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The Awakening
After an attack that leaves her permanently marked, Harper finds herself forming an unlikely alliance with her commanding officer, Cassian Bates, who has a secret agenda of his own. Cassian does what he can to protect Harper from her abusive new husband and helps provide insight into her emerging abilities, resulting in a dangerous awakening.
In a battle for freedom and finding themselves, Harper and Cassian will do whatever it takes to get what they are after.
In a battle for freedom and finding themselves, Harper and Cassian will do whatever it takes to get what they are after.
422 pages, Paperback
Published July 21, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is just the first book!!!! The amount of mixed emotions I have for this read is beyond measure. There's ups and downs for the MFC and MMC. I've had many favorite characters I love reading but none that I've connected with on so many different levels. Between the hardships and turmoil that Harper endures as a woman and an outcast, and the willpower Cassian struggles with to keep his promises. The emotions that were brought to life on page made it feel so much more real. They dragged you deeper. Needing and wanting to know what is even going on. So many unanswered questions. So many paths to take. I love how there's a build-up romance with underlying expectations from each other. But then the cliffhanger just makes you want to reread as if it'll change anything. The powerhouse of intensity that was brought to the page between every encounter whether the characters were bantering or fighting.
Now if I had one character that I despise it's whole heartedly Axus. Even more than the Patriarch and trust me when I say that is beyond their Code of Conduct.
I can't wait to see what comes of them all and how things will develop. I know the next book will most definitely be even more interesting and intense.
I highly recommend paying attention to the trigger warnings before reading this though but it's completely worth Awakening your eyes to.
Now if I had one character that I despise it's whole heartedly Axus. Even more than the Patriarch and trust me when I say that is beyond their Code of Conduct.
I can't wait to see what comes of them all and how things will develop. I know the next book will most definitely be even more interesting and intense.
I highly recommend paying attention to the trigger warnings before reading this though but it's completely worth Awakening your eyes to.
August 3, 2026
Going to try to do this without any spoilers. This book is great if you love a slow burn if you love angst if you love character development this is it. This is this is the book for you. I could not put this book down. Harper story is so crazy but the resilience this woman has and the strength this woman has is INSPIRING. Kaylan really knows how to move her readers through her story. I Love it. Go buy it now!
August 11, 2026
How do I write a review for this book? When I felt so entirely immersed in the story, it was like I was actually there, living right alongside Harper and Cassian. I FEEL the seething injustice that is the Pentarchy. The system that supports the predatory males.
I’m ready with a “Fuck off Bates” for every annoyance. Absolutely appreciative of the few honest flirtations, that are just for Harper. Not the creeps. They still get hurt.
As someone who has lived through religious indoctrination to a degree — THIS. HIT. HOME.
As someone who was expected to grow up to behave a certain way, not question her elders, and do as she was told — THIS. HIT. HOME.
Harper fighting against all of this to be who she chooses to be is so amazing. Harper fighting to accept body image because she looks different from everyone else, and then again because of marks left after an assault…. So, so, so significant.
Cassian is this insanely stand-up man in a community where men are not only allowed to be predators, but are encouraged to do so. He goes out of his was to be Harper’s safe place, her support, and her best friend.
Then, the slow-burn YEARNING is so strong I’m tempted to shake them both and just yell “out with it already!” But I know when it finally happens, it is going to be so entirely epic, we won’t know what to do.
By the end of the book, secrets were being exposed, plans were in place, and now we are just waiting to see how everything will play out.
I’m ready with a “Fuck off Bates” for every annoyance. Absolutely appreciative of the few honest flirtations, that are just for Harper. Not the creeps. They still get hurt.
As someone who has lived through religious indoctrination to a degree — THIS. HIT. HOME.
As someone who was expected to grow up to behave a certain way, not question her elders, and do as she was told — THIS. HIT. HOME.
Harper fighting against all of this to be who she chooses to be is so amazing. Harper fighting to accept body image because she looks different from everyone else, and then again because of marks left after an assault…. So, so, so significant.
Cassian is this insanely stand-up man in a community where men are not only allowed to be predators, but are encouraged to do so. He goes out of his was to be Harper’s safe place, her support, and her best friend.
Then, the slow-burn YEARNING is so strong I’m tempted to shake them both and just yell “out with it already!” But I know when it finally happens, it is going to be so entirely epic, we won’t know what to do.
By the end of the book, secrets were being exposed, plans were in place, and now we are just waiting to see how everything will play out.
July 29, 2026
I have been following this author, and her journey writing this book, since she started posting on TikTok. I can honestly say it was worth the wait! It's a very ssssllllllooooooowwwww burn, with a lot of "will they won't they" tossed in there. The tension you could cut with a knife it was so thick! I absolutely loved this story, and am anxiously waiting for book two, since I need to know what happens to, and between, the main characters. I have never shipped a fictional couple so hard in my life!!!
P.s. there are definitely some scenes that had me giggling like a school girl and kicking my feet like an idiot 😍
P.s. there are definitely some scenes that had me giggling like a school girl and kicking my feet like an idiot 😍
August 19, 2026
I’m typically not one for slow burns or fantasy, but this one was absolutely amazing. I have nothing but good things to say about it. I can’t wait for book 2!
August 1, 2026
Potential Spoilers but nothing crazy!
I had to sit on this for a while because I wanted to make sure I gave it the review it deserves. I am still recovering from this book. The world building is incredible. I feel like we’ve only gotten a small taste of the “magic” system (I’m looking at you Harper) and I truly cannot wait to see where it goes from here. I’m so curious about both her parentage and Cas’ although I have my suspicions. The tension, the yearning, the slow burn, stunning. I think I yelled out loud “just tell her you love her bro” at least 4 times. The amount of times I squealed and kicked my feet but ALSO flipped pages as quickly as I could because I needed to know what happened next. I have some theories and I cannot wait to continue reading this series to see where the author takes us!
I had to sit on this for a while because I wanted to make sure I gave it the review it deserves. I am still recovering from this book. The world building is incredible. I feel like we’ve only gotten a small taste of the “magic” system (I’m looking at you Harper) and I truly cannot wait to see where it goes from here. I’m so curious about both her parentage and Cas’ although I have my suspicions. The tension, the yearning, the slow burn, stunning. I think I yelled out loud “just tell her you love her bro” at least 4 times. The amount of times I squealed and kicked my feet but ALSO flipped pages as quickly as I could because I needed to know what happened next. I have some theories and I cannot wait to continue reading this series to see where the author takes us!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 14, 2026
My honest review of The Awakening by Kaylan Cordell
Rating:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Honestly this is one of the best books I’ve read in a long time. Low key so upset book 2 is not out yet😂. The Awakening is one of those books you wish you could read for the first time all over again. It will sit in your head rent free, replaying like a movie in your mind. The hatred you’ll feel for some of the characters is un-real; but the love you’ll have for Cassian and Harper is even better. She’s not your typical FMC, she’s bratty and defiant because she has to be to protect her in a world that is against people like her. But deep down she has a big heart and wants to find love in a world where it seems non-existent. Until Cassian, Harper was alone. Her mother passed away when she was very young and she essentially had to raise herself. She wasn’t close with any of the other recruits, the patriarch punishing her every chance he got because she was defiant and actively showed she was not loyal to them. When Cassian Bates became her commanding officer they formed an unlikely alliance which in turn caused a forbidden romance between the two. This will cause the most intense slow burn in the history of slow burns😂. I was internally screaming at the both of them to just do it already. In my opinion that just made the book better and less predictable. And in a world where everything feels predictable now days it’s refreshing. Kaylan did so well writing this book and I’m so genuinely excited to see where she’s goes with book 2 and in her writing career in general. This is a book you won’t regret picking up❤️
Rating:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Honestly this is one of the best books I’ve read in a long time. Low key so upset book 2 is not out yet😂. The Awakening is one of those books you wish you could read for the first time all over again. It will sit in your head rent free, replaying like a movie in your mind. The hatred you’ll feel for some of the characters is un-real; but the love you’ll have for Cassian and Harper is even better. She’s not your typical FMC, she’s bratty and defiant because she has to be to protect her in a world that is against people like her. But deep down she has a big heart and wants to find love in a world where it seems non-existent. Until Cassian, Harper was alone. Her mother passed away when she was very young and she essentially had to raise herself. She wasn’t close with any of the other recruits, the patriarch punishing her every chance he got because she was defiant and actively showed she was not loyal to them. When Cassian Bates became her commanding officer they formed an unlikely alliance which in turn caused a forbidden romance between the two. This will cause the most intense slow burn in the history of slow burns😂. I was internally screaming at the both of them to just do it already. In my opinion that just made the book better and less predictable. And in a world where everything feels predictable now days it’s refreshing. Kaylan did so well writing this book and I’m so genuinely excited to see where she’s goes with book 2 and in her writing career in general. This is a book you won’t regret picking up❤️
August 7, 2026
Okay *cracks knuckles* this feels like one of the most important reviews i'll ever write. I had to sleep on it, I've been itching to get my hands on this read ever since I found Kaylan on tiktok when she was promoting. Her ability to sell this book should be studied because she hooked me in HARD. She is absolutely amazing. First things first, chefs kiss. This was a wonderfully written fantasy book. I didn't feel like I was dying trying to create the world in my brain. The witty banter? The strong FMC who overcame such a cruel upbringing? A protective MMC? LOVE LOVE LOVE. Her trauma resonated with me so hard and I was here for all the ass kickings she dealt with the "abilities" her Sylvonia side provided her. She was a realistic woman in shape, size AND AGE, I wanted to hug my book feeling seen. The book flowed with a good story, I was never confused on where we were at, favorite part definitely being the end when they got to visit Sylvonia. The amount of times I bust out laughing at things she said, I knew she was my people. Im pissed I finished it and cant immediately pick up the next book to know what the hell happened. The book ended on the perfect cliff hanger making me ache for more!
Pieces for myself I didn't love:
- The slow burn being so slow its just about nonexistent. The tension and want I could feel, but being my filthy self I would've loved for SOME action before the book ended outside of her making out with a basic stranger. But again, I'm deplorable🤭
- Repeating things over and over - just personal preference I don't love when things get said to be drilled into your brain too many times.
- No progress to overthrowing someone, didn't super bug me, but I think I would've loved to at least see them take over the resistance before the end of the book to show some progress, but this also gives me more reason to ache for the 2nd book so I can see where the choice landed this way.
- Cas getting beat up so much. Stressed he was huge and rugged, but seemed to get taken out a lot and Harper had to save him. I needed him to show his strength a little more. Lemme see dem muscles boy!
All in all I think everyone should read this, because it was truly a wonderful read. The thought that went in to create this world is impressive and Harper was relatable to any sassy woman wanting so badly to be seen. I cannot wait to read more of Kaylan's work! Round of applause!
Pieces for myself I didn't love:
- The slow burn being so slow its just about nonexistent. The tension and want I could feel, but being my filthy self I would've loved for SOME action before the book ended outside of her making out with a basic stranger. But again, I'm deplorable🤭
- Repeating things over and over - just personal preference I don't love when things get said to be drilled into your brain too many times.
- No progress to overthrowing someone, didn't super bug me, but I think I would've loved to at least see them take over the resistance before the end of the book to show some progress, but this also gives me more reason to ache for the 2nd book so I can see where the choice landed this way.
- Cas getting beat up so much. Stressed he was huge and rugged, but seemed to get taken out a lot and Harper had to save him. I needed him to show his strength a little more. Lemme see dem muscles boy!
All in all I think everyone should read this, because it was truly a wonderful read. The thought that went in to create this world is impressive and Harper was relatable to any sassy woman wanting so badly to be seen. I cannot wait to read more of Kaylan's work! Round of applause!
August 20, 2026
This book is a gem! This book grabbed me from the beginning. It follows Harper who was orphaned at a young age due to the murder of her mother, only to be raised by the regime that took her committed the act. She struggles with abuse and life struggles. Harper is a strong FMC determined to change her circumstances only to find herself and maybe a little love along the way. I can’t wait to finish this story in book 2.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 24, 2026
Obsessed with Cassian and Harper. Just obsessed. Harper has had everything you can imagine thrown at her and her she pushes forward. Cassian may have his secrets but the way he calls for her and how protective he becomes is 🥵🥵🥵 the world building is done so well. You don't feel lost nor do you feel like it was thrown at you in a few chapters. The slow burn is ssslllooowww bbuuurrrnnniingg and I'm here for it. Axus can get fucked. That's all I got to say on him. I don't know if I can be patient for book 2. I NEED MORE NOW!
August 21, 2026
Loved this book. It had me hooked within the first three chapters. I love how strong the FMC is without her even knowing it. If you like books like acotar but faster pace but still gets you in your feelings this book is it at least in my opinion. So glad I found this. Can't wait for her next book.
September 30, 2026
There’s so much I want to say about this book but don’t know where to begin!
This book is so well written it’s easy to get lost in. The character and plot development is beautifully immersive and I truly enjoyed the witty banter and relationship development between the MFC and MMC.
I’m not generally a fan of slow burn romance but Kaylan has a way of making it work sooooo well! I loved the tension built between Cassian and Harper and am anticipating how it will bloom in the next book.
!!!!!!!!POTENTIAL SPOILERS!!!!!!!!
I can’t wait to see what comes next. I’m left with tons of questions and am looking forward to how everything plays out.
Overtaking Pascal and leading the resistance, Harper’s awakening and how it will influence her, does Declan come back into the picture, what’s happening in the outer cities, why Axus has been so hot/ cold, what fate is in store for Harper now that they’re back, does harper learn about her father, will she make it back to Sylvonia, does Cas ever realize he’s already feeling love- the list could go on!
I’m eagerly awaiting the next book 🥰
This book is so well written it’s easy to get lost in. The character and plot development is beautifully immersive and I truly enjoyed the witty banter and relationship development between the MFC and MMC.
I’m not generally a fan of slow burn romance but Kaylan has a way of making it work sooooo well! I loved the tension built between Cassian and Harper and am anticipating how it will bloom in the next book.
!!!!!!!!POTENTIAL SPOILERS!!!!!!!!
I can’t wait to see what comes next. I’m left with tons of questions and am looking forward to how everything plays out.
Overtaking Pascal and leading the resistance, Harper’s awakening and how it will influence her, does Declan come back into the picture, what’s happening in the outer cities, why Axus has been so hot/ cold, what fate is in store for Harper now that they’re back, does harper learn about her father, will she make it back to Sylvonia, does Cas ever realize he’s already feeling love- the list could go on!
I’m eagerly awaiting the next book 🥰
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 22, 2026
Oh my gosh, the strength in this FMC is inspiring, so much heartbreak, pain and loss but she keeps getting back up never backs down and just keeps going. I love her FAFO attitude and I love that she isnt your average young, tiny FMC. She older, has some curves and has no problem telling you where you can stick it lol. Cassian is the perfect book boyfriend, strong, protective, touch her and die, a bit of a shitass 😉 but also kind, sweet and understanding. And the tension and chemistry between the 2 is chef kiss. This book will have you feeling all the emotions, one chapter will have you kicking your feet then next will have you pissed and out for blood lol. Great read, highly recommended.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I did a preorder for this book and because she’s awesome she sent it out early to us! Yay 💕
If you love a strong FMC and a MMC with touch her and die vibes, corrupt leaders, magic, creatures and slow burn romance this is most definitely for YOU!
OMG I just finished reading and just wow! I love loved it! Harper’s strength and resilience is admirable with all the trauma and crap she’s went through, I just love her. I love how protective Cassian is of her and how noble he is. He consistently fights his desire for her which at times I just wanted to smack him and say she wants you too lol! But he has his reasons. Can’t wait for book two! Fingers crossed for the villains getting what they deserve!!
If you love a strong FMC and a MMC with touch her and die vibes, corrupt leaders, magic, creatures and slow burn romance this is most definitely for YOU!
OMG I just finished reading and just wow! I love loved it! Harper’s strength and resilience is admirable with all the trauma and crap she’s went through, I just love her. I love how protective Cassian is of her and how noble he is. He consistently fights his desire for her which at times I just wanted to smack him and say she wants you too lol! But he has his reasons. Can’t wait for book two! Fingers crossed for the villains getting what they deserve!!
August 25, 2026
This book was a rollercoaster with a slow burn that had me just about dying. I love that the main characters are in their late 20s and 30s instead of 18 year olds. The tension built between the 2 main characters over the course of the story was top tier. I was super invested in the last 1/2-3/4 of the book where things really started to pick up. I’m excited to read what happens next for Harper in book 2. Love the “touch her and die” vibes!
August 2, 2026
The YEARNING my heart endured for those two, my lord. I just wanted to shake them and smack them around. It was so good I didn’t notice the lack of smut. And I’m usually all about that. Ive been telling myself since this book that I was supposed to be Sylvonian. Yet another thing to let my imagination run wild with. I started my reading journeys over again, about 2.5 years ago, and have had yet to pick a favorite FMC. I kept telling myself i would know when it came down to it. And I did. And Harper? That’s my girl. She’s my fave. The things she goes through, the resilience that still shines through despite all that’s happened to her. She truly is a wonder. And I love her. This book was phenomenal, from end to beginning. I wouldn’t say it’s a super dark book, but it’s does have its elements for a reason. It was everything I wanted it to be and more. Well done, Kaylan! Now the wait for book 2 continues!
July 24, 2026
I don’t read books twice. I don’t even read books in this genre. I’ve read this one twice and I love it. Great writing, great story. There’s a whole built-in sci-fi world that actually works and is more grounded than you’ll see in other fantasy works. The world building is fantastic. Stark contrasts between competing societies and personalities. There’s a damn good story here. Enough to read it again. …and again. And again, while I wait on the sequel. Hell I'm ready for the spinoffs too. I’m genuinely invested in this world that’s been created.
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews