One girl's quest for belonging leads to perilous secrets. Will she uncover the truth before it's too late? Amoura Renly is anything but average, much to her dismay. When a violent confrontation with a bully awakens her connection to magic, Amoura struggles with the realization she's farther from fitting in than she ever imagined. Desperate for a fresh start, Amoura enrolls at Elderwood School for the Magically Inclined, tucked beneath the streets of San Francisco. But with a unique connection to magic seemingly different from her peers and a secret police force “disappearing” anyone deemed a magical abnormality, fitting in is the least of her troubles. As Amoura navigates the dangers of a society that fears what it doesn’t understand, she uncovers the truth about her connection to magic and the dark secrets that threaten her very existence. Meg Kramer’s enchanting debut YA urban fantasy “Amoura Awakened” imagines a world where witches and humans coexist. Where ordinary teenagers--with all their desires, jealousies, and insecurities—wield magic. This gripping tale of friendship, danger, and self-discovery will keep you questioning what’s true until the final page. Buy “Amoura Awakened” today and begin uncovering the untold stories and secrets of the magical world.
This is such an exciting new Magical Academia tale! Loved reading every page of this fast paced modern magical Fairy Tale! This story shares a powerful message of the importance of self discovery and never being afraid of the magic you have within.
Amoura and her Coven in training are such incredible and diverse characters that I won’t soon forget. Magical San Francisco and Elderwood Academy is such an enchanting setting for our characters to endure the trials and tribulations of being a First Year Witch!
If you love Fantasy reads filled with captivating magical elements, sprinkled with mysteries and some romance, this is for you! The perfect Witchy ready for fall! I SO Can’t wait to read what comes next in this enchanting world!! Thank you for sharing her story with us!
Rating: 4/5 Penguins Quick Reasons: a little slow on the uptick but the second half is fabulous; secrets, intrigue, a uniquely crafted magic; creative, vivid descriptions; thick, rich world building
HUGE thanks to Meg Kramer for the ARC of this title! My review of this book is voluntarily written and in no way altered or impacted by this gesture.
Tio Beto looked at the ceiling momentarily as if determining the best way to answer. "History is not written by the winners, as it's sometimes said, but by those with the most power and the most to lose."
I'll be honest, Penguins. I really struggled to get into this for the first 100 pages or so. I thought Amoura was bound to be touted as the "perfect one" the whole book. Her attitude in the beginning REALLY grated on my nerves. There was a lot of world building all at once that made things just a little hard to follow. BUT...
I stuck it out, and around page 100 or so, everything shifted. The story started picking up. Amoura's character started to stretch and to grow. Everything started to fall more easily into place. The magic system in this world, while still with some of the same "tropes," is creative and uniquely imagined. Meg Kramer did a great job of blending the "dream world" into the character's story without overdoing it. Every hint dropped and loose end unknotted got tied up while still leaving room for questions and reader interpretations. And while the ending felt just a little bit "rushed," I was still thoroughly entertained by the time I turned the last page.
"It means that you will set the world on fire. You will change everything."
"I don't know what you're talking about."
She smiled her all-knowing smile that made my head spin. "You will. With time, you will. But now, we must practice."
I definitely recommend this to lovers of unique magic, entertaining reads, and suspenseful narratives filled with character growth. Meg Kramer's writing is charming and vivid, and this read is bound to leave you gasping. Are you ready to learn the truth behind Amoura's magic, Penguins? Let's put you to the test.
Amoura’s journey into self-discovery, like any good and satisfying journey, is rife with doubts, insecurities, and tension. It is what makes her ride into witch-hood relatable and draws in readers like you and me. The young girl’s frustration, as she learns more about herself and her powers, is palpable in the book’s pages. You can almost feel your skin tingling along with hers.
However, with her inner turmoil, comes a group of people who believe in her and her capabilities. Friends, or a coven, who stand by her through thick and thin. These people are among the magical elements that make Amoura’s story what it is, as no one can really go through life without the love and support of family and friends.
Amoura Awakened is a beautiful story of finding one’s true self amid the love you have for yourself and the people around you. It’s premise may not be as unique as you’d want it, but its heart holds true and you will find wonderful insights and moments within its pages.
The story follows Amoura Renly, a beautifully misunderstood girl who discovers her magical abilities during a violent confrontation with a school bully. This revelation sets her on a path to Elderwood School for the Magically Inclined, a prestigious magic school in San Francisco. As Amoura navigates her new life at the magical school, she becomes entangled in a world filled with adventure, friendship, a touch of young adult romance, danger and self discovery. Amoura's connection to magic and the struggles she has accessing it sets her apart, and she must confront the dark secrets threatening her existence.
What set this book apart for me is the modern take on the traditional magical school theme, (think along the lines of Harry Potter) BUT introduces fresh and relatable elements like Amoura's adoption by two supportive human dads and addressing issues like bullying, discrimination, and self-doubt add so much depth and diversity to the story. One of the standout features for me was the author’s inclusion of diverse characters from various heritages and backgrounds, as well as the exploration of non-binary aspects. This added a layer of authenticity and relevance to the story, making it more relatable especially to a modern young adult audience.
Meg definitely came in with a bang with this debut novel, I was captivated by her beautiful writing style and descriptive way she yields her words. I could feel the emotions and see what she described in vivid detail. My heart was racing as I turned the pages and honestly to me that is what makes a good book and authors like Meg Kramer stand out. This enchanting story has left me eagerly anticipating the next book in the series.
Overall, "Amoura Awakened" is a captivating and engaging urban fantasy that keeps readers hooked from start to finish. It's a tale of self-discovery, friendship, and the challenges of navigating a world that fears the unknown. Meg Kramer's debut novel is a must-read for fans of young adult fantasy who crave a mix of magic, romance, and relatable teenage experiences.
This book is a Young Adult Fantasy, so there was not much world building which made this an easy read without any confusion. Amoura Renly discovers she is a witch during an outburst and transfers to an enchanted school under the streets of San Francisco. I know... Magical Academia! So exciting! Once there, she goes on a different journey to uncover secrets of her past (she has two adopted parents- identity crisis?) while attempting to steer clear of the danger of knowing this information could put her in. This book wrapped me up within the 1st few pages and I could not put it down. Nearing the end of the book, my apple watch started picking up elevated heart rate because of the fast paced events and waiting for the outcome. I really loved the show of self-confidence, self-esteem, and real school relationships between friends. Another thing I absolutely loved was that the witches and humans lived together amongst each other although they were different, which says something about the message of the book.
You know an author is good when you feel lost after the book ends! I became so immersed in the book that I felt like I was right there with Amoura finding herself as she went on her journey of self discovery! I am sad to part ways but I can and will read the book over and over. Since the hardback book was just released, I think I will grab a copy to for my bookshelf and for when I want to read it again.
The fact that Meg included LGBT, non- binary characters, interracial relationships, etc to show the time period this book took place.
I will be patiently waiting for the second installment of this series! You did your thing with this one Meg!
Here is my review for Amoura Awakened by Meg Kramer
I managed to get into the book straight away and found it really easy to read. It’s a fast read and I found it to be an enjoyable read. It’s all about a young girl learning to become a witch at a witch’s school and mastering the art of spells. When she is home for Christmas break, she enlists the help of her neighbour who is a witch to help practice for her exam for the new term in the new year. When she does, she gets to learn how to do the casting spells and her magic is better, she just has to learn how to master the strength of it. It’s an interesting read and if there’s a second book I’d be interested to read that too. This is Meg Kramer’s debut with this book which is a great YA book.
Blurb :
One girl's quest for belonging leads to perilous secrets. Will she uncover the truth before it's too late? Amoura Renly is anything but average, much to her dismay. When a violent confrontation with a bully awakens her connection to magic, Amoura struggles with the realization she's farther from fitting in than she ever imagined. Desperate for a fresh start, Amoura enrolls at Elderwood School for the Magically Inclined, tucked beneath the streets of San Francisco. But with a unique connection to magic seemingly different from her peers and a secret police force “disappearing” anyone deemed a magical abnormality, fitting in is the least of her troubles. As Amoura navigates the dangers of a society that fears what it doesn’t understand, she uncovers the truth about her connection to magic and the dark secrets that threaten her very existence.
"Amoura Awakened" by Meg Kramer is a spellbinding debut that seamlessly weaves together the enchanting realm of witches with the rollercoaster of teenage emotions. Kramer's storytelling effortlessly blends inner struggles and budding romance, creating a captivating narrative that keeps readers hooked from start to finish. The protagonist's resilience against inner demons and a clandestine witch police force adds a layer of strength and ingenuity, making her a compelling character.
This young adult fantasy novel strikes a perfect balance between the magic of Harry Potter and the intensity of the Hunger Games. Kramer brings a modern twist to the traditional magical school theme, infusing the narrative with fresh and relatable elements. The inclusion of Amoura's adoption by two supportive human dads and the exploration of themes like bullying, discrimination, and self-doubt adds depth and diversity to the story, making it resonate with a wide audience.
Meg Kramer's writing is nothing short of fantastic – descriptive without being overly flowery, creating an immersive experience for the reader. The effortless flow of the narrative makes the book an absolute joy to read, and I eagerly anticipate the release of part 2. "Amoura Awakened" is not just a tale of magic; it's a journey of self-discovery, friendship, and overcoming the challenges of a world that often fears the unknown. I can't wait to share this gem with my granddaughters; it's a must-read for any fantasy enthusiast!
Meg Kramer’s debut novel, Amoura Awakened, is absolutely phenomenal! I loved Amoura from the get go and loved her personal transformation from beginning to end. And speaking of characters, the amount of character diversity in this book was absolutely amazing and a breath of fresh air! They were all so well written, sometimes when reading books with diverse characters they end up feeling forced, but it was not like that at all. Truly wonderful.
Some fantasies lay on the world building really heavy, which I do enjoy as well, but Amoura Awakened doesn’t. I I felt like there was just enough world building in this novel, especially since it’s supposed to be epic or high fantasy. I was able to picture and feel everything that Amoura was dealing with without it being over the top.
I find the cover to be oddly beautiful and intriguing as well. It’s not the usual cover I see in this genre but something about it really draws me in.
I would highly recommend Amoura Awakened to anyone looking for a ya fantasy thriller, whether you be 13 or 31(like myself). I will most definitely be getting a physical copy for my oldest girl to read since she doesn’t do ebooks. This would also be the perfect book for you if you’re looking to get into fantasy without a ton of world building or character POVs. I was sad when the book ended because I was so in love with the characters and story line, I really hope to see more of Amoura and crew in the future!
Have you ever wondered what the Wizarding World of Harry Potter would be like if muggles knew of the existence of magic and co-existed along with it? ✨🤔
Well, this book discovers just that! 🪄
Set in San Francisco, the story follows Amoura, a young girl who discovers she is a witch, much to her surprise. In this world, witches and non-magical folk co-exist, but the divide between the two is great, with each of them keeping to themselves. However, as she enters this new community of witches, Amoura soon discovers that the divide in the magical world is even greater. 🪄✨💫
Amoura Awakened is a book I wish had been written when I was a teenager!
The author's writing is as magical and captivating as the tale itself. The world they have created is immersive and believable, with vivid descriptions that make it easy to forget that you are actually sitting in your living room reading a book. It is the kind of story that will immediately draw you in and keep you turning pages until the very end. Mark my words: this is going to be a massive hit in YA literature.
The main character, Amoura, is a relatable protagonist who confronts her inner demons and embarks on a journey of self-discovery that could be helpful and healing to many readers. At first glance, this book may seem like just another story about witches and magic, but it's so much more than that. It's a story about finding your own path, a path that may not be easy or even what you expect it to be, but one that will ultimately lead you to accept yourself and love yourself for exactly who you are.
The book is epic in every sense of the word: it has an empowering storyline, an exciting mix of adventure and character development as well as some important themes for teens to explore on their own terms. I honestly can't recommend it enough!!
So this author actually reached out to me and asked if I would be interested in reading & reviewing her book-like ummm yes! Happy too! And I'm so glad I said YES! I really enjoyed this story-witchy vibes, magic school, FMC discovering who she really is, and of course plot twists.
There are several characters that I immediately latched onto and loved (Amoura, Finn, Bea), then there were several (one in particular) who gave me the ick AND PROVED ME RIGHT (iykyk because I'm not one to give ANY form of spoilers haha), and there were some who completely shocked me with the twists in their character development that had me questioning "are they good?" or "oh wait they're not as bad as I thought".
It's a pretty quick & easy, fun read (it just took me longer because...well....life haha). If you're looking for a fun, YA, witchy read, definitely pick this book up and give it a try! So good, and definitely want more.
Amoura Awakened by Meg Kramer is a bewitching tale of self-discovery and the power of magic.
Amoura Renly is an ordinary girl living an ordinary life, until a violent encounter with a bully awakens her latent magical abilities. Struggling to come to terms with her newfound powers and the societal fears surrounding them, Amoura embarks on a journey of self-acceptance and empowerment.
As Amoura delves deeper into the world of magic, she uncovers dark secrets and dangerous forces that threaten her very existence. With the help of her newfound allies, Amoura must confront her fears and embrace her true potential to protect herself and the world she loves.
Amoura Awakened is a must-read for fans of fantasy, adventure, and coming-of-age stories.
Meg Kramer is a brilliant&creative writer Wow. Where to start with this book, it's absolutely amazing, I forgot I was reading. It's a story that quickly pulls you in and leaves you wanting the answers to the questions amoura has. Amoura is written beautifully, the character development throughout this book is brilliant (no spoilers) The imagery in this book is second to none, I was left wanting to visit these places, drink the lemonade and eat those pancakes! I couldn't put this book down, her writing is so clever and amazing, every character in this book has their moment to shine, which is rare. This book really has it all! Lots of strong women and an amazing portrait of what true family is. Ugh I just LOVED IT. Would definitely recommend. It is a witchy YA book perfect for the autumn (or anytime). I have high praise for Meg!!
***** A book you won’t want to put down! Amoura Awakened, the incredible debut novel from Meg Kramer will transport you to another world of magic and mystery below the streets of San Francisco. Deep within Elderwood School for the Magically Inclined, there is a history that has been kept from the majority. However, as Amoura discovers her abilities in this new and strange world, her strength, determination, and self-discovery lead her straight into danger and the truth. I loved this book from the first page. I felt engrossed in the amazing magical world Meg has created and adsorbed into all the characters and their journey. I can’t wait for Meg’s next installment to see where Amoura’s life will go. Highly recommend this book to anyone who loves magic, mystery, and intrigue until the final pages.
I loved this book! A captivating coming of age magical adventure that grips the reader from the first moment that Amoura's power is awakened! In her debut young adult fantasy novel, Meg Kramer creates an intriguing world of witches interwoven with teenage angst, budding romance, and intergenerational drama within a reimagined Bay Area cityscape. Whether battling inner demons or a secret witch police force, our heroine shows a strength and ingenuity that keeps the reader engaged. This is hands down the best YA fantasy novel I have read in a long time and will sit on the top of my favorites list for years to come. A mixture of Harry Potter and Hunger Games but with an occasionally more sinister undertone, my only disappointment is that the next book in the series is not available yet!
A fantastic ya fantasy about witches. Amoura Renly never knowing she was magically inclined until one day she received a post card for ESMI to attend the entry examination. She never really gave it much thought until one day her whole world changed. During school she lost all control and her powers showed in full force. I truthfully enjoyed reading the story of Amoura and her friends. Making the journey through her first year at ESMI. Her fear controlled her for so long she could hardly control her magic. I enjoyed seeing her growth and learning what it took to be the true witch she was. Through overcoming so many challenges, to the strenuous assessments, and the way other students treated her. I feel this book for be great for all ages.
I received this book free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
This was a fun book that I found to be character driven. I loved the bonds that Amoura formed with her new friends that she met at the magical school that she went to. I also loved her family relationship with her fathers. Even though Amoura's magical school was a boarding one, I still loved the chapters where her father's showed up. I found the school to be interesting as well and think that Harry Potter fans would like this, especially if they wish that HP had more diversity.
Overall I would give this book 3.5 stars, but I'm rounding up to four.
This was a brilliant story, with an awesome teen FMC. I can’t imagine finding out I had magic as a teen, especially when your biggest worries should be fitting in! Amoura has a lot to deal with, and I thought Kramer did an excellent job of bringing her to life. I loved learning about the magical world and school existing right alongside the mundane one. The descriptions really make you feel like you’re right there next to Amoura the entire time. The story itself is engaging and keeps pulling you along, with no real lulls. If you’re looking for a magical modern adventure, you’ll want to put this at the top of your TBR.
We follow teen Amoura Renly as she goes through some trials and tribulations, meets some wacky people, goes on some adventures and deals with some real serious topics- but in a way that’s approachable and opens up discussions. A YA fantasy that will engage and suck up a whole afternoon in the blink of an eye. Twists and turns at every corner, and some awesome LGBT+ representation. Plus- witches in San Francisco!! What more could you possibly want? Do yourself a favour and pick up a copy upon its release- you will not be disappointed by whiling away a day or several with Amoura and her friends.
How can you not adore a book and tugs at a younger you that’s still hoping a certain letter to a magical school just got lost in the post? Meg Kramer does an amazing job introducing us a world where we live side by side with witches but at the same time embraces our inner child.
I could not stop turning the pages as they spoon fed me every detail as I walked beside Amoura as she discovers her new reality and finds her place in a new magical world. This debut is well written and I highly recommend it!
This was my first dip into fantasy & the witchy vibes were amazing! Very young adult! Seeing Amoura come to discover herself and accept herself was amazing! Seeing her go from I’m better off alone to a support system was so amazing as well! All the many elements of who she is and the world she is now a part of! So glad the author reached out for me to give it a try!
I need the next book….. This book just got better and better as I turned the pages. Amouras journey of self discovery is one of its own, I’ve never felt so emotionally connected to a book. If you’re considering reading this wonderful book…..This is meant to convince you to do so! If I could rate this book more than 5 stars I would! ( I need a sequel!! )
I fell in love with this book the more I kept reading. I fell in love with the characters and how relatable they were. I wasn't left missing anything or with things that didn't make sense. Definitely a must read for YA fantasy fans.
Amazing book!!! I cannot wait for the next instalment, it leave you guessing at every turn and I love how each character, no matter how small, has their own personality. Brilliant plot from start to finish