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Anchored #1
Anchored
Two worlds, one fate...
Alora was born with the ability to Lift, a power no other women on Terra possess. If the wrong people find out, there's no telling what will happen. But when she almost kills a man in self-defense, her secret is exposed and she's forced to run for her life.
On Earth, Alora's running from something else: hazy memories of her parents' death and the social worker who wants to separate her from her brother. When she sees the man she almost killed on Terra at work, she's flummoxed. She's never recognized anyone from there before—after all, Terra exists only in her dreams...
When her dreams begin to leach into reality, something incredible awakens in Alora. But she knows better than anyone that everything comes with a cost. As the barrier between worlds crumbles, Alora must decide which is safer, which is more powerful, and which world is worth saving.
Alora was born with the ability to Lift, a power no other women on Terra possess. If the wrong people find out, there's no telling what will happen. But when she almost kills a man in self-defense, her secret is exposed and she's forced to run for her life.
On Earth, Alora's running from something else: hazy memories of her parents' death and the social worker who wants to separate her from her brother. When she sees the man she almost killed on Terra at work, she's flummoxed. She's never recognized anyone from there before—after all, Terra exists only in her dreams...
When her dreams begin to leach into reality, something incredible awakens in Alora. But she knows better than anyone that everything comes with a cost. As the barrier between worlds crumbles, Alora must decide which is safer, which is more powerful, and which world is worth saving.
396 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 15, 2021
514 people are currently reading
1679 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 130 reviews
March 26, 2021
Two worlds, one fate ...
Alora was born with the ability to Lift, a power no other women on Terra possess. If the wrong people find out, there's no telling what will happen. But when she almost kills a man in self-defense, her secret is exposed and she's forced to run for her life.
On Earth, Alora's running from something else: hazy memories of her parents' death and the social worker who wants to separate her from her brother. When she sees the man she almost killed on Terra at work, she's flummoxed. She's never recognized anyone from there before—after all, Terra exists only in her dreams...
When her dreams begin to leach into reality, something incredible awakens in Alora. But she knows better than anyone that everything comes with a cost. As the barrier between worlds crumbles, Alora must decide which is safer, which is more powerful, and which world is worth saving.
This is the first book in Bridget Baker's latest series and I enjoyed it quite a lot. It's a portal type fantasy set in our world, and a sub genre that I haven't sought out much, but I thought this one was done really well. I immediately liked Alora and her brother, and I loved how Bridget was able to write their characters in a way that enabled me to feel the emotions they were going through as they dealt with the hard situation they were in. There were definite red flags as they made a couple of the decisions that put them in danger. I kept thinking, "No! don't do that!" But I could also sympathize with how badly they wanted to be able to stop running and have a normal life. There were also a couple of twists I didn't see coming.
In the beginning I was left wondering why they were so sure these dreams Alora was having were real and not just dreams or figments of her imagination, but this is explained later on. I have noticed in more than one of her books, that Bridget will leave me wondering about something for a while, but I get the reason behind it later. Sometimes this works really well, but in this case I think I would have rathered this had been explained sooner. Regardless, I was really glad that things were explained. It helped me understand the characters better.
Overall I thought this was a really good book, and I thought the parallel world was interesting. It had a good balance of good and bad events. One heartbreaking thing happened, and I'm still really sad about it, but I like that the book didn't leave me feeling hopeless. I did have a bit of an issue with the instalove thing, but there was an explanation for it that made it a bit better. I just really hope we get good relationship development between these characters in future books, despite the instant attraction to each other. I probably don't need to worry about that though, since Bridget has never disappointed me with any of the relationships in her books.
Thanks to Bridget E. Baker for providing me with an ARC of this book.
Review also posted at Writings of a Reader.
Alora was born with the ability to Lift, a power no other women on Terra possess. If the wrong people find out, there's no telling what will happen. But when she almost kills a man in self-defense, her secret is exposed and she's forced to run for her life.
On Earth, Alora's running from something else: hazy memories of her parents' death and the social worker who wants to separate her from her brother. When she sees the man she almost killed on Terra at work, she's flummoxed. She's never recognized anyone from there before—after all, Terra exists only in her dreams...
When her dreams begin to leach into reality, something incredible awakens in Alora. But she knows better than anyone that everything comes with a cost. As the barrier between worlds crumbles, Alora must decide which is safer, which is more powerful, and which world is worth saving.
This is the first book in Bridget Baker's latest series and I enjoyed it quite a lot. It's a portal type fantasy set in our world, and a sub genre that I haven't sought out much, but I thought this one was done really well. I immediately liked Alora and her brother, and I loved how Bridget was able to write their characters in a way that enabled me to feel the emotions they were going through as they dealt with the hard situation they were in. There were definite red flags as they made a couple of the decisions that put them in danger. I kept thinking, "No! don't do that!" But I could also sympathize with how badly they wanted to be able to stop running and have a normal life. There were also a couple of twists I didn't see coming.
In the beginning I was left wondering why they were so sure these dreams Alora was having were real and not just dreams or figments of her imagination, but this is explained later on. I have noticed in more than one of her books, that Bridget will leave me wondering about something for a while, but I get the reason behind it later. Sometimes this works really well, but in this case I think I would have rathered this had been explained sooner. Regardless, I was really glad that things were explained. It helped me understand the characters better.
Overall I thought this was a really good book, and I thought the parallel world was interesting. It had a good balance of good and bad events. One heartbreaking thing happened, and I'm still really sad about it, but I like that the book didn't leave me feeling hopeless. I did have a bit of an issue with the instalove thing, but there was an explanation for it that made it a bit better. I just really hope we get good relationship development between these characters in future books, despite the instant attraction to each other. I probably don't need to worry about that though, since Bridget has never disappointed me with any of the relationships in her books.
Thanks to Bridget E. Baker for providing me with an ARC of this book.
Review also posted at Writings of a Reader.
May 10, 2021
A tantalizing book that combines urban fantasy with an intriguing epic fantasy world. The main character is fierce, the magic system is brilliant. The dying worlds will have you on the edge of your seat. Be prepared when you pick up ANCHORED because you're in for a wild ride.
July 10, 2021
Rating: 4.5/5.0
What a fascinating and intriguing urban fantasy read! The spell-binding story is truly captivating.
Read full review in the 2021 Summer issue of InD'tale Magazine.
What a fascinating and intriguing urban fantasy read! The spell-binding story is truly captivating.
Read full review in the 2021 Summer issue of InD'tale Magazine.
February 17, 2021
Reviewed for YA Books Central
Unlike anything I've read before.
The Story:
Alora is of two worlds. During her waking hours, she's a human girl with no family except her brother and barely enough to get by ever since she ran from social services.
When she goes to sleep, she lives in a fantasy world where she has the power to Lift, which is basically moving things with her mind and her energy. And people are after her in both worlds. Certain there's more reality in her dreams than anyone else believes, Alora knows time is running out. There's an army coming for her, and everything, everyone she loves in both worlds is in danger.
What I loved:
Nothing in this story happened like I expected it to. It surprised me at every turn and that's not easy to do. Alora is a fantastic character, both versions of her. The book switches back and forth between her POV in each world and she never strays from who she is, a strong, capable girl who is torn between doing what's right and doing what's right for her. Her relationship with her brother is endearing and heartbreaking all in one. Honestly, there's not anything to dislike about this book. From the Egyptian mythology expertly woven in, to the intricate world building of two worlds, it's a well-crafted book that's hard to put down.
What was just okay:
That it ended and I don't know what happens next. I need more.
Final Verdict:
A new favorite of the year with genius world building, characters that are easy to root for, and a plot that kept me reading long into the night.
Unlike anything I've read before.
The Story:
Alora is of two worlds. During her waking hours, she's a human girl with no family except her brother and barely enough to get by ever since she ran from social services.
When she goes to sleep, she lives in a fantasy world where she has the power to Lift, which is basically moving things with her mind and her energy. And people are after her in both worlds. Certain there's more reality in her dreams than anyone else believes, Alora knows time is running out. There's an army coming for her, and everything, everyone she loves in both worlds is in danger.
What I loved:
Nothing in this story happened like I expected it to. It surprised me at every turn and that's not easy to do. Alora is a fantastic character, both versions of her. The book switches back and forth between her POV in each world and she never strays from who she is, a strong, capable girl who is torn between doing what's right and doing what's right for her. Her relationship with her brother is endearing and heartbreaking all in one. Honestly, there's not anything to dislike about this book. From the Egyptian mythology expertly woven in, to the intricate world building of two worlds, it's a well-crafted book that's hard to put down.
What was just okay:
That it ended and I don't know what happens next. I need more.
Final Verdict:
A new favorite of the year with genius world building, characters that are easy to root for, and a plot that kept me reading long into the night.
May 25, 2023
This started out great! I loved the premise. I was intrigued by the two-in-one story between the two worlds, the devoted brother-sister relationship, the multiple potential love interests, and the world building.
But the very end got weird. It went abstract and cataclysmic. Tbh, I’m not even sure exactly what happened or what the situation was. The explanation lost me for a bit.
My anticipation for the next book dipped. Not sure where the plot will go from here, but I’m still holding out hope that something good will rise from the ashes.
And my affection for the heroine also slipped. I can’t stand characters that make unforgivably selfish choices. However, since she recognizes her error and since apparently (and conveniently) the result was inevitable regardless of the choice she made, I guess I can move on…
I’ll listen to the next installment but my expectations have moderated. We shall see…
3 stars = I liked it. (Before the ending it was a solid 4 stars)
Content:
Language- no swearing
Romance - no talk of sex or crude language at all. Some kissing and a brewing love triangle that I’m all for. Gotta be honest, I like love triangles as long as the heroine isn’t stringing along two guys at once because she can’t decide. THAT is insufferable. But not all love triangles are like that. Some are awesome.
Cliff hanger - yes, but it’s not torturously cruel.
Narrator- great! I listened to her on 1.5x speed and it was perfect.
Cover- meh
But the very end got weird. It went abstract and cataclysmic. Tbh, I’m not even sure exactly what happened or what the situation was. The explanation lost me for a bit.
My anticipation for the next book dipped. Not sure where the plot will go from here, but I’m still holding out hope that something good will rise from the ashes.
And my affection for the heroine also slipped. I can’t stand characters that make unforgivably selfish choices. However, since she recognizes her error and since apparently (and conveniently) the result was inevitable regardless of the choice she made, I guess I can move on…
I’ll listen to the next installment but my expectations have moderated. We shall see…
3 stars = I liked it. (Before the ending it was a solid 4 stars)
Content:
Language- no swearing
Romance - no talk of sex or crude language at all. Some kissing and a brewing love triangle that I’m all for. Gotta be honest, I like love triangles as long as the heroine isn’t stringing along two guys at once because she can’t decide. THAT is insufferable. But not all love triangles are like that. Some are awesome.
Cliff hanger - yes, but it’s not torturously cruel.
Narrator- great! I listened to her on 1.5x speed and it was perfect.
Cover- meh
Read
April 23, 2021I absolutely love this book. The idea of two worlds and experiencing something completely different from earth and then returning to life really amazes me. I really love a Laura a aka Allison. I can’t wait to see where the story goes.
May 20, 2021
Complete review posted on my blog: I Heart Fictional People
INITIAL THOUGHTS
That cover 😍! Look how beautiful it is. I cannot stop staring at it. I need to own a physical copy to put on my bookshelf so I can just stare it. I LOVE IT. When I choose a book to review for Readers’ Favorite, I almost always read the book blurbs of the pretty covers. I know, I’m a horrible person for judging a book by its cover, but I can’t help it! And in this particular case, I’m glad I did!
WHAT I LIKED
The suspense. Omg. I can’t even with this book. I completely forgot about the blurb when I finally started reading it. It starts off in the world of Terra. THEN, she wakes up on Earth, and it’s revealed that Terra is her dream world, and my jaw dropped 😳. I was like, WHAT?! Loved it! And it only gets better from there. I was just getting so nervous and anxious throughout the book because I did not know what to expect. Very unpredictable.
The mystery. YES! Why are there two worlds? Is Terra real? Why can’t Alora remember Earth when she’s in Terra? What the hell is going on?? So many questions! It was so fun playing detective and trying to figure everything out.
The characters. Alora is such a great protagonist. She’s so much braver and tougher than she realizes. She’s a badass, and she doesn’t even know it, which makes it even better. Jesse is the best. He is the greatest big brother. He would literally do anything and everything to protect Alora. And he’s just hilarious. He had me laughing a lot. And then there’s Kahn. Oh Kahn. I won’t ruin the surprise, but be prepared to fall head over heals in love with this guy 😍.
The end. No spoilers here. But I did not expect that end, and I loved it. It wraps up some things nicely, but it also leaves some questions unanswered because…this is the first book in a series! I don’t know how I missed this, but I did, so I was shocked when I realized there were at least two more books. I NEED TO GET MY HANDS ON THEM. Like now.
WHAT DIDN’T WORK FOR ME
Nothing. I did have one complaint about certain characters kind of disappearing, but now that I know there are more books, I have no complaints. Bring it on!
OVERALL THOUGHTS
Bridget E. Baker, you are amazing! I did a little cyber stalking after finishing this book, and I cannot believe that there are so many books out there by this brilliant author. I am going to go on a binge-reading marathon soon. This book was hard to put down. It had the perfect amount of everything I love in a book. I feel so grateful that I just happened to find it. Now I’m going to be obsessed. And to be honest, I need more Kahn! Okay, I’m done talking. Well, one more thing. I LOVE this book and this author, and you should all read it!
*I received an eBook copy of this book from the author via Readers' Favorite in exchange for an honest review*
INITIAL THOUGHTS
That cover 😍! Look how beautiful it is. I cannot stop staring at it. I need to own a physical copy to put on my bookshelf so I can just stare it. I LOVE IT. When I choose a book to review for Readers’ Favorite, I almost always read the book blurbs of the pretty covers. I know, I’m a horrible person for judging a book by its cover, but I can’t help it! And in this particular case, I’m glad I did!
WHAT I LIKED
The suspense. Omg. I can’t even with this book. I completely forgot about the blurb when I finally started reading it. It starts off in the world of Terra. THEN, she wakes up on Earth, and it’s revealed that Terra is her dream world, and my jaw dropped 😳. I was like, WHAT?! Loved it! And it only gets better from there. I was just getting so nervous and anxious throughout the book because I did not know what to expect. Very unpredictable.
The mystery. YES! Why are there two worlds? Is Terra real? Why can’t Alora remember Earth when she’s in Terra? What the hell is going on?? So many questions! It was so fun playing detective and trying to figure everything out.
The characters. Alora is such a great protagonist. She’s so much braver and tougher than she realizes. She’s a badass, and she doesn’t even know it, which makes it even better. Jesse is the best. He is the greatest big brother. He would literally do anything and everything to protect Alora. And he’s just hilarious. He had me laughing a lot. And then there’s Kahn. Oh Kahn. I won’t ruin the surprise, but be prepared to fall head over heals in love with this guy 😍.
The end. No spoilers here. But I did not expect that end, and I loved it. It wraps up some things nicely, but it also leaves some questions unanswered because…this is the first book in a series! I don’t know how I missed this, but I did, so I was shocked when I realized there were at least two more books. I NEED TO GET MY HANDS ON THEM. Like now.
WHAT DIDN’T WORK FOR ME
Nothing. I did have one complaint about certain characters kind of disappearing, but now that I know there are more books, I have no complaints. Bring it on!
OVERALL THOUGHTS
Bridget E. Baker, you are amazing! I did a little cyber stalking after finishing this book, and I cannot believe that there are so many books out there by this brilliant author. I am going to go on a binge-reading marathon soon. This book was hard to put down. It had the perfect amount of everything I love in a book. I feel so grateful that I just happened to find it. Now I’m going to be obsessed. And to be honest, I need more Kahn! Okay, I’m done talking. Well, one more thing. I LOVE this book and this author, and you should all read it!
*I received an eBook copy of this book from the author via Readers' Favorite in exchange for an honest review*
September 8, 2025
The world building on this was so good! Narration for the audiobook was on point. Kind of an Alice in Wonderland type vibe. DEFINITELY stick around for the epilogue. This story is one that will stick with me for a while.
May 15, 2021
This story surprised me! It was fresh and new, and the characters were really engaging. In-story, it took me a second to get oriented, but the story unfolds at a great pace. The dialogue flowed well and I found it realistic.
Alora and Jesse are compelling protagonists, the plot is interesting and fun, and the magic intrigued me. I wish that more of the story threads had come to a conclusion in this book, so be prepared to NEED book two as soon as you finish Anchored. I did think that the story itself dragged here and there just due to wordiness and over-explanation.
If you love a neat twist on portal fantasies, 'the chosen one' being a bad*ss girl, close family ties, snark, and magic, this story is definitely for you! 3.75 stars, rounded up.
I partnered with the author to bring you this review. <3
Alora and Jesse are compelling protagonists, the plot is interesting and fun, and the magic intrigued me. I wish that more of the story threads had come to a conclusion in this book, so be prepared to NEED book two as soon as you finish Anchored. I did think that the story itself dragged here and there just due to wordiness and over-explanation.
If you love a neat twist on portal fantasies, 'the chosen one' being a bad*ss girl, close family ties, snark, and magic, this story is definitely for you! 3.75 stars, rounded up.
I partnered with the author to bring you this review. <3
April 11, 2025
I was super impressed with the way Baker makes you care for two storylines and casts of characters. Obviously, things start to converge, but balancing two different stories at the beginning it would have been easy to lose one or the other and she did it really well. I was super invested and I can't wait to find out what happens next. I love the characters. I found the plot to get a little convoluted toward the end as everything is explained (there's a little feel of info dumping, though I didn't think it got out of hand), but I also feel like it will make more sense as the larger story progresses, so it wasn't a big enough concern to knock down my rating for a book that hooked me from beginning to end.
added-it
December 30, 2021🎁 FREE on Amazon today (12/30/2021)! 🎁
July 30, 2024
** 3.5 STARS **
October 7, 2024
Urban and myth combined
A great combination of urban fantasy with a touch of mythology. Nicely paced narrative and characters. Action and agency well balanced.
A good quick read.
A great combination of urban fantasy with a touch of mythology. Nicely paced narrative and characters. Action and agency well balanced.
A good quick read.
October 30, 2024
DNF...
October 26, 2024
This book hooked me and kept me intrigued through the whole book at a time that I lose interest in most stories. Will definitely be checking out the next book.
June 28, 2024
Fantasy books are hit or miss for me. I loved this one. I had a hard time with it at the beginning, I feel like things needed more or better explanation, but as it went on I really enjoyed it. I can't wait to read the next one!
December 11, 2021
Anchored has a good concept with the real world and the dream world of Terra being connected and involving the power to lift which is basically telekinesis.
**SPOILERS**
What i enjoyed the most was the relationship between Alora and her brother Jesse, it was cute so i didn't like the part where Jesse randomly believed that Alora was schizophrenic. I liked Alora as a protagonist, at least i did for the majority of the book. I will admit, closer to the end, it started to lose me. It felt like the direction of the story started to jumble together. What Baker was going for was still interesting but it started to dwindle and then it felt like it ended a chapter earlier than it should.
I hated that Alora saved Devlin at the end. She nearly didn't but for some reason she felt bad for the man that ruined her life by killing her adoptive parents, making her feel crazy, making sure she was bullied and assaulted and it was implied that she was sexually assaulted while she was in foster care, nearly killed her and her family on Terra, killed Jesse, almost had her sexually assaulted present day by one of his men. It goes on and she really sat there and saved him. Why? Maybe because John told her not to and she likes John. Girl, cry me a river, i would have broken every single bone in his body and killed him. Another thing i didn't care for at all was the romance. The insta-love glowy thing was not for me at all, It was one thing for it to happen on Terra but then it happened on earth and i was totally not down for it. Her and Kahn had no chemistry and it didn't help that every time they were together, it annoyed me and then they decided to make out in the middle of a battle, i mean... John is better as a friend, it's okay for her to do what she was doing and be flirty with him but i just do not see them being in a relationship. Now, i actually liked Henry and she seemed to like Henry very much at first but apparently, by the the end of the book she thinks he's weak and just dropped him. So, the romance is not really for me in this one but i am interested in where it goes with it being teased that Ra is sending one of his lieutenants to stir up trouble.
I think with a good opening and more explanation in the second book, it could straighten out the dwindling of interest i had closer to the end of the book. However, still a nice concept and nice story with a cool protagonist.
**SPOILERS**
What i enjoyed the most was the relationship between Alora and her brother Jesse, it was cute so i didn't like the part where Jesse randomly believed that Alora was schizophrenic. I liked Alora as a protagonist, at least i did for the majority of the book. I will admit, closer to the end, it started to lose me. It felt like the direction of the story started to jumble together. What Baker was going for was still interesting but it started to dwindle and then it felt like it ended a chapter earlier than it should.
I hated that Alora saved Devlin at the end. She nearly didn't but for some reason she felt bad for the man that ruined her life by killing her adoptive parents, making her feel crazy, making sure she was bullied and assaulted and it was implied that she was sexually assaulted while she was in foster care, nearly killed her and her family on Terra, killed Jesse, almost had her sexually assaulted present day by one of his men. It goes on and she really sat there and saved him. Why? Maybe because John told her not to and she likes John. Girl, cry me a river, i would have broken every single bone in his body and killed him. Another thing i didn't care for at all was the romance. The insta-love glowy thing was not for me at all, It was one thing for it to happen on Terra but then it happened on earth and i was totally not down for it. Her and Kahn had no chemistry and it didn't help that every time they were together, it annoyed me and then they decided to make out in the middle of a battle, i mean... John is better as a friend, it's okay for her to do what she was doing and be flirty with him but i just do not see them being in a relationship. Now, i actually liked Henry and she seemed to like Henry very much at first but apparently, by the the end of the book she thinks he's weak and just dropped him. So, the romance is not really for me in this one but i am interested in where it goes with it being teased that Ra is sending one of his lieutenants to stir up trouble.
I think with a good opening and more explanation in the second book, it could straighten out the dwindling of interest i had closer to the end of the book. However, still a nice concept and nice story with a cool protagonist.
August 13, 2023
I'm really conflicted. I loved the start of the book, the plot was engaging, the characters were likeable and I thought the world building was great.
Jessie and Alora are adorable together and a magical world with romance, danger and mystery is right up my street.
Although the premise of meeting real people in dreams isn't completely new to me, there was enough of a spin on it to make it feel completely unique.
However the end kinda ruined it. There is a massive information dump like the author ran out of time.
The end felt wrong to me. I don't know how to describe it except I came away from the book feeling a little disappointed in all the characters.
Devlin killed her brother and she forgave him??? WTF?
John had for years believed his mither committed suicide due to his father but believes his dad in a 20 mins speech when he says he didn't do it because "he doesn't lie to him" the same guy killing teenagers is completely honest... Yeah right.
Henry was a good guy and when that was no longer convenient for the plot he's all shy and timid. Plus his mum turning traitor from Alora beating him in a fight seems like an over reaction. It's not like she cut his ham strings.
She brought Jessie back but it's not really Jessie, we are built from our experiences and memories. It's like cloning a lost pet. You aren't getting your old pet back, they may have a completely different temperament and it's cruel to expect them to be someone they aren't.
I seriously deliberated on 3 stars but the start of the book was so strong it didn't feel fair.
Also it doesn't seem to bother anyone else but WHAT HAPPEND IN THE GROUP HOME!? it gets brought up sporadically throughout the book and constantly in vague details. I think she's hinting at SA without wanting to make the story unsuitable for younger readers but DEAR GOD watching the author constantly tip toe round it drove me nuts. Plus was it necessary??? she almost got raped once. Wouldn't jessie have awaken earlier if she was raped in the group home? So it doesn't even make sense. Just trauma for the sake of trauma. Plus how exactly did a fully grown adult male persuade kids to attack her??
This story had so much promise and the writing style and pace were great at the start. It was like watching a train derail. The perfect story was gliding along effortlessly until all of a sudden it seemed to forget where it was going and crash off course.
I think I'll need a break before continuing the series.
Jessie and Alora are adorable together and a magical world with romance, danger and mystery is right up my street.
Although the premise of meeting real people in dreams isn't completely new to me, there was enough of a spin on it to make it feel completely unique.
However the end kinda ruined it. There is a massive information dump like the author ran out of time.
The end felt wrong to me. I don't know how to describe it except I came away from the book feeling a little disappointed in all the characters.
Devlin killed her brother and she forgave him??? WTF?
John had for years believed his mither committed suicide due to his father but believes his dad in a 20 mins speech when he says he didn't do it because "he doesn't lie to him" the same guy killing teenagers is completely honest... Yeah right.
Henry was a good guy and when that was no longer convenient for the plot he's all shy and timid. Plus his mum turning traitor from Alora beating him in a fight seems like an over reaction. It's not like she cut his ham strings.
She brought Jessie back but it's not really Jessie, we are built from our experiences and memories. It's like cloning a lost pet. You aren't getting your old pet back, they may have a completely different temperament and it's cruel to expect them to be someone they aren't.
I seriously deliberated on 3 stars but the start of the book was so strong it didn't feel fair.
Also it doesn't seem to bother anyone else but WHAT HAPPEND IN THE GROUP HOME!? it gets brought up sporadically throughout the book and constantly in vague details. I think she's hinting at SA without wanting to make the story unsuitable for younger readers but DEAR GOD watching the author constantly tip toe round it drove me nuts. Plus was it necessary??? she almost got raped once. Wouldn't jessie have awaken earlier if she was raped in the group home? So it doesn't even make sense. Just trauma for the sake of trauma. Plus how exactly did a fully grown adult male persuade kids to attack her??
This story had so much promise and the writing style and pace were great at the start. It was like watching a train derail. The perfect story was gliding along effortlessly until all of a sudden it seemed to forget where it was going and crash off course.
I think I'll need a break before continuing the series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 23, 2023
Incredible!
I loved this series! The world building, magic systems, the twists, the characters, amd the most epic love triangle!! ...ugh all so amazing. If you like split worlds/realms, stories that pull on your heart strings, love triangles (but also soul mates😏), and magic then grab it!
Also the audio is fantastic 👌🏻
💖 Romantic Content: just kisses
I loved this series! The world building, magic systems, the twists, the characters, amd the most epic love triangle!! ...ugh all so amazing. If you like split worlds/realms, stories that pull on your heart strings, love triangles (but also soul mates😏), and magic then grab it!
Also the audio is fantastic 👌🏻
💖 Romantic Content: just kisses
October 30, 2021
It's not that I didn't like this, it's just that I was ready for it to be finished way before it actually was. The book is loooooong and it feels even loooonger than the 412 pages (14 hours 27 minutes) it is listed as. And I get it—the book contains two interconnected, but not completely overlapping stories. So, I understand why it's required a lot of pages to tell the tale. But good lord, I thought it would never end.
The writing is fine. The narrator did a good job. As far as I can tell in audio, the editing seems fine. But I was just a little sick of the special-special snowflake that was Alora. She was the best at everything, important to almost every named male character in the book (be it familial love, attraction, or fanatic hate) and there didn't even seem to be any other female characters of note. Plus, Alora was too wrapped up in her own head, too many characters showed up and then were dropped as unimportant as the story progressed, and the ending wasn't particularity satisfying. Not enough of the overarching issues were actually explained and the last minute attempt to make the villain relatable fell flat for me.
All in all, I didn't hate it. But I'm not in any hurry to read more of the series either.
The writing is fine. The narrator did a good job. As far as I can tell in audio, the editing seems fine. But I was just a little sick of the special-special snowflake that was Alora. She was the best at everything, important to almost every named male character in the book (be it familial love, attraction, or fanatic hate) and there didn't even seem to be any other female characters of note. Plus, Alora was too wrapped up in her own head, too many characters showed up and then were dropped as unimportant as the story progressed, and the ending wasn't particularity satisfying. Not enough of the overarching issues were actually explained and the last minute attempt to make the villain relatable fell flat for me.
All in all, I didn't hate it. But I'm not in any hurry to read more of the series either.
January 13, 2026
Alora aka "Alice" has never known what it's like to dream. Not in the way the rest of us do. Every night she wakes up in an alternate reality in a fantastical world in which she has the ability to levitate objects. It's an ability many in the world have, lifting or healing. Except all of those who can, are men.
The traveling performing trope that's taken her in after her mother's death are the only ones who know her secret. Who knows what it could mean if those in power discovered her anomaly. Until they do and she's soon set on a path into her recently unknown past and to a terrible destiny she never asked for.
In her waking hours, "Alice" has been on the run for different reasons with her older brother Jesse. They fled an abusive state care system after their parents death and abandonment by their aunt. Even though she's nearly 18, she still fears the case worker she suspects has been tracking them. Living with a false identity isn't easy. But things could be looking up with a string of terrible luck leads to new opportunities. If only the past didn't really haunt you.
"Anchored" has a perpetually moving plot that in broad summary could be rather bland. Yet I found myself not only excited to pick this book up, but was actively invested in both story lines. It did what I look for and rarely find. It proved that you don't have to have the most creative set up, magic system, or crazy plot twists. Sometimes it's about timing, character relationships, and how you build up the tension and turns.
Even when this book started to throw in potentially romantic subplots it seemed natural enough. And the progressive dive into something that generally drives me crazy, an element sometimes found in fantasy relationships, actually had me clapping when it irritated the lead as much as it does me. While I suspect that won't be sustained, I really appreciate the consistency of character that was upheld for where Alora was in her journey at the time.
It also poses a lot of questions about morality that are direct but handled carefully. Does intention really matter? What happens when we cross our own lines? Can you forgive someone who you thought trusted your truth as much as you trusted them?
I never expected to enjoy a book like this so much. It's been a long time since a YA or New Adult fantasy, especially if romance is a key issue, has actually had a female protagonist whose adventure I've been so caught up in. In retrospect there are beats that would otherwise bore me or seem too predictable. But in the moment it honestly left me wanting the next part of the story.
The traveling performing trope that's taken her in after her mother's death are the only ones who know her secret. Who knows what it could mean if those in power discovered her anomaly. Until they do and she's soon set on a path into her recently unknown past and to a terrible destiny she never asked for.
In her waking hours, "Alice" has been on the run for different reasons with her older brother Jesse. They fled an abusive state care system after their parents death and abandonment by their aunt. Even though she's nearly 18, she still fears the case worker she suspects has been tracking them. Living with a false identity isn't easy. But things could be looking up with a string of terrible luck leads to new opportunities. If only the past didn't really haunt you.
"Anchored" has a perpetually moving plot that in broad summary could be rather bland. Yet I found myself not only excited to pick this book up, but was actively invested in both story lines. It did what I look for and rarely find. It proved that you don't have to have the most creative set up, magic system, or crazy plot twists. Sometimes it's about timing, character relationships, and how you build up the tension and turns.
Even when this book started to throw in potentially romantic subplots it seemed natural enough. And the progressive dive into something that generally drives me crazy, an element sometimes found in fantasy relationships, actually had me clapping when it irritated the lead as much as it does me. While I suspect that won't be sustained, I really appreciate the consistency of character that was upheld for where Alora was in her journey at the time.
It also poses a lot of questions about morality that are direct but handled carefully. Does intention really matter? What happens when we cross our own lines? Can you forgive someone who you thought trusted your truth as much as you trusted them?
I never expected to enjoy a book like this so much. It's been a long time since a YA or New Adult fantasy, especially if romance is a key issue, has actually had a female protagonist whose adventure I've been so caught up in. In retrospect there are beats that would otherwise bore me or seem too predictable. But in the moment it honestly left me wanting the next part of the story.
July 13, 2021
I was hooked from the start. I was intrigued by the prologue (and had to go back and reread it a few times throughout the book as connections were made), the mention of a trained chicken, and the whole baby naming thing is so odd. I also wanted to know why it was Lift and not lift. So, onward I read! In the story, sleep brings another world where injuries can be repaired or created, not dreams. But like with dreams, hours in the dream world can be just minutes in the real world. One world is regular life and one is a prison. Poor Alora has gone through more than her fair share of tragedies before the book even starts. The more she learns about herself and her past the less she probably wishes she knew. She can’t help herself though, she needs to know the truth about what happened to her parents and herself. Like many of Baker’s main characters, this teenager starts out hidden, unassuming, concealing parts of herself from the greater world. She doesn’t even know the extent of her abilities and has even been thought to have a psychiatric illness for years. So this alternate world may be her brain firing differently, making her see and hear things that no one else can. Her best friend on Earth is her brother and their parents died years ago. On Terra she is an orphan without a brother. Or is she?? The suspense gets worse towards the end. You can’t help but root for Alora and Jesse and feel her desperation as she will do whatever it takes to try and save her brother. I’m very eager to start the next book to see what comes of her attempts! I’d also like to find out how the Exordium works out for her on Earth… And I thought my teenage years were a mess!
March 29, 2021
This YA urban fantasy was so well done, it kept me turning pages the whole time I was reading it as the anticipation and build up kept growing for me with each new development.
Alora lives on Earth with her brother Jessie. As runaways, the two are fighting daily to survive, afraid of a mysterious social worker Alora knows is hunting them. At night, Alora lives in an alternate world called Terra. While some may think she is only dreaming, she knows this reality is real and as things heat up on Terra, the danger following her on Earth does too.
I really enjoyed this book. The story was definitely interesting and held my attention. I liked the characters, I was invested in the story, and I can't wait for more. In fact, when the book ended, I may have been seriously sad book two isn't out yet. I am anxiously awaiting what will happen next! I feel totally invested in this world that Baker has created.
I received an advance reader copy of this novel. All thoughts and opinions are my own. If you enjoy YA fantasy/urban fantasy, this book should not be missed! It's a little less gritty than some other YA, though I will give a content warning about abuse and a near sexual assault. Nothing is on the page nor graphic in detail in anyway. While there is some mild violence, it stays under a PG 13 rating.
Alora lives on Earth with her brother Jessie. As runaways, the two are fighting daily to survive, afraid of a mysterious social worker Alora knows is hunting them. At night, Alora lives in an alternate world called Terra. While some may think she is only dreaming, she knows this reality is real and as things heat up on Terra, the danger following her on Earth does too.
I really enjoyed this book. The story was definitely interesting and held my attention. I liked the characters, I was invested in the story, and I can't wait for more. In fact, when the book ended, I may have been seriously sad book two isn't out yet. I am anxiously awaiting what will happen next! I feel totally invested in this world that Baker has created.
I received an advance reader copy of this novel. All thoughts and opinions are my own. If you enjoy YA fantasy/urban fantasy, this book should not be missed! It's a little less gritty than some other YA, though I will give a content warning about abuse and a near sexual assault. Nothing is on the page nor graphic in detail in anyway. While there is some mild violence, it stays under a PG 13 rating.
April 18, 2021
😯💗Just...W O W!!!!!!!!
I adored the authors previous series BIRTHRIGHT (definitely check it out), so wanted to check out this first book of her new series. O M G am I glad I did!!! Jaw still officially on the floor, and I'm DESPERATE to see what happens next! I've never read a book with this type of story plot, and it has everything in it! There's intrigue, action, mystical powers, and oh so much more!!
Imagine dreaming every single night of a different world where you live, and have powers. Then waking up every morning on earth without said powers. When people from this other world begin popping up on Earth, how would you react? And that's just a taste of what's to come!!! The story is centered around such a strong female main character that's overcome so much pain and tragedy . Will she rise like a phoenix or burn out from everything she endures? Different factions fight for her allegiance on both worlds, and she must determine who to follow...or should she trust either? Love is at the heart of the book...love of humanity, family, and more. Get ready for the time of your life!!!! I've long loved the stories of Egyptian gods, and there's definitely an undercurrent of that woven throughout these pages. A well crafted world filled with rich, flawed, and amazing characters will draw you in fast. Take a chance and take the ride.
I adored the authors previous series BIRTHRIGHT (definitely check it out), so wanted to check out this first book of her new series. O M G am I glad I did!!! Jaw still officially on the floor, and I'm DESPERATE to see what happens next! I've never read a book with this type of story plot, and it has everything in it! There's intrigue, action, mystical powers, and oh so much more!!
Imagine dreaming every single night of a different world where you live, and have powers. Then waking up every morning on earth without said powers. When people from this other world begin popping up on Earth, how would you react? And that's just a taste of what's to come!!! The story is centered around such a strong female main character that's overcome so much pain and tragedy . Will she rise like a phoenix or burn out from everything she endures? Different factions fight for her allegiance on both worlds, and she must determine who to follow...or should she trust either? Love is at the heart of the book...love of humanity, family, and more. Get ready for the time of your life!!!! I've long loved the stories of Egyptian gods, and there's definitely an undercurrent of that woven throughout these pages. A well crafted world filled with rich, flawed, and amazing characters will draw you in fast. Take a chance and take the ride.
July 24, 2021
Anchored
This book drew me in by each word I read. It had me fantasizing about living in a dream world with all different kinds of powers. Then it would take me back into reality but still remembering my dreams. The characters in this book had so much personality and depth to them. I loved getting to know Alora and Jesse and the special bond they had with each other. The author chose the word Anchored as the title because it has several meanings in the book, especially how Jesse is Alora's anchor on Earth and on Terra. She will do anything for her brother no matter the consequences.
This is a story of a young girl finding her power within herself against all odds. Alora has to figure out who is a friend or foe on both worlds. There is romance, love, mystery and supernatural abilities written into all aspects of this book. There are plot twists and cringe worthy scenes that make you want to cry out in desperation for Alora to make the right choice.
I have read several of the author's books and this one does not disappoint and leaves you wanting more. I love how Bridget writes, making you ask why and then later on in the book finding the answers. Do yourself a favor and pick this book up and get ready to escape to an enchanting and mystical world where anything can happen. I can't wait to start the next book in this series.
This book drew me in by each word I read. It had me fantasizing about living in a dream world with all different kinds of powers. Then it would take me back into reality but still remembering my dreams. The characters in this book had so much personality and depth to them. I loved getting to know Alora and Jesse and the special bond they had with each other. The author chose the word Anchored as the title because it has several meanings in the book, especially how Jesse is Alora's anchor on Earth and on Terra. She will do anything for her brother no matter the consequences.
This is a story of a young girl finding her power within herself against all odds. Alora has to figure out who is a friend or foe on both worlds. There is romance, love, mystery and supernatural abilities written into all aspects of this book. There are plot twists and cringe worthy scenes that make you want to cry out in desperation for Alora to make the right choice.
I have read several of the author's books and this one does not disappoint and leaves you wanting more. I love how Bridget writes, making you ask why and then later on in the book finding the answers. Do yourself a favor and pick this book up and get ready to escape to an enchanting and mystical world where anything can happen. I can't wait to start the next book in this series.
April 19, 2024
The worldbuilding was pretty good. Terra was introduced comprehensibly, and pretty much everything added up.
As for non-romantic relationships, I loved Alora's relationship with her brother, Jesse. I thought that was really sweet, and I liked how they supported each other through it all.
The whole Declan-Danita thing was confusing, and I still don't know if he's a semi-good guy or completely bad. I hate it when the bad guys turn out to be someone who's "not actually that bad, he just went through a bunch of traumatic events that made him kill lots of people." It's super annoying.
However, the romance wasn't really that great. I wasn't sure who to root for (romantically) the entire time. Khan? Henry? John? It's as complicated as a love triangle (though thankfully with less angst). I was rooting for Henry at first, but then we met John, who I liked more. And then Khan came on the scene, and I rooted for him until we met him on Earth.
I'm giving this book one star for content because I didn't like the whole gods thing. It's just my personal preference, however. I also don't like prophecies or spells.
TW/CW: there's a lot of cursing (d-words) but no explicit scenes, other than raping.
Conclusion
Here's my very complicated rating:
4 stars for worldbuilding
3 stars for non-romantic relationships
1 star for romance
1 star for content
Result: 2.25 stars.
As for non-romantic relationships, I loved Alora's relationship with her brother, Jesse. I thought that was really sweet, and I liked how they supported each other through it all.
The whole Declan-Danita thing was confusing, and I still don't know if he's a semi-good guy or completely bad. I hate it when the bad guys turn out to be someone who's "not actually that bad, he just went through a bunch of traumatic events that made him kill lots of people." It's super annoying.
However, the romance wasn't really that great. I wasn't sure who to root for (romantically) the entire time. Khan? Henry? John? It's as complicated as a love triangle (though thankfully with less angst). I was rooting for Henry at first, but then we met John, who I liked more. And then Khan came on the scene, and I rooted for him until we met him on Earth.
I'm giving this book one star for content because I didn't like the whole gods thing. It's just my personal preference, however. I also don't like prophecies or spells.
TW/CW: there's a lot of cursing (d-words) but no explicit scenes, other than raping.
Conclusion
Here's my very complicated rating:
4 stars for worldbuilding
3 stars for non-romantic relationships
1 star for romance
1 star for content
Result: 2.25 stars.
July 19, 2024
Alora and Jessie have been on the run for several years. They survived the car accident that took their parents’ lives. Sent to live with their aunt, and then to a group home, live went from bad to worse. Every night when Alora, who goes by the name Alice, goes to sleep she is transported to Terra. It is a world where men are healers and lifters. Unlike other girls, she can do what others cannot. No girl has ever been a lifter. Her mother in the world of Terra has hidden her with a performing troupe. Not that her mother is gone, they protect her. One slip of her ability is all it took to get the wrong people after her. She leaves the troupe to protect them. When events in her life on Earth and events in Terra begin to cross over, she needs to figure out who, and or what she truly is.
The two worlds the author has created are awesome. We have two girls hiding from a case worker who wants to do them harm, in the Earth realm. As they try to form relationships in this world things get tougher. At the same time the world the author has created, where there are two main groups of people; the Amun and the Isis is just as delicious. Add to it a prophecy and the young girl who seems to be fulfilling it and you have one ripping adventure after another. This is a wonderful book. It is the first in the Anchored series and I can’t wait to read the rest of them.
The two worlds the author has created are awesome. We have two girls hiding from a case worker who wants to do them harm, in the Earth realm. As they try to form relationships in this world things get tougher. At the same time the world the author has created, where there are two main groups of people; the Amun and the Isis is just as delicious. Add to it a prophecy and the young girl who seems to be fulfilling it and you have one ripping adventure after another. This is a wonderful book. It is the first in the Anchored series and I can’t wait to read the rest of them.
September 19, 2025
My what a tangled web she weaves! There are so many delicious twists and turns in this series and it's so intricately woven (in more ways than one) that I was spellbound. I loved her Birthright series, and this was is just as special. Everyone is so multi-dimensional and interwoven over 2400+ years that you love and hate each at different times. lol Or at least are suspicious of them. It's certainly a lesson on intentions and cause and effect of your actions. We're so sure we know something until we realize we were wrong all along or misinformed or missing an important tidbit of information. This writer's imagination is beautiful, and I'd love to meet her. This truly is a tapestry of intricate art. What a pleasure to read, and I read all 4 in 4 days. Highly recommend. I haven't been this excited about a writer since I found Sherrilyn Kenyon over 20 years ago. Also a writer I highly recommend, but research reading order as different series are interwoven and the timelines intersect so you may want to jump around in different series to keep the timelines close together. Meanwhile...go read all of Baker's books, you won't be disappointed. I'm 'anchored' in for the next 4 series. lol Enjoy!
July 29, 2021
This was a great read, I really enjoyed it and am very glad to have bought it. This book has so much packed into the plot that you will find yourselves wondering what is going to be next. I cant wait to read more.
Under this will be some small tidbits from the first few chapters, so if you dont want the few "spoilers' that will tell you some of the story but won't spoil it, here it is:
This book talks about Alora and her life (Terra). She has the ability to Lift which is unheard of in a female. Only males can Lift (other males can Heal, but they can not do both). If Alora is found out, it could spell trouble. Only her troupe knows what she can do and they try to make sure she isnt found out. She never knew her father and her mother was part of the troupe but has passed, she has no siblings.
This book also talks about Alora while she lives her life (on Earth). Alora uses a fake name "Alice" and is used to being called it. She has a brother name Jesse, who she talks about her dreams of Terra with. She is Alora in the dreams, and if she has any injuries when she goes to sleep, she wakes up Healed. She works as a dishwasher getting paid under the table, and scrapes table scraps into her mouth and a takeout container she takes home with her.
You will find out that there is legend that Martin tells Alora when an issue arises and they must flee the area. I wont reveal more but I hope this entices people to check out this great read.
Under this will be some small tidbits from the first few chapters, so if you dont want the few "spoilers' that will tell you some of the story but won't spoil it, here it is:
This book talks about Alora and her life (Terra). She has the ability to Lift which is unheard of in a female. Only males can Lift (other males can Heal, but they can not do both). If Alora is found out, it could spell trouble. Only her troupe knows what she can do and they try to make sure she isnt found out. She never knew her father and her mother was part of the troupe but has passed, she has no siblings.
This book also talks about Alora while she lives her life (on Earth). Alora uses a fake name "Alice" and is used to being called it. She has a brother name Jesse, who she talks about her dreams of Terra with. She is Alora in the dreams, and if she has any injuries when she goes to sleep, she wakes up Healed. She works as a dishwasher getting paid under the table, and scrapes table scraps into her mouth and a takeout container she takes home with her.
You will find out that there is legend that Martin tells Alora when an issue arises and they must flee the area. I wont reveal more but I hope this entices people to check out this great read.
April 15, 2021
Add This Book To Your TBR!
Urban Fantasy readers will love this start to the Anchored series by Bridget Baker. There is an element of psychological thriller in there too.
Alora dreams of Terra, which is another realm of conciousness. But dont worry, due to the chapters being titled either Earth or Terra you don't find it hard to keep track.
I also felt the author's style of writing and mastery to craft a story ensures the reader does not get lost between worlds, as the same characters appear in both.
At one point, I thought I had accurately called the twist. I won't spoil the joy of this moment for you.
I'm not a big fan of multiple love interests, nor an MC who is internally lustful, but maintains cold and almost rude behaviour. But this is YA, therefore perhaps on point.
It builds, builds and builds for much of the first half with the second half being really fast-paced. This is the purpose of the first book of a series, and its done well. You'll fall in love not one but two characters.
Looking forward to book 2!
Urban Fantasy readers will love this start to the Anchored series by Bridget Baker. There is an element of psychological thriller in there too.
Alora dreams of Terra, which is another realm of conciousness. But dont worry, due to the chapters being titled either Earth or Terra you don't find it hard to keep track.
I also felt the author's style of writing and mastery to craft a story ensures the reader does not get lost between worlds, as the same characters appear in both.
At one point, I thought I had accurately called the twist. I won't spoil the joy of this moment for you.
I'm not a big fan of multiple love interests, nor an MC who is internally lustful, but maintains cold and almost rude behaviour. But this is YA, therefore perhaps on point.
It builds, builds and builds for much of the first half with the second half being really fast-paced. This is the purpose of the first book of a series, and its done well. You'll fall in love not one but two characters.
Looking forward to book 2!
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