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Secrets don't stay buried forever.

Mackenzie Grey is a lone wolf who's earned her fair share of battle scars from the past, but that's all over now. Or so she thought.

Known as the Freedom Princess, her heroic deeds have come with a heavy price when a mysterious new villain emerges, one who's intent on killing Sebastian. As a new breed of danger lurks on the horizon, secrets between Bash and Kenz pile up and her worst nightmare is realized.

Mackenzie spent the last three years learning who she was in Origins. Now she will face her greatest challenges in Trials....

Contains mature themes.

6 pages, Audible Audio

First published December 13, 2018

503 people are currently reading
325 people want to read

About the author

Karina Espinosa

98 books468 followers
Karina Espinosa is a Colombian-American author best known for the Mackenzie Grey series, the Blood Weaver Trilogy, and her latest romantasy hit, The Dragon’s Ballad. When she’s not writing fierce heroines and magical chaos, she’s globe-trotting, bingeing Asian dramas, or teaching college students how to write essays—with a coffee in hand and fictional body count on the rise.

Follow her for more coffee-fueled chaos and character heartbreak.

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5 stars
447 (51%)
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257 (29%)
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138 (15%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
Profile Image for Amber.
627 reviews3 followers
December 16, 2018
It felt so good to get back into the Mackenzie Grey books and being reunited with these characters. I really love Karina Espinosa's writing style. From the Grave brought us new and old characters that you just couldnt help but fall for. There was so much drama going on through out the whole book, once you start, there's no putting it down. This time we have some new villains and they are giving Mackenzie and Bask the run around like no others have before, there are so many twists and turns, that you will be gripping the edge of your seat the whole time. I was really surprised by one character which I wont name because I dont want to giveaway any spoilers but lets just say it made my heart happy. Mackenzie is still so head strong and stubborn as ever, just the way I like her. It makes her so much more real. I can't wait to see what else Karina Espinosa has in store for us.
Profile Image for Mettesknit .
1,166 reviews6 followers
February 21, 2024
Re-listened Feb 21, 2024.
Re-listened 19/3-2023 (aka March 19th, 2023)

🎧📚
Narrated by Nicole Poole
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

If you like KF Breene, Dannika Dark, and such, Karina Espinosa is one to read 📚 ❤️
Profile Image for Jessica Robbins.
2,598 reviews49 followers
December 22, 2018
*I received a free copy of this book which I voluntarily chose to write an honest review for.

So this is my first book by this author and I must say I am impressed. With no background to the story I give into an incredible urban fantasy world full of shifters and vampires. Mackenzie is just trying to settle in the new status quo when not one it two Alphas find themselves as targets of a crazy person. We get fights, drama, intrigue, and so much more. I was unable to put it down. Perfect for fans of the genre. I really liked it so I give it 4/5 stars.
Profile Image for Angela Gee.
70 reviews8 followers
January 14, 2019
I was provided an ARC copy of From The Grave for my honest review.

The MacKenzie Grey Trials is new set of books set in the world of Miss Espinosa’s Origin series, but takes place after the revolution. Although it is not necessary to have read the 4 novels in the Origin series, it does help with some of the references made in From The Grave.

First I have to say, that I love the way Karina Espinosa writes. In her past works, she has crafted words to paper and made them come alive in the readers minds. From The Grave is no different.

MacKenzie Grey is a stubborn, but strong willed and independent female lead, which personally I love. And Bash, really knowing he has no choice, wisely lets her have her freedom.

From The Grave is full of plot twists and sneaky turns. A great start to a new series for Karina Espinosa.

After reading this 4 star urban fantasy novel, I am looking forward to digging into Book 2.
Profile Image for Sandra "Jeanz".
1,262 reviews178 followers
January 2, 2019
REVIEW
I felt a mixture of joy and disappointment as I finished reading the last book in the Mackenzie Grey Origins series. The ending was ... well it was wow! I loved the Origins series from the first book to the last page of the last book but it didn't stop me being disappointed that there was to be no more. Then when I heard that Karina Espinosa had more plans for Mackenzie Grey and she was coming back within another series called the Mackenzie Grey Trials I knew it was going straight on the top of my "Must read" list! In fact I didn't take the chance of missing it I actually pre-ordered it so that as soon as it was available it would immediately download to my kindle app to read! The other obvious reason I had mixed emotions was, the question of would this series be as good as the Origins one....read some more of my review to find out!

I really like the cover of this book as it could well be a photograph of the area where the Brooklyn Pack are situated. It's a great representation of the description of warehousing described in the book. The central part of the cover is of course the female figure which is Mackenzie confidently striding forward, her hair loose in the wind wearing a white vest top and her jeans with holes in them. Behind Mackenzie’s head there is the full moon which of course is an important feature within the book which affects wolves. There are also the two wolves at either side of Mackenzie, I'd say they are Bash and Jackson.

In this book everyone is trying to recover from the selfless act Jonah made at the end of the Origins series. Mackenzie & Sebastian are finally officially in a relationship, and it is commonly known that Sebastian/Bash is the true soul mate or “Anam Aonachid” of Mackenzie/Kenz who is now known as the freedom Princess. The still fairly fledgling relationship between Kenz & Bash is still struggling somewhat with the both of them keeping secrets from the other. Keeping these secrets create more secrets which turn into lies and more lies. I found myself sat on the edge of my seat waiting for one of them to discover the others secrets and lies!

The “Anam Aonachid” element of the book is a double-edged sword really as yes Kenz and Bash are deeply in love and meant to be together. Together they are also a formidable team. However if one of them dies the other will slowly go mad and die too, their bond is so strong and reliant on the other.

There were so many other plot lines within this book, one of the larger ones is the fact someone seems to be killing off pack Apha’s. Then there’s still Amy and her dilemma of whether to take the cure for vampirism and become mortal and human again. Though I would say it’s probably the most sensible thing to do with the dangerous kind of situations her and her friends keep finding themselves in.

As with the Origins series there is so much going on in this first book of the new Mackenzie series. There is so much potential for this new series too. There are all the different supernatural being’s that can be part of the series along with the different scenarios that the SIU can come up with for Mackenzie and the taskforce to have to deal with different law breakers. Then there is all the family interaction we can expect. Kenz has avoided visiting her adoptive parents and brother for as long as she can and in this book we see that the big tough Alpha of the Brooklyn Pack, Sebastian and his kick butt Freedom Princess, Mackenzie are in awe and actually nervous of visiting with Mackenzie’s human family. Mackenzie has kept her human family as far away as possible from her other life. They are still under the impression that Mackenzie works for a "normal" Police Force. There are some really funny scenes around the dinner table. Then of course Mackenzie calls on her brother Oliver Grey to help out within one of her investigations.

There are the usual fixes and problems that Kenz gets herself into using dark magic sources to trace fugitives or help those she loves. At some point Kenz will have to repay all her black-market favours. Lets hope they don't cost her more than she would wish to pay or cause her anymore problems.

Naming favourite characters is difficult because I like so many of them so of course, there’s the usual suspects . . . er werewolves, Kenz, Bash, Jonah, and Jackson, along with vampire's Lucian and Amy are all still favourite characters. Even though certain characters are not in this series yet they are mentioned so I am also looking forward to hearing more from them in the future of this series.

I still like the character of Garrett Michaels who is Kenzie’s Police partner in the Special Investigations Unit and I think there is lots and lots of potential for stories around the SIU.

In this book we do learn more about Kenzie's human brother Ollie. A big tough army guy who is prepared to do anything to help out his adopted sister without asking too many questions even if it means putting himself in danger. It would be great if Oliver learnt the truth about the supernatural beings that live in plain sight within the “normal” world. Maybe Ollie could date a supernatural being?

My immediate thoughts upon finishing reading this book were Wow! What a great start to a possibly second fantastic series centred around Mackenzie Grey & Brooklyn Pack.

I could literally go on and on talking and writing this review about From The Grave, Bk 1 of the Trials Series. I have totally avoided explaining the relevance of the book title but once you read the book you will know why! I try not to give away too much story or any major spoilers whilst at the same time letting you all know how much I love the book. What’s left to say other than this one is a must read and the rest of the series is on my want to read wishlist.
Profile Image for A Belle & A Book.
689 reviews28 followers
May 27, 2019
Karina Espinosa is the master of urban fantasy with strong-willed badass female characters. The MC, Mackenzie, is the epitome of badassery! I love that she follows her gut, takes charge, and doesn't require rescuing. But, she is also funny and sarcastic.

From the Grave is a high intensity thrill ride from page one and is riddled with plot twists. I highly recommend it.
Profile Image for Nadine.
237 reviews6 followers
December 13, 2018
A big thank you to Karina for sending me the ARC.

Based on what I just said, you know that I am a huge fan of Karina's and I have had the opportunity to read and review her books before.

I have read and reviewed her Mackenzie Grey Origins series (there are 4 books in all) and I fell head over heels for the character. Kenzie is great and everything that I love in my heroines.

You cannot imagine, the amount of excitement when Karina was kind to tell me that I was getting my girl back!

Best Xmas pressie ever!!!

Just in case, I am going to say it, you could start with this book and read it, BUT trust me, you do not want to do that! You want to start with the previous series so that means you want to read Shift! Trust me on that one, you really want to read it and pretty much the following 3 books that come after.

The good news is that Xmas is around the corner, and if you are like me and not working, then it is the best time to take a deep dive into an outstanding series.

But back to From the Grave and we see Kenzie and Bash (her boyfriend) a while after the events that took place in Omega (Book 4 of Origins series). A lot happened in that book and now we are looking into the consequences, the positives and the bad ones too!

I do not want to spoil it for you all, because there is so much that happens and it is all just plain great! I read the book in one go and I already am crying for the next one!

Did I ever mention that I hate waiting? Well, there you have it!

What I will say, is that we had a very interesting bad guy (we always need one!) and that guy was creative. Okay, I will share, it is about vengeance!

I know, I said no spoilers, but it is hard to give you info without giving away everything!

Honestly, From the Grave was just great, it felt so good going back into this world and revisit with truly beloved characters. I have no idea, how many books are planned in this series, but I am again hoping for another dozen :-p

A girl can dream!

If you have read the origin series, then you are going to LOVE this baby, no ifs no buts! If this is your first encounter with Karina's books then it makes no difference, the books are amazing and as I said above you want to start with Book 1 as I said.

Karina creates amazingly strong and fascinating women (have a look and her new series The Last Valkyrie) and her world building is also wonderful. You have fun, some good laughs, deal with drama, heartache and all the good things that make an addict!

I am going to be VERY HIGHLY recommending From the Grave and I really hope you love it as much as I do. Once you guys are done reading I would love to hear what you thought! Just bug me!!


Profile Image for Jennifer.
465 reviews6 followers
December 17, 2018
More Makenzie Grey? Yes please! From the Grave is the first book in a new series by Karina Espinosa. This book follows characters from her previous series labeled Mackenzie Grey. This series has a bit of another tone to it. It still has the action and romance, but it is different than before.
The plot of this book is interesting. I really liked her other series and am very happy to see her continue with these characters. This book is all about her work at the SIU and a mystery surrounding some events that are happening. I really liked to see Mackenzie in a role she was born to do.
Mackenzie is still the same old Mackenzie. I will say I feel she has developed a lot from the first series, but she still has a ways to go. I liked that she wasn’t all perfect just because she has had several books before. She is still a character I love. Then you have Bash. Heavy Sigh. I love Bash so much. He is such an alpha. I really liked seeing him develop and seeing a more vulnerable side to him.
The heat between these two has changed a bit. I liked seeing this new side to this couple. They are still in the beginning stages of their relationship, but that doesn’t mean the heat is starting to taper out. Instead it only seems to intensify. The heat is perfect for these characters.
The writing style of this book is great. It is just as good as the ones before. The pace is steady. The story is told from Mackenzie’s point of view. This allows a bit of the story to remain a mystery. I will have to say I would kill to read some of this series from Bash’s point of view.
Overall, I really enjoyed this story. I cannot wait until the next book comes out. If you haven’t read the first series, I suggest you read it before picking up this one. While technically, you could read this on it’s own, you really miss the beginning of Mackenzie and Bash by skipping out on the first series.
Ratings:
Plot: 4/5
Characters: 4/5
Heat: 5/5
Writing Style: 5/5
Overall: 4/5


*Reviewed for Seraphim Book Reviews*
Profile Image for Diane Lynch Lynch.
1,883 reviews53 followers
December 13, 2018
I was excited when I found out that Karina Espinosa was releasing another Mackenzie Grey story. FROM THE GRAVE takes place after OMEGA (Mackenzie Grey: Origins #4). The revolution is over. The Luna and lone wolves earned their freedom. Now Mackenzie and Sabastian Steel (Bash) face a new enemy and a fresh set of obstacles. This story takes place in New York.

I love Mackenzie. She is a strong heroine who fights for what she believes in. I appreciate her relationship with Bash. They challenge each other. They are discovering what it means to be Anam Aonachd (soul mates). They do not always see eye to eye, but they do love each other.

The plot was clever and exciting. Bash’s past comes to haunt him. Mackenzie and Bash had kept a lot of secrets from each other and learned that they need to come clean with one another. I adored that Jonah Cadwell’s ghost was in this story. I was heartbroken when he died. FROM THE GRAVE was exciting from start to finish. It is a story that I could not put down.

I would recommend reading the Mackenzie Grey: Origins series before reading this book. There are so many things that occur in the series that is pertinent to this story. I think you would get a lot more out of FROM THE GRAVE by reading the series first. That being said, the novel skillfully-written so you would probably be able to follow it with no issues. I’m looking forward to book two in the Mackenzie Grey: Trials series. I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.
147 reviews1 follower
December 13, 2018
Another Truly Attention Grabbing Book in the World of Mackenzie Grey!
I loved the Mackenzie Grey books from book 1 of the original series and this new series is a wonderful new addition! Mackenzie is a kick butt kind of girl and not afraid to fight for what she believes in! But not everything goes according to plan and Mackenzie and her pack are going to have to fight to stay alive. Someone is out to get someone she loves and it’s going to be a tough fight to the bitter end! She finds out stuff about her mate that she never knew and she’s going to have to figure out what to do about it! The enemy is close but how close is something that they are going to find out but will it be in time to save everyone in the pack? I read the book in one day and really can't wait for book 2 to get here! I recommend that you read the series Mackenzie Grey : Origins first because there are references of that series in this book, also it introduces all the characters in this series as well! Karina Espinosa pulls you into this series and it is one that I can’t wait to read more!
Profile Image for Ashley Dawn.
Author 41 books81 followers
December 20, 2018
More Mackenzie Grey! This is a spin off book from the Mackenzie Grey series, but follows the same characters. This book starts off with a 'crisis' and doesn't slow down. There is the relationship between Mackenzie and Bash that isn't brand new but is still in the new stages. I love that Mackenzie speaks her mind, even if occasionally it should have been thought through first!

I don't want to give too much away but there was a surprise character I wasn't expecting in here and I was happy but conflicted about it. The fact that just because one issue has past, doesn't mean that it will be smooth sailing, is completely true in this book and Mackenzie is ready to jump in with both feet to protect those she loves.

It was a 4/5 for me. I cannot wait to see what happens next.



Thank you to the author for the review copy of this book (via Lady Amber's Tours). I received this book in exchange for an honest review and the opinions stated above are 100% mine.
Profile Image for Edyta.
120 reviews
January 24, 2019
Glad to have the story continue

I really wanted to give this a four star rating, but I felt a little annoyed with Mackenzie in this book. I totally love her stubborn streak when it comes to standing up for herself, her rights, her freedom; but I felt that in this book she came off as foolish, selfish and judgemental. It is almost as if she thinks that something can only be the right thing to do, until she deems it to be right. She dismisses the experience that her peers offer. She also comes down too harsh on Bash. I'm all for her putting any one in their place when they are trying to control her, but she just seems to be very unfair with him. I love her strong character and I look forward to reading what is next in her story, but I hope to see Mackenzie grow, find peace and allow herself to love without feeling threatened by it. I want to see her truly become a leader and not just a catalyst.
Profile Image for Tarah Didley.
378 reviews3 followers
December 16, 2018
Another amazing book!

I just absolute love Kenzie and Bash together. They keep it real no matter what they are or who they are.

Kenzie is such a strong person but in the inside she is heartbroken from losing so many people close to her especially Jonah and it’s playing with her emotions with Bash.

Bash loves Kenzie and wants what is best for her but he knows that he just has to be patient with her and let her do things her way or she will never forgive him.

Now that are one, they will do anything to protect one another after someone comes looking for Bash and starts hurting innocent people along the way.

Bash and Kenzie may disagree on certain things but when it comes to protecting their family and friends they both work hard to keep them safe.

Another awesome read and now I cannot wait until the next one comes out.
Profile Image for C. Erani Kole.
1,710 reviews51 followers
January 12, 2021
Ugh idiotic things that could've been avoided

*minor spoiler*

This one was weird. The only reason this person came back was because some needed closure but if anything, it felt like they were just there to be secret spies and convenient help, aaaaand bring unnecessary drama. They weren't even the main story, and they're pretty important man!

The actual point of the book was pretty good, but I didn't enjoy Kenzie. She was really frustrating and even everyone else was saying what I wanted to. She took bigger risks I was NOT cool with and part of me wondered if she'd get punished for it, karma-wise. I hope not cause that's not what she needs right now but I don't know, maybe she needs it cause she's that strong willed and stubborn...
Profile Image for Kimberly Cheeseman.
316 reviews3 followers
September 2, 2025
If you are interested in Shifter stories which also include some other SuperNatural beings…this is the series for you .
If you like a Strong Female Lead.
This is the series for you…
Once you accept that SHE HAS a very strong opinion about how things need to be done - the story is Very entertaining and she is VERY LOYAL to those she loves…
Superb series…sometimes I wish she would just let Bash in a tiny bit more…but as I read I remember she is still in her 20’s and so still a lot of growing up to do…
Profile Image for Michelle.
8 reviews1 follower
December 16, 2018
Mackenzie is back and I am here for it!

I loved the first series of Mackenzie, origins, and was so excited for the first installment of the next series. It did not disappoint. Mackenzie continues to grow personally and in her relationships. It was a different version of her as her fierce protectiveness of Bash came to the forefront of the story. If you love Origins, you’ll be stoked about this next phase for Mackenzie and crew.
Profile Image for Kjayne.
512 reviews1 follower
April 17, 2024
The Trials portion of this series is like the werewolf version of Princess Diaries, except the princess is also trying to save supernatural crimes as she learns the ins and out of royalty. I’m not sure why this series is marketed as romance (very little romance in the series), but this is a fun series nevertheless. Great world building and a protagonist that always finds herself in or stirring up trouble.
Profile Image for Kristin Jensen.
665 reviews
February 12, 2025
Somehow this was less appealing than the first series about Mackenzie Grey. She is still a interesting main character with her share of flaws and good sides, but I missed the drive that was present in Origins. Maybe the next books are better? I think what diminished my rating from the last series is her relationship with the main male lead, which was messy. Still enjoyable, but not as much as the previous series.
Profile Image for Sara Yonkers.
176 reviews1 follower
March 31, 2021
I loved the first Mackenzie Grey series, and this one is turning out to be the same. I will say it has been a while since a good book has made me cry, but the ending is definitely a tear jerker! I mean if you don't at least get teary eyed, I would say you have no heart! I'm glad that Mackenzie grey series is going on further!
Profile Image for Brandy Barber.
969 reviews23 followers
January 8, 2025
Sadness all around

This book to me was a lot about lost love. Not just friend love but family love. Even family we hand pick. The depth of the feelings that was in this book was on edge. As every one gets mixed up I. Different parts of their relationships Mackinze struggles with letting go and how she will move on. This boom has me excited to see how things unfold next.
Profile Image for Rebecca.
4,065 reviews
February 22, 2019
Wow

Machenzie got herself into a shit Load of issues and she’s trying to drag her ass out . With the help of her friends and family she just might. I love this series and can’t wait for the next book.
2 reviews
May 23, 2019
Love this story

This series is awesome. The characters grab hold of you heart and you are transformed into their story. Kenzie is strong and smart but at the same time human enough to make mistakes. This is an exceptional series
Profile Image for Darlene Copeland.
61 reviews
July 9, 2019
Another Winner!

I was so pleased to find that MacKenzie’s story would be continuing. I am loving all of the wolf characters! So many supernatural characters with diverse personalities! I can’t wait for Book 2!
Profile Image for Amy Corbin.
57 reviews
February 8, 2021
Amazing! I absolutely love Mackenzie’s character and watching her grow with each book. From the Grave will keep you on the edge of your seat. Just when you think you know what will happen, another twist!
Profile Image for Keila Cush.
8 reviews2 followers
July 19, 2021
4.5 stars! Thank you from the bottom of my heart for the audiobook release. I loved it and I hope and can’t wait for the rest of the Trials series (as well as the rest of Karina’s books) to be released on audio as well!!
151 reviews1 follower
September 25, 2021
Decent

Cool world but the main woman is such a whiny, child. I want to slap her sometimes with her outbursts. I am grateful though that there is a plot beyond the main relationship; that is rare in this genre.
Profile Image for WonderWomanNZ.
1,403 reviews1 follower
March 3, 2023
Even though this is a new series, it follows straight on after Mackenzie Grey series. I didn’t find this book as good as the other ones, it was more about wrapping up unfinished business from the other series with like a side plot. Makes me wonder where this series will head.
128 reviews
June 30, 2024
Another great book in this series

Acton, suspense, paranormal spice, and it hit right in the feels... this one has it all and is very well written. Love MacKenzie and highly recommend
17 reviews
December 13, 2018
Umm WOW. Bringing back our boy for some last minute closure was JUST WHAT I NEEDED. Huge fan of this world, and this was a great start to a new adventure for Mackenzie.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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