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Headstrong Eliza always felt she experiences the world differently from everyone else, but she never fully understood why. Her senses forever stood on edge, never totally controlled by her prescribed medication.
When, in a shock revelation, she finds out she possesses an extraordinary gift, Eliza gets plunged into the secret world of the Sensorians. Her life will never be the same again.

Trained to control her gift by the arrogant, cocky but incredibly handsome Zack and his alluring sister Zaphire, Eliza finds herself struggling to fit in with the strict and darkly unorthodox methods of the Sensorian society. She begins to wonder what she has let herself in for.

But, before she can change her mind, she is embroiled in the thrilling hunt for her estranged father Rick, who went missing from the Sensorian community under suspicious circumstances. Her loyalty gets severely tested in finding out the truth behind his disappearance, as all is not what it seems.

Do the Sensorians have a hidden agenda?
Why are they so desperate to find Rick?
What do they exactly want from her?

Awakening is the first book in the Sensorians Trilogy: A Young Adult Urban Fantasy which combines the coming of age themes of self-discovery, love and exploring sexuality, with a fantasy element based in the real world.

423 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 22, 2020

12 people are currently reading
63 people want to read

About the author

Brigitte Morse-Starkenburg

3 books16 followers

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5 stars
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews
Profile Image for Jane Wood.
Author 3 books98 followers
January 9, 2023
The Sensorians: Awakening. (The Sensorian Trilogy #1) by Brigitte Morse-Starkenburg.

An intriguing start to the series.
I was thoroughly engrossed in the story from page one and read the book over three days, which is especially fast for me.
Beautifully written, it was a pleasure to read.
In book one we are acquainted with Eliza, a young child suffering from a form of schizophrenia with paranoia. She is under medication to subdue her erratic and unpredictable behaviour. Her mother, Alice, is struggling to cope since Eliza’s father, Rick, up and left them when his daughter was only two and half years old.
Eliza, known as Lizzy, is now seventeen and has her own group of friends she hangs out with. Kasper is her boyfriend, a typical blond haired surfer dude. The affection between the two is touching.

Markus and Zack are aware of Lizzy’s special gift and plot how they are going to meet her. A party at Sophie’s one evening presents the opportunity to bump into her.
Markus is the leader of a secret organisation known as the Sensorians. After some enlightening truths Lizzy is persuaded to join their community. They are in essence, a clan of special human beings born with heightened senses with abilities to touch on the deepest feelings and desires in people. These feelings are used to fight crime by infiltrating gangs and terrorist organisations to thwart their illegal plans. But first Lizzy must come off the medication allowing her gift to emerge naturally. The stage is set for a thrilling, interesting storyline as Lizzy leaves home and learns how to master her emotions and regain control over her life. Life within the community begins under the watchful gaze of Zack, her coach. A punishing fitness regime begins, and sensory overload was both enjoyable and interesting to witness.
Lizzy is told about the dangerous mission she is assigned to do. Would her skills be ready in time? The outcome becoming more uncertain as events unfold.
Rick, a Sensorian like his daughter Lizzy, had been absent in her life for years. But now he was back!
The smooth transition of the POVs was skilfully written. An imaginative, compelling story with likeable characters. There were some harsh moments and some comical situations too, that made me laugh. Can’t wait to read book two in the series.

Great fun. A delightful read.
Highly recommended.
Profile Image for Joshua Griffith.
Author 16 books34 followers
October 17, 2021
A wonderful YA urban fantasy!

I thoroughly enjoyed this one! The story revolves around Eliza, a young girl that's has her father walk out on her and her mother at a young age, leaving her to wonder if it was her fault because of her schizophrenia. She later learns that all that she's been experiencing in her mind wasn't a mental illness at all, but a gift that allows her to experience all of her senses and surroundings to an extreme.Zach is tasked by his boss to bring her in to their secretive community that refers to themselves as the Sensorians, people with similar gifts as Eliza, so that she can be trained for various missions. As you can imagine, this is a lot for Eliza to process, let alone believe? There's plenty of drama, action,witty banter as well as a lot of raw emotions and love interests that will keep you guessing what will happen next because Eliza definitely isn't sure at this point. Is she truly crazy or is there more to Eliza that the Sensorians aren't telling her? No spoilers so read it and discover what's down in this rabbit hole of Eliza's life. I highly recommend this one!
Profile Image for Tenkara Smart.
Author 3 books169 followers
April 26, 2021
Fun and Intriguing Read!

The story of Eliza finding out that she has special powers was intriguing and well written. I like that the author used different POV's to tell the story and I found that it made it all more interesting, kept a nice pace and was easy to read. Eliza's 'powers' were different that I expected and I felt they were relatable, which is refreshing. I was intrigued to continue reading so I could find out how she would utilise her special gifts and ultimately what would happen in her personal life, and I wasn't disappointed. I look forward to reading the second book to see where this story goes.

A good read and good debut by the author.
Profile Image for Amy Johnson.
Author 4 books61 followers
November 11, 2020
Eliza had a rough enough childhood as it was. Between her father abandoning her and being diagnosed as schizophrenic, she did her best to muddle through and come out the other end. Things don’t get better when the mysterious Zack shows up in her life. He says he knows where her father is and that he needs her. In order to help anyone, Eliza will have to face challenges that will test her to the core.

Will she come out the other side a better person or be forever bent by the Sensorian way of life?

Starkenburg’s style is very simplistic. Normally when we talk about someone being simple, it’s an insult. Don’t take it as that here. What I mean is, it flowed really easily and wasn’t overly complicated in vocabulary or grammar or side plots or anything like that. It was not a challenging read in any way whatsoever.

Starkenburg also does a magnificent job of developing both characters and plot. She does a great job at making sure her two POVs are different enough that a reader can tell. Plus, every single character is different! It’s truly phenomenal.

You can count on me to read Book 2 when it comes out.😉

I'd give this book a big ole 9.5 outta 10. I'll definitely be recommending.
Profile Image for Samantha Evans.
Author 7 books68 followers
October 2, 2020
What a sensational first book to this series! Sci-Fi and Fantasy put together, and we got this book! All of the characters I love! So interesting, and never boring! Eliza and Zack are amazing characters, and it kept the book going all through. They went through soo much in the book! What was amazing was how throughout the book it was told from a different point of view. Writers being able to do that...brilliant! I will not say much because I do not want to post spoilers here! It was well-formatted, and easy to follow. Totally recommend for sure!
Profile Image for Sionna Trenz.
Author 24 books105 followers
September 22, 2020
This was a great sci fi/ fantasy book! The concept of a unique group of humans with heightened senses living in various cities to help stop crime was intriguing. I loved seeing how the MC, who’s mother was not a Sensorian, struggle to adapt to a world she did not understand. First in dealing with the mundane, and later in reopening herself to those abilities. Looking forward to the next book in this series!
Profile Image for Katherine Black.
Author 32 books117 followers
January 2, 2022
We open this first book in a three-book series with a glorious study of a young woman on the cusp of adulthood dealing with the pressure and tribulations of her mental health issues. Like many girls in this modern society, she feels abandoned by her absent father, but it’s more than that—she is different. We get to know her and her demons as she questions why she feels foreign to her peers.

The book is a fast-paced thriller that takes us into the secret world of The Sensorians. The writing is tight and engaging and leaves enough hooks to keep us guessing and working with Eli to figure out what’s happening.

She has extraordinary power—but to learn how to harness it, she is sucked into a new world and a way of life alien to her as she is trained in the lore of the Sensorians. We have action and intrigue, and it’s wrapped in entangled relationships that develop between Eli, Zack and his sister.

Aimed at a young adult market, this book is equally enjoyable for both teenage and older readers. All three books in the series are out and available to buy, so you don’t have to wait to find out what happens next after the first book.
4 reviews1 follower
November 18, 2020
Sci-Fi that is great for all readers!

I don’t usually like science fiction but I really liked this! I am in my 30s but enjoy young adult fiction and the experiences of teens from love, growth, drama and more. The book captured me because of the mystery and mental health component. The main character was diagnosed with schizophrenia as a child so when I read the prologue I was immediately intrigued ! I wanted to know more and then got hooked by the main characters. There is a lot of thrill throughout the book and a great first book of a series. The writing is well done and I can definitely see this as a movie.
Profile Image for Carrie Lange.
Author 4 books29 followers
April 27, 2021
Great story, and really great characters

The story itself is exciting and engaging. I didn’t find it dragging at all, but my favorite part is the characters and how developed they are. I like seeing the story from both characters, it makes it more interesting and fun. Really deep, important issues are touched on as far as mental health, which I appreciate. I found myself drawn in and captivated by the world, the story, and most especially, by the characters. I read it as part of a reading group, and I’m so glad it was suggested. I will be buying book 2 and also recommending it to my daughter who is 22.
Profile Image for Cara Silver.
Author 2 books79 followers
January 27, 2022
This novel is an amazing start to the series. There is so much going on throughout the entire book. Honestly, I couldn’t put it down. It had me captivated.
Eliza was made to believe that she had mental issues when in fact, she had a gift. Her life soon gets turned upside down when she gets thrown into the Sensorian community and has to help find her father.
I will say, I’m not sure who is good or bad yet. It’s killing me. I want to believe Zack is completely on her side, but I have serious doubts about Markus and the rest of the community. I really hope Zack is completely trustworthy.
I can’t read to jump into the next book to see what happens after her month long isolation punishment/trial.
The author really did a wonderful job with building the characters. I feel hate and love for them, all at the same time.
This is a must read for anyone who likes a good fantasy novel.
Profile Image for M. Henningham.
Author 2 books5 followers
November 2, 2020
Interesting perspectives!

I really enjoyed this book, especially the constant toing and froing between the characters, which anchored my interest and kept my attention for the duration of the story. They were distinguishable, which made them come across as realistic. Also, I loved it when the protagonist relinquished her medication, and her senses were heightened to frightening proportions, especially regarding the pheromones of a particular male interest. Clever writing!
Profile Image for H.G. Ahedi.
Author 24 books54 followers
April 24, 2021
Well written

A girl with special powers on the search to find out who she is... Eliza was special since she was a child, but she is diagnosed with mental illness and put on heavy mess. But one day she meets a Markus who tells her is one of the Sensorians.

This knowledge completely changes her life and before she knows she is learning new skills and finds herself in solving the mystery of her origins and caught between a deadly conspiracy. Will Eliza yield or fight?
Profile Image for Onia Fox.
134 reviews14 followers
September 7, 2021
The Sensorians: Awakening by Brigitte Morse-Starkenburg is a thrilling young adult fantasy novel. It is page turning enough, as a Fantasy Novel, but I was totally captivated by the analogies and similes of the plot.
What teenager or young adult would not identify with a group feeling outside of society, awkward with newfound awareness to their surroundings and themselves.
Follow our lovely MC as she explores her new world. Highly recommended.
Profile Image for Elizabeth Hamilton-Smyth.
Author 2 books6 followers
September 30, 2020
With credible characters, a flawless narrative and heaps of emotion as an interesting backdrop, The Sensorians: Awakening is a riveting read. I found the writing style enchanting, the story well thought out while the diverse perspectives were expertly portrayed. I believe this is the first of a series and most certainly a wonderful start, and leaving the reader waiting with bated breath for the story to continue. A real page turner, a well-paced plot, a story I for one, earnestly recommend.
28 reviews
October 20, 2020
Sensation

Really good read. Story builds and develops in unexpected ways. This is the first book of a series and left me wondering how it will end. It's about a group of people with extraordinary power over their senses and a young girl diagnosed with a mental condition finding out she is not ill but has the power to overcome her...
Profile Image for Tracy.
365 reviews4 followers
September 22, 2020
Wow, amazing read.
Eliza wax always sensitive, medicated for mental health. Zack is a trainer and a member of a community of humans with extra receptive senses.
Can Eliza fit in anywhere when she knows what her father has done.
Cannot wait for book 2.
Profile Image for Oliver Francisco.
Author 13 books8 followers
October 9, 2020
I've always loved movies like The Matrix, Wanted, Xmen and Blade where I get to discover an entirely new world or organization of individuals with unique abilities. This book follows that same path. Exciting and gripping, I look forward to the next installment.
Profile Image for Carolina Seredenco.
Author 5 books5 followers
November 17, 2020
Great book

I really like this book, author created beautiful story. It was an interesting read with nice characters. Will definitely recommend this book to my friends.
Profile Image for Irwin Glenn.
Author 8 books4 followers
April 20, 2021
Intriguing interesting and enjoyable

This story is well written and has undercurrents of self acceptance, self awareness and emotional responsibility throughout. With a switching of view point with every chapter the author cleverly guides the reader through an intriguing storyline. This helps the reader understand the powers and abilities of the Sensorians and makes me want to know what's next for Eliza with her blossoming talents.
Profile Image for Crystal Napolitano.
Author 1 book29 followers
August 12, 2020
The first novel of a trilogy! I was instantly a fan from the first page. The character development is amazing in this, and you get to see their individual perspectives through the chapters. The secret society is also very mysterious and adds to the drama. Face paced and full of romance, tension, fantasy and action. This is a fantastic read for young adults to full adutls. Enjoy! This is a fun one!
21 reviews2 followers
September 23, 2020
This is an incredible book. I can see it as a movie trilogy. Original and full of pace within the plot. I loved the way the story is told from two different perspectives. Great and fitting title too.
As someone who is related to a teenager who has a hidden disability of autism (please note this is not necessarily directly linked to any characters within the book but once you read it, you’ll understand why in mentioning it), I feel this book is not just a fantastic story and well worth a read with the writing, characters, plot, description, originality all impressing me...but it is also a potentially life enhancing piece of fiction for anyone who’s a bit different, anyone with a hidden challenge like asd and particularly any teenager or young adult. Suitable for males and females. In fact, that is one of the strengths of the story with it having those two narrative perspectives.
Author 4 books13 followers
October 6, 2020
This book has all the elements of pure entertainment : separation from one's parents, training towards a goal, the beginnings of romance, betrayal by a loved one - all this combined in a sci-fi world. In comparison to other books in this genre, I found this one easy to relate to. It ticks all the right boxes. Recommended.
Profile Image for Jennifer Shepard.
844 reviews121 followers
September 26, 2020
I purchased this book because of the amazing reviews on Amazon and oh boy, they were all right. Such a good book, very well writen with great characters that keeps you obsessed with every page since the first one. I felt like I was on a roaller coaster of emotions. This world is described with so many details is amazing, I was able to visualize everything thanks to that! I couldn't put this down until I ended. Cant wait for what comes next! totally recommended!
Profile Image for Andrew Hudson.
Author 9 books32 followers
October 4, 2020
This book is well written, has an exciting plot, the author describes the characters to an excellent manner and uses their emotions in a powerful way. All of the reasons I just listed are why I couldn't stop turning pages, brilliant stuff! I recommend this book to others.
Author 45 books1 follower
October 5, 2020
Such a fabulous start to a series! I am typically not a fan of sci-fi books. I was drawn into the characters in this book. I loved how they developed. Job well done Brigitte! I can’t wait to read more!
Author 1 book3 followers
November 11, 2020
cleverly written book that explores senses ... although this is a fictional book with a great fictional storyline of its own it was thought provoking of those in our world that DO experience heightened senses and how we can project our feelings upon others.
I love the short chapters and the way the story is told to alternate between the point of view of the the 2 main characters.
Can't wait to see what happens with Eliza , Zack and Zapphire in the next 2 books in this trilogy.
A story of adventure, intrigue, emotions and sexuality
Profile Image for M.J. Fraser.
Author 4 books1 follower
July 16, 2020
Great read

This was a good story. I enjoyed reading it. The concept of sensorians is a good one and the story and characters were real and alive. Good job.
23 reviews
August 17, 2020
The book was enjoyable and I’m looking forward to the trilogy.

I think overall the pace was medium (a little slow for me in the middle), but really picked up pace towards the last 1/3 and left me wanting more by the end.

There is a lot of realism within this, so it was not what I expected. I’m not yet sure exactly how the sensorians fully work in the real world but I am hoping this will be addressed in the next book.
Profile Image for Sam Thompson.
76 reviews
November 5, 2020
I really enjoyed The Sensorians: Awakening. The author sets the scenes with intelligence and skill, very skilled how it encompasses the story through two first persons, and it works! It is original the way characters narrate through the chapters. A tension is built between Eliza and Zack, which brews throughout the book, you can sense it and visualise it. What I found different from most sci-fi stories is it is, written with character emotions, not a usual trait with sci-fi. The book is clever in its delivery and will attract a varied audience. It is unisex and both young and old will enjoy it. Great read. recommended.
Profile Image for Amanda Sheridan.
Author 8 books169 followers
April 10, 2021
This book was recommended to me by a friend and from the get go I was hooked!
It is the first in a series and a fascinating story about the Sensorians - a group of people who have heightened senses.
Eliza is a 17 year old who is taken in by this group and trained to be one of them, undergoing a punishing schedule of training and discipline.
And she does all this is the hope of finding her estranged father and she begins to suspect the group has an ulterior motive.
I find the Sensorians fascinating and slightly disturbing. Who are they? A more evolved species of human? The author gives little away on their origins but she lets us know that they do exist and they are among us.
I can't wait to read the rest of this brilliant trilogy.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews

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