The Awakening

Ancient Guardians, #3

by S.L. Morgan

From Award Winning Author, S.L. Morgan, comes the HIGHLY anticipated third book in the Ancient Guardians Novel Series In the third book of the Ancient Guardians Series: The Awakening, EVERYTHING WILL CHANGE! Treaties will be broken...Mysteries will be exposed...Lives will be lost

As the new Emperor of Pemdas, Levi begins restoring hope to the grieving lands and the people who lost so much during the battle of Armedias. With the healing initiated, Levi moves quickly to make Reece his wife. Not long after their enchanted wedding, the appearance of an enigmatic man coincides with newfound, supernatural powers in Reece that she and Levi struggle to understand.

But nothing could have prepared either of them when the impossible is revealed.

Emperor Navarre is alive in another galaxy!

Tensions grow and questions abound for Levi, Reece, and the Guardians as they race to embark on their dangerous new quest, but throughout it all, one thing is made more and more clear to Levi: The Guardians have vowed to protect “The Key,” and now “The Key” must protect them

˃˃˃ From Inside BJ’s Head book blog.

“As a reader you just want to jump into the pages and experience the adventure alongside Levi, Reece, and Harrison. You feel each emotion as you read every word written and you panic as you come to the last page of the book, you NEED MORE. This series is truly one of remarkable standings, as I've yet to see it's equal."

˃˃˃ From Reader's Favorite

“S.L. Morgan does such a wonderful job at really drawing readers in and making them emotionally involved in this fictional world. It's amazing."

Scroll up and grab a copy today.

Genres: Fantasy, Romance, Epic Fantasy, Adventure, Young Adult, Science Fiction, Fiction

569 pages, Kindle Edition

First published May 15, 2015

About the author

USA Today best selling and award winning author, S.L. Morgan was born and raised in California. After 29 years of living in the Sierra Nevada Mountains there, she and her husband began their journeys of moving throughout the United States. In the summer of 2014, S.L. Morgan and her family returned to her hometown of Oakhurst, California.
In October of 2011, S.L. Morgan became inspired to write her new novel series, “Ancient Guardians.” With her passion and love for Jane Austen and other classic romance novels, she was motivated to write a novel series of her own. The Legacy of the Key is the first book in her novel series, taking readers not only into a new magical dimension—but giving them a feeling that they have been transported back in time—into England’s 18th century.
Morgan refers to herself more as a storyteller instead of an 'author.' She enjoys creating worlds that readers can escape into, and characters they can call friends.
She is truly grateful everyday for having the courage to share her stories with readers from around the world.
With her series, Ancient Guardians complete, Morgan is embarking on a new adventure and looks forward to releasing a new series soon.

Reviews

[S.L. Morgan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I will admit that this is my favorite book in the series....so far....given that this will be a 5 book series, I do hope readers that read and finish this book are anticipating the 4th book in the series as we go deeper than ever before in the series and watch the strength of Reece develops even more!
For now, I hope you enjoy the exciting adventure that awaits readers in Book 3! How the characters develops and transform as the book moves forward!
-S.L. Morgan
Book 4: 2016
Book 5: 2017

[Candy · Rating 5 out of 5]

What can I say? If this were a conclusion to a trilogy, I may have had an easier time forming my thoughts and feelings into written (typed) words. Since this is not the end (THANK GOODNESS!), I now have to put some effort into not repeating what I posted about the sequel.
Note: It has been two weeks since I have received a copy from Ms. Morgan in exchange for an honest review...My sincere apologies for my tardiness!=_=

So in an effort to not be redundant, I will do my best to comment on something else besides the gorgeous imagery, loving characters, beautiful romance, and thrilling action...

...

How the heck am I supposed to do that?! The Awakening is a continuation of the awesomeness that The Uninvited was...or still is. I'm not going to re-tell the story (just read the book), and I don't think fan-girling will be of much help to anyone (eeek!!! This story is AMAZING I tell you! AMAZING!!!) So I have decided to share some of my favorite passages instead.

1. Emperor Levi putting the verbal smackdown on these jokers

Leaders of the Unification, as Emperor Navarre made you all aware before leaving the last council meeting, We. Are. Pemdai. We answer to no one. We will turn The Key over to no one, at any cost. If I were you, I would not take these words lightly. We served to protect, guard, and keep harmony not only in our land, but in yours as well. If there be any world that should attempt to challenge our protection of The Key, then you and your world will represent everything Armedias signified on the day the Guardians left her in ruins. That is all.

2. Harrison "pity the fool" Oxley rescuing damsels from an impudent young rogue

He didn’t care whether his current disposition caused any of them discomfort or not, as his sights were set only on King Maxen’s oldest grandson, the young man who was sitting between Elizabeth and Angeline Hamilton.
He stared down at the young man who looked up at him in confusion, despite having a smug grin on his face.
“Commander, could I have someone get you a chair?” he asked in an offhand tone.
Commander? Who does this kid think he is? “There will be no need for that. You can simply get up and out of mine.”

3. A most adorable creature that would be mine in a heartbeat if I lived in Pemdas

They laughed but were soon interrupted when Reece noticed the most adorable critter she’d ever seen approach their location. She sat up slowly, trying not to startle it. Whatever it was, it looked like a tiny bear with big, triangular ears. Its eyes were like yellow jewels, and they were overly large and round with long lashes. It was white with patches of brown and black on its fluffy coat of fur. It blinked slowly, and Reece giggled.
Levi held out his hand, and the fluffy zorflak slowly crawled over to him, his tiny wings sticking out from his back. Reece watched in amusement as the animal sat there on his legs. It reached its hand out, and its tiny, chubby fingers touched Levi’s long ones. It blinked again and made a small humming sound as it looked up into Levi’s face.

4. Said adorable creature amusing readers greatly...at Levi's expense

“He may be adorable, but I fear I am already growing weary of him.”
“Him?” she asked, staring into the zorflak’s large eyes.
Levi sighed. “Yes, him,” he answered, feigning annoyance. “You have rescued an orphaned male zorflak, and he and I already have an issue with each other.”
Reece rolled onto her back and smiled up at Levi’s amused expression. She laughed. “Really? What did he do to you?”
The zorflak hopped onto Reece’s stomach, bringing her attention back to him. Levi shook his head, and Reece giggled.
“Well, to start with—”
As soon as Levi began to speak, the zorflak starting singing again, interrupting him. Is he trying to get thrown off the mountain? Levi sat there, baffled that the little baby zorflak was actually competing with him for Reece’s attention. Levi went to speak again, but before a word came out the zorflak put his tiny paw to Reece’s chin as it hummed an even louder melody.
“First of all—” Levi spoke out, yet the zorflak’s humming continued to drown out his deep voice. He sighed while he narrowed his eyes at the critter.

5. Musical emotions

“Yes, I named him Mozart,” she answered him with a smile, “because his humming reminds me of an orchestra. He’s such a funny little guy; he has different humming sounds that tell me his needs and emotions. If he’s hungry, his hum sounds like a violin. When he’s happy, it sounds like a flute. The funniest one is when he’s sad and he hums like a cello. So I just started calling him my little Mozart. He’s quite the musician!” she laughed.
Mozart’s ears opened, uncovering his eyes, and his little arms stretched while his illuminating wings fluttered. He looked up at Levi and stared.
Levi grinned. “Welcome to your new home, Mozart,”

6. Reece getting her Michelle Yeoh on

Harrison swiftly advanced on her, planting a foot and throwing a straight arm punch directly at her, which she easily deflected. Harrison quickly countered, pulling her into a powerful embrace. She should have felt the pressure of the tight embrace, but she didn’t. She felt nothing but power, and she knew what her next step was. With Harrison standing behind her and the wall before her, she used it to climb it swiftly with her feet, flipping herself up and over his head and freeing herself from his grips. Before he could turn around to face her, she squatted down and swung her leg around his ankles in an attempt to bring him to the ground.

7. Our hero gone wild...Uninhibited Levi is ADORABLE!!!

Levi held her closer, tilting his head to the side and deepening his kiss. Reece couldn’t help but chuckle at the way he was acting. He finally withdrew and smiled at her lazily. He released Reece, brought his arms up, and clasped his hands behind his head. He leaned back and gazed seductively at her. “I could spend the ressst of my life kiss—sss—king—” He frowned in desperate concentration, closed his eyes, and then reopened them with purpose. “Kissing you,” his eyes widened, “my lady.” He gave her a silly grin.
Reece and King Hamilton tried their hardest not to burst into laughter as they listened to Levi’s muddled speech.
Levi slowly looked over at the King. “A lobedly woman, is shhhee not?” He cocked an eyebrow at him and pressed his lips together proudly.
Hamilton’s eyes glistened in humor. “The loveliest, Your Royal Majesty.”

8.Don't mess with the KING!

Levi halted his approach when the man spun Reece around and held the sharp blade of his dagger to her neck. “Come any closer, and I will destroy this creature,” he growled to Levi.
Levi said nothing as multiple options to attack the man flashed through his mind. He stood calculating as he watched the panicked expression on Reece’s face spread. Rei had Reece in too vulnerable of a position. “Take your hands off the woman now, and I will not kill you where you stand,” Levi warned him.
Levi lunged toward them before Rei could bring his gaze back from Harrison. He brought his hand to Rei’s wrist which held the blade and pivoted himself around him, giving him more of an advantage. Shocked by the attack, Rei loosened his hold on Reece and absently pulled the blade away from her neck in an attempt to swipe it at his attacker. Levi promptly gripped Reece and spun her away from the man’s strong hold on her. As he did, he pried the blade out of Rei’s frozen grip. Levi moved so swiftly that Rei didn’t have time to react. He tried to jab at Levi when he got his bearings and swung around, but Levi countered him effortlessly and twisted the arm Rei held out to him high behind his back, sending him directly to the ground. He spun him over on the ground and brought a crushing knee hard into the man’s sturdy chest as he knelt down holding the tip of the sharp blade to the man’s throat.
“Tell me now why I should spare your life?” he growled viciously through his teeth.

9. Mr. Bachelor finds love!

“After all of the arrogant opinions that I have shared about women in his presence,” Harrison chuckled, “I am confident this will come at a price for me.” He brought her delicate hand into his gloved one and tenderly kissed it. “However, to have your love is worth any price that I might ever have to pay.”
Her eyes locked onto his seriously. “Please, be safe.”
Harrison bent to kiss her once more, letting his lips linger for a moment before he rose up and turned to mount Saracen.

10. A wedding dress of dreams

The silky white dress accentuated her slender frame and flowed gracefully down before it swept into a short train behind her. The bodice front was cut square and lined with a jeweled sapphire trim that was highlighted with vibrant, miniature diamonds. Three slender strands with the same diamond and sapphire stones swept over her shoulders, glistening brightly under the lights of her dressing room.
Reece turned slightly to glance at the back of her gown again. A silk material was attached by jewels to the top of her shoulders, sweeping into a swag pattern that framed the shimmering lace material covering her back. A large sapphire jewel gathered the satin material into an intricate style at her lower back before flowing onto the floor behind her.

I would also like to add that the "wedding night" had some steam but was amazingly and quite impressively clean.

Of course, there is much more to the story than what was highlighted. Some very intense events take place...one in particular at the very end that has caused me undue anxiety (I believe I owe my un-thanks to the editor). Even so, I greatly (obviously) enjoyed this third installment of Ancient Guardians and eagerly anticipate the fourth. Wonderful writing Ms. Morgan! ^.^

[Erin · Rating 5 out of 5]

What. A. Read. S.L. Morgan, why couldn't you release all the books at the same time like Netflix releases tv episodes? That way I could series binge and then start the inevitable process of lamenting the end of a great series. As it is I will wait impatiently for book 4.

This book was fairly long but it went so fast and I never felt like it dragged. The pacing was good, and when I got to the end I wanted it to be longer so I could find out what was going to happen next to our favorite characters.

[The Book Whisperers · Rating 5 out of 5]

Heartbreaking thrill ride

What can I say about this book?I laughed,I cried,I gasped in fear and cried for Reece in the end.book four cannot come fast enough what lies in store for our favorite royal couple.

[Cheryl · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Ancient Guardians: The Awakening, the third book in the Ancient Guardians series by S.L. Morgan, things continue pretty much right where we left off at the end of the second book. The people of Pemdas are still grieving, and Levi is getting used to his new position as emperor. Trying to move on with their lives, Levi and Reece get married in a beautiful celebration. While they are away on their honeymoon, a strange man appears at Pemdas with shocking news: Emperor Navarre is alive! Soon, Levi, Reece, Harrison, and the other Guardians work tirelessly to find a way to rescue Navarre and bring him home safely. With a surprising new galaxy to discover, unknown yet dangerous enemies to battle, and an unrelenting determination to get their emperor back, Levi and Reece may have to face their biggest challenge yet.

It has been about a year since I read the first two books in the series that I soon found myself obsessed with. I decided not to refresh my memory by reading the first two books again because I was too excited to read this one. That was not a mistake. S.L. Morgan has a way with her writing to instantly pull readers back into the magnificent world that is Pemdas. I felt like I had never left. The third installment had the perfect blend of romance and action. The book started off with a romantic wedding ceremony and continued on to an even more romantic honeymoon. Unfortunately, their vacation and time away from reality is cut short, and we are thrown into a suspenseful and unexpected adventure. What I have always loved about this series is the characters. And I can happily say that this book did not disappoint in that category. Being the third book in the series, it didn’t seem possible to witness these unforgettable characters develop even more, but they truly do. We see a whole new side to characters like Reece and Harrison, which was refreshing. Plus, the plot was exciting and kept me on the edge of my seat, not to mention the ending. What a cliffhanger! The Awakening continues the Ancient Guardians story in an unpredictable and exciting way. S.L. Morgan truly has a way with words and an incredible talent for storytelling. I can’t wait to see where the rest of this story goes.

Reviewed for Readers' Favorite

[Bj Gaskill · Rating 5 out of 5]

Finally back in Pemdas!!! It was a long wait, but well worth it!
I honestly can’t believe how much author S.L. Morgan was able to back into this book. I mean the grieving, the wedding, the training, the battle….then all the surprises!!! WHOLLY BOOGERS!!!
It’s one action pack moment after another! I guess that’s why this reader had to devour this book in less than a DAY!!! I mean it’s a battle to save the Emperor….you know the one that’s supposed to be dead….
They have to train Reece…can she handle it…Are their “New Friends”…. friends or foe….does Harrison live….Does Levi live…heck do they all die….(I can’t give all the details away, I can say I can’t believe the ending….Really???? He doesn’t know??? That’s HORRID!!!! OMG!!! HARRISON!!!! NO WAY!!!!!)
I’m so in LOVE with how much Levi LOVES Reece. It’s beyond words. I was a little on edge with how Ms. Morgan was to handle the “Big Wedding Night”, this being a children’s/young adult book, however she did so with such grace and dignity it spoke volumes of her values and morals. I highly respect her for that. It gave even more depth to her character’s Levi and Reece’s total devotion to each other. It was beyond measure.
Of course what’s an Ancient Guardian book without Harrison Oxley. My truly favorite of all the characters. I will always hold him in the deepest part of my heart. He makes it known in this book that he is a changed man, in many ways. Some which will surprise long time readers. Just let it be known I soooooo would have thrown Harrison’s sister out of that carriage SO FAST!!! Wouldn’t even have thought twice about it!!!!
The story which picks up from the last book doesn’t leave the reader wanting more until the very last page, when the reader is left desiring a FOURTH BOOK! As we are left with a lot of unanswered questions..questions that need to be answered.
So, I’ll sit here and wait as I torture Ms. Morgan to write faster for the next book, as I have to know…..What happens next!!!!

[Sara L · Rating 4 out of 5]

I cannot get enough adventure and humor from The Ancient Guardians Series and S.L. Morgan's third book, The Awakening was no exception. What intriguing twists and ideas she thought of! Following Harrison around on his personal journey was certainly my favorite part. (Two words, Robin Hood-- HILARIOUS!)

Although romance isn't for me, this series could easily serve as a gateway into the Science Fiction/Fantasy realm who like old fashioned romances or vice-versa.

Looking forward to the next two volumes! Keep up the great work S.L. Morgan!

[Mary Valerie Stroh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Superb

Once again, Ms. Morgan grabs our attention & doesn't let go. The exquisite detail woven throughout her novels, transports the reader into the time, place & emotional drama of the characters. The tastefully written romance between Reece & Levi allows the reader to use their own imagination (thank you).

FINAL NOTE: my heart is screaming NNNOOO, my mind says "more please".

[Chris Yorgason · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another brilliant installment in the Ancient Guardians trilogy. Ms. Morgan has done a very nice job creating new worlds, and even new galaxies, in which her characters live and breathe. Reece and Levi are easy to get to know and like, though I admit that Harrison is my most favorite character. There are surprises in this one, including the ending, but it is a good clean novel for anyone who likes a little romance, a little adventure and even a little science-fiction.

[Holly · Rating 5 out of 5]

I can not WAIT for the next book in this series. It was well written and draws the reader in from the start. It is about alternate universes, and people from alternate universes that want to save us, and others that want to destroy us. A charachter that thought she was human, is the lead charachter, and she rocks. This is such a unique series, start at book one...you won't be sad you did.

[Jo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Even better than the first two books! Another reviewer said that Levi was her book boyfriend. I have to say I can understand that but would probably prefer Harrison for mine!
I love the romance/marriage of Reece and Levi, but even more powerful for me was Harrison 's transformation because of Angeline - similar to Benedick in Much Ado About Nothing!
I was totally engrossed with this story, and totally unprepared for the final chapter and the epilogue.
I can't wait for book 4!

[Shirley McLain · Rating 5 out of 5]

I finished the three book series last night and all I can say is WOW!! I want more. These are well-written books that hook you and carry you all the way through and leave you hunting for the 4th book. The story line and characters are great and well developed. You get to know each of the characters. The author did an excellent job with this story.

[Tami Moore · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was given this book by the author in exchange for an honest review and I can honestly say that the wait for book 3 is well worth it! Everyone loves a love story and this one continues with plenty of surprises!

[Carla Dulzaides · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow. What can I say this book was the best of all three. The relation between Levi and Reece grow stronger every day. Harrison love him in this book. His is my favorite. Now I hope the the next two books comes out soon because I don't know if I can wait this long to know what is going to happen.

[Ellen T. Barrett · Rating 5 out of 5]

Best book yet in this series!

I look forward to the next book as this one left me wondering so many questions. It is so fun to read a book and become so entangled with the characters that you can't wait for the next book to arrive. My impatient self says hurry I can hardly wAit.

[Levi Jennings · Rating 5 out of 5]

Outstanding

My preference in reading material tends to lean more towards what some would term as action packed space operas. This book was more of a love story but very well written.

[Patricia F McLaughlin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ready for the next book in this series!

Didn't want the story to end after the 1st book. Then couldn't put the 2nd one down. The 3rd one was even better. Anxiously waiting on #4 in this series!

[Erin Samolinski · Rating 5 out of 5]

We need book 4!!! ❤️❤️❤️

[Roxanna Kokali Burns · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was the best!

I couldn't put it down I wanted to be in the fight, and encourage Reece. I cried when I thought about Levi all must dying. Please is there a another book?

[Megan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love this series! This is a great book! I loved the storyline in this book. Reeces training and hearing more from Harrison. Excited for the upcoming book!!!!

[Jennifer Showalter - · Rating 5 out of 5]

Angels singing... it was that good. And the ending? Holy Sweet Mother of Cliffhangers.

[Gladys Garcia · Rating 5 out of 5]

The best book of the series.

What a book. Incredible. I cannot wait for the next one. Congratulations. S.L. Morgan, for such a great book. Will be waiting for the next book.

[Catherine · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good

Did not want to stop reading this book
Adventure and romance combined, magic, portals to other dimensions and other galaxies

[Karen Gatenby · Rating 5 out of 5]

Can't wait to find out what will happen next.

[Deb Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

LOVED it& cannot wait for the next book ...as they say in curling ...HURRY

[Paula · Rating 5 out of 5]

I need the next book, pronto!

[kkaybotaol.com · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, ok where is book 4

I am truly enjoying this series. I am impatiently looking for book 4. I have to find out what happens to Levi and Reece.

[Joanie Standridge · Rating 4 out of 5]

Agh! Hanging in suspense until the 4th book releases! I really like this series. I look forward to seeing what happens next and how this series will wrap up.

[Catherine · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the most awesome books I've ever read. Left me dying for more

[Ann Babcock · Rating 5 out of 5]

GREAT SERIES!! I can't wait for the 4th book!!!