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Phoenix
“Love is patient. Love is kind. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth.” Or so the book of Corinthians tells us.
Alanna Anderson does not agree with this sentiment. At the tender age of thirteen, Alanna believes that she has learned all she needs to know about love. Love is fleeting. Love is callous. Love is a lie. Growing up in the rough streets of South End, Pennsylvania, Alanna Anderson knows a thing or two about guarding her heart. Although there is a boy that vies for her attention, Alanna has no interest. She surrounds herself with the people she loves best, and immerses herself in her music and her love of literature. But one winter day, two boys forever changed Alanna’s life. One cemented Alanna’s belief that love was cruel. Another sought to prove her wrong.
Cris Serrano is new to town. Moving to the United States from Portugal, he is stepping into a world he in unfamiliar with. He is not fearful, though. Stepping forth with confidence, Cris is excited for what this new experience will hold, leaving behind a past he’d rather forget. Upon his first day at Henshaw Elementary, Cris meets Alanna Anderson and sparks fly. Their connection is one that will forever rewrite the map of their destinies – two supernovas colliding amidst a darkened sky. Not everyone believes that Alanna and Cris belong together, though.
Damien Foley has loved Alanna Anderson from the day he first set eyes upon her. Though she ignores his advances, Damien has hope that Alanna will open her heart to him. But when Cris Serrano comes to town, everything changes. Alanna gazes at Cris the way Damien wishes she would look at him. Watching her fall in love in Cris was more than Damien’s mind could take. As Alanna and Cris are enveloped in the joy of young love, a storm is brewing. With Damien’s attraction to Alanna only intensifying with each unrequited sentiment, an obsession was born.
Young love does not come easy in this gritty, romantic suspense novel. In the Phoenix Saga, they love hard, they fight hard, and the stakes are high as teens struggle to step over the echelon of adulthood.
Alanna Anderson does not agree with this sentiment. At the tender age of thirteen, Alanna believes that she has learned all she needs to know about love. Love is fleeting. Love is callous. Love is a lie. Growing up in the rough streets of South End, Pennsylvania, Alanna Anderson knows a thing or two about guarding her heart. Although there is a boy that vies for her attention, Alanna has no interest. She surrounds herself with the people she loves best, and immerses herself in her music and her love of literature. But one winter day, two boys forever changed Alanna’s life. One cemented Alanna’s belief that love was cruel. Another sought to prove her wrong.
Cris Serrano is new to town. Moving to the United States from Portugal, he is stepping into a world he in unfamiliar with. He is not fearful, though. Stepping forth with confidence, Cris is excited for what this new experience will hold, leaving behind a past he’d rather forget. Upon his first day at Henshaw Elementary, Cris meets Alanna Anderson and sparks fly. Their connection is one that will forever rewrite the map of their destinies – two supernovas colliding amidst a darkened sky. Not everyone believes that Alanna and Cris belong together, though.
Damien Foley has loved Alanna Anderson from the day he first set eyes upon her. Though she ignores his advances, Damien has hope that Alanna will open her heart to him. But when Cris Serrano comes to town, everything changes. Alanna gazes at Cris the way Damien wishes she would look at him. Watching her fall in love in Cris was more than Damien’s mind could take. As Alanna and Cris are enveloped in the joy of young love, a storm is brewing. With Damien’s attraction to Alanna only intensifying with each unrequited sentiment, an obsession was born.
Young love does not come easy in this gritty, romantic suspense novel. In the Phoenix Saga, they love hard, they fight hard, and the stakes are high as teens struggle to step over the echelon of adulthood.
350 pages, ebook
Published July 31, 2016
4 people are currently reading
28 people want to read
About the author
Addison Kline
37 books880 followersLibrarian Note: Also writes as A.C. Williams
A.C. Williams is an International Best-Selling Author of romantic suspense and mystery novels. She resides in Pennsylvania with her family. She is the wife of an Army Veteran and the proud mom of their three sons. When she is not writing, she is immersing herself in music, reading to her heart's content, and traveling with her family.
She previously wrote under the pen name Addison Kline and is a member of the International Thriller Writers Association. While she loves to write in a variety of genres, A.C. always says "mystery is her game." Some of her other favorite sub-genres to write include romantic suspense, psychological thrillers, crime, MC and mafia thrillers.
Some of her greatest influences to date include Edgar Allan Poe, Stephen King, Ray Bradbury, Harper Lee, Gillian Flynn, Emily Dickinson, Jane Austen & James Patterson.
A.C. Williams is an International Best-Selling Author of romantic suspense and mystery novels. She resides in Pennsylvania with her family. She is the wife of an Army Veteran and the proud mom of their three sons. When she is not writing, she is immersing herself in music, reading to her heart's content, and traveling with her family.
She previously wrote under the pen name Addison Kline and is a member of the International Thriller Writers Association. While she loves to write in a variety of genres, A.C. always says "mystery is her game." Some of her other favorite sub-genres to write include romantic suspense, psychological thrillers, crime, MC and mafia thrillers.
Some of her greatest influences to date include Edgar Allan Poe, Stephen King, Ray Bradbury, Harper Lee, Gillian Flynn, Emily Dickinson, Jane Austen & James Patterson.
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
August 12, 2016
There will always be books out there that will touch a deep part of you and Phoenix is one of those books. I love the meaning behind this book and the story Addison delivered.
Phoenix is told in third person POV, which is sometimes a bit hard for me to get into. But with this book and having so many characters and needing to view things from all the different ways, it's the only way for this book to work. And Addison wrote it very well. My only small gripe is that sometimes that language didn't fit the age of the character and made it slightly harder to believe their ages. Aside from that -a beautiful story.
This story surrounds Alanna and her friends. I won't go into details as to what happens because I feel that takes away from the excitement and wonderment of the story. What these young kinds go through will baffle you. But what will amaze you is the strong depth their friendship goes to. They stand side by side and have each others' backs through good and bad. They're family.
I have quite a lot of quotes from this book that I absolutely love and will keep with me forever. But one in particular is poem that Alanna wrote. It's a bit long, but says so much more.
"A year of tumult. An age of irritation. Heart's bitter contempt, a high security prison. A prior love turned exceptional fiend. An extraordinary façade. You're not all what you seemed. Deceit in your mind. Venom on your tongue. The maddening ache of anger. A howl building in my lungs. Stop this masquerade. Discard your mask! Your two faces have fulfilled their task! I believe in the myth. I trusted in a lie. Be gone! Bury this deceit to die!
A kaleidoscope mind. A battleground heart. Run for cover. Too late - torn apart. An era of disillusion. A moment of doubt. A flicker of truth; your misdeeds I must surmount. I throw my hands up to the wind. What's left to say? There's nothing left to give. Took my security. Fractured my soul. Pillaged and plundered til there was nothing left at all! But wait...what's this? A faintly beating heart. Mangled and bloody, but still holds a charge. Fighting against the current, a tremendous wave. Your violence and insanity.....It's my own life I must save. Birdcage, release me! Break these bonds that hold me. Captor, forget me. Set me soul free! Forget the words on your tongue. Rid my face from your brain. My life belongs to me....It was never yours to claim!"
Addison has way with words that will gut a person. They make you think, they make you feel, they come alive on the pages. I loved this story! I look forward to reading more from Addison.
Phoenix is told in third person POV, which is sometimes a bit hard for me to get into. But with this book and having so many characters and needing to view things from all the different ways, it's the only way for this book to work. And Addison wrote it very well. My only small gripe is that sometimes that language didn't fit the age of the character and made it slightly harder to believe their ages. Aside from that -a beautiful story.
This story surrounds Alanna and her friends. I won't go into details as to what happens because I feel that takes away from the excitement and wonderment of the story. What these young kinds go through will baffle you. But what will amaze you is the strong depth their friendship goes to. They stand side by side and have each others' backs through good and bad. They're family.
I have quite a lot of quotes from this book that I absolutely love and will keep with me forever. But one in particular is poem that Alanna wrote. It's a bit long, but says so much more.
"A year of tumult. An age of irritation. Heart's bitter contempt, a high security prison. A prior love turned exceptional fiend. An extraordinary façade. You're not all what you seemed. Deceit in your mind. Venom on your tongue. The maddening ache of anger. A howl building in my lungs. Stop this masquerade. Discard your mask! Your two faces have fulfilled their task! I believe in the myth. I trusted in a lie. Be gone! Bury this deceit to die!
A kaleidoscope mind. A battleground heart. Run for cover. Too late - torn apart. An era of disillusion. A moment of doubt. A flicker of truth; your misdeeds I must surmount. I throw my hands up to the wind. What's left to say? There's nothing left to give. Took my security. Fractured my soul. Pillaged and plundered til there was nothing left at all! But wait...what's this? A faintly beating heart. Mangled and bloody, but still holds a charge. Fighting against the current, a tremendous wave. Your violence and insanity.....It's my own life I must save. Birdcage, release me! Break these bonds that hold me. Captor, forget me. Set me soul free! Forget the words on your tongue. Rid my face from your brain. My life belongs to me....It was never yours to claim!"
Addison has way with words that will gut a person. They make you think, they make you feel, they come alive on the pages. I loved this story! I look forward to reading more from Addison.
November 23, 2018
4.5 Heart-String Pullin' Stars!
I never expected to enjoy a book about young teenagers as much as I did this one. This was an amazing group of kids that have not had the easiest lives and don't live is the best neighborhood but they do have each other, displaying an amazing loyalty and Maude who makes sure they are feed and doing the right thing.
There were things that happened in this book that I really wish didn't, but this stuff is real and I thought it was handled well; real life is not easy, bad things happen and this is a story of surviving, growing, loyalty and support ~ these things are important at any age. The characters were written so well, good and bad. You know this is true when you want to physically go into your Kindle to hug and slap someone.
This one did leave me with questions and I can't wait to read more in The Phoenix Saga.
I never expected to enjoy a book about young teenagers as much as I did this one. This was an amazing group of kids that have not had the easiest lives and don't live is the best neighborhood but they do have each other, displaying an amazing loyalty and Maude who makes sure they are feed and doing the right thing.
There were things that happened in this book that I really wish didn't, but this stuff is real and I thought it was handled well; real life is not easy, bad things happen and this is a story of surviving, growing, loyalty and support ~ these things are important at any age. The characters were written so well, good and bad. You know this is true when you want to physically go into your Kindle to hug and slap someone.
This one did leave me with questions and I can't wait to read more in The Phoenix Saga.
February 22, 2019
Young love, we all wish for it once in our lives, but this book is that and more!! Addison Kline has a way of writing that pulls you in and keeps you on the edge of your seat to see what happens next!!
Alanna has been through a lot at a young age, her father left and her mother dies so she's left with her grandmother Maude. She has known heartache and along comes Cris and with it also comes is an obession from another!!
What will happen to Alanna as this obsession from another sprials out if control?
Alanna has been through a lot at a young age, her father left and her mother dies so she's left with her grandmother Maude. She has known heartache and along comes Cris and with it also comes is an obession from another!!
What will happen to Alanna as this obsession from another sprials out if control?
June 30, 2019
Never in my life did I ever have a constant WTF face when reading a story. This story. GAH! A.C. Williams hit all the feels with this story. She knows how to capture the essence of the dramatics and grip you by the heartstrings. She created characters that you can connect with and fall in love with their courage and strength and can't help but root for them. Fabulous job well done! Can't wait to read the next one!
October 25, 2018
Very good.. Throughout the story I had a hard time remembering that these kids were only 14 years old..
August 9, 2016
There is often more lying under the surface of an Addison Kline novel that you would ever initially suspect and this was no different. True to form Ms Kline took her characters into situations that tackled some tough subject matter head on. She didn’t skirt around situations that other might have very well shied away from. Bullying in any format is abhorrent and left unfettered it can lead to more serious situations, and as much as the author was able to underline the intensity that being bullied can bring into your life, I think she came into her own when it came to the other more serious, more brutal subjects she included, physical and sexual abuse are serious topics and can never be taken lightly and I comment the author for executing the enormity of the situation with absolute precision, she handled not only the events leading up to the attack but the attack itself and the emotional trauma superbly, being inside the head of a victim is never a nice place to be but with Addison, at least I knew Alanna was in good hands.
Alanna was a lovely character, living with her grandma, is liked by pretty much everyone, she has a super group of friends and is happy with things the way they are…or should would be if Damien would just take no for an answer and accept that she doesn’t want to go out with him.
But when a new boy moves in across the street and starts school, it doesn’t take long for Alanna and Cris to strike up a friendship that was easy to see slipping into something more, these are kids after all but they were so in tune with each other that it was a done deal, they were kindred spirits.
As much as I was rooting for Alanna and Cris, Damien was an untold force and his decline towards being totally unhinged only became more and more apparent.
The kid had issues but would those that needed to see them in time?
I felt so sorry for Alanna and the guys, Nick; Charlie- Damien’s twin brother; Peck, her street wise self-appointed guardian angel who completely adored her as a sister almost, and Cris who was besotted by her and who’s family had been through this sort of experience previously, he was beside himself when it came to the lunacy that Damien exhibited, he could see where it was headed, but could he do anything about it?
Maude was grandma to them all, giving them a roof over their heads when they needed a little sanctuary from the madness of their domestic situations or juts a meal and a friendly face as was often the case with Peck and the kids loved her for the fact she loved them.
I could barely contain my anger with some of the characters, namely Teagan – read the book and you will know why!
But what I was absolutely unable to contain was the emotion that the story brought to the fore. These were young people who had difficult decisions to make, difficult decisions foisted upon them and emotional ties to cut. They were forced to stand by while one of their own was hurt so horribly but they stood together, they were the epitome of friendship, strength and support and they believed that together they would and could survive…and they did.
The guys supported Alanna unconditionally and in doing so they gave her the strength and time she needed to heal herself and then when she was ready to take the steps she needed to right the wrong that had taken place.
Strong stuff that while completely encasing a work of fiction could so easily have been fact…a situation not to be taken lightly tackled with the lightest and most reverent of touches…simply stunning!
Alanna was a lovely character, living with her grandma, is liked by pretty much everyone, she has a super group of friends and is happy with things the way they are…or should would be if Damien would just take no for an answer and accept that she doesn’t want to go out with him.
But when a new boy moves in across the street and starts school, it doesn’t take long for Alanna and Cris to strike up a friendship that was easy to see slipping into something more, these are kids after all but they were so in tune with each other that it was a done deal, they were kindred spirits.
As much as I was rooting for Alanna and Cris, Damien was an untold force and his decline towards being totally unhinged only became more and more apparent.
The kid had issues but would those that needed to see them in time?
I felt so sorry for Alanna and the guys, Nick; Charlie- Damien’s twin brother; Peck, her street wise self-appointed guardian angel who completely adored her as a sister almost, and Cris who was besotted by her and who’s family had been through this sort of experience previously, he was beside himself when it came to the lunacy that Damien exhibited, he could see where it was headed, but could he do anything about it?
Maude was grandma to them all, giving them a roof over their heads when they needed a little sanctuary from the madness of their domestic situations or juts a meal and a friendly face as was often the case with Peck and the kids loved her for the fact she loved them.
I could barely contain my anger with some of the characters, namely Teagan – read the book and you will know why!
But what I was absolutely unable to contain was the emotion that the story brought to the fore. These were young people who had difficult decisions to make, difficult decisions foisted upon them and emotional ties to cut. They were forced to stand by while one of their own was hurt so horribly but they stood together, they were the epitome of friendship, strength and support and they believed that together they would and could survive…and they did.
The guys supported Alanna unconditionally and in doing so they gave her the strength and time she needed to heal herself and then when she was ready to take the steps she needed to right the wrong that had taken place.
Strong stuff that while completely encasing a work of fiction could so easily have been fact…a situation not to be taken lightly tackled with the lightest and most reverent of touches…simply stunning!
September 20, 2016
Every time I pick up one of Addison's books, I fall more in love with her writing. I can not wait to see where book 2 is going to take us, after this heart in your throat ride. The one thing I can guarantee, if you are new to Addison's books, the way she narrates, you are right there in the thick of things.
Alanna Anderson is your average tomboy, growing up in the lower income part of Philly. Friends since preschool, Alanna and her friends, loved hockey and just hanging out with each other. But that all changes when one of the guys develops a crush on her. When she looks at her guy friends, she sees brothers, nothing more. So when a new kid moves in, things are about to change. Alanna and Cris hit it off instantly. So in tuned with each other, that just sitting in silence is enough for them.
Obsession is a dangerous game. A crush can turn into a nightmare very fast. Who can protect Alanna when one of her friends loses his mind in a jealous rage?
Alanna Anderson is your average tomboy, growing up in the lower income part of Philly. Friends since preschool, Alanna and her friends, loved hockey and just hanging out with each other. But that all changes when one of the guys develops a crush on her. When she looks at her guy friends, she sees brothers, nothing more. So when a new kid moves in, things are about to change. Alanna and Cris hit it off instantly. So in tuned with each other, that just sitting in silence is enough for them.
Obsession is a dangerous game. A crush can turn into a nightmare very fast. Who can protect Alanna when one of her friends loses his mind in a jealous rage?
August 10, 2016
Phoenix is the first book that I have read from this author and I was not sure what to expect. It really took a while for me to get into this story and it actually had me a bit worried because I have signed up to read another book by Addison Kline. But, fortunately I did hang in there and finally got into the meat of the story. There are so many characters in this book that it took a while to build on each of their characters. These kids often spoke and sounded far older than 13. It has been a long time since I was 13 so maybe kids do speak like this now.
Phoenix is a coming of age story with a bit of psycho/mean kid. Alanna Anderson is the main person in this book. She is 13 years old and this story is about her and her friends. She met most of her friends when she was in Kindergarten. And, meets Cris Serrano (the new kid in school) when they are both 13. They become boyfriend/girlfriend. Young love. Damien is the psycho/mean kid and a twin. Charlie is Damien’s identical twin brother and is one of Alanna’s friends. Damien keeps asking Alanna out and she continually turns him down. Most everyone knew that something was wrong with Damien and the story continues. I need to leave something for you to read. ;)
I wanted to mention the poem that Alanna wrote (read by Charlie in class) powerful and the poem that Damien wrote and read was again psychotic but, powerful too. Again, you need to read Phoenix so you will know what I am speaking about.
I read this book because one of my bloggers was unable to and I was able to get this book from Kindle Unlimited. I am happy that I read Phoenix even though it might appear that I didn’t. There is a good story in this coming of age book. Oh and I love how the book got its name. I can’t tell you because then that could be a spoiler. I give Phoenix 4 stars.
Phoenix is a coming of age story with a bit of psycho/mean kid. Alanna Anderson is the main person in this book. She is 13 years old and this story is about her and her friends. She met most of her friends when she was in Kindergarten. And, meets Cris Serrano (the new kid in school) when they are both 13. They become boyfriend/girlfriend. Young love. Damien is the psycho/mean kid and a twin. Charlie is Damien’s identical twin brother and is one of Alanna’s friends. Damien keeps asking Alanna out and she continually turns him down. Most everyone knew that something was wrong with Damien and the story continues. I need to leave something for you to read. ;)
I wanted to mention the poem that Alanna wrote (read by Charlie in class) powerful and the poem that Damien wrote and read was again psychotic but, powerful too. Again, you need to read Phoenix so you will know what I am speaking about.
I read this book because one of my bloggers was unable to and I was able to get this book from Kindle Unlimited. I am happy that I read Phoenix even though it might appear that I didn’t. There is a good story in this coming of age book. Oh and I love how the book got its name. I can’t tell you because then that could be a spoiler. I give Phoenix 4 stars.
August 10, 2016
Alanna Anderson is a girl in Elementary School. Damien Foley has loved her from the first time he saw her at school. Cris Serrano is the new kid in school. He is coming from Portugal. He and his family move in just kitty corner from Alanna's grandmother where she lives. Why does she live with her grandmother? Who is Nicholas? Who are Charlie, Teagen, Peck? This is a story that covers some dark aspects of life as a teenager in late Elementary or Early Middle School. How did they (Charlie, Damien, Peck, and Teagen) meet? What is Alanna's relationship with Nicholas? The things Cris notices as soon as he gets to town and sees the interactions that each person has with Alanna is truly inspiring. To think that there are people out there that are that perceptive, that will help protect others at all costs, and not just Cris, but Peck too. What happens between Damien and Alanna? What happens between Cris and Alanna? Who does Cris live with in town once he moves there? Why did his family move there? What tragedies seem to bring all these random people together? How are their lives affected by each decision that someone in the group makes? You're going to have to read to find out. It took me a little bit to get into this book, but once I did, I could not put it down. Addison Kline does a great job putting darkness and light into books. I really enjoy reading what she writes.
RECEIVED THIS BOOK AS A GIFT FOR A FAIR/HONEST REVIEW and REVIEWER FOR Bloggin' With M.Brennan.
RECEIVED THIS BOOK AS A GIFT FOR A FAIR/HONEST REVIEW and REVIEWER FOR Bloggin' With M.Brennan.
August 2, 2016
At the heart of this book is Alanna. She lives with her grandmother, and considers her close knit circle of friends her family. When Cris and his family move across the street, the dynamics of the group change. For most of them, it changes for the better. With Damien, it's another matter.
Alanna's grandmother takes on the mothering aspect of the kids' lives. They all know if they need a place to stay, or a place to get a hot meal, Maude's home is the place to go.
The kids are forced to take on adult matters and make adult decisions well before they should have to. Even at their most trying times, they never give up on one another. Instead, they become even more loyal to one another and prove to others their bonds will not be broken.
Teagan, oh how I loathe thee. I wanted to reach thru my kindle with a 2x4 and slap her.
This book is so emotional. I felt all of the anger, the hopelessness at times, the betrayal, the hurt, the LOVE. Most especially the love. Addison's writing is far superior than that of any other author I've read. The descriptions are superb, and make you feel as though you are truly LIVING their lives. Five stars is nowhere near enough for this phenomenal book.
Alanna's grandmother takes on the mothering aspect of the kids' lives. They all know if they need a place to stay, or a place to get a hot meal, Maude's home is the place to go.
The kids are forced to take on adult matters and make adult decisions well before they should have to. Even at their most trying times, they never give up on one another. Instead, they become even more loyal to one another and prove to others their bonds will not be broken.
Teagan, oh how I loathe thee. I wanted to reach thru my kindle with a 2x4 and slap her.
This book is so emotional. I felt all of the anger, the hopelessness at times, the betrayal, the hurt, the LOVE. Most especially the love. Addison's writing is far superior than that of any other author I've read. The descriptions are superb, and make you feel as though you are truly LIVING their lives. Five stars is nowhere near enough for this phenomenal book.
August 10, 2016
This was so unexpected, the book covers gave the impression that the characters would be much older.
I was pulled into the story from the first page. Alanna and the boys had a relationship that was of siblings rather than friends.
They had all known each other since they were toddlers and all is well. Then Damien begins to see Alanna in a different light, and won’t take for an answer.
Alanna lives with her grandmother Maude, Maude is the mother hen to all the boys including Nick, Alanna’s cousin.
Then when Alanna is waiting outside the principal’s office, when she is asked to take the new student Chris to his lessons.
Once Alana has met Cris, it like an instant connection between them. It’s there for everyone can see.
All her friends Charlie, Peck and her cousin Nick are pleased and welcome him into their circle.
Damien is not happy and his behaviour escalates.
Alanna is a strong powerful female lead whose personality shines throughout the book.
The Sabotino clan were a delight who rallied around to help Cris and Alanna.
This a powerful book, with tough issues. Addison Kline is fast becoming one of my must buys and I can’t wait for Book 2
I was pulled into the story from the first page. Alanna and the boys had a relationship that was of siblings rather than friends.
They had all known each other since they were toddlers and all is well. Then Damien begins to see Alanna in a different light, and won’t take for an answer.
Alanna lives with her grandmother Maude, Maude is the mother hen to all the boys including Nick, Alanna’s cousin.
Then when Alanna is waiting outside the principal’s office, when she is asked to take the new student Chris to his lessons.
Once Alana has met Cris, it like an instant connection between them. It’s there for everyone can see.
All her friends Charlie, Peck and her cousin Nick are pleased and welcome him into their circle.
Damien is not happy and his behaviour escalates.
Alanna is a strong powerful female lead whose personality shines throughout the book.
The Sabotino clan were a delight who rallied around to help Cris and Alanna.
This a powerful book, with tough issues. Addison Kline is fast becoming one of my must buys and I can’t wait for Book 2
August 1, 2016
Addison Kline is one of my favorite authors, her story lines are complex and make you think although they are also fun to read. Having said this I did struggle with this book due to the mature events that happen to the characters. I know the events in this book do happen in real life on a daily bases. I just wish the characters in the book were older.
One of the things I like so much about Ms Klines books is she writes awesome female characters that are smart, strong mentally an physically and have that fight in them when they need it most. Part of the definition of Phoenix is "a person or thing regarded as uniquely remarkable in some respect". Alanna is just that type of character plus she is a survivor. The story line is well developed, and the characters are believable and relateable. I look forward to reading more from Ms Kline. I recommend this book. I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
One of the things I like so much about Ms Klines books is she writes awesome female characters that are smart, strong mentally an physically and have that fight in them when they need it most. Part of the definition of Phoenix is "a person or thing regarded as uniquely remarkable in some respect". Alanna is just that type of character plus she is a survivor. The story line is well developed, and the characters are believable and relateable. I look forward to reading more from Ms Kline. I recommend this book. I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
April 1, 2024
Alanna and most her group of friends have been together since before kindergarten. When Cris moves next door to Alanna, it shakes up the dynamics - most for the better but some, like Damien, don’t take it so well. These kids are forced to grow up way to soon and deal with some very grown up matters. My heart broke for them but there was so much hope and they bonded together instead of allowing tragedy to tear them apart.
I wanted to slap Teagan and Damien’s mother multiple times. But I loved Hector and Maude. Maude is the grandmother everyone wants and basically the mother to the whole group.
This book is so full of emotion and hope. I felt everything along with the characters. I highly recommend this to everyone.
I wanted to slap Teagan and Damien’s mother multiple times. But I loved Hector and Maude. Maude is the grandmother everyone wants and basically the mother to the whole group.
This book is so full of emotion and hope. I felt everything along with the characters. I highly recommend this to everyone.
August 14, 2016
I was totally blown away with this story. At first impression, I expected the main characters to be a little older than they were, but despite that fact, this was one of those stories which grab you from the word go until the end. There are so many emotions to experience, and it totally broke my heart. Alanna, who lives with her grandmother, has an obsessed best friend Damien. Loved the other characters in this story as well, and they showed a maturity well beyond their years. No spoilers from me though!
Hats off to this author for such a well written storyline, and for handling an extremely difficult topic so tactfully!! I love Addison’s books, and I cannot wait to read more from her.
Hats off to this author for such a well written storyline, and for handling an extremely difficult topic so tactfully!! I love Addison’s books, and I cannot wait to read more from her.
July 7, 2016
I don't know where to start with this review. I was blown away and shocked. we have a very strong story of love, pain, deceit with amazing characters. Alanna had always been the best of friends with twins Damien and Charles and Damien has always had a thing for Alanna but to her he was just a best friend, but when things don't go like you want or others get what you feel you deserve things can happen. I could say a lot more but it would spoil it. I couldn't put the book down. definitely a great read.
August 25, 2016
I love the characters in this story and the way they all relate to one another. The issues that are addressed in this book are very mature, but are also handled very tactfully and written so well. I loved reading this and was completely absorbed. I did not put this book down once until I finished. I can't wait to read more from this author. I have enjoyed all of her writing so far.
August 3, 2016
Touching, gripping and beautiful story of love, betrayal and survival. This is the story of Alanna and things she and her friends went through. Can't say more without giving away spoilers! Well worth the read❣
June 28, 2016
WOW!!! AMAZING story revolving around a group of young teens. Not my normal read....but DEFINITELY still 5 STAR quality!!! Look for my full review at Mommy's Naughty Playground
August 11, 2016
Great story of how obsession can lead to dark and light. The story follows a group of young teens just trying to make it through the world.
November 12, 2017
Having read other Addison Kline novel’s, I knew that this one wouldn’t disappoint. In this story you meet a girl named Alanna who lives with her grandmother. She has her guy friends that she pals around with…then there is the one in the bunch that just won’t take no for an answer and that’s Damien, her good pal, Charlie’s twin brother. Then a new boy moves to town and stole Alanna’s heart and Damien seems to slip off the deep end and finally snapped.
She touched on some of the hard to discuss topics of our day: bullying, rape and abuse. My own daughter has been bullied at school, so I know how hard of a topic it is. I feel that Addison did a wonderful way with telling Alanna’s story. There was so many times that I wanted to throw my kindle at the wall because of some of the crap that was going on. Other times I was in tears because I hurt when Alanna hurt. I loved the chemistry between Alanna, Nick, Peck, Charlie and Cris. I’m looking forward to seeing what else she has in store for Alanna and the group.
She touched on some of the hard to discuss topics of our day: bullying, rape and abuse. My own daughter has been bullied at school, so I know how hard of a topic it is. I feel that Addison did a wonderful way with telling Alanna’s story. There was so many times that I wanted to throw my kindle at the wall because of some of the crap that was going on. Other times I was in tears because I hurt when Alanna hurt. I loved the chemistry between Alanna, Nick, Peck, Charlie and Cris. I’m looking forward to seeing what else she has in store for Alanna and the group.
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