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Genesis
Genesis (In the Beginning Series) A Fantasy Romance Novel
Dive into Genesis, the first book in Phoenix Drake's In the Beginning series. A gripping fantasy romance featuring a reincarnated heroine, fated mates, and ancient powers. Perfect for fans of epic fantasy and mythic romance.
Where Destiny is Reborn
Enter a world where realms collide and destinies are forever intertwined. Genesis, the debut novel in Phoenix Drake's captivating In the Beginning series, reveals a timeless tale of forbidden passion and primordial power slumbering within immortal souls.
Yara Fortune is haunted by echoes of past lives she cannot remember. Her fate is irrevocably tied to four powerful men, their bonds to her as perilous as they are profound.
Stripped of her memories after countless rebirths, Yara becomes the target of ancient forces desperate to claim the power she holds. To survive, she must unravel the mystery of her own soul and decode the fated connections to the men who claim to protect her. Her only path forward is to unlock the secrets of her past and claim the cosmic legacy that is her birthright.
Ideal for readers of fantasy romance, fated mates, and epic mythology, Genesis is an unforgettable journey of rebirth, redemption, and a love that defies the boundaries of time. The ultimate question can Yara embrace the destiny written for her long ago?
Dive into Genesis, the first book in Phoenix Drake's In the Beginning series. A gripping fantasy romance featuring a reincarnated heroine, fated mates, and ancient powers. Perfect for fans of epic fantasy and mythic romance.
Where Destiny is Reborn
Enter a world where realms collide and destinies are forever intertwined. Genesis, the debut novel in Phoenix Drake's captivating In the Beginning series, reveals a timeless tale of forbidden passion and primordial power slumbering within immortal souls.
Yara Fortune is haunted by echoes of past lives she cannot remember. Her fate is irrevocably tied to four powerful men, their bonds to her as perilous as they are profound.
Stripped of her memories after countless rebirths, Yara becomes the target of ancient forces desperate to claim the power she holds. To survive, she must unravel the mystery of her own soul and decode the fated connections to the men who claim to protect her. Her only path forward is to unlock the secrets of her past and claim the cosmic legacy that is her birthright.
Ideal for readers of fantasy romance, fated mates, and epic mythology, Genesis is an unforgettable journey of rebirth, redemption, and a love that defies the boundaries of time. The ultimate question can Yara embrace the destiny written for her long ago?
407 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 21, 2024
3 people are currently reading
7 people want to read
About the author
Phoenix Drake
15 books10 followersPhoenix Drake writes worlds with the tenacity of a storm and the grace of a storyteller who’s lived a hundred lives. Armed with a master’s degree from Northern Arizona University and a passport brimming with stamps from her globetrotting adventures, she weaves tales that dance between modern urban grit and sweeping high fantasy, blending the ancient and the contemporary into the dark and dazzling.
A Croc-loving introvert with a penchant for the macabre, Phoenix spends her days sipping strong coffee, befriending animals, and crafting unforgettable characters. Her writing thrives on the tension of chaos and control, drawing readers into lush worlds where magic simmers under the surface and love burns like starlight.
When not exploring hidden corners of the globe, Phoenix finds inspiration in the mundane made extraordinary: the electric hum of cities, the haunting stillness of forests, and the whispers of history. Whether you're meeting her fierce heroines or unraveling her dark mysteries, Phoenix promises a literary adventure that will live in your soul long after the final page.
A Croc-loving introvert with a penchant for the macabre, Phoenix spends her days sipping strong coffee, befriending animals, and crafting unforgettable characters. Her writing thrives on the tension of chaos and control, drawing readers into lush worlds where magic simmers under the surface and love burns like starlight.
When not exploring hidden corners of the globe, Phoenix finds inspiration in the mundane made extraordinary: the electric hum of cities, the haunting stillness of forests, and the whispers of history. Whether you're meeting her fierce heroines or unraveling her dark mysteries, Phoenix promises a literary adventure that will live in your soul long after the final page.
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Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
April 17, 2025
Well, what a wild, wild ride this debut novel from Phoenix Drake turned out to be!
I wasn't sure what to expect when I picked up Genesis, but I can safely say that it's one of the best reads I've had this year!
The story involves four men, who all had past lives with the main protagonist, Yara. From the beginning, you understand that three of these young men are wealthy and entitled and perhaps not the most redeeming young men, but Phoenix has created characters that have real depth and throughout the story, builds and develops their characters. I feel like you could see their progression from boys into true, adult men.
Yara, our sweet, joyful female main character, enters the book early on, appearing through an aperture - like a wormhole - that opens from one realm to another. you can't help but like Yara, and because she has lost her memories, she has an appealing vulnerability. However, she is anything but helpless, and as a reader, you soon discover she has bite. She carries an unbelievable power, built over the hundred lives she has lived, but none she can remember.
There is an instant connection and sense of protection for two of the young men, Hank and Nick, with Yara.I enjoyed that for one, Keller, there was real angst, avoidance, and anger at the situation. I'll say no more on the story or plot, but I have to mention troubled Euberl, the swoon worthy angel, and fourth male character, who is very well wrought and imagined. He has been with Yara for most of the past lives she has lived.
Genesis is a novel of many layers. It is full of action, twists, and turns and a rollercoaster of events and emotion. The world building is terrific, with scientific and fantastical elements to it. I particularly loved Norea Castle. Read it to find out more!
There are themes of fated mates, a world under the boot of misogyny, and the awakened or returning of the divine feminine. There are strong romantic elements, and yes, there is some spice in it, too.
And as I said to a Phoenix in a message, her mind is an amazing and slightly scary gem to behold! (in the best possible way). a well deserved 5 stars. Now awaiting book 2!
I wasn't sure what to expect when I picked up Genesis, but I can safely say that it's one of the best reads I've had this year!
The story involves four men, who all had past lives with the main protagonist, Yara. From the beginning, you understand that three of these young men are wealthy and entitled and perhaps not the most redeeming young men, but Phoenix has created characters that have real depth and throughout the story, builds and develops their characters. I feel like you could see their progression from boys into true, adult men.
Yara, our sweet, joyful female main character, enters the book early on, appearing through an aperture - like a wormhole - that opens from one realm to another. you can't help but like Yara, and because she has lost her memories, she has an appealing vulnerability. However, she is anything but helpless, and as a reader, you soon discover she has bite. She carries an unbelievable power, built over the hundred lives she has lived, but none she can remember.
There is an instant connection and sense of protection for two of the young men, Hank and Nick, with Yara.I enjoyed that for one, Keller, there was real angst, avoidance, and anger at the situation. I'll say no more on the story or plot, but I have to mention troubled Euberl, the swoon worthy angel, and fourth male character, who is very well wrought and imagined. He has been with Yara for most of the past lives she has lived.
Genesis is a novel of many layers. It is full of action, twists, and turns and a rollercoaster of events and emotion. The world building is terrific, with scientific and fantastical elements to it. I particularly loved Norea Castle. Read it to find out more!
There are themes of fated mates, a world under the boot of misogyny, and the awakened or returning of the divine feminine. There are strong romantic elements, and yes, there is some spice in it, too.
And as I said to a Phoenix in a message, her mind is an amazing and slightly scary gem to behold! (in the best possible way). a well deserved 5 stars. Now awaiting book 2!
April 16, 2025
What a spellbinding experience.
Phoenix has brought her characters to life with beautiful interconnected detail and mystery.
Hilarious quips and inner dialogues keep one fully engaged from start to finish. Often books will lag at places, Genesis does not. It moves with a physical heartbeat that you can feel within your soul as you turn the pages.
I absolutely adored the complexity of these characters, from Nicholas and his empty chest, guilt and numbing antics to our Dark angel and his sorrowful, bleeding heart.
Yara is playful, enchanting and shrouded in the unknown. I loved finding out about who she is and the history of her past lives.
Each character brought something fabulous with their own enchanting secrets unveiled for readers at the best possible moments.
This wonderful, magical, entertaining, mystical, mystery filled, dark and poetic story has everything! Especially heart and soul!
Moody males trying to find their way in a hellish and corrupt world, a tall beautiful woman who's drawn to them yet with no memories as to why, a power hungry patriarch who will stop at nothing to achieve his goal, and many fantastical creatures along the way to entice and reel us in.
I prefer jumping into a book as blind as possible, which is what I did! I browse reviews and the book's blurb only to get a sense of anything I’m really not interested in. Then I dive in and enjoy it.
What an absolutely epic story. The crafting of these characters and this world, the lore, depth and mysticism is nothing short of astounding and brilliant.
Phoenix is a master storyteller and majestical Priestess with words. I struggle to do justice explaining how beautiful her writing style and skill truly is. The way she's captured the essence of these characters and told their stories, keeping us engaged throughout – a true gift and what an absolute pleasure to read!
This book is soul food.
We have angels, humans, aliens, mythical beasts, reincarnation, gods, magic, lore, other worldly happenings all rotating along the axis of love and divine purpose. It's enchanting and at times soul crushing, but in the best possible way.
The spice enhances the story and moves it forward – never as just a filler, I really appreciate this choice. Brushing characters to their edges and building up the storyline?! Wonderful, and done with meaning.
The intertwined backstories and enmeshed present happenings of each character is epic and moves along with such grace, excitement, twists and thrills – Their inner dialogue is real making it easy to connect with each character and fall in love with them, or question and hate them as much as the hero’s do.
I could go into great detail about the many things I loved about this book. Truly though, you have to read it to fully grasp how good it is.
Multi POV with dark themes. Spice, action, villains with no moral compass (as one would expect), swearing, smoking, drinking and violence.
Hilarity, heartache, romance, painting worthy descriptors that will peak every one of your senses… Half garbed angels with bodies that’ll make your mouth run dry. A sunshine FMC who packs a punch – gosh I love a woman with fury in her veins and passion in her soul.
It’s a heck of a good time, I can’t wait for book two. If I could rate Genesis with more than 5 stars, I would. Go get it, you need this read.
Phoenix has brought her characters to life with beautiful interconnected detail and mystery.
Hilarious quips and inner dialogues keep one fully engaged from start to finish. Often books will lag at places, Genesis does not. It moves with a physical heartbeat that you can feel within your soul as you turn the pages.
I absolutely adored the complexity of these characters, from Nicholas and his empty chest, guilt and numbing antics to our Dark angel and his sorrowful, bleeding heart.
Yara is playful, enchanting and shrouded in the unknown. I loved finding out about who she is and the history of her past lives.
Each character brought something fabulous with their own enchanting secrets unveiled for readers at the best possible moments.
This wonderful, magical, entertaining, mystical, mystery filled, dark and poetic story has everything! Especially heart and soul!
Moody males trying to find their way in a hellish and corrupt world, a tall beautiful woman who's drawn to them yet with no memories as to why, a power hungry patriarch who will stop at nothing to achieve his goal, and many fantastical creatures along the way to entice and reel us in.
I prefer jumping into a book as blind as possible, which is what I did! I browse reviews and the book's blurb only to get a sense of anything I’m really not interested in. Then I dive in and enjoy it.
What an absolutely epic story. The crafting of these characters and this world, the lore, depth and mysticism is nothing short of astounding and brilliant.
Phoenix is a master storyteller and majestical Priestess with words. I struggle to do justice explaining how beautiful her writing style and skill truly is. The way she's captured the essence of these characters and told their stories, keeping us engaged throughout – a true gift and what an absolute pleasure to read!
This book is soul food.
We have angels, humans, aliens, mythical beasts, reincarnation, gods, magic, lore, other worldly happenings all rotating along the axis of love and divine purpose. It's enchanting and at times soul crushing, but in the best possible way.
The spice enhances the story and moves it forward – never as just a filler, I really appreciate this choice. Brushing characters to their edges and building up the storyline?! Wonderful, and done with meaning.
The intertwined backstories and enmeshed present happenings of each character is epic and moves along with such grace, excitement, twists and thrills – Their inner dialogue is real making it easy to connect with each character and fall in love with them, or question and hate them as much as the hero’s do.
I could go into great detail about the many things I loved about this book. Truly though, you have to read it to fully grasp how good it is.
Multi POV with dark themes. Spice, action, villains with no moral compass (as one would expect), swearing, smoking, drinking and violence.
Hilarity, heartache, romance, painting worthy descriptors that will peak every one of your senses… Half garbed angels with bodies that’ll make your mouth run dry. A sunshine FMC who packs a punch – gosh I love a woman with fury in her veins and passion in her soul.
It’s a heck of a good time, I can’t wait for book two. If I could rate Genesis with more than 5 stars, I would. Go get it, you need this read.
August 26, 2025
Do you like fantasy without the big confusing names or world building but with non stop action?
From the very 1st page I was hooked, needed to know what was happening next.
This has everything from aliens, humans, monsters, shifters dark angels, dragons, magic and more.
Yara is the FMC with many pasts she does not remember.
Several male characters. Euberl has a history with Yara, of course she does not recall. She’s pulled to these men without understanding why.
My favorite quote “ Why did the Aquorion create Adam to be dimwitted?”🤣🤣🤣
Incredible read and I can not wait for Book 2.
From the very 1st page I was hooked, needed to know what was happening next.
This has everything from aliens, humans, monsters, shifters dark angels, dragons, magic and more.
Yara is the FMC with many pasts she does not remember.
Several male characters. Euberl has a history with Yara, of course she does not recall. She’s pulled to these men without understanding why.
My favorite quote “ Why did the Aquorion create Adam to be dimwitted?”🤣🤣🤣
Incredible read and I can not wait for Book 2.
October 23, 2025
This world keeps getting better and better. There are angels, goddesses, Vikings, Fae, dragons and the fantastical and mythological beings keep on coming. To top it all off there are aliens! And I love aliens!
This story has got every type of hero you can dream up from badass warrior, to golden retriever, to the reluctant guy in denial, and the broody bossy know-it-all. And they all have one thing in common--Yara Fortune.
Yara Fortune is an enigma whose story unravels in a series of perilous events that expose lifetimes of memories and regrets.
Though I wouldn't necessarily describe this book as RH. Lovers of RH will love the interesting twist that calls all these powerful men to Yara. If you enjoy a story with a large cast of interesting characters and an intricate and rich world, this story will have you wanting more.
And because book two Forsake has just released you can get your more now!
This story has got every type of hero you can dream up from badass warrior, to golden retriever, to the reluctant guy in denial, and the broody bossy know-it-all. And they all have one thing in common--Yara Fortune.
Yara Fortune is an enigma whose story unravels in a series of perilous events that expose lifetimes of memories and regrets.
Though I wouldn't necessarily describe this book as RH. Lovers of RH will love the interesting twist that calls all these powerful men to Yara. If you enjoy a story with a large cast of interesting characters and an intricate and rich world, this story will have you wanting more.
And because book two Forsake has just released you can get your more now!
March 1, 2025
Oh my gosh this book!
I’m so in love with this book. The world’s both Earth and the other realms. The story behind humans and Earth! My dark Angel, Keller, and Nick. I also can’t forget Dorschter!!!! I’m in love with it all! We’ll all of it but the Goddess. I really don’t think I like her. And the ending! Oh my! I can’t wait for the next book!
I’m so in love with this book. The world’s both Earth and the other realms. The story behind humans and Earth! My dark Angel, Keller, and Nick. I also can’t forget Dorschter!!!! I’m in love with it all! We’ll all of it but the Goddess. I really don’t think I like her. And the ending! Oh my! I can’t wait for the next book!
December 19, 2024
Great start to this story
World building
Why choose
Love crossing time
Finding one's power
Touch her and die
Can't wait to start the next book!
World building
Why choose
Love crossing time
Finding one's power
Touch her and die
Can't wait to start the next book!
December 12, 2024
They know she is different & something powerful. With an unexplainable pull towards these four men creating instant chaotic attraction to Yara - trust me her arrival
upends their pleasure driven unquenchable unsatisfactory throwaway alphahole lives. It's like she's whats missing and together they're truly whole. But nothing easy as past lives and all that baggage lived creates the question who to trust now.
Journey is the one of remembering and why those that know everything are reticent to reveal anything.
The characterisation is larger than life,there all intense characters from who are they now or who they were many times over. Expect oppulent indulgent unhinged and possessive male actions juxtaposition next Yara far more relaxed, measured unpushed almost regal approach. Yara reminds me of Pris from Bladerunner, Madison from Splash, Mystique from X-Men, Ripley from Alien and Leeloo from 5th element. I love that Yara is tall
"She stands tall, nearly eye-level with my six-two frame, carrying every inch of her height with untamed grace. Messy, chin-length blond hair frames high cheekbones and full lips, while a torn, dirty tunic swings loosely on her slender frame. Tattoos climb impossibly long legs, dusted with grime. She’s barefoot, filthy, and the most beautiful thing I’ve ever seen."
The read is open and direct in language and you think its unfolding everything but actually remains mysterious on many fronts. The medium to fast burn erotica and Adult fantasy language is very similar to intense fated pairings like omegaverse, Sci-Fi Space opera, Reincarnation and Amnesia reads then throw in experiences of old souls who act and feel with returned knowledge, freedom and ultimately power.
- Paranormal Sci-Fi why choose Romance
- Goddesses falling Alien invasion - yep its a big world to take in but please check out the Authors socials as she explains her characters backstories and roles in the book.
- World building is from the past,present then remembered lives lived shaping places and people in book.
- Reincarnation & memories returning
- Fated Mates
- Angels
- Forbidden Love
-Adult fantasy
- power games - political intrigue
-Shifters
-Goddesses
-Mythology
- Medium to Fast burn yes theres spicy stuff
-MMMFM
-MM
about the author perfectly sums her writing style
"crafting worlds that challenge conformity and invite those brave enough to embrace the unexpected"
Jasmin E Reads
upends their pleasure driven unquenchable unsatisfactory throwaway alphahole lives. It's like she's whats missing and together they're truly whole. But nothing easy as past lives and all that baggage lived creates the question who to trust now.
Journey is the one of remembering and why those that know everything are reticent to reveal anything.
The characterisation is larger than life,there all intense characters from who are they now or who they were many times over. Expect oppulent indulgent unhinged and possessive male actions juxtaposition next Yara far more relaxed, measured unpushed almost regal approach. Yara reminds me of Pris from Bladerunner, Madison from Splash, Mystique from X-Men, Ripley from Alien and Leeloo from 5th element. I love that Yara is tall
"She stands tall, nearly eye-level with my six-two frame, carrying every inch of her height with untamed grace. Messy, chin-length blond hair frames high cheekbones and full lips, while a torn, dirty tunic swings loosely on her slender frame. Tattoos climb impossibly long legs, dusted with grime. She’s barefoot, filthy, and the most beautiful thing I’ve ever seen."
The read is open and direct in language and you think its unfolding everything but actually remains mysterious on many fronts. The medium to fast burn erotica and Adult fantasy language is very similar to intense fated pairings like omegaverse, Sci-Fi Space opera, Reincarnation and Amnesia reads then throw in experiences of old souls who act and feel with returned knowledge, freedom and ultimately power.
- Paranormal Sci-Fi why choose Romance
- Goddesses falling Alien invasion - yep its a big world to take in but please check out the Authors socials as she explains her characters backstories and roles in the book.
- World building is from the past,present then remembered lives lived shaping places and people in book.
- Reincarnation & memories returning
- Fated Mates
- Angels
- Forbidden Love
-Adult fantasy
- power games - political intrigue
-Shifters
-Goddesses
-Mythology
- Medium to Fast burn yes theres spicy stuff
-MMMFM
-MM
about the author perfectly sums her writing style
"crafting worlds that challenge conformity and invite those brave enough to embrace the unexpected"
Jasmin E Reads
June 5, 2025
Genesis by Phoenix Drake swept me into a richly layered world where mythology, destiny, and romance collide with breathtaking intensity. From the very first chapter, I was drawn into Yara Fortune’s story a woman grappling with the shadows of lives she can’t remember and bonds she can’t explain. The emotional depth Phoenix Drake gives Yara made her feel real: vulnerable yet resilient, questioning yet unshakably powerful.
The four male leads Euberl, Hank, Keller, and Nicholas each brought something distinct and compelling to the story. I didn’t expect to connect with all of them, but somehow Drake made each one impossible to ignore. Their ties to Yara felt intimate and mysterious, their interactions charged with both longing and tension. I especially appreciated that their relationships weren’t just romantic fodder; they were windows into Yara’s past and clues to her identity.
The worldbuilding is ambitious, and while it took a few chapters to find my footing with the lore, once I did, I was hooked. Themes of reincarnation, divine power, and fate versus choice are interwoven beautifully. I found myself rereading certain passages just to soak in the imagery and symbolism.
If you love slow burn fantasy with mythic stakes and emotional depth, Genesis is a must read. It left me eager and a little desperate for book two.
The four male leads Euberl, Hank, Keller, and Nicholas each brought something distinct and compelling to the story. I didn’t expect to connect with all of them, but somehow Drake made each one impossible to ignore. Their ties to Yara felt intimate and mysterious, their interactions charged with both longing and tension. I especially appreciated that their relationships weren’t just romantic fodder; they were windows into Yara’s past and clues to her identity.
The worldbuilding is ambitious, and while it took a few chapters to find my footing with the lore, once I did, I was hooked. Themes of reincarnation, divine power, and fate versus choice are interwoven beautifully. I found myself rereading certain passages just to soak in the imagery and symbolism.
If you love slow burn fantasy with mythic stakes and emotional depth, Genesis is a must read. It left me eager and a little desperate for book two.
February 3, 2025
My top read of 2024!
Genesis was my most anticipated read of 2024, and after reading it, it became my top read of 2024.
This amazing book hit all the right points with me.
I'll start with the plot. It was intriguing! Held my attention from the start, through the middle, right to the end.
The characters. The female main character, named Yara, was the perfect combination of strong, sassy, yet she was vulnerable. Loved that. Although I love strong FMC's, I need them to also be vulnerable and need the hero--in this case, need all 4 of the heroes,
plus the others helping her cause.
The male main characters are fantastic.
We have Euberl. He's an angel, and I fell in love with him.
Then we have Hank, Keller and Nicholas. These men are humans, but inside they each harbor the soul of who they were in their past lives--lives they had spent with Yara, or rather her soul.
The spice level. Throughout the book, there were spicy moments, but the ending scene... Holy freaking H.O.T, spicy!
This book ends on a cliffhanger, but thankfully, book 2 is in the works.
This is one of those books that'll live, rent free, in my head.
Five stars 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 and five 👍👍👍👍👍
Genesis was my most anticipated read of 2024, and after reading it, it became my top read of 2024.
This amazing book hit all the right points with me.
I'll start with the plot. It was intriguing! Held my attention from the start, through the middle, right to the end.
The characters. The female main character, named Yara, was the perfect combination of strong, sassy, yet she was vulnerable. Loved that. Although I love strong FMC's, I need them to also be vulnerable and need the hero--in this case, need all 4 of the heroes,
plus the others helping her cause.
The male main characters are fantastic.
We have Euberl. He's an angel, and I fell in love with him.
Then we have Hank, Keller and Nicholas. These men are humans, but inside they each harbor the soul of who they were in their past lives--lives they had spent with Yara, or rather her soul.
The spice level. Throughout the book, there were spicy moments, but the ending scene... Holy freaking H.O.T, spicy!
This book ends on a cliffhanger, but thankfully, book 2 is in the works.
This is one of those books that'll live, rent free, in my head.
Five stars 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 and five 👍👍👍👍👍
November 26, 2025
I thoroughly enjoyed the plot and writing. I am looking forward to reading Forsake and highly anticipating the release of Jezebel.
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews