Amoura Awakened

The Veiled Flame #1

by Meg Kramer

One girl's quest for belonging leads to perilous secrets. Will she uncover the truth before it's too late? Amoura Renly is anything but average, much to her dismay. When a violent confrontation with a bully awakens her connection to magic, Amoura struggles with the realization she's farther from fitting in than she ever imagined. Desperate for a fresh start, Amoura enrolls at Elderwood School for the Magically Inclined, tucked beneath the streets of San Francisco. But with a unique connection to magic seemingly different from her peers and a secret police force “disappearing” anyone deemed a magical abnormality, fitting in is the least of her troubles. As Amoura navigates the dangers of a society that fears what it doesn’t understand, she uncovers the truth about her connection to magic and the dark secrets that threaten her very existence. Meg Kramer’s enchanting debut YA urban fantasy “Amoura Awakened” imagines a world where witches and humans coexist. Where ordinary teenagers--with all their desires, jealousies, and insecurities—wield magic. This gripping tale of friendship, danger, and self-discovery will keep you questioning what’s true until the final page. Buy “Amoura Awakened” today and begin uncovering the untold stories and secrets of the magical world.

Genres: Young Adult, Fantasy

436 pages, Paperback

First published October 1, 2023

About the author

Meg Kramer is an award-winning young adult fantasy author and the creator of The Veiled Flame Series. Her debut novel, Amoura Awakened, received the Golden Wizard Book Award, a Readers' Favorite Silver Medal, and honors from the NYC Big Book Award. The series continues with Amoura Ascending, arriving summer 2026.

Based in the San Francisco Bay Area, Meg writes emotionally immersive fantasy about girls seen as too much, too strange, or too powerful — and the worlds that fear them for it. Her stories center forbidden magic, buried histories, outsider heroines, and the dangerous weight of truth, pairing vivid worldbuilding with cinematic, intimate storytelling. A proud LGBTQIA+ ally, Meg believes every reader deserves to find themselves inside a story that refuses to look away.

Reviews

[Billie's Not So Secret Diary · Rating 3 out of 5]

Amoura Awakened
by Meg Kramer
The Veiled Flame #1
Fantasy YA
NetGalley eARC
Pub Date: Jun 9, 2026
Candid Crow Press
Ages: 14+

As a quiet teenager, Amoura Renly was picked on, especially singled out by one male classmate who, because of who his parents were and his athletic status, never got in trouble. Then one day, she set her classroom on fire.

Suddenly she is a witch, and people are afraid of her because it doesn't seem as if she can control the magic. Humans are afraid of witches because of their powers, and most witches are fearful of humans because of their tendency for violence.

Her only hope of not being locked up in the world where witches came from, she is accepted at Elderwood School for the Magically Inclined. There she needs to learn to control her magic within the year or be sent away.

But try as she might, she cannot harness and control her magic, and once again she is singled out, told that she does not belong there. But after visiting her dads over Christmas, she trains with her neighbor, and Amoura discovers that her magic isn't like others'; her magic comes from herself, not the elements. That gift puts her life in jeopardy because the Purity Champions hunt witches like her because they cannot exist.


The magic of this world was interesting, but I feel that the history was a little lacking in the beginning. Yes, more history was added as the story progressed, and I get why it was done this way, but a little bit more sooner would have helped push the story along a little faster and made Amoura's situation a little bit more 'dramatic'.

This was a pretty good story, but it had major Harry P. vibes. Magic school: don't belong, magic police, and the such. It also had a slow start as Amoura and her struggles and personality were introduced.

There are a lot of teenage issues addressed: fitting in, friendship, betrayal, crushes, growth, self-discovery, and the 'emotions' that go with those issues.

As for age appropriateness, there are a few scenes that border adult content, but it's not descriptive. But the combination of it and the minor violence makes this not suitable for readers under fourteen. And as long as this does not cross the 'adult content' border, I would be interested in reading the next in the series.

Just made...

3 Stars



This eARC was granted by Candid Crow Press through NetGalley (Thank You) in exchange for my honest review.

[Taylor L · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is such an exciting new Magical Academia tale! Loved reading every page of this fast paced modern magical Fairy Tale! This story shares a powerful message of the importance of self discovery and never being afraid of the magic you have within.

Amoura and her Coven in training are such incredible and diverse characters that I won’t soon forget. Magical San Francisco and Elderwood Academy is such an enchanting setting for our characters to endure the trials and tribulations of being a First Year Witch!

If you love Fantasy reads filled with captivating magical elements, sprinkled with mysteries and some romance, this is for you! The perfect Witchy ready for fall! I SO Can’t wait to read what comes next in this enchanting world!! Thank you for sharing her story with us!

Let me know your thoughts!

[Tess DeStefano · Rating 5 out of 5]

I honestly can’t say enough wonderful things about this book. I became hooked from the first chapter. Poetic and descriptive. Relatable and exciting. Love when you find a book that you just want to devour and that’s this one for me. Get lost in this magical world with characters to root for. I’m not sure I can put into words just how much I loved this book. Utterly obsessed with Amoura and her world, the characters and journey… I couldn’t get enough. Cannot wait to read more by Meg Kramer. She is certainly solidifying herself as a fantasy writer with the best of them. She’s up there with SJM and Carissa Broadbent.

[Karolina Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

First, a huge thank you to Candid Crow Press & NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of Amoura Awakened. I’m always grateful for the opportunity to discover new stories before or around their release date and magical schools plus hidden powers are basically my reading catnip.

The idea of witches, hidden magic and a girl trying to figure out where she belongs sounded exactly like my kind of story. What I got was a coming of age fantasy filled with secrets, self discovery, magical mysteries and enough questions to keep me flipping pages.

The story follows Amoura, a teenager who suddenly discovers there’s much more to her than she ever imagined. After a life changing incident reveals her connection to magic, she’s sent to Elderwood School for the Magically Inclined, where she has to navigate an entirely new world while trying to understand who she really is. Along the way, she makes friends, encounters rivals, uncovers secrets and finds herself tangled in a much bigger mystery than she expected.

I’ll be honest, the beginning was a little slow for me. There was a lot of worldbuilding and information introduced right away and my brain was working overtime trying to keep up. I also wasn’t completely sold on Amoura at first. We didn’t exactly become best friends immediately and there were moments when she tested my patience.

But somewhere along the way, everything started clicking into place. As Amoura grew more comfortable with herself, I became much more invested in her journey. Watching her wrestle with questions of identity, belonging and acceptance ended up being one of my favorite parts of the story.

I also really enjoyed the magical setting. Elderwood felt vibrant, imaginative and like the kind of school I would absolutely attend if someone handed me an acceptance letter and a wand. I loved learning more about the unique magic system alongside the characters and the mystery elements kept me curious from chapter to chapter.

One thing I especially appreciated was the focus on friendship and finding people who accept you for who you are. Beneath all the magic, secrets and danger, there’s a heartfelt message about embracing the things that make you different.

The ending wrapped up enough to feel satisfying while still leaving me curious about what comes next. A few parts felt a little rushed, but overall I had a great time with this one and found myself far more invested by the second half than I expected to be.

If you enjoy YA fantasy with magical schools, hidden secrets, character growth and a heroine learning to embrace her true self, Amoura Awakened is definitely worth checking out.

[Betwixt the Pages · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rating: 4/5 Penguins
Quick Reasons: a little slow on the uptick but the second half is fabulous; secrets, intrigue, a uniquely crafted magic; creative, vivid descriptions; thick, rich world building

HUGE thanks to Meg Kramer for the ARC of this title! My review of this book is voluntarily written and in no way altered or impacted by this gesture.

Tio Beto looked at the ceiling momentarily as if determining the best way to answer. "History is not written by the winners, as it's sometimes said, but by those with the most power and the most to lose."

I'll be honest, Penguins. I really struggled to get into this for the first 100 pages or so. I thought Amoura was bound to be touted as the "perfect one" the whole book. Her attitude in the beginning REALLY grated on my nerves. There was a lot of world building all at once that made things just a little hard to follow. BUT...

I stuck it out, and around page 100 or so, everything shifted. The story started picking up. Amoura's character started to stretch and to grow. Everything started to fall more easily into place. The magic system in this world, while still with some of the same "tropes," is creative and uniquely imagined. Meg Kramer did a great job of blending the "dream world" into the character's story without overdoing it. Every hint dropped and loose end unknotted got tied up while still leaving room for questions and reader interpretations. And while the ending felt just a little bit "rushed," I was still thoroughly entertained by the time I turned the last page.

"It means that you will set the world on fire. You will change everything."

"I don't know what you're talking about."

She smiled her all-knowing smile that made my head spin. "You will. With time, you will. But now, we must practice."

I definitely recommend this to lovers of unique magic, entertaining reads, and suspenseful narratives filled with character growth. Meg Kramer's writing is charming and vivid, and this read is bound to leave you gasping. Are you ready to learn the truth behind Amoura's magic, Penguins? Let's put you to the test.

[αɳɳαɓεℓℓε · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to the publisher, Meg Kramer, and NetGalley for this arc!

WOW, THIS WAS SO GOOD. I finished this in one sitting because it was absolutely amazing. From the beginning, I was hooked and invested to Amoura’s character. I love her for not being perfect, messing up at times, and for being headstrong. In that way, she’s a little bit like me. I also love how diverse this story is and how much support her dads give her! One thing I enjoyed so much about her was that she wasn’t very powerful or controlling of her magic in the beginning. She grows so much as a person throughout the novel before, I’ll say, defeating her adversaries.

The concepts of magic in this novel are also very unique. There are different elements and different varieties of power so everyone has a different one - some the same, some not quite the same.

It was also interesting to see how one person or group might orchestrate an entire “witch hunt” toward their supposed adversaries under a broken belief or misunderstanding.

Kramer does an excellent job in writing with flow, engagement, and details. I am eagerly waiting for the next book to be released and I will definitely be reading more works from this author!!

[Leah May Lim-Atienza · Rating 4 out of 5]

Amoura’s journey into self-discovery, like any good and satisfying journey, is rife with doubts, insecurities, and tension. It is what makes her ride into witch-hood relatable and draws in readers like you and me. The young girl’s frustration, as she learns more about herself and her powers, is palpable in the book’s pages. You can almost feel your skin tingling along with hers.

However, with her inner turmoil, comes a group of people who believe in her and her capabilities. Friends, or a coven, who stand by her through thick and thin. These people are among the magical elements that make Amoura’s story what it is, as no one can really go through life without the love and support of family and friends.

Amoura Awakened is a beautiful story of finding one’s true self amid the love you have for yourself and the people around you. It’s premise may not be as unique as you’d want it, but its heart holds true and you will find wonderful insights and moments within its pages.

[Marisa · Rating 4.25 out of 5]

This was a really great start to a YA trilogy that handled very relatable teenage struggles in the context of a witch academy world with depth and grace. I think it does a great job of probing into the darker side of finding yourself in a way that a person of any age could identify with and learn from, but it may have a particularly profound effect on people figuring out how to navigate making new friends and fielding romantic interests when they feel right as well as when they don’t.
I was going to wait to move into book two, but in the last 30 pages I went ahead and ordered book two so that I don’t have to. Thankfully there is a free novella for signing up to Meg’s newsletter to hold me over until Amoura Ascending arrives. I can’t wait to see what my coven does over the summer and even more in next term.

[Katherine Tricker · Rating 5 out of 5]

Magical academia, HP vibes but entirely its own. Amoura now has a special place in my heart and I cannot wait for the next installment.

Meg's writing is fantastic, descriptive without being too flowery, and it flows effortlessly, making the book an absolute joy to read.

[Belle · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a true YA academia urban fantasy book that felt nostalgic but fresh at the same time. I loved how the conflicts were handled and the way they were resolved. The journey of self-discovery following young Amoura was very well developed and was such a great set up for the succeeding books in the series.

[Angelica T · Rating 5 out of 5]

5⭐️
Spice Level: 0

I truly enjoyed this YA fantasy. It was unexpected, but a nice break from my usual very spicy reads. I definitely recommend everyone give this book a chance. Thank you to the author, Meg, for the opportunity to arc read. All opinions are of my own.

World Building: Modern day + magical realm. There wasn’t too much world building, which I don’t mind. Sometimes too much can be overwhelming. I was still able to immerse myself in the world of Elderwood. It also helps to know that the story has a more modern day setting, so I didn’t need in depth world building about Portland or Sam Francisco.

Characters: The diversity of characters made me love this book more. The inclusivity of Meg’s writing truly made me appreciate this book more, from non-binary characters, different cultures, single parents, adoptive parents, same sex parents, etc. In today’s age inclusivity, I believe, is so important, especially in the YA community. I enjoyed watching Amoura’s (FMC) character develop and unfold from this girl of self-doubt and loneliness to being and accepting her true self and realizing she’s so much more. I have a special place for the side characters within her coven, you’ll understand why when you read this book. You’ll love, you’ll hate, you’ll be sad, etc. you truly feel so many emotions with a lot of the characters. You’re in for a ride as you get closer to the end!

Twists: I had my suspicions about a few things, but I was still surprised as the story unfolded. I was certainly engaged throughout the book, because I was wanting to know what happens next. I definitely had my “ah ha! I knew it,” moment.

Other notes: Slow start in the first few chapters, and then the pacing picks up. Meg’s writing style is descriptive and immersive. It’s why I stayed hooked throughout the book. The story gives off HP vibes, BUT please note it is a story of its own and very different. Again, I thoroughly enjoyed this book. If you love a story about magic, discovering and accepting one’s self, trust and forgiveness, and overcoming all obstacles with those you love by your side, then this one is for you.

I am excited to see where Meg takes us with book 2 and how Amoura and her coven’s story unfolds.

[Patricia N. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amoura Awakened
The Veiled Flame Series, Book One
by Meg Kramer

Rating: 5 star rating

Amoura Awakened by Meg Kramer is a really good ya fantasy book involving magic and witches. It is the first part of The Veiled Flame Series and takes the classic magic school story and makes it feel exciting. The book takes place in San Francisco and mixes normal teen problems with big, dangerous secrets. Anyone who likes clean fantasy books about tough main characters should read it.

The story is about sixteen-year-old Amoura Renly. She is adopted and has two dads. Her life changes when a school bully picks on her. She gets so mad that her hidden magic comes out and sets her classroom on fire. Since people think she is dangerous, she gets sent to Elderwood School for the Magically Inclined. This is a secret school hidden right under San Francisco. But the school is not safe. Amoura does not fit in. The other teenagers have a lot of angst with one another, and they constantly bicker and look down on her for being raised by regular humans.

Worse, her magic does not work like theirs. The other kids can throw fire or water, but Amoura’s magic comes from inside her own body and breath. A scary group called the Purity Champions guards the magic world, and they get rid of anyone who is different. There are also powerful characters at the school who are dangerous and against her because they want to protect their own status. This puts a huge target on Amoura. Then she finds an old diary that shows the leaders of the magic world have been hiding secrets and getting rid of people for a hundred years.

The ending moves super fast and solves the school mysteries. It explains how Amoura’s magic works and sets up the next book, Amoura Ascending. Amoura stops being scared, accepts her weird powers, and fights back against the bullies and dangerous people, making the book a fast and fun read.

Thank you, NetGalley, Candid Crow Press, and author Meg Kramer for this free ebook review consideration. All review opinions are my own.

#NetGalley
#CandidCrowPress
#MegKramer
#AmouraAwakened

http://goodreads.com/patriciasreading...

http://www.patriciasreadingroom.blogs...

[Terri-Lee Olivier · Rating 5 out of 5]

The story follows Amoura Renly, a beautifully misunderstood girl who discovers her magical abilities during a violent confrontation with a school bully. This revelation sets her on a path to Elderwood School for the Magically Inclined, a prestigious magic school in San Francisco. As Amoura navigates her new life at the magical school, she becomes entangled in a world filled with adventure, friendship, a touch of young adult romance, danger and self discovery. Amoura's connection to magic and the struggles she has accessing it sets her apart, and she must confront the dark secrets threatening her existence.

What set this book apart for me is the modern take on the traditional magical school theme, (think along the lines of Harry Potter) BUT introduces fresh and relatable elements like Amoura's adoption by two supportive human dads and addressing issues like bullying, discrimination, and self-doubt add so much depth and diversity to the story. One of the standout features for me was the author’s inclusion of diverse characters from various heritages and backgrounds, as well as the exploration of non-binary aspects. This added a layer of authenticity and relevance to the story, making it more relatable especially to a modern young adult audience.

Meg definitely came in with a bang with this debut novel, I was captivated by her beautiful writing style and descriptive way she yields her words. I could feel the emotions and see what she described in vivid detail. My heart was racing as I turned the pages and honestly to me that is what makes a good book and authors like Meg Kramer stand out. This enchanting story has left me eagerly anticipating the next book in the series.

Overall, "Amoura Awakened" is a captivating and engaging urban fantasy that keeps readers hooked from start to finish. It's a tale of self-discovery, friendship, and the challenges of navigating a world that fears the unknown. Meg Kramer's debut novel is a must-read for fans of young adult fantasy who crave a mix of magic, romance, and relatable teenage experiences.

[M.S. Hawthorn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Upgraded from a 4.5 for the purposes of Reviewing platforms. More explanation below!

From the very beginning, I found myself invested in Amoura as a protagonist. She was easy to root for, and the supporting cast, particularly Dr. Blackwood, added another layer of intrigue. The mystery unfolded at just the right pace, revealing enough to keep me questioning who could be trusted without ever becoming confusing or frustrating.

The writing itself was beautiful. The world-building felt immersive without overwhelming the story, allowing the characters and the mystery to remain at the heart of the novel. I was never tempted to rush through chapters because each one seemed to reveal another clue or raise another question.

One of the unexpected highlights for me was the setting. The references to real places in San Francisco gave the story an extra emotional resonance, bringing back wonderful memories of my own visits. While that's a personal connection rather than a reflection of the writing itself, it made the reading experience even more meaningful.

The story also explores themes of manipulation and grooming in a thoughtful, age-appropriate way. I appreciated how naturally these ideas were woven into the narrative, adding depth without overshadowing the adventure.

The only reason this isn't a full five stars comes down to personal preference rather than any flaw in the book itself. As someone who tends to gravitate towards darker, more emotionally challenging fantasy, I found myself wanting to be challenged by those themes, by them explored with a little more intensity. This is very much a story aimed at a younger adult audience, and it succeeds beautifully within that space. It simply didn't push me quite as far emotionally as my favourite five-star reads tend to.

If you're looking for a beautifully written fantasy with memorable characters, an engaging mystery, and meaningful themes wrapped in an accessible story, Amoura Awakened is absolutely worth picking up.

[Shayy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a Young Adult Fantasy, so there was not much world building which made this an easy read without any confusion. Amoura Renly discovers she is a witch during an outburst and transfers to an enchanted school under the streets of San Francisco. I know... Magical Academia! So exciting! Once there, she goes on a different journey to uncover secrets of her past (she has two adopted parents- identity crisis?) while attempting to steer clear of the danger of knowing this information could put her in. This book wrapped me up within the 1st few pages and I could not put it down. Nearing the end of the book, my apple watch started picking up elevated heart rate because of the fast paced events and waiting for the outcome. I really loved the show of self-confidence, self-esteem, and real school relationships between friends. Another thing I absolutely loved was that the witches and humans lived together amongst each other although they were different, which says something about the message of the book.

You know an author is good when you feel lost after the book ends! I became so immersed in the book that I felt like I was right there with Amoura finding herself as she went on her journey of self discovery! I am sad to part ways but I can and will read the book over and over. Since the hardback book was just released, I think I will grab a copy to for my bookshelf and for when I want to read it again.

The fact that Meg included LGBT, non- binary characters, interracial relationships, etc to show the time period this book took place.

I will be patiently waiting for the second installment of this series! You did your thing with this one Meg!

[Karolyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Here is my review for Amoura Awakened by Meg Kramer

I managed to get into the book straight away and found it really easy to read. It’s a fast read and I found it to be an enjoyable read. It’s all about a young girl learning to become a witch at a witch’s school and mastering the art of spells. When she is home for Christmas break, she enlists the help of her neighbour who is a witch to help practice for her exam for the new term in the new year. When she does, she gets to learn how to do the casting spells and her magic is better, she just has to learn how to master the strength of it. It’s an interesting read and if there’s a second book I’d be interested to read that too. This is Meg Kramer’s debut with this book which is a great YA book.

Blurb :

One girl's quest for belonging leads to perilous secrets. Will she uncover the truth before it's too late?
Amoura Renly is anything but average, much to her dismay. When a violent confrontation with a bully awakens her connection to magic, Amoura struggles with the realization she's farther from fitting in than she ever imagined.
Desperate for a fresh start, Amoura enrolls at Elderwood School for the Magically Inclined, tucked beneath the streets of San Francisco. But with a unique connection to magic seemingly different from her peers and a secret police force “disappearing” anyone deemed a magical abnormality, fitting in is the least of her troubles. As Amoura navigates the dangers of a society that fears what it doesn’t understand, she uncovers the truth about her connection to magic and the dark secrets that threaten her very existence.

[rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing story! Not just YA. An original story that is about much more than magic.



I will follow this entire series!

Yes, this is a story about magic, schools, and students. No, it is not a retelling of famous books from past decades, it’s so so much better.

First, the writing and real world topics to mention: the characters are real, fully developed, even the villains. Inclusivity exists, as people exist; languages, ethnicities, sexual orientation, magically gifted, etc. The pacing is solid throughout, with a good ratio of thought to action. While there is no overt swearing, one character does use what some may consider a swear phrase in Spanish occasionally. There is also one incident of assault by a villain near the end that may be more than younger readers are ready for, but younger readers are not the target audience..

Now, beyond just the great writing, I loved this story!

Anyone who’s been at that spot in life trying to figure out who they are, what they are, why they’re so confused, even with the love and support of those who care for them.. Anyone who’s ever stepped out of their comfort zone to give themselves a chance at success, or at failure.. Anyone’s who’s ever been terrified and kept going anyway, because giving up wasn’t the test they set themselves..

This story is about finding all those answers for yourself, yes, but it’s more about trust, love, forgiveness, the things you give to others (and that you accept from them).



Thank you to NetGalley and Candid Crow Press for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.

[Kasia Rybka · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Amoura Awakened" by Meg Kramer is a spellbinding debut that seamlessly weaves together the enchanting realm of witches with the rollercoaster of teenage emotions. Kramer's storytelling effortlessly blends inner struggles and budding romance, creating a captivating narrative that keeps readers hooked from start to finish. The protagonist's resilience against inner demons and a clandestine witch police force adds a layer of strength and ingenuity, making her a compelling character.

This young adult fantasy novel strikes a perfect balance between the magic of Harry Potter and the intensity of the Hunger Games. Kramer brings a modern twist to the traditional magical school theme, infusing the narrative with fresh and relatable elements. The inclusion of Amoura's adoption by two supportive human dads and the exploration of themes like bullying, discrimination, and self-doubt adds depth and diversity to the story, making it resonate with a wide audience.

Meg Kramer's writing is nothing short of fantastic – descriptive without being overly flowery, creating an immersive experience for the reader. The effortless flow of the narrative makes the book an absolute joy to read, and I eagerly anticipate the release of part 2. "Amoura Awakened" is not just a tale of magic; it's a journey of self-discovery, friendship, and overcoming the challenges of a world that often fears the unknown. I can't wait to share this gem with my granddaughters; it's a must-read for any fantasy enthusiast!

#amouraawakened
#megkwrites

[Catie · Rating 5 out of 5]

📖 Reviewer Disclaimer: You won’t find a plot summary here. 😂 The publisher’s blurb already does that job better than I could, so I’ll leave that part to them and stick to what I actually care about: the experience of reading the book and how it made me feel.

Amoura Awakened is technically YA fantasy, but it avoids the overly juvenile tone that can sometimes come with the genre. It’s a clean read, but the writing itself feels mature and polished.

Amoura starts off frustratingly childish, but I think that friction is intentional. Her transformation feels earned because you experience her growth in real time, right alongside her. The fantasy elements added an interesting layer to her journey, and I enjoyed discovering the world with her. At its core, though, this is a coming-of-age story about friendship, trust, courage, and learning to make your own choices.

What struck me most was the underlying message that you are allowed to protect your boundaries no matter what. These are heavy but incredibly important lessons for young people, and Meg weaves them naturally into the story without making them feel forced.

If you enjoy character-driven fantasy with genuine growth and thoughtful themes, or you’re a parent looking for an age-appropriate read for your teen, this one is an easy recommendation. It’s exactly the kind of story I wish I’d read growing up. 🫶🏻

Special thanks to Meg Kramer and NetGalley for the opportunity to ARC read in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Sarah Clark · Rating 5 out of 5]

Meg Kramer’s debut novel, Amoura Awakened, is absolutely phenomenal! I loved Amoura from the get go and loved her personal transformation from beginning to end. And speaking of characters, the amount of character diversity in this book was absolutely amazing and a breath of fresh air! They were all so well written, sometimes when reading books with diverse characters they end up feeling forced, but it was not like that at all. Truly wonderful.

Some fantasies lay on the world building really heavy, which I do enjoy as well, but Amoura Awakened doesn’t. I I felt like there was just enough world building in this novel, especially since it’s supposed to be epic or high fantasy. I was able to picture and feel everything that Amoura was dealing with without it being over the top.

I find the cover to be oddly beautiful and intriguing as well. It’s not the usual cover I see in this genre but something about it really draws me in.

I would highly recommend Amoura Awakened to anyone looking for a ya fantasy thriller, whether you be 13 or 31(like myself). I will most definitely be getting a physical copy for my oldest girl to read since she doesn’t do ebooks. This would also be the perfect book for you if you’re looking to get into fantasy without a ton of world building or character POVs. I was sad when the book ended because I was so in love with the characters and story line, I really hope to see more of Amoura and crew in the future!

[Mysticbookgirl · Rating 4 out of 5]

Have you ever wondered what the Wizarding World of Harry Potter would be like if muggles knew of the existence of magic and co-existed along with it? ✨🤔

Well, this book discovers just that! 🪄

Set in San Francisco, the story follows Amoura, a young girl who discovers she is a witch, much to her surprise. In this world, witches and non-magical folk co-exist, but the divide between the two is great, with each of them keeping to themselves. However, as she enters this new community of witches, Amoura soon discovers that the divide in the magical world is even greater. 🪄✨💫

💭 𝑀𝓎 𝒯𝒽𝑜𝓊𝑔𝒽𝓉𝓈 💭

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

𝘐 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘺 𝘦𝘯𝘫𝘰𝘺𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘣𝘰𝘰𝘬! 𝘐 𝘩𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘫𝘶𝘴𝘵 𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘦 𝘧𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘥𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘢 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘺 𝘣𝘪𝘨 𝘴𝘦𝘳𝘪𝘦𝘴, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘢𝘴 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘬𝘯𝘰𝘸, 𝘴𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘵𝘪𝘮𝘦𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘮𝘰𝘵𝘪𝘷𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘵𝘰 𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘳𝘵 𝘴𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘯𝘦𝘸 𝘢𝘧𝘵𝘦𝘳 𝘢 𝘣𝘪𝘨 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘥 𝘪𝘴 𝘭𝘰𝘸. 𝘏𝘰𝘸𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳, 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘣𝘰𝘰𝘬 𝘪𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘧𝘦𝘤𝘵 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘥 𝘵𝘰 𝘨𝘦𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘰𝘧 𝘢 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘥𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘴𝘭𝘶𝘮𝘱 💕✨

𝘐 𝘧𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘥 𝘪𝘵 𝘢 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘺 𝘦𝘢𝘴𝘺 𝘨𝘰𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘣𝘰𝘰𝘬, 𝘧𝘪𝘭𝘭𝘦𝘥 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘴𝘦𝘭𝘧 𝘥𝘪𝘴𝘤𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘺, 𝘢𝘤𝘤𝘦𝘱𝘵𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘴𝘰𝘮𝘦 𝘵𝘸𝘪𝘴𝘵𝘴, 𝘵𝘶𝘳𝘯𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘣𝘦𝘵𝘳𝘢𝘺𝘢𝘭𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘐 𝘥𝘪𝘥𝘯’𝘵 𝘦𝘹𝘱𝘦𝘤𝘵! 🙄

𝘙𝘦𝘱𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘦𝘯𝘵𝘢𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘪𝘴 𝘢𝘭𝘴𝘰 𝘩𝘶𝘨𝘦 𝘪𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘴𝘵𝘰𝘳𝘺. 𝘠𝘰𝘶 𝘸𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘧𝘪𝘯𝘥 𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘳𝘢𝘤𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘴 𝘧𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘵𝘺𝘱𝘦𝘴 𝘰𝘧 𝘣𝘢𝘤𝘬𝘨𝘳𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘥𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘮𝘶𝘯𝘪𝘵𝘪𝘦𝘴 𝘸𝘩𝘪𝘤𝘩 𝘐 𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘢𝘭𝘴𝘰 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘺 𝘧𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘩 👏🏼

𝙄 𝙖𝙢 𝙖 𝙝𝙪𝙜𝙚 𝙃𝙖𝙧𝙧𝙮 𝙋𝙤𝙩𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙛𝙖𝙣, 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙞𝙛 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙖𝙧𝙚 𝙩𝙤𝙤 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙣 𝙄 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙠 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙞𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙥𝙚𝙧𝙛𝙚𝙘𝙩 𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙙 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙮𝙤𝙪 ☺️

𝙄’𝙢 𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙡𝙡𝙮 𝙡𝙤𝙤𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙬𝙖𝙧𝙙 𝙩𝙤 𝙨𝙚𝙚𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝘼𝙢𝙤𝙪𝙧𝙖 𝙜𝙚𝙩𝙨 𝙪𝙥 𝙩𝙤 𝙣𝙚𝙭𝙩 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙄’𝙢 𝙚𝙭𝙘𝙞𝙩𝙚𝙙 𝙩𝙤 𝙨𝙚𝙚 𝙝𝙤𝙬 𝙨𝙝𝙚 𝙜𝙧𝙤𝙬𝙨 𝙖𝙨 𝙨𝙝𝙚 𝙡𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙣𝙨 𝙢𝙤𝙧𝙚 𝙢𝙖𝙜𝙞𝙘 🪄

[Lucy B · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is a great YA story full of plot and friendship. It explores academia very nicely that it reminds me of fate:the winx saga in how its structured, the interactions, and the friendship/found family aspect gives it a sweet wholesome feel that you want to join. There are many dangers that amoura and her friends have to overcome, and many secrets to unfold.

The magical system i found was very compelling and thoroughly done. The story keeps on building and building with mysteries and gives you just enough answers to grip you then to ask 10 more.

Amoura is an outlier with her human peers, and she struggles to trust that she will fit in with the witch community, too. She has a lot of fire behind the social insecurities. I love reading her confidence grow and how her mentors teach her to empower herself.


FOR PARENTS LOOKING FOR YA READS:
It also teaches you to trust your instincts. Even when a boy says and does all the right things but your gut says otherwise. To trust that instict if something feels of.
Although this book is clean, it does involve a scene of being pressured with touch amoura didn't want. However, the author expresses consent in an empowering way and that its ok to say if you're uncomfortable, and push them away, which i found impactful and would have loved examples of this as a teen myself.

[Louise Jane · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amoura Awakened is a book I wish had been written when I was a teenager!

The author's writing is as magical and captivating as the tale itself. The world they have created is immersive and believable, with vivid descriptions that make it easy to forget that you are actually sitting in your living room reading a book. It is the kind of story that will immediately draw you in and keep you turning pages until the very end. Mark my words: this is going to be a massive hit in YA literature.

The main character, Amoura, is a relatable protagonist who confronts her inner demons and embarks on a journey of self-discovery that could be helpful and healing to many readers. At first glance, this book may seem like just another story about witches and magic, but it's so much more than that. It's a story about finding your own path, a path that may not be easy or even what you expect it to be, but one that will ultimately lead you to accept yourself and love yourself for exactly who you are.

The book is epic in every sense of the word: it has an empowering storyline, an exciting mix of adventure and character development as well as some important themes for teens to explore on their own terms. I honestly can't recommend it enough!!

[Sara Allen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley, Candid Crow Press, and Meg Kramer for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Overall, I really enjoyed this story and am glad that I stuck with it. The beginning of the story had quite a few parallels to Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's [Philosopher's] Stone: magically inclined main character; capes of the same colors as Hogwarts houses; mail being magically delivered wherever the character is by a bird [crows vs. owls]; school mentors vs. prefects; main character has a witch for a neighbor at home.

Once the main character, Amoura, begins school, the story takes off with little resemblance to HP, and that's where I finally began to enjoy the story and quit making comparisons. Because Amoura is a teenager, the story deals with more adult themes and the setting is more like a college setting than a boarding school. Without giving too much away, I enjoyed Amoura's journey to find her inner strength and discover her true talents. If there is a sequel, I would be very interested in following the story.

My only confusion comes from research that shows this book was first published in 2023. I am guessing that this edition has been reworked for republication.

[N Shafi · Rating 4 out of 5]

​Amoura Awakened is a really fun and easy read! I finished it in two sessions!

​The story centers on Amoura Renly, a sixteen-year-old living a relatively quiet, isolated life with her two dads in Portland. Everything changes during a violent encounter with a school bully. The sheer anger of the moment triggers a latent, explosive magical power Amoura didn't even know she possessed.

While the first few chapters felt a bit corny and leaned into typical YA tropes, the story completely takes off once Amoura lands at Elderwood, a secret magic academy hidden beneath San Francisco. Meg Kramer delivers a vibrant world where the authoritarian Purity Champions make being "different" incredibly dangerous.

If you can push past the slightly rocky start, you'll find a fast-paced, magical urban fantasy packed with genuine stakes, great friendships, and a mystery that keeps you turning pages. The magic system is fascinating and very different.

This is a great coming of age story which seamlessly transitions to a fast paced urban fantasy. Definitely a fun YA adventure!

I'll be diving straight into the next book!!

#YAFantasy #UrbanFantasy #Goodreads
#NetGalley
#CandidCrowPress
#MegKramer
#AmouraAwakened

[AJ Wilcox · Rating 5 out of 5]

When Amoura (Mo) discovers she has magic, she enrolls in Elderwood - an elite magic school in San Francisco - hoping to find friendship, acceptance, and an understanding of the magic she wields. Easier said than done, however, since her connection to magic is different from her peers and bullies are just as common in Elderwood as her old school. As she searches for answers to her magic (and the sudden disappearances of those with magic abnormalities), both her friendships and her life become threatened.

I found this story so interesting and layered, discovering alongside Amoura what the true nature of her powers are, why some witches fear what they don't understand, and who exactly she can trust. I often find in YA that teenage characters are portrayed with no maturity whatsoever and am really pleased to share that is NOT the case with this book! Amoura and her friends are nuanced and complex, and if you're around teens a lot (former high school teacher here), it's clear when authors know and understand that perspective (and even more clear when they don't). Kramer knows her stuff.

I also really appreciate that while there is a certain level of charm to this story and the setting, Kramer does not shy away from serious topics - discrimination, assault, class difference, etc. - which make this book that much more impactful as a reader. Honestly, I would have loved to read this as a teen! I highly recommend this book for those who love YA, academia, and urban/contemporary fantasy. And book 2 is coming soon! I can't wait to read that next.

[Sage (ON HIATUS FOR WORK) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you NetGalley for the ARC.

I've seen this book around since 2023 and never really thought much about it until I heard it was getting reforged and I knew I had read it.

So, I traded one cage for the other.

Amoura Awakened was one of those books that blends reality with fiction really well. Being set in San Francisco (and Portland, but we don't talk about that), it meshes the world of witches into everyday life in a way that feels believable.

The first few chapters made Amoura seem like another Harry Potter, the classic "Chosen One" trope, but it turned out to be so much more than that.

At its core, it's a story about self-discovery, being different, finding lifelong friends, and learning to trust yourself. Through the fast paced magic academia setting, you slowly learn more about Amoura and her identity. She spends most of the school year being told she's the "chosen one," but with constant praise comes self-doubt, and I really liked how the book explored that.

Amoura will always have a special place in my heart.

[booksandcats · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5/5 stars

So this author actually reached out to me and asked if I would be interested in reading & reviewing her book-like ummm yes! Happy too! And I'm so glad I said YES!
I really enjoyed this story-witchy vibes, magic school, FMC discovering who she really is, and of course plot twists.

There are several characters that I immediately latched onto and loved (Amoura, Finn, Bea), then there were several (one in particular) who gave me the ick AND PROVED ME RIGHT (iykyk because I'm not one to give ANY form of spoilers haha), and there were some who completely shocked me with the twists in their character development that had me questioning "are they good?" or "oh wait they're not as bad as I thought".

It's a pretty quick & easy, fun read (it just took me longer because...well....life haha). If you're looking for a fun, YA, witchy read, definitely pick this book up and give it a try! So good, and definitely want more.

[Rachel May · Rating 5 out of 5]

If Wednesday Addams went to Hogwarts and turned the badass level up to eleven, you’d get Amoura.

Amoura Awakened follows Amoura Renly, a girl who was adopted as an infant and raised in the human world. Her life takes a dramatic turn when strange magical events begin happening around her, leading to an invitation to attend Elderwood, a magical school hidden in San Francisco. As she settles into her new world, Amoura discovers what kind of witch she is, forms a coven with other first-year witches, and uncovers a chilling truth: evil isn’t always a monster lurking in the shadows, can be much closer than anyone realizes.

What makes this book so addictive is Amoura herself. She’s sharp, curious, and determined to find out about her magical abilities.

I could not stop thinking about this book after finishing it. If you love magical schools, found-family friendships, dark mysteries, and strong female protagonists, Amoura is a must-read. This is my new favorite read and cannot wait for book 2 to release in July!

[TardyLibrarian · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had the opportunity to ARC read this book.

Amoura Awakened by Meg Kramer is a bewitching tale of self-discovery and the power of magic.

Amoura Renly is an ordinary girl living an ordinary life, until a violent encounter with a bully awakens her latent magical abilities. Struggling to come to terms with her newfound powers and the societal fears surrounding them, Amoura embarks on a journey of self-acceptance and empowerment.

As Amoura delves deeper into the world of magic, she uncovers dark secrets and dangerous forces that threaten her very existence. With the help of her newfound allies, Amoura must confront her fears and embrace her true potential to protect herself and the world she loves.

Amoura Awakened is a must-read for fans of fantasy, adventure, and coming-of-age stories.

#AmouraAwakened #MegKramer #Fantasy #Adventure #ComingOfAge #BookTok #MustRead