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The Naturals #1
Awaking
An alternative cover edition for this ASIN can be found here.
Morgan Abbey’s life is about to change.
Just weeks before the beginning of her senior year, a mysterious stranger approaches Morgan with information that turns her world on end: First, the psychic ability she believes she has just been pretending to have since middle school might actually be real.
Second, her mother, who disappeared abruptly and completely almost a decade ago, might still be alive.
Morgan finds herself drawn into a centuries-old struggle involving a shadowy group with incredible powers. The Veneret have quietly coexisted alongside the common people of the world for centuries. Now they believe it is time for them to reclaim their former positions of power—and that Morgan is the key to their victory.
Every victory comes at a price—but is it one that Morgan will be willing to pay?
Continue the adventure. Seeking (The Naturals, #2) now available!
Morgan Abbey’s life is about to change.
Just weeks before the beginning of her senior year, a mysterious stranger approaches Morgan with information that turns her world on end: First, the psychic ability she believes she has just been pretending to have since middle school might actually be real.
Second, her mother, who disappeared abruptly and completely almost a decade ago, might still be alive.
Morgan finds herself drawn into a centuries-old struggle involving a shadowy group with incredible powers. The Veneret have quietly coexisted alongside the common people of the world for centuries. Now they believe it is time for them to reclaim their former positions of power—and that Morgan is the key to their victory.
Every victory comes at a price—but is it one that Morgan will be willing to pay?
Continue the adventure. Seeking (The Naturals, #2) now available!
211 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 10, 2011
441 people are currently reading
1566 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 107 reviews
September 25, 2011
Although I’ve seen quite a few reviews knocking this book, saying that the action doesn’t really pick up till you’re almost at the very end of this book, I find that this story is quite fast paced and very much intriguing. I didn’t feel it lacking in action. I really didn’t. In all honesty, I think Madeline did a beautiful job in building all of the elements that she’s combined in her books.
Most readers for this book have been adults, so far, so we tend to read things from an adult perspective. We must remember that this book is written for Young Adults. The way they read is not the same as how we older folks do. What may seem lacking in some aspects to us may not be so to the younger generation. And for the record, I’m not saying that this book is lacking in anyway, I’m just giving my two cents about the different perceptions in the way most of us – young and old, read.
With that said, I must say that I found this story quite entertaining. It’s a different take on the paranormal world with a bit of fantasy and romance added in. I enjoyed reading about Morgan and her powers. Seeing Ris make a fool of herself, at times, was amusing, as well as meeting all the guys that were vying for Morgan’s attention.
We have Lucas, the barista, who seems to know what people like when they come into the Daily Grind for drinks. Then there’s Corbin, who seems to be interested in Morgan, while also trying to juggle the attentions of Ris and Lynna. Lastly, we have Kellen, a guy who’s quite the looker and very much a charmer. All three, whether they realize it or not, are drawn to Morgan because of the powers that she’s begun to awaken within each of them. Powers that grow stronger as each day goes by.
Morgan struggles to come to terms with the fact that she’s someone whom the Veneret have been expecting, as well as trying to control her growing powers. Memories of her mother seem to also follow her wherever she goes – memories of a woman she thought she once knew.
I confess that I never saw the kiss between Morgan and Corbin Sterling coming. I kept thinking that she and Lucas would get together. All in all, I enjoyed the story very much. I’m looking forward to the next installment of this very endearing story.
Most readers for this book have been adults, so far, so we tend to read things from an adult perspective. We must remember that this book is written for Young Adults. The way they read is not the same as how we older folks do. What may seem lacking in some aspects to us may not be so to the younger generation. And for the record, I’m not saying that this book is lacking in anyway, I’m just giving my two cents about the different perceptions in the way most of us – young and old, read.
With that said, I must say that I found this story quite entertaining. It’s a different take on the paranormal world with a bit of fantasy and romance added in. I enjoyed reading about Morgan and her powers. Seeing Ris make a fool of herself, at times, was amusing, as well as meeting all the guys that were vying for Morgan’s attention.
We have Lucas, the barista, who seems to know what people like when they come into the Daily Grind for drinks. Then there’s Corbin, who seems to be interested in Morgan, while also trying to juggle the attentions of Ris and Lynna. Lastly, we have Kellen, a guy who’s quite the looker and very much a charmer. All three, whether they realize it or not, are drawn to Morgan because of the powers that she’s begun to awaken within each of them. Powers that grow stronger as each day goes by.
Morgan struggles to come to terms with the fact that she’s someone whom the Veneret have been expecting, as well as trying to control her growing powers. Memories of her mother seem to also follow her wherever she goes – memories of a woman she thought she once knew.
I confess that I never saw the kiss between Morgan and Corbin Sterling coming. I kept thinking that she and Lucas would get together. All in all, I enjoyed the story very much. I’m looking forward to the next installment of this very endearing story.
May 25, 2014
More reviews on my blog, Exploring Pages.
Honestly, I don't have a clue where to begin. I wanted to like this book much more than I do know, so much more. There was something about it which caught my attention. So maybe it was the outstanding cover, but I expected something more. Right now, my thoughts all agree on one statement: a huge disappointment when it could have surprised me in a very good way.
The biggest problem I had with Awaking were the plot and premise behind it. I couldn't find a single thing that stood out, or even made this book special. I didn't manage to make it to my list of books with an outstanding concept. Throughout the entire thing I kept flying through the pages, but not in the way I wanted it to be. I was searching for something which would manage to hold my attention. It felt like yet another one, filled with your common cliches when reading a Young-Adult novel. That kind of book where the girl realises she has powers and a secret organization wanting to take over the world. I can count several books on my fingers that have a very similar plot, and thus does nothing good for this one.
I feel like I can go on and on by saying how unoriginal Awaking is. Even when it comes to the characters, I don't think I have anything to say about originality. The cliches didn't stop when I was talking about the plot. No, it went even further than that. Ladies and gentlemen, here I present to you: the most common cast of characters you have ever seen. There's the bitch, the main Mary-Sue heroine, the cute guy who's suddenly into the protagonist, and the best friend who has everything. That's when I came to the conclusion they all had little to no development and were all really flat characters. The only one who stood out enough for me to fall in love with him, was Lucas. Undeveloped, but so adorable and sweet.
There was also quite the confusion for me while reading. Every character in here all seemed to have this "OK, whatever" attitude. That may or may not had to do with them being not developed, but it just confused me. Everything that happened didn't freak them out, not just a little bit. They all go with the flow, and no one seems to at least think about what was happening. Last but not least, almost every character in this book got to have physic abilities. When I thought it was rare to be a Natural, because it was stated multiple times, the author went all surprise! Everyone in the protagonist's environment is one, too! Yet another reason to add to my list of unrealistic events that happened in Awaking.
In the end, Awaking was just an average novel in the average world of Young-Adult. Don't think I didn't like it, because I did. It had a nice pace, I have no complaints about the writing which was actually really good and Lucas was the reason I managed to kept reading. Yet looking at the book, from characters to plot, there was just nothing special about it.
"Morgan didn't know what tomorrow would hold, and she found she didn't want to. For the moment, she was safe. Despite the questions racing in her mind, she almost felt peace. And, for now, that would have to be enough."
- Madeline Freeman, Awaking
Honestly, I don't have a clue where to begin. I wanted to like this book much more than I do know, so much more. There was something about it which caught my attention. So maybe it was the outstanding cover, but I expected something more. Right now, my thoughts all agree on one statement: a huge disappointment when it could have surprised me in a very good way.
The biggest problem I had with Awaking were the plot and premise behind it. I couldn't find a single thing that stood out, or even made this book special. I didn't manage to make it to my list of books with an outstanding concept. Throughout the entire thing I kept flying through the pages, but not in the way I wanted it to be. I was searching for something which would manage to hold my attention. It felt like yet another one, filled with your common cliches when reading a Young-Adult novel. That kind of book where the girl realises she has powers and a secret organization wanting to take over the world. I can count several books on my fingers that have a very similar plot, and thus does nothing good for this one.
I feel like I can go on and on by saying how unoriginal Awaking is. Even when it comes to the characters, I don't think I have anything to say about originality. The cliches didn't stop when I was talking about the plot. No, it went even further than that. Ladies and gentlemen, here I present to you: the most common cast of characters you have ever seen. There's the bitch, the main Mary-Sue heroine, the cute guy who's suddenly into the protagonist, and the best friend who has everything. That's when I came to the conclusion they all had little to no development and were all really flat characters. The only one who stood out enough for me to fall in love with him, was Lucas. Undeveloped, but so adorable and sweet.
There was also quite the confusion for me while reading. Every character in here all seemed to have this "OK, whatever" attitude. That may or may not had to do with them being not developed, but it just confused me. Everything that happened didn't freak them out, not just a little bit. They all go with the flow, and no one seems to at least think about what was happening. Last but not least, almost every character in this book got to have physic abilities. When I thought it was rare to be a Natural, because it was stated multiple times, the author went all surprise! Everyone in the protagonist's environment is one, too! Yet another reason to add to my list of unrealistic events that happened in Awaking.
In the end, Awaking was just an average novel in the average world of Young-Adult. Don't think I didn't like it, because I did. It had a nice pace, I have no complaints about the writing which was actually really good and Lucas was the reason I managed to kept reading. Yet looking at the book, from characters to plot, there was just nothing special about it.
June 19, 2015
Morgan is just your typical teenage girl. She has issues with the popular girls, she is awkward around guys, and she lets her best friend drag her to parties. But then a strange guy approaches her and claims to know things about her mother - the mother that has been missing since Morgan was seven. He also says that her supposedly fake psychic powers she uses to make a little money might not be as fake as she thought...
I enjoyed the storyline of this book but it felt as though something was missing. It was a little different, not quite like similar paranormal tales I've read as of late, but it wasn't all there for me. I felt that this novel was more of an introduction rather than a stand-alone story. That's my biggest pet peeve for any series - books that are almost impossible to enjoy and be satisfied with on their own. By all means, please leave yourself that opening to write the next installment - just make sure to give the reader something. As I said - I enjoyed the storyline, the ideas and direction were good. I enjoyed the action - it just never went anywhere. Several things got started but nothing was resolved or revealed. The reader is left with many questions and no closure to the book at all. If you're going to make a series, let each book have some sort of ending. Otherwise, it is nothing more than a chapter.
I enjoyed this title courtesy of the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I enjoyed the storyline of this book but it felt as though something was missing. It was a little different, not quite like similar paranormal tales I've read as of late, but it wasn't all there for me. I felt that this novel was more of an introduction rather than a stand-alone story. That's my biggest pet peeve for any series - books that are almost impossible to enjoy and be satisfied with on their own. By all means, please leave yourself that opening to write the next installment - just make sure to give the reader something. As I said - I enjoyed the storyline, the ideas and direction were good. I enjoyed the action - it just never went anywhere. Several things got started but nothing was resolved or revealed. The reader is left with many questions and no closure to the book at all. If you're going to make a series, let each book have some sort of ending. Otherwise, it is nothing more than a chapter.
I enjoyed this title courtesy of the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
July 7, 2020
I have to say I’m really enjoying this book. The story is very different from others I’ve read. I can’t wait to read the next one Morgan has always had a special gift and soon she meets others similar to her. She finds out that her mother may still be alive and her real father is a very famous man who’s got powers beyond Hers. He wants her because she’s the one that’s suppose to bring his people out into the world. But she doesn’t want to hurt anyone. I thought this was going to be a reverse harem book and I was getting upset because she’s got so many guys around BUT it’s becoming what I hoped NEED to read next book!!!!! Must read
May 22, 2015
*Review copy kindly provided by Madeline Freeman via NetGalley.
*Review can be found at The Fox's Hideaway.
My Review!
I'm going to admit this, but I totally read this book just because it had an orange cover. I probably would have kept putting it off if I hadn't read it for this challenge. But I'm so glad I did read it! Although I was a little annoyed with the romance and the lack of answers, Awaking had a unique concept that I found intriguing.
It also had a pretty sassy main character, Morgan Abbey. I really liked her in the beginning especially, because she didn't conform to the standards and she told fortunes to her classmates for money. However, she lost that boldness throughout the novel, that sassiness. She didn't question anything, she didn't press for answers. I thought she'd be more skeptical, more questioning. I didn't think she'd take everything at face value. There were times she was incredibly dense too. Morgan was also kind of portrayed as a bit of a Mary Sue. The one who's special, who is above all of the nonsense of high school. The one who can do no wrong and who is always morally right. The one that all the guys want.
Speaking of guys, the romance in this book left a lot to be desired. We meet so many characters, especially guys. There were at least two love interests (one who is creepy and misogynistic and ihatehimsomuch) one who was supposedly a friend but apparently not after that ending. I don't know where they all came from, or why they were all needed. There is a prophecy that explains two of them having a presence, which could contribute to romantic feelings. But none of them felt that believable, because Morgan's relationships with all of them were not that developed. I was left wanting there to be a clear love interest, and a focus on that relationship. Not all of this back and forth, confusing feelings in the main character. I don't think I would have minded it so much, if I had felt genuine chemistry between any of them and Morgan.
The concept, which didn't have as much focus throughout the book as I would have liked, was intriguing and different. It just didn't have that much development. Sure, we find out in the beginning what's going on and what Morgan is. But after that, the main character acted like it was all normal. There was no questioning, even when the people were not forthcoming with information and were being deliberately evasive. The plot lost me a little bit in the middle but then it picked back up once truths come to light and Morgan realizes that the people who told her that she was one of them might not be the ones who should be trusted.
Awaking was not the strongest beginning, but I'm curious about the sequel and what's going to happen to the characters next.
Rating: 3 Paw Prints!
*Review can be found at The Fox's Hideaway.
My Review!
I'm going to admit this, but I totally read this book just because it had an orange cover. I probably would have kept putting it off if I hadn't read it for this challenge. But I'm so glad I did read it! Although I was a little annoyed with the romance and the lack of answers, Awaking had a unique concept that I found intriguing.
It also had a pretty sassy main character, Morgan Abbey. I really liked her in the beginning especially, because she didn't conform to the standards and she told fortunes to her classmates for money. However, she lost that boldness throughout the novel, that sassiness. She didn't question anything, she didn't press for answers. I thought she'd be more skeptical, more questioning. I didn't think she'd take everything at face value. There were times she was incredibly dense too. Morgan was also kind of portrayed as a bit of a Mary Sue. The one who's special, who is above all of the nonsense of high school. The one who can do no wrong and who is always morally right. The one that all the guys want.
Speaking of guys, the romance in this book left a lot to be desired. We meet so many characters, especially guys. There were at least two love interests (one who is creepy and misogynistic and ihatehimsomuch) one who was supposedly a friend but apparently not after that ending. I don't know where they all came from, or why they were all needed. There is a prophecy that explains two of them having a presence, which could contribute to romantic feelings. But none of them felt that believable, because Morgan's relationships with all of them were not that developed. I was left wanting there to be a clear love interest, and a focus on that relationship. Not all of this back and forth, confusing feelings in the main character. I don't think I would have minded it so much, if I had felt genuine chemistry between any of them and Morgan.
The concept, which didn't have as much focus throughout the book as I would have liked, was intriguing and different. It just didn't have that much development. Sure, we find out in the beginning what's going on and what Morgan is. But after that, the main character acted like it was all normal. There was no questioning, even when the people were not forthcoming with information and were being deliberately evasive. The plot lost me a little bit in the middle but then it picked back up once truths come to light and Morgan realizes that the people who told her that she was one of them might not be the ones who should be trusted.
Awaking was not the strongest beginning, but I'm curious about the sequel and what's going to happen to the characters next.
Rating: 3 Paw Prints!
April 5, 2014
Unleash your inner teen, the one who accepts all things read without a completely overdone, rational and viable explanation. Awaking by Madeline Freeman knows how to write! She fills her pages with intrigue, an amazing heroine and, oh yes, teen guys. Morgan Abbey is ready to start her senior year at school, but just before this monumental event, her world is twisted inside out by a stranger who says she is the key to a centuries old power struggle of a shadowy group who has coexisted in the human world peacefully, until now. Morgan has always pretended to be psychic, and was so good that other teens would seek her out. Is it possible these powers are real?
Three young men, all charming, all attractive, are drawn to Morgan, but why? Is there something about Morgan that is unleashing some hidden abilities in them? With her hysterically funny sidekick by her side, our rebellious Morgan is trapped in a battle for power, her existence long awaited. If that isn’t enough, her own powers are growing and not exactly under control, while the mother who deserted her years before, becomes an almost constant tease in her mind. Has her father not been truthful about her disappearance? How deep will Morgan and her friends fall into the rabbit hole of the unbelievable, yet true? Where will the story end? How will it end? Who will win her heart? Is everyone who they seem to be?
Madeline Freeman has created a world that is easy to fall into, easy to relate to and not overdone with heavy detail. With a quick pace that builds and builds while never revealing too much, this tale hits the big rush and flies on home! Ms. Freeman has created fascinating characters, from the strong persona of Morgan to her bright and comical best friend, Ris to the three boys who become involved in this battle.
I MUST commend Madeline Freeman on creating a wonderful, YA fantasy where the “love triangle or square” is only one aspect of the tale, and the angst level is not over the top! Hooray for strong heroines!
I received a copy from Madeline Freeman in exchange for my honest review. A strong 4.5 Stars!
Publication Date: August 10, 2011
Publisher: Madeline Freeman
ISBN: 9781492784463
Genre: Sci Fi & Fantasy, Teens & YA
Number of Pages: 187
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
Three young men, all charming, all attractive, are drawn to Morgan, but why? Is there something about Morgan that is unleashing some hidden abilities in them? With her hysterically funny sidekick by her side, our rebellious Morgan is trapped in a battle for power, her existence long awaited. If that isn’t enough, her own powers are growing and not exactly under control, while the mother who deserted her years before, becomes an almost constant tease in her mind. Has her father not been truthful about her disappearance? How deep will Morgan and her friends fall into the rabbit hole of the unbelievable, yet true? Where will the story end? How will it end? Who will win her heart? Is everyone who they seem to be?
Madeline Freeman has created a world that is easy to fall into, easy to relate to and not overdone with heavy detail. With a quick pace that builds and builds while never revealing too much, this tale hits the big rush and flies on home! Ms. Freeman has created fascinating characters, from the strong persona of Morgan to her bright and comical best friend, Ris to the three boys who become involved in this battle.
I MUST commend Madeline Freeman on creating a wonderful, YA fantasy where the “love triangle or square” is only one aspect of the tale, and the angst level is not over the top! Hooray for strong heroines!
I received a copy from Madeline Freeman in exchange for my honest review. A strong 4.5 Stars!
Publication Date: August 10, 2011
Publisher: Madeline Freeman
ISBN: 9781492784463
Genre: Sci Fi & Fantasy, Teens & YA
Number of Pages: 187
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
February 27, 2016
"I love that you dumped him over Han Solo."
"Sad, but true," Ris agreed. "The things you do in fifth grade seem so logical at the time..."
I loved the characters in this book. Loved. All but the main character.
Morgan is your average psychic although she downplays her powers as "feelings" she gets. She wasn't all that bad in the beginning of the book, but todays the end when she finds out more of her past/ powers she starts to get down-right whiny.
There is nothing more I hate than a whiny main character who develops a cliche crush on 'the guy who every girl likes but her.' By the way, this isn't your typical love-triangle. It's a love freaking mess. Best friend has a crush on guy she used to date. Main character develops a crush on guy her best friend likes, then on a bad guy then on a cute innocent guy. Like, I said love mess.
Morgan:
Main character, whiny mess. There's not much more to add except for the unnecessary amount of guys she likes - did I mention I hate love triangles? I really do.
Corbin:
Best friend's crush. Should be off limits right? No, not really. Screw girl code. He's the boy that Morgan states she would never fall for, except towards the end when he's sort of seeing her best friend, Ris, they He's supportive, and if he wasn't part of the love triangle I actually might like him. A bit. Maybe not though.
The reason I gave this story 3 stars was because of the side characters that captured my interest: Kellen, Ris & Lucas.
Kellen:
He's the typical bad boy who helps Morgan learn about her powers and learn how to control them. Typical bad boy and it's so tragically clear he's up to no good especially when but he's complex and intriguing, which is more than I can say for the main character.
Ris:
The hyper-active, best friend who you can't help but love. She was funny and brought light to some dark situations.
Lucas
The cute barista that Morgan shamelessly flirts with. He's funny, quirky and just as supportive as Corbin and Ris. He was my favourite and even though I'm not going to continue reading this story I'm seriously Team Lucas.
Despite my previous statements, I did enjoy the majority of this book and I finished it without regrets. If you enjoy love triangles then this book is definitely for you!! I just have an issue with a plot that revolves around so many guys.
"Sad, but true," Ris agreed. "The things you do in fifth grade seem so logical at the time..."
I loved the characters in this book. Loved. All but the main character.
Morgan is your average psychic although she downplays her powers as "feelings" she gets. She wasn't all that bad in the beginning of the book, but todays the end when she finds out more of her past/ powers she starts to get down-right whiny.
There is nothing more I hate than a whiny main character who develops a cliche crush on 'the guy who every girl likes but her.' By the way, this isn't your typical love-triangle. It's a love freaking mess. Best friend has a crush on guy she used to date. Main character develops a crush on guy her best friend likes, then on a bad guy then on a cute innocent guy. Like, I said love mess.
Morgan:
Main character, whiny mess. There's not much more to add except for the unnecessary amount of guys she likes - did I mention I hate love triangles? I really do.
Corbin:
Best friend's crush. Should be off limits right? No, not really. Screw girl code. He's the boy that Morgan states she would never fall for, except towards the end when he's sort of seeing her best friend, Ris, they He's supportive, and if he wasn't part of the love triangle I actually might like him. A bit. Maybe not though.
The reason I gave this story 3 stars was because of the side characters that captured my interest: Kellen, Ris & Lucas.
Kellen:
He's the typical bad boy who helps Morgan learn about her powers and learn how to control them. Typical bad boy and it's so tragically clear he's up to no good especially when but he's complex and intriguing, which is more than I can say for the main character.
Ris:
The hyper-active, best friend who you can't help but love. She was funny and brought light to some dark situations.
Lucas
The cute barista that Morgan shamelessly flirts with. He's funny, quirky and just as supportive as Corbin and Ris. He was my favourite and even though I'm not going to continue reading this story I'm seriously Team Lucas.
Despite my previous statements, I did enjoy the majority of this book and I finished it without regrets. If you enjoy love triangles then this book is definitely for you!! I just have an issue with a plot that revolves around so many guys.
March 17, 2017
First of all, this was a quick read, which is really nice when you need to let go. There wasn't any real meat to the story, just another cliche "teen has undiscovered powers and there are organizations who want to use her to rule the world." But, there was a rather different take on the story, if cliche. The characters are all flat though. There wasn't a single one that stood out, or that I loved.
And why is it that every teen book makes it seem okay to leave with a perfect stranger simply because he is hot? Why do all the characters have to look attractive, except the main character, who is, but never thinks she is. Like I said, cliche. These books set a dangerous precident for teens, making an "attractive stranger" a magical attractant for tragedy. Just once, can the main character be smart enough to NOT go with, or believe, the attractive stranger? No wonder it is so hard for people to stay married, or have a lasting relationship. They have this romanticized version of how it should be, that will never, EVER be possible in reality.
My biggest problem in the premise was that the main character is a natural. *Spoilers* How can she be a natural if her proclaimed father is a veneret? If Orrick is her father as he claimed, then she isn't a Natural. By the author's definition, a natural is one who manifests powers without coming from parents who are Veneret. This is a huge flaw in the plot. *End of spoilers*
While the pacing was nice, I found myself pulled out of the story because of strange phrasing and missing words, leaving me wondering if the story was edited at all. And the excess "crappy" dialogue was unnerving. For example: "The hell?" The hell what? I get that the phrasing should have been "what the hell?" but the missing words were so common, I have to chalk it up to lack of editing.
All in all, this is another book I won't be recommending.
For my clean readers:
Includes underage drinking, excessively foolish choices, mild language, lying to parents about parties and location, hinted murder, sexual alluding, very mild violence, and loss of free will.
And why is it that every teen book makes it seem okay to leave with a perfect stranger simply because he is hot? Why do all the characters have to look attractive, except the main character, who is, but never thinks she is. Like I said, cliche. These books set a dangerous precident for teens, making an "attractive stranger" a magical attractant for tragedy. Just once, can the main character be smart enough to NOT go with, or believe, the attractive stranger? No wonder it is so hard for people to stay married, or have a lasting relationship. They have this romanticized version of how it should be, that will never, EVER be possible in reality.
My biggest problem in the premise was that the main character is a natural. *Spoilers* How can she be a natural if her proclaimed father is a veneret? If Orrick is her father as he claimed, then she isn't a Natural. By the author's definition, a natural is one who manifests powers without coming from parents who are Veneret. This is a huge flaw in the plot. *End of spoilers*
While the pacing was nice, I found myself pulled out of the story because of strange phrasing and missing words, leaving me wondering if the story was edited at all. And the excess "crappy" dialogue was unnerving. For example: "The hell?" The hell what? I get that the phrasing should have been "what the hell?" but the missing words were so common, I have to chalk it up to lack of editing.
All in all, this is another book I won't be recommending.
For my clean readers:
Includes underage drinking, excessively foolish choices, mild language, lying to parents about parties and location, hinted murder, sexual alluding, very mild violence, and loss of free will.
March 28, 2014
Full Review to follow @http://www.abookishescape.com/2014/03...
Awaking was a fun and interesting read I was completely immersed in the story and could not wait to find out what was going to happen next. The first thing that drew me to this series is that GAW-JESS cover!! Wow just look at it! Its all like, mysterious and hiding something truly amazing. The concept of this story is unlike anything else I’ve ever read and now sadly, I’m hooked. My life will not be complete until I see where Morgan(our main girl) ends up.
My Rating
3.5 House Party, Captivating Stranger, Daily Grind, Special Talent, Fedora, Unused Energy, The Common, Private Office, Masked Watchers, Unplanned Kiss, Battle drawn Stars!! I cant wait to see what becomes of these characters that are full of intrigue and mystery! For a fun and different fantasy YA pick up this Series!!!
Awaking was a fun and interesting read I was completely immersed in the story and could not wait to find out what was going to happen next. The first thing that drew me to this series is that GAW-JESS cover!! Wow just look at it! Its all like, mysterious and hiding something truly amazing. The concept of this story is unlike anything else I’ve ever read and now sadly, I’m hooked. My life will not be complete until I see where Morgan(our main girl) ends up.
My Rating
3.5 House Party, Captivating Stranger, Daily Grind, Special Talent, Fedora, Unused Energy, The Common, Private Office, Masked Watchers, Unplanned Kiss, Battle drawn Stars!! I cant wait to see what becomes of these characters that are full of intrigue and mystery! For a fun and different fantasy YA pick up this Series!!!
May 30, 2016
A good enough story line but I found a few things irritating. First thing obviously going to be some sort of love triangle *big yawn* at least make it interesting by having a bisexual main character and a boy and girl love rival. The other thing was how stupid the main character was like sure get into a car with a guy you just met with two of his friends you've never met, seems like a good idea! Not! In real life she would be dead I mean obviously not real life but you know! It was ok but suddenly loads of people she knows having these powers seems unlikely tbh. I think it's a good quick read if you don't want to think too much about how it makes sense and if I hadn't thought as much I would have enjoyed it more
April 30, 2014
Just could not finish past the first few chapters. I could not fathom getting into a car (no matter how nice it is) with 3 complete strange boys who claim they have "special powers" Morgan? Can we get a main character with a little bit of brains and common sense? Teenage Angst all over this book. No thanks!
August 17, 2013
I like it! the plot is good.. I want for sure to read second book...! Is good book,..
July 24, 2018
Book Review- Awakening by Madeline Freeman
In the first book of the Natural series, Morgan Abbey lives with her dad and is the local psychic. She and her best friend Ris run a local business with her readings. Things start getting weird when she reads Lia and Corbin. Corbin can read her mind. It freaks them both out until they find out what is really going on. Morgan just found out she is a Natural. The Veneret have been watching her. Kellen informs her that she is the one they have been waiting for. Corbin and her new friend Lucas come into their own powers after she reads their futures.
Morgan enters a strange world where the Veneret believes they are superior to regular humans. She is afraid of what they want from her. She finds herself fighting against those that first told her what she was. She is saved by someone she never expected. A war is brewing and she is smack dab in the middle.
This book was interesting. I had no idea what to expect. I have never read this author before. I liked Morgan’s character because she was fine with being herself. She seemed pretty happy. She wished she knew more about her mother but she had her father.
Her psychic ability added the paranormal edge to it in the beginning. It was cool to watch as her powers develop. I also liked how Corbin and Lucas become two people she could count on and trust. I was completely disappointed with Kellen. I had such high hopes for him in the beginning of the story. However, he became a jerk that believed wholeheartedly in his superiority. By the end I wasn’t his fan. It will be interesting to see what happens in the next book in the trilogy. This book ends in a bit of quiet moments after she escapes. It leaves you wondering what will happen next. I give it a 4 out of 5.
In the first book of the Natural series, Morgan Abbey lives with her dad and is the local psychic. She and her best friend Ris run a local business with her readings. Things start getting weird when she reads Lia and Corbin. Corbin can read her mind. It freaks them both out until they find out what is really going on. Morgan just found out she is a Natural. The Veneret have been watching her. Kellen informs her that she is the one they have been waiting for. Corbin and her new friend Lucas come into their own powers after she reads their futures.
Morgan enters a strange world where the Veneret believes they are superior to regular humans. She is afraid of what they want from her. She finds herself fighting against those that first told her what she was. She is saved by someone she never expected. A war is brewing and she is smack dab in the middle.
This book was interesting. I had no idea what to expect. I have never read this author before. I liked Morgan’s character because she was fine with being herself. She seemed pretty happy. She wished she knew more about her mother but she had her father.
Her psychic ability added the paranormal edge to it in the beginning. It was cool to watch as her powers develop. I also liked how Corbin and Lucas become two people she could count on and trust. I was completely disappointed with Kellen. I had such high hopes for him in the beginning of the story. However, he became a jerk that believed wholeheartedly in his superiority. By the end I wasn’t his fan. It will be interesting to see what happens in the next book in the trilogy. This book ends in a bit of quiet moments after she escapes. It leaves you wondering what will happen next. I give it a 4 out of 5.
October 8, 2023
Lol I heard so many good reviews about "the naturals" series that I picked up this book. Not knowing this wasn't even the right series...
But nonetheless I didn't like it for a number of reasons:
- the writing style was sometimes all over the place and I didnt know what was going on
- weird filler parties that serve no purpuse. Why would you want to TALK at a party?? Makes no sense to me
- there was literally nothing happening the whole entire time. You just keep going hoping the questions get answered, and sometihing will happen
- how many more times do I need to read about this barista making drinks
- STOP THE DAMN PARTIES
- the ending is just a shit show. Trying to bring in some suspense and more questions to hopefully keep me reading the rest of the series.
But no. When I went to review the book on goodreads I noticed I read the wrong book lol. This is not what all the book girlies are talking about. Don't be stupid like me. Don't waste your time.
But nonetheless I didn't like it for a number of reasons:
- the writing style was sometimes all over the place and I didnt know what was going on
- weird filler parties that serve no purpuse. Why would you want to TALK at a party?? Makes no sense to me
- there was literally nothing happening the whole entire time. You just keep going hoping the questions get answered, and sometihing will happen
- how many more times do I need to read about this barista making drinks
- STOP THE DAMN PARTIES
- the ending is just a shit show. Trying to bring in some suspense and more questions to hopefully keep me reading the rest of the series.
But no. When I went to review the book on goodreads I noticed I read the wrong book lol. This is not what all the book girlies are talking about. Don't be stupid like me. Don't waste your time.
October 20, 2017
Love the story, hate the typos
Ms. Freeman is a gifted storyteller. I loved the Circle Magic trilogy, and as far as story goes, I loved Awaking. I didn't want to set it down. However, someone needs to go back through and clean up the typos that weren't caught by the person who typed up the final copy; they are numerous, unfortunate, and threw me out of what was otherwise an engaging read. Fix the typos and my rating goes up.
Ms. Freeman is a gifted storyteller. I loved the Circle Magic trilogy, and as far as story goes, I loved Awaking. I didn't want to set it down. However, someone needs to go back through and clean up the typos that weren't caught by the person who typed up the final copy; they are numerous, unfortunate, and threw me out of what was otherwise an engaging read. Fix the typos and my rating goes up.
November 21, 2020
Beginning was fast and fun. 60% of the way through, the story went a direction that did not keep my interest. I won't go into what that direction was because I don't want to give any spoilers and my reaction was just that, mine. Even though Awakening is not the type of story I'm most drawn to, I do recommend this book for a satisfying read. Straightforward writing, lots of mystery even if it's set in a familiar style.
September 27, 2017
Honestly it's been over two weeks since I read it and it has faded back into the rest of books quite similar that I've read... All I remember is I finished it and enjoyed it, but now it's just blended in with all the other books and I can't remember what it's about... Yes I might not have the best memory, but I can remember the really good books.
January 31, 2018
This was an enjoyable story that I wish had more feeling of real teenagers grappling with unreal problems. After being told that Naturals are really rare, they start popping up like weeds and nobody seems very surprised. The mystery of her mother keeps getting dismissed and the Veneret are bland for bad guys. The stakes didn't seem worth much concern.
June 26, 2020
Good
Morgan has ability to read people and do horoscopes. Her mom disappeared when she was seven. At a party she meets person who bring her into light of why she is different and knows about her mom. As her powers grow her friends also get power. There is cliff hanger u gotta read book two to know what happens
Morgan has ability to read people and do horoscopes. Her mom disappeared when she was seven. At a party she meets person who bring her into light of why she is different and knows about her mom. As her powers grow her friends also get power. There is cliff hanger u gotta read book two to know what happens
October 17, 2021
Brilliant
Asking (The Naturals Book 1) by Madeline Freeman. Morgan has been telling fortunes for quite a while and getting them right but now she's wondering why she's always right. When I started reading this book I thought I'd not like it but I kept reading and I'm glad I did. Can't wait to read the next book.
Asking (The Naturals Book 1) by Madeline Freeman. Morgan has been telling fortunes for quite a while and getting them right but now she's wondering why she's always right. When I started reading this book I thought I'd not like it but I kept reading and I'm glad I did. Can't wait to read the next book.
October 28, 2022
Good read
3.5 Stars, This book was ok, kids coming into their powers being oh what do I do kind of thing. There was some repeated sayings throughout the book. over all ok. Was not for me, someone will love it. Reads fast.....Recommend to 16 years and up does have swearing and control in it... Gina Clabo
3.5 Stars, This book was ok, kids coming into their powers being oh what do I do kind of thing. There was some repeated sayings throughout the book. over all ok. Was not for me, someone will love it. Reads fast.....Recommend to 16 years and up does have swearing and control in it... Gina Clabo
May 30, 2024
Same old "chosen one" story.
Runs off with guys she doesn't know to learn of a world she wasn't aware was there. Activates other powers... I read the first 9 chapters and then skipped to the last two. It was a book I struggled to read and even today reading the book I barely got through a chapter before I had a nap.
Will not be continuing the series.
Unremarkable story, and characters.
Runs off with guys she doesn't know to learn of a world she wasn't aware was there. Activates other powers... I read the first 9 chapters and then skipped to the last two. It was a book I struggled to read and even today reading the book I barely got through a chapter before I had a nap.
Will not be continuing the series.
Unremarkable story, and characters.
May 16, 2017
Morgan has been reading fortunes at school for ever her friend Ris makes sure he always has customers, When Morgan reads Corbin's fortune something happens between them then she meet Kellen and her Corbin and Lucas world is turned upside down, they find out they are naturals.
December 31, 2017
Funny. Witty. Great characters (Morgan, Corbin, and Lucas). Action packed. Scary. Twisted. Easy to read.
Morgan is a powerful, young woman coming to grips with her abilities all the while maintaining her strong moral compass.
Morgan is a powerful, young woman coming to grips with her abilities all the while maintaining her strong moral compass.
May 22, 2018
Good book!
Nice story line. The suspense and mystery of it made it hard to put down. Just wish it was longer. I don't like being left hanging in the middle of the story. Hope the next one is just as good or better!
Nice story line. The suspense and mystery of it made it hard to put down. Just wish it was longer. I don't like being left hanging in the middle of the story. Hope the next one is just as good or better!
October 5, 2020
Good clean story with great characters. Morgan and Ris are best friends. I hope that it stays that way. When Lucas and Corbin join the group they are just starting to figure things out. The bad guys stood out to me and the good guys where hidden. It was a fun story I hope that you enjoy it.
July 1, 2021
It was interesting. It was different, looks like this could drag out for many books with out a lot of story The way I see it. I like books that tell a story and they can continue with other plots if it continues in a series. But like each story to have a beginning and end.
October 8, 2021
Cute premise with a lot of promise. Not a whole lot happens except for the revealing and learning of her powers. There are lots of guys, who all seem to revolve around the MC, but not any romantic tension, which I was disappointed about. Good read for teens. Very clean.
January 15, 2023
There are hundreds of Ya stories just like this one already out there waiting for us to read them. AWAKING has the power to reach out and grab you from the very first sentence. I'm itching to get my hands on the next book!
August 30, 2017
Good read
Easy read - connections between characters were easy to understand. Moved quickly. Made me feel excited for the next book
Easy read - connections between characters were easy to understand. Moved quickly. Made me feel excited for the next book
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