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The Phoenix #1
Phoenix Awakens
A paranormal debut about a high school senior who finds herself in a fight with a secret society for control of ancient magic.
Julia never believed in magic.
Julia Long is starting her senior year with an extra dose of crazy. The dreams of cultish, bloody rituals are weird enough, but the victim in her lifelike dreams is her new classmate, Southern charmer Graham.
Graham admits he was a Phoenix — part of a centuries old secret society — but swears he left it all behind. As Julia works with Graham to figure out why she is dreaming about his past, she's discovering she has other abilities. She heals Graham’s migraines with a touch, and there’s her superhuman strength that comes and goes. Julia doesn’t know where her new talents come from, but there’s no denying that when Graham is near, her powers kick into overdrive.
But the Phoenix Society wants Graham back. They need his blood to awaken the magic they seek, and they'll do whatever it takes to get it.
Can Julia uncover the truth behind her connection to Graham? How far will Julia go in order to save Graham and stop the Phoenixes from harnessing this powerful magic?
Julia never believed in magic.
Julia Long is starting her senior year with an extra dose of crazy. The dreams of cultish, bloody rituals are weird enough, but the victim in her lifelike dreams is her new classmate, Southern charmer Graham.
Graham admits he was a Phoenix — part of a centuries old secret society — but swears he left it all behind. As Julia works with Graham to figure out why she is dreaming about his past, she's discovering she has other abilities. She heals Graham’s migraines with a touch, and there’s her superhuman strength that comes and goes. Julia doesn’t know where her new talents come from, but there’s no denying that when Graham is near, her powers kick into overdrive.
But the Phoenix Society wants Graham back. They need his blood to awaken the magic they seek, and they'll do whatever it takes to get it.
Can Julia uncover the truth behind her connection to Graham? How far will Julia go in order to save Graham and stop the Phoenixes from harnessing this powerful magic?
ebook
First published October 12, 2015
About the author
Eliza Nolan
7 books149 followersEliza Nolan was born and raised in Minneapolis, Minnesota. She lived in Charleston, South Carolina for a few years, after which she returned to icy Minnesota—where she now lives with her unruly cat in a house smaller than your closet.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews
December 13, 2015
Urban Paranormal is one of my favorite genres of all time, aside from fantasy and Dystopian, ofcourse. I don't know. Even with all those usual tropes that annoy the hell out of me, I just can't seem to give them up yet. But sometimes, from time to time, I still met a book like Phoenix Awakens that make me mentally ask myself, Is this really the kind of book I used to enjoy reading? I suddenly want to start reading again all those Urban paranormal books I enjoyed before to see where I was reading wrong. Anyway, allow me to at least explain where this book started to get rough for me.
The MC's simple and very teenager-y(is that even a word? ugh.) life was suddenly turned upside down on the appearance of a freaking hot guy. i think the new transfer mysterious hot guy plot device and virginal-no-one-wanted-girl is seriously growing on me. Isn't there any other more plot this genre has to offer?
"Our eyes met,"... That's all you probably have to read to know what I mean. Oh you don't? Here let's try again.. "His lips turned up into a crooked grin, making heat rush to my cheeks." Ok. I think that's enough before I start throwing things.
A special-snowflake of a character. Seriously. Is slut-shaming necessary to make a character look good? Can't she be just a plain-powerful-maybe-a-little-bit-flawed-kick-ass character? Is it really too much to ask?
Very Funny Plot. I'm starting to think I've picked up a comedy book instead of a paranormal one. Well after all the drama and after everything has been settled with the hot new guy, the uber-mega-secret that everyone was trying hard to hide has been out and my curiosity on what this book is about has finally been answered, and boy was I so pissed. Not only was it lame but it also doesn't make any freaking sense.
It's basically like this. Julia's ancestors can wield this magic that can be called "power-of-phoenix". All of their family's magic, secret and powers were apparently written on a freaking book. It was stolen and fallen on the hands of this bad people who wants to take over the world. No shit! That's really it. The rest was history until, obviously Julia and Graham get over the picture.
I was like..
I mean. What are you really? Just a hand-picked family blessed with magical power and powerful book? Well that's bull. Try again.
Okay, I know I'm being mean and sounds like a whiny bitch so I probably have to end my review here.
Anyway, thanks to Netgalley for a free copy of this book.
The MC's simple and very teenager-y(is that even a word? ugh.) life was suddenly turned upside down on the appearance of a freaking hot guy. i think the new transfer mysterious hot guy plot device and virginal-no-one-wanted-girl is seriously growing on me. Isn't there any other more plot this genre has to offer?
"Okay, fine. I can't think of anything else I could possibly need a guide for, so I ask,Well, shit. Doesn't they always start like this? I mean. Why? I felt like I've read this on EVERY freaking paranormal books I've read before. Here I thought I'm reading a unique story- without the fallen angels and demons, witches, vampires etc.- Boy, I couldn't have been more wrong.
"Why do I need a guide?"
"Your life is about to change in ways you can't imagine."
"Our eyes met,"... That's all you probably have to read to know what I mean. Oh you don't? Here let's try again.. "His lips turned up into a crooked grin, making heat rush to my cheeks." Ok. I think that's enough before I start throwing things.
A special-snowflake of a character. Seriously. Is slut-shaming necessary to make a character look good? Can't she be just a plain-powerful-maybe-a-little-bit-flawed-kick-ass character? Is it really too much to ask?
Very Funny Plot. I'm starting to think I've picked up a comedy book instead of a paranormal one. Well after all the drama and after everything has been settled with the hot new guy, the uber-mega-secret that everyone was trying hard to hide has been out and my curiosity on what this book is about has finally been answered, and boy was I so pissed. Not only was it lame but it also doesn't make any freaking sense.
It's basically like this. Julia's ancestors can wield this magic that can be called "power-of-phoenix". All of their family's magic, secret and powers were apparently written on a freaking book. It was stolen and fallen on the hands of this bad people who wants to take over the world. No shit! That's really it. The rest was history until, obviously Julia and Graham get over the picture.
I was like..
I mean. What are you really? Just a hand-picked family blessed with magical power and powerful book? Well that's bull. Try again.
Okay, I know I'm being mean and sounds like a whiny bitch so I probably have to end my review here.
Anyway, thanks to Netgalley for a free copy of this book.
July 21, 2017
Phoenix Awakens by Eliza Nolan was incredible!
Julia starts out her senior year with little sleep. She has been having reoccurring nightmares where she is racing through the woods near a swamp. All she can remember from her dream is that she has to reach someone before it is too late. She has to stop something.
I can’t say a lot without giving away the story, but when brother and sister Graham and Clara move to town, Julie’s dreams change and weird things start happening to Julie. And Clara has the distinct impression of having met Julia.
What I loved about the book was that the setting and dialogue felt natural. I felt like I was back in high school again. Except that the kids in this story are way cooler than the kids I went to school with. LOL. The book isn’t all that long so, I didn’t get to know some of the other characters as well as I would have liked, but I got to know them well enough, I suppose. It is only the first book, after all, and I did get to know Julia very well.
I am thinking that Eliza Nolan might be a cross between Jenifer Armentrout and Kelly Armstrong - though there is just a hint of romance in the book.
Eliza Nolan's writing style is familiar, fast paced and very refreshing. I can’t believe this was her first novel! I highly recommend Phoenix Awakens. It was pretty exciting.
A first version of this review was
on NetGalley. 
May 8, 2016
*This book was provided to me via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review*
I really loved this book! I can;t believe I kept on putting off reading it. Not only where the character interesting and intriguing, they were also lovable and fairly life-like (except for the whole cult thing and supernatural abilities). I really liked the idea of the cult and enjoyed the fast pace of the book as well as the sense of adventure that went along with it. I can't wait until the next installment to find out more about The Phoenix and also about Graham and Julia.
Overall, this was a great book, but I still haven't forgiven Samantha on Julia's behalf.
I really loved this book! I can;t believe I kept on putting off reading it. Not only where the character interesting and intriguing, they were also lovable and fairly life-like (except for the whole cult thing and supernatural abilities). I really liked the idea of the cult and enjoyed the fast pace of the book as well as the sense of adventure that went along with it. I can't wait until the next installment to find out more about The Phoenix and also about Graham and Julia.
Overall, this was a great book, but I still haven't forgiven Samantha on Julia's behalf.
April 22, 2017
Fly far far away
No doubt a good 'tween read, however, as a mature reader too YA even for me. Definitely a great read for the right genre.
No doubt a good 'tween read, however, as a mature reader too YA even for me. Definitely a great read for the right genre.
October 29, 2015
I want the next book. I want to know what is going on with the tattoo and Julia after what happened. I want to know what else her dad knows. I want to know if her dad is going to face his past. I want to know what will happen to Graham. And what about Graham and Julia. Oh and the other Beshi??? What is going on with them. Also we just started to get the 411 on Julia and who she is, her mom’s heritage etc. we need more. More about the Phoenixes, more from Aydan just more dangit just more.
When starting the book you don’t realize you are about to enter a new world. It begins with the hohum life of Julia and her nightmares. She has her friend Samantha who is acting odd but still her bestie. Julia is going about life and than Clara and Graham join the high school and boy does huhum start to look good for her. Julia changes over the course of the book from timid to strong and standing up for herself.
Clara is bubbly and sweet. She lands in Julia’s calculus class and Julia’s friend Nate is crushing on her. Julia helps the guy out and whammo she is now sitting with a girl that treats everyone horribly because she is popular and is crushing on Graham who has secrets. They have a connection though and it’s one they can’t deny. Especially as the connection is seen. It is truly a freaky thing. Samantha who is supposed to be Julia’s bestie begins to go buggy and does some really cruel things towards Julia.
Julia’s life is now in turmoil. Her nightmares are more vivid and real, revelations about Clara and Graham’s past are coming out and her dad is telling her about her mom and his life before Julia. The popular girl is going off the deep end and danger now lurks around the corner.
Suddenly Julia’s world is once again turned more upside down and she most risk everything. She puts herself in danger to help out someone she loves. She is risking a lot but also finding out more about herself in the process.
this is a fascinating tale of a teenage girl who is surrounded by secrets. Secrets that slowly get revealed to her but these also affect her. She has nightmares that aren’t nightmares and is trying to see who she really is. She finds a guy she has a connection to in more ways than one and is now forced into more danger with his secret. A secret that could destroy. this book sucks you in. I mean literally sucks you in. One minute you are thinking hohum and the next you are dying to know how this is happening, what will happen next and wanting more. More about Graham and his secret club, more about his tattoo, more about why the nightmares are happening, more about Phoenixes just plain more. the characters, writing and story truly take over and before you realize it you are at the end of the book with some answers but more questions. A great engaging book that leaves you wanting more about the characters and all that is happening with them and what is to happen next.
When starting the book you don’t realize you are about to enter a new world. It begins with the hohum life of Julia and her nightmares. She has her friend Samantha who is acting odd but still her bestie. Julia is going about life and than Clara and Graham join the high school and boy does huhum start to look good for her. Julia changes over the course of the book from timid to strong and standing up for herself.
Clara is bubbly and sweet. She lands in Julia’s calculus class and Julia’s friend Nate is crushing on her. Julia helps the guy out and whammo she is now sitting with a girl that treats everyone horribly because she is popular and is crushing on Graham who has secrets. They have a connection though and it’s one they can’t deny. Especially as the connection is seen. It is truly a freaky thing. Samantha who is supposed to be Julia’s bestie begins to go buggy and does some really cruel things towards Julia.
Julia’s life is now in turmoil. Her nightmares are more vivid and real, revelations about Clara and Graham’s past are coming out and her dad is telling her about her mom and his life before Julia. The popular girl is going off the deep end and danger now lurks around the corner.
Suddenly Julia’s world is once again turned more upside down and she most risk everything. She puts herself in danger to help out someone she loves. She is risking a lot but also finding out more about herself in the process.
this is a fascinating tale of a teenage girl who is surrounded by secrets. Secrets that slowly get revealed to her but these also affect her. She has nightmares that aren’t nightmares and is trying to see who she really is. She finds a guy she has a connection to in more ways than one and is now forced into more danger with his secret. A secret that could destroy. this book sucks you in. I mean literally sucks you in. One minute you are thinking hohum and the next you are dying to know how this is happening, what will happen next and wanting more. More about Graham and his secret club, more about his tattoo, more about why the nightmares are happening, more about Phoenixes just plain more. the characters, writing and story truly take over and before you realize it you are at the end of the book with some answers but more questions. A great engaging book that leaves you wanting more about the characters and all that is happening with them and what is to happen next.
October 27, 2015
**I received this book for free from (Publisher) in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.**
*Genre* Young Adult, Paranormal
*Rating* 3-3.5
*MY Thoughts*
"Your life is about to change in ways you can't imagine"
Phoenix Awakens is the first installment in Eliza Nolan's The Phoenix series. 17-year old Julia Long has been having disturbing dreams and she doesn't have any clue of what they mean, nor why she appears at specific points in a certain event. The dreams always seem to be set against the backdrop of some sort of swamp with an initiation of sorts taking place.
*Full Review Posted 10/27/2015 via Gizmos Reviews*
http://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/201...
Published October 12th 2015 by Createspace
*Genre* Young Adult, Paranormal
*Rating* 3-3.5
*MY Thoughts*
"Your life is about to change in ways you can't imagine"
Phoenix Awakens is the first installment in Eliza Nolan's The Phoenix series. 17-year old Julia Long has been having disturbing dreams and she doesn't have any clue of what they mean, nor why she appears at specific points in a certain event. The dreams always seem to be set against the backdrop of some sort of swamp with an initiation of sorts taking place.
*Full Review Posted 10/27/2015 via Gizmos Reviews*
http://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/201...
Published October 12th 2015 by Createspace
June 29, 2016
I received a free ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through Netgalley.
This book gives you one heck of a thrill with mystery, magic and so much more. So if you are looking for a book with quite a few twists and turns that take you on an exciting journey than you need to give this book a shot.
Julia is such an amazing character. You can easily fall in love with her, because of her big heart. Not only does she have a big heart, but she also has a way of growing on you. The world was so well built in this story along with the characters making it incredibly easy to fall into this world for hours. Instead of reading it is like you are there.
This book had it all. It had me saying What?... OMG... Wow.. then okay I need to go to bed, just one more page. Then nope that isn't gonna happen I have to read it all right now. Then the end comes and; No, but I need more right now. That is the moment when you discover how great the book was, and that it had a big enough impact on you that you actually need the next book in front of you right then.
I loved that I was able to just let everything go and escape to somewhere else. I read so that I can get away from life stresses, or boredom, yet at the same time I get to live so many other lives making me think about how beautiful life really is. I think if I didn't have books I would be totally bored out of my mind everyday. I just want to read the second book now. I can not wait until the next book comes out!
This book gives you one heck of a thrill with mystery, magic and so much more. So if you are looking for a book with quite a few twists and turns that take you on an exciting journey than you need to give this book a shot.
Julia is such an amazing character. You can easily fall in love with her, because of her big heart. Not only does she have a big heart, but she also has a way of growing on you. The world was so well built in this story along with the characters making it incredibly easy to fall into this world for hours. Instead of reading it is like you are there.
This book had it all. It had me saying What?... OMG... Wow.. then okay I need to go to bed, just one more page. Then nope that isn't gonna happen I have to read it all right now. Then the end comes and; No, but I need more right now. That is the moment when you discover how great the book was, and that it had a big enough impact on you that you actually need the next book in front of you right then.
I loved that I was able to just let everything go and escape to somewhere else. I read so that I can get away from life stresses, or boredom, yet at the same time I get to live so many other lives making me think about how beautiful life really is. I think if I didn't have books I would be totally bored out of my mind everyday. I just want to read the second book now. I can not wait until the next book comes out!
October 3, 2015
Wow what a great book, can't wait for whenever book 2 in this series comes out. I really loved both main characters both Julia, and Graham where fantastic characters and I thought they were a great fit, so far. Am so glad so far there is no love triangle involved that its just those liking one another. Wow what Graham got himself into before moving from where he use to live. And him and the other guys really got involved in something that was more than they could handle and not what they thought it was at all.
I really loved what Julia could do, but it would have really freaked me out. To be able to dream about what happened to other people and be stronger than you thought you were. She could also heal people and get rid of Graham's migraines.( However you spell it)
I loved Graham's sister and Julia's guy friend. I thought the plot was very interesting and I finished the book in under 24 hrs. I had a lot of fun reading this book.
I was given this book by the Publisher and Author by the way of netgalley, for just the purpose of writing an honest review in regards of how I felt about this book. I would definitely read the next book in this series and recommend it to other individuals.
I really loved what Julia could do, but it would have really freaked me out. To be able to dream about what happened to other people and be stronger than you thought you were. She could also heal people and get rid of Graham's migraines.( However you spell it)
I loved Graham's sister and Julia's guy friend. I thought the plot was very interesting and I finished the book in under 24 hrs. I had a lot of fun reading this book.
I was given this book by the Publisher and Author by the way of netgalley, for just the purpose of writing an honest review in regards of how I felt about this book. I would definitely read the next book in this series and recommend it to other individuals.
October 20, 2015
Young Adult Author Eliza Nolan’s debut book, “Phoenix Awakens,” starts with a 17yo girl. MC, Julia Long, is starting her senior year. She dreams of cultish, bloody rituals and the victim in her lifelike dreams is her new classmate, Graham.
Graham admits he was a Phoenix—part of a secret society—but swears he left it behind in Charleston. Julia works with Graham to figure out why she is dreaming about his past. She heals his migraines with a touch and she has superhuman strength that comes and goes. Julia doesn’t know where her powers come from, but there’s no denying that when Graham is near, her abilities kicks into overdrive. But the Society wants Graham back. They need his blood to awaken the magic they seek, and they'll do whatever it takes to get it.
What I loved about this story was the authentic setting. I felt as though I was a teenager again, back in high school, weeding through the trenches of homework and the hierarchy of the student population. Voice of each character from Julia, Graham and Samantha all rang true. Even the supporting characters: Nate, Clara and Dad felt real.
The suspense held my attention all throughout the story. Most of the loose ends are addressed, but some were left open and is a nice segway to the follow-on books.
Graham admits he was a Phoenix—part of a secret society—but swears he left it behind in Charleston. Julia works with Graham to figure out why she is dreaming about his past. She heals his migraines with a touch and she has superhuman strength that comes and goes. Julia doesn’t know where her powers come from, but there’s no denying that when Graham is near, her abilities kicks into overdrive. But the Society wants Graham back. They need his blood to awaken the magic they seek, and they'll do whatever it takes to get it.
What I loved about this story was the authentic setting. I felt as though I was a teenager again, back in high school, weeding through the trenches of homework and the hierarchy of the student population. Voice of each character from Julia, Graham and Samantha all rang true. Even the supporting characters: Nate, Clara and Dad felt real.
The suspense held my attention all throughout the story. Most of the loose ends are addressed, but some were left open and is a nice segway to the follow-on books.
October 29, 2015
For full review please go to: 5girlsbookreviews.blogspot.com, Twitter @camartinez, and Facebook "5 Girls Book Reviews"
REVIEW BY: Angel, age 12 years, 11 months
MAY CONTAIN SPOILER:
This was an outrageously, intense, wonderfully plotted, crazy exciting book!
Phoenix Awakens is about a 17 year old girl named Julia Long. Well, maybe thats her name. She starts to have crazy, intense dreams about the new kids, but they may not even be dreams, they may be connections to the new kids named Graham and Clara. Everything just seems so unreal to Julia, such as; her father hiding things from her, strange powers that she can only possess, and a strange possessed popular girl that keeps warning Julia. Is this real or is it another long awkward dream? In this book, you will find all the answers to these crazy questions and more!
REVIEW BY: Angel, age 12 years, 11 months
MAY CONTAIN SPOILER:
This was an outrageously, intense, wonderfully plotted, crazy exciting book!
Phoenix Awakens is about a 17 year old girl named Julia Long. Well, maybe thats her name. She starts to have crazy, intense dreams about the new kids, but they may not even be dreams, they may be connections to the new kids named Graham and Clara. Everything just seems so unreal to Julia, such as; her father hiding things from her, strange powers that she can only possess, and a strange possessed popular girl that keeps warning Julia. Is this real or is it another long awkward dream? In this book, you will find all the answers to these crazy questions and more!
October 13, 2015
Wow! What a fun ride! Figurative and literal. I didn't know what to expect, but the story was a fun ride through a new magic system. I loved watching Julia on her journey to figure herself out, at the same time she fought to figure out what was going on with her and Graham!
Gimme book two now!!!
Gimme book two now!!!
March 24, 2016
Two days. That's all it took for me to read this. I was so sucked in by the story that I had a very difficult time putting it down! The humor/sarcasm in Julia's voice was wonderful, and watching her play off of the ever-serious Graham was fun. I can't wait for book #2!
October 13, 2015
Great story
Strong characters & a great plot.. original story as well about a secret society involving paranormal aspects. Can't wait for book two!
Strong characters & a great plot.. original story as well about a secret society involving paranormal aspects. Can't wait for book two!
September 29, 2016
Absolutely loved this, we've got interesting characters, plot twists and turns and mystic goings on. Cant wait for book 2 to come out.
January 22, 2016
This is one of those rare books that seems to be the exception for how I feel about American YA literature. For in my past experience with YA from south of the border. They all seem to run about the same, and once every so often I feel the need to try again, and hope for something better. Something that is worth it. Phoenix Awakens is worth it.
It starts off with the heroine Julia Long, who is just a typical high school student, who seems to actually have a brain on her shoulders, rather than worry about her face. In fact she seems to be doing well if she can get her hair highlighted and not be grounded for life by her overbearing but caring father. She gets a crush on the new boy in school. Graham who seems to have noticed Julia, however almost every other girl in school has noticed him too. So she knows that she does not have a chance but she can't help but look at him when he says her name.
However that's not all about Julia. She gets strange dreams, that happen to be Graham's memories and why he left his home of Charleston behind. Also strange things happen around her, especially when Graham is around, but it's not just the usual reasons why. There is no way to explain some of them.
This book is a roller coaster ride, it goes from magic and mayhem to every day issues that I'm sure most teenagers/past teenagers have had experienced. Along with some simple things that just make the book the way it is. It's a fun twist from the usual YA books that are being sold out there that have anything to do with the supernatural. The whole'special/monster' boy and the 'plain ordinary' girl.
It has restored some faith in me about YA books from the states. Especially if they are Indie. So I suggest yes, buy this book! You'll enjoy it.
It starts off with the heroine Julia Long, who is just a typical high school student, who seems to actually have a brain on her shoulders, rather than worry about her face. In fact she seems to be doing well if she can get her hair highlighted and not be grounded for life by her overbearing but caring father. She gets a crush on the new boy in school. Graham who seems to have noticed Julia, however almost every other girl in school has noticed him too. So she knows that she does not have a chance but she can't help but look at him when he says her name.
However that's not all about Julia. She gets strange dreams, that happen to be Graham's memories and why he left his home of Charleston behind. Also strange things happen around her, especially when Graham is around, but it's not just the usual reasons why. There is no way to explain some of them.
This book is a roller coaster ride, it goes from magic and mayhem to every day issues that I'm sure most teenagers/past teenagers have had experienced. Along with some simple things that just make the book the way it is. It's a fun twist from the usual YA books that are being sold out there that have anything to do with the supernatural. The whole'special/monster' boy and the 'plain ordinary' girl.
It has restored some faith in me about YA books from the states. Especially if they are Indie. So I suggest yes, buy this book! You'll enjoy it.
September 21, 2016
I received this book from Goodreads.
The first few chapters of Phoenix Awakens was nice, normal YA high school drama. The words ran smooth and the pictures formed easily in my head. I was eager to dive in and see what this book had to show me.
It wasn't until Graham and his sister showed up that things began getting stale. I don't know what happened, one moment this book is a young spring rose bud about to bloom, and the next it's brown and limp, verging on lifeless. Nothing seemed to run smooth anymore, and the film being played in my head had to have been shot with a potato.
But my main complainant, the thing that betrayed my trust the most, was I originally thought Julia was smart. A smart girl who doesn't turn her back on her friend after a betrayal, drags her back home after running away, and doesn't let Graham drive with a migraine. BUT will drink water from a guy she doesn't know after admitting in the sentence before that she didn't trust him.
W.T.F?
This is a common problem in YA books. Making your characters dumb doesn't make them seem more teenager-ish.
That is insulting.
Julia is a female, thus she has been taught from day one not to accept drinks from strange men. Plus, the whole book described her dad as being overprotective. I highly doubt, what with that thing with his brother, that he didn't teach her to be aware and overly cautious, especially around men.
The first few chapters of Phoenix Awakens was nice, normal YA high school drama. The words ran smooth and the pictures formed easily in my head. I was eager to dive in and see what this book had to show me.
It wasn't until Graham and his sister showed up that things began getting stale. I don't know what happened, one moment this book is a young spring rose bud about to bloom, and the next it's brown and limp, verging on lifeless. Nothing seemed to run smooth anymore, and the film being played in my head had to have been shot with a potato.
But my main complainant, the thing that betrayed my trust the most, was I originally thought Julia was smart. A smart girl who doesn't turn her back on her friend after a betrayal, drags her back home after running away, and doesn't let Graham drive with a migraine. BUT will drink water from a guy she doesn't know after admitting in the sentence before that she didn't trust him.
W.T.F?
This is a common problem in YA books. Making your characters dumb doesn't make them seem more teenager-ish.
That is insulting.
Julia is a female, thus she has been taught from day one not to accept drinks from strange men. Plus, the whole book described her dad as being overprotective. I highly doubt, what with that thing with his brother, that he didn't teach her to be aware and overly cautious, especially around men.
October 28, 2015
I received an ARC when I signed up and was selected to host the book tour. I made no guarantee of a favorable review and the opinions expressed here are my own.
This teen/young adult read is well written with ever developing characters and I enjoyed reading it. You'll find secret socieities, rituals, magic and a developing romance between my two favorite characters, Julia and Graham. I found it hard to put the book down. There are definitely some lose ends so I look forward to reading the next book.
This teen/young adult read is well written with ever developing characters and I enjoyed reading it. You'll find secret socieities, rituals, magic and a developing romance between my two favorite characters, Julia and Graham. I found it hard to put the book down. There are definitely some lose ends so I look forward to reading the next book.
March 22, 2017
Romance (The Phoenix Book 1)Kindle Edition
The best book I've read all year
With humor and tension and suspense, it is as if John Hughes, Stephen King and Dean Koontz all had a Millennial baby.
The main characters, Graham and Julia – their entire universe are typical teenagers. Except for the ubiquitous smart phones – they could have lived in any time from around 1975 through today.
All the young characters display the wild spring of emotions that teenagers (yes you do) experience. The tingle of first attraction, the gut wrenching pain of deep betrayal and that utter stab in the heart of humilation. It brought back definite memories.
The mystery, and the suspense hold hands tightly, keeping you going with enough “I knew that” bombs. I loved the way things wove together slowly, always piling on each other, like a literary game of Jenga. Or the perfect easter egg hunt as the pieces are laid out for you to see.
Cliffhanger WARNING. But you only drop a few feet, as there is a real world Happy Ending with parents being parents and friends being friends … and boys and girls being boys and girls.
Five definitely big stars out of 5
https://www.amazon.com/Phoenix-Awaken...
The best book I've read all year
With humor and tension and suspense, it is as if John Hughes, Stephen King and Dean Koontz all had a Millennial baby.
The main characters, Graham and Julia – their entire universe are typical teenagers. Except for the ubiquitous smart phones – they could have lived in any time from around 1975 through today.
All the young characters display the wild spring of emotions that teenagers (yes you do) experience. The tingle of first attraction, the gut wrenching pain of deep betrayal and that utter stab in the heart of humilation. It brought back definite memories.
The mystery, and the suspense hold hands tightly, keeping you going with enough “I knew that” bombs. I loved the way things wove together slowly, always piling on each other, like a literary game of Jenga. Or the perfect easter egg hunt as the pieces are laid out for you to see.
Cliffhanger WARNING. But you only drop a few feet, as there is a real world Happy Ending with parents being parents and friends being friends … and boys and girls being boys and girls.
Five definitely big stars out of 5
https://www.amazon.com/Phoenix-Awaken...
April 18, 2017
I really enjoyed this book. I listened to the audio book. It was a thrilling fantasy that always kept me wondering what was going to happen next. I can't wait for the next book!
May 31, 2017
Phoenix Awakens
Phoenix Awakens is a very well written and well researched book. You can tell that Eliza put a lot of thought and planning into writing it. It trly grabs your attention from start to finish. The characters come to life as you read.
Although I haven't been a young adult for many years, I am looking forward to reading book 2.
Phoenix Awakens is a very well written and well researched book. You can tell that Eliza put a lot of thought and planning into writing it. It trly grabs your attention from start to finish. The characters come to life as you read.
Although I haven't been a young adult for many years, I am looking forward to reading book 2.
March 21, 2017
Julia's just a normal teenager, a senior in high school. But she's been having strange dreams. Then Graham and Clara show up as the new kids at school. Somehow they all seem familiar to each other. There's drama, adventure, danger, secret rituals, ancient magic, and love all in one book. This is one story you'll not want to miss. Ms. Nolan writes a fast paced, full bodied story that you won't want to put down until you reach the end. I can't wait to read what comes with the next book. I absolutely loved it, and it's appropriate for young and older adults. I received this as a free copy and happily and voluntarily choose to leave a review.
March 15, 2016
My Review:
I received a ARC from the author via Netgalley to read and review in return.
Phoenix Awakens was truly an enjoyable book to read! The book fits super snug in my genre preferences and I couldn't be happier with how the story twists and turns to its final pages. The book is brimming full with suspense, excitement, drama, romance and adventure. I was breezing through the pages like there was no tomorrow and that is definitely thanks to its great plot (the fantastic build up) and the characters!
Julia wasn't really one to fall for a magic trick, or even the notion, but when her nightmares that keep her awake all night become a little too realistic, and when she abnormally starts building up immense psychical strength and speed, she is starting to doubt whether this is all a coincidence. It is when she meets the new hottie, Graham, and his sister, Clara, at school who eventually help her put the puzzle pieces together. Julia's devious dreams are filled with young and old men performing rituals in a strange circle. Once she gets to know Graham and his sister a little better, they start appearing in her nightmares and it seems that the happenings in her dreams are not fictional. The closer Julia gets to the truth, the closer danger lurks around the corner. She feels like someone is watching her, and she is definitely brave and kick-ass enough to find out what the heck it is.
This story kept me on my toes! It seems that Julia's hot crush is not some ordinary boy, but he actually has something to do with these strange rituals and the nightmares she is having. One thing is for sure, Graham and his sister Clara's abrupt move to Julia's town is not a coincident, and there is something they are running and hiding from. The story wasn't the only enjoyable thing to follow throughout the book, but also our protagonist, Julia. She is a clever and brave girl, who would not let anybody just walk over her. I love these types of protagonists the most! Her accompanying characters were sizzling hot, humorous or either very creepy, which really set the mood in the entire story.
Ms. Nolan did an amazing job with the setting of the story. She has a great way of story telling, making it simple for the reader to follow and read at a quick and exciting pace. Her creativity seems to be endless, where some things seems to be confusing and scattered at first, but then perfectly comes together towards the end of the book.Despite having some clarity towards the end as what everything actually means, and somewhat who Julia truly is and what she is capable of, the story ends with an opening, cleverly letting the reader know there is a sequel to come.
Truly, there is nothing I didn't like about this story and I can't wait to indulge in the rest of this series!
June 3, 2016
Julia has been having strange nightmares for awhile now. She confides in her best friend Samantha, who thinks nothing of the dreams, but Julia feels like there is something more going on. When new student Clara and her brother Graham show up at the school, Julia feels a connection. When both of the new kids are now in her dreams, Julia realizes the dreams are not just dreams. There is something more about the new students, but there is also something more about Julia also.
I was not sure what the book was about when I first started reading but I was pleasantly surprised to find myself in a new kind of supernatural. I feel like sometimes I am stuck in a rut reading wise, with so many books being really similar or stereotyped, but this was different from anything else I have encountered recently. I also love the mythology of the Phoenix, so I was intrigued to see how that played in the book (which was not fully addressed, but I have hope that it will be later) This was an ok read for me, it was very fast to get through so I read it in just a few sessions. I found myself engaged while I was reading the story, but when I put it down I did not find myself really thinking about the book until I picked it up to read again. Take that as you will.
I had a few issues with the story and how relationship dramas were solved so quickly. For example, Samantha the best friend turns into a real bitch (excuse my language) and does/says some awful things to Julia and herself, but it just as easily goes away. I honestly kept expecting some sort of magical reason for her attitude, like she was possessed, but that never happened. If this had been my friend, I would have held a grudge and never forgotten it, and definitely not go on a dangerous mission and tell her my darkest secrets. Maybe I’m just a jerk, but I thought that scenario was just so ridiculous and not realistic. Another issue I had was with Julia’s relationship with Graham (i found him to be a little blah, but different strokes for different folks). They were hot, then cold, then hot, and then cold, tons of mixed signals thrown around, other girls hanging around, at times being distant and cold, NO communication at all, and then they are instantly in love and each willing to sacrifice themselves for the other. It was odd and I did not feel like it progressed well, just nothing and then BAM, a hot and heavy relationship. And the fact he snuck in each night to “watch over her” and slept in her closet/office was weird, but whatever. One last issue was the end resolved so quickly! There was slow build up and tons of details throughout the book with about a waterfall date, going to coffee, studying, ceramics class, daily lunch at school, an illegal train ride that seemed to never end… Yet the battle with the secret society/cult took like 5 pages and was over. I would have liked more, but maybe a second book would cover the fast ending here.
Overall I liked the world the author created and Julia was not a bad character (regardless of me pointing out my issues with the story). The book has potential and I would like to read more in what I believe will be a series (the ending had some left over questions I would like solved).
I received this title from the publisher in return for my honest review.
For more reviews visit my blog at http://smadasbooksmack.blogspot.com/
I was not sure what the book was about when I first started reading but I was pleasantly surprised to find myself in a new kind of supernatural. I feel like sometimes I am stuck in a rut reading wise, with so many books being really similar or stereotyped, but this was different from anything else I have encountered recently. I also love the mythology of the Phoenix, so I was intrigued to see how that played in the book (which was not fully addressed, but I have hope that it will be later) This was an ok read for me, it was very fast to get through so I read it in just a few sessions. I found myself engaged while I was reading the story, but when I put it down I did not find myself really thinking about the book until I picked it up to read again. Take that as you will.
I had a few issues with the story and how relationship dramas were solved so quickly. For example, Samantha the best friend turns into a real bitch (excuse my language) and does/says some awful things to Julia and herself, but it just as easily goes away. I honestly kept expecting some sort of magical reason for her attitude, like she was possessed, but that never happened. If this had been my friend, I would have held a grudge and never forgotten it, and definitely not go on a dangerous mission and tell her my darkest secrets. Maybe I’m just a jerk, but I thought that scenario was just so ridiculous and not realistic. Another issue I had was with Julia’s relationship with Graham (i found him to be a little blah, but different strokes for different folks). They were hot, then cold, then hot, and then cold, tons of mixed signals thrown around, other girls hanging around, at times being distant and cold, NO communication at all, and then they are instantly in love and each willing to sacrifice themselves for the other. It was odd and I did not feel like it progressed well, just nothing and then BAM, a hot and heavy relationship. And the fact he snuck in each night to “watch over her” and slept in her closet/office was weird, but whatever. One last issue was the end resolved so quickly! There was slow build up and tons of details throughout the book with about a waterfall date, going to coffee, studying, ceramics class, daily lunch at school, an illegal train ride that seemed to never end… Yet the battle with the secret society/cult took like 5 pages and was over. I would have liked more, but maybe a second book would cover the fast ending here.
Overall I liked the world the author created and Julia was not a bad character (regardless of me pointing out my issues with the story). The book has potential and I would like to read more in what I believe will be a series (the ending had some left over questions I would like solved).
I received this title from the publisher in return for my honest review.
For more reviews visit my blog at http://smadasbooksmack.blogspot.com/
July 5, 2017
What starts as typical high school problems of cliques and teen angst in Minnesota, morphs quickly into conspiracy, then a nefarious secret society rooted in Charleston and barrels into power and magic. Nolan has created a world full of suspense, thrills, and mystery. I look forward to the rest of the series.
March 12, 2017
Awesome!
but I want to keep reading! Too bad I already finished...
but I want to keep reading! Too bad I already finished...
June 13, 2017
Being it my first contact with a new author, I am truly positively surprised and pleased to take the opportunity to read this book.
Julia seems to be just a regular teenage girl in her senior year, maybe different from the other students at school but nothing too much out of normalcy. Maybe except for her best friend Samantha with her blue hair and facial piercings. But when the strange dreams begin, she feels off, and with the arrival of two new kids from Charleston, Graham and Clara, weird things are set into motion. It is also not helpful for Julia to fall immediately in love with Graham, who seems to have interest in the oh-so-popular-and-bitchy Libby at first, and her best friend's betrayal burns deeper than she is willing to admit. However, the secrets of the past are coming to surface and with that, Julia's powers awaken.
I love well written YA novels, and this one certainly belongs on that list. Very fast-paced, simple yet imaginative language, intriguing plot, adequate dialogues considering the characters. The storyline twisted and turned a lot, flowing smoothly directly into the reader's mind -or heart, depends. Action-packed, full of suspense and mystery, adventurous, with gentle romance slowly blossoming in the shadows, and with plenty of emotions from loss, betrayal, misunderstandings, hatred, to friendship, generosity and love. The characters were very realistic and natural, strong individuals easily identifiable with so I had no problems to attach to them and create a firm bond to the book almost immediately. Julia's inner turmoil is close to any teenage girl's thoughts and feelings, she is strong beyong her awareness and has certain qualities which make her a perfect heroine, and with Graham's gentle behavior and mysterious aura, he is a very adorable male lead character.
I loved the book and will certainly love to continue the journey with the next installment.
Julia seems to be just a regular teenage girl in her senior year, maybe different from the other students at school but nothing too much out of normalcy. Maybe except for her best friend Samantha with her blue hair and facial piercings. But when the strange dreams begin, she feels off, and with the arrival of two new kids from Charleston, Graham and Clara, weird things are set into motion. It is also not helpful for Julia to fall immediately in love with Graham, who seems to have interest in the oh-so-popular-and-bitchy Libby at first, and her best friend's betrayal burns deeper than she is willing to admit. However, the secrets of the past are coming to surface and with that, Julia's powers awaken.
I love well written YA novels, and this one certainly belongs on that list. Very fast-paced, simple yet imaginative language, intriguing plot, adequate dialogues considering the characters. The storyline twisted and turned a lot, flowing smoothly directly into the reader's mind -or heart, depends. Action-packed, full of suspense and mystery, adventurous, with gentle romance slowly blossoming in the shadows, and with plenty of emotions from loss, betrayal, misunderstandings, hatred, to friendship, generosity and love. The characters were very realistic and natural, strong individuals easily identifiable with so I had no problems to attach to them and create a firm bond to the book almost immediately. Julia's inner turmoil is close to any teenage girl's thoughts and feelings, she is strong beyong her awareness and has certain qualities which make her a perfect heroine, and with Graham's gentle behavior and mysterious aura, he is a very adorable male lead character.
I loved the book and will certainly love to continue the journey with the next installment.
November 1, 2015
I have read a couple authors lately that have completely surprised me. I cannot believe this is Eliza’s Debut YA novel!
Julia and Graham were great main characters. In the beginning, I was not a fan of Graham for hanging out with Libby; I felt he was leading Julia on. I’m still not sure what went on with those two, but I am happy Julia and Graham worked it out. Julia was going through so much during the book and was left in the dark for most of it. Nothing was really spelled out for her and she handled it extremely well. I know if I was dreaming of events that took place, I would be freaking out a bit. Same with Graham, while he lived in Charleston, he got himself mixed in something a lot bigger than he knew. He also, didn’t think anything Julia was telling him was odd. He also didn’t freak out when she was able to take his pain away.
There were also secondary characters that interested me as well. Clara and Nate were great. Part of me didn’t really trust Nate since Graham didn’t seem to like him, but maybe there’s nothing up with him. I would love to see more of them in the next book. Samantha made me angry and then redeemed herself a little bit in the end; I’m glad things were worked out for her and Julia. I also was left wanting to know more about Julia’s dad and his connection to the Phoenixes, I have some of my own theories. I also, want to learn more about Julia’s mom, what really happened to her or is she alive?
Even though, this was a science fiction YA book, there were some very realistic aspects. A lot of the things the main characters were going through, were those of a normal high schooler; homework, friendship, bullies, outcasts, relationships.
This was the first book in the Phoenix Series and I cannot wait to read book two. I still have so many questions and I want to know what’s going to happen to Julia and Graham.
Julia and Graham were great main characters. In the beginning, I was not a fan of Graham for hanging out with Libby; I felt he was leading Julia on. I’m still not sure what went on with those two, but I am happy Julia and Graham worked it out. Julia was going through so much during the book and was left in the dark for most of it. Nothing was really spelled out for her and she handled it extremely well. I know if I was dreaming of events that took place, I would be freaking out a bit. Same with Graham, while he lived in Charleston, he got himself mixed in something a lot bigger than he knew. He also, didn’t think anything Julia was telling him was odd. He also didn’t freak out when she was able to take his pain away.
There were also secondary characters that interested me as well. Clara and Nate were great. Part of me didn’t really trust Nate since Graham didn’t seem to like him, but maybe there’s nothing up with him. I would love to see more of them in the next book. Samantha made me angry and then redeemed herself a little bit in the end; I’m glad things were worked out for her and Julia. I also was left wanting to know more about Julia’s dad and his connection to the Phoenixes, I have some of my own theories. I also, want to learn more about Julia’s mom, what really happened to her or is she alive?
Even though, this was a science fiction YA book, there were some very realistic aspects. A lot of the things the main characters were going through, were those of a normal high schooler; homework, friendship, bullies, outcasts, relationships.
This was the first book in the Phoenix Series and I cannot wait to read book two. I still have so many questions and I want to know what’s going to happen to Julia and Graham.
May 30, 2017
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It captured my attention from the very beginning and it just kept getting better and better!! Can't wait for book #2!!
If you like audible books I highly recommend adding it to your collection. Great work!!
If you like audible books I highly recommend adding it to your collection. Great work!!
November 16, 2015
When Julia, a 17 year old girl starts her senior year, she wan't expecting all of this. She dreams of bloody and gory things, oh and to make it special, her class mate Graham is the victim in her dreams. Julia doesn't understand why she dreams about him and together they begin to search for answers.
Graham used to be a Phoenix, a member of a secret society, but he left it in his past. Somehow, Julia can help heal Graham, with a touch, and she has some other powers, as well. She doesn't understand where her powers are coming from either. So together they try to find answers, but some things aren't always what they seem. Especially since when Graham is near, her powers get a boost. But the bad guys are afoot.. Heehee, I just like that word... Anyways, the Phoenix society wants Graham back, you see, his blood is special. They will stop at nothing to get access to him for the power they want.
I liked this one. I thought it was interesting, and had a real feeling to how teenagers are. And we get to see Samantha, Julia's friend's POV as well. And there are some special side characters too, so I liked that alot. There's definitely mystery and suspense which helped me fly through this one. And there's some little pieces left open for book two to continue on, which I will be reading. This was a nice start to a new paranormal young adult series and I look forward to more. 4.5 PAWS!
Graham used to be a Phoenix, a member of a secret society, but he left it in his past. Somehow, Julia can help heal Graham, with a touch, and she has some other powers, as well. She doesn't understand where her powers are coming from either. So together they try to find answers, but some things aren't always what they seem. Especially since when Graham is near, her powers get a boost. But the bad guys are afoot.. Heehee, I just like that word... Anyways, the Phoenix society wants Graham back, you see, his blood is special. They will stop at nothing to get access to him for the power they want.
I liked this one. I thought it was interesting, and had a real feeling to how teenagers are. And we get to see Samantha, Julia's friend's POV as well. And there are some special side characters too, so I liked that alot. There's definitely mystery and suspense which helped me fly through this one. And there's some little pieces left open for book two to continue on, which I will be reading. This was a nice start to a new paranormal young adult series and I look forward to more. 4.5 PAWS!
August 9, 2017
This book was a good start but, there is fantasy and then there is a lack of reality that allows you to live in the fantasy. Little details like eating drinking and the loo needs are important to allow the audience to connect with the characters. When world building the fantasy would benefit from being as close to the daily needs of any character in that situation. Or at least explain why the hero was able to ride on a train without the need for the loo, to stretch her legs.....? I know it sounds picky but it is things like that that jar you out of the story. Little things like using common words improperly. Did you know if you are prone, you are on your face? Otherwise you are supine. I know this is long but the series has great potential esp for the NA crowd. I will follow it and read the entire series as long as it continues to improve and interest.
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