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The Liberty Box #3
The Phoenix Project
The haven city of Beckenshire has been demolished, and most of the rebels lie beneath the rubble. The few that remain scramble to communicate with the outside world, knowing that if they are to stand a chance in the coming war, they can’t do it alone. In a last ditch effort to grow their ranks, the remaining rebels systematically destroy the repeaters which help to propagate the control center signals. And it’s working: citizens in targeted cities are waking up in droves. But Ben Voltolini will stop at nothing to quell the uprising before it has a chance to get off the ground. And he has one major ace up his sleeve: Kate Brandeis.
During Kate’s broadcast to the nation, Voltolini unleashed targeted brainwave signals against her, causing her to allow both Jackson MacNamera’s capture, and her own. Now, despite Voltolini’s exquisite wining and dining, she can’t seem to stop the panic attacks. Whom can she trust? What is truth? Is there even such a thing?
Meanwhile, imprisoned and hopeless, Jackson realizes the depths of his feelings for Kate only after he has already lost her. The incredible self-control upon which he prides himself gets put to the ultimate test when he meets an unlikely ally who just may turn the tide in the rebels’ favor—but only if Jackson can put aside his own bitterness. In this gripping conclusion to The Liberty Box Trilogy, new and surprising alliances are formed, passions run high, and our heroes learn what they are really made of. Do they have what it takes to fight for freedom—even if it means paying the ultimate price?
During Kate’s broadcast to the nation, Voltolini unleashed targeted brainwave signals against her, causing her to allow both Jackson MacNamera’s capture, and her own. Now, despite Voltolini’s exquisite wining and dining, she can’t seem to stop the panic attacks. Whom can she trust? What is truth? Is there even such a thing?
Meanwhile, imprisoned and hopeless, Jackson realizes the depths of his feelings for Kate only after he has already lost her. The incredible self-control upon which he prides himself gets put to the ultimate test when he meets an unlikely ally who just may turn the tide in the rebels’ favor—but only if Jackson can put aside his own bitterness. In this gripping conclusion to The Liberty Box Trilogy, new and surprising alliances are formed, passions run high, and our heroes learn what they are really made of. Do they have what it takes to fight for freedom—even if it means paying the ultimate price?
- GenresDystopiaYoung Adult
396 pages, Paperback
Published March 1, 2017
2 people are currently reading
114 people want to read
About the author
C.A. Gray
29 books510 followersC.A. Gray is the author of three YA Amazon bestselling trilogies: PIERCING THE VEIL (magic and quantum physics meet Arthurian legends), THE LIBERTY BOX (dystopian metaphysics and mind control technology), and UNCANNY VALLEY (dystopian coming-of-age with neuroscience and super intelligent A.I). She starts with some scientific concept that she’s interested in learning more about herself, and then creates lots of epic chaos and high-stakes action to go along with it. Her stories are free of gratuitous violence, language, and sexual content, and she abhors depressing endings… but they’re not all kittens and rainbows either! She also listens to and reviews audiobooks on her website, here on Goodreads, on Instagram, and on her podcast, Clean Audiobook Reviews, where she also occasionally interviews other authors.
By day, C.A. Gray practices naturopathic medicine, podcasts, and writes medical non-fiction under her maiden name (Dr. Lauren Deville). She lives in Tucson, AZ with her husband Frank, and together they maintain an occasionally contentious film review blog (under her real name: Lauren Baden. Three names. Yes.) She’s kind of the queen of multitasking—so in her spare time, she creates whatever meals or crafts she found most recently on Pinterest, drinks lots of coffee (Aeropress btw) and occasional wine (reds—and she saves the corks for craft projects), works out (while listening to audiobooks), and studies the Bible—about half of the podcasts on Christian Natural Health are scripture meditations.
She does sleep, too. Promise.
Join her newsletter for best-of-the-month reads, freebies and giveaway information, as well as new releases! http://eepurl.com/F3rof
By day, C.A. Gray practices naturopathic medicine, podcasts, and writes medical non-fiction under her maiden name (Dr. Lauren Deville). She lives in Tucson, AZ with her husband Frank, and together they maintain an occasionally contentious film review blog (under her real name: Lauren Baden. Three names. Yes.) She’s kind of the queen of multitasking—so in her spare time, she creates whatever meals or crafts she found most recently on Pinterest, drinks lots of coffee (Aeropress btw) and occasional wine (reds—and she saves the corks for craft projects), works out (while listening to audiobooks), and studies the Bible—about half of the podcasts on Christian Natural Health are scripture meditations.
She does sleep, too. Promise.
Join her newsletter for best-of-the-month reads, freebies and giveaway information, as well as new releases! http://eepurl.com/F3rof
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
March 20, 2017
I've been looking forward to reading The Phoenix Project since I finished The Eden Conspiracy, and it did not disappoint. The Phoenix Project is a strong finish to a stellar series, and I have nothing but good things to say about it.
The entire series is pretty action-packed, but The Phoenix Project really raises the bar. I was on the edge of my seat at times, and I had goosebumps at the end. It's been a long time since I've had such a strong reaction to a book. I was so happy to get closure, but on the other hand, I was sad that it was over! I didn't want to say goodbye to these characters, but I was pleased with how things turned out. There is such wonderful character development throughout the series, and I love how much Kate has changed from the beginning.
The world building is creative and imaginative, and it was so easy to get lost in the story. The author has a talent for subtly drawing you into this world with her incredible writing.
And I have to mention the cover - it's gorgeous. Definitely my favorite of the three covers.
The Phoenix Project is an intelligent, entertaining, and well-written dystopian, and I would highly recommend checking out this series!
The entire series is pretty action-packed, but The Phoenix Project really raises the bar. I was on the edge of my seat at times, and I had goosebumps at the end. It's been a long time since I've had such a strong reaction to a book. I was so happy to get closure, but on the other hand, I was sad that it was over! I didn't want to say goodbye to these characters, but I was pleased with how things turned out. There is such wonderful character development throughout the series, and I love how much Kate has changed from the beginning.
The world building is creative and imaginative, and it was so easy to get lost in the story. The author has a talent for subtly drawing you into this world with her incredible writing.
And I have to mention the cover - it's gorgeous. Definitely my favorite of the three covers.
The Phoenix Project is an intelligent, entertaining, and well-written dystopian, and I would highly recommend checking out this series!
June 21, 2017
Oh my....my heart nearly stopped. Dozens of time.
Kate is probably one of my favorite characters. Ever. Her ex-fiancee thought she was a doll, but she proved herself to be so much more. And Jackson,oh my. I NEED a Jackson. This book and the whole series in general is amazing. Pick it up. It's so hard for reviewers to not leave spoilers that I'm doing my level best to just say that the best thing you can do is read the series. But do keep some tissues on hand. You may need them. Happy Reading!!
Kate is probably one of my favorite characters. Ever. Her ex-fiancee thought she was a doll, but she proved herself to be so much more. And Jackson,oh my. I NEED a Jackson. This book and the whole series in general is amazing. Pick it up. It's so hard for reviewers to not leave spoilers that I'm doing my level best to just say that the best thing you can do is read the series. But do keep some tissues on hand. You may need them. Happy Reading!!
March 21, 2017
4.5/5 stars
Review also available at: https://samanthascw.wordpress.com/201...
Wow. I cannot believe that this is the last book in the The Liberty Box series. It has been quite a ride.
There is no denying that C. A. Gray is a great storyteller. This book was as captivating as the last two, what with all the action and plot twists. I thought that I could pretty much predict the storyline in this last book, because, y’know, what else would they do other than start a revolution against the Potentate? What I didn’t expect was for Gray to sprinkle little plot twists here and there which, okay, didn’t really blow my mind or anything, but definitely caught me off guard.
The book was, as usual, action-packed and thrilling. It was unputdownable and I probably would’ve finished it in a few days if I wasn’t busy with work and family stuff. I really loved how Kate’s character grew to become stronger and more independent as she relied on herself to get out of sticky situations or to put things right.
I’m still not a huge fan of the romance in this series. It just doesn’t feel right to me, there’s barely any chemistry between Kate and Jackson, in my opinion. Other than that, this was a thrilling, unputdownable read.
I was sent an ARC by RoyalSocialMedia in exchange for a review. Special thanks to RoyalSocialMedia and C. A. Gray. This is my honest review.
Review also available at: https://samanthascw.wordpress.com/201...
Wow. I cannot believe that this is the last book in the The Liberty Box series. It has been quite a ride.
There is no denying that C. A. Gray is a great storyteller. This book was as captivating as the last two, what with all the action and plot twists. I thought that I could pretty much predict the storyline in this last book, because, y’know, what else would they do other than start a revolution against the Potentate? What I didn’t expect was for Gray to sprinkle little plot twists here and there which, okay, didn’t really blow my mind or anything, but definitely caught me off guard.
“You might have the power to suggest ideas to me, but you don’t have the power to make me accept them.” -Jackson.
The book was, as usual, action-packed and thrilling. It was unputdownable and I probably would’ve finished it in a few days if I wasn’t busy with work and family stuff. I really loved how Kate’s character grew to become stronger and more independent as she relied on herself to get out of sticky situations or to put things right.
“Emotions make great servants, but terrible masters.” -Kate.
I’m still not a huge fan of the romance in this series. It just doesn’t feel right to me, there’s barely any chemistry between Kate and Jackson, in my opinion. Other than that, this was a thrilling, unputdownable read.
I was sent an ARC by RoyalSocialMedia in exchange for a review. Special thanks to RoyalSocialMedia and C. A. Gray. This is my honest review.
March 30, 2017
Rating: 4 stars
The second book of this series ended with a perfect cliffhanger, so naturally I was very excited for this book to release, and it was all I dreamt of.
When The Phoenix Project started off, I was quite frustrated, but in a good way. The atmosphere was tense and it was a complete page-turner, I was captivated by how fast the world pulled me into it again. I read the whole thing in one sitting; the thrill and suspense not letting me put the book down at all.
I absolutely adored Jackson in this book. He was so kickass and sweet and just amazing. Sometimes stories like these get a little overwhelming either on the romance part, or on the action. But I love how balanced this series is, it has the perfect dose of everything.
I have admired certain things about this series from the beginning, one being the inclusion and treatment of science. Sci-fi books these days tend to go so off-track, but the author showed great skill while incorporating the science factors in the story, it was not very complicated, but just enough.However, I do wish I could connect a little more to the characters.
I loved how this series ended as well. It was completely satisfactory and didn't drag on unnecessarily. The Liberty Box trilogy is a definite recommendation for anybody who wants to read a science fiction dystopian series which not only has an original and interesting plotline, but is also very well written.
The second book of this series ended with a perfect cliffhanger, so naturally I was very excited for this book to release, and it was all I dreamt of.
When The Phoenix Project started off, I was quite frustrated, but in a good way. The atmosphere was tense and it was a complete page-turner, I was captivated by how fast the world pulled me into it again. I read the whole thing in one sitting; the thrill and suspense not letting me put the book down at all.
I absolutely adored Jackson in this book. He was so kickass and sweet and just amazing. Sometimes stories like these get a little overwhelming either on the romance part, or on the action. But I love how balanced this series is, it has the perfect dose of everything.
I have admired certain things about this series from the beginning, one being the inclusion and treatment of science. Sci-fi books these days tend to go so off-track, but the author showed great skill while incorporating the science factors in the story, it was not very complicated, but just enough.However, I do wish I could connect a little more to the characters.
I loved how this series ended as well. It was completely satisfactory and didn't drag on unnecessarily. The Liberty Box trilogy is a definite recommendation for anybody who wants to read a science fiction dystopian series which not only has an original and interesting plotline, but is also very well written.
October 20, 2017
I was sent the arc of The Phoenix Project in return for a honest review by the author.
I loved this book and I dare say it is my favourite of the trilogy (The Liberty Box).
All the covers for the trilogy are beautifully designed and created. Much like this is my favourite book of the trilogy; the book cover is also my favourite.
So onto the characters.
Will, again, is very well written but I still love to hate him. He is controlling over Kate and makes decisions for her without asking her opinion.
Kate has grown up a lot from the first book. She's much more independant and strong. She stands up for herself against Will and Voltolini. Despite the struggles she faces.
Jackson is by far my favourite character. He sees what others can't, is strong, determined and logical. Part of Kates journey in finding herself I dare say is thanks to Jackson.
The story itself is superbly written. It's exciting/thrilling and I couldn't put the book down until I had finished the whole thing. I really enjoyed getting to see Ben Voltolini's character when Kate is under his 'protection' and seeing how he interacts with her,
Having the different character perspectives throughout the novel helps to build upon the story and see how they each play a role into the plan to destroying the Liberty Box.
Kate overcomes many obstacles and challenges in this book. The fight towards freedom reaching its climax.
I highly reccomend this series. I thoroughly enjoyed it and I know many others will too.
I loved this book and I dare say it is my favourite of the trilogy (The Liberty Box).
All the covers for the trilogy are beautifully designed and created. Much like this is my favourite book of the trilogy; the book cover is also my favourite.
So onto the characters.
Will, again, is very well written but I still love to hate him. He is controlling over Kate and makes decisions for her without asking her opinion.
Kate has grown up a lot from the first book. She's much more independant and strong. She stands up for herself against Will and Voltolini. Despite the struggles she faces.
Jackson is by far my favourite character. He sees what others can't, is strong, determined and logical. Part of Kates journey in finding herself I dare say is thanks to Jackson.
The story itself is superbly written. It's exciting/thrilling and I couldn't put the book down until I had finished the whole thing. I really enjoyed getting to see Ben Voltolini's character when Kate is under his 'protection' and seeing how he interacts with her,
Having the different character perspectives throughout the novel helps to build upon the story and see how they each play a role into the plan to destroying the Liberty Box.
Kate overcomes many obstacles and challenges in this book. The fight towards freedom reaching its climax.
I highly reccomend this series. I thoroughly enjoyed it and I know many others will too.
November 10, 2018
This is the third and final book in “The Liberty Box” trilogy. I thought it started a little off pace and I was fearful that the author wouldn’t give us a strong finish. I needn’t have worried my pretty little head. WOW! If you’re reading this in a chair, I’d advise you to be sure it has seat belts by the time you get to chapter 3.
The pace picks up and there are so many turns of fortune that this could have been split into two books. I found myself unable to put it down, rushing to a finish that I knew I’d regret. When I turned the last page I was saddened that there was no more.
I love the clear eyed view this author has of humanity. The tale is a metaphor for current events, and the direction we are headed.
— — —
Kate and Jackson are both under the control of the Potentate. Jackson in a dungeon sentenced to death, Kate an attractive trophy. Again, the struggle is as much internal as external. What is truth? Every individual must choose. This, the final book in the series, brings us to a hopeful future as society has to choose between the attractive lie and an uncomfortable truth. I can not recommend this series enough. Gray has a fervent new fan in me.
The pace picks up and there are so many turns of fortune that this could have been split into two books. I found myself unable to put it down, rushing to a finish that I knew I’d regret. When I turned the last page I was saddened that there was no more.
I love the clear eyed view this author has of humanity. The tale is a metaphor for current events, and the direction we are headed.
— — —
Kate and Jackson are both under the control of the Potentate. Jackson in a dungeon sentenced to death, Kate an attractive trophy. Again, the struggle is as much internal as external. What is truth? Every individual must choose. This, the final book in the series, brings us to a hopeful future as society has to choose between the attractive lie and an uncomfortable truth. I can not recommend this series enough. Gray has a fervent new fan in me.
February 6, 2017
This final book in the trilogy wraps up eveything nicely with an ending that is extremely satisfying. I have thoroughly enjoyed reading the whole series. Entertaining and intriguing. I loved the plot twists in this book. And the writting was very well done, as usual.
The main characters have to overcome many obstacles in this book. The fight for freedom picks up a lot of momentum and a new character's appearance changes everything for the rebels.
I received an ARC of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.
The main characters have to overcome many obstacles in this book. The fight for freedom picks up a lot of momentum and a new character's appearance changes everything for the rebels.
I received an ARC of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.
April 25, 2017
Great trilogy
This ended perfect, I am so glad Will left and Kate ended up with Jackson! The characters in this series you feel real love and hate for.
This ended perfect, I am so glad Will left and Kate ended up with Jackson! The characters in this series you feel real love and hate for.
July 29, 2018
I loved “The Phoenix Project”! I was intrigued by the title even. I started making my own assumptions before listening to the audio and I was making scenarios which, one by one proved to be wrong. Because “The Phoenix Project” has such an unexpected action and such unexpected reactions! And the Potentate has such a great mind (well, excuse me for liking a negative character!) and manages again to be one step ahead of the rebels.
Most of the book is focused on how Kate is trying to understand what is real and what is not, after the events from the previous book. We see a Jackson that is defeated by his own expectations from other people. We understand now his weakness. He is indeed human. And what’s new, we have a new perspective. Will’s point of view is not only capturing what happens on the other side of the palace, but at some point, he is the voice of the person who just wants a quiet life, nothing more. We meet the creator of the Liberty Box technology and we see his conflict. Yes, this book deals a lot with inner conflicts, but this is very well blended with the action.
There were some things I did not enjoy, but not enough to make me decrease my rating. It frustrated me how Jackson blamed Kate for some things she could not control. It frustrated me seeing the doubt so much, but I understood that this was built in such a way to tie everything together. So points for that as well.
The narration was good to some extent. There is almost no voice acting and that would not have bothered me, had it not made me confused about who was talking. However, the narrator did manage to express the anger and the dissimulation some characters shown throughout the story. Especially the anger part.
All in all, I would gladly recommend the series. It’s clean, action focused, with a lot of character development and with a lot of self-analysis. Besides, the most important thing to remember after going through 3 books, is that nothing is more powerful than human mind. We are as weak as we allow ourselves to be. And that made me stronger. Thank you J
Enjoy!
I received this audiobook as part of my participation in a blog tour with Audiobookworm Promotions. The tour is being sponsored by C.A. Gray. The gifting of this audiobook did not affect my opinion of it.
Most of the book is focused on how Kate is trying to understand what is real and what is not, after the events from the previous book. We see a Jackson that is defeated by his own expectations from other people. We understand now his weakness. He is indeed human. And what’s new, we have a new perspective. Will’s point of view is not only capturing what happens on the other side of the palace, but at some point, he is the voice of the person who just wants a quiet life, nothing more. We meet the creator of the Liberty Box technology and we see his conflict. Yes, this book deals a lot with inner conflicts, but this is very well blended with the action.
There were some things I did not enjoy, but not enough to make me decrease my rating. It frustrated me how Jackson blamed Kate for some things she could not control. It frustrated me seeing the doubt so much, but I understood that this was built in such a way to tie everything together. So points for that as well.
The narration was good to some extent. There is almost no voice acting and that would not have bothered me, had it not made me confused about who was talking. However, the narrator did manage to express the anger and the dissimulation some characters shown throughout the story. Especially the anger part.
All in all, I would gladly recommend the series. It’s clean, action focused, with a lot of character development and with a lot of self-analysis. Besides, the most important thing to remember after going through 3 books, is that nothing is more powerful than human mind. We are as weak as we allow ourselves to be. And that made me stronger. Thank you J
Enjoy!
I received this audiobook as part of my participation in a blog tour with Audiobookworm Promotions. The tour is being sponsored by C.A. Gray. The gifting of this audiobook did not affect my opinion of it.
July 28, 2018
It would be fair to say that The Phoenix Project neatly wraps everything up for the trilogy and so it does but that doesn’t really do the author justice. A lot goes on in this last volume and I got to know the characters even better, not always pleasantly.
With Kate being held in pampered captivity and seemingly completely under Voltolini’s sway, Jackson in the deepest of dungeons and the remnants of the resistance in tatters, it would appear that all is lost and the dictator has won but some of the rebels have a different plan. At the same time, Kate discovers Jackson in his cell and begins to doubt her thoughts, her implanted belief that he is a murderer and the cause of all that is wrong. Meanwhile, Jackson has his own doubts about himself but meets another prisoner who just might turn out to be a critical piece of his, Jackson’s, redemption.
In this third book, I came to dislike Will more and more as his need to control everything, especially Kate, became increasingly obnoxious. This man truly needs to be set straight about how to behave towards women and he really is kind of stereotypical but, truthfully, he was not my most detested character. That honor goes to Denise (I think that’s her name), Kate’s mother but I’ll leave it to you to find out why—I assure you it won’t be hard to figure it out. As for Jackson, I came away understanding that he is, indeed, very human and not a superhero, making him very likeable indeed while my empathy for Kate intensified even as I wanted to throttle her sometimes.
Narrator Melissa Williams still isn’t my favorite reader because she doesn’t differentiate voices all that well but I still enjoy listening to her. Her tone is very pleasant and I think her vocal strength comes at those times when characters are losing it. In particular, her shrill tones with both Will and Denise made their distress very evident.
All in all, The Liberty Box trilogy has been a pleasure to listen to and I’m glad I had this opportunity.
With Kate being held in pampered captivity and seemingly completely under Voltolini’s sway, Jackson in the deepest of dungeons and the remnants of the resistance in tatters, it would appear that all is lost and the dictator has won but some of the rebels have a different plan. At the same time, Kate discovers Jackson in his cell and begins to doubt her thoughts, her implanted belief that he is a murderer and the cause of all that is wrong. Meanwhile, Jackson has his own doubts about himself but meets another prisoner who just might turn out to be a critical piece of his, Jackson’s, redemption.
In this third book, I came to dislike Will more and more as his need to control everything, especially Kate, became increasingly obnoxious. This man truly needs to be set straight about how to behave towards women and he really is kind of stereotypical but, truthfully, he was not my most detested character. That honor goes to Denise (I think that’s her name), Kate’s mother but I’ll leave it to you to find out why—I assure you it won’t be hard to figure it out. As for Jackson, I came away understanding that he is, indeed, very human and not a superhero, making him very likeable indeed while my empathy for Kate intensified even as I wanted to throttle her sometimes.
Narrator Melissa Williams still isn’t my favorite reader because she doesn’t differentiate voices all that well but I still enjoy listening to her. Her tone is very pleasant and I think her vocal strength comes at those times when characters are losing it. In particular, her shrill tones with both Will and Denise made their distress very evident.
All in all, The Liberty Box trilogy has been a pleasure to listen to and I’m glad I had this opportunity.
October 31, 2021
Kate Brandeis is brainwashed. Again.
This time the Potentate is using targeted mind control. He also moved her into the palace so he can ensure the manipulation is effective. Yet, Kate is overwhelmed with the new information and cannot figure out which thoughts are real. Resulting in consistent panic attacks, Kate fears that she is losing her mind. Will she be able to break through, or has the Potentate succeeded in overtaking her?
An epic continuation of The Liberty Box Trilogy, C.A. Gray’s The Phoenix Project keeps one on their toes. Bursting with unexpected curve balls, being consumed by the tale of Kate, Jackson, and the rest of the refugees cannot be helped. Immersed, one can only keep the pages turning until they know how the story ends.
With the exclusion of sexual content and no spelling and grammatical errors, Gray continues to showcase her writing acuity. However, this novel does include some borderline profanity. Although not enough to interfere with the pace of the storyline, a 4 out of 5 stars is the outcome.
A well-executed completion of the trilogy, The Phoenix Project does not leave anything unresolved. Overall, a satisfying ending to a thrilling adventure.
Thank you to #ThePhoenixProject, #CAGray, and #WanderlustPublishing for the opportunity to read this book and give my honest review.
Original Post found at: https://www.literarylioness.net/post/...
Review of the first book in this series, The Liberty Box, can be found at: https://www.literarylioness.net/post/...
Review of the second book in this series, The Eden Conspiracy, can be found at: https://www.literarylioness.net/post/...
This time the Potentate is using targeted mind control. He also moved her into the palace so he can ensure the manipulation is effective. Yet, Kate is overwhelmed with the new information and cannot figure out which thoughts are real. Resulting in consistent panic attacks, Kate fears that she is losing her mind. Will she be able to break through, or has the Potentate succeeded in overtaking her?
An epic continuation of The Liberty Box Trilogy, C.A. Gray’s The Phoenix Project keeps one on their toes. Bursting with unexpected curve balls, being consumed by the tale of Kate, Jackson, and the rest of the refugees cannot be helped. Immersed, one can only keep the pages turning until they know how the story ends.
With the exclusion of sexual content and no spelling and grammatical errors, Gray continues to showcase her writing acuity. However, this novel does include some borderline profanity. Although not enough to interfere with the pace of the storyline, a 4 out of 5 stars is the outcome.
A well-executed completion of the trilogy, The Phoenix Project does not leave anything unresolved. Overall, a satisfying ending to a thrilling adventure.
Thank you to #ThePhoenixProject, #CAGray, and #WanderlustPublishing for the opportunity to read this book and give my honest review.
Original Post found at: https://www.literarylioness.net/post/...
Review of the first book in this series, The Liberty Box, can be found at: https://www.literarylioness.net/post/...
Review of the second book in this series, The Eden Conspiracy, can be found at: https://www.literarylioness.net/post/...
October 8, 2020
The Phoenix Project brings to a conclusion The Liberty Box Series of books by C.A. Gray. It is difficult to review the final book in a series without giving away the plot or too much information on the previous books. As this series draws to a close the battle between the resistance and the government run by Voltolini and his mind control network rages on. The resistance is small and grows smaller as members are arrested or killed. The majority of the population remains blind to the world as it actually is and sees an altered reality that Voltolini has programmed.
Gray writing style works well. Although this series is written for the Young Adult crowd the quality of the story and its detail will hold an adults interest throughout the story. There is enough action in the story without overdoing it and the characters do their best to plan their next actions. There is some romance but it seems a bit awkward at times. Although there are violence and death, sex is left out of the pages. It is a wholesome dystopia where the young characters, although modern, seem to cling to a 1950s morality even when challenging authority.
I enjoyed the first two books in the series and the final book does an excellent job of tying together all the loose ends and drawing the series to a proper end. For those who have read this far into the series, The Pheonix Project is well worth the read and for those who have waited a while to finish up the series, a nice summary of the previous two novels precedes chapter one of this book. A very well done series.
Gray writing style works well. Although this series is written for the Young Adult crowd the quality of the story and its detail will hold an adults interest throughout the story. There is enough action in the story without overdoing it and the characters do their best to plan their next actions. There is some romance but it seems a bit awkward at times. Although there are violence and death, sex is left out of the pages. It is a wholesome dystopia where the young characters, although modern, seem to cling to a 1950s morality even when challenging authority.
I enjoyed the first two books in the series and the final book does an excellent job of tying together all the loose ends and drawing the series to a proper end. For those who have read this far into the series, The Pheonix Project is well worth the read and for those who have waited a while to finish up the series, a nice summary of the previous two novels precedes chapter one of this book. A very well done series.
April 25, 2019
Kate, Jackson, Charlie, Will along with the surviving rebels are still trying to stop the Potentate. The Potentate has been brain washing people for years ever since he took over. The rebels are trying to take back their freedom and to be able to think for themselves and to see what is real and what is not.
Kate and Jackson are in love with each other but can’t seem to find the time to actually let the other know. There is one thing or rather person that is standing in their way of revealing to the truth to each other and that is Will, Kate’s fiancé or ex-fiancé if or when she ever gets around to telling him. Jackson doesn’t want to come between a man and his woman. Kate doesn’t want to hurt Will or maybe it is more like Will won’t listen. Will is very controlling. He wants to take care of Kate and keep her safe but he goes about it in the wrong way by being bossy and telling her what to do.
Who will Kate pick in the end? Will she listen to her heart? Will she obey Will? Will the rebels win in the end? Can they stop the Potentate? Can they stop the Potentate from brain washing them?
I really and truly loved the world that the author created for The Liberty Box trilogy. I loved the method that she used to explain how easy it is to get people to follow along with whatever they are told or maybe believe just about anything they are told. There is more than one way to brain wash someone or get them to believe what you want them to believe. I also loved the technology and the software programs, the science/science fiction that was used. With the description of the software and all the technology I could tell that the author did her research. The world building was just amazing I would love to see more in this world. I really hated to see the end of this world.
The Phoenix Project is a fast paced read and once I picked it up I didn’t want to put it down I wanted to keep reading to see how it all turned out in the end. The suspense and action grabbed me from the first page and didn’t let go until the last. I say the last but I have this feeling that The Liberty Box will be with me for a very long time to come. It is not going to be easy just to lay this one down ever. Yeah I bet this is one trilogy that is going to be with me for a long time in the future.
If you like reading science fiction, dystopian books then you are going to love this trilogy. Pick your copy of The Liberty Box trilogy today and begin the adventure of a lifetime.
Kate and Jackson are in love with each other but can’t seem to find the time to actually let the other know. There is one thing or rather person that is standing in their way of revealing to the truth to each other and that is Will, Kate’s fiancé or ex-fiancé if or when she ever gets around to telling him. Jackson doesn’t want to come between a man and his woman. Kate doesn’t want to hurt Will or maybe it is more like Will won’t listen. Will is very controlling. He wants to take care of Kate and keep her safe but he goes about it in the wrong way by being bossy and telling her what to do.
Who will Kate pick in the end? Will she listen to her heart? Will she obey Will? Will the rebels win in the end? Can they stop the Potentate? Can they stop the Potentate from brain washing them?
I really and truly loved the world that the author created for The Liberty Box trilogy. I loved the method that she used to explain how easy it is to get people to follow along with whatever they are told or maybe believe just about anything they are told. There is more than one way to brain wash someone or get them to believe what you want them to believe. I also loved the technology and the software programs, the science/science fiction that was used. With the description of the software and all the technology I could tell that the author did her research. The world building was just amazing I would love to see more in this world. I really hated to see the end of this world.
The Phoenix Project is a fast paced read and once I picked it up I didn’t want to put it down I wanted to keep reading to see how it all turned out in the end. The suspense and action grabbed me from the first page and didn’t let go until the last. I say the last but I have this feeling that The Liberty Box will be with me for a very long time to come. It is not going to be easy just to lay this one down ever. Yeah I bet this is one trilogy that is going to be with me for a long time in the future.
If you like reading science fiction, dystopian books then you are going to love this trilogy. Pick your copy of The Liberty Box trilogy today and begin the adventure of a lifetime.
June 28, 2019
Okay, as I told before in the previous book’s review. Please do not put the previous book summary in the beginning of the book. What is that for? If the readers are not lazy to read all of them, they would read all of this trilogy but if they are, they will just read the third book and they knew how the story goes.
Well don Mrs. Gray, you did the improvement in this book as well. The characters developed new things and I was not expected that coming on some part. But how the story goes since Kate rescued by Will were not good enough I guess. I need something more and you did not give it to me. Such as ‘the break out’ that the Rebels done is not enough and how Alec being selfish and how Voltolini and Alec dead oh God is so boring. Anyway about how Molly handled Joe not to do whatever he wanted in IT, I guess I do owned your explanation about that because it just ‘OH’ not ah-ha like you wrote in the ‘dear readers’
Overall, I love her writing style and I enjoyed this book.
Well don Mrs. Gray, you did the improvement in this book as well. The characters developed new things and I was not expected that coming on some part. But how the story goes since Kate rescued by Will were not good enough I guess. I need something more and you did not give it to me. Such as ‘the break out’ that the Rebels done is not enough and how Alec being selfish and how Voltolini and Alec dead oh God is so boring. Anyway about how Molly handled Joe not to do whatever he wanted in IT, I guess I do owned your explanation about that because it just ‘OH’ not ah-ha like you wrote in the ‘dear readers’
Overall, I love her writing style and I enjoyed this book.
July 29, 2018
My thoughts on The Phoenix Project
By C.A. Gray Narrator by Melissa Williams
4 out of 5 stakes!
Damn and I thought book 2 was awesome but this book 3 tops it.
When some rebels died or were captured because of Kate's broadcast, what do they do now?
Everyone is losing hope and because of the brainwashing still going on. Jackson is such a wonderful character and I felt so bad for him and Kate.
When Voltolini trys to explain his side to Kate about everything, what can she really trust? Because her whole life she was told and shown how life is. But when finally has her has opened and the brainwashing gets broken whom can she trust?
Will kate be able to help Jackson get free? Will she get free and can Jackson trust Kate again?
This whole whole book I was like come on rebels take them down.
I really honestly don't want to give any spoilers on this wonderful book. So please just go buy it.
By C.A. Gray Narrator by Melissa Williams
4 out of 5 stakes!
Damn and I thought book 2 was awesome but this book 3 tops it.
When some rebels died or were captured because of Kate's broadcast, what do they do now?
Everyone is losing hope and because of the brainwashing still going on. Jackson is such a wonderful character and I felt so bad for him and Kate.
When Voltolini trys to explain his side to Kate about everything, what can she really trust? Because her whole life she was told and shown how life is. But when finally has her has opened and the brainwashing gets broken whom can she trust?
Will kate be able to help Jackson get free? Will she get free and can Jackson trust Kate again?
This whole whole book I was like come on rebels take them down.
I really honestly don't want to give any spoilers on this wonderful book. So please just go buy it.
October 12, 2018
Sad it’s over
What a great book! I’ve been reading this series for the last two days and am sad to see it end. The author is so good at sucking you into the story, I just couldn’t put the books down! I’ve read a lot of dystopian books but these ones were different. The pace of each book is really good and doesn’t go too fast or too slow like I think a lot of books do. In fact, as I was nearing the end of the second book, I was thinking to myself, “This is where a lot of authors would just end the story.” I knew that wasn’t going to happen here because there was a third book after it! I’m always disappointed when I get into a book and it ends abruptly...that happens with a lot of books I read but not this one! I’m glad I finally found an author who knows not only how to tell a story but how to wrap it up! Well done C.A. Gray!
What a great book! I’ve been reading this series for the last two days and am sad to see it end. The author is so good at sucking you into the story, I just couldn’t put the books down! I’ve read a lot of dystopian books but these ones were different. The pace of each book is really good and doesn’t go too fast or too slow like I think a lot of books do. In fact, as I was nearing the end of the second book, I was thinking to myself, “This is where a lot of authors would just end the story.” I knew that wasn’t going to happen here because there was a third book after it! I’m always disappointed when I get into a book and it ends abruptly...that happens with a lot of books I read but not this one! I’m glad I finally found an author who knows not only how to tell a story but how to wrap it up! Well done C.A. Gray!
December 17, 2024
The Phoenix Project by C.A. Gray is the final book in The Liberty Box trilogy, bringing the dystopian saga to an action-packed conclusion. As Kate, Jackson, and the resistance continue their fight against the oppressive government, they must confront not only the external dangers but also their own limits, pushing for freedom in a society controlled by manipulation and fear.
I found this to be a satisfying conclusion to the series, tying up loose ends with well-paced tension and emotional stakes. It is light YA fiction, which makes it a very relaxing, yet page-turning read. The blend of action, character growth, and thought-provoking themes around freedom and control kept me engaged throughout. The series concluded with an enjoyable and fitting finale.
I found this to be a satisfying conclusion to the series, tying up loose ends with well-paced tension and emotional stakes. It is light YA fiction, which makes it a very relaxing, yet page-turning read. The blend of action, character growth, and thought-provoking themes around freedom and control kept me engaged throughout. The series concluded with an enjoyable and fitting finale.
December 27, 2018
Last book of the Liberty Box trilogy. These three books need to be read in order and you will want to read them all. They don't work as stand alone books. Characters are fleshed out, story is well written. There is no swearing or sexual content, there is violence. I really liked this set. Got the first one free and had to buy the next two. I give The Phoenix Project five stars and can recommend for teens and up.
June 29, 2024
Very Enjoyable Series
I agree with the reviewer who was sad it was over. The plot kept me invested, so that I didn't want to stop reading. It was exciting, frightening, tragic, and romantic. I felt sympathetic to the characters, and involved in the story. Everything was resolved beautifully.
I agree with the reviewer who was sad it was over. The plot kept me invested, so that I didn't want to stop reading. It was exciting, frightening, tragic, and romantic. I felt sympathetic to the characters, and involved in the story. Everything was resolved beautifully.
May 26, 2020
Captivating series
Highly recommend this series if you are a fan of dystopian literature. The characters engaged me thoroughly. Watching Kate struggle and develop as a person was enjoyable and well written.
Highly recommend this series if you are a fan of dystopian literature. The characters engaged me thoroughly. Watching Kate struggle and develop as a person was enjoyable and well written.
November 24, 2018
A fun series to read if you like dystopia type stories.
May 27, 2020
Sad
I'm sorry to come to the end of the trilogy as I thoroughly enjoyed each episode. While it was predictable that Kate and Jackson would end together, it was a pleasant journey.
I'm sorry to come to the end of the trilogy as I thoroughly enjoyed each episode. While it was predictable that Kate and Jackson would end together, it was a pleasant journey.
July 10, 2020
Absolutely riveting series!
Great characters and awesome storyline. You will be hard pressed to put it done, and the author managed to do this without F bombs and sex. AMAZING
Great characters and awesome storyline. You will be hard pressed to put it done, and the author managed to do this without F bombs and sex. AMAZING
March 19, 2017
My favourite book in the trilogy! Huge thanks to the author for providing me with an ARC.
You can read my full review here: http://wp.me/p6zG2x-3fI
You can read my full review here: http://wp.me/p6zG2x-3fI
June 21, 2017
This was one of the most satisfying endings to an excellent series. Well written - well paced, surprising but not disappointing, well plotted, and with all the right folks surviving at then end... it was perfect.
There were all the right twists and turns, the right balance of characters and action. It was notneedlessly dragged out just to get the page count up - or worse, to stretch a fourth (or more) book into what was a well planned trilogy. It was great reading on the elliptical machine on the gym - I couldn't put it down and that meant extra workout time.
I have struggled a little with the YA-dystopian sub-genre lately. They seem to be well written in the beginning, or at least interesting enough to hold my attention, and then 'wham' something happens that makes me regret having read the entire series. That was not the case here. I was so happy with the way the story ended, the fate of each of the characters felt right, and it didn't feel contorted or as if the author didn't know how to end things so the characters ended up being ridiculous (**cough, cough** Divergent **cough, cough**).
The other thing that this series, and especially this book, illustrated is the power of suggestion, the power of brain washing, the power of only hearing one side of a story, the power of the mind. It is so very hard to re-train the brain, even when what was learned in the first place was not real. It takes great strength of will and character to be open to other perspectives, even when the other perspective is the reality. This book never looses sight of the broader plot, never stretches things so that the next steps taken by each character doesn't feel logical (even if at times it was frustrating to watch the characters make the choices they were making), and most of all, met the expectations set by the first 2 wonderful installments of this series. It was awesome and wonderful, and I would read it again.
In my book this author is on a roll - 2 wonderfully delightful series - with not a single let down in 6 books! And, it is not often that is the case. Thanks for the read C.A. Gray! Keep up the excellent work!
p.s. I received a free copy in advance in exchange for an honest review.
There were all the right twists and turns, the right balance of characters and action. It was notneedlessly dragged out just to get the page count up - or worse, to stretch a fourth (or more) book into what was a well planned trilogy. It was great reading on the elliptical machine on the gym - I couldn't put it down and that meant extra workout time.
I have struggled a little with the YA-dystopian sub-genre lately. They seem to be well written in the beginning, or at least interesting enough to hold my attention, and then 'wham' something happens that makes me regret having read the entire series. That was not the case here. I was so happy with the way the story ended, the fate of each of the characters felt right, and it didn't feel contorted or as if the author didn't know how to end things so the characters ended up being ridiculous (**cough, cough** Divergent **cough, cough**).
The other thing that this series, and especially this book, illustrated is the power of suggestion, the power of brain washing, the power of only hearing one side of a story, the power of the mind. It is so very hard to re-train the brain, even when what was learned in the first place was not real. It takes great strength of will and character to be open to other perspectives, even when the other perspective is the reality. This book never looses sight of the broader plot, never stretches things so that the next steps taken by each character doesn't feel logical (even if at times it was frustrating to watch the characters make the choices they were making), and most of all, met the expectations set by the first 2 wonderful installments of this series. It was awesome and wonderful, and I would read it again.
In my book this author is on a roll - 2 wonderfully delightful series - with not a single let down in 6 books! And, it is not often that is the case. Thanks for the read C.A. Gray! Keep up the excellent work!
p.s. I received a free copy in advance in exchange for an honest review.
July 29, 2018
This is probably my favorite cover of any of the books I've written, and not only because it's a study in contrasts. The poetic idea of the phoenix rising from the ashes seemed to capture the essence of what my rebels faced at the conclusion of The Liberty Box trilogy. Jackson is in prison, slated for execution; Kate is brainwashed all over again. They keep losing more and more of their ragtag band of rebels, when there weren't that many of them to begin with. Allies become enemies. Just when you think the odds are as bad as they can possibly get... they get worse.
But my favorite stories are always like that. Narratives are all about contrast--the more impossible their situation, the more spectacular the redemption.
(Hint: I like happy endings.) :)
But my favorite stories are always like that. Narratives are all about contrast--the more impossible their situation, the more spectacular the redemption.
(Hint: I like happy endings.) :)
April 23, 2019
To see my full review click here: https://likelystory.blog/2019/04/23/r...
This is the last book in The Liberty Box series. It took me about a year to find the time to wrap up the whole series but I am glad that I did. Gray did a good job of tying up all the loose ends and giving us an ending worthy of the series. This book (and the whole series) is full of action, adventure, psychology, romance, and overall a very interesting read. I highly recommend it!
This is the last book in The Liberty Box series. It took me about a year to find the time to wrap up the whole series but I am glad that I did. Gray did a good job of tying up all the loose ends and giving us an ending worthy of the series. This book (and the whole series) is full of action, adventure, psychology, romance, and overall a very interesting read. I highly recommend it!
March 27, 2017
Review is up! This was a solid end to the series. http://the-bookish-life.com/review-ph...
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