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Divine Uprising #1
Divine Uprising
Freedom always comes at a cost…
The fallen were never named, therefore we go by our human names, names given to us by people who use to worship us. I’m Athena, one thing you need to know about me? I hate having to protect the human race, but my job as Seeker asks me to do just that—so that one day, I can earn a spot in heaven.
My father is the leader of the Phantoms, so I’m pretty sure that the archangels think of me as a flight risk, maybe that’s why they gave me the most gorgeous and annoying partner in all of Halceyon, Adonis.
His kisses give me strength, his presence soothes my soul—but our love, is completely forbidden.
There is a war coming, and now that the Titans have been released, it’s been brought to my front door. One thing is for certain—I’m going to have to make a choice, and I’m not sure I have the strength to make the right one, not anymore. Not after meeting Seth, not after my best friend’s betrayal, and not after I meet my father face to face and learn the truth—I may be exactly like him.
The fallen were never named, therefore we go by our human names, names given to us by people who use to worship us. I’m Athena, one thing you need to know about me? I hate having to protect the human race, but my job as Seeker asks me to do just that—so that one day, I can earn a spot in heaven.
My father is the leader of the Phantoms, so I’m pretty sure that the archangels think of me as a flight risk, maybe that’s why they gave me the most gorgeous and annoying partner in all of Halceyon, Adonis.
His kisses give me strength, his presence soothes my soul—but our love, is completely forbidden.
There is a war coming, and now that the Titans have been released, it’s been brought to my front door. One thing is for certain—I’m going to have to make a choice, and I’m not sure I have the strength to make the right one, not anymore. Not after meeting Seth, not after my best friend’s betrayal, and not after I meet my father face to face and learn the truth—I may be exactly like him.
198 pages, ebook
First published June 3, 2013
47 people are currently reading
700 people want to read
About the author
Rachel Van Dyken
177 books18.5k followersRachel Van Dyken is the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today Bestselling author of mafia and contemporary romances.
Hey guys I'm rarely on Goodreads, if you need to reach me feel free to email!
EMAIL ME: rachelvandykenauthor@gmail.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Rachel-...
Hey guys I'm rarely on Goodreads, if you need to reach me feel free to email!
EMAIL ME: rachelvandykenauthor@gmail.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Rachel-...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
July 13, 2017
This book just fell flat for me in all areas. I found the plot to be slow and for the most part, boring. There were several times I contemplated declaring this one a DNF, but I stuck it out. My mistake. I really didn’t care for any of the characters (and trust me, there were lots of them....too many.....it seemed like every few pages a new character was being thrown into the story and we were expected to know them, because they came in with no explanation or back story). Also, it seemed like every time a new character was introduced, they had to sit down with the heroine (whom every character seemed to adore) and have story time talking about things that happened thousands of years ago. It was tiring. The characters in general never felt genuine or realistic. Very one dimensional. There was also a love triangle going on in this book.......talk about making a bad book worse. The writing style did nothing for me. It was choppy and the dialogue felt forced and to be blunt, quite lame. Oh, and lets not forget, the ending sucked as well. It wasn’t a brutal cliffhanger, but there was no sense of closure. The ONLY good thing I found about this book was that it was offered as a kindleunlimited. I've read some of this writers previous work and really liked it, but this book was a hot mess all around.
June 4, 2013
Absolutely Amazing and unlike anything out of Rachael Van Dyken! The explanation of all paranormoal - gave everything a place and a home within the book. I love the explanation and ties between religous history, greek mythology, and vampire/werewolf sci-fi, drawing on common folk-lore and knowledge to pull the pieces together for the epic battle of good versus evil. The book takes you on an adventure than any reader would love. This is a MUST Read!!!!
June 7, 2013
I was literally swept away into this awesome world that Rachel Van Dyken has created! This book has it all: Action, romance, good versus evil...what more could you want? Oh, I know...hot looking guys in all their perfection! I loved how tough Athena was and how perfect and good-looking all of the characters were -- and for good reason since they are all angels, fallen or some super race. Athena was a great lead character: she was strong, she could hold her own and she wasn't simpering (bonus!) Adonis, I loved him! He kept me smiling throughout the book. Seth takes the cake though. He was part bad boy, wanted to be a good guy and so darn charming! Man, how could Athena stand being around such hot guys all the time? I guess it was her lot in life :)
Overall this was a fast and easy read for me. I was hooked from the start and couldn't put it down until the finish. Rachel Van Dyken beautifully weaves together the story of the Creation, Greek mythology and fairy-tale creatures into one fantastic book! The ending left me wanting more, a lot more. Yet I know there is another book, so I am trying to be content. If you like books about angels or Greek mythology then you will LOVE Divine Uprising. Hurry and grab your own copy, you won't be disappointed!
I received a copy of this book for free. This is my honest review.
Rating: Clean in the romance department
Overall this was a fast and easy read for me. I was hooked from the start and couldn't put it down until the finish. Rachel Van Dyken beautifully weaves together the story of the Creation, Greek mythology and fairy-tale creatures into one fantastic book! The ending left me wanting more, a lot more. Yet I know there is another book, so I am trying to be content. If you like books about angels or Greek mythology then you will LOVE Divine Uprising. Hurry and grab your own copy, you won't be disappointed!
I received a copy of this book for free. This is my honest review.
Rating: Clean in the romance department
June 8, 2013
I have to admit that I was blown away by Divine Uprising by Rachel Van Dyken. This book has a mixture of Greek mythology, religious history, action and romance. Athena, a kick butt female character, made an impression on me from the beginning. Not to give anything away, but with that murderous beginning, how could she not make an impression. From the descriptions of Headquarters to the realistic nature of the human race, this book has a mixture of everything. Adonis, Athena's partner as a Seeker, is perfectly described as an enticer. He stands by her side no matter what she is put through. After the truth of the heritage is revealed, I felt so sorry for her and definitely understood where her insecurities and questions came from. The presence of Seth had me laughing because I knew where that was going.
You absolutely have to love the way Rachel's mind works. She is always putting the reader first and going in depth with everything in the book so that you actually feel as if yo're walking next to the characters. No matter the genre, is it's a book written by Rachel, I can honestly say that it is definitely worth a read.
You absolutely have to love the way Rachel's mind works. She is always putting the reader first and going in depth with everything in the book so that you actually feel as if yo're walking next to the characters. No matter the genre, is it's a book written by Rachel, I can honestly say that it is definitely worth a read.
June 7, 2013
WOW!!! This is not your ordinary Rachel Van Dyken book, but with that being said...I loved it all the same! From beginning to end, it's a battle of good versus evil, with a lot of lust and love thrown in there. What's a girl to do when you have two sexy as sin men fighting for your afffection? Well, in this case, keep them both by your side! Love the characters of Seth and Adonis, both have completely different personalities, but can charm you to death with their "over the top" good looks! Can't wait for more of this story to unravel...looking forward to see what happens in this triangle of Seth, Adonis and Thena, and to get a glimpse into Alexander King. Love Rachel Van Dyken, and am continually blown away by her storytelling...you rock sista!! :)
January 10, 2014
i somehow couldnt really connect to the characters.
agreed that the story is far fetched.
but the writing didnt convince me of its characters and story.
agreed that the story is far fetched.
but the writing didnt convince me of its characters and story.
January 13, 2015
You can't end story like this...what happens next?????L!!
June 9, 2013
I had a hard time following this story. I typically love Rachel Van Dykens books, but this one, not so much. It was OK, and just kissing, nothing more. No cussing that I remember. This story is about the Greed Gods, and fallen angels, and tons of others fighting, and I just had a hard time following this book.
August 31, 2019
Reviewed by Angela
Book provided by the author
Another sleeper of a book for me. I was so surprised how fast I got pulled into this. In Divine Uprising we are introduced to Thena and Adonis the female and male leads respectively. This is the kind of love story that I can’t get enough of. It’s not just you meet two people and they fall in love but it is one that they need to work on. It’s there in the story and you can see the connection between Thena and Adonis.
I found myself so entranced by this story. I loved learning about Gods, Titans, and other myths when I was growing up and that is all touched on in this amazing story. In a good vs evil setting where sides must be chosen you really learn what people’s true colors are. Set in present time but dealing with things that go bump in the night. Set in multiple locations I never felt overwhelmed by the changes and was able to follow the story without any issue.
As with all of the books I have read by Rachel Van Dyken I am giving this a 5 Rose rating for being able to surprise me with the detail and a look back into times forgotten.
Favorite Quote: "It’s impossible that you don’t know how beautiful you are, Thena. Sometimes I wonder if you’re at all aware of the effect you have on the male species.”
Book provided by the author
Another sleeper of a book for me. I was so surprised how fast I got pulled into this. In Divine Uprising we are introduced to Thena and Adonis the female and male leads respectively. This is the kind of love story that I can’t get enough of. It’s not just you meet two people and they fall in love but it is one that they need to work on. It’s there in the story and you can see the connection between Thena and Adonis.
I found myself so entranced by this story. I loved learning about Gods, Titans, and other myths when I was growing up and that is all touched on in this amazing story. In a good vs evil setting where sides must be chosen you really learn what people’s true colors are. Set in present time but dealing with things that go bump in the night. Set in multiple locations I never felt overwhelmed by the changes and was able to follow the story without any issue.
As with all of the books I have read by Rachel Van Dyken I am giving this a 5 Rose rating for being able to surprise me with the detail and a look back into times forgotten.
Favorite Quote: "It’s impossible that you don’t know how beautiful you are, Thena. Sometimes I wonder if you’re at all aware of the effect you have on the male species.”
May 13, 2020
This story has amazing Verbal sparring 😃. The sexual tension was thick like molasses. I loved it even though there was never any real action. And what would you expect? The stories about angels getting tempted by female creations of God would logically lead to them tempted by Nephilim females, too, because the Nephilim are children of fallen angels and have some angel qualities.
Sexual teasers... Frustrating but accurate.
Athena and her partner Adonis are charged (along with other partners) to protect humans, but after thousands of years, she is starting to feel the temptations that angels and humans feel. She could not keep her emotions locked up. Meanwhile, the fallen angels have made a new power play and gained the support of the original Titans (a mix of Greek Pantheon and christianity==uniquely different story). Michael assigns Athena to visit the Titans and attempt to change their minds, or all is lost.
Expect lots of action. Also, expect some deep reflections in the middle of the night.
It is easy to love beauty. What makes El's love special is loving imperfect beings too. The angels failed to understand. They thought El treated humans better instead of loving all his children or creations equally. The racism and enviousness are breeding a new conflict, and the story does not end in one novel...but you will enjoy this trip.
Sexual teasers... Frustrating but accurate.
Athena and her partner Adonis are charged (along with other partners) to protect humans, but after thousands of years, she is starting to feel the temptations that angels and humans feel. She could not keep her emotions locked up. Meanwhile, the fallen angels have made a new power play and gained the support of the original Titans (a mix of Greek Pantheon and christianity==uniquely different story). Michael assigns Athena to visit the Titans and attempt to change their minds, or all is lost.
Expect lots of action. Also, expect some deep reflections in the middle of the night.
It is easy to love beauty. What makes El's love special is loving imperfect beings too. The angels failed to understand. They thought El treated humans better instead of loving all his children or creations equally. The racism and enviousness are breeding a new conflict, and the story does not end in one novel...but you will enjoy this trip.
August 7, 2018
Struggled with this take on the angel folklore...
Having read many of RVD’s books I have been a fan of many of them but lately her most recent books have been a massive disappointment. This book was 3/4 “disappointment”
and 1/4 in the “interesting”(hence the 2 stars). All the characters seemed to be damned in one way or another yet all fighting for the one who damned them without real conviction for the cause. I understand the religious references but since every character introduced seemed to have similar damning traits/backstories it was hard to distinguish btw them and frankly, hard to care much about them. The little romance within the book was very contrived. Not entirely clear as to why it is “forbidden” as some the descriptions seem to indicate and there is very little actual romance. The world this books tries to create needs more work and a more well defined background to really draw you into it. As a result the annoying cliffhanger leaves you not really wanting to bother with the next story.
Having read many of RVD’s books I have been a fan of many of them but lately her most recent books have been a massive disappointment. This book was 3/4 “disappointment”
and 1/4 in the “interesting”(hence the 2 stars). All the characters seemed to be damned in one way or another yet all fighting for the one who damned them without real conviction for the cause. I understand the religious references but since every character introduced seemed to have similar damning traits/backstories it was hard to distinguish btw them and frankly, hard to care much about them. The little romance within the book was very contrived. Not entirely clear as to why it is “forbidden” as some the descriptions seem to indicate and there is very little actual romance. The world this books tries to create needs more work and a more well defined background to really draw you into it. As a result the annoying cliffhanger leaves you not really wanting to bother with the next story.
October 9, 2021
2.5 stars
Well, I kept reading for some Athena and Adonis action, which didn't come.
It was a very confusing world-building and very very religious.
Also, it did not come to some kind of conclusion.
Well, I kept reading for some Athena and Adonis action, which didn't come.
It was a very confusing world-building and very very religious.
Also, it did not come to some kind of conclusion.
January 25, 2018
Not what I’m used to reading from Rachel but I loved it and hope we get to read more of what will happen next with Seth, Athena and Adonis.
October 10, 2019
This book was written well and I enjoyed the story line BUT I'm just not into weird love if you call it that triangles. Sorry.
July 22, 2021
OMG i need more in this world!!! So good
December 14, 2013
A Cuzinlogic.com book review.
Divine Uprising is a paranormal/fantasy read of epic proportions. I think many readers will enjoy the way Rachel Van Dyken brings together Greek mythology, vampires, fallen angels and aliens all in one place. The characters were definitely the real spotlight in this book. It was wicked cool how they liked to switch sides back and forth, from light to darkness. Who to trust? Who is good or bad?
Our kick-butt heroine Athena is my favorite character. This is mostly her story as the gorgeous half-breed seeker (part human, part angel) that fights against phantoms who endanger human lives. Her sarcastic thoughts and comebacks are hilarious without her meaning to, no wonder everybody loves her. Athena is lucky enough to be surrounded by beautiful people and even have two of them insanely in love with her. Adonis or Seth? I’m team Adonis right now, but as Seth is so alluring as well, I might change my mind in the future. Now this is what I call a good love-triangle.
While it’s exciting to have so many characters, I do think it’s a bit overwhelming trying to keep up with the chaotic mess of the never-ending war between good and evil. As many alliances are made with other “beings” to help out in the war, smaller battles will have to be fought and won to gain leverage over the bad guys. I hope I get to see them actually struggle, and to not always endear their way to get what they want.
I absolutely look forward on reading the next book and see what Rachel makes Athena, Adonis, Seth and everybody else go through. I’m guessing down, maybe? I bet Athena would love that.
Note: I received a free copy of Devine Uprising in exchange for an honest review. I assure all opinions shared are 100% my own.
Divine Uprising is a paranormal/fantasy read of epic proportions. I think many readers will enjoy the way Rachel Van Dyken brings together Greek mythology, vampires, fallen angels and aliens all in one place. The characters were definitely the real spotlight in this book. It was wicked cool how they liked to switch sides back and forth, from light to darkness. Who to trust? Who is good or bad?
Our kick-butt heroine Athena is my favorite character. This is mostly her story as the gorgeous half-breed seeker (part human, part angel) that fights against phantoms who endanger human lives. Her sarcastic thoughts and comebacks are hilarious without her meaning to, no wonder everybody loves her. Athena is lucky enough to be surrounded by beautiful people and even have two of them insanely in love with her. Adonis or Seth? I’m team Adonis right now, but as Seth is so alluring as well, I might change my mind in the future. Now this is what I call a good love-triangle.
While it’s exciting to have so many characters, I do think it’s a bit overwhelming trying to keep up with the chaotic mess of the never-ending war between good and evil. As many alliances are made with other “beings” to help out in the war, smaller battles will have to be fought and won to gain leverage over the bad guys. I hope I get to see them actually struggle, and to not always endear their way to get what they want.
I absolutely look forward on reading the next book and see what Rachel makes Athena, Adonis, Seth and everybody else go through. I’m guessing down, maybe? I bet Athena would love that.
Note: I received a free copy of Devine Uprising in exchange for an honest review. I assure all opinions shared are 100% my own.
July 16, 2013
The use of figures from mythology made the English major in me happy. I love the incorporation of the myths, religion, and paranormal; it’s a unique spin on known literary characters and belief systems.
The book is different than Rachel’s other books, but it’s just as good. She has once again created beautiful characters and subjected them to a plot full of action, mystery, and romance, compelling me to live alongside the characters until the story ended.
On a personal note, I liked the character perspective switching toward the end of the book. It ended in a cliffhanger of sorts; I can't wait to find out what happens next!
The book is different than Rachel’s other books, but it’s just as good. She has once again created beautiful characters and subjected them to a plot full of action, mystery, and romance, compelling me to live alongside the characters until the story ended.
On a personal note, I liked the character perspective switching toward the end of the book. It ended in a cliffhanger of sorts; I can't wait to find out what happens next!
March 21, 2014
I really like the concept of this story, but I did find that it got disjointed and I had a hard time following the whole Fallen vs. Phantoms vs. etc. In the end, I tried to just go with the story/romance pieces and ignored who was what and fighting for what. Probably not the best approach, but it made things easier for me. It may also have to do with trying to cover off so much in the first book and in so few pages really. Most fantasy books dealing with this type of plot span over 250 pages. Irrespective, I'm interested to see how Athena-Seth-Adonis work things out and what happens in the next book.
January 11, 2015
Really enjoyed this book was pleasantly surprised how the author managed to link all the religious aspects with different mythology and supernatural entities, without it being odd or confusing. It was a strange take on everything as I don't think I've ever read a book that included Angels, Greek mythology, as well as vampires and aliens. I was actually quite surprised how it all worked well together as I wasn't expecting the book to be this good as the author hasn't really done many of this genre, but think she did a fantastic job and it was well written so would defiantly recommend giving it a go.
January 30, 2015
A new series by this author that I really enjoyed reading. It combines Greek mythology with Angel lore and a bit of the supernatural thrown in. There were so many twists that occurred that it definitely made the book fun and exciting to read. Most of the book is told from Athena's pov. The second part of the book is told from Adonis' and Seth's pov. I really hope there is another book in this series and that it comes out soon
June 17, 2013
I really enjoyed reading this book, as I do with all of Rachel Van Dyken's books! Divine Uprising gives you a unique view of Greek Mythology, Angels, and other "Supernatural" beings. I really liked the story, thought it was well written, and can't wait for MORE! :) I recommend this book to every book lover!
November 10, 2015
Awesome as usual!
I LOVE Rachel's writing and I loved this book! I was so intrigued! The characters grabbed me and I felt for Athena because she had so many pressures! Adonis and Seth are both dreamy and I can't wait to see where everything is headed between these 2 guys and Athena! Great read for me! This is more in the paranormal genre but has the romance!
I LOVE Rachel's writing and I loved this book! I was so intrigued! The characters grabbed me and I felt for Athena because she had so many pressures! Adonis and Seth are both dreamy and I can't wait to see where everything is headed between these 2 guys and Athena! Great read for me! This is more in the paranormal genre but has the romance!
October 25, 2015
AWESOME! what a great story! wow! for a paranormal love story. I mean I normally read adult romance/erotic /suspense, but since there is a lull in all my favorite authors; I decided to check out a Fairy tail confessions and it brought me to read some of my favorite authors paranormal stories and then some. Now this story I like hope there is more to this adventure in the Divine Uprising.
November 3, 2015
Light and dark Nephillim
This book had a host of different types of characters; archangels, titans, vampires, nephillim and Angel like aliens. The book was written about theology in an interesting and fun way. It emphasized that everyone has free will and has the decision to make the right or wrong one, but there will be consequences if the wrong one is made.
This book had a host of different types of characters; archangels, titans, vampires, nephillim and Angel like aliens. The book was written about theology in an interesting and fun way. It emphasized that everyone has free will and has the decision to make the right or wrong one, but there will be consequences if the wrong one is made.
June 11, 2017
Awful, convoluted, confusing story. Angels, mythological creatures and gods, aliens, vampires....WTF?! Don't bother. Can't believe I read the whole thing because it was like several nightmares gone bad.
October 26, 2016
I am a huge fan of Rachel's work, but for me this book fell a little flat. I wish she would've spent more time building the characters instead of keeping the plot so fast paced. I really did like the Greek myths woven in. Overall, not my favorite book by this author.
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December 22, 2016DNF
SADLY THIS WASNT FOR ME. I UNDERSTAND THIS IS A LITTLE DIFFERENT THAN NORMAL OF WHAT VAN DYKEN WOULD DELIVER, BUT THIS WAS MORE FOCUSED ON THE WAR THAN THE ROMANCE.
I prefer the ROMANCE more but otherwise this would have been a nice movie to watch with all the CGI effect and etc
SADLY THIS WASNT FOR ME. I UNDERSTAND THIS IS A LITTLE DIFFERENT THAN NORMAL OF WHAT VAN DYKEN WOULD DELIVER, BUT THIS WAS MORE FOCUSED ON THE WAR THAN THE ROMANCE.
I prefer the ROMANCE more but otherwise this would have been a nice movie to watch with all the CGI effect and etc
June 18, 2013
Once again Rachel you've done it again love it cannot wait for the next book!!
July 31, 2013
This was a great read. It is different then what Rachel usually writes , but with her great story telling and wit I enjoyed this mystical tail.
October 18, 2013
oh what I would give to be in Athena's place.. two guys, very beautiful handsome guys, no make that three, after you... oh gosh! :)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews