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The Caged #2
Growing Wings
When her fate rests on an impossible choice, is she brave enough to make one?
As if lousy parents, a plethora of social inhibitions, and a complicated love triangle weren’t enough problems, Lexus Wren just discovered she’s a powerful Catalyst — capable of commanding Conduits to do her bidding. Pretty heady stuff for a 15-year-old who can’t control her own urge to bite her nails.
When another Catalyst invites Lexus and her twin would-be boyfriends to leave behind their new family and enroll in a school for “gifted” students — or risk permanent separation, Lexus is forced to make a choice, and she’s never been very good at that, either.
Suddenly surrounded by others of her kind, Lexus quickly learns that her abilities are greater than she ever imagined, and the twins are not the only people who crave her touch. When she’s caught in the middle of a battle for power, can the boys set aside the competition between them in time to protect her from herself?
If you like paranormal romance stories with supernatural magic, a love triangle hotter than Twilight, and John Green style teenage angst, you'll be captivated by Growing Wings!
FREE BOOK OFFER - details inside
Scroll up and grab your copy now!
For fans of:
Teenage Paranormal Romance Series
Teen Science Fiction and Fantasy
Teen Contemporary Romance
Teen Mystery and Suspense
Magical Realism
Coming of Age
Dating Relationships
Reverse Harem
Love Triangle
As if lousy parents, a plethora of social inhibitions, and a complicated love triangle weren’t enough problems, Lexus Wren just discovered she’s a powerful Catalyst — capable of commanding Conduits to do her bidding. Pretty heady stuff for a 15-year-old who can’t control her own urge to bite her nails.
When another Catalyst invites Lexus and her twin would-be boyfriends to leave behind their new family and enroll in a school for “gifted” students — or risk permanent separation, Lexus is forced to make a choice, and she’s never been very good at that, either.
Suddenly surrounded by others of her kind, Lexus quickly learns that her abilities are greater than she ever imagined, and the twins are not the only people who crave her touch. When she’s caught in the middle of a battle for power, can the boys set aside the competition between them in time to protect her from herself?
If you like paranormal romance stories with supernatural magic, a love triangle hotter than Twilight, and John Green style teenage angst, you'll be captivated by Growing Wings!
FREE BOOK OFFER - details inside
Scroll up and grab your copy now!
For fans of:
Teenage Paranormal Romance Series
Teen Science Fiction and Fantasy
Teen Contemporary Romance
Teen Mystery and Suspense
Magical Realism
Coming of Age
Dating Relationships
Reverse Harem
Love Triangle
221 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 6, 2017
264 people are currently reading
224 people want to read
About the author
Kellie McAllen
32 books320 followersKellie McAllen is a USA Today Bestselling author who has her nose in a book whenever she can. When she's not reading or writing, she's usually hanging out at the beach, guest judging on DWTS (from her living room), or watching cute cat videos. She lives in North Carolina.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews
September 20, 2017
Growing Wings: The Caged Series, Book 2
Written by: Kellie McAllen
Narrated by: Heather Taylor
This is an audible book I requested and the review is voluntary.
I read/listened to book one and this book is so much better! This has fantasy right away and continues to the end. It has more suspense, intrigue, and you learn more about both the kids families. This is a great book and an easy 5 star book. This is a fun book too. The only thing I didn't like about it is the main girl of the story is a wimp. It takes the whole book before she gets a back bone! But she is making progress! Yeah!!! Maybe in more books we will see more progress. It has been a steady progression....
I enjoyed this book and the narration was the same as last time and continued as before.
Written by: Kellie McAllen
Narrated by: Heather Taylor
This is an audible book I requested and the review is voluntary.
I read/listened to book one and this book is so much better! This has fantasy right away and continues to the end. It has more suspense, intrigue, and you learn more about both the kids families. This is a great book and an easy 5 star book. This is a fun book too. The only thing I didn't like about it is the main girl of the story is a wimp. It takes the whole book before she gets a back bone! But she is making progress! Yeah!!! Maybe in more books we will see more progress. It has been a steady progression....
I enjoyed this book and the narration was the same as last time and continued as before.
July 11, 2017
Lexus really really annoyed me in this book. I know its a growing processing but I'm not sure if I see any actual growth in her. She displayed some in the first book but its like she took a step back in this one.
In the first book she was independent and could do things for herself. In this book she couldn't make a decision without someone else's input, she didn't stand up for herself, and she just did what everyone else told her to do.
In the first book she was independent and could do things for herself. In this book she couldn't make a decision without someone else's input, she didn't stand up for herself, and she just did what everyone else told her to do.
July 9, 2017
I really liked the first book of the Caged series. That was a great introduction into this world, with an interesting story and the writing was pretty easy. But the second book left me slightly disappointed.
Lexus and the boys are given the opportunity to attend a special school for their kind - Conduits and Catalysis. But now that there are a lot of 'special' kids around, Lex, Griffin and Phoenix all start to worry about the fate of their relationship. There was a lot of jealousy, drama, misunderstandings and really immature decisions.
While I liked the fact that readers are given more information about the magic and this supernatural society, and the plot itself could have been made into a good follow up for the story, the execution felt lacking. There was too much of the ridiculous high school drama and I especially did not like the fact the Lexus continued to drive a wedge between the brothers. While in the first book it wasn't Lexus's fault, the boys just decided to be competitive and behave like dicks, here it was like she did it on purpose. And then she just went and made it even worse. I wanted to bang my head agains the wall because of the way she acted.
I don't know. I guess the fact that the characters decided to act immature and made a lot of stupid decisions made me like this book less than I expected to.
I hope that the third book will be better, with less ridiculous drama and with more plot development. Otherwise, I don't see the point in continuing on with the series.
Lexus and the boys are given the opportunity to attend a special school for their kind - Conduits and Catalysis. But now that there are a lot of 'special' kids around, Lex, Griffin and Phoenix all start to worry about the fate of their relationship. There was a lot of jealousy, drama, misunderstandings and really immature decisions.
While I liked the fact that readers are given more information about the magic and this supernatural society, and the plot itself could have been made into a good follow up for the story, the execution felt lacking. There was too much of the ridiculous high school drama and I especially did not like the fact the Lexus continued to drive a wedge between the brothers. While in the first book it wasn't Lexus's fault, the boys just decided to be competitive and behave like dicks, here it was like she did it on purpose. And then she just went and made it even worse. I wanted to bang my head agains the wall because of the way she acted.
I don't know. I guess the fact that the characters decided to act immature and made a lot of stupid decisions made me like this book less than I expected to.
I hope that the third book will be better, with less ridiculous drama and with more plot development. Otherwise, I don't see the point in continuing on with the series.
July 22, 2017
Surprisingly good series for a YA. I'll be following along
August 11, 2017
Great story!
What an inventive idea for a novel! I have never read anything like this and I loved it! I was hooked from page one!
What an inventive idea for a novel! I have never read anything like this and I loved it! I was hooked from page one!
August 29, 2017
3.5 stars
August 27, 2017
Shades of Annie
A little of both Annies, actually. The orphan without family and the competitive shooter. Lexus is, in some ways, flourishing. Regular meals, lack of pawing perverts, no more bar rescues of mom and the fact that she has a power of her own to develop and rely on helps her spread her wings. But in many ways she's is still the fragile bird trying to stay under radar. Her evolving and fracturing relationship with the twins leaves her open to manipulation, though, by a very strong catalyst. Jaxsom is king of the hill at the new school and enjoys his seat on the throne. The power he senses from Lexus is new. Even untrained she's stronger than the other catalysts at the school and power ranking is the new social structure. The twins have started receiving notice, too. Combined with Lexus they demonstrate abilities that both intrigue the staff and cause concern.
The personal interactions are developing, too. Lexus is too emotionally fragile to make the decisions she is. The guys, both Griffon and Phoenix, as well as Jaxsom, are pushing things. Two out of love, one in a quest for power. But it isn't till Griffon and Phoenix see how Lexus is shutting down that they decide they need to quit working against each other and start working together if they want any kind of relationship with her.
A little of both Annies, actually. The orphan without family and the competitive shooter. Lexus is, in some ways, flourishing. Regular meals, lack of pawing perverts, no more bar rescues of mom and the fact that she has a power of her own to develop and rely on helps her spread her wings. But in many ways she's is still the fragile bird trying to stay under radar. Her evolving and fracturing relationship with the twins leaves her open to manipulation, though, by a very strong catalyst. Jaxsom is king of the hill at the new school and enjoys his seat on the throne. The power he senses from Lexus is new. Even untrained she's stronger than the other catalysts at the school and power ranking is the new social structure. The twins have started receiving notice, too. Combined with Lexus they demonstrate abilities that both intrigue the staff and cause concern.
The personal interactions are developing, too. Lexus is too emotionally fragile to make the decisions she is. The guys, both Griffon and Phoenix, as well as Jaxsom, are pushing things. Two out of love, one in a quest for power. But it isn't till Griffon and Phoenix see how Lexus is shutting down that they decide they need to quit working against each other and start working together if they want any kind of relationship with her.
August 3, 2017
Really enjoyable read!
This book picked up right where the first book left off. I really enjoyed getting to know each guy a little more and finding more out about their powers. I will definitely be reading the next book.
This book picked up right where the first book left off. I really enjoyed getting to know each guy a little more and finding more out about their powers. I will definitely be reading the next book.
July 20, 2017
I'm not sure on this series, it's a good book but I'm not sure of the characters intentions like Jackson/Jason I forgot his name and Anders
January 17, 2018
This review is literally going to be a random blurt of thoughts, no organization or thought, kind of like the story itself. I'm reading this book in a set but trying to review each separately. At the moment I am on #3 but I just have to come back and vent about how mad I still am at book two.
The first book felt very childish and added with all the grammar errors, it was a struggle to get through. Every chapter had me a hairsbreadth away from moving on.
I think my biggest problem with this book besides the middle school writing is the heroine, Lexus. OMFG this girl is so damn annoying. She's also a complete contradiction to the girl we met in the beginning of the series and as far as I know only a month or maybe two has passed. Between the almost constant crying (like ever other page literally) and the vomiting I'm reaching limits here. And then to have someone ask her after vomiting, "are you feeling OK?" I was borderline crazed. I won't even mention how the boys are like whipped little puppies, constantly reassuring her and asking her what's wrong. It's not cute, it's not romantic, it's stifling as hell just reading it.
Lexus asks the most dumbest of questions and acts so immature I felt dirty when this completely immature young girl of 15 had sex, sex that was basically revenge sex because she thought one of the boys' moved on. Another moment that's just glossed over and treated like an after thought.
She's always asking for time alone, which she never uses to actually think about the issues she is facing. She can never figure out what she wants, like EVER. She constantly puts her head down, chews her nails or hair and just hides her eyes. Does this sound like a confident worldly girl whose risen above the challenges life has thrown at her. ABSOLUTELY NOT!!
I was hoping this book would have matured itself and moved away from it's highschool lust feeling to actual love but I'm still not feeling it.
Excuse all the ranting but after making it this far I should get a medal. Literally the first page of this 2nd book had me pissed. In the final chapter of book 1 we get a POV from a complete stranger who apparently knows all about Lexus, her powers and even the twins. We get told a bit about who he is and then when book 2 starts, he'd already approached them, told them 'who they are' and invited them to a school for people like them. It took me a good ten minutes to realize that no, I was not missing any chapters, the author just literally skipped a good chunk of plot and threw all this information at us.
Another point I have issue with is the constant telling of information rather than using words to show readers an experience etc. There is so much information being thrown at us constantly it's very distracting and just not very good storytelling. And now wouldn't you know in book #3 there's a random chapter from Jaxson's POV, wth is going on here. Lord give me strength to finish this and maybe by the time I'm done I can figure out what the hell I just read and what the point was. I'm not going to assume the characters will become any more likeable but it'd be nice to not feel like I wasted my time.
Rant over. Wish me luck! ---- Also just learned this series is not the authors' first work and I am literally stunned and kind of saddened, how is this real life?. Am I being punk'd?
The first book felt very childish and added with all the grammar errors, it was a struggle to get through. Every chapter had me a hairsbreadth away from moving on.
I think my biggest problem with this book besides the middle school writing is the heroine, Lexus. OMFG this girl is so damn annoying. She's also a complete contradiction to the girl we met in the beginning of the series and as far as I know only a month or maybe two has passed. Between the almost constant crying (like ever other page literally) and the vomiting I'm reaching limits here. And then to have someone ask her after vomiting, "are you feeling OK?" I was borderline crazed. I won't even mention how the boys are like whipped little puppies, constantly reassuring her and asking her what's wrong. It's not cute, it's not romantic, it's stifling as hell just reading it.
Lexus asks the most dumbest of questions and acts so immature I felt dirty when this completely immature young girl of 15 had sex, sex that was basically revenge sex because she thought one of the boys' moved on. Another moment that's just glossed over and treated like an after thought.
She's always asking for time alone, which she never uses to actually think about the issues she is facing. She can never figure out what she wants, like EVER. She constantly puts her head down, chews her nails or hair and just hides her eyes. Does this sound like a confident worldly girl whose risen above the challenges life has thrown at her. ABSOLUTELY NOT!!
I was hoping this book would have matured itself and moved away from it's highschool lust feeling to actual love but I'm still not feeling it.
Excuse all the ranting but after making it this far I should get a medal. Literally the first page of this 2nd book had me pissed. In the final chapter of book 1 we get a POV from a complete stranger who apparently knows all about Lexus, her powers and even the twins. We get told a bit about who he is and then when book 2 starts, he'd already approached them, told them 'who they are' and invited them to a school for people like them. It took me a good ten minutes to realize that no, I was not missing any chapters, the author just literally skipped a good chunk of plot and threw all this information at us.
Another point I have issue with is the constant telling of information rather than using words to show readers an experience etc. There is so much information being thrown at us constantly it's very distracting and just not very good storytelling. And now wouldn't you know in book #3 there's a random chapter from Jaxson's POV, wth is going on here. Lord give me strength to finish this and maybe by the time I'm done I can figure out what the hell I just read and what the point was. I'm not going to assume the characters will become any more likeable but it'd be nice to not feel like I wasted my time.
Rant over. Wish me luck! ---- Also just learned this series is not the authors' first work and I am literally stunned and kind of saddened, how is this real life?. Am I being punk'd?
June 3, 2019
The Caged series written by Kellie McAllen is a slow burn YA paranormal RH, although ménage is probably a better description for the first couple of books. There’s 4 in the series and I purchased the complete set on audible.
So first off I listened to about 10mins and couldn’t handle the narrator. Her voice really set me off and I was cringing when she was doing Griff and Phoenix’s POVs. I think I may have enjoyed it a lot better had I read the books rather than listening.
The characters are well developed. Our FMC Lexus comes from a disadvantaged upbringing. Her father is in prison for manslaughter and her mother is the town drunk hussy. From an early age Lexus has had to look after herself and fight her own battles given she is the schools outcast she is bullied relentlessly. That is until twins Griffin and Phoenix move to town and instantly are interested in learning more about her. Sparks fly when they’re around each other, literally, and when they find out that they are Special they find themselves embroiled in a world they never new existed.
Through the books Lexus struggles with her identity and her desire to keep both boys, it becomes worse when she develops feelings for Jackson. Whilst she is shy she has a massive sense of justice and in the last book we see her overcome some of these struggles when she takes her enemy face on.
The twins are in foster care they have been trying to find out what happened to their parents for the last 10 years but when they meet Lexus it’s the first time they have care more about someone else. But this is also the first time they have never wanted to share so for the most part Griff and Phoenix have this underlying competitiveness to impress Lexus so she will choose one over the other, they bicker and argue for most of the first book and the pressure to choose carries into the second. When they realise that their rivalry is hurting Lexus they must change and try to share. Many times I had a face palm moment because of these two (especially Phoenix). Phoenix in particular is impulsive and a bit abrasive, Griffin is calculating and this time round didn’t want to give up the one thing he wants most.
The story itself is good there are many twists and turns that kept me interested and there are so many slimy characters that you can help but hope our heroine and heroes destroy but obviously you’ll need to read to find out. Just know that by the end of the series there is a HEA.
So first off I listened to about 10mins and couldn’t handle the narrator. Her voice really set me off and I was cringing when she was doing Griff and Phoenix’s POVs. I think I may have enjoyed it a lot better had I read the books rather than listening.
The characters are well developed. Our FMC Lexus comes from a disadvantaged upbringing. Her father is in prison for manslaughter and her mother is the town drunk hussy. From an early age Lexus has had to look after herself and fight her own battles given she is the schools outcast she is bullied relentlessly. That is until twins Griffin and Phoenix move to town and instantly are interested in learning more about her. Sparks fly when they’re around each other, literally, and when they find out that they are Special they find themselves embroiled in a world they never new existed.
Through the books Lexus struggles with her identity and her desire to keep both boys, it becomes worse when she develops feelings for Jackson. Whilst she is shy she has a massive sense of justice and in the last book we see her overcome some of these struggles when she takes her enemy face on.
The twins are in foster care they have been trying to find out what happened to their parents for the last 10 years but when they meet Lexus it’s the first time they have care more about someone else. But this is also the first time they have never wanted to share so for the most part Griff and Phoenix have this underlying competitiveness to impress Lexus so she will choose one over the other, they bicker and argue for most of the first book and the pressure to choose carries into the second. When they realise that their rivalry is hurting Lexus they must change and try to share. Many times I had a face palm moment because of these two (especially Phoenix). Phoenix in particular is impulsive and a bit abrasive, Griffin is calculating and this time round didn’t want to give up the one thing he wants most.
The story itself is good there are many twists and turns that kept me interested and there are so many slimy characters that you can help but hope our heroine and heroes destroy but obviously you’ll need to read to find out. Just know that by the end of the series there is a HEA.
September 17, 2017
I rushed right into this book after finishing Flightless Bird. I'm happy I did. Lexus, Griffin, and Phoenix are wonderful characters and it's fun to watch them mature and develop themselves, and really learn what it means to be s powerful Catalyst and Conduits (which are pretty neat and original paranormal powers, by the way). The gang had now left Lexus's crappy home, and her poor excuse of a mom with creepy boyfriend, to go to the Magna Virtus Academy. It's an elite school full of kids with paranormal abilities like theirs. Yes, teen angst will pursue, even above what's already there due to the whole live triangle things. Ouch. It's all wonderfully done, however, which makes this book thoroughly enjoyable.
I highly recommend this book, with three caveats. First, for maximum enjoyment you really should read book 1 before this one. Second is that Kellie McAllen clearly likes to add a teaser chapter at the end of her books. I was alert for this after book 1 and stopped just before that last chapter. My stopping point was a perfectly excellent "Happily Enough For Now" rather than a HEA, but that is all you can expect in a true series. Finally, be warned: this series is addictive stuff. Even avoiding that teaser chapter at the end I'm still pining for the next book. I'm gonna just hate waiting.
I highly recommend this book, with three caveats. First, for maximum enjoyment you really should read book 1 before this one. Second is that Kellie McAllen clearly likes to add a teaser chapter at the end of her books. I was alert for this after book 1 and stopped just before that last chapter. My stopping point was a perfectly excellent "Happily Enough For Now" rather than a HEA, but that is all you can expect in a true series. Finally, be warned: this series is addictive stuff. Even avoiding that teaser chapter at the end I'm still pining for the next book. I'm gonna just hate waiting.
January 27, 2021
***SPOILERS***
Lexus is a Catalyst and the boys are Conduits. The Catalyst gives the suggestion and the Conduits take the action. Anders Grant, the Social Worker (and Academy head), convinces the trio to enroll in Magna Virtus Academy. There he encourages them to test their skills with different partners. They learn that Lexus is the most powerful Catalyst there. Jaxson, the most powerful Conduit, manipulates Lexus into brainwashing Grant to allow Jaxson to escape. Jaxson leaves and forces Lexus to go with him. Grant, Phoenix, and Griffin attempt to rescue her but are no match for Jaxson when he has her. Lexus relies on her own powers to control Jaxson and knock him out. Anders sees her use this power and immediately becomes obsessed with getting the same power. He's a Catalyst himself and he wants to be able to control Conduits without having to have a "willing" partner.
This is definitely YA. Lexus sleeps with Griffin in this book but the author doesn't touch any details with a ten foot pole. Both guys agree to share Lexus and she's thrilled. It's a shame there's no grown up details because the action in this book and the mystery is awesome. It's just missing a pretty big piece for "Reverse Harem" or "Paranormal Romance." It's the same old telling and not showing.
Lexus is a Catalyst and the boys are Conduits. The Catalyst gives the suggestion and the Conduits take the action. Anders Grant, the Social Worker (and Academy head), convinces the trio to enroll in Magna Virtus Academy. There he encourages them to test their skills with different partners. They learn that Lexus is the most powerful Catalyst there. Jaxson, the most powerful Conduit, manipulates Lexus into brainwashing Grant to allow Jaxson to escape. Jaxson leaves and forces Lexus to go with him. Grant, Phoenix, and Griffin attempt to rescue her but are no match for Jaxson when he has her. Lexus relies on her own powers to control Jaxson and knock him out. Anders sees her use this power and immediately becomes obsessed with getting the same power. He's a Catalyst himself and he wants to be able to control Conduits without having to have a "willing" partner.
This is definitely YA. Lexus sleeps with Griffin in this book but the author doesn't touch any details with a ten foot pole. Both guys agree to share Lexus and she's thrilled. It's a shame there's no grown up details because the action in this book and the mystery is awesome. It's just missing a pretty big piece for "Reverse Harem" or "Paranormal Romance." It's the same old telling and not showing.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 6, 2017
Ms. McAllen has done a good job of creating a paranormal world for YA readers that is addicting. Growing Wings kicks off right after the event in Flighless Bird. Lexus is given the chance to learn all about what her and the twins are. Which are Conduits and Catalysts. They are offered to go to Magna Virtus Academy, a school for those gifted. What Lexus is expecting is what things were like in her old school, to be the outcast with the drunk mother, looks, sneers and just being bullied. What she discovers is an unexpected outcome, an outcome where the more powerful you are the more popular you are. Together with her conduits, Twins Griffen and Phoenix, they learn to control their powers. With Lexus fighting her attraction to the twins, because she can't choose between the two, tension mounts between them. We are also introduced to Jaxson the shining star of the Academy, who adds alittle angst. Overall Growing Wings is a good clean YA series that I would recommend for later teenagers, for the main character has two love interest at the time, I believe there will be more. I am older, and I enjoy a good YA read with great characters and a well written plot. However to understand this book better, I do recommend reading book one Flighless Bird first.
July 4, 2017
Growing Wings is the second book from The Caged Series by Kellie McAllen. I was fortunate enough to be able to get onto this straight after reading book one!
Lexus discovers that she's a powerful Catalyst while both Griffin and Phoenix are Conduits. What do these mean? They are now off to a boarding school for the "gifted" to find out and work on their special gifts.
This school is where they meet fellow students who are all either Catalysts or Conduits. They get to train on their special powers while still carrying on learning their mundane subjects they thought they've left behind in High School.
Things got very interesting here, this is a place where you are measured by how much power you have. The more powerful you are, the more popular you are. Lexus inevitably found herself in the spotlight more times than she wanted. In the meantime, both Phoenix and Griffin continue to be attracted to Lexus and she cannot decide between them either.
Something got out of hand at the end of the book and I believe the next book will focus on that. I cannot wait!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
Lexus discovers that she's a powerful Catalyst while both Griffin and Phoenix are Conduits. What do these mean? They are now off to a boarding school for the "gifted" to find out and work on their special gifts.
This school is where they meet fellow students who are all either Catalysts or Conduits. They get to train on their special powers while still carrying on learning their mundane subjects they thought they've left behind in High School.
Things got very interesting here, this is a place where you are measured by how much power you have. The more powerful you are, the more popular you are. Lexus inevitably found herself in the spotlight more times than she wanted. In the meantime, both Phoenix and Griffin continue to be attracted to Lexus and she cannot decide between them either.
Something got out of hand at the end of the book and I believe the next book will focus on that. I cannot wait!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
July 12, 2017
Interesting Plot with Intriguing Characters
Another great YA paranormal romance book by Kellie! Lexus and the twins, Phoenix & Griffin, agree to attend Magna Virtus Academy for gifted children with interesting paranormal powers. Kellie does a great job with her character development as the three friends learn what their powers are called, awkwardly begin to learn how to use them, and try to keep their relationship on a platonic level so Lexus doesn’t have to choose between the twins! The other characters at MVA are also very interesting and add depth to the book!
In all honesty, I did not read Flightless Bird, the first book in The Caged Series, before reading this book. I would highly recommend reading them in order as I felt like I did not have as much history about the three friends as I would have liked. Silly me, I know! :) However, even reading Growing Wings before reading Flightless Bird, I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The characters were interesting and the plot was engaging. There is no cliffhanger, but Kellie definitely leads you right into the next book of the series with a teaser chapter!
Another great YA paranormal romance book by Kellie! Lexus and the twins, Phoenix & Griffin, agree to attend Magna Virtus Academy for gifted children with interesting paranormal powers. Kellie does a great job with her character development as the three friends learn what their powers are called, awkwardly begin to learn how to use them, and try to keep their relationship on a platonic level so Lexus doesn’t have to choose between the twins! The other characters at MVA are also very interesting and add depth to the book!
In all honesty, I did not read Flightless Bird, the first book in The Caged Series, before reading this book. I would highly recommend reading them in order as I felt like I did not have as much history about the three friends as I would have liked. Silly me, I know! :) However, even reading Growing Wings before reading Flightless Bird, I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The characters were interesting and the plot was engaging. There is no cliffhanger, but Kellie definitely leads you right into the next book of the series with a teaser chapter!
June 25, 2017
Growing wings by Kellie McAllen continues the story of Lexus, Phoenix, and Griffin begun in Flightless Bird. It is well written and the characters are well developed. The storyline is interesting, and there are some surprising twists.
As the story begins, the three main characters are debating whether or not to go to a special school for conduits, which the boys are, and catalysts like Lexus. In order to develop their skills, they decide to give the school a try. However, as they work with other students, they discover the electricity they experience together isn't unique to them. As they spend time with others, feelings get hurt and Lexus still feels that she has to choose between the twins. There is a lot of angst, and as other conduits discover her power, Lexus isn't sure what to do.
I enjoyed reading this books. I like all of the books by this author. Unlike the Celestia Divisa series, though, you need to read this series in order. I would recommend it for mid to older teens. There is no explicit sex or language, but there are some references.
As the story begins, the three main characters are debating whether or not to go to a special school for conduits, which the boys are, and catalysts like Lexus. In order to develop their skills, they decide to give the school a try. However, as they work with other students, they discover the electricity they experience together isn't unique to them. As they spend time with others, feelings get hurt and Lexus still feels that she has to choose between the twins. There is a lot of angst, and as other conduits discover her power, Lexus isn't sure what to do.
I enjoyed reading this books. I like all of the books by this author. Unlike the Celestia Divisa series, though, you need to read this series in order. I would recommend it for mid to older teens. There is no explicit sex or language, but there are some references.
November 7, 2017
The story of Lexus, Griffin & Phoenix continues in this second book of the series. When a Guardian ad Litem names Anders learns of the connection between the three, he suggests that they attend a special school for "Specials". The trio finally decides to give the school a try & the adventure begins.
Since none of the three knows anything about being special, they have to learn on their feet. All the while, Lexus continues to try to decide what to do about her growing love for the twins. There is plenty of teen angst in this book, but the story is also intriguing.
I have to say, though, that Lexus was very aggravating in this book. Her inability to decide between the twins and her constant whining about it became very annoying. The whole girl can't decide between two boys troupe is getting a little old, IMHO.
The narrator does a good job of conveying the book to the listeners. I look forward to reading the next book in the series to see which twin Lexus finally chooses (if either!)
I was provided a copy of this book by the author and chose to review it.
Since none of the three knows anything about being special, they have to learn on their feet. All the while, Lexus continues to try to decide what to do about her growing love for the twins. There is plenty of teen angst in this book, but the story is also intriguing.
I have to say, though, that Lexus was very aggravating in this book. Her inability to decide between the twins and her constant whining about it became very annoying. The whole girl can't decide between two boys troupe is getting a little old, IMHO.
The narrator does a good job of conveying the book to the listeners. I look forward to reading the next book in the series to see which twin Lexus finally chooses (if either!)
I was provided a copy of this book by the author and chose to review it.
July 4, 2017
Growing Wings continues the story of Lexus, Griffin, and Phoenix as they learn more about their powers and meet other Catalysts and Conduits. The characters are well-developed and the story kept me turning pages. I was surprised by the dark turn of events. I knew something was wrong and someone was lying but it was still a surprise.
I'm sick of Lexus acting like the world revolves around her. IMO, she is stringing the boys along. She's selfish. She won't choose but she gets upset if one of the boys is friendly with a girl. She needs to make a decision. I don't care for menages—especially involving teens.
I can empathize with Jaxson. With what he discovered, I probably would have lost it, too. I am anxious to find out all the secrets in the next book, Taking Flight.
Head on over to AZ and get the first 2 books, Flightless Bird and Growing Wings, so you'll be ready when Taking Flight comes out.
I'm sick of Lexus acting like the world revolves around her. IMO, she is stringing the boys along. She's selfish. She won't choose but she gets upset if one of the boys is friendly with a girl. She needs to make a decision. I don't care for menages—especially involving teens.
I can empathize with Jaxson. With what he discovered, I probably would have lost it, too. I am anxious to find out all the secrets in the next book, Taking Flight.
Head on over to AZ and get the first 2 books, Flightless Bird and Growing Wings, so you'll be ready when Taking Flight comes out.
July 9, 2017
This series is shaping up to be a great addition to Kellie McAllen's growing collection of really good teen romance stories. Lexus continues to struggle with all that being a Catalyst brings, inclusion social popularity which in itself is a struggle for such a shy and awkward young teenage girl, let alone a girl who 'attracts' people to her. Griffin and Phoenix continue to fight over Lexus and the triangle between them makes it very hard to decide which brother you should be rooting for!
This series certainly needs to be read in order for maximum pleasure and the ending of this one leaves us slightly more satisfied than the ending of book one but, that in no way means I am any the less eager to see how the final book, Taking Flight takes shape and concluded the story of Lexus, Griffin and Phoenix.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reading Copy of this book
This series certainly needs to be read in order for maximum pleasure and the ending of this one leaves us slightly more satisfied than the ending of book one but, that in no way means I am any the less eager to see how the final book, Taking Flight takes shape and concluded the story of Lexus, Griffin and Phoenix.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reading Copy of this book
June 27, 2017
This is a great continuation from book 1 Flightless Bird. The story seamlessly flows from the end of book 1, into book 2. It continues with the development of innocence, into a world that expands around the main characters and one that is not all fluffy and light. They get to experience jealousy, betrayal, greed, trust, love, deceit, acceptance and disbelief amongst other emotions bought forth from a new school of supernatural talents and the students within. Some new characters are introduced into the story and compliment it really well. Unfortunately the indecisive thoughts cause more pain for the twins and Lexus. Once again it was a page turning, thought provoking book and I look forward to waiting for
Book.3. Would definitely recommend to fantasy/ supernatural readers
Book.3. Would definitely recommend to fantasy/ supernatural readers
July 28, 2017
Okay...
I only had a couple of issues with this book. The first issue most likely went unnoticed by all other readers. However, it needs to be pointed out so that the author is aware that she may have a diverse audience. So, Keo, I assume, is an African American guy at the school. There was a part about him in the book with very RACIST undertones. His kinky hair and sagging pants are mentioned, as well as being treated as a doormat/slave for others to practice their powers on. I also noticed that the black boy doesn't have any powers, so why is he even in the book? The second issue is Lexus was acting like an indecisive little twit in this book! Just saying... I do like the twins though.
I only had a couple of issues with this book. The first issue most likely went unnoticed by all other readers. However, it needs to be pointed out so that the author is aware that she may have a diverse audience. So, Keo, I assume, is an African American guy at the school. There was a part about him in the book with very RACIST undertones. His kinky hair and sagging pants are mentioned, as well as being treated as a doormat/slave for others to practice their powers on. I also noticed that the black boy doesn't have any powers, so why is he even in the book? The second issue is Lexus was acting like an indecisive little twit in this book! Just saying... I do like the twins though.
July 7, 2017
This follow up to Flightless Bird is amazing! The storyline kept me hooked from the very beginning to the very end and Lexus's complicated relationship with Pheonix and Griffin kept me in a perpetual swoon. I've fallen hard for these characters and can't wait till the third book comes out (which I immediately pre-ordered).
The whole concept of Catalysts and Conduits is fresh and intriguing. I loved reading about the powers they have, what they can do, and how Lexus is somehow superior to them all when she's felt completely inferior for most of her life.
All in all, this is a fun, swoon-worthy, quick read I'd highly recommend to lovers of YA paranormal romance.
The whole concept of Catalysts and Conduits is fresh and intriguing. I loved reading about the powers they have, what they can do, and how Lexus is somehow superior to them all when she's felt completely inferior for most of her life.
All in all, this is a fun, swoon-worthy, quick read I'd highly recommend to lovers of YA paranormal romance.
July 26, 2017
One more interesting story in The Caged series. The reading is fast and the storyline kept my attention from the beginning.
The whole approach to the Catalysts and Conduits concept is very interesting, especially when more characters appear in the story to reveal the different powers they possess.
Lexus remains uncertain about the decisions she must make, as well as her feelings about the twins, Griffin and Phoenix. And when a new character, Jaxson, takes an interest in her and her powers, things get really interesting.
The end of the story surprised me and I'm anxious to reading the next book, I hope all the secrets will be revealed.
This is a great story!
The whole approach to the Catalysts and Conduits concept is very interesting, especially when more characters appear in the story to reveal the different powers they possess.
Lexus remains uncertain about the decisions she must make, as well as her feelings about the twins, Griffin and Phoenix. And when a new character, Jaxson, takes an interest in her and her powers, things get really interesting.
The end of the story surprised me and I'm anxious to reading the next book, I hope all the secrets will be revealed.
This is a great story!
September 24, 2017
I enjoyed this continuations of Flightless Bird. There was a lot of drama, a love triangle, strong emotions and difficult decisions to make. Lexus was learning about her power, and discovered that she was a Catalyst who was able to control Conduits to do her bidding.
Some of her dilemmas were connected to her learning about her true nature, some to her being a teenager. She was not able to make her choice between two boys, but I believe she would put emotional turmoil behind her as she matures. I'm looking forward to seeing her do that.
Highly recommended for lovers of YA Paranormal stories.
Some of her dilemmas were connected to her learning about her true nature, some to her being a teenager. She was not able to make her choice between two boys, but I believe she would put emotional turmoil behind her as she matures. I'm looking forward to seeing her do that.
Highly recommended for lovers of YA Paranormal stories.
August 2, 2017
XYA Gryffindor type school
School for exceptional children that are conductors and catalyst. Lyxis is very talented and she is living with twin boys that are in love with her but are just as talented. The three are in foster care but are talked into going to a school to develop this talent. Going to a new boarding school can be difficult but will Griffin and Phoenix be able to protect Lyxis and work out their love life. Well developed plot and characterization. YA readers who like Harry Potter will love this series.
School for exceptional children that are conductors and catalyst. Lyxis is very talented and she is living with twin boys that are in love with her but are just as talented. The three are in foster care but are talked into going to a school to develop this talent. Going to a new boarding school can be difficult but will Griffin and Phoenix be able to protect Lyxis and work out their love life. Well developed plot and characterization. YA readers who like Harry Potter will love this series.
August 24, 2017
You definitely want to read Book 1 Flightless Bird to get the full story. I like the Catalysts and Conduits idea - its new and something I have not seen done before. That being said I am totally over the love triangle and Lexus is a weak and whiney lead. I do not think some of the sexual parts were necessary in this book. This could be a really great series with more focus on their special abilities and powers and less on the love triangle. I am hoping Lexus will get some confidence and a backbone in book 3.
September 12, 2017
I really enjoyed reading this book. It has romance, suspense, supernatural powers, and lots of other stuff. Lexus is an insecure girl who does not know the power and things that she is capable of doing. She has two great friends, who happen to be twins and she loves them both.
This is the second book of this series and I cannot wait to read the next book. This is a great clean read that can be enjoyed on the beach or by the pool or anywhere else. I highly recommend this book and this author.
This is the second book of this series and I cannot wait to read the next book. This is a great clean read that can be enjoyed on the beach or by the pool or anywhere else. I highly recommend this book and this author.
October 21, 2017
My second read/listen from author Kellie McAllen the follow-up to Flightless Bird (The Caged Series, #1) WOW! I love it! So much that Taking Flight (The Caged #3) will be my next read. High school sucks, the age the stuff that some kids have to go through. This book touches on all that and more. No spoilers here this is a must read, buy the book, get into the book/series as I have. You too will enjoy it!
I have to say the book was better than the narration, there was an audible "tinny" sound throughout the book no matter what device I listened to it on.
I have to say the book was better than the narration, there was an audible "tinny" sound throughout the book no matter what device I listened to it on.
January 1, 2018
Lexus
Poor Lexus. In this book I have seen how she is trying to be a better person. She just wants to be accepted by people but has no clue how to be that person. The Easton boys have helped her with her self esteem but jealousy has an ugly head. It can make you say and do things you normally wouldn't do. The new school Lexus and the boys are at is good for them as they learn more about themselves. But uncertainty makes Lexus being taken advantage of by another student.
All in all, I enjoyed the book.
Poor Lexus. In this book I have seen how she is trying to be a better person. She just wants to be accepted by people but has no clue how to be that person. The Easton boys have helped her with her self esteem but jealousy has an ugly head. It can make you say and do things you normally wouldn't do. The new school Lexus and the boys are at is good for them as they learn more about themselves. But uncertainty makes Lexus being taken advantage of by another student.
All in all, I enjoyed the book.
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