Okay, let me get this out of the way first. I'm sure you've heard it before.
THEY WERE TOO SHORT! ~g~
Mea's reaction to be "railroaded" into marriage was hilarious - but you had to feel for poor Stone.
Seeing Regan's determination to become a hunter, despite what Mea wants for her, was amazing, and sad in a way. Sad that she won't get the chance to be that child. I'm wondering if she (or the three of them) will ever have a run-in with her Slave Trainer. Or if she'll ever own up to what happened to her while she was a slave.
I was glad to get Stone's background, too. It really does seem that Mea and Regan truly have given him back his soul, his heart. And it made sense - given how he feels about them, how they keep him sane in a way - that he would go through the procedure to make himself fully Hunter. He has to be there to "protect" his woman.
It was interesting to see, though, in the main story or the shorts - there wasn't an incident there were he tried to override her or "hide" her to keep her safe from the bad guys. That was a refreshing change from the over-protective alpha-males I've been reading about. He never tried to stop Mea from being who she was. I guess Stone wouldn't fit either "alpha" or "beta" characterization - do they have a word for loner?
Miki
I've got to say this short [Leave No Stone Unturned] ROCKS!!!! Those of you who have always wanted to discover some of Stone's deepest, darkest secrets .... BUY THIS SHORT!!!! You will NOT be disappointed. It's dark, dangerous, gritty... 100% pure Stone.
It will rock your world.
Suzie Calvin
Author of FIONA'S FANCY & BEWITCHING THE BACHELOR
I SO loved this book [THE HUNTRESS]! I'm an absolute sucker for a strong, stoic, emotionally-wounded hero and found a wonderful one here. The heroine is kick-ass strong and very self-aware. She know she wants him and goes after him. The android "sidekick" was hilarious. And the little girl was alternatingly a little smart-ass and hauntingly vulnerable.
There was a scene, where the hero has pushed the woman and child away, and he finally realizes what he'd walked away from - it made my heart hurt - I had to blink back a few tears. I just thought it was such an emotional scene. (Crying in the work cafeteria is bad form, y'know
I WILL be looking for more titles by this author.
Miki
I have to say I loved your book, "Angels & Ministers of Grace" It was my first sci-fi/romance read and now I'm hooked on the genre. Thanks for writing such a great book.
Tiffany Aaron
Author of FALLEN: CELESTE
I know I'm new to this list but I've got to say something about Michelle's The Huntress and Angels and Ministers of Grace. These are both SF romance books that I read back when I was still doing reviews and enjoyed thoroughly. She has a great style and I love her heroines. Michelle was doing "kick-ass" heroines before they came into style at the major houses.
Cheers!
Janet Miller/Cricket Starr
I'm a big fan of Michelle O'Leary's work, especially "The Huntress" and the series of shorts that go along with it. I just recently finished her latest short story release "Heart of Stone". It was an emotional and romantic short and I really enjoyed reading it. Mea, Stone, and Reagan are such vivid, charismatic characters and their interactions are always wonderfully entertaining. Now I'm *patiently* waiting for the next short!
AJ Caywood (Anna)
Author of STAY IN THE LIGHT
Wow!!! It's becoming harder and harder to review these shorts and rave about them without giving away the story.
In HEART OF STONE we get bumped up another couple of notches into the thick of Michelle's Huntress story, since these shorts are like steps to Michelle's sequel of THE HUNTRESS. With every short Michelle gives us, I find myself wanting (yearning, hungering... DYING) for that sequel.
HEART OF STONE provides more layering to Michelle's already multi-dimensional characters. I have to keep telling myself that I can't expect Mea and Stone to show up for dinner at my house because... sigh ... they really don't exist. It's tough to believe when these characters literally jump off of the pages.
What I enjoyed most about this short is that we get to see another side of Stone, who is so very layered, but who (thanks to Michelle's great writing) has the reader just PANTING to know more about this man, this tortured soul, who is not only big, bad and hunky, but who (as you'll see in this short) has a great way of getting across how he feels about Mea.
BUY this short. If you haven't experienced Michelle's talent for weaving stories that are truly addictive, then stop lollygagging around and jump in with both feet!!!! (or eyeballs... whatever you read with....) You seriously won't regret it. They're practically giving these shorts away!!!!
Here I am once again... trying to sell Michelle's shorts. Fortunately, she prefers pants.
BUY THE SHORT!!!!
Suzie Calvin
Author of FIONA'S FANCY & BEWITCHING THE BACHELOR
Since this work [Heart of Stone] is part of "The Huntress" series, as I first began reading, I admit I expected to be somewhat "lost" since I haven't read the earlier stories - but boy was I pleasantly surprised!
By the time I finished reading the first scene alone, I lost all further doubt and was able to get straight into the story.
But I'm not going to say much more for to delve any deeper into the plot would give away too much and I'm not going to be the one to ruin it for everyone else with "spoilers".
All I can say is: if you're wanting a great read - something that will entertain you and take you to another world with solid characters and a wonderful story, I guess you better go get a copy for yourself.
Fantastic job, Michelle!! I just have to add - what a great opening line!
Dehanna
Those of you who have read THE HUNTRESS:
Ever wonder what might happen once Mea and Stone have teamed up? Are you curious as to what type of career Regan, their daughter, has in mind? Or, are you simply dying to feel more of that great sexual stimulation between two totally hot characters, who are totally hot for each other?
If you've answered yes to one or more of these questions, you need to buy Michelle O'Leary's second short "A FAR CRY" NOW. If you've read the last short and thought it was awesome, just wait until you sink your eyeballs into THIS one. The surprise ending will have you bouncing in your seat. Michelle's dependably witty dialogue, knack for incredible descriptions, and talent for spinning a great tale will have you wanting MORE. And Stone will have you wanting to swing on a cable from building to building... in HIS arms.
For those of you who haven't read THE HUNTRESS:
What are you sitting here reading THIS for??? Order it now and you'll see what all the well-deserved hoopla is all about!!! Not to mention you'll have these great shorts and a sequel to look forward to . . . counting down the days . . . the hours . . . the minutes . . . ;-)
WTG, Michelle!!!! On my rating system (the Hershey's chocolate bar system) this earns EIGHT squares out of a possible FIVE. ;-)
Suzie Calvin
Author of FIONA'S FANCY & BEWITCHING THE BACHELOR
Being a fan of Michelle's -- and -- er -- um -- well -- Okay... Bay Stone.... I was very eager to to read Michelle's new short "A Stone's Throw." Let me just say, I was NOT disappointed!
I'm not going to give away the story . . . that wouldn't be fair. But you can be certain that, if you loved "THE HUNTRESS," you're gonna want to get your hands on this short story... NOW.
I believe Michelle means to fill in the "gaps" between THE HUNTRESS and her sequel. If you're wondering what happens with Bay and Mea... How and if their relationship transitions . . . or if you simply just didn't get enough of sexy Stone in the first book and need this teaser to tide you over for a bit.... BUY THE SHORT. It's only $1.65 and worth every penny of it. In fact, by the time I reached the end, I felt like I'd gotten one heck of a screaming deal. I can't wait for the the next one. Seriously. I want it NOW.
Buy the short!!! What're ya waiting for? Stop reading this and just buy it!!!
(time to bring this public service announcement to a close....)
Suzie Calvin
Author of FIONA'S FANCY & BEWITCHING THE BACHELOR
I won The Huntress and it was awesome! If you have it and haven't had a chance to read it, once you start you won't be able to put it down! If you don't have it and are looking for a great read, this is it! Thanks Michelle, I really enjoyed your book :)
Kim
I just finished your book "The Huntress". GREAT BOOK! It just cries out for a sequel. Will there be one?
Either way, Thanks for a great read!
Michael
I just wanted to drop you a note and tell you how much I enjoyed your book The Huntress. It is one of the best SciFi/Romance stories I have read in years. I really hope that you have a sequel (or perhaps several sequels) in mind.
You did something that I had not encountered before. You actually wrote a SciFi novel that was also a romance! I have read a number of so-called SciFi/Romance novels and most of the time they read as a Romance novel with the setting transposed to something SciFi. But you actually wrote a very good SciFi novel that had romance elements in it that were integral to, and meshed nicely with, the story line. And as an additional bonus, the novel has a high re-readability factor.
You made my A-list of writers!
Karen
Mark of the Felinar is a beautifully written, exciting, and captivating Fantasy that leaves you begging for more. Ms. O'Leary has created a fascinating world with intriguing characters, enchanting settings, and crisp, charismatic dialogue. Cyric and Raelin both are strong, independent, loyal, passionate, and sexy. This is a short story with such a strong storyline and characters that it makes us want to see more - hopefully in a novel length work!
Anna
[What was it about Mea "The Huntress" Brin that you liked over other heroines?]
The first thing to come to mind was that I liked the heroine chasing the hero. It's weird, I was thinking that I've never read a book where the heroine was the chaser instead of the chase-e the week before I read your book and bam! I found a story just like that:) I didn't mention it b/c after some thought I began to think that the heroine would probably come out pretty pathetic. But the great thing about The Huntress, Mea is not in the least pathetic, she'd rip your throat out if you dared to even think it about her:)
I really liked Mea b/c she's so different from the usual romance heroine. She can actually lie if her life depends on it and even when it doesn't ;) I don't know how to describe it except to say she's not an innocent. I'm sick of reading about innocent, widdle girls (no matter their chronlogical age) falling in love with grown men. Your couple were equals but the heroine was just a little more equal at the start of the book:)
And the hero (sorry, I forgot his name but I've read over a dozen books since The Huntress) doesn't come off as a wimp b/c of his not being the agressor in the relationship. He plays the role of the typical heroine, pretty interested but suspisous about the motives of the other. And for such a dark character, he really cracked me up. One scene that I found funny but probably shouldn't have was when he was on the roof thinking about hunting her for a change. Silly man won't even acknowledge he doesn't stand a chance.
One thing I was alternatly uncomfortable about but then liked was that you didn't back away from the hero's past. Usually, the hero will brood about his past dark deeds and tell everyone he meets what a bad boy he's been when whatever he did will turn out to be somehow not really his fault or not as bad as I was lead to believe. But your guy really did all the bad things in his past. I'm trying to be vague to not spoil the story for anyone so I hope you can understand my rambling.
jaz
Another great story [Mark of the Felinar]! I fell in love with Cyric immediately! I think this would be great in longer form! Although, the way it ended, I was left wondering how poor Cyric would ever win his love now that he serves her instead. SIGH. A longer version would bring them together, right???? Hint,hint! ~grin~
Thanks for sharing this one!
Kari
I have read Mark of the Felinar and have only one complaint, it wasn't long enough ~G~ I would love to see a longer version and will certainly make a donation for the sequel :)
Thanks,
Julie
Hi Michelle, thanks so much for sending the story [Mark of the Felinar] through to me. I would definitely love to see a full length Felinar novel. I love shape-shifters! I want Cyric to get Raelin!!
I thoroughly enjoyed both The Huntress & Angels, but have to admit that Huntress just tips the scales as my favourite so far. There's just something about a poor tortured hero who hasn't ever known love & doesn't know what to do with it when it's staring him in the face - lol.
I look forward to the next book & really really look forward to the possiblility of a Felinar one.
Karen
Dear Michelle, thanks for the story [Mark of the Felinar]. I just finished and enjoyed it very much. It was very well written and the possibilities to explore in this world are intriguing. Being biased towards science fiction romance vs. science fiction or romance, I hope that you do publish a long Felinar novel with a romance or romantic thread. I would definitely purchase a copy.
I'm also hoping that First Arrows and Felinars are able to "get together/form a bond/ consummate their relationship/ whatever". I would hate to think that Cyric didn't have his love reciprocated. But as I said, I am biased. Maybe in the sequel?
Thanks again,
Vicky
Okay this has been a long time coming. I am sooooo lazy and it has nothing to do with the book, Angels and Ministers of Grace. Thank you, I loved it. It took me three days to print it off my slowputer but I finally did and it was worth every hair I pulled out. I laughed and even kinda teared up, okay, I admit it I might have dropped a tear or two. I cry easy. And when he thought she was gonna (SPOILER) die, I did choke a bit. Love mister bald and sexy Salvatore. (spoken with an italiano accenta.)
Love the description of the characters, very vivid. The dialogue was kicking. I like funny snappy dialogue. I love tongue in cheek humor and sarcasm. The more the better and the relationship between Rhys (SP?) and Angel, (he called her that so it stuck) was great. I like the mystery of her character, reminded me of Spock and Captain kirk. Spock never could give a straight answer.
Oh oh wait, cant leave out the big bug broad. The queen of the hive. She was hilarious. Her intimidation tactics would have worked quite well on me since I hate, hate hate hate HATE bugs. The Dreamer was intriguing. I wasnt sure what kinda box they were gonna come out of. She made Rhys' character more understandable to me. Dont ask how, she just did. Cause at first I was like what is her problem? She acts like she doesnt like Angel but it was just that ambiguous way she had. She couldnt tell her anything cause she didnt know anything, specifically speaking that is. I hope I am right about that. Of course, when I read it the second time I will get the nuances of it better. I might be totally off the mark right now with everything then I will have to do this again.
Look forward to more of your work. And like I said, when I read it the second time, will probably have more to say. Knowing me, I definitely will. I always thought you were a good writer, great even, but this book really increased my respect for your talent. Girl you got some serious skills. Keep it up. So book junkies like me have something to read.
Cleo
I really enjoyed your book [The Huntress]! My husband says he wants to read it too! I'm not sure what my favorite part was because I liked all of it as a whole. Does that make any sense? And now I'm really looking forward to the sequel! I hope there will be more of Terrik and Mea in it (I say that cause if I remember right, you said it would focus more on Regan becoming a Hunter).
The parts that stand out to me though are when you describe Mea's feelings for Terrik - that her soul knew it had met it's mate in his, where Terrik paced the hospital waiting to hear if Mea would survive, and how he wouldn't leave - even after Mea told him to. I was shocked (a GOOD shock) when I read that Mea and Regan had been captured! I thought that Uncle Mike had come to find Terrik to persuade him to go back to her - and what his actual news was shocked me! I felt Mea's pain when she was being held in that cell in the presentation room, the description of the bolts through her arms -ewww! But I've had an external fixator where 4 screws were threaded through my tibia and ankle, so I knew how she felt! The description of EMU and her personality, the yellow crystal, and the way they were healed was very interesting to me.
The ONLY thing I missed in your story was this, I wished there had been a little more at the beginning about Mea watching Terrik and Regan to see how she was falling in love with him. But, it was no big deal to me because she explains later how she felt about him, and why. I think I was just being impatient! :)
Meg
Hi Michelle, I enjoy your books very much, and was just wondering when your next one will be out. Are you working on anything at the moment?
Looking forward to reading more from you,
Cindy
I read your biography & I think it is quite amazing that you have delved into writing. I think all of us have a hidden story within us that we would like to be told. I love the unusual, as well as, fantasy, romance, supernatural, mystery, etc. I enjoyed your biography & am anxious to read The Huntress, Angels & Ministers Of Grace. The excerpts were great.
Take care & have a great time writing & fulfilling your dreams & fantasies. Good luck to you in all your endeavors.
Peggy
Hi Michelle, I just finished Angels. I was finally able to get an extended period of time without ppl interrupting me. And I loved it!! Anya is such a great character. It's rare that I'll find two heroines from one author that I enjoy so much and while different in many ways Mea and Anya are both seriously awesome heroines. Both are strong characters but it's obvious that you didn't just take Mea and throw her into a different environment with a different name. I can't wait to read The Insomniac Tales which will be my next ebook purchase.
In both The Huntress and Angels you created worlds that intrigue your readers. Will you be revisiting them? I think many of us would be interested in experiencing some of the growing pains Far Reach Station and her occupants will experience. Or what about a story featuring a Thlassnian heroine? Now that's a fascinating race of people.
Anyway, Angels is fabulous. Many Thanks for such a great read.
JaToya
Michelle - received The Huntress by UPS yesterday afternoon and am very impressed with the story line and your writing style. Hope to have you autograph the book when I visit Florida in December. Will you be around?
A sequel would be awesome!!
Anonymous admirer (aka: Mom)
Michelle, I finished The Huntress. I loved it. I loved the relationship between the two main characters and the little girl. She was so sweet not to mention strong for a child her age. Then again what would you expect from all of the horror she had gone thru.
Faith
Hi Michelle, I just finished reading the excerpt of your first chapter. I have to let you know how wonderfully fresh your writer's voice is. Thanks for posting the link to your site through the ebooklove mailing list.
I read a lot of books. Of all genres, I am familiar with a lot of authors and admire their style. But there is something so unusual and yet familiar about your writing that I am compelled to purchase **The Huntress**. I absolutely love what you have managed to do with the characters in the first chapter. You shook me up, and made me believe and left me wanting more. . .I am going to be looking for your novels from this day forward.
I have always loved Lindsey, now I think I will have to add another shelve to fill over the coming years.
Keep on writing,
Robyn
When are you coming out with a new book?
I loved The Huntress.
June
Hello Michelle, I wrote a review for THE HUNTRESS and expressed how much I really liked this book. It was a great read giving me a few hours of immense entertainment. I haven't heard if you are writing a sequel and thought I would tell you that I for one would really enjoy reading more about Mea and Seth.
Brenda
Hi, I have just finished reading The Huntress and had to let you know that I absolutely loved it, it has got to be the best book I have read in ages I started it and couldn't stop until I had finished it at 4am the next morning LOL, could you tell me if and when your next book will be coming out.
Thanks
Julie
Michelle, I emailed you back when The Huntress first came out and I bought it and absolutely loved it. Since then I have been paying regular visits to your site and to dlsijpress hoping to see another book by you announced. Are there any Huntress sequels or new books on the horizon?
Thanks again for a fabulous read.
Regards,
Georgie
Hi Michelle, I've just finished the above book [The Huntress] and it was wonderful. Is there going to be a sequel? I'd like to re-visit Mea and Stone (Terrik) and see how Regan grows up.
Brenda
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