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Saturday, December 22, 2012

Free on Amazon


DECEMBER 22, 2012

A WE SURVIVED 12/21/12 GIVEAWAY

We lived to tell the tale about surviving the end of the world via Mayan Calendar.  My gift to Kindle owners is a Free copy of The Light Tamer today only!

Be sure to stop by my fan page to win free ecopies of Enlightened, the second book in The Light Tamer trilogy.

Happy 'WE SURVIVED"  ~ Devyn

Tuesday, December 18, 2012

Cover Reveal Dracian Legacy




Ren and Axel are caught between two powerful magical races: one destined to end the bloodshed, the other out for vengeance.
Seventeen-year-old Ren Pernell is prophesied to end the war between the Dracians and the Telalians. So when a Dracian, Axel Knight, is sent to find and bring back the prophesied one before she turns eighteen and Telalians discover of her existence, unexpected sparks start to fly between the two. Once Ren finds the truth behind Axel’s arrival, she wants everything to do with him and nothing to do with his mission.
Things prove to be difficult as Ren’s life is constantly threatened by forces that are beyond her control, including the leader of the Telalians.
With the clock ticking and Ren’s life in jeopardy, it is no longer just a mission for Axel. It becomes a personal endeavor to save the only one he’s ever loved. In a heart racing ending, they must find a way to evade the preordained war that won’t also end Ren’s life.


Priya Kanaparti was born in India, grew up in Detroit, and is now living in Boise, ID. She attended Wayne State University for her undergrad degree in Bachelor of Science in Biology, and University of Phoenix for her Masters in Business Administration. Priya works as a project manager in software field during the day and lives in the world of her characters during the nights and weekends. She had found the love for reading and writing early this year, when she stayed home with her year old and needed something to occupy those 'downtime' hours. 
She loves playing tennis on a good summer day and chess during the cold winters, but reading and writing has become a year round hobby.
She lives in Boise with her husband, son and a Yorkie. Dracian Legacy is her debut novel.
Contact information:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/pkanapartihttps://twitter.com/pkanaparti
Release Date: February 14th, 2013

Blog Tour Dates: February 12th, 2013 through March 15th, 2013


Tuesday, December 11, 2012

Sins of the Fallen


RELEASE 12/11/12
AVAILABLE TODAY!!!


I had the chance to ask Hunter from The Academy of the Fallen series to tell me about this book.  This is what he had to say:

Hunter

   I knew how much Kayla had changed over the past few weeks, but it was nothing compared to what I had seen in her from the moment we stepped into this place. The Kayla from before she learned about this world, was gone. She was already attached to some of their kind and I could see that she felt as if it was her responsibility to protect them all, the haunted and the fallen. She was starting to put them before her in every decision she made. It started sometime before we left the Academy where her father is in charge. After her incubus half-brother and his allies attacked the Academy, we managed to leave and take shelter here. Only, everything about this place is completely different. Many of the beings that live here have earned back the privilege of being full-blooded angels. Well, some say that is a privilege; others see it as a curse. Either way, the place itself had already started to become my very own curse. From the moment Kayla stepped foot in this place, I could see her change complete faster and faster. This Academy was giving her the confidence to be who she was meant to be, and deep down, I knew it was only a matter of time before I would no longer be needed in her life. It may sound selfish, but as Kayla started her journey to save those who were left behind, I was fighting for her. I was fighting to be worthy of a Nephilim.



Stalkertunity to find Daniele

Monday, December 10, 2012

Thorne Interview - Enlightened




Thorne interview


Rebecca Kazaku - Freelance Reporter - Paranormal Talk

When Thorne came into the room, I had to remind myself not to stare with my mouth open.  He asked to meet at Trent River Coffee, one of Jessie’s favorite places.  His long-sleeved black thermal was hugging him, and leaving little to the imagination.  I swear I could see the brightness of his grey eyes from across the room.  He flashed me a crooked grin as he approached my table.
After a few minutes of introductions and coffee orders, he relaxed and leaned back in his chair, balancing it on the rear legs.

Where’s the strangest place you’ve lived?  

I had an assignment with a homeless guy in Denver, Colorado.  We lived in boxes we kept hidden behind dumpsters at the big box store.  Did I mention it was below freezing most nights?  It was a six month assignment.

That sounds horrible, did you dumpster dive for food too?

In the beginning, yes we did.  I eventually bought a prepaid credit card and let him believe someone gave it to me for us to eat.

I thought you aren’t allowed to lie.

I didn’t lie, I omitted the truth.

That statement could get you in a little trouble with the female readers.

No, it wasn’t something that would harm him or hurt his feelings, I wanted to help him.

Speaking of female readers, the burning question is….have you ever been in love?

I live a life that gets in the way of relationships.  I dated a girl for about a year but she broke up with me because of my job.  She was human, and didn’t like the long spells of no communication.  I don’t believe we were IN love, but we were fond of each other.

Guilty pleasure? 

I love to go to the midnight showing of a movie that’s been anticipated for a long time. 

What is one of those movies?

The Hunger Games, Jennifer Lawrence made a perfect Katniss.

Favorite TV show?

I love Sons of Anarchy.  That show has a lot of shoot-‘em-up scenes.  I watch each show about three times before erasing off of my DVR.

Are vampires real?

I’m not allowed to discuss the possibilities of other supernaturals.

Okay, everyone wants to know…what’s going on with you and Amber?

She’s a spitfire for sure.  As a guardian, it’s my priority to protect my charge.  It wouldn’t be fair to neglect a relationship with someone like Amber, she deserves better than that.

Do you have feelings for Jessie?

As in feelings, feelings?  No!  Of course not, she is my assignment.  I hold her friendship in high regard.  I don’t think Caleb would be too keen about me taking his girl. 

Thorne leaned forward, scooting his coffee out of the way.  The smoldering look on his face almost stole my breath.

When a woman is slated to behead you, it takes away the attraction.  He broke out in a deep laugh that made my head spin.

Good point.  Okay, here’s the final questions, answer the first thought to your head.

Color - red
Song - Ho Hey
Food - Pasta
Place - bed
Book - The Lightening Thief
Season - Summer
Holiday - Halloween

Thank you for meeting me today.  I’m sure you have to get back to your guardian duties.  We said good-bye and I watched him as he walked away.  I literally swooned.

Jessie Lucente, a Light Tamer, has started her junior year at Parca Academy in New Bern, NC. She has a new boyfriend, Caleb Baldwin. He is beyond good looking, he is her mate for life. They've been bound by the light and will rule and heal with it too. Her new classes aren't what she expected. Finding out the school is filled with 'gifted' kids is almost too much to comprehend. She finds out what it really means to be a Light Tamer. Some of the assumptions she had are debunked and now everything is crystal clear...well, clear as mud. Now that she is enlightened with the facts, she struggles with the truth.

Thorne Woodson has all of the girls swooning. His Doc Martens and hoodie stand out against his school uniform. He might be the guy to heal Amber's broken, grieving heart. What's his story, and why does he appear everywhere Jessie is? He has a secret that will change the game for everyone. Who is he in cahoots with?

Amber starts her junior year with a bang and a huge crush. She has a point to prove on the first day of school. She refuses to let everyone believe she went soft over summer break. Her shenanigans end with detention on the first day. The anniversary of her brother's death has her making dumb decisions but her friends have her back. Jessie will struggle to help Amber deal with the grief.

The secrets that have been revealed by Fate will leave Jessie in a new role. It will all come down to bloodline versus logic. She must step up and embrace her new title, and life on the other side of the shimmer. With her small army together, they promise to vanquish Nyx back to the Underworld and seal the portal she came through.

The second book in The Light Tamer trilogy will answer the questions that are burning in your head. A beautiful tale of first love and friendship. Be prepared to be amazed at the twist in this story. You didn't see it coming, but you'll be glad it did!

Monday, December 3, 2012

Review Accordance Shelly Crane

Accordance (Significance, #2)Accordance by Shelly Crane
My rating: 5 of 5 stars


I'm not going to leave a long drawn out review. I want to say that as I read this book, it clicked - I knew why it is such a loved series. I loved Significance, and I loved Accordance.

I enjoyed Maggie's brother Bish - I don't know why, but I really thought he was funny. He reminded me about how some of my guy friends would have been if I was in the same situation as Maggie.

I can't wait until the movie comes out so I can see the 'ribbons'

A great series with loveable characters.

View all my reviews

Wednesday, November 14, 2012

Name a Character


Name a Character
Light Bound
Third Book in The Light Tamer Trilogy

Have you ever wished you could name a character in a book?  Now's your chance!  Follow all of the Rafflecopter rules (I will double check).

The character -

He is Thorne's roommate in Kentucky.  He's a guardian and has the soul of someone tethered to him.  He's the kind of guy that would be handsome if he wore the right clothes, cut his hair the right way and didn't fear everything in sight.  He's about 5'10", 180 lbs... He has light brown wavy hair and green eyes.  He is an only child and hasn't ever had a steady girlfriend.  He knows if he doesn't find a way to free the girl's soul, he'll lose his guardian title and end up being a shoe shine guy.

You'll need to leave a comment (if you don't leave a comment, you won't be eligible).  The Rafflecopter has the nitty gritty info.  Thank you so much for playing!

Disclaimer - Winner will not receive any monetary royalty.  Character name will be first and middle only.  Anything rude or offensive will not be accepted and you will be banned from my blog.  

Thursday, November 8, 2012

iPad Mini Christmas Giveaway


Hey everyone,

Here is an amazing chance to win the new iPad Mini for Christmas!  This giveaway is hosted by Happy Home & Family and My Creative Zone.  Imagine someone waking up on Christmas morning with the new iPad Mini.  Merry Christmas XOXO Devyn


Happy Home and Family  

The full iPad experience. There's less of it, but no less to it.

Everything you love about iPad — the beautiful screen, fast and fluid performance, FaceTime and iSight cameras, thousands of amazing apps, 10-hour battery life* — is everything you’ll love about iPad mini, too. And you can hold it in one hand.
Giveaway details:
  • One lucky reader will receive the new iPad Mini !
  • Giveaway ends December 10 at 11:59pm
  • Giveaway is open worldwide. Winner can also opt for the cash equivalent of $329.
  • Winner will have 48 hours to respond to the winner's email notification
To enter, use the Rafflecopter below. Good luck! To enter please use the Rafflecopter form below. Good luck!

Sunday, November 4, 2012

Win Autograph Copy of Enlightened



Win an autographed copy of Enlightened - Easy Peasy
Remember, if you've won a major prize in the last 45 days, you can't win the autographed book - but you are eligible for the other prizes.  


Here are a couple of reviews of Enlightened -

"First of all I'd just like to say: CRAP, didn't see that ending coming..........

What a fantastic edition to add to the Tamer Series.

I am so in love with all these characters. And if you give this series a chance you will be too. The first book goes into Jessie finding out what she is and learning a little bit about the Light Taming world but the second book is actually going into who she is. And believe me you will not see this storyline coming at all. It is a complete surprise and a good one at that :-) I am not going to say too much about what happens because I really think ppl should read it and make up there own mind.

I am definitely going to recommend this book to all my friends as I loved it and I'm sure they will too!"
Amazon Reviewer

"I can honestly say I didn't see that coming.... and I cannot!! wait for the next book the ending kind of leaves ya hanging but either way Caleb and Jess are still going strong PLUS a big twist :-) ."  
Amazon Reviewer

"I am definitely going to recommend this book to all my friends as I loved it and I'm sure they will too!"
Amazon Reviewer

Okay - here's the Rafflecopter... Good Luck

Tuesday, October 23, 2012

Spooktacular Blog Hop



First I'd like to thank I am a Reader, Not a Writer , and Rhianna The Diary of a Bookworm for hosting this blog hop.  There are over 400 blogs - so check everyone out day by day.

Up for grabs is a SWAG Pack pictured below & 1 E-Copy of young adult novel  Enlightened
Autograph Quinn Loftis postcard - Autographed Tiffany King postcard - Autographed Jaz Primo bookmark - Autographed Devyn Dawson bookmark & mini-posters & magnets




Jessie Lucente, a Light Tamer, has started her junior year at Parca Academy in New Bern, NC. She has a new boyfriend, Caleb Baldwin. He is beyond good looking, he is her mate for life. They've been bound by the light and will rule and heal with it too. Her new classes aren't what she expected. Finding out the school is filled with 'gifted' kids is almost too much to comprehend. She finds out what it really means to be a Light Tamer. Some of the assumptions she had are debunked and now everything is crystal clear...well, clear as mud. Now that she is enlightened with the facts, she struggles with the truth. 


"Another fantastic story written by the fabulous author Devyn Dawson! I am really glad I started reading this series. This becomes one of my favorite series."  Goodreads Review


"LOVE LOVE LOVE this freaking series! it is quickly moving up to the top of my favorite books list!!! lol its got EVERYTHING when it comes to the supernatural world!! its AMAZING!!"  Goodreads Review


"First of all I'd just like to say: CRAP, didn't see that ending coming..........
What a fantastic edition to add to the Tamer Series."  Amazon Review



Thursday, October 18, 2012

Win $50 Gift Card



Howdy folks, it's me, the random blogger.  I finally released Enlightened.  Oh, what a horrible writing experience that book was.  I dreaded saying anything while I was writing it, but I was suffering from a horrible case of writer's block.  I knew how I want the trilogy to end...and I even knew how I wanted Enlightened to end....it was all the stuff in the middle that left me crazy.

Shortly after I started writing the book, my dad died.  A  couple of weeks after my dad's death, my son graduated high school.  Within the same week, he announced his girlfriend is having a baby...his baby.  Talk about a summer of insanity.  I moved a pregnant teen into my house and crossed my fingers that God would show me what to do next.  He didn't show me to write a book...nope.  I wrote every single day... I deleted as much as I wrote.  I originally had a deadline of August 30, I'm still laughing over my first missed deadline.  One week before releasing the book, I deleted 14,000 words - the ending of the book.  Ouch.  I promised the fans it would be out on October 10, 2012...and I'd be damned if I didn't make it.  I swear I was up until 7 in the morning for a week, writing...deleting...writing....crying....cussing  Not always in that order.

It's been a week since the book was released, and I've been sitting here biting my nails waiting for reviews.  I knew the twist at the end would be unexpected.... I worked so hard to make sure it flowed with the right amount of mystery.  I think I made the right call, and gave Caleb and Jessie a tale like no other.

I hope you have a chance to read Enlightened.  The book is now available in print and e-book.  Don't forget to follow my Facebook page - I'm having some great giveaways through November.  Thank you to everyone that believed in me, and everyone that has fallen in love with Jessie & Caleb.

XOXO
Devyn


Saturday, October 6, 2012

Enlightened - Playlist




The Enlightened Playlist

1.  Simple Man   - Shinedown
2.  Pitter Pat  - Erin McCarley
3.  Relax My Beloved - Alex Clare
4.  Lovesick Mistake -  Erin McCarley
5.  Prophecy - Lukas Rossi
6.  Primadonna  - Marina and the Diamonds
7.  Lies - Marina and the Diamonds
8.  Closer to You - Adelitas Way
9.  It's Time - Imagine Dragons
10.  Breath of Life - Florence and the Machines
11.  Gold on the Ceiling - The Black Keys
12.  Ho Hey  - The Lumineers
13.  Never Let Me Go  - Florence and the Machines
14.  Dancin Aweay with My Heart  - Lady Antebellum
15.  Wanted You More  - Lady Antebellum
16.  Wanted - Hunter Hayes
17.  I don't want to Miss a Thing - Aerosmith
18.  Enchanted  - Taylor Swift
19.  Postcards from Paris  - The Band Perry

Friday, October 5, 2012

Quinn Loftis Autographed postcard giveaway






Here's your chance to win this signed Grey Wolf Series postcard & Prince of Wolves bookmark.
You must be 13 and over to win - I'm not responsible for lost mail.

Thank you for playing - and a HUGE THANK YOU to my friend Quinn for offering up this great swag for my blog.  She's kinda amazing!


Monday, October 1, 2012

Enlightened....update from author





It's one in the afternoon on the day I was to release Enlightened.  It wasn't released, but it will be on 10/10/12.  I have a couple of reasons why.  I'd thought it would be nice to have something positive on a date that has otherwise been bad for me.  Today is the 10 year anniversary of my mother's death.  I decided that it was more important to remember her today, and not worry about book sales.  That is the first reason why I didn't release it.

The second reason I'm not ready to release it....I changed my mind about the ending of the book.  You see, I decided to reveal the biggest secret to Light Tamers.  I feel that you the reader will want to know....because...because....because - it will have you wanting more in the third book.  I've outlined the third book, and I know how the trilogy ends... What!  Yes...trilogy.  Wait, no whips...please...this isn't 50 Shades of anything.  I do plan on writing another book after the third ends....and that's all I'm saying.  Okay, so I deleted about 14,000 words which meant...I had to rewrite them into the ending I wanted for Enlightened.  I am tweaking the ending right now... and I was up until 3 in the morning writing...I've not left my house since Friday or was that Thursday...I don't know.   I think some will love it.....some will hate it.... and some will never see it coming.  I'm very, very, very excited to hear your reaction.  My betas haven't seen the ending and only two know what's about to happen.  They're sworn to secrecy....

Now you know why Enlightened isn't out.  I'm curious what people think is about to happen.  It will be ready and out on Oct 10.... cross my heart!

XOXO
Devyn


Saturday, September 22, 2012

Excerpt of Enlightened & Giveaway






Chapter 1.  First Day - Alchemy
“The sooner everyone takes their seat, the sooner I can start our morning.  You’ll notice your name is on the desk, and yes, that means it’s an assigned seat.”  The Hispanic woman says as everyone looks around to find their desk.  I double-check my class schedule to figure out her name.  Sonya Raine Alvarez, oh, I bet she is the Raine person grandma was talking about the other day. 
“Looks like you’re stuck with me kid, no escaping the Amber.”  Amber says from the chair directly behind me.  Let the fun begin. I think to myself.
From the outside, the school is plain as vanilla, red bricks, one story in a U surrounding a courtyard.  There is a smaller version of the school next door.  It houses the kids from preschool through sixth grade.  All classrooms start to look the same after ten years of school, regardless where you live.  Too many fluorescent lights, tacky inspirational posters taped to the white walls and teachers in sensible shoes. Twenty four chairs, divided by four rows, twenty-three occupied.  The empty seat is right next to me.  I lean over to read the name on the paper, Thorne Woodson.  The second bell rings and like magic, everyone sits quietly, not moving a muscle.  What are they growing here, Stepford Students?  Private school is much different than the public schools I’ve been to.
“I am Miss. Raine and welcome to Alchemy 1.  With a show of hands, who has been taught the fine arts of alchemy by their family?” Miss. Raine’s tan makes her eyes freakishly bright.  One of my friends back in New York has waist length wavy black hair like hers, the guys loved it. 
Approximately half the class raises their hand, including my partner in crime Amber.  Of course she has, she’s so sneaky.  The door opens and in walks the Uni-bomber’s son, at least the kid didn’t let the dress code get in his way of coolness.  His black polo tucked into his khaki pants, barely make code.  I’m not so sure about the black leather belt with spikes and a giant metal skull buckle though.  His Doc Martens are so loosely tied; he has to shuffle as he walks to keep them on his feet.   It’s seventeen thousand degrees outside and he wears a jacket, what a wacko.  Everyone watches as he pulls the hood down and Miss. Raine motions for the ear buds to be pulled out of his ears.  His auburn hair, thick and unruly, gives him the urban skater kid edge.
“Thorne?” Miss. Raine asks.
He lifts his head in a reverse nod like an arrogant too cool for school thug.  He pulls the ear buds out, walks over to the only empty seat…the one next to me, and sits down.  His chair makes an obnoxious sound as he shifts it around and leans over to rummage through his backpack.
Amber takes in a breath and mutters to me “ooo la la”.  She would think he’s hot.  “Shhhh,” I reply.
“In the future Mr. Woodson, you’re to be in your seat when the second bell rings.  Being it’s only the first day of class, and you are new to the school, I’ll let it slide….today.  Don’t test my generosity, you’ll lose.  Understand?” Miss. Raine says with annoyance in her voice. Thorne gives another reverse nod, in agreement.  She leans over her desk and picks up a folder.  “The following students need to come to the front of the class.  Amber Edwards, Derrick Douglas, Cecelia Judiarti, Carmen Rodriguez, Damian Shock, Thorne Woodson and Jessie Lucente.  Pack up your things, as you will not be returning to this classroom today. “
We all gather our things and line up by the door.  The other people in class are whispering to each other.  My heart is pounding and my brain is thinking a thousand and one thoughts at the same time.  I turn to Amber and say softly, “Do you know what’s going on?”
She shrugs her shoulders at me and stares at the back of Thorne’s hoodie.  Fabulous, a distracted Amber. 
“Students, I’ll be back in five minutes…try to control yourselves. The rest of you; follow me.”  She turns on her heel and goes to the back of the room and leads us into a storage closet.
They must expect to have an overflow of stuff, for a closet this size.  All of us look around curiously, waiting for her to explain why we’re in here. The stench of dirty bleach water and moth balls is starting to make me light-headed.  Shelves are lining the walls to the ceiling, all glass jars of colorful elixirs.  Most are bright, while others look as if they were filled with human organs.  I’m not even going to guess what they are.
“What the hell?  Between the musty smell and Jessie’s Victoria’s Secret perfume, I’m going to barf,” Amber announces.
“My body spray makes you want to barf?  Wow, things you can learn from your friends when you’re in a closet,” I say and grin at Amber.
Miss. Raine taps her toe on the ground.  “Ladies, are you finished complaining?”  She takes her hand and sweeps it through her hair, exposing a little tattoo on her wrist.  “Thorne, turn off the overhead light.  There is a string directly above you.”
“Hey, it will be dark, he can’t do that,” the guy I think is Damien says.
“You trying to off some Tamers or something?” Thorne’s voice is husky with a slight raspy quality.  It made me think of the guys on the cover of bodice ripper books (my grandma secretly reads them).  His rebel side showing for the second time in five minutes.
Miss. Raine sighs in exasperation.  “You Light Tamers are all the same.  Do you have any idea how many times I’ve explained this?  Trust me, you won’t be disturbed by any Dark Ones in here.  This room is enchanted, and if your parents had trained you well enough, you’d know better.  But no, you think the alchemist is an idiot.  Now, Mr. Woodson, please turn out the light.”
Amber takes her fingers in the shape of a gun and fake shoots Miss. Raine in the back.  We stifle giggles only to be shot right back…with Miss. Raine’s stink eye.  Thorne reaches up and pulls the string.  Amber and I are armed with our fancy pink flashlights Caleb insisted we carry with us.  The teacher shakes her head in disbelief at us.  Looking up, we gasp at the never ending supply of potions.  Many of the jars are glowing as if filled with a thousand lightning bugs.
“What’s up with the jars?” I ask.
“Why are we still standing in a closet, is what I want to know,” Amber says as she gnaws on her cuticle.
“Part of the enchantment, and we are about to leave the closet Miss. Edwards.”  Miss. Raine replies and slides a piece of paper in her white linen pants pocket.  Amber shifts to face me and smiles with her teeth gritted and eyes bugging out.  “Any time you’re at school, everyone is protected from the Dark Ones.  By the time this class is over, you’ll know how to create the same enchantment for protection.”
“You realize working with chemicals is hazardous to my nails.  This is bunk.”  Carmen says as she tucks her short curly hair behind her ear.  Her perfect French manicure is highlighted by her dark tan.
I watch as Amber watches Thorne watching Carmen and feel the dread of a love triangle brewing.
“She looks like a tan version of Selena Gomez without extensions, doesn’t she?” I whisper to Amber.
She rolls her eyes so far back in her head and for a split second she looked like a zombie.  “I guess, maybe a little, except for the blue eyes.  How much do you want to bet she wears colored contacts?”
“You always think everyone has colored contacts on.”
“How many Hispanics do you know that have light-colored eyes?  I mean, please…give me a break.”
“Ladies, as compelling of a conversation you’re having, we need to get going.  Derrick, pull the handle on the mop bucket.”  Miss. Raine reaches in her pocket and pulls out a small vial and tosses it at the bucket as he pulls the handle.
Instantly the wall with all the jars rotates around, exposing an entry to a secret passage.  Where’s Scooby Doo?  All we need now is a ghost and some Scooby Snacks.  Jinkies!  Zoinks, how creepy is that! 
“Come on kids, I need to get back to my classroom.”
We all walk into a stairwell, down a flight of stairs, through a hallway, and past two doors on either side of the hall.  We approach the end, it splits into a T.  Turning right, we take the first door on the left.  The classroom is an exact duplicate of Miss. Raine’s room.  Taking it in, I see two kids sitting at their desk and a rather peculiar looking man in a monk’s robe standing at a podium.
The round bald headed man announces we can take a seat wherever we want.  His accent sounds British mixed with a Southern drawl, an interesting combination.   Miss. Raine leaves, not before telling us she’ll be back in exactly one hour and thirty minutes.
“Chop, chop, we won’t learn anything if everyone is too busy gawking at me in my habit.”  He says and wipes his forehead with a handkerchief.  He clears his throat, which sounds like a cat coughing up a hairball. “I’m Mr. Jesse James, and no, I am not related to your American outlaw or to a biker.”  His head tilts to the side as he talks.  “This is Enhanced Alchemy.  What is it, you might ask yourself.  This is an intense methodical form of the art in alchemy.  Yes, art.  Although your young brain might be thinking science, and I do agree, however, it’s an art of precision.  I’m not going to bore you to death over the details, you’ll understand as the school year progresses.  In your desk you’ll find a journal and a textbook.  Please pull them out and personalize them.  They are yours to keep.” 
The sound of books slapping the desk fills the room.  “Excuse me Mr. James, I thought all of our books are electronic textbooks for our I-pads.  We have to lug around this giant book?”  I ask while clicking the end of my ink-pen over and over nervously.
He gives me an annoyed look. “Yes, Miss. Lucente, you have to carry a school book, just like the old days,” he says sharply.  “Everyone, open your book and I want you to read the first chapter.  You have five minutes to read it and then you’ll take a test.” We all make a sound of aggravation.
“Can you believe this guy?  What a douche-bag, that was totally rude of him,” Amber says.  She picked the seat behind me so I can hear her commentary about the class.
“Less talking and more reading Miss. Edwards.”
“Like I said, douche,” she whispers to the back of my head.  I mentally pray he didn’t hear her.  I hunch over my book trying to let my hair fall into a curtain so Mr. James won’t talk to me again. 
alchemy (al-kuh-mee)
noun, plural alchemies
A form of chemistry practiced in Renaissance time.  The art of transmuting baser metals into gold. 
The use of chemicals for magical elements.  The art of mixing compounds into potions for healing.
The chapter is four pages long, but promised by the end of the book, we’d be able to identify and create potions.  I’ll be lucky not to cause an explosion by the end of the book.  I look over and note Thorne never opened his book.  I wonder if Mr. James will say anything.
“Miss. Lucente, take one and pass them on,” I grab the stack and give it to Amber.  I see Thorne is smirking in my direction.  I shift quickly and stare down at my test.  I miss the announcement to start. 
Five minutes later I get up to hand my work to the teacher.  As I turn to go back to my desk I run smack into Thorne.  Good going grace.  “Sorry, I have a clumsy gene.”
“No sweat,” he replies and winks at me.  Did he just wink?  No, it’s my imagination.  Maybe I know him through my grandma.  I’d remember him…wouldn’t I?  His rugged look works for him.  Amber’s going to have a field day with his eyes once she sees they’re gray.  Deep and crystal clear with long black eyelashes.  I bet if he wore glasses they would rub the lenses.  Why do guys always have great eyelashes and girls get stuck with wimpy flimsy ones?  He is staring back at me and for a moment I forget what I’m doing.  I bet he’s a great kisser with his perfect lips.  Oops, why did I say that…think that? 
Derrick is the last to turn in his test.  I hate being last; I always feel everyone thinks I’m stupid.  Mom would say, someone has to be last.  True, but it doesn’t make me feel better.
“I am pleased to inform everyone that all of you passed the test with a 100.  For a reward, I’m going give you four chapters to read tonight instead of two.”
“What the hell?”  Amber mutters. 
“Oh no Miss. Edwards, hell is college,” says Mr. James.  “I’m going to teach you how to make a protection potion.  It won’t be hard, and I’ll give you the ingredients to take home.  You will be given a pop quiz later week.  I’ll grade you on both finesse and speed.  Mr. Woodson, it will behoove you to practice and actually read the chapters.  Form a single file line by the back door. We’re going to the lab.”
 “Hey, I need your help,” Amber says.
This can’t be good.  “With what?”
“I’m going to make out with Thorne today.”
Breathe in.  “Wow, that’s ambitious.”
“I’m freakin’ serious.  Look at him, he’s all sexified in his hoodie and I think it’ll make a statement.”
“Statement?”
“I’ve never talked to anyone at this school other than Caleb.  Now you’re here, I don’t want people to think I went soft over the summer.  You know, hanging out with the gorgeous new girl takes away my edge.  He’ll prove to everyone that I’m still bad-ass.”
“You think I’m gorgeous, ah that’s sweet.  I don’t believe the bad-ass for one minute Miss. Edwards.  Are you planning on kissing him at school?”  I study her face and can tell she is intent on her quest.
Amber shrugs her shoulders and pops her gum.  “I don’t have a plan, but it will happen,” she whispers to me.  “You only live once right?”
This ought to be good.
Mr. James opens the door to the science lab.  The difference between this lab and the lab at my school in the Bronx, everything is new and fancy looking.
“Thorne, you want to sit with me?”  Amber and I turn in time to see Carmen.  She is slithering around him like a snake to its prey.
Oh crap!  Amber is going flip out.  I glance over at her, she is seething with venom from every pore in her body.
“She better learn her protection spell, because she’s going to need it,” Amber says through gritted teeth.
“Do you have A lunch or B lunch?” Carmen asks Thorne.  “If you have B lunch you can sit with me, I’ll introduce you to everyone…if you want.”
I nudge Amber with my knee as we sit side by side at our lab table.  She is drawing little stick people and what looks like torture devices on her paper. 
“I’m in A lunch, I’m already sitting with someone, but thanks.”
I look down and see Amber drawing a bubble over one of the stick people and a giant ‘Yay!’ written inside. 
“If everyone has figured out their lunch schedule, we can get started on our protection spell.”  Mr. James says.  “I’m going to give all of you something else to carry around, just for you Miss. Lucente.” 
I close my eyes and mentally breathe in to keep my face from turning crimson.  He holds up a cardboard box with a girl holding an umbrella on it.  Oh yay, my favorite condiment…salt. 
“What you might consider ordinary table salt, is simply untrue.  It’s used in many spells and potions.  At one time, salt was once believed to open the entrance to heaven.  I haven’t any proof either way.”  His quirky accent makes everything he says sound exotic. “Miss. Edwards, your brother was in my class two years ago, did he share his wisdom of salt with you.”
Amber goes rigid at the mention of her brother; I brace myself for the verbal lashing I’m sure will commence.
“No, he didn’t,” Amber replied softer than usual.
“I’m always impressed when former students abide by the rules.  Everything we discuss in this classroom is confidential.  Don’t forget,” Mr. James taps his finger on his chin before continuing with his lecture.  “Salt alone can protect you from many elements…but our main concern is the Dark Ones.”
Carmen raises her hand to ask a question.  “Mr. James,” she purrs.  “Why are they called Dark Ones, it isn’t very creative.  Honestly, it sounds stupid.”
“Au contraire, ma petite chou.  Your Historiography teacher will explain the history behind the name.  What an exciting year you’re embarking on,” he says and rubs his chunky hands together.  “With Miss. Lucente in our midst, it’s sure to be a galvanizing year.  Even though you may disagree with the chosen slang for the former Light Tamers, the simplicity of the name fits. I must continue to show you how to make a protection spell.  I’d like everyone to open up your silver spout on top of the salt and pour some in your hand.”
I clinch my teeth as the spout squeals against the cardboard.  Salt reminds me of my visits to North Carolina as a child.  No one warned me not to drink the ocean water the first time I went swimming. A big wave knocked me backwards and I ended up with a mouth full of water.  After choking and gagging I threw-up until I had nothing else in me.  I shudder at the memory .
“B, oh for cripes sake, you can’t go one class without thinking of him?  Caleb, oh I miss you…I can’t make it without you by my side.  Caleb, my love, my heart, my everything, I will die if I can’t shove my tongue down your throat in the next five minutes,” Amber said dramatically.
I prod her with my finger.  “Shut-up, for your information, I wasn’t thinking about him.  I was thinking about the ocean.  So….there!” 
“Yeah, whatever.”
Mr. James clears his throat loudly as he holds his salt up in the air.  “Salt is a mineral, from the earth and sea.  It’s freely available and affordable.  I want you to stand up next to your table and arm length away from your lab partner.”  Everyone stood and spread their arms out.  “Good, before you do anything, I want you to pour a circle of salt all around you and chant this spell.  Salt of the earth, protect me in this sacred circle.”
“Do we say the words out loud?”  I ask.  After a minute of clarification from Mr. James, I hold my arm out and spin in place, pouring salt.  I whisper the incantation and cross my fingers.  I don’t feel any different. 
“Mr. Woodson, I want you to stand perfectly still.  No matter what you do, and this goes for all of you…don’t step out of the circle.”  Mr. James holds up a small amber bottle, we all turn to face Thorne standing perfectly still in his circle.  In the next moment, the bottle whizzed through the air directly at him.  Before I have a chance to think about what I’m doing, I fling my hands into the air.
Everything blurred as the vile halted inches from Thorne’s circle.  Oh crap! I chazzled, what on earth do I do?  My danger vibe kicked-in  and now I’m going to be busted.  Shit…shit…shit.  Let it go, don’t do anything… let it fly.  No, take the vile and put it back in Mr. James’ hand.  I’m so going to die.   I run over and put the vile back in his hand and jump back into my spot. Time caught up and as if it never happened, Mr. James looked at the vile in his hand curiously and then over to me.  Don’t call me out.  I cross my fingers praying he didn’t notice the hiccup in time.
Mr. James pulled back as if he’s about to pitch a fastball at Thorne.  Before I have time to think, he flings the vile at me.  I hear a blood curdling scream, and realize I’m the screaming maniac. I cower down on the floor in a squat, my arms are shielding my face.  I look around when nothing happens, suddenly realizing I’d successfully made my invisible shield.  I didn’t really see that part, but Amber and the rest of the class were yelling things like ‘wicked awesome’.  
“Miss. Lucente, are you okay?”
“You sure have a lot of faith in us.  What if I hadn’t done my shield right?  You could have put my eye out with that pitch.”
His robe rustled as he walks over to me.  “I believe in everything you kids do.  I’d like a minute with you in the classroom.  Everyone else, I want you to practice your speed in making a circle.  Dust Busters are up in the front of the room, they are for salt only.  Suck up the salt and pour it in the tub on my table, we recycle salt.   Miss. Raine will be here in about ten minutes and don’t leave a mess.  She does not like dilly dallying.”
I better not get in trouble for screaming, he tried to kill me with the damn bottle.
“Do you have a clue how dangerous chazzling is in a room full of Tamers?  It was incredibly thoughtless on your part.”  Mr. James crosses his arms in a huff. 
Busted.  “I’m sorry, it happened so fast, I didn’t even think about what was happening.  I’m sorry.  Please don’t tell anyone.  I heard that if people find out, I’ll be in danger.”  I’ve already screwed up and it’s only my first day.  My ‘this sucks’ list will be updated as soon as I get home. 
“You’re going to be nothing but trouble for this school and your friends, if you don’t think before you react.”   He looks at my face and the hard lines begin to soften.  “Jessie, I’m not trying to be mean.”
Swallowing the lump in my throat and taking a mental breath, I look up to face him.  “I understand, but how did you know?”
“Within the hidden school, there is little we don’t know.  That isn’t to say that there aren’t students with abilities we don’t know about, but they know not to use them.  I’ll report the incident, but it’s only listed as a time breech.  We don’t list the exact ability unless it becomes an ongoing issue.”
What did Mrs. Ward say?  ‘The beginning to a smashing school year.”  Something will be smashed; I’m not sure what.  The door opens; Miss. Raine looks over at us curiously, like a dog does when they cock their head to the side.  She gives Mr. James an intense stare down before she gathers the rest of the students.
We follow Miss. Raine in a single file line, up the stairs and back to her class.  Amber is suspiciously quiet, and when it comes to quiet…you don’t think Amber.  No one looks up or pays attention to us as we sit down in our assigned seats.
“The students, who had alchemy lab today, you’ll go to lab as deemed necessary.  Have a wonderful first day.  Fate has a way of bringing us all together, and I for one am grateful to be your teacher.” She tilts her head with a fake smile plastered on her face.
The bell rings its melodic tone, not the shrill sounds like we had in my old inner city school.  Amber jumps up, throws her backpack over her shoulder and hurries to the door. 
“Catch you at lunch B, later tater.” Amber says as she practically knocks everyone over to get out of the room. 
Later tater? Her nickname for me is B, for Bronx.  Only cool people get a nickname from her, so she says. I navigate to the door, paying attention not to let anyone touch me.  Without looking up, I sense him…Caleb.
“Hey beautiful, how was your first class?  I saw Amber charge out with her old chip on her shoulder.  I thought we cured her…guess not,” Caleb says and takes my hand.  The now familiar current runs through my veins.
“It was enlightening to say the least.  You have Alchemy next don’t you?”  He nods at me and leads me two doors down from Miss. Raine’s room.
“This is where I drop you off,” he says and gently backs me up against the wall.  Leaning down he whispers in my ear, sending my hormones through the roof.  “I’ll be here after class to walk you to lunch.”
My heart skips two beats and a chill runs up my spine. “Why can’t I think to you?  I tried but I could tell it wasn’t working.   Did you hear me?”
“They’re probably jamming our frequency.  You know they have all of their so-called charms.   After this summer, nothing surprises me.”  He leans in and gives me a quick kiss.
“P D A,” someone who looks no older than twelve shouts out.  I feel my face flush with embarrassment.  It’s one thing to have Amber tease us relentlessly, but having a pimply-faced  kid do it, is totally different.
I shimmy past him and promise to meet after class.  Honors English, my best subject.






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