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Maggie Henning & The Realm #1
Phoenix Rising
Maggie has lived the last ten years with a woman who isn't her mother and carrying the label "Daughter of John Henning", a man sentenced to live out his days at Sunnyview Psychiatric Hospital after his conviction of fire bombing a church...
and killing the 8 people inside.
What Maggie learns will change her life.
She is the last of a race of creatures known as "The Phoenix", a race of supernatural beings with the ability to wield and control fire.
And she will need that power now...
Revenants- walking, living, skeletal creatures who have waged a war against an unseen, parallel world known simply as The Realm- need Maggie's blood to bring them to a full power...a power that will give them an unbeatable edge and offer the deciding weapon in this war.
Maggie is not alone as she learns not only what she really is, but what it is her destiny to become...
and killing the 8 people inside.
What Maggie learns will change her life.
She is the last of a race of creatures known as "The Phoenix", a race of supernatural beings with the ability to wield and control fire.
And she will need that power now...
Revenants- walking, living, skeletal creatures who have waged a war against an unseen, parallel world known simply as The Realm- need Maggie's blood to bring them to a full power...a power that will give them an unbeatable edge and offer the deciding weapon in this war.
Maggie is not alone as she learns not only what she really is, but what it is her destiny to become...
340 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 20, 2011
73 people are currently reading
678 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews
October 29, 2012
Woo hoo! Another fellow TB Wiki sister published a book! 4.5/5 stars. And I'm surprised how much I liked this book considering I'm not a YA fan! I will attempt to write a review when i get a chance! Love you, Lisa! *Muwah*
January 27, 2012
I love this book!!!
There aren't many books I can say made me laugh, cry, smile, and just all around fall into emotional pieces while remaining so utterly glued to the story and what the next page holds. This book did just that and more!
Upon starting, I found I couldn't put this book down. The many twists and turns left me breathless, while the adventure and epic building of emotions for battle left me standing on tip toes, not wanting to make a sound.
I fell for this girl, felt every pain and wave of sadness, every ounce of laughter and happiness ... I was the one standing in the sidelines jumping up and down with my virtual pom poms yelling "you can do it, yes you can!"
Oh and the romance ... so innocently sweet, yet amazingly captivating!! I learned early on that I was crushing on Michel ... and then came along Luc, and I found myself torn between the two!!
I refuse to give away any part of the suspense with spoilers, but will say I cannot wait for the sequel .... I am sure anyone who has read this would agree that their lungs won't take in breath until the second is released!!
This book is a definite must read!!!! Many kudos Lisa!!!
There aren't many books I can say made me laugh, cry, smile, and just all around fall into emotional pieces while remaining so utterly glued to the story and what the next page holds. This book did just that and more!
Upon starting, I found I couldn't put this book down. The many twists and turns left me breathless, while the adventure and epic building of emotions for battle left me standing on tip toes, not wanting to make a sound.
I fell for this girl, felt every pain and wave of sadness, every ounce of laughter and happiness ... I was the one standing in the sidelines jumping up and down with my virtual pom poms yelling "you can do it, yes you can!"
Oh and the romance ... so innocently sweet, yet amazingly captivating!! I learned early on that I was crushing on Michel ... and then came along Luc, and I found myself torn between the two!!
I refuse to give away any part of the suspense with spoilers, but will say I cannot wait for the sequel .... I am sure anyone who has read this would agree that their lungs won't take in breath until the second is released!!
This book is a definite must read!!!! Many kudos Lisa!!!
January 11, 2012
This is my debut YA novel. available at http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/...
for a limited time, I have a coupon code that makes the book FREE! If you're interested, please drop me a line and I will happily give you the code.
As a writier, it is my hope that folks will read, review, but most importantly, enjoy this first part of Maggie's story!
for a limited time, I have a coupon code that makes the book FREE! If you're interested, please drop me a line and I will happily give you the code.
As a writier, it is my hope that folks will read, review, but most importantly, enjoy this first part of Maggie's story!
January 10, 2012
Let me first start off by saying, Lisa Morgan, you did an EXCELLENT job for your debut novel. I know you had a short published, but for your first full length book, bravo.
There are several reasons why this book gets five stars. Lately I have been very picky as to who gets 5 and who gets 4 and the book can still be really good. Although this book is not in a genre that I normally care to read it was a great read.
If you like heavy fantasy fiction then this book is definitely for you. The book is in the light of authors like Tolkien, but this book takes on a different element. While I still believe this should go in the heavier fantasy category it tips it’s toes into the paranormal fantasy as well. I enjoyed how the author was able to come up with a believable way to join the two genres.
Things that I liked about the book: The author had a great writing style. The words flowed very well and her wide vocabulary made for an interesting read. The story was believable, even in the fantasy realm, and made you feel you were there. The main character, Maggie, was relatable and had a personality all her own. The other characters in the book each had a unique personality different from the other. The way that Lisa writes sometimes has me in stitches. She has a very personable way of writing that makes the funny parts actually funny and not corny. I enjoyed laughing throughout a lot of the book while leaving pivotal moments alone and serious as I, a reader would have wanted. Some of my favorite quotes in the book:
Things I didn’t like about the book: Now, before I go here, I just want to say that the things I didn’t like were very minor complaints and shouldn’t make a person not read the book. There are just a few things I wanted to voice my opinion about. One is the fact that the author melded the idea that, ‘Vampires are the creation of Angels.’ Now, I had a very hard time accepting this. That the Vampires drank Angel blood donated from the Angel’s themselves. The main reason I had a hard time grasping this concept is that the Bible has strong teachings about not doing this. I have a very hard time when authors pull religion into books like this because it is very hard to cover all your bases. I think it’s best to leave it alone. Just don’t go there. The second thing that bothered me, and only a little, was a small portion of the writing style that was used. When she writes she does this thing where she will start the sentence, monologue, and then begin the sentence again. I found this a bit confusing at times because it either happened a lot, or there was too much dialogue in the middle. Here’s an example:
“That,” I shot back, standing with my plate and heading back to the kitchen to care for my garbage, “I’ll never believe about you.
or this one:
Sometimes I find myself having to go back to see how the sentence was supposed to start in the first place. While I don’t think the author should remove all of these instances it would be great if they were lessened. Minor things: I didn’t find the main Vampire attractive the way she described him, Michel. The whole long black hair really threw me, and the fact that his name was pronounced Michelle. One thing I wanted to know more about was the Realm itself. How was it different from the real world that we live in. What are the boundaries/borders that separate us? The final thing I had to complain about, which again is very minor, is about the main character Maggie. I don’t think I have ever seen a main character with so much problems vomiting. I think I counted 5 times at least that she actually vomited and plenty more when she was thinking about vomiting. I have just never seen this in real life so didn’t feel it was relevant to the story line.
So all in all, this story was great! I really did feel that this book could easily be turned into two, so it was a very long read for only 99 cents. I will be purchasing the next installment when Lisa releases it. I think this author has the potential to make it in the dog eat dog indie publishing world. This is definitively one of the better reads and I do highly recommend it for those of you that like longer books, where you get to know the character really well. Also, for those of you that like heavy fantasy. As I was reading this I thought, ‘I would love to give this book to so and so because I know they like to read Tolkien.’
There are several reasons why this book gets five stars. Lately I have been very picky as to who gets 5 and who gets 4 and the book can still be really good. Although this book is not in a genre that I normally care to read it was a great read.
If you like heavy fantasy fiction then this book is definitely for you. The book is in the light of authors like Tolkien, but this book takes on a different element. While I still believe this should go in the heavier fantasy category it tips it’s toes into the paranormal fantasy as well. I enjoyed how the author was able to come up with a believable way to join the two genres.
Things that I liked about the book: The author had a great writing style. The words flowed very well and her wide vocabulary made for an interesting read. The story was believable, even in the fantasy realm, and made you feel you were there. The main character, Maggie, was relatable and had a personality all her own. The other characters in the book each had a unique personality different from the other. The way that Lisa writes sometimes has me in stitches. She has a very personable way of writing that makes the funny parts actually funny and not corny. I enjoyed laughing throughout a lot of the book while leaving pivotal moments alone and serious as I, a reader would have wanted. Some of my favorite quotes in the book:
A microphone, studded with shiny stones, in her hand. If her hair had been teased and sprayed any higher she would have required FAA clearance.
“Magic,” Seatha joked. “Like Visa, has its privileges!” We all laughed at her remark.
I’d consulted with the fairy having never gone to battle, with the hope she could offer pointers on the ‘what not to wear to war’ ensemble.
Things I didn’t like about the book: Now, before I go here, I just want to say that the things I didn’t like were very minor complaints and shouldn’t make a person not read the book. There are just a few things I wanted to voice my opinion about. One is the fact that the author melded the idea that, ‘Vampires are the creation of Angels.’ Now, I had a very hard time accepting this. That the Vampires drank Angel blood donated from the Angel’s themselves. The main reason I had a hard time grasping this concept is that the Bible has strong teachings about not doing this. I have a very hard time when authors pull religion into books like this because it is very hard to cover all your bases. I think it’s best to leave it alone. Just don’t go there. The second thing that bothered me, and only a little, was a small portion of the writing style that was used. When she writes she does this thing where she will start the sentence, monologue, and then begin the sentence again. I found this a bit confusing at times because it either happened a lot, or there was too much dialogue in the middle. Here’s an example:
“That,” I shot back, standing with my plate and heading back to the kitchen to care for my garbage, “I’ll never believe about you.
or this one:
Sometimes I find myself having to go back to see how the sentence was supposed to start in the first place. While I don’t think the author should remove all of these instances it would be great if they were lessened. Minor things: I didn’t find the main Vampire attractive the way she described him, Michel. The whole long black hair really threw me, and the fact that his name was pronounced Michelle. One thing I wanted to know more about was the Realm itself. How was it different from the real world that we live in. What are the boundaries/borders that separate us? The final thing I had to complain about, which again is very minor, is about the main character Maggie. I don’t think I have ever seen a main character with so much problems vomiting. I think I counted 5 times at least that she actually vomited and plenty more when she was thinking about vomiting. I have just never seen this in real life so didn’t feel it was relevant to the story line.
So all in all, this story was great! I really did feel that this book could easily be turned into two, so it was a very long read for only 99 cents. I will be purchasing the next installment when Lisa releases it. I think this author has the potential to make it in the dog eat dog indie publishing world. This is definitively one of the better reads and I do highly recommend it for those of you that like longer books, where you get to know the character really well. Also, for those of you that like heavy fantasy. As I was reading this I thought, ‘I would love to give this book to so and so because I know they like to read Tolkien.’
August 30, 2012
First let me say, WOW! Just positively WOW! I was asked to read this book and give my honest review as a part of Lisa Morgan's book tour with Tempting Book Tours and I was happy to, seeing I already had it on my TBR list anyhow. What I did not expect was just how good this breakout book was going to be! It's her first book written and truly a gem of a series to be found. My only regret was that it took me this long to even read it! I could not figure out why I was being asked over and over by another indie author if I had read it yet! Come to find out it was because she was dying to talk about it with me without giving me spoilers!
Anyhow, look at me going on an on...Sheesh! Okay, let me tell you how I really felt about this book *Chuckles* Not like you can't tell already!
Maggie is just a teenager whom is already living a type of hell by having a father in a psychiatric ward after killing eight people ten years ago. She has lived these ten years dreading the scheduled visits to her father hating what he did and the repercussions of it that she was left to face with, with a title of the daughter of a killer. That reputation left her with one friend and her mother, a mother who for some reason refused to leave town and give Maggie a chance at having real teenage years.
A trip to the mall and one more trip to visit her father changed her life forever and will have you reading until 4 A.M ( I am not admitting nor denying this was me *cough, cough*) just to ride one of the best literary roller coaster rides I have been on in a long time! The young man she meets draws her in by forces she can't fathom and the story just rises from there.
I don't think I have ever been on this much of a emotional mess with a book to tell you the truth! I found myself saying awe, wow, oh no, what that...no no don't do that, Oh, you go girl, oh what the.... and DANG IT man throughout the whole story! I was very sure I was in love with the male character Michel at the beginning of the book but then Luc REALLY started doubting my thoughts on this. By 3:30 A.M I was nearly sobbing and by 4 A.M
(Crap I guess I just admitted being up at 4A.M was in doubt me) I was dropping my jaw banging my head against the bed cursing the author for leaving me hanging like that while at the same time wanting to reach in and stop one of the princes from leaving her! ( Nope, not giving that away...Sorry)
This book is sure to have everything you are looking for, Vampire, Fae, Witches and Revenants, a phoenix, deceit, love, heartache and a few good fights! A story-line to have you stalking the authors page begging and pleading for teasers to part 2 in the series (once again, I will not admit nor deny me doing this).
Do yourself a favor, give this series a try. For this being a first book for this author she sure did make a hell of a introduction! Way to go Lisa!
I for one can not wait to get my hands on the second book in this series and am very anxious to see what's in store for all the characters.... I also have this odd feeling her best friend may just re appear in book two ( but this is me guessing seeing this character is very limited in the first book) and I don't think it's going to be how we expect...hmmmmmmmm....
Anyhow, look at me going on an on...Sheesh! Okay, let me tell you how I really felt about this book *Chuckles* Not like you can't tell already!
Maggie is just a teenager whom is already living a type of hell by having a father in a psychiatric ward after killing eight people ten years ago. She has lived these ten years dreading the scheduled visits to her father hating what he did and the repercussions of it that she was left to face with, with a title of the daughter of a killer. That reputation left her with one friend and her mother, a mother who for some reason refused to leave town and give Maggie a chance at having real teenage years.
A trip to the mall and one more trip to visit her father changed her life forever and will have you reading until 4 A.M ( I am not admitting nor denying this was me *cough, cough*) just to ride one of the best literary roller coaster rides I have been on in a long time! The young man she meets draws her in by forces she can't fathom and the story just rises from there.
I don't think I have ever been on this much of a emotional mess with a book to tell you the truth! I found myself saying awe, wow, oh no, what that...no no don't do that, Oh, you go girl, oh what the.... and DANG IT man throughout the whole story! I was very sure I was in love with the male character Michel at the beginning of the book but then Luc REALLY started doubting my thoughts on this. By 3:30 A.M I was nearly sobbing and by 4 A.M
(Crap I guess I just admitted being up at 4A.M was in doubt me) I was dropping my jaw banging my head against the bed cursing the author for leaving me hanging like that while at the same time wanting to reach in and stop one of the princes from leaving her! ( Nope, not giving that away...Sorry)
This book is sure to have everything you are looking for, Vampire, Fae, Witches and Revenants, a phoenix, deceit, love, heartache and a few good fights! A story-line to have you stalking the authors page begging and pleading for teasers to part 2 in the series (once again, I will not admit nor deny me doing this).
Do yourself a favor, give this series a try. For this being a first book for this author she sure did make a hell of a introduction! Way to go Lisa!
I for one can not wait to get my hands on the second book in this series and am very anxious to see what's in store for all the characters.... I also have this odd feeling her best friend may just re appear in book two ( but this is me guessing seeing this character is very limited in the first book) and I don't think it's going to be how we expect...hmmmmmmmm....
August 19, 2012
ARC for Review! Thank you!! What an emotional roller coaster ride we have here! This book made me laugh, cry, cheer, smirk, and want to toss my Kindle across the room cause it just ticked me off at times.. I LOVE A BOOK when it can throw me for loops like that.... and this is a YA Read!
The characters are amazingly portrayed to the point that you can visualize their movements, facial expressions and just about reach out and touch them. Maggie is only 16 and her world is about to be turned completely upside down in a way that is refreshing, as story lines go, yet so devastating for her, at the same time she meets a green eyed, very good-looking young man; and the plot thickens.
Full of mystery, suspense, romance, coming of age, and first love. I cried at a few scenes that tugged at my heart strings as they were so passionately portrayed. Twists and turns that just boggled my mind. Revenants, Vampires, Witches, and Fae are among the paranormal elements of this wonderful read.
I am so waiting on Book 2
I HIGHLY RECOMMEND IT!
5 out of 5 Hearts
Lovetiggi's Book Reviews
The characters are amazingly portrayed to the point that you can visualize their movements, facial expressions and just about reach out and touch them. Maggie is only 16 and her world is about to be turned completely upside down in a way that is refreshing, as story lines go, yet so devastating for her, at the same time she meets a green eyed, very good-looking young man; and the plot thickens.
Full of mystery, suspense, romance, coming of age, and first love. I cried at a few scenes that tugged at my heart strings as they were so passionately portrayed. Twists and turns that just boggled my mind. Revenants, Vampires, Witches, and Fae are among the paranormal elements of this wonderful read.
I am so waiting on Book 2
I HIGHLY RECOMMEND IT!
5 out of 5 Hearts
Lovetiggi's Book Reviews
February 8, 2012
I loved it- short, sweet and simple! Maggie is an average 16 year old, she gets bullied everyday for her fathers reputation as a 'murderer' and even she doesnt like going to see him as in her eyes hes just a crazy old man, who cant even speak. But when her father does speak one day, everything changes she finds out shes the last phoenix and the worlds survival depends on her. There is a love triangle-ish, 2 vampire brothers (princes) fall for her, as usual. However yeah I REALLY liked it:), definitley worth a read- nothing is as it seems ill tell you that much! Go on give it a go!
December 7, 2012
This book was gifted to me for an honest review. Thank You!
Maggie is a typical 16 year old girl, grumbling at her alarm clock, disrespecting her mother and filled with teenage angst and moodiness. Maggie's father had a mental breakdown, killed eight people in a church by burning it down and is confined to a mental hospital, Sunnybrook where he has been since Maggie was 6 years old. She is none too pleased that she has to visit him once a month nor that she is labeled the daughter of a murderer. Maggie has been having weird dreams and visions. Then she finds a note sent to her from Sunnybrook, which her mother had apparently hidden from her. The note says: “It's all true. Guard the blood.” Maggie meets a strange boy in the mall who seems to be able to read her mind. Maggie's best friend Stephanie has an unusually negative, immediate reaction to the boy and abandons Maggie at the mall. Feeling rebellious and reckless, Maggie lets the boy give her a ride on his motorcycle. Without having to give the man directions, the guy, Michel, drives her straight home. Maggie's mother, like Stephanie has an immediate adverse reaction to Michel.
I have to say that I did not like Maggie's attitude at all. If I was her mother, I probably would have slapped her. She is a serious brat.
Maggie's visit with her father turns weird as the incoherent, drooling, shackled monster that she expected turns to her, spits out his medication and tells her that she is in danger and that her mother is not her mother. Maggie's father yells “Revenants” and “Guard the Blood!”
And that's when things get weird with vampires, fairies and skeleton monsters: creatures of the Realm. Maggie finds herself in the middle of a war between good and evil and is told that the tears of a Phoenix, her tears can end the war. And the Revenants want her blood so as to become invincible.
I am a big fan of paranormal, fantasy and urban fantasy and this one is pretty good. I did find Maggie's teenage angst a bit off putting. I frequently had the urge to slap her. I didn't like her in the beginning but I did like the vampire princes: brothers Michel and Luc. Maggie isn't very strong and she doubts her abilities. “I see a weak little girl who spent ten years being teased and abused by almost everyone around her.” Once she showed her vulnerabilities, only then did I begin to feel and sympathize for her. Maggie starts developing “firestarter” powers and it is interesting her developing relationship with Michel since he is ice and she is fire.
Two thirds into the book I really started liking the story. Maggie's struggle enthralled me and Lisa Morgan's voice really drew me in. Things started to get really exciting as the Realm went to battle with the Revenants. A predictable tragedy later occurs that is written so poignantly and eloquently that even though I was waiting for it to happen, it still brought tears to my eyes. “That even with loss, love endures.” “We appreciate the sunset as mush as we treasure the dawn.”
This was a really good, at times excellent book and I really enjoyed it. I would like to get the next book and read more about Maggie, Michel and Luc.
Maggie is a typical 16 year old girl, grumbling at her alarm clock, disrespecting her mother and filled with teenage angst and moodiness. Maggie's father had a mental breakdown, killed eight people in a church by burning it down and is confined to a mental hospital, Sunnybrook where he has been since Maggie was 6 years old. She is none too pleased that she has to visit him once a month nor that she is labeled the daughter of a murderer. Maggie has been having weird dreams and visions. Then she finds a note sent to her from Sunnybrook, which her mother had apparently hidden from her. The note says: “It's all true. Guard the blood.” Maggie meets a strange boy in the mall who seems to be able to read her mind. Maggie's best friend Stephanie has an unusually negative, immediate reaction to the boy and abandons Maggie at the mall. Feeling rebellious and reckless, Maggie lets the boy give her a ride on his motorcycle. Without having to give the man directions, the guy, Michel, drives her straight home. Maggie's mother, like Stephanie has an immediate adverse reaction to Michel.
I have to say that I did not like Maggie's attitude at all. If I was her mother, I probably would have slapped her. She is a serious brat.
Maggie's visit with her father turns weird as the incoherent, drooling, shackled monster that she expected turns to her, spits out his medication and tells her that she is in danger and that her mother is not her mother. Maggie's father yells “Revenants” and “Guard the Blood!”
And that's when things get weird with vampires, fairies and skeleton monsters: creatures of the Realm. Maggie finds herself in the middle of a war between good and evil and is told that the tears of a Phoenix, her tears can end the war. And the Revenants want her blood so as to become invincible.
I am a big fan of paranormal, fantasy and urban fantasy and this one is pretty good. I did find Maggie's teenage angst a bit off putting. I frequently had the urge to slap her. I didn't like her in the beginning but I did like the vampire princes: brothers Michel and Luc. Maggie isn't very strong and she doubts her abilities. “I see a weak little girl who spent ten years being teased and abused by almost everyone around her.” Once she showed her vulnerabilities, only then did I begin to feel and sympathize for her. Maggie starts developing “firestarter” powers and it is interesting her developing relationship with Michel since he is ice and she is fire.
Two thirds into the book I really started liking the story. Maggie's struggle enthralled me and Lisa Morgan's voice really drew me in. Things started to get really exciting as the Realm went to battle with the Revenants. A predictable tragedy later occurs that is written so poignantly and eloquently that even though I was waiting for it to happen, it still brought tears to my eyes. “That even with loss, love endures.” “We appreciate the sunset as mush as we treasure the dawn.”
This was a really good, at times excellent book and I really enjoyed it. I would like to get the next book and read more about Maggie, Michel and Luc.
September 25, 2012
Originally posted at A Little Bit of R&R Reviews
HOLY SMOKES!!!! Where do I begin?
16 year old Maggie has been living with grief, believing that her father was a killer. Her world as she knows it is about to be turned upside down. She is drawn to the melody of a guitar in a music store, where she meets Michel. Oh Michel <3 Anyhow, her friend ditches her at the mall and Michel offers to give her a ride home...on his motorcycle. Fast forward a bit. Maggie dreads visiting her father in the mental institution. Her father never speaks during their visits. That is all about to change. Her father tries to warn her that she needs to "Guard the blood." Maggie has no clue what he is talking about and she thinks he's just crazy. She's about to learn just how serious things are about to get.
Maggie learns that her life for the past 10 years has been a lie. She has been living with a woman she believed to be her mother. After an attack, Maggie is brought to the Trust, a safe house for beings of the Realm. It is there that she learns of what she really is and the truth about her father. Maggie is the Realm's last hope to defeat the revenants, an evil race that is determined to take over the Realm and the mortal world.
My thoughts...
I had mixed feelings when I read this book. The beginning got right to the point. I like when a book doesn't go on with the mundane stuff. I had a love/hate relationship with Maggie. I liked her in the beginning. But as the book started to focus on the nitty gritty, she kinda whined a lot and it was a bit of a turn off. I like my protagonist to be strong and independent and she was just lacking a bit of both. It also felt a little like insta-love. Those were my only two gripes. Now for what I loved about the story. I felt like I knew all of the characters. The author paints them in such great detail that I feel like I have a relationship with each one of them. My favorite character would have to be Luc. Who doesn't love a hot, snarky vampire with a little bit of comic relief mixed in? I know I do. I loved the Realm and the history of their world. I really enjoy it when an author puts such effort into designing a world that is all their own. I was so enthralled by the end of the story that I am really considering begging the author to let me review the second book before it comes out lol. I want to throw something at her and hug her at the same time. This book made me laugh, swoon and cry. I cannot tell you why I cried but I beg you, PLEASE READ THIS BOOK!!! I was torn between rating it 4 or a 5 so I gave it 4 1/2 stars. I round it up to a 5 for Amazon, Goodreads etc.
HOLY SMOKES!!!! Where do I begin?
16 year old Maggie has been living with grief, believing that her father was a killer. Her world as she knows it is about to be turned upside down. She is drawn to the melody of a guitar in a music store, where she meets Michel. Oh Michel <3 Anyhow, her friend ditches her at the mall and Michel offers to give her a ride home...on his motorcycle. Fast forward a bit. Maggie dreads visiting her father in the mental institution. Her father never speaks during their visits. That is all about to change. Her father tries to warn her that she needs to "Guard the blood." Maggie has no clue what he is talking about and she thinks he's just crazy. She's about to learn just how serious things are about to get.
Maggie learns that her life for the past 10 years has been a lie. She has been living with a woman she believed to be her mother. After an attack, Maggie is brought to the Trust, a safe house for beings of the Realm. It is there that she learns of what she really is and the truth about her father. Maggie is the Realm's last hope to defeat the revenants, an evil race that is determined to take over the Realm and the mortal world.
My thoughts...
I had mixed feelings when I read this book. The beginning got right to the point. I like when a book doesn't go on with the mundane stuff. I had a love/hate relationship with Maggie. I liked her in the beginning. But as the book started to focus on the nitty gritty, she kinda whined a lot and it was a bit of a turn off. I like my protagonist to be strong and independent and she was just lacking a bit of both. It also felt a little like insta-love. Those were my only two gripes. Now for what I loved about the story. I felt like I knew all of the characters. The author paints them in such great detail that I feel like I have a relationship with each one of them. My favorite character would have to be Luc. Who doesn't love a hot, snarky vampire with a little bit of comic relief mixed in? I know I do. I loved the Realm and the history of their world. I really enjoy it when an author puts such effort into designing a world that is all their own. I was so enthralled by the end of the story that I am really considering begging the author to let me review the second book before it comes out lol. I want to throw something at her and hug her at the same time. This book made me laugh, swoon and cry. I cannot tell you why I cried but I beg you, PLEASE READ THIS BOOK!!! I was torn between rating it 4 or a 5 so I gave it 4 1/2 stars. I round it up to a 5 for Amazon, Goodreads etc.
September 7, 2012
What an emotional rollercoaster ride this amazing book is. I was hooked from page one and couldn’t stop reading until the last page.
Maggie is a normal sixteen year old girl until one day she has to go visit her dad in the mental hospital and her whole world changes. She starts seeing skeletal beings with pointy teeth one minute and then the next they are looking like normal people. Her dad tells her to guard the blood something she doesn’t understand until later. While leaving the hospital who she thinks is her mother starts changing before her eyes and the boy Michael that she met at the mall earlier comes to rescue her. He takes her to a place where Maggie finds out she is very special and can stop a war with revenants since she is the last phoenix. Maggie is shocked to learn this and that a whole other world exists with vampires, fairies, witches, elves, and more. Maggie doesn’t think she is strong enough to win this war but with the help of her new friends and the love of Michael she starts to believe in herself. But with the death of one she loves can Maggie move forward and be the phoenix they need her to be?
I don’t even know where to start with this review. This book is so different but so amazing and fresh in the paranormal genre. I loved Maggie from the start. Life has dealt her some hard cards but she deals with them. She is a lot stronger then she realizes. Michael is amazing. He is the kind of guy we all dream about. He is smart, sweet, sexy, and I could get lost in his emerald eyes forever. Luc who is Michael’s older brother is such a jerk at the beginning of the book but as we learn of the heart ache he has suffered you understand him more and you can feel he is a good guy. Maggie’s friends Autumn and Seatha are so fun but what do you expect with a witch and faerie.
I am not one of those people who cry in books. I can count on one hand how many times it has happened and have fingers left. So for a book to make me cry you know it’s amazing and heart breaking. And Phoenix Rising had me in tears for the last few chapters so much so I wanted to throw my kindle because I was so upset with the author for killing this character. I felt like my whole world had come crumbling down just like Maggie did.
Through laughter, finding your self, true love, friendship, heart break, and just plain breaking down in tears this is one of my favorite reads of 2012 and I can’t wait for the next emotional rollercoaster ride that Lisa Morgan takes me on. 5/5 Bats
~Sabrina
Maggie is a normal sixteen year old girl until one day she has to go visit her dad in the mental hospital and her whole world changes. She starts seeing skeletal beings with pointy teeth one minute and then the next they are looking like normal people. Her dad tells her to guard the blood something she doesn’t understand until later. While leaving the hospital who she thinks is her mother starts changing before her eyes and the boy Michael that she met at the mall earlier comes to rescue her. He takes her to a place where Maggie finds out she is very special and can stop a war with revenants since she is the last phoenix. Maggie is shocked to learn this and that a whole other world exists with vampires, fairies, witches, elves, and more. Maggie doesn’t think she is strong enough to win this war but with the help of her new friends and the love of Michael she starts to believe in herself. But with the death of one she loves can Maggie move forward and be the phoenix they need her to be?
I don’t even know where to start with this review. This book is so different but so amazing and fresh in the paranormal genre. I loved Maggie from the start. Life has dealt her some hard cards but she deals with them. She is a lot stronger then she realizes. Michael is amazing. He is the kind of guy we all dream about. He is smart, sweet, sexy, and I could get lost in his emerald eyes forever. Luc who is Michael’s older brother is such a jerk at the beginning of the book but as we learn of the heart ache he has suffered you understand him more and you can feel he is a good guy. Maggie’s friends Autumn and Seatha are so fun but what do you expect with a witch and faerie.
I am not one of those people who cry in books. I can count on one hand how many times it has happened and have fingers left. So for a book to make me cry you know it’s amazing and heart breaking. And Phoenix Rising had me in tears for the last few chapters so much so I wanted to throw my kindle because I was so upset with the author for killing this character. I felt like my whole world had come crumbling down just like Maggie did.
Through laughter, finding your self, true love, friendship, heart break, and just plain breaking down in tears this is one of my favorite reads of 2012 and I can’t wait for the next emotional rollercoaster ride that Lisa Morgan takes me on. 5/5 Bats
~Sabrina
September 7, 2012
What an emotional rollercoaster ride this amazing book is. I was hooked from page one and couldn’t stop reading until the last page.
Maggie is a normal sixteen year old girl until one day she has to go visit her dad in the mental hospital and her whole world changes. She starts seeing skeletal beings with pointy teeth one minute and then the next they are looking like normal people. Her dad tells her to guard the blood something she doesn’t understand until later. While leaving the hospital who she thinks is her mother starts changing before her eyes and the boy Michael that she met at the mall earlier comes to rescue her. He takes her to a place where Maggie finds out she is very special and can stop a war with revenants since she is the last phoenix. Maggie is shocked to learn this and that a whole other world exists with vampires, fairies, witches, elves, and more. Maggie doesn’t think she is strong enough to win this war but with the help of her new friends and the love of Michael she starts to believe in herself. But with the death of one she loves can Maggie move forward and be the phoenix they need her to be?
I don’t even know where to start with this review. This book is so different but so amazing and fresh in the paranormal genre. I loved Maggie from the start. Life has dealt her some hard cards but she deals with them. She is a lot stronger then she realizes. Michael is amazing. He is the kind of guy we all dream about. He is smart, sweet, sexy, and I could get lost in his emerald eyes forever. Luc who is Michael’s older brother is such a jerk at the beginning of the book but as we learn of the heart ache he has suffered you understand him more and you can feel he is a good guy. Maggie’s friends Autumn and Seatha are so fun but what do you expect with a witch and faerie.
I am not one of those people who cry in books. I can count on one hand how many times it has happened and have fingers left. So for a book to make me cry you know it’s amazing and heart breaking. And Phoenix Rising had me in tears for the last few chapters so much so I wanted to throw my kindle because I was so upset with the author for killing this character. I felt like my whole world had come crumbling down just like Maggie did.
Through laughter, finding your self, true love, friendship, heart break, and just plain breaking down in tears this is one of my favorite reads of 2012 and I can’t wait for the next emotional rollercoaster ride that Lisa Morgan takes me on. 5/5 Bats
Maggie is a normal sixteen year old girl until one day she has to go visit her dad in the mental hospital and her whole world changes. She starts seeing skeletal beings with pointy teeth one minute and then the next they are looking like normal people. Her dad tells her to guard the blood something she doesn’t understand until later. While leaving the hospital who she thinks is her mother starts changing before her eyes and the boy Michael that she met at the mall earlier comes to rescue her. He takes her to a place where Maggie finds out she is very special and can stop a war with revenants since she is the last phoenix. Maggie is shocked to learn this and that a whole other world exists with vampires, fairies, witches, elves, and more. Maggie doesn’t think she is strong enough to win this war but with the help of her new friends and the love of Michael she starts to believe in herself. But with the death of one she loves can Maggie move forward and be the phoenix they need her to be?
I don’t even know where to start with this review. This book is so different but so amazing and fresh in the paranormal genre. I loved Maggie from the start. Life has dealt her some hard cards but she deals with them. She is a lot stronger then she realizes. Michael is amazing. He is the kind of guy we all dream about. He is smart, sweet, sexy, and I could get lost in his emerald eyes forever. Luc who is Michael’s older brother is such a jerk at the beginning of the book but as we learn of the heart ache he has suffered you understand him more and you can feel he is a good guy. Maggie’s friends Autumn and Seatha are so fun but what do you expect with a witch and faerie.
I am not one of those people who cry in books. I can count on one hand how many times it has happened and have fingers left. So for a book to make me cry you know it’s amazing and heart breaking. And Phoenix Rising had me in tears for the last few chapters so much so I wanted to throw my kindle because I was so upset with the author for killing this character. I felt like my whole world had come crumbling down just like Maggie did.
Through laughter, finding your self, true love, friendship, heart break, and just plain breaking down in tears this is one of my favorite reads of 2012 and I can’t wait for the next emotional rollercoaster ride that Lisa Morgan takes me on. 5/5 Bats
October 23, 2012
So I’ve been putting off writing my reviews for these two books, for about a week now, purely because that shiz was good, and left me feeling totally spent and off on a ranting rampage...
I won’t tell you what the book is about, cause the description is on the mark but let me tell you that Lisa had me giggling from the first page all the way through until I had tears of heart breaking devastation at the end. How does she do it? You’ll have to read it to find out for yourself! I’m pretty sure there wont be a dry eye in sight if there was a room full of people reading Maggie’s story.
There is so much to love about Phoenix Rising. You might love it for sweet and lovable Michel. Or Maggies spirit & passion for sarcasm might be what does it for you. You might like the incredible world building, or even Liam and the history he so passionately talks about. But for me, it was all Luc. His banter, his bad ass attitude, and his wicked bike, but I saw straight through his hilarious mean-ness. Oh baby. Luc got me all hot under the collar!
The characters were authentic and the descriptions were rich, but not too wordy that made my eyes glaze over. The way that those creepy assed Revenants were described totally gave me shiver and I could picture them so vividly. 3 words. Garden of Sorrow. Oh my. It takes an amazing author to write about a garden and for me to still be clinging to my kindle immersing myself in the scene and smelling the flowers, shedding tears of sorrow myself and not wanting to skim ahead for more Luc. The friendships made throughout this story really did make me smile, and want a karaoke sleepover with pizza and a disco ball. Those girls were a hoot.
A fabulous book that I would recommend to everyone. It has a bit of everything – Vamps, Angels, witches, fae & weres. This series is not one you can’t afford to miss.
Straight onto Phoenix Burning...
I won’t tell you what the book is about, cause the description is on the mark but let me tell you that Lisa had me giggling from the first page all the way through until I had tears of heart breaking devastation at the end. How does she do it? You’ll have to read it to find out for yourself! I’m pretty sure there wont be a dry eye in sight if there was a room full of people reading Maggie’s story.
There is so much to love about Phoenix Rising. You might love it for sweet and lovable Michel. Or Maggies spirit & passion for sarcasm might be what does it for you. You might like the incredible world building, or even Liam and the history he so passionately talks about. But for me, it was all Luc. His banter, his bad ass attitude, and his wicked bike, but I saw straight through his hilarious mean-ness. Oh baby. Luc got me all hot under the collar!
The characters were authentic and the descriptions were rich, but not too wordy that made my eyes glaze over. The way that those creepy assed Revenants were described totally gave me shiver and I could picture them so vividly. 3 words. Garden of Sorrow. Oh my. It takes an amazing author to write about a garden and for me to still be clinging to my kindle immersing myself in the scene and smelling the flowers, shedding tears of sorrow myself and not wanting to skim ahead for more Luc. The friendships made throughout this story really did make me smile, and want a karaoke sleepover with pizza and a disco ball. Those girls were a hoot.
A fabulous book that I would recommend to everyone. It has a bit of everything – Vamps, Angels, witches, fae & weres. This series is not one you can’t afford to miss.
Straight onto Phoenix Burning...
September 15, 2012
First off I was gifted this book to read. Now that I have pulled my blubbering self back together again I will tell you how much I LOVED these characters, this story, their world. Maggie so young but becoming so very brave. Luc who you cant help but love and hate at the same time, the pain he has had to go through is just heartbreaking. Davis is a nice addition to their little group and I look forward to reading way more about him. Of course their is my love for Autumn, Seathe and Liam as well. But none of those compare to my Michel... I refuse to believe he is lost foreveer and Maggie had better bring everything she has to bring him back to me..... sigh well I guess back to her. lol
This book was AMAZING, the characters so lovable, the story full of laughter, kick butt scenes, love and of course some seriously heartbreaking moments. I look so forward to reading the next book in this series. It cant come out soon enough!
"I'll always be here for you, Maggie. I've always been right here. From the first moment I heard your thoughts in my head, from the first time I touched your hand and laid my eyes on you, I have been lost to all but you."
Well done Lisa! 5 HUGE STARS!
This book was AMAZING, the characters so lovable, the story full of laughter, kick butt scenes, love and of course some seriously heartbreaking moments. I look so forward to reading the next book in this series. It cant come out soon enough!
"I'll always be here for you, Maggie. I've always been right here. From the first moment I heard your thoughts in my head, from the first time I touched your hand and laid my eyes on you, I have been lost to all but you."
Well done Lisa! 5 HUGE STARS!
September 2, 2012
First let me just say - WOW!!
This is Lisa Morgan's first book and its just such an amazing one! This one had me in the first few pages itself. Its witty, well thought out and well has my favorite two things - Sarcasm and Fantasy! ;)
Pheonix Rising centers around Maggie who is in for the shock of her life. She is not who she thought she was. Everyone she knows, all that she knows the world to be is going to be thrown out of the window. She has to embrace the new world she comes to know exists and what she is...
This was the first book that I read based on the Pheonix and I must say it blew my mind. The characters are just so believable and you can see them grow. I loved her writing style. The words seemed to flow effortlessly and kept me up till wee hours reading... Don't get me wrong I love my sleep but this book was just that good!
I only wish I could read the book Liam recorded - A Record of the days of The Realm... *Hint Hint*
If you like fantasy, great characters, and good writing.. Just get this book! I for one can't wait to read the next book! :D
This is Lisa Morgan's first book and its just such an amazing one! This one had me in the first few pages itself. Its witty, well thought out and well has my favorite two things - Sarcasm and Fantasy! ;)
Pheonix Rising centers around Maggie who is in for the shock of her life. She is not who she thought she was. Everyone she knows, all that she knows the world to be is going to be thrown out of the window. She has to embrace the new world she comes to know exists and what she is...
This was the first book that I read based on the Pheonix and I must say it blew my mind. The characters are just so believable and you can see them grow. I loved her writing style. The words seemed to flow effortlessly and kept me up till wee hours reading... Don't get me wrong I love my sleep but this book was just that good!
I only wish I could read the book Liam recorded - A Record of the days of The Realm... *Hint Hint*
If you like fantasy, great characters, and good writing.. Just get this book! I for one can't wait to read the next book! :D
September 10, 2012
The bad thing about writing a review is feeling the need to point out all the parts you loved about a story but realizing that if you do so, it will spoil the fun for others and although there are tons of things I can say about Phoenix Rising, I’m going to limit my words to why I enjoyed it.
This book was well written to the point where your mind could actually visualize every single emotional ups and downs from each of the characters. Very early in the story I found myself drawn to the main characters and of course, the plot. I mean, with so many twists and amazing turns, how can I not be fully engulfed in Maggie’s life and all the craziness that surrounds her.
So, if you’re looking for a fantasy book that keeps you going and fully motivated to turn the next page and read what’s coming next, you need to get your hands on this book. It’s riveting, believable, and mesmerizing.
Read it…you’ll love it.
This book was well written to the point where your mind could actually visualize every single emotional ups and downs from each of the characters. Very early in the story I found myself drawn to the main characters and of course, the plot. I mean, with so many twists and amazing turns, how can I not be fully engulfed in Maggie’s life and all the craziness that surrounds her.
So, if you’re looking for a fantasy book that keeps you going and fully motivated to turn the next page and read what’s coming next, you need to get your hands on this book. It’s riveting, believable, and mesmerizing.
Read it…you’ll love it.
September 12, 2012
Phoenix Rising is a wonderfully written paranormal book that leaves you in awe. The magic in this book adds to its appeal for those who like to read fantasy.
With her writing, Lisa creates characters and worlds that you can feel and fall in love with. There are scenes in the book that are laugh out load funny and some that are heartbreaking. Overall an enjoyable read. I can’t wait for the next book by this author!
With her writing, Lisa creates characters and worlds that you can feel and fall in love with. There are scenes in the book that are laugh out load funny and some that are heartbreaking. Overall an enjoyable read. I can’t wait for the next book by this author!
August 20, 2012
An excellent book. Lisa takes you to a new realm where fantasy is reality. Follow Maggie through her exploration of herself and her new role in the world, both of them. Lisa has done a great job at creating a new world one that is very inviting and filled with wonder and danger.
I look forward to reading more.
I look forward to reading more.
October 25, 2012
This one was referred to me by a friend at YA and Teen Readers. I knew it was YA which was good because there were some juvenile things the main character did that bugged me. Hello, she's 16, of course she's juvenile, I reminded myself. The author did a great job keeping her character young and not making her a 40 year old mind in a 16 year old role. It happens too much in YA now.
That said, onto the plot. This one is a different sort of PNR. We have vampires and werewolves, but also things called revenants which are like reanimated corpses that slowly rot until they are old skeletons, and of course one phoenix. The last phoenix.
Maggie's dad is in the psych ward for burning down a church and killing eight people. She's suffered for it ever since and her mom has been okay but not all that stellar about it. Once we learn what Maggie is and the war that hinges on her blood, her "mom" being odd makes sense as does her poor dad's crime.
What would a YA PNR be without a little romance? Maggie's not the best warrior in The Realm (other plane where the magical creatures operate- oh and there's an Angel's world too) and with the revenants after her she requires a hero. Cue our love triangle. Michel and Luc are brothers, vampires too. Michel is our white knight while Luc is the mysterious brooding one. The first book was really good and had me completely hooked by about 30 pages with the different twists and takes on the genre as well as the easy writing style. Book 2, well, that one is even better. I'll be in line waiting for book 3 and can't wait.
**One criticism: editing. I know, I harp on it but this one was great for commas and punctuation. The issue was usage. Reign versus rein, using taunt instead of taut, then and than, their-they're-there, that sort of stuff. Also, book 2 is written in present tense which is HARD. It didn't work- it went back and forth a lot and I'm hoping the next book is not in present tense. It jerked me out of the story and I fault the editor for that. This author is very good, she could be great if she can work with her editor (I'd find another one) to get that professional polish on it.
That said, onto the plot. This one is a different sort of PNR. We have vampires and werewolves, but also things called revenants which are like reanimated corpses that slowly rot until they are old skeletons, and of course one phoenix. The last phoenix.
Maggie's dad is in the psych ward for burning down a church and killing eight people. She's suffered for it ever since and her mom has been okay but not all that stellar about it. Once we learn what Maggie is and the war that hinges on her blood, her "mom" being odd makes sense as does her poor dad's crime.
What would a YA PNR be without a little romance? Maggie's not the best warrior in The Realm (other plane where the magical creatures operate- oh and there's an Angel's world too) and with the revenants after her she requires a hero. Cue our love triangle. Michel and Luc are brothers, vampires too. Michel is our white knight while Luc is the mysterious brooding one. The first book was really good and had me completely hooked by about 30 pages with the different twists and takes on the genre as well as the easy writing style. Book 2, well, that one is even better. I'll be in line waiting for book 3 and can't wait.
**One criticism: editing. I know, I harp on it but this one was great for commas and punctuation. The issue was usage. Reign versus rein, using taunt instead of taut, then and than, their-they're-there, that sort of stuff. Also, book 2 is written in present tense which is HARD. It didn't work- it went back and forth a lot and I'm hoping the next book is not in present tense. It jerked me out of the story and I fault the editor for that. This author is very good, she could be great if she can work with her editor (I'd find another one) to get that professional polish on it.
November 26, 2012
Phoenix Rising by Lisa Morgan
Rating 5*****
This book was provided free from the author in exchange for honest literary review.
Maggie has led a tortured life to be a teen. First, being the child of a convicted murderer makes high school even mote unbearable than normal. Next, her mom is not exactly the usual loveable Mrs. Brady. Oh, and if that wasn't enough the entire world as she knows it is about to come crashing down around her. Within Maggie's DNA is a powerful secret and once activated there isn't nothing both sides in the war of good versus evil won't do to get to her.
. I really don't want to give away too much in the synopsis I usually write here because this is a book your must read. I cant tell you ebough how amazing this series is. Warning though you will need several tissues to get through it!!! Don't let that scare you because that is a good thing!!! Maggie is such a loveable character. She's headstrong and funny with a real heart of gold. The author makes her seem so real you feel like you have known her your whole life. Then there is the paranormal factor here. Take your pick....theres something here for everyone. From witches to vampires....there is something for everyone. The story is one you absolutely will not put down. The plot is well paced and full of love , action, humor, and even a few complete shockers!
. If you have not had the pleasure to read this one, it is time you go pick it up. Honestly I found this one to be one of my favorites of the year.
Would I read again? Most definitely
Would I recommend? Most definitely
Rating 5*****
This book was provided free from the author in exchange for honest literary review.
Maggie has led a tortured life to be a teen. First, being the child of a convicted murderer makes high school even mote unbearable than normal. Next, her mom is not exactly the usual loveable Mrs. Brady. Oh, and if that wasn't enough the entire world as she knows it is about to come crashing down around her. Within Maggie's DNA is a powerful secret and once activated there isn't nothing both sides in the war of good versus evil won't do to get to her.
. I really don't want to give away too much in the synopsis I usually write here because this is a book your must read. I cant tell you ebough how amazing this series is. Warning though you will need several tissues to get through it!!! Don't let that scare you because that is a good thing!!! Maggie is such a loveable character. She's headstrong and funny with a real heart of gold. The author makes her seem so real you feel like you have known her your whole life. Then there is the paranormal factor here. Take your pick....theres something here for everyone. From witches to vampires....there is something for everyone. The story is one you absolutely will not put down. The plot is well paced and full of love , action, humor, and even a few complete shockers!
. If you have not had the pleasure to read this one, it is time you go pick it up. Honestly I found this one to be one of my favorites of the year.
Would I read again? Most definitely
Would I recommend? Most definitely
May 23, 2015
I hate this book. No, I love it. No, I hate it. Okay yeah I love it. Damn firepower awesomeness. My one weakness. And this book is full of it. Plus some (a lot of) love (triangle), cool supernatural beings and all that. Yeah, that's my thing. But the fire is the best part ofcourse. Man I would love to have that power. Where can I buy a phoenix? Maybe they have one in the pet store...
Okay yeah, this book is good. Really good. Is it the best writing ever? Is it a literary masterpiece? No, but that doesn't mean it's not good. Sure, there are clichés... (*cough* love triangle *cough*) but I don't care. This was a fun book to read and as you may or may not have noticed, I have a weakness for fire (or just elemental in general) powers because that just is cool. (Yeah I'm a nerd.)
Cool book. Cool main character with cool firepowers. Hot male vampires, witches, fairies, werewolves and zombielike creatures called revenants. What's not to love, honestly? I'll tell you what's not to love. The twists near the end. You're most likely going to hate those. Seriously.
Oh and the fact that Stephanie just kind of disappeared... In the beginning she is in each chapter and has kind of a big role in the life of Maggie, but then suddenly that stops. Sure, she is mentioned by Maggie a couple of times but that's it. Kind of weird, especially because I thought she would have a bigger part in all of the mess going on. But nonetheless a cool book.
Now if you'll excuse me, it's about 2 am here and I'm going to bed now.
Okay yeah, this book is good. Really good. Is it the best writing ever? Is it a literary masterpiece? No, but that doesn't mean it's not good. Sure, there are clichés... (*cough* love triangle *cough*) but I don't care. This was a fun book to read and as you may or may not have noticed, I have a weakness for fire (or just elemental in general) powers because that just is cool. (Yeah I'm a nerd.)
Cool book. Cool main character with cool firepowers. Hot male vampires, witches, fairies, werewolves and zombielike creatures called revenants. What's not to love, honestly? I'll tell you what's not to love. The twists near the end. You're most likely going to hate those. Seriously.
Oh and the fact that Stephanie just kind of disappeared... In the beginning she is in each chapter and has kind of a big role in the life of Maggie, but then suddenly that stops. Sure, she is mentioned by Maggie a couple of times but that's it. Kind of weird, especially because I thought she would have a bigger part in all of the mess going on. But nonetheless a cool book.
Now if you'll excuse me, it's about 2 am here and I'm going to bed now.
September 26, 2012
I loved this book! I could not put it down! I highly recommend this book for paranormal romance readers for sure! Plan to re-read it soon. I was surprisingly happy with this book. I am a picky reader! I busted out laughing many times and I cried too!
April 21, 2019
Read this book at Amazon Kindle
Pathethic Rift-off no Originality. Booring Plot! Those who rated this 5 stars, Idk out of pity I guess if you're given a review copy for an honest review! REVIEW THE BOOK HONESTLY. Lol 😂
Pathethic Rift-off no Originality. Booring Plot! Those who rated this 5 stars, Idk out of pity I guess if you're given a review copy for an honest review! REVIEW THE BOOK HONESTLY. Lol 😂
October 19, 2018
The book is pretty long. Story is okay.
May 10, 2021
So good!!!
So many sneaky twists and awesome mythology. I laughed predicted (and was horribly wrong) and cried. This was a wonderful and gripping tale and I can’t wait to read more!
So many sneaky twists and awesome mythology. I laughed predicted (and was horribly wrong) and cried. This was a wonderful and gripping tale and I can’t wait to read more!
October 19, 2021
Riveting
Awesome read. I was all in from the beginning. The story line is well thought out and developed by the author.
Awesome read. I was all in from the beginning. The story line is well thought out and developed by the author.
October 24, 2012
Phoenix Rising (Maggie Henning & The Realm) by Lisa C. Morgan
Reviewed by Nanette Bradford
(Member of the YATR Review Panel)
Date read: 20th October 2012
I had this book on my TBR list but, at the suggestion of my good friend Jodie, i bumped it up. I'm so glad i did because this was one of the most emotional books I've ever read. I've never felt so much by reading one simple book. I laughed so hard at Autumn, Seatha, and Maggie while they were having their girl night. Their connection with each other is so great. They became instant friends. They just click together and the karaoke part.. OMG! i laughed out loud that my kids turned to look at me funny. :) I've also never cried so much in my life. I had to stop reading the book 3 times just so that i could be able to see the words i was reading and each time i started blubbering even harder than the last. That is a sign of a great writer in my book. I felt everything that Maggie was going through.
I felt her sorrow and her fear. I can't go into more detail because it would give to much away. You are just going to have to trust me when i say grab a roll of toilet paper, yes a whole roll, sit somewhere by yourself and just let it go.
Maggie is a 16 year old girl living alone with her mother. Her only friend Stephanie she's known all her life.
See, Maggie's father is in an Asylum for rushing into a church, burning it up, and killing the 8 people that were inside. Maggie has had to live with the shame of this for 10 years. The constant whispers and pranks played on her at school she's learned to ignore but the nightmares she just can't. After an extremely bad night Stephanie suggests they ditch and go to the mall for some "Retail" therapy. They wander around a bit until Maggie starts to hear the most beautiful guitar music coming from the music shop. What she finds is the most beautiful guy she's ever seen.
He's just perfect. Hair the color of the night sky with just a hint of blue reflected off of it and his eyes are the most brilliant color of green with a touch of silver streaks. He noticed her and gave her a little smirk. Now we all know how that would of made us feel at that age. Weak at the knees. :)
After a falling out with Stephanie, Maggie finds herself stranded at the mall and left to walk home. Not great since its pretty far away. Her handsome stranger just happens to be outside so Maggie throws all caution to the wind, jumps on his motorcycle and heads home.
This is just the beginning for Maggie. On the way for a visit with her father, which she hates by the way, things start to happen. She thinks she saw the lady at the front desk change. She saw sharp teeth and bony hands. Maggie just thought she was seeing things and quickly just ignored what she thought she saw.
While visiting with her dad they are alone in the room and he starts to talk to her. He is telling her things aren't as they seem and that she is special. That she needs to protect the blood. Whatever that means. On the drive home she asks her mom about the things her dad said and she starts to act pretty weird.. She's saying things that don't make sense and in front of Maggie's eyes she changes into this hideously grotesque monster, all bones and hardly any skin..
Well I'm babbling again. :) Lets just cut to the chase. Maggie finds out that she is indeed special. She's a phoenix who is expected to save the Realm from an evil creature, Ossa, who wants to take it over and the human world after that.
Maggie is not sure if she can do it. After all she's just a girl. Boy is she wrong. She does have strong friends beside her though. Seatha the faerie princess, Autumn the witch, and of course her two Vampire princes.
Lisa Morgan brings to life their world of the Realm. You don't want to miss any part of Maggie's life as it is now. You've got to pick this book up and keep reading. Thank goodness Phoenix Burning is already out so that you don't have to wait for the next chapter of Maggie's great adventures. What will happen to her next? Will she finally have control of the fire withing her?
Will she be able to save the Realm and keep her prince? Will she ever see her mother again? I'm hoping to get the answer to these very soon. Thank you Lisa Morgan for an amazing glimpse into Maggie's world.
Reviewed by Nanette Bradford
(Member of the YATR Review Panel)
Date read: 20th October 2012
I had this book on my TBR list but, at the suggestion of my good friend Jodie, i bumped it up. I'm so glad i did because this was one of the most emotional books I've ever read. I've never felt so much by reading one simple book. I laughed so hard at Autumn, Seatha, and Maggie while they were having their girl night. Their connection with each other is so great. They became instant friends. They just click together and the karaoke part.. OMG! i laughed out loud that my kids turned to look at me funny. :) I've also never cried so much in my life. I had to stop reading the book 3 times just so that i could be able to see the words i was reading and each time i started blubbering even harder than the last. That is a sign of a great writer in my book. I felt everything that Maggie was going through.
I felt her sorrow and her fear. I can't go into more detail because it would give to much away. You are just going to have to trust me when i say grab a roll of toilet paper, yes a whole roll, sit somewhere by yourself and just let it go.
Maggie is a 16 year old girl living alone with her mother. Her only friend Stephanie she's known all her life.
See, Maggie's father is in an Asylum for rushing into a church, burning it up, and killing the 8 people that were inside. Maggie has had to live with the shame of this for 10 years. The constant whispers and pranks played on her at school she's learned to ignore but the nightmares she just can't. After an extremely bad night Stephanie suggests they ditch and go to the mall for some "Retail" therapy. They wander around a bit until Maggie starts to hear the most beautiful guitar music coming from the music shop. What she finds is the most beautiful guy she's ever seen.
He's just perfect. Hair the color of the night sky with just a hint of blue reflected off of it and his eyes are the most brilliant color of green with a touch of silver streaks. He noticed her and gave her a little smirk. Now we all know how that would of made us feel at that age. Weak at the knees. :)
After a falling out with Stephanie, Maggie finds herself stranded at the mall and left to walk home. Not great since its pretty far away. Her handsome stranger just happens to be outside so Maggie throws all caution to the wind, jumps on his motorcycle and heads home.
This is just the beginning for Maggie. On the way for a visit with her father, which she hates by the way, things start to happen. She thinks she saw the lady at the front desk change. She saw sharp teeth and bony hands. Maggie just thought she was seeing things and quickly just ignored what she thought she saw.
While visiting with her dad they are alone in the room and he starts to talk to her. He is telling her things aren't as they seem and that she is special. That she needs to protect the blood. Whatever that means. On the drive home she asks her mom about the things her dad said and she starts to act pretty weird.. She's saying things that don't make sense and in front of Maggie's eyes she changes into this hideously grotesque monster, all bones and hardly any skin..
Well I'm babbling again. :) Lets just cut to the chase. Maggie finds out that she is indeed special. She's a phoenix who is expected to save the Realm from an evil creature, Ossa, who wants to take it over and the human world after that.
Maggie is not sure if she can do it. After all she's just a girl. Boy is she wrong. She does have strong friends beside her though. Seatha the faerie princess, Autumn the witch, and of course her two Vampire princes.
Lisa Morgan brings to life their world of the Realm. You don't want to miss any part of Maggie's life as it is now. You've got to pick this book up and keep reading. Thank goodness Phoenix Burning is already out so that you don't have to wait for the next chapter of Maggie's great adventures. What will happen to her next? Will she finally have control of the fire withing her?
Will she be able to save the Realm and keep her prince? Will she ever see her mother again? I'm hoping to get the answer to these very soon. Thank you Lisa Morgan for an amazing glimpse into Maggie's world.
February 13, 2022
A very good and solid read!
September 27, 2012
This is one Outstanding Paranormal Fantasy book! I delayed reading this and have no idea why.
Maybe it was the cover, whenever I glance at it. I would think yea probably not my type! PEOPLE hear me roar. RAWWWWWWWWW This book is so me!I freaking loved it.
I was a little stunned by the way she use the creation of vampires. Only because religion is such a hard thing to throw in a book. (that's just personal reasoning) However, the Author did not go over board with it, so it worked. This book started with a punch and ended with a punch. How creative this Authors mind is. For instance, The rose garden. (*hold on, I need to wipe a tear"). One of the most touching things I have EVER read in a book. Freakin fantastic Lisa! I would of never imagine such a idea.
This book has a beautiful love story, this book had action, this book has mayhem, this book had crushing sadness, this book had vampires, "A" werewolf, this book had witches and fairies. It totally had it all! This Author has use her words to make everything was very visual,
making the Realm sounded fascinating and fearful. If that makes any sense.
Maggie, the final Phoenix, she was 16, all means of the age. However, you find yourself enduring every bit of her emotion. I laughed at her and with her. I was seriously pushing my kindle trying to help encourage her to keep going. "You can do it Maggie" says me. Even when she didn't have confidence that she was able to do it, the story brought Michel or Luc together with her providing strength. Finally she is reaching inside grabbing all the bravery she needs. She finds the most sweetest, innocent love. A little girl growing up with no
friends or family really, turns out having great friends and Family. Oh yes, Maggie's dad is in the mental hospital. Forgot to throw that in there. There is no way you can read this book and not fall in love with all the characters. Now throw in two brothers, Michel and Luc, they have such vastly different personalities, believes, and over all demeanor's. You also have Reventants and Ossa, they were evil and ugly LOL.
At one point is this book, I had real tears, bawling like a baby, snot at all! You think I am nuts, yea yea I can hear now, Derinda is it just a book. I want you to look at this!
Why roses?
Because the earth wishes to reminds us.
Remind us of what?
That even with loss, loves endures.
Why does it have to hurt?
Even the most beautiful of roses have thorns.
Now PUT THAT IN YOUR PIPE AND SMOKE IT! That is only a fragment of it people!
Lisa Morgan you rocks socks baby!!!! Cant wait to have you on the page!!!
Maybe it was the cover, whenever I glance at it. I would think yea probably not my type! PEOPLE hear me roar. RAWWWWWWWWW This book is so me!I freaking loved it.
I was a little stunned by the way she use the creation of vampires. Only because religion is such a hard thing to throw in a book. (that's just personal reasoning) However, the Author did not go over board with it, so it worked. This book started with a punch and ended with a punch. How creative this Authors mind is. For instance, The rose garden. (*hold on, I need to wipe a tear"). One of the most touching things I have EVER read in a book. Freakin fantastic Lisa! I would of never imagine such a idea.
This book has a beautiful love story, this book had action, this book has mayhem, this book had crushing sadness, this book had vampires, "A" werewolf, this book had witches and fairies. It totally had it all! This Author has use her words to make everything was very visual,
making the Realm sounded fascinating and fearful. If that makes any sense.
Maggie, the final Phoenix, she was 16, all means of the age. However, you find yourself enduring every bit of her emotion. I laughed at her and with her. I was seriously pushing my kindle trying to help encourage her to keep going. "You can do it Maggie" says me. Even when she didn't have confidence that she was able to do it, the story brought Michel or Luc together with her providing strength. Finally she is reaching inside grabbing all the bravery she needs. She finds the most sweetest, innocent love. A little girl growing up with no
friends or family really, turns out having great friends and Family. Oh yes, Maggie's dad is in the mental hospital. Forgot to throw that in there. There is no way you can read this book and not fall in love with all the characters. Now throw in two brothers, Michel and Luc, they have such vastly different personalities, believes, and over all demeanor's. You also have Reventants and Ossa, they were evil and ugly LOL.
At one point is this book, I had real tears, bawling like a baby, snot at all! You think I am nuts, yea yea I can hear now, Derinda is it just a book. I want you to look at this!
Why roses?
Because the earth wishes to reminds us.
Remind us of what?
That even with loss, loves endures.
Why does it have to hurt?
Even the most beautiful of roses have thorns.
Now PUT THAT IN YOUR PIPE AND SMOKE IT! That is only a fragment of it people!
Lisa Morgan you rocks socks baby!!!! Cant wait to have you on the page!!!
October 29, 2012
Maggie is kind of a loner, ridiculed by her peers because of her father. He was accused of setting fire to a church causing the deaths of 8 people. He now resides in an insane asylem and hasn't spoken a word in all the time he's been there. Her mother makes her go to see him. On a trip to the mall with her only friend, she meets Michel and after a fight with her friend, he gives her a lift home. Mom is not happy. They go to see her father and for the first time, he speaks, he tells Maggie that that isn't her mother,that she has to guard her bood, that the revenants are after her, and that she needs to run. Thinking him mad she tells her mom what he said. Mom goes nuts and Maggie is saved by Michel and his brother Luc. Turns out dad was right, they don't know where her real mother is, but that was a revenant. She is taken to a mansion, called the Trust and located between the 2 realms, where she is told who and what she really is. She is the last Phoenix and the old man in the mansion is her Grandpa Liam. Once she finally believes them, she will have to learn of their history and train, because she is the only one that can stop the evil OSSA and his army of revenants from destroying their realm as well as the human realm. She has no choice because a war is coming and she is their only hope of winning. During all of this her and Michel fall in love and Luc is sarcastic and mean. Maggie cannot control her powers, cannot fight well, cannot seem to do anything right, so how is she supposed to save them all? When she really needs it, she gets advice from a woman's voice in her head and learns to trust her. She also learns that Michel and Luc are the King's sons and vampires to boot. She will have to make hard choices, run and hide or stay and fight for the people she has come to love, even is she doesn't believe in herself. Even if she fights, it may not be enough and there are many secrets being kept from her, secrets that could destroy her. You will definately need tissues for this book. I have twin so I love the bickering brothers who really love each other. This book has many different supernatural creatures and the characters are wonderful. You will want them to be your friends. The end is a smack in the face and you won't have choice but to look for the next book. A quote that I loved from the book could apply to anyone. It is said by the King to Maggie "Choices can sometimes bring both joy and sorrow in one. It is the risk we take in matters of the heart." So true.
January 31, 2013
Phoenix Rising (Maggie Henning & the Realm #1)
By Lisa Morgan
Reviewed by S. Bree High
I cannot even form the words, honestly! I am that blown away by this book. I finished it and I am still sitting here thinking what? Why? What? Why??????? My thought structure is off and I literally had to wait to write this down, in order to process. I was wrecked in every way and spent completely. My eyes are still puffed up and if I think too long, I believe I would cry again right now. YES I am being 100% serious and it is just that good! Lisa Morgan I think you blew me away and I am so very sorry it took me too long to read this book.
Maggie���s life is horrible in so many ways. Her Father is in a psychiatric ward after killing eight people ten years ago. She is known as the daughter of the killer and is forced to visit him by her Mom. (So she thought) Her Mom will not leave the town, will not allow her to be away from the stigma and she has one friend. She is living an existence that seems to be filled with torment and personal pain.
One trip to see her father changed everything. Her day started out like any other, to end up being nothing she ever knew! Her life is sent on a twist and turn roller coaster event and so many things that seem un-real are her reality. Things she trusted are not true and those she never knew existed are now her only friends. Autumn and Seatha I loved them. I want to hang out with them too. They are friends and really care for her. I cannot even give accurate accounts for this story, I was so drawn in and I could not put it down. It drew me in and I poured thru the pages but I wanted to slow down so I could keep it with me. I sound like a crazy lady I know, but it was just that good! I was reading and scared to turn the pages further, scared my heart would break. I was elated and sad in one chapter. I am having a hard time even now. I am sure I love both male leads, and I normally always only go for the bad boy but Michel touched me. He was sweet and gentle and he cared for her with such passion. Then Luc he was all of those things and kept them hidden. I was torn. Did I mention that I loved this story?
I am so excited to know what happens next, I want to tell you everything about this book, and I could talk with you about this book for hours. I am not going to do that though. WHY you ask? I cannot do the book the disservice; I think you have to read it. Trust me! Read it now.
By Lisa Morgan
Reviewed by S. Bree High
I cannot even form the words, honestly! I am that blown away by this book. I finished it and I am still sitting here thinking what? Why? What? Why??????? My thought structure is off and I literally had to wait to write this down, in order to process. I was wrecked in every way and spent completely. My eyes are still puffed up and if I think too long, I believe I would cry again right now. YES I am being 100% serious and it is just that good! Lisa Morgan I think you blew me away and I am so very sorry it took me too long to read this book.
Maggie���s life is horrible in so many ways. Her Father is in a psychiatric ward after killing eight people ten years ago. She is known as the daughter of the killer and is forced to visit him by her Mom. (So she thought) Her Mom will not leave the town, will not allow her to be away from the stigma and she has one friend. She is living an existence that seems to be filled with torment and personal pain.
One trip to see her father changed everything. Her day started out like any other, to end up being nothing she ever knew! Her life is sent on a twist and turn roller coaster event and so many things that seem un-real are her reality. Things she trusted are not true and those she never knew existed are now her only friends. Autumn and Seatha I loved them. I want to hang out with them too. They are friends and really care for her. I cannot even give accurate accounts for this story, I was so drawn in and I could not put it down. It drew me in and I poured thru the pages but I wanted to slow down so I could keep it with me. I sound like a crazy lady I know, but it was just that good! I was reading and scared to turn the pages further, scared my heart would break. I was elated and sad in one chapter. I am having a hard time even now. I am sure I love both male leads, and I normally always only go for the bad boy but Michel touched me. He was sweet and gentle and he cared for her with such passion. Then Luc he was all of those things and kept them hidden. I was torn. Did I mention that I loved this story?
I am so excited to know what happens next, I want to tell you everything about this book, and I could talk with you about this book for hours. I am not going to do that though. WHY you ask? I cannot do the book the disservice; I think you have to read it. Trust me! Read it now.
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