Sweet Tea

The Three Crowns #1

by Sonya Ray

Elizabeth Lancaster’s life appears normal. In Lizzie’s world of horses, friends, boundaries, and sweet tea, there is no room for paranormal beliefs, though secrets loom around her in the shadows nonetheless. But before Lizzie can begin to understand the power of these secrets, or the plan fate has in store for her, Lizzie must try and discover what lies within the mysteries of her own heart.

When a mysterious stranger comes to Fox Meadows, fate steps out of the shadows. Unexplainable events begin to occur in Lizzie’s life, as well as in her dreams, creating fear, yet eliciting in her a strange notion of wonder at the possibilities. But Lizzie’s eyes are unable to believe what she sees. Her lack of experience with affairs of the heart cause her to mistrust her emotions. She convinces herself that there is an explanation, and these bizarre, and even frightening occurrences must somehow be tied to her unexpected crush on her best friend Rob Jacobs, and her intense draw to the intoxicating stranger, Cain Atchley.

Lizzie’s path to self-discovery becomes twisted, dark, and at times, wicked. Caught between the passions of two men, Lizzie must follow the path laid before her, and wake the mysteries sleeping in her soul. Her journey begins with the story of The Three Crowns.

Genres: Paranormal, Romance, Fantasy, Young Adult

366 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 11, 2013

About the author

Sonya grew up in Southeast Missouri; home of the Throwed Rolls, high cotton, and the Cards. She has two kids and a grandbaby.

Sonya currently works full-time as an Administrative Assistant, with every free moment dedicated to her family and her current project, The Three Crowns series, a seven-novel paranormal romance. The first installment, Sweet Tea, was published in October 2013.

Sonya's books are in several libraries in Southeast Missouri and are carried by MKay in Benton, Missouri.

Reviews

[Mitsy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Best paranormal book I've read since Twilight. In fact, it's better. Elizabeth Lancaster is a high school senior with a loving family and some close knit friends from Missouri. Cain is her daddy's new hire for their farm. Rob is Lizzie's long time friend from childhood. Peyton is Lizzie's best friend. Elizabeth is a smart, beautiful, hard working, natural teen. She has no clue about certain things and by the end of book one, she's no closer to learning them. However, there are so many twists and turns, so many jaw dropping surprises, I love it. I love all of it. I love that I have no idea where the author is going with Elizabeth's story. LOVE IT!

I was given this book for an honest review for the group Lovers Of Paranormal. Every book I've gotten to review for this group, I've loved. :-)

[Alaina · Rating 2 out of 5]

Sweet Tea was never on my radar until today. At first glance, it seemed like it would be an interesting paranormal book. Then I quickly realized that this wasn't my cup of tea. Maybe it would have been when I was younger. Thirty-year-old me, not so much. Still, I kept chugging along.

In it, you will meet Elizabeth. She wasn't my favorite character if I'm being honest. I couldn't even pick one from this book from a line up if my life depended on it either. They honestly all found ways to annoy or frustrate me. Which I didn't even think was possible so kudos to them.

For some odd reason, I couldn't picture them being in high school or anything. Mostly because of how they acted and the drama that unfolded. It just seemed unnecessary at times and made things pretty boring at the same time. I kind of wish my younger self found out about this book because my opinion would probably be way different than it is today.

In the end, I came, I tried, and now I want to forget.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book should come with a warning label: be prepared to have emotional episodes when reading.
There is definitely a mystery I've yet to discover. I love how Sonya keeps me guessing, with each new paragraph! And I can not wait to dive into the 2nd book, headfirst, bellyflopping over my emotions yet again, I'm sure!

[Broken Bird Media · Rating 5 out of 5]

*I received this book in exchange for an honest review through Lovers of Paranormal R2R program http://www.goodreads.com/group/show/7...*

Southeast Missouri senior, Elizabeth Lancaster, leads a happy easy going life. Being an 'Old Soul' Lizzie doesn't get caught up in the usual teenage drama. With friends and family surrounding her at all times, she is loved and well cared for. On the cusp of the annual Harvest Festival and her eighteenth birthday, Lizzie's life starts to take a strange turn.

Her world becomes undefined when Cain Atchley enters her life. Provoking emotions buried deep inside, Cain's arrival is just the beginning. Before she knows it, lines are drawn, hearts are broken and a plan for her destiny is well underway, leaving everyone's fate in the balance.

Sweet Tea is like taking a stroll through someone else's life. Unfolding emotions and events in such a smooth and effortless manner Sonya Ray brings Elizabeth Lancaster's story to life. I for one, am looking forward to going 'North' with her.

View the full Interview/Review at: http://www.brokenbirdmedia.com/blog/2...

[Debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sweet Tea ( The Three Crowns #1) by Sonya Ray

I received this book in exchange for an honest review by the Author and the “Lovers of Paranormal” Group on Goodreads.com
A wonderful and intricate book which details Lizzie’s path to self-discovery. This book is rich and descriptive. It is a well crafted story with plenty of suspense, tragedy and love which unfolds in a smooth and effortless manner. The writing is descriptive and flows well, and the characters are well described. I absolutely fell in love with the host of wonderful characters. However you are left with one hell of a cliff-hanger, which left me wanting to send rude messages to the author. A very entertaining read from a talented author, which I enjoyed immensely. I can’t wait for book #2 to come out.

[Allyson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was given a copy to read and review for my honest opinion by Sonya Ray. Thank you again I loved it! This was an awesome read with Romance, Suspense, all around a very Heart filled story that will have you wanting more. I can't wait to read book 2 when it come out. This story is about a girl named Lizzie and her path of discovering herself. Along the way she had lots of Challenges and is between two guys rob & Cain. Can't wait to read book two and find out what happens. Major cliff hanger but you'll love this story so go check it out! Thanks again to Lover of Paranormal as well!

[Megan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a very mysterious romantic story with lots of fun lovable characters. Even though there were times when I got a little lost in the timeline, I couldn't stop reading it. I felt emotionally connected and invested in Elizabeth's life, and all those around her. I loved how tight knit the group of friends were. They each added their own strengths and personalities. Now don't get me wrong, I love Cain, but I am a Rob girl. I can not wait til Book 2 comes out!

*I received this book in exchange for an honest review through the Lovers of Paranormal group on Goodreads for their R2R program*

[Rebecca Lasters · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sonya Ray has created a series to keep us on the edge of our seats. I fell in love with the characters within the first few chapters. I cannot wait until Book 2 is released. I almost believe there are vampires in small town MO now. I recommend this book to everyone who enjoys the paranormal type novels. You will not be disappointed. Thank you Sonya for sharing your talent with us.

[Glenda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved this book! It had a little bit of everything and being from the south, I completely get the big deal about sweat tea. Can't wait to see what happens with Elizabeth on her journey. I am happy to be going through it with her.

[Tammy Abner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Elizabeth Lancaster’s life is changing in ways she doesn't fully understand. A mysterious stranger, Cain Atchley, comes to town and awakens feelings Lizzie has never felt before. There’s something so familiar about this stranger. Lizzie could never have imagined how deeply woven Cain is in her life from their first ‘chance encounter’. Life at the ranch, ‘Meadows’, will never be the same when Lizzie’s dad hires Cain.

Lizzie is haunted in her dreams, but her dreams are leading her to realizations of her future. What lies in the shadows that lurk around her? There is a gnawing from her subconscious, understanding lies just below the surface. Lizzie gets closer to comprehension each day as her relationship with her best friend, Rob Jacobs, takes a new direction when Cain distances himself from her. When a horrible tragedy occurs, at the happiest time of Lizzie’s life, will she be able to survive?

Who is strong enough to allow the broken boundaries Lizzie desires? What becomes of her relationship with Rob? with Cain? Will Lizzie’s memories return to her after the tragic accident? What direction does Lizzie’s life take after the accident?

This book has it all: suspense, tragedy, desire, love and a great story line. A very intricate story, from page one Sweet Tea captured my attention and held it until the very last word. Very well-written, an intriguing story that leaves you wanting more. I am really looking forward to the next book in The Three Crowns series. I can’t wait to see what lies ahead for Lizzie, Cain and Rob.

[S.M. Koz · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was an enjoyable read. What I loved most about the story was all the sweet southern tidbits that gave it a lot of authenticity. In that regard, it kind of reminded me a little of the movie Sweet Home Alabama, although the plots and characters are totally different. I do want to mention that no aspect of the plot is resolved in this book, so be prepared to commit to multiple volumes to get the whole story.

I feel like this book would appeal to fans of both contemporary romance and paranormal romance. While, technically, it's paranormal (vampires), it doesn't go into that much during this book. It reads much more like a contemporary YA story with a complicated love triangle. Personally, I prefer that. I'm not a huge paranormal fan, but I did love Twilight and I definitely saw some Stephenie Meyer inspiration in Sweet Tea. The interesting thing is that I didn't find myself drawn to one love interest more than the other like I usually am. I think the author did a great job of showing both strengths and weaknesses in both of them so I continue to be torn even after finishing the book.

Overall, I'd recommend this to anyone who likes modern paranormal YA stories. I think fans of Twilight or Beautiful Creatures would especially like it. As for me, I look forward to reading more in the Three Crown series, but I also hope Ray expands her southern charm to contemporary romance in the future. I'd love to read that!

[Brenda Sailors · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.

I was very honored to be a beta reader for Sonya Ray's first book "Sweet Tea" (The Three Crowns Series, #1). My only complaint was - she wasn't getting the chapters to me fast enough.

Sweet Tea is a great story with very strong characters, who reel you in from the very beginning. The story has suspense, tragedy, denial, and love. It is set in a small town called Benton, MO. You can almost smell the muddy Mississippi, hear the running of the horse, and taste the sweet tea. You want to tell some of the characters to grow up, some you want to adopt, and others you would like to have adopt you.

Sonya leaves you anxiously awaiting her second book because she ends Sweet Tea with a cliffhanger.

I have bought several copies of the book to give to my daughter and great-niece. Both are avid readers just like me and they too are anxiously awaiting "North".

[Jenny · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love me some "Sweet Tea" maybe its a Southeast Missouri thing When I first decided to read this book I had no idea it takes place in a small town about 20 miles down the road from where I grew up. The town I grew up in is mentioned it the book even which I know doesn't mean anything to most but I was very intrigued by this Ancient vampires living so close. This isn't just another vampire love story though that's what made me keep turning pages At times I forgot there was even anything paranormal about the book but I still wanted more Sonya Ray did a really great job of making me want to read more of The Three Crown series I can not wait to find out what happens to Elisabeth Lancaster and the rest of the gang and where her relationship with Cain goes Mostly I really really want to know who Creed is and where he fits into the whole thing Can not wait to read book #2 in THE Three Crown series

[Denise · Rating 5 out of 5]

** I received this book in exchange for an honest review. Lovers of Paranormal, LoP **

'Sweet Tea' grabbed me from the first page. I could not put it down. The story is so well written that it sucked me in and would not let go. The story line is different from other 'paranormal' books, but in a good way. The bigger picture is definitely one full of surprises. Some twists that came about had me in a state of being speechless. The characters are very well thought out. I love how they compliment one another. This is definitely a great add to your tbr list. Recommended read. I look forward to reading the next book.

[Amanda Quigley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was recommended this book because I love paranormal novels. I loved this book and read it cover to cover in one day. I has a interesting story line that held me captive. I love everything about this book. I can't wait until the next book is released! Thank you Sonya Ray for sharing you amazing talent.

[Amanda · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was easy to read and enjoyable. It is the first book in a series so expect to be left wanting more. If you enjoy the supernatural, love triangles, and self discovery... I would suggest this book.

[Paula Genereau · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first book in Sonya Rays Three Crown Series. I loved this book. It has a great story line of life, love & friends. I don't wanna give too much away. I will definitely be following this series all the way.

[Sonya Ray]

Sweet Tea is my first published work. I hope all will enjoy it as much as I did writing Sweet Tea. Sweet Tea is Volume I of The Three Crowns series.

[A.C. Haury · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book. i don't usually go for the paranormal genre, but this definitely kept my attention. I cannot wait for north to come out! :)

[Addison Kline · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved the characters and the story line. A must read!

[Amanda Robinson · Rating 5 out of 5]

*All spoilers removed* I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through Lovers of Paranormal on goodreads!!

Oh wow. Love love loved this story. I actually thought in the start that I wasn't going to be able to get into it, and that I was going to HATE Elizabeth Lancaster! It seemed like she was going to be one of those spoiled rich stuck on herself types. Oh how wrong I can be. The story quickly proved me wrong and became an enjoyable slow read. The book always had something interesting in it, but some part of living in the South n wanting to sit back and savor it came back to me. Maybe it was all that sweet tea :), something I have fond memories of myself (and I despise tea..).
This has a down home feel and the mystery in it is tantalizing. The emotion that the author is able to convey seems to use some pixie dusting of its own. I laughed, choked, got right ticked off, and cried (more than once). There are a few things that become clear, foreshadowing that makes u want to just scream DONT GO THERE, DONT DO THAT! It's the first good cry I've had from a book in a while. This novel leaves many questions just begging for answers but in a good way. It leaves u with a must read for the following books!
There is the "love triangle" aspect going, which seems so typical especially for vampire novels, only in this case it is anything but.... The new take on it is very interesting. It's a great part of the mystery that I can not wait to discover!
This story is everything a good vampire novel should be, but with twist and a mystery I can not wait to unfold! I will DEFIANTLY be indulging in the series. It seems my weakness for vampire stories has been renewed!

Thank you Sonya Ray for the chance to read and review your novels. You are the second author that I'm putting on my to watch list =) both for very different reasons, but you share a gift in writing about paranormal (just different aspects) and have a wonderful imagination to share with the world!!!

Defiantly a to read!!

[Margaret Civella iReview Content Marketing · Rating 4 out of 5]

I recently read Sweet Tea, book one in The Three Crown series by Sonya Ray. I would classify the series as New Adult paranormal. The Three Crown series are not stand alone books and once you commit to the first book you are committing to the whole series.

Sweet Tea introduces us to Lizzy, a strong-willed and intelligent main character that is fiercely protected by the men in her life. Her life serves a greater purpose and there are hints that a destined future is playing out; however, she is the only one that is not aware of what that future is. There were times that I felt frustrated because it seems like she was being manipulated into some of her decisions and life choices.

Since the critical people in Lizzy’s life are aware of her past and future, the events unfold in the eyes of Lizzy. That means, as the reader you are left in the dark and have to wait for Lizzy to discover what is going on around her. All of the characters have a love and protectiveness that is endearing. Sonya Ray captures the essence of being young, unbreakable bonds of young friendships, first loves and the anxiety of making life altering decisions. While all of this is going on, there are whispers and hints of an underlying story that is threatening to break free.

A little more information about “The Plan” would be appreciated. I have decided to relax, be patient and enjoy the Three Crown series journey. I’m intrigued and can’t wait to start the second book. Sonya Ray is a new author and I am excited to follow her journey. I can’t wait to see what she has “planned”.

[Dana · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received this book in exchange for an honest review LoP.

I think I like the book! I love all the character in the book. I just couldn't really connect to the story. I found some parts of the story to be absurd. For example her dad buying her a house for Christmas when she is 17 years. I understand that it might be different for Vampires, but she has to realize that it isn't normal for humans and she never questions it. Or the fact that two teenagers get engaged and everyone is thrilled about it. It just seems that the characters should have maybe been set in there early 20's and in college instead of high school. I also found Lizzie to be whinny maybe? She just would go on and on for paragraphs about Cain. I was highly upset when Rob "died" ( I don't think he is exactly dead). I definitely have mixed feelings about Sweet Tea, but I hope that North will help resolve those feelings.

[Melany Buttry · Rating 5 out of 5]

Whenever I opened Sweet Tea, I knew I was hooked! I started reading and couldn't put it down. Lizzie Lancaster a life of intrigue. I could feel the warmth of the campfire as Lizzie's father, Brett, told the story of The Three Crowns. Sonya really keeps you on your toes and guessing, what's coming next, and how does her loved ones fit into the scheme of the Three Crowns? Sonya depiction of the Southeast Missouri area is spot on. I want to drive down that lane to meadows...I'm sure it is all quite beautiful...

[Colleennachelle7 · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book! I always am looking for a good paranormal book to read that keeps me on edge and I was so happy to find it! Also I enjoyed reading it all the while knowing where some of the places were located especially since I am from the small town mentioned in the book. :) I cannot wait for the rest of the books in the series to be released. I will surely be buying them not only for myself but for everyone else i know willing to read them. :) (who will fall in love with them just like i did.)

[Cheryl Duval · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this book in exchange for an honest review from the Author and the “Lovers of Paranormal” Group on Goodreads.com

I absolutely loved every minute of this book. There is a mystery surrounding Lizzy's life that she doesn't know about (and I haven't quite figured out completely!). This book is full of mystery, emotion, sadness, intrigue and kept me on the edge of my seat. I love the characters. This is a well written wonderful story and I can't wait to read the next book!

[Douglas McLeod · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have to confess something, when I started reading this, I thought it was a Twilight clone. But, as I continued reading, I found Sweet Tea to be much more than that.

It is a story about young love, and a young woman trying to find herself in a paranormal realm. There's competing suitors, and a whole back story that points to opening up in future books in the series.

I couldn't put this book down, and I'm looking forward to the next in the series, by the talented Sonya Ray.

[Ashley Dunham · Rating 5 out of 5]

Must read

I absolutely love this book. Once I started reading it I couldn't put it down. Sonya Ray is amazing author. I love Elizabeth story. I Love Cain too. I definitely recommend everyone should read this. It an amazing paranormal romance Series.

[Helderina Strange · Rating 5 out of 5]

It has been incredible a very good literary work done to perfection for public attention .

[Ezraric Leigh · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked this more than I thought i would I didn’t care for the age gap at first but Cain grew on me