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Awakening
Critically Acclaimed Romantic Suspense Novel
Kallie Andreas is a mystery, even to herself.
Seven years ago Kallie woke up in a New York City museum, injured and traumatized. Alone and unclaimed.
Despite her shattered memories, she's made a quiet life for herself as museum curator. But then the blackouts start. Lost time, stranded in terrifying danger, frantic visions that can't be real.
And now Kallie's journal has morphed into something else... What began as a romantic fairy tale becomes the tale of a woman plunged into crisis in the ancient misty islands of Minoan Greece, home to myth and legend.
When a mysterious billionaire invites Kallie to scour the black market with him for the most valuable of all Minoan treasures, Kallie can't resist. Dimitri is wealthy, charming and good-looking, but she's not interested--not in someone who's clearly hiding secrets of his own.
Meanwhile, Kallie's memories are bleeding through and her journal has turned violent. She's teetering on the verge of a breakthrough, but what devastating truth has she been suppressing?
”Best book I've read in years. [Higley] is a master storyteller!” ~ Recent Amazon Reviewer
********************************************************************************
Click the Look Inside button above to read the first chapter...
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Romantic Suspense Novel Categories:
> Romantic Suspense Adventure
> Romantic Suspense Historical
With page-turning romantic suspense and evocative scenes set in exotic locales, Higley's novels transport readers into a romantic adventure they won't soon forget.
Kallie Andreas is a mystery, even to herself.
Seven years ago Kallie woke up in a New York City museum, injured and traumatized. Alone and unclaimed.
Despite her shattered memories, she's made a quiet life for herself as museum curator. But then the blackouts start. Lost time, stranded in terrifying danger, frantic visions that can't be real.
And now Kallie's journal has morphed into something else... What began as a romantic fairy tale becomes the tale of a woman plunged into crisis in the ancient misty islands of Minoan Greece, home to myth and legend.
When a mysterious billionaire invites Kallie to scour the black market with him for the most valuable of all Minoan treasures, Kallie can't resist. Dimitri is wealthy, charming and good-looking, but she's not interested--not in someone who's clearly hiding secrets of his own.
Meanwhile, Kallie's memories are bleeding through and her journal has turned violent. She's teetering on the verge of a breakthrough, but what devastating truth has she been suppressing?
”Best book I've read in years. [Higley] is a master storyteller!” ~ Recent Amazon Reviewer
********************************************************************************
Click the Look Inside button above to read the first chapter...
********************************************************************************
Romantic Suspense Novel Categories:
> Romantic Suspense Adventure
> Romantic Suspense Historical
With page-turning romantic suspense and evocative scenes set in exotic locales, Higley's novels transport readers into a romantic adventure they won't soon forget.
366 pages, Paperback
First published July 1, 2014
307 people are currently reading
1385 people want to read
About the author
Tracy L. Higley
46 books780 followersTracy Higley has been attempting to time travel through the pages of books since she was a child. She started her first story at the age of eight, and has since authored nearly twenty books, including the acclaimed Seven Wonders Series, and the Time Travel Journals of Sahara Aldridge. She earned a Master’s Degree in Ancient and Classical History, and has traveled to Egypt, Greece, Jordan, Israel, Italy, and Turkey, researching her books and falling into adventures. Peruse her travel journals and learn more fascinating history at www.tracyhigley.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 126 reviews
November 2, 2017
Age Appropriate For: 15 and up for violence, romance, and weirdness
Best for Ages: 18 and up
It’s been over a month since I read this book and I’m still not sure what to think about it. It was vivid, kept my attention from beginning to end, and yet was so different anything I have read. The faith element that is normally predominate in Higley’s writing was missing, yet still felt like it was there. It is a hard book to describe.
The characters were all vivid, not one lay flat on the page. All of them are deep, wide, and complex, even the ones that are seen briefly. It’s one of the things that gave the story such a draw. I felt like I would know Kallie, Dimitri, and the rest if I met them.
Kallie’s inability to remember her past is done well. She is both desperate to find out who she was and afraid of what she might have been. I stayed up late to finish this book because I had to read the end. Honestly, not too far into the book, I figured out what it took the characters most of the rest of the book to discover, but I still couldn’t help but keep reading.
The settings, all around the globe, were realistic and vivid. I felt almost as if I had been on vacation to Egypt and Italy by the time the book had been finished. Higley did a great job of describing the locations.
The things that I didn’t like about this book: As I stated before, I missed Higley’s strong faith element that is so key in her other books. The hints in this book were not what I have come to expect from her. However, I’ll say that perhaps people who dislike religion in their books will enjoy getting to read Higley’s work. They would find little if anything to offend them in here.
There were also a few brief mentions of nudity (non-sexual) within the pages. I honestly found them unnecessary and did nothing to add to the story. However, because it was not used in a sexual manner and not overly described, it was easy to also ignore.
The research that was put into this book seemed stellar. I felt like I came away with an education, although I didn’t check the facts. I loved the blending of history and myth in the story.
Overall I found this a well-written, highly entertaining book. I’m still not sure whether I love it or think it is odd.
Best for Ages: 18 and up
It’s been over a month since I read this book and I’m still not sure what to think about it. It was vivid, kept my attention from beginning to end, and yet was so different anything I have read. The faith element that is normally predominate in Higley’s writing was missing, yet still felt like it was there. It is a hard book to describe.
The characters were all vivid, not one lay flat on the page. All of them are deep, wide, and complex, even the ones that are seen briefly. It’s one of the things that gave the story such a draw. I felt like I would know Kallie, Dimitri, and the rest if I met them.
Kallie’s inability to remember her past is done well. She is both desperate to find out who she was and afraid of what she might have been. I stayed up late to finish this book because I had to read the end. Honestly, not too far into the book, I figured out what it took the characters most of the rest of the book to discover, but I still couldn’t help but keep reading.
The settings, all around the globe, were realistic and vivid. I felt almost as if I had been on vacation to Egypt and Italy by the time the book had been finished. Higley did a great job of describing the locations.
The things that I didn’t like about this book: As I stated before, I missed Higley’s strong faith element that is so key in her other books. The hints in this book were not what I have come to expect from her. However, I’ll say that perhaps people who dislike religion in their books will enjoy getting to read Higley’s work. They would find little if anything to offend them in here.
There were also a few brief mentions of nudity (non-sexual) within the pages. I honestly found them unnecessary and did nothing to add to the story. However, because it was not used in a sexual manner and not overly described, it was easy to also ignore.
The research that was put into this book seemed stellar. I felt like I came away with an education, although I didn’t check the facts. I loved the blending of history and myth in the story.
Overall I found this a well-written, highly entertaining book. I’m still not sure whether I love it or think it is odd.
July 29, 2014
Tracy Higley always writes gorgeous prose and imagery, and she’s done it again with Awakening, weaving together romance, intrigue and mystery from the past and present into one of those rare, unforgettable reads that stays with you for days after you’ve finished. This is the kind of story world I’ve been longing to enter. The kind of story world I’m reluctant to leave.
April 23, 2015
Seven years ago Kallista Andreas woke up in a New York City museum with absolutely no recollection of how she got there or who she was. The museum’s curator, Judith, helped Kallie get back on her feet with a job—even named her after an ancient city. Even though she is comfortable in her new life, Kallie can’t help but feel the empty ache of her past everywhere she goes. She feels like she is going crazy when the blackouts begin, along with scary hallucinations that feel incredibly real. Then Dimitri Andreas—a charming and wealthy philanthropist—offers to give her a team on a search to find the most valuable Minoan treasure called the Key. Despite knowing it could be a dangerous quest, Kallie can’t resist and thus begins the grand adventure to find the lost Key and, in the process, find herself.
I read The Queen’s Handmaid last year and fell in love with Tracy Higley’s poetic writing style and her full-of-life characters. This book reminded me again of why I should read more from this talented author! Awakening was the perfect blend of past and present, legend and reality. It had global adventures, intriguing mystery, soulful romance, and suspense that kept my eyes glued to the pages. I thoroughly enjoyed it! Usually I don’t like books that blend two different stories, but surprisingly I wasn’t bothered by this one. Probably because I really enjoy history. My only complaint, and the reason I didn’t like this one more, was that sometimes the writing was maybe just a little pretentious. I had a hard time with the flowery words in the side story, but that could’ve been just me. Other than a few minor quibbles, I have to say that it kept me intrigued enough to finish within a few hours. The ending was predictable, but beautifully told nonetheless.
If you like books that contain history, romance, modern-day treasure hunts, adventure, and suspense, then check out Awakening! It was a solid read that was perfect for cuddling with a warm cup of tea on a rainy day, which I did. ;)
http://www.willbakeforbooks.com/2015/...
I read The Queen’s Handmaid last year and fell in love with Tracy Higley’s poetic writing style and her full-of-life characters. This book reminded me again of why I should read more from this talented author! Awakening was the perfect blend of past and present, legend and reality. It had global adventures, intriguing mystery, soulful romance, and suspense that kept my eyes glued to the pages. I thoroughly enjoyed it! Usually I don’t like books that blend two different stories, but surprisingly I wasn’t bothered by this one. Probably because I really enjoy history. My only complaint, and the reason I didn’t like this one more, was that sometimes the writing was maybe just a little pretentious. I had a hard time with the flowery words in the side story, but that could’ve been just me. Other than a few minor quibbles, I have to say that it kept me intrigued enough to finish within a few hours. The ending was predictable, but beautifully told nonetheless.
If you like books that contain history, romance, modern-day treasure hunts, adventure, and suspense, then check out Awakening! It was a solid read that was perfect for cuddling with a warm cup of tea on a rainy day, which I did. ;)
http://www.willbakeforbooks.com/2015/...
September 26, 2014
Waking up in a history museum in New York City, Kallie has no memory of her past. In fact her name, Kallie Andreas, is one given to her by her mentor and now boss, Judith. After years of therapy and education, Kallie feels comfortable in her role of historical researcher. She is particularly interested in finding a key to unlock the previously untranslated Minoan language. Into her safe, ordered world comes Demitri Andreas, a millionaire philanthropist, who seems to have the same goal. He wants Kallie to head up a team to travel the globe in search of this key.
As Kallie proceeds to embark on this quest, she begins to have flashes of a very strange tale set in the Minoan culture. As she begins to write it down, the story continues to flow and something about it becomes familiar. In the meantime, it seems that someone is following her, putting her life in danger. What will be the final resolution?
I have read several other books written by Tracy Higley. This one is a little different, as she usually ties it to some part of the Old or New Testament. This one is set in the time of the Minoans and Myceneans. She has a passion for ancient history and her extensive research is always outstanding in her books. She usually touches on time periods which are not always written about.
I received this book from the Book Club Network in exchange for my unbiased opinion.
As Kallie proceeds to embark on this quest, she begins to have flashes of a very strange tale set in the Minoan culture. As she begins to write it down, the story continues to flow and something about it becomes familiar. In the meantime, it seems that someone is following her, putting her life in danger. What will be the final resolution?
I have read several other books written by Tracy Higley. This one is a little different, as she usually ties it to some part of the Old or New Testament. This one is set in the time of the Minoans and Myceneans. She has a passion for ancient history and her extensive research is always outstanding in her books. She usually touches on time periods which are not always written about.
I received this book from the Book Club Network in exchange for my unbiased opinion.
October 1, 2014
What a fascinating first read from Tracy Higley Awakening was for me! I was intrigued by her style and story. Mystery was around every corner and unexpected turns occur in her plotline. Her characters were driven by inner turmoil that even they did not grasp. One of the best parts of this read was the beautiful scenes Tracy describes as Kallie and Dimitri travel around the globe. I felt as though I could see places in my mind that I have never been to before. Two storylines mix into the book which at first threw me off but soon engaged me completely. She seamlessly works this to her advantage in the telling of this novel. I highly recommend Awakening as your next read. You won't regret it.
Each chapter was sent to me by email by the author and appreciated her generosity. This review is an honest exchange for her gift to me.
Each chapter was sent to me by email by the author and appreciated her generosity. This review is an honest exchange for her gift to me.
January 29, 2018
This is a hard book to categorize. I read it thinking it was a contemporary Christian suspense, but it is steeped in Greek mythology and has a significantly supernatural bent that surprised me--I wasn't expecting it at all. I can't really say more without spoiling some seriously important plot points, but it was definitely unexpected. The theology is kind of vague and while can point to Christianity, doesn't point there specifically. I did enjoy the journey around the world and the supernatural bent (unexpected though it was), but all in all it was a bit strange.
April 28, 2016
3 1/2 stars - I thought this was a good book, engaging and adventurous. At times I felt a little confused, as there were 2 stories intertwined in this book and would have to go back to a chapter to read again Kallie's journal stories to remember where it left off.
Very imaginative plot and I really enjoyed the reading ending; action-packed and I was curious how the book would conclude.
Very imaginative plot and I really enjoyed the reading ending; action-packed and I was curious how the book would conclude.
May 2, 2015
This book was a wild adventure, just the type of book I love. The author does a fantastic job describing each exotic locale and the action never lets up. This is the kind of book I dream about coming across, and was the first one I've read by this author, but it won't be the last.
January 18, 2018
Interesting
A different story than what I typically read. Well written, lots of turns to keep you on your feet. But puzzled by it all. Not sure I would read moire of her work.
A different story than what I typically read. Well written, lots of turns to keep you on your feet. But puzzled by it all. Not sure I would read moire of her work.
Read
December 3, 2022Tracy is incredible! I have read many of her books and actually own them all! She is my favorite author by far. She weaves her tales so thrillingly and with a different twist style! Most authors rarely surprise me but she always can and does! I have a tendency to save the best for last and I find myself saving her books till just the right moment that doesn’t come along often enough. This keeps me from enjoying all her books. I recently took a Dream vacation to Italy and Greece so I read Pompeii, So Shines the Night and Awakinging! Being in those locations brought the words to life even more and I throughly loved it! The only problem with waiting is, well waiting, it truly doesn’t make any sense! I can just reread them before traveling to those areas! I vow to not Save her books to read last and I will start reading them now! (I did read the Time to Weep series immediately since I was on the pre-read group :)
October 1, 2014
Unique, compelling storyline!
Awakening is Tracy Higley’s newest book. I confess that I haven’t read any of her works before, so when offered a chance to read this one, I jumped at it. I have to say that I really enjoyed it!
I was aware that she is known for writing excellent historical novels, so I wasn’t sure how a modern one would be, but I believe she pulled it off wonderfully! The details and descriptions were wonderful; I could vividly picture each location and really enjoyed the history that was woven into them. Kallista Andreas is the main character and being that she is an assistant curator, there was a lot of historical facts and myths involved, which was interesting. I actually found the details a little confusing at first and struggled to get into the story, but after wading through the first couple chapters, I was quickly engrossed and found I didn’t want to put it down.
Kallista “Kallie” Andreas is a very unique main character. She has woken up every day for 7 years unsure of who she is or where she belongs. Her life revolves around the museum where she was found and now works. As she faces the 7-year anniversary of when she was found, she begins to experience blackouts and strange dreams. I fell in love with Kallie almost at once, because she is just so broken, for lack of a better word. She has hidden herself away in her research, blocking out the world and the questions she can’t answer. She is passionate about her research, and has an inner strength that she doesn’t see. When faced with the idea she may be going crazy, I was impressed that she continued to move forward. I loved watching her grow and become who she truly is throughout the story, even without any of the answers she desired.
Dimitri Andreas (no relation) is the hero of this story, though we don’t know as much about him as I would have liked. Despite the fact this book is written in the third person, we never get to see Dimitri’s point of view or know what he is thinking, which was disappointing for me. We do know that he is strong, kind, and a bit of a rogue. After he meets Kallie and learns they share a passion for all things Minoan, he offers her the chance of a lifetime - to travel the Middle East and Europe in search of a key that could unlock their lost language. I did enjoy getting to see him through Kallie’s eyes and falling in love with him right along with her. I loved how kind he was to her and how he continually pushed her out of her comfort zone. I also loved the realness found in him - I had wondered what he might be like, seeing as how he is rich. But he is definitely not stereotypical.
Their romance was sweet, if a little less involved than I had expected. Kallie struggles with knowing nothing of her past and is unwilling to enter a relationship while she is so unsure of her origins or where she belongs. Dimitri pushes her a little bit, but once he understands her reasons, allows her the distance she desires. I thought there might have been a little more romance, since they are traveling to exotic and interesting locations together, but I have to admit that I actually began to enjoy the lack. It allows the reader to focus on Kallie and the mystery there without being distracted by trying to keep up with anything else.
Speaking of keeping up, I had an interesting time remembering what had happened last, every time I had to put the book down. They was just so much going on and something was constantly happening that I had to refresh my memory fairly often. It also helps that for a while there appears to be two storylines happening at once and the reader is left wondering when they will ever connect. I really enjoyed the suspense of it all! Ms. Higley is great at ending a chapter at just the right place that ensures you have to continue reading, otherwise you’ll be completely useless, because you’re trying to guess what will happen next!
I found the spiritual side of the story to be very interesting. A lot of the plot focuses on the characters, Kallie in particular, searching for the truth. She has studied Greek, Egyptian, and Minoan mythology as part of her work at the museum, along with a multitude of other religions and is unsure which is truth and which is simply myth. She is also surrounded by a team that shares very different beliefs. I enjoyed her journey as she attempted to separate fact from fiction, truth from lies. A favorite quote of mine is this, “If there is no Truth, then the search for it is meaningless.” Chloe, page 348
I thought this summed up her search quite well and is also relevant to reality. So many people search for the truth, but give up, accepting the opinion that there isn’t an absolute Truth. In actuality, it simply has to be separated from all of the things that masquerade as truth. I also appreciated the honesty in the ending. We aren’t left with a confession of faith, which may have seemed unrealistic with everything else that was going on and considering the relatively short time span the story covers, but instead the characters continue to ask questions and search for the answers to them.
I believe I already managed to mention the couple complaints I had, so I won’t go over those again. I’ll just end by saying that I really enjoyed this book and will definitely be looking for more of Tracy’s stories!
I highly recommend this book if you enjoy adventure, mystery, and a surprise ending!
I received a copy of this book from the author through The Book Club Network for my honest review, which I have given. I was not required to write a positive review and have not been compensated for it in any way. All opinions expressed are my own.
Awakening is Tracy Higley’s newest book. I confess that I haven’t read any of her works before, so when offered a chance to read this one, I jumped at it. I have to say that I really enjoyed it!
I was aware that she is known for writing excellent historical novels, so I wasn’t sure how a modern one would be, but I believe she pulled it off wonderfully! The details and descriptions were wonderful; I could vividly picture each location and really enjoyed the history that was woven into them. Kallista Andreas is the main character and being that she is an assistant curator, there was a lot of historical facts and myths involved, which was interesting. I actually found the details a little confusing at first and struggled to get into the story, but after wading through the first couple chapters, I was quickly engrossed and found I didn’t want to put it down.
Kallista “Kallie” Andreas is a very unique main character. She has woken up every day for 7 years unsure of who she is or where she belongs. Her life revolves around the museum where she was found and now works. As she faces the 7-year anniversary of when she was found, she begins to experience blackouts and strange dreams. I fell in love with Kallie almost at once, because she is just so broken, for lack of a better word. She has hidden herself away in her research, blocking out the world and the questions she can’t answer. She is passionate about her research, and has an inner strength that she doesn’t see. When faced with the idea she may be going crazy, I was impressed that she continued to move forward. I loved watching her grow and become who she truly is throughout the story, even without any of the answers she desired.
Dimitri Andreas (no relation) is the hero of this story, though we don’t know as much about him as I would have liked. Despite the fact this book is written in the third person, we never get to see Dimitri’s point of view or know what he is thinking, which was disappointing for me. We do know that he is strong, kind, and a bit of a rogue. After he meets Kallie and learns they share a passion for all things Minoan, he offers her the chance of a lifetime - to travel the Middle East and Europe in search of a key that could unlock their lost language. I did enjoy getting to see him through Kallie’s eyes and falling in love with him right along with her. I loved how kind he was to her and how he continually pushed her out of her comfort zone. I also loved the realness found in him - I had wondered what he might be like, seeing as how he is rich. But he is definitely not stereotypical.
Their romance was sweet, if a little less involved than I had expected. Kallie struggles with knowing nothing of her past and is unwilling to enter a relationship while she is so unsure of her origins or where she belongs. Dimitri pushes her a little bit, but once he understands her reasons, allows her the distance she desires. I thought there might have been a little more romance, since they are traveling to exotic and interesting locations together, but I have to admit that I actually began to enjoy the lack. It allows the reader to focus on Kallie and the mystery there without being distracted by trying to keep up with anything else.
Speaking of keeping up, I had an interesting time remembering what had happened last, every time I had to put the book down. They was just so much going on and something was constantly happening that I had to refresh my memory fairly often. It also helps that for a while there appears to be two storylines happening at once and the reader is left wondering when they will ever connect. I really enjoyed the suspense of it all! Ms. Higley is great at ending a chapter at just the right place that ensures you have to continue reading, otherwise you’ll be completely useless, because you’re trying to guess what will happen next!
I found the spiritual side of the story to be very interesting. A lot of the plot focuses on the characters, Kallie in particular, searching for the truth. She has studied Greek, Egyptian, and Minoan mythology as part of her work at the museum, along with a multitude of other religions and is unsure which is truth and which is simply myth. She is also surrounded by a team that shares very different beliefs. I enjoyed her journey as she attempted to separate fact from fiction, truth from lies. A favorite quote of mine is this, “If there is no Truth, then the search for it is meaningless.” Chloe, page 348
I thought this summed up her search quite well and is also relevant to reality. So many people search for the truth, but give up, accepting the opinion that there isn’t an absolute Truth. In actuality, it simply has to be separated from all of the things that masquerade as truth. I also appreciated the honesty in the ending. We aren’t left with a confession of faith, which may have seemed unrealistic with everything else that was going on and considering the relatively short time span the story covers, but instead the characters continue to ask questions and search for the answers to them.
I believe I already managed to mention the couple complaints I had, so I won’t go over those again. I’ll just end by saying that I really enjoyed this book and will definitely be looking for more of Tracy’s stories!
I highly recommend this book if you enjoy adventure, mystery, and a surprise ending!
I received a copy of this book from the author through The Book Club Network for my honest review, which I have given. I was not required to write a positive review and have not been compensated for it in any way. All opinions expressed are my own.
November 20, 2022
Time Travel with a twist
Travel not only through time, but also the world in this epic story of a lost people and the woman prophesied to lead them. History meets the present in this tale of love and truth.
Travel not only through time, but also the world in this epic story of a lost people and the woman prophesied to lead them. History meets the present in this tale of love and truth.
April 2, 2025
Maze through Life
An internal and external awakening! Highly philosophical and inspiring as the characters journey through the maze of the mind, the heart and life. Thank you Tracy loved it!
An internal and external awakening! Highly philosophical and inspiring as the characters journey through the maze of the mind, the heart and life. Thank you Tracy loved it!
September 2, 2025
I was torn between fascination with the history and shaking my head with this the unrealism.
I’m not sure how this can be Christian fiction if there's mythology or Buddhism in it.
Pulling the character from current day to some ancient time had me reeling.
I don’t know, this was not a favorite.
I’m not sure how this can be Christian fiction if there's mythology or Buddhism in it.
Pulling the character from current day to some ancient time had me reeling.
I don’t know, this was not a favorite.
February 8, 2025
Couldn’t get into this one.
April 15, 2025
What just happened ?
What a journey through time and back again. Love so true that time and enemies can't destroy. Great characters and edge of your seat situations.
What a journey through time and back again. Love so true that time and enemies can't destroy. Great characters and edge of your seat situations.
September 21, 2015
This was a book I didn't know what to expect. I just got it for free and the plot sounded intriguing.
It was a fast read, but had a bit going on. It's a mix of everything it feels like - mystery, intrigue, historical fiction, fantasy, myth, spirituality, adventure... Tracy Higley goes back and forth between present day and ancient times. You think the ancient Greek time period is just a story in a story, but there's more to it that is revealed down the line.
My favorites have to be the imagery and descriptions...I loved reading about the foreign places the characters traveled to, the beauty in the land and culture, and especially the ancient Greek lands. It was great to read about Kallista so passionate about her job at the museum, discovering truths about the ancient Minoan people, seeing so much more in ancient relics and art.
Tracy really packs a lot of truth and deep messages in this book...it's even a bit challenging for me to understand it all myself at times. The book covers messages about duty/obligation, destiny, uncovering secrets, a journey of discovery, knowing one's greater purpose, magic/time travel, home, sacrifice, courage, what it means to be a good leader, trust, and hope.
Memorable quotes (may be spoilers/read at your own discretion):
"'Those are its facts...But what is its story?' You feel it, too? The way every piece has a story...Something to be unlocked, discovered, celebrated.'" -Dimitri Andreas and Kallista pg 21
"'I believe in scholarship, in what history gives to the world. I believe in honoring the past, in searching out where we came from to comprehend where we are going. I want to devote my life to something bigger than myself.'" -Kallista pg 49
"They must have known something, these Egyptians. To build with such majesty and beauty, they must have had some truth. But if there were one or more divine beings out there somewhere, would they have allowed the extinction of their worship?" -pg 150
"Was all of life to be a series of choice like this? I had chosen destiny over my physical comforts and over the acclaim of my people. Was I now to choose it over even my heart's desire -- the knowledge of the ages?" -pg 227
"'These mosaics were created to relate the biblical stories to the illiterate masses. Now the masses can read, but we've largely lost our ability to understand art.' But Kallie understood it. It flowed through her in an almost physical way, this ancient story of the Judeo-Christian God reaching out to man." -pg 282
"Did every heart yearn for God and seek to know him? Was the world, as it seemed, teeming with the overwhelming reality and presence of the divine, with a mystical significance that could not be ignored? Kallie's question was not whether the myths could be believed, but only--which one?" -pg 283
"'We all have a deep hunger, Kallie. For beauty, for wonder and awe. Something beyond our physical senses, waiting to be discovered. The physical world, including all its myth, points us to a world more real than this one.'" -Nicolaos pg 317
"She was princess of Kalliste. And its people, her people, were her responsibility. More vital than personal happiness. More than love." -pg 329
"And it was hope that pushed me forward. Hope and love for my people, who even now knew nothing of what was to come and needed a leader to show them the way." -pg 347
"Yes, life is a maze, and always we are trying to find our way through. Leaving signposts along the way for other travelers, painting our best conception of what lies at the finish. The ultimate question every traveler must answer is which direction the maze runs. Do all roads lead inward, into myself, to a higher consciousness where I am dissolved? Or do all roads lead outward, toward a power greater and outside myself?" -pg 362
It was a fast read, but had a bit going on. It's a mix of everything it feels like - mystery, intrigue, historical fiction, fantasy, myth, spirituality, adventure... Tracy Higley goes back and forth between present day and ancient times. You think the ancient Greek time period is just a story in a story, but there's more to it that is revealed down the line.
My favorites have to be the imagery and descriptions...I loved reading about the foreign places the characters traveled to, the beauty in the land and culture, and especially the ancient Greek lands. It was great to read about Kallista so passionate about her job at the museum, discovering truths about the ancient Minoan people, seeing so much more in ancient relics and art.
Tracy really packs a lot of truth and deep messages in this book...it's even a bit challenging for me to understand it all myself at times. The book covers messages about duty/obligation, destiny, uncovering secrets, a journey of discovery, knowing one's greater purpose, magic/time travel, home, sacrifice, courage, what it means to be a good leader, trust, and hope.
Memorable quotes (may be spoilers/read at your own discretion):
"'Those are its facts...But what is its story?' You feel it, too? The way every piece has a story...Something to be unlocked, discovered, celebrated.'" -Dimitri Andreas and Kallista pg 21
"'I believe in scholarship, in what history gives to the world. I believe in honoring the past, in searching out where we came from to comprehend where we are going. I want to devote my life to something bigger than myself.'" -Kallista pg 49
"They must have known something, these Egyptians. To build with such majesty and beauty, they must have had some truth. But if there were one or more divine beings out there somewhere, would they have allowed the extinction of their worship?" -pg 150
"Was all of life to be a series of choice like this? I had chosen destiny over my physical comforts and over the acclaim of my people. Was I now to choose it over even my heart's desire -- the knowledge of the ages?" -pg 227
"'These mosaics were created to relate the biblical stories to the illiterate masses. Now the masses can read, but we've largely lost our ability to understand art.' But Kallie understood it. It flowed through her in an almost physical way, this ancient story of the Judeo-Christian God reaching out to man." -pg 282
"Did every heart yearn for God and seek to know him? Was the world, as it seemed, teeming with the overwhelming reality and presence of the divine, with a mystical significance that could not be ignored? Kallie's question was not whether the myths could be believed, but only--which one?" -pg 283
"'We all have a deep hunger, Kallie. For beauty, for wonder and awe. Something beyond our physical senses, waiting to be discovered. The physical world, including all its myth, points us to a world more real than this one.'" -Nicolaos pg 317
"She was princess of Kalliste. And its people, her people, were her responsibility. More vital than personal happiness. More than love." -pg 329
"And it was hope that pushed me forward. Hope and love for my people, who even now knew nothing of what was to come and needed a leader to show them the way." -pg 347
"Yes, life is a maze, and always we are trying to find our way through. Leaving signposts along the way for other travelers, painting our best conception of what lies at the finish. The ultimate question every traveler must answer is which direction the maze runs. Do all roads lead inward, into myself, to a higher consciousness where I am dissolved? Or do all roads lead outward, toward a power greater and outside myself?" -pg 362
November 28, 2014
Tracy L. Higley in her new book “Awakening” published by Stonewater Press takes us into the life of Kallie Andreas.
From the back cover: Kallie Andreas is a mystery, even to herself.
Seven years ago Kallie woke up in a New York City museum, injured and traumatized. Alone and unclaimed.
Despite her shattered memories, she’s worked her way into a position as assistant curator in that very museum, and now she wants nothing more than to pursue funding for her project–assembling pieces from the ancient Minoans.
But then the blackouts start. Lost time, stranded in terrifying danger, frantic visions that can’t be real. A threatening phone call may be nothing more than paranoia and madness. Or perhaps not.
It’s time to start seeing her psychiatrist more often.
Kallie’s doctor challenges her to keep a journal, but her writing morphs into something else… What begins as a romantic fairy tale becomes an allegory of a woman plunged into crisis in the ancient past, in the misty islands of Minoan Greece, home to myth and legend.
When a mysterious billionaire invites Kallie to scour the black market with him for the most valuable of all Minoan treasures, the key to their lost language, Kallie can’t resist. Dimitri is wealthy, charming and good-looking, but she’s not interested–not in someone who’s clearly hiding secrets of his own.
Together, the two embark on a global quest to find the Key, through some of the most exotic and beautiful locations in the world–unraveling the mystery and pursuing leads, all the while resisting romance in Italy, under the Santorini sun, and among the pyramids of Egypt.
Meanwhile, Kallie’s memories are bleeding through and her journal has turned violent. She’s teetering on the verge of a breakthrough, but what devastating truth has she been suppressing?
When a strange woman who clearly knows Kallie’s real identity tries to murder her, it’s clear that Kallie’s past and present worlds are colliding, in a deadly crisis that will finally reveal the shocking mystery of her past.
But will the truth leave room for love?
It is a shame that the great director Alfred Hitchcock died. He would be the perfect person to direct this movie. But then you would need Gregory Peck and Ingrid Bergman to play the major roles because these are tremendous characters. Kallie only has memories from seven years ago. That leaves her wide open for danger and it comes calling. So does adventure. Dimitri is wealthy and an explorer that seems to know more about Kallie than he lets on. Now they are traveling the world looking for a Key artifact and answers. Tracy Higley has truly given us a winner with “Awakening”. Get ready there are politics, escapes, liaisons, schemes and conniving that will make your head spin. And the characters. Ms. Higley has given us great characters who live and breathe on the pages and draw us into their lives so that we root for the good guys and do not want the bad guys to win. “Awakening” is great fun. It is history, a thriller, adventure and a romance all rolled up in an extremely entertaining ball.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Stonewater Press. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
From the back cover: Kallie Andreas is a mystery, even to herself.
Seven years ago Kallie woke up in a New York City museum, injured and traumatized. Alone and unclaimed.
Despite her shattered memories, she’s worked her way into a position as assistant curator in that very museum, and now she wants nothing more than to pursue funding for her project–assembling pieces from the ancient Minoans.
But then the blackouts start. Lost time, stranded in terrifying danger, frantic visions that can’t be real. A threatening phone call may be nothing more than paranoia and madness. Or perhaps not.
It’s time to start seeing her psychiatrist more often.
Kallie’s doctor challenges her to keep a journal, but her writing morphs into something else… What begins as a romantic fairy tale becomes an allegory of a woman plunged into crisis in the ancient past, in the misty islands of Minoan Greece, home to myth and legend.
When a mysterious billionaire invites Kallie to scour the black market with him for the most valuable of all Minoan treasures, the key to their lost language, Kallie can’t resist. Dimitri is wealthy, charming and good-looking, but she’s not interested–not in someone who’s clearly hiding secrets of his own.
Together, the two embark on a global quest to find the Key, through some of the most exotic and beautiful locations in the world–unraveling the mystery and pursuing leads, all the while resisting romance in Italy, under the Santorini sun, and among the pyramids of Egypt.
Meanwhile, Kallie’s memories are bleeding through and her journal has turned violent. She’s teetering on the verge of a breakthrough, but what devastating truth has she been suppressing?
When a strange woman who clearly knows Kallie’s real identity tries to murder her, it’s clear that Kallie’s past and present worlds are colliding, in a deadly crisis that will finally reveal the shocking mystery of her past.
But will the truth leave room for love?
It is a shame that the great director Alfred Hitchcock died. He would be the perfect person to direct this movie. But then you would need Gregory Peck and Ingrid Bergman to play the major roles because these are tremendous characters. Kallie only has memories from seven years ago. That leaves her wide open for danger and it comes calling. So does adventure. Dimitri is wealthy and an explorer that seems to know more about Kallie than he lets on. Now they are traveling the world looking for a Key artifact and answers. Tracy Higley has truly given us a winner with “Awakening”. Get ready there are politics, escapes, liaisons, schemes and conniving that will make your head spin. And the characters. Ms. Higley has given us great characters who live and breathe on the pages and draw us into their lives so that we root for the good guys and do not want the bad guys to win. “Awakening” is great fun. It is history, a thriller, adventure and a romance all rolled up in an extremely entertaining ball.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Stonewater Press. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
August 22, 2014
I have been wanting to share my review of this book with you for a very long time. Towards the end of last year I had the opportunity to read the manuscript and was absolutely blown away by the beauty and depth of the story. Now that "Awakening" has been published and I have reread the finished product, I finally get to share my thoughts and encourage you to pick it up for yourself!
Kallie Andreas does not know who she is. Seven years ago she woke up in a New York museum with no memories of her life before. She has managed to cope with the help of a few key people, getting through college and procuring a job at the museum where she was for all intents and purposes born. Kallie feels drawn to history, perhaps all the more so because her own is a mystery.
Life changes when museum patron Dimitri Andreas shows up after years spent abroad, and Kallie could not be more surprised when he approaches her about leading a team to retrieve an artifact which could prove crucial to the project she has been working on for years. This is very much outside her comfort zone, but a little bit of desperation helps her decide to leave behind her fears and inadequacy and make a leap into the unknown.
As she starts her adventure, Kallie begins journaling a story of love and danger set in ancient Greece on the island of Kalliste, which is now called Santorini. She feels compelled to write from a place deep inside of her, and her therapist believes her story is helping to uncover her past and help her find who she truly is. We get to read along as she writes and try to discern if she's just paralleling her globe-trotting journey or if there is hidden meaning in her words.
The search for the artifact take Kallie and team not only to Egypt, but also to Venice and eventually to Santorini itself. This novel is full of Tracy Higley's distinctive eye for details and presents each location so vividly that you feel you are the one getting desert sand in your eyes or enjoying a ride in a gondola. Each step is filled with peril, romance, and hope that Kallie will truly find all that she is searching for, including her memory. When the moment of full remembrance comes, be prepared! As I wrote in my feedback to the author last year, it "sent me over a mental edge." The story suddenly bursts into living color and you realize that there is hidden meaning everywhere.
This novel is part contemporary, part historical, and part speculative, with a dash of allegory thrown in, too. The themes are absolutely amazing, from the long and hard road that inner healing requires, to the fact that Jesus Christ is the thread the goes throughout all history, leading us to our true home. Will Kallie be able to find her home, her people, her family?
I received my copy of the book from the author. All opinions in this review are my own.
This review originated at http://reviewsbyerin.livejournal.com
Kallie Andreas does not know who she is. Seven years ago she woke up in a New York museum with no memories of her life before. She has managed to cope with the help of a few key people, getting through college and procuring a job at the museum where she was for all intents and purposes born. Kallie feels drawn to history, perhaps all the more so because her own is a mystery.
Life changes when museum patron Dimitri Andreas shows up after years spent abroad, and Kallie could not be more surprised when he approaches her about leading a team to retrieve an artifact which could prove crucial to the project she has been working on for years. This is very much outside her comfort zone, but a little bit of desperation helps her decide to leave behind her fears and inadequacy and make a leap into the unknown.
As she starts her adventure, Kallie begins journaling a story of love and danger set in ancient Greece on the island of Kalliste, which is now called Santorini. She feels compelled to write from a place deep inside of her, and her therapist believes her story is helping to uncover her past and help her find who she truly is. We get to read along as she writes and try to discern if she's just paralleling her globe-trotting journey or if there is hidden meaning in her words.
The search for the artifact take Kallie and team not only to Egypt, but also to Venice and eventually to Santorini itself. This novel is full of Tracy Higley's distinctive eye for details and presents each location so vividly that you feel you are the one getting desert sand in your eyes or enjoying a ride in a gondola. Each step is filled with peril, romance, and hope that Kallie will truly find all that she is searching for, including her memory. When the moment of full remembrance comes, be prepared! As I wrote in my feedback to the author last year, it "sent me over a mental edge." The story suddenly bursts into living color and you realize that there is hidden meaning everywhere.
This novel is part contemporary, part historical, and part speculative, with a dash of allegory thrown in, too. The themes are absolutely amazing, from the long and hard road that inner healing requires, to the fact that Jesus Christ is the thread the goes throughout all history, leading us to our true home. Will Kallie be able to find her home, her people, her family?
I received my copy of the book from the author. All opinions in this review are my own.
This review originated at http://reviewsbyerin.livejournal.com
August 19, 2022
Awakening by Tracy Higley transports the reader from Modern Day New York to the ancient Island of Thera, A.K.A Santorini. She vividly describes the people, culture, and problems of this island nation. Captivating descriptions of Egypt, Venice, and Thera grab the reader and captivates the attention, unwilling to let go. It is full of uncertainty, danger, and suspense. The central female protagonist, Kallie, found herself unable to remember who she is or where she came from. She sets out on a search to find the key to the Minoan language and instead finds herself, love, truth, and a purpose. It’s a journey of discovery for the reader as well, because it asks the question, “What is truth?” Kallie, and the reader, I hope, find the Truth isn’t a what but a Who. Although she has the answer, will Kallie find a way to survive and return to where she belongs? Will the man she loves “awaken” and go with her? How will she be able to give the warning so that her people will understand? I invite you on a journey that may change your life!
September 19, 2014
Seven years ago, Kallie woke up in a NYC museum with no memory of who she was and with rope burns on her wrist. Now, she works as an assistant curator in the museum but her passion is to find a key that will help decipher the language of the ancient Minoan civilization. Fortunately for her, billionaire Dimitri Andreas is also looking for that key and hires her to travel the world in order to locate it. During her quest, Kallie slowly awakens to who she is, who Dimitri really is, and the truth that she has been searching for. This was my first read of Tracy Higley's work and I was impressed. She does an excellent job of describing the places that Kallie and Dimitri visit. The author's descriptions of Egypt, Venice, and Santorini really touched on all of one's senses. I felt like I was there and could experience those exotic locales with Kallie. In order to help Kallie try to remember her past, her psychiatrist suggests she write in a journal and this was when the story's pace slowed down for me a bit. In the first half of the book, the storylines would switch back and forth between Kallie's world and the story she writes in her journal. Just when things would start to get good in one storyline, it would switch to the other storyline. It was frustrating for me at times but in the end it was worth it because there is a purpose to the two storylines. The title of the book fits the story perfectly as Kallie is awakened not only to who she is, what her purpose is, but also her spiritual awakening. This was the part that I thought could have been clarified a bit. Kallie studied many ancient civilizations, including their religions, and---upon her awakening of who she really is---concludes that the Judeo-Christian God is the right one. However, not much more is said about this as the story then becomes an allegory for finding the truth. I'd have preferred that the author either wrote strictly about God or made it strictly an allegory; the mash-up of the two was a little confusing to me. However, I don't think any other reviewers mentioned this so I think it is just my perference. I also would have liked a real Epilogue, like what happened years (or even months) later, rather than what was included. It just seemed like the next chapter in the book rather than a real Epilogue because the end felt a little rushed and abrupt. I would consider this work as speculative fiction with elements of romance, mystery, and religion but built around the real volcanic explosion that created the island of Santorini. Overall, I think this book was unique and I haven't read another book with this kind of plot. I'm definitely glad I tried it!
October 9, 2015
Tracy L . Higley, curator of “your portal to the ancient world,” not only writes masterfully, she travels the globe to feed the source. A recent release, Awakening, is no exception.
A Central Theme:
Tracy Higley’s Awakening, published in 2014 by Stonewater Press, is a dive into the unknown.
The heady pace takes the reader from one world to another, blending allegory with a question humanity has asked since the dawn of life—”What is truth?”
The Cover Gives Us Clues:
Examine the cover. Don’t miss the two structures. One rising from the shoreline and the other mirrored.
How can reality touch fantasy? Through her journaling, Kallista Andreas, the main character, blips from a big city museum to an ancient isle destined for destruction. And the main character has only been in “this world” for seven years.
I did not examine the cover or read the summary before plunging into the narrative but not to worry . . . one cannot escape the gloom, foreboding, and suspense seeping from the first pages.
Don’t miss the cover’s clues.
Romance:
I like the way Higley handles romance—clean. She let me know early in the book a romantic element existed, but Higley developed it slowly. Because the entire novel is from Kallista’s point of view, I found getting into Dimitri’s head more difficult. Perhaps this kept me wondering about the mystery man, just as Kallie did. This plotted approach to characterization did not detract from the suspense or romance.
Be prepared for twists and turns. Stay with the characters. You won’t be disappointed.
Background:
I was really impressed that Tracy Higley went to Egypt, Venice, Santorini for firsthand knowledge of her setting. If you like detail, the author delivers.
Themes:
This is where I don’t want to give away the development of the search for Truth. The paths are in two worlds—real and fantasy. But in the end, only one answer remains. Immerse yourself in the maze, put on your thinking cap, and plan on a steady but thought-provoking read which you could read again . . .and again.
A Central Theme:
Tracy Higley’s Awakening, published in 2014 by Stonewater Press, is a dive into the unknown.
The heady pace takes the reader from one world to another, blending allegory with a question humanity has asked since the dawn of life—”What is truth?”
The Cover Gives Us Clues:
Examine the cover. Don’t miss the two structures. One rising from the shoreline and the other mirrored.
How can reality touch fantasy? Through her journaling, Kallista Andreas, the main character, blips from a big city museum to an ancient isle destined for destruction. And the main character has only been in “this world” for seven years.
I did not examine the cover or read the summary before plunging into the narrative but not to worry . . . one cannot escape the gloom, foreboding, and suspense seeping from the first pages.
Don’t miss the cover’s clues.
Romance:
I like the way Higley handles romance—clean. She let me know early in the book a romantic element existed, but Higley developed it slowly. Because the entire novel is from Kallista’s point of view, I found getting into Dimitri’s head more difficult. Perhaps this kept me wondering about the mystery man, just as Kallie did. This plotted approach to characterization did not detract from the suspense or romance.
Be prepared for twists and turns. Stay with the characters. You won’t be disappointed.
Background:
I was really impressed that Tracy Higley went to Egypt, Venice, Santorini for firsthand knowledge of her setting. If you like detail, the author delivers.
Themes:
This is where I don’t want to give away the development of the search for Truth. The paths are in two worlds—real and fantasy. But in the end, only one answer remains. Immerse yourself in the maze, put on your thinking cap, and plan on a steady but thought-provoking read which you could read again . . .and again.
September 22, 2014
This is the story of Kallie Andreas, or is it? 7 years ago she was discovered, by Judith, her now boss, curator of the museum and given this name. Since then she has worked hard under the watchful eye of Judith, and is now assistant curator and focused on the Minoan culture, and finding funding for this very project.
Enter Dimitri Andreas, yes same last name, coincidence? or something more? who is the largest benefactor at the museum. After an initial speech or lack there of, by Kallie, gone wrong, he encourages her to take on the quest to find the Linear A key as he has leads but can not leave due to other obligations.
There are a variety of interesting characters, the psychiatrist who encourages Kallie to journal, her assistants on the quest: Carol, Yoshi, and Erik and others she meets along the way.
Kallie's journal, which she has no trouble writing in, tells a fantasy story of two princesses, the men who went in search of the Horn of truth, and so much more.
Dimitri changes plans and joins the team on their search, and as romance develops, so does much more. This is a story of history, love, twists and turns and will leave you thinking, especially about the last few chapters, long after you have finished the book.
This is not a genre I usually read, and wondered if in fact, I would be able to understand and enjoy what was really going on. I am glad I stuck with it, as it was so worth the read.
Pick it up today and see for yourself. If this is your genre you will love it, if not, why not try something new? You just might surprise yourself. I know I did.
Thank you to bookfun.org for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
Enter Dimitri Andreas, yes same last name, coincidence? or something more? who is the largest benefactor at the museum. After an initial speech or lack there of, by Kallie, gone wrong, he encourages her to take on the quest to find the Linear A key as he has leads but can not leave due to other obligations.
There are a variety of interesting characters, the psychiatrist who encourages Kallie to journal, her assistants on the quest: Carol, Yoshi, and Erik and others she meets along the way.
Kallie's journal, which she has no trouble writing in, tells a fantasy story of two princesses, the men who went in search of the Horn of truth, and so much more.
Dimitri changes plans and joins the team on their search, and as romance develops, so does much more. This is a story of history, love, twists and turns and will leave you thinking, especially about the last few chapters, long after you have finished the book.
This is not a genre I usually read, and wondered if in fact, I would be able to understand and enjoy what was really going on. I am glad I stuck with it, as it was so worth the read.
Pick it up today and see for yourself. If this is your genre you will love it, if not, why not try something new? You just might surprise yourself. I know I did.
Thank you to bookfun.org for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
September 4, 2014
If you love traveling to exotic places, mythology and that convergent place between reality and fantasy, then Awakening is for you.
A man and a woman met. They both sharing the same last name: Andreas; however, Kallie came by that name by a means outside of her control. They are drawn together with a strength past mere chemistry into a quest they cannot escape.
“I see a woman still resisting the gifts she has been given, still fearing to embrace all the purpose assigned to her. Running from her strengths and from the life she has been called to live.” Kallie is awakening. How will she navigate her way? (hint: there is fire involved)
History and archeology merge in modern day, Santorini. However, the reader journeys with Kallie and Dimitri through Egypt and Venice along the way. Awakening ends just prior to a volcano blowing away the center of then Kalliste island — which is today’s famous Santorini.
Santorini is the most photographed of the Greek isles: https://www.google.com/search?q=Santo...
Excerpt From: Tracy Higley. “Awakening.” iBooks.
I received a complimentary book from the Book Club Network at bookfun.org in exchange for my honest review.
A man and a woman met. They both sharing the same last name: Andreas; however, Kallie came by that name by a means outside of her control. They are drawn together with a strength past mere chemistry into a quest they cannot escape.
“I see a woman still resisting the gifts she has been given, still fearing to embrace all the purpose assigned to her. Running from her strengths and from the life she has been called to live.” Kallie is awakening. How will she navigate her way? (hint: there is fire involved)
History and archeology merge in modern day, Santorini. However, the reader journeys with Kallie and Dimitri through Egypt and Venice along the way. Awakening ends just prior to a volcano blowing away the center of then Kalliste island — which is today’s famous Santorini.
Santorini is the most photographed of the Greek isles: https://www.google.com/search?q=Santo...
Excerpt From: Tracy Higley. “Awakening.” iBooks.
I received a complimentary book from the Book Club Network at bookfun.org in exchange for my honest review.
August 28, 2014
"What is Truth?"
Kallie Andreas is a researcher of all things Minoan in a New York City museum. Like the city, she is inpersonable, surrounded by people, but has no sense of who she really is. Her memories start 7 years ago, when the curator of the museum, Judith, found Kallie and coached her through college until she can take over a researcher position.
Determined to recover her past, Kallie begins to journal. The story that pours forth on the pages is one of a young princess on an island off Greece in an ancient civilization. She must over come impossible obstacles to save her people.
Meanwhile, in the 21st century, Kallie meets the museum's biggest benefactor, Dmitri,who sends her and a team around the globe chasing the Linear A key, which will open up the language of an ancient Mediterranean people.
Dividing her time between harrowing experiences in her "real"world and her diary world, Kallie finds herself on a voyage of self- discovery, asking some of life's greatest questions. "What is truth?" What is the real world? Will Kallie and Dmitri find what they are searching for: truth, love, and destiny?
Higley takes well-researched historical fact, mixes in one part romance, one part suspense, two parts speculative fiction, another part philosophy and faith and produces a mind-tantalizing novel. You will be thinking about this tale and its ramifications long after you have finished merely reading it.
I received this book from bookfun.org in exchange for an honest review.
Kallie Andreas is a researcher of all things Minoan in a New York City museum. Like the city, she is inpersonable, surrounded by people, but has no sense of who she really is. Her memories start 7 years ago, when the curator of the museum, Judith, found Kallie and coached her through college until she can take over a researcher position.
Determined to recover her past, Kallie begins to journal. The story that pours forth on the pages is one of a young princess on an island off Greece in an ancient civilization. She must over come impossible obstacles to save her people.
Meanwhile, in the 21st century, Kallie meets the museum's biggest benefactor, Dmitri,who sends her and a team around the globe chasing the Linear A key, which will open up the language of an ancient Mediterranean people.
Dividing her time between harrowing experiences in her "real"world and her diary world, Kallie finds herself on a voyage of self- discovery, asking some of life's greatest questions. "What is truth?" What is the real world? Will Kallie and Dmitri find what they are searching for: truth, love, and destiny?
Higley takes well-researched historical fact, mixes in one part romance, one part suspense, two parts speculative fiction, another part philosophy and faith and produces a mind-tantalizing novel. You will be thinking about this tale and its ramifications long after you have finished merely reading it.
I received this book from bookfun.org in exchange for an honest review.
November 6, 2014
In Awakening, Tracy Higley weaves two parallel stories that intrigue and entertain the reader. Kallie awakens in a New York City museum—alone, injured, and without an inkling to her past—who she is or to whom she belongs. She has just appeared. The curator of the museum assumes the role of her provider--giving her a name, an education, and a job at the museum, and Kallie is deeply grateful to her. Doctors thought that she had attempted suicide seven years before; she had rope burns that suggested a tormented past. Seven years after her sudden appearance at the museum, the curator presents her with a unique journal in which she can record her thoughts or her story. This is the impetus to unlocking her past. She starts to have blackouts in which her visions are eerily real, and she feels the need to consult with her psychiatrist more often. Alarmed by the visions and a threatening phone call, she fears for her sanity.
Due to Kallie’s expertise in the ancient world, a wealthy philanthropist engages her in a quest to find the key to the lost language of the Minoans. As they travel to faraway , exotic places, Kallie’s journal entries and visions escalate and so does the danger. And her world as she knows it is turned upside down. What is real and in what world does she really belong? Awakening is a skillfully crafted tale full of ancient historical insight and riveting adventure—a guaranteed thrilling read. I received this book through TBCN in exchange for an honest review.
Due to Kallie’s expertise in the ancient world, a wealthy philanthropist engages her in a quest to find the key to the lost language of the Minoans. As they travel to faraway , exotic places, Kallie’s journal entries and visions escalate and so does the danger. And her world as she knows it is turned upside down. What is real and in what world does she really belong? Awakening is a skillfully crafted tale full of ancient historical insight and riveting adventure—a guaranteed thrilling read. I received this book through TBCN in exchange for an honest review.
December 27, 2014
Born in the past,but trapped in the present day New York,Kallista Andreas is caught in a world which she has no memories of her past. As she struggles to find her true identity Kallie begins to awaken to her true past,but the more she discovers about her past the more she is afraid of it. The past is terrifying and she does not know if she has the courage to continue her search for truth, but only the truth can set her free!
Reading this book makes me believe I too have fell into a portal of time,and now I am doomed to live an ordinary life in the modern age instead the exciting life I should have lived in some medieval castle somewhere! Of course I know this can not be,but it would make an interesting explanation for my love of all thing archaic.
Tracy Higley writes this story so beautifully it makes me want to take up a paint brush and paint a scene of Ancient Greece.IT stirs my imagination and draws me into the world of the Ancient's. I loath the fact I can not paint the picture I see in my mind as I read Awakening! Oh! If I could though it would be a lovely picture full of beauty and danger none could look at without longing to touch the beauty and know the adventure ! But Alas! I can not paint,not even a simple picture much less the extravagant art I see when reading such a book as this one!
The Ancient's call to me from across the deep chasm of time, beckoning me to learn their history and the ways of their people! This story was fictional but History's call is not! Thank you Tracy Higley for reawakening my love for the Archaic !
Reading this book makes me believe I too have fell into a portal of time,and now I am doomed to live an ordinary life in the modern age instead the exciting life I should have lived in some medieval castle somewhere! Of course I know this can not be,but it would make an interesting explanation for my love of all thing archaic.
Tracy Higley writes this story so beautifully it makes me want to take up a paint brush and paint a scene of Ancient Greece.IT stirs my imagination and draws me into the world of the Ancient's. I loath the fact I can not paint the picture I see in my mind as I read Awakening! Oh! If I could though it would be a lovely picture full of beauty and danger none could look at without longing to touch the beauty and know the adventure ! But Alas! I can not paint,not even a simple picture much less the extravagant art I see when reading such a book as this one!
The Ancient's call to me from across the deep chasm of time, beckoning me to learn their history and the ways of their people! This story was fictional but History's call is not! Thank you Tracy Higley for reawakening my love for the Archaic !
April 18, 2018
New York City museum employee Kallista Andreas has a passion for antiquities, especially those associated with the ancient Minoan civilization. Yet she doesn’t know her own past. Her memories begin seven years ago, when the curator found her in the museum.
Now she’s experiencing visions so disorienting that she begins journaling them as a story—the story of a young princess from the ancient past.
At the same time, she’s forced out of her comfort zone—and away from her safe office—as part of a team searching for a relic that could unlock the mysteries of the Minoan language.
Kallista’s patron for this globe-spanning search is mysterious, romantic, and wealthy enough to give the team all they need along the way. It makes for an enjoyable novel with exotic locations and moments of danger. I liked how it was tense but not too intense.
I’d call this a clean read as opposed to a Christian novel, but Kallista is curious about spiritual truth and whether any of the ancient gods or goddesses can point to that truth. Toward the end, she sees that Christianity may indeed offer what these pre-Christian religions hinted at.
Because Awakening is split between the story-present (contemporary times) and Kallista’s journal stories (ancient past), it’s a novel for those who enjoy either time period.
Tracy L. Higley writes historical and contemporary fiction, and travels extensively in her research. For more about the author and her work, visit tracyhigley.com.
[Review copy from my personal library.]
Now she’s experiencing visions so disorienting that she begins journaling them as a story—the story of a young princess from the ancient past.
At the same time, she’s forced out of her comfort zone—and away from her safe office—as part of a team searching for a relic that could unlock the mysteries of the Minoan language.
Kallista’s patron for this globe-spanning search is mysterious, romantic, and wealthy enough to give the team all they need along the way. It makes for an enjoyable novel with exotic locations and moments of danger. I liked how it was tense but not too intense.
I’d call this a clean read as opposed to a Christian novel, but Kallista is curious about spiritual truth and whether any of the ancient gods or goddesses can point to that truth. Toward the end, she sees that Christianity may indeed offer what these pre-Christian religions hinted at.
Because Awakening is split between the story-present (contemporary times) and Kallista’s journal stories (ancient past), it’s a novel for those who enjoy either time period.
Tracy L. Higley writes historical and contemporary fiction, and travels extensively in her research. For more about the author and her work, visit tracyhigley.com.
[Review copy from my personal library.]
May 1, 2018
One night, a young woman finds herself in a New York museum with no memory of who she is or how she got there. An employee gives her a job researching an ancient civilization, the Minoan culture, and that becomes her life. Kallie is content with her place in the basement office of the museum, until she is thrust into the limelight at a fundraiser. It is there that she meets Dimitri Andreas, a wealthy and dashing benefactor of the museum, whose favor she must seek. Her sales pitch is a disaster, but she meets Dimitri personally, and he seems more interested in her and her research than in her failed speech.
A series of unforeseen incidents bring them together, but they come from different levels of society, and Kallie harbors her secret of a missing past. When she is asked by Dimitri to join a team to Egypt to look for artifacts from the Minoan civilization, she realizes she has a strong affinity for the region. She also comes to see that Dimitri Andreas is also not the person he seems to be. When their desires would pull them together, their secrets keep them apart.
The sequence of events creates plot intensity, the characters are strong figures who seek their true identity with integrity and courage, and even the artifacts they seek are not what they expect. Throw in an antagonist who cares for nothing but the end game, and the intensity increases.
I particularly enjoyed Kallie’s journey of self-discovery, allowing her true character to emerge.
This novel bridges a gap between historical and contemporary fiction.
A series of unforeseen incidents bring them together, but they come from different levels of society, and Kallie harbors her secret of a missing past. When she is asked by Dimitri to join a team to Egypt to look for artifacts from the Minoan civilization, she realizes she has a strong affinity for the region. She also comes to see that Dimitri Andreas is also not the person he seems to be. When their desires would pull them together, their secrets keep them apart.
The sequence of events creates plot intensity, the characters are strong figures who seek their true identity with integrity and courage, and even the artifacts they seek are not what they expect. Throw in an antagonist who cares for nothing but the end game, and the intensity increases.
I particularly enjoyed Kallie’s journey of self-discovery, allowing her true character to emerge.
This novel bridges a gap between historical and contemporary fiction.
October 4, 2014
Wow! Where to begin? This is something very different from Higley's other books.
Kallie has amnesia so severe that she can only remember the last seven years of her life. She has few social skills and prefers to work alone in a museum doing research. But she looses her jib, thanks to her poor people skills and is forced to take a job "in the field" with a team searching for a list artifact that would work like the Rosetta stone helping to translate a "lost" language. She shares her (shall we call it) lack of a past with no one except the woman who found her and befriended her. Her boss, quite a people person also has secrets in his past. The one thing that helps Kallie is her journal that she has started keeping, recording a strange story that seems to flow from somewhere inside her.
The team travels to and encounters obstacles and " bad guys" in Egypt, Venice, and finally in Santorini.
Until you are half way through, you can't begin to guess how it will work out. And any guesses you make will be wrong.
Since I read on kindle, I had no page numbers to guide me, but it was about 75-85% finished before I could understand what was really happening.
Spoiler alert:
This isn't just fiction, there's some science fiction involved, too.
Great story! Highly recommend!
Kallie has amnesia so severe that she can only remember the last seven years of her life. She has few social skills and prefers to work alone in a museum doing research. But she looses her jib, thanks to her poor people skills and is forced to take a job "in the field" with a team searching for a list artifact that would work like the Rosetta stone helping to translate a "lost" language. She shares her (shall we call it) lack of a past with no one except the woman who found her and befriended her. Her boss, quite a people person also has secrets in his past. The one thing that helps Kallie is her journal that she has started keeping, recording a strange story that seems to flow from somewhere inside her.
The team travels to and encounters obstacles and " bad guys" in Egypt, Venice, and finally in Santorini.
Until you are half way through, you can't begin to guess how it will work out. And any guesses you make will be wrong.
Since I read on kindle, I had no page numbers to guide me, but it was about 75-85% finished before I could understand what was really happening.
Spoiler alert:
This isn't just fiction, there's some science fiction involved, too.
Great story! Highly recommend!
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