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Enlightened #1
Enlightened
A wise person once told me: There's a reason for everything.
Sarah Shaw -- pulled off a cliff
Emma Blackstone -- shoved out a window and trampled by a horse
Mattie Williams -- stung to death by bees
Cora Thomas -- pushed in front of a train
Edith Young -- impaled
Rachel Ellis -- shoved off a boat
Lois Smith -- hit by a bus
Muriel Walters -- UGH... another bus
Lucille Marshall -- involuntary manslaughter
Veronica Edwards -- undetermined
What do all of these names have in common? They all died long before they were meant too, and they were all ME. If there's any truth to that statement at all, I can't wait to find out the reason for this!
Sarah Shaw -- pulled off a cliff
Emma Blackstone -- shoved out a window and trampled by a horse
Mattie Williams -- stung to death by bees
Cora Thomas -- pushed in front of a train
Edith Young -- impaled
Rachel Ellis -- shoved off a boat
Lois Smith -- hit by a bus
Muriel Walters -- UGH... another bus
Lucille Marshall -- involuntary manslaughter
Veronica Edwards -- undetermined
What do all of these names have in common? They all died long before they were meant too, and they were all ME. If there's any truth to that statement at all, I can't wait to find out the reason for this!
326 pages, Paperback
Published November 10, 2016
37 people are currently reading
345 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 92 reviews
March 9, 2019
I love this book because it's the story I searched my whole life for. ❤
December 23, 2017
Behind a confusing start, there is a good story
This is an unusual paranormal reincarnation-type love story, in which Harmony is a student soul who returns to Earth to learn more about herself as Veronica. In fact, she has had many lives on Earth as part of her education. I liked the concept although I found the start of the book confusing until it became clear what had happened. Just when I was about to give up, the story started to make sense, and I'm glad I continued. The drive in the book is the characters. They are interesting and the plot certainly poses thought-provoking questions about spirituality, life and afterlife.
This is an unusual paranormal reincarnation-type love story, in which Harmony is a student soul who returns to Earth to learn more about herself as Veronica. In fact, she has had many lives on Earth as part of her education. I liked the concept although I found the start of the book confusing until it became clear what had happened. Just when I was about to give up, the story started to make sense, and I'm glad I continued. The drive in the book is the characters. They are interesting and the plot certainly poses thought-provoking questions about spirituality, life and afterlife.
October 18, 2018
I don't even know what to say about this book. The concept of this book would've seemed better if it was executed properly. Everybody is intrigued about afterlife if they believe in any and the concept of Earth as school where we go to learn our lessons to be able to come home finally as a redeemed person sounds all good. But there was no depth to this story. It had the worst world-building. There were so many repetition of words that I wanted to throw my tab at someone.
Sometimes good ending make up for the bad plot but this wasn't even the case here. It ended on a cliffhanger. Suffice to say, I didn't like anything about this book.
My Rating: 1.5
Sometimes good ending make up for the bad plot but this wasn't even the case here. It ended on a cliffhanger. Suffice to say, I didn't like anything about this book.
My Rating: 1.5
September 29, 2020
3.5 Stars
Harmony is a soul, and like her classmates, she travels to Earth, leaving her memories of home behind. While on Earth, she and her classmates are born into humans to learn their lessons. For them, Earth is school. But Harmony has just figured out something about herself and the connection she shares with Kaleb, another student. For as long as she can remember, she and Kaleb have always found each other on Earth. If only Kaleb would discover their bond before something terrible happens.
I was immediately intrigued by the unique premise of this story. And the following quote within the first few pages caught my attention “A wise person once told me: All good things must come to an end. Respectfully, I have to disagree. All stories have a beginning, but the best stories start at an end.” The story is well-suited for young adults, and there are few spelling or grammatical errors. Chapters are short making for a quick read.
While I enjoyed the story, there were some technical issues which interrupted the flow. There were two or three chapters devoted to Harmony and Kaleb expressing their love for one another. I felt one chapter was enough to get this point across. About three-quarters through the book, the POV changed from first person told from Harmony’s perspective to first person POV told through Kaleb. The change was a bit jarring, and I had to keep reminding myself that I was in Kaleb’s head and not Harmony’s. This change was only for one chapter and reverted back to first person as told by Harmony.
Despite these issues, this was a sweet story with likeable characters and good world building. I will read the next book in the series as I need to know what happened.
Harmony is a soul, and like her classmates, she travels to Earth, leaving her memories of home behind. While on Earth, she and her classmates are born into humans to learn their lessons. For them, Earth is school. But Harmony has just figured out something about herself and the connection she shares with Kaleb, another student. For as long as she can remember, she and Kaleb have always found each other on Earth. If only Kaleb would discover their bond before something terrible happens.
I was immediately intrigued by the unique premise of this story. And the following quote within the first few pages caught my attention “A wise person once told me: All good things must come to an end. Respectfully, I have to disagree. All stories have a beginning, but the best stories start at an end.” The story is well-suited for young adults, and there are few spelling or grammatical errors. Chapters are short making for a quick read.
While I enjoyed the story, there were some technical issues which interrupted the flow. There were two or three chapters devoted to Harmony and Kaleb expressing their love for one another. I felt one chapter was enough to get this point across. About three-quarters through the book, the POV changed from first person told from Harmony’s perspective to first person POV told through Kaleb. The change was a bit jarring, and I had to keep reminding myself that I was in Kaleb’s head and not Harmony’s. This change was only for one chapter and reverted back to first person as told by Harmony.
Despite these issues, this was a sweet story with likeable characters and good world building. I will read the next book in the series as I need to know what happened.
December 9, 2017
Harmony has lived many lives, but one thing that was constant in every single one of them was Kaleb. But for the life of her, she dosesn't know why...
Oh. My. Days. I had to take a moment after reading Enlightened by Billie Kowalewski just to gather my thoughts. This book was amazing. From the opening chapter to the very last sentence I was utterly enthralled. To say I loved it is an absolute understatement.
Harmony is such a well-drawn protagonists. She is one of those characters who feels deeply, loves deeply, and hurts deeply. She was so believable and so brilliantly written. And as for Kaleb... Oh, my giddy aunt... I will tell you something, Billie Kowalewski has got herself a new fan.
I could go on about this book all day. It was Brillant. This book has made it into my top 5 reads for 2017. I am hoping, very much, that there is going to be a sequel.
I Highly Recommend.
Oh. My. Days. I had to take a moment after reading Enlightened by Billie Kowalewski just to gather my thoughts. This book was amazing. From the opening chapter to the very last sentence I was utterly enthralled. To say I loved it is an absolute understatement.
Harmony is such a well-drawn protagonists. She is one of those characters who feels deeply, loves deeply, and hurts deeply. She was so believable and so brilliantly written. And as for Kaleb... Oh, my giddy aunt... I will tell you something, Billie Kowalewski has got herself a new fan.
I could go on about this book all day. It was Brillant. This book has made it into my top 5 reads for 2017. I am hoping, very much, that there is going to be a sequel.
I Highly Recommend.
October 16, 2018
‘All stories have a beginning, but the best stories start at an end.’
Connecticut author Billie Kowalewski is a refreshing new voice on the literary scene. Though she has published only two books – ENLIGHTENED and its sequel DIVIDED her imprint on the mind of those fortunate enough to read her work is indelible. She appears to have a very strong future.
The afterlife – or the before life – is a topic that has fascinated poets and philosophers and lovers for centuries. Most authors deal with the subject as a time travel genre but Billie allows us to actually FEEL the difference between this life and the afterlife to the extent that the flow is ingratiating and welcoming and wholly credible.
The novel opens with the same delicate sense of light humor that makes Billie’s writing such a joy to read. ‘MY WORLD IS YOUR WORLD, only you can’t remember any of it. A barrier exists between what you think is real and what you know to be. It was put in place during the transition into the world you currently know, and will be removed upon your return. In other words…this is not your real life. My name is Harmony, and I’m gonna let you in on a little secret. I am a student at the biggest, most famous school ever known. And so are you! Earth. Yep, Earth is school. Are you shocked? If you are, it’s okay. This is the most common and expected reaction to this news. I’ll give you a moment to let that sink in… Just kidding! Based on the fact that you’ve chosen to read this, I’m gonna bet that you’re a lot like me. You’re probably fine, and not shocked by this at all. If you do, however, find this news to be at all surprising, perhaps it would be best if you stopped here. This story is based on an alternative viewpoint, and I’m not looking to upset anyone’s beliefs. I do understand that this story may not be for everyone. Our extreme diversity is an important part of what makes up who we are. So this may be where we will agree to disagree, and possibly part ways. Hopefully as friends. For everyone else, we will move on. Yes, life is about learning, and Earth is the school. I’m sure you’ve heard someone on Earth say this before. I know when I’m there I hear this often. People know, and it’s not because they remember that it is. They know because you cannot get through a single day there without learning something, somehow. It was set up to be that way. On Earth, learning some type of lesson is unavoidable. If you’re sitting there right now searching your mind for a tiny clue that this is true, you’re wasting your time. You won’t be able to find anything. Please don’t be mistaken––your memories are there. You carry them along with you, buried deep within your subconscious, hidden by a special barrier. This barrier will remain in place throughout your entire life, and it is what is keeping you from being able to remember the world from which you came. Not to worry––you’ll get your memories back, along with your new ones, once you…ahem…return home.’
The plot of Billie’s novel follows: ‘When Veronica lost the love of her life in a horrible accident she was sure he was gone forever, and she would never love again. Then, five years later she meets her own tragic demise leading her back to the man she loves, but, with an unexpected twist...Imagine waking up to discover that the life you thought was real never was. That your real life is actually lived somewhere else, and the love you thought was lost will go on forever.’
Radiant and mesmerizing and uplifting ENLIGHTENED is. Pleasure yourself with this very fine novel.
Connecticut author Billie Kowalewski is a refreshing new voice on the literary scene. Though she has published only two books – ENLIGHTENED and its sequel DIVIDED her imprint on the mind of those fortunate enough to read her work is indelible. She appears to have a very strong future.
The afterlife – or the before life – is a topic that has fascinated poets and philosophers and lovers for centuries. Most authors deal with the subject as a time travel genre but Billie allows us to actually FEEL the difference between this life and the afterlife to the extent that the flow is ingratiating and welcoming and wholly credible.
The novel opens with the same delicate sense of light humor that makes Billie’s writing such a joy to read. ‘MY WORLD IS YOUR WORLD, only you can’t remember any of it. A barrier exists between what you think is real and what you know to be. It was put in place during the transition into the world you currently know, and will be removed upon your return. In other words…this is not your real life. My name is Harmony, and I’m gonna let you in on a little secret. I am a student at the biggest, most famous school ever known. And so are you! Earth. Yep, Earth is school. Are you shocked? If you are, it’s okay. This is the most common and expected reaction to this news. I’ll give you a moment to let that sink in… Just kidding! Based on the fact that you’ve chosen to read this, I’m gonna bet that you’re a lot like me. You’re probably fine, and not shocked by this at all. If you do, however, find this news to be at all surprising, perhaps it would be best if you stopped here. This story is based on an alternative viewpoint, and I’m not looking to upset anyone’s beliefs. I do understand that this story may not be for everyone. Our extreme diversity is an important part of what makes up who we are. So this may be where we will agree to disagree, and possibly part ways. Hopefully as friends. For everyone else, we will move on. Yes, life is about learning, and Earth is the school. I’m sure you’ve heard someone on Earth say this before. I know when I’m there I hear this often. People know, and it’s not because they remember that it is. They know because you cannot get through a single day there without learning something, somehow. It was set up to be that way. On Earth, learning some type of lesson is unavoidable. If you’re sitting there right now searching your mind for a tiny clue that this is true, you’re wasting your time. You won’t be able to find anything. Please don’t be mistaken––your memories are there. You carry them along with you, buried deep within your subconscious, hidden by a special barrier. This barrier will remain in place throughout your entire life, and it is what is keeping you from being able to remember the world from which you came. Not to worry––you’ll get your memories back, along with your new ones, once you…ahem…return home.’
The plot of Billie’s novel follows: ‘When Veronica lost the love of her life in a horrible accident she was sure he was gone forever, and she would never love again. Then, five years later she meets her own tragic demise leading her back to the man she loves, but, with an unexpected twist...Imagine waking up to discover that the life you thought was real never was. That your real life is actually lived somewhere else, and the love you thought was lost will go on forever.’
Radiant and mesmerizing and uplifting ENLIGHTENED is. Pleasure yourself with this very fine novel.
October 13, 2018
I am always intrigued by the afterlife and the different variables that each person has to say about. So, Of course, I said yes to this book because da need to check out this author view on and how she weaved it to a story.
I have to say I am pleasantly surprised by the story. My mind had gone to a different concept before I started this book and I was yet again wrong. Which is brilliant because I love to be surprised by books.
I had a talk with my husband of a similar concept that came from another guy was doing a podcast I don't remember who but he was doing an experiment of doing DMT that drug puts you to sleep and allegedly gets you in touch with your subconscious and possible the other you in the afterlife. Anyway, probably most of you think I am talking jibberish right now So I get to the review.
So the concept of this book is that earth is a school and we go there to learn; the afterlife is actually our home and we go there when we "die". Of course, we follow a group and within this group, we focus on our two main characters were the story slowly starts to unfold and explain the whole concept of this afterlife.
I loved the story and the concept. I thought it was really nicely put together. I felt that the author took the concept of dimensions and structured the afterlife on that. I believe the 10th dimension is where it has infinite possibilities were you can imagine anything and it happens, i.e, a house in the forest with a beachfront.
The book had some repetition in words and feelings which annoyed me, but towards the end, I realized why. I think the author wanted to establish the feelings of our main characters and ingrain it in our brains. Then she did the unthinkable finished the book of a bloody cliffhanger. Like WTF I am very angry about it. I didn't expect it. I didn't realize it finished. In all honesty, it could have finished a little more soft not so abrupt. I had to email the author ask her if it's meant to finish mid-sentence or it has been an error. It turned out it hadn't.
Well, am I suggesting this book for people to read?
A BIG FAT YES. Although it finished the way it finished I didn't feel angry after I realized it was a cliffhanger. I am looking forward to reading the second book as well.
I have to say I am pleasantly surprised by the story. My mind had gone to a different concept before I started this book and I was yet again wrong. Which is brilliant because I love to be surprised by books.
I had a talk with my husband of a similar concept that came from another guy was doing a podcast I don't remember who but he was doing an experiment of doing DMT that drug puts you to sleep and allegedly gets you in touch with your subconscious and possible the other you in the afterlife. Anyway, probably most of you think I am talking jibberish right now So I get to the review.
So the concept of this book is that earth is a school and we go there to learn; the afterlife is actually our home and we go there when we "die". Of course, we follow a group and within this group, we focus on our two main characters were the story slowly starts to unfold and explain the whole concept of this afterlife.
I loved the story and the concept. I thought it was really nicely put together. I felt that the author took the concept of dimensions and structured the afterlife on that. I believe the 10th dimension is where it has infinite possibilities were you can imagine anything and it happens, i.e, a house in the forest with a beachfront.
The book had some repetition in words and feelings which annoyed me, but towards the end, I realized why. I think the author wanted to establish the feelings of our main characters and ingrain it in our brains. Then she did the unthinkable finished the book of a bloody cliffhanger. Like WTF I am very angry about it. I didn't expect it. I didn't realize it finished. In all honesty, it could have finished a little more soft not so abrupt. I had to email the author ask her if it's meant to finish mid-sentence or it has been an error. It turned out it hadn't.
Well, am I suggesting this book for people to read?
A BIG FAT YES. Although it finished the way it finished I didn't feel angry after I realized it was a cliffhanger. I am looking forward to reading the second book as well.
September 6, 2018
I was given this book in exchange for an honest review, and honest I shall be!
I realised that I'm not the exact intended audience for this book, but I flexed my imagination and BAM! I was a teenager again!
The beginning was a lot to take in at once, but I think that's mainly because Billie has put so much into creating this world. Once we got into the story I found that I felt quite invested in Harmony and was loving the tale unfolding as to why she kept experiencing all of these dramatic deaths!
Kaleb was everything that I would have wanted in a boy as a young teen, and I liked the beginning of their relationship; I said it in my video review, that if you have the time and the energy to repeatedly argue with someone over something, then it's indicative that there is some kind of deeper dynamic or relationship being hinted at... and I have a soft spot for love-hate relationships <3
I will say though that there were 3-4 chapters in the middle of the book that were hard to get through. There was a lot of repetition ('sweet honey-like scent' was used 17 times from chapter 12 til the end) and the plot didn't move.
However, when it picked up again... it was great!
I loved the premise of Artopeia, and especially the courtyard scene. The world and the concept was a fresh and unique take on some pretty awesome and ancient beliefs on reincarnation (i.e. native American and Hindu), and these links did make me geek out a little bit.
I'm also personally a fan of cliffhangers too, so the ending worked for me - and it was a nice surprise to discover that this was going to be more than one book about Harmony and her journey.
Overall, even after a few speed bumps, it's a nice teen romance with a good dose of high school drama... well, if the school was the planet Earth...
I've also purchased Divided, and based on the reviews that I've seen, I'm looking forward to devouring it!
I realised that I'm not the exact intended audience for this book, but I flexed my imagination and BAM! I was a teenager again!
The beginning was a lot to take in at once, but I think that's mainly because Billie has put so much into creating this world. Once we got into the story I found that I felt quite invested in Harmony and was loving the tale unfolding as to why she kept experiencing all of these dramatic deaths!
Kaleb was everything that I would have wanted in a boy as a young teen, and I liked the beginning of their relationship; I said it in my video review, that if you have the time and the energy to repeatedly argue with someone over something, then it's indicative that there is some kind of deeper dynamic or relationship being hinted at... and I have a soft spot for love-hate relationships <3
I will say though that there were 3-4 chapters in the middle of the book that were hard to get through. There was a lot of repetition ('sweet honey-like scent' was used 17 times from chapter 12 til the end) and the plot didn't move.
However, when it picked up again... it was great!
I loved the premise of Artopeia, and especially the courtyard scene. The world and the concept was a fresh and unique take on some pretty awesome and ancient beliefs on reincarnation (i.e. native American and Hindu), and these links did make me geek out a little bit.
I'm also personally a fan of cliffhangers too, so the ending worked for me - and it was a nice surprise to discover that this was going to be more than one book about Harmony and her journey.
Overall, even after a few speed bumps, it's a nice teen romance with a good dose of high school drama... well, if the school was the planet Earth...
I've also purchased Divided, and based on the reviews that I've seen, I'm looking forward to devouring it!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 9, 2018
Sometimes there's more to life than what we're able to see, and that's exactly what life is like for Harmony. She keeps getting sent back to Earth as someone new, and she keeps dying early. There's a reason for these premature deaths, and there's a reason there's always a special someone in her Earth life, she just doesn't know the answers yet.
Each life is meant to teach you what you need to move on. If you don't glean all you need to, then you need to go back. Harmony and her friends are in class together, and they always meet up on their return trips, each of them with their own home bases if you will.
Enlightened is an interesting and unique concept that Kowalewski has thought up and she's created Harmony and Kaleb as deep characters. They are fierce in their emotions and they love hard. Aside from some repetitive word usage and a few spots that I stumbled over, there's a good, enjoyable story underneath, it's just a big disappointment to end on a cliffhanger with no warning, as the book is not labeled as a serial.
Each life is meant to teach you what you need to move on. If you don't glean all you need to, then you need to go back. Harmony and her friends are in class together, and they always meet up on their return trips, each of them with their own home bases if you will.
Enlightened is an interesting and unique concept that Kowalewski has thought up and she's created Harmony and Kaleb as deep characters. They are fierce in their emotions and they love hard. Aside from some repetitive word usage and a few spots that I stumbled over, there's a good, enjoyable story underneath, it's just a big disappointment to end on a cliffhanger with no warning, as the book is not labeled as a serial.
December 30, 2018
I received Englightened from the author Billie Kowalewski in exchange for an honest review.
Despite struggling with the beginning of this book, I really enjoyed it once the initial confusion made sense. The story is brilliantly written and the theory makes you sit and think about life and the things that happen to you. You do find yourself thinking that some of these things make sense and could happen.
There were a couple of chapters about 70% in that did become a bit repetitive, which unfortunately had me wondering if I would actually finish the book. However, I did finish it, and I'm so glad that I did. The story picked back up and continued to wow me.
The ending leaves you on a massive cliffhanger, ensuring that you will no doubt pick up the next book, Divided, to find out what happens to Harmony and Kaleb. I can't wait to read Divided and see what happens next.
Despite struggling with the beginning of this book, I really enjoyed it once the initial confusion made sense. The story is brilliantly written and the theory makes you sit and think about life and the things that happen to you. You do find yourself thinking that some of these things make sense and could happen.
There were a couple of chapters about 70% in that did become a bit repetitive, which unfortunately had me wondering if I would actually finish the book. However, I did finish it, and I'm so glad that I did. The story picked back up and continued to wow me.
The ending leaves you on a massive cliffhanger, ensuring that you will no doubt pick up the next book, Divided, to find out what happens to Harmony and Kaleb. I can't wait to read Divided and see what happens next.
May 31, 2019
The main problem with the book is that you can't read it in a single go.The narration is really confusing in starting,but this book needs your patience,coz the story coming forward gets better only.
-The cover is just so beautiful and the scene depicted connects well to the story and those who have read it, will know what I mean.
-The story is monotonous at the beginning,but some good plot twits will arrive at the end and will leave you asking for more.
-There was unnecessary romance which could have been avoided.
-The narration is in POV of Harmony and Kaleb.Yeah,it was smooth for most of the time.
-There were really some good quotes,i am not mentioning them here,it was really hard to pick one.
-Character development is done well.
.-The best part is that i can stay longer with the characters in the next two parts in the series.
-The cover is just so beautiful and the scene depicted connects well to the story and those who have read it, will know what I mean.
-The story is monotonous at the beginning,but some good plot twits will arrive at the end and will leave you asking for more.
-There was unnecessary romance which could have been avoided.
-The narration is in POV of Harmony and Kaleb.Yeah,it was smooth for most of the time.
-There were really some good quotes,i am not mentioning them here,it was really hard to pick one.
-Character development is done well.
.-The best part is that i can stay longer with the characters in the next two parts in the series.
September 7, 2023
This book is completely unique; I've never read anything like it. My mind was racing at a mile per minute, and I was questioning everything I knew. What a trip! I'd never read anything by this author before, so I went in blind.
The spiritual elements and how life on Earth is a training facility before we go to another world are mind-boggling. The plot and writing flowed beautifully and kept me interested from beginning to end. I loved delving deep inside Veronica's aka Harmony's thoughts and trying to figure out what is truly real. There were some terrible moments dealing with sorrow, as well as some incredibly poignant and beautiful moments. This novel has a love story, but you'll have to read it to find out how it all turned out, what an emotional rollercoaster.
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️/ 5
The spiritual elements and how life on Earth is a training facility before we go to another world are mind-boggling. The plot and writing flowed beautifully and kept me interested from beginning to end. I loved delving deep inside Veronica's aka Harmony's thoughts and trying to figure out what is truly real. There were some terrible moments dealing with sorrow, as well as some incredibly poignant and beautiful moments. This novel has a love story, but you'll have to read it to find out how it all turned out, what an emotional rollercoaster.
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️/ 5
October 3, 2018
I was kindly provided with a free copy of this book in return for an honest review.
I was excited about reading this but wasn't entirely sure whether it would be for me......how wrong was I?!
The story follows Harmony, a soul who is sent to earth to learn lessons along with her classmates. The idea that 'home' is a kind of heaven state where souls live, with earth being the place they come to learn different lessons is very intriguing. I really enjoyed reading about the different lives of Harmony, what happened in them and how they ended. I also enjoyed learning about Artopia which sounds like an amazing place!
The characters were extremely likeable, especially Harmony and Kaleb. Harmony is a really strong-minded woman and you can't help but feel for Kaleb at times. The story really did make me smile at points and feel the characters emotions - happiness, anger and frustration alike!
The only minor criticism I have is that some chapters, about two thirds of the way in became slightly repetitive (e.g. the use of sweet-honey smell or sandy-blond hair) which, although slightly frustrating, didn't put me off wanting to continue reading to find out what happens next.
Enlightened ends on a MAJOR cliffhanger which means I now NEED to read the sequel, Divided, to see where it takes the characters.
Overall a great read from Billie which comes recommended from me if you enjoy YA fantasy fiction romance!
I was excited about reading this but wasn't entirely sure whether it would be for me......how wrong was I?!
The story follows Harmony, a soul who is sent to earth to learn lessons along with her classmates. The idea that 'home' is a kind of heaven state where souls live, with earth being the place they come to learn different lessons is very intriguing. I really enjoyed reading about the different lives of Harmony, what happened in them and how they ended. I also enjoyed learning about Artopia which sounds like an amazing place!
The characters were extremely likeable, especially Harmony and Kaleb. Harmony is a really strong-minded woman and you can't help but feel for Kaleb at times. The story really did make me smile at points and feel the characters emotions - happiness, anger and frustration alike!
The only minor criticism I have is that some chapters, about two thirds of the way in became slightly repetitive (e.g. the use of sweet-honey smell or sandy-blond hair) which, although slightly frustrating, didn't put me off wanting to continue reading to find out what happens next.
Enlightened ends on a MAJOR cliffhanger which means I now NEED to read the sequel, Divided, to see where it takes the characters.
Overall a great read from Billie which comes recommended from me if you enjoy YA fantasy fiction romance!
July 29, 2018
The world of Enlightened is a fascinating one. Living several lives, with a base to come back to in between is something I'd never really heard of before. Though it does make it a little hard to come up with a solid plot, since the characters don't remember their previous lives while on Earth, it does leave a ton of room for great character development. I was a little confused in the beginning, with the extra explanations about stuff, but it ended up becoming clear. Interesting read!
July 4, 2019
I received a free copy of this book from Voracious Readers only in exchange for an honest review. Book one in a series. This book grabbed me and I was hooked. The subject matter is spiritual in nature, but it’s not religious or preachy. It’s got adventure, drama, and romance! Definitely looking to read the entire series!!!
April 2, 2019
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, the characters and plot. I was unsure when i first started reading whether i would enjoy it but by the time i got to chapter two i was hooked.
April 19, 2019
I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author via Voracious Readers Only.
Reading chapter 2 got me hooked. I enjoyed the idea of people being connected to one another in ways that they might not comprehend and that life is a learning curve for souls. This book is definitely for people who like the idea of a destiny, an afterlife or a soulmate.
One thing l didn't like about the book is the multiple repetition of the words enlighten/enlightened/enlightenment. A reader can get a bit annoyed reading those words again and again.
The book ended with a cliffhanger but the book was entertaining. It keeps you interested for what is in store for the next one.
Reading chapter 2 got me hooked. I enjoyed the idea of people being connected to one another in ways that they might not comprehend and that life is a learning curve for souls. This book is definitely for people who like the idea of a destiny, an afterlife or a soulmate.
One thing l didn't like about the book is the multiple repetition of the words enlighten/enlightened/enlightenment. A reader can get a bit annoyed reading those words again and again.
The book ended with a cliffhanger but the book was entertaining. It keeps you interested for what is in store for the next one.
November 27, 2018
Amazing – Must Read.
This was an amazing book. I loved the theme of reincarnation and soul mates. I think we’ve all had that feeling at times that we somehow “know” someone or remember them, but we can’t understand how. It was intriguing how Veronica (Harmony) was starting to piece things together about Kaleb and the pasts they’d experienced together. I think I experienced every possible emotion about their love story. The characters were easily relatable, and the plot was fantastic. I loved this book so much and I can definitely see how it won an award. A must-read!
This was an amazing book. I loved the theme of reincarnation and soul mates. I think we’ve all had that feeling at times that we somehow “know” someone or remember them, but we can’t understand how. It was intriguing how Veronica (Harmony) was starting to piece things together about Kaleb and the pasts they’d experienced together. I think I experienced every possible emotion about their love story. The characters were easily relatable, and the plot was fantastic. I loved this book so much and I can definitely see how it won an award. A must-read!
March 20, 2019
The beginning was confusing but after a couple of chapter the story line really started to unfold. I enjoy the way the story is told as if we are sitting with Harmony as she is telling it. Also enlightening is mentioned several times throughout the book and gives a deeper meaning to the title its self.
September 15, 2018
I don't typically read many romance novels but the blurb to this book caught my attention. When I first started the book I was a little confused about what was going on, but not so confused where I was completely lost. I don't want to post any spoilers about this book but all I'm going to say is that this is a complete page turner!
August 9, 2022
I was given a free copy in exchange for an honest review
Review: “Enlightened” by Billie Kowalewski
When I received a request from the author for a fair review, I was more than willing to read her book. The title sounded interesting and the story unique with it's concept of afterlife and how afterlife is considered home.
The characters sweep you along into their lives, making you want to read more. Harmony’s troubles as she tries to figure out what the problem is with Kaleb and her dilemma as she struggles with her lessons on Earth are engaging. Kaleb is more difficult to understand but as the story is told from Harmony’s point of view, first person, this follows her understanding, providing her feelings about him and her other friends.
The concept in the novel is unique, the idea that Earth is where we learn our lessons and then return to the afterlife to spend the rest of our time. I like the way the author shows us the different lives of the group and their afterlife. As you get to know more about the world and what Harmony’s purpose is, you want to read more.
I did find the story unbalanced along the way, with far more exposition than action. I felt that some of the story could have been left out, some of the day to day events to further the pacing and build more tension in the plot. The characters are interesting but the entire novel needed a better balance between action, dialogue and exposition. I loved the descriptions of certain places, especially the use of imagination in creating those places but I would have loved more action.
The ending did leave me wanting to know more, especially as you just get to the action and conflict at the end of the story. I really liked what the author was going for, in her development of her concepts but again, I would have liked to have been shown more, especially developing more tension and moving the story along at a faster pace. Overall, it is a good novel but could be improved with more balance in the different components. Still, I'm intrigued enough to want to read the next book in the series and I would recommend it if you want a different take on supernatural concepts, on the afterlife and like character driven stories.
You can also check out my review on Duncansbooksandmore.com
Review: “Enlightened” by Billie Kowalewski
When I received a request from the author for a fair review, I was more than willing to read her book. The title sounded interesting and the story unique with it's concept of afterlife and how afterlife is considered home.
The characters sweep you along into their lives, making you want to read more. Harmony’s troubles as she tries to figure out what the problem is with Kaleb and her dilemma as she struggles with her lessons on Earth are engaging. Kaleb is more difficult to understand but as the story is told from Harmony’s point of view, first person, this follows her understanding, providing her feelings about him and her other friends.
The concept in the novel is unique, the idea that Earth is where we learn our lessons and then return to the afterlife to spend the rest of our time. I like the way the author shows us the different lives of the group and their afterlife. As you get to know more about the world and what Harmony’s purpose is, you want to read more.
I did find the story unbalanced along the way, with far more exposition than action. I felt that some of the story could have been left out, some of the day to day events to further the pacing and build more tension in the plot. The characters are interesting but the entire novel needed a better balance between action, dialogue and exposition. I loved the descriptions of certain places, especially the use of imagination in creating those places but I would have loved more action.
The ending did leave me wanting to know more, especially as you just get to the action and conflict at the end of the story. I really liked what the author was going for, in her development of her concepts but again, I would have liked to have been shown more, especially developing more tension and moving the story along at a faster pace. Overall, it is a good novel but could be improved with more balance in the different components. Still, I'm intrigued enough to want to read the next book in the series and I would recommend it if you want a different take on supernatural concepts, on the afterlife and like character driven stories.
You can also check out my review on Duncansbooksandmore.com
January 5, 2018
I received this book in exchange for an honest review. This is the first book in the series.
This book goes beyond any book I have ever read that fills you not only spiritually but also curves the paranormal interest. I loved the idea of this book, it was original and very creative. Plus if you take the whole book into perspective, it makes sense.
It was amazing to read of this world and aspect of it. It would be amazing to realize that Earth was school and you actually live many lifetimes.
Harmony is an interesting soul, she's lived many lives with Caleb. She finds out something about him that she can't disclose to him. Caleb and her are classmates and friends. Not always, sometimes they are the death of each other. Literally. Harmony has a trick for slipping things through the barrier and it always works but sometimes it has its consequence.
Caleb was a great character, I loved the similarities between him and Harmony. There is so much information about this world and yet not enough. The book literally draws you in and while some things are still confusing, you can't help but want to learn more.
Why the cliffhanger!?!?!?!? I can't wait to read the next book, I want to know what happens next!
Luke was an interesting character and I hope we get to learn more about him. I would love to see spin offs of this series, that way I can get more of this world!
Book Blurb:
A wise person once told me: There's a reason for everything.
Sarah Shaw -- pulled off a cliff
Emma Blackstone -- shoved out a window and trampled by a horse
Mattie Williams -- stung to death by bees
Cora Thomas -- pushed in front of a train
Edith Young -- impaled
Rachel Ellis -- shoved off a boat
Lois Smith -- hit by a bus
Muriel Walters -- UGH...another bus
Lucille Marshall -- involuntary manslaughter
Veronica Edwards -- undetermined
What do all of these names have in common? They all died long before they were meant too, and they were all ME. If there's any truth to that statement at all, I can't wait to find out the reason for this!
This book goes beyond any book I have ever read that fills you not only spiritually but also curves the paranormal interest. I loved the idea of this book, it was original and very creative. Plus if you take the whole book into perspective, it makes sense.
It was amazing to read of this world and aspect of it. It would be amazing to realize that Earth was school and you actually live many lifetimes.
Harmony is an interesting soul, she's lived many lives with Caleb. She finds out something about him that she can't disclose to him. Caleb and her are classmates and friends. Not always, sometimes they are the death of each other. Literally. Harmony has a trick for slipping things through the barrier and it always works but sometimes it has its consequence.
Caleb was a great character, I loved the similarities between him and Harmony. There is so much information about this world and yet not enough. The book literally draws you in and while some things are still confusing, you can't help but want to learn more.
Why the cliffhanger!?!?!?!? I can't wait to read the next book, I want to know what happens next!
Luke was an interesting character and I hope we get to learn more about him. I would love to see spin offs of this series, that way I can get more of this world!
Book Blurb:
A wise person once told me: There's a reason for everything.
Sarah Shaw -- pulled off a cliff
Emma Blackstone -- shoved out a window and trampled by a horse
Mattie Williams -- stung to death by bees
Cora Thomas -- pushed in front of a train
Edith Young -- impaled
Rachel Ellis -- shoved off a boat
Lois Smith -- hit by a bus
Muriel Walters -- UGH...another bus
Lucille Marshall -- involuntary manslaughter
Veronica Edwards -- undetermined
What do all of these names have in common? They all died long before they were meant too, and they were all ME. If there's any truth to that statement at all, I can't wait to find out the reason for this!
May 8, 2019
I received this book for free from Voracious Readers Only in exchange for an honest review.
The concept of this book was interesting, and I was looking forward to reading it - however I struggled with it from the beginning.
The style of writing felt extremely young, even for a YA book. The repetition of words and phrases became very annoying very quickly - everything was done "casually", and I think I'm put off honey for life after having read about Kaleb's "sweet honey-like scent" over and over.
The "life lessons" felt forced, like the author wanted to impart as much into the book as she could - maybe a better way would have been to take one life lesson and learn it gradually through the book, and save the other lessons for further books. Done in this way, it just felt preachy.
I also think it needs to be made clearer that this is NOT a standalone book, which I believed it to be, right up until the very last page. And the ending itself doesn't even feel finished - I was left trying to scroll on, to find the rest of it. I almost emailed to say that I'd got some pages missing!
I really dislike having to give such a low star rating, but in this case, I have no other choice, as there isn't anything that I find redeeming about this book. Needless to say, I won't be reading any follow ons. Sorry.
The concept of this book was interesting, and I was looking forward to reading it - however I struggled with it from the beginning.
The style of writing felt extremely young, even for a YA book. The repetition of words and phrases became very annoying very quickly - everything was done "casually", and I think I'm put off honey for life after having read about Kaleb's "sweet honey-like scent" over and over.
The "life lessons" felt forced, like the author wanted to impart as much into the book as she could - maybe a better way would have been to take one life lesson and learn it gradually through the book, and save the other lessons for further books. Done in this way, it just felt preachy.
I also think it needs to be made clearer that this is NOT a standalone book, which I believed it to be, right up until the very last page. And the ending itself doesn't even feel finished - I was left trying to scroll on, to find the rest of it. I almost emailed to say that I'd got some pages missing!
I really dislike having to give such a low star rating, but in this case, I have no other choice, as there isn't anything that I find redeeming about this book. Needless to say, I won't be reading any follow ons. Sorry.
April 14, 2018
Veronica has spent the last 5 years mourning the death of her soulmate. When she starts to have strangely painful headaches, she doesn't know what to do anymore. One day, she visits her soulmate's grave. She never comes home. When she wakes up, she sees her soulmate Seth in front of her. Then, she regains her memories. Veronica is really a soul named Harmony, and her soulmate Seth is really her Earth School classmate Kaleb. Kaleb is the reason why she keeps dying and being sent home early.
The pacing of this novel was incredible, you will not experience any dull moments. Every character has their own personalities, and Veronica/Harmony is an especially unique one. The world-building of this novel is unbelievable. I usually struggle to visualize scenes, but I found myself being able to visualize all the scenes from both Harmony's after-life and lives on Earth. Lastly, the storyline was one-of-a-kind Never before had I read a novel where Earth was training for souls, and this book describes it perfectly.
I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a fresh, new YA fantasy novel about reincarnation and souls.
Read my full review here: https://forums.onlinebookclub.org/vie...
The pacing of this novel was incredible, you will not experience any dull moments. Every character has their own personalities, and Veronica/Harmony is an especially unique one. The world-building of this novel is unbelievable. I usually struggle to visualize scenes, but I found myself being able to visualize all the scenes from both Harmony's after-life and lives on Earth. Lastly, the storyline was one-of-a-kind Never before had I read a novel where Earth was training for souls, and this book describes it perfectly.
I would recommend this book to anyone looking for a fresh, new YA fantasy novel about reincarnation and souls.
Read my full review here: https://forums.onlinebookclub.org/vie...
July 30, 2017
I was blessed with a free copy of this book, and have chosen of my own volition to share this review with you!
The premise of this book is that earth is a training ground for spirits. The spirits are sent to earth to live as humans with the goal of learning more about themselves from each life that they live. Upon returning to the spirit plane they discuss, and try to garner all information that they can from each experience.
I found the beginning of this book very confusing. The main character takes on a different persona each time she comes to earth. By the time I got that straight in my head the book ended. Now I need to read the sequel.
Complexly developed characters. Plot line was so convoluted that it took most of the book to understand.
Overall opinion: a decent read that takes some getting used to!
The premise of this book is that earth is a training ground for spirits. The spirits are sent to earth to live as humans with the goal of learning more about themselves from each life that they live. Upon returning to the spirit plane they discuss, and try to garner all information that they can from each experience.
I found the beginning of this book very confusing. The main character takes on a different persona each time she comes to earth. By the time I got that straight in my head the book ended. Now I need to read the sequel.
Complexly developed characters. Plot line was so convoluted that it took most of the book to understand.
Overall opinion: a decent read that takes some getting used to!
December 19, 2017
This book starts with a wonderful twist, I simply loved the concept the author worked with. Once Veronica woke up, I was trying to understand what was happening. As I read more, it all clicked. The book also delves into the meaning of life on Earth, and Other Worlds as it simultaneously weaves a fantasy world that draws you right in with a wonderful love story. I devoured the lives of Kaleb and Veronica/Harmony on Earth, I wanted more of that. And, I wanted more of the book. When I read the last sentence, I was frantically clicking on Next. It ends on a breathless note. So, it seems, I will have to wait for book two to know what happened.
March 5, 2018
A fresh look about what happens when you die
I love the whole idea that we go home when we die and Earth is our place for learning. I will admit it was difficult to get into and understand at first, but the more I read, it became clearer and more interesting as the pages flew by. Billie used her narrative to explain this otherworldly place where our spirits go after we die while splashing in each of the reincarnations of Harmony and her fellow classmates. Definitely worth checking this one out. It's different and I love it.
I love the whole idea that we go home when we die and Earth is our place for learning. I will admit it was difficult to get into and understand at first, but the more I read, it became clearer and more interesting as the pages flew by. Billie used her narrative to explain this otherworldly place where our spirits go after we die while splashing in each of the reincarnations of Harmony and her fellow classmates. Definitely worth checking this one out. It's different and I love it.
August 1, 2019
Complimentary copy of this book was received through Voracious Readers Only
I was unable to get too far into this book before I was annoyed by the repetitive adjectives and was soon skim reading.
I found the premise quite appealing and had no trouble reading about the authors theory afterlife, even though it differs quite radically from mine. But for such a deep topic this was treated shallowly. Maybe it improved but I couldn't keep reading it, so I'll never know.
Some of the reviewers loved it so it is obviously just not to my taste.
I was unable to get too far into this book before I was annoyed by the repetitive adjectives and was soon skim reading.
I found the premise quite appealing and had no trouble reading about the authors theory afterlife, even though it differs quite radically from mine. But for such a deep topic this was treated shallowly. Maybe it improved but I couldn't keep reading it, so I'll never know.
Some of the reviewers loved it so it is obviously just not to my taste.
November 29, 2017
A unique perspective on what happens in the next reality, Enlightened is a thought-provoking story of spirituality told through complex characters that draw you in and keep you turning the pages. The only thing that keeps me from giving this uplifting story 5 Stars is how muddled I felt during the first few chapters; however, the beauty of the underlying message kept me engaged. Enlightened is a rare gem in a sea of stones and entirely worth the challenge it poses.
June 18, 2019
This time around was a reread since I got the other two books at bookcon this year. It was just as amazing as I remembered!! I can’t wait to read the next one and find out what’s next for Harmony and Kaleb!
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