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Covencraft #1
Trial By Fire
Jade leads a structured life:
Routine job. Caffeine addiction. No serious relationships. And now, she can spontaneously set things on fire with her mind.
Well... perhaps “normal” was never in the cards for her. As she questions her own sanity and spirals out of control, a man appears on her doorstep and tells her that, like him, she’s a witch.
Pulled in all directions, her unbridled magic draws dangerous attention and Jade wonders if she’s made the worst mistake of her life by joining a coven, or if she’ll even live long enough to regret it.
Routine job. Caffeine addiction. No serious relationships. And now, she can spontaneously set things on fire with her mind.
Well... perhaps “normal” was never in the cards for her. As she questions her own sanity and spirals out of control, a man appears on her doorstep and tells her that, like him, she’s a witch.
Pulled in all directions, her unbridled magic draws dangerous attention and Jade wonders if she’s made the worst mistake of her life by joining a coven, or if she’ll even live long enough to regret it.
329 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 25, 2013
56 people are currently reading
2046 people want to read
About the author
Margarita Gakis
8 books84 followersMargarita loves the art, creativity and romanticism of storytelling. Sometimes, however, the act of putting pen to paper proves challenging, elusive. She develops genuine, relatable characters which grow in the hearts of her readers. From that foundation, the stories flourish into a warm friend.
She enjoys pursuits which blur the lines between the analytical and creative sides of her brain. This includes her day job in electronic data management, where she uses her creativity to solve logical problems, and also her lessons learning to play the cello, where she finds beauty in the structure of music and the instrument. She believes there is a place for both logic and imagination to work together. When they do, the results are magical.
Margarita has a special spot in her heart for dogs and lives with three of them. It can be a little overwhelming but the quality snuggle time makes up for it.
She lives in Calgary, Alberta with her family.
She enjoys pursuits which blur the lines between the analytical and creative sides of her brain. This includes her day job in electronic data management, where she uses her creativity to solve logical problems, and also her lessons learning to play the cello, where she finds beauty in the structure of music and the instrument. She believes there is a place for both logic and imagination to work together. When they do, the results are magical.
Margarita has a special spot in her heart for dogs and lives with three of them. It can be a little overwhelming but the quality snuggle time makes up for it.
She lives in Calgary, Alberta with her family.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
May 27, 2013
Just finished reading this book. It was a lot of fun and very easy to read. It really took off after the third chapter, after that i didn't want to stop reading. Jade is one of the most intelligent and strongest characters, that I have met in a novel. The book had me laughing and feeling seriously creeped out about my pantry! While the book came to a satisfying end it has left the door open for a sequel. Can't wait to read more about Jade and Paris (loved the McDonalds scene) and find out just who exactly is Lily. The author definitely has a talent in crafting strong characters who you wish we're your best friends and painting vividly detailed scenes that make you feel as though you are "right there". Can't wait for more Covencraft novels!
August 5, 2013
While the novel had a good premise, there were just some things that didn’t work for me. While the first half was great, the second half took a major nosedive. The ending wasn’t that great. Talk about anti-climactic. As for the characters, I couldn’t get a clear handle on their ages. This is probably due to the fact that they all lacked character development. I thought the female protagonist, Jade, came across as rude, abrupt, childish, immature and often angry. She didn’t come across as remorseful for some of her actions. One thing that didn’t make sense - it’s pretty obvious to everyone that Jade had a very traumatic childhood. So why did the witches not complete a full background check on Jade when they were trying to find out more about her as that’s what they do? You’d think that at least Paris (seriously? the guy’s name is Paris? Cue eye roll) would have delved into it. And let’s consider this - they’re witches! You’d think a spell of some kind would give them more information with the whole see all, hear all, and know all crap. Out of everyone, the only person who I found interesting was Seth which is unfortunate as he barely makes a presence. “Trial by Fire” is book one in “The Covencraft” series. I don’t think I’ll be checking out book two when it comes out. I’m going to have to give this one a pass.
May 8, 2014
* I received this book in exchange for an honest review *
I really enjoyed this book. The references to Magick and witchcraft are so spot on. I enjoy a book that gets that part right(Cheers to the author). The main character,Jade, could be one of my friends, she is down to Earth and so relatable. I like the way she thinks and talks.I wasn't expecting the protagonist to be who it was, I thought she may get betrayed by someone closer to her. Paris is a great character also and Callie and Henri have stolen my heart as friends. I would greatly recommend this book for anyone who is interested in Magick.(Spelled with a K to differentiate between on stage magicians and Wicca).
I really enjoyed this book. The references to Magick and witchcraft are so spot on. I enjoy a book that gets that part right(Cheers to the author). The main character,Jade, could be one of my friends, she is down to Earth and so relatable. I like the way she thinks and talks.I wasn't expecting the protagonist to be who it was, I thought she may get betrayed by someone closer to her. Paris is a great character also and Callie and Henri have stolen my heart as friends. I would greatly recommend this book for anyone who is interested in Magick.(Spelled with a K to differentiate between on stage magicians and Wicca).
June 11, 2013
Excellent! I loved this book and all of the characters! I can not wait for the next book in this series. This book was so well written, I couldn't put it down. Well worth your time.
May 26, 2014
[ I recieved an e-book copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. ]
I have to say, Trial by Fire is a pretty good book. It is really well-written. With all the action and humor, not once do things get boring in this book.
I was also surprised to find out that there was no romance involved in this book. The plot was focused mainly on friendship, trust, and finding a place where you truly belong. I noticed some subtle hints though, in which it seemed like Jade is starting to like Paris. Which is a good thing, if it happens that there would be some romance involved later on in the series. I'd prefer if it would happen naturally, unlike the plot of some of those insta-love rubbish I sometimes read.
What I didn't like about this book, is that aside from Jade, the other characters have very little to none character development. I also hated the pacing. Funny how the climax was just squeezed in there like it was nothing.
Overall, I'll give this book four stars since I could say that I somehow enjoyed reading it. I'm really looking forward to reading what happens next.
I have to say, Trial by Fire is a pretty good book. It is really well-written. With all the action and humor, not once do things get boring in this book.
I was also surprised to find out that there was no romance involved in this book. The plot was focused mainly on friendship, trust, and finding a place where you truly belong. I noticed some subtle hints though, in which it seemed like Jade is starting to like Paris. Which is a good thing, if it happens that there would be some romance involved later on in the series. I'd prefer if it would happen naturally, unlike the plot of some of those insta-love rubbish I sometimes read.
What I didn't like about this book, is that aside from Jade, the other characters have very little to none character development. I also hated the pacing. Funny how the climax was just squeezed in there like it was nothing.
Overall, I'll give this book four stars since I could say that I somehow enjoyed reading it. I'm really looking forward to reading what happens next.
May 26, 2013
I loved it!! Great, strong female lead. Loved that.
April 12, 2019
Jade suddenly develops the ability to set things on fire . She has no idea what's happening. Her magic catches the eye of the local coven. Apparently, witches have to be part of the coven. The local coven leader, Paris, finds Jade and convinces her to try the coven out. She doesn't know it, but if she decides not to stay with the coven, Paris has to take her magic. Jade is very powerful and Paris is worried that he will kill her in the process.
Jade has serious PTSD. She has a shadowy past that includes someone named Lily, she hates being touched or grabbed, she wants to be on her own, she needs to make her own decisions, etc. She goes it alone so no one can hurt her again. I found her emotions and actions very believable and well drawn. She manages to make friends with Paris' best friend and the awesome receptionist. Jade has very strong boundaries and old protective habits. Over the course of the five (hopefully soon to be six) books, Jade develops better coping strategies, but for now keeping people at arms length and making all her own decisions is her go to way of coping. Here's a sample of her early conversations with Paris:
Paris: "I won't let anything hurt you." She turned her back on his earnest eyes and committed tone and stalked up the stairs, calling her shoulder as she did. [Jade] "Again, pass. I don't let anyone or anything hurt me. You're just going along for the ride." She says no and means it. Jade asks intelligent questions when someone is trying to talk her into something.
Once Jade gets to the coven she has to get tested. She doesn't want to be fussed with, but she's talked into going to the test. She is weak with earth, water, and air, but extremely strong with fire and in general. Dr. Gellar wants to do more tests, but Jade has all she can take with being the subject of so much attention and bails.
She moves into a small home owned by the coven. A demon appears in her bedroom. This, understandably freaks Jade out. Seth, the demon, tries to talk Jade into making a deal with him, but she's no dumb bunny and refuses. However, the whole episode makes her suspicious of the coven. Why wasn't she warned? It's because demons are very rare, but Jade doesn't know this.
Paris, the hero, is very much a beta hero despite being the coven leader. He understands and respects Jade's obsessive need to control her life. There is one thing about him that I'm confused about. Maybe I missed something, but why does he have a British accent? He mom did, but Paris grew up in the coven so what's with the accent?
This is a very slow burn romance, but the books are so good I didn't have a problem with it. The plot is interesting and this book was really enjoyable.
There are a lot of typos in all five books in the series. I wish the author would find someone else to proofread it.
Jade has serious PTSD. She has a shadowy past that includes someone named Lily, she hates being touched or grabbed, she wants to be on her own, she needs to make her own decisions, etc. She goes it alone so no one can hurt her again. I found her emotions and actions very believable and well drawn. She manages to make friends with Paris' best friend and the awesome receptionist. Jade has very strong boundaries and old protective habits. Over the course of the five (hopefully soon to be six) books, Jade develops better coping strategies, but for now keeping people at arms length and making all her own decisions is her go to way of coping. Here's a sample of her early conversations with Paris:
Paris: "I won't let anything hurt you." She turned her back on his earnest eyes and committed tone and stalked up the stairs, calling her shoulder as she did. [Jade] "Again, pass. I don't let anyone or anything hurt me. You're just going along for the ride." She says no and means it. Jade asks intelligent questions when someone is trying to talk her into something.
Once Jade gets to the coven she has to get tested. She doesn't want to be fussed with, but she's talked into going to the test. She is weak with earth, water, and air, but extremely strong with fire and in general. Dr. Gellar wants to do more tests, but Jade has all she can take with being the subject of so much attention and bails.
She moves into a small home owned by the coven. A demon appears in her bedroom. This, understandably freaks Jade out. Seth, the demon, tries to talk Jade into making a deal with him, but she's no dumb bunny and refuses. However, the whole episode makes her suspicious of the coven. Why wasn't she warned? It's because demons are very rare, but Jade doesn't know this.
Paris, the hero, is very much a beta hero despite being the coven leader. He understands and respects Jade's obsessive need to control her life. There is one thing about him that I'm confused about. Maybe I missed something, but why does he have a British accent? He mom did, but Paris grew up in the coven so what's with the accent?
This is a very slow burn romance, but the books are so good I didn't have a problem with it. The plot is interesting and this book was really enjoyable.
There are a lot of typos in all five books in the series. I wish the author would find someone else to proofread it.
d-n-f
January 5, 2019This girl is suuuch a bitch. DNF @ 13%
November 5, 2014
Trail By Fire (Covencraft #1)
Jade had a very routine life; nothing out of place & everything down to schedule. Lately, she's been having some issues. Nothing big...just the ability to start fires. Maybe it's stress or not enough sleep or diet, but she's trying to keep things under wrap. Out of the blue, this guy just shows up at her door & gives her the truth - WITCH. Now, she has so many decisions to make about her life; trust this stranger and move away to join a coven? Sounds crazy, but so is starting fires with just a thought. But, unfortunately, this is just the beginning.
'The longer she sat there, the more she convinced herself that there couldn't possibly be anything supernatural or bizarre going on. She just needed to get more sleep or learn to relax or something.
People couldn't just become pyrokinetic. The Universe didn't work that way.'
I loved the Jade character, just a no nonsense, straight forward person. Some past issues, but who doesn't have them? The interaction with all of the characters is just entertaining. This whole book was just that - very entertaining. Can't wait to read the next one!
Jade had a very routine life; nothing out of place & everything down to schedule. Lately, she's been having some issues. Nothing big...just the ability to start fires. Maybe it's stress or not enough sleep or diet, but she's trying to keep things under wrap. Out of the blue, this guy just shows up at her door & gives her the truth - WITCH. Now, she has so many decisions to make about her life; trust this stranger and move away to join a coven? Sounds crazy, but so is starting fires with just a thought. But, unfortunately, this is just the beginning.
'The longer she sat there, the more she convinced herself that there couldn't possibly be anything supernatural or bizarre going on. She just needed to get more sleep or learn to relax or something.
People couldn't just become pyrokinetic. The Universe didn't work that way.'
I loved the Jade character, just a no nonsense, straight forward person. Some past issues, but who doesn't have them? The interaction with all of the characters is just entertaining. This whole book was just that - very entertaining. Can't wait to read the next one!
December 27, 2014
This book is incompetent in all areas. The protagonist reads like a character pulled directly from the Mary Sue test, with a “piercing, intense stare." She acts rude to other characters and authority figures without getting into trouble. Paris’s POV only exists so he can talk to other characters about how awesome the protagonist is at magic, as while she’s new at magic, she’s one of the strongest witches ever and can do things that make the other characters gape. The antagonist is against her out of jealousy because she’s great at everything.
The plot doesn’t show up until halfway through the book. The first half is a slog, and while the the second half moves quicker, the plot is executed clumsily. The mystery is about who in the Coven is against Jade and at the end it’s revealed… It’s some guy who’s never been mentioned before. No questions are answered, and little thought has been put into this world. The prose is a bit better, but it’s drowning with fancy dialogue tags and ‘ly’ adverbs.
Perhaps the author gets better in the next book, but this one is bad.
The plot doesn’t show up until halfway through the book. The first half is a slog, and while the the second half moves quicker, the plot is executed clumsily. The mystery is about who in the Coven is against Jade and at the end it’s revealed… It’s some guy who’s never been mentioned before. No questions are answered, and little thought has been put into this world. The prose is a bit better, but it’s drowning with fancy dialogue tags and ‘ly’ adverbs.
Perhaps the author gets better in the next book, but this one is bad.
could-not-finish
November 18, 2016Why, oh, why did this happen to me?
This book seemed so awesome and a big part of it was.
It's just that I could't finish it. I read 70% of it and I really expected to fall in love with this series but there was one aspect that annoyed the crap out of me and I just gave up. Sorry.
This book seemed so awesome and a big part of it was.
It's just that I could't finish it. I read 70% of it and I really expected to fall in love with this series but there was one aspect that annoyed the crap out of me and I just gave up. Sorry.
October 18, 2014
I read this book after it showed up deeply discounted on Amazon. Let's just say I'm glad I didn't pay full price for it. The protagonist was not believable due to the extreme level of immaturity she showed throughout the book. She was petulant and rude to almost everyone and I found her distinctly obnoxious. I almost placed the book down more than once due to the multiple tantrums she threw. I also was very disappointed with the climax of the book. The author invested hundred of pages in buildup and then it was over in the blink of an eye with no real development for the villain. Last but not least this book left way too many loose ends for my taste. I recognize that it is the first book in a series so this is undoubtedly supposed to pull me into the second one but this one was so terrible I won't be continuing.
July 21, 2016
I do not like this book, hence the one star. It has potential, the premise and the back stories but the heroine was just too unbearable for me. I started reading this book about 4 months ago and put it down because I was getting slightly annoyed with her. I found myself giving it another chance yesterday and coming to the realization that the main character is just a plain bitch. She is insensitive and inconsiderate. Yes, she has a past, a past that I can not relate with so I guess I have no room to judge but she was just rude to those who only wanted the best for her and just wanted to help her. She was so full of hate, and refused to let anyone in and many of the characters had good intentions.
Who knows, maybe I'll pick the book back up again a year from now and find she turned her life around for the better, but for now my opinion has not and will not change.
Who knows, maybe I'll pick the book back up again a year from now and find she turned her life around for the better, but for now my opinion has not and will not change.
July 6, 2013
Exciting and full of humour. I really enjoyed it!
May 11, 2020
Hey guys, check out my novel that will submerge you into a world of slow-burning romance full of angels and demons.
https://www.wattpad.com/story/1552060...
Natalia was a young adult who's angelic powers were about to be unlocked to a whole new level. She was born with the gift of controlling fire- thanks to her father-and she resembled his beautiful looks which would always get her into trouble. Her life was on the verge of turning upside down when a mysterious fallen angel was out to get her and when her terrible past was catching up with her.
Training in the Academy in LA nearly all her life to fight demons, a visit from an archangel was rare, especially if that archangel was the notorious womanizing Gabriel, who was part of an angel organisation called the Enforcement- which she loathed- and he wanted her for an ultimate motive that he wouldn't easily share.
In a world full of angels, and demons, Natalia was about to find out her purpose in all the arising chaos.
https://www.wattpad.com/story/1552060...
https://www.wattpad.com/story/1552060...
Natalia was a young adult who's angelic powers were about to be unlocked to a whole new level. She was born with the gift of controlling fire- thanks to her father-and she resembled his beautiful looks which would always get her into trouble. Her life was on the verge of turning upside down when a mysterious fallen angel was out to get her and when her terrible past was catching up with her.
Training in the Academy in LA nearly all her life to fight demons, a visit from an archangel was rare, especially if that archangel was the notorious womanizing Gabriel, who was part of an angel organisation called the Enforcement- which she loathed- and he wanted her for an ultimate motive that he wouldn't easily share.
In a world full of angels, and demons, Natalia was about to find out her purpose in all the arising chaos.
https://www.wattpad.com/story/1552060...
November 13, 2017
Trial By Fire is a 3 1/2 star for me. I won an autographed copy on Goodreads. It's YA with no romance from lead characters (maybe further down the road in future books but not this one.)
Jade reminds me of a Jersey girl with an attitude and Paris the old fashioned stickler that likes when he can control the situation. Jade is someone he can't control from her actions, words, behavior and definitely not her witchcraft.
I am use to first book in series to lay down the back history so things make sense. What I found myself doing is rolling my eyes at repetitive parts and with more questions than answers. I would like to read book two to hopefully get the answers and will make my impression of the series after that.
This book would be good for young adults into witches and demons. It isn't obvious how old any of the characters are outside the fact they work.
Jade reminds me of a Jersey girl with an attitude and Paris the old fashioned stickler that likes when he can control the situation. Jade is someone he can't control from her actions, words, behavior and definitely not her witchcraft.
I am use to first book in series to lay down the back history so things make sense. What I found myself doing is rolling my eyes at repetitive parts and with more questions than answers. I would like to read book two to hopefully get the answers and will make my impression of the series after that.
This book would be good for young adults into witches and demons. It isn't obvious how old any of the characters are outside the fact they work.
June 21, 2017
Witches and Demons Oh My!
Fantastic read! Jade, a young woman with basically no friends and a secret past has stArted to spontaneously start fires. A Strange man, Paris, shows up at her door and tells her she's a witch. And now the fun begins! A well written book with lots of twists and turns and mystery galore! Warning, very addicting!
Fantastic read! Jade, a young woman with basically no friends and a secret past has stArted to spontaneously start fires. A Strange man, Paris, shows up at her door and tells her she's a witch. And now the fun begins! A well written book with lots of twists and turns and mystery galore! Warning, very addicting!
October 5, 2017
I liked Jade and her inner strength and the ability to say and do what she wants, she has a backbone which i don’t see that often anymore. And i really liked Paris too. Seth was an interesting character that i want to know more about. This was a good read, i was surprised to find this book didn’t focus on romance, very refreshing!
November 16, 2017
Won as a goodreads giveway. An enjoyable and easy read, with a focus on friendship. Would recommend for a YA reader who enjoys supernatural tales.
July 12, 2018
Trial by Fire
What to do and how to react when accidentally starting fires by magic? Humour goes a long way with the irreverent new witch.
What to do and how to react when accidentally starting fires by magic? Humour goes a long way with the irreverent new witch.
October 31, 2018
Most unique protagonist I've read in a long time. Reads like a dream. Loved it.
May 27, 2014
3.5 Stars
I received a copy of this in exchange for an honest review.
When receiving novels for free, I try to be considerate of the fact that I’m receiving it out of the goodness of the author's heart. So, I will usually pick genres that I’m sure I’m going to enjoy. If not, I’ll pass and let another reviewer go for the book. This is YA and had magic, and I thought that’d be enough for me. Unfortunately it ended up being pretty meh to me.
Trial by Fire follows Jade, a young woman coming into her magic later in life. She didn’t grow up with a coven, and she would definitely not consider herself a witch. However, she’s setting fires when she’s angry, so you know, becoming a witch is happening to her. In her world, there are rules when it comes to magic and witches, namely that the magic can’t be unsanctioned and witches need to be a part of covens. Because her powers are just now happening to her, Jade was unknowingly using her magic and was considered a rogue witch. Enter Paris.
He’s the leader of a coven and is sent by The Council to collect and have Jade join his coven, or be stripped of her powers. Paris finds and brings Jade to his Coven, and then the plot thickens.
Someone at the Coven is mighty jealous of Jade’s immense powers, and while she’s unfocused and untrained, the jealous bitch...witch, has decided to work with a demon and take said powers from Jade. Now, I’ve seen enough Supernatural to know that working with demons never works out well for anyone.
Jade, Paris and a couple of other witches Jade meets at the Coven (the awesome Henri and Callie) must research and stop this witch from taking her powers. They work together to keep the demon at bay, keep Jade alive, and try to figure out what the hell is going on.
Sounds decent enough, and it was an OK story. Trial by Fire is not the best written novel that I’ve read, nor are the plots or characters all that unique, but it kept me relatively entertained.
Likes
--YA but no romance!
--The OCs - Henri and Callie were excellent, and I loved them.
--Paris - a bit of an uptight, old fashioned witch, but I liked him.
--The banter. There’s some good dialogue that kept me grinning; Jade definitely has a decent personality.
--Seth - a demon that helps Jade out.
Dislikes
--Jade is just so super unique. She’s a special snowflake - learns magic uber quickly, has a photographic memory, easily the most powerful witch at the Coven with absolutely no training, has a secret past that’s completely damaged her - you know, the traditional Mary Sue. I hated it, and by extension, her. That type of character building absolutely destroyed any likability for Jade that I could of had.
--Background information - Normally a first book in a series has world building but Trial by Fire was absolutely lacking here.
--Formatting - I received this copy as a PDF, and the formatting was a bit wonky for me. I couldn’t read it on my tablet which was a bummer, and on the computer the paragraphs were still kind of scrunched together, no spacing in between them. Sometimes chapters would begin at the very bottom or a page. It was just an awkward reading experience, visually.
Ending thoughts: I’ve read more interesting YA this year, but this was decent. If you like fantasy/witch based novels, maybe give it a shot. I’m personally not sure if I’ll continue the series. It had an interesting ending, and if I cared more about Jade, I’d have absolutely been hooked, but I don’t, so I’m not.
I received a copy of this in exchange for an honest review.
When receiving novels for free, I try to be considerate of the fact that I’m receiving it out of the goodness of the author's heart. So, I will usually pick genres that I’m sure I’m going to enjoy. If not, I’ll pass and let another reviewer go for the book. This is YA and had magic, and I thought that’d be enough for me. Unfortunately it ended up being pretty meh to me.
Trial by Fire follows Jade, a young woman coming into her magic later in life. She didn’t grow up with a coven, and she would definitely not consider herself a witch. However, she’s setting fires when she’s angry, so you know, becoming a witch is happening to her. In her world, there are rules when it comes to magic and witches, namely that the magic can’t be unsanctioned and witches need to be a part of covens. Because her powers are just now happening to her, Jade was unknowingly using her magic and was considered a rogue witch. Enter Paris.
He’s the leader of a coven and is sent by The Council to collect and have Jade join his coven, or be stripped of her powers. Paris finds and brings Jade to his Coven, and then the plot thickens.
Someone at the Coven is mighty jealous of Jade’s immense powers, and while she’s unfocused and untrained, the jealous bitch...witch, has decided to work with a demon and take said powers from Jade. Now, I’ve seen enough Supernatural to know that working with demons never works out well for anyone.
Jade, Paris and a couple of other witches Jade meets at the Coven (the awesome Henri and Callie) must research and stop this witch from taking her powers. They work together to keep the demon at bay, keep Jade alive, and try to figure out what the hell is going on.
Sounds decent enough, and it was an OK story. Trial by Fire is not the best written novel that I’ve read, nor are the plots or characters all that unique, but it kept me relatively entertained.
Likes
--YA but no romance!
--The OCs - Henri and Callie were excellent, and I loved them.
--Paris - a bit of an uptight, old fashioned witch, but I liked him.
--The banter. There’s some good dialogue that kept me grinning; Jade definitely has a decent personality.
--Seth - a demon that helps Jade out.
Dislikes
--Jade is just so super unique. She’s a special snowflake - learns magic uber quickly, has a photographic memory, easily the most powerful witch at the Coven with absolutely no training, has a secret past that’s completely damaged her - you know, the traditional Mary Sue. I hated it, and by extension, her. That type of character building absolutely destroyed any likability for Jade that I could of had.
--Background information - Normally a first book in a series has world building but Trial by Fire was absolutely lacking here.
--Formatting - I received this copy as a PDF, and the formatting was a bit wonky for me. I couldn’t read it on my tablet which was a bummer, and on the computer the paragraphs were still kind of scrunched together, no spacing in between them. Sometimes chapters would begin at the very bottom or a page. It was just an awkward reading experience, visually.
Ending thoughts: I’ve read more interesting YA this year, but this was decent. If you like fantasy/witch based novels, maybe give it a shot. I’m personally not sure if I’ll continue the series. It had an interesting ending, and if I cared more about Jade, I’d have absolutely been hooked, but I don’t, so I’m not.
November 15, 2024
Jade is having a terrible week since discovering she can start fires with her wayward thoughts. Continually setting off the smoke detectors at home and at work, she's struggling to understand what the hell is going on - and how she can control it.
The supernatural world is stunned to find reports of a new witch. One born outside of the Covens with no apparent familial link, an adult and possessing an extreme amount of power. Of course the only thing to do is to track her down and that job is left to the leader of the local Coven, Paris to convince Jade that joining the Coven is the best thing for her - since the alternative is being stripped of her powers.
Trial by Fire is a tongue in cheek take on the special snowflakes of young adult fiction. It's not reinventing the wheel but the writing flows well, the plot is interesting and the characters are fantastic.
Jade was awesome. Jade is easily one of the strongest heroines I've ever read. It's not just that she's tough and brave, but she doesn't do really stupid things and take unnecessary risks and it's strangely addictive reading about a character who not only can protect herself, but knows when she can't. The self preservation was strong in this one and I rated it. On the other hand, she's as prickly as a porcupine, prone to emotional tantrums and irreverent to her new situation. And for me, it just worked. I also really loved her dependence on technology and her interest in bringing the Coven up to date with the modern world. The blend between modern and fantasy brought a new dynamic to the plot and I really enjoyed it.
Paris was an interesting contrast to Jade. He's calm, conservative and a little awkward and the dynamic between the two worked well. The snark and sass always gets me. There's no romance which was a bit refreshing but just tentative friendships and looking for somewhere to belong. Henri and Callie were both warm and welcoming and I liked how they both worked to bring Jade and even Paris, out of their shells.
The plot was straightforward but contained enough action to keep me entertained and I loved the worldbuilding. I'm looking forward to learning more about the magic and how it fits in with Jade's own powers. The villain was more of a peripheral focus than a main player but that wasn't a dealbreaker for me. I was more preoccupied with the world building than who was behind it all. I was amused at Jade naming
This does touch on some sensitive topics, child abuse, trauma and sexual assault to some degree, but the full weight of those topics are only briefly explored and will perhaps be dealt with later in the series. Jade's backstory is hinted and prodded at but is left for further development.
Overall, I really enjoyed it and will definitely read the rest of the series. As far as my rating goes, it's probably more of a 4 stars in terms of quality but my enjoyment gave it an extra bit of star. So 4.5 stars, rounded to 5 stars.
The supernatural world is stunned to find reports of a new witch. One born outside of the Covens with no apparent familial link, an adult and possessing an extreme amount of power. Of course the only thing to do is to track her down and that job is left to the leader of the local Coven, Paris to convince Jade that joining the Coven is the best thing for her - since the alternative is being stripped of her powers.
Trial by Fire is a tongue in cheek take on the special snowflakes of young adult fiction. It's not reinventing the wheel but the writing flows well, the plot is interesting and the characters are fantastic.
Jade was awesome. Jade is easily one of the strongest heroines I've ever read. It's not just that she's tough and brave, but she doesn't do really stupid things and take unnecessary risks and it's strangely addictive reading about a character who not only can protect herself, but knows when she can't. The self preservation was strong in this one and I rated it. On the other hand, she's as prickly as a porcupine, prone to emotional tantrums and irreverent to her new situation. And for me, it just worked. I also really loved her dependence on technology and her interest in bringing the Coven up to date with the modern world. The blend between modern and fantasy brought a new dynamic to the plot and I really enjoyed it.
Paris was an interesting contrast to Jade. He's calm, conservative and a little awkward and the dynamic between the two worked well. The snark and sass always gets me. There's no romance which was a bit refreshing but just tentative friendships and looking for somewhere to belong. Henri and Callie were both warm and welcoming and I liked how they both worked to bring Jade and even Paris, out of their shells.
The plot was straightforward but contained enough action to keep me entertained and I loved the worldbuilding. I'm looking forward to learning more about the magic and how it fits in with Jade's own powers. The villain was more of a peripheral focus than a main player but that wasn't a dealbreaker for me. I was more preoccupied with the world building than who was behind it all. I was amused at Jade naming
This does touch on some sensitive topics, child abuse, trauma and sexual assault to some degree, but the full weight of those topics are only briefly explored and will perhaps be dealt with later in the series. Jade's backstory is hinted and prodded at but is left for further development.
Overall, I really enjoyed it and will definitely read the rest of the series. As far as my rating goes, it's probably more of a 4 stars in terms of quality but my enjoyment gave it an extra bit of star. So 4.5 stars, rounded to 5 stars.
July 31, 2013
4.5 stars
Jade has had a hard life and made up by leaving her past behind and becoming an independent women. The only thing thats wrong in her life is the random spurts of magic and fire that keep coming out of nowhere. Its unheard of for a witch to not be apart of a coven so Paris sets out to find Jade and convince her to come with him to the coven and learn more about her powers, if she decides she doesn't want to stay its her choice to leave. Jade enjoyed being apart of the coven for a day or who until a mysterious portal shows up, demons randomly scaring her awake and trying to attack her. The only way a lesser demon can go after her is for someone with power to summon it. While Jade tries to control her powers, she and a couple friends will try to search for the traitor witch.
I really loved how easy to follow and fast paced this book was. I loved all the characters. I wish I could've know more about the whole Lilly and Jade thing. At the ending of this book it was kind of implied there was another book to this but I'm not sure yet because I haven't looked that up yet. If there is I look forward to checking that one out and learning more about Jades past. There was always something going wrong and it kept everything interesting.
This is just some random guesses I've been having on the side of Jade. I mean shes supposed to be really powerful but cannot handle large doses of power. It's very unusual for a witch to be born out of a coven. Other then the power its what led the witches to think she is a witch. Theres nothing to back this up but I was thinking maybe she could be part demon and human. So it wouldn't be a surprise being born out of a coven because she's not a witch in the first place. Maybe her demon powers are just messing with her human form making it too hard to take making her nose bleeds with headaches. Maybe because of this hypothetical demon powers she was able to unintentional able to make the portal. Or maybe one of her parents were a witch and one demon. DK. All guesses of course this is what was going through my mind while I was reading.
Overall I loved the book and think you other lovely readers out there will enjoy this book as much as I did. Highly Recommend!
Jade has had a hard life and made up by leaving her past behind and becoming an independent women. The only thing thats wrong in her life is the random spurts of magic and fire that keep coming out of nowhere. Its unheard of for a witch to not be apart of a coven so Paris sets out to find Jade and convince her to come with him to the coven and learn more about her powers, if she decides she doesn't want to stay its her choice to leave. Jade enjoyed being apart of the coven for a day or who until a mysterious portal shows up, demons randomly scaring her awake and trying to attack her. The only way a lesser demon can go after her is for someone with power to summon it. While Jade tries to control her powers, she and a couple friends will try to search for the traitor witch.
I really loved how easy to follow and fast paced this book was. I loved all the characters. I wish I could've know more about the whole Lilly and Jade thing. At the ending of this book it was kind of implied there was another book to this but I'm not sure yet because I haven't looked that up yet. If there is I look forward to checking that one out and learning more about Jades past. There was always something going wrong and it kept everything interesting.
This is just some random guesses I've been having on the side of Jade. I mean shes supposed to be really powerful but cannot handle large doses of power. It's very unusual for a witch to be born out of a coven. Other then the power its what led the witches to think she is a witch. Theres nothing to back this up but I was thinking maybe she could be part demon and human. So it wouldn't be a surprise being born out of a coven because she's not a witch in the first place. Maybe her demon powers are just messing with her human form making it too hard to take making her nose bleeds with headaches. Maybe because of this hypothetical demon powers she was able to unintentional able to make the portal. Or maybe one of her parents were a witch and one demon. DK. All guesses of course this is what was going through my mind while I was reading.
Overall I loved the book and think you other lovely readers out there will enjoy this book as much as I did. Highly Recommend!
September 2, 2015
I'll be honest, I didn't finish this one. I read 54% (about 10 chapters) before I decided I had enough. Thing is, it's not a bad book. I think a lot of people I know would enjoy it. The writing style just wasn't my cup of tea.
Trial by Fire is about a young woman named Jade who begins to randomly cause items around her to catch on fire. She doesn't know how she's doing it - until Paris, the leader of a coven of witches, arrives are her doorstep. He tells Jade that she is a very powerful witch and that she is practically hemorrhaging magic all over the place - which has caught the eye of the Council, and few bad guys who would love to get their hands on Jade's power. Paris invites Jade to join his coven so she can safely learn what it means to be a witch and control her powers. But there's a catch. If Jade decides to leave the coven, Paris will be forced to strip her of her powers, which may kill Jade in the process. You'd think Jade would chose to stay, but Jade doesn't like belonging to a group. She doesn't like rules. She wants to be the only person in charge of her life.
My biggest issue with this book is Jade. It was very difficult for me to like her. She's so immature and two-dimensional. I wanted to emphasize with her abusive past, but I just can't. It feels as though the childhood abuse was tossed in there as a cop-out excuse for Jade's bratty behavior and the author's poor character development. Paris is a saint for having the patience to deal with Jade. I just couldn't.
The pace of the plot and writing style also had me cringing in some areas. The writing is very telly and narrative. Paris reminisces about his mother in every chapter for several paragraphs and it drags. When we're not in Paris's head, the rest of the scenes are pretty fast and somewhat choppy. There's not much there in way of story development.
The good news is Trial by Fire is a light, quick, easy read. You could probably read it in a day or two, assuming you can tolerate Jade for that long. I prefer books with a bit more development to them, or at least a heroine that I can like.
Trial by Fire is about a young woman named Jade who begins to randomly cause items around her to catch on fire. She doesn't know how she's doing it - until Paris, the leader of a coven of witches, arrives are her doorstep. He tells Jade that she is a very powerful witch and that she is practically hemorrhaging magic all over the place - which has caught the eye of the Council, and few bad guys who would love to get their hands on Jade's power. Paris invites Jade to join his coven so she can safely learn what it means to be a witch and control her powers. But there's a catch. If Jade decides to leave the coven, Paris will be forced to strip her of her powers, which may kill Jade in the process. You'd think Jade would chose to stay, but Jade doesn't like belonging to a group. She doesn't like rules. She wants to be the only person in charge of her life.
My biggest issue with this book is Jade. It was very difficult for me to like her. She's so immature and two-dimensional. I wanted to emphasize with her abusive past, but I just can't. It feels as though the childhood abuse was tossed in there as a cop-out excuse for Jade's bratty behavior and the author's poor character development. Paris is a saint for having the patience to deal with Jade. I just couldn't.
The pace of the plot and writing style also had me cringing in some areas. The writing is very telly and narrative. Paris reminisces about his mother in every chapter for several paragraphs and it drags. When we're not in Paris's head, the rest of the scenes are pretty fast and somewhat choppy. There's not much there in way of story development.
The good news is Trial by Fire is a light, quick, easy read. You could probably read it in a day or two, assuming you can tolerate Jade for that long. I prefer books with a bit more development to them, or at least a heroine that I can like.
August 22, 2013
I won a copy on Goodreads Firstreads.
Trial By Fire took me by surprise. I was expecting something like Stephen King's Firestarter. But it was nothing like that. Jade lives a very routined life and that is the way she likes it. So when things start spontaneously catching fire, it freaks her out. It sounds like magic but she knows she can't be a witch. Witches are born into covens. Then members of acoven show up and say they can help her. Reluctily agreeing to give it a try, Jade is still nervous. When her magic draws uninvited attention from a dangerous source, she really wonders if she made the right choice.
Jade is a great character. She is strong both in her magic and her personality. At the same time, she is very vulnerable. She doesn't like relying on anyone else and doesn't like to be bullied into anything that she doesn't want to do. She doesn't back down even in a situation where she is overwhelmed. The other characters in the book are also well-developed and interesting for the most part.
The world created by Margarita Gakis is interesting, but there is plenty of room for it to be explored. The magic system seems simple and natural while at the same time leaving enough leeway for more things to happen. I am sure the other supernatural creatures and magic will be explored in upcoming volumes in the series.
On a scale of 0(none) to 10(constant), language would score a 3 and printing glitches would get a 1. Most of the language comes from Jade who tends to use stronger language when she gets excited for whatever reason. Since Jade has several harrowing moments, she tends to cuss a lot. As for print glitches, the gremlins only managed 3 or 4 errors in the entire book.
This is the first book in the new series. It is a standalone story. There are several threads that are used as posiible setups for later books. This is an easy recommendation for fans of urban fantasties. One thing that might stop some people is that there is no sex in the book for a change. Personally I welcomed the change.
Trial By Fire took me by surprise. I was expecting something like Stephen King's Firestarter. But it was nothing like that. Jade lives a very routined life and that is the way she likes it. So when things start spontaneously catching fire, it freaks her out. It sounds like magic but she knows she can't be a witch. Witches are born into covens. Then members of acoven show up and say they can help her. Reluctily agreeing to give it a try, Jade is still nervous. When her magic draws uninvited attention from a dangerous source, she really wonders if she made the right choice.
Jade is a great character. She is strong both in her magic and her personality. At the same time, she is very vulnerable. She doesn't like relying on anyone else and doesn't like to be bullied into anything that she doesn't want to do. She doesn't back down even in a situation where she is overwhelmed. The other characters in the book are also well-developed and interesting for the most part.
The world created by Margarita Gakis is interesting, but there is plenty of room for it to be explored. The magic system seems simple and natural while at the same time leaving enough leeway for more things to happen. I am sure the other supernatural creatures and magic will be explored in upcoming volumes in the series.
On a scale of 0(none) to 10(constant), language would score a 3 and printing glitches would get a 1. Most of the language comes from Jade who tends to use stronger language when she gets excited for whatever reason. Since Jade has several harrowing moments, she tends to cuss a lot. As for print glitches, the gremlins only managed 3 or 4 errors in the entire book.
This is the first book in the new series. It is a standalone story. There are several threads that are used as posiible setups for later books. This is an easy recommendation for fans of urban fantasties. One thing that might stop some people is that there is no sex in the book for a change. Personally I welcomed the change.
April 19, 2019
It's been while since I've read this type of fantasy and it's pretty good. It's a quick and easy read, and it became a page-turner. The tension built nicely, the action is well-written and the banter believable. While dialogue feels natural, it often struck me as juvenile even though all the characters are adults.
The world created and the laws that govern it are believable and I would like to learn more about it in later books.
I really like the descriptions of how the magic feels to the main characters, and how types are differentiated. I also like the restrictions on who can feel certain types of magic.
Good characterization, or rather enough characterization to get a feel for the main character and the four ... beings ... she interacts with most.
I agree with some other reviewers who also found the main character, Jade, immature and insensitive without consequence or repercussion. She lashes out on others without apology and they just kowtow to her every demand. She even orders around Paris who is just far too obliging to be a real leader. Has no one ever challenged him before? Has he never had to exert his authority against a personality like hers before? Making him so weak reminded me that it's just a book, breaking the spell (pun intended).
I hope Jade's character grows. It will be boring to continue a series where the protagonist is only acting on instinct. It's too convenient. That may work in movies, but I like some conscience in my main characters. Surely we all have internal conflicts. Surely we all make mistakes.
Finally, the antagonist of this book was a sad disappointment. I won't spoil it here. But "Bob" is intriguing and well-crafted. I'm really looking forward to seeing more of him.
All in all, I'll read the next book in the series. There is some intrigue set up in this book for Jade and Paris that I hope goes deeper as the series progresses. But mainly I'm hoping the characters are more interactive and emotionally invested.
The world created and the laws that govern it are believable and I would like to learn more about it in later books.
I really like the descriptions of how the magic feels to the main characters, and how types are differentiated. I also like the restrictions on who can feel certain types of magic.
Good characterization, or rather enough characterization to get a feel for the main character and the four ... beings ... she interacts with most.
I agree with some other reviewers who also found the main character, Jade, immature and insensitive without consequence or repercussion. She lashes out on others without apology and they just kowtow to her every demand. She even orders around Paris who is just far too obliging to be a real leader. Has no one ever challenged him before? Has he never had to exert his authority against a personality like hers before? Making him so weak reminded me that it's just a book, breaking the spell (pun intended).
I hope Jade's character grows. It will be boring to continue a series where the protagonist is only acting on instinct. It's too convenient. That may work in movies, but I like some conscience in my main characters. Surely we all have internal conflicts. Surely we all make mistakes.
Finally, the antagonist of this book was a sad disappointment. I won't spoil it here. But "Bob" is intriguing and well-crafted. I'm really looking forward to seeing more of him.
All in all, I'll read the next book in the series. There is some intrigue set up in this book for Jade and Paris that I hope goes deeper as the series progresses. But mainly I'm hoping the characters are more interactive and emotionally invested.
October 8, 2014
Jade is suddenly having trouble. Glass things are exploding and fires are starting. She knows she’s somehow responsible, but not how or why. The council of supernaturals realizes that someone is doing magic and they aren’t part of a coven. Paris is tasked with finding the person doing magic and get her to join his coven—all witches must be in a coven—or take her magic from her. The problem is he isn’t sure he can as she’s more powerful than he is.
The story starts off interesting, but then goes through a long stretch where I almost set the book aside a number of times. Jade isn’t a very likeable person and sometimes acts like a five-year old. She’s determined to always have her way, and for awhile I had very little respect for Paris who just gives in to her and doesn’t seem like much of a leader. A big deal is made out of the fact that no witch has ever been born outside of a coven, but not once does anyone question how or why she’s suddenly got all of this power or why it’s coming easy to her. The world and character building are pretty much just glossed over as everything focuses on Jade.
Things finally start to get interesting at around the halfway mark, both with what’s going on as well as somewhat of an understanding of why Jade acts the way she does. We never do learn the details of her horrid childhood. I’m guessing more of that comes out in the next book as we’re given a cliffhanger regarding someone from her past. The further we got into the story after the halfway mark the more I got past my dislike of Jade, although I never did feel a connection with her.
What I did enjoy was the action as Jade ends up fighting for her life a number of times, and seeing her finally loosening up enough to accept a few others as friends. And then there’s Seth, one of the more interesting characters in the story. But I can’t say that I enjoyed it enough to want to read the sequel.
The story starts off interesting, but then goes through a long stretch where I almost set the book aside a number of times. Jade isn’t a very likeable person and sometimes acts like a five-year old. She’s determined to always have her way, and for awhile I had very little respect for Paris who just gives in to her and doesn’t seem like much of a leader. A big deal is made out of the fact that no witch has ever been born outside of a coven, but not once does anyone question how or why she’s suddenly got all of this power or why it’s coming easy to her. The world and character building are pretty much just glossed over as everything focuses on Jade.
Things finally start to get interesting at around the halfway mark, both with what’s going on as well as somewhat of an understanding of why Jade acts the way she does. We never do learn the details of her horrid childhood. I’m guessing more of that comes out in the next book as we’re given a cliffhanger regarding someone from her past. The further we got into the story after the halfway mark the more I got past my dislike of Jade, although I never did feel a connection with her.
What I did enjoy was the action as Jade ends up fighting for her life a number of times, and seeing her finally loosening up enough to accept a few others as friends. And then there’s Seth, one of the more interesting characters in the story. But I can’t say that I enjoyed it enough to want to read the sequel.
July 9, 2015
This was a fairly enjoyable book some things didn't work all that well but overall it was a fun read.
Jade the main character basically out of nowhere starts developing pyrokinetic abilities she can't control. in this world supernatural races exist but we never get any details about it as such beyond the existence of some sort of governing body called the council.
Jades incidents pop up on the council's magic radar and so they task coven leader Paris to find her and either make her join a coven or break her magic.
Jade is not that receptive to the idea of joining she's broken from some sort of abuse and doesn't trust easily. Eventually she agrees to try the coven and starts to learn about her abilities and along the way trouble ensues.
I liked Jade she was snarky as hell and also vulnerable. Her lack of automatic respect for Paris the head of the coven frustrates him but it also gives him some one who doesn't put him above them allowing them to be closer friends. The growing friendship between Jade and the other characters is nice she slowly comes to appreciate being among them. There's not any romance which was good it would have felt forced Jade is too uncomfortable with people at this point.
Some bits were a bit more rough the mystery element that makes up part of the plot where they are trying to find out who the bad guy is resolved poorly. The villain basically comes out of nowhere they're never introduced or even mentioned they just show up in the last 10%of the book.
Also there are an awful lot of unanswered questions and plot threads left hanging. I'm sure some will be resolved in future books but this book poses far more questions than it answers. Jade and Paris's past, how she is a witch at all, who's Bob? who's lily? To name but a few.
so a nice idea with some good characters but uneven in its execution and a lot of unanswered questions.
Jade the main character basically out of nowhere starts developing pyrokinetic abilities she can't control. in this world supernatural races exist but we never get any details about it as such beyond the existence of some sort of governing body called the council.
Jades incidents pop up on the council's magic radar and so they task coven leader Paris to find her and either make her join a coven or break her magic.
Jade is not that receptive to the idea of joining she's broken from some sort of abuse and doesn't trust easily. Eventually she agrees to try the coven and starts to learn about her abilities and along the way trouble ensues.
I liked Jade she was snarky as hell and also vulnerable. Her lack of automatic respect for Paris the head of the coven frustrates him but it also gives him some one who doesn't put him above them allowing them to be closer friends. The growing friendship between Jade and the other characters is nice she slowly comes to appreciate being among them. There's not any romance which was good it would have felt forced Jade is too uncomfortable with people at this point.
Some bits were a bit more rough the mystery element that makes up part of the plot where they are trying to find out who the bad guy is resolved poorly. The villain basically comes out of nowhere they're never introduced or even mentioned they just show up in the last 10%of the book.
Also there are an awful lot of unanswered questions and plot threads left hanging. I'm sure some will be resolved in future books but this book poses far more questions than it answers. Jade and Paris's past, how she is a witch at all, who's Bob? who's lily? To name but a few.
so a nice idea with some good characters but uneven in its execution and a lot of unanswered questions.
August 30, 2016
I really enjoyed this book at the beginning. Jade is living a somewhat normal life, she doesn't have any friends but she has a job. Suddenly, she can start things on fire... at first she doesn't believe she's doing it, but then it becomes clear she is. A coven leader shows up and tells her she is a witch not born into a coven and should come join his. That is where the story goes downhill for me. Paris, the coven leader, is not a strong leader at all. I had too many questions and none of them where answered in this book, perhaps in the sequel? Why was she born out of her coven? Why did her powers just appear one day?
She's an untrained witch yet smarter than the coven leader? I just didn't like the weak leader, I didn't care for Jade's personality throughout the book, she's disrespectful and has an arrogant attitude towards Paris. The story reminded me a little of City of Bones, where she finds out she has special powers and must go to a leader/coven to help her train. The author even uses the term mundane when referring to humans.
There's another witch who is jealous of Jade's power, and the fight between them was just ok. The only character I really liked was Seth, who makes brief appearances here and there. I would like to read the sequel just to find out more about him and what he knows about Jade. I would like to know more about Paris' mother as well.
If you like stories about witches, you may enjoy this book.
I received a copy of this book from the author through the Goodreads group Read it and Reap, for an honest review.
She's an untrained witch yet smarter than the coven leader? I just didn't like the weak leader, I didn't care for Jade's personality throughout the book, she's disrespectful and has an arrogant attitude towards Paris. The story reminded me a little of City of Bones, where she finds out she has special powers and must go to a leader/coven to help her train. The author even uses the term mundane when referring to humans.
There's another witch who is jealous of Jade's power, and the fight between them was just ok. The only character I really liked was Seth, who makes brief appearances here and there. I would like to read the sequel just to find out more about him and what he knows about Jade. I would like to know more about Paris' mother as well.
If you like stories about witches, you may enjoy this book.
I received a copy of this book from the author through the Goodreads group Read it and Reap, for an honest review.
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