What do you think?
Rate this book
The Academy Saga #5
Awaken After Mourning
Someone will finally be pushed beyond their breaking point . . .
While The Academy is trying to recover from the shock of their favorite gifted’s awful demise, the family is falling apart. Andrew self-sabotages. Kate is buried in grief, and Ranger buries himself in work.
“I couldn’t think of a way of helping one, without hurting the other.”
Desperate to make amends for the sins of his father, he calls in some much-needed help, and an unexpected, secret alliance forms. But the new bond isn’t strong enough to overcome old wounds. And the thirst for revenge—that was on the horizon for those who have been hurt most by The Academy—is subverted by old rivalries and savage jealousy.
Resolving to keep his head down, Pete finds himself entangled with his dark past and the girl who broke his heart. His ongoing disdain for The Academy, and affection for Kate, might put his future in jeopardy, once again.
While The Academy is trying to recover from the shock of their favorite gifted’s awful demise, the family is falling apart. Andrew self-sabotages. Kate is buried in grief, and Ranger buries himself in work.
“I couldn’t think of a way of helping one, without hurting the other.”
Desperate to make amends for the sins of his father, he calls in some much-needed help, and an unexpected, secret alliance forms. But the new bond isn’t strong enough to overcome old wounds. And the thirst for revenge—that was on the horizon for those who have been hurt most by The Academy—is subverted by old rivalries and savage jealousy.
Resolving to keep his head down, Pete finds himself entangled with his dark past and the girl who broke his heart. His ongoing disdain for The Academy, and affection for Kate, might put his future in jeopardy, once again.
511 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 11, 2023
15 people are currently reading
28 people want to read
About the author
C.J. Daly
7 books185 followersCJ Daly grew up on the scrabbly plains of Eastern New Mexico. When she was supposed to be helping her six siblings with chores on the family ranch, she was really sneaking behind dusty haystacks to read. And dreaming about becoming a writer.
After graduating high school, CJ moved to Big D (Dallas), where she quickly put herself through college while trying to rid herself of her country accent. She had better luck with college, graduating cum laude with a degree in English literature. After teaching a few years, and pausing to have back-to-back boys, she began writing in earnest.
A few years later, "The Academy Saga" was born. "The Academy" is her debut novel, and "The Academy, Cadet-in-Training" is the sequel.
After graduating high school, CJ moved to Big D (Dallas), where she quickly put herself through college while trying to rid herself of her country accent. She had better luck with college, graduating cum laude with a degree in English literature. After teaching a few years, and pausing to have back-to-back boys, she began writing in earnest.
A few years later, "The Academy Saga" was born. "The Academy" is her debut novel, and "The Academy, Cadet-in-Training" is the sequel.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
March 30, 2023
I have been on this amazing journey since book 1. The Academy Saga pulled me in and hasn't let me go! I have so much love for this incredible story and these characters. They have been through it all, and I have felt every emotion!! The writing and this storyline just keep getting better and better.
Book V: Awaken After Mourning is everything I have come to expect from this series. A rollercoaster of emotions! The love triangle between Ranger, Pete & Kate continues. Without spoiling anything, there's a scene with a tattoo that had me swooning. So, so good!! I feel for each of these characters, it's obvious there is so much love, some of which is just so misguided. There's also sooo much hurt and heartbreak, and at times it's hard to read. I can honestly say I don't know who I'm rooting for anymore! More than anything I just want each of them to find happiness.
Those damn cliffhangers though!! It just wouldn't feel right if CJ didn't leave us with one at this point! Haha :)
My thanks to CJ Daly for the gifted copy! I can not wait to see what you have in store for us in book VI.
Please don't read this review any further if you want to avoid spoilers. Content Warnings have been posted below.
Content Warnings: Death of pet/self harm/mention of rape/mention of kidnapping/gaslighting/emotional abuse/controling behaviour/extreme grief/house fire/loss of sibling
Book V: Awaken After Mourning is everything I have come to expect from this series. A rollercoaster of emotions! The love triangle between Ranger, Pete & Kate continues. Without spoiling anything, there's a scene with a tattoo that had me swooning. So, so good!! I feel for each of these characters, it's obvious there is so much love, some of which is just so misguided. There's also sooo much hurt and heartbreak, and at times it's hard to read. I can honestly say I don't know who I'm rooting for anymore! More than anything I just want each of them to find happiness.
Those damn cliffhangers though!! It just wouldn't feel right if CJ didn't leave us with one at this point! Haha :)
My thanks to CJ Daly for the gifted copy! I can not wait to see what you have in store for us in book VI.
Please don't read this review any further if you want to avoid spoilers. Content Warnings have been posted below.
Content Warnings: Death of pet/self harm/mention of rape/mention of kidnapping/gaslighting/emotional abuse/controling behaviour/extreme grief/house fire/loss of sibling
March 14, 2023
Shot to the heart
I spent the entire weekend staying up late into the night to finish book 5. I swear I cry ugly tears at some points in each book but I rubbed my chest in ache reading this last chapter. The triangle of love,love/hate,love/lust,love/heartache is no joke. In book 3 I loathed Pete for awhile and I must admit I loathed Ranger in book 5 more then any other book. I think that has to do with how much good can outway the bad when it comes to love? I guess my emotions are still all mixed up and I'm glad there is more to this story because this epic tale of love, loss and heartbreak is definitely not near the end of its journey.
I spent the entire weekend staying up late into the night to finish book 5. I swear I cry ugly tears at some points in each book but I rubbed my chest in ache reading this last chapter. The triangle of love,love/hate,love/lust,love/heartache is no joke. In book 3 I loathed Pete for awhile and I must admit I loathed Ranger in book 5 more then any other book. I think that has to do with how much good can outway the bad when it comes to love? I guess my emotions are still all mixed up and I'm glad there is more to this story because this epic tale of love, loss and heartbreak is definitely not near the end of its journey.
March 14, 2023
I have waited oh, NOT so patiently for each installment of this series and C. J. Daly has done it again! Wow! What a rollercoaster ride of emotions! Love/Hate, joy, despair, anger, disappointment, the list goes on and the love triangle of all love triangles continues. I’m torn between the two men, I can’t imagine what Kat must be feeling. I do think Team Pete won in this book but Ranger is still in the game. What is love? Is it enough? Can you love two very different men at the same time? I guess we’ll have to wait and see. C . J. don't keep us waiting too long!
March 21, 2023
Get mad ....get even
I didn't want to get dragged in again but I did. It had all the feels . I was mad, I was sad I cheered the bravery.
First I was team Pete then team Ranger. I couldn't expect her to choose as I can't .
Great read.
I didn't want to get dragged in again but I did. It had all the feels . I was mad, I was sad I cheered the bravery.
First I was team Pete then team Ranger. I couldn't expect her to choose as I can't .
Great read.
March 13, 2023
CJ Daly captures your heart, rips it out, and SLIGHTLY puts it back together over and over again in each new installment of The Academy Saga.
You get such a raw look at grief and the way that it consumes Kate in this book. I felt every single second.
And you’ll never be able to tell me that Ranger doesn’t really love her. He’s end game, and I’ll die on that hill.
I won’t share any more in-depth details.
Spoilers don’t make friends! Suffice to say that I am DYING to read more, and yeah yeah yeah… I know it takes time to write these, but I’ll be anxiously waiting NOT SO patiently for the next release.
I’ll be doing a full reread of books 1-5 at some point, I’m sure.
You get such a raw look at grief and the way that it consumes Kate in this book. I felt every single second.
And you’ll never be able to tell me that Ranger doesn’t really love her. He’s end game, and I’ll die on that hill.
I won’t share any more in-depth details.
Spoilers don’t make friends! Suffice to say that I am DYING to read more, and yeah yeah yeah… I know it takes time to write these, but I’ll be anxiously waiting NOT SO patiently for the next release.
I’ll be doing a full reread of books 1-5 at some point, I’m sure.
Read
March 24, 2023Hey guys, just wanted to share my thoughts on the latest book from our fave series. This is the fifth book in The Academy Saga, and I have to say, it's my favorite one yet! I was hooked from the very beginning and couldn't put it down. Things get intense and there are so many unexpected twists and turns that keep you on the edge of your seat. C.J. Daly's writing is amazing, and the story just gets better and better with each book. If you're a fan of this series, you absolutely have to read this one and if you are one of the few who hasn't started the journey yet, grab the first book and prepare to feel all the feels.
March 22, 2023
sooo, if you're looking for a book that will keep you up late into the night, "Awaken After Mourning" is IT. The fifth book in The Academy Saga, we are talking about a thrilling ride full of love, loss, and heartbreak. The love triangle between our girl, Pete, and Ranger takes center stage, with each character vying for her affection in their own way. The writing is powerful - we are talking ugly tears to aching chest pains, this book is not for the faint of heart. If you're ready for an emotional journey, don't miss out on this hot read!
June 29, 2023
What a roller coaster ride ...
I am thinking in my head how the next book will play out .
I don't want to spoil the book so I will keep my ideas to myself.
Ready for book 6
I am thinking in my head how the next book will play out .
I don't want to spoil the book so I will keep my ideas to myself.
Ready for book 6
April 13, 2023
wow
I didn't want to get dragged in again but I did. This book has your emotions all over . I was mad, I was sad I cheered for the bravery.
First I was team Pete then team Ranger. I can not expect her to choose as I can't .
Great book as always can not wait for the next..
I didn't want to get dragged in again but I did. This book has your emotions all over . I was mad, I was sad I cheered for the bravery.
First I was team Pete then team Ranger. I can not expect her to choose as I can't .
Great book as always can not wait for the next..
May 1, 2023
Wowza!!! What an incredible journey book 5 will take you on! No spoiler alerts, but be prepared to have Kate and the love triangle she's caught up in to completely rip your heart out! Not to mention the ongoing intrigue that is the Academy! What IS going on there????? I can't wait to find out more!
March 30, 2023
Oh my goodness, let me just say that Book V of The Academy Saga has completely blown my mind! I am still reeling from all the twists and turns that author CJ Daly threw at me. It's like she took all the emotions I had bottled up inside and put them into words that left me gasping for breath.
First of all, let's talk about the characters. The protagonist, Kate, is such a badass! She's been through so much and yet she still manages to kick butt and take names - well, after a little issue, but no spoilers lol. I love her determination and her loyalty to her friends. And don't even get me started on you know who. He's the perfect swoon-worthy love interest. He's mysterious, brooding, and oh so handsome. I could not put this book down whenever he was on the page.
Now let's get into the plot. CJ Daly does not hold back with the action in this book. There are epic issues, heart-stopping things that happen, and shocking reveals. I was constantly on the edge of my seat wondering what was going to happen next. And let me just say, I did NOT see that ending coming! I won't spoil anything, but let's just say.. wows.
Overall, if you haven't started The Academy Saga yet, what are you waiting for?! This series just keeps getting better and better with each installment, and Book V is no exception. CJ Daly has created a world that is both thrilling and emotional, and I can't wait to see what she has in store for us next.
First of all, let's talk about the characters. The protagonist, Kate, is such a badass! She's been through so much and yet she still manages to kick butt and take names - well, after a little issue, but no spoilers lol. I love her determination and her loyalty to her friends. And don't even get me started on you know who. He's the perfect swoon-worthy love interest. He's mysterious, brooding, and oh so handsome. I could not put this book down whenever he was on the page.
Now let's get into the plot. CJ Daly does not hold back with the action in this book. There are epic issues, heart-stopping things that happen, and shocking reveals. I was constantly on the edge of my seat wondering what was going to happen next. And let me just say, I did NOT see that ending coming! I won't spoil anything, but let's just say.. wows.
Overall, if you haven't started The Academy Saga yet, what are you waiting for?! This series just keeps getting better and better with each installment, and Book V is no exception. CJ Daly has created a world that is both thrilling and emotional, and I can't wait to see what she has in store for us next.
April 7, 2023
It's always so hard to review your own book. I love each and every one of them and think the story legitimately gets better as we progress further into the series. This one was another emotional rollercoaster and ended on another heartbreak for me (although less intense than the last one, for sure)! I feel for everyone involved in the Mikey fallout: Kate, Ranger, Andrew . . . even John freaking Connelly made my chest hurt in this book. I feel bad for Pete, living a life he doesn't want to lead, being with a girl he doesn't love like he should. I even feel bad for stone-cold Reese--it must be tough to be second choice all the time (and the same is true for Ranger). My heart squeezed for him at the end, even as I was GLAD Kate was finally giving him a dose of his own medicine. LOL! I'm also SO glad she finally revealed how she really feels. I can't wait for Ranger to wake up. I hope it won't be long before he does . . . I'm going to try REALLY hard to get Book VI out by Christmas. In the meantime, please reach out to me any time. One of the biggest surprises of this journey is how much I love interacting with my fans. Y'all are all SO opinionated! LOL! But I love it! So happy that I'm making y'all feel all the feels and that I have such amazing company along for this tumultuous ride! XOXO
CJ
CJ
March 28, 2023
Okay, so if you've been following the series, you know that things have been building up and let me tell you, book V does not disappoint. The action is non-stop, and the stakes have never been higher. I was on the edge of my seat the whole time.
But it's not just the action that's great. The character development is top-notch too. I have been following these characters for five books now, and they've all grown and changed so much. It's like watching my friends go through real life stuff, I feel like a part of the story.
I don't want to spoil anything, but let's just say that there are some major developments in the romance department. I was literally screaming at my book at one point.
The writing is just as good as ever too. The author has a real knack for writing action scenes that are easy to follow but still exciting. And the dialogue is snappy and funny - I found myself laughing out loud a few times.
I would definitely recommend, not just book V but all 5 books from The Academy Saga. If you haven't started the series yet, what are you waiting for? Get on it! You won't regret it ;)
But it's not just the action that's great. The character development is top-notch too. I have been following these characters for five books now, and they've all grown and changed so much. It's like watching my friends go through real life stuff, I feel like a part of the story.
I don't want to spoil anything, but let's just say that there are some major developments in the romance department. I was literally screaming at my book at one point.
The writing is just as good as ever too. The author has a real knack for writing action scenes that are easy to follow but still exciting. And the dialogue is snappy and funny - I found myself laughing out loud a few times.
I would definitely recommend, not just book V but all 5 books from The Academy Saga. If you haven't started the series yet, what are you waiting for? Get on it! You won't regret it ;)
May 8, 2023
Emotional damage. I read this long, emotionally charged story in one sitting. Over 500 pages of ripping your heart out, rooting for the underdog (and yes that was absolutely Ranger) while cheering on my girl Kate. I've been invested in this series for years since Book I came out and Kate was just a high school senior. I can't tell you why I root for Ranger, but I do, even though he's patently awful. He does come through for her quite a bit in this book, even sending his "mortal enemy" to bring Kate back from essentially losing the will to live after the loss of her baby brother. This book ends, yet again, on a cliff hanger and I sincerely hope that 1) not a ton of time passes before Book VI and 2) Book VI ends the Academy Saga because I cannot withstand the hangover anymore! I do love this series though, and I am rooting for someone to have a HEA in the end!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 6, 2024
I have been a huge fan of this series since it started. Fell even more in love in book 2 and with Ranger.( I will die on the #teamranger hill!) I think that Pete is not as good for her, and Ranger needs her more because he’s messed up from the way he was raised by his father. What is with the fathers in this series? Even Pete’s dad is an a-hole when he slapped Katie for no reason. I have a feeling I know which way it will go in the next book, but somehow CJ keeps proving me wrong. I just hope that my heart can take more pain and drama because I have a feeling there’s more to come.
March 12, 2023
I have been following The Academy Saga series since the very beginning, every time a new book comes out I get hit with some awesome twist that I wasn't expecting. Now, I don't want to put any spoilers out here and ruin your reading but trust me, this book is even better than book IV. How is that even possible?! CJ has a way of keeping me hooked, my hubby knows that I won't put the book down until I am done reading the whole thing 😅
March 25, 2023
I absolutely love and am still falling in love with this series! I just wish the next book was out already. I'm still processing from my book binge, but I know that I'm a little mad at Katie, Pete and Ranger who just can't seem to get his stuff together, no matter how many chances he gets. I was Team Pete then Team Ranger, now I'm afraid to choose because I'm sure C.J. will make me change my mind again. Any how, I just love all the drama!
April 4, 2023
The worst part about this series is that you open the next book wondering if this will be the finale. So much happens in this book (and all of them). It’s interesting that I’m so enthralled by this series as I hate to read love triangles. I leave each book in pain because I have to wait for the next one to see what will happen! These characters and their development. Wow. It’s crazy! Crazy good rollercoaster.
PS. This is not the end. ;)
PS. This is not the end. ;)
March 16, 2023
Since day 1 book 1 I just fell in love with this series. Each book gets deeper emotionally and more interesting and intelligent. I love the dynamic between Katie and Ranger, but ultimately rooting for Pete. Not sure how things will end up, but I know CJ will keep us guessing til the very end. Can’t wait for more!
May 8, 2024
Seriously can not get enough of these characters. It's a good thing another book is coming because I'm always left wanting more, more, more! Obsessed with Ranger, even though he makes it hard sometimes, but he's such a powerful character. I also love Katie and Pete and hope someone finally gets some dam happiness!
March 20, 2023
I just love this ever evolving book series so much. Its always on my to read list and this book was no exception. It was almost as heartbreaking as the last one, and I already can't wait to see what happens next. Hurry please!
February 26, 2024
This series is compared to Twilight and Hunger Games but it my opinion is so much better. After book 1 it's no longer a YA, but it gets better and better each book.
Book 2 literally blew me away, and I fell in love with Ranger, not Pete, which I did not think I could do.
Book 2 literally blew me away, and I fell in love with Ranger, not Pete, which I did not think I could do.
February 26, 2024
Warning: this book series is so good but if you’re easily triggered by terrible things that happen to the characters then you might not want to start this. But if you do just be prepared to stay up all night because you can’t put it down!
April 5, 2023
What can I say about Book 5? Well, the story picks up right where the fourth book left off, with the main characters facing a new set of challenges and obstacles. As always, the CJ's writing style is engaging and immersive, making it easy to become fully invested in the story and its characters.
One thing that stood out to me about this book is how much the characters have grown and developed over the course of the series. They feel like real people, with their own flaws and strengths, and it's fascinating to see how they respond to the challenges thrown their way.
Another aspect of the book that I enjoyed was the world-building. CJ has created a rich and complex world that feels fully realized and believable. It's the type of series that will pull you in and you will feel like you are there. Prepared to be mazed and a little sad when you finish book V.
I highly recommend this series to anyone looking for an engaging and immersive fantasy read.
One thing that stood out to me about this book is how much the characters have grown and developed over the course of the series. They feel like real people, with their own flaws and strengths, and it's fascinating to see how they respond to the challenges thrown their way.
Another aspect of the book that I enjoyed was the world-building. CJ has created a rich and complex world that feels fully realized and believable. It's the type of series that will pull you in and you will feel like you are there. Prepared to be mazed and a little sad when you finish book V.
I highly recommend this series to anyone looking for an engaging and immersive fantasy read.
February 24, 2024
I just can't get enough of this book series. Seriously. I pick up
something else to read and all I can think about is what Pete, Kate, and Ranger are up to at the Academy.
something else to read and all I can think about is what Pete, Kate, and Ranger are up to at the Academy.
February 26, 2024
Good read! I loved the story and am excited to continue the journey whenever the next book comes out. Hopefully we won't have to wait too long!!!!
May 4, 2024
I absolutely cannot wait til the next installment in this amazing series! The emotional Rollercoaster I have been on because of this series is insane!! I have laughed, cried, been absolutely and undeniably beyond devastated, happy, excited, confused, torn, you get the idea!!!.... All the feelings you can imagine, have been had!! I 100 percent recommend this series!!!!!! This alone tells you how incredible this Author (C. J. Daly) truly is, and she is a new favorite author of mine hands down!!!!!
November 24, 2023
When does the next book come out? Literally can not wait. Every couple of months, I remember this series and check back for updates.
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews