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Unleashed
In an event that shakes the foundations of the world, thousands find themselves with new powers. Initially thought to be miracles of science, prejudice and fear soon bring danger from the darkness.
Fenris Trygg lost everything he loved when the Changing came. Cynical and bitter, he keeps himself at a distance from everyone, especially those who care about him the most. But when a charming redhead crosses his path, he may have met the one person who can tear down his walls.
Vivacious and bright, Sara Gardien hides a dark past. The child of Gifted parents, she shows no signs of a Gift, and fits into neither social caste. Determined to follow her own path, she sets her sights on what she wants and allows nothing to stand in her way.
Two damaged souls find each other, but when a new threat strikes, can they fight past the pain to stay together and defeat a common enemy?
Or will the Changing ultimately lead to their death and destruction?
Fenris Trygg lost everything he loved when the Changing came. Cynical and bitter, he keeps himself at a distance from everyone, especially those who care about him the most. But when a charming redhead crosses his path, he may have met the one person who can tear down his walls.
Vivacious and bright, Sara Gardien hides a dark past. The child of Gifted parents, she shows no signs of a Gift, and fits into neither social caste. Determined to follow her own path, she sets her sights on what she wants and allows nothing to stand in her way.
Two damaged souls find each other, but when a new threat strikes, can they fight past the pain to stay together and defeat a common enemy?
Or will the Changing ultimately lead to their death and destruction?
324 pages, Paperback
First published November 1, 2023
About the author
Amber Kirkpatrick
7 books56 followersAmber dabbled with words for years and dreamed of writing a story that had been in her head since her teens. In 2021 she finally sat down to get it out of her system. It was intended to be something fun for her kids to read someday, but evolved into her coming-of-age kingdom fantasy, Until the Rising. After that, there was no stopping her. Now characters and stories flood Amber’s mind, and she tries to capture them as best as she can.
Rather than be put in a box, Amber enjoys exploring different genres and writing styles. Her short stories and poetry can be found in various anthologies. More books are simmering on the stove, waiting to be served one day.
Amber lives in the Texas Hill Country. You can connect with her at www.amberkirkpatrick.com and on IG at @amber.kirkpatrick.writer
Rather than be put in a box, Amber enjoys exploring different genres and writing styles. Her short stories and poetry can be found in various anthologies. More books are simmering on the stove, waiting to be served one day.
Amber lives in the Texas Hill Country. You can connect with her at www.amberkirkpatrick.com and on IG at @amber.kirkpatrick.writer
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
October 16, 2023
good gosh, I think *I* need therapy after reading everything the characters went through.
Fenris and Sara immediately jump off the page, steal your heart, and don’t let you go even after you turn the last page. Full of heart, Amber captures the battle of true love, true sacrifice, and fighting for what is right and good.
This book was fantastic and I cannot wait until I have it on my shelf!
Fenris and Sara immediately jump off the page, steal your heart, and don’t let you go even after you turn the last page. Full of heart, Amber captures the battle of true love, true sacrifice, and fighting for what is right and good.
This book was fantastic and I cannot wait until I have it on my shelf!
August 11, 2025
Story: 4.5⭐️
Execution: 2⭐️
Wow! This had such potential! I found the story riveting, and I stayed up late to finish it. I loved the strong “found family” aspect of this story, despite the fact that it happened before the book began. I loved the commitment to wait until marriage for sex. I also appreciated the faith elements sprinkled in.
However, as many debuts go, it wasn’t executed as well as it could have been, so I was pulled out of the story often. The characterization wasn’t thorough enough, so while I knew I liked the characters, I had to fill in a lot of thoughts and feelings myself. The passage of time also seemed off—much more time passes in this book than it seems. (Although I liked that it spanned a year.) The world building was way too minimal. There was an ultrasonic wave that changed some people and gave them abilities, regular people have grown wary and often aggressive toward the people who have these gifts, and it’s set in Sacramento, CA, but that’s about all we know. (Where did the wave come from? Was it worldwide? Future or present?) Furthermore, the narrative is often choppy.
Oh, and my Kindle edition wasn’t proofread very well. There were lots of typos.
HOWEVER, I really, really enjoyed the story, so I definitely recommend this book if you can be forgiving of the issues I mentioned above.
CW: Prologue contains a make-out scene that, while not descriptive at all, is pretty passionate. One person wants to go “all the way”, the other wants to wait until marriage. (They don’t have sex.) There is also a lot of loss and death in this story. Blood is mentioned, but I didn’t find it gory.
Execution: 2⭐️
Wow! This had such potential! I found the story riveting, and I stayed up late to finish it. I loved the strong “found family” aspect of this story, despite the fact that it happened before the book began. I loved the commitment to wait until marriage for sex. I also appreciated the faith elements sprinkled in.
However, as many debuts go, it wasn’t executed as well as it could have been, so I was pulled out of the story often. The characterization wasn’t thorough enough, so while I knew I liked the characters, I had to fill in a lot of thoughts and feelings myself. The passage of time also seemed off—much more time passes in this book than it seems. (Although I liked that it spanned a year.) The world building was way too minimal. There was an ultrasonic wave that changed some people and gave them abilities, regular people have grown wary and often aggressive toward the people who have these gifts, and it’s set in Sacramento, CA, but that’s about all we know. (Where did the wave come from? Was it worldwide? Future or present?) Furthermore, the narrative is often choppy.
Oh, and my Kindle edition wasn’t proofread very well. There were lots of typos.
HOWEVER, I really, really enjoyed the story, so I definitely recommend this book if you can be forgiving of the issues I mentioned above.
CW: Prologue contains a make-out scene that, while not descriptive at all, is pretty passionate. One person wants to go “all the way”, the other wants to wait until marriage. (They don’t have sex.) There is also a lot of loss and death in this story. Blood is mentioned, but I didn’t find it gory.
May 26, 2026
3.5 stars, leaning more towards three.
Props to the author for a brilliant concept. I have always wanted to know the more political/executive side of a government adjusting to superhumans, and this scratched that itch so nicely. The worldbuilding was engaging and X-Men is a good comp for it. I wish I could have learned the more sciencey side of the superpowers, and there was certainly space for it, given how little really happened in the plot, but I digress.
So... for the rest of the book. Why three stars if I adore the worldbuilding?...
Agh. It's the same old, same old.
The characters.
Yep, it's Allie being annoyed by the characters again. And this time, it's character voice (and no I'm not talking about the audiobook, the audiobook was decent).
This book, I think, was SUPPOSED to be written in third person close-- but it came off as third person omniscient. Thus, I couldn't really get into the head of any of the characters and that made for some... stilted reading.
But my main complaints are with the male characters.
*drags hand down face* I am a forgiving person when it comes to prose. The book does not have to have BEAUTIFUL prose to draw me in: if I care about the characters, it's fine. HOWEVER, there are times, in dialogue, where it is PAINFULLY obvious that the author has absolutely no idea how to write male characters. As someone who is VERY passionate over female authors writing men well, this book happened to press HARD into one of my deepest pet peeves. For ever male character in this book is painfully and obviously written by a woman. None of the dialogue sounds like something guys would say.
Example A: Fenris himself. I could get past the odd name. I can even get past the cliche moody dark man. However, Fenris has more mood swings than a teenage girl. One minute he's snarling and snapping and growling at everyone, the next he's all sappy over how much he loves Jane Austen...
... What.
Sure, can you have a rough and tough male character who likes some... feminine things like tulips, Austen novels, and baby grand pianos? Sure. But between me not being able to get in his head--- DESPITE being in his POV--- and his flip flop of emotions that would change without any cause or warning, it led to him coming off as unfinished and unrealistic. Like a frankenstein personality of male love interest romance novels stapled together at nonsensical angles. He's not a guy, he's a female author's IDEA of a guy. He's "flawed" but not... realistically.
The dialogue in this book is all over the place. You have Fenris saying "Stop it" like a dramatic chick when he finds out Sara reads Hemingway, a very cringey moment of Fenris and Marcel checking out Sara's bike in which they chime the model at the same time and then just... idk it was weird. It was one of those scenes that also screamed "hey, a girl wrote this", like she had forgotten they were men and had to make them go make some man comments LOL. Several pages of back and forth dialogue with NO action tags so it's just... dialogue in an empty space. The prose bordered on purple and yet I couldn't see anything in so many sections of the book. There's a big struggle with telling here, and beating a dead horse.
"Fenris has a temper"
Oh really? I didn't realize *watches a reel of him slamming people to walls, screaming at people, growling, snarling, grunting, glaring, and stomping off into different rooms*
But like... we are shown in the most TELLY way that Fenris is a "wolf", has a temper, is dangerous. Like, bro, we see him randomly screaming at Sara. we know he's unhinged. Oh, but he has a library and reads Austen and has a baby grand piano and an obsession with coffee so he's fine, he doesn't need therapy (bro obviously needs therapy I think he has multiple personalities with how fast he switches emotions).
The little red and wolf parallel was also way beaten over the head. There's a point where it's funny, and there's a point where you're trying too hard.
Sara was palatable. I expected more from her as a character than just being a love interest. The breakup at the end was frankly stupid. Fenris couldn't see she was having a panic attack? And then they avoid each other for a month? And then they spill their guts to each other... (for being "closed off" Fenris is SUPER self aware of his emotions...). She has a cliche plot twist at the end but it's fine... what was I supposed to expect it's an XMen meets romance.
It's not a HORRID book by any means. It's just... well, badly written male characters. Very badly. If you love romance novels with borderline feminized men, sure, go ahead. Not for me XP Probably needed another prose edit. It's a slow novel by all means, really wish that there was more of a plot than just.... Sara. And Fen. Some more buildup to the ending would have been nice.
(as I have already picked apart so much, I won't go into another rant about how physical based this romance is... but yeah, mid on the chemistry scale. I've read worse but wasn't exactly shipping either)
Decent book overall, and the worldbuilding was REALLY COOL and I liked the setting, but I wish the male characters and overall dialogue had been better. Spoiled my ability to enjoy the story *sigh*
CONTENT WARNINGS: Very descriptive violent events and injuries, including massive acts of violence inflicted on small children. A female character is loosely threatened to be raped. It's indicated the FMC's mother was probably raped or tortured before she was killed. A child has vivid, disturbing dreams about her family (including her many family dogs) being murdered. A handful of swearing cut offs that are easy fill in the blanks. Very descriptive kissing scenes and a female character suggests having sex before marriage (to which the MMC replies that his father and hers would kill him). A handful of sexual innuendos/comments.
Props to the author for a brilliant concept. I have always wanted to know the more political/executive side of a government adjusting to superhumans, and this scratched that itch so nicely. The worldbuilding was engaging and X-Men is a good comp for it. I wish I could have learned the more sciencey side of the superpowers, and there was certainly space for it, given how little really happened in the plot, but I digress.
So... for the rest of the book. Why three stars if I adore the worldbuilding?...
Agh. It's the same old, same old.
The characters.
Yep, it's Allie being annoyed by the characters again. And this time, it's character voice (and no I'm not talking about the audiobook, the audiobook was decent).
This book, I think, was SUPPOSED to be written in third person close-- but it came off as third person omniscient. Thus, I couldn't really get into the head of any of the characters and that made for some... stilted reading.
But my main complaints are with the male characters.
*drags hand down face* I am a forgiving person when it comes to prose. The book does not have to have BEAUTIFUL prose to draw me in: if I care about the characters, it's fine. HOWEVER, there are times, in dialogue, where it is PAINFULLY obvious that the author has absolutely no idea how to write male characters. As someone who is VERY passionate over female authors writing men well, this book happened to press HARD into one of my deepest pet peeves. For ever male character in this book is painfully and obviously written by a woman. None of the dialogue sounds like something guys would say.
Example A: Fenris himself. I could get past the odd name. I can even get past the cliche moody dark man. However, Fenris has more mood swings than a teenage girl. One minute he's snarling and snapping and growling at everyone, the next he's all sappy over how much he loves Jane Austen...
... What.
Sure, can you have a rough and tough male character who likes some... feminine things like tulips, Austen novels, and baby grand pianos? Sure. But between me not being able to get in his head--- DESPITE being in his POV--- and his flip flop of emotions that would change without any cause or warning, it led to him coming off as unfinished and unrealistic. Like a frankenstein personality of male love interest romance novels stapled together at nonsensical angles. He's not a guy, he's a female author's IDEA of a guy. He's "flawed" but not... realistically.
The dialogue in this book is all over the place. You have Fenris saying "Stop it" like a dramatic chick when he finds out Sara reads Hemingway, a very cringey moment of Fenris and Marcel checking out Sara's bike in which they chime the model at the same time and then just... idk it was weird. It was one of those scenes that also screamed "hey, a girl wrote this", like she had forgotten they were men and had to make them go make some man comments LOL. Several pages of back and forth dialogue with NO action tags so it's just... dialogue in an empty space. The prose bordered on purple and yet I couldn't see anything in so many sections of the book. There's a big struggle with telling here, and beating a dead horse.
"Fenris has a temper"
Oh really? I didn't realize *watches a reel of him slamming people to walls, screaming at people, growling, snarling, grunting, glaring, and stomping off into different rooms*
But like... we are shown in the most TELLY way that Fenris is a "wolf", has a temper, is dangerous. Like, bro, we see him randomly screaming at Sara. we know he's unhinged. Oh, but he has a library and reads Austen and has a baby grand piano and an obsession with coffee so he's fine, he doesn't need therapy (bro obviously needs therapy I think he has multiple personalities with how fast he switches emotions).
The little red and wolf parallel was also way beaten over the head. There's a point where it's funny, and there's a point where you're trying too hard.
Sara was palatable. I expected more from her as a character than just being a love interest. The breakup at the end was frankly stupid. Fenris couldn't see she was having a panic attack? And then they avoid each other for a month? And then they spill their guts to each other... (for being "closed off" Fenris is SUPER self aware of his emotions...). She has a cliche plot twist at the end but it's fine... what was I supposed to expect it's an XMen meets romance.
It's not a HORRID book by any means. It's just... well, badly written male characters. Very badly. If you love romance novels with borderline feminized men, sure, go ahead. Not for me XP Probably needed another prose edit. It's a slow novel by all means, really wish that there was more of a plot than just.... Sara. And Fen. Some more buildup to the ending would have been nice.
(as I have already picked apart so much, I won't go into another rant about how physical based this romance is... but yeah, mid on the chemistry scale. I've read worse but wasn't exactly shipping either)
Decent book overall, and the worldbuilding was REALLY COOL and I liked the setting, but I wish the male characters and overall dialogue had been better. Spoiled my ability to enjoy the story *sigh*
CONTENT WARNINGS: Very descriptive violent events and injuries, including massive acts of violence inflicted on small children. A female character is loosely threatened to be raped. It's indicated the FMC's mother was probably raped or tortured before she was killed. A child has vivid, disturbing dreams about her family (including her many family dogs) being murdered. A handful of swearing cut offs that are easy fill in the blanks. Very descriptive kissing scenes and a female character suggests having sex before marriage (to which the MMC replies that his father and hers would kill him). A handful of sexual innuendos/comments.
March 21, 2024
Done…. Whew I so afraid I would not get this read in time and get the book reviewed in time. I wanted to read this book all because of a reel on Instagram where an author was commiserating that she wanted to stop realm makers from coming….. I thought whatever her book was I was going to read it!!! I have gotten to know the wit and wisdom behind this author being a part of her arc team and I have to say all that wit and possibly some wisdom is all over this book ….
Fenris is charismatic, broody and fierce… oh did mention dark ( my heart swoons). Sara is fearless and full of heart. Both damaged but both not letting the damage shatter them but trying to make the world a better place…..
This book is X-men and shatter me ….. and so much more. This book may have started out as a red ridding hood retelling but it transformed to something way better cause it was fantastic and I can’t wait for another book…. So hurry up mrs author and finish the next book!!!
Since I found out this was inspired by red riding hood
🧚♀️ Fairytale rating🧚♀️
4/10 for keeping with the original fairytale
8/10 for originally, taking the tale and giving it an original twist
10+ /10 for personal enjoyment
I mean so good…… seriously so good!!!!
Fenris is charismatic, broody and fierce… oh did mention dark ( my heart swoons). Sara is fearless and full of heart. Both damaged but both not letting the damage shatter them but trying to make the world a better place…..
This book is X-men and shatter me ….. and so much more. This book may have started out as a red ridding hood retelling but it transformed to something way better cause it was fantastic and I can’t wait for another book…. So hurry up mrs author and finish the next book!!!
Since I found out this was inspired by red riding hood
🧚♀️ Fairytale rating🧚♀️
4/10 for keeping with the original fairytale
8/10 for originally, taking the tale and giving it an original twist
10+ /10 for personal enjoyment
I mean so good…… seriously so good!!!!
November 8, 2023
I read this one without knowing anything beyond ‘X-Men vibes with the focus on a growing romantic relationship’… and honestly that’s a pretty good description! This isn’t a superhero origin story, in the sense that the ‘superheroes’ already have their powers. Instead, it’s a story set in the messy aftermath of a world-shaking event—and those who’ve read my writing know how much I love exploring the fallout and recovery of big events.
That said, it takes ‘things’ a while to get moving, and there aren’t all the usual mile markers of a classic hero tale. Instead, the place where this story shines is in the characters—in their very realistic personalities, interactions with each other, and reactions to events that none of them ever wanted to experience (again, in a few cases). The romance is nicely developed, with one conversation in particular that had me smiling and thinking ‘now THIS is how Christians should talk about romance/marriage’.
The writing is a tad bit choppy in places, and the prose not quite as evocative as I prefer. But this is a book about messy, jagged-edged people, interacting in a world that’s fast becoming messier, so it kind of works. Honestly, I stopped noticing the rougher edges after a few chapters, as I was too caught up with the characters.
***Content Advisory***
There is some somewhat passionate kissing in this one, with one kiss getting a bit handsy. More of a heavy content caution is the mentions of child endangerment—specifically, the violent deaths of more than one very young child. While not on-page, the memories and emotions within flashback were enough to make some passages very difficult for me to read as a mom of a four-year-old and newborn. Some readers might have different tolerance levels, but I’d recommend parents screen this before giving it to younger readers.***
Merged review:
I read this one without knowing anything beyond ‘X-Men vibes with the focus on a growing romantic relationship’… and honestly that’s a pretty good description! This isn’t a superhero origin story, in the sense that the ‘superheroes’ already have their powers. Instead, it’s a story set in the messy aftermath of a world-shaking event—and those who’ve read my writing know how much I love exploring the fallout and recovery of big events.
That said, it takes ‘things’ a while to get moving, and there aren’t all the usual mile markers of a classic hero tale. Instead, the place where this story shines is in the characters—in their very realistic personalities, interactions with each other, and reactions to events that none of them ever wanted to experience (again, in a few cases). The romance is nicely developed, with one conversation in particular that had me smiling and thinking ‘now THIS is how Christians should talk about romance/marriage’.
The writing is a tad bit choppy in places, and the prose not quite as evocative as I prefer. But this is a book about messy, jagged-edged people, interacting in a world that’s fast becoming messier, so it kind of works. Honestly, I stopped noticing the rougher edges after a few chapters, as I was too caught up with the characters.
***Content Advisory***
There is some somewhat passionate kissing in this one, with one kiss getting a bit handsy. More of a heavy content caution is the mentions of child endangerment—specifically, the violent deaths of more than one very young child. While not on-page, the memories and emotions within flashback were enough to make some passages very difficult for me to read as a mom of a four-year-old and newborn. Some readers might have different tolerance levels, but I’d recommend parents screen this before giving it to younger readers.***
That said, it takes ‘things’ a while to get moving, and there aren’t all the usual mile markers of a classic hero tale. Instead, the place where this story shines is in the characters—in their very realistic personalities, interactions with each other, and reactions to events that none of them ever wanted to experience (again, in a few cases). The romance is nicely developed, with one conversation in particular that had me smiling and thinking ‘now THIS is how Christians should talk about romance/marriage’.
The writing is a tad bit choppy in places, and the prose not quite as evocative as I prefer. But this is a book about messy, jagged-edged people, interacting in a world that’s fast becoming messier, so it kind of works. Honestly, I stopped noticing the rougher edges after a few chapters, as I was too caught up with the characters.
***Content Advisory***
There is some somewhat passionate kissing in this one, with one kiss getting a bit handsy. More of a heavy content caution is the mentions of child endangerment—specifically, the violent deaths of more than one very young child. While not on-page, the memories and emotions within flashback were enough to make some passages very difficult for me to read as a mom of a four-year-old and newborn. Some readers might have different tolerance levels, but I’d recommend parents screen this before giving it to younger readers.***
Merged review:
I read this one without knowing anything beyond ‘X-Men vibes with the focus on a growing romantic relationship’… and honestly that’s a pretty good description! This isn’t a superhero origin story, in the sense that the ‘superheroes’ already have their powers. Instead, it’s a story set in the messy aftermath of a world-shaking event—and those who’ve read my writing know how much I love exploring the fallout and recovery of big events.
That said, it takes ‘things’ a while to get moving, and there aren’t all the usual mile markers of a classic hero tale. Instead, the place where this story shines is in the characters—in their very realistic personalities, interactions with each other, and reactions to events that none of them ever wanted to experience (again, in a few cases). The romance is nicely developed, with one conversation in particular that had me smiling and thinking ‘now THIS is how Christians should talk about romance/marriage’.
The writing is a tad bit choppy in places, and the prose not quite as evocative as I prefer. But this is a book about messy, jagged-edged people, interacting in a world that’s fast becoming messier, so it kind of works. Honestly, I stopped noticing the rougher edges after a few chapters, as I was too caught up with the characters.
***Content Advisory***
There is some somewhat passionate kissing in this one, with one kiss getting a bit handsy. More of a heavy content caution is the mentions of child endangerment—specifically, the violent deaths of more than one very young child. While not on-page, the memories and emotions within flashback were enough to make some passages very difficult for me to read as a mom of a four-year-old and newborn. Some readers might have different tolerance levels, but I’d recommend parents screen this before giving it to younger readers.***
February 2, 2024
X-men + Romance + the Office? + Red Riding Hood vibes + coffee obsession
Yeeted Kindle book to me = my honest review
4.5 stars!
I feel like I sped read this book because of how much I was enjoying it (a high compliment). I kept snorting. Like. A LOT. So many highligthed lines. They all are just so funny. XD
The characters----I like them! I highly love and relate to Marcel's personality especially. Hahaha! And his friendship is so epic.
I almost felt bad for Sara because of Fen for a bit (what a grump!) but then I was like oh she can take it and she's perfect for him XD and he did get nicer too (phewph). I do like him. He's a good boi. XD
There aren't as many action scenes/villain plot stuff as I thought there might be, but when there is, it's really cool and the magic stuff is lit as well (literally, in some cases haha). I think the genre is more romance-y, which it did well.
Speaking of the romance! This is a little more kissy than I tend to read and a few kissing details made me a little uncomfy. XD
But I am fairly sensitive/awkward about that so others might not be phased by it. :)
I appreciated their fear of loving one another because death will come to us all. I think about that more than I should. Haha.
Excited for the next book!
P.S.
There was mention of a girl named Laurel. I like that. XD
Yeeted Kindle book to me = my honest review
4.5 stars!
I feel like I sped read this book because of how much I was enjoying it (a high compliment). I kept snorting. Like. A LOT. So many highligthed lines. They all are just so funny. XD
The characters----I like them! I highly love and relate to Marcel's personality especially. Hahaha! And his friendship is so epic.
I almost felt bad for Sara because of Fen for a bit (what a grump!) but then I was like oh she can take it and she's perfect for him XD and he did get nicer too (phewph). I do like him. He's a good boi. XD
There aren't as many action scenes/villain plot stuff as I thought there might be, but when there is, it's really cool and the magic stuff is lit as well (literally, in some cases haha). I think the genre is more romance-y, which it did well.
Speaking of the romance! This is a little more kissy than I tend to read and a few kissing details made me a little uncomfy. XD
But I am fairly sensitive/awkward about that so others might not be phased by it. :)
I appreciated their fear of loving one another because death will come to us all. I think about that more than I should. Haha.
Excited for the next book!
P.S.
There was mention of a girl named Laurel. I like that. XD
November 12, 2023
Combine a coffee-loving, grouchy MMC and a fiesty but sweet FMC with a troubled past, add in some special powers, life and death situations, flirting and humor and you’ve got Unleashed! A perfect read for this fall/winter season!!!
I so enjoyed this fun superhero-esque novel with characters that were well developed with real issues and struggles to overcome. I liked that it wasn’t all easy, it made the story feel more realistic (in a scifi-futuristic kind of way).
The world itself was also a lot of fun with the effects of the “changing” constituting a politically volatile world which felt a little like our own in the future (which I enjoyed).
One thing to note for more meticulous readers who like solid POV lines is that there is some “head-hopping”. It doesn’t really take away from the story but it might pull you out in some points. It’s reminiscent of books from the early 90s where that was prevalent. Just a note for readers before jumping in!
I definitely recommend it to fans of superhero and near-future books and those who like sizzling no spice romance!!! You’re going to love Fen & his unhealthy (but totally respectable) coffee loving ways!
My rating: 4.5*
—
Thanks to the author for a gifted copy. All opinions are my own.
I so enjoyed this fun superhero-esque novel with characters that were well developed with real issues and struggles to overcome. I liked that it wasn’t all easy, it made the story feel more realistic (in a scifi-futuristic kind of way).
The world itself was also a lot of fun with the effects of the “changing” constituting a politically volatile world which felt a little like our own in the future (which I enjoyed).
One thing to note for more meticulous readers who like solid POV lines is that there is some “head-hopping”. It doesn’t really take away from the story but it might pull you out in some points. It’s reminiscent of books from the early 90s where that was prevalent. Just a note for readers before jumping in!
I definitely recommend it to fans of superhero and near-future books and those who like sizzling no spice romance!!! You’re going to love Fen & his unhealthy (but totally respectable) coffee loving ways!
My rating: 4.5*
—
Thanks to the author for a gifted copy. All opinions are my own.
May 17, 2025
Oh, Fen 💜 You sweet grumpy man.
I could not read this fast enough. I just had to know what was going to happen to Fen and Sara. When I tell you I couldn’t put it down, I am not kidding. I finished both of these in the same night. I may be a bit tired today, but I’ll survive.
The idea of some people suddenly getting powers one day is super interesting to me. I feel like Kirkpatrick did a great job capturing how much the world would change, and what it would be like, if something like that did happen.
The romance between Sara and Fen was perfection. It played out naturally and didn’t feel rushed or forced to me. They suffered so much and deserved every bit of happiness they got. At times it did seem like the pain just kept piling on, but the book never lost its overall hopeful feeling.
If you love the found family trope, lots of action, good vs evil, and romance, then this book is for you. Even if you don’t normally read urban/modern fantasy, I still think you should give this book a try!
Religion: Catholic
Romance: heavier kissing with non-descriptive fade to black between a married couple
Violence: heavy (not overly descriptive)
Age I recommend: 16+
I could not read this fast enough. I just had to know what was going to happen to Fen and Sara. When I tell you I couldn’t put it down, I am not kidding. I finished both of these in the same night. I may be a bit tired today, but I’ll survive.
The idea of some people suddenly getting powers one day is super interesting to me. I feel like Kirkpatrick did a great job capturing how much the world would change, and what it would be like, if something like that did happen.
The romance between Sara and Fen was perfection. It played out naturally and didn’t feel rushed or forced to me. They suffered so much and deserved every bit of happiness they got. At times it did seem like the pain just kept piling on, but the book never lost its overall hopeful feeling.
If you love the found family trope, lots of action, good vs evil, and romance, then this book is for you. Even if you don’t normally read urban/modern fantasy, I still think you should give this book a try!
Religion: Catholic
Romance: heavier kissing with non-descriptive fade to black between a married couple
Violence: heavy (not overly descriptive)
Age I recommend: 16+
April 12, 2023
If I could give this book six stars, I would. No... make that seven. Five for the story itself and two for the stars the main character puts in my eyes. I have never fallen for a MC the way I fell for Fen when I read Unleashed. If you are looking for a similar experience of finding your literary soulmate, keep looking. Fen is taken.
BUT, if you are looking for a page turner with exciting magic, an endearing cast, and a thrilling storyline, I would HIGHLY recommend this book. Kirkpatrick excels at witty banter, nail biting tension, and sweet moments that will bring both laughter and tears.
I can't wait for the sequel!
BUT, if you are looking for a page turner with exciting magic, an endearing cast, and a thrilling storyline, I would HIGHLY recommend this book. Kirkpatrick excels at witty banter, nail biting tension, and sweet moments that will bring both laughter and tears.
I can't wait for the sequel!
January 6, 2024
Unleashed whisks you through every emotional extreme possible, all the while worming it’s unforgettable characters into your affections. It is at once serious and light-hearted, straight-forward and poignant, with important themes that every reader should take to heart. The sequel can't come soon enough!
September 13, 2023
Unleashed is a powerful novel penned with memorable prose and witty banter. With scenes of humor and heartbreak, Kirkpatrick delivers a story with relatable characters you’ll want to remember for years to come.
November 17, 2023
Kirkpatrick puts so much soul into her books, and Unleashed is no exception! From the very beginning we feel every ounce of Fen’s pain, even if he doesn’t want to, and I was rooting for him one big cup of coffee at a time. The world and supernatural powers make the setting exciting and dangerous, while digging deep into matters of the heart. Absolutely loved it!!
November 19, 2023
This book is seriously one of the best I’ve read in a long long time. Unleashed is such an amazing story of a world where some have powers, wonderful, astonishing powers. You’d think the “gifted” would be super hero’s, but those without powers have, instead, grown to hate the gifted.
I can’t say enough about how moving and even life-changing this book was. I think everyone should read it.
I can’t say enough about how moving and even life-changing this book was. I think everyone should read it.
November 5, 2024
Highly highly recommend this book! It was such a fun read!
November 7, 2023
Fenris Trygg is a Changed.
A major world event has permanently altered or 'Changed' the brain chemistry of a percentage of society - allowing them to access and utilize areas of their brains that humans have never been able to control. They are gifted.... seers, musical proteges, telepaths, athletes....they are the epitome of human potential.... and they are unwanted and feared by the unchanged, or normal, humans.
A segment of society, Hunters, have taken it upon themselves to purge the Changed from the world. It doesn't matter to them if the Changed is an infant, a mother, or an entire family....the hunters hunt - and they never leave their prey alive.
Fen has seen the absolute worst that the Hunters can do. He has lived through unspeakable tragedy, but as one of the most powerfully gifted Changed in his region, he now co-runs an underground Shadow Guild bent on protecting 'his' people. As a Changed, he has no human rights, no ability to utilize hospitals or police, and no legal right to bear arms. He is in a battle of survival - not just for himself - but for every Changed in existence. With his powers and his fists, Fen his hell bent on saving as many as he can before his clock runs out.
However, danger doesn't just come from the Hunters. A new predator is on the prowl, and Fen teams up with an unexpected partner who just might break him apart worse than a team of Hunters. Between her insistence that he give up coffee after 5pm (Gasp) and actually be nice to people, Fen is either going to end up throttling her... or kissing her. All bets are off.
Amber Kirkpatrick has taken a chapter out of X-men and crafted her own spine-tingling, nail-biting world that is rife with blood, suspense, attraction, and a major amount of coffee addiction. This is a very creative story, and I love joining Fen and Sara on their crazy adventure. Unleashed is fast paced and taunt with tension - but at the same time, there are a lot of one-liners that will make you laugh, snort, or roll your eyes (Fen, I'm sorry, but you are hilarious). I loved the dialogue and the banter between the characters. Bump this one up on your TBR pile – It’s a good one!
Content warning: There are some violent scenes that I wouldn’t advise for young teens or those triggered easily by violence. There is no sex – it is inferred that a married couple have sex and that a husband is hoping to get some… there is some swoony kissing…. But nothing beyond that.
A major world event has permanently altered or 'Changed' the brain chemistry of a percentage of society - allowing them to access and utilize areas of their brains that humans have never been able to control. They are gifted.... seers, musical proteges, telepaths, athletes....they are the epitome of human potential.... and they are unwanted and feared by the unchanged, or normal, humans.
A segment of society, Hunters, have taken it upon themselves to purge the Changed from the world. It doesn't matter to them if the Changed is an infant, a mother, or an entire family....the hunters hunt - and they never leave their prey alive.
Fen has seen the absolute worst that the Hunters can do. He has lived through unspeakable tragedy, but as one of the most powerfully gifted Changed in his region, he now co-runs an underground Shadow Guild bent on protecting 'his' people. As a Changed, he has no human rights, no ability to utilize hospitals or police, and no legal right to bear arms. He is in a battle of survival - not just for himself - but for every Changed in existence. With his powers and his fists, Fen his hell bent on saving as many as he can before his clock runs out.
However, danger doesn't just come from the Hunters. A new predator is on the prowl, and Fen teams up with an unexpected partner who just might break him apart worse than a team of Hunters. Between her insistence that he give up coffee after 5pm (Gasp) and actually be nice to people, Fen is either going to end up throttling her... or kissing her. All bets are off.
Amber Kirkpatrick has taken a chapter out of X-men and crafted her own spine-tingling, nail-biting world that is rife with blood, suspense, attraction, and a major amount of coffee addiction. This is a very creative story, and I love joining Fen and Sara on their crazy adventure. Unleashed is fast paced and taunt with tension - but at the same time, there are a lot of one-liners that will make you laugh, snort, or roll your eyes (Fen, I'm sorry, but you are hilarious). I loved the dialogue and the banter between the characters. Bump this one up on your TBR pile – It’s a good one!
Content warning: There are some violent scenes that I wouldn’t advise for young teens or those triggered easily by violence. There is no sex – it is inferred that a married couple have sex and that a husband is hoping to get some… there is some swoony kissing…. But nothing beyond that.
November 8, 2023
Listened to the audiobook. I always find with Magus I have to speed him up a bit more than the speed I normally listen to, but once I find the right speed I really enjoy his narration.
This is not my usual type of read but I won the audiobook in an Instagram contest, so I gave it a try. I did enjoy the book, it took me a little bit to get into the story but once I did I wanted to finish the story.
The setting for the world was my favorite! Very interesting with the gifted and hunters, and how the rest of the world responded to the gifted. I did enjoy the X-men vibes.
The characters were good too. Everyone needs a Mama in their life.
The dialogue at times was a bit cheesy, but at times it was really sweet too.
Content: Language was clean, no spice, kissing that was a bit more descriptive, I might be missing something since I listened to the audio, but nothing seemed too gory to me.
This is not my usual type of read but I won the audiobook in an Instagram contest, so I gave it a try. I did enjoy the book, it took me a little bit to get into the story but once I did I wanted to finish the story.
The setting for the world was my favorite! Very interesting with the gifted and hunters, and how the rest of the world responded to the gifted. I did enjoy the X-men vibes.
The characters were good too. Everyone needs a Mama in their life.
The dialogue at times was a bit cheesy, but at times it was really sweet too.
Content: Language was clean, no spice, kissing that was a bit more descriptive, I might be missing something since I listened to the audio, but nothing seemed too gory to me.
February 29, 2024
Wow. Wow. Wow.
Just
Wow.
I saw a quote that intrigued me online and decided to give this a shot.
I wasn't prepared for the way this book sucked me in and had me completely captivated the whole time.
Seriously.
The way this book was strongly character driven was a huge plus for me.
I don't always venture into scifi fantasy but this one was a fantastic read.
What truly made the book for me was the characters. I loved the found family element. I LOVED the romance (seriously swoon), and the whole package was something utterly unique and captivating.
I just can't even describe how attached I am to Fen. I adore protective heroes, and Fen has it in spades. Strong, loyal, tender with those he loves. Ahhhhhh my kryptonite
And the banter. The found family elements of the teammates. So much.
So good.
Definitely going to be one of my top reads this year.
Can't wait for book 2!
Just
Wow.
I saw a quote that intrigued me online and decided to give this a shot.
I wasn't prepared for the way this book sucked me in and had me completely captivated the whole time.
Seriously.
The way this book was strongly character driven was a huge plus for me.
I don't always venture into scifi fantasy but this one was a fantastic read.
What truly made the book for me was the characters. I loved the found family element. I LOVED the romance (seriously swoon), and the whole package was something utterly unique and captivating.
I just can't even describe how attached I am to Fen. I adore protective heroes, and Fen has it in spades. Strong, loyal, tender with those he loves. Ahhhhhh my kryptonite
And the banter. The found family elements of the teammates. So much.
So good.
Definitely going to be one of my top reads this year.
Can't wait for book 2!
August 9, 2025
📱𝙆𝙞𝙣𝙙𝙡𝙚 𝘽𝙤𝙤𝙠 𝙍𝙚𝙫𝙞𝙚𝙬
𝘽𝙤𝙤𝙠: Unleashed, The Changed Duology, Book 1 by Amber Kirkpatrick
𝙁𝙤𝙧𝙢𝙖𝙩: Kindle via Quill and Flame Team
𝙍𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜: ⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
𝙏𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝𝙩𝙨:
“𝑻𝒐 𝒍𝒐𝒗𝒆 𝒊𝒔 𝒕𝒐 𝒃𝒆 𝒉𝒖𝒓𝒕. 𝑰𝒕 𝒊𝒔 𝒂 𝒓𝒊𝒔𝒌. 𝑾𝒆 𝒂𝒍𝒍 𝒍𝒐𝒔𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒔𝒆 𝒘𝒆 𝒍𝒐𝒗𝒆 𝒕𝒐 𝒅𝒆𝒂𝒕𝒉 𝒔𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒅𝒂𝒚. 𝑶𝒖𝒓 𝒐𝒏𝒍𝒚 𝒄𝒉𝒐𝒊𝒄𝒆 𝒊𝒔 𝒕𝒐 𝒑𝒓𝒂𝒚 𝒊𝒕 𝒊𝒔 𝒏𝒐𝒕 𝒕𝒐𝒐 𝒔𝒐𝒐𝒏.”
----------------
Wow! What an incredible book. I loved it so much! Fen is such a great character, I love how stubborn he is and unwaveringly loyal he is to the people around him and for what he stands up for. Sara is also such a strong, independently fierce person as well and is willing to fight for what she believes in. I can also relate to Sara with her new found coffee addiction, haha.
I’m super excited to read and get into the 2nd book and see where the rest of the story takes us! I love the twists and turns that book 1 took us on and how the past and present met up with each other.
𝘽𝙤𝙤𝙠: Unleashed, The Changed Duology, Book 1 by Amber Kirkpatrick
𝙁𝙤𝙧𝙢𝙖𝙩: Kindle via Quill and Flame Team
𝙍𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜: ⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
𝙏𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝𝙩𝙨:
“𝑻𝒐 𝒍𝒐𝒗𝒆 𝒊𝒔 𝒕𝒐 𝒃𝒆 𝒉𝒖𝒓𝒕. 𝑰𝒕 𝒊𝒔 𝒂 𝒓𝒊𝒔𝒌. 𝑾𝒆 𝒂𝒍𝒍 𝒍𝒐𝒔𝒆 𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒔𝒆 𝒘𝒆 𝒍𝒐𝒗𝒆 𝒕𝒐 𝒅𝒆𝒂𝒕𝒉 𝒔𝒐𝒎𝒆𝒅𝒂𝒚. 𝑶𝒖𝒓 𝒐𝒏𝒍𝒚 𝒄𝒉𝒐𝒊𝒄𝒆 𝒊𝒔 𝒕𝒐 𝒑𝒓𝒂𝒚 𝒊𝒕 𝒊𝒔 𝒏𝒐𝒕 𝒕𝒐𝒐 𝒔𝒐𝒐𝒏.”
----------------
Wow! What an incredible book. I loved it so much! Fen is such a great character, I love how stubborn he is and unwaveringly loyal he is to the people around him and for what he stands up for. Sara is also such a strong, independently fierce person as well and is willing to fight for what she believes in. I can also relate to Sara with her new found coffee addiction, haha.
I’m super excited to read and get into the 2nd book and see where the rest of the story takes us! I love the twists and turns that book 1 took us on and how the past and present met up with each other.
January 17, 2026
This was a good, no spice urban fantasy with romance. Both of our MCs have experienced loss and have grief and trauma to deal with. Set in California, the world underwent drastic changes some years ago when a group of people suddenly developed magical gifts. They soon became the “changed” and a group of normal people decided to hunt and kill them. Throughout this book there are many moments of pain, blood, loss, and death. The romance was sweet as they both learn to trust another and risk the pain of love and loss. I’m interested to see where the next book takes us. The romance is just kisses, intimacy level 3.
Content warning: blood, attacks, death
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Content warning: blood, attacks, death
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
May 9, 2024
I loved this twisty, action-packed story about a group of people who were granted power by a big event. At first, the Gifted are accepted and acclaimed. But then jealousy sets in and persecution follows. Reminds me of a Tricia Goyer WWII novel - a high compliment indeed! There’s also an X-Men meets that first fun season of The Flash on the CW vibe with distrusted heroes, people guarding their hearts, moments of fun heroism, romance, heartbreak, and deep sacrifice.
I adored Fen, a swoony, flawed guy with a broken heart of gold who wants to save everyone around him. He’s a bit of bad boy, a bit of superhero, and all heart.
I adored Fen, a swoony, flawed guy with a broken heart of gold who wants to save everyone around him. He’s a bit of bad boy, a bit of superhero, and all heart.
June 27, 2024
Highly recommended.
This novel brought to mind early X-men comics and Marvel movies. Gifted individuals struggle with misunderstanding and outright hatred while living their almost normal lives. Our characters meet against this backdrop of animosity, struggling to find friendships and understanding.
I loved the characters, the worldbuilding is familiar and yet unique enough to keep me intrigued. Great humor and dialogue between the characters. The villains were chilling.
I laughed, I cheered, I got angry at the injustice served on our characters. All the things I love in a good story.
This novel brought to mind early X-men comics and Marvel movies. Gifted individuals struggle with misunderstanding and outright hatred while living their almost normal lives. Our characters meet against this backdrop of animosity, struggling to find friendships and understanding.
I loved the characters, the worldbuilding is familiar and yet unique enough to keep me intrigued. Great humor and dialogue between the characters. The villains were chilling.
I laughed, I cheered, I got angry at the injustice served on our characters. All the things I love in a good story.
May 8, 2025
This was such a fun read!
I love a green flag MC and the grumpy/sunshine trope, and this book features both.
The powers were also really interesting. I liked the explanation about why they came about, and I’m hoping they’re explored more in the second book.
Can’t wait to see how Fenris’s story arc resolves in book two!
I love a green flag MC and the grumpy/sunshine trope, and this book features both.
The powers were also really interesting. I liked the explanation about why they came about, and I’m hoping they’re explored more in the second book.
Can’t wait to see how Fenris’s story arc resolves in book two!
January 22, 2026
I wish I started reading this earlier! It was so good! I love the X-Men and the grumpy Wolverine was one of my favorites, along with Rogue. Between Fen and Sara, the excitement didn’t stop. Some of the scenes are heartbreaking, but Amber Kirkpatrick kept the storyline going. I absolutely loved this book and will be on book 2 right away!☕️☕️☕️
January 16, 2024
Unleashed has all the things. Action, found family, friendship, and office romance. Throw in some supernatural abilities and you’ve got a hit! If you have a chance to listen to the audio, I highly suggest it. Magnus does a great job, his warm earthy voice perfect for our coffee loving MC, Fenris.
March 31, 2024
I can see why some people might really enjoy this book, but it just wasn’t my favorite. It took a bit for me to really get into and by the time I did, the book was finished lol. I’d say about 80% of it was slow for me and the rest I flew through.
Want to Read
February 19, 2024Might read. The writing is a tad rushed, and I don't love the capitalized "B" in "Black". But hey, it is superhero and seems pretty clean
May 19, 2024
Fun ride that's a great blend of the romance & superhero genres. Fast-paced & action-packed!
November 24, 2023
wanted to read non stop
Loved this book. So much action, love and friendship I couldn’t put it down. I can’t wait for the next one!!
Loved this book. So much action, love and friendship I couldn’t put it down. I can’t wait for the next one!!
November 7, 2023
This book is PHENOMENAL. It sucked me in and kept a TIGHT grip on me for the whole story. I was torn between feverishly finishing it, and making it last longer to draw it out more. The characters are larger than life. Coffee is its own trope. And the found family and the romance were both chef's kiss. One of my top reads of the year!
January 24, 2025
Ok I saw this audio on sale back last fall and I snatched it up. The cover is very interesting and caught my attention. I didn’t read the blurb or reviews just jumped in right. I have been trying more genres and found that I really enjoy science fiction when it isn’t overly complex. And this one was the perfect specimen.
Unleashed is marketed as Sci-Fi/Urban Fantasy with X-Men vibes. Some might liken it to the old NBC show Heroes. For me, I feel this is mildly dystopian due to the dissent between those who received powers during the “event” and this that did not.
But never fear if you don’t like sci fi/superhero, this is pretty simple and chill. Not too out there. Very relatable. It takes place in the not-too-distant future on Earth,so the setting and atmosphere is very familiar and comfortable. The superpowers aren’t extreme. The characters and plot are very believable. And there is romance! Woot! Woot!
If you find yourself wanting to broaden your reading genre horizons this is a great place to start. Plus, it is narrated by Magnus Carlssen.
Unleashed is marketed as Sci-Fi/Urban Fantasy with X-Men vibes. Some might liken it to the old NBC show Heroes. For me, I feel this is mildly dystopian due to the dissent between those who received powers during the “event” and this that did not.
But never fear if you don’t like sci fi/superhero, this is pretty simple and chill. Not too out there. Very relatable. It takes place in the not-too-distant future on Earth,so the setting and atmosphere is very familiar and comfortable. The superpowers aren’t extreme. The characters and plot are very believable. And there is romance! Woot! Woot!
If you find yourself wanting to broaden your reading genre horizons this is a great place to start. Plus, it is narrated by Magnus Carlssen.
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