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Phoenix #1

Phoenix Rising

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A dangerous man with piercing green eyes.
A powerful ability that is rearing out of control.
Daughtry stumbles into a world where magic is real and the possibilities for her future are greater than she’s ever believed possible.
But the road to that future isn’t easy to navigate.
As she engages in a wrenching game of give and take with Cody, the man who’s gripped her heart in his sexy-as-hell fist from the moment she’s met him, Daughtry must decide whether she’s willing to risk it all — heart, mind, and magic — to take a chance on the man she loves.

345 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 6, 2014

29 people are currently reading
1022 people want to read

About the author

Elise Faber

159 books1,070 followers
USA Today bestselling author, Elise Faber, loves chocolate, Star Wars, and hockey (the order depending on the day and how well her team—the Sharks!—are playing). She and her husband also play as much hockey as they can squeeze into their schedules, so much so that their typical date night is spent on the ice. Elise changes her hair color more often than some people change their socks, loves sparkly things, and is the mom to two exuberant boys. She lives in Northern California. Connect with her in her Facebook group, the Fabinators or email her at elise@elisefaber.com.

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5 stars
86 (46%)
4 stars
56 (30%)
3 stars
29 (15%)
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9 (4%)
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4 (2%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
191 reviews8 followers
October 16, 2014
I am not sure what I expected when I began this book, but I can tell you that it is a FANTASTIC story. It keeps you guessing from beginning to end and when you get to the end, let’s just say, it left me thinking oh my gosh what just happened!!!! I can’t wait to read book #2 to see what is going to come next.
Daughtry has had a pretty hard year, and from the sounds of it a pretty hard life all around. But after her wedding was called off her life got extremely worse. She lived in constant fear of having someone touch her and learning information that there was nothing she could do about. The day that John showed up all hell broke loose and Daughtry was thrown into a new life that she knows nothing about. She better learn quickly because evil doesn’t wait.
Elise Faber’s writing ability just amazes me; she brings a whole new world, new thoughts, powers, and creatures into this story and makes it very real. She has extremely HOT and FUNNY Alpha Males throughout the story. After all is said and done this is a story of good versus evil. If good is tempted and chooses to live without consequences they will turn evil and die a long and slow death. The bonding, love, chemistry and magic add so much more to the story. I love her descriptions of colors, how Daughtry sees her surroundings and the colors of magic. They are so descriptive I felt as though I could see them as well.
Thank you for writing such a great story, I haven’t read anything like it before. It has drama, suspense, love, death, magic, and HOT alpha males what more could you ask for. I can’t wait to see where book #2 is going to take Daughtry in this journey of discovery and life.
Profile Image for Doris.
410 reviews7 followers
April 10, 2016
*I was provided a complementary copy in exchange for an honest review.

What an amazing book! We first find Daughtry, who has this unwanted ability. Whenever Daughtry touches someone, her mind instantly starts seeing all things death. Talk about a downer!
She isn't the type of person to give in and give up, so when the wrong people find out about this 'ability' of course they imagine her as a weapon to be exploited. Daughtry then has to decide what she wants to accomplish with her gift. Before she thought that it was a curse, and she fought to supress it.... but in the end she will learn that just because she didn't understand it that it might not be so bad!
Phoenix Rising is a FANTASTIC first read from Elise Faber. This book has action, suspense, grit and romance. Sometimes I get frustrated in stories when the romance overtakes the plot, this is not one of those cases. We are rewarded with a strong female character that doesn't let her ability or other people define her. There is just enough humor to offset tight emotions and the perfect blend of back weaving to keep you turning the pages. You will want to read this all at once.
I can't wait to see what happens in book 2!!
~Dowie
Profile Image for Ursula.
603 reviews185 followers
April 5, 2020
Another bomb. The jerky, disjointed writing style, the ott reactions and behaviour of the two-dimensional characters, the endless angry lust the heroine has for the hero who all but calls her a whore and treats her insultingly from the word go. Then all sorts of “magic”, one element piled on top of the other. I slogged on until 43% but have reached the threshold of my tolerance for too-ridiculous-to-believe. There is so much great PNR out there- don’t waste your time with this series.
Profile Image for Heather andrews.
9,520 reviews162 followers
October 17, 2014
Daughtry knows how to push Cody's buttons, "jealous much?" His jaw dropped open, his expression like she'd clocked him upside the head with a two-by-four." Cody he can get tongue tied and it's funny as hell, "when you're done admiring the decor, we might actually make it to a place where we can shower." At Cody's words, her mind went to a bad, bad place. She glanced away cheeks heating. "What I meant was..." He gave an uncomfortable cough, and Daughtry knew he was imagining the same things she was. Hot water. 'What I meant was just..." Soapy hands. Slick skin."..just...hurry up." Daughtry also knows how to shock the hell out of Cody keeps that boy on his toes, "you should know that I'm horrible at sex," she blurted out. When Cody stayed motionless, several feet of space between them, she found herself scooting toward him." Cody is nothing but honest with Daughtry and he can even shock her at times, "he sucked in a breath of air and spoke through gritted teeth. "Seriously? You're being all sweet and cuddling, but all I can think is that your hand is exactly six inches from my-" I enjoyed this book bunches.
Profile Image for KULELE.
Author 2 books98 followers
July 1, 2016
“LOVE WILL CONQUER ALL.”



This is my review of Phoenix Rising by Elise Faber. Cheesy as it may sound that was the crystal clear message I got from reading the story. It’s fast-paced, action-packed and verrry hot.



The story tells of Daughtry who gets visions of death with every touch.



Not the best of gifts, I’d say but thankfully for her a knight in shining armour came, scooped her up and saved her with his gleaming SUV! I thoroughly enjoyed the banter between Daughtry and Cody. Swooned at all the members of LexTals. Please say there will be stories for ALL of them.



To sum it up, the book left me wanting…for more! So, when is the next book out?


Profile Image for Nicola Anderson.
20 reviews3 followers
January 3, 2015
One word... WOW!! I was completely hooked on this book from start to finish!
Daughtry holds a dark secret, any contact with others brings on visions of their deaths and the more she tries to make their demise less painful the worse it gets. She has isolated herself from her family and friends in order to keep them safe from this curse, until one day her world is turned upside down.
Daughtry learns her whole life has been a lie and powerful enemies are after her in order to use her power for their own gain but luckily for Daughtry there are more powerful beings out there trying to keep her safe.
What she once seen as a curse now becomes a gift although she's still working out what to do with this new found power.
A fantastic story from author Elise Faber, truly gripping and had me on the edge of my seat! I can't wait for book 2!!!
Profile Image for Carol.
23 reviews4 followers
October 22, 2014
From the first page to the last Phoenix Rising got my attention and held it. Daughtry is a strong female role model yet she handles her femininity in a way you can definitely feel is genuinely her. No spoilers here, but liked the twists and turns, the pace and the absolute surprises that happen throughout Phoenix Rising. Elise Faber, with her first release of a trilogy I am dying to read the rest of, is an author who really gets it and delivers exactly what you were hoping to receive!
Profile Image for K.D. Wood.
Author 12 books121 followers
October 28, 2014
Great story, interesting characters and sharp dialogue held me tight in the story to the very end. The hot factor was smoking! Very much looking forward to the next book in this series!
Profile Image for Jaci.
155 reviews2 followers
November 25, 2014
5 Stars

CONTAINS SOME SPOILERS

This story is told from the female lead's point of view. I have to say that I love books with various point of views and would like to have seen it from the male lead's point of view as well. I can see why Ms. Faber only chose the female lead POV further on in the book.I think it would be to confusing if she chose separate POV angles in this book.

This book is not for the faint of heart, it does contain mature themes and situations. Because of the sex scenes and language I knocked a half a star. I prefer books without a lot of sexual detail and language. Now onto the review!

Daughtry is a woman who has to be careful of who she touches. If she touches a person she can their death, all of this started about a year ago. John was a reliable friend. He entered her life a year ago when things changed for Daughtry. He left on deployment and now he is back. With John comes complications to Daughtry's life, including his best friend, Cody.

Cody was never popular among his kind. he was a soldier, that is what he knew and what he was trained to do, until he met Daughtry. John, his best friend, swore to protect Daughtry at all costs. Cody is drawn to Daughtry, breaking that bond would go against everything Cody has every known, even betraying his best friend.

Something, or should say someone is after Daughtry and it seems no one can keep her safe. She has this link with Cody that she can not explain. Will this link be the only thing to keep her safe? Can John keep her safe after all this time? Is she part of "his kind"?

Warning: This book does end with a cliffy...but you will love it!

All of your questions..well I stand corrected, most of your questions will be answered in this fantastic paranormal romance by Elise. She is a great new up and coming author you need to get to know!

After rereading this book I had to rerate it. There were things in it that I should not have counted off for. I take stars off for less than what Ms. Faber has in her book so I decided to rerate her book. She deserves a 5*.
Profile Image for Melanie.
1,074 reviews11 followers
November 17, 2015
3.5*s
Review posted here...
http://bookpassionforlife.blogspot.co...
Phoenix Rising is the first book in the Phoenix series and I thought it was a pretty good read.
We start the story with Daughtry, a down on her luck woman, her life is in ruins – lost her job, dumped by her fiancé, being evicted and has turned to drink to numb a power she wishes would disappear. After making one of the worst decisions of her life, she is saved by a couple of men who want her to go with them to somewhere safe…..ummm no! but when they are forced to save her again and explain that a brutal enemy is out to get her…..she re thinks that decision and joins them on a road trip to a place full of people like her, a safe haven. The thing is… even with the people like her – she is an anomaly and feels more alone than ever. The one thing that is distracting her however is a gorgeous green eyed man, with emerald magic and the ability to infuriate and infatuate Daughtry all at once. Their connection and chemistry is as wild as both of their magics and also as rare - but there are enemies who will stop at nothing to break them.
I was intrigued by this first instalment of the Phoenix series, there were definitely a ton of questions that were raised throughout the story. I liked Daughtry’s character and it was easy to sympathise with her because she was so pathetic and basically on a path of self destruction – I can’t say that I blamed her to be honest because if you could see everyone’s death and not be able to do anything about it…. Your head would be pretty messed up too. When Cody entered her life, she was at her lowest and all she had was the connection to him but even though it was a sort of instalove, they both still had a way to go before they would be in a place that they would be willing to act on it. They both have issues that get in the way of what they mean or say, hurt on both sides plus they constantly don’t think before they speak which causes a lot of unnecessary bs. For all we don’t really get any sexytime until later on in the book, it still seemed rushed to me – I’m a fan of hate to love, sexual tension and little moments where they could give in that build up to a huge ‘can’t control the desire anymore’ situation that leaves you breathless and whilst the author tried in some ways, it didn’t hit the spot for me but was still appreciated overall.
The story was very interesting, I liked the world that was brought to life – a world filled with people with magic in various forms, a world with a deadly enemy and a world that Daughtry knew nothing about. I like that sort of premise in a book where the main character doesn’t really know their heritage or that they have power and there are others, I like to find out along with the character because I can easily put myself in that mindset and it was very easy here. I really liked the magic aspect and how each individual used their own, how they all had a colour to their magic and the possibilities it brings. As always when you find a group of people that have something others may want…. You get an enemy who is out to destroy you and in this they have a sort of vampiric nature and once were like the magic users but used their magic for nefarious purposes that tainted their souls. They are definitely a formidable enemy and also quite brutal and savage – which Daughtry will truly discover. They are really intriguing and I want to know more about them because from what we see in this – it’s only the tip of the iceberg. The same could also be said for the Rengalla –magic users- I want to know more about them and their origins, it was lightly touched upon but I would like more detail. I definitely want to know more about Daughtry, her parentage is a big question that needs answering and also Codys and how he became to be where he is.
Whilst most of the story is about the relationship, there is also a threat bubbling beneath the surface that has set their sights on Daughtry. Time and time again she is sought after, attacked, forced to run for her life or fight which brings some welcome action to the plot and some awesome action scenes where we can get a good glimpse of what Daughtry may be capable of….. someone wants something from this girl, she is special and even though we get a couple of answers, I have a feeling there’s a whole lot more to come.

3.5 Stars!

Thank you to the Author and Publisher for gifting me this book in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for The Romance Book Disciple (Samantha).
2,116 reviews361 followers
October 23, 2015
4.5
Heat level: 2 (nothing overly descriptive)

I enjoyed the book. It has elements that reminded me of other PNR and fantasy books-a little bit of Significance, a little bit of Star Wars (light vs dark). Elise still manages to make it unique though and that is tough to do! I really liked Daughtry-she wants to be tough and save herself but she admits when she is just overwhelmed. Cody was tougher to love at times. Maybe if the book was dual POV I would have given it 5 stars. I also sometimes felt like I missed something-like there was a book before this one that would have introduced the characters. I felt like sometimes, characters just appeared and I found myself flipping back to see if I missed something.
All that aside, I really enjoyed this book and will dive right in to the next one for sure! Phoenix Rising creates a world that is unique yet still somewhat familiar and I found I really enjoyed that. Also, there is the fated mate trope and that is my favorite thing ever! There is suspense, steam, and even humor at times.
Profile Image for Jenn.
548 reviews32 followers
September 13, 2015
Phoenix Rising
by Elise Faber


I was given an ARC book for an honest review free of persuasion from the author or anyone else affiliated with this book.


When Daughtry touches anyone, her mind gets filled with images of death. She avoids human touch as much as possible. For some reason, John's touch does not provoke the images. The relief of this discovery is short lived as dangerous enemies attack them. Daughtry's has no idea who or what they are.

Soon she finds herself on the run with John and his friend Cody. Cody seems resentful of Daughtry. They are split up, and Cody has to try to get Daughtry to safety. Cody and Daughtry have to depend on each other. They are attracted to each other but also continue to argue constantly.

Action packed book. It is well written and extremely entertaining. The characters are well developed. The writer has danger awaiting the characters around every turn. I'm looking forward to reading the next book in this series.
Profile Image for Riza.
403 reviews11 followers
November 5, 2014
5 STARS!

You know a good book when you can't find yourself to put it down or when you think about it while doing mundane tasks.
I never expected that i'd be so hooked with the story. I've read my own fair share of Fantasy/Paranormal books and it's amazing how Elise made Phoenix Rising a little bit different.
If anticipation or guessing could kill, I'm probably dead by now! This book sucked me up from start to finish! I am so antsy to know what will happen between Cody and Daughtry and the colony! I really need the next book like right now!
If you're into a fantasy fix or trying to read one.. you might want to try to read this book! It's amazing! I loved it!

(BookTeasebyRMG)
Profile Image for Melissa.
237 reviews3 followers
March 1, 2015
This was a great paranormal story about a girl who doesn't know she has powers and finds herself learning about them rather quickly. The only reason it got 4 stars and not 5 was because I got confused going from chapter 1 to chapter 2. Otherwise this book was awesome. Phoenix has no clue she's anything but human until John comes to tell her otherwise. There's action and adventure and love and heartbreak. Then there's Cody. I loved and hated Cody lol. If you read this book you'll see why. It's a definite must read for all the paranormal lovers out there. I can't wait to read the next one!
Profile Image for Ashley Martinez (ilovebooksandstuffblog).
3,095 reviews91 followers
August 17, 2015
3.5 rating for me. It was really hard for me to get into at first and I didn't care for the characters. There were parts of the story and dialogue that seemed to skip a beat making it awkward. It wasn't till about halfway through that the story really caught my attention. In the end I ended up enjoying the book and can't wait to read the next. The characters did grow on me.
Profile Image for kelly {BookCrushin}.
795 reviews296 followers
May 4, 2016
4.5 stars - really fast paced, action packed, and really intriguing story! I was confused half the time but I couldn't stop reading! Loved Daughtry & Cody! Great characters whom are both flawed but perfect!
536 reviews5 followers
October 9, 2019
I wish I could give this book more than 5 stars. This was one of those rare books that I literally could not put down and now that I've finished it, I'm eager for book #2! This story has it all: fantastic writing, next to perfect editing, charismatic characters and a plot that has you turning the pages to find out what's next. It's certainly anything but predictable.

The book is about magic and for those readers who don't really care for this subject, I urge you to give this one a try. I didn't think I liked this genre, but this author has managed to mix magic, romance and mystery. There truly is something for almost every reader here.

The author was generous enough to gift me a copy of this book and I'm thrilled to leave this honest review.
Profile Image for Julia Red Hatter Book Blog.
644 reviews33 followers
October 10, 2019
I love when I pick up a new PNR and find it goes off the normal script. It ventures into new and original worlds. Phoenix Rising is one of those books. I loved the bits and pieces we get of magic and those who wield it. Something new and different.

Daughtry is a big bundle of contradicting emotions. While I loved her spirit, i often found myself wanting to smack her for fighting every single thing. She grows a lot though and starts turning into a badass. Cody is going to piss you off, at first. But then you slowly start falling for him and you realize he's dealt with a lot of shit.

I really enjoyed this book. It starts with a bang and doesn't stop!
Profile Image for Gladys.
13.9k reviews163 followers
October 20, 2019
I really enjoyed this edge of your seat read. A complex storyline is paired with engaging characters and powerful emotions to create one very intriguing read. As this story of good vs rvil unfolds your interest is captured and held with a entertaining blend of twists, secrets, drama, magic, romance and suspense. This is my candid, volitional review.
Profile Image for Pamela.
4,155 reviews36 followers
October 21, 2019
We meet Daughtry who has a gift or curse of the death touch. Every time she touches someone she can see their death. She discovers everything she knew was a lie. She meets Cody and things take a wild turn. This was a good read.
1,267 reviews
November 10, 2019
Rising

I love stories about people rising from the ashes to overcome life's hard obstacles and come out better for it.
Profile Image for Kim Pruitt.
312 reviews
January 10, 2015
**Book provided by the author for an honest review**
This book starts out with us being introduced to Daughtry and what her pathetic life has been reduced to. After getting dumped by her fiance, Jimmy, via Dear John letter, her visions started. Pure touch from another triggers Daughtry's visions of their death, and the visions have a relentless grip on her. Already feeling devastated at being dumped by a dude that treated her like shit, the visions force Daughtry into seclusion in order to keep her sanity. Daughtry is completely alone and doesn't know how to fight anymore. She is living in filth with no money and no friends. Her adoptive parents never really cared, and the only friend she seems to have is her ex-boyfriend's friend, John. Little does Daughtry know that John will be her salvation.

Just when John is going to tell Daughtry the truth about what she really is and who her parents are, they fall under attack by the Dalshie, vile creatures of destruction and death. The Dalshie are the mortal enemies of the Rengalla, which is what John really is and Daughtry as well, but she doesn't know it yet. With no time to explain, John fights off the Dalshie and is joined by Cody just in time to save Daughtry from certain death! The trio flee (barely) with their lives in search of a safe haven. Just as Daughtry irritates the two hunky men with her endless questioning, John decides that this is the moment to bestow a protection circle around Daughtry that will not only keep her from harm but also will null her visions.

The storyline was excellent. I was glued to the pages like white on rice the moment the action started! The world and characters created were so unique and very likeable from the get go. The writing, the story and the characters all had me from page one. When I was introduced to John, the friend of the ex-boyfriend, his empathy and caring for Daughtry was so endearing, it made his personality and flirtatious side very genuine and sweet. As we got to know Cody...boy, was he a prick! Daughtry and he immediately fell into this lust/hate relationship, even though she's all kissing and mooning over John now. The longer Cody and Daughtry spent together, the harder their attraction for one another became, even though they loathed each other, and it was very entertaining! Then, when we were introduced to the LexTals (the constables of the Rengalla), a more playful side is brought into play. The LexTals include Tyler (the young, cute and very friendly outgoing one), Dante (the leader of the pack) and the triplets, Morgan, Monroe and Mason (the three stooges), as well as John and Cody. They all get along great on the surface, but Cody feels that, since he did not grow up with them, he is an outsider.

As the story unfolds and Daughtry learns about what happened to her when she was a little girl, her affections for Cody build and grow. Cody also has a sordid past that he reveals slowly to Daughtry, which brings him to the forefront of serious boyfriend potential. Great! I really like John, but now, Cody has grown on me like a wart! By the time they reach the Colony where the Rengalla reside, Daughtry is overwhelmed with dread and a doomsday feeling because of what she has learned about herself, her parents and the Delshie. She, now more than ever, wants to bind her powers to never hurt anyone ever again! But will Cody stand in her way of that, or will she accept who and what she is for the man she is falling for? Will John fight for her?? How do two friends on the same team deal with falling for the same woman? And WTF is up with Cody's powers??!! Is he a null, or not?! Jesus, Mary, and Joseph!!! And to add insult to injury, the author puts Chapter 1 to Book 2 in at the end!! You're killing me, woman!! I already so want to know what happens next, you don't have to tease me with a sneak peek! I will be stalking Elise Faber now until I catch news of when Book 2 will be released, and you will be the first I tell! So, if you like Paranormal Romance with a lot of violence, sex, backstabbing and double crossing deceit, then this is the book for you!

Profile Image for Lady Living  In Bookland.
481 reviews19 followers
July 31, 2015
Reviewed on behalf of Ladies Living in Bookland

Daughtry struggles with horrid visions she knows little about, but break her away from human life and contact. The visions start after being left by her ex fiancé, and incredible shame on her family because of the way their relationship ended. But with her being so Jaded, Daughtry is hardened on hoe to deal with people, deal with herself. Because that was what she had needed to do after being abandoned.
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Excerpt:
...emotions never solved anything, only served to expose her weaknesses to the world.
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But the family she knows are not true. Instead, two men, John and Cody would come into her world and shed more light on her existence. Lead her to answers and a true family. A new beginning with others like her, who with the promise of assisting her controlling her haunting visions would lead her into a spiral of events.
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Excerpt:
John saw her, didn't look past her like her parents had, but at her. As if she meant something to him. As if she were worth any trouble she might bring his way.
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John becomes an instant character in Daughtry's allies and she holds him in high regard. The sensible level headed one. The "Boy Scout" who always does the right thing. But her self worth and confidence always make her question her worthiness of such sacrifices being made for her by both men.

With the promise of help, she is taken to the other Rengella where she would learn more about herself and her powers. Along the way finding moles, evil and the true meaning of those willing to hurt her. The Dalshie.

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Excerpt:
One thing was clear: she needed to understand her magic, needed to learn to use it to protect herself and others.
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But as John is taken away, Daughtry seeks comfort and more from Cody. Leading to much more than the pair imagined.
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Excerpt:
...it was tentative love, like the first buds of an apple tree.
With time, the leaves would unfurl, the flowers bloom, the bees come to pollinate...maybe one day bear a whole, ripe fruit.
A relationship that could nourish them both.
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Bonds, love, trust, demise and breaking points are all pushed throughout the initial journey between Daughtry and Cody. But with so much ahead of them, I was left well and truly book-hungover at the cliffhanger! A truly brilliant read that I couldn't put down. I urge you to read!
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Final excerpt:
The bond was strong, a pulsing force that connected them soul to soul. Any separation was a physical ache.
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Buy links:

http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B0...

http://www.amazon.com/Phoenix-Rising-...


Goodreads link:

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2...

*Review by Susan
**Suggested for over 18s due to adult content
***I bought this EBook and all opinions are my own
Profile Image for Queenielyn.
207 reviews6 followers
September 24, 2015
**The ebook was provided in exchange for an honest review**

Phoenix Rising describes Daughtry's perilous life as she unexpectedly vision the inevitable deaths that appears in her current life. Due to her situation, she's starting to slip away from having a peaceful and guilt-free life when John rescued to help her understand who she is and her true powers to initiate it for the development of controlling them. She may have attempted to alter death but what comes after may be even more than just saving others. Having met Cody, Daughtry challenges herself to take a leap of faith and risk everything to protect each other surrounded by the unknown magic she has yet to learn.

I really have high expectations before reading the book. At first I knew the book will be a pleasant read since I'm craving for more paranormal books. Well, I thought it definitely has the potential in terms of the story plot and characters.

I enjoyed that at the beginning how the author was building the excitement as Daughtry has the slightest clue of the visions and how searching herself to belong in the community. I find that significant because not many has questioned life and reflected the way she did. As much as Daughtry wanted to connect to people, she struggled bottling up her feelings and not tell a soul about her situation which entails considerable risks. I also find it cute how Daughtry and Cody is passionate about having kids. I love that they love kids! Just warms my heart.

There are areas that I thought could've been improved. Halfway the book I was starting to think that story flow suddenly changed direction and focused so much on just Cody and Daughtry's relationship. At that point in time it was quite mind-numbing. I felt a bit uncomfortable too about the Dalshie's intention getting to Daughtry because it got me so confused what they wanted with her. Do they wanted to just sexually abuse her or is it for some purpose that she's needed as a reinforcement to destroy the Colony. There are also many missing pieces left out regarding the magic involved in the story. I'm not certain Daughtry has immersed herself in the magic part. I hope she doesn't give up looking for new possibilities and ways to overcome them.

Phoenix Rising may not be what I hoped in the end but don't overlook it as paranormal and romance lovers will still enjoy and dig the books in the series to come!

Special thanks to Elise Faber, author of Phoenix Rising and Sara Meadows for giving review opportunity to read and review the book!

(Actual) Rating: 2.5 of 5 stars
Profile Image for Angela Cruz.
233 reviews7 followers
September 25, 2015
This is a fast paced, paranormal romance, definitely not a stand alone. The author left me flabbergasted, she left off with a cliffhanger... but what a great beginning for another book! I recommend this for adults only, due to the sexual content. I started the book and was automatically emotionally connected to Daugherty. She is such a strong character, one that I could cheer for. I wanted more for her. But she aggravated me at the same time, I found she over thinks everything, sometimes it is good, most times it is a hindrance. I found myself wanting to push her into action, as some of her friends did. Broken but not defeated she strives to do what is right. Cody captured my attention from the get go, but part of me was hoping that John would prevail. Cody turned out being her superman, he surprised me.


Daughtry has had a whirlwind of a life. Hopeless and scared she finds herself wondering how she will survive? She has decisions to make and with no one who seems to care... well desperate times calls for desperate measures... right? She much rather seclude herself and never be in the outside world again, she has a secret power that is overwhelming to say the least. Daughtry ends up in situations beyond her imagination, and is thrown into a world of magic and learns there are others like herself. Maybe this is her saving grace, maybe this is the key to her sanity. And the green eyed hunk who gives her all the feels, well maybe they can get to know each other, a lot better.


Favorite passages:
"Walking down the street had become her personal version of Russian roulette."
"Some days it would be better if I threw myself off the bridge, but I'm still here."
"It was as smooth as the chunks of broken glass that wash up on a beach."
"Yipee ki-yay." she muttered, feeling like an action hero as she spat out the sickening remains of the monsters."
"So what, he made her girl parts stand up and take notice."
"Had been her only friend when her life had gone to pieces."
"It was the stuff of fairytales. Or nightmares."
"Together they were gasoline on fire."
"Still her inner teenage girl wanted to squeal and clap her hands.Or drop a pencil for one ofthem to bend over and pick up."
"Her future was in her own hands, sexy alpha men or not."
"I can't have any more stain on my soul." <3
"His gaze was hot enough to melt steal."
"I'd give this a hundred chances," he said into her mind,"Even if you always destroyed me in the end." <3
"Fine, have your 'I am woman, hear me roar' moment, but know I won't be responsible for my actions."
"It was time to be her own champion."



Profile Image for Tracy.
Author 4 books15 followers
July 25, 2015
We meet Daughtry at quite possibly the lowest points in her life. Seriously low. I don’t think I’ve ever been at such a state that I’d consider doing what she was considering to do. But she was met just in time by an old friend named John. From there, it just starts getting odd. John isn’t what he seems, but then neither is Daughtry. And when some super bad Dalshie decide that she needed to die, John and his friend Cody turn out to be some of her biggest allies.

I will say that though there is MUCH love for Cody. I have a soft spot in my heart for John. I haven’t read the second book yet (it’s the next on my list to read, but I wanted to write this review for this book first!), so I don’t know if or what happens with John. But I will simply say that I REALLY like that guy. I hope to read more about him later. Same for Tyler and Dante and the triplets and Suz. GAH! There’s just so much room for expansion in this series. There are twists to this that you won’t see coming. Some you will then they’ll get twisted back on you. Like the head honcho Dalshie…I went DO WUT!?!?! For reals. Then when she did that thing, you know after that one vision….I was like NOOOOOOOO!!!!! Oh yeah, this book is good. :D

Ms. Faber has done an amazing job of weaving a world that rubs up on our own. It’s not all mapped out and I still have questions, but it’s like as Daughtry finds out, we do too. So there’s a lot left assumed that we know, because it’s assumed that she does. But that just leaves us more to figure out and learn as we go along. Oh boy howdy would I LOVE to know Cody’s POV. Just sayin’. So Ms. Faber if you EVER read this…..help a gal out ovah hee-ahhh. So, the question is, would I recommend this book. Yep. I most indeedily would. Actually, I am wondering why I’ve taken so long to start reading them myself. But this is good for anyone over 16 or so. There’s some no no business, but it’s nothing graphic.
579 reviews17 followers
October 21, 2016
I am a huge lover of giveaways and contests; especially if they involved free books. So I “attended” a release part on Facebook and was really excited to win this book from the author. Please note, that this did not alter my opinion of the book in any way.

I really enjoyed reading this first installment of the Phoenix series. The story begins with the leading lady, Daughtry, in a dark place, desperate for something to change or end. Daughtry had been tormented by visions of death for a year when we meet her. Just one touch from someone is all it takes for her to vividly experience how that person will die. It is breaking her down piece by piece, and honesty it’s heart wrenching for the reader. You really feel her anguish.

Daughtry is on one heck on an emotional rollercoaster for the entirety of the book, so the indecision and confusion is easily understood. The only thing I had a hard time swallowing was ease of acceptance of everything she was learning. There was some hesitation for, like, a minutes; but after that she just kind of rolled with it. I don’t know, but I think that I would be a little less fine with it than she was.

Cody was quite the leading man, I gotta tell you. Brooding, sarcastic, and gorgeous, his hot and cold attitude toward Daughtry was just as tempting as it was frustrating; for both Daughtry as a woman and me as a reader. I loved him and every snippet of his story endeared me to him even more.

While the relationship between the main characters is enough to keep your interest, the mystery behind who was helping the Dalshie successfully attack the Rengalla was suspenseful and well done. The plot twists are difficult to spot and make complete sense when revealed. I am interested to see what happens in the next installment, Dark Phoenix, available February 12..
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