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Amy's Rebellion
I was twelve the first time I killed a man.
After the war, I was driven to the human world by a vengeful leader. My only chance at survival? Run.
With the help of a genderfluid shifter, I learned to hide in plain sight and harness the powers within, but my luck soon ran out.
This time, she captured my sister and sent an assassin after me. Running is no longer an option.
If I want to live, I have to fight.
But how do you defeat the same power that turned your clan to ash?
You build an army and start a rebellion.
If you like LGBTQ representation, expansive magic worlds, and enemies to lovers romances you’ll love the first book in the Gemstone Massacre series. Buy Amy’s Rebellion today!
After the war, I was driven to the human world by a vengeful leader. My only chance at survival? Run.
With the help of a genderfluid shifter, I learned to hide in plain sight and harness the powers within, but my luck soon ran out.
This time, she captured my sister and sent an assassin after me. Running is no longer an option.
If I want to live, I have to fight.
But how do you defeat the same power that turned your clan to ash?
You build an army and start a rebellion.
If you like LGBTQ representation, expansive magic worlds, and enemies to lovers romances you’ll love the first book in the Gemstone Massacre series. Buy Amy’s Rebellion today!
270 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 12, 2021
10 people are currently reading
47 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
February 2, 2022
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
After the war.
Amy was driven to the human world by a vengeful leader.
her only chance at survival? Run.
With the help of a genderfluid shifter, She learned to hide in plain sight and harness the powers within, but her luck soon ran out.
If you want to read more after this little introduction you should if not you should not :P.
This book flowed well and gave us all a lot of insight into different point of views by utilizing third person. I'm normally not so fan off but Julia Goldhirsh did a great job at this. I enjoyed this book a lot. hopefully you will to!
After the war.
Amy was driven to the human world by a vengeful leader.
her only chance at survival? Run.
With the help of a genderfluid shifter, She learned to hide in plain sight and harness the powers within, but her luck soon ran out.
If you want to read more after this little introduction you should if not you should not :P.
This book flowed well and gave us all a lot of insight into different point of views by utilizing third person. I'm normally not so fan off but Julia Goldhirsh did a great job at this. I enjoyed this book a lot. hopefully you will to!
August 27, 2021
After the war, Amy was driven to the human world by a vengeful leader. My only chance at survival? Run.
With the help of a genderfluid shifter, I learned to hide in plain sight and harness the powers within, but my luck soon ran out.
In this book we learn more about the characters and the story which looks promising.
How can Amy start a rebellion to put things right?
Will she succeed or will it be for nothing.
Find out by reading book 1 now.
With the help of a genderfluid shifter, I learned to hide in plain sight and harness the powers within, but my luck soon ran out.
In this book we learn more about the characters and the story which looks promising.
How can Amy start a rebellion to put things right?
Will she succeed or will it be for nothing.
Find out by reading book 1 now.
July 25, 2021
Another great beginning to a new series. The heroine is strong and smart and you’re caught up with how she manages everything. Loved it
August 6, 2021
This was a prequel to a new series. It introduces yiu to the characters and gives you background as to what will be going on in the future. I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book
May 1, 2023
First time read from this author, and it was enjoyable. It is a fantasy novel with its own element. Amy a heroine who was a fearless and fierce. She drove herself as well as the others around her.
This book entangles magic, drama, action, suspense, and a perfect touch of romance.
Amy left her previous life behind. A life in which her decisions were not her own, and the choices were dictated by others. Amy knows she cannot leave her past fully behind, and the evil forces won’t stop until they have her. She determines her own fate now, and the only way to ever be free is to lead her own army against the evil that’s coming. The story that you will not want to miss.
This book entangles magic, drama, action, suspense, and a perfect touch of romance.
Amy left her previous life behind. A life in which her decisions were not her own, and the choices were dictated by others. Amy knows she cannot leave her past fully behind, and the evil forces won’t stop until they have her. She determines her own fate now, and the only way to ever be free is to lead her own army against the evil that’s coming. The story that you will not want to miss.
October 22, 2021
This book flowed well and gave us a lot of insight into different point of views by utilizing third person omniscient which I’m a fan of. I think it’s a lot easier to follow storylines when you’re not stuck in the head of one character at a time. There’s a lot of moving parts to this book and a good bit of action, but not all of it makes sense.
While reading this book, I found out that the author also has a prequel that is about the War of the Twin Swords which I think would illuminate a lot of the questions I had. This war was mentioned several times throughout the book which meant that it was a pivotal event that created the relationships between many of the characters.
The book centers around Amy who’s an enchantress with a mysterious past. She comes from a magical land along with most of her friends that was destroyed by Opal, the evil villainess of the story. Opal is dead set on revenge against Amy for killing her friend and starting the war that ravaged their lands. So, naturally, Amy does a lot of running and gathers an army to go against Opal and her alleged reign of terror.
I do believe if I had read the prequel first, I would sympathize more with Amy, but while reading this I kept thinking that the whole war started from a lack of communication. Of course, isn’t that most wars? While the characters were portrayed as being older (I’m thinking early 20s), they all seem to be making the same communication mistakes with each other which is a sign of immaturity. This gives them a personality flaw, but also makes it a little frustrating. I think this book would be better marketed at young adults.
I did appreciate the amount of representation in this book. There were many characters who were clearly a part of the LGBTQ+ community. My only quip is that Iris, who appeared as non-binary and used they/them pronouns (and even mentions this in the book) had part of a chapter where they were being referred to as “she.” I felt like this was a little glaring during the story and took away from what the author was trying to accomplish with this character. Of course, this is easily fixed with another edit.
I also found myself a little confused with the character of Dusk. He had two other names as Cat and Night, and it didn’t explain why. I simply assumed because he was a shifter that these were his other “forms,” but I think this could’ve been explained better – especially if you haven’t read the prequel where I’m sure this character first appears to Amy.
Now, onto Amy. I foresee much needed character growth in her future. There was some of it in this story, but she still seemed to make decisions that were more sacrificial than reminiscent of a true leader. I believe Dusk said it better in the story.
Overall, I liked the descriptions in the story and I thought Amy had the coolest job owning a gem shop. I do think her past is a little predictable, but it leads up to a good story for a sequel and it is pretty interesting. I specifically enjoyed the many clans presented in the book and the hybrid elementals with more than one element under their control.
I received this book a free ARC from the author and my review is my honest opinion.
While reading this book, I found out that the author also has a prequel that is about the War of the Twin Swords which I think would illuminate a lot of the questions I had. This war was mentioned several times throughout the book which meant that it was a pivotal event that created the relationships between many of the characters.
The book centers around Amy who’s an enchantress with a mysterious past. She comes from a magical land along with most of her friends that was destroyed by Opal, the evil villainess of the story. Opal is dead set on revenge against Amy for killing her friend and starting the war that ravaged their lands. So, naturally, Amy does a lot of running and gathers an army to go against Opal and her alleged reign of terror.
I do believe if I had read the prequel first, I would sympathize more with Amy, but while reading this I kept thinking that the whole war started from a lack of communication. Of course, isn’t that most wars? While the characters were portrayed as being older (I’m thinking early 20s), they all seem to be making the same communication mistakes with each other which is a sign of immaturity. This gives them a personality flaw, but also makes it a little frustrating. I think this book would be better marketed at young adults.
I did appreciate the amount of representation in this book. There were many characters who were clearly a part of the LGBTQ+ community. My only quip is that Iris, who appeared as non-binary and used they/them pronouns (and even mentions this in the book) had part of a chapter where they were being referred to as “she.” I felt like this was a little glaring during the story and took away from what the author was trying to accomplish with this character. Of course, this is easily fixed with another edit.
I also found myself a little confused with the character of Dusk. He had two other names as Cat and Night, and it didn’t explain why. I simply assumed because he was a shifter that these were his other “forms,” but I think this could’ve been explained better – especially if you haven’t read the prequel where I’m sure this character first appears to Amy.
Now, onto Amy. I foresee much needed character growth in her future. There was some of it in this story, but she still seemed to make decisions that were more sacrificial than reminiscent of a true leader. I believe Dusk said it better in the story.
Overall, I liked the descriptions in the story and I thought Amy had the coolest job owning a gem shop. I do think her past is a little predictable, but it leads up to a good story for a sequel and it is pretty interesting. I specifically enjoyed the many clans presented in the book and the hybrid elementals with more than one element under their control.
I received this book a free ARC from the author and my review is my honest opinion.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 19, 2021
I received an Advanced Reader Copy for an honest and voluntary review
This is a fantastic start to a new series!! It helps if you read the prequel, The War of the Twin Swords, to get a better understanding of the backstory and of Opal. I absolutely love Amy’s character 💙 She’s smart and she’s strong!! She has also surrounded herself with a lot of allies to help her. The side characters were amazing!! Julia writes the most amazing and strongest women, in her books ♥️ This book was very hard to put down, because there was so much action and suspense, you just wanted to know what was going to happen next!! The world Julia created is very unique and amazing, plus the character art she added to the book, is GORGEOUS 😍 I love reading about all of the magical gemstones 💎 I very much can’t wait to see what happens in the next book!!
At 12 years old, Amy kills a man out of self defense, at the peace negotiations. It has earned her the name Amethyst Killer. After the events of The War of the Twin Swords, Opal has become the Magic Council’s leader. Opal wants Amy dead, and she has destroyed her entire clan. Amy does the only thing she can, and runs to the human world to escape. Opal follows her, and takes her friend, Night. Amy is unsure if Night is being held by Opal or if he is dead. She misses him dearly. Amy runs a shop, in the human world, and helps the townspeople. Everything seems to be running smoothly, until a mysterious shifter named Dusk, shows up inside Amy’s house. He seems familiar somehow, but she just can’t quite place him…..
I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK 💙
This is a fantastic start to a new series!! It helps if you read the prequel, The War of the Twin Swords, to get a better understanding of the backstory and of Opal. I absolutely love Amy’s character 💙 She’s smart and she’s strong!! She has also surrounded herself with a lot of allies to help her. The side characters were amazing!! Julia writes the most amazing and strongest women, in her books ♥️ This book was very hard to put down, because there was so much action and suspense, you just wanted to know what was going to happen next!! The world Julia created is very unique and amazing, plus the character art she added to the book, is GORGEOUS 😍 I love reading about all of the magical gemstones 💎 I very much can’t wait to see what happens in the next book!!
At 12 years old, Amy kills a man out of self defense, at the peace negotiations. It has earned her the name Amethyst Killer. After the events of The War of the Twin Swords, Opal has become the Magic Council’s leader. Opal wants Amy dead, and she has destroyed her entire clan. Amy does the only thing she can, and runs to the human world to escape. Opal follows her, and takes her friend, Night. Amy is unsure if Night is being held by Opal or if he is dead. She misses him dearly. Amy runs a shop, in the human world, and helps the townspeople. Everything seems to be running smoothly, until a mysterious shifter named Dusk, shows up inside Amy’s house. He seems familiar somehow, but she just can’t quite place him…..
I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK 💙
November 5, 2021
First of all, although I promised to read and review this for another thread I bought a copy from Amazon. i.e. This was not an ARC.
Loved Amy as a character. She felt 3 dimensional and real, complete with flaws. At the same time, I felt I understood the villain, Opal, and enjoyed seeing the internal war that she is fighting, which gave better context to her actions. The range of LGBTQ+ characters was enlightening and deftly handled.
At times, however, I felt like there were too many characters in one scene, and keeping track of them all got a bit difficult
The plot started well and for the first half of the book, I didn’t want to put the book down. There were unexpected twists, and I certainly did not expect Amy to be captured so early in the narrative. Anyone who enjoys a lot of capture-and-escape routines will love this narrative. For me, though, it started to feel a little repetitive as I got into the second half.
Another thing I think the author handled well were the references to Twin Swords. Avoiding the info dump feel, while at the same time giving enough information that the reader would understand the backstory even if they hadn’t read the prequel. (Although, as someone who did read it, I didn’t always feel that the references matched my take on that story.)
In the letter stages, I felt the story picked up again really well, and the ending was strong.
All in all, this was a highly enjoyable read, and I’ll keep an eye out the next book in the series.
Loved Amy as a character. She felt 3 dimensional and real, complete with flaws. At the same time, I felt I understood the villain, Opal, and enjoyed seeing the internal war that she is fighting, which gave better context to her actions. The range of LGBTQ+ characters was enlightening and deftly handled.
At times, however, I felt like there were too many characters in one scene, and keeping track of them all got a bit difficult
The plot started well and for the first half of the book, I didn’t want to put the book down. There were unexpected twists, and I certainly did not expect Amy to be captured so early in the narrative. Anyone who enjoys a lot of capture-and-escape routines will love this narrative. For me, though, it started to feel a little repetitive as I got into the second half.
Another thing I think the author handled well were the references to Twin Swords. Avoiding the info dump feel, while at the same time giving enough information that the reader would understand the backstory even if they hadn’t read the prequel. (Although, as someone who did read it, I didn’t always feel that the references matched my take on that story.)
In the letter stages, I felt the story picked up again really well, and the ending was strong.
All in all, this was a highly enjoyable read, and I’ll keep an eye out the next book in the series.
May 4, 2023
This is the first book in the Gemstone Massacre Series. This is a fantasy story filled with magic, danger, Suspense, shapeshifters and a enemies to friends romance. The author does an amazing job of creating the magic world in a way the makes the reader believe its real. I wasn't aware that their was a prequel to this story and I feel if I had read that first I would have understood the conflict between Amy and Opal better so I will be going back to read that.
I loved the main character of Amy. Amy is a very strong and determined person who has had to deal with a lot of loss, from losing their best friend to losing their entire clan. Now Amy has escaped to earth and is in hiding however she won't be able to hide forever and with Opal hunting Amy down she knows she needs to build an army strong enough to fight.
The author does an amazing job and it was unique to find the characters who are part of the LGBTQ+ which makes this story relevant and more in keeping with today's society.
I also loved the likeness to old mystical stories such as Merlin and King Arthur and Excalibur. All these different elements work so well together to take the reader on an exciting journey across magical relms and overcoming obstacles along the way which makes this read really engaging. I can't wait to see what happens next in the series.
I loved the main character of Amy. Amy is a very strong and determined person who has had to deal with a lot of loss, from losing their best friend to losing their entire clan. Now Amy has escaped to earth and is in hiding however she won't be able to hide forever and with Opal hunting Amy down she knows she needs to build an army strong enough to fight.
The author does an amazing job and it was unique to find the characters who are part of the LGBTQ+ which makes this story relevant and more in keeping with today's society.
I also loved the likeness to old mystical stories such as Merlin and King Arthur and Excalibur. All these different elements work so well together to take the reader on an exciting journey across magical relms and overcoming obstacles along the way which makes this read really engaging. I can't wait to see what happens next in the series.
September 16, 2021
As many facets as a gemstone
Book received as free ARC gift from author.
One of the things that stuck out to me the most while being so subtle in the writing is the representation of different cultures as well as LGBTQ+. If you’re someone who is non-binary, trans, or elsewhere along our many colored rainbow flags and feel a desperate lack of representation in other bold, then look no further. This is the book and author for you!
Julia has an incredible way of weaving the story so subtly, so gracefully, that you’re completely entranced by it before you realize it. To see Amy, the Amethyst mage, not just grown up but leading a revolution is at once both enthralling and breathtaking. You’re on the edge of your seat by the action, the suspense, not to mention the mixing of mythologies that blend so effortlessly as to have been born this way all along.
Julia Rose Goldhirsch stands apart as an author, making her in the collection of only 5 authors I will seek out regularly for my fantasy wants. Beside her along their own points in this pentagram are: Britini Chenelle, Allison Rose, A.D. Winter, and Bella Benz.
Book received as free ARC gift from author.
One of the things that stuck out to me the most while being so subtle in the writing is the representation of different cultures as well as LGBTQ+. If you’re someone who is non-binary, trans, or elsewhere along our many colored rainbow flags and feel a desperate lack of representation in other bold, then look no further. This is the book and author for you!
Julia has an incredible way of weaving the story so subtly, so gracefully, that you’re completely entranced by it before you realize it. To see Amy, the Amethyst mage, not just grown up but leading a revolution is at once both enthralling and breathtaking. You’re on the edge of your seat by the action, the suspense, not to mention the mixing of mythologies that blend so effortlessly as to have been born this way all along.
Julia Rose Goldhirsch stands apart as an author, making her in the collection of only 5 authors I will seek out regularly for my fantasy wants. Beside her along their own points in this pentagram are: Britini Chenelle, Allison Rose, A.D. Winter, and Bella Benz.
April 15, 2023
4 stars
Amy’s Rebellion is an intriguing New Adult dark fantasy story. It is the first book in the Gemstone Massacre Series and an enemies to lover’s romance. It is also the first book I have read by this author. I was not aware there is a prequel, War of the Twin Swords until after I finished Amy’s Rebellion. I would say reading the prequel is a must as it tells the story of Opal the clans and the war. There is much to be learned.
There is so much to keep the reader engaged with drama, action, and suspense, magic, magical lands, friendship, enchantress’s, assassins, gemstones, familiars, seers, evil intensions, a corrupt Magic Council, shifters.
Julia has given us mythologies based around Merlin and King Arthur with a new twist on Excalibur. It is a retelling of sorts that is unique with a plot is very well thought out. There are unexpected twists and vivid details. Julia has included a cast of different cultures and LGBTQ+ characters with strong FMC’s. Sometimes keeping track of them all got a bit difficult.
All in all, this was an enjoyable read, and I will see where the next book in the series takes us.
Amy’s Rebellion is an intriguing New Adult dark fantasy story. It is the first book in the Gemstone Massacre Series and an enemies to lover’s romance. It is also the first book I have read by this author. I was not aware there is a prequel, War of the Twin Swords until after I finished Amy’s Rebellion. I would say reading the prequel is a must as it tells the story of Opal the clans and the war. There is much to be learned.
There is so much to keep the reader engaged with drama, action, and suspense, magic, magical lands, friendship, enchantress’s, assassins, gemstones, familiars, seers, evil intensions, a corrupt Magic Council, shifters.
Julia has given us mythologies based around Merlin and King Arthur with a new twist on Excalibur. It is a retelling of sorts that is unique with a plot is very well thought out. There are unexpected twists and vivid details. Julia has included a cast of different cultures and LGBTQ+ characters with strong FMC’s. Sometimes keeping track of them all got a bit difficult.
All in all, this was an enjoyable read, and I will see where the next book in the series takes us.
May 3, 2023
Amy is twelve years old when they kill a man.
With the help of a shifter, they run to the human world where they learn to camouflage themselves but soon they are discovered.
It is time to fight and stop running.
The cover and plot caught my attention. Amy is a fierce and fearless main character and I really loved them.
I don’t read a lot of stories where the main character is trying to build an army.
This book does a great job of incorporating world building with the other elements such as suspense and action.
There are a few options for love interests and I love the slow burn enemies to lovers.
I didn’t know there was LGBTQ+ representation when I first started reading so it was an added surprise that made me love it more.
I saw there were two prequel stories so I probably should have started with those first before reading the main stories. I feel like it would have added some details as far as why certain events happen. But I do plan on going back to read them.
I was really hoping there was a sequel book cause I really want to know what will happen next.
With the help of a shifter, they run to the human world where they learn to camouflage themselves but soon they are discovered.
It is time to fight and stop running.
The cover and plot caught my attention. Amy is a fierce and fearless main character and I really loved them.
I don’t read a lot of stories where the main character is trying to build an army.
This book does a great job of incorporating world building with the other elements such as suspense and action.
There are a few options for love interests and I love the slow burn enemies to lovers.
I didn’t know there was LGBTQ+ representation when I first started reading so it was an added surprise that made me love it more.
I saw there were two prequel stories so I probably should have started with those first before reading the main stories. I feel like it would have added some details as far as why certain events happen. But I do plan on going back to read them.
I was really hoping there was a sequel book cause I really want to know what will happen next.
April 17, 2023
3 Stars
Amy’s Rebellion is book one in the Gemstone Massacre series by Julia Goldhirsh. It is a dark urban fantasy, with an enemies-to-lovers romance, magic, danger, drama, assassins, shifters, the paranormal, action, adventure, violence, elementals, LGBTQ+/gender fluid characters, agendas, sinister intentions, friendship, corruption, gemstones, myth/legends, armies, rebellion, good vs evil, originality, and intriguing world-building.
This is the first book that I have read by Julia Goldhirsh, so I really wasn’t sure of what to expect from her storytelling. But I love anything fantasy, plus the cover and blurb quirked my interest, so I took a chance and plunged in for the adventure.
I really wish I had realised that there was a prequel to this before embarking on the adventure, as I think that would have given me a better understanding and appreciation of this book- so I will definitely be going back to read the prequel before continuing on with more of the series.
Happy Reading…
Thank you, Julia Goldhirsh!
Amy’s Rebellion is book one in the Gemstone Massacre series by Julia Goldhirsh. It is a dark urban fantasy, with an enemies-to-lovers romance, magic, danger, drama, assassins, shifters, the paranormal, action, adventure, violence, elementals, LGBTQ+/gender fluid characters, agendas, sinister intentions, friendship, corruption, gemstones, myth/legends, armies, rebellion, good vs evil, originality, and intriguing world-building.
This is the first book that I have read by Julia Goldhirsh, so I really wasn’t sure of what to expect from her storytelling. But I love anything fantasy, plus the cover and blurb quirked my interest, so I took a chance and plunged in for the adventure.
I really wish I had realised that there was a prequel to this before embarking on the adventure, as I think that would have given me a better understanding and appreciation of this book- so I will definitely be going back to read the prequel before continuing on with more of the series.
Happy Reading…
Thank you, Julia Goldhirsh!
May 7, 2023
Amy’s Rebellion truly brings a whole new twist to the fantasy, mystery, magic genre with an lgbtq+ theme thrown in.
Amy must leave her past behind if they ever truly want a future but soon learns that the past doesn’t always stay there. There are forces that will do whatever is in their power to control Amy, including taking the sister. The only way to escape their control is to fight them and in order to do that they need to build an army. Will Amy ever be free from those that wish to control them? Can Amy find the happily ever after they are searching for?
It is kind of easy to get lost in the book but if you truly read it then it is a wonderful book. Full of action, adventure, romance, and magic that will keep you turning pages to find out what happens next. I like that this book incorporates the LGBTQ+ and gender pronouns of inclusivity that we see today. This was an interesting read and I wonder where the author might take it from here.
Amy must leave her past behind if they ever truly want a future but soon learns that the past doesn’t always stay there. There are forces that will do whatever is in their power to control Amy, including taking the sister. The only way to escape their control is to fight them and in order to do that they need to build an army. Will Amy ever be free from those that wish to control them? Can Amy find the happily ever after they are searching for?
It is kind of easy to get lost in the book but if you truly read it then it is a wonderful book. Full of action, adventure, romance, and magic that will keep you turning pages to find out what happens next. I like that this book incorporates the LGBTQ+ and gender pronouns of inclusivity that we see today. This was an interesting read and I wonder where the author might take it from here.
May 3, 2023
This is the first book that I've read from this author and I was not disappointed. I immediately fell in move with this book from the very first chapter. I was not able to put the book down until I had finished it all in one sitting.
I was twelve the first time I killed a man.
After the war, I was driven to the human world by a vengeful leader. My only chance at survival? Run.
With the help of a genderfluid shifter, I learned to hide in plain sight and harness the powers within, but my luck soon ran out.
This time, she captured my sister and sent an assassin after me. Running is no longer an option.
If I want to live, I have to fight.
If you are interested in LGBTQ representation, expansive magic worlds, and enemies-to-lovers romances you’ll love this book.
I look forward to reading the next book in the series.
I was twelve the first time I killed a man.
After the war, I was driven to the human world by a vengeful leader. My only chance at survival? Run.
With the help of a genderfluid shifter, I learned to hide in plain sight and harness the powers within, but my luck soon ran out.
This time, she captured my sister and sent an assassin after me. Running is no longer an option.
If I want to live, I have to fight.
If you are interested in LGBTQ representation, expansive magic worlds, and enemies-to-lovers romances you’ll love this book.
I look forward to reading the next book in the series.
May 4, 2023
Amy's Rebellion (Gemstone Massacre Book 1) by Julia Goldhirsh. This is such a good Adult Fantasy read. Its the story of Amy who has killed a man in self defense at, of all places the peace negotiations. Due to this she has been given the name of Amethyst Killer. Amy has a lot of enemies but none that are worse than Opal who is the Magic Council's President. Amy runs to the human world to escape. Unfortunately Opal follows her and wants Amy dead. She has already killed her whole clan and she won't stop until she kills Amy. Amy is trying to escape as far away as she can but also she won't lay down. Opal has taken her friend Night and Amy isn't sure if Night was captured or is with Opal on her own which adds a whole other level of confusion for Amy. Will Amy be able to lead her people to peace or will Opal take Amy down at last? Read this fast paced Adult Fantasy to find out!
July 21, 2021
3 1/2 stars
This is book one of the Gemstone Massacre series and the main character Amy, is a young woman now living in the human realm, who runs a shop called The Gem of the Forest. She had to flee to Earth after she made the peace negotiations fail during the War of the Twin Swords, which is covered in a short prequel, sold separately. She killed a man during this, unable to control her magic, being only twelve at the time. It was Opal, the Magic Council’s leader, who had gotten her involved in the war and the negotiations, which didn’t end well. Opal tried to have Amy put to death for the killing, even though the man attacked her first! When Amy escaped, Opal followed her to get revenge and took her friend Night (also previously known as Cat), she them went on to wiping out Amy’s whole clan and another clan of enchantresses. Amy lost Night and her sister Chal back then and has still not forgotten what happened. Amy has learnt to hide in the human world, but has now settled and operates her shop, enchanting gemstones with a little magic, to help magic users get simple wishes come true. She makes the pieces to hold the gemstones and then spells them. She goes off to the craft market after work and her friend Alex points her towards a new stall, where she is pulled towards a pendant, which is clearly very old. The pendant looks like an ancient enchantress weapon! The elderly stall owner gifts her the pendant, saying he is a distant family member.
Amy gets a strange feeling that she is being watched and when she gets back to her warded home, she finds an assassin has managed to get though her basic wards and gives their name as Dusk. They say she should know them from before Amy betrayed Opal and them, but Amy has no idea who they are! The only clue left behind seems to link back to someone she thought was long dead, Night. But Naru had said Opal killed Night and Amy had never found any trace of them still alive. She has to call Garnet over to help reset and strengthen the wards on her home, and Amy has to borrow magic strength from her familiar, Violet, who is a lynx, as Garnet uses up all her magical energy. Not that this helps, as she ends up being kidnapped along with her sister, by Opal’s assassin Dusk. Iris and Naru had been trying to gain some allies, Iris amongst the shifter community and Naru amongst the elementals. Iris has not been back to her shifter clan after being taken and experimented upon for years, before getting away, Amy was the one who helped her by making her an amulet, that stopped her shifting uncontrollably, something that was a side effect of the unknown experiments done on her. Now Iris and Naru have to gather friends and allies, to rescue Amy and Garnet, from Opal’s stronghold.
Opal has wanted her dead for years, after she killed someone she loved, but Amy was only twelve at the time, and untrained in her magic use and how powerful it was. Opal has all of the magical world terrified of her and not even the Magic Council will go against her, especially with her having and using the Twin Swords that the war was all about. The combining of the swords seems to have made Opal worse than she was, almost like an evil has taken her over, and she has gained a huge amount of magic and used it to destroy all of her foes and even those innocent of any crime! Dusk hates her for betraying them all those years ago, from what Opal told them and Opal has another young girl under her wing, Raven, who seems to be unhappy with some of Opal’s violent plans! What part Raven has in the tale, is still to be explored and will hopefully be expanded upon in the next book. Even Amy is unclear exactly what she herself is and what her true powers are, and is in search of her mother at the end. Opal has been using people, but even Amy is guilty of hiding the truth and using others to get what she needed at the time. Amy and the others must fight if they want to live and must build an army of allies if they are ever going to be able to defeat Opal and her corrupt Magic Council, once and for all! An interesting story, which would probably be better for having read the prequel first. I received an ARC copy of this book from BookSprout and I have freely given my own opinion of the book above.
This is book one of the Gemstone Massacre series and the main character Amy, is a young woman now living in the human realm, who runs a shop called The Gem of the Forest. She had to flee to Earth after she made the peace negotiations fail during the War of the Twin Swords, which is covered in a short prequel, sold separately. She killed a man during this, unable to control her magic, being only twelve at the time. It was Opal, the Magic Council’s leader, who had gotten her involved in the war and the negotiations, which didn’t end well. Opal tried to have Amy put to death for the killing, even though the man attacked her first! When Amy escaped, Opal followed her to get revenge and took her friend Night (also previously known as Cat), she them went on to wiping out Amy’s whole clan and another clan of enchantresses. Amy lost Night and her sister Chal back then and has still not forgotten what happened. Amy has learnt to hide in the human world, but has now settled and operates her shop, enchanting gemstones with a little magic, to help magic users get simple wishes come true. She makes the pieces to hold the gemstones and then spells them. She goes off to the craft market after work and her friend Alex points her towards a new stall, where she is pulled towards a pendant, which is clearly very old. The pendant looks like an ancient enchantress weapon! The elderly stall owner gifts her the pendant, saying he is a distant family member.
Amy gets a strange feeling that she is being watched and when she gets back to her warded home, she finds an assassin has managed to get though her basic wards and gives their name as Dusk. They say she should know them from before Amy betrayed Opal and them, but Amy has no idea who they are! The only clue left behind seems to link back to someone she thought was long dead, Night. But Naru had said Opal killed Night and Amy had never found any trace of them still alive. She has to call Garnet over to help reset and strengthen the wards on her home, and Amy has to borrow magic strength from her familiar, Violet, who is a lynx, as Garnet uses up all her magical energy. Not that this helps, as she ends up being kidnapped along with her sister, by Opal’s assassin Dusk. Iris and Naru had been trying to gain some allies, Iris amongst the shifter community and Naru amongst the elementals. Iris has not been back to her shifter clan after being taken and experimented upon for years, before getting away, Amy was the one who helped her by making her an amulet, that stopped her shifting uncontrollably, something that was a side effect of the unknown experiments done on her. Now Iris and Naru have to gather friends and allies, to rescue Amy and Garnet, from Opal’s stronghold.
Opal has wanted her dead for years, after she killed someone she loved, but Amy was only twelve at the time, and untrained in her magic use and how powerful it was. Opal has all of the magical world terrified of her and not even the Magic Council will go against her, especially with her having and using the Twin Swords that the war was all about. The combining of the swords seems to have made Opal worse than she was, almost like an evil has taken her over, and she has gained a huge amount of magic and used it to destroy all of her foes and even those innocent of any crime! Dusk hates her for betraying them all those years ago, from what Opal told them and Opal has another young girl under her wing, Raven, who seems to be unhappy with some of Opal’s violent plans! What part Raven has in the tale, is still to be explored and will hopefully be expanded upon in the next book. Even Amy is unclear exactly what she herself is and what her true powers are, and is in search of her mother at the end. Opal has been using people, but even Amy is guilty of hiding the truth and using others to get what she needed at the time. Amy and the others must fight if they want to live and must build an army of allies if they are ever going to be able to defeat Opal and her corrupt Magic Council, once and for all! An interesting story, which would probably be better for having read the prequel first. I received an ARC copy of this book from BookSprout and I have freely given my own opinion of the book above.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 19, 2022
This was my first experience with Julia Goldhirsh's work and I enjoyed it a lot. The story was a creative, dark fantasy as it was about a young girl who can't control her magic and managed to kill a man, so she goes into hiding. Years later, when her sister was kidnapped, the young woman has to decide whether to continue running or to rescue her sister. I liked the complexities of the characters. I was entertained by the twists and turns of the story. I really appreciated that the author incorporated the use of crystals and gems and their purported properties into the magic utilized by many of the characters. Alexandra Hunter's narration was fine, and her voice was pleasant. I was given a free copy of the audiobook, and I have voluntarily posted this review.
April 29, 2023
This is an exciting read for new adults with a mind for fantasy. Amy's life started out with her first unwanted killing. But she had no choice in the matter. She leaves what was left and moved into the human world. But even that is unsafe for Amy. She must build her own army of trusted shifters to hopefully beat the evil headed her way. This story was very different for me. Don't take me wrong. I enjoyed the story, it was just too many fantasy shifters for me. This is an author I had not read from before. That is why I chose this book. The characters were well liked and knew their place in the story. The book was well thought out, well written and easy to keep up with. If you enjoy fantasy stories this book is for you!
July 13, 2021
I'd give this a 3.5, rounded to 4 stars.
I did not like the prequel. I felt that there was too much information shoved into too few pages, so held out hope that book 1 would be better. Thankfully, it was. The pacing works well, and I don't feel the prequel is necessary to understand Opal and Amy in this book. I am interested to learn more about the different magic clans and creatures discussed.
I did read an early copy of this book, so hopefully another run through of editing picked up a few misspellings and repetition issues I noticed. Hoping things keep getting better, both for Amy and the author as they are able to continue bringing their story to life.
I did not like the prequel. I felt that there was too much information shoved into too few pages, so held out hope that book 1 would be better. Thankfully, it was. The pacing works well, and I don't feel the prequel is necessary to understand Opal and Amy in this book. I am interested to learn more about the different magic clans and creatures discussed.
I did read an early copy of this book, so hopefully another run through of editing picked up a few misspellings and repetition issues I noticed. Hoping things keep getting better, both for Amy and the author as they are able to continue bringing their story to life.
April 27, 2023
This is the first story I have read where the character is referred to as “they” and it made for a unique reading experience. I like that this is a topic the author has chosen to tackle, although a times it did feel a little clumsy. The overall story was well written though and easy to get into. I enjoyed reading about the characters too. They all seemed to add so much to the story and fitted well with each other.
This is a pretty new author to me and I think her work shows promise. I think the more of her work that I read the more I will enjoy. I am looking forward to discovering more from her.
This is a pretty new author to me and I think her work shows promise. I think the more of her work that I read the more I will enjoy. I am looking forward to discovering more from her.
April 30, 2023
Amy's Rebellion (Gemstone Massacre Book 1)
4 out of 5 stars
This book was my first introduction with a character that used They/Them pronouns. This is an Adult, Dark Fantasy story. I would strongly place this book into the genres of mystery, fantasy, mythology and the LGBTQIA+ reading. I loved this book. The LGBTQIA+ representation was both subtle and beautiful. The characters in this book are strong, resilient, built to handle whatever is thrown at them, but at the same time they are graceful, gentle and unyielding. This was a new read for me and I am glad I read it. The mystery that this book holds kept me flipping each page fast and faster. A strong 4 out of 5 stars.
4 out of 5 stars
This book was my first introduction with a character that used They/Them pronouns. This is an Adult, Dark Fantasy story. I would strongly place this book into the genres of mystery, fantasy, mythology and the LGBTQIA+ reading. I loved this book. The LGBTQIA+ representation was both subtle and beautiful. The characters in this book are strong, resilient, built to handle whatever is thrown at them, but at the same time they are graceful, gentle and unyielding. This was a new read for me and I am glad I read it. The mystery that this book holds kept me flipping each page fast and faster. A strong 4 out of 5 stars.
May 7, 2023
I was a little disappointed with this one. It was ok but I found it hard to follow sometimes. It's about Amy who is living in the human world after fleeing the magical world, she is hiding from a vengeful leader. She learns to hide her true self in the human world until her sister is kidnapped and an assassin is sent after her. How can she fight someone who burnt her home to the ground? Build an army of course. I found it hard to follow with the "they" pronouns as sometimes Amy would be talking to someone then it would say "they walked here" or "they walked into a room" so was that Amy who walked there or everyone she was talking to? I won't be reading book 2.
April 28, 2022
This is the first novel that I have read by Julia Goldhirsh and I was very impressed. The novel flowed effortlessly, characters were sound and well developed. The story line was solid, and flows smoothly. This is the first novel in the series. I had not read any of her work previously, which I recommend, but I was able to read it as a stand alone novel without any problems. I gave this honest review. I am happy I found her and I plan to read more of her work. I voluntary review this after receiving a free copy of the novel from Story Origin.
May 5, 2023
Amys rebellion brings in a character that does not adhere to old societal norms and brings in this idea that the main heroine can be anything that ‘they’ want to be. Amy leads the reader on a Dark Fantasy that incorporates themes that seemed to be inspired by King Arthur and Merlin’s story. Right from the first page the reader is introduced to the idea that Amy is no naive Jane/John Doe, and has had to fight their way forward in Society. In Amy’s rebellion there is romance, adventure and mystery with a modern look to it.
May 7, 2023
This is the first book in the Gemstone Massacre Series. This series is definitely off to a great start. Amy is on the run, always looking over her shoulder, always afraid of what she did and what she caused. Once she knows that she will have to run again she decides now is the time to stop and fight. I enjoyed the characters so much. The way they interact felt so natural. This is a slow burn enemies to lovers romance. I found the incorporation of the LGBTQ+ representation was well done. I can’t wait for the next book in the series.
April 30, 2023
An interesting tale that’s twists to unfold more of her past. One she knew nothing of can help her succeed in the future. Maybe the past doesn’t define her but it helps shapes Amy and her team of rebellions. It’s a slow steady burn with a few potential love interests I am curious to watch blossom. Will she succeed? The discovery of who she could be change the game to her favor ? Questions I hope to answer as I continue through the series
May 7, 2023
Amy, our main character, has a jewelry shop where she puts enchantments on her creations to help her customers. She is being hunted by Opal. Opal is the evil part of the story. She only has one weakness. Opal destroyed Amy's home and others and has killed many. When Amy’s sister gets kidnapped all gloves are off. This story will keep you reading on into the night. Excited for book 2. Thanks to the author for this new approach to a fantasy novel.
November 25, 2021
I have to say this was a good book with a great storyline and great characters that the author invented and it all came together to be a great book. I was able to read it from the very beginning to the very end and I enjoyed it very much. I receieved this book for free thru an Advanced Review Copy, ARC, with an honest review freely given.
July 5, 2022
Really enjoyed this book. And I wasnt sure intially as I have not ready much in the LGBTQ realm. This was well written and the characters being fluid in gender and paranormal creatures as well it made more sense to me to how I picture shifters, witches, vampires etc. I love that the main characters also use gemstones or flowers, and dont forget the prison breakS.
Fab
Fab
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