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Arcadian Wars #2
The Phoenix Shadow
When the walls of lies begin closing in, who do you trust?
There is nothing worse than failure, especially one that results in your school being attacked by a ruthless enemy. Still reeling from the aftermath of the previous night, Sam and her cousins must deal with another crisis: Alexia has run away.
To top it off, there are new players in town. The young Arcadians will be forced to work closely with the prestigious Nox Elite. But they will soon find out that nursing a bruised ego is nothing compared to fighting a faceless enemy, battling personal demons, and dealing with revelations that will forever change their lives.
*Note from the author: Due to strong language and mature content this book is recommended to readers 17+. This is a Paranormal Romance novel
There is nothing worse than failure, especially one that results in your school being attacked by a ruthless enemy. Still reeling from the aftermath of the previous night, Sam and her cousins must deal with another crisis: Alexia has run away.
To top it off, there are new players in town. The young Arcadians will be forced to work closely with the prestigious Nox Elite. But they will soon find out that nursing a bruised ego is nothing compared to fighting a faceless enemy, battling personal demons, and dealing with revelations that will forever change their lives.
*Note from the author: Due to strong language and mature content this book is recommended to readers 17+. This is a Paranormal Romance novel
Unknown Binding
First published July 1, 2015
240 people want to read
About the author
M.H. Soars
29 books432 followersI always knew creative arts were my calling but not in a million years did I think I would become an author. With a background in fashion design I thought I would follow that path. But one day, out of the blue, I had an idea for a book. One page turned into ten pages, ten pages turned into a hundred, and before I knew, my first novel, The Prophecy of Arcadia, was born.
I live in Florida with my husband and baby daughter. I'm currently working on the Arcadian Wars series, the Elements series, and the Love Me, I'm Famous series.
Arcadian Wars is a YA Paranormal/SciFi Romance series. It follows the life of a group of teens who possess incredible powers and have a very important mission: save their planet and in the process, save Earth too. The first book, The Prophecy of Arcadia, and the novella, The Fall of Arcadia, are already available. The second book, The Phoenix Shadow, will be published in the summer of 2015.
Elements is a new YA Paranormal Romance series. It focuses on two sisters who hold the key to stop a full-blown war between elemental beings and humans. Look for the first book by the end of 2015.
Love Me, I'm Famous is a NA Contemporary Romance series and each book will be a standalone focused on different characters. As the name of the series suggests, at least one of the characters in each book will be somewhat famous. The first book is slated to be published later in 2015.
To learn more my projects you can visit my website, sign up for my newsletter, or follow me on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest.
www.mhsoars.com
www.facebook.com/MHSOARS
www.twitter.com/mhsoars
www.pinterest.com/mhsoars
I live in Florida with my husband and baby daughter. I'm currently working on the Arcadian Wars series, the Elements series, and the Love Me, I'm Famous series.
Arcadian Wars is a YA Paranormal/SciFi Romance series. It follows the life of a group of teens who possess incredible powers and have a very important mission: save their planet and in the process, save Earth too. The first book, The Prophecy of Arcadia, and the novella, The Fall of Arcadia, are already available. The second book, The Phoenix Shadow, will be published in the summer of 2015.
Elements is a new YA Paranormal Romance series. It focuses on two sisters who hold the key to stop a full-blown war between elemental beings and humans. Look for the first book by the end of 2015.
Love Me, I'm Famous is a NA Contemporary Romance series and each book will be a standalone focused on different characters. As the name of the series suggests, at least one of the characters in each book will be somewhat famous. The first book is slated to be published later in 2015.
To learn more my projects you can visit my website, sign up for my newsletter, or follow me on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest.
www.mhsoars.com
www.facebook.com/MHSOARS
www.twitter.com/mhsoars
www.pinterest.com/mhsoars
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
July 20, 2015
This story takes place after The Prophecy of Arcadia and they must be read in order to understand everything properly. The first story was fast paced and enthralling. True to herself, M.H. Soars keeps things running at a crazy pace in this second book (third in fact with the prequel The Fall of Arcadia). Everything is happening at the same time and we don’t have a respite. It won’t disappoint her fans!
It’s fast paced but this book is also a time of reflection and doubt for the prodigies and Alexia.
The prodigies don’t see themselves as very good protectors. They did not succeed in uncovering the drug dealer and the Nox Elite had to come to the rescue.
Sam, Matthew and Alexia will be ridden with doubt and guilt. Sam will feel guilty as she hid the truth from Alexia, even if she was physically unable to say anything, the prodigies being under a compulsion. She feels useless: she could not prevent all the drama or uncover the traitor. This story will show Sam’s transformation into a more mature person, she will be less hot headed and impulsive but she won’t be perfect and will still make daring decisions. Sam is also torn between her feelings for Matthew and her attraction to Julian. What a mess!
Matthew is also suffering since he regained his memories. He wants to protect Sam from the wrath of the Phoenix and pushes her away. Result: he feels so alone in his misery. Some big drama with Melanie will also put a weight on his shoulders.
Alexia feels powerless may times. She wants to help and heal but is unable to do so without hurting Ethan as they are not fully bonded yet.
So: a lot of inner reflection and suffering on top of an explosion of action!
What you’ll find in this story:
-action, action and more action;
-drama;
-some mysteries explained (who is Lucas? What happened to Matthew many years ago?) while others are not (Who is Julian? Why is the necklace so important? Who is the drug dealer?) and new ones arise (what does the Prophecy says exactly? Is Lancer really legit?);
-more forbidden love;
-many interesting characters. The story is told by Sam, Matthew and Alexia but the side characters have all an important role to play.
What you won’t find in this book: boredom and the answer to all your questions. It ends on a cliffhanger and we will have to wait for the next book to maybe find a conclusion and uncover the Prophecy of Arcadia’s mystery.
It’s fast paced but this book is also a time of reflection and doubt for the prodigies and Alexia.
The prodigies don’t see themselves as very good protectors. They did not succeed in uncovering the drug dealer and the Nox Elite had to come to the rescue.
Sam, Matthew and Alexia will be ridden with doubt and guilt. Sam will feel guilty as she hid the truth from Alexia, even if she was physically unable to say anything, the prodigies being under a compulsion. She feels useless: she could not prevent all the drama or uncover the traitor. This story will show Sam’s transformation into a more mature person, she will be less hot headed and impulsive but she won’t be perfect and will still make daring decisions. Sam is also torn between her feelings for Matthew and her attraction to Julian. What a mess!
Matthew is also suffering since he regained his memories. He wants to protect Sam from the wrath of the Phoenix and pushes her away. Result: he feels so alone in his misery. Some big drama with Melanie will also put a weight on his shoulders.
Alexia feels powerless may times. She wants to help and heal but is unable to do so without hurting Ethan as they are not fully bonded yet.
So: a lot of inner reflection and suffering on top of an explosion of action!
What you’ll find in this story:
-action, action and more action;
-drama;
-some mysteries explained (who is Lucas? What happened to Matthew many years ago?) while others are not (Who is Julian? Why is the necklace so important? Who is the drug dealer?) and new ones arise (what does the Prophecy says exactly? Is Lancer really legit?);
-more forbidden love;
-many interesting characters. The story is told by Sam, Matthew and Alexia but the side characters have all an important role to play.
What you won’t find in this book: boredom and the answer to all your questions. It ends on a cliffhanger and we will have to wait for the next book to maybe find a conclusion and uncover the Prophecy of Arcadia’s mystery.
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April 8, 2025This review was originally posted on Bookish Things & More Review
So many questions from The Prophecy of Arcadia are answered in this book. And holy cow, they are definitely some revelations. Soars managed to drop some doozies on us.
The Phoenix Shadow kept me on my toes. I didn't know what to expect around the next corner. The characters have so much more going on than you can imagine. There is also quite a bit of action. The Prodigies are always having to be on the lookout for a Myserian attack. You can never tell where the real threat lies, and some of those that the Myserians have possessed is downright freaky. There's one in particular that will give you the creeps.
I'm happy we still got the same narrative from the previous book. Being inside the heads of Samantha, Matthew and Alexia helps you get an all-around picture. They are each struggling with every new bit of information they receive. Sometimes they take it in stride, but other times they lash out. And I don't blame them at all.
I can't go much into the plot or certain events that happen because they would be huge spoilers, and I think you should experience each new bit of information with fresh eyes. And that ending..... I can't wait for the next installment. Because... wow!
So many questions from The Prophecy of Arcadia are answered in this book. And holy cow, they are definitely some revelations. Soars managed to drop some doozies on us.
The Phoenix Shadow kept me on my toes. I didn't know what to expect around the next corner. The characters have so much more going on than you can imagine. There is also quite a bit of action. The Prodigies are always having to be on the lookout for a Myserian attack. You can never tell where the real threat lies, and some of those that the Myserians have possessed is downright freaky. There's one in particular that will give you the creeps.
I'm happy we still got the same narrative from the previous book. Being inside the heads of Samantha, Matthew and Alexia helps you get an all-around picture. They are each struggling with every new bit of information they receive. Sometimes they take it in stride, but other times they lash out. And I don't blame them at all.
I can't go much into the plot or certain events that happen because they would be huge spoilers, and I think you should experience each new bit of information with fresh eyes. And that ending..... I can't wait for the next installment. Because... wow!
July 11, 2015
'The Phoenix Shadow' is the second book in Soars' brilliant new adult fantasy series. The first book was excellent and the second is even better!
So, obviously I loved the first book, which is why I knew I had to read this one. The story did get a little more sci-fi in this volume, but that's to be expected when your main characters are from a different planet, and it never gets technical so it still very much feels like a paranormal romance. The romantic elements are quite a bit steamier than in the first book, which fits well with the characters' storylines. The characters are very well developed and easy to sympathise with. I can't wait for the next book!
I suspect it won't be long before this series explodes and becomes the next big bestselling PNR series overnight. So basically, if you're not reading this book, you're missing out on the reading next big thing!
Overall this is another excellent instalment in a fantastic series. Highly recommended to fans of paranormal romance and new adult novels!
So, obviously I loved the first book, which is why I knew I had to read this one. The story did get a little more sci-fi in this volume, but that's to be expected when your main characters are from a different planet, and it never gets technical so it still very much feels like a paranormal romance. The romantic elements are quite a bit steamier than in the first book, which fits well with the characters' storylines. The characters are very well developed and easy to sympathise with. I can't wait for the next book!
I suspect it won't be long before this series explodes and becomes the next big bestselling PNR series overnight. So basically, if you're not reading this book, you're missing out on the reading next big thing!
Overall this is another excellent instalment in a fantastic series. Highly recommended to fans of paranormal romance and new adult novels!
July 11, 2015
Big thanks to M.H. for an ARC copy for review.
I have been eagerly awaiting book two in the Arcadian Wars series and let me just say that this novel went beyond my expectations. M.H. Soars did a fantastic job. With tensions running high, stakes being raised, and danger always lurking, things are never boring for these characters. Not at all!
Of course, me being a fan of true love, I enjoyed seeing Alexia and Ethan's love story and the bond between Matthew and Sam. But there were also some twists with the prophecy that I didn't see coming. I usually always go into a book knowing to except the unexpected, but M.H. caught me off guard a few times, especially with that darn ending. I need more of this sci-fi adventure.
I have been eagerly awaiting book two in the Arcadian Wars series and let me just say that this novel went beyond my expectations. M.H. Soars did a fantastic job. With tensions running high, stakes being raised, and danger always lurking, things are never boring for these characters. Not at all!
Of course, me being a fan of true love, I enjoyed seeing Alexia and Ethan's love story and the bond between Matthew and Sam. But there were also some twists with the prophecy that I didn't see coming. I usually always go into a book knowing to except the unexpected, but M.H. caught me off guard a few times, especially with that darn ending. I need more of this sci-fi adventure.
September 17, 2015
3.5*s
Review posted here...
http://bookpassionforlife.blogspot.co...
The Phoenix Shadow is the second installment of the Arcadian Wars series and is packed full of answers…
In the last book we find that Alexia and Ethan are the ‘chosen ones’ but they aren’t really taking it very well; Alexia has ran away and her protectors/cousins are dealing with the aftermath. Whilst the answers everyone is hoping to find are more forthcoming, it only leads to more conflict within the group as relationships begin to break down and new comers put a spanner in the works. The Nox Elite are not only focussed on protecting the ‘chosen ones’ but also on finding the dealer and manufacturer of a deadly drug that is affecting the youth in town and also dealing with the possessed who are intent on harming not only other…but themselves.
So, I enjoyed this book and it was very easy to get back into. Although we have a prophecy with a pair of chosen – Alexia & Ethan – I was glad that this didn’t revolve solely around them because I was very into the other characters last time around and they share just as much of the story. Alexia and Ethan are struggling to come to terms with their status in the Arcadians prophecy, they haven’t taken the deception very well and then there is the whole siblings/non siblings strife that the deception brought to the table. Ethan wouldn’t even be helping if it wasn’t for Alexia and her views so they get on with it. I liked these two together in book one and like them together now, apart from needing to bond to release some pent up power they pretty much take a back seat for most of the story although they do share some very pivotal scenes. I liked seeing them work together and be able to be open with each other which gave them an air of maturity especially when they can put aside their grievances with the others over their secrets and lies to do what is right for the greater good.
Sam and Matthew were another stand out couple for me in book one and I was glad to see them get more of a starring role, Sam stole the show for me here and I really like her character. She has a really tough time of it in this book as Gary lets her in on her origins, she and Matthew go through turbulent times and her pull to Julian seems to be getting stronger plus her friend is barely talking to her and her sister is acting very strange for one of the Nox Elite and when you’re so in tune you can feel the others emotions….. not good.
The storyline is a very good progression but very reactional to what you find out in this book so I can’t really say much about what happens. For the most part there is a lot of relationship drama between everyone, and I don’t just mean bf/gf stuff – there is some pretty big disclosures that could affect many people. There is a lot of emphasis on the Arcadian protectors being given their memories back of a time that could be too traumatic for them and lends the question as to whether they should be given them back because it’s already affecting one of our characters. The enemy has plans afoot again and they are using possession as a tool but also drugs so the gang have to investigate that and find out where it’s coming from because it has ties to their race. Elsewhere, we get a little romance from Alexia & Ethan as they attempt to follow the prophecy, by bonding and making their connection stronger… will it work?
There are some great scenes throughout both emotional & physical. More than one character will have their life in the balance which knocks the whole group, as the secrets are unraveled a lot of emotions are raw and they all will need to build bridges with each other. The battles they have seem to be getting more frequent and more intense so let’s hope they continue to protect themselves and their charges. There’s a little twist that comes to light that brings up more questions about the prophecy and will someone please just tell me what the deal with Sam’s necklace is?
Review posted here...
http://bookpassionforlife.blogspot.co...
The Phoenix Shadow is the second installment of the Arcadian Wars series and is packed full of answers…
In the last book we find that Alexia and Ethan are the ‘chosen ones’ but they aren’t really taking it very well; Alexia has ran away and her protectors/cousins are dealing with the aftermath. Whilst the answers everyone is hoping to find are more forthcoming, it only leads to more conflict within the group as relationships begin to break down and new comers put a spanner in the works. The Nox Elite are not only focussed on protecting the ‘chosen ones’ but also on finding the dealer and manufacturer of a deadly drug that is affecting the youth in town and also dealing with the possessed who are intent on harming not only other…but themselves.
So, I enjoyed this book and it was very easy to get back into. Although we have a prophecy with a pair of chosen – Alexia & Ethan – I was glad that this didn’t revolve solely around them because I was very into the other characters last time around and they share just as much of the story. Alexia and Ethan are struggling to come to terms with their status in the Arcadians prophecy, they haven’t taken the deception very well and then there is the whole siblings/non siblings strife that the deception brought to the table. Ethan wouldn’t even be helping if it wasn’t for Alexia and her views so they get on with it. I liked these two together in book one and like them together now, apart from needing to bond to release some pent up power they pretty much take a back seat for most of the story although they do share some very pivotal scenes. I liked seeing them work together and be able to be open with each other which gave them an air of maturity especially when they can put aside their grievances with the others over their secrets and lies to do what is right for the greater good.
Sam and Matthew were another stand out couple for me in book one and I was glad to see them get more of a starring role, Sam stole the show for me here and I really like her character. She has a really tough time of it in this book as Gary lets her in on her origins, she and Matthew go through turbulent times and her pull to Julian seems to be getting stronger plus her friend is barely talking to her and her sister is acting very strange for one of the Nox Elite and when you’re so in tune you can feel the others emotions….. not good.
The storyline is a very good progression but very reactional to what you find out in this book so I can’t really say much about what happens. For the most part there is a lot of relationship drama between everyone, and I don’t just mean bf/gf stuff – there is some pretty big disclosures that could affect many people. There is a lot of emphasis on the Arcadian protectors being given their memories back of a time that could be too traumatic for them and lends the question as to whether they should be given them back because it’s already affecting one of our characters. The enemy has plans afoot again and they are using possession as a tool but also drugs so the gang have to investigate that and find out where it’s coming from because it has ties to their race. Elsewhere, we get a little romance from Alexia & Ethan as they attempt to follow the prophecy, by bonding and making their connection stronger… will it work?
There are some great scenes throughout both emotional & physical. More than one character will have their life in the balance which knocks the whole group, as the secrets are unraveled a lot of emotions are raw and they all will need to build bridges with each other. The battles they have seem to be getting more frequent and more intense so let’s hope they continue to protect themselves and their charges. There’s a little twist that comes to light that brings up more questions about the prophecy and will someone please just tell me what the deal with Sam’s necklace is?
July 30, 2015
* I was sent this book for review for my honest opinion and i just wanted to thank the author for giving me a chance to experience this world once again.
I have been apart of this world for almost two years now and every single time i pick up a book from this series i am immediately drawn in. Since it has been so long from when i read the Prophecy of Arcadia i was a little foggy on the previous events of this series but as soon as i began reading i found that it was so easy for me to fall back into this world. So this book picks up from where it left of at the end of the Prophecy of Arcadia with the relationship between Alexia and her cousins on the edge. There were so many inner demons for each and every character that it becomes so hard to wrap your mind in, but i think that's also one of the reasons why i fall in love with this series every time. I loved that the relationship between Alexia and Ethan was able to take off, they were so adorable and truly meant for each other. While i hated seeing Alexia distance herself from the group i knew that it was the only way she could protect herself from the lies that were told to her and hopefully eventually except them.
I really loved all the other small romance stories that took place, it was so good to finally see everyone find the one they were meant to be with and finally not have to lie to each other about their feelings. While i can't say who those couples were because i would totally spoil the story i can say that the wait was worth while.
As for Matthew and Samantha their relationship was a total mess, i hated seeing Matthew go through a world wind of emotions and it was like his entire world was coming down on him all at once and all i wanted was for the truth to finally set him free. I also hated seeing him push Sam away once again. I know he thought that what he was doing would protect her but it is so obvious that Matthew is completely in love with her and in order for him to survive he needs her by his side. Even though i wasn't a fan of the path the relationship took i was really happy that Sam stayed strong and wasn't completely shattered. Matthew really broke her heart and her ability to put that aside and focus on the lives of her friends while she was hurting on the inside shows just how much of a kick ass character she is. In terms of Julian i completely lost my faith in him he was always really funny and i enjoyed him being in the book, but this book shows a different side of him and i became really suspicious about what his real agenda was. I loved seeing the tie in with the novella The Fall of Arcadia i once again became so emotional but i was able to put together the puzzle pieces and everything finally started to make sense.I hated learning about the faith of Samiah as i began to like her so much in The Fall of Arcadia but, at least we did get to find out the faith of her offspring and let me just say i don't know how i didn't figure it out before. A character that i think deserves much more recognition is Gary, i really began to see how much he loves each and every one of the prodigies and his caring for them extended far past the wanting to have the prophecy competed. While i know that Gary didn't always make good choices or decisions everything he did was for a greater purpose and never out of vein. His love for everyone keeps them together as more than a team trying to save the world but it makes them a family. The conclusion was action packed and crazy leaving me wanting more and again with so many unsolved problems. If you're looking for a great action filled science fiction paranormal romance and you haven't read this series yet then you are missing out.
I have been apart of this world for almost two years now and every single time i pick up a book from this series i am immediately drawn in. Since it has been so long from when i read the Prophecy of Arcadia i was a little foggy on the previous events of this series but as soon as i began reading i found that it was so easy for me to fall back into this world. So this book picks up from where it left of at the end of the Prophecy of Arcadia with the relationship between Alexia and her cousins on the edge. There were so many inner demons for each and every character that it becomes so hard to wrap your mind in, but i think that's also one of the reasons why i fall in love with this series every time. I loved that the relationship between Alexia and Ethan was able to take off, they were so adorable and truly meant for each other. While i hated seeing Alexia distance herself from the group i knew that it was the only way she could protect herself from the lies that were told to her and hopefully eventually except them.
I really loved all the other small romance stories that took place, it was so good to finally see everyone find the one they were meant to be with and finally not have to lie to each other about their feelings. While i can't say who those couples were because i would totally spoil the story i can say that the wait was worth while.
As for Matthew and Samantha their relationship was a total mess, i hated seeing Matthew go through a world wind of emotions and it was like his entire world was coming down on him all at once and all i wanted was for the truth to finally set him free. I also hated seeing him push Sam away once again. I know he thought that what he was doing would protect her but it is so obvious that Matthew is completely in love with her and in order for him to survive he needs her by his side. Even though i wasn't a fan of the path the relationship took i was really happy that Sam stayed strong and wasn't completely shattered. Matthew really broke her heart and her ability to put that aside and focus on the lives of her friends while she was hurting on the inside shows just how much of a kick ass character she is. In terms of Julian i completely lost my faith in him he was always really funny and i enjoyed him being in the book, but this book shows a different side of him and i became really suspicious about what his real agenda was. I loved seeing the tie in with the novella The Fall of Arcadia i once again became so emotional but i was able to put together the puzzle pieces and everything finally started to make sense.I hated learning about the faith of Samiah as i began to like her so much in The Fall of Arcadia but, at least we did get to find out the faith of her offspring and let me just say i don't know how i didn't figure it out before. A character that i think deserves much more recognition is Gary, i really began to see how much he loves each and every one of the prodigies and his caring for them extended far past the wanting to have the prophecy competed. While i know that Gary didn't always make good choices or decisions everything he did was for a greater purpose and never out of vein. His love for everyone keeps them together as more than a team trying to save the world but it makes them a family. The conclusion was action packed and crazy leaving me wanting more and again with so many unsolved problems. If you're looking for a great action filled science fiction paranormal romance and you haven't read this series yet then you are missing out.
July 24, 2015
*I received an ARC of this book free from the author in exchange for an honest review*
First off I have to say WOW a lot happens in this book. It is definitely action packed. Second I have to say that I didn't really learn anything I didn't already know or expect. There are a few twists, like the secret Lucas has been keeping, but it ends on one hell of a cliffhanger and leaves you with sooooo many unanswered questions. Mentally prepare yourself for the need to read book #3.
As in book one, this one too is told from the points of view of Alexis, Matthew, and Samantha. In all honesty it did take me a few chapters (and reading my review of book one, The Prophecy of Arcaida) to remember what had happened so my mind could catch up with who everyone was and what was going on, but once I did I couldn't put it down.
Alexis and Ethan are so adorable together. They were completely meant to be and will let nothing stand in their way. Even when the prophecy tells them the next step in their relationship needs to happen at a certain place and time, they make the best of it and do it with love in their hearts.
Matthew's secret finally comes out. It's the reason why he always tries to fight his feelings for Samantha, but for all those who read book one we all kind of knew how this one was going to play out, although the details were a little more gruesome than expected. There has to be a way to fix the madness his Phoenix has because no matter how hard he tries Samantha is the one he's drawn to no matter what and with his sister's worsening problem he'll need someone he can lean on.
"Matthew decided our relationship wasn't worth the trouble."
"I can't believe he said that. He looks at you like you're his kingdom come. There must be a reason why he thingks you can't be together."
Just when Samantha thinks she is able to get over Matthew's heartbreak he comes back wonton as ever and she falls again...right into his bead. This time he'll leave her truly broken hearted. But she still has an unknown connection to Julian and because of the unusual affection she feels for him she'll follow him anywhere, which may not always be a good thing.
The Phoenix Shadow is action packed and over flowing with emotions ranging from jealousy to hatred to love to utter and complete confusion. The Nox Elite soldiers move in to assist with the enemy, and seem to make way more headway than the seven of them had in a year. They feel like the underdog and that their territory is being invaded, but when they do meet the enemy face to face they realize that maybe they aren't as ready as they once thought.
My Favorite Moment: When Alexis tells Ethan about the next step they need to take to fulfill the prophecy. I loved is reaction! Alexis is right, he's such a guy!
"Hurry? I've waited seventeen years for this. No, wait. Almost eighteen years. My birthday is in a couple of days. When is the next full moon again?"
"In a couple of days."
"Oh, this will be the best birthday gift ever."
"You're such a guy."
First off I have to say WOW a lot happens in this book. It is definitely action packed. Second I have to say that I didn't really learn anything I didn't already know or expect. There are a few twists, like the secret Lucas has been keeping, but it ends on one hell of a cliffhanger and leaves you with sooooo many unanswered questions. Mentally prepare yourself for the need to read book #3.
As in book one, this one too is told from the points of view of Alexis, Matthew, and Samantha. In all honesty it did take me a few chapters (and reading my review of book one, The Prophecy of Arcaida) to remember what had happened so my mind could catch up with who everyone was and what was going on, but once I did I couldn't put it down.
Alexis and Ethan are so adorable together. They were completely meant to be and will let nothing stand in their way. Even when the prophecy tells them the next step in their relationship needs to happen at a certain place and time, they make the best of it and do it with love in their hearts.
Matthew's secret finally comes out. It's the reason why he always tries to fight his feelings for Samantha, but for all those who read book one we all kind of knew how this one was going to play out, although the details were a little more gruesome than expected. There has to be a way to fix the madness his Phoenix has because no matter how hard he tries Samantha is the one he's drawn to no matter what and with his sister's worsening problem he'll need someone he can lean on.
"Matthew decided our relationship wasn't worth the trouble."
"I can't believe he said that. He looks at you like you're his kingdom come. There must be a reason why he thingks you can't be together."
Just when Samantha thinks she is able to get over Matthew's heartbreak he comes back wonton as ever and she falls again...right into his bead. This time he'll leave her truly broken hearted. But she still has an unknown connection to Julian and because of the unusual affection she feels for him she'll follow him anywhere, which may not always be a good thing.
The Phoenix Shadow is action packed and over flowing with emotions ranging from jealousy to hatred to love to utter and complete confusion. The Nox Elite soldiers move in to assist with the enemy, and seem to make way more headway than the seven of them had in a year. They feel like the underdog and that their territory is being invaded, but when they do meet the enemy face to face they realize that maybe they aren't as ready as they once thought.
My Favorite Moment: When Alexis tells Ethan about the next step they need to take to fulfill the prophecy. I loved is reaction! Alexis is right, he's such a guy!
"Hurry? I've waited seventeen years for this. No, wait. Almost eighteen years. My birthday is in a couple of days. When is the next full moon again?"
"In a couple of days."
"Oh, this will be the best birthday gift ever."
"You're such a guy."
July 23, 2015
Actual rating 4.5
Unlike with the first book, I had to start this one straight away. I needed to find out what happened, and the author didn't disappoint.
Right from page one the action began and it didn't let up at any point in the book. The Phoenix Shadow had me hooked the whole way through with its many plot threads that are brilliantly woven together to create an interesting story. It is a very fast-paced book, yet it never feels rushed. Because it is split into three POV it allowed the author to jump around and create tension or suspense whereby she left the reader in the dark about what was happening to certain characters. It made you want to read on.
Similarly, the characters developed well throughout the book. Sam is my favourite. She has a fiery and strong personality that comes across clearly the whole way through. I liked the action that always seemed to involve her and how she's not the type of character that sulks over what happens.
Matt on the other hand had more of a slow growth in his character. His voice gets stronger as the book goes on and I think that worked as the secrets he held got the better of him.
I don't want to give away any of the plot as there are plenty of twists and reveals. However, I thought the author dealt with the large cast well. There are many different story lines taking place, but it's never overwhelming or confusing. I thought the transitions between everything were well done and I was glad to see links between the novella that explained things better.
Overall this was a great follow up. I will warn you that there's a mean cliff hanger ending though and it's definitely made me want to read more.
Unlike with the first book, I had to start this one straight away. I needed to find out what happened, and the author didn't disappoint.
Right from page one the action began and it didn't let up at any point in the book. The Phoenix Shadow had me hooked the whole way through with its many plot threads that are brilliantly woven together to create an interesting story. It is a very fast-paced book, yet it never feels rushed. Because it is split into three POV it allowed the author to jump around and create tension or suspense whereby she left the reader in the dark about what was happening to certain characters. It made you want to read on.
Similarly, the characters developed well throughout the book. Sam is my favourite. She has a fiery and strong personality that comes across clearly the whole way through. I liked the action that always seemed to involve her and how she's not the type of character that sulks over what happens.
Matt on the other hand had more of a slow growth in his character. His voice gets stronger as the book goes on and I think that worked as the secrets he held got the better of him.
I don't want to give away any of the plot as there are plenty of twists and reveals. However, I thought the author dealt with the large cast well. There are many different story lines taking place, but it's never overwhelming or confusing. I thought the transitions between everything were well done and I was glad to see links between the novella that explained things better.
Overall this was a great follow up. I will warn you that there's a mean cliff hanger ending though and it's definitely made me want to read more.
July 24, 2015
The Pheonix Shadow is another thrilling addition to the Arcadian Wars series. Whereas the most recent book (the prequel) explains the back story, book number two starts to pull everything together. A lot of readers questions are answered and most of the truth and many of the backstories of the main characters are revealed. We also get to see some of the secrets the Arcadian government has been keeping become exposed.
The novel sets itself at a much faster pace than the other books in the series, but all of the new information is carefully explained so that it’s not overwhelming. There were a lot of jaw-dropping moments for me and as I was reading along I was shouting out exclamations like “Wait, can this be?!” and “Who did what?!”. It had me on the edge of my seat.
I really liked the addition of new characters (the more elite Arcadians) and it gave the shifting point-of-views a brand new perspective. It kept me interested and let me see the story’s events from a fresh set of eyes. The novel was just as action-packed like the other books in the series, and I absolutely loved the epic chase scenes where they used their powers to fight. I imagined it to be something like out of a Hollywood movie.
The romance aspect of the story is definitely amped up in this book. While it was nice to see current relationships such Alexia & Ethan, who by far are my favorite couple of the series, develop even further, it was also good to see new relationships bloom. Love is in the air!
The novel sets itself at a much faster pace than the other books in the series, but all of the new information is carefully explained so that it’s not overwhelming. There were a lot of jaw-dropping moments for me and as I was reading along I was shouting out exclamations like “Wait, can this be?!” and “Who did what?!”. It had me on the edge of my seat.
I really liked the addition of new characters (the more elite Arcadians) and it gave the shifting point-of-views a brand new perspective. It kept me interested and let me see the story’s events from a fresh set of eyes. The novel was just as action-packed like the other books in the series, and I absolutely loved the epic chase scenes where they used their powers to fight. I imagined it to be something like out of a Hollywood movie.
The romance aspect of the story is definitely amped up in this book. While it was nice to see current relationships such Alexia & Ethan, who by far are my favorite couple of the series, develop even further, it was also good to see new relationships bloom. Love is in the air!
August 2, 2015
This series just gets better with each book. It keeps myou attention all the way through and made me anxious as to what was going to happen to the characters. It still has the pov from Alexia, Sam, and Matt, but it has Durgin's at the beginning and Lucas's at the end. I was glad to know what had happened to Mal and Sammia's twins. After finding out what had happened to the twins, it was sad to find out what had been done to them in order for them to become Prodigies. It surprised me how Matt treated Sam after he got back his missing memories. Julian is a big mystery. It's driving me nuts trying to figure out what he is. I don't believe he is human but I don't know what he is. When Sam first encounters the little boy held in the detention center, I wondered if he was the same one Mal and Sammia had encountered. There are so many things that I liked about this and it had so many twists and turns to the story that I will be anxiously awaiting the next book to come out. It can't get here fast enough for me.
July 7, 2015
The highly anticipated sequel to The Prophecy of Arcadia. I hope you enjoy it. I had a lot of fun writing it. :)
July 19, 2015
Fantastic 2nd book. This series is so interesting and entertaining. I can't wait for book #3.
August 2, 2015
I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review>
The Phoenix Shadow is another enjoyable page-turner in M.H. Soars’s YA paranormal romance series, The Arcadian Wars. Like it’s predecessor, The Prophesy of Arcadia, this book is filled with action, mystery, romantic tension and a fair bit of humour. But beware, readers will need a high cheese-factor threshold to get through some of the scenes in this book.
The Phoenix Shadow picks up right where The Prophecy of Arcadia left off – Matthew has recovered his memories of that fateful trip our favourite aliens took to Arcadia as children, Alexia is still missing after taking of following the dropping of a major bombshell in the previous book, and the dangers surrounding the Big A drug and the Mysserian threat are still at the forefront of everyone’s minds.
There are some new kids in town in the form of Durgin’s elite group of soldiers, the Nox Elite, as well as another threat, which we learn of through a prologue told from Durgin’s point of view.
And then there’s Julian – who everyone but Sam seems to know is creepy.
It’s a tangled web full of tension and we’re all just waiting for it to blow. And it does. Multiple times. As lies are unraveled and secrets revealed the reader is dealt one shock after another, until it finally culminates in the revelation we are all waiting for – what does Matt remember that is so horrible? We have to wait until the final pages to find out, and before we have time to let the knowledge sink in, Soars strikes again with another merciless cliffhanger.
Overall, this was an enjoyable read. There were moments where I found myself incredibly frustrated with Sam – who I’d come to love and respect in the first book, but now seems to have lost a lot of her spunk – and also moments where I found myself rolling my eyes and, indeed, almost gagging. Perhaps It’s my age – this is written for younger audiences, after all – but I found two seventeen year-olds declaring each other to be their stars, sky, world, moon, air they breathe etc. a little overdone. I know they’re soul mates and all, but they’re still just kids.
Those frustrations aside, though, I flew through the book in a matter of hours and, in the end, found myself wishing it would keep going. As many questions as were answered in this book, more were raised, and we’ll have to wait for the next installment for the answers.
The Phoenix Shadow is another enjoyable page-turner in M.H. Soars’s YA paranormal romance series, The Arcadian Wars. Like it’s predecessor, The Prophesy of Arcadia, this book is filled with action, mystery, romantic tension and a fair bit of humour. But beware, readers will need a high cheese-factor threshold to get through some of the scenes in this book.
The Phoenix Shadow picks up right where The Prophecy of Arcadia left off – Matthew has recovered his memories of that fateful trip our favourite aliens took to Arcadia as children, Alexia is still missing after taking of following the dropping of a major bombshell in the previous book, and the dangers surrounding the Big A drug and the Mysserian threat are still at the forefront of everyone’s minds.
There are some new kids in town in the form of Durgin’s elite group of soldiers, the Nox Elite, as well as another threat, which we learn of through a prologue told from Durgin’s point of view.
And then there’s Julian – who everyone but Sam seems to know is creepy.
It’s a tangled web full of tension and we’re all just waiting for it to blow. And it does. Multiple times. As lies are unraveled and secrets revealed the reader is dealt one shock after another, until it finally culminates in the revelation we are all waiting for – what does Matt remember that is so horrible? We have to wait until the final pages to find out, and before we have time to let the knowledge sink in, Soars strikes again with another merciless cliffhanger.
Overall, this was an enjoyable read. There were moments where I found myself incredibly frustrated with Sam – who I’d come to love and respect in the first book, but now seems to have lost a lot of her spunk – and also moments where I found myself rolling my eyes and, indeed, almost gagging. Perhaps It’s my age – this is written for younger audiences, after all – but I found two seventeen year-olds declaring each other to be their stars, sky, world, moon, air they breathe etc. a little overdone. I know they’re soul mates and all, but they’re still just kids.
Those frustrations aside, though, I flew through the book in a matter of hours and, in the end, found myself wishing it would keep going. As many questions as were answered in this book, more were raised, and we’ll have to wait for the next installment for the answers.
January 5, 2021
This review was originally posted on Star Crossed Reviews I received this book for free from the Author in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. Thank you to Michelle for providing me with a copy of this book. I loved book one so when I was offered a chance to review this book I had to say yes.
This book picks up exactly where the last one ends. Matthew is a mess after regaining his memories while the rest of the tragedies are dealing with the aftermath of the Homecoming Dance. Alexia has just found out her true identity as well as the identity of her 'cousins'. In all honesty is a big mess.
There are a lot of twists and turns in this book that keeps you on the edge. You never quite know what is going to happen next which I enjoyed. I loved the little romances that were forming in the sidelines.
This book is extremely fast paced and doesn't let up for a second. This makes it extremely difficult to put down. Michelle makes it so easy for you to get lost in their world.
Without giving too much away, there were some secrets that were revealed but there were also some mysteries that will keep you begging for the next book.
This book picks up exactly where the last one ends. Matthew is a mess after regaining his memories while the rest of the tragedies are dealing with the aftermath of the Homecoming Dance. Alexia has just found out her true identity as well as the identity of her 'cousins'. In all honesty is a big mess.
There are a lot of twists and turns in this book that keeps you on the edge. You never quite know what is going to happen next which I enjoyed. I loved the little romances that were forming in the sidelines.
This book is extremely fast paced and doesn't let up for a second. This makes it extremely difficult to put down. Michelle makes it so easy for you to get lost in their world.
Without giving too much away, there were some secrets that were revealed but there were also some mysteries that will keep you begging for the next book.
September 11, 2015
I really enjoyed the first book and didn't think it could get better but the second book was even better. The characters go through so much and its nonstop action. I can't wait for the third book to come out!
January 28, 2016
Not the conclusion of the series- ends on a big cliffhanger.
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