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From the Ashes Trilogy #1
Phoenix Burn
Six months ago I died. And I’ve been looking for my killer ever since.
I didn’t expect to survive death, but here I am and I’ve got questions—lots of them. Questions that lead me to a world I never knew existed in the shadows of the mundane. When I come face to face with a vampire who seems to have the answers I’m looking for, I find myself trapped in a game where I’m the pawn.
Someone is hunting me. No one is safe until I’m caught, but I refuse to be the prey. When the hunter becomes the hunted, they’ll learn I’m not as naïve as they think. That is, until the mastermind is revealed and nothing is ever the same again.
Will I be able to reclaim my old life? Or is the game just getting started …
I didn’t expect to survive death, but here I am and I’ve got questions—lots of them. Questions that lead me to a world I never knew existed in the shadows of the mundane. When I come face to face with a vampire who seems to have the answers I’m looking for, I find myself trapped in a game where I’m the pawn.
Someone is hunting me. No one is safe until I’m caught, but I refuse to be the prey. When the hunter becomes the hunted, they’ll learn I’m not as naïve as they think. That is, until the mastermind is revealed and nothing is ever the same again.
Will I be able to reclaim my old life? Or is the game just getting started …
216 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 18, 2020
352 people are currently reading
370 people want to read
About the author
Karina Espinosa
46 books477 followersKarina Espinosa is a Colombian-American author best known for the Mackenzie Grey series, the Blood Weaver Trilogy, and her latest romantasy hit, The Dragon’s Ballad. When she’s not writing fierce heroines and magical chaos, she’s globe-trotting, bingeing Asian dramas, or teaching college students how to write essays—with a coffee in hand and fictional body count on the rise.
Follow her for more coffee-fueled chaos and character heartbreak.
Follow her for more coffee-fueled chaos and character heartbreak.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
September 23, 2020
Not for me
I couldn't finish, at 64% I decided I really didn't care for our H any longer. I think I went into this thinking she was going to be a bad***, the blurb through me way off and what I got stuck reading was a scared, shivering, crying mess. She was so stuck on panicking so much she couldn't help herself which I found just sad, she had to constantly relay on the men in this book while what she really is was was a force to be reckoned with! she also had a little tstl vibe honesty. Someone killed her Yet when trying to figure it all out what was going on she had been receiving these flowers everywhere, and yet she didn't think that mattered? She's in danger yet goes to the club to pick up a last check? This heroine was annoying and ignorant and I was tired of her victim roll.
I couldn't finish, at 64% I decided I really didn't care for our H any longer. I think I went into this thinking she was going to be a bad***, the blurb through me way off and what I got stuck reading was a scared, shivering, crying mess. She was so stuck on panicking so much she couldn't help herself which I found just sad, she had to constantly relay on the men in this book while what she really is was was a force to be reckoned with! she also had a little tstl vibe honesty. Someone killed her Yet when trying to figure it all out what was going on she had been receiving these flowers everywhere, and yet she didn't think that mattered? She's in danger yet goes to the club to pick up a last check? This heroine was annoying and ignorant and I was tired of her victim roll.
September 13, 2020
I have read another series of books by this author and loved it, but that doesn’t mean I automatically read anything at all by an author I have read before. In fact, if I have read and loved a certain series by an author it can make me reluctant to try other series by that same author. Weird? I guess it is a bit! I view each cover and blurb on its own merit and then once I have read the book, do I give my 100% honest own opinion.
I’ll be totally honest it was this brilliantly striking cover that attracted my attention. Then I read the blurb and immediately wanted to read the book. I liked the sound of the main female character in the blurb, the way she isn’t going to hide, she is going to hunt the one who has made her his prey. The book begins with the main female character, Camila Cortez being shot . . . well I say shot, but she doesn’t die. The fact is Camila doesn’t really know how she didn’t die, she also doesn’t know who shot her or why, but she is determined to find out. Camila makes herself disappear and changes her appearance, rents a studio apartment and sets about finding out who tried to kill her. Camila dyes her hair and changes her name to Octavia Cruz.
Octavia has a private investigator researching the disappearance of her friend Camila Cortez. The private investigator has told her she needs to be at a seedy bar in a bad part of town to find the man that shot her. So of course, Octavia doesn’t do things by half measures and she gets a job working there as a shot girl. It’s there she meets the arrogant Mr Monroe and his friends in the VIP area, there’s instant dislike between them as he has her removed from serving the VIP area. However, it is Mr Monroe that comes to her aid later when a fight takes place. Octavia is on a dance podium and desperately trying to escape the fighting, she waits for an opportunity to attempt to escape until the point comes its move or possibly be right in the middle of the massacre the fight has turned into. Unfortunately for Octavia she ends up getting her stomach ripped open by some monster guy with claws! Octavia is aware of seeing Mr Monroe attack the monster guy, literally throwing him away from her and then feeling faint and being caught by Mr Monroe, who she really doesn’t have a very good opinion of! When Octavia awakens, she finds herself in the rather luxurious suite belonging to Mr Monroe from the bar who is extremely reluctant to allow her to go anywhere. As it is revealed in the blurb there are vampires in this book and I will also add other paranormal beings. Of course, Octavia discovers she is a type of paranormal being, she has now survived being shot at almost point, blank range, as well as being attacked and her stomach ripped open by a monster with claws all without dying! In fact, when she removes the dressing on her stomach it reveals not even the tiniest scratch!
The book is about finding out who is so determined to capture Octavia and why. Octavia has a lot of decisions to make and doesn’t know who to trust. Should she trust Tristan “Mr up himself from the VIP area” Monroe (though Octavia does describe him a little more bluntly than I have!), or Killian, “leader of the scary monsters” that were fighting in the club. Who can help her find out and eliminate the man determined to capture her? Who can protect her parents, brother and sister? There’s also the question of who on earth keeps sending her black dahlia’s and why? In fact, maybe more importantly how are they leaving them so close to her, without her ever seeing them?
I immediately adored the character of Camila/Octavia. I know it is like two sides of the same coin and though we don’t have a lot about Camila, she works hard, enjoys a night out with the girls, and she is in what seems like a stale relationship with Ben, they guy with the increasingly irritating habit of leaving unending amounts of toe nail clippings all over!
When Camila transforms herself into Octavia, she becomes her bolder, sassy, and takes no hassle from anyone. Octavia isn’t the only kick butt character in the book either, there’s Echo, the vampire that works at the local Police precinct. Echo is smart, has an even smarter mouth and yet has a soft side that makes you believe she cares deeply for those she considers part of her clan and family. Another tough cookie is Mikaela who quickly becomes a trusted friend to Octavia whilst she is with their group for a weekend. I really hope we see more of Mikaela in the future of this series.
So now onto the book boyfriend material characters! Really you are spoilt for choice with this book. In fact, I honestly couldn’t choose between the three main male characters at all. There’s cold (in more ways than one), serious, used to being in charge Tristan, who often comes across brusque and bossy and he is so used to people doing as he says without question. Though you can’t help liking him, he has a softer side under that outer shell which sometimes glints through when he is interacting with those close to him. Maverick is the easy going, affectionate, wears his heart on his sleeve, prankster who is totally loyal to Tristan, like a brother, he also treats Echo like a sister. Then finally, the last of the three main male characters is Killian, another strong, male leader, used to people doing as he says, yet he has a softer character, more playful and outwardly shows he cares, along with handling all the responsibilities he has as leader. I mean how could you possibly choose from those three great male lead characters, definitely all book boyfriend material.
There’s lots of action, some great humour, along with lots of supernatural politics, vampires against monsters with claws. Both Tristan and Killian seem insistent that their race is the one closest to what Octavia is. They both think she will be safer, learn to control her powers better that the other. When I look back at one of the notes, I made at around 35% of the way into the book, it kind of makes me laugh as I had put Wow! Vampires! Tristan....er, and Maverick......and is Killian really the bad one? I don't know which side I am on......or could Phoenix bring the Clan & the Pack together? And who, what and why was she shot?" I’ll be honest I still couldn’t choose a definitive “side” to be on at the end of the book. I’m hoping both supernatural leaders, Tristan & Killian will come together to help Octavia. There’s also some subtle, and some outright flirting going on in the book. There’s Octavia & Tristan, it is so clear they care for each other but Tristan comes across so cold at times, could that be because of his vampire race, or vampire age? Will he confess he has feelings for Octavia? Octavia & Maverick are like the great friends immediately, are they destined to be more than just friends though. I think there is also the strong possibility of a relationship between Killian & Octavia they have so many supernatural race similarities.
My immediate thoughts upon finishing this book were Wow! What a journey, what an ending, what a cliff-hanger to end on!! Can't wait to read more as soon as I can. Even if Octavia escapes how will she live on with what she was made to do? Will the vampires & monster with claws unite in an attempt to help Octavia? If it comes down to a choice between Vampires/Tristan & his Clan or Monster with claws/Killian & his group would/could/how would Octavia choose?
To sum up my intention in this review was not to reveal too much and not go on and on about the book like I’d love to. I don’t want to spoil the book for new readers which is why I only revealed one supernatural race, vampires as they are mentioned in the blurb. The other races are revealed in time within the book as and when you need to know what they are. I thought I had it sussed out what Octavia was quite early in the book but I hadn’t though by the time what she is, was revealed it totally fits. If you love different supernatural beings you won’t be disappointed with this book. I thoroughly enjoyed, in fact, love, love, loved this book and am eagerly, somewhat impatiently looking forward to reading more of this trilogy.
I’ll be totally honest it was this brilliantly striking cover that attracted my attention. Then I read the blurb and immediately wanted to read the book. I liked the sound of the main female character in the blurb, the way she isn’t going to hide, she is going to hunt the one who has made her his prey. The book begins with the main female character, Camila Cortez being shot . . . well I say shot, but she doesn’t die. The fact is Camila doesn’t really know how she didn’t die, she also doesn’t know who shot her or why, but she is determined to find out. Camila makes herself disappear and changes her appearance, rents a studio apartment and sets about finding out who tried to kill her. Camila dyes her hair and changes her name to Octavia Cruz.
Octavia has a private investigator researching the disappearance of her friend Camila Cortez. The private investigator has told her she needs to be at a seedy bar in a bad part of town to find the man that shot her. So of course, Octavia doesn’t do things by half measures and she gets a job working there as a shot girl. It’s there she meets the arrogant Mr Monroe and his friends in the VIP area, there’s instant dislike between them as he has her removed from serving the VIP area. However, it is Mr Monroe that comes to her aid later when a fight takes place. Octavia is on a dance podium and desperately trying to escape the fighting, she waits for an opportunity to attempt to escape until the point comes its move or possibly be right in the middle of the massacre the fight has turned into. Unfortunately for Octavia she ends up getting her stomach ripped open by some monster guy with claws! Octavia is aware of seeing Mr Monroe attack the monster guy, literally throwing him away from her and then feeling faint and being caught by Mr Monroe, who she really doesn’t have a very good opinion of! When Octavia awakens, she finds herself in the rather luxurious suite belonging to Mr Monroe from the bar who is extremely reluctant to allow her to go anywhere. As it is revealed in the blurb there are vampires in this book and I will also add other paranormal beings. Of course, Octavia discovers she is a type of paranormal being, she has now survived being shot at almost point, blank range, as well as being attacked and her stomach ripped open by a monster with claws all without dying! In fact, when she removes the dressing on her stomach it reveals not even the tiniest scratch!
The book is about finding out who is so determined to capture Octavia and why. Octavia has a lot of decisions to make and doesn’t know who to trust. Should she trust Tristan “Mr up himself from the VIP area” Monroe (though Octavia does describe him a little more bluntly than I have!), or Killian, “leader of the scary monsters” that were fighting in the club. Who can help her find out and eliminate the man determined to capture her? Who can protect her parents, brother and sister? There’s also the question of who on earth keeps sending her black dahlia’s and why? In fact, maybe more importantly how are they leaving them so close to her, without her ever seeing them?
I immediately adored the character of Camila/Octavia. I know it is like two sides of the same coin and though we don’t have a lot about Camila, she works hard, enjoys a night out with the girls, and she is in what seems like a stale relationship with Ben, they guy with the increasingly irritating habit of leaving unending amounts of toe nail clippings all over!
When Camila transforms herself into Octavia, she becomes her bolder, sassy, and takes no hassle from anyone. Octavia isn’t the only kick butt character in the book either, there’s Echo, the vampire that works at the local Police precinct. Echo is smart, has an even smarter mouth and yet has a soft side that makes you believe she cares deeply for those she considers part of her clan and family. Another tough cookie is Mikaela who quickly becomes a trusted friend to Octavia whilst she is with their group for a weekend. I really hope we see more of Mikaela in the future of this series.
So now onto the book boyfriend material characters! Really you are spoilt for choice with this book. In fact, I honestly couldn’t choose between the three main male characters at all. There’s cold (in more ways than one), serious, used to being in charge Tristan, who often comes across brusque and bossy and he is so used to people doing as he says without question. Though you can’t help liking him, he has a softer side under that outer shell which sometimes glints through when he is interacting with those close to him. Maverick is the easy going, affectionate, wears his heart on his sleeve, prankster who is totally loyal to Tristan, like a brother, he also treats Echo like a sister. Then finally, the last of the three main male characters is Killian, another strong, male leader, used to people doing as he says, yet he has a softer character, more playful and outwardly shows he cares, along with handling all the responsibilities he has as leader. I mean how could you possibly choose from those three great male lead characters, definitely all book boyfriend material.
There’s lots of action, some great humour, along with lots of supernatural politics, vampires against monsters with claws. Both Tristan and Killian seem insistent that their race is the one closest to what Octavia is. They both think she will be safer, learn to control her powers better that the other. When I look back at one of the notes, I made at around 35% of the way into the book, it kind of makes me laugh as I had put Wow! Vampires! Tristan....er, and Maverick......and is Killian really the bad one? I don't know which side I am on......or could Phoenix bring the Clan & the Pack together? And who, what and why was she shot?" I’ll be honest I still couldn’t choose a definitive “side” to be on at the end of the book. I’m hoping both supernatural leaders, Tristan & Killian will come together to help Octavia. There’s also some subtle, and some outright flirting going on in the book. There’s Octavia & Tristan, it is so clear they care for each other but Tristan comes across so cold at times, could that be because of his vampire race, or vampire age? Will he confess he has feelings for Octavia? Octavia & Maverick are like the great friends immediately, are they destined to be more than just friends though. I think there is also the strong possibility of a relationship between Killian & Octavia they have so many supernatural race similarities.
My immediate thoughts upon finishing this book were Wow! What a journey, what an ending, what a cliff-hanger to end on!! Can't wait to read more as soon as I can. Even if Octavia escapes how will she live on with what she was made to do? Will the vampires & monster with claws unite in an attempt to help Octavia? If it comes down to a choice between Vampires/Tristan & his Clan or Monster with claws/Killian & his group would/could/how would Octavia choose?
To sum up my intention in this review was not to reveal too much and not go on and on about the book like I’d love to. I don’t want to spoil the book for new readers which is why I only revealed one supernatural race, vampires as they are mentioned in the blurb. The other races are revealed in time within the book as and when you need to know what they are. I thought I had it sussed out what Octavia was quite early in the book but I hadn’t though by the time what she is, was revealed it totally fits. If you love different supernatural beings you won’t be disappointed with this book. I thoroughly enjoyed, in fact, love, love, loved this book and am eagerly, somewhat impatiently looking forward to reading more of this trilogy.
September 17, 2020
Karina Espinosa soars with PHOENIX BURN, the first book in the From the Ashes Trilogy. When I picked up PHOENIX BURN I thought I would read a couple of chapters, put it down, and then get some other stuff done. Ya, that did not happen. Once I picked up this novel, I could not put it down. I was completely captivated. So be warned, you might want to read it when you have some time on your hands and not sneaking in a couple of chapters.
In this story, Camila Cortez was murdered in cold blood. Imagine her shock when she does not die. Now she is searching for her murderer and discovers that the paranormal world is real.
I am a longtime fan of Karina Espinosa. She writes creative and exciting stories. She does an amazing job with her plot and character development. PHOENIX BURN had a cliff hanger ending. I cannot wait for book two, PHOENIX RISE, expected to release October 16, 2020. I recommend this book to people who enjoy paranormal urban fantasies. I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.
In this story, Camila Cortez was murdered in cold blood. Imagine her shock when she does not die. Now she is searching for her murderer and discovers that the paranormal world is real.
I am a longtime fan of Karina Espinosa. She writes creative and exciting stories. She does an amazing job with her plot and character development. PHOENIX BURN had a cliff hanger ending. I cannot wait for book two, PHOENIX RISE, expected to release October 16, 2020. I recommend this book to people who enjoy paranormal urban fantasies. I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.
October 24, 2023
Une trilogie qui promet beaucoup pour la suite !
J'avais été très curieuse sur ce petit univers et au final je n'ai pas été déçu ! Ce tome m'a vraiment fait l'effet d'une mise en bouche et j'ai hâte de découvrir la suite des évènements !
J'avais été très curieuse sur ce petit univers et au final je n'ai pas été déçu ! Ce tome m'a vraiment fait l'effet d'une mise en bouche et j'ai hâte de découvrir la suite des évènements !
September 18, 2020
Ok the beginning was terrible ...
there is this girl who is shot In the head in a parking and she wakes up again and because she is alive she decides that it’s execution ( because that’s what you think when you have been shot !!!)
She runs away and get this stays in the Same City .... she meets someone who can forge papers for her ... with the limited money she had .... then because she is so suspicious of everyone but trusts this guy ... and he tells her ( just off her description mind you ) that the person who killed her will be at this bar .... obviously she meets supernaturals then trusts the guys who later tries to trade her with the other group but later on say ... no deal !!! Then she goes home with that same guy who tried to trade her because she trusts him ... omg OMG
The middle bit is fine there is some great writing but the story in its totality is so unlike what I have read before from the same author it’s like another person is writing it
Then after a fairly vanilla book ( in terms of violence )... there is suddenly this spurt of senseless killing of the entire family that would actually serve no purpose except to be cruel ...
there is this girl who is shot In the head in a parking and she wakes up again and because she is alive she decides that it’s execution ( because that’s what you think when you have been shot !!!)
She runs away and get this stays in the Same City .... she meets someone who can forge papers for her ... with the limited money she had .... then because she is so suspicious of everyone but trusts this guy ... and he tells her ( just off her description mind you ) that the person who killed her will be at this bar .... obviously she meets supernaturals then trusts the guys who later tries to trade her with the other group but later on say ... no deal !!! Then she goes home with that same guy who tried to trade her because she trusts him ... omg OMG
The middle bit is fine there is some great writing but the story in its totality is so unlike what I have read before from the same author it’s like another person is writing it
Then after a fairly vanilla book ( in terms of violence )... there is suddenly this spurt of senseless killing of the entire family that would actually serve no purpose except to be cruel ...
November 17, 2020
Interesting Start To A Series
Octavia’s real name is Camila. Camila was killed 6 months ago and Octavia took her place, trying to find out how she survived her death and who killed her. She’s living pay check to pay check, hiding from family and friends as she’s terrified to bring her problems to their door.
Octavia ends up being torn between two different men and their friends, each seeming to want her to join them for reasons she can’t comprehend. She’s unsure and all she wants to know is what she is and why is she being hunted.
I liked the way the main character was wary which is the way it should be when your life has been turned upside down by violence. The way she was introduced to the supernatural world was not an easy one and she spent most of the book being scared and unsettled with short bursts of contentment.
The characters surrounding Octavia were interesting and as this is the first book in the series I look forward to getting to know them better. We are only treated to one point of view, which is Octavia’s and she only sees the very surface of the characters she interacts with.
The world building is on the small scale as part of the appeal of this book is Octavia finding out about the world in which she has landed. There is no information outside what small amounts she uncovers.
The book ended on an awful cliffhanger, and I really want to know what happens next. Thankfully that book is already out or I would be throwing my kindle across the room!
Octavia’s real name is Camila. Camila was killed 6 months ago and Octavia took her place, trying to find out how she survived her death and who killed her. She’s living pay check to pay check, hiding from family and friends as she’s terrified to bring her problems to their door.
Octavia ends up being torn between two different men and their friends, each seeming to want her to join them for reasons she can’t comprehend. She’s unsure and all she wants to know is what she is and why is she being hunted.
I liked the way the main character was wary which is the way it should be when your life has been turned upside down by violence. The way she was introduced to the supernatural world was not an easy one and she spent most of the book being scared and unsettled with short bursts of contentment.
The characters surrounding Octavia were interesting and as this is the first book in the series I look forward to getting to know them better. We are only treated to one point of view, which is Octavia’s and she only sees the very surface of the characters she interacts with.
The world building is on the small scale as part of the appeal of this book is Octavia finding out about the world in which she has landed. There is no information outside what small amounts she uncovers.
The book ended on an awful cliffhanger, and I really want to know what happens next. Thankfully that book is already out or I would be throwing my kindle across the room!
September 19, 2020
A NEW series from Karina Espinosa and it is 100% extraordinarily phenomenal
If you loved the Mackenzie Grey series then you'll love how she portrays the legendary Phoenix! LOL warn your loved ones that you might not hear them before you start this book because Karina Espinosa has created a mind-blowing book that you will definitely want to be left alone to read! I know I can't wait for more! The characters pull you in and will have you rooting for the main character. This book will cause you to feel sympathy, excitement and a little bit of horror with what Camila goes through! Like I said this book is phenomenal and I know what my next read will be once it comes out.... Phoenix Rise! Thanks Karina for creating worlds that I just know I'll love!
If you loved the Mackenzie Grey series then you'll love how she portrays the legendary Phoenix! LOL warn your loved ones that you might not hear them before you start this book because Karina Espinosa has created a mind-blowing book that you will definitely want to be left alone to read! I know I can't wait for more! The characters pull you in and will have you rooting for the main character. This book will cause you to feel sympathy, excitement and a little bit of horror with what Camila goes through! Like I said this book is phenomenal and I know what my next read will be once it comes out.... Phoenix Rise! Thanks Karina for creating worlds that I just know I'll love!
November 21, 2020
Cliffhanger
I loathe cliffhanger endings as they suggest the writing isn’t good enough to make you interested in returning without a cheap plot device. The ending is bad. It is incredibly violent and out of context. Camilla or Octavia is a bit of a brat getting angry throughout and berating people. I found her willingness to trust either Tristan or Killian ridiculous.
I loathe cliffhanger endings as they suggest the writing isn’t good enough to make you interested in returning without a cheap plot device. The ending is bad. It is incredibly violent and out of context. Camilla or Octavia is a bit of a brat getting angry throughout and berating people. I found her willingness to trust either Tristan or Killian ridiculous.
September 20, 2020
Phoenix Burn (Ashes Trilogy Book 1)
by Karina Espinosa
The girl’s night out, ended for Camila on a lonely roof top garage when a man with a gun shot and killed her. When she later awoke in a pool of her own blood with the bullet lying on the ground next to her, she knew she had to disappear if she wanted to stay alive and keep her family safe.
Six months later she has a new name, Octavia, and fake ID while working at Nightcrawlers, a club. Laying low, trying to find who wanted her dead was her main goal in life, that and trying not to break her neck in the stiletto heels she wore. The patrons at the club were usually drunk, and loud. Asked to work the VIP room, one night, was better until one of the elite seemed to take an instant dislike to her, sending her back downstairs. She managed to avoid him until, the night that several huge men came barging in, and began trashing the joint. Trying to reach an exit, one of the men cut her off. As she lashed out to hit him, he morphed into a monster that slashed his claws across her stomach.
Here we go again.
This time she woke up in a bed, dressed in a t-shirt, not hers, and a bandage on her stomach. The penthouse apartment was modern, chic, and expensive. But the man in the kitchen was Tristan, the guy, from the VIP room. Why was she here and who was he? It didn’t take long to find out. She had been caught in the middle of a dispute between vampires and shifters, those who morphed into a variety of animals. Nightcrawlers was a club for the vamps and the brutes that had trashed the place and injured her were shifters.
When the Killian, the Alpha of the shifters, came after her, expecting to claim her as part of their pack, Tristan offered him a deal. Octavia for a truce between them. Realizing she had only been used as a pawn between the two groups. Octavia lit up, literally when they began to argue over her. She burst into flames, as the legendary Phoenix materialized behind her. As soon as Tristian saw what she had become, the deal was off. What was she? Why was she suddenly so important to both the Vampires and Shifters? And she still didn’t know who wanted her dead and why?
Something or someone new has been added to the cast of horror characters when the Phoenix rises. In this first book of the trilogy Phoenix Burn by Karina Espinosa, readers learn some of the history of these vastly different beings. After so many centuries Tristan, leader of the Vampires, has become colder more distant, caring only for his own kind. Maverick is gregarious and flirtatious, while Echo is a police officer, smart, tough, and friendly. Each with a distinct personally beyond their bloodless state. In spite of himself Tristan is drawn to Octavia and finds himself wanting to help her and possibly more.
Killian, Alpha of the shifters, is about family. When a human is bitten, they become a shifter, so it is important to locate them quickly to help them transition and become part of the larger pack. The packs live in the more wilderness areas. When the packs gather it becomes a homespun party of rough house games, pranks, good food and warm. There is a history between the Shifters and Phoenix, but that isn’t the only reason Killian is interested in Octavia, he is drawn to her. But not all of the shifters feel so warmly towards her.
The characters are a rich part of this story, they had me laughing, crying and wanting to strangle someone. I quickly began to care about them, so different and yet each had developed personalities that fall in with the characteristics of their beings and with different lifestyles that suit them. The storyline draws, in part, on the history between the Vampires and Shifters, while the Phoenix may be a bit of an enigma for some and will be an intriguing addition to the story. To round out the tale there is a murderer on the loose and mysteries to solve, heartbreak, death, ancient hatreds, romance and adventure.
In the end I felt like I was sitting in the old movie theatre on a Saturday watching a chapter serial that leaves me hanging: the hero has gone over the cliff! Now I will have to wait to see if they will live or die! Thankfully, Karina Espinosa has taken pity on us, as the sequel appears to be set for release on October 16, 2020.
by Karina Espinosa
The girl’s night out, ended for Camila on a lonely roof top garage when a man with a gun shot and killed her. When she later awoke in a pool of her own blood with the bullet lying on the ground next to her, she knew she had to disappear if she wanted to stay alive and keep her family safe.
Six months later she has a new name, Octavia, and fake ID while working at Nightcrawlers, a club. Laying low, trying to find who wanted her dead was her main goal in life, that and trying not to break her neck in the stiletto heels she wore. The patrons at the club were usually drunk, and loud. Asked to work the VIP room, one night, was better until one of the elite seemed to take an instant dislike to her, sending her back downstairs. She managed to avoid him until, the night that several huge men came barging in, and began trashing the joint. Trying to reach an exit, one of the men cut her off. As she lashed out to hit him, he morphed into a monster that slashed his claws across her stomach.
Here we go again.
This time she woke up in a bed, dressed in a t-shirt, not hers, and a bandage on her stomach. The penthouse apartment was modern, chic, and expensive. But the man in the kitchen was Tristan, the guy, from the VIP room. Why was she here and who was he? It didn’t take long to find out. She had been caught in the middle of a dispute between vampires and shifters, those who morphed into a variety of animals. Nightcrawlers was a club for the vamps and the brutes that had trashed the place and injured her were shifters.
When the Killian, the Alpha of the shifters, came after her, expecting to claim her as part of their pack, Tristan offered him a deal. Octavia for a truce between them. Realizing she had only been used as a pawn between the two groups. Octavia lit up, literally when they began to argue over her. She burst into flames, as the legendary Phoenix materialized behind her. As soon as Tristian saw what she had become, the deal was off. What was she? Why was she suddenly so important to both the Vampires and Shifters? And she still didn’t know who wanted her dead and why?
Something or someone new has been added to the cast of horror characters when the Phoenix rises. In this first book of the trilogy Phoenix Burn by Karina Espinosa, readers learn some of the history of these vastly different beings. After so many centuries Tristan, leader of the Vampires, has become colder more distant, caring only for his own kind. Maverick is gregarious and flirtatious, while Echo is a police officer, smart, tough, and friendly. Each with a distinct personally beyond their bloodless state. In spite of himself Tristan is drawn to Octavia and finds himself wanting to help her and possibly more.
Killian, Alpha of the shifters, is about family. When a human is bitten, they become a shifter, so it is important to locate them quickly to help them transition and become part of the larger pack. The packs live in the more wilderness areas. When the packs gather it becomes a homespun party of rough house games, pranks, good food and warm. There is a history between the Shifters and Phoenix, but that isn’t the only reason Killian is interested in Octavia, he is drawn to her. But not all of the shifters feel so warmly towards her.
The characters are a rich part of this story, they had me laughing, crying and wanting to strangle someone. I quickly began to care about them, so different and yet each had developed personalities that fall in with the characteristics of their beings and with different lifestyles that suit them. The storyline draws, in part, on the history between the Vampires and Shifters, while the Phoenix may be a bit of an enigma for some and will be an intriguing addition to the story. To round out the tale there is a murderer on the loose and mysteries to solve, heartbreak, death, ancient hatreds, romance and adventure.
In the end I felt like I was sitting in the old movie theatre on a Saturday watching a chapter serial that leaves me hanging: the hero has gone over the cliff! Now I will have to wait to see if they will live or die! Thankfully, Karina Espinosa has taken pity on us, as the sequel appears to be set for release on October 16, 2020.
September 18, 2020
After a girl’s night out, Camila Cortez left and headed for the parking garage in the cool night air. She had a big presentation the next day at work, and her team had left it all to her to prepare with no help from them. She went up to the parking garage roof but couldn’t find her keys. So intent on her search, she did not hear the man come up behind her with a gun. He didn’t want to rob her – he instead shot her in the forehead and killed her.
Six months ago she died and began the search for her murderer among the paranormal population that she just discovered is actually real. The bullet that killed her had been on the ground next to her, as if it had merely popped out of her head! Since she hadn’t been robbed, someone had obviously just wanted her dead, and that was a mystery she wanted to solve. Now she has become Octavia Cruz. For the past month, someone had been leaving her a black dahlia flower, and that was another mystery.
She has Nick, a 19-year-old computer genius looking into her murder and also pointing her to where her murderer may be. She got a job at NightCrawlers where Nick sent her, but she hadn’t found anything suspicious yet. But the dark web said something big was coming there, so she needed to stay a while longer. She also kept an eye on her family, and had Nick investigate her old boyfriend, Ben. At work, she was sent to the VIP area where she saw a guy all in black, obviously the boss whom she labelled “Mr. A**hole”, and had a confrontation with him. He got her banned from the VIP area.
The next day, a scream sounded in the club and a bunch of hulking guys came in the door. People were running to escape. They broke liquor bottles and trashed the club. Octavia was trapped on the stage, unable to find a clear path to escape the approaching men. She looked up at the VIP section and saw “Mr. A” and his friends come out and leap down onto the dance floor … from the second-floor landing! And instead of running away, they headed toward the brawling men. Octavia tried to make an escape but was knocked down. Before she could get up, one of the brawlers grabbed her and she hit him with a bottle. He turned into a monster and slashed her stomach wide open. Before he could come at her again, “Mr. A” was behind him and tossed him across the room! As she sunk to the floor, strong arms came around her and “Mr. A” carried her out of the fighting as everything went black around her.
Octavia meets a vampire that may have answers to some of her questions. But it is definite that someone is hunting her. She will turn the tables and show them that she is not as naïve as they think. At least until the mastermind is revealed and nothing is ever the same again! Grab your copy and don’t miss this exciting mystery! Who is her enemy, and why? What started all of this? You won’t be able to walk away from this story until you reach the end!
Six months ago she died and began the search for her murderer among the paranormal population that she just discovered is actually real. The bullet that killed her had been on the ground next to her, as if it had merely popped out of her head! Since she hadn’t been robbed, someone had obviously just wanted her dead, and that was a mystery she wanted to solve. Now she has become Octavia Cruz. For the past month, someone had been leaving her a black dahlia flower, and that was another mystery.
She has Nick, a 19-year-old computer genius looking into her murder and also pointing her to where her murderer may be. She got a job at NightCrawlers where Nick sent her, but she hadn’t found anything suspicious yet. But the dark web said something big was coming there, so she needed to stay a while longer. She also kept an eye on her family, and had Nick investigate her old boyfriend, Ben. At work, she was sent to the VIP area where she saw a guy all in black, obviously the boss whom she labelled “Mr. A**hole”, and had a confrontation with him. He got her banned from the VIP area.
The next day, a scream sounded in the club and a bunch of hulking guys came in the door. People were running to escape. They broke liquor bottles and trashed the club. Octavia was trapped on the stage, unable to find a clear path to escape the approaching men. She looked up at the VIP section and saw “Mr. A” and his friends come out and leap down onto the dance floor … from the second-floor landing! And instead of running away, they headed toward the brawling men. Octavia tried to make an escape but was knocked down. Before she could get up, one of the brawlers grabbed her and she hit him with a bottle. He turned into a monster and slashed her stomach wide open. Before he could come at her again, “Mr. A” was behind him and tossed him across the room! As she sunk to the floor, strong arms came around her and “Mr. A” carried her out of the fighting as everything went black around her.
Octavia meets a vampire that may have answers to some of her questions. But it is definite that someone is hunting her. She will turn the tables and show them that she is not as naïve as they think. At least until the mastermind is revealed and nothing is ever the same again! Grab your copy and don’t miss this exciting mystery! Who is her enemy, and why? What started all of this? You won’t be able to walk away from this story until you reach the end!
July 20, 2022
Well, I thought I was going to love this book. I wanted to. I loved the concept. But the execution left much to be desired.
For one, the 2000's called, and they want their Vampire Brooding Bad Boy back. Yeah, that trope was a littler overplayed, and it's kind of boring. I mean secretive, artfully messy and untameable hair, know-it-all, rude demeanor, but sweet at heart.... I mean, f*ck, that only works so many times. And there is nothing more I hate (well, maybe a few things) than a supposedly well-meaning character who keeps secrets for no reason other than 'I thought it best'. Secrets which, usually, result in someone getting hurt or dead. Don't be dumb, guys.
And there were quite a few things that moved too quickly. I'll just give one example here. So in one scene, at Bear Mountain, Octavia is worried about Mikaela; she hasn't seen her since 'the game'. And in the next scene, it's two days later, and the two of them have apparently been hanging out. So, okay, no discussion about what happened. Got it. And also, over these two days, she and Killian have continued to talk, but we get even less information about what they discuss than that first night. So, basically, I have no real idea of what happened over three whole days.
Oh, and not only is Tristan an Edward-wanna-be, but he's also an idiot. He can't speak to Octavia like her actually cares about her, 9 out of 10 times they talk, even though he is supposed to have a soft spot for her once he realizes she is a phoenix; he doesn't treat his friends like friends; he seems to think it is best not to tell Octavia that she is going to turn into a shifter, which is worse than not telling her he plans to trade her. WTF is the point of never telling the truth?? I will never get the damn secrecy! But the worst part is when he was supposed to suspect she was still injured by the shifter attack, because he didn't know yet that she was a phoenix, right? And yet, she is up and moving in a way I can promise you she would not be if she had been sliced open. I mean, for f*ck's sake, she remembered seeing her own insides! And yet she is up and walking right after?? With no sign of pain or discomfort? And Tristan just...didn't suspect something was up? Okay. And the fact that he couldn't smell her wounds? That didn't clue him in? Either he knew she had healed and was playing dumb for reasons we will also never know, or he is the worst vampire ever.
I will say, I didn't see the ending coming. But it felt a little...much? Like, this book has been so helpless damsel, teenage drama, and then suddenly she is forced to murder her own family? And it wasn't an illusion or something, she apparently really killed them. Bit extreme, but okay. Whatever, I'm not going to read the next book. I was bored and disinterested, and I don't even like anyone in this story. Bummer, really.
For one, the 2000's called, and they want their Vampire Brooding Bad Boy back. Yeah, that trope was a littler overplayed, and it's kind of boring. I mean secretive, artfully messy and untameable hair, know-it-all, rude demeanor, but sweet at heart.... I mean, f*ck, that only works so many times. And there is nothing more I hate (well, maybe a few things) than a supposedly well-meaning character who keeps secrets for no reason other than 'I thought it best'. Secrets which, usually, result in someone getting hurt or dead. Don't be dumb, guys.
And there were quite a few things that moved too quickly. I'll just give one example here. So in one scene, at Bear Mountain, Octavia is worried about Mikaela; she hasn't seen her since 'the game'. And in the next scene, it's two days later, and the two of them have apparently been hanging out. So, okay, no discussion about what happened. Got it. And also, over these two days, she and Killian have continued to talk, but we get even less information about what they discuss than that first night. So, basically, I have no real idea of what happened over three whole days.
Oh, and not only is Tristan an Edward-wanna-be, but he's also an idiot. He can't speak to Octavia like her actually cares about her, 9 out of 10 times they talk, even though he is supposed to have a soft spot for her once he realizes she is a phoenix; he doesn't treat his friends like friends; he seems to think it is best not to tell Octavia that she is going to turn into a shifter, which is worse than not telling her he plans to trade her. WTF is the point of never telling the truth?? I will never get the damn secrecy! But the worst part is when he was supposed to suspect she was still injured by the shifter attack, because he didn't know yet that she was a phoenix, right? And yet, she is up and moving in a way I can promise you she would not be if she had been sliced open. I mean, for f*ck's sake, she remembered seeing her own insides! And yet she is up and walking right after?? With no sign of pain or discomfort? And Tristan just...didn't suspect something was up? Okay. And the fact that he couldn't smell her wounds? That didn't clue him in? Either he knew she had healed and was playing dumb for reasons we will also never know, or he is the worst vampire ever.
I will say, I didn't see the ending coming. But it felt a little...much? Like, this book has been so helpless damsel, teenage drama, and then suddenly she is forced to murder her own family? And it wasn't an illusion or something, she apparently really killed them. Bit extreme, but okay. Whatever, I'm not going to read the next book. I was bored and disinterested, and I don't even like anyone in this story. Bummer, really.
June 4, 2021
I flat out couldn’t handle the ending. It was too much for me. I get that Urban Fantasy can have blood, fighting, gore and death but this ending was too disturbing for me. The kind that turns my stomach while I sit back stunned. The book was already just ok for me. I didn’t love the dynamic between Octavia and Tristan. It was a weird power play were he acts all jealous and protective but goes about it all wrong. I get that Octavia is this feisty Latina but she’s a little ridiculous. Constantly going off on people isn’t feisty. I don’t know the whole dynamics between her and other characters were just off for me. Also there’s this unsaid tension between Octavia and Tristan and you get the feeling he likes her but she’s constantly calling him an a&$hole. I mean ALL THE TIME. Cut the the chase, the ending completely ruined the book for me. ***SPOILERS BELOW***First off she’s been letting her family think she’s dead for 6 months to “keep them safe.” Then her brother is targeted and she still stays away bc apparently keeping them in the dark and having them in danger is better..... So all of a sudden she decides she can’t stay with Tristan anymore so she’s going home to her family. WTH. Did she seriously think she could just stroll in and everything would be fine? Not to mention the creep after her knows who her family is so surely he’s watching them. I get it’s fantasy, I get things don’t have to make sense. HOWEVER it should still have a plot line that is feasible. This one had way to many holes! Add to the fact she rushes off to see her family and of course the bad guy just happens to be there. Cause I mean that makes sense. She’s been gone for 6 months but this is the day she’s obviously coming home 🙄🙄🙄 it gets even better. Somehow this unknown villain has the wherewithal to block all the doors and windows in the house. WITHOUT THE FAMILY INSIDE KNOWING! Then comes the horrific scene that made me regret staying up to read this book.
September 22, 2020
An interesting and enjoyable but short read.
Our main character is a seemingly ordinary young woman who discovers that she is a Phoenix when she is killed but doesn't stay dead, which comes as something of a surprise to her.
What follows this startling revelation is a brief period of time running and hiding before being attacked in a nightclub and then rescued by a small group of Vampires.
The local rival Vampire and Shifter clans both proceed to vie for her attention while helping her learn what her heritage is and who she has the potential to be.
There is also a third party who wants her but their motives are far from altruistic and definitely don't have her best interests at heart.
I've given the book four stars because although I enjoyed it, I felt that there was scope for more complexity. The story was fast paced, which I think did not do it justice. The characters were relatable but we barely scratched the surface of who they are and I found myself frustrated and wanting more depth and background to them. Situations were skipped over quickly, which created missed opportunities to develop the characters and their back stories and explain their behaviours and actions.
I read this book in one evening and despite wanting there to be a lot more to it, I am actually looking forward to the second book, which I believe will be published relatively soon.
Our main character is a seemingly ordinary young woman who discovers that she is a Phoenix when she is killed but doesn't stay dead, which comes as something of a surprise to her.
What follows this startling revelation is a brief period of time running and hiding before being attacked in a nightclub and then rescued by a small group of Vampires.
The local rival Vampire and Shifter clans both proceed to vie for her attention while helping her learn what her heritage is and who she has the potential to be.
There is also a third party who wants her but their motives are far from altruistic and definitely don't have her best interests at heart.
I've given the book four stars because although I enjoyed it, I felt that there was scope for more complexity. The story was fast paced, which I think did not do it justice. The characters were relatable but we barely scratched the surface of who they are and I found myself frustrated and wanting more depth and background to them. Situations were skipped over quickly, which created missed opportunities to develop the characters and their back stories and explain their behaviours and actions.
I read this book in one evening and despite wanting there to be a lot more to it, I am actually looking forward to the second book, which I believe will be published relatively soon.
April 21, 2022
SOOO GOOD!!!
Wow Karina is a new author for me and just wow this book was a ride and it was only the first one, I was honestly constantly snorting and laughing Camilla/Octavia is honestly the best I love her sass I mean Latina and a Phoenix that's a lot of fire 🔥 That ending though was seriously so heartbreaking 💔
When Camilla finds herself at the end of a gun barrel after her weekly girls night out she thinks her life is over but miraculously she somehow survives, convinced her attacker will come after her when he finds out she survived she goes on the run and let's everyone believe she died.
Finding a shifty dark web hacker she gets a new identity and a lead on who her killer may be which leads her to a bad version of hooters a seedy bar with a dark underbelly.
When she meets Tristan she pegs him off as your typical money bags douchebag but after the clubs attacked and he saves her life she wonders if her first assumption is wrong. But what she doesn't realize is there is a whole different world she's never believed in and not only are there supernaturals but she is the rarest of them all a Phoenix. With everyone wanting to use her for their own gain and a faceless killer still chasing her Octavia won't know who to trust.
Can't wait to start book 2.
Definitely Recommend Reading 📚
Wow Karina is a new author for me and just wow this book was a ride and it was only the first one, I was honestly constantly snorting and laughing Camilla/Octavia is honestly the best I love her sass I mean Latina and a Phoenix that's a lot of fire 🔥 That ending though was seriously so heartbreaking 💔
When Camilla finds herself at the end of a gun barrel after her weekly girls night out she thinks her life is over but miraculously she somehow survives, convinced her attacker will come after her when he finds out she survived she goes on the run and let's everyone believe she died.
Finding a shifty dark web hacker she gets a new identity and a lead on who her killer may be which leads her to a bad version of hooters a seedy bar with a dark underbelly.
When she meets Tristan she pegs him off as your typical money bags douchebag but after the clubs attacked and he saves her life she wonders if her first assumption is wrong. But what she doesn't realize is there is a whole different world she's never believed in and not only are there supernaturals but she is the rarest of them all a Phoenix. With everyone wanting to use her for their own gain and a faceless killer still chasing her Octavia won't know who to trust.
Can't wait to start book 2.
Definitely Recommend Reading 📚
September 18, 2020
💣💣ONE SENSATIONAL DELIGHT💣💣
Holy hell! Karina brought out the heavy artillery, locked and loaded, serving up one action packed, hard hitting, heart pounding, pulse racing, adrenaline pumping, page flipping bombshell, keeping you riveted on a razors edge and frozen to your seat, blasting this baby to life spectacularly. Trapped in a vicious nightmare full of deadly drama, churning turmoil, perilous intrigue, escalating danger and spiraling suspense ensue in epic proportions, wrapping this gem up sleek, shiny and tight. You feel everything the characters feel with every fiber of your being, your drawn into this tangled web so intricately and precise, all your emotions are heightened and exposed, baring the fervent facts, damning deals and terrifying traps, catapulting this gem to a whole new level. The characters, banter, dialogue, interactions and charged atmosphere along with relatable qualities and individual traits, blend and flow adding depth and diversity, transforming into outstanding personalities. The scenes are strikingly sharp with abundant details and graphic descriptions creating an elaborate backdrop that feels as though you were transported to ground zero with them. Fantastic job Karina, thanks for sharing this amazing jewel with us.
Holy hell! Karina brought out the heavy artillery, locked and loaded, serving up one action packed, hard hitting, heart pounding, pulse racing, adrenaline pumping, page flipping bombshell, keeping you riveted on a razors edge and frozen to your seat, blasting this baby to life spectacularly. Trapped in a vicious nightmare full of deadly drama, churning turmoil, perilous intrigue, escalating danger and spiraling suspense ensue in epic proportions, wrapping this gem up sleek, shiny and tight. You feel everything the characters feel with every fiber of your being, your drawn into this tangled web so intricately and precise, all your emotions are heightened and exposed, baring the fervent facts, damning deals and terrifying traps, catapulting this gem to a whole new level. The characters, banter, dialogue, interactions and charged atmosphere along with relatable qualities and individual traits, blend and flow adding depth and diversity, transforming into outstanding personalities. The scenes are strikingly sharp with abundant details and graphic descriptions creating an elaborate backdrop that feels as though you were transported to ground zero with them. Fantastic job Karina, thanks for sharing this amazing jewel with us.
February 9, 2021
I really wanted to like this, but it really fell flat for me... This was not the worst book I've read (I did manage to finish it), but there were a lot of issues. First, for someone who was killed, she sure makes a lot of the same mistakes - continuously not checking her surroundings and rushing in to things. Her inner dialogue just didn't make sense - for a couple of pages, she is freaking out because she killed someone and then immediately forgets about it and goes with the shifters. She talks about not trusting Tristan and then turns around and talks about how she trusts him.
Also what was with that ending? It felt completely senseless and it didn't even make sense. Also if Tristan could escape the entire time (even if he couldn't change anything...) why did he only try AFTER the fire was set and her family was killed??
My bookish brain wants to know what else happens in the story, but I cannot reasonably spend the time on a book that is just not worth it to me (thankfully it was a quick read). I am just not invested enough in the characters.
Also what was with that ending? It felt completely senseless and it didn't even make sense. Also if Tristan could escape the entire time (even if he couldn't change anything...) why did he only try AFTER the fire was set and her family was killed??
My bookish brain wants to know what else happens in the story, but I cannot reasonably spend the time on a book that is just not worth it to me (thankfully it was a quick read). I am just not invested enough in the characters.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 4, 2020
Our heroine is killed, murdered as it were, yet she rises again as a phoenix would. That just might change her world view.
This is book one of the series.
This is an urban fantasy story with all the usual races, plus a few unusual ones. Not sure I have ever seen a phoenix in such stories, for example, which definitely got my interest. In general, the story is well written and easy to read. The setting is very intriguing with lots of details that I really want to explore in more depth. The characters are okay, with some unique aspects, but they could use a little more development. My biggest disappointment was in our heroine who has great potential but is weak and doesn't think things through. Overall, not bad for a first book in the series, but I really want to see the heroine step up. Hopefully that will happen in book two.
Recommended.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout for review purposes.
This is book one of the series.
This is an urban fantasy story with all the usual races, plus a few unusual ones. Not sure I have ever seen a phoenix in such stories, for example, which definitely got my interest. In general, the story is well written and easy to read. The setting is very intriguing with lots of details that I really want to explore in more depth. The characters are okay, with some unique aspects, but they could use a little more development. My biggest disappointment was in our heroine who has great potential but is weak and doesn't think things through. Overall, not bad for a first book in the series, but I really want to see the heroine step up. Hopefully that will happen in book two.
Recommended.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout for review purposes.
September 6, 2020
This book was very good! I loved reading about the young woman who finds out she is a Phoenix the hard was. There are a couple of factions that are trying to gain her trust, the vampires and the shapeshifters. Then you have a mystery, who killed her and who keeps leaving her flowers and why. They find the killer and take care of him, but who is the mysterious “He” she should be afraid of? The end of the book will just blow your mind it is not what you expect at all. I have never read this author that I can remember but I have already pre-ordered the next book because I really need to know what happens. Great Read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 21, 2020
5 Cranky Stars
Camila was murdered, execution style, but woke up and ran away from her life. She decided to get a new identity and search for who would want her dead. She gets a lead to a bar, where she ends up hurt by a man who grew claws. She is rescued by Tristan who is obviously hiding something from her. He says he can help her, but she is unsure. She learns things about herself and about things that go bump in the night.
This story will suck you in and keep you on the edge of your seat! It does leave you on a cliffhanger, but still a rocking story.
Camila was murdered, execution style, but woke up and ran away from her life. She decided to get a new identity and search for who would want her dead. She gets a lead to a bar, where she ends up hurt by a man who grew claws. She is rescued by Tristan who is obviously hiding something from her. He says he can help her, but she is unsure. She learns things about herself and about things that go bump in the night.
This story will suck you in and keep you on the edge of your seat! It does leave you on a cliffhanger, but still a rocking story.
September 8, 2020
Camila is enjoying a night out when she is shot. She wakes up afraid for her life. She runs and is hiding. She assumes a new identity Octavia and is trying to track down her killer. She is working at a club, when the unthinkable happens. She will ended up with vampires and shifters in her life. She will learn what she is.
That is just a piece of what happens, this is a great read. You have non-stop action with some eye candy for the character. Love the characters attitude, her forming her relationships with different characters. That ending of this book has me wanting the second. I highly recommend reading this book
That is just a piece of what happens, this is a great read. You have non-stop action with some eye candy for the character. Love the characters attitude, her forming her relationships with different characters. That ending of this book has me wanting the second. I highly recommend reading this book
September 19, 2020
I really liked this book. It was fun to read and made me laugh. The characters were great and their interactions were a blast. I loved the mix of normal everyday, weird, and the paranormal. And do not forget the mystery of why Octavia was killed. This mystery is interesting and really made me read the story in one sitting to see who the bad guy was and why. Now I need the next book to see what she finds out next. The story was well written, the plot interesting and can be far reaching, and the characters fun and not one dimensional. Cannot wait to see what happens with the vampires and the shifters.
September 22, 2020
This book was excellent and I really enjoyed reading it! The MC is a fascinating character who has no idea she is a Phoenix until she is murdered but doesn’t stay dead that nearly dies again when she gets caught in the middle of a turf war between vampires and shifters and is gravely injured.
This book is fast paced with so many groups trying to gain the MC’s trust even though she knows they just want to either use her or manipulate her. All of this while she tries to figure out who wants her dead. This book has all the twists and turns and the ending just really gets you invested in the next book! I can’t wait to read it!
This book is fast paced with so many groups trying to gain the MC’s trust even though she knows they just want to either use her or manipulate her. All of this while she tries to figure out who wants her dead. This book has all the twists and turns and the ending just really gets you invested in the next book! I can’t wait to read it!
September 13, 2020
Just.... so so good. It’s got everything, suspense, mystery, intrigue, a MC with a bucket full of personality, and SO MUCH character development. What was possibly my favorite addition to the story was the “breed” of the MC. This isn’t your mom’s modern vamp tale. Though it does have your favorites, (shifters, vamps, etc), the MC is a variety that I can almost guarantee you have never had the opportunity to explore. It’s even got a few hot alpha-holes to get hot and bothered over. Grab something to sip on, sit back, and enjoy!
October 1, 2020
Excellent read and wonderful beginning to a new series
What an amazing start to a new series. Camila Cortez seemingly is your average everyday young woman. She enjoyed a girls night out. While she was heading back to the parking garage she ended up getting shot. Six months ago Camila Cortez died. Six months ago Camila Cortez discovered that she is a Phoenix. For six months she has been searching for her killer. This book keep me interested all the way through. It is fast paced and intense. It's a solid start to a new series. I can't wait until the next book.
What an amazing start to a new series. Camila Cortez seemingly is your average everyday young woman. She enjoyed a girls night out. While she was heading back to the parking garage she ended up getting shot. Six months ago Camila Cortez died. Six months ago Camila Cortez discovered that she is a Phoenix. For six months she has been searching for her killer. This book keep me interested all the way through. It is fast paced and intense. It's a solid start to a new series. I can't wait until the next book.
April 10, 2021
Excuses Bad Behavior
The heroine was impulsive and easily swayed. By the end of the book, I had zero sympathy for her. There was points in the book, when I was rooting for her. Happy that she was taking up for herself, just to be disappointed that she caved to those who has wronged her. She is strong but weak. Never would I have so easily forgiven someone who cut my stomach so bad, my guts was falling out....therefore killing me. This book is full of excuses for bad behavior.
The heroine was impulsive and easily swayed. By the end of the book, I had zero sympathy for her. There was points in the book, when I was rooting for her. Happy that she was taking up for herself, just to be disappointed that she caved to those who has wronged her. She is strong but weak. Never would I have so easily forgiven someone who cut my stomach so bad, my guts was falling out....therefore killing me. This book is full of excuses for bad behavior.
August 31, 2020
This is the first book of hers that I have read. This one started a little slow for me but picked up really quick. By the end I was hoping that the next book was already released. It does end on a little cliffhanger which I usually try to steer clear from since Im not good at waiting. I plan on pick up a few more of her books to read. I would highly recommend this book to anyone.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 2, 2020
The flow of this book is brilliant, the more I read the better it became. I have already pre ordered the next one. Not sure who I liked more the vamps or the shifters who in equal parts want Octavia to be with them. The characters are well written, the situations she ends up in are more than believable. Didn't put this book down until absolutely necessary. Must read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 18, 2020
This was my first time reading this author and I really enjoyed this book. I like how the characters develop and how the story progresses. Discovering information as the heroine does makes for an interesting an interactive story. I liked both the vampires and weres. Each group brings something different to the story and I can't wait to see where it goes from here.
This story ends on a cliffhanger so be forewarned.
Happy Reading!
This story ends on a cliffhanger so be forewarned.
Happy Reading!
September 23, 2020
Not bad bit not great, so much potential lost!
I usually like this author so im surprised how much I didn't like this book. The heroine is beyond stupid making one bad choice after the another. It would have been one thing if she smartened up but through the entire book she continued to be ignorant and weak. She was weak, the guys were weak. Im ok with the heroine starting off ignorant but growing. No growing was done. She's petulant, childish and dumb.
I usually like this author so im surprised how much I didn't like this book. The heroine is beyond stupid making one bad choice after the another. It would have been one thing if she smartened up but through the entire book she continued to be ignorant and weak. She was weak, the guys were weak. Im ok with the heroine starting off ignorant but growing. No growing was done. She's petulant, childish and dumb.
September 15, 2020
A perfect beginning to a series
“Phoenix Burn” is an exciting tale of discovery for a young woman who finds out she is a Phoenix shifter. This tale has action, drama, suspense, and mystery with a surprise twist at the end. I highly recommend starting this series.
I received a free copy of this book. This review was posted voluntarily
“Phoenix Burn” is an exciting tale of discovery for a young woman who finds out she is a Phoenix shifter. This tale has action, drama, suspense, and mystery with a surprise twist at the end. I highly recommend starting this series.
I received a free copy of this book. This review was posted voluntarily
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