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The Emiliana Chronicles #1
Emergence
To survive, she must emerge.
To win, she must ascend.
Just try and stop her.
Born from an ancient race of gifted aliens, the whole universe is depending on Emily
to rise up to the challenge and become the Chosen One that she is destined to be.
There’s one hitch...she has no idea who she is or where she comes from.
Being hunted by her kind’s mortal enemy, her home planet is savagely attacked.
Can she survive?
Join Emily on her path of discovery, war and destruction as her true strengths emerge
and she joins forces with an unlikely team, supported by Cedrick, the most advanced
Artificial Intelligence unit known in the galaxy.
This is the first in a multi-book series, showing how Emily’s life began, taking you
up to present day. I hope you enjoy the adventure and stick around to find out what the
universe has in store for Emily and her team in book 2 and onwards!
Please Note:
This series contains copious amounts of creative cussing,
if this offends you, then this book may not be for you.
394 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 2, 2019
149 people are currently reading
75 people want to read
About the author
Jacki Rawlinson
9 books28 followersJacki Rawlinson is the author of action-packed, gritty, humorous science fiction. She lives in Hampshire, England with her husband, two sons, their attack cat, Turbo and mental hound Charli. Born in South Africa, she enjoyed her childhood being near the mountains, exploring, getting dirty and experiencing different cultures. She does her best writing 38,000 feet up in the air, in coffee shops and hotel lobbies.
Rawlinson loves transporting readers to new worlds where heroes have flaws, women can be strong and there are galaxies to be explored. She believes the consumption of chocolate and coffee should be a religion.
If not out adventuring, find Rawlinson in the usual spots:
Website: www.jrbooks.co.uk - sign up for my newsletter and get an exclusive free novella!
Twitter: @jackirawlinson
Facebook: @authorjackirawlinson
Instagram: @authorjackirawlinson
Email: info@jrbooks.co.uk
Rawlinson loves transporting readers to new worlds where heroes have flaws, women can be strong and there are galaxies to be explored. She believes the consumption of chocolate and coffee should be a religion.
If not out adventuring, find Rawlinson in the usual spots:
Website: www.jrbooks.co.uk - sign up for my newsletter and get an exclusive free novella!
Twitter: @jackirawlinson
Facebook: @authorjackirawlinson
Instagram: @authorjackirawlinson
Email: info@jrbooks.co.uk
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
February 19, 2021
Despite being called the first in a series, this book felt more like a prequel. It was setting up a much larger plot and storyline that the author says will take place over the course of the future to-be-published series. The main character, Emily, was not as big of a focus as I expected with the series being named after her, but with how expansive the universe the author created is, I can understand why it needed a whole book to really set up the larger series ARC. Without giving away any spoilers, Emily has quite an incredible history and personal story. The world building in this book is deep and detailed. I got bogged down in the writing and dialogue sometimes but the overall concept kept me reading to see what happens. There were times in the middle that it felt really slow, especially when the storylines were focused on the backstory and other characters in the series and I kept wanting to skip ahead to get back to Emily’s story, but the back story and other character’s stories are important in the overall picture of this growing universe the author is creating. The concept is interesting and not one I have seen much of lately. It’s fun to see authors, especially female authors, really exploring the creation of alien species and alien works a la Star Trek. It felt a lot like Star Trek at times so if Star Wars is more your speed this may not be the book for you. After the beginning, it feels like there is a lot of in depth world building and a little less focus on non-stop explosive action. There is a lot of technical explanations, science and alien life which will make Star Trek fans happy. The second story in the series is forthcoming and despite it not being my normal style of science fiction to read I do think I will read the second one to see where Emily’s story takes her and see what all this buildup in this book brings forth in the next. If you enjoy science fiction with lots of alien worlds, alien species and alien powers/abilities then this is the perfect book for you!
December 28, 2018
Exciting book from a new author. I loved the storyline and the interplay between the characters. It’s a well balanced book with humour, violence, technology and some gritty language. I loved every word and highly recommend this book to any Sci Fi fan. I can’t wait to read the next book.
C’mon Jacki get thos fingers working and bring us the next book please.
C’mon Jacki get thos fingers working and bring us the next book please.
June 22, 2019
Big ideas, but lacking in focus
"Emergence" is an imaginative take on the space opera genre, spanning many decades and planets.
Pros:
I quite enjoyed the framework of the story, and the larger cogs spinning in the Universe of "Emergence." The interplanetary politics were quite fascinating, and I loved the subplot of the Kara'kuan scientists experimenting on people.
I also really liked the worldbuilding, and all the thought that went into Emily's homeworld, the alien species, the super AI, and all the cool bits of tech that firmly cement this story in the sci-fi genre.
Additionally, there are quite a few short scenes between minor characters that are very humanising, and show a depth of storytelling that I wish were more present throughout the story.
Cons:
I enjoyed every other storyline more than Emily's, which is a little troubling, as she is a main character. The opening was great, and really hooked me, but we didn't get to see the return of that Emily until the very end - the rest of the time the story tells us that she is cool, but never really shows it, and doesn't ever put her in real danger, any obstacles she comes across resolving themselves almost instantly, which takes the tension out of the narrative. On a related note, the characters Xi and Serthal have really interesting story arcs that fizzle out and go nowhere as soon as they join Emily's plot line, which is a bit disappointing.
There's also a pacing issue with the novel. Again, the other plots have well written rises and falls, but Emily's story hits what I would consider to be the climax of her story about 60% through "Emergence" and then doesn't get any bigger in scope, making the last bit of the novel drag on.
Overall, I enjoyed the sci-fi aspects of "Emergence" quite a lot, and the prose told the story in a clear, understandable manner despite the incredibly large cast and range of settings, but in the end, the narrative itself was lacking in clear goals for the main character, muddying what could be an otherwise captivating start to an epic saga.
2.5 stars
"Emergence" is an imaginative take on the space opera genre, spanning many decades and planets.
Pros:
I quite enjoyed the framework of the story, and the larger cogs spinning in the Universe of "Emergence." The interplanetary politics were quite fascinating, and I loved the subplot of the Kara'kuan scientists experimenting on people.
I also really liked the worldbuilding, and all the thought that went into Emily's homeworld, the alien species, the super AI, and all the cool bits of tech that firmly cement this story in the sci-fi genre.
Additionally, there are quite a few short scenes between minor characters that are very humanising, and show a depth of storytelling that I wish were more present throughout the story.
Cons:
I enjoyed every other storyline more than Emily's, which is a little troubling, as she is a main character. The opening was great, and really hooked me, but we didn't get to see the return of that Emily until the very end - the rest of the time the story tells us that she is cool, but never really shows it, and doesn't ever put her in real danger, any obstacles she comes across resolving themselves almost instantly, which takes the tension out of the narrative. On a related note, the characters Xi and Serthal have really interesting story arcs that fizzle out and go nowhere as soon as they join Emily's plot line, which is a bit disappointing.
There's also a pacing issue with the novel. Again, the other plots have well written rises and falls, but Emily's story hits what I would consider to be the climax of her story about 60% through "Emergence" and then doesn't get any bigger in scope, making the last bit of the novel drag on.
Overall, I enjoyed the sci-fi aspects of "Emergence" quite a lot, and the prose told the story in a clear, understandable manner despite the incredibly large cast and range of settings, but in the end, the narrative itself was lacking in clear goals for the main character, muddying what could be an otherwise captivating start to an epic saga.
2.5 stars
January 22, 2019
Emergence is an action-packed, space-opera, scifi adventure, where we follow our protagonist Emily as her true identity and destiny is revealed to her at age 21. She is in fact Emiliana, daughter of two powerful beings from far away, and heir to a legend.
This book is packed with everything a scifi lover loves: cool other-worldly tech, mysterious alien races, exciting planets, and lots of fighting. It’s an adventure from start to finish, and it goes from sweet to dark to funny and back again, all the time. Rawlinson’s style is unique, and she won’t let you rest for even a minute, constantly keeping you on your toes. I would blurt out in laughter at one moment, and then it would turn horrific the next. I loved it.
I’d like to say that this book is kind of a Coming of Age+Batman+The Scooby Gang. That’s a weird comparison, but as Emiliana realizes who she is and starts taking on the world, she gains a lot of new friends at the same time, along with a lot of responsibility. It was exciting and fun reading about her growing up, building relationships, and dealing with the new-found dangers her life suddenly posed.
Occasionally there’s a bit much showing instead of telling, particularly in the beginning perhaps, but it’s not something that isn’t in line with the genre and the setup of an immense scifi world. The books a perfect length as well, which I’m always happy to report. Any longer would have been too long.
Rawlinson has made a tremendous effort on her debut novel, and it’s a gripping and adventurous start to The Emiliana Chronicles. If you’re a fan of scifi, looking for a different but fun story about a girl who takes on the world, all the while learning to fight crime with her group of friends, I suggest you check this one out.
This book is packed with everything a scifi lover loves: cool other-worldly tech, mysterious alien races, exciting planets, and lots of fighting. It’s an adventure from start to finish, and it goes from sweet to dark to funny and back again, all the time. Rawlinson’s style is unique, and she won’t let you rest for even a minute, constantly keeping you on your toes. I would blurt out in laughter at one moment, and then it would turn horrific the next. I loved it.
I’d like to say that this book is kind of a Coming of Age+Batman+The Scooby Gang. That’s a weird comparison, but as Emiliana realizes who she is and starts taking on the world, she gains a lot of new friends at the same time, along with a lot of responsibility. It was exciting and fun reading about her growing up, building relationships, and dealing with the new-found dangers her life suddenly posed.
Occasionally there’s a bit much showing instead of telling, particularly in the beginning perhaps, but it’s not something that isn’t in line with the genre and the setup of an immense scifi world. The books a perfect length as well, which I’m always happy to report. Any longer would have been too long.
Rawlinson has made a tremendous effort on her debut novel, and it’s a gripping and adventurous start to The Emiliana Chronicles. If you’re a fan of scifi, looking for a different but fun story about a girl who takes on the world, all the while learning to fight crime with her group of friends, I suggest you check this one out.
October 13, 2019
Emergence is an action packed sci-fi space opera full of adventure with interesting and complex characters/species. The author is descriptive in her dialogue, and she is vivid in her descriptions of the different planets and characters throughout. I really enjoyed reading about the main character, Emily’s, supernatural gifts and abilities. I found this character relatable, and I felt like I was cheering her on throughout the story. The story vacillates between different planets and timeframes which keeps the reader interested in the storyline from beginning to the end. This book will keep you guessing as the forces of good and evil go back and forth in an epic battle between the planets. I really enjoyed the different point of views in which the story is told. I felt like I had an insider’s view of the characters thoughts and motives and how they relate to each other. This book is a great read, and if you’re looking for a super cool sci-fi adventure book, this book is for you!
March 15, 2019
Enjoyable space opera
This is an enjoyable space opera and has the beginnings of a really enjoyable series. While I actually liked all of the characters a little more focus on the main character would’ve been helpful.
My favorite character was probably shay. I did like Gunny, but wasn’t able to get to know her that well so far.
Emily the main character was pretty good, and while she has to go up against many evils. I think we needed a little more insight into her character and her fears, hopes etc....but that can be in the next book.
I will be buying the next book in the series....
This is an enjoyable space opera and has the beginnings of a really enjoyable series. While I actually liked all of the characters a little more focus on the main character would’ve been helpful.
My favorite character was probably shay. I did like Gunny, but wasn’t able to get to know her that well so far.
Emily the main character was pretty good, and while she has to go up against many evils. I think we needed a little more insight into her character and her fears, hopes etc....but that can be in the next book.
I will be buying the next book in the series....
April 13, 2025
While the series is called The Emiliana Chronicles, there was a lot of focus on other characters, so much so that I floated through the story without caring at all about the fate of the main character. I'm not sure there was an external editor either, because typos and plot development insinuate beta readers only. A shame because there are some good elements in there. The "creative cussing" felt unnecessary and forced though, and I'm saying it as a person, who curses daily. I don't think there will be more for me from this series unfortunately.
September 8, 2019
Great world building and plot
Jackie has built an amazing new world with interesting species to habitat it. The plot itself is amazingly thought out and interesting, it's Harry Potter meets Guardians of the Galaxy with some of Jacki's personal seasoning.
The book was a bit dialog heavy in places I wanted the plot to speak to itself, but all in all I have to say I am waiting for the next chapter in Emiliana's journey.
Jackie has built an amazing new world with interesting species to habitat it. The plot itself is amazingly thought out and interesting, it's Harry Potter meets Guardians of the Galaxy with some of Jacki's personal seasoning.
The book was a bit dialog heavy in places I wanted the plot to speak to itself, but all in all I have to say I am waiting for the next chapter in Emiliana's journey.
January 10, 2020
I don't normally read sci-fi but enjoyed this book. The tale was told clearly, taking the reader along several storylines and timelines. Characters were well described and the world building was very detailed. My only issue was structural, with some sentences that ran on with commas instead of being separated by periods. Overall a creative, interesting read.
March 4, 2020
A great mix of sci-fi and fantasy. There's a lot going on in this novel, but the main focus is Emiliana, a girl from another world, sent away by her parents so she can fulfil her destiny. Rawlinson cleverly manages to juggle many different characters in alternate chapters whilst not losing focus on the main protagonist. I found myself wanting to read this one quite fast, in order to get back to the characters I came to know so well. Emiliana's team gradually grows as she learns more and more about her past and her newfound abilities, but exactly what is her destiny, and will she manage to get there without succumbing to the darker side of her nature? There's some great action set pieces and I love the sparky dialogue between Emiliana's ragtag team of Guardians. Can't wait for the sequel.
November 26, 2024
Interesting characters
A girl with special powers that she doesn’t know about - similar to many plot lines. Nevertheless, the characters are interesting. There’s a lot of exploration of ethics and morals, although in somewhat simplistic ways. I’ll give the second book a chance and see where the story goes and how the characters evolve
A girl with special powers that she doesn’t know about - similar to many plot lines. Nevertheless, the characters are interesting. There’s a lot of exploration of ethics and morals, although in somewhat simplistic ways. I’ll give the second book a chance and see where the story goes and how the characters evolve
December 19, 2024
Gathering
Through many events and situations the main characters come to light. This first of the series shows the development of a team to go after wrongdoers. It is easy and exciting reading, looking forward to reading the next in this series.
Through many events and situations the main characters come to light. This first of the series shows the development of a team to go after wrongdoers. It is easy and exciting reading, looking forward to reading the next in this series.
June 7, 2023
Magic and mayhem
Good story, great characters. Really creepy aliens, interesting aliens and a variety of planets are involved in the story. Well worth reading.
Good story, great characters. Really creepy aliens, interesting aliens and a variety of planets are involved in the story. Well worth reading.
September 9, 2023
Loved it
Fab story, just love the character and the interplay between them all. Looking forward to reading the next in the series
Fab story, just love the character and the interplay between them all. Looking forward to reading the next in the series
May 26, 2024
Emergence: Book 1
What an entertaining story. Again, a story that keeps me wanting to read more.
Fun and intriguing.
Thank you Ms. Rawlinson.
What an entertaining story. Again, a story that keeps me wanting to read more.
Fun and intriguing.
Thank you Ms. Rawlinson.
June 7, 2024
I stopped at 70%. I lost interest in the story.
October 4, 2024
A good start to a new series.
A great read with action and adventure galore.
Great characters with realistic situations and lots of action.
I look forward to the next one.
A great read with action and adventure galore.
Great characters with realistic situations and lots of action.
I look forward to the next one.
January 8, 2025
Great characters, brilliant dialogue; a real page turner. Looking forward to reading the next 3 books in the series! An up and coming author for sure.
March 19, 2020
Very interesting read
This is my first time reading this particular genre, but I will definitely be looking for more from this author. Lots of action, and the way the author describes the characters and other worlds is remarkable!
This is my first time reading this particular genre, but I will definitely be looking for more from this author. Lots of action, and the way the author describes the characters and other worlds is remarkable!
October 16, 2019
Emergence is the first sci-fi book I have ever read. I didn't know what to expect but I was pleasantly surprised by this book.
Emiliana (Emily), is the daughter of two powerful beings from far away, and heir to a legend. She is our protagonist who leads us on this adventurous journey. When she finds out who she is and the responsibilities due to her, she accepts her fate. It was wonderful reading about her past, how she built new relationships, and how she coped with the dangers her life.
The were many elements to this story, aliens, different planets and lots of technology. But also great emotion. Some humorous moments had me chuckling and there there would be these awfully heartbreaking scenes. There was a never a dull moment.
So, overall, it was a great book but does end on a cliffhanger.
Emiliana (Emily), is the daughter of two powerful beings from far away, and heir to a legend. She is our protagonist who leads us on this adventurous journey. When she finds out who she is and the responsibilities due to her, she accepts her fate. It was wonderful reading about her past, how she built new relationships, and how she coped with the dangers her life.
The were many elements to this story, aliens, different planets and lots of technology. But also great emotion. Some humorous moments had me chuckling and there there would be these awfully heartbreaking scenes. There was a never a dull moment.
So, overall, it was a great book but does end on a cliffhanger.
June 4, 2019
I'm unsure what to think of this book. On one hand, the author has a fascinating story to tell. On the other - the amateur writing (exclamation points everywhere!) and the poor formatting (huge gaps between paragraphs) make it an impossible read. I can't tell if it's a lack of knowledge or attempt to scam the KU system. I hope the former. Anyway, DNF at 38%. I hope she republishes after much-needed editing, because this is the kind of story we need more of.
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews