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Psy-Changeling #7
Blaze of Memory
Dev Santos finds a woman with amnesia-and all she can remember is that she's dangerous. Stripped of her memories by a shadowy oppressor and programmed to kill, Katya's only hope is Dev. But he could very well be her next target.
386 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 3, 2009
557 people are currently reading
5,230 people want to read
About the author
Nalini Singh
262books26.4kfollowersI've been writing as long as I can remember and all of my stories always held a thread of romance (even when I was writing about a prince who could shoot lasers out of his eyes). I love creating unique characters, love giving them happy endings and I even love the voices in my head. There's no other job I would rather be doing. In September 2002, when I got the call that Silhouette Desire wanted to buy my first book, Desert Warrior, it was a dream come true. I hope to continue living the dream until I keel over of old age on my keyboard.
I was born in Fiji and raised in New Zealand. I also spent three years living and working in Japan, during which time I took the chance to travel around Asia. I’m back in New Zealand now, but I’m always plotting new trips. If you’d like to see some of my travel snapshots, have a look at the Travel Diary page (updated every month).
So far, I've worked as a lawyer, a librarian, a candy factory general hand, a bank temp and an English teacher and not necessarily in that order. Some might call that inconsistency but I call it grist for the writer's mill.
I was born in Fiji and raised in New Zealand. I also spent three years living and working in Japan, during which time I took the chance to travel around Asia. I’m back in New Zealand now, but I’m always plotting new trips. If you’d like to see some of my travel snapshots, have a look at the Travel Diary page (updated every month).
So far, I've worked as a lawyer, a librarian, a candy factory general hand, a bank temp and an English teacher and not necessarily in that order. Some might call that inconsistency but I call it grist for the writer's mill.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,551 reviews
December 2, 2017
Blaze of Memory was an okay read for me. Truly I was kinda bored the whole read. Dev Santos was kinda flat. I didn't connect to him and I didn't get his weird Metal powers. Katya I liked. She was strong and sweet. Overall this book just didn't wow me and at times I found myself zoning out. Oh well they can't all be winners!
January 1, 2022
2 stars
I absolutely disliked Dev.
He was a bully and showed off his “strength� by trying to control a weak, fragile and broken woman who had 10 times more strength and virtue than him.
He took advantage of her in the worst ways but kept emotionally and physically trying to contain her and snuff out her personality and free will.
They had no chemistry and their whole relationship felt icky.
No, thank you!
I absolutely disliked Dev.
He was a bully and showed off his “strength� by trying to control a weak, fragile and broken woman who had 10 times more strength and virtue than him.
He took advantage of her in the worst ways but kept emotionally and physically trying to contain her and snuff out her personality and free will.
They had no chemistry and their whole relationship felt icky.
No, thank you!
October 4, 2015
I went from my favorite book of the series, the last one, to my least favorite one. This one just did not do it for me.
Why?
The lead male character was a total dick! Here's the situation:
The girl, Katya, is found by the guy, Dev, and she is a broken mess. She has been held prisoner for months, starved, tortured, and abused in every way. She's in a hospital bed and Dev is holding her head up to help her drink a little water. She has no idea who she is because she was tortured mentally until her mind broke. He is the first person she sees and she sees him as her rescuer and hero.
That all seems good, right?
But, noooooo, he soon tells her that he thinks she may be a spy and will kill her if he finds out she is. Then, he decides that he will hold her prisoner until he decides if she is a spy or not. He locks her in a room.
That's right, Dev does the same thing that her abuser/kidnapper did to her.
And, if she protests, he treats her badly - verbal abuse, withholds interaction, tries to scare her, etc...
So, he has gone from her rescuer to her new captor.
But, she's so afraid and alone that she clings to him anyway. Stockholm Syndrome much?
What does he do now? Well, he starts making sexual moves on her. And, she's a psy, a virgin, never even been kissed.
THIS is our hero? He is supposed to be the male lead character that we fall for?
No freaking way!! He is a bully and an abuser as far as I'm concerned!
The only time I felt any remote sort of ok-ness about Dev was at the end of the book. And, truthfully, by then, it was too late.
Hey, Dev?
Why?
The lead male character was a total dick! Here's the situation:
The girl, Katya, is found by the guy, Dev, and she is a broken mess. She has been held prisoner for months, starved, tortured, and abused in every way. She's in a hospital bed and Dev is holding her head up to help her drink a little water. She has no idea who she is because she was tortured mentally until her mind broke. He is the first person she sees and she sees him as her rescuer and hero.
That all seems good, right?
But, noooooo, he soon tells her that he thinks she may be a spy and will kill her if he finds out she is. Then, he decides that he will hold her prisoner until he decides if she is a spy or not. He locks her in a room.
That's right, Dev does the same thing that her abuser/kidnapper did to her.
And, if she protests, he treats her badly - verbal abuse, withholds interaction, tries to scare her, etc...
So, he has gone from her rescuer to her new captor.
But, she's so afraid and alone that she clings to him anyway. Stockholm Syndrome much?
What does he do now? Well, he starts making sexual moves on her. And, she's a psy, a virgin, never even been kissed.
THIS is our hero? He is supposed to be the male lead character that we fall for?
No freaking way!! He is a bully and an abuser as far as I'm concerned!
The only time I felt any remote sort of ok-ness about Dev was at the end of the book. And, truthfully, by then, it was too late.
Hey, Dev?
June 21, 2017
Blaze of Memory, the 7th book in Nalini Singh’s wonderful Psy-Changeling Series and is the story of Devraj Santos and Psy Katya.
As the director of the Shine Foundation, a secret organization that helps the Forgotten, who are the descendants of the Psy who broke from the PsyNet when Silence was implemented.
When he finds an unconscious and unknown woman on his doorstep, he’s suspicious that she may be a ploy to infiltrate the organization. But he’s not a person to abandon someone in need and the woman is clearly someone who needs help.
When she wakes up, she doesn’t remember anything about her life or who she is. Choosing to call herself Katya, it’s soon discovered that she’s Ekaterina Haas, a friend of Ashaya, the heroine of Hostage to Pleasure and who everyone believed to have died.
Even though she doesn’t remember things, there’s one thing she feels…that’s she’s a danger to Dev and to Shine.
To protect any threat that she may be to the Forgotten, Dev takes Katya to his home in Vermont to keep her isolated until she regains her memory.
Dev and Katya can’t resist their growing attraction to one another. And as Katya’s nightmares occur, the one person who can be of comfort to her is Dev.
The story line is intermingled with old letters written by a mother with Psy powers and addressed to her young son, Matthew, giving the history of the lives of a family living through the implementation of Silence.
The ending is pretty emotional and Dev and Katya’s finding their happiness after having gone through a dangerous and rock road, was a pleasure indeed.
Blaze of Glory was so worth reading and so worth recommending not only to lovers of this series but those who are lovers of romance, hope and paranormal.
One of my fav quotes:
As the director of the Shine Foundation, a secret organization that helps the Forgotten, who are the descendants of the Psy who broke from the PsyNet when Silence was implemented.
When he finds an unconscious and unknown woman on his doorstep, he’s suspicious that she may be a ploy to infiltrate the organization. But he’s not a person to abandon someone in need and the woman is clearly someone who needs help.
When she wakes up, she doesn’t remember anything about her life or who she is. Choosing to call herself Katya, it’s soon discovered that she’s Ekaterina Haas, a friend of Ashaya, the heroine of Hostage to Pleasure and who everyone believed to have died.
Even though she doesn’t remember things, there’s one thing she feels…that’s she’s a danger to Dev and to Shine.
To protect any threat that she may be to the Forgotten, Dev takes Katya to his home in Vermont to keep her isolated until she regains her memory.
Dev and Katya can’t resist their growing attraction to one another. And as Katya’s nightmares occur, the one person who can be of comfort to her is Dev.
Uncertain about their future together and the feeling that their love for each other is doomed, they will have to overcome the obstacles that face them if they are ever to find a happy life together.
The story line is intermingled with old letters written by a mother with Psy powers and addressed to her young son, Matthew, giving the history of the lives of a family living through the implementation of Silence.
The subplot that tells of the discovery of the Sunshine Station and which involves a lot of characters from the previous books is filled with suspense and mystery and it added an exciting edge to Dev and Katya’s story. I loved seeing the characters I have come to know and love!!!
The ending is pretty emotional and Dev and Katya’s finding their happiness after having gone through a dangerous and rock road, was a pleasure indeed.
Blaze of Glory was so worth reading and so worth recommending not only to lovers of this series but those who are lovers of romance, hope and paranormal.
One of my fav quotes:
August 30, 2016
Ahh...I just knew it! Once I start reading this series I just can't stop!!! It's that freaking good and amazing and awesome and just thank you Nalini for writing such fantastic books! I know I should be reading other books, like ARCs since the deadline is just a few days away, but yesterday I started reading the previous book in this series and guess what? Yeah...I can't stop. It's crazy. And now that I've read this book also, I'm already starting to read the next one. It's like a vicious circle that doesn't get broken and I even don't want it to. The plot is super great as usual and I loved the characters. Even the suspence and twists were dare I say better than in the previos book, so there's really nothing that I could find to bicker about this story. Five solid stars!
December 29, 2018
Devraj Santos (human) andKatya Haas(Psy)
“But this . . . only with you, Dev. I trust you.�
He pushed a thigh between her own, opening her up, claiming her. “That’s a dangerous confession to make to a man like me.� Shifting slightly, he braced himself on his elbows above her, a solid wall of muscle and strength. “I’ll take everything you offer.�
“Will you give anything back?� she somehow found the strength to ask.
A gleam of sensual amusement. “Wait and see.�
Dev and Katya has been an excellent match and I truly loved their story. Besides being an remarkable love story, it is also a story of trust and mutual surrender.
Katya is a good woman, but after being programmed and left at Dev's house without any memory of her past, she could very likely be a latent murderer.
Dev does not trust her.
Katya does not trust herself.
When she starts remembering, she knows that she has to kill Dev or she will die horribly.
Dev is the director of Shine organisation. Shine is a secret, very important organisation that helps children with special powers and the Forgotten, the Psy who did not accept the Silence and created their own Net. He does not trust easily, although Katya will wake all his feelings of protection and ownership. When he discovers that Katya used to be Ekaterina Haas, a friend of Ashaya, he will try to find out who has sent her to him and why.
He will protect himself and at the same time he will not allow Katya to let herself die.
In order both of them to find answers, they will need to travel north where a horrible secret at an abandoned station will wait for them.
Psy of the psy-net and the Forgotten will probably soon have problems of life and death that are connected with their powers and their lack of control. But this is a story of another book.
Very emotional and angsty book.
“But this . . . only with you, Dev. I trust you.�
He pushed a thigh between her own, opening her up, claiming her. “That’s a dangerous confession to make to a man like me.� Shifting slightly, he braced himself on his elbows above her, a solid wall of muscle and strength. “I’ll take everything you offer.�
“Will you give anything back?� she somehow found the strength to ask.
A gleam of sensual amusement. “Wait and see.�
Dev and Katya has been an excellent match and I truly loved their story. Besides being an remarkable love story, it is also a story of trust and mutual surrender.
Katya is a good woman, but after being programmed and left at Dev's house without any memory of her past, she could very likely be a latent murderer.
Dev does not trust her.
Katya does not trust herself.
When she starts remembering, she knows that she has to kill Dev or she will die horribly.
Dev is the director of Shine organisation. Shine is a secret, very important organisation that helps children with special powers and the Forgotten, the Psy who did not accept the Silence and created their own Net. He does not trust easily, although Katya will wake all his feelings of protection and ownership. When he discovers that Katya used to be Ekaterina Haas, a friend of Ashaya, he will try to find out who has sent her to him and why.
He will protect himself and at the same time he will not allow Katya to let herself die.
In order both of them to find answers, they will need to travel north where a horrible secret at an abandoned station will wait for them.
Psy of the psy-net and the Forgotten will probably soon have problems of life and death that are connected with their powers and their lack of control. But this is a story of another book.
Very emotional and angsty book.
March 19, 2017
*** 4 1/2 stars *
Blaze of Memory tells the story of Devraj Santos, the director of Shine, and Katya, a damaged Psy with amnesia. Ekaterina, aka Katya, is dropped off at the headquarters of Shine unconscious, starved and abused. She doesn't remember who she is or what happened to her except in nightmares she can't remember upon waking. Dev knows she is probably a Trojan horse sent by the Psy to infiltrate Shine, which is the front of the Forgotten who are the descendents of the Psy who broke from the PsyNet at the institution of Silence. Dev spends his life protecting the Shine children from the Psy, who want all of the Forgotten who show signs of Psy gifts to be killed. He has become a hard man due to methods he needs to use to keep his people safe. Dev has also become colder due to his affinity to metal, which allows him to read machines but also slowly seeps into his blood and makes him less human and more cold Psy.
Katya starts to remember bits and pieces of her torture. She knows Ming LeBon messed with her head, commiting a psychic rape of everything in her mind and replacing it with his own compulsion. She is afraid she will become a dangerous traitor because Ming could overcome her free will at anytime. She has an instant affinity to Dev when she meets him. She knows he is a hard man who will protect Shine's interests at all costs but she can't help but be fascinated by him, which is a surprise to Katya because she never felt before Ming destroyed her conditioning. We find out very quickly that Katya was programmed to find out all she can about Shine and the Forgotten - then kill Devraj and herself, so we spend most of the book wondering when the programming will rear it's ugly head.
Dev decides to keep Katya close to him to determine whether she was put there on purpose to do harm to Shine. He knows she is probably going to turn on him but he feels protective toward her due to the abuse she suffered. Dev takes Katya to his home to keep her away from everyone while she tries to regain her memory. Katya knows her mind is compromised but she bravely tries to recapture her life. Dev is helplessly attracted to her despite knowing she will probably turn on him at any time. They start feeling deeply for each other, even knowing that Katya could unintentionally harm him against her own will. But the time is ticking down because Ming set a timeline that Katya must meet and it could mean both of their deaths.
This story started out a little slower for me because I missed seeing the Changling society I have come to love, but Dev and Katya's story drew me in and had me rooting for them to overcome what seems like truely impossible odds. Katya was a strong character who overcame horrible torture and the rape of her mind only by her own unbendable will. She knows that her time could very well be limited so she lives her life as fully as she can, giving her heart and body to Dev because she loves him and admires the warrior he is for his people. Dev falls for Katya as he sees the courage she shows by fighting Ming's grip on her mind and trying to keep Shine and her friend Ashaya safe. He quickly becomes possessive of her and knows he cannot kill her even if she does turn into a traitor, even wanting to take on the formidable Ming himself to keep her safe. Katya is able to thaw the ice around Dev's heart that was turning into someone as heartless as the Psy, so in a way she saves him too.
I did enjoy Dev and Katya's romance, toward the end I was crying because it was so emotional and my heart was breaking even though I knew the ending just couldn't be sad. Some old friends do show up, as we get to see a bit of Dorian, Ashaya and Keenan. We also got a glimpse of my favorite cat, Lucas, and Sasha so the story was not completely wihout the changlings. Judd also makes a brief but powerful appearance. The story is also interspersed with notes from a Psy mother to her son at the implementation of Silence, which gave an interesting view to events in the book.
Overall, while it was not my favorite book in the series (Lucas and Vaughn's stories hold those spots) I did enjoy the story and the romance. Dev was a good hero, he was possessive of Katya and was willing to fight to keep her with him but was strong enough to do what was best for her. Katya showed a lot of heart and courage by giving herself to Dev despite her bleak future, she just tried to protect Dev and others no matter the cost. The ending was definitely wonderful, I was crying then sighing over happiness. The story was furthered somewhat, we now know a lot more about the Forgotten which could give us clues to the future of the Psy when/if Silence fails.
Blaze of Memory tells the story of Devraj Santos, the director of Shine, and Katya, a damaged Psy with amnesia. Ekaterina, aka Katya, is dropped off at the headquarters of Shine unconscious, starved and abused. She doesn't remember who she is or what happened to her except in nightmares she can't remember upon waking. Dev knows she is probably a Trojan horse sent by the Psy to infiltrate Shine, which is the front of the Forgotten who are the descendents of the Psy who broke from the PsyNet at the institution of Silence. Dev spends his life protecting the Shine children from the Psy, who want all of the Forgotten who show signs of Psy gifts to be killed. He has become a hard man due to methods he needs to use to keep his people safe. Dev has also become colder due to his affinity to metal, which allows him to read machines but also slowly seeps into his blood and makes him less human and more cold Psy.
Katya starts to remember bits and pieces of her torture. She knows Ming LeBon messed with her head, commiting a psychic rape of everything in her mind and replacing it with his own compulsion. She is afraid she will become a dangerous traitor because Ming could overcome her free will at anytime. She has an instant affinity to Dev when she meets him. She knows he is a hard man who will protect Shine's interests at all costs but she can't help but be fascinated by him, which is a surprise to Katya because she never felt before Ming destroyed her conditioning. We find out very quickly that Katya was programmed to find out all she can about Shine and the Forgotten - then kill Devraj and herself, so we spend most of the book wondering when the programming will rear it's ugly head.
Dev decides to keep Katya close to him to determine whether she was put there on purpose to do harm to Shine. He knows she is probably going to turn on him but he feels protective toward her due to the abuse she suffered. Dev takes Katya to his home to keep her away from everyone while she tries to regain her memory. Katya knows her mind is compromised but she bravely tries to recapture her life. Dev is helplessly attracted to her despite knowing she will probably turn on him at any time. They start feeling deeply for each other, even knowing that Katya could unintentionally harm him against her own will. But the time is ticking down because Ming set a timeline that Katya must meet and it could mean both of their deaths.
This story started out a little slower for me because I missed seeing the Changling society I have come to love, but Dev and Katya's story drew me in and had me rooting for them to overcome what seems like truely impossible odds. Katya was a strong character who overcame horrible torture and the rape of her mind only by her own unbendable will. She knows that her time could very well be limited so she lives her life as fully as she can, giving her heart and body to Dev because she loves him and admires the warrior he is for his people. Dev falls for Katya as he sees the courage she shows by fighting Ming's grip on her mind and trying to keep Shine and her friend Ashaya safe. He quickly becomes possessive of her and knows he cannot kill her even if she does turn into a traitor, even wanting to take on the formidable Ming himself to keep her safe. Katya is able to thaw the ice around Dev's heart that was turning into someone as heartless as the Psy, so in a way she saves him too.
I did enjoy Dev and Katya's romance, toward the end I was crying because it was so emotional and my heart was breaking even though I knew the ending just couldn't be sad. Some old friends do show up, as we get to see a bit of Dorian, Ashaya and Keenan. We also got a glimpse of my favorite cat, Lucas, and Sasha so the story was not completely wihout the changlings. Judd also makes a brief but powerful appearance. The story is also interspersed with notes from a Psy mother to her son at the implementation of Silence, which gave an interesting view to events in the book.
Overall, while it was not my favorite book in the series (Lucas and Vaughn's stories hold those spots) I did enjoy the story and the romance. Dev was a good hero, he was possessive of Katya and was willing to fight to keep her with him but was strong enough to do what was best for her. Katya showed a lot of heart and courage by giving herself to Dev despite her bleak future, she just tried to protect Dev and others no matter the cost. The ending was definitely wonderful, I was crying then sighing over happiness. The story was furthered somewhat, we now know a lot more about the Forgotten which could give us clues to the future of the Psy when/if Silence fails.
May 24, 2010
Blaze of Memory was one of those books that exceeded my expectations significantly, although I know by now what a great author Nalini Singh is. I thought that Dev wouldn't be a very interesting hero (don't ask me why)--but I ended up loving him! He is my kind of hero: ruthless, dangerous, intensely masculine, possessive, powerful...I'll stop now. And, even better, he was capable of tenderness with wounded and fragile Katya. I liked how Nalini Singh showed the dilemma that Dev faced. He has taken on the tough role as the leader of the Shine Foundation, which was established to help the Forgotten, descendents of Psy who dropped out of the PsyNet to live their lives, embracing emotion. And things are not great for the Forgotten right now. The Psy Council has resorted to ruthless tactics to eliminate all the Forgotten. And the younger generation is showing new abilities that have the potential to be very dangerous, even if controlled. Dev carries a tremendous weight on his shoulders, and he does it well. He's a true alpha, in that he takes care of others, yet will fight for those in his care, and resort to being ruthless if necessary.
I was so glad that he found Katya. There was an instant bond between them. Dev had become more and more remote and icy in his dealings with people, as a way to keep control. His past had a horrible event that made him feel like control was absolutely necessary. But, even when he was ruthless, it was more than clear what a good man he was. No question about that. I thought his ability to manipulate metal and use that to control his emotions was very cool. Katya somehow negated this effect, making him into a passionate man and being his weakness in that sense (not really, though). I was really surprised at how possessive Dev was. That seemed more like a Changeling trait. But, I suppose that any man could feel that way about someone with whom he has a powerful connection; and it quickly became clear how connected Dev felt with Katya.
I loved Katya, too. She was emotionally and mentally broken, but somehow she was able to find the strength inside of herself to pick up the broken pieces left after being tortured by cardinal Psy Councilman Ming Le Bon, and made into a possible lethal time bomb weapon against the Forgotten. Poor Katya. How she suffered. She was soft and sweet, but strong at the same time. Her gentleness was the foil for Dev's strength. Yet, he didn't swallow her up or consume her identity.
I just love when a couple turns out to be perfect for each other in a romance. I definitely felt that way about Katya and Dev. They had a lot of chemistry, but there was a strong emotional bond there. To be honest, I wish the love scenes were longer, and in depth, but they were pretty hot the way they were. I loved all the touching and connection they had--Katya needed the stability of touch after her horrible torture, and Dev felt this need to be close to her, and give her with she needed in all ways. It gave me the warm and fuzzies.
This book has a lot of science fiction elements that I loved. I never thought I'd be so into psychic talents in paranormal romance. But I've found I love it, especially after reading this series and the Ghostwalker books by Christine Feehan. And Ms. Singh doesn't let those who like the Psy part of the equation down at all. It's funny. Despite being the shapeshifter lover that I am, I find that Psy-centered books in this series come out on top. I guess I like seeing the powerful abilities, and how the intrinsic human nature that the Psy try to suppress always wins out over intellect and logic. That's real life to me. It gives this very futuristic, cerebral concept a grounding in everyday reality of human existence that appeals to me.
At first, I wasn't too fond of the letter parts and the reports from the Sunshine Facility, but I see why Ms. Singh incorporated those. It really does tie into the story very well.
Can I say that the climax nearly broke my heart? I didn't think I could handle it. Oh, Dev's pain just about killed me, and seeing the suffering that Katya went through! But, Ms. Singh really pulled it off. The part with the kids, oh, I thought I was going to cry tears of joy. That was just perfect. And, you get to see a lot of the other beloved characters return and take part in this story. Judd, Sigh! Dorian, Big, Huge, Sigh! The list goes on.
I am so in love with this series. It really stands out amongst the various paranormal series. I think Ms. Singh has come up with such a brilliant concept here, and she executes it fabulously. I will definitely read every book she writes. And, I am so glad that she managed to give me such an unsuspectingly fantastic and delicious new hero to love in Dev Santos. I can't wait to see what surprises she comes up with for me next.
I was so glad that he found Katya. There was an instant bond between them. Dev had become more and more remote and icy in his dealings with people, as a way to keep control. His past had a horrible event that made him feel like control was absolutely necessary. But, even when he was ruthless, it was more than clear what a good man he was. No question about that. I thought his ability to manipulate metal and use that to control his emotions was very cool. Katya somehow negated this effect, making him into a passionate man and being his weakness in that sense (not really, though). I was really surprised at how possessive Dev was. That seemed more like a Changeling trait. But, I suppose that any man could feel that way about someone with whom he has a powerful connection; and it quickly became clear how connected Dev felt with Katya.
I loved Katya, too. She was emotionally and mentally broken, but somehow she was able to find the strength inside of herself to pick up the broken pieces left after being tortured by cardinal Psy Councilman Ming Le Bon, and made into a possible lethal time bomb weapon against the Forgotten. Poor Katya. How she suffered. She was soft and sweet, but strong at the same time. Her gentleness was the foil for Dev's strength. Yet, he didn't swallow her up or consume her identity.
I just love when a couple turns out to be perfect for each other in a romance. I definitely felt that way about Katya and Dev. They had a lot of chemistry, but there was a strong emotional bond there. To be honest, I wish the love scenes were longer, and in depth, but they were pretty hot the way they were. I loved all the touching and connection they had--Katya needed the stability of touch after her horrible torture, and Dev felt this need to be close to her, and give her with she needed in all ways. It gave me the warm and fuzzies.
This book has a lot of science fiction elements that I loved. I never thought I'd be so into psychic talents in paranormal romance. But I've found I love it, especially after reading this series and the Ghostwalker books by Christine Feehan. And Ms. Singh doesn't let those who like the Psy part of the equation down at all. It's funny. Despite being the shapeshifter lover that I am, I find that Psy-centered books in this series come out on top. I guess I like seeing the powerful abilities, and how the intrinsic human nature that the Psy try to suppress always wins out over intellect and logic. That's real life to me. It gives this very futuristic, cerebral concept a grounding in everyday reality of human existence that appeals to me.
At first, I wasn't too fond of the letter parts and the reports from the Sunshine Facility, but I see why Ms. Singh incorporated those. It really does tie into the story very well.
Can I say that the climax nearly broke my heart? I didn't think I could handle it. Oh, Dev's pain just about killed me, and seeing the suffering that Katya went through! But, Ms. Singh really pulled it off. The part with the kids, oh, I thought I was going to cry tears of joy. That was just perfect. And, you get to see a lot of the other beloved characters return and take part in this story. Judd, Sigh! Dorian, Big, Huge, Sigh! The list goes on.
I am so in love with this series. It really stands out amongst the various paranormal series. I think Ms. Singh has come up with such a brilliant concept here, and she executes it fabulously. I will definitely read every book she writes. And, I am so glad that she managed to give me such an unsuspectingly fantastic and delicious new hero to love in Dev Santos. I can't wait to see what surprises she comes up with for me next.
September 28, 2013
4 to 4 1/2 Emotional Stars
No time to write a review, but I will say that the last 75% of this book is the reason I gave it such a high rating. It was AMAZING and left me an EMOTIONAL mess. Boy, do I love this series.
No time to write a review, but I will say that the last 75% of this book is the reason I gave it such a high rating. It was AMAZING and left me an EMOTIONAL mess. Boy, do I love this series.
August 7, 2018
4.5 Stars
Gah, for a minute I was scared that this would not end in a HEA. What an emotional roller coaster! Dev and Katya were both amazing main characters . I loved their connection.
I didn't feel that this one contributed a lot to the overarching plot but it was still a wonderful read that left me glassy-eyed.
Gah, for a minute I was scared that this would not end in a HEA. What an emotional roller coaster! Dev and Katya were both amazing main characters . I loved their connection.
I didn't feel that this one contributed a lot to the overarching plot but it was still a wonderful read that left me glassy-eyed.
November 6, 2016
This was a good story, although not that much connected to the rest of the series.
Katya was abducted and tortured by the most vicious member of the Council, than left on the doorstep of Dev Santos, the director of Shine. What they both don't know is that she is psycologically programmed to kill Dev, and then commit suicide.
Other than that, there was not a lot of story in this book, mostly them talking, or Katya trying to escape, or them having sex XD It would have 3 stars from me, if not for the last 50 pages. I cried like a baby That ending was so sad and intense, it got one star up for the whole book.
Moving on to the next one :)
Katya was abducted and tortured by the most vicious member of the Council, than left on the doorstep of Dev Santos, the director of Shine. What they both don't know is that she is psycologically programmed to kill Dev, and then commit suicide.
Other than that, there was not a lot of story in this book, mostly them talking, or Katya trying to escape, or them having sex XD It would have 3 stars from me, if not for the last 50 pages. I cried like a baby That ending was so sad and intense, it got one star up for the whole book.
Moving on to the next one :)
September 30, 2016
*** 4 ***
A buddy read with Joanita and Angela at BB&B - we need some PNR in our lives!!!
Book 7 in the series and I am reading still, which means that the series is still going strong and Nalini Singh continues finding ways to keep my interest up. This book was a bit sadder and a bit different than the previous ones, not as much"fun", but there was a journal in the form of letters from a Psy mother to her child as Silence was about to be implemented, that gave a lot of history, background and debt to why they ever chose to go the way of Silence and how difficult it was to stand for or against it.
"... “To fight is to face death once more, perhaps the total annihilation of their kind. But to run... is that not also a kind of annihilation?� ..."
Dev is the director of Shine, the company which tries to take care of the Forgotten, decendents of the Psy who refused to submerge themselves in Silence and who left the Psy Net, thus creating the Shadow Net, since Psy need the connection and feedback of other brains in order to survive. At first it was a choice given, but as time passed, the Psy Council made it mandatory for all Psy to undergo Silence training and programing, and all those who stayed outside of it became hunted outlaws. With the passage of generations, The Forgotten intermarried with humans and sometimes Changelings, thus loosing themselves in anonymity. The Shine Foundation has been created from the beginning so those who live on the Shadow Net can find help and support each-other, as well as protect themselves from the ruling Psy. Dev has been recently promoted to director of Shine and he is charged with making sure his people are safe and all danger to them - eliminated. His ability to stay emotionally cold and completely ruthless makes him perfect for his position.
Katya was one of Shaya's colleagues who worked together on finding out what the Forgotten have kept as an ability and could the Psy use the knowledge for their advantage. Ming destroyed the lab and all who worked there, so Katya is presumed dead. Only Ming has not been that kind with her. He has broken her spirit and broken the conditioning of Silence, tortured her, deprived her of sensations, closed her off from the Psy Net and set her mind to self destruct, while trying to program her to commit a murder. Beaten and malnourished beyond recognition, she is left on Dev's doorstep, having no memory of how and why she is there. In Dev's eyes it is clear she is a plant, a Trojan Horse, a clear danger to him and his people, thus deserving no trust or friendship. As Katya's memories start returning, she confirms his suspicions, but despite the fear of being controlled by Ming and possibly being compelled to destroy Dev and everything he stands for, the two of them are strongly attracted to each-other and neither can resist the sexual pull... Katya is feminine and vulnerable, but she is also strong, smart and independent, ready to go toe to toe with macho-alpha Dev, who despite being ready to destroy her if need be, is growing more and more protective and possessive of her. Their combined strength has found a new target - Ming, and they will not stop until he is taken down!
"... “Dev?" This time, she got a grunt. Smiling, she pressed her lips to his jaw, loving the roughness under her lips. "I like sex."
She saw the edge of a smile, and it made her own lips curve. "I really like it." Rubbing her heel over the back of his leg, she ran her hand down his muscled arm, wanting only to touch him. "When can we do it again?"
He sounded like he was chocking as he said, "You're not acting like a Psy."
"Maybe if they tried sex with you, the others would change their minds, too.� ..."
I was very touched by the reviling of the background of the Forgotten and I was rooting for them with all my heart. They are developing some fascinating new powers and it will be interesting to follow them through the series as they go along. We got cameos by some realy cool old favorites of ours, but we also got some new characters, like the little boy Will, whom Judd *swoon* is taking under his wing. The story was very tender and some moments very sad and heartbreaking! I actually cried at couple of situations and the hopelessness of everything, so I was very happy that Nalini found a way to make things work! There were the cutest kids, who stole the show at the end and I love them and cannot wait to see how they develop.
It is a very addicting series and I am very grateful to my BB&B buddies for nudging me on to keep reading and it is always time well worth spending with Nalini's stories:):):) If you are a Romance or a Paranormal Romance fan, you have to check this series out!
Happy Reading to All and enjoy the beautiful Fall weather!!!
A buddy read with Joanita and Angela at BB&B - we need some PNR in our lives!!!
Book 7 in the series and I am reading still, which means that the series is still going strong and Nalini Singh continues finding ways to keep my interest up. This book was a bit sadder and a bit different than the previous ones, not as much"fun", but there was a journal in the form of letters from a Psy mother to her child as Silence was about to be implemented, that gave a lot of history, background and debt to why they ever chose to go the way of Silence and how difficult it was to stand for or against it.
"... “To fight is to face death once more, perhaps the total annihilation of their kind. But to run... is that not also a kind of annihilation?� ..."
Dev is the director of Shine, the company which tries to take care of the Forgotten, decendents of the Psy who refused to submerge themselves in Silence and who left the Psy Net, thus creating the Shadow Net, since Psy need the connection and feedback of other brains in order to survive. At first it was a choice given, but as time passed, the Psy Council made it mandatory for all Psy to undergo Silence training and programing, and all those who stayed outside of it became hunted outlaws. With the passage of generations, The Forgotten intermarried with humans and sometimes Changelings, thus loosing themselves in anonymity. The Shine Foundation has been created from the beginning so those who live on the Shadow Net can find help and support each-other, as well as protect themselves from the ruling Psy. Dev has been recently promoted to director of Shine and he is charged with making sure his people are safe and all danger to them - eliminated. His ability to stay emotionally cold and completely ruthless makes him perfect for his position.
Katya was one of Shaya's colleagues who worked together on finding out what the Forgotten have kept as an ability and could the Psy use the knowledge for their advantage. Ming destroyed the lab and all who worked there, so Katya is presumed dead. Only Ming has not been that kind with her. He has broken her spirit and broken the conditioning of Silence, tortured her, deprived her of sensations, closed her off from the Psy Net and set her mind to self destruct, while trying to program her to commit a murder. Beaten and malnourished beyond recognition, she is left on Dev's doorstep, having no memory of how and why she is there. In Dev's eyes it is clear she is a plant, a Trojan Horse, a clear danger to him and his people, thus deserving no trust or friendship. As Katya's memories start returning, she confirms his suspicions, but despite the fear of being controlled by Ming and possibly being compelled to destroy Dev and everything he stands for, the two of them are strongly attracted to each-other and neither can resist the sexual pull... Katya is feminine and vulnerable, but she is also strong, smart and independent, ready to go toe to toe with macho-alpha Dev, who despite being ready to destroy her if need be, is growing more and more protective and possessive of her. Their combined strength has found a new target - Ming, and they will not stop until he is taken down!
"... “Dev?" This time, she got a grunt. Smiling, she pressed her lips to his jaw, loving the roughness under her lips. "I like sex."
She saw the edge of a smile, and it made her own lips curve. "I really like it." Rubbing her heel over the back of his leg, she ran her hand down his muscled arm, wanting only to touch him. "When can we do it again?"
He sounded like he was chocking as he said, "You're not acting like a Psy."
"Maybe if they tried sex with you, the others would change their minds, too.� ..."
I was very touched by the reviling of the background of the Forgotten and I was rooting for them with all my heart. They are developing some fascinating new powers and it will be interesting to follow them through the series as they go along. We got cameos by some realy cool old favorites of ours, but we also got some new characters, like the little boy Will, whom Judd *swoon* is taking under his wing. The story was very tender and some moments very sad and heartbreaking! I actually cried at couple of situations and the hopelessness of everything, so I was very happy that Nalini found a way to make things work! There were the cutest kids, who stole the show at the end and I love them and cannot wait to see how they develop.
It is a very addicting series and I am very grateful to my BB&B buddies for nudging me on to keep reading and it is always time well worth spending with Nalini's stories:):):) If you are a Romance or a Paranormal Romance fan, you have to check this series out!
Happy Reading to All and enjoy the beautiful Fall weather!!!
September 6, 2020
26/09/2016 Buddy read my favorite series with the lovely Choko and Angela over at BB&B.
All too soon, reality would claim them both. And when it did, Dev would either have to destroy her fledgling smile, savage her heart... or betray every vow he’d ever taken.
Dev Santos is the director of Shine, the foundation of the Forgotten. He’s ruthless and determined to keep the foundation and the forgotten kids safe from anyone who could or would harm them. So when he finds a battered and unconscious woman on his doorstep, he knows he can’t trust her. No matter how much he wants to protect her, how much he is drawn to her. Because she is Psy, and everyone knows the Psy Council would love nothing more than to eliminate the Forgotten.
Katya Haas doesn’t remember who she is. She was viciously tortured until she broke, until who she was no longer existed. Now she is left fighting to find the few pieces left of herself, trying so hard to not be the very thing the monster made her to be: a murderer, sent to spy and then to kill. And her only hope is the cold-hearted Dev, who she desperately needs to trust her, but how can she ask that of him if he might be her torturer’s target?
He would fight for her, for the woman who’d woken from that hospital bed and started to battle for her right to live. No one would take that right from her.
Devraj Santos is a hard man, with a power that he uses to keep his emotions at bay. He was at times very harsh, and cold towards Katya, which was upsetting, but in a way he was perfect for her. Katya needed to find her strength, needed to know that she is brave, that she won’t let anyone steal her will from her again, and by standing up to Dev, she realised her own strength. I loved that no matter how hard Dev tried to keep Katya at a distance, reminding himself that she was the enemy, he couldn’t stop the possessiveness, the attraction he felt for her.
She’d become his reason for being.
I loved the romance in this book. I loved how possessive and protective Dev was over Katya, and how strong and beautiful their love was. The end had me in tears, thinking that these two will not have a HEA.
Dear Matthew,
The decision has been made. Silence is to be implemented. Your father and I knew this was coming. We’ve been making plans.
I love you so much, my babies. This plan, there’s a chance we’ll all die. I won’t lie to you, won’t try to hide the truth. At times, I think I’m being a hypocrite, condemning the others for letting the Council condition emotion out of their children when I’m putting you and Emily in mortal danger, but I know you with my mother’s heart.
I know that my Matty is an artist, that you’re only ever fully who you are when your face is smudged with paint and your fingers splattered a thousand different colors.
I know that my sweet Emily loves to sing, that she follows you around the house because she adores you so much.
I know that your father would rather go mad a thousand times over than snuff out your bright lights.
So we’ll do this. And we’ll hope there is a God.
With all the love in my heart,
Mom
I think this has been the saddest book so far in this series. It hasn’t before been explained how difficult it must have been for the Psy to embrace Silence. Before Silence they were just as loving, just as needful of touch and emotion as the other races. They loved just as deeply. But because of the horrific destruction those most powerful Psy caused to their loved ones, some could not see any other way to stop the bloodshed. When Silence was implemented, the Psy split in two � those Psy who decided to stay had to follow the new Silence Protocol, and embraced a life without emotion, without love, the rest of the Psy who refused to live their lives without emotion, left the PsyNet, and the Forgotten was born. I loved learning more about the forgotten, and the unusual powers they have. I really hope that there will be more books about them in the future.
Reading this book made me sympathise with the Psy and why they embraced Silence. There really couldn’t have been anything more devastating than losing control of yourself and killing or hurting those you love most.
“You just told me that for some gifts, it’s the only choice.�
Her hand tightened around his. “But it kills something in the individual and in the group. The PsyNet . . . it’s beautiful, but it’s dying, bit by slow bit. How could it not? We give it nothing but emptiness.�
With every book the plot just gets better and better. It definitely seems like Silence has had an effect on the NetMind and on the Psy who are connected to it. I have no idea how they are going to stop what is happening, but I can’t wait to find out what happens next.
I can’t recommend this series enough. Nalini Singh has created a world that is absolutely fantastic, a world where I would love to live. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.
April 13, 2018
Contra todo pronóstico esta historia ME HA ENCANTADO!! , creo que era lo que estaba esperando, romance mucho romance, no fue todo dulce, arcoíris y unicornios pero a mí me gustó. Venía con tan bajas expectativas para este libro que me sorprendió gratamente.
De esta historia resaltó la relación de Dev ( personaje secundario del cuarto libro director de Shine) y Katya ( Ayudante del laboratorio de Ashaya y una Psy.m), me encantaron como pareja y cómo surgió la relación, él siendo un hombre frío y malo con ella pero como poco a poco ella lo va derritiendo y provocándole ternura. Creo que después de Judd Y Brenna su historia de amor es de las que más me gusta.
Tal vez esta historia no es tan influyente para la trama principal pero forma la bases para la trama de las flechas que tanto me gustan, además que vemos la importancia a futuro de Noor y Keenan que son una adoración ojalá tengan un libro.
El final casi me saca unas lágrimas que triste y desgarrador yo no veía como se iban arreglar las cosas les juro que si terminaba mal yo dejo la seriebueno no es cierto me puede más mi intriga por saber quién es fantasma Ya voy por el libro 8 pensé que la iba abandonar antes pero que aquí sigo al pie del cañón.
De esta historia resaltó la relación de Dev ( personaje secundario del cuarto libro director de Shine) y Katya ( Ayudante del laboratorio de Ashaya y una Psy.m), me encantaron como pareja y cómo surgió la relación, él siendo un hombre frío y malo con ella pero como poco a poco ella lo va derritiendo y provocándole ternura. Creo que después de Judd Y Brenna su historia de amor es de las que más me gusta.
Tal vez esta historia no es tan influyente para la trama principal pero forma la bases para la trama de las flechas que tanto me gustan, además que vemos la importancia a futuro de Noor y Keenan que son una adoración ojalá tengan un libro.
El final casi me saca unas lágrimas que triste y desgarrador yo no veía como se iban arreglar las cosas les juro que si terminaba mal yo dejo la serie
December 6, 2009
Ahh I don't know. This one just didn't do it for me.
I'm a HUGE fan of the Psy/Changeling series (as you can see by the fact I read them all in a month lol), but this one... This one just didn't butter my toast...
I agree with another reviewer that a lot of the behaviors in this book just didn't make any sense. Katya just kind of irritated me. I wanted to like her. I mean, anyone who can survive the kind of mess that she'd been put through, has to be strong. But it just didn't translate well when she was with Dev. And the whole bit about the Sunshine Station left me scratching my head... I get that certain compulsions were hiding in her brain, but the whole "gotta go North" thing just didn't make sense as to why it'd be there.
Normally with this series, the chemistry between the characters is scorching! But I just wasn't feeling it between Dev and Katya.
I think my beef is that the Changelings, up until now, have been major players in each book, whereas in this one, they were just secondary (though, how much do I love Judd helping out one of the Forgotten children? *squee* I adore Judd!)
It wasn't bad or anything, just not as good as I'm used to, which is why it only got 3 stars... I'd still suggest reading it if you're a fan of the series, if for nothing else than you'll need to know what the heck is going on when Max's book comes out.
I'm a HUGE fan of the Psy/Changeling series (as you can see by the fact I read them all in a month lol), but this one... This one just didn't butter my toast...
I agree with another reviewer that a lot of the behaviors in this book just didn't make any sense. Katya just kind of irritated me. I wanted to like her. I mean, anyone who can survive the kind of mess that she'd been put through, has to be strong. But it just didn't translate well when she was with Dev. And the whole bit about the Sunshine Station left me scratching my head... I get that certain compulsions were hiding in her brain, but the whole "gotta go North" thing just didn't make sense as to why it'd be there.
Normally with this series, the chemistry between the characters is scorching! But I just wasn't feeling it between Dev and Katya.
I think my beef is that the Changelings, up until now, have been major players in each book, whereas in this one, they were just secondary (though, how much do I love Judd helping out one of the Forgotten children? *squee* I adore Judd!)
It wasn't bad or anything, just not as good as I'm used to, which is why it only got 3 stars... I'd still suggest reading it if you're a fan of the series, if for nothing else than you'll need to know what the heck is going on when Max's book comes out.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 21, 2019
3.5 Stars!
This one dragged a little bit in the beginning before it picked up. We learned more, got a step closer. I may have missed a few minor details listening to the audiobook and getting distracted, but that ending was the best part. I love the kids and learning what they did was pretty cool. There are a lot of characters in this series and I'm still enjoying getting to know them all. Some more than others. Warning: you do need to start at book 1 to keep up in each book.
This one dragged a little bit in the beginning before it picked up. We learned more, got a step closer. I may have missed a few minor details listening to the audiobook and getting distracted, but that ending was the best part. I love the kids and learning what they did was pretty cool. There are a lot of characters in this series and I'm still enjoying getting to know them all. Some more than others. Warning: you do need to start at book 1 to keep up in each book.
October 19, 2021
Too much like Stockholm syndrome to be enjoyable.
December 13, 2014
Once again, Nalini Singh blew me away. I was very reluctant to read this book, it seemed so different than the others and I didn't think I would love the hero, Dev. There are no changelings in Blaze of Memory, the H/h are both Psy (on some level) and that also scared me. I'm used to the Psy/Changeling relationship and with this book, I had none of that. But, I was pleasantly surprised because I loved it. Yes, it was different than the others but it was still awesome.
Dev was such a great hero, I was not a big fan of him while reading Talin's book and I didn't really understand why Nalini felt the need to give him a story since he wasn't that important in the series but I'm so glad she did. Dev is such a strong man, he loves his people and he'll do anything to protect them. Yes, at the beginning he pissed me off and I wanted the heroine to stay mad at him longer, to make him crawl back but you cannot stay mad at Dev for long. Trust me. He has this ruthless and cold side of him, his dark side, the one who'd do anything to protect the Forgotten and then he has this good side, his gentle, understanding and fierce side, the one who'd do anything to protect and love Katya. Both sides are a part of him and that's why Dev is so awesome. He's not the perfect hero but you can't do anything but love him.
Katya was also a surprise for me, reading the blurb of the book, I had no idea of who she really was so I didn't know what to expect but when I understood who she was, I was delighted. Katya was a great heroine as well, she went through so much, she's fragile, damaged, doesn't remember anything but still, she is such a strong and brave woman. I loved to read about her, seeing her open up to Dev, becoming herself again, fighting to stay alive. What a beautiful story it was!
I thought that their relationship was very very well written, Nalini always writes amazingly well but, I don't know, this time I found her writing style more poetic, profound, I loved it. The passages with the letters from Dev's great-great-grandmother to her son were beautiful, I thought this was a great and powerful addition to the story.
Dev and Katya together were awesome, I loved the chemistry, their bond, how hot they were for each other. Seriously, this book was super hawt. No joke. I am not complaining! Nalini did a great job with them, like I said, Dev was an ass at the beginning and I would have liked an apology or something but, he still made up for it. No worries.
What really did it for me was the ending...how did I cry! Having read some reviews before starting it, I knew I was going to cry toward the end but I was not prepared enough! It broke my heart, it was so heartbreakingly beautiful and sad, for a minute I was afraid that they weren't going to get their HEA. Sneaky, Nalini, sneaky.
I loved the secondary characters! We see a little bit of the ones we already know (Judd darling, Sascha and Lucas, Ashaya and Dorian with Keenan, Noor and Jon etc) but we also meet some new ones like Tag and Tiara (I so need them to be together), Jack (Dev's cousin) and his son William, Cruz etc. I would love to read more about all of them.
The plot was good, no surprise there. It wasn't super intense but it was still interesting and, obviously, related to the H/h. There are still so many things unsolved, so many things to explore and questions to be answered. I cannot wait to read the next book and the next one after that!
August 29, 2016
This always happens to me every time I'm through reading Nalini Singh books-- I don't know where to start with my reviews. I don't know what else I can say that the other readers haven't already said! And this one is no exception, so I think I’ll keep this review short and sweet.
This is the seventh book in Psy-Changeling series, an unforgettable Paranormal Romance story of Dev Santos, the director of the Shine Foundation and one of the Forgotten leaders, and Ekaterina or Katya, a Psy scientist who worked with Ashaya at the secret lab.
Katya was found unconscious, bruised, and battered at Dev's doorstep. She woke up with no memory of who she was and what had happened to her. Dev knew she was dangerous to him and the Forgotten, so he had to keep her in his sight at all times. Despite the fact that she was programmed to kill him, he still couldn't take his mind off of her. Meanwhile, Katya gradually discovered a growing feelings toward him. She knew she couldn’t kill him and her time was almost up. If she didn’t do as she was ordered, she would die.
There were some heartwarming moments that made me smile, and there was also the moment that made me cry. It's been awhile since I've read anything that has enthralled me like this book. It grabbed me from the first page and didn't let go until the end.
This one is fabulous in every way. I loved it!
This is the seventh book in Psy-Changeling series, an unforgettable Paranormal Romance story of Dev Santos, the director of the Shine Foundation and one of the Forgotten leaders, and Ekaterina or Katya, a Psy scientist who worked with Ashaya at the secret lab.
Katya was found unconscious, bruised, and battered at Dev's doorstep. She woke up with no memory of who she was and what had happened to her. Dev knew she was dangerous to him and the Forgotten, so he had to keep her in his sight at all times. Despite the fact that she was programmed to kill him, he still couldn't take his mind off of her. Meanwhile, Katya gradually discovered a growing feelings toward him. She knew she couldn’t kill him and her time was almost up. If she didn’t do as she was ordered, she would die.
There were some heartwarming moments that made me smile, and there was also the moment that made me cry. It's been awhile since I've read anything that has enthralled me like this book. It grabbed me from the first page and didn't let go until the end.
This one is fabulous in every way. I loved it!
September 2, 2012
New York
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Photo Credit:
★★★★½ For those of you who know me, you realize I’m a big sucker for amnesia storylines. As I am a nurse, I realize how implausible they are; nevertheless, I still love to roll my eyes and laugh over them. However, this one is a bit different because Ms. Singh has set it in the fantastic futuristic world of her Psy-changeling series.
The amnesia is no laughing matter; Ekaterina � or Katya � was presumed dead in the Nebraska lab explosion ordered by Ming LeBon. For over five months she has been starved, tortured, beaten, and psychically raped. Tossed on Dev’s New York doorstep, now she is left with only nightmares that mercifully disappear in the daylight. We have a bit of a psychologically thriller this time around, as Katya has a message � or compulsion � implanted into her brain to discover all she can about the Shine Foundation, its director Devraj Santos, and the Forgotten. In other words, she is a “sleeper-agent-assassin.� I didn’t think ’d like this book as much as I did, because I wasn’t looking forward to reliving the mind rape Katya experienced; but, Katya won me over. I love to see fragile women find an undiscovered reservoir of strength and self-sufficiency.
Dev is hard, loyal, protective and yummy! Some of his loved ones worry that he will become as cold as the metal and machines over which he controls. However, let me assure you: the 30th of August is Toasted Marshmallow Day and for a challenge I needed a hero who is a ‘closet marshmallow� (hard on the outside, but with a soft gooey center!). Dev � with his fierce temper and predator’s heart� fits the bill perfectly; his only weakness is his need to protect the innocent.
And soft, gentle, innocent, Katya is the perfect woman to thaw � or toast � his icy, alpha-male control. Is Dev and Katya’s relationship a bit of Stockholm Syndrome? Hmm. Good question. If it is, Ms. Singh certainly turns it on its ear, flips it over backwards, and kicks it up several notches.
Did I miss the Changelings as one of the main characters in this love story? Not as much as I thought I would. Plus, I really wanted to learn more about the Forgotten, those descendants of Psy who, instead of eschewing emotions, dropped out of the PsyNet and intermingled with Humans and other species. With regards to ‘attention grabbing� ability, does this fraction hold its own against the Changelings and the Psy? Definitely. Which is no small feat.
’d love to see Ms. Singh’s outline for this series. Her story arc is detailed and well plotted. (I think my suspicions as to who the Ghost is are spot on; but, I’ll have to wait and see.)
Oh. Did I cry? Yup. Big surprise there. I didn’t think Nalini Singh could do that when my GoodReads friends warned me it would happen; I thought forewarned would make me immune. Ha!
Of course, what Katya did toward the end of the book had me sitting on the edge of my seat! Eep!
I read this one in paperback instead of indulging in the audio book (I’m being good, as I’m remodeling.) Nevertheless, I have it on my audible.com ‘wish-list� since it is read by the wonderful Angela Dawe.
Audio book covers:
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Photo Credit:
★★★★½ For those of you who know me, you realize I’m a big sucker for amnesia storylines. As I am a nurse, I realize how implausible they are; nevertheless, I still love to roll my eyes and laugh over them. However, this one is a bit different because Ms. Singh has set it in the fantastic futuristic world of her Psy-changeling series.
The amnesia is no laughing matter; Ekaterina � or Katya � was presumed dead in the Nebraska lab explosion ordered by Ming LeBon. For over five months she has been starved, tortured, beaten, and psychically raped. Tossed on Dev’s New York doorstep, now she is left with only nightmares that mercifully disappear in the daylight. We have a bit of a psychologically thriller this time around, as Katya has a message � or compulsion � implanted into her brain to discover all she can about the Shine Foundation, its director Devraj Santos, and the Forgotten. In other words, she is a “sleeper-agent-assassin.� I didn’t think ’d like this book as much as I did, because I wasn’t looking forward to reliving the mind rape Katya experienced; but, Katya won me over. I love to see fragile women find an undiscovered reservoir of strength and self-sufficiency.
Dev is hard, loyal, protective and yummy! Some of his loved ones worry that he will become as cold as the metal and machines over which he controls. However, let me assure you: the 30th of August is Toasted Marshmallow Day and for a challenge I needed a hero who is a ‘closet marshmallow� (hard on the outside, but with a soft gooey center!). Dev � with his fierce temper and predator’s heart� fits the bill perfectly; his only weakness is his need to protect the innocent.
And soft, gentle, innocent, Katya is the perfect woman to thaw � or toast � his icy, alpha-male control. Is Dev and Katya’s relationship a bit of Stockholm Syndrome? Hmm. Good question. If it is, Ms. Singh certainly turns it on its ear, flips it over backwards, and kicks it up several notches.
Did I miss the Changelings as one of the main characters in this love story? Not as much as I thought I would. Plus, I really wanted to learn more about the Forgotten, those descendants of Psy who, instead of eschewing emotions, dropped out of the PsyNet and intermingled with Humans and other species. With regards to ‘attention grabbing� ability, does this fraction hold its own against the Changelings and the Psy? Definitely. Which is no small feat.
’d love to see Ms. Singh’s outline for this series. Her story arc is detailed and well plotted. (I think my suspicions as to who the Ghost is are spot on; but, I’ll have to wait and see.)
Oh. Did I cry? Yup. Big surprise there. I didn’t think Nalini Singh could do that when my GoodReads friends warned me it would happen; I thought forewarned would make me immune. Ha!
Of course, what Katya did toward the end of the book had me sitting on the edge of my seat! Eep!
I read this one in paperback instead of indulging in the audio book (I’m being good, as I’m remodeling.) Nevertheless, I have it on my audible.com ‘wish-list� since it is read by the wonderful Angela Dawe.
Audio book covers:
August 1, 2017
I've adjusted my rating after letting the book settle.
My initial rating for this was only going to be 3.5 Stars. Update 05/04/2016 - 3 Stars
What changed my mind?
The ending. So instead.
4.5 “Those who dare to love� Stars. Update 05/04/2016 - 4 Stars
We see glimpses of Devraj “Dev� Santos in Mine to Possess. He is the director of the Shine Foundation. They protect the Forgotten those who dropped out of the PsyNet and didn't choose Silence. That was over one hundred years ago. But it was difficult, death followed and one by one they disappeared so the Forgotten ran and hid.
We also see glimpses or Ekaterina Haas in Hostage to Pleasure. She worked alongside Ashaya and after the lab exploded she was considered dead. Five months later she turns up on Dev Santos’s apartment doorstep, drugged, malnourished and beaten. She can’t remember anything at the beginning and Ekaterina ceases to exist after her ordeal so Katya is born like a phoenix from the ashes.
Dev is cold, calculating, and ruthless and a cold hearted bastard and it is only getting harder for him to control. The metal is pulling him in the one person who stops it is Katya. I didn’t always like Dev but I didn’t also have a great dislike for him. He is the guy who takes extreme measures to get the job done no matter what he has to do. Even if the inevitable can’t be avoided.
“Will you kill me?� He froze. “If I prove too broken,� she continued, “too used up to fix, will you kill me?�
Katya is resourceful, clever and she grew on me. She has this urge to go north but Dev won’t let her. She manages to escape but Dev catches up and they go north together. Until they hit Sunshine, Alaska. Where mass insanity reigned.
She has been compelled into extracting information and if that doesn’t work then she is to kill Dev and then herself. Ming LeBon one of the council has manipulated her so much that she can’t access the PsyNet and that she is the prison that keeps her captive and that is no way to avoid the outcome of the situation no matter how hard they try.
They are both honed in fire. As well as them both being stubborn.
“You can try to hold me. You’ll fail.� “I’m not used to failure.� “Dev, I have nothing to lose.
There is an attraction and they have chemistry. But it takes a while for them each to warm up, react to that chemistry as they have shaky trust with one another.
“Dev?" This time, she got a grunt. Smiling, she pressed her lips to his jaw, loving the roughness under her lips. "I like sex."
She saw the edge of a smile, and it made her own lips curve. "I really like it." Rubbing her heel over the back of his leg, she ran her hand down his muscled arm, wanting only to touch him. "When can we do it again?"
He sounded like he was chocking as he said, "You're not acting like a Psy."
"Maybe if they tried sex with you, the others would change their minds, too.�
In the end Dev’s overprotectiveness wins.
A finger to her lips. Startled, she stopped talking. “You’re mine,� he said in a quiet implacable voice. “Now and forever.�
But also emotionally gutting moments.
“I need to know you’ve made your peace with this.� He squeezed her nape in gentle reproof. ”I’ll never make peace with this.�
I also got confused to where the characters were sometimes if it was New York, Vermont or the San Francisco area.
I’m not entirely sure why they came after Mercy & Riley. But hey what do I know.
I found this book to be aggravating but also electrifying and poignant.
On a side note I love what Judd did with William.
Will we get books with the RainFire Pack and Remi?
My initial rating for this was only going to be 3.5 Stars. Update 05/04/2016 - 3 Stars
What changed my mind?
The ending. So instead.
4.5 “Those who dare to love� Stars. Update 05/04/2016 - 4 Stars
We see glimpses of Devraj “Dev� Santos in Mine to Possess. He is the director of the Shine Foundation. They protect the Forgotten those who dropped out of the PsyNet and didn't choose Silence. That was over one hundred years ago. But it was difficult, death followed and one by one they disappeared so the Forgotten ran and hid.
We also see glimpses or Ekaterina Haas in Hostage to Pleasure. She worked alongside Ashaya and after the lab exploded she was considered dead. Five months later she turns up on Dev Santos’s apartment doorstep, drugged, malnourished and beaten. She can’t remember anything at the beginning and Ekaterina ceases to exist after her ordeal so Katya is born like a phoenix from the ashes.
Dev is cold, calculating, and ruthless and a cold hearted bastard and it is only getting harder for him to control. The metal is pulling him in the one person who stops it is Katya. I didn’t always like Dev but I didn’t also have a great dislike for him. He is the guy who takes extreme measures to get the job done no matter what he has to do. Even if the inevitable can’t be avoided.
“Will you kill me?� He froze. “If I prove too broken,� she continued, “too used up to fix, will you kill me?�
Katya is resourceful, clever and she grew on me. She has this urge to go north but Dev won’t let her. She manages to escape but Dev catches up and they go north together. Until they hit Sunshine, Alaska. Where mass insanity reigned.
She has been compelled into extracting information and if that doesn’t work then she is to kill Dev and then herself. Ming LeBon one of the council has manipulated her so much that she can’t access the PsyNet and that she is the prison that keeps her captive and that is no way to avoid the outcome of the situation no matter how hard they try.
They are both honed in fire. As well as them both being stubborn.
“You can try to hold me. You’ll fail.� “I’m not used to failure.� “Dev, I have nothing to lose.
There is an attraction and they have chemistry. But it takes a while for them each to warm up, react to that chemistry as they have shaky trust with one another.
“Dev?" This time, she got a grunt. Smiling, she pressed her lips to his jaw, loving the roughness under her lips. "I like sex."
She saw the edge of a smile, and it made her own lips curve. "I really like it." Rubbing her heel over the back of his leg, she ran her hand down his muscled arm, wanting only to touch him. "When can we do it again?"
He sounded like he was chocking as he said, "You're not acting like a Psy."
"Maybe if they tried sex with you, the others would change their minds, too.�
In the end Dev’s overprotectiveness wins.
A finger to her lips. Startled, she stopped talking. “You’re mine,� he said in a quiet implacable voice. “Now and forever.�
But also emotionally gutting moments.
“I need to know you’ve made your peace with this.� He squeezed her nape in gentle reproof. ”I’ll never make peace with this.�
I also got confused to where the characters were sometimes if it was New York, Vermont or the San Francisco area.
I’m not entirely sure why they came after Mercy & Riley. But hey what do I know.
I found this book to be aggravating but also electrifying and poignant.
On a side note I love what Judd did with William.
Will we get books with the RainFire Pack and Remi?
August 18, 2021
August 2021 re-read: Honestly, I just hate Dev. Everything else in this book is good and interesting.
Meh. That's my overall feeling of this book. And a little bit of resentment as I started my re-read of it. I just don't love this book. And afterMine to Possess and I reached a new understanding on this re-read, this book -Blaze of Memory - has taken up residence as my least favorite Psy-Changeling book....by a lot.
Which isn't to say it's abad book. I'm sure that it works for a lot of people, and I couldn't really give a blanket 'don't read it' statement, but there are definitely friends of mine I'd recommend away from it. Because it's not the usual level that I've come to expect from Nalini Singh. I thought, maybe, it was because this was the first real book that had no Changeling presence, at least in the main couple. And that might be partly it, but I think a larger part of it is that the overarcing story kind of stalls here. There's not a lot of movement, and we get kind of a side-story of things happening that really could be summed up in a couple of paragraphs in some other book. Also, my hatred of Ming is upped considerably in this book.
Then there's the fact that I don't like Dev. I liked him well enough, and thought he was interesting, when he showed up previously, but when he's the hero? Blegh. He's not very heroic, first of all. He spends the majority of the book being a total asshole - which is understandable given what's going on, but I still don't like it. And given how much I feel for Katya and her struggles/history, it makes it harder to be sympathetic to Dev. A little kindness could have been extended without losing any security.
The best thing about this book is the intimate insight we get into some of the Psy, specifically those that were against Silence, back when Silence was first being put forth and implemented. It gives a depth of history and understanding to the struggle the Psy faced, and the choices made, that I don't think we'd previously gotten. Those were the sections that I really enjoyed reading. The rest of it....I could have left.
Review also available at
Previous thoughts:
Objectively, there's a lot I like about this book. Katya is fantastic, the world-building moments are unbelievable (and very compelling), and the mystery is interesting.
However, this book just doesn't connect with me. I can't even really pinpoint why, so this review is probably going to be shorter than the others.
Dev kinda irritates me. On the one hand I get it, but on the other I wanted to slap him for his absolute asshole behavior towards Katya. Also, I didn't really get his "gift."
However, the ending! Wow! Mind-blowing. Supremely interesting twist.
Meh. That's my overall feeling of this book. And a little bit of resentment as I started my re-read of it. I just don't love this book. And afterMine to Possess and I reached a new understanding on this re-read, this book -Blaze of Memory - has taken up residence as my least favorite Psy-Changeling book....by a lot.
Which isn't to say it's abad book. I'm sure that it works for a lot of people, and I couldn't really give a blanket 'don't read it' statement, but there are definitely friends of mine I'd recommend away from it. Because it's not the usual level that I've come to expect from Nalini Singh. I thought, maybe, it was because this was the first real book that had no Changeling presence, at least in the main couple. And that might be partly it, but I think a larger part of it is that the overarcing story kind of stalls here. There's not a lot of movement, and we get kind of a side-story of things happening that really could be summed up in a couple of paragraphs in some other book. Also, my hatred of Ming is upped considerably in this book.
Then there's the fact that I don't like Dev. I liked him well enough, and thought he was interesting, when he showed up previously, but when he's the hero? Blegh. He's not very heroic, first of all. He spends the majority of the book being a total asshole - which is understandable given what's going on, but I still don't like it. And given how much I feel for Katya and her struggles/history, it makes it harder to be sympathetic to Dev. A little kindness could have been extended without losing any security.
The best thing about this book is the intimate insight we get into some of the Psy, specifically those that were against Silence, back when Silence was first being put forth and implemented. It gives a depth of history and understanding to the struggle the Psy faced, and the choices made, that I don't think we'd previously gotten. Those were the sections that I really enjoyed reading. The rest of it....I could have left.
Review also available at
Previous thoughts:
Objectively, there's a lot I like about this book. Katya is fantastic, the world-building moments are unbelievable (and very compelling), and the mystery is interesting.
However, this book just doesn't connect with me. I can't even really pinpoint why, so this review is probably going to be shorter than the others.
Dev kinda irritates me. On the one hand I get it, but on the other I wanted to slap him for his absolute asshole behavior towards Katya. Also, I didn't really get his "gift."
However, the ending! Wow! Mind-blowing. Supremely interesting twist.
March 2, 2011
5 +++ STARS!!!
I AM A TOOL!! I was on a roll reading the Psy-Changeling series, but then I stopped after reading Branded by Fire because I wasn’t too interested in reading Dev’s story. He didn’t really capture my attention, but after reading this book, I will forever love Dev with all my heart!
I was in a serious reading slump before this but Blaze of Memory cured me! I freaking love Dev! As the Shine director, he’s kind of like the alpha of his own people. I found myself loving him despite his initial icy persona. His gift with metal is such a cool talent to have, though it would have been nice to see him use it more often.
Five pages into this book and I found myself feeling so bad for Katya. I think her new name suits her so much better, don’t you think? It’s less Psy and more personable. Even though she may be mentally and physically weak, I found a quiet strength in her. She’s definitely my favourite of the Psy women! I adore her! But there was that one part near the end, when she injects Dev and goes to face Ming alone that scared the living shit out of me! I wanted to beat her for being so stupid! But that doesn’t undermine her love for Dev and her courage.
One thing I loved about Dev is the fact that he doesn’t get angry at Katya. He does, but he’s so sweet about it. My favourite part is when Katya pulls a runaway stunt and Dev walks into his cousin’s house and finds her all nonchalant and snaking on a huge muffin. The fact that he doesn’t unleash his rage on her for making him worry so much shows how much he cares for her. I just adore Dev! It doesn’t hurt that he’s sexy as hell too!
I loved those beautifully written letters to Matthew. At first I was thinking, “What the hell are these for?� But they rounded out the chapters well and brought forth the full range of emotions that the initial victims of the Silence implementation experienced.The very last one at the end that closed the book off was especially beautiful.
What can I say? Singh knows how to make me cry like a little ninny! I adored this entire book and I thought Noor and Keenan were so adorable! I love the fact that Singh sees everyone equally, no matter their race or age. Noor and Keenan have a wonderful gift and I’m so happy that they really got to showcase it in this book. Otherwise, I don’t think I would’ve stopped crying if things ended badly.
Blaze of Memory is officially one of my favourites in this series. Hell, I can’t even choose just one!!
I AM A TOOL!! I was on a roll reading the Psy-Changeling series, but then I stopped after reading Branded by Fire because I wasn’t too interested in reading Dev’s story. He didn’t really capture my attention, but after reading this book, I will forever love Dev with all my heart!
I was in a serious reading slump before this but Blaze of Memory cured me! I freaking love Dev! As the Shine director, he’s kind of like the alpha of his own people. I found myself loving him despite his initial icy persona. His gift with metal is such a cool talent to have, though it would have been nice to see him use it more often.
Five pages into this book and I found myself feeling so bad for Katya. I think her new name suits her so much better, don’t you think? It’s less Psy and more personable. Even though she may be mentally and physically weak, I found a quiet strength in her. She’s definitely my favourite of the Psy women! I adore her! But there was that one part near the end, when she injects Dev and goes to face Ming alone that scared the living shit out of me! I wanted to beat her for being so stupid! But that doesn’t undermine her love for Dev and her courage.
One thing I loved about Dev is the fact that he doesn’t get angry at Katya. He does, but he’s so sweet about it. My favourite part is when Katya pulls a runaway stunt and Dev walks into his cousin’s house and finds her all nonchalant and snaking on a huge muffin. The fact that he doesn’t unleash his rage on her for making him worry so much shows how much he cares for her. I just adore Dev! It doesn’t hurt that he’s sexy as hell too!
I loved those beautifully written letters to Matthew. At first I was thinking, “What the hell are these for?� But they rounded out the chapters well and brought forth the full range of emotions that the initial victims of the Silence implementation experienced.The very last one at the end that closed the book off was especially beautiful.
What can I say? Singh knows how to make me cry like a little ninny! I adored this entire book and I thought Noor and Keenan were so adorable! I love the fact that Singh sees everyone equally, no matter their race or age. Noor and Keenan have a wonderful gift and I’m so happy that they really got to showcase it in this book. Otherwise, I don’t think I would’ve stopped crying if things ended badly.
Blaze of Memory is officially one of my favourites in this series. Hell, I can’t even choose just one!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 17, 2023
1st read: May 2020
2nd read: May 2023
I love this series and I love the story that spans across all of the books. Each book (mostly) focuses on a different couple. Even if I don't especially love the couple, I still like a lot of the book.
The main characters of this book, Katya and Dev, are perfectly fine and interesting. There were some strong heartfelt moments in the book, but they never really grabbed me as a couple.
Katya was held captive, tortured, and her mind was altered against her will. She was dumped unconscious in front of Dev's building. Dev is the leader of Shine, an organization created by the Forgotten, people who are descended from the Psy who broke off from the others several generations ago.
Katya and Dev are both sure that her mind was implanted with directives to hurt Shine, but they are still drawn to each other.
2nd read: May 2023
I love this series and I love the story that spans across all of the books. Each book (mostly) focuses on a different couple. Even if I don't especially love the couple, I still like a lot of the book.
The main characters of this book, Katya and Dev, are perfectly fine and interesting. There were some strong heartfelt moments in the book, but they never really grabbed me as a couple.
Katya was held captive, tortured, and her mind was altered against her will. She was dumped unconscious in front of Dev's building. Dev is the leader of Shine, an organization created by the Forgotten, people who are descended from the Psy who broke off from the others several generations ago.
Katya and Dev are both sure that her mind was implanted with directives to hurt Shine, but they are still drawn to each other.
June 16, 2021
Rereading the series. I only remembered a few scenes from Blaze of Memory so it was almost like reading a brand new book again. I struggled more with Dev on this read as he could be really cold and compartmentalized but liked Katya still. I do think she had a small case of Stockholm syndrome though.
Original Review
3.5 Stars
“Nothing is stronger than the will of the human heart.�
I enjoy the Psy-Changeling series and if you have read up to book 7 I’m sure you do too. Some of the uniqueness of the first few books of the series has definitely worn off and the subplot of the Psy-Net collapse and the council is maybe not progressing as quickly as I would like but I always enjoy the love stories involved.
The story between Dev, leader of the Forgotten and the Shine group, and Katya a tortured psy whose silence has already been broken was the first look into how the Shadow Network is so much different than the Psy-Net. I loved these two together, even if Dev seemed like a heartless bastard at times I still always liked him. Katya has been through hell and might be a ticking time bomb that could destroy them both. I routed for them as a couple the whole time the ending was a little different from what I expected.
There is definitely something fundamentally wrong in the Psy-Net and it seems to be leaking out and getting worse. After getting a glimpse into what the Shadownet entails since it is different than even the Web of Stars it is coming together what might be the problem with the Psy-Net.
Honestly these are my solid easy reads between stuff I’m really waiting to read. I’m waiting for either the subplot to come to the forefront or get to the couple story I really want to read between Hawke and Sienna. If you are a fan of this series I don’t see any reason why this one wouldn’t be just as good as the others.
Original Review
3.5 Stars
“Nothing is stronger than the will of the human heart.�
I enjoy the Psy-Changeling series and if you have read up to book 7 I’m sure you do too. Some of the uniqueness of the first few books of the series has definitely worn off and the subplot of the Psy-Net collapse and the council is maybe not progressing as quickly as I would like but I always enjoy the love stories involved.
The story between Dev, leader of the Forgotten and the Shine group, and Katya a tortured psy whose silence has already been broken was the first look into how the Shadow Network is so much different than the Psy-Net. I loved these two together, even if Dev seemed like a heartless bastard at times I still always liked him. Katya has been through hell and might be a ticking time bomb that could destroy them both. I routed for them as a couple the whole time the ending was a little different from what I expected.
There is definitely something fundamentally wrong in the Psy-Net and it seems to be leaking out and getting worse. After getting a glimpse into what the Shadownet entails since it is different than even the Web of Stars it is coming together what might be the problem with the Psy-Net.
Honestly these are my solid easy reads between stuff I’m really waiting to read. I’m waiting for either the subplot to come to the forefront or get to the couple story I really want to read between Hawke and Sienna. If you are a fan of this series I don’t see any reason why this one wouldn’t be just as good as the others.
April 3, 2021
“If good runs when evil rises,� he said, his palms braced on the walls on either side of her head, “then the world has no chance at all.�
Blaze of memory is my least favourite book in the series, reading it was a struggle, the plot and writing was great but I just couldn't connect with the main characters. I find Dev and Katya odd, despite what she has been through I just could not connect with her.
There are two reasons why I didn't dnf this or give it a lower rating
1. The introduction of Shine/The forgotten, I know that more of them will come so the introduction is vital to the plotline.
2. The characters from the previous stories and the children made this more tolerable, especially the end.
I hope the next book in the series is good, I'd hate to stop this series halfway.
Blaze of memory is my least favourite book in the series, reading it was a struggle, the plot and writing was great but I just couldn't connect with the main characters. I find Dev and Katya odd, despite what she has been through I just could not connect with her.
There are two reasons why I didn't dnf this or give it a lower rating
1. The introduction of Shine/The forgotten, I know that more of them will come so the introduction is vital to the plotline.
2. The characters from the previous stories and the children made this more tolerable, especially the end.
I hope the next book in the series is good, I'd hate to stop this series halfway.
December 19, 2014
In Blaze of Memory, Dev Santos, head of Shine Foundation, an organization that tries to find and protect Psy descendants among the human population, finds an unconcsious, tortured woman outside his door. When she regains consciousness, it turns out the woman has amnesia but she's also Psy, thus an enemy of Shine. They all deduce at once, that she must be part of a Psy-plan to hurt Shine and probably Santos in particular. The obvious solution to that would be to keep her locked somewhere until they find out who she is and what goal she has. Dev however, cannot bear to have this tortured, broken woman, suffer any more. On the contrary, she's so helpless and battered that all his insticts cry for him to protect her. The fact that she's also quite beautiful, makes him feel not only protective but also attracted to her, as he has been to no other woman. Dev has been a cold, ruthless man, as the head of the Shine Foundation has had to be. But this woman cuts straight through his defenses and makes his heart ache. Is she really who she seems or is she a Psy spy after all? What future can there be for them when he cannot trust her?
Before I started the book, I had trouble imagining Dev as a hero. It turned out that I shouldn't have, as Dev was quite a nice and intersting guy. My problems focused on the heroine. The heroine who, in those 375 pages, showed that she had some spine after all, in 3 or 5 of them. IMHO, the author kept trying to convince us that she had some spine by having Dev say it quite often, but it never really showed. Their relationship felt too unbalanced, and honestly, I never understood how Dev became so quickly attracted to her. 30 pages into the book and he had feelings for her he never felt before, while she, a Psy, could barely keep her hands off him. He kept saying that he had an Achilles heel for weak women, but is helplessness reason enough to fall in love with someone? And what does that say about her or him as a character? What will happen if she someday finds some self-confidence and inner strength after all? He'll give her up and go to save another damsel in distress? Although, I must admit that judging by what I read, the posibility of her finally developing a spine, is an extremely small one:)
Scene:
"Dev, you're not taking me seriously!" she exclaims. And proceeds by throwing him a shoe. Yeah, that's guaranteed to make him see her as a grown up all right!
Spoilers and some mad raving***
I knew the Forgotten had some Psy powers, but from the previous books, I had judged that these powers were weak more or less. It turns out that the Forgotten are Psy with feelings. They have all the range of powers that the Psy have and even some unique ones, telepathy being a very common one so they use that one pretty often. They even have their own Net, called the ShadowNet. So Dev was more like a changeling hero -extremely protective and jealous- but with Psy powers. I'm not exactly thrilled by this revelation, as I expected the third power in this game (=humans), to be something different than a combination of the two others.
As I said, I couldn't like the heroine. She was so weak that she was pathetic. Singh had Dev say a couple of times how strong she was undreneath because she managed to beat Ming. How exactly did she beat Ming is beyond me. Ming mind raped her, turned her into a puppet by planting a triggering device in her mind that would turn her into an assasin and released her on Dev's doorstep. She doesn't know if her thoughts are her own, if her insticts are her own, if her actions are based on her decisions or are been guided by Ming. So, how exactly did she beat him??? He did what he wanted, turned her into his puppet and set her free to execute a mission. I repeat, when exactly did she beat him or did she show her inner strength?
Also, I had problems with Dev's decision to take her with him everywhere he went. He was a leader, thus his first duty was to protect his people. As everyone agreed, she was most probably sent by Ming to kill someone inside Shine (probably Santos himself) but he believes he can handle her. So instead of locking her up, he takes her with him in Shine's offices where she shows powers they didn't know and detects a child they desperately try to hide from the Council. Nice handling Dev! And after that, he carries her with him in Changeling territory, where she asks -and gets her wish- to meet Jon, the kid that Ming was after during Talin's book, so she can say she's sorry. For all they knew, this could be her target! Now, how stupid was that? And all that, because he can't think of imprisoning her -an enemy from crying out loud!- because she appeals to his protective instincts. Give me a break! In a realistic senario, the rest of the Shine whould have shoven him off the director's seat at that point and take care of her themselves, instead of befriending her like Tiara did. One more unbelievable situation above the other... how could this not turn into a disaster in the end?
***End of Spoilers
Another bad thing is that IMO, the story between Psy, Changelings and Humans progressed very little in this book. It was based solely on the romance while, what little action and revelations occured, took place near the very end. We learn however a lot of things about the Forgotten, which are more or less summarized in just one sentence found in the spoilers section above, and see a couple of potential new heroes and heroines. Nothing new about the Psy Council, Kaleb, the Ghost, Hawke (not even a single line!) or the Changelings. It may be the fact that I didn't find the romance satisfying or believable, but I think the pace was also slower than the previous books. All in all, it was a huge disappointement for me. I'll just pretend I didn't read it and hope she'll make it up in the next one.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 13, 2018
II have yet to find a paranormal romance series this good overall. That being said, when you have this many books to choose from, some of them are bound to be a bit different than others and may not fulfil all the expectations. Either this is one of them or the Forgotten haven't been properly introduced in the series. They are mentioned before this book, but you can't exactly say oh, I'd like to read a story about this character or group of people. Like the Arrows.
The Forgotten just weren't mentioned as much as they should have been to generate huge interest. Or I might be comparing them to the Arrows, which isn't fair - nobody (except the wolves maybe) could beat that.
Now, the two kids, a terrified Forgotten child, Vasic and Aden revealing a bit more about whatever they're doing and some other things (as usual) are the glue that holds this book together.
***
Blaze of Memory mostly deals with the fourth group of people in Psy-Changeling world - the Forgotten, those Psy who didn't want to accept Silence when it was first introduced.
Every now and then you get a short entry from a letter a mother wrote to her future adult son and through those entries you get more information about the Psy who were ready to suffer and to be hunted by the Council rather than to destroy emotion.
Devraj Santos first appears in Mine to Possess when Ashaya Alayne risked everything to save two children who turned out to be the Forgotten. He is the director of the Shine Foundation that finds and helps the Forgotten. Some of those cases are heartbreaking since some of those people are treated as humans, meaning they are given medicine for schizophrenics. Dev is the closest the Forgotten have to Silence-like attitude. He is ruthless and after what happened in Mine to Possess his walls are even stronger. Simple fact is his people need him to be like that. ('They’d chosen chaos over control, the dangers of emotion over the certain sanity of a life lived without hope, without love, without joy. But with those choices had come consequences. The Psy Council had never stopped hunting the Forgotten. To fight back, to keep his people safe, Dev had had to make some brutal choices of his own.')
It all changes when someone drops an unconscious and starved Psy at his door.
If the previous book wasn't really emotionally charged, this one makes up for it.
As with all the other books, there are many things besides the romance that makes this story great.
There is a lifeless patch on the PsyNet that seems to be spreading.
The Ghost, of course, is one of the most interesting characters in this series. Knowing his story now, I love this even more: '“And you, my friend, what is your first loyalty?� That was a question the Ghost had never answered. But it wasn’t, Judd thought, the simple need to put the Net into better hands. Something far more personal drove the rebel. Now, the Ghost rose. “I’ll answer that question when I’ve completed the task demanded by that loyalty.'
There is a mention of Justice Psy (J-Psy) and their peculiarities. I appreciate the subtle foreshadowing - the heroine of the eighth book is a J-Psy ('And when Justice Psy broke, some very nasty people had a way of ending up dead.')
Then we come to the Arrow Squad; I love them (former ones included). When one of the Forgotten children starts manifesting very dangerous traits and Dev asks for help, an Arrow comes through. ('...my son tells me an Arrow came to see him tonight and started teaching him how to be good.' can only be fully appreciated if you've read the books).
And to top it all, there is a Psy ability, a gift that only works in tandem with another Psy.
And so much more.
The Forgotten just weren't mentioned as much as they should have been to generate huge interest. Or I might be comparing them to the Arrows, which isn't fair - nobody (except the wolves maybe) could beat that.
Now, the two kids, a terrified Forgotten child, Vasic and Aden revealing a bit more about whatever they're doing and some other things (as usual) are the glue that holds this book together.
***
Blaze of Memory mostly deals with the fourth group of people in Psy-Changeling world - the Forgotten, those Psy who didn't want to accept Silence when it was first introduced.
Every now and then you get a short entry from a letter a mother wrote to her future adult son and through those entries you get more information about the Psy who were ready to suffer and to be hunted by the Council rather than to destroy emotion.
Devraj Santos first appears in Mine to Possess when Ashaya Alayne risked everything to save two children who turned out to be the Forgotten. He is the director of the Shine Foundation that finds and helps the Forgotten. Some of those cases are heartbreaking since some of those people are treated as humans, meaning they are given medicine for schizophrenics. Dev is the closest the Forgotten have to Silence-like attitude. He is ruthless and after what happened in Mine to Possess his walls are even stronger. Simple fact is his people need him to be like that. ('They’d chosen chaos over control, the dangers of emotion over the certain sanity of a life lived without hope, without love, without joy. But with those choices had come consequences. The Psy Council had never stopped hunting the Forgotten. To fight back, to keep his people safe, Dev had had to make some brutal choices of his own.')
It all changes when someone drops an unconscious and starved Psy at his door.
If the previous book wasn't really emotionally charged, this one makes up for it.
As with all the other books, there are many things besides the romance that makes this story great.
There is a lifeless patch on the PsyNet that seems to be spreading.
The Ghost, of course, is one of the most interesting characters in this series. Knowing his story now, I love this even more: '“And you, my friend, what is your first loyalty?� That was a question the Ghost had never answered. But it wasn’t, Judd thought, the simple need to put the Net into better hands. Something far more personal drove the rebel. Now, the Ghost rose. “I’ll answer that question when I’ve completed the task demanded by that loyalty.'
There is a mention of Justice Psy (J-Psy) and their peculiarities. I appreciate the subtle foreshadowing - the heroine of the eighth book is a J-Psy ('And when Justice Psy broke, some very nasty people had a way of ending up dead.')
Then we come to the Arrow Squad; I love them (former ones included). When one of the Forgotten children starts manifesting very dangerous traits and Dev asks for help, an Arrow comes through. ('...my son tells me an Arrow came to see him tonight and started teaching him how to be good.' can only be fully appreciated if you've read the books).
And to top it all, there is a Psy ability, a gift that only works in tandem with another Psy.
And so much more.
October 5, 2010
First of all, let me say how much I love this series, 'cause seriously, I adore it.
Blaze of memory tells the story of Dev, the enigmatic director of Shine Foundation, the group that protects the forgotten Psy, and Katya, the former assistant of Ashaya () who was captured by a member of the council and tortured nearly to death, and might or not, be the ultimate weapon of the Silent Psy against the Forgotten, even she can’t remember what kind of damage did they programmed her to do.
I must confess, when I read the synopsis I had really low expectations about this one, I thought I would miss the sexy alpha actitud of my beloved changelings and the always interesting mating dance. That was so not the case, Dev was such an intense, dark, interesting character to read about, and his relationship whit Katya was absolutely beautiful.
I usually don't care about needy, weak heroines, and at the beggining that was the impression I got from Katya. Another mistake. She was almost broken, both psyquic and phisically, she had to endure one of the cruelest forms of torture imaginable, and somehow, managed not only to survive but to overcome it. She is a character I couldn't help but admire.
The story is full of surprising, tender moments, the romance is at the same time beautiful and scorching hot. As always, you get that incredible emotional conection between characters that makes Nalini's writing so unique, but this instalment really had all the emotional spectrum: I laughed, bit my nails and cried like a baby, thinking there was no way this amazing couple would somehow find their HEA.
I loved so much this book, my favourite one of the series so far.
Blaze of memory tells the story of Dev, the enigmatic director of Shine Foundation, the group that protects the forgotten Psy, and Katya, the former assistant of Ashaya () who was captured by a member of the council and tortured nearly to death, and might or not, be the ultimate weapon of the Silent Psy against the Forgotten, even she can’t remember what kind of damage did they programmed her to do.
I must confess, when I read the synopsis I had really low expectations about this one, I thought I would miss the sexy alpha actitud of my beloved changelings and the always interesting mating dance. That was so not the case, Dev was such an intense, dark, interesting character to read about, and his relationship whit Katya was absolutely beautiful.
I usually don't care about needy, weak heroines, and at the beggining that was the impression I got from Katya. Another mistake. She was almost broken, both psyquic and phisically, she had to endure one of the cruelest forms of torture imaginable, and somehow, managed not only to survive but to overcome it. She is a character I couldn't help but admire.
The story is full of surprising, tender moments, the romance is at the same time beautiful and scorching hot. As always, you get that incredible emotional conection between characters that makes Nalini's writing so unique, but this instalment really had all the emotional spectrum: I laughed, bit my nails and cried like a baby, thinking there was no way this amazing couple would somehow find their HEA.
I loved so much this book, my favourite one of the series so far.
March 20, 2020
I liked it more then before but still not loving it.
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