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Untamed Elements #1
Reborn in Fire
It sucks to die screaming in fire. Trust me. The last thing I expected was to wake up amid flames that no longer burn or be rescued by a sexy stranger right before my would-be murderers return.
Sexy - AKA Jake - forces my skeptical butt to admit what I’d rather deny. Death has unleashed my Elemental power to manipulate fire magic. Now I’ve got to master my Phoenix powers before I’m killed again.
Jake’s touch ignites me like flames no longer can, and he claims the same wildness that killed my mother will drive him insane if I don’t bind myself to him for life. Can I trust that Jake’s feelings won’t flash and fade? If I don’t, he’s going to lose his mind—and we both could lose our unnatural lives.
Sexy - AKA Jake - forces my skeptical butt to admit what I’d rather deny. Death has unleashed my Elemental power to manipulate fire magic. Now I’ve got to master my Phoenix powers before I’m killed again.
Jake’s touch ignites me like flames no longer can, and he claims the same wildness that killed my mother will drive him insane if I don’t bind myself to him for life. Can I trust that Jake’s feelings won’t flash and fade? If I don’t, he’s going to lose his mind—and we both could lose our unnatural lives.
304 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 16, 2014
86 people are currently reading
233 people want to read
About the author
Kasey MacKenzie
20 books168 followersKasey Mackenzie lives with her husband and son in St. Louis, Missouri; home of the Gateway Arch, the baseball Cardinals, and the world’s greatest thin-crust pizza. Kasey was one of those students who always had her nose in a book—so no big surprise when she was voted “Teacher’s Pet” in her high school yearbook. Today, she is a voracious reader of fantasy, romance, suspense, and “soft” science fiction. She adores her German shepherd puppy, two cats, playing softball, and has recently taken up knitting. So far she can cast on, do the knit stitch, and cast off. Hey, it’s a start!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
April 8, 2019
I have read this author before, but when I did it was years ago. I dived into this one as I was pretty sure I liked the ones I’d read before. Besides, the book takes place in STL, and I’m from the STL metro area. At first, I do admit I wasn’t sure I was going to like this book. However, once everything was set up, the pace picked up, the action got going, and I was glued to every page. Cass and Jake make a great couple, and I loved Si Si, Rhianne, and Breanna as side characters. I loved this book by the last page, and I really can’t wait to see what comes next. Stick with this one, because it really is worth it! I highly recommend this book! I was provided the e-book which I voluntarily reviewed.
July 30, 2019
I had to DNF this book about 20% through and that's WITH a lot of skimming. The premise sounded interesting but the delivery is all off. I felt like I was reading a story the way my high school self would write it. The hero is supposed to be in his 30s but I picture a high school senior trying to talk and act tough. I guess I can ignore the heroine sounding naive too, I mean considering she just learned magic is real. But I want to laugh when she tries to be tough. Not buying it at all! I've only gotten a glimpse of the villains so far and they're bland. Don't seem like really bad guys if you ask me, at least not the way I would expect in an adult book. But maybe I got confused and this is YA with emancipated teenagers and a cradle-robbing 30-year-old hero...Either way it's not for me.
July 27, 2021
I’ve recently decided to read one free ebook I have lying around on my kindle per month. This was my choice for July 2021. I never got past chapter 8 before calling it DNF.
The premise of the novel intrigued me as I love urban fantasy, romance and paranormal. However I just didn’t like this novel. Nothing felt exhilarating, exciting or stimulating. Even major battles where the characters were in danger due to death, graveous harm or kidnapping did nothing for me. I never cared if the characters got hurt and I never truly believed they were ever in danger, I knew they’d be fine.
The characters were bland with the MC being the worst. I didn’t like how she was written as she felt far too immature and awkward for a woman in her early thirties. Her awkwardness with romance and men seemed more like the way a 15 year old would act. The beginning of the novel also features the MC being victim to a horrible assault, yet she was never traumatized by it. I’d expect her to be scared and fearful but nope, instead she’s cheerful and bubbly.
I was hoping for more of a murder mystery with the plot, instead it was the MC trying to find out about her past. This could have been exciting but the MC has to be strong enough the carry the plot and she wasn’t.
Overall this was a disappointing novel.
The premise of the novel intrigued me as I love urban fantasy, romance and paranormal. However I just didn’t like this novel. Nothing felt exhilarating, exciting or stimulating. Even major battles where the characters were in danger due to death, graveous harm or kidnapping did nothing for me. I never cared if the characters got hurt and I never truly believed they were ever in danger, I knew they’d be fine.
The characters were bland with the MC being the worst. I didn’t like how she was written as she felt far too immature and awkward for a woman in her early thirties. Her awkwardness with romance and men seemed more like the way a 15 year old would act. The beginning of the novel also features the MC being victim to a horrible assault, yet she was never traumatized by it. I’d expect her to be scared and fearful but nope, instead she’s cheerful and bubbly.
I was hoping for more of a murder mystery with the plot, instead it was the MC trying to find out about her past. This could have been exciting but the MC has to be strong enough the carry the plot and she wasn’t.
Overall this was a disappointing novel.
June 30, 2019
One of the authors I follow recommended "Reborn in Fire", so I decided to give it a try. Wow, am I glad I did!
This book starts off flaming hot, literally. Cassidy Grant, aka Cass is rescued after being murdered and "dying" in the fire. Her savior, Jacob Zi, aka Jake, says he is a Dragon, and informs Cass that she is a Phoenix. That's how she survived the murder attempt. They fight off two more attackers attempting to murder them both. Apparently some organization wants Elementals like Phoenixes and Dragons eliminated. Cass meets Jake's sister, Rhianne, a Selkie (Water Elemental); and his mother, who takes an instant dislike to her. There is an immediate attraction between Cass and Jake that only increases with time. Between romantic moments are hair-raising escapes from the would-be murderers, who don't mind killing innocent people close to Cass. The burgeoning romance culminates in an intense sexual experience, vividly described.
This was a very intense, fast-paced book. It was difficult to put down, except to take a deep breath after the intense violence or intense sex, which alternated throughout the book. I've definitely become a fan of Kasey Mackenzie.
This book starts off flaming hot, literally. Cassidy Grant, aka Cass is rescued after being murdered and "dying" in the fire. Her savior, Jacob Zi, aka Jake, says he is a Dragon, and informs Cass that she is a Phoenix. That's how she survived the murder attempt. They fight off two more attackers attempting to murder them both. Apparently some organization wants Elementals like Phoenixes and Dragons eliminated. Cass meets Jake's sister, Rhianne, a Selkie (Water Elemental); and his mother, who takes an instant dislike to her. There is an immediate attraction between Cass and Jake that only increases with time. Between romantic moments are hair-raising escapes from the would-be murderers, who don't mind killing innocent people close to Cass. The burgeoning romance culminates in an intense sexual experience, vividly described.
This was a very intense, fast-paced book. It was difficult to put down, except to take a deep breath after the intense violence or intense sex, which alternated throughout the book. I've definitely become a fan of Kasey Mackenzie.
June 24, 2023
(FYI I tend to only review one book per series, unless I completely change my mind on a series, so want to change my scoring down a lot. -- I tend not to read reviews until after I read a book, so I go in with an open mind.)
Didn't particularly like the MC and I did not like the love interest.
First time read the author's work?: Yes
Will you be reading more?: No
Would you recommend?: No
------------
How I rate Stars: 5* = I loved (must read all I can find by the author)
4* = I really enjoyed (got to read all the series and try other books by the author).
3* = I enjoyed (I will continue to read the series)
or
3* = Good book just not my thing (I realised I don't like the genre or picked up a kids book to review in error.)
All of the above scores means I would recommend them!
-
2* = it was okay (I might give the next book in the series a try, to see if that was better IMHO.)
1* = Disliked
Note: adding these basic 'reviews' after finding out that some people see the stars differently than I do - hoping this clarifies how I feel about the book. :-)
Didn't particularly like the MC and I did not like the love interest.
First time read the author's work?: Yes
Will you be reading more?: No
Would you recommend?: No
------------
How I rate Stars: 5* = I loved (must read all I can find by the author)
4* = I really enjoyed (got to read all the series and try other books by the author).
3* = I enjoyed (I will continue to read the series)
or
3* = Good book just not my thing (I realised I don't like the genre or picked up a kids book to review in error.)
All of the above scores means I would recommend them!
-
2* = it was okay (I might give the next book in the series a try, to see if that was better IMHO.)
1* = Disliked
Note: adding these basic 'reviews' after finding out that some people see the stars differently than I do - hoping this clarifies how I feel about the book. :-)
September 29, 2019
DNF- had potential, but the main character starts the book off in very traumatic circumstances and seems to brush it off very quickly, which killed the characterization for me. I couldn’t buy her, so then I couldn’t buy the rest of it either
May 9, 2019
Kasey MacKenzie is a new-to-me author and this book was a fun surprise. I really enjoyed it! It was interesting and action filled from the get-go and definitely a page-turner. I devoured it in one sitting and was eagerly ready to dive into the next one.
I enjoy books with mythological aspects and this one absolutely fit the bill with its metaphorical dragons, phoenix, gryphons, selkies, magic, elementals, and more. There are plenty of twists and turns and an air of urgency and danger that follow the characters throughout the read.
Coming from an unhappy childhood and going from foster home to foster home after a tragic incident at the one that was supposed to become her true home, Cassidy Grant has been trying to find her place in the world. She has an unknown past, few friends, and works as a paranormal investigator with her ex as a partner debunking stuff that goes bump in the night. She knows none of the stuff she is hired to investigate is true but she loves her job and has worked hard to get where she is. So what happens when myth and legend merge with her reality? One fateful night the world as she has known it comes crashing down and through death and rebirth she is awakened to an entirely new world full of magic, danger, deadly enemies, and new allies. In order to survive, she has to get up to speed fast and unravel the mysteries of her past if she ever hopes to have a future.
If you enjoy quick wit, funny banter, engaging characters, and an intriguing storyline, you will definitely like this story.
I enjoy books with mythological aspects and this one absolutely fit the bill with its metaphorical dragons, phoenix, gryphons, selkies, magic, elementals, and more. There are plenty of twists and turns and an air of urgency and danger that follow the characters throughout the read.
Coming from an unhappy childhood and going from foster home to foster home after a tragic incident at the one that was supposed to become her true home, Cassidy Grant has been trying to find her place in the world. She has an unknown past, few friends, and works as a paranormal investigator with her ex as a partner debunking stuff that goes bump in the night. She knows none of the stuff she is hired to investigate is true but she loves her job and has worked hard to get where she is. So what happens when myth and legend merge with her reality? One fateful night the world as she has known it comes crashing down and through death and rebirth she is awakened to an entirely new world full of magic, danger, deadly enemies, and new allies. In order to survive, she has to get up to speed fast and unravel the mysteries of her past if she ever hopes to have a future.
If you enjoy quick wit, funny banter, engaging characters, and an intriguing storyline, you will definitely like this story.
June 23, 2019
ONE AWESOME ADVENTURE!!!
Wow! A spinning vortex of inadvertent circumstances and inconceivable mishaps propel those coiling emotions bursting into play smoothly. One blazing storyline and gripping plot along with the unnerving drama, perilous events and bone chilling suspense rock this gem to the core. A non-stop, action packed, pulse racing, page flipping dynamo takes this bad boy to a whole new level. Battling through all the trials and tribulations keeping pace with an abundance of twists and turns along with a few incidents propel this baby to life smooth as silk. One non-stop, action packed, pulse racing, page turning dynamo that keeps you riveted on a razors edge. The characters are unique and realistic with traits and on point personalities that blend and flow. The secondary characters add a little spice to the mix hooking this baby together piece by piece flawlessly. The scenes are so vividly descriptive it paints an amazing backdrop its easy to interpret each scenario as they play off one another in perfect balance. Fantastic job Kasey, thanks for sharing this awesome gem with us.
Wow! A spinning vortex of inadvertent circumstances and inconceivable mishaps propel those coiling emotions bursting into play smoothly. One blazing storyline and gripping plot along with the unnerving drama, perilous events and bone chilling suspense rock this gem to the core. A non-stop, action packed, pulse racing, page flipping dynamo takes this bad boy to a whole new level. Battling through all the trials and tribulations keeping pace with an abundance of twists and turns along with a few incidents propel this baby to life smooth as silk. One non-stop, action packed, pulse racing, page turning dynamo that keeps you riveted on a razors edge. The characters are unique and realistic with traits and on point personalities that blend and flow. The secondary characters add a little spice to the mix hooking this baby together piece by piece flawlessly. The scenes are so vividly descriptive it paints an amazing backdrop its easy to interpret each scenario as they play off one another in perfect balance. Fantastic job Kasey, thanks for sharing this awesome gem with us.
May 9, 2019
I received this as an e-book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Kasey Mackenzie is a new author to me, and this will certainly not be the last book I read by her !
Reborn in Fire, Book #1 in the Untamed Elements Series , ticked off all the boxes for me ~ Elementals, Mythology, Dragons, and kick butt heroines.
Throw in multiple plot twists, and some seriously shady characters, and you'll understand quickly why Cassidy Grant has trust issues. No idea where she is from or whom her parents are, she has been shuffled through the foster system.
Now, she is on the run from The Society, dedicated to killing any magical being.
Enter Jacob Zi, mom Breena, and sister Rhianne after a particularly explosive burst into her unknown powers.
I recommend this book highly, and can't wait to see what happens in book two ! Happy Reading ! I'm off to book two ~ Forged From Flame.
Kasey Mackenzie is a new author to me, and this will certainly not be the last book I read by her !
Reborn in Fire, Book #1 in the Untamed Elements Series , ticked off all the boxes for me ~ Elementals, Mythology, Dragons, and kick butt heroines.
Throw in multiple plot twists, and some seriously shady characters, and you'll understand quickly why Cassidy Grant has trust issues. No idea where she is from or whom her parents are, she has been shuffled through the foster system.
Now, she is on the run from The Society, dedicated to killing any magical being.
Enter Jacob Zi, mom Breena, and sister Rhianne after a particularly explosive burst into her unknown powers.
I recommend this book highly, and can't wait to see what happens in book two ! Happy Reading ! I'm off to book two ~ Forged From Flame.
August 17, 2021
This book managed to be both fun, and warm and fuzzy. I don’t know that I was completely following all the politics of the Elementals and Stalkers, but the characters were well-developed and likable (well, the ones you’re supposed to like are likable, and the others are… not). The only real problem I had with the story is that Cass’ best friend Si Si gets seemingly forgotten and abandoned halfway through the book. Presumably this will be resolved in a future book, but I could have used at least a stronger reason for giving up on her even temporarily. Otherwise, I loved how the relationship developed between Cass and Jake (and his family). I also liked how Cass started learning to do unique things with her magic and I look forward to learning more about that. I’m definitely planning to continue reading this series.
June 10, 2019
*** I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving a free copy.***
OMG, this was a great book. Very well written, and maintained my interest. If you love magic, dragons and elementals then this is a must read.
You meet Cassidy who is thrown in a world of magic and has her world turned upside down. She experiences some crazy adventures and meets Jacob who she is attracted to but is so scared of what may happen. She learns about herself and what she is capable of in such a short time, surprised that she didn't succumb to the wildness after her experiences, however she becomes stronger and learns as she goes. This book captures you within the first chapter and does not let go til the end. Definitely excited to see what book two holds.
OMG, this was a great book. Very well written, and maintained my interest. If you love magic, dragons and elementals then this is a must read.
You meet Cassidy who is thrown in a world of magic and has her world turned upside down. She experiences some crazy adventures and meets Jacob who she is attracted to but is so scared of what may happen. She learns about herself and what she is capable of in such a short time, surprised that she didn't succumb to the wildness after her experiences, however she becomes stronger and learns as she goes. This book captures you within the first chapter and does not let go til the end. Definitely excited to see what book two holds.
February 17, 2020
My first book by this author and I am deeply impressed and invested in the story, If you like elemental stories this one will have you reading faster than you can think. The author foes a great job of setting up the premises while moving the story along. Cassie has been raised in the system going from foster home to foster home, until a tragedy happens that catapults her into the realm of the paranormal and gets her in touch with others, like her. The story just picks up steam from there and spins are thrown at you at every corner. This is book one of three and I can not wait to read the others.
November 23, 2024
This book is interesting. Initially I thought it was a little too juvenile (I don't mean YA, just inexperienced - like fan fiction). However, the writing is good, the characters are fun, and the story is unique. The complexity of where the series is going became obvious closer to the end and is compelling enough for me to track down the next book. And to think I almost DNF'ed it.
It's short and worth a read.
It's short and worth a read.
June 23, 2019
This author is new to me and this book was amazing and heartfelt. The story is a must read for all as it talks about how Cassidy Grant tackles life and faces challenges head on. I totally recommend this first book in the “Untamed Elements” series. I am looking forward to the others in the series. Great job Kasey and a very deserving 5 star.
May 12, 2019
I loved this book. It looks you in right from the start. Loved the twists along the way. I was on the edge of my seat waiting to see what happened next. Can't wait to read the next book I the series.
May 28, 2019
Delightful story. Wonderful characters. Interesting world. Explicit scenes. Unexpected turn of events. Overall a great paranormal romance and urban fantasy story. I look forward to future stories in the series.
I received a copy of this book as a gift. This is my honest review.
I received a copy of this book as a gift. This is my honest review.
August 26, 2019
really enjoyed Kasey McKenzie's take on Phoenixes, Dragons, Griffons and Selkies are not the usual supernaturals. I like that/how the elements are represented as well. I love Cass and Jake's story as well! I can not wait to read the next book and see what is next!
March 31, 2020
Good story, but slow
Probably the result of being first in a series and needing to set groundwork for next books, but I felt it focused more on the relationship than the magic. It was a good story, but it started to be hard for me to read at times.
Probably the result of being first in a series and needing to set groundwork for next books, but I felt it focused more on the relationship than the magic. It was a good story, but it started to be hard for me to read at times.
June 28, 2023
Entertaining but not mind blowing. The premise of a sort of four element power bond was interesting. Lots of learn about the world and abilities in upcoming books. I'd continue reading the series if they were cheap or free.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 31, 2019
Kickass Heroine
A compelling adventure with a dragon insanely in love with you. Deadly in every turn-of-a-page. Following your need to know your roots gets so deep down personal!
A compelling adventure with a dragon insanely in love with you. Deadly in every turn-of-a-page. Following your need to know your roots gets so deep down personal!
May 22, 2020
was good.
December 14, 2020
The threads in this story are well done. So many clues given but, with enough twists and turns that the reader is still surprised again.
September 9, 2024
The story is okay, but needs some development. The book needs editing — grammar errors abound.
September 12, 2024
Good read. I was dreading the end. Now that it is here I can not wait to get the next book.
November 16, 2024
This is the 1st book I read by Kasey MacKenzie. I stopped reading this story 📖 at chapter 3 because it was too much for me.
July 31, 2016
**3.5**
Cassidy, a paranormal investigator, and her partner, Keith are attacked and held hostage while investigating a haunted house. Bound and helpless, Cassidy is forced to watch as Keith is set on fire and dies horribly. She flashes back to a similar scene in her childhood that left terrible scars.
Her attackers are disappointed. She should have had the power the to save him, explained their leader--before he kills her in the same fashion. Cass' death isn't the end...the inferno revives instead of consumes. While she adjusts to that startling realization, a man steps into the flames, scoops her up and whisks her out the back door just as rescue vehicles approach the front.
Confused, angry and not sure if she can trust this stranger who miraculously appeared in her life, Cassidy struggles to regain her equilibrium. To survive in this strange new world, she must establish a new identity and unravel the mystery of her own past.
Not a bad start to a new series. I liked to overall concept but sometimes found the execution to be a bit clunky. The last quarter of the book is paced much faster than the first part and dramatic revelations lacked oomph due to weak or hurried set up.
The relationship building between Cassidy and her rescuer, Jake, was also disjointed. I was left wondering how the heck she went from angry distrust to love so quickly.
Bottom line? The plot line is interesting enough to read the second book.
Cassidy, a paranormal investigator, and her partner, Keith are attacked and held hostage while investigating a haunted house. Bound and helpless, Cassidy is forced to watch as Keith is set on fire and dies horribly. She flashes back to a similar scene in her childhood that left terrible scars.
Her attackers are disappointed. She should have had the power the to save him, explained their leader--before he kills her in the same fashion. Cass' death isn't the end...the inferno revives instead of consumes. While she adjusts to that startling realization, a man steps into the flames, scoops her up and whisks her out the back door just as rescue vehicles approach the front.
Confused, angry and not sure if she can trust this stranger who miraculously appeared in her life, Cassidy struggles to regain her equilibrium. To survive in this strange new world, she must establish a new identity and unravel the mystery of her own past.
Not a bad start to a new series. I liked to overall concept but sometimes found the execution to be a bit clunky. The last quarter of the book is paced much faster than the first part and dramatic revelations lacked oomph due to weak or hurried set up.
The relationship building between Cassidy and her rescuer, Jake, was also disjointed. I was left wondering how the heck she went from angry distrust to love so quickly.
Bottom line? The plot line is interesting enough to read the second book.
November 19, 2014
AWESOME
20 stars!!!!! I adore Cassie Palmer, I am adding Cass Grant to that list!! She kicks bohunkus!! This story has it ALL, I couldn't put it down until the last word was read. Will be anticipating the release of more.
20 stars!!!!! I adore Cassie Palmer, I am adding Cass Grant to that list!! She kicks bohunkus!! This story has it ALL, I couldn't put it down until the last word was read. Will be anticipating the release of more.
September 4, 2019
Interesting and fast moving
I usually don't read fantasy, but this was good and moved right along. Clever twists and set up well for a continued series. I enjoyed the references to St. Louis, my hometown as well.
I usually don't read fantasy, but this was good and moved right along. Clever twists and set up well for a continued series. I enjoyed the references to St. Louis, my hometown as well.
May 2, 2020
RISE OF THE PHOENIX IN AN AWESOME WAY!!! I don't even want to imagine what was going through her mind when she was put through all of her new experiences. But the fact that she was able to take something so bizarre and turn it completely around was well worth reading!!!
November 22, 2014
Any paranormal romance fan will love this one! Interesting new take on paranormals, hot men, kick-ass women, a teaser of more awesomeness to come. What's not to like?
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews