasy starring gifted innocent human girl meeting gorgeous vampire. characters weren't well developed and the plot was predictable. I won't be reading the rest of the trilogy__so many better books, so little time.
I felt as though the author was following a formula or perhaps a checklist, including the tried and true elements for an urban fantasy starring gifted innocent human girl meeting gorgeous vampire. characters weren't well developed and the plot was predictable. I won't be reading the rest of the trilogy__so many better books, so little time.
July 25, 2013
an empathy who falls for a vampire with cat shifter friends. what more could u ask for? oh... other vampires want to kill her. but of course. loved it. on to the second book... more about their mental connection...
January 31, 2022
EMPATH is the first book in The Empath Trilogy and we are introduced to Claire, an empath who shies away from touch - any touch, even that of her family. She is cutting the apron strings though and heading off to college, where she hopes her gift will be kept under control simply by the fact of not knowing anyone there.
This was the first in a series so I didn't expect to have all the answers by the time it finished. However, a few more would have been nice. Claire is thrust into the paranormal world with nary the blink of an eye. She finds out about different types of people, most having gifts of their own, and also meets someone she wants to call her own.
The relationship between Claire and James moved in fits and starts for me. It was very quick in places (post-nightclub) and then slow in others. I did like that she didn't automatically put herself in danger and wait for James to rescue her. I would have liked more of a relationship between her and other characters though - Henry, Stephen, Heidi, to name a few.
We end with a HFN and a lead into the next book. This was a long book that allowed me to become immersed in the story. I enjoyed it and look forward to continuing the trilogy.
This was the first in a series so I didn't expect to have all the answers by the time it finished. However, a few more would have been nice. Claire is thrust into the paranormal world with nary the blink of an eye. She finds out about different types of people, most having gifts of their own, and also meets someone she wants to call her own.
The relationship between Claire and James moved in fits and starts for me. It was very quick in places (post-nightclub) and then slow in others. I did like that she didn't automatically put herself in danger and wait for James to rescue her. I would have liked more of a relationship between her and other characters though - Henry, Stephen, Heidi, to name a few.
We end with a HFN and a lead into the next book. This was a long book that allowed me to become immersed in the story. I enjoyed it and look forward to continuing the trilogy.
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February 20, 2020Vampire schlock. Needs better copy editing.
The early premise was.engaging, then it rapidly descended into smarmy vampire romance tropes, with nothing particularly differentiating this book from the masses of pulp available. Possible story but haphazard editing "We are possible creatures you should know by know" small word errors, wrong word, wrong tense, etc. I will not be reading more. The story itself is not at all badly written, sadly there are so many other stories in the mix that it takes soothing spectacular to rise above the rest. For me this one isn't that special. Not bad, just not great enough.
The early premise was.engaging, then it rapidly descended into smarmy vampire romance tropes, with nothing particularly differentiating this book from the masses of pulp available. Possible story but haphazard editing "We are possible creatures you should know by know" small word errors, wrong word, wrong tense, etc. I will not be reading more. The story itself is not at all badly written, sadly there are so many other stories in the mix that it takes soothing spectacular to rise above the rest. For me this one isn't that special. Not bad, just not great enough.
August 13, 2020
Empath by H.K. Savage
This is a good story. It has a deepening plot and wonderful characters. It was a bit frustrating that everyone kept promising to protect Claire, then leaving her alone (in the hall, in the yard, on campus, in the car...everywhere). Also the claims to be able to sense each other, and danger, then she just gets swiped into a car? So, consistency is missing, but I really wanted to like it all.
This is a good story. It has a deepening plot and wonderful characters. It was a bit frustrating that everyone kept promising to protect Claire, then leaving her alone (in the hall, in the yard, on campus, in the car...everywhere). Also the claims to be able to sense each other, and danger, then she just gets swiped into a car? So, consistency is missing, but I really wanted to like it all.
November 20, 2020
Excellent read.
Initially I expected a human meets vampire and human dies story. But once started there were more than enough plot twists to make Empath a riveting read. Looking forward to the next two books in the trilogy. If you like vampire stories this is a must have . Whilst my main reading material is Sci-Fi. I will definitely be following this author in the future.
Initially I expected a human meets vampire and human dies story. But once started there were more than enough plot twists to make Empath a riveting read. Looking forward to the next two books in the trilogy. If you like vampire stories this is a must have . Whilst my main reading material is Sci-Fi. I will definitely be following this author in the future.
June 19, 2022
Empath
Not the usual vampire love story. Very likable characters and very hatable bad guys. The ending makes an effort to not be a cliffhanger which I hate. Turning the last few pages of a story into an obvious ploy to grab second book sales is a turn off!!! I will be reading further I am invested which a good story does…
Not the usual vampire love story. Very likable characters and very hatable bad guys. The ending makes an effort to not be a cliffhanger which I hate. Turning the last few pages of a story into an obvious ploy to grab second book sales is a turn off!!! I will be reading further I am invested which a good story does…
December 8, 2024
It was ok-ish. I was entertained enough to keep going to the end... Definitely rolled my eyes a few times. Certainly saw the twilight comparison. Several moments where I wondered why I was still reading it. Yet I finished to the end, and if the second book was free I would have read it. However spending $0.99 on book two was just too much to spend.
July 29, 2017
Better then antisapated
Loved the book. After I found out there were were animals and vampires in it I nearly stopped reading. But I figured I would give it a chance. I'm glad I did I couldn't put it down until I had finished it!
Loved the book. After I found out there were were animals and vampires in it I nearly stopped reading. But I figured I would give it a chance. I'm glad I did I couldn't put it down until I had finished it!
September 17, 2017
Wow!
Just wow! What an awesome book.. can't wait to read the next .....I'm not really into vampires ,but I love the whole twist of werewolves,empath, and vampires.
Just wow! What an awesome book.. can't wait to read the next .....I'm not really into vampires ,but I love the whole twist of werewolves,empath, and vampires.
June 10, 2018
Couldn’t put the book down. Was very thrilling!
September 5, 2018
It was a cute love story
January 8, 2023
So much fun
I really enjoyed the adventure in this world HK Savage has created. If you like paranormal power plays with a little romance, you might enjoy this book
I really enjoyed the adventure in this world HK Savage has created. If you like paranormal power plays with a little romance, you might enjoy this book
August 20, 2013
The first in a YA trilogy, I am thrilled that I selected this book to review. I don't often read a lot of other books while I am in the middle of writing my own, but now that I've read the first, I can guarantee that I will be reading the next two in the trilogy. If you like the book TWILIGHT, by Stephenie Meyer, then you will absolutely love this story!
With that said, I need to give you a warning of the book first. There are a few similarities to TWILIGHT. There's the main girl, Claire, who is friends with a vampire and a werecat. Yep, that's right, not werewolf, but werecat. Sounds funny perhaps, but it's cool in the story! Other similarities? You've got vampires who are super-fast, they like fast cars, and are quite beautiful. Oh, and for all of my True Blood fans out there like myself, they use "glamour" :-) So, understandably, I was slightly hesitant when I began to read the book, wondering if this was going to be a knock-off of TWILIGHT. It didn't take long, however, to get over my comparison of the two books. I was soon completely drawn into the story, and the similarities between the two books couldn't have been any different.
The differences? While I'm still on the subject of comparing the books (I feel I need to for those readers out there who undoubtedly will), there were some definite differences that made me completely enjoy EMPATH more. Don't get me wrong, I love TWILIGHT, but I personally find Bella Swan's character to be a bit annoying at times and I felt that I could relate a lot more to Claire. Another point that I enjoyed a lot more was that the vampire and werecat are actually capable of being friends with both Claire and each other, a novel concept, everyone can be friends.
And so now, here's where the story totally branches out and becomes unique. The title of the story, EMPATH, stems from the fact that Claire is supernaturally gifted with EMPATH abilities. For those who aren't familiar with that term, it means she can completely "feel" how another person is feeling. Not just sympathize or empathize but truly, 100% feel the other person's emotions. This was the original reason why I was drawn to read the story, because Claire reminds me of a character who could be in my own book, INDIGO INCITE. The two stories are VERY different from each other, but Claire is definitely someone who would have been friends with the main characters from my book if they were introduced :-) If you liked INDIGO INCITE, you'll definitely want to put EMPATH on your "to-read" list.
Claire isn't perfect, she has flaws, which makes her likeable and relatable. Her boyfriend, James, on the other hand, really is perfect. So, for those who are looking for a great book boyfriend to escape to in a good book, he's your guy. He has an awesome job, is totally gorgeous, is VERY old-fashioned and believes in treating a woman the way she deserves to be treated, with respect. Really, there is nothing not to like about him! However, be warned or be excited, however you want to view it, there are a few entertaining bedroom scenes. There is definitely nothing inappropriate or scandalous, it's as basic as possible to still be considered a bedroom scene. So, for those who might be concerned, it's definitely a YA book, but I would say toward the older age range of YA.
The book was written in first-person POV from Claire's perspective and it made the story a fast, easy read. I really enjoyed how her character developed throughout the story. By the end, she definitely has discovered who she is and has found herself. As the story develops, Claire discovers the true extent of her abilities as she risks everything to help her new vampire and werecat friends. The story kept me in suspense up until the end, and I wasn't ready for it to be over. I love the characters and I am looking forward to reading the next two books in the trilogy!
With that said, I need to give you a warning of the book first. There are a few similarities to TWILIGHT. There's the main girl, Claire, who is friends with a vampire and a werecat. Yep, that's right, not werewolf, but werecat. Sounds funny perhaps, but it's cool in the story! Other similarities? You've got vampires who are super-fast, they like fast cars, and are quite beautiful. Oh, and for all of my True Blood fans out there like myself, they use "glamour" :-) So, understandably, I was slightly hesitant when I began to read the book, wondering if this was going to be a knock-off of TWILIGHT. It didn't take long, however, to get over my comparison of the two books. I was soon completely drawn into the story, and the similarities between the two books couldn't have been any different.
The differences? While I'm still on the subject of comparing the books (I feel I need to for those readers out there who undoubtedly will), there were some definite differences that made me completely enjoy EMPATH more. Don't get me wrong, I love TWILIGHT, but I personally find Bella Swan's character to be a bit annoying at times and I felt that I could relate a lot more to Claire. Another point that I enjoyed a lot more was that the vampire and werecat are actually capable of being friends with both Claire and each other, a novel concept, everyone can be friends.
And so now, here's where the story totally branches out and becomes unique. The title of the story, EMPATH, stems from the fact that Claire is supernaturally gifted with EMPATH abilities. For those who aren't familiar with that term, it means she can completely "feel" how another person is feeling. Not just sympathize or empathize but truly, 100% feel the other person's emotions. This was the original reason why I was drawn to read the story, because Claire reminds me of a character who could be in my own book, INDIGO INCITE. The two stories are VERY different from each other, but Claire is definitely someone who would have been friends with the main characters from my book if they were introduced :-) If you liked INDIGO INCITE, you'll definitely want to put EMPATH on your "to-read" list.
Claire isn't perfect, she has flaws, which makes her likeable and relatable. Her boyfriend, James, on the other hand, really is perfect. So, for those who are looking for a great book boyfriend to escape to in a good book, he's your guy. He has an awesome job, is totally gorgeous, is VERY old-fashioned and believes in treating a woman the way she deserves to be treated, with respect. Really, there is nothing not to like about him! However, be warned or be excited, however you want to view it, there are a few entertaining bedroom scenes. There is definitely nothing inappropriate or scandalous, it's as basic as possible to still be considered a bedroom scene. So, for those who might be concerned, it's definitely a YA book, but I would say toward the older age range of YA.
The book was written in first-person POV from Claire's perspective and it made the story a fast, easy read. I really enjoyed how her character developed throughout the story. By the end, she definitely has discovered who she is and has found herself. As the story develops, Claire discovers the true extent of her abilities as she risks everything to help her new vampire and werecat friends. The story kept me in suspense up until the end, and I wasn't ready for it to be over. I love the characters and I am looking forward to reading the next two books in the trilogy!
March 7, 2017
Different Take on the Paranormal
I truly loved this book. I enjoyed the interactions between the characters and also between the different paranormal types. I am very interested in reading the remainder of the series.
I truly loved this book. I enjoyed the interactions between the characters and also between the different paranormal types. I am very interested in reading the remainder of the series.
March 22, 2015
Claire Martin, having struggled all her life with an ultra-heightened emotional sense of those around her, just finished high school and cannot wait to go away to college, even if it is just across town. Her ability has left her socially impaired and intolerant of those around her. Away at school, the emotional “noise” of others is muffled and after meeting a few special people, she is taught how to handle her “curse”, as she calls it.
There is something different here. Something else is going on, right there under the surface. It’s almost like a sub-plot. Our main character can’t figure it out. I couldn’t figure it out either, not until the end. And did I try! I kept guessing and wondering. I love a good mystery, especially one that I cannot figure out halfway through the book. This had a great mysterious element to it.
This Twilight-esque story has some of the same mythological rules and properties as other paranormal stories I have read. There are a lot of similarities, but, make no mistake, this is not Twilight. The main character has graduated high school, she is born with a supernatural ability, and there are the cats. Yes, the cats. I grew up with dogs but became a cat person as an adult. So, I just love that instead of werewolves, we have cats. I laughed when James suggested she could have her cat come and stay if she was uncomfortable. Somehow the same kind of joke did not seem as funny in New Moon (if you read that series). I mean, there’s a reason dogs are called lapdogs and not cats, right?
Some readers do not read the descriptions in books at all. I do. I like to try to picture tales unfolding in my mind as I read. Perhaps this is why I am such a slow reader. I was rewarded in this book: James’ décor in his family room is my family room. Like, to a tee. The only difference is I have photos and personal knick-knacks. Weird, right? How could I not get a kick out of that?
If there is one negative thing I have to say, it would be not about what is written, but what is not written. We see things from Claire’s point of view. I felt her emotions and reasoning were well developed. Yet, there were parts that felt, not disjointed, but left out and missing. There was, for example, the build-up of being an empath, the struggle of being in the same room as other people and the difficulty of simply touching another person. And then, Claire has her first kiss. Ever. The kiss was barely mentioned in one sentence. I had to read that part a couple of times to be sure it really happened. I understand wanting to keep the book PG13 (something I did appreciate), but I really felt that kiss was missing. Another, we see her meeting a friend and then the next time the character is mentioned, they are the best of friends. I wondered when they started hanging out, what they did together, and the meshing of the personalities. They happened, just in the background. I chalk it up to creative license on behalf of the author. These sorts of things really, truly did not bother me as a reader. I guess I was just thirsty for more is all. Sigh.
This book had action, romance, mystery, and most of it occurring in a room that looks like my own family room .
There is something different here. Something else is going on, right there under the surface. It’s almost like a sub-plot. Our main character can’t figure it out. I couldn’t figure it out either, not until the end. And did I try! I kept guessing and wondering. I love a good mystery, especially one that I cannot figure out halfway through the book. This had a great mysterious element to it.
This Twilight-esque story has some of the same mythological rules and properties as other paranormal stories I have read. There are a lot of similarities, but, make no mistake, this is not Twilight. The main character has graduated high school, she is born with a supernatural ability, and there are the cats. Yes, the cats. I grew up with dogs but became a cat person as an adult. So, I just love that instead of werewolves, we have cats. I laughed when James suggested she could have her cat come and stay if she was uncomfortable. Somehow the same kind of joke did not seem as funny in New Moon (if you read that series). I mean, there’s a reason dogs are called lapdogs and not cats, right?
Some readers do not read the descriptions in books at all. I do. I like to try to picture tales unfolding in my mind as I read. Perhaps this is why I am such a slow reader. I was rewarded in this book: James’ décor in his family room is my family room. Like, to a tee. The only difference is I have photos and personal knick-knacks. Weird, right? How could I not get a kick out of that?
If there is one negative thing I have to say, it would be not about what is written, but what is not written. We see things from Claire’s point of view. I felt her emotions and reasoning were well developed. Yet, there were parts that felt, not disjointed, but left out and missing. There was, for example, the build-up of being an empath, the struggle of being in the same room as other people and the difficulty of simply touching another person. And then, Claire has her first kiss. Ever. The kiss was barely mentioned in one sentence. I had to read that part a couple of times to be sure it really happened. I understand wanting to keep the book PG13 (something I did appreciate), but I really felt that kiss was missing. Another, we see her meeting a friend and then the next time the character is mentioned, they are the best of friends. I wondered when they started hanging out, what they did together, and the meshing of the personalities. They happened, just in the background. I chalk it up to creative license on behalf of the author. These sorts of things really, truly did not bother me as a reader. I guess I was just thirsty for more is all. Sigh.
This book had action, romance, mystery, and most of it occurring in a room that looks like my own family room .
February 13, 2022
A very good and original book! I enjoyed the characters, the plot and the world building.
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