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Black City #2
Phoenix
Ash and Natalie are just starting to build a life together when things in the United Sentry States go from bad to worse. Ash and Natalie find themselves at the center of turmoil when dictator Purian Rose threatens Natalie’s life unless Ash votes in favor of Rose’s Law—a law that will send Darklings and other dissenters to a deadly concentration camp known as the Tenth.
When Ash can’t bring himself to trade Natalie’s life for those of millions of Darklings, her fate is sealed. Enter Elijah Theroux, the handsome Bastet boy Natalie once saved from her mother’s labs, where he’d been experimented on and tortured. It was his venom the Sentry used to create the lethal Golden Haze, the heart of the government conspiracy that led to Black City’s uprising and Ash’s rebirth as the Phoenix, the face of the rebellion. Elijah is back and Ash doesn’t like him; it’s clear he’s taken with Natalie, and Ash fears she may have feelings for him as well.
But Elijah also may have the answer to taking down Purian Rose for good—a powerful weapon called the Ora. Ash, Natalie and Elijah just have to escape Black City undetected to find it. But fleeing the city and finding this weapon (if it even exists) are easier said than done, and the quest could tear Ash and Natalie apart, even pushing them into the arms of others.
This enthralling sequel to Black City is just as absorbing, delicious and steamy as the first book, leaving readers hungry for the series conclusion.
When Ash can’t bring himself to trade Natalie’s life for those of millions of Darklings, her fate is sealed. Enter Elijah Theroux, the handsome Bastet boy Natalie once saved from her mother’s labs, where he’d been experimented on and tortured. It was his venom the Sentry used to create the lethal Golden Haze, the heart of the government conspiracy that led to Black City’s uprising and Ash’s rebirth as the Phoenix, the face of the rebellion. Elijah is back and Ash doesn’t like him; it’s clear he’s taken with Natalie, and Ash fears she may have feelings for him as well.
But Elijah also may have the answer to taking down Purian Rose for good—a powerful weapon called the Ora. Ash, Natalie and Elijah just have to escape Black City undetected to find it. But fleeing the city and finding this weapon (if it even exists) are easier said than done, and the quest could tear Ash and Natalie apart, even pushing them into the arms of others.
This enthralling sequel to Black City is just as absorbing, delicious and steamy as the first book, leaving readers hungry for the series conclusion.
273 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2013
94 people are currently reading
8402 people want to read
About the author
Elizabeth Richards
4 books879 followers*** NOTE TO REVIEWERS***
If you would like a review copy of BLACK CITY, PHOENIX or WINGS, please contact Penguin's marketing department at YRmarketing@us.penguingroup.com. Happy reading! :)
***************************
Elizabeth Richards is a YA author who loves books about supernatural boys, kissing and blood.
Her debut novel, BLACK CITY (Book #1 of the BLACK CITY trilogy) was published in November 2012 and was selected as one of Penguin's Fall 2012 Breathless Reads. Her second novel, PHOENIX, was released in June 2013, and the last novel in the series, WINGS, is out in June 2014.
Film rights optioned by Screen Gems.
www.officialelizabethrichards.com
If you would like a review copy of BLACK CITY, PHOENIX or WINGS, please contact Penguin's marketing department at YRmarketing@us.penguingroup.com. Happy reading! :)
***************************
Elizabeth Richards is a YA author who loves books about supernatural boys, kissing and blood.
Her debut novel, BLACK CITY (Book #1 of the BLACK CITY trilogy) was published in November 2012 and was selected as one of Penguin's Fall 2012 Breathless Reads. Her second novel, PHOENIX, was released in June 2013, and the last novel in the series, WINGS, is out in June 2014.
Film rights optioned by Screen Gems.
www.officialelizabethrichards.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 418 reviews
June 24, 2013
Oh gosh! This was GOOD! A great sequel to Black City. The way it just kept moving along, barely stopping to take a breath... and when it did take a breath? Even more exquisite! I thought it was going to be hard to top or even be as equally awesome Black City was but Phoenix definitely managed to beat the second book lull expectation. Thank goodness for that!
I think what made Phoenix such a success is the way that Elizabeth Richards dealt with our expectations. You would think the same old thing was going to happen yet again in a dystopian novel, all the signs would be there, but then something completely DIFFERENT would happen. This happened like three different times in the novel! It was a relief really, because if the things I thought were going to happen had happened then I wouldn't have liked this novel as much :P
Natalie and Ash are in the middle of a civil war. All their moves are being watched, and time is running out for Ash to choose. To save Natalie is to potentially sacrifice thousands of lives, can Ash do that? Decide between her and his people? And then Elijah comes into the picture, the cat person Natalie saved from being experimented on further in Black City, with tall tales of a secret weapon that can help them save the war. Soon enough they embark on this great adventure full of dire situations and complicated feelings.
One thing that still utterly bothered me was the constant use of "fragg". I hate this made up language, specially since the only words it makes up are the "bad" words. I believe using the word fuck, specially if only use when necessary, won't ruffle too many feathers. I was also very confused at the beginning with the many different characters and had a hard time remembering who was who, so you may want to re read Black City before going into this one, or look the characters up on a wiki.
The relationship between Ash and Natalie got a bit complicated in this installment. Mostly due to very serious mis-communication, but it still led to some very tense sexy scenes. The is a definite love triangle thing going on between Natalie, Ash, and Elijah... But I wasn't bothered or annoyed by it. I enjoyed it! Elijah is very charming, but NOTHING compared to Ash's magnetism.
BTW guys, I absolutely HATE Sebastian with all my SOUL. He is the worst bad guy ever, if you thought you hated him in Black City then just WAIT til you read Phoenix, you will want to kill him with your bare hands. He is a disgusting pig and I hope he is castrated before he dies. That is all.
All in all Phoenix was great all around. Maybe a little slow in the beginning, but once they start running it's full speed ahead! The ending left me scratching my head. It was definitely unexpected, like the rest of the twists in the novel. But because of that it was good! Now, so long, until the third Black City title comes out, I cannot wait!
July 18, 2013
JESUS TAKE THE WHEEL BECAUSE I’M ABOUT TO KEYBOARD SMASH THE SHIT OUT OF THIS REVIEW WITH MY FRANTIC FANGIRL FLAILING OVER THE MOST MAGNIFICENT ENDING THAT A SECOND BOOK IN A YA SERIES HAS EVER SEEN. NO, REALLY, THIS IS DOUBLE RAINBOW STATUS. OMFG.
…
I was all prepared to give a coherent review. And it was going to start like this: If this book had a subtitle, it would read as follows: Phoenix: A Lesson in the Importance of Communication in Relationships. Because that’s what a good deal of what this book was. A breakdown of communication. But it was odd, because on one level, the breakdown was incredibly frustrating, but on the other, it was building some very tense and incredibly exciting anticipation. So I wasn’t really sure where to draw the line, only that when it was resolved, it was almost a letdown. It happened far too fast, and without any real consequences.
So then I read on, and I was happily, about 50 pages from the end, reflecting that I was really surprised that this book was NOT suffering from the famous Sophomore Slump. Because honestly, this book is all action. It’s action and getting shit done. There’s a lot of exposition, but it all fits in neatly with the nearly endless action that takes you on a real rollercoaster ride. It’s refreshing to find a book that’s heavy on the action and less on the teenage angst.
But I was nearing the end, and I was pretty sure this book was going to be a four star. At this point, I knew Black City was the superior book. And I thought to myself, I legitimately said out loud, “Unless this book pulls off the greatest twist ending in the history of YA, I’m giving this a four star rating.”
Then Elijah betrayed them, and it was a nice twist, one I really didn’t see coming. But then I thought about it, and I wasn’t really that surprised, even if I didn’t expect it. Because face it, Elijah is kind of a douche, even if he’s a loveable douche, and he would backstab someone. He just would. Even Natalie. And from that we got a whole new kind of tension between the characters, and I was really excited to bump up the rating half a star, because of this leading to the epic conclusion of the book. I was like, YAY, good book.
Then I read the last couple of pages.
HULK SMASH!111!!1!1!11!
JESUS CHRIST, NO BODY BETTER LOOK ME STRAIGHT IN THE EYES AND TELL ME THEY SAW THAT THING COMING. I MEAN, I KNEW THERE HAD TO BE A GOOD REASON FOR THE EARLIER, NEAR MISS KIDNAPPING, BUT I HONESTLY THOUGHT IT WAS SEBASTIAN TRYING TO GET NASTY WITH NATALIE LIKE HE DID WITH POOR POLLY. NO ONE SAW THAT ENDING COMING. DON’T YOU FUCKING LIE TO ME. I WILL HULK SMASH YOU LIKE YOU ARE LOKI. YOU DIDN’T KNOW HE WAS STILL ALIVE. DON’T PRETEND LIKE YOU DID.
This is the point, I want to make notice of, that I had one of my epic fan girl flailing fits. One that looks like a seizure, but really isn’t, unless you count freaking out over an amazing book ending a seizure.
Yeah. So. Um.
JESUS TAKE THE WHEEL.
This book may have been a little weak on the plot, sacrificing that for action and character development, but there were great improvements made in other places. The pace of this book was steady and ripe with tension. Purian Rose actually felt like a scary villain this time around, and losses felt more emotional. The stakes rose, and accordingly, so did the presentation of the book, which was amazing to the very end, and then spectacular.
Lol, but seriously, did no one else have that creeping fear that Natalie might be pregnant? I mean seriously, she had all the signs, she had lots of seemingly unprotected sex, considering they didn’t mention birth control, or I missed it several times if they did, and I will never doubt a YA book can go there because of Twilight.
But regardless, this book was phenomenal and I will judge everyone on this planet harshly if they don’t read it. FIVE HUNDRED STARS OUT OF FIVE.
…
I was all prepared to give a coherent review. And it was going to start like this: If this book had a subtitle, it would read as follows: Phoenix: A Lesson in the Importance of Communication in Relationships. Because that’s what a good deal of what this book was. A breakdown of communication. But it was odd, because on one level, the breakdown was incredibly frustrating, but on the other, it was building some very tense and incredibly exciting anticipation. So I wasn’t really sure where to draw the line, only that when it was resolved, it was almost a letdown. It happened far too fast, and without any real consequences.
So then I read on, and I was happily, about 50 pages from the end, reflecting that I was really surprised that this book was NOT suffering from the famous Sophomore Slump. Because honestly, this book is all action. It’s action and getting shit done. There’s a lot of exposition, but it all fits in neatly with the nearly endless action that takes you on a real rollercoaster ride. It’s refreshing to find a book that’s heavy on the action and less on the teenage angst.
But I was nearing the end, and I was pretty sure this book was going to be a four star. At this point, I knew Black City was the superior book. And I thought to myself, I legitimately said out loud, “Unless this book pulls off the greatest twist ending in the history of YA, I’m giving this a four star rating.”
Then Elijah betrayed them, and it was a nice twist, one I really didn’t see coming. But then I thought about it, and I wasn’t really that surprised, even if I didn’t expect it. Because face it, Elijah is kind of a douche, even if he’s a loveable douche, and he would backstab someone. He just would. Even Natalie. And from that we got a whole new kind of tension between the characters, and I was really excited to bump up the rating half a star, because of this leading to the epic conclusion of the book. I was like, YAY, good book.
Then I read the last couple of pages.
HULK SMASH!111!!1!1!11!
JESUS CHRIST, NO BODY BETTER LOOK ME STRAIGHT IN THE EYES AND TELL ME THEY SAW THAT THING COMING. I MEAN, I KNEW THERE HAD TO BE A GOOD REASON FOR THE EARLIER, NEAR MISS KIDNAPPING, BUT I HONESTLY THOUGHT IT WAS SEBASTIAN TRYING TO GET NASTY WITH NATALIE LIKE HE DID WITH POOR POLLY. NO ONE SAW THAT ENDING COMING. DON’T YOU FUCKING LIE TO ME. I WILL HULK SMASH YOU LIKE YOU ARE LOKI. YOU DIDN’T KNOW HE WAS STILL ALIVE. DON’T PRETEND LIKE YOU DID.
This is the point, I want to make notice of, that I had one of my epic fan girl flailing fits. One that looks like a seizure, but really isn’t, unless you count freaking out over an amazing book ending a seizure.
Yeah. So. Um.
JESUS TAKE THE WHEEL.
This book may have been a little weak on the plot, sacrificing that for action and character development, but there were great improvements made in other places. The pace of this book was steady and ripe with tension. Purian Rose actually felt like a scary villain this time around, and losses felt more emotional. The stakes rose, and accordingly, so did the presentation of the book, which was amazing to the very end, and then spectacular.
Lol, but seriously, did no one else have that creeping fear that Natalie might be pregnant? I mean seriously, she had all the signs, she had lots of seemingly unprotected sex, considering they didn’t mention birth control, or I missed it several times if they did, and I will never doubt a YA book can go there because of Twilight.
But regardless, this book was phenomenal and I will judge everyone on this planet harshly if they don’t read it. FIVE HUNDRED STARS OUT OF FIVE.
June 12, 2015
THE CLIFFHANGER NO!!!!! HOW DARE YOU.
Oh my god, okay, despite the annoying characters I liked this book, I must say the storyline is great for a dystopian book. I actually bought the first book because of the pretty cover, and yeah, I still have problems with the characters but I loved the world Elizabeth Richards created. The writing style she uses to describe the setting is perfect. There's a lot of action and violence and that makes the books pretty interesting.
Now, the romance is still shit. THANKS GOD there weren't many Ash-Natalie cheesy parts because, jesus, they actually made me want to throw the book away.
First of all, did Ash really ask Natalie to marry him? At the beginning of the book? Seriously? And Natalie's reaction? What the fuck was that, she was 16 years old the day before.
In my opinion, that was so unnecessary. If you're not a big fan of the romance of the book, that part will probably make you want to stop reading. I swear, if there wasn't any cheesy insta-love in these books, they would be so MUCH better.
Okay now talking about the characters, Natalie is still selfish and annoying and all she talked about was Polly and her sexual attraction to Elijah and Ash... but she seemed a little stronger in Phoenix, so good for you Nat.
Ash was okay in this book, I still can't understand why he loves Natalie so much... I mean I don't care about that soulmate shit thingy but he EVEN thought she was cheating on him and he was like "Fine by me, I still love you lets bang" smh. BUT I have to admit that I like him, he's the face of the rebellion and yeah, you go Ash.
Now, because of the damn cliff hanger, I MUST buy and read Wings. I need to know how the story ends and besides, the covers are pretty. If you liked Black City's storyline, don't let the romance fool you, you will enjoy this one.
Oh my god, okay, despite the annoying characters I liked this book, I must say the storyline is great for a dystopian book. I actually bought the first book because of the pretty cover, and yeah, I still have problems with the characters but I loved the world Elizabeth Richards created. The writing style she uses to describe the setting is perfect. There's a lot of action and violence and that makes the books pretty interesting.
Now, the romance is still shit. THANKS GOD there weren't many Ash-Natalie cheesy parts because, jesus, they actually made me want to throw the book away.
First of all, did Ash really ask Natalie to marry him? At the beginning of the book? Seriously? And Natalie's reaction? What the fuck was that, she was 16 years old the day before.
In my opinion, that was so unnecessary. If you're not a big fan of the romance of the book, that part will probably make you want to stop reading. I swear, if there wasn't any cheesy insta-love in these books, they would be so MUCH better.
Okay now talking about the characters, Natalie is still selfish and annoying and all she talked about was Polly and her sexual attraction to Elijah and Ash... but she seemed a little stronger in Phoenix, so good for you Nat.
Ash was okay in this book, I still can't understand why he loves Natalie so much... I mean I don't care about that soulmate shit thingy but he EVEN thought she was cheating on him and he was like "Fine by me, I still love you lets bang" smh. BUT I have to admit that I like him, he's the face of the rebellion and yeah, you go Ash.
Now, because of the damn cliff hanger, I MUST buy and read Wings. I need to know how the story ends and besides, the covers are pretty. If you liked Black City's storyline, don't let the romance fool you, you will enjoy this one.
maybe-read
June 25, 2013When Ash can’t bring himself to trade Natalie’s life for those of millions of Darklings, her fate is sealed. Enter Elijah Theroux, the handsome Bastet boy Natalie once saved from her mother’s labs, where he’d been experimented on and tortured.
WHAT.
It was his venom the Sentry used to create the lethal Golden Haze, the heart of the government conspiracy that led to Black City’s uprising and Ash’s rebirth as the Phoenix, the face of the rebellion. Elijah is back and Ash doesn’t like him; it’s clear he’s taken with Natalie, and Ash fears she may have feelings for him as well.
NO.
IT'S A FUCKING LOVE TRIANGLE.
ARE YOU FUCKING SERIOUS.
WOW WOW WOW.
This series has officially done every cliche, stereotypical YA romance move in the book.
Bravo. Just...wow.
I'm actually tempted to read it just to laugh at it.
Plus, I still want to know more about the whole 'Bastet' thing.
But HOLY SHIT. Love triangle galore. Not to mention, in the copy I read the description from, it says Ash and Natalie were ENGAGED TO BE MARRIED.
THEY'RE SIXTEEN YEARS OLD.
THIS IS BULLSHIT.
January 29, 2013
When Black City finished with that epic ending I was biting my nails for months waiting for Phoenix to arrive in my hands and it was worth the wait. From High school students to full blown action heroes! Phoenix is like a whole new level. Love, destruction, gore and heartbreak. Life has gotten worse in Black City. Purian Rose threatens Natalie's life unless Ash votes in favour of Rose's law- a law that will send darklings and other dissenters to a deadly concentration camp known as the tenth.
I haven't felt so emotional reading a book in a long time. This book is defiantly not for younger readers. This skilfully crafted novel contains some mysticism, mystery, intrigue, sex, epic fight scenes, humour and romance in a neat package that is not just entertaining but challenges your mind and imagination. Elizabeth has created word images so vivid that it is almost like watching a movie. She takes you for a ride through The United Century States as Ash and Natalie find themselves in a action packed suspenseful events.
I was hoping that we would learn more about the world outside Black city and boy do we! We meet sexy new characters for example Elijah! I won't give much away but I can tell from reading Elizabeth's novels she likes to take risks and those risks pay off tremendously. Twists and turns are what Elizabeth's writing is about. I find myself always on the edge of my seat. You don't know who to trust where to look or what your feeling because her writing takes you on a roller coaster of emotions.
The plot is amazing Ash can't bring himself to trade Natalie's life for those millions of Darklings. The only way to save everyone is to escape Black City and find the Ora, a powerful weapon that could take down Purian Rose for good. I grew a serious hate for Purian rose and Sebastian. Elizabeth has a knack for drawing so much emotion from her books that makes the reader feel so passionate about her novels and it's characters.
Once again Elizabeth has blown me away and as I sit here after reading this book with tears running down my face I've realised that this book is one of the most heart-renching emotional YAs I've read in a long time. I need the third book NOW.
I haven't felt so emotional reading a book in a long time. This book is defiantly not for younger readers. This skilfully crafted novel contains some mysticism, mystery, intrigue, sex, epic fight scenes, humour and romance in a neat package that is not just entertaining but challenges your mind and imagination. Elizabeth has created word images so vivid that it is almost like watching a movie. She takes you for a ride through The United Century States as Ash and Natalie find themselves in a action packed suspenseful events.
I was hoping that we would learn more about the world outside Black city and boy do we! We meet sexy new characters for example Elijah! I won't give much away but I can tell from reading Elizabeth's novels she likes to take risks and those risks pay off tremendously. Twists and turns are what Elizabeth's writing is about. I find myself always on the edge of my seat. You don't know who to trust where to look or what your feeling because her writing takes you on a roller coaster of emotions.
The plot is amazing Ash can't bring himself to trade Natalie's life for those millions of Darklings. The only way to save everyone is to escape Black City and find the Ora, a powerful weapon that could take down Purian Rose for good. I grew a serious hate for Purian rose and Sebastian. Elizabeth has a knack for drawing so much emotion from her books that makes the reader feel so passionate about her novels and it's characters.
Once again Elizabeth has blown me away and as I sit here after reading this book with tears running down my face I've realised that this book is one of the most heart-renching emotional YAs I've read in a long time. I need the third book NOW.
January 6, 2013
Disclaimer: I am an author-friend of Elizabeth Richards, but I wasn't when I first read BLACK CITY and fell in deep, dark, twisted love with the world she created.
Without being spoilery, I can say that PHOENIX delivers more of the same violent but intoxicating landscape: the creatures, the crosses, the cult-like followers of Purian Rose--they're all still present. Rose has raised his evil to a whole new level and as a great war breaks out across the United Sentry States, Ash and Natalie find they must be willing to sacrifice everything in order to have a chance at survival. Loyalties will be challenged and lives will be lost.
Phoenix is an epic blend of action, mystery, and romantic drama--a gripping, brutal read. I eagerly await the final installment.
Without being spoilery, I can say that PHOENIX delivers more of the same violent but intoxicating landscape: the creatures, the crosses, the cult-like followers of Purian Rose--they're all still present. Rose has raised his evil to a whole new level and as a great war breaks out across the United Sentry States, Ash and Natalie find they must be willing to sacrifice everything in order to have a chance at survival. Loyalties will be challenged and lives will be lost.
Phoenix is an epic blend of action, mystery, and romantic drama--a gripping, brutal read. I eagerly await the final installment.
February 10, 2019
Well that was one hell of a ride. It sure did remind me of The Hunger Games’ second book, “Catching Fire” though. What with the love triangle, and the sudden appearance of another character just to drive home some tension between the three characters. Did she have to be a vixen named Giselle though? Lol I still find the rebellion and the world building vaguely interesting and want to know how they take this villain down. On to the next book!
June 10, 2013
****FINAL RATING: 4.25 STARS****
CATCHALL
I loved Black City, so I was extremely eager to dive into Phoenix. I was nervous, though, too, because of some things in the blurb. Despite my hesitation, however, once I picked it up I simply couldn't put it down. It was fresh and fast-paced, and a wholly satisfying sequel to the first book. Everything about it was gorgeous to the point where I really can't have many complaints, and the cast of characters was as sparkling as I expected.
THE HERO
ASH
Ash is just as sexy as I remember him in this book, and yet he somehow also becomes more layered. He is torn between wanting to do what is right between doing what he really wants to do at times, and it's a very realistic struggle to watch him go through. He can be really dense about some things, but he's also smart. There's a lot of love in his heart, and he's such a caring person even though he doesn't always know how to show it.
THE HEROINE
NATALIE
I have mixed feelings about Natalie, to be honest. Part of me really likes her, but the other part of me wants to smack her for being such an idiot. I get where her feelings are coming from, but she goes about acting on them in what I think is absolutely the wrong way. She has good intentions, but one plan in particular that she enacts is really stupid and just ticked me off. A lot.
THE PLOT
Plot-wise, I may have preferred Black City a tiny bit more, but Phoenix still had an awesome plot. Also, the development was better, even if only marginally. This isn't a bad things, however, because Black City also boasted wonderful development. There wasn't necessarily marked improvement, but it didn't deteriorate either.
I like how the rebellion is more of a central focus in this one. It wasn't fully developed in book one, because it was more about uncovering evidence and that sort of thing. This book has more meat to it. It moves forward a to more, and there's way more going on. I also would argue that it becomes much more intense.
There's more at stake in this book, so everything has bigger strings attached to it. There's no simple answer because no matter what Natalie and Ash choose to do, someone loses. They cannot have everything even though they might like to, and they're forced to realize that they won't always be able to save everyone.
Overall, I think Phoenix had a more gripping plot than Black City did. We see more than enough of a particular villain, and there are new ones who show up. There's a death that I definitely did not expect, and though it made me gasp for breath, I do think it really contributed to the plot. It made things move forward, and provided more motive as well.
THE ROMANCE
I love this romance, to be honest. It's hot and it's passionate, but it can also be very sweet and protective. There are numerous misunderstandings that drove me insane, but they did keep me riveted. Ash and Natalie's love story is a very unique one, and it only develops further here. There are other people in the picture, but the romance her can only ever be about the two of them for me. The development was fantastic, and there were some truly heartbreaking scenes.
THE WRITING
Elizabeth is wonderfully talented, and there's real growth clear in the voices of her characters. They're still not quite distinct enough from each other for my tastes, but I'm definitely starting to understand more the differences between them. I like her descriptive sequences but she still struggles a bit in the characters' thoughts. There are times when Natalie and Ash are monologuing to themselves and I'm just kind of like "Yeah, no one thinks to themselves like that."
THE ENDING
The ending absolutely murdered me. I realize this probably sounds like a very harsh choice of words, but I am actually completely serious. I died. It should be illegal to end a book this way. I literally flipped the pages back and forth over and over again as if that would make more text appear. It was a cruel, albeit clever, way to end the book. You have no choice but to want more.
WRAPUP
Phoenix was a fabulous sequel with a killer plot, and I'm definitely dying to see book three. Elizabeth Richards might be a little bit evil, but I am still definitely a fan for life. I cannot wait to see how this all ends and what comes next. If you liked book one, you and Phoenix will get along just fine. If you haven't tried Black City but you don't mind another fun dystopian, give it a shot.
FINE.
Find more of my reviews on Sparkles and Lightning!
CATCHALL
I loved Black City, so I was extremely eager to dive into Phoenix. I was nervous, though, too, because of some things in the blurb. Despite my hesitation, however, once I picked it up I simply couldn't put it down. It was fresh and fast-paced, and a wholly satisfying sequel to the first book. Everything about it was gorgeous to the point where I really can't have many complaints, and the cast of characters was as sparkling as I expected.
THE HERO
ASH
Ash is just as sexy as I remember him in this book, and yet he somehow also becomes more layered. He is torn between wanting to do what is right between doing what he really wants to do at times, and it's a very realistic struggle to watch him go through. He can be really dense about some things, but he's also smart. There's a lot of love in his heart, and he's such a caring person even though he doesn't always know how to show it.
THE HEROINE
NATALIE
I have mixed feelings about Natalie, to be honest. Part of me really likes her, but the other part of me wants to smack her for being such an idiot. I get where her feelings are coming from, but she goes about acting on them in what I think is absolutely the wrong way. She has good intentions, but one plan in particular that she enacts is really stupid and just ticked me off. A lot.
THE PLOT
Plot-wise, I may have preferred Black City a tiny bit more, but Phoenix still had an awesome plot. Also, the development was better, even if only marginally. This isn't a bad things, however, because Black City also boasted wonderful development. There wasn't necessarily marked improvement, but it didn't deteriorate either.
I like how the rebellion is more of a central focus in this one. It wasn't fully developed in book one, because it was more about uncovering evidence and that sort of thing. This book has more meat to it. It moves forward a to more, and there's way more going on. I also would argue that it becomes much more intense.
There's more at stake in this book, so everything has bigger strings attached to it. There's no simple answer because no matter what Natalie and Ash choose to do, someone loses. They cannot have everything even though they might like to, and they're forced to realize that they won't always be able to save everyone.
Overall, I think Phoenix had a more gripping plot than Black City did. We see more than enough of a particular villain, and there are new ones who show up. There's a death that I definitely did not expect, and though it made me gasp for breath, I do think it really contributed to the plot. It made things move forward, and provided more motive as well.
THE ROMANCE
I love this romance, to be honest. It's hot and it's passionate, but it can also be very sweet and protective. There are numerous misunderstandings that drove me insane, but they did keep me riveted. Ash and Natalie's love story is a very unique one, and it only develops further here. There are other people in the picture, but the romance her can only ever be about the two of them for me. The development was fantastic, and there were some truly heartbreaking scenes.
THE WRITING
Elizabeth is wonderfully talented, and there's real growth clear in the voices of her characters. They're still not quite distinct enough from each other for my tastes, but I'm definitely starting to understand more the differences between them. I like her descriptive sequences but she still struggles a bit in the characters' thoughts. There are times when Natalie and Ash are monologuing to themselves and I'm just kind of like "Yeah, no one thinks to themselves like that."
THE ENDING
The ending absolutely murdered me. I realize this probably sounds like a very harsh choice of words, but I am actually completely serious. I died. It should be illegal to end a book this way. I literally flipped the pages back and forth over and over again as if that would make more text appear. It was a cruel, albeit clever, way to end the book. You have no choice but to want more.
WRAPUP
Phoenix was a fabulous sequel with a killer plot, and I'm definitely dying to see book three. Elizabeth Richards might be a little bit evil, but I am still definitely a fan for life. I cannot wait to see how this all ends and what comes next. If you liked book one, you and Phoenix will get along just fine. If you haven't tried Black City but you don't mind another fun dystopian, give it a shot.
FINE.
Find more of my reviews on Sparkles and Lightning!
December 16, 2014
Nah !!!!
I know it might be the perfect book for the paranormal romantics, but for someone who has been devouring this genre; this is plain repetition and nothing else. I understand that the book has every element that worked in twilight, hush hush series and every other successful paranormal genre. yet for me it was ….Nah!!!
Let me be honest, this book is not bad but not good as well. There is nothing to the book even if it has managed to shelve out three books (god knows how and why). The book reminded me of Legend series by Marie Lu so much that I actually wanted to go back and read Legend.
The story in the sequel is at least better than Black city but yes the romance crap still irks me to the core but then this is a romance novel so I can’t exactly complain about the book based on that sole reason. While I can still cope with the male lead “ash” it’s the female “Natalie” that irritates me in the book. The girl is a disaster coming from lack of brains or “weepy and fragile heroine” syndrome. Either ways that is not someone that can carry this book very far
The second book comes up with a love triangle
… Bravo!!! For bringing up such a brilliant, stupidest and the lamest trick ever in book writing…
I am amazed at our self sacrificing, altruistic girl getting attracted to the next guy that comes along after prophesying eternal love throughout the first book and using big bold words like “love” only to redefine its meaning in the sequel.
Best part. ?
Barely at 15 or 17 years, our leads are getting married….
Yippie !!! (please excuse me, while I bash my head against a wall)
Once again let me say that “ its not you. but me “. The book per say is not that bad, its just that I could not digest it. The problem with the book was that it was kind of cliché in the romance department and if I may say was totally vomit inducer for me. But other than my obvious hatred to teenage romance and marriage, the book actually has a better story line than the first one and the narration technique and the language is simple and good. Then again like the first book, the dystopian world crumples because of weak foundation. Romance novel fans will definitely swoon over this for obvious reasons. Dystopian and paranormal fans on the other hand will die of prolonged puking.
Basically the book is equally bad as much as it is good… The book died for me because of its predictable story plot and lack of proper background.
May 18, 2013
First, I must squeal for one paragraph. I am sorry.
OMG. THIS WAS SO....ACK!!! I CAN'T BELIEVE I GOT AN ARC OF THIS. AND HOW GOOD THIS IS. WOW. THE WAY THIS WAS...ACK. BE STILL, MY HEART. THIS IS SO AMAZING.
That was like 1% of it, but I thought I'd better get on with the review, yeah?
Okay, I absolutely have to acknowledge the romance in this. The action and the rebellion were amazing of course, but the romance! Ash and Natalie and Elijah...and Giselle, but she appears and disappears quickly. (Thank God!) My heart broke so many times for Ash and Natalie. There's a giant twist that just changes everything between all of them, and I swear my heart dropped all the way through the Earth and made a beeline for China. I just...can't imagine. Natalie and Ash are so devoted to each other, every few pages I had to stop and smack a friend on the arm (whoever was closest to me. They can prove it.) and squeal! It was just so amazing, the way you could clearly see how in love they were. It's like a less messed up Romeo and Juliet! And Elijah. Elijah. How could you?!
Like I said, the action was definitely amazing itself. What Black City lacked, Phoenix definitely made up for it! There was definitely a lot more moving around than in Black City and there was definitely a lot more danger--and that's saying something! With President Rose a looming threat and both Sentry, Lupines, and citizens looking for them, Ash and Natalie were definitely in a fix. And yet, they somehow managed to survive it...until a giant betrayal I could never have expected!
Bringing me to another thing. There were a lot of betrayals I couldn't imagine, but with their lives' on the line, I guess some people forget to be selfless! But the first betrayal was a bit predictable. The second? Well. I think I may have died on the spot!
Phoenix was a book that while, at first was a bit slow, but quickly went uphill after the first few chapters or so! It's pacing was brilliant and I absolutely adored it!
Definitely not experiencing Sequel Syndrome or anything like that, Phoenix definitely surpassed my expectations and definitely beat Black City in the long run! Anyone who loved Black City will definitely adore this! Just like it's first book though, it's definitely one of those dystopias that the word dystopia perfectly describes!
OMG. THIS WAS SO....ACK!!! I CAN'T BELIEVE I GOT AN ARC OF THIS. AND HOW GOOD THIS IS. WOW. THE WAY THIS WAS...ACK. BE STILL, MY HEART. THIS IS SO AMAZING.
That was like 1% of it, but I thought I'd better get on with the review, yeah?
Okay, I absolutely have to acknowledge the romance in this. The action and the rebellion were amazing of course, but the romance! Ash and Natalie and Elijah...and Giselle, but she appears and disappears quickly. (Thank God!) My heart broke so many times for Ash and Natalie. There's a giant twist that just changes everything between all of them, and I swear my heart dropped all the way through the Earth and made a beeline for China. I just...can't imagine. Natalie and Ash are so devoted to each other, every few pages I had to stop and smack a friend on the arm (whoever was closest to me. They can prove it.) and squeal! It was just so amazing, the way you could clearly see how in love they were. It's like a less messed up Romeo and Juliet! And Elijah. Elijah. How could you?!
Like I said, the action was definitely amazing itself. What Black City lacked, Phoenix definitely made up for it! There was definitely a lot more moving around than in Black City and there was definitely a lot more danger--and that's saying something! With President Rose a looming threat and both Sentry, Lupines, and citizens looking for them, Ash and Natalie were definitely in a fix. And yet, they somehow managed to survive it...until a giant betrayal I could never have expected!
Bringing me to another thing. There were a lot of betrayals I couldn't imagine, but with their lives' on the line, I guess some people forget to be selfless! But the first betrayal was a bit predictable. The second? Well. I think I may have died on the spot!
Phoenix was a book that while, at first was a bit slow, but quickly went uphill after the first few chapters or so! It's pacing was brilliant and I absolutely adored it!
Definitely not experiencing Sequel Syndrome or anything like that, Phoenix definitely surpassed my expectations and definitely beat Black City in the long run! Anyone who loved Black City will definitely adore this! Just like it's first book though, it's definitely one of those dystopias that the word dystopia perfectly describes!
March 15, 2013
This book was by far was beyond amazing. I was head over heels in love with everything about this book. Black City gets you hooked but Phoenix will keep you wanting more.
I am going to start with Ash, he is one of my most favorite male characters and he has such a strong voice. Everything about his POV will make you swoon. He is just not like any other hero, he is out spoken, sexy and will do whatever it takes to keep Natalie safe and happy. She is everything to him and he can't believe she is his, but along with this fierce love he has comes the jealousy. Everything they go through in this book just about kills me. They are perfect for each other, other fictional characters should take notes on these two! I can't get over how much I love Ash, and everything he does for the Darklings, Natalie and at times total strangers.
Natalie is such a strong character in this book. She is happy, she has Ash and she will do whatever it takes to keep him. But then something happens that throws her and she starts to push him away. Again these two are so in love that they can't SEE what the other feels at times. I don't know why they do what they do, they are only hurting each other more. Natalie should trust Ash a little more, but everything they go their and STILL come out together is just amazing. Natalie is going to do whatever it takes to protect Ash. When push comes to shove she will fight for what she wants and that's what makes her such an amazing character, she doesn't back down, and she isn't afraid to jump in and help.
This book has TONS of twists, turns, action, betrayal and most of all love. Everything about this book from the title, cover and characters screams read me! And you will be hooked right from the beginning, and by the end have you in tears wanting more. I couldn't believe the ending but it just makes you more excited for what is to come!!!!
March 21, 2020
Full 5 stars on this book!!!! Holy shit! Ugh poor Ash and Natalie. Elijah ugh I feel so bad for him at the end of this novel. I’m not even going to spoil it on anyone I’m just going to say holy shit. 🤷🏻♀️
July 28, 2014
Elizabeth Richards is officially the sensei and master of action novels. Phoenix was just heart-pounding and nail-biting. It was a roller coaster the whole way through and showed no signs of slowing down.
This takes place a few months after the previous book's incident. Everything is turning from bad to worse, and Ash and Natalie are in the middle of it. Natalie is threatened and the only thing Ash can do to save her is vote in favour of Rose's Law. But he can't really put Natalie first before twenty thousand Darklings. A new character named Elijah who was known by Natalie in the past is back and Ash fears that they have feelings for each other. Now they all want to take Purian Rose down for good and destroy him and his wishes. There's rebellion, escapes and new characters all jumbled together in this great book.
I adored this first book, as you all may know. I couldn't wait to begin this beautiful sequel, and I feared for second-book-syndrome, but nothing even close existed. This was a great enjoyable read that has been giving me thrills and chills from the moment I first opened the book.
The plot was pretty great from beginning to end. There was a lot of action, but I missed some things and I felt deducted from all of the craze, especially after the fiftieth percent mark. It went okay from there, nothing special, until the racing, shocking end.
The characters were awesome as always. I loved Ash...
And especially for his kick-assness and his love for Natalie. I had some problems with Natalie, though. She made me upset for not trusting Ash and not telling him anything. Like girl, you're freakin' DATING.
I don't even want to speak about Elijah because he's just like a new villain, and I don't like villains. Plus, he's a newbie who thinks that everyone cares about him and is too selfish to care about anyone except him and his heart.
Overall, this book was great. If you loved the first book, then chances are that you'll love this one as well. They're both hell of a steep roller coaster. READ IT. ASAP.
This takes place a few months after the previous book's incident. Everything is turning from bad to worse, and Ash and Natalie are in the middle of it. Natalie is threatened and the only thing Ash can do to save her is vote in favour of Rose's Law. But he can't really put Natalie first before twenty thousand Darklings. A new character named Elijah who was known by Natalie in the past is back and Ash fears that they have feelings for each other. Now they all want to take Purian Rose down for good and destroy him and his wishes. There's rebellion, escapes and new characters all jumbled together in this great book.
I adored this first book, as you all may know. I couldn't wait to begin this beautiful sequel, and I feared for second-book-syndrome, but nothing even close existed. This was a great enjoyable read that has been giving me thrills and chills from the moment I first opened the book.
The plot was pretty great from beginning to end. There was a lot of action, but I missed some things and I felt deducted from all of the craze, especially after the fiftieth percent mark. It went okay from there, nothing special, until the racing, shocking end.
The characters were awesome as always. I loved Ash...
And especially for his kick-assness and his love for Natalie. I had some problems with Natalie, though. She made me upset for not trusting Ash and not telling him anything. Like girl, you're freakin' DATING.
I don't even want to speak about Elijah because he's just like a new villain, and I don't like villains. Plus, he's a newbie who thinks that everyone cares about him and is too selfish to care about anyone except him and his heart.
Overall, this book was great. If you loved the first book, then chances are that you'll love this one as well. They're both hell of a steep roller coaster. READ IT. ASAP.
January 17, 2016
I think Jeninne said it all
"JESUS TAKE THE WHEEL BECAUSE I’M ABOUT TO KEYBOARD SMASH THE SHIT OUT OF THIS REVIEW WITH MY FRANTIC FANGIRL FLAILING OVER THE MOST MAGNIFICENT ENDING THAT A SECOND BOOK IN A YA SERIES HAS EVER SEEN. NO, REALLY, THIS IS DOUBLE RAINBOW STATUS. OMFG."
and I'll just leave that there lol
This series has stolen my heart. I'm not going to write a long review about it because all I would keep saying is "go out and buy this book/series" it's amazing!
Please go buy this series! <3
b>Read this review and others on our blog:
http://southernbredsouthernread.blogs...
http://southernbredsouthernread.blogs...
http://southernbredsouthernread.blogs...
"JESUS TAKE THE WHEEL BECAUSE I’M ABOUT TO KEYBOARD SMASH THE SHIT OUT OF THIS REVIEW WITH MY FRANTIC FANGIRL FLAILING OVER THE MOST MAGNIFICENT ENDING THAT A SECOND BOOK IN A YA SERIES HAS EVER SEEN. NO, REALLY, THIS IS DOUBLE RAINBOW STATUS. OMFG."
and I'll just leave that there lol
This series has stolen my heart. I'm not going to write a long review about it because all I would keep saying is "go out and buy this book/series" it's amazing!
Please go buy this series! <3
b>Read this review and others on our blog:
http://southernbredsouthernread.blogs...
http://southernbredsouthernread.blogs...
http://southernbredsouthernread.blogs...
Read
August 29, 2024It was amazing! It was a little predictable but there were some twist that I didn't expect at all! It was an advanced copy but ithad little mistakes. I was nervous because sequals sometimes disappoint me but this one was great. I was just hoping to see Day and Beetle a lot more!
August 18, 2017
Hot daymn!!! So that book JUST DID NOT STOP! The first book left me with so many feels... I was hoping the second book could live up to my expectations, and it did not let me down!
I love the world. I love the characters. I love the due-perspective. I have one criticism and that is the same problem I had with the last book, and I'm sure I'll hate in the 3rd book, and that is one word "fragg" ughhh does no one curse in this world? It drove me bonkers. Either say the F-word or dont swear at all...find another word to put there instead. Because grown men saying fragg drove me insane, you are in a war-torn country, there is blood, death, feuding species...I think there are more awful things going on than saying bad words :P I understand this is YA so perhaps Elizabeth Richards didn't want to curse to much, but it tore me from the story every time...I just wish she would have skipped trying to swear at all. That's just me being super picky though. I still love every other aspect of this book.
I am excited to read wings but TERRIFIED TO BE DONE! I dont wanna leave this world I love it sooo much!
I love the world. I love the characters. I love the due-perspective. I have one criticism and that is the same problem I had with the last book, and I'm sure I'll hate in the 3rd book, and that is one word "fragg" ughhh does no one curse in this world? It drove me bonkers. Either say the F-word or dont swear at all...find another word to put there instead. Because grown men saying fragg drove me insane, you are in a war-torn country, there is blood, death, feuding species...I think there are more awful things going on than saying bad words :P I understand this is YA so perhaps Elizabeth Richards didn't want to curse to much, but it tore me from the story every time...I just wish she would have skipped trying to swear at all. That's just me being super picky though. I still love every other aspect of this book.
I am excited to read wings but TERRIFIED TO BE DONE! I dont wanna leave this world I love it sooo much!
June 29, 2018
This was just a great and action packed sequel. I love love triangles and this consisted of one that was really well done.
March 17, 2015
Never before have I encountered or even came across a book that has made me gasp a million times out loud throughout the entire reading like Phoenix did. This book is the definition of fast-paced storytelling.
Unbelievable.
I started it one night and couldn't put it down. I simply rushed through it because it was that good and I'm usually a slow reader when it comes to books I find interesting. I take my time. But for some reason with this one I couldn't help it. I needed answers.
I honestly felt stressed while reading most of this book (in a good way) because I was that deep into the story. Richards knows how to keep her readers focused on it all, making them feel like they're amidst her characters and their world; I personally found myself worrying for them and freaking out every time someone came up from behind or spotted them from afar or something. It was so funny, I had this sense of panic that surprised me. So props to Richards for that.
I don't want to get into too much detail under my "spoiler-link" even though right now I have so much to say! This book is totally going under my 'favorites' and 'forever-rereads' lists!
Elizabeth Richards also does an awesome job at getting her readers to fully grasp and understand her characters, but at the same time place a fear of not knowing who exactly to trust. There were plenty of surprising revelations in this one. By far, the best when compared to Black City.
Love it! <3
I honestly felt stressed while reading most of this book (in a good way) because I was that deep into the story. Richards knows how to keep her readers focused on it all, making them feel like they're amidst her characters and their world; I personally found myself worrying for them and freaking out every time someone came up from behind or spotted them from afar or something. It was so funny, I had this sense of panic that surprised me. So props to Richards for that.
I don't want to get into too much detail under my "spoiler-link" even though right now I have so much to say! This book is totally going under my 'favorites' and 'forever-rereads' lists!
Elizabeth Richards also does an awesome job at getting her readers to fully grasp and understand her characters, but at the same time place a fear of not knowing who exactly to trust. There were plenty of surprising revelations in this one. By far, the best when compared to Black City.
Love it! <3
June 3, 2013
Review courtesy of All Things Urban Fantasy
The Black City series takes place in a well conceived world fraught with political oppression reminiscent of the Nazi regime (except instead of persecuted Jews there are Darklings aka vampires) with a religious and political leader determined to restore racial purity by any means necessary. The idea of a Romeo and Juliet type romance is fantastic in theory too, but in execution, it unfortunately squanders the potential of this interesting world.
The aggravating character issues from the debut are perhaps more grievous in PHOENIX. Our insta-love couple have a ‘big secret’ that comes between them and creates jealousy and misunderstandings given that both Ash and Natalie have the emotional maturity of a fruit fly. They make stupid decisions, cause unnecessary pain, and immediately jump to the worst possible conclusions about the other. It doesn’t help that a new guy and girl show up to create two love triangles–both of which are irritating and cliche.
Apart from the many character issues, the pacing is also really poor. I can appreciate an adrenaline fueled plot that hurls it’s characters from one dire situation to the next, but in PHOENIX, the stunted emotional maturity of the protagonists continually takes precedent over the very real genocidal threats facing the Darklings. Ash actually dithers back and forth about whether or not he should save his entire race or else sacrifice millions for Natalie because their love is so strong, only to believe she’s leaving him for a guy she literally just met like a chapter later.
Many, many people are raving over this series and a movie version could be in the works. I just don’t see it. The worldbuilding is admittedly very intriguing and the storyline is appealing, but these characters are monumentally foolish and the insta-love romance carried over from the debut coupled with not one but two trite love triangles is too hard for me to get past. I won’t be back for the third book in the Black City series in 2014.
Sexual Content:
Mild sensuality. Brief, non graph sex scenes. References to rape and child sex slavery
The Black City series takes place in a well conceived world fraught with political oppression reminiscent of the Nazi regime (except instead of persecuted Jews there are Darklings aka vampires) with a religious and political leader determined to restore racial purity by any means necessary. The idea of a Romeo and Juliet type romance is fantastic in theory too, but in execution, it unfortunately squanders the potential of this interesting world.
The aggravating character issues from the debut are perhaps more grievous in PHOENIX. Our insta-love couple have a ‘big secret’ that comes between them and creates jealousy and misunderstandings given that both Ash and Natalie have the emotional maturity of a fruit fly. They make stupid decisions, cause unnecessary pain, and immediately jump to the worst possible conclusions about the other. It doesn’t help that a new guy and girl show up to create two love triangles–both of which are irritating and cliche.
Apart from the many character issues, the pacing is also really poor. I can appreciate an adrenaline fueled plot that hurls it’s characters from one dire situation to the next, but in PHOENIX, the stunted emotional maturity of the protagonists continually takes precedent over the very real genocidal threats facing the Darklings. Ash actually dithers back and forth about whether or not he should save his entire race or else sacrifice millions for Natalie because their love is so strong, only to believe she’s leaving him for a guy she literally just met like a chapter later.
Many, many people are raving over this series and a movie version could be in the works. I just don’t see it. The worldbuilding is admittedly very intriguing and the storyline is appealing, but these characters are monumentally foolish and the insta-love romance carried over from the debut coupled with not one but two trite love triangles is too hard for me to get past. I won’t be back for the third book in the Black City series in 2014.
Sexual Content:
Mild sensuality. Brief, non graph sex scenes. References to rape and child sex slavery
October 13, 2013
If I was asked to describe Phoenix in one thought, it would be completely and utterly fucking annoying.
It started out good then it went downhill quite fast. Ash and Natalie are doing good, they are planning the rest of their lives together; singing songs, holding hands and prancing about in fields of tall grass and all that jazz, and what I didn’t quite grasp was the fact that they thought that everything would be honky dory after the stunt that they pulled…oh you know, with Ash surviving and all? Yeah, they only lightly touch on some fear of Purian Rose's retaliation. They didn’t have that paranoid, over exaggerated sense of fear that they should have had. The type of fear that had them looking over their shoulders, twitching at very sound, wearing bullet proof vests and always walking around in groups of five or more in daylight hours only and then covering themselves up with dirt and sleeping in cardboard boxes like indigents all around the city, so their sleeping patterns were erratic and untraceable. Why you ask? Because Purian Rose is a sneaky, conniving, recreant, psychotic mother fucker that will get his way no matter the cost and that is something they should have feared at. all. times. But they didn't and then they were surprised at what happened, when it happened...and who leaves the cripples alone with no sense of protection?! Jeezus H!
Then the rebellion happens, some other shit happens and there are some new developments, of which I could not hold back the exaggerated sigh and eye rolling when these developments came to surface. Just stop it...is she really the first and only? I can’t handle it.
THEN on top of the other bullshit, these two decide it “best” to keep things from each other as to not hurt the other…What?? The world is going to end as they know it, they might fucking die the next day but they want to hold some fucking secrets? Get the hell out of here!
Overall, I didn’t hate this installment and I guess Richard’s needs a reason to write a third book…so ok whatever, I’ll read the next one but I won’t be happy about it.
It started out good then it went downhill quite fast. Ash and Natalie are doing good, they are planning the rest of their lives together; singing songs, holding hands and prancing about in fields of tall grass and all that jazz, and what I didn’t quite grasp was the fact that they thought that everything would be honky dory after the stunt that they pulled…oh you know, with Ash surviving and all? Yeah, they only lightly touch on some fear of Purian Rose's retaliation. They didn’t have that paranoid, over exaggerated sense of fear that they should have had. The type of fear that had them looking over their shoulders, twitching at very sound, wearing bullet proof vests and always walking around in groups of five or more in daylight hours only and then covering themselves up with dirt and sleeping in cardboard boxes like indigents all around the city, so their sleeping patterns were erratic and untraceable. Why you ask? Because Purian Rose is a sneaky, conniving, recreant, psychotic mother fucker that will get his way no matter the cost and that is something they should have feared at. all. times. But they didn't and then they were surprised at what happened, when it happened...and who leaves the cripples alone with no sense of protection?! Jeezus H!
Then the rebellion happens, some other shit happens and there are some new developments, of which I could not hold back the exaggerated sigh and eye rolling when these developments came to surface. Just stop it...is she really the first and only? I can’t handle it.
THEN on top of the other bullshit, these two decide it “best” to keep things from each other as to not hurt the other…What?? The world is going to end as they know it, they might fucking die the next day but they want to hold some fucking secrets? Get the hell out of here!
Overall, I didn’t hate this installment and I guess Richard’s needs a reason to write a third book…so ok whatever, I’ll read the next one but I won’t be happy about it.
February 3, 2013
I was very lucky to receive one of these well anticipated ARCs from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I loved Black City, so I was thrilled to receive this follow up. In Phoenix, the sequel, we are thrust back into the action, right where we left off in Black City. Ash and Natalie are still in love, and still reeling from the events in the last book. Rose's Law is up for public vote, and unsurprisingly, we get some sinister threats from Purian Rose, the enemy. The basic idea that Ash and Natalie are fighting for is equality among all races, Darklings and humans alike (as well as some other interesting species mixed in). A lot of forces stand in their way.
I don't want to give away any more information, because there are several twists that are a delight to find out. Again, this entry is very well written, and I found myself immersed in this dangerous world that seems like a combination between the world of the Hunger Games and that of the Holocaust. Horrific things happen in the name of power, and while at times, it seems almost unbelievable, you just have to look at WWII to remember that such atrocities have happened in the recent past.
If I'm completely honest, I didn't like this entry as much as the first-- not because it's not as well written, but certain events had to happen, which make me not the biggest fan of Natalie by the end of the book. But I understand she has time to redeem herself, and another book to get there.
Overall, a thrilling and dark second installment in the Black City trilogy. It's a must read, and I'm itching to get my hands on the third as soon as possible.
I loved Black City, so I was thrilled to receive this follow up. In Phoenix, the sequel, we are thrust back into the action, right where we left off in Black City. Ash and Natalie are still in love, and still reeling from the events in the last book. Rose's Law is up for public vote, and unsurprisingly, we get some sinister threats from Purian Rose, the enemy. The basic idea that Ash and Natalie are fighting for is equality among all races, Darklings and humans alike (as well as some other interesting species mixed in). A lot of forces stand in their way.
I don't want to give away any more information, because there are several twists that are a delight to find out. Again, this entry is very well written, and I found myself immersed in this dangerous world that seems like a combination between the world of the Hunger Games and that of the Holocaust. Horrific things happen in the name of power, and while at times, it seems almost unbelievable, you just have to look at WWII to remember that such atrocities have happened in the recent past.
If I'm completely honest, I didn't like this entry as much as the first-- not because it's not as well written, but certain events had to happen, which make me not the biggest fan of Natalie by the end of the book. But I understand she has time to redeem herself, and another book to get there.
Overall, a thrilling and dark second installment in the Black City trilogy. It's a must read, and I'm itching to get my hands on the third as soon as possible.
May 2, 2013
Alright, diving right back into the series I love it. It was easy to slip right back into the world that Ms. Richards created. Every chapter leads to more action and violence. The world is falling apart quickly and the some people aren’t standing back anymore. I really loved that through out the chapters, the reader gets to know more about the city and the laws. We also learn more about Natalie and Ash’s back round history. There is even a traitor in the midst. Let me tell you that I did NOT see that one coming.
The love interest. I’m not going to say much other than it disappointed me. I mean really? After all you go through for it to fall apart so quickly left me feeling bitter. Even in the end, I still had trouble taking in all that happened.
Overall, Phoenix is a roller coaster of emotions and plot. Consistent in moving forward to an ultimate build up, Phoenix resulted in a darker moving tale that is pure excitement.
The love interest. I’m not going to say much other than it disappointed me. I mean really? After all you go through for it to fall apart so quickly left me feeling bitter. Even in the end, I still had trouble taking in all that happened.
Overall, Phoenix is a roller coaster of emotions and plot. Consistent in moving forward to an ultimate build up, Phoenix resulted in a darker moving tale that is pure excitement.
October 25, 2019
A blonde man stands in the doorway, dressed in a jumpsuit similar to my mother's. His face is badly scarred, the flesh puckered with numerous bite marks and slashes, making it hard to determine his features. Even so, I'd recognize those bright blue eyes anywhere.
I rush over to him, tears spilling down my cheeks, and he pulls me into an embrace. That's why the voice on the radio sounded so familiar.
It's my father.
I so~ wasn't expecting this to happen. Good job Elizabeth Richards, you got me good.
I kinda got bored with the romance part of the book. Ash and Natalie are constantly kissing which gets me sick of the book. (Sorry romance lovers!) I love the action part of the book though. There were many things going on and it was like a puzzle piece. Sometimes things click into your head and you become happy.
I rush over to him, tears spilling down my cheeks, and he pulls me into an embrace. That's why the voice on the radio sounded so familiar.
It's my father.
I so~ wasn't expecting this to happen. Good job Elizabeth Richards, you got me good.
I kinda got bored with the romance part of the book. Ash and Natalie are constantly kissing which gets me sick of the book. (Sorry romance lovers!) I love the action part of the book though. There were many things going on and it was like a puzzle piece. Sometimes things click into your head and you become happy.
October 1, 2013
I received this book as a Goodreads first read give-a-way winner!!!! Im so excited that i got this book. I was really looking forward to reading it, however i just didnt love it. My entire problem was built around the romance. I dont know what kind of trend started with Insurgent but I hate it. The two main charecters who are in love are just thrown apart and supiscious of one another and its an awful way to drive the plot forward. I will still read the third book becuase I'm invested now but I was very disapointed with this aspect and found it both irritating and frustrating to wacth to people who care about themselves hurt each other for no reason..
August 2, 2025
2.75 Stars
It was okayish but not as good as Black City, the first book in the series. This book lacked the flair and suspense that the first book had. There was very little action.
I'm noticing a trend in YA books nowadays: the first book is good, the second one is basically filler, and the third book will either make up for the lack of action in the second book or suck big time. It is now up to the last book to salvage this series.
It was okayish but not as good as Black City, the first book in the series. This book lacked the flair and suspense that the first book had. There was very little action.
I'm noticing a trend in YA books nowadays: the first book is good, the second one is basically filler, and the third book will either make up for the lack of action in the second book or suck big time. It is now up to the last book to salvage this series.
November 11, 2013
I won an advanced copy of this book off of a goodreads giveaway. The first thing that drew me to this book was the cover and the title. It just looked amazing regardless of what was behind the cover page. I read Black City and loved it. Phoenix was everything I hoped for and more. I loved this book almost as much as the first one. It totally pulled me in from the first page and was intense all the way to the end. I can't wait for the next book to come out!
August 4, 2014
***Review posted on The Eater of Books! blog***
Phoenix by Elizabeth Richards
Book Two of the Black City series
Publisher: Putnam Juvenile
Publication Date: June 4, 2013
Rating: 4 stars
Source: Goodreads giveaway
Summary (from Goodreads):
Ash and Natalie are just starting to build a life together when things in the United Sentry States go from bad to worse. Ash and Natalie find themselves at the center of turmoil when dictator Purian Rose threatens Natalie’s life unless Ash votes in favor of Rose’s Law—a law that will send Darklings and other dissenters to a deadly concentration camp known as the Tenth.
When Ash can’t bring himself to trade Natalie’s life for those of millions of Darklings, her fate is sealed. Enter Elijah Theroux, the handsome Bastet boy Natalie once saved from her mother’s labs, where he’d been experimented on and tortured. It was his venom the Sentry used to create the lethal Golden Haze, the heart of the government conspiracy that led to Black City’s uprising and Ash’s rebirth as the Phoenix, the face of the rebellion. Elijah is back and Ash doesn't like him; it’s clear he’s taken with Natalie, and Ash fears she may have feelings for him as well.
But Elijah also may have the answer to taking down Purian Rose for good—a powerful weapon called the Ora. Ash, Natalie and Elijah just have to escape Black City undetected to find it. But fleeing the city and finding this weapon (if it even exists) are easier said than done, and the quest could tear Ash and Natalie apart, even pushing them into the arms of others.
This enthralling sequel to Black City is just as absorbing, delicious and steamy as the first book, leaving readers hungry for the series conclusion.
What I Liked:
I don't know what I was expecting when I started this book, but it certainly was not what I got! I remember starting this series, thinking that I wasn't going to be too invested in this series, because it hadn't been a series that I had been dying to read. BUT. I loved Black City, and I really enjoyed this book! As a sequel, it was outstanding, and it functioned really well as a sequel. It sets up beautifully for the finale, Wings.
Ash is the Phoenix, the boy who rose from ashes. But Purian Rose will not let Ash and Natalie get away with leading the rebellion against his government. It's time to vote for or against Rose's Law, and Purian Rose is out to guarantee that the law will pass. And that's what he does - he messes with the elections, and when Rose's Law passes, Purian Rose gives Natalie, Ash, and the rebels seventy-two hours to submit to his control. But Ash and the rebels hit back, obliterating Black City and fleeing to seek a biological weapon that will infect Trackers with the v gene. With the help of Elijah, the Bastet that Natalie freed in book one, Natalie and Ash set out to find the weapon.
I really like the plot of this book - many things happen, and constantly. First we're in Black City, then Destroyer ships, then Natalie and Ash are leaving, and then they're being chased by Lupines and Trackers, and then they're trying to find people from Ash's mother's past. I feel like this book and plot were constantly moving, things were always happening. People died left and right, which was sad, but definitely necessary. Richards gave the ax to so many characters, and she sure knew how to make them count.
This book is a great sequel - it advances the series' plot well, and it has a plot of its own. Find the weapon - that's the plot of this book. BUT, find the way to destroy Purian Rose and his regime - that's the plot of the entire series. This book sets up really well for the conclusion novel, which is exactly what a sequel novel should do. I can't tell you much about the ending of this book, because that will involve spoilers, but let's just say that you'll want Wings really badly once you finish this book. Really REALLY badly.
The romance takes a weird turn in this book. Enter Elijah, the Bastet Darkling that Natalie freed in book one. He definitely has a crush on her from the start, but it turns into more than a crush. And then Natalie finds out something horrible, and she doesn't want to tell Ash, so she confides in Elijah instead. This is bad, because Ash feels like Natalie is pulling away from her, AND he catches her ad Elijah together, alone, in weird situations. So Ash gets jealous, then heartbroken, Natalie is blind to this, and thinks he is grumpy or whatever. Meanwhile, Elijah is enjoying himself and the attention he is getting from Natalie.
Again, the romance is weird. But I'm glad Ash treated Natalie coldly at times - she deserved it. She should have just told him everything as soon as she found out! I'm being vague, I know. It's on purpose. I know all of this sounds like negative stuff, but it was good in a way. It taught Natalie to grow up and really trust Ash. I like Ash a lot. How dare Natalie hurt him!
The romance was the only thing that bothered me - and it wasn't too bad. I liked the flow of this book, the way this book worked with the rest of the series, the writing style (so great!), the characters. I'm definitely NOT a fan of Elijah (I was in the beginning though), so I'm curious as to what his role will be in book three. Book three! Must read immediately!
What I Did Not Like:
The romance irked me a little. Natalie was keeping secrets from Ash, and that made Ash suspicious of Natalie - which he was totally within his rights. Natalie kept putting herself in awkward positions with Elijah, and Ash would catch and/or see them together, so what was he supposed to think?! Even though Natalie was relying on Elijah as a friend, Elijah legitimately liked Natalie in that way, so it wasn't all that innocent.
So that bothered me a bit. I like that Natalie got the cold shoulder from Ash though. Ash didn't deserve to not get the truth from Natalie for so long. She should have told him from the start what had happened. But eh, whatever! It didn't bother me too much. I know it will bother other people though.
Would I Recommend It:
I would high recommend you read this book! Especially if you loved the first book (or read the first book, not even liked it or anything). This book definitely does not suffer from sequel slump, which is fabulous! The ending will leave readers wanting more, but hey, only a few weeks left until the final book is available! So basically, yes, read it.
And if you haven't read either book, DO IT! Don't miss this series!
Rating:
4 stars. An interesting, engaging sequel that is definitely worth the read! I cannot wait to read Wings - check back next week for my review of the final book in this series!
Phoenix by Elizabeth Richards
Book Two of the Black City series
Publisher: Putnam Juvenile
Publication Date: June 4, 2013
Rating: 4 stars
Source: Goodreads giveaway
Summary (from Goodreads):
Ash and Natalie are just starting to build a life together when things in the United Sentry States go from bad to worse. Ash and Natalie find themselves at the center of turmoil when dictator Purian Rose threatens Natalie’s life unless Ash votes in favor of Rose’s Law—a law that will send Darklings and other dissenters to a deadly concentration camp known as the Tenth.
When Ash can’t bring himself to trade Natalie’s life for those of millions of Darklings, her fate is sealed. Enter Elijah Theroux, the handsome Bastet boy Natalie once saved from her mother’s labs, where he’d been experimented on and tortured. It was his venom the Sentry used to create the lethal Golden Haze, the heart of the government conspiracy that led to Black City’s uprising and Ash’s rebirth as the Phoenix, the face of the rebellion. Elijah is back and Ash doesn't like him; it’s clear he’s taken with Natalie, and Ash fears she may have feelings for him as well.
But Elijah also may have the answer to taking down Purian Rose for good—a powerful weapon called the Ora. Ash, Natalie and Elijah just have to escape Black City undetected to find it. But fleeing the city and finding this weapon (if it even exists) are easier said than done, and the quest could tear Ash and Natalie apart, even pushing them into the arms of others.
This enthralling sequel to Black City is just as absorbing, delicious and steamy as the first book, leaving readers hungry for the series conclusion.
What I Liked:
I don't know what I was expecting when I started this book, but it certainly was not what I got! I remember starting this series, thinking that I wasn't going to be too invested in this series, because it hadn't been a series that I had been dying to read. BUT. I loved Black City, and I really enjoyed this book! As a sequel, it was outstanding, and it functioned really well as a sequel. It sets up beautifully for the finale, Wings.
Ash is the Phoenix, the boy who rose from ashes. But Purian Rose will not let Ash and Natalie get away with leading the rebellion against his government. It's time to vote for or against Rose's Law, and Purian Rose is out to guarantee that the law will pass. And that's what he does - he messes with the elections, and when Rose's Law passes, Purian Rose gives Natalie, Ash, and the rebels seventy-two hours to submit to his control. But Ash and the rebels hit back, obliterating Black City and fleeing to seek a biological weapon that will infect Trackers with the v gene. With the help of Elijah, the Bastet that Natalie freed in book one, Natalie and Ash set out to find the weapon.
I really like the plot of this book - many things happen, and constantly. First we're in Black City, then Destroyer ships, then Natalie and Ash are leaving, and then they're being chased by Lupines and Trackers, and then they're trying to find people from Ash's mother's past. I feel like this book and plot were constantly moving, things were always happening. People died left and right, which was sad, but definitely necessary. Richards gave the ax to so many characters, and she sure knew how to make them count.
This book is a great sequel - it advances the series' plot well, and it has a plot of its own. Find the weapon - that's the plot of this book. BUT, find the way to destroy Purian Rose and his regime - that's the plot of the entire series. This book sets up really well for the conclusion novel, which is exactly what a sequel novel should do. I can't tell you much about the ending of this book, because that will involve spoilers, but let's just say that you'll want Wings really badly once you finish this book. Really REALLY badly.
The romance takes a weird turn in this book. Enter Elijah, the Bastet Darkling that Natalie freed in book one. He definitely has a crush on her from the start, but it turns into more than a crush. And then Natalie finds out something horrible, and she doesn't want to tell Ash, so she confides in Elijah instead. This is bad, because Ash feels like Natalie is pulling away from her, AND he catches her ad Elijah together, alone, in weird situations. So Ash gets jealous, then heartbroken, Natalie is blind to this, and thinks he is grumpy or whatever. Meanwhile, Elijah is enjoying himself and the attention he is getting from Natalie.
Again, the romance is weird. But I'm glad Ash treated Natalie coldly at times - she deserved it. She should have just told him everything as soon as she found out! I'm being vague, I know. It's on purpose. I know all of this sounds like negative stuff, but it was good in a way. It taught Natalie to grow up and really trust Ash. I like Ash a lot. How dare Natalie hurt him!
The romance was the only thing that bothered me - and it wasn't too bad. I liked the flow of this book, the way this book worked with the rest of the series, the writing style (so great!), the characters. I'm definitely NOT a fan of Elijah (I was in the beginning though), so I'm curious as to what his role will be in book three. Book three! Must read immediately!
What I Did Not Like:
The romance irked me a little. Natalie was keeping secrets from Ash, and that made Ash suspicious of Natalie - which he was totally within his rights. Natalie kept putting herself in awkward positions with Elijah, and Ash would catch and/or see them together, so what was he supposed to think?! Even though Natalie was relying on Elijah as a friend, Elijah legitimately liked Natalie in that way, so it wasn't all that innocent.
So that bothered me a bit. I like that Natalie got the cold shoulder from Ash though. Ash didn't deserve to not get the truth from Natalie for so long. She should have told him from the start what had happened. But eh, whatever! It didn't bother me too much. I know it will bother other people though.
Would I Recommend It:
I would high recommend you read this book! Especially if you loved the first book (or read the first book, not even liked it or anything). This book definitely does not suffer from sequel slump, which is fabulous! The ending will leave readers wanting more, but hey, only a few weeks left until the final book is available! So basically, yes, read it.
And if you haven't read either book, DO IT! Don't miss this series!
Rating:
4 stars. An interesting, engaging sequel that is definitely worth the read! I cannot wait to read Wings - check back next week for my review of the final book in this series!
September 11, 2016
I won an advance copy from Goodreads giveaway.
I love the cover. It fits perfectly with the title. The cover reminds me of Catching Fire because of the fire on the feather. Amazing cover.
Phoenix is recommended to readers who like The Hunger Games. Phoenix has some similarities with The Hunger Games Trilogy, especially with Catching Fire.
This review does not have a spoiler section.
Synopsis:
"Ash and Natalie are just starting to build a life together when things in the United Sentry States go from bad to worse. Ash and Natalie find themselves at the center of turmoil when dictator Purian Rose threatens Natalie’s life unless Ash votes in favor of Rose’s Law—a law that will send Darklings and other dissenters to a deadly concentration camp known as the Tenth.
When Ash can’t bring himself to trade Natalie’s life for those of millions of Darklings, her fate is sealed. Enter Elijah Theroux, the handsome Bastet boy Natalie once saved from her mother’s labs, where he’d been experimented on and tortured. It was his venom the Sentry used to create the lethal Golden Haze, the heart of the government conspiracy that led to Black City’s uprising and Ash’s rebirth as the Phoenix, the face of the rebellion. Elijah is back and Ash doesn’t like him; it’s clear he’s taken with Natalie, and Ash fears she may have feelings for him as well.
But Elijah also may have the answer to taking down Purian Rose for good—a powerful weapon called the Ora. Ash, Natalie and Elijah just have to escape Black City undetected to find it. But fleeing the city and finding this weapon (if it even exists) are easier said than done, and the quest could tear Ash and Natalie apart, even pushing them into the arms of others.
This enthralling sequel to Black City is just as absorbing, delicious and steamy as the first book, leaving readers hungry for the series conclusion."
Before Reading: I was debating whether or not to read this book. After all, Phoenix is the second book in this series. I decided to go for it, because there is a bigger chance for me to not read the first book. I did the same thing with Liar's Moon (no review of this book, unfortunately).
While Reading: "Phoenix sounds a lot like Hunger Games." "Interesting." "Whoo! Go Ash! Nice thinking there!" "What!?! Are you seriously that stupid? Ohhh..."
After Reading:
I have issues with this book. Maybe because I haven't read the first book. Or with the actions of the characters. Mostly the first, few latter.
Phoenix is an outstanding book with beautiful characters that explore betrayal, love, danger, threats, risk, and unrequited love. If you like Hunger Games, then this is the book for you. If you like paranormal books, then this is the book for you. Anyone who likes dystopian? Yep, this is the book for you.
A recap of the first book would had been useful. For many parts of the book, I was left utterly clueless. That was when I realized that I really need to read the first book. Unfortunately, my local libraries (public library, school library, classroom library) doesn't carry the first book. Oh well.
There were lots of similarities to Hunger Games (No review), Twilight (No review and I wouldn't dare to), and The Fault In Our Stars (review available). For example, Purian Rose sounds so similar to President Snow of The Hunger Games. "Rose" as in Purian Rose's last name may be related to President Snow's rose perfume. Purian Rose and President Snow have a noticeable amount of similar characteristic traits. (No, I will not list them). (I am happy about this, because I get to read doppelganger [in personality] President Snow die).
Ash, one of the main characters, is similar to Edward Cullen from Twilight. (soft groan) Ash is to Phoenix as Katniss Everdeen is to Catching Fire. Ash is, according to the ladies, hot and handsome. Unfortunately for them, he is engaged. *Evil laughter* And the symbol of the rebellion. (That is a huge bell to Katniss Everdeen, don't you think?) Ash is brave, smart, and hungry (you won't get it till you read the book). Ash is an amazing character. He has conflicts, both internal and external. The choices he makes will affect the world of Phoenix. I enjoyed reading his POV. He may not notice things easily, but he is adept at jumping to conclusions and piecing little information by little information. Ash is the character that readers would admire and love.
Natalie...I admire her courage, but she wasn't as impressive as Ash. I felt that Natalie was just a secondary character despite her importance. Her POV and character traits were not as interesting as Ash. Ash is gold. Natalie should be gold, too, but she is more like silver. Not that bad. Not that good. Just...somewhere in the middle. Natalie has doubts. She's often worried about herself and her love ones. I felt that Natalie was less confident than Ash. (Probably the reason why Ash is the Phoenix, not Natalie).
The weapon...is disappointing. It didn't even make an appearance. I was intrigued by the talk about the weapon, but was really disappointed when Ora didn't appear at all. Mentioned, several times in fact. But never seen or used by the rebels. See? Disappointing.
Elijah seemed to be a promising character. There were many ups and downs in the relationship between Natalie and Ash. However, I felt that Elijah was just there to make things interesting. I was exceptionally surprise by the actions of Elijah. It was surprising and so unpredictable. I liked it. It was a clever twist by the author. Elijah is a fascinating character who has a lot of depth and very well hidden secrets. He was open yet also hidden.
The rebels...I felt that there were many similarities between the rebels of The Elite (there's a review) and rebels of The Hunger Games (no review) and the rebels of The Girl Of Fire and Thorns (no review). Every group of rebels have a powerful purpose and a willing mind. They have a strong determination. The rebels of Phoenix are slightly different. They aren't as strong, but they have the same determination as the rest of them.
Again, Ms. Richards, a recap of the first book would be helpful. Really helpful for readers like me, who didn't read the first book.
The book's rating is a four out of five.
This review is also on my blog.
I love the cover. It fits perfectly with the title. The cover reminds me of Catching Fire because of the fire on the feather. Amazing cover.
Phoenix is recommended to readers who like The Hunger Games. Phoenix has some similarities with The Hunger Games Trilogy, especially with Catching Fire.
This review does not have a spoiler section.
Synopsis:
"Ash and Natalie are just starting to build a life together when things in the United Sentry States go from bad to worse. Ash and Natalie find themselves at the center of turmoil when dictator Purian Rose threatens Natalie’s life unless Ash votes in favor of Rose’s Law—a law that will send Darklings and other dissenters to a deadly concentration camp known as the Tenth.
When Ash can’t bring himself to trade Natalie’s life for those of millions of Darklings, her fate is sealed. Enter Elijah Theroux, the handsome Bastet boy Natalie once saved from her mother’s labs, where he’d been experimented on and tortured. It was his venom the Sentry used to create the lethal Golden Haze, the heart of the government conspiracy that led to Black City’s uprising and Ash’s rebirth as the Phoenix, the face of the rebellion. Elijah is back and Ash doesn’t like him; it’s clear he’s taken with Natalie, and Ash fears she may have feelings for him as well.
But Elijah also may have the answer to taking down Purian Rose for good—a powerful weapon called the Ora. Ash, Natalie and Elijah just have to escape Black City undetected to find it. But fleeing the city and finding this weapon (if it even exists) are easier said than done, and the quest could tear Ash and Natalie apart, even pushing them into the arms of others.
This enthralling sequel to Black City is just as absorbing, delicious and steamy as the first book, leaving readers hungry for the series conclusion."
Before Reading: I was debating whether or not to read this book. After all, Phoenix is the second book in this series. I decided to go for it, because there is a bigger chance for me to not read the first book. I did the same thing with Liar's Moon (no review of this book, unfortunately).
While Reading: "Phoenix sounds a lot like Hunger Games." "Interesting." "Whoo! Go Ash! Nice thinking there!" "What!?! Are you seriously that stupid? Ohhh..."
After Reading:
I have issues with this book. Maybe because I haven't read the first book. Or with the actions of the characters. Mostly the first, few latter.
Phoenix is an outstanding book with beautiful characters that explore betrayal, love, danger, threats, risk, and unrequited love. If you like Hunger Games, then this is the book for you. If you like paranormal books, then this is the book for you. Anyone who likes dystopian? Yep, this is the book for you.
A recap of the first book would had been useful. For many parts of the book, I was left utterly clueless. That was when I realized that I really need to read the first book. Unfortunately, my local libraries (public library, school library, classroom library) doesn't carry the first book. Oh well.
There were lots of similarities to Hunger Games (No review), Twilight (No review and I wouldn't dare to), and The Fault In Our Stars (review available). For example, Purian Rose sounds so similar to President Snow of The Hunger Games. "Rose" as in Purian Rose's last name may be related to President Snow's rose perfume. Purian Rose and President Snow have a noticeable amount of similar characteristic traits. (No, I will not list them). (I am happy about this, because I get to read doppelganger [in personality] President Snow die).
Ash, one of the main characters, is similar to Edward Cullen from Twilight. (soft groan) Ash is to Phoenix as Katniss Everdeen is to Catching Fire. Ash is, according to the ladies, hot and handsome. Unfortunately for them, he is engaged. *Evil laughter* And the symbol of the rebellion. (That is a huge bell to Katniss Everdeen, don't you think?) Ash is brave, smart, and hungry (you won't get it till you read the book). Ash is an amazing character. He has conflicts, both internal and external. The choices he makes will affect the world of Phoenix. I enjoyed reading his POV. He may not notice things easily, but he is adept at jumping to conclusions and piecing little information by little information. Ash is the character that readers would admire and love.
Natalie...I admire her courage, but she wasn't as impressive as Ash. I felt that Natalie was just a secondary character despite her importance. Her POV and character traits were not as interesting as Ash. Ash is gold. Natalie should be gold, too, but she is more like silver. Not that bad. Not that good. Just...somewhere in the middle. Natalie has doubts. She's often worried about herself and her love ones. I felt that Natalie was less confident than Ash. (Probably the reason why Ash is the Phoenix, not Natalie).
The weapon...is disappointing. It didn't even make an appearance. I was intrigued by the talk about the weapon, but was really disappointed when Ora didn't appear at all. Mentioned, several times in fact. But never seen or used by the rebels. See? Disappointing.
Elijah seemed to be a promising character. There were many ups and downs in the relationship between Natalie and Ash. However, I felt that Elijah was just there to make things interesting. I was exceptionally surprise by the actions of Elijah. It was surprising and so unpredictable. I liked it. It was a clever twist by the author. Elijah is a fascinating character who has a lot of depth and very well hidden secrets. He was open yet also hidden.
The rebels...I felt that there were many similarities between the rebels of The Elite (there's a review) and rebels of The Hunger Games (no review) and the rebels of The Girl Of Fire and Thorns (no review). Every group of rebels have a powerful purpose and a willing mind. They have a strong determination. The rebels of Phoenix are slightly different. They aren't as strong, but they have the same determination as the rest of them.
Again, Ms. Richards, a recap of the first book would be helpful. Really helpful for readers like me, who didn't read the first book.
The book's rating is a four out of five.
This review is also on my blog.
October 14, 2017
Probably one of the best Book 2s of a trilogy I've ever read. This never had a dull moment. It was forever building, throwing twist after twist and keeping me sucked in. Loved it!
Check out more spoiler-free book and series reviews on my blog SERIESousBookReviews.com as well as read book series recaps!
Full Review: http://wp.me/p7hLUw-2cq
Actual Rating: 4.5/5
April 27, 2019
Very good after you get past the political stuff. The story was very good and interesting. It took off once they escaped the city and started looking everyones parents. Like I said with the first one it is like Hunger Games/Divergent with a little twist of other creatures mixed in.
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