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The Awakening: What Lies Inside
Em James awakens to what she believes to be the hangover from hell. She is cold and aching in her dimly lit home trying to stay awake against the abnormal headache she is experiencing. Em takes us down memory lane as she drifts in and out of sleep describing her obsession with love and loss. Her fixation with her boss and her daddy issues. As time goes on Em proves to be an unreliable source of information and lets us know she is avoiding something big that haunts her down to her very soul. When Em faces her demons and she's finally awake, she shows us who she really is.
- GenresThriller
288 pages, Paperback
Published March 30, 2024
28 people are currently reading
155 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
May 16, 2024
Wow! This book was so dang good. It truly drew me in, kept me on my toes. I thought knew what was going to happen next, but my mind was blown. I want more from this author!
June 6, 2024
awesome read
It was a bit slow in the beginning, but the last 70% made up for it and had me engaged! I can’t wait to see what happens next!
It was a bit slow in the beginning, but the last 70% made up for it and had me engaged! I can’t wait to see what happens next!
May 4, 2024
Davina Reddic weaves a suspenseful tale in “The Awakening.” The mix of thrill and dark romance kept me buckled to my seat. Gripped from the first chapter, EM James is flawed, vulnerable and real. If you are looking for a thrilling escape with a dash of romance, dive in! You wont be disappointed.
April 29, 2024
I appreciate Davina SO much for sending me this book to review.
Let me start by saying that the last 60% of this book saved the beginning. In my honest opinion, the first 40% felt like a fever dream, and I was so completely and totally lost. This plays out like a stream of consciousness, and I think that is why I was so confused. I wished that there was more dialogue in that first 40%, rather than being told what had been said. It makes sense once you reach the end, but it was difficult for me to read at the beginning. By the end, I was EATING IT UP. The plot twists and character development were great, and Davina has a beautiful career ahead of her as an author, and I can’t wait to read her next one.
Let me start by saying that the last 60% of this book saved the beginning. In my honest opinion, the first 40% felt like a fever dream, and I was so completely and totally lost. This plays out like a stream of consciousness, and I think that is why I was so confused. I wished that there was more dialogue in that first 40%, rather than being told what had been said. It makes sense once you reach the end, but it was difficult for me to read at the beginning. By the end, I was EATING IT UP. The plot twists and character development were great, and Davina has a beautiful career ahead of her as an author, and I can’t wait to read her next one.
April 11, 2024
Hot fucking damn. This debut indie author is about to make waves come May.
I am so incredibly touched she sent me this ARC to read and review.
Davina’s writing style is nothing like I’ve encountered before. She’s very meticulous and crafty. There were points I was like did she mean to write it that way. But she absolutely did. All part of the psychology.
I had to make myself stop last night and tonight I said fuck it, I’m finishing it. I don’t think my mouth has been picked back up off the floor yet.
If you’re into psychological thrillers, this book is hands down for you. If you’re into supporting Indie debut authors, this book is for you. If you like the color red, this book is for you. If you like a book written so well you’re questioning your own sanity, this book is for you.
I could say more, but I don’t want to spoil it! Pre-Order this 💎 now, details below because it’s just that good !
Pub date: May 1st
*Disclaimer: I promised an honest review and I gave it. This book blew me the fuck away!
I am so incredibly touched she sent me this ARC to read and review.
Davina’s writing style is nothing like I’ve encountered before. She’s very meticulous and crafty. There were points I was like did she mean to write it that way. But she absolutely did. All part of the psychology.
I had to make myself stop last night and tonight I said fuck it, I’m finishing it. I don’t think my mouth has been picked back up off the floor yet.
If you’re into psychological thrillers, this book is hands down for you. If you’re into supporting Indie debut authors, this book is for you. If you like the color red, this book is for you. If you like a book written so well you’re questioning your own sanity, this book is for you.
I could say more, but I don’t want to spoil it! Pre-Order this 💎 now, details below because it’s just that good !
Pub date: May 1st
*Disclaimer: I promised an honest review and I gave it. This book blew me the fuck away!
June 29, 2024
DAVINA!!! You’re a true talent!! This was a straight 5 stars for me! I loved it so,so, much! This was a perfect blend of thriller with a hit of dark romance and I love how the dark romance part was just the side dish of the story and wasn’t too overpowering. But my main focus was on the thriller part of the story and let me tell you that this was just *chef’s kisses*. I devoured this book within 2 days, that’s how much I was invested! Every moment of this book was hands down the best! And I can’t believe that it’s a debut novel ??? Like excuse me ??? Davina ???
Out of all the characters, I found Em’s character to be the most interesting and entertaining. The plot, the story, the dark romance element was just WOOOOWWW!! If you love thriller and dark romance, you need to read this book! It was sooo worth it! But I think some people might have some issues with the story pacing, I thought it was a bit slow but not extremely slow and it personally didn’t really bother me. I do think some might be affected by it but trust me the overall story is worth reading!!
Out of all the characters, I found Em’s character to be the most interesting and entertaining. The plot, the story, the dark romance element was just WOOOOWWW!! If you love thriller and dark romance, you need to read this book! It was sooo worth it! But I think some people might have some issues with the story pacing, I thought it was a bit slow but not extremely slow and it personally didn’t really bother me. I do think some might be affected by it but trust me the overall story is worth reading!!
April 28, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4.5 stars for a deadly, thrilling ride that will have you guessing until the end—the Awakening by Davina Reddic.
Nursing a hellish hangover, Em is desperate to keep the threads of her sanity together as dark memories and wicked passions plague her fracturing consciousness.
Her enemies are closing in for the kill. Will she be able to come out free on the other side or will she forever remain a slave to their craftiness, disillusionments, and fear?
This maelstrom of a story sheathed in obsession had me second guessing around every turn. Although Em, the FMC, is clearly unhinged, her thought processes are relatable. The ending had an amazing twist I didn’t see coming!
The Awakening cured me from a bad reading experience I had with the book I read before this one.
If you’re a touch crazy and enjoy a dark rollercoaster of emotions, you need to read Davina Reddic’s debut the Awakening.
Nursing a hellish hangover, Em is desperate to keep the threads of her sanity together as dark memories and wicked passions plague her fracturing consciousness.
Her enemies are closing in for the kill. Will she be able to come out free on the other side or will she forever remain a slave to their craftiness, disillusionments, and fear?
This maelstrom of a story sheathed in obsession had me second guessing around every turn. Although Em, the FMC, is clearly unhinged, her thought processes are relatable. The ending had an amazing twist I didn’t see coming!
The Awakening cured me from a bad reading experience I had with the book I read before this one.
If you’re a touch crazy and enjoy a dark rollercoaster of emotions, you need to read Davina Reddic’s debut the Awakening.
May 29, 2024
The Awakening by Davina Reddic
⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
I am grateful to have received an advance copy and PR box for "The Awakening" by Davina Reddic. This psychological thriller promises an exciting journey that keeps readers guessing until the very end. However, it is important to note that the pacing of the book may not be to everyone's taste.
While the story is intriguing and suspenseful, I found the overall pace to be somewhat slow. The pages did not turn as quickly as I would have liked, and I was a little confused along the way.
Despite these pacing issues, I would still recommend The Awakening to fans of psychological thrillers. However, I would advise readers to adjust their expectations regarding the speed of the narrative. By doing so, they can better appreciate the book's strengths and enjoy the thrilling ride it offers.
⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
I am grateful to have received an advance copy and PR box for "The Awakening" by Davina Reddic. This psychological thriller promises an exciting journey that keeps readers guessing until the very end. However, it is important to note that the pacing of the book may not be to everyone's taste.
While the story is intriguing and suspenseful, I found the overall pace to be somewhat slow. The pages did not turn as quickly as I would have liked, and I was a little confused along the way.
Despite these pacing issues, I would still recommend The Awakening to fans of psychological thrillers. However, I would advise readers to adjust their expectations regarding the speed of the narrative. By doing so, they can better appreciate the book's strengths and enjoy the thrilling ride it offers.
June 15, 2024
Sad story
Very good storyline. Full of deceit, murder and mayhem. A nail-biting thriller, that will keep you wondering when this woman's suffering will finally end and will she ever find happiness again.
Very good storyline. Full of deceit, murder and mayhem. A nail-biting thriller, that will keep you wondering when this woman's suffering will finally end and will she ever find happiness again.
April 10, 2024
A page Turner!
You may think you have an idea of where it's going but it continues to places you didn't even think it would go!
I'm looking forward to the next Book!
Thank you Davina Reddic for this ❤️
You may think you have an idea of where it's going but it continues to places you didn't even think it would go!
I'm looking forward to the next Book!
Thank you Davina Reddic for this ❤️
April 11, 2024
Had the pleasure of reading an ARC of this book and I couldn’t put it down! So twisty and an exciting ride. Excited to read more from Davina in the future!
April 29, 2024
So so good! Leaves you wanting more after saying WTF!?!
Hello B! I am awake are you? 🎤 drop!
Hello B! I am awake are you? 🎤 drop!
April 2, 2024
I love a good psychological thriller, and The Awakening: What Lies Inside certainly delivers! The book drew me in immediately, and I was not able to put it down! Em James, the main character, is intriguing yet tortured on several levels. As I learned more of her story, I began to piece some things together and thought I had her figured out about halfway through the book — and I did. But oh, the plot twists that awaited me! They were unpredictable and alarming! This book had me gasping and talking to myself and — without giving away any spoilers — left me wanting more at the end. This is Reddic’s first novel, but she has hit it out of the park!
April 13, 2024
Spoiler (Don’t read if you haven’t read the novel)
EmLeigh Barbara James is haunted by her alters. That cause her to make very unfortunate actions. She’s trapped within herself as she consistently trying to be present, but fails. When I began this novel I tried to read it in conjunction with another, but I had to please the other novel down to complete this one. There were so many things happening with EmLeigh, Em, Barbara, B and Leigh. This book had me in a chokehold and wouldn’t let me loose. Her mental illness had her in a continuous cycle of foolishness. There are so many surprises, twists and turns. I loved it. I’m also glad this book ended on a cliffhanger. It gives me something to look forward to from this author.
EmLeigh Barbara James is haunted by her alters. That cause her to make very unfortunate actions. She’s trapped within herself as she consistently trying to be present, but fails. When I began this novel I tried to read it in conjunction with another, but I had to please the other novel down to complete this one. There were so many things happening with EmLeigh, Em, Barbara, B and Leigh. This book had me in a chokehold and wouldn’t let me loose. Her mental illness had her in a continuous cycle of foolishness. There are so many surprises, twists and turns. I loved it. I’m also glad this book ended on a cliffhanger. It gives me something to look forward to from this author.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 11, 2024
Holy… Shit...
This was the best psychological thriller ever!
V, I said it before and I’ll say it again, this was brilliant. YOURE brilliant. It was executed perfectly. It grabbed me immediately and did not let go until it was over… no that’s not true… it hasn’t let me go yet! I need more!!! Even when you’re certain you know what’s going on youre still questioning everything. EVERYTHING! I was like wait, did I read that wrong? No… she meant it that way!!! I LOVE the way it was written, I think that’s what made the realization of the plot twists so powerful! And when I saw jaw dropping, I mean Jaw. Dropping! The twist and turns had me on the edge of my seat! It was deliciously dark and I don’t even mind the fact that I feel like I’ve been punched in the gut🤣 Thankfully the author was down to earth and loved me giving her live updates because I was, for the first time ever, unhinged and going thru it trying to figure out what was going on! I think I yelled at the book more than I ever have before. This is definitely a read in one sitting book, so have a couple hours to read when you start because you won’t want to stop. I am a fan for life and cannot wait to see what you write next. Thanks so much for this ARC.
I highly recommend you all get this!!! It’s out on 5/31 but you can pre order now!!! I highly suggest you do because it’s so worth it! Definitely will be in my top books of the year!!!
Also, don’t let the trigger warnings completely deter you… I feel like I have a lot of triggers and I was a little worried going in but none of the book bothered me at all. It’s all relevant to the plot and the parts that might bother some are quick and not drawn out. I feel like you should give it a chance!!!
This was the best psychological thriller ever!
V, I said it before and I’ll say it again, this was brilliant. YOURE brilliant. It was executed perfectly. It grabbed me immediately and did not let go until it was over… no that’s not true… it hasn’t let me go yet! I need more!!! Even when you’re certain you know what’s going on youre still questioning everything. EVERYTHING! I was like wait, did I read that wrong? No… she meant it that way!!! I LOVE the way it was written, I think that’s what made the realization of the plot twists so powerful! And when I saw jaw dropping, I mean Jaw. Dropping! The twist and turns had me on the edge of my seat! It was deliciously dark and I don’t even mind the fact that I feel like I’ve been punched in the gut🤣 Thankfully the author was down to earth and loved me giving her live updates because I was, for the first time ever, unhinged and going thru it trying to figure out what was going on! I think I yelled at the book more than I ever have before. This is definitely a read in one sitting book, so have a couple hours to read when you start because you won’t want to stop. I am a fan for life and cannot wait to see what you write next. Thanks so much for this ARC.
I highly recommend you all get this!!! It’s out on 5/31 but you can pre order now!!! I highly suggest you do because it’s so worth it! Definitely will be in my top books of the year!!!
Also, don’t let the trigger warnings completely deter you… I feel like I have a lot of triggers and I was a little worried going in but none of the book bothered me at all. It’s all relevant to the plot and the parts that might bother some are quick and not drawn out. I feel like you should give it a chance!!!
April 13, 2024
The Awakening
Man, for my first psychological thriller, this was a ride, and I enjoyed every minute of it. Em had me feeling all kinds of emotions for her. I was saddened by her life’s events, then happy when I thought things were turning around, then a little confused until the author so beautifully laid it all out there, with every new chapter I felt like so many different things were happening but I was stuck like glue, trying to make sure Em got her happy ending. I am a happily ever after romance girlie at heart lol. The Awakening was such a great book and now I’m wondering if there will be a part two. Well I’m hoping if there will be a part two. This book definitely gets ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ from me. I can’t wait to read more from this Author. She rocked this debut novel and I’m excited to see what’s next.
Man, for my first psychological thriller, this was a ride, and I enjoyed every minute of it. Em had me feeling all kinds of emotions for her. I was saddened by her life’s events, then happy when I thought things were turning around, then a little confused until the author so beautifully laid it all out there, with every new chapter I felt like so many different things were happening but I was stuck like glue, trying to make sure Em got her happy ending. I am a happily ever after romance girlie at heart lol. The Awakening was such a great book and now I’m wondering if there will be a part two. Well I’m hoping if there will be a part two. This book definitely gets ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ from me. I can’t wait to read more from this Author. She rocked this debut novel and I’m excited to see what’s next.
April 3, 2024
The Awakening: What Lies Inside was my very first psychological thriller and it did not disappoint! This book had my attention from the very beginning. There was a point where I thought to myself, “okay I see where this is going” and then BOOM I was hit with a twist that I was NOT EXPECTING AT ALL. Just when you think she’s thought of it all, BOOM there it goes again. I screamed and gasped so many times while reading this book. This book was written so wonderfully that it left me questioning myself if I should be feeling this way about the main character Em, because you technically shouldn’t like her but I love her! This was Davina’s first novel and I certainly hope it isn’t her last!
April 5, 2024
Holy cow! I was truly confused the first several chapters trying to keep track of what was a memory versus real life. I definitely questioned my own thoughts several times - similar to Em I guess.
Like most books you start to guess what will happen next based on context clues but I was so incredibly wrong. Every time I assumed what was going to happen the book went in a completely different direction. There were multiple times I was actually screaming at my husband (who didn’t read the book and had no idea what I was even reading) about what had just happened!
This may be one of my favorite books of the year, if not my favorite ever.
Like most books you start to guess what will happen next based on context clues but I was so incredibly wrong. Every time I assumed what was going to happen the book went in a completely different direction. There were multiple times I was actually screaming at my husband (who didn’t read the book and had no idea what I was even reading) about what had just happened!
This may be one of my favorite books of the year, if not my favorite ever.
May 31, 2024
The Awakening…
This book served its purpose as a Psychological Thriller. While the beginning was confusing at first, I really feel it was written that way to embody the crazed feelings Em was actually experiencing, making you confused, but with the need to know and understand more! The plot twists is what truly brought this book to life! Every avenue you thought was a tease into another leading to a grand finale, which ultimately left a glimpse to the imagination!
As a new writer, I was extremely impressed!
TBR worthy and I truly look forward to her next book!
Expect to see Davina Reddic trending in no time!
Well done
This book served its purpose as a Psychological Thriller. While the beginning was confusing at first, I really feel it was written that way to embody the crazed feelings Em was actually experiencing, making you confused, but with the need to know and understand more! The plot twists is what truly brought this book to life! Every avenue you thought was a tease into another leading to a grand finale, which ultimately left a glimpse to the imagination!
As a new writer, I was extremely impressed!
TBR worthy and I truly look forward to her next book!
Expect to see Davina Reddic trending in no time!
Well done
April 4, 2024
Where are my fellow psych thriller lovers at!? Em and her wild ways will keep you enthralled!
My eyes and mouth are both still wide open! I definitely thought I knew what was happening in this roller-coaster book only to be shocked more than once. I caught myself screaming out loud. Davina did an amazing job keeping me turning pages. This book was hard to put down as I absolutely needed to know how it ended. Now I can sleep better. Maybe with one eye open. Certainly looking forward to more books coming from Davina in the future. Go out and get this book. You won't be sorry!
My eyes and mouth are both still wide open! I definitely thought I knew what was happening in this roller-coaster book only to be shocked more than once. I caught myself screaming out loud. Davina did an amazing job keeping me turning pages. This book was hard to put down as I absolutely needed to know how it ended. Now I can sleep better. Maybe with one eye open. Certainly looking forward to more books coming from Davina in the future. Go out and get this book. You won't be sorry!
April 6, 2024
Hold onto your seat because this psychological thriller will take you on a wild ride! From the very first page, I was hooked, unable to tear myself away from the gripping narrative. Just when you think you have a handle on Em James and the story's direction, BAM! A plot twist blindsides you, leaving you gasping for breath and eagerly flipping through the pages to uncover the truth. Trust me, you won't be able to put this book down until you reach the heart-pounding conclusion. I dare you to read it and then try to resist discussing which character you despise the most.
April 2, 2024
Wooowie! Not going to lie I was definitely confused at times reading this but it’s brilliant because you are reading from the mind of the main character Em and she too is very confused -trying to wrack her mind for what’s happening and what has happened. The way Davina ties everything together was so delicious and even better than I could have imagined. I looove a good psychological thriller and this one checked all the boxes
April 18, 2024
😲 10/10 would recommend this book! This book will make your jaw drop, and keep you up all night long reading!
Trigger warnings ⚠️ that may spoil the book for some continue reading with caution!
TW listed by author:
Graphic sexual intercourse, stalking, murder, SA, Treatment/lack thereof and diagnoses of mental health
Trigger warnings ⚠️ that may spoil the book for some continue reading with caution!
TW listed by author:
Graphic sexual intercourse, stalking, murder, SA, Treatment/lack thereof and diagnoses of mental health
July 27, 2024
4.75 ⭐️! My literal words when finishing this book were, “I want to punch a wall in the best way”. I truly thought I understood the plot several times and each time I got comfortable, I was thrown through a new loop. It feels like I need a re-read now that I have the entire knowledge of the plot line. 100% suggest this book if you love a good psychological thriller!
October 25, 2024
MAN. I just finished this book and WOW. What a doozy. I went in thinking it’s one kind of book and left reading like 5 different kind of books. The journey the reader gets put through is unlike any book I’ve ever read. What a unique story. The story is a little bit of a slow starter but then I read 70% of the rest of the book in literally one sitting.
May 5, 2024
This read was not my typical pick, but I do not regret it in the least. I loved the way the author tackles the story in this book and keeps you in suspense as you read. The book gave me classic American Psycho vibes and did not disappoint. Just when you think you have it figured out you realize that you had it all wrong. Great thriller! If I could give more than 5 stars I would.
October 18, 2024
✨Spoiler Free Review✨
Title- The Awakening: What lies inside by @davinareddic_writes
Rating- ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I must admit that I was pleasantly surprised by this ARC. The story started off at a slow pace, but it quickly gained momentum and became impossible to put down. The author has done an excellent job of weaving together a thrilling plot with elements of dark romance, leaving the reader guessing until the very end.
Synopsis-
James awakens to what she believes to be the hangover from hell. She is cold and aching in her dimly lit home trying to stay awake against the abnormal headache she is experiencing. Em takes us down memory lane as she drifts in and out of sleep describing her obsession with love and loss. Her fixation with her boss and her daddy issues. As time goes on Em proves to be an unreliable source of information and lets us know she is avoiding something big that haunts her down to her very soul. When Em faces her demons and she’s finally awake, she shows us who she really is.
Besties if you love thrillers with a hint of dark romance this one is for you 💋
Thank you @davinareddic_writes for sending me a copy ✨
QOTD- how was your weekend?
Title- The Awakening: What lies inside by @davinareddic_writes
Rating- ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I must admit that I was pleasantly surprised by this ARC. The story started off at a slow pace, but it quickly gained momentum and became impossible to put down. The author has done an excellent job of weaving together a thrilling plot with elements of dark romance, leaving the reader guessing until the very end.
Synopsis-
James awakens to what she believes to be the hangover from hell. She is cold and aching in her dimly lit home trying to stay awake against the abnormal headache she is experiencing. Em takes us down memory lane as she drifts in and out of sleep describing her obsession with love and loss. Her fixation with her boss and her daddy issues. As time goes on Em proves to be an unreliable source of information and lets us know she is avoiding something big that haunts her down to her very soul. When Em faces her demons and she’s finally awake, she shows us who she really is.
Besties if you love thrillers with a hint of dark romance this one is for you 💋
Thank you @davinareddic_writes for sending me a copy ✨
QOTD- how was your weekend?
Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews