The Awakening

by SE Naumann

Asena is a female from Herbexia that wants nothing more than to Awaken as an elf and join her Father's army. Oh and let’s not forget, settle down with her lifelong bestie Kyllan.

Ryker is a male from Vekroth that wants to ensure his realm’s safety. He is the Commander of the Crimson Legion and heir to the seat of High Lord, a title he’s not too keen on taking.

When these two meet and their worlds collide, there is a tug only they can feel. A shift in their universe that they are blissfully unaware of. But what will happen when the shadows come for their lands? Will Asena be the answer to save the kingdom, or will it crumble and be reborn?

Genres: Fantasy, Audiobook

402 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 1, 2023

Reviews

[Shaylieandthebooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book has all the vibes. If you love ACOTAR and Zodiac Academy, this book is for you.

Slow burn, friends to lovers, forced proximity, enemies to lovers, fated mates, magic system, mild spice… what more could you ask for?

Asena is entering the 300th awakening where she will gain her powers, immortality, and find out her place in this world. Her best friend, Kyllan, is going through it was well. They made a vow to ensure they make it through the awakening together which bonds them together. Will they be able to maintain this bond or will they be ripped apart?

Enter Ryker, commander of the Dragonian. From the first meeting Asena and him have a unexplainable pull towards each other.

As her life takes and unexpected turn after the awakening. She’s finds there are secrets about her heritage and is into a a life she knows nothing about.

S.E. Naumann did a fantastic job with world building, plot, suspense. The whole package. During the trials I was able to envision the scenes. 👌🏻


This book ends in a cliffhanger. Be warned. But it’s well worth the read.

[Rudrashree Makwana · Rating 5 out of 5]

I liked the world building and writing is compelling. Loved the awakening ceremony and crystal magic. It has magic, mystery, suspense and deception.

Each character unlocks a magic power yet Asena’s power seems to be secretive and perhaps the girl is born to fulfil higher purpose. In the midst of nightmares and trials, will she gain her power? While Ryker is so protective of her and Kyllan seems to be a little mysterious. There is a mild spice in book and the intricate world building is just brilliant. There are nine realms, magical powers, transformation, trials, emotional connections, crystal magic and the book is enchanting. And the secret lies in the shadows. Either Asena will be able to protect the realms and kingdom or they will all crumble. The book raised so many questions in my mind. I can’t wait to read next book. But this is a great beginning to the series. It has vibes like ACOTAR and Zodiac Academy.

💎

•Crystal Magic / The Awakening Ceremony
•Dual POV
•Slow burn
•Fated Mates
•Forced Proximity
•Found Family
•Ends on Cliffhanger
•New Adult Fantasy

[Claire Lct · Rating 4 out of 5]

4,25★

First I would like to thank the author for the opportunity to read The Awakening.

Last week I was struggling with a book hangover and couldn’t focus on a book. Then I started The Awakening, it took me out of my book hangover. I had a great time reading this story. It was fast-paced.

Asena is a girl from Herbexia. She has to go through the Awakening to gain her power and transform. She has to join the realm of her transformation. She plans on becoming an elf with her best friend. She has trials to pass before receiving her power…

The Awakening was a first great book, which is very promising for the rest of the books. I enjoyed the world building and the plot. I was very curious with the Awakening ritual and with Asena’s nightmares. The story was unique.

The Slow burn was so well written, I could feel the tension between the characters it gave me butterflies. I can’t wait to have more!

I liked the characters especially Ryker, I might be in love with him... his protectiveness ❤. His POV melted my heart! There was a nice found family vibe!

And that endiiiing! I can’t wait for the next book! I have lots of questions and lots of expectations 👀 😍

[Debra · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh wow I loved this story. The characters had to survive the trials to reach the Crystal for their Awakening. They learn what element they receive and what kingdom they go to after their awakening. There is magic, mystical creatures, elves, magically entrances and enchantments. It has romance, it is a slow burn, drama, betrayal, secrets, and interlude to dangers. OMG that ending - I need more!!!!

If I could I would give this book 10 starts.

[Demon ☾ (DemonsDarkFaerietales) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ɽ₳₮Ɇ ₳₦Đ ⱤɆVłɆ₩ ☾

𝑇𝐼𝑇𝐿𝐸: The Awakening
𝐺𝐸𝑁𝑅𝐸: Fantasy
𝐴𝑈𝑇𝐻𝑂𝑅: S.E. Naumann
𝑇𝑌𝑃𝐸: Book 1
𝑃𝑂𝑉: Multiple POV!

⚠️ 𝐶ℎ𝑒𝑐𝑘 𝑡𝑟𝑖𝑔𝑔𝑒𝑟 𝑤𝑎𝑟𝑛𝑖𝑛𝑔𝑠; 𝑡ℎ𝑖𝑠 𝑑𝑎𝑟𝑘 𝑐𝑜𝑛𝑡𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑖𝑠 𝑓𝑜𝑟 +18 𝑟𝑒𝑎𝑑𝑒𝑟𝑠 ⚠️

𝑀𝑌 𝑅𝐴𝑇𝐼𝑁𝐺: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/ 5
𝘚𝘗𝘐𝘊𝘌 𝘙𝘈𝘛𝘐𝘕𝘎: 🌶️🌶️ / 5

𝙒𝙃𝘼𝙏 𝙏𝙊 𝙀𝙓𝙋𝙀𝘾𝙏:
🦎 Crystal Magic / The Awakening Ceremony
🔥Dual POV
🦎 Slow burn
🔥Fated Mates
🦎 Forced Proximity
🔥Found Family
🦎 Ends on Cliffhanger
🔥New Adult Fantasy

REVIEW:

FFFFUUUUUUUUUUUCCCCCCCKKKKKKKKK!!!!! Listen here bish ! THAT CLIFFY!? You HOE ! I love you so much but fuck you this is literal life and the way that i need to just go chill with Ryker and Asena, and also PUNCH other people in the face and love others ! You always do this to me ! Screamingm, crying, throwing up over here and i disappear into an unreachable void every time i pick up one of your gods damned books lol! Thank you for this masterpiece you badass bitch now dont mind me while i go FERAL FUCKING DEMON in the corner and INHALE the Beta Read that is The Prophecy.

[KimMacs · Rating 5 out of 5]

SE Naumann has knocked it out of the park with the debut of her new fantasy series, The Awakening. In this book, we get to explore this new realm that the author has beautifully created. We follow the story of Asena, who is entering the trials of the 300th Awakening where she will get her immortality and powers. She is bound to her childhood friend, Kyllan, but will their Awakening tear them apart forever? She meets Ryker and feels an unexplainable pull towards him. He is destined to become the High Lord of Vekroth. Their connection is undeniable, but she is already bound to another. When she does finally Awaken, unexpected events take her down a different path. She finds herself thrust into a life she knows nothing about but soon starts to feel more at home than she could have ever imagined. She begins to question her past and starts to unravel the mystery of her heritage.

I love the world that SE Naumann has created in this book. It is an unique fresh take in the world of fantasy. It definitely gives me ACOTAR vibes and I feel like Kyllan is going to be the next Tamlin LOL. I love the unexpectedness of the powers they receive after the Awakening and can't wait to see why each person has been transformed the way they were. This fantasy offers so much mystery and intrigue. It ends on a severe cliffhanger, and we can only hope book 2 will be out soon so we can continue our adventure and unravel the mystery lurking in the shadows....

[Kendra Palmer · Rating 5 out of 5]

“𝙄’𝙙 𝙗𝙪𝙧𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙬𝙤𝙧𝙡𝙙 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙞𝙛 𝙨𝙝𝙚 𝙖𝙨𝙠𝙚𝙙, 𝙨𝙞𝙢𝙥𝙡𝙮 𝙩𝙤 𝙚𝙣𝙨𝙪𝙧𝙚 𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙝𝙖𝙥𝙥𝙞𝙣𝙚𝙨𝙨.”

If you're looking for your next book boyfriend, this is the book for you!! (𝙃𝙚'𝙡𝙡 𝙥𝙪𝙩 𝙍𝙝𝙮𝙨𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙩𝙤 𝙨𝙝𝙖𝙢𝙚)

Asena and longtime childhood friend, Kyllan, vowed to protect each other in The Awakening trials, where they will gain their powers and immortality, unknowingly bonding them in a way they couldn't understand.

With The Awakening fast approaching, Asena has an unforeseen encounter with Ryker, commander of the Crimson Legion. They both feel an unusual pull to each other that cannot be explained.
With a startling outcome from The Awakening, Asena is forced to try and unearth the secrets of her lineage and who she really is, before it's too late...

SE Naumann nailed it on the world building in this book and setting up the backstory of how and why the 9 realms became what they are today. I cant wait to read more about them in the next book of the series!!!

[Caitlin O'Neill · Rating 3 out of 5]

I had a hard time getting into this book initially but I am glad that I stuck with it because it turned out to be really good. I think the dialogue and some of the characters are a bit immature especially for their age but the plot was really good and the magic was really interesting. I had a hard time keeping track of all of the realms and magic and names because there is a lot but by halfway through the story it didn't faze me anymore. There is a smidge of spice towards the beginning but its brief, otherwise I'd say its solid YA. There is an interesting love triangle which I don't usually like but I thought it fit this book really well. I loved Ryker so much and his crew, they're a lot of fun. I wasnt a huge fan of many of the other characters and it really irritated me that Asenas parents talk to her like shes 5 when shes 25. I was also bummed where it leaves off because we have so much unanswered but it really makes you want to read book 2.

[Tayler · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Awakening by SE Naumann 🫶

Rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Spice 🌶🌶🌶


• I highly enjoyed this read and will 100% be recommending it to others! It has all the tropes you could want: friends to lovers, enemies to lovers, fated mates, & forced proximity! Not to mention spicy scenes, nicknames, & I would burn the world for her vibes ❤️‍🔥

• The world building done by Naumann is crafted perfectly to where it is not overwhelmingly complicated but creates a unique world you can dive into.

• I enjoyed the plot and really connected with the characters. Let me just say I LOVE Asena. She is the literal embodiment of what I crave in my main female character! I found myself growing fonder and fonder of her throughout the book.❤️‍🔥 Now for Ryker, what can I say about this man other than mother, may I? I'll let you dive into that one statement and what it means yourself!

• There are so many amazing quotes I could leave you with, but here is one to ignite your need to read this book:

"I'd burn this world for her if she asked, simply to ensure her happiness." ❤️‍🔥🗡

RELEASES JUNE 1, 2023 ON KINDLE!

[Robin Logan · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review and feedback

I like the idea of the story and I want to see where it goes and what happens with these characters. I wish we had found out a bit more in this book as it ended on a cliffhanger and kind of like it was in the middle of the book. The characters could use a bit more flushing out and the dialogue is a bit abrupt and formal seeming. It really just needs more details overall. Too much was left out so it was a bit confusing in some ways. I also thought it would be a bit spicy and it really wasn’t very much. I still don’t really understand what’s happening in this series it where it is going from here besides the slow burn love story that is unfolding. You really learn nothing about “the bad guys” at all in this book.

[Giorgia - whatgiorgiaisreading · Rating 4 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book! I was lucky enough to receive an arc copy and I'm so grateful I did as it was so up my street. Though the prologue was fantastic, I first felt the story itself started off a bit slowly, but overall, I'm glad the author took the time to introduce the characters and places the way she did, as the world building and attention to details in the book are second to none - down to the map of the kingdom of kinbrolds and the pronunciation guide in the front of the book. The story itself is an original and exciting concept and the characters are so relatable - i felt like Asena was a friend by the end of the book - and some are just swoonworthy (looking at you, Ryker!). Overall I can't wait to see the direction the author takes the story in the next book and I'm counting down the days until I can continue reading! Thank you to SE Naumann for the opportunity, I would highly recommend you preorder this book and read it as soon as possible!

[Veertje Read · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a great and epic story!
SE Naumann creates a world where humans can gain powers and immortality by entering the awakening. The world-buidling is absolutely amazing. The different realms with population, settings and fantasy elements are written in so much detail, you can imagine yourself in this world.
I love Asena and Ryler and how there relationship and bond throughout the story developed.
The storyline is also great. You can compare it to the Different series in terms of their laws and system. At the awakening fate chooses in which realm you belong too. You will leave your birthrealm and travel to become your nee self.

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

IMO, if the powers from The Zodiac Academy cross with the mental and physical trials found in Harry Potter book 4, which cross with the love triangles found in Twilight and The Hunger Games, which cross with the factions in Divergent, you would find their love child known as “The Awakening.”

I found it all within this book - suspense, surprise, mystery, female empowerment, and not a little “spice.” 10/10 would recommend this book because the characters are relatable and believable. The action isn’t too much, but just enough to keep you turning the pages; and by “action,” there is more than one way to define that term. Themes of independence when needed but also comradeship and togetherness are strong. The relationship between the main character Asena and Ryker is one to swoon for 😍

[Gail Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

Quite a unique story I think. There are different POV, which can be confusing, but I don’t mind it personally.
There are strong characters, and then there is Asena.
I liked that the main characters were in their twenties, I’m not really a lover of coming of age tales, but if it’s well written I’ll read it anyway, because it doesn’t really matter. The story is full of mystery and intrigue, as well as humour and sizzle.
Really enjoyed the story, cannot wait to see what happens next.

[Teresa Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just wow! As a reader, I want to be immersed.
The prologue hooked me. The descriptive language is just right. You can “see” everything. The introduction to the main characters makes you want to know them more. The further you go, the more you are drawn into their world of magic. Once I started, I had a hard time putting it down. Did I suspect there were going to be a few twists? Yes, but not completely what I expected. So job well done! I am sooo excited for the next book. Wonderful work!

[Maria Charalampidi · Rating 1 out of 5]

#ImmatureCharacters #badwriting
This is a NO from me. After a certain point I started to skim-read this in order to finish it. Honestly, the world-building is the only interesting thing in the whole novel. The narration and the dialogues between characters were awful, like too cheesy, too rushed and like they came from the mouth of a 15-y-o girl, with all the stupidity and the drama that that entails. Ich.
Needless to say, I won't be picking up the next installment of the series.

[Kaylee’s Easily Entertained · Rating 4 out of 5]

I need book 2 ASAP 💳💥💳💥💳💥💳💥

Naumann did such a great job with this book! The world building and plot were amazing, there was some spice and was pretty well written! It does end on a cliff hanger which kinda sucks lol (EDIT- not the book or end that sucks- just not a fan of cliffhangers!) but I promise the book is worth it!

[Makayla · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was lucky enough to receive an ARC, and I’m so happy I did!

I hated the dynamic between Asena and Kyllan from the very beginning. The way he spoke to her but immediately apologizes? 🚩🚩🚩🚩

I hattttttte cliffhangers. I need book 2 IMMEDIATELY!!

I can’t wait to see the story of Asena and Ryker play out 🥵😍 And I realllly hope Kallus isn’t involved 😳

[Savannah Giles · Rating 5 out of 5]

I COULDNT PUT IT DOWN

I don't even know where to start. From start to finish It was a Rollercoaster of emotion! Ryker is my new book boyfriend. SE Naumann has a way of writing such swoon worthy men! And the world? It's perfect! It's everything I want in a high fantasy world. It's ACOTAR level or better in my opinion. I can't wait for more from this author!

[firebreathingb1tchqueen · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love a good fantasy with an underlying mystery to drive every single moment! Throw in a strong, sassy FMC and an obsessed MMC..? I’m committed. I enjoyed getting to know Asena and Ryker, especially after The Awakening. I can’t wait to see what they will discover about Asena’s heritage and what the night visions truly mean!

[TiggyKim · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved taking this journey with Asena. This is a unique story with a new magic system that is very interesting. I highly recommend this book to anyone who is a fan of fantasy romance. You won’t be disappointed!!

[Hilary · Rating 5 out of 5]

All I can say is CLIFFHANGER!!! This is a great book I was hooked. I love the characters in the book and the scenery is lovely. This is definitely unique but I loved it. I cant wait for book 2 and wish it was out now (hint hint to the SE Naumann).

[Holly Zegalia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Argh!! I need the rest of the series. Listened on Audible and the dramatization is fantastic with an excellent narrator.

There’s a guy that I could do without (might change in later books), a young lady who’s learning to stand on her own and of course the dark guy you just want to snuggle with.

[Amanda Allen · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5 writing isn’t my style. Characters were immature. Good plot though. FMC doesn’t know her family’s history. Her parents are keeping secrets to “protect her”

[The_Bookish_Masochist · Rating 5 out of 5]

Am I a fantasy girly now?! Idk but man did I eat this book up!! I need the next book like last week!!

[Dani Scott · Rating 5 out of 5]

It did not take me long to become completely immersed in this book. I am a sucker for competition tropes and this did not disappoint in the slightest. It was so unique with the concept. Asena is completely relatable and you can see her growing into the person she is meant to be even before the awakening and then afterwards she finally finds her family and her forever home. I loved how everyone was there for each other. And the cliffhanger at the end! Omg it leaves you wanting more and I can’t wait to find out what happens next! There are so many questions yet to be answered.

[Michalle · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first book to a great new debut of a fantasy romance story. This world immersed me into the life of these characters. Asena was in her early twenties and had not gone through her Awakening yet. These trials give every person the magic that their soul needs. This was such a unique take on magic. There are twists and even a slow burn romance. I have to say Ryker was my favorite one. His obsession with Asena was full of spice. There are still some questions I need answers to so I can’t wait for the next book. The cliffhanger left me wanting to know more. Highly recommended.

[Ambers Book Nest · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ahhhhhh, why would you do that? I without a doubt despise cliffhangers, but I did know that going in that there would be one. I require the second book right now!! This book is friggin outstanding, an easy 5-star. The Awakening doesn't come out until June this year, but I highly recommend you preorder it, you will want to read this! This story is so unique and the way the magic operates in this world is something I haven’t read before. I will say, the trials during The Awakening, did slightly remind me of Under the Mountain, In A Court of Thornes and Roses. But it was still completely different and really enjoyable. I did find that the pace was a bit slow at first, but once the Solace happened and Ryker's character was introduced, things undoubtedly got interesting. I adored seeing Rykers POV and reading all his thoughts on Asena, this man was very obsessed, even if he didn’t quite comprehend that at first. I could not stand Kyllan right from the get-go, and I do know that he was such a good friend to Asena. But I don’t have a particular explanation why, but in some way or another, I just couldn't gel with his character. It could have possibly been because I was rooting for Ryker right from the start, even though he wasn't present in the story then. But I do feel like Kyllans actions towards the end, solidified my opinion on him. I can't wait to see where the story goes in book two, and what mysteries and relationships come to fruition. If you enjoyed A Court of Thorns and Roses, then you will adore this, it’s similar but so much better.

“There does not yet exist a culmination of words to describe how utterly breathtaking you are. I never want to hear that you think you are hideous in my presence ever again, Little Wildfire, because you are anything but.”

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[liciloureads · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I tell you I am obsessed with this book, I ABSOLUTELY MEAN IT!! Obviously, I have to talk about my mans Ryker first!!!👏🏻👏🏻 This man has me in a complete chokehold and there is nothing you can do or say to change that!! He will forever be my book husband🤤😂 You also can't forget our girl Asena!! She is thrust into a new world after completing the Awakening that every young person must go through in Kingdom of Kinbrolds. She must say goodbye to the life she once knew and create a new one. She gets to make new friends and work through challenges she never had to think about before. S.E. Naumann does an amazing job in building this world and giving life to these characters. She will forever be an auto-buy author for me🖤😘

This is a perfect read for those who enjoy a slow burn romantasy read and a shadow daddy to make you swwwoooooonnnn🥰 It does leave on a cliffhanger but Book 2 is right around the corner so you don't have to wait long😏😉