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Guardians of the Fae Realms #1
Rise of the Phoenix
This is an alternate cover edition for ASIN B087NTC8JJ
Monsters, Magic, and Mates I never knew existed.
Kia versus power pole isn't the end I expect—it's the beginning of... gawd, where do I begin?
Four wildly sexy males. Powers I don't understand. And the eyes of the fae world on me as the person to unite the severed realms. No pressure.
*This is book one in a steamy new reverse harem paranormal romance series. Expect sexy polyamorous situations (mmmfm), rollicking action, ongoing storylines, and shifter lovers who find what they need from not only their queen but each other as well. Med-burn, low angst, vivid sexual content and language.*
Monsters, Magic, and Mates I never knew existed.
Kia versus power pole isn't the end I expect—it's the beginning of... gawd, where do I begin?
Four wildly sexy males. Powers I don't understand. And the eyes of the fae world on me as the person to unite the severed realms. No pressure.
*This is book one in a steamy new reverse harem paranormal romance series. Expect sexy polyamorous situations (mmmfm), rollicking action, ongoing storylines, and shifter lovers who find what they need from not only their queen but each other as well. Med-burn, low angst, vivid sexual content and language.*
186 pages, ebook
First published May 26, 2020
2694 people are currently reading
2620 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 281 reviews
June 8, 2020
This book needs a trigger warning
1. This book needs a trigger warning for child abuse and rape. Though it doesn't explicitly spell out the details of the rape it is utilized in humiliating Callie and is described well enough to need a trigger warning.
2. The fact that Hawk uses Callies past molestation as a 14 year old child against her is sick, especially since he is one of the romantic interests. The fact that Callie almost immediately forgives him and then starts to pursue pursue him is absolutely demented. He used her childhood trauma against her and tore her down so viciously, just to make her cry. I get that they needed Pheonix tears, but as an author be more creative than having one of your main characters be completely abusive.
3. The writing style of this book isn't bad, but in my opinion the inclusion of an abusive romantic interest like Hawk makes this book unpalatable. I did finish the book to its conclusion, but after reading that paragraph where Hawk tells Callie that she sought out and initiated the molestation i will not be reading the sequel.
1. This book needs a trigger warning for child abuse and rape. Though it doesn't explicitly spell out the details of the rape it is utilized in humiliating Callie and is described well enough to need a trigger warning.
2. The fact that Hawk uses Callies past molestation as a 14 year old child against her is sick, especially since he is one of the romantic interests. The fact that Callie almost immediately forgives him and then starts to pursue pursue him is absolutely demented. He used her childhood trauma against her and tore her down so viciously, just to make her cry. I get that they needed Pheonix tears, but as an author be more creative than having one of your main characters be completely abusive.
3. The writing style of this book isn't bad, but in my opinion the inclusion of an abusive romantic interest like Hawk makes this book unpalatable. I did finish the book to its conclusion, but after reading that paragraph where Hawk tells Callie that she sought out and initiated the molestation i will not be reading the sequel.
June 16, 2020
Reading this book is unhealthy... You are presented with a magical bond between 5 people that basically let's you abuse and be abused without any consequences! In a space of 20 pages, main heroine whacks one of the guys nearly killing him and few pages later one of the other 5, in 'heroic' attempt to make her cry, mocks her being raped as a child and spews few other 'lovely' aspects of her past and character... what happens right after? The whacked guy still loves her and she loves the a-hole who made her cry... and the bond made them do it... shoot me now!
July 7, 2020
Wow really romanticizing a extremely abusive and toxic relationship. Hawk is manipulative and disgusting, and this author paints him that’s it’s all right and that he even told Calli that the abuse and sexual assault she suffered were her fault. Couldn’t even finish the book. Won’t be reading anything else from the author.
June 12, 2020
Oy
Through a majority of this book the h is TSTL. And Hawk, one of her love interests, is an abusive bully and victim blamer and uses her past sexual assault against her. Just, no. It sucks because I liked the writing style and the other guys, but Callie’s idiotic stubborn obstinacy and Hawk’s grossness ruined this for me. :/
Through a majority of this book the h is TSTL. And Hawk, one of her love interests, is an abusive bully and victim blamer and uses her past sexual assault against her. Just, no. It sucks because I liked the writing style and the other guys, but Callie’s idiotic stubborn obstinacy and Hawk’s grossness ruined this for me. :/
January 3, 2022
4.7 stars.
So far, I’m intrigued.
I am really enjoying the storyline’s beginning.
Meeting all of the guys and being told about their quest, before the quest.
I really enjoy seeing all the different personalities and reactions to Callie. It’s both frustrating and entertaining at the same time.
Definitely check TWs for this. The things mentioned from their terrible pasts are vague, but there’s also a piece of shit trucker that attempts sexual abuse on page. He doesn’t get far, but it’s a pretty dark moment for Callie and what happens right after doesn’t help.
I really liked it.
I also like that there was steam and sexy times in this first book. Usually there’s not and I appreciate that it was there. And the fact that it was pretty good. I like the dirty talk. Hopefully we see more and more of that. I can’t wait.
I am also super excited to see where this storyline takes us. It’s cool.
I’m totally in.
So far, I’m intrigued.
I am really enjoying the storyline’s beginning.
Meeting all of the guys and being told about their quest, before the quest.
I really enjoy seeing all the different personalities and reactions to Callie. It’s both frustrating and entertaining at the same time.
Definitely check TWs for this. The things mentioned from their terrible pasts are vague, but there’s also a piece of shit trucker that attempts sexual abuse on page. He doesn’t get far, but it’s a pretty dark moment for Callie and what happens right after doesn’t help.
I really liked it.
I also like that there was steam and sexy times in this first book. Usually there’s not and I appreciate that it was there. And the fact that it was pretty good. I like the dirty talk. Hopefully we see more and more of that. I can’t wait.
I am also super excited to see where this storyline takes us. It’s cool.
I’m totally in.
February 10, 2021
1st book in series, freebie fortunately. I didn't like the mouthy heroine or any of the Heroes. One is arrogant and rude, one is so young that I felt uncomfortable especially when the h almost killed him. She had little remorse and her feistiness was beyond irritating. I finished it but disliked the characters, and too little time spent building relationship or story.
January 22, 2026
I finished this one a few days ago, but life got in the way of my reviews😂 This certainly had interesting elements, a young woman on the road, chased by bikers, found by a gentleman on the road, who initially thought that she was ling gone. The next thing he knows, she bursts into flames and is being reincarnated - a phoenix.
I did find it a bit odd at first that the other MMCs were pulled from such a distance to her side, but later on the author did provide enough information as to the reasons behind that unexpected event.
The plot itself was interesting, but I did not like the FMC. I found her a bit irritating at times and perhaps too focused on the physical aspects of her potential relationships. I might continue the series at some point, still undecided on that.
I did find it a bit odd at first that the other MMCs were pulled from such a distance to her side, but later on the author did provide enough information as to the reasons behind that unexpected event.
The plot itself was interesting, but I did not like the FMC. I found her a bit irritating at times and perhaps too focused on the physical aspects of her potential relationships. I might continue the series at some point, still undecided on that.
July 17, 2022
Amusing enough, but not much more. It's entertaining, but not very deep. The plot is pretty thin, and none of the characters (the males especially) are well developed. One is such an asshole I don't know how the author imagines she'll redeem him and two are fairly inconsistent in their tone and characterization. It was the book's general inconsistencies that really threw me though, like someone unbuckling yoga pants.
The book also is guilty of using the cheap attempted rape shtick (and it wasn't even very well stitched into the plot). I'm not saying a book should never include rape, but I've found that far too often it's used for cheap tension. More often than not, here included, there are a million better and less over-used and common plot devices to reach for. At this point I call it the 'low hanging fruit' of plotting. It's evidence the author took the easiest, least thought about, no effort path. IT'S LAZY. And is that really how authors want to be seen?
Anyhow, despite how negative this review seems. I'll read book two (I have 1-5), because I have it and I'm curious to see all the men submit.
The book also is guilty of using the cheap attempted rape shtick (and it wasn't even very well stitched into the plot). I'm not saying a book should never include rape, but I've found that far too often it's used for cheap tension. More often than not, here included, there are a million better and less over-used and common plot devices to reach for. At this point I call it the 'low hanging fruit' of plotting. It's evidence the author took the easiest, least thought about, no effort path. IT'S LAZY. And is that really how authors want to be seen?
Anyhow, despite how negative this review seems. I'll read book two (I have 1-5), because I have it and I'm curious to see all the men submit.
July 21, 2020
Horror-fiction
The book opens with the female protagonist murdering the man who helps her after her car accident because he’s ‘trying to control her’. How is he trying to “control” her? He speaks calmly with her, trying to explain the AU. Readers are supposed to be okay with her homicidal behaviour because after she caves in his skull, she feels a little bad. Not so bad that she gets help for him, rather, she goes out to eat and doesn’t give a second thought to the part where she left him broken and bleeding out. She then goes on a mass murdering rampage killing dozens of people.
The book opens with the female protagonist murdering the man who helps her after her car accident because he’s ‘trying to control her’. How is he trying to “control” her? He speaks calmly with her, trying to explain the AU. Readers are supposed to be okay with her homicidal behaviour because after she caves in his skull, she feels a little bad. Not so bad that she gets help for him, rather, she goes out to eat and doesn’t give a second thought to the part where she left him broken and bleeding out. She then goes on a mass murdering rampage killing dozens of people.
February 7, 2021
A fun RH story that is more urban fantasy than paranormal. Yes, you will want to continue reading this series.
December 18, 2021
4.25 Stars
This was good. I really liked Calli and her harem. Kotah and Brant have my heart, Jaxx is cool and Hawke needs to step up jeje.
Calli was very fierce and she was a bad bitch (in a good way). I really enjoyed her character. The guys in general were pretty cool but I'm still not feeling Hawke. Let’s hope that changes in the next book.
This was very short and nothing transcendent happened but it was very enjoyable. I’m very excited to see what happens in the next book.
I would recommend this if you like PNR RH with a strong heroine. I also sense there’s gonna be MM, so if you like that this is for you. Bye!
This was good. I really liked Calli and her harem. Kotah and Brant have my heart, Jaxx is cool and Hawke needs to step up jeje.
Calli was very fierce and she was a bad bitch (in a good way). I really enjoyed her character. The guys in general were pretty cool but I'm still not feeling Hawke. Let’s hope that changes in the next book.
This was very short and nothing transcendent happened but it was very enjoyable. I’m very excited to see what happens in the next book.
I would recommend this if you like PNR RH with a strong heroine. I also sense there’s gonna be MM, so if you like that this is for you. Bye!
July 16, 2020
Good if you’re in the mood for moody characters.
I say this because out of the five MC, two of them are completely moody individuals who definitely do not appreciate being tossed together into this Guardian/Phoenix bunk.
Apart from watching five very different shifters try and make their bonding work, there is not much of a storyline. A smattering of revenge that is dished out in a paragraph, and that’s it.
Still, their tentative attempts to forge some kind of friendship did keep my eyes glued to the page so I think I’ll check out the second book to see if we get more on the role the Phoenix and the Guardians will have.
3.5 stars ⭐️
I say this because out of the five MC, two of them are completely moody individuals who definitely do not appreciate being tossed together into this Guardian/Phoenix bunk.
Apart from watching five very different shifters try and make their bonding work, there is not much of a storyline. A smattering of revenge that is dished out in a paragraph, and that’s it.
Still, their tentative attempts to forge some kind of friendship did keep my eyes glued to the page so I think I’ll check out the second book to see if we get more on the role the Phoenix and the Guardians will have.
3.5 stars ⭐️
September 20, 2020
4.5 rounded up
I really, really like the writing style here, the way the words are twisted and phrases thrown. Pictures are painted with ease in this literary mind and I’m here for the imagery. It only lost a 1/2 star with me because the actual plot line feels a little worn and tired, we’ve seen it before - though it’s tweaked just enough to make it stand alone, though not apart. This might be because this is this authors first foray into the reverse harem world, and the tropes and plots that fit that theme are familiar. Who knows? Regardless, the writing style alone makes it a winner, even if the circumstances are well trod.
When Cali, quite literally, rises from the ashes, she has to set her past life behind and embark on a journey few can understand - or even comprehend. Fortunately, she has four guardians that rose when she did, called by magic and fate to her side, even though they all have lives and responsibilities of their own. The Author's note indicates this is low-angst, and while that MIGHT be true.... it kinda isn't. There is angst, and struggle, and sorrow in spades, and frankly, it's just getting started.
Perspective
First Person, Multiple POV
Ending Type
To-Be-Continued
Rating
Adult. Very, very adult.
Romantic Dynamic
MMMFM - M/M scenes as well.
Character Age Range
20's+
My Final Verdict on Rise of the Phoenix
I thoroughly enjoyed this story, with it's twists and turns, emotional pull and witty style. I enjoyed it so much I am going to dive into this author's backlog and indulge in the books that have come before. My only complaint, like stated above, is a sense that that the plot line is a bit TOO familiar. Regardless, it's a fantastic story that I am looking forward to continuing.
I really, really like the writing style here, the way the words are twisted and phrases thrown. Pictures are painted with ease in this literary mind and I’m here for the imagery. It only lost a 1/2 star with me because the actual plot line feels a little worn and tired, we’ve seen it before - though it’s tweaked just enough to make it stand alone, though not apart. This might be because this is this authors first foray into the reverse harem world, and the tropes and plots that fit that theme are familiar. Who knows? Regardless, the writing style alone makes it a winner, even if the circumstances are well trod.
When Cali, quite literally, rises from the ashes, she has to set her past life behind and embark on a journey few can understand - or even comprehend. Fortunately, she has four guardians that rose when she did, called by magic and fate to her side, even though they all have lives and responsibilities of their own. The Author's note indicates this is low-angst, and while that MIGHT be true.... it kinda isn't. There is angst, and struggle, and sorrow in spades, and frankly, it's just getting started.
Perspective
First Person, Multiple POV
Ending Type
To-Be-Continued
Rating
Adult. Very, very adult.
Romantic Dynamic
MMMFM - M/M scenes as well.
Character Age Range
20's+
My Final Verdict on Rise of the Phoenix
I thoroughly enjoyed this story, with it's twists and turns, emotional pull and witty style. I enjoyed it so much I am going to dive into this author's backlog and indulge in the books that have come before. My only complaint, like stated above, is a sense that that the plot line is a bit TOO familiar. Regardless, it's a fantastic story that I am looking forward to continuing.
May 27, 2020
This book went well beyond my expectations. It has so much snark and sass, comedy and drama. I loved it. The characters developed together in a smooth way, and the plot had enough twists to keep me on my toes. I absolutely loved this book!
May 9, 2020
Note: I received this book from the author and I voluntarily give this review, it is my honest opinion.
Rise of the Phoenix is the first book in the Guardians of the Phoenix series and is the first book in a quintet. It's a multi pov paranormal reverse harem that is centered on shifters. Calli is a brave, stubborn, kind, and tough person, a survivor, who wants nothing more in the world than to end the person who is responsible for an unimaginable pain. Things don't go as plan and along the way she meets four shifters who might just change her world for the better.
Madore has created a very interesting narrative, the world-building could use some work but overall the story was pretty good and it was hilarious. One of my favorite things is when stories are surprisingly funny and with the sassy and snark from Calli and the comedy from Brant I was very amused. It was so easy to get lost in the story, I finished it one day.
This was a medium burn romance not too much happened, this wasn't an insta-love story and Calli needed some convincing and this is one of those stories that one of the guys isn't all in. I know that it happens a lot in reverse harem but they way this was done, I'm not totally sold on the guy's commitment to the group and while it's interesting it's also torture because I'm like given in already, you know you want to. Besides the guy that's resisting, I love all the guys, they each bring something to the table and they are very protective and supportive of Calli even when she makes a big mistake.
I love the supernatural and read a lot of paranormal romance but I believe this is my first phoenix shifter story. I, of course, know of the phoenix mythology. The legendary bird who is reborn from the ashes, lots of fire, and hard to kill, but that's all I know and I am excited it see it in a shifter story and to learn more about the mythology.
Rise of the Phoenix was a fun read that had a strong female lead, supportive guys that are starting to build a real connection. This is just the first book in the series so the author is still setting things up and it was a good first book in the series. I am really excited to see where the story goes and I look forward to the next book in the series.
Rise of the Phoenix is the first book in the Guardians of the Phoenix series and is the first book in a quintet. It's a multi pov paranormal reverse harem that is centered on shifters. Calli is a brave, stubborn, kind, and tough person, a survivor, who wants nothing more in the world than to end the person who is responsible for an unimaginable pain. Things don't go as plan and along the way she meets four shifters who might just change her world for the better.
Madore has created a very interesting narrative, the world-building could use some work but overall the story was pretty good and it was hilarious. One of my favorite things is when stories are surprisingly funny and with the sassy and snark from Calli and the comedy from Brant I was very amused. It was so easy to get lost in the story, I finished it one day.
This was a medium burn romance not too much happened, this wasn't an insta-love story and Calli needed some convincing and this is one of those stories that one of the guys isn't all in. I know that it happens a lot in reverse harem but they way this was done, I'm not totally sold on the guy's commitment to the group and while it's interesting it's also torture because I'm like given in already, you know you want to. Besides the guy that's resisting, I love all the guys, they each bring something to the table and they are very protective and supportive of Calli even when she makes a big mistake.
I love the supernatural and read a lot of paranormal romance but I believe this is my first phoenix shifter story. I, of course, know of the phoenix mythology. The legendary bird who is reborn from the ashes, lots of fire, and hard to kill, but that's all I know and I am excited it see it in a shifter story and to learn more about the mythology.
Rise of the Phoenix was a fun read that had a strong female lead, supportive guys that are starting to build a real connection. This is just the first book in the series so the author is still setting things up and it was a good first book in the series. I am really excited to see where the story goes and I look forward to the next book in the series.
July 28, 2020
Rise of the Phoenix starts on a familiar note but loses it's way through the execution of tying the plot in a cohesive manner especially for the length of this book.
The start was okay, it would have been nicer to see her clash with the evil motorcycle dudes and have that lead up towards the accident to have some content towards this avenging plan for her BFF and to see something for this friendship which we have to care about with bare minimum mentions. Then this chick hell bent on this plan hits one of her mates so hard he is on death's door without any provocation and then the whole revenge plan gets swept to the side until it's reduce to one second FMC's activeness in that scene.
The bigger plot about phoenix and her guardians is left as a vague thing that doesn't have time to be explored beyond being established as something important in this book. I couldn't get this FMC when I don't see much beyond her knee-jerk reactions to situations and some of them completely OTT like almost killing some dude who is trying to explain the situation. The harem is a typical set of guys including the asshole one as well. Hawk does go overboard with his shit towards the end, some things are just hard limits.
Since the second book is focused on the wolf boy, I am curious about seeing that play out and maybe see if it delves more into this phoenix thing more than this one.
The start was okay, it would have been nicer to see her clash with the evil motorcycle dudes and have that lead up towards the accident to have some content towards this avenging plan for her BFF and to see something for this friendship which we have to care about with bare minimum mentions. Then this chick hell bent on this plan hits one of her mates so hard he is on death's door without any provocation and then the whole revenge plan gets swept to the side until it's reduce to one second FMC's activeness in that scene.
The bigger plot about phoenix and her guardians is left as a vague thing that doesn't have time to be explored beyond being established as something important in this book. I couldn't get this FMC when I don't see much beyond her knee-jerk reactions to situations and some of them completely OTT like almost killing some dude who is trying to explain the situation. The harem is a typical set of guys including the asshole one as well. Hawk does go overboard with his shit towards the end, some things are just hard limits.
Since the second book is focused on the wolf boy, I am curious about seeing that play out and maybe see if it delves more into this phoenix thing more than this one.
April 19, 2021
Kindle Unlimited.
I was pleasantly surprised by this one. It's a medium-burn RH with an interesting collection of characters.
The story drops you right in the midst of Calli's transformation into the supernatural world. The pacing is very fast. I think the entire book happens in the course of a week. I wish that had been a little slower, with more opportunities to get to know the team.
I actually liked the dissension in the ranks because it feels genuine. If your entire life had been turned upside down by in an instant, you'd be upset too. The characters each have their own backstory and baggage, revealed through shifting POVs, and they all add something to the story. Hawk's character is difficult to like. He verbally breaks Calli apart in one scene that's hard to stomach. Even with the chapters from his perspective softening him a little, it's still hard to move past that.
There is some opaqueness in the magical world building. Hierarchy and ruling agencies aren't clearly explained, and the overall world-building is a little lacking.
If the next book in the installment was around, I'd probably grab it, but I don't know if I will wait around for its release.
I was pleasantly surprised by this one. It's a medium-burn RH with an interesting collection of characters.
The story drops you right in the midst of Calli's transformation into the supernatural world. The pacing is very fast. I think the entire book happens in the course of a week. I wish that had been a little slower, with more opportunities to get to know the team.
I actually liked the dissension in the ranks because it feels genuine. If your entire life had been turned upside down by in an instant, you'd be upset too. The characters each have their own backstory and baggage, revealed through shifting POVs, and they all add something to the story. Hawk's character is difficult to like. He verbally breaks Calli apart in one scene that's hard to stomach. Even with the chapters from his perspective softening him a little, it's still hard to move past that.
There is some opaqueness in the magical world building. Hierarchy and ruling agencies aren't clearly explained, and the overall world-building is a little lacking.
If the next book in the installment was around, I'd probably grab it, but I don't know if I will wait around for its release.
July 18, 2020
A unique idea but
A unique idea but a bit meh on the execution for me. This was a bit too cheesy, a bit too easy. There wasn’t really conflict, no subplot that was ended or concluded. Calli is a reborn Phoenix, which is cool and she has 4 mates that are to be her guardians. That’s cool too but the story is just going through the motions, while not addressing the need for a Phoenix so quickly. I found myself skimming and a bit bored. It was an interesting story, I may try book 2 just to see how it goes, but not right now.
A unique idea but a bit meh on the execution for me. This was a bit too cheesy, a bit too easy. There wasn’t really conflict, no subplot that was ended or concluded. Calli is a reborn Phoenix, which is cool and she has 4 mates that are to be her guardians. That’s cool too but the story is just going through the motions, while not addressing the need for a Phoenix so quickly. I found myself skimming and a bit bored. It was an interesting story, I may try book 2 just to see how it goes, but not right now.
May 26, 2020
A storyline that's interesting
Couldn't put it down. The storyline is attention grabbing and the plot doesn't dull like in some I've read. For the first time in a while I read every page
Couldn't put it down. The storyline is attention grabbing and the plot doesn't dull like in some I've read. For the first time in a while I read every page
May 29, 2020
Great beginning book
I’m excited to see where the series goes! The concept is different from other Phoenix stories I have read which is good. Hawk is frustrating me but the others are making up for it.
I’m excited to see where the series goes! The concept is different from other Phoenix stories I have read which is good. Hawk is frustrating me but the others are making up for it.
May 29, 2020
Intriguing, exciting and full of everything you could want in a RH! The plot flows beautifully and the characters are wonderful to read. This is the first book I've read from this author and it definitely won't be the last. Looking forward to more!
Want to read
September 13, 2025🎁 FREE on Amazon today (9/13/2025)! 🎁
June 25, 2025
2.5. spoilers ahead.
So, I tried this book last year and the first three chapters turned me off so bad I didn't go back and try again. The chapters of her meeting her mates seemed so ridiculous and horrible that I just could not get into this story. I came back and skipped to chapter 5 and faired a little better.
I think the biggest thing for me, and why this didn't get a better rating from me is in romance books or in RH specifically I always imagine a graph, in the x line is plot, on the y is relationship/smut. When they are both high and meet expectations I'm happy when one overtakes the other I can also sometimes be happy. When like this book we don't get relationship build up and the plot hasnt really done much I just ask myself why I kept reading. I am down with instalust I love a good mates not resisting the other, I can even get down with Hawk just blowing it and not being a good mate! READ MY REVIEWS I EAT IT UP. I just wanted more of everything and just a little less annoying main character.
Let's jump into characters shall we?:
FMC:
Mam. so you were homeless as a teen and barely have life skills to speak of let alone defense skills or any other attributes and you decide to take on a huge motorcycle gang that is trafficking women. You then DIE BECAUSE OF THEM, and still come back demanding to return to fight them to the point you almost murder one of your mates. Cool cool. This theme continues this whole book, she makes stupid decisions without any talent or real skills backing her up. Eventually she gets better at being a pheonix but barely and still puts others in danger. If this is going to be her in future books I am out.
She also goes from running from her mates to being obsessed with them and being jealous of past lovers etc. Yes I know this has to do with mates and the instalust but she came off annoying.
Main Men:
Jaxx:
*rubs bridge of nose* I need all romance authors to pick a new J name. how many Jax, Jaxx, Jackson, or Jaxsons does one genre need. Jaxx is a fine addition to her harem and his golden retriever energy does bring up the harem.
Kotah:
Did we need to add in book one his secret of being a prince? No build up, tension or thoughts about it. Just drops it in the plot line at the 90 percent mark of the book. I am also calling bullshit on Hawk not knowing who the prince is. He runs one of the top agencies in their country and doesn't know the prince? I think not. Kotah is Kotah. he is young and not super confident and he has potential.
Brant:
We didn't get a lot of time with Brant. He is suspicious of his work place, wrangles cows, and that's about it.
Hawk:
Why do we know more and have more scenes with the biggest asshole of the group? Because assholes are fun that's why. Honestly if not for the tension that hawk brings in not sure how this story would have progressed at all. he was the shining star in this one.
Overall, I was bored more than I was entertained and that will keep me from doing book two.
So, I tried this book last year and the first three chapters turned me off so bad I didn't go back and try again. The chapters of her meeting her mates seemed so ridiculous and horrible that I just could not get into this story. I came back and skipped to chapter 5 and faired a little better.
I think the biggest thing for me, and why this didn't get a better rating from me is in romance books or in RH specifically I always imagine a graph, in the x line is plot, on the y is relationship/smut. When they are both high and meet expectations I'm happy when one overtakes the other I can also sometimes be happy. When like this book we don't get relationship build up and the plot hasnt really done much I just ask myself why I kept reading. I am down with instalust I love a good mates not resisting the other, I can even get down with Hawk just blowing it and not being a good mate! READ MY REVIEWS I EAT IT UP. I just wanted more of everything and just a little less annoying main character.
Let's jump into characters shall we?:
FMC:
Mam. so you were homeless as a teen and barely have life skills to speak of let alone defense skills or any other attributes and you decide to take on a huge motorcycle gang that is trafficking women. You then DIE BECAUSE OF THEM, and still come back demanding to return to fight them to the point you almost murder one of your mates. Cool cool. This theme continues this whole book, she makes stupid decisions without any talent or real skills backing her up. Eventually she gets better at being a pheonix but barely and still puts others in danger. If this is going to be her in future books I am out.
She also goes from running from her mates to being obsessed with them and being jealous of past lovers etc. Yes I know this has to do with mates and the instalust but she came off annoying.
Main Men:
Jaxx:
*rubs bridge of nose* I need all romance authors to pick a new J name. how many Jax, Jaxx, Jackson, or Jaxsons does one genre need. Jaxx is a fine addition to her harem and his golden retriever energy does bring up the harem.
Kotah:
Did we need to add in book one his secret of being a prince? No build up, tension or thoughts about it. Just drops it in the plot line at the 90 percent mark of the book. I am also calling bullshit on Hawk not knowing who the prince is. He runs one of the top agencies in their country and doesn't know the prince? I think not. Kotah is Kotah. he is young and not super confident and he has potential.
Brant:
We didn't get a lot of time with Brant. He is suspicious of his work place, wrangles cows, and that's about it.
Hawk:
Why do we know more and have more scenes with the biggest asshole of the group? Because assholes are fun that's why. Honestly if not for the tension that hawk brings in not sure how this story would have progressed at all. he was the shining star in this one.
Overall, I was bored more than I was entertained and that will keep me from doing book two.
January 26, 2023
3.5⭐️’s - don’t get me wrong, I enjoy the plot… but as soon as I set it down, it leaves my brain. Then I try to pick it back up and I have to sift through the previous 3 chapters to mar sure I know what’s going on. Im giving it the benefit of the doubt given I dive into these books super late at night and crash from severe exhaustion midway through chapters in the early morning. That said, with a standard shift job, my brain is on the fritz trying to recall my work ID, let alone 2/3’s of a book I read from 2-5am.
So my downgrade and subsequent not so harsh review is because of my messed up sleeping patterns/insomnia….? Yeah… my fault completely.
So my downgrade and subsequent not so harsh review is because of my messed up sleeping patterns/insomnia….? Yeah… my fault completely.
December 16, 2020
This is a reverse harem (just in case you didn’t realise).
POV moves between all 5 characters and is clearly introduced at the start. While POV moving can sometimes be a bit confusing, it’s nice to hear the thoughts of everyone. Eg, Hawk treats Callie terribly but then you immediately get his POV and see motives.
The sex is hot, hot, hot. The 4 guys each have their own very distinct personalities. I’m interested to see how they develop into a quint.
POV moves between all 5 characters and is clearly introduced at the start. While POV moving can sometimes be a bit confusing, it’s nice to hear the thoughts of everyone. Eg, Hawk treats Callie terribly but then you immediately get his POV and see motives.
The sex is hot, hot, hot. The 4 guys each have their own very distinct personalities. I’m interested to see how they develop into a quint.
April 28, 2020
I didn’t want to put this book down once I started reading it, but I did have to work the next day. 😊 I like the potential of the characters and wished for a bit more character development of Callie’s mates, which is the reason for four stars instead of five. I want to know more about each of them and felt like it was a skim the surface introduction book. I hope the next books in the series delve deeper into who they are. I will be reading them once they come out.
Read
August 3, 2020DNF @ 64%.
I'm not going to be an a-hole and write an a-hole review. I kept telling myself, "Just one more chapter. Maybe it'll suck you in." And nope. It did not.
I'm not going to be an a-hole and write an a-hole review. I kept telling myself, "Just one more chapter. Maybe it'll suck you in." And nope. It did not.
June 19, 2020
Flame on
Calli flew all right, right into a pole. Then out of the windshield. Pavement put a stop to her brief flying stint. But that wasn't the end. Then she caught fire. Not the car, the human went up in flames. That's definitely not something you see every day. Even if you shift into a jaguar. Fun fact: apparently Phoenixes only appear when big changes occur in the magical world. So what has managed to call forth one, and her 4 guardians?
Spoilers ahead.
Calli might be an orphan but she's not singing and dancing. Her life literally just went up in flames. Parents died at 12, sent to live with her aunt but ran away a couple years later when aunt's hubby started disrespecting personal boundaries, lived on the streets, finally managed to get a roof over the head of her and her best friend and then her friend is killed. All because she found out something and tried to put a stop to it when authorities wouldn't listen. Then Calli's attempt at vengeance ends in flames on the freeway. She's tough but brittle, wary and really really angry. Maybe temper isn't a good quality for a bird that bursts into a raging fireball? And her character never really evolves. Understandably she doesn't take the news of her fiery resurrection with a smile. But before learning what she can do, who will try to hurt her, and how to not burn her clothes off, she clubs Jaxx over the head and takes off. All to complete her vendetta. The guys range from sweet- Kotah, to fiercely protective- Brant, to gentle- Jaxx, to a complete jerk- Hawk. I'm not sure he's redeemable. There's very little world building. Secrets within secrets. And the king of jerks uses past abuse of her to demean her. He calls her unworthy due to her time on the streets when he was a street rat, too. Talk about pot and kettle. But this world, what on earth is up with it?
*Why do some have magic but others don't?
*Why is it ok to for a shifter menage to be seen on a park bench but her and her guardians can't be seen doing more than kissing?
*The story starts off completely focused on revenge, then abandoned for immersion into fae/shifter/wildling society, then just at the last minute cuts briefly back to vengeance then bam, over.
*Why so many terms? Fae, wildling, shifter? Do some not shift? Are they all fae races?
*Why did 3 out of 4 guys have inner monologues involving their own ripped physiques? Comes off more than a little narcissistic.
*Character descriptions change. Clothing changes mid scene. Clothes somehow survive a burning scene that destroys a vehicle seat.
*Language is odd for characters based in the US. Chuffed? Wanker? None of them are mentioned as having been raised overseas.
*After jerkoff makes her cry he fails to remind her to use those tears. I'm giving her a pass due to emotional trauma.
*There seems to be some shaming going on towards their relationship, even though it's supposed to be understood that the Phoenix mates her guardians.
*What on earth is up with the stones? That sort of came out of nowhere. Are relics common items?
*They hold a formal banquet on the fly? Stressful situations aren't good for a being that can literally burn the house down.
*Why the physical upgrades? Ok, reborn into a healthier body could lead to shiny hair, clearer skin, stronger bones. But bigger boobs? Boobs get in the way. Birds tend to be sleek, lithe, unless brooding.
*All the guys just showed up. They have jobs, families/friends, homes, lives. But they all just appear at this cabin where she wakes up and don't contact anyone for a week. Well, outside the doctor, and jerk's business empire.
It was interesting. The story has a lot of good elements, it just didn't flow. It almost feels like this should have been 2 books, her vengeance arc then her introduction to fae life. Give each of those arcs the fleshing out they deserve. I'll look for 2, see how things progress. But the jerk needs an attitude adjustment.
Calli flew all right, right into a pole. Then out of the windshield. Pavement put a stop to her brief flying stint. But that wasn't the end. Then she caught fire. Not the car, the human went up in flames. That's definitely not something you see every day. Even if you shift into a jaguar. Fun fact: apparently Phoenixes only appear when big changes occur in the magical world. So what has managed to call forth one, and her 4 guardians?
Spoilers ahead.
Calli might be an orphan but she's not singing and dancing. Her life literally just went up in flames. Parents died at 12, sent to live with her aunt but ran away a couple years later when aunt's hubby started disrespecting personal boundaries, lived on the streets, finally managed to get a roof over the head of her and her best friend and then her friend is killed. All because she found out something and tried to put a stop to it when authorities wouldn't listen. Then Calli's attempt at vengeance ends in flames on the freeway. She's tough but brittle, wary and really really angry. Maybe temper isn't a good quality for a bird that bursts into a raging fireball? And her character never really evolves. Understandably she doesn't take the news of her fiery resurrection with a smile. But before learning what she can do, who will try to hurt her, and how to not burn her clothes off, she clubs Jaxx over the head and takes off. All to complete her vendetta. The guys range from sweet- Kotah, to fiercely protective- Brant, to gentle- Jaxx, to a complete jerk- Hawk. I'm not sure he's redeemable. There's very little world building. Secrets within secrets. And the king of jerks uses past abuse of her to demean her. He calls her unworthy due to her time on the streets when he was a street rat, too. Talk about pot and kettle. But this world, what on earth is up with it?
*Why do some have magic but others don't?
*Why is it ok to for a shifter menage to be seen on a park bench but her and her guardians can't be seen doing more than kissing?
*The story starts off completely focused on revenge, then abandoned for immersion into fae/shifter/wildling society, then just at the last minute cuts briefly back to vengeance then bam, over.
*Why so many terms? Fae, wildling, shifter? Do some not shift? Are they all fae races?
*Why did 3 out of 4 guys have inner monologues involving their own ripped physiques? Comes off more than a little narcissistic.
*Character descriptions change. Clothing changes mid scene. Clothes somehow survive a burning scene that destroys a vehicle seat.
*Language is odd for characters based in the US. Chuffed? Wanker? None of them are mentioned as having been raised overseas.
*After jerkoff makes her cry he fails to remind her to use those tears. I'm giving her a pass due to emotional trauma.
*There seems to be some shaming going on towards their relationship, even though it's supposed to be understood that the Phoenix mates her guardians.
*What on earth is up with the stones? That sort of came out of nowhere. Are relics common items?
*They hold a formal banquet on the fly? Stressful situations aren't good for a being that can literally burn the house down.
*Why the physical upgrades? Ok, reborn into a healthier body could lead to shiny hair, clearer skin, stronger bones. But bigger boobs? Boobs get in the way. Birds tend to be sleek, lithe, unless brooding.
*All the guys just showed up. They have jobs, families/friends, homes, lives. But they all just appear at this cabin where she wakes up and don't contact anyone for a week. Well, outside the doctor, and jerk's business empire.
It was interesting. The story has a lot of good elements, it just didn't flow. It almost feels like this should have been 2 books, her vengeance arc then her introduction to fae life. Give each of those arcs the fleshing out they deserve. I'll look for 2, see how things progress. But the jerk needs an attitude adjustment.
June 25, 2020
Rise or Fall?
For some reason for the first time I totally dislike the heroine. I am giving the a series a second chance hoping that the next book loses the stupid attitude and aggressive ugliness. The mates are what is carrying the series so far as their personalities and backgrounds provide flavour to an unappetizing mess of female angst and totally unwarranted violence.
There is an actual story waiting to be told and I hope is delivered. Perhaps another death and rebirth could change the character into someone of worth making her into a fun and sexy heroine with snark enough to be interesting.
For some reason for the first time I totally dislike the heroine. I am giving the a series a second chance hoping that the next book loses the stupid attitude and aggressive ugliness. The mates are what is carrying the series so far as their personalities and backgrounds provide flavour to an unappetizing mess of female angst and totally unwarranted violence.
There is an actual story waiting to be told and I hope is delivered. Perhaps another death and rebirth could change the character into someone of worth making her into a fun and sexy heroine with snark enough to be interesting.
September 8, 2021
Rise of the Phoenix by JL Madore is a shifter reverse harem romance that I listened to on audio narrated by Lia Holland and Gabriel Thorne. This is the first book in the Guardians of the Fae Realms series.
The book comes with a note from the author "This is book one in a steamy new reverse harem paranormal romance series. Expect sexy polyamorous situations (mmmfm), rollicking action, ongoing storylines, and shifter lovers who find what they need from not only their queen but each other as well. Med-burn, med angst, vivid sexual content and language.*Trigger Warning: This book mentions past teen abuse."
This is the first book of JL's that I have read and it won't be my last. I really enjoyed that Calli, Jaxx, Brant, Nakotah, and Hawk have the mating/guardian bond but they are slowly falling into it. I loved getting all of their points of view throughout the book. It really brought the story to life.
The book does end on a cliffhanger but that wasn't a surprise since it is the first book in the series. I can't wait for the next book Wolf's Soul to be released on audio so I can get more of their story.
Lia and Gabriel did a great job on the narration. I look forward to listening to more of their work in the future.
I would recommend this book if you like shifter romances or reverse harems.
The Flock Team
Audiobook Obsession Reviewer
The book comes with a note from the author "This is book one in a steamy new reverse harem paranormal romance series. Expect sexy polyamorous situations (mmmfm), rollicking action, ongoing storylines, and shifter lovers who find what they need from not only their queen but each other as well. Med-burn, med angst, vivid sexual content and language.*Trigger Warning: This book mentions past teen abuse."
This is the first book of JL's that I have read and it won't be my last. I really enjoyed that Calli, Jaxx, Brant, Nakotah, and Hawk have the mating/guardian bond but they are slowly falling into it. I loved getting all of their points of view throughout the book. It really brought the story to life.
The book does end on a cliffhanger but that wasn't a surprise since it is the first book in the series. I can't wait for the next book Wolf's Soul to be released on audio so I can get more of their story.
Lia and Gabriel did a great job on the narration. I look forward to listening to more of their work in the future.
I would recommend this book if you like shifter romances or reverse harems.
The Flock Team
Audiobook Obsession Reviewer
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