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Order of the Blade #12
Darkness Awakened: Reimagined
In this highly anticipated remake of the first book in the RITA® Award-winning Order of the Blade series, this stunningly sexy, action-packed paranormal romance between forced mates reveals the power of true love against the darkest evil, by New York Times bestselling author Stephanie Rowe.
Ajax Steele has fought against evil for centuries, a brutal life that commanded the ultimate sacrifice. When a dangerous enemy resurfaces, Ajax must sever ties with his team and go deep to stop him. His only chance? Team up with the alluringly sexy woman destined to kill him the moment they fall in love.
Cursed with a rare magic, Madison Locke has spent her life on the run from assassins, living in the shadows to conceal a terrible secret. But when her sister is kidnapped by a merciless hunter, Madison must emerge from hiding to save her. To succeed, she must recruit the help of a dangerously tempting warrior who awakens a burning hunger inside her that threatens them both.
A silken caress. A steaming kiss. Can the two fated enemies survive their deadly mate bond and save those they love?
Author's Note: Perfect for brand-new readers to the series and avid fans, Darkness Awakened: Reimagined tells the story of Darkness Awakened in an entirely new way.
Ajax Steele has fought against evil for centuries, a brutal life that commanded the ultimate sacrifice. When a dangerous enemy resurfaces, Ajax must sever ties with his team and go deep to stop him. His only chance? Team up with the alluringly sexy woman destined to kill him the moment they fall in love.
Cursed with a rare magic, Madison Locke has spent her life on the run from assassins, living in the shadows to conceal a terrible secret. But when her sister is kidnapped by a merciless hunter, Madison must emerge from hiding to save her. To succeed, she must recruit the help of a dangerously tempting warrior who awakens a burning hunger inside her that threatens them both.
A silken caress. A steaming kiss. Can the two fated enemies survive their deadly mate bond and save those they love?
Author's Note: Perfect for brand-new readers to the series and avid fans, Darkness Awakened: Reimagined tells the story of Darkness Awakened in an entirely new way.
- GenresRomanceParanormalFantasy
ebook
First published November 3, 2020
74 people are currently reading
181 people want to read
About the author
Stephanie Rowe
112 books1,537 followersHailed as a "paranormal star!" by J.R. Ward, Stephanie Rowe is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of more than forty-five novels. She is the 2018 RITA® winner for Best Paranormal Romance, as well as a five-time nominee for this prestigious award. For more on Stephanie and her books, visit her at www.stephaneierowe.com, or on facebook at https://www.facebook.com/StephanieRow....
A life-long reader, she began crafting stories at age ten, but didn't realize it was her dream until she was an adult.
Once the light dawned, she immediately left behind "work" as the world defines it and went to "work" as she defines it, which means getting up every morning with a smile in her heart so she can spend the day doing that which makes her spirit sing.
Stephanie believes in learning to listen to your heart in order to figure out what your dreams are, and then opening yourself to the inspiration that will direct you there. She believes we all deserve the right to enjoy life, and for the ride to be as easy as we want it to be, and that we all should accept nothing less than making our dreams come true.
Stephanie lives in New England, and spends every day doing her best to fill it with people, observations and activities that uplift her soul, which include writing, tennis, dancing, friends, and her amazing family.
A life-long reader, she began crafting stories at age ten, but didn't realize it was her dream until she was an adult.
Once the light dawned, she immediately left behind "work" as the world defines it and went to "work" as she defines it, which means getting up every morning with a smile in her heart so she can spend the day doing that which makes her spirit sing.
Stephanie believes in learning to listen to your heart in order to figure out what your dreams are, and then opening yourself to the inspiration that will direct you there. She believes we all deserve the right to enjoy life, and for the ride to be as easy as we want it to be, and that we all should accept nothing less than making our dreams come true.
Stephanie lives in New England, and spends every day doing her best to fill it with people, observations and activities that uplift her soul, which include writing, tennis, dancing, friends, and her amazing family.
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November 3, 2020RELEASE WEEK BONUS! To celebrate my first Order of the Blade book in almost four years, I am thrilled to announce that I'm giving away a FREE full-length paranormal romance novel to anyone who purchases the ebook of Darkness Awakened: Reimagined! The bonus book is Immortally Cursed, the first book in the sexy & fun paranormal romance Immortally Sexy series. The free book will be included in the book file, like a boxed set, so it's easy peasy! Preorder Darkness Awakened: Reimagined now so you don't miss out! Links below:
Amazon: http://bit.ly/DAReAmazon
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Kobo: http://bit.ly/DAReKobo
GooglePlay: http://bit.ly/DARePlay
Amazon: http://bit.ly/DAReAmazon
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iBooks: http://bit.ly/DAReiBooks
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November 3, 2020
I have read this author for years, and when she “reimagined” one of the books I had read years ago, I was definitely intrigued. I started reading, and just like all of the books I’ve read by this author, I was immediately drawn in. I loved the characters, even the side characters. I especially loved that Madison stood up to the powerful warriors instead of acting all intimidated. This was similar, but different enough, that it seemed like a whole new book. That really takes talent. I can’t wait to read more in this universe as it is compelling, written well, and full of non-stop action with a little romance thrown in. Highly recommend. I was provided a complimentary copy which I voluntarily reviewed.
October 21, 2020
Take one on the run Illusionist, her abducted sister and add in a gamut of alpha, battle-hardened paranormal warriors and we have a fantastic beginning to this series!
Madison has always feared being an Illusionist, if she ever goes off the deep end there is every chance she'll be as evil as those she faces. Her sister got the peaceful illusions, why couldn't she?
But when her sister is kidnapped in order to force her to assassinate one of the powerful Calydon warriors in the Order of the Blade, can she really go through with it? Can she force herself to kill someone? Can she manage to enlist his help instead?
Ajax may be centuries old but the evil he fights is as fresh as ever. But had it now wrapped itself in the sexy wrappings of an Illusionist? He knows exactly what kind of damage they can wreak. But adding to his new headache is the startling revelation that Madison may be his Sheva, the one perfect woman for him, who is also possibly his killer.
Totally loved this reworking of the OOTB series. Ajax is perfectly alpha. Madison is such a conundrum as you're never quite sure if she will betray the Order and Ajax to save her sister (half the time I'm sure she doesn't actually know herself). Madison is much stronger and more level headed than she gives herself credit for. The camaraderie between the Order is strong, but it's heartbreaking that they essentially have to kill of their other half, or that of their team-mate, to be able to do their jobs. Can't wait to see what happens with the next book.
Madison has always feared being an Illusionist, if she ever goes off the deep end there is every chance she'll be as evil as those she faces. Her sister got the peaceful illusions, why couldn't she?
But when her sister is kidnapped in order to force her to assassinate one of the powerful Calydon warriors in the Order of the Blade, can she really go through with it? Can she force herself to kill someone? Can she manage to enlist his help instead?
Ajax may be centuries old but the evil he fights is as fresh as ever. But had it now wrapped itself in the sexy wrappings of an Illusionist? He knows exactly what kind of damage they can wreak. But adding to his new headache is the startling revelation that Madison may be his Sheva, the one perfect woman for him, who is also possibly his killer.
Totally loved this reworking of the OOTB series. Ajax is perfectly alpha. Madison is such a conundrum as you're never quite sure if she will betray the Order and Ajax to save her sister (half the time I'm sure she doesn't actually know herself). Madison is much stronger and more level headed than she gives herself credit for. The camaraderie between the Order is strong, but it's heartbreaking that they essentially have to kill of their other half, or that of their team-mate, to be able to do their jobs. Can't wait to see what happens with the next book.
November 3, 2020
Oh gez, what an adventure this book is! Had to wait until I could read it all in one sitting which meant I had to wait a day and a half to read this book. I'm sorry I had to wait but so glad to read it all in one sitting. Otherwise I wouldn't have been able to function at work. Loved every minute of it, and this book is action from the moment the book starts. Absolutely one of my favorite authors and I voted for this book to happen so many times and so happy for this book. Can't wait to read the rest of the series in this new world. I hope Ms. Rowe does them all and more. Honestly I think I liked this one better than the original one and that's saying a lot since the original series is a must have for me.
I did receive an ARC for an honest review.
I did receive an ARC for an honest review.
October 22, 2020
This is book 12 of the series but you don’t need to have read the others to enjoy this one.
Ajax and Madison have an uncontrollable attraction to each other which they are both trying to deny because she has been sent to kill him to save her sister who has been kidnapped, and he doesn’t quite trust her story, even though he thinks she is his mate. She finally earns his trust and they work together to find her sister.
This book is full of twists and turns and great secondary characters who deserve their own book. Well written and well worth the read. I received an ARC from the author and leave my review voluntarily.
Ajax and Madison have an uncontrollable attraction to each other which they are both trying to deny because she has been sent to kill him to save her sister who has been kidnapped, and he doesn’t quite trust her story, even though he thinks she is his mate. She finally earns his trust and they work together to find her sister.
This book is full of twists and turns and great secondary characters who deserve their own book. Well written and well worth the read. I received an ARC from the author and leave my review voluntarily.
October 15, 2020
I received an ARC on this book and was asked to give my honest opinion, so here it is. This is book 12 in The Order of the blade series. I ,however, knew nothing about this series and thought it was the first one. After finishing the book and enjoying it I wanted to see when the next one was out and that's when I found out it was book 12. Why is this important, two reasons. The first is you don't have to had read any of the other books to enjoy this one. I would definitely be interested in reading book 13 in the series if Stephanie continued on with the series with the secondary cast involved in this book. The second reason and why I gave it a 4 is I went through and read the excerpts of the other 11 books and the very first in the series Darkness Awakened is way to similar to this one. Names are changed as this story is about Ajax Steele and Madison Locke but the excerpt from book one was almost identical to book twelve. This is just a heads up statement for others who have read this entire series.
My take on this book: The Calydons are a race of ancient immortals that should they meet their mate (sheva) it can destroy them both. Two sisters Madison and Ashley Locke are Illusionists, one dark and one light. Ashley is kidnapped and Madison needs someone to help her find her sister. In comes Ajax Steele and his Order brothers. Illusionists don't trust the brothers and vice versa, for good reasons. Things arise (trying not to give spoilers) and a greater threat named Bezoan must be defeated. I really enjoyed the secondary characters in this book ie; Xander, Viktor and Kiera. I'm hoping book 13 will have their stories as this book ending was left with that option.
My take on this book: The Calydons are a race of ancient immortals that should they meet their mate (sheva) it can destroy them both. Two sisters Madison and Ashley Locke are Illusionists, one dark and one light. Ashley is kidnapped and Madison needs someone to help her find her sister. In comes Ajax Steele and his Order brothers. Illusionists don't trust the brothers and vice versa, for good reasons. Things arise (trying not to give spoilers) and a greater threat named Bezoan must be defeated. I really enjoyed the secondary characters in this book ie; Xander, Viktor and Kiera. I'm hoping book 13 will have their stories as this book ending was left with that option.
November 3, 2020
This was such an exciting read, full of page turning drama, action and politics. I loved how Ajax and Madison had to work together, despite their lack of trust in each other, initially, as they navigated the mystery of who was killing off the Calydon warriors while trying to rescue her sister Ashley. Their chemistry was off the hook and yet the curse of having a Sheva hung over them, ramping up the angst for both. It's really gripping, and like other books by this author, I found myself unwilling to put it down until I hit the end - no matter what I else was supposed to be doing ;) I'd recommend this book as a way to dive into the Order of the Blade series or any Stephanie Rowe book. Well done!
November 2, 2020
Even though I read the original first book of this series this book was very good. A different perspective on the original. Almost a parellel dimension. Madison and Ajax sizzled on the pages trying to fight a losing battle of attraction. A fight for their lives and for their inner selves. Will they have the same destiny as their ancestors or will they change it for all in the future?
November 3, 2020
What a ride the author takes you on with this book! Immortals, illusionists, good and evil! When Ajax meets Madison little does he know what they'll become because you never know when you're going to find that one for you, even if you know it wouldn't be a good thing and didn't want it. And she just wants to find her sister. This is their story and there's twists, surprises and a great cast of characters that you hope you'll see more of. It's a story that was told before but is even better Reimagined!
November 1, 2020
I was so excited to hear Stephanie Rowe was writing in her Order of the Blade world again. I loved all the previous books but its been years since I read them. Initially though I was a tiny bit confused, there were no character names I recognised! I know it had been a while but...... so I went and re-read the blurb and the penny dropped, this was a reimagined version, yes now the title makes sense!! D'oh!
So with that in mind, especially for those readers who have read the previous book, how did I feel? Well, I loved it!! Yes, there are a lot of similarities with the original, but it really was a very different take and it felt like a completely new story, even though I kind of knew where it was going, just not the way it would get there.
Madison is a dark illusionist and is hiding from her past and herself. When her sister Ashley is kidnapped and Calydon warriors start dying, she must team up with one of them to save her. The problem is her and Ajax are meant to be enemies, but when you throw an ancient evil and the sheeva mate destiny into the mix, sparks fly and passion ignites as they fight their destiny and the destruction of all they love.
I loved Ajax, he was hot, dominant, fierce, protective and powerful, all the things you'd hope for in an immortal warrior but he has his flaws. He struggled with trust though, even with his own team thanks to a tragic past, but his loyalty is torn. His sheeva who according to a centuries old Calydon law is meant to die, is the one person he realises he must protect at all costs, destiny be dammed.
Madison was a mix of sassy determination, strength and love for her sister, but was full of self doubt and fear of her powers. I'm not sure even she knew at times exactly where her loyalties would fall. This lead to a fast paced, action packed, somewhat dark story with intense passion, steam and a rollercoaster of emotions I really enjoyed.
The original book will always hold a special place in my heart as it was the first series I'd read where romance and its more erotic side came together on the pages and it got me hooked. However I've always loved Stephanie Rowe's writing and I'm fascinated to see where this reimagined world goes from here as it was certainly left open for a lot more to come.
Rating 4.5 stars
So with that in mind, especially for those readers who have read the previous book, how did I feel? Well, I loved it!! Yes, there are a lot of similarities with the original, but it really was a very different take and it felt like a completely new story, even though I kind of knew where it was going, just not the way it would get there.
Madison is a dark illusionist and is hiding from her past and herself. When her sister Ashley is kidnapped and Calydon warriors start dying, she must team up with one of them to save her. The problem is her and Ajax are meant to be enemies, but when you throw an ancient evil and the sheeva mate destiny into the mix, sparks fly and passion ignites as they fight their destiny and the destruction of all they love.
I loved Ajax, he was hot, dominant, fierce, protective and powerful, all the things you'd hope for in an immortal warrior but he has his flaws. He struggled with trust though, even with his own team thanks to a tragic past, but his loyalty is torn. His sheeva who according to a centuries old Calydon law is meant to die, is the one person he realises he must protect at all costs, destiny be dammed.
Madison was a mix of sassy determination, strength and love for her sister, but was full of self doubt and fear of her powers. I'm not sure even she knew at times exactly where her loyalties would fall. This lead to a fast paced, action packed, somewhat dark story with intense passion, steam and a rollercoaster of emotions I really enjoyed.
The original book will always hold a special place in my heart as it was the first series I'd read where romance and its more erotic side came together on the pages and it got me hooked. However I've always loved Stephanie Rowe's writing and I'm fascinated to see where this reimagined world goes from here as it was certainly left open for a lot more to come.
Rating 4.5 stars
October 23, 2020
WOW!!!! So much paranormal action and bada$$ warriors! If you love J.R. Wards Black Dagger Brotherhood I think you'll equally love this series!!! Brilliant world building and characters. Madison and her beloved sister were orphaned as young children when their parents were cruelly murdered. They are both powerful Illusionists.. They can not only make people believe what they form, but .Madison can make these images an actual physical reality. Sadly she lives in fear as she has no control over said illusions. Having never had anyone to show them how to use this power, they both rely on instinct and pray nothing bad happens. Everything changes when there's a murder nearby and her sister gets kidnapped by an unknown person. The sisters are thrust into a fight that's been going for a very long time. Can Madison find her sister? Maybe along the way, find a family she has longed for. Many obstacles are thrown in her way. Not to mention a few revelations. This amazingly loyal, fierce female is about to make a big splash! There's tons of action, alpha warriors with incredible powers, legends that become reality, and .mysterious enemies. I can't wait to see what happens next. There are still a few loose ends at the close of the book left open for the next in the series. It will most definitely leave you excited for more. Enjoy!
November 3, 2020
Ok so let me just say that I was really excited that this author was writing in one of my favorite series again! We get the story of Ajax and Madison. Ajax is a Calydon warrior who helps police his other warriors. All while trying to avoid his sheva and fate. Madison is an illusionist on the run from assassin's who lives in the shadow's with her sister. But when her sister is taken, she will do whatever she has to in order to get her back. Including putting herself in the path of the race who would kill her. But when a common enemy makes these two allies, can they not only defeat the ones coming after them but fate as well?
Ok so yes, I still love this series. It sucked me in right from the start and kept me reading. But I kept thinking that I had read something like this before, and I was slightly confused. I completely missed that this is basically a reworking (completely with new names!) of book 1! And don't get me wrong, it is still a really great read and I thoroughly enjoyed every minute of it. But I thought it was a completely new book in the world, not a retelling of the original book that started the series. So while yes, I would probably re-read it but I am just confused as to why it was necessary? I don't know, it kinda left me off kilter after realizing that. Otherwise, if you ignore that-it was a great read and a great story!
Ok so yes, I still love this series. It sucked me in right from the start and kept me reading. But I kept thinking that I had read something like this before, and I was slightly confused. I completely missed that this is basically a reworking (completely with new names!) of book 1! And don't get me wrong, it is still a really great read and I thoroughly enjoyed every minute of it. But I thought it was a completely new book in the world, not a retelling of the original book that started the series. So while yes, I would probably re-read it but I am just confused as to why it was necessary? I don't know, it kinda left me off kilter after realizing that. Otherwise, if you ignore that-it was a great read and a great story!
November 13, 2020
Everything I love about Stephanie Rowe is on brilliant display!
**Presented with an ARC by the author via BookFunnel in exchange for an honest review.**
After reading this book, one that is part of a larger series but can stand on its own, I am desperate to read the others that came before and any that may come after.
The emotion Stephanie evokes in every word brings the characters to life in such sharp relief, that you forget you’re reading a book. I never wanted to put this book down, even though from the moment I started reading there seemed to be some kind of cosmic keep-away game going on.
It’s the little things, the tiny details, that add so much more to this book than dialogue ever could. The micro expressions, the details of Madison’s environment, the glances from strangers that can make or break Madison’s mood. The emotional upheaval caused by all that comes with and from being Illusionists, the Calydon warriors from atheism Order of the Blade that chase Madison and her sister, Ashley.
I have read Stephanie Rowe’s romances before, but this urban fantasy is right on par with Brittni Chenelle, A.D. Winter, Mary Fan, and Megan Blackwood. Fans of Stephanie Rowe’s other work will recognize her depth of emotion and attention to detail that brings this story to life in a way that is just breathtaking. I cannot recommend this book enough!
**Presented with an ARC by the author via BookFunnel in exchange for an honest review.**
After reading this book, one that is part of a larger series but can stand on its own, I am desperate to read the others that came before and any that may come after.
The emotion Stephanie evokes in every word brings the characters to life in such sharp relief, that you forget you’re reading a book. I never wanted to put this book down, even though from the moment I started reading there seemed to be some kind of cosmic keep-away game going on.
It’s the little things, the tiny details, that add so much more to this book than dialogue ever could. The micro expressions, the details of Madison’s environment, the glances from strangers that can make or break Madison’s mood. The emotional upheaval caused by all that comes with and from being Illusionists, the Calydon warriors from atheism Order of the Blade that chase Madison and her sister, Ashley.
I have read Stephanie Rowe’s romances before, but this urban fantasy is right on par with Brittni Chenelle, A.D. Winter, Mary Fan, and Megan Blackwood. Fans of Stephanie Rowe’s other work will recognize her depth of emotion and attention to detail that brings this story to life in a way that is just breathtaking. I cannot recommend this book enough!
October 26, 2020
At first, I wasn't sure this book was worth rewriting. Although I enjoyed the first version, it was not my favorite book in the Order of the Blade series - for me, Darkness Awakened was just a really good series set-up. However, after reading this "Reimagined" version, I'm SO GLAD author Stephanie Rowe took the time to do this.
I could really get behind the character of Madison this time. Her desire to save her sister Ashley was palpable from the beginning. I felt Madison was a more sympathetic character in this version and I was not nearly as annoyed at her as I remember from the first version. I also liked how Madison used her powers positively instead of in only a negative manner.
Ajax is a suitable partner for Madison. Their interactions were positive and gradually built up. I also liked that the trust between them slowly built over the course of the story and wasn't instant (even if the attraction was instantaneous).
This book does a fantastic job introducing the Calydon race and setting up characters for future books. I'm excited to get started rereading the Order of the Blade series and this revised version was a perfect way to start.
I could really get behind the character of Madison this time. Her desire to save her sister Ashley was palpable from the beginning. I felt Madison was a more sympathetic character in this version and I was not nearly as annoyed at her as I remember from the first version. I also liked how Madison used her powers positively instead of in only a negative manner.
Ajax is a suitable partner for Madison. Their interactions were positive and gradually built up. I also liked that the trust between them slowly built over the course of the story and wasn't instant (even if the attraction was instantaneous).
This book does a fantastic job introducing the Calydon race and setting up characters for future books. I'm excited to get started rereading the Order of the Blade series and this revised version was a perfect way to start.
November 4, 2020
Ok, so you know those plotlines where you want to smack the hero/heroine for just not opening their mouths and speaking up, which in turn causes all sorts of havoc and angst? What about those books where the hero is too manly to say what's in his heart until the very end when the heroine is dying/walking away? Oh, or what about those stories where the hero and heroine are at odds, and they sabotage each other for some kind of greater good?
This. Is. Not. That. Book.
I literally could not put this down. The story between Ajax and Madison is quick-paced, action-packed, and fulfilling. Like all of Stephanie Rowe's heroines, Madison is not one to sit back and let the warriors do all the heavy lifting. As an Illusionist, she has a few tricks up her sleeve, which she's able to finally embrace through her bond with Ajax. This is a story about how love and trust can literally rewrite destinies, change prophecies, reimagine the future.
You will not be sorry to have read this book.
(Reviewer was given an advanced copy in return for an honest review.)
This. Is. Not. That. Book.
I literally could not put this down. The story between Ajax and Madison is quick-paced, action-packed, and fulfilling. Like all of Stephanie Rowe's heroines, Madison is not one to sit back and let the warriors do all the heavy lifting. As an Illusionist, she has a few tricks up her sleeve, which she's able to finally embrace through her bond with Ajax. This is a story about how love and trust can literally rewrite destinies, change prophecies, reimagine the future.
You will not be sorry to have read this book.
(Reviewer was given an advanced copy in return for an honest review.)
November 2, 2020
I received an Arc copy in exchange for an honest review. Although this is not my first Stephanie Rowe novel, it was my first intro into the Order of the Blade series. Even though this is book 12 in the series, you do not need to read any of the previous books to dive into this story.
I quite enjoyed reading this story as it had different elements that I am not used to reading in a paranormal romance. Characters who were Illusionists and Calydon warriors were all new to me and it was exciting to learn about them in this book. The idea of a sheva (fated mates) is something I usually enjoy in a paranormal romance, but Stephanie found a way to make me stress about it because in this world, they are fated to destroy each other.
I found this book to be a good escape and would love to read about the secondary characters because they all seem to have good stories that are waiting to be told.
I quite enjoyed reading this story as it had different elements that I am not used to reading in a paranormal romance. Characters who were Illusionists and Calydon warriors were all new to me and it was exciting to learn about them in this book. The idea of a sheva (fated mates) is something I usually enjoy in a paranormal romance, but Stephanie found a way to make me stress about it because in this world, they are fated to destroy each other.
I found this book to be a good escape and would love to read about the secondary characters because they all seem to have good stories that are waiting to be told.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 19, 2020
I absolutely loved this book! Many years ago the original book sparked my interest in this genre and I have loved every one of the books in this series. If you are a fan of this series or even if this is your first one, you will not be disappointed. I was a little concerned about the concept of "reimagining" the original story but the book was awesome. Stephanie Rowe has a way of pulling you into the story and before you know it, hours have passed and you are hooked. Ajax and Madison share a hot and sexy relationship, in a story that has plenty of action. Characters have depth, their connection is fiery and passionate and the storyline is captivating, believable and well written. I could not put it down and suffered several sleep deprived days after reading well into the night. If you are looking for a steamy, paranormal romance with lots of action ....this is the book for you!
October 24, 2020
When I was first asked to review this book I wondered how it would be possible to improved the first book of the Oder of the Blade which was a fast paced brilliant start to a series and what a series it is... How wrong I was , this not only captured the original fast paced action but with the more in depth story behind Maddison and her sister as well as the plot, Stephanie has proven you can improve a good thing, the way she weaves the world of the Calydon warriors is spellbinding and although we now have Ajax as Maddison's mate its still full of the intense attraction that they have for each other although Ajax is fighting it for good reason, lovers of this series will understand but new readers will be able to discover the sad situation the Calydon are in another page turner forget eating or sleeping you will not be able to put it down ..
November 3, 2020
This is book 12 in the Order of the Blade series and is also a remake of the first book. I really enjoyed reading this book. It was a great escape from reality. Stephanie Rowe really can make a great world to escape into. I was captivated by every page of the book.
Darkness Awakened Reimagined is the story of Ajax an Immortal warrior and Madison an Illustionist. Their story was amazing to read. Madison's sister is kidnapped and she will do whatever it takes to get her back. She ends up getting help from Ajax who is a member of the Order of the Blade and if he finds out her secret that will be the end of Madison and her sister. But something unforseen happens between Ajax and Madison.
I really enjoyed this book. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys paranormal romances with action.
I give Darkness Awakened Reimagined 5 out of 5 stars.
Darkness Awakened Reimagined is the story of Ajax an Immortal warrior and Madison an Illustionist. Their story was amazing to read. Madison's sister is kidnapped and she will do whatever it takes to get her back. She ends up getting help from Ajax who is a member of the Order of the Blade and if he finds out her secret that will be the end of Madison and her sister. But something unforseen happens between Ajax and Madison.
I really enjoyed this book. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys paranormal romances with action.
I give Darkness Awakened Reimagined 5 out of 5 stars.
November 23, 2020
I love Stephanie Rowe's writing
Whether she is writing about the Order of the Blade, Cowboys in Wyoming, Shifters and the cold land of Alaska, her stories will touch your soul because she writes from the depth of her heart about people who spring off the pages into your life. I first read the original Darkness Awakened in 2014 and I couldn't put the book down..I have kindle fire with a cover that the reader can stand upright on a flat surface. I was in my kitchen, cooking dinner while flipping the pages because her unique world wouldn't let me go. This Reimagined version did not disappoint. So if you are a longtime fan or wanting an exciting new author to fill your long days in quarantine during the pandemic of 2020, I highly recommend all her book series to take you away.
Whether she is writing about the Order of the Blade, Cowboys in Wyoming, Shifters and the cold land of Alaska, her stories will touch your soul because she writes from the depth of her heart about people who spring off the pages into your life. I first read the original Darkness Awakened in 2014 and I couldn't put the book down..I have kindle fire with a cover that the reader can stand upright on a flat surface. I was in my kitchen, cooking dinner while flipping the pages because her unique world wouldn't let me go. This Reimagined version did not disappoint. So if you are a longtime fan or wanting an exciting new author to fill your long days in quarantine during the pandemic of 2020, I highly recommend all her book series to take you away.
October 18, 2020
I haven’t read any of the Order of the Blade books in the past but I loved this one! I like Stephanie’s books and have read her paranormal ones, most have a funny streak to them that I like. This one is about a girl who can kill with illusions who just wants peace, who meets a man who should kill her for what she can do, but doesn’t. She is trying to find her sister who was kidnapped and is being forced to use her good illusions for bad purposes. It all boils down to getting someone out of paranormal prison who is really bad news. They fall in love and the rest is history so to speak. I will be eager to find out what happens next.
I received a free copy of this book from the author for an honest review.
I received a free copy of this book from the author for an honest review.
November 5, 2020
Darkness Awakened: Reimagined is the 12th book in the Order of the Blade series. From the first chapter this story was action packed as it takes us on an exciting adventure and will hold your interest until the end. The story was well written and detailed and the author did an excellent job creating a storyline that was both captivating and engrossing. The main characters Aja and Madison were well developed with intense passionate chemistry. Stephanie Rowe's world building was fantastic, introducing us to new and unusual characters and creating a world with Calydon warriors and Illusionist. This novel was an excellent page turner and I would highly recommend it to all lovers of paranormal romance.
November 5, 2020
It has been awhile since I've read the first version, so it took a little bit for me to really get into it. I definitely was not disappointed!!! It reminded me how much I enjoyed this series, and I for sure am going to do a re-read of the whole thing. I got sucked back into the Calydon Warriors world and boy did I miss it. I was hesitant to read a reimagined story as I was worried it would be too similar but it felt only slightly that way and I didn't really notice it too much. It is like any first book in a series and has a lot of backstory to get thru which I already knew so that is literally the only thing that slowed it down for me in the beginning. Loved Madison and Ajax, and meeting the rest of the crew in a new light. Love Stephanie Rowe, and she never disappoints!
October 15, 2020
I was so excited to see that a new Order of the Blade book had been written. it has been such a long time since the last one and I thought that perhaps the series was finished. It is one of the few series of stories that has stuck in my mind and I have never forgotten. I absolutely love these stories and the wonderful Calydon warriors. There is some sadness, and a lot of courage is needed to move forward into the future. The warriors have never lacked the moral fibre to do what is needed. Hopefully they are going to move into a new and exciting phase which we will be able to enjoy. I am so happy to see them back again, this is a brilliant story I really loved it.
October 21, 2020
"Just breathe me." Ajax's advise to Madison after they first meet when there are grenades going off. Each can't trust the other and are hiding secrets. Admitting to what they have can mean death to either or both of them. It's a definite page turner once you figure out who all the characters are and then you are off like a shot, the action is non-stop, especially with everyone trying to kill them for one reason or another. Ajax considers her his "little warrior". There is lots more opportunity to continue this journey as there are other chapters after this one.
I voluntarily reviewed this book.
I voluntarily reviewed this book.
November 4, 2020
Now this was one I could get into. Ajax will immediately take us hostage as we step into this world with him. The danger and the action that comes with it start our hearts to race. Madison has her own mission that involves a loved one. The two of them need each others help but it could be deadly. that makes it even more alluring as a reader. As this gets deeper and unfolds more we are lost into this one until we get the answers we want. This author has given us a escape we gladly stay into. Thing is if you could not have your mate that would be deadly too, right? Do we survive the answers ourselves?
November 5, 2020
I really love this series and was surprised that she was re-writing the first book. I don't think you can go wrong with any book in this series, but I found this book distracting. I constantly compared it with the original and became frustrated at having to read background information that I already knew. Yes, this book is very well written and holds true to the spirit of The Order of the Blade. I think it would have been better had it not been a re-work of the first book. I think this team would make a great spin off series, but they cannot take the place of the original Order members. All in all it is a good book as expected.
November 5, 2020
Darkness Awakened is one of my favorite stories and I've reread it ...a lot. So I was surprised the author wanted to revisit the story. I honestly had a few reservations going in. I should have trusted her!!! Holy Cow! I REALLY liked the reimagined version. I hope she decides to retell the whole series! The bare bones of the original remain but the details and characters are more vivid and complex. I had a stronger connection to the story and I followed the plot much better. I thought the story was better paced and I had a new appreciation for the illusionists. This is a fantastic read and I can not wait to see where she takes the rest of the Order.
November 23, 2020
Loved it
The original series was awesome and so was this new version. Madison and her sister Ashley are illusionists and dangerous. Ashley's illusions are mild but Madison's are deadly. As a teenager she lacked control and accidentally killed another teenager. Now she will do anything not to create one. Then her sister is kidnapped and Calydon warriors are dying and their weapons are being harvested. Madison needs help and her path crosses with Ajax. She turns out to be his sheva and they both try not to complete the bonding. Will they be able to save each other and her sister? Excellent reading and I can't wait for the next book.
The original series was awesome and so was this new version. Madison and her sister Ashley are illusionists and dangerous. Ashley's illusions are mild but Madison's are deadly. As a teenager she lacked control and accidentally killed another teenager. Now she will do anything not to create one. Then her sister is kidnapped and Calydon warriors are dying and their weapons are being harvested. Madison needs help and her path crosses with Ajax. She turns out to be his sheva and they both try not to complete the bonding. Will they be able to save each other and her sister? Excellent reading and I can't wait for the next book.
October 20, 2020
This is Ajax and Madison's story . He has lived through so much seen so much but never did he think that this would happen to him , even though it was his dream come true ! Madison has hidden herself for a long time now but due to murder along with her sister being abducted life has had to change yet again . Knowing she will need help Madison heads to the only ones who can ! This is a well written and recommended story and series ! I was given this ARC and love the story line so much that I wanted to leave a review !
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