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Rising Ember
Fire is destruction. Fire is rebirth.
When Thea Knight is involved in a fatal car accident, she falls victim to the sinister shadows looming in the darkness who change her life forever. She wakes up...craving blood.
Thea is immediately thrust into a dangerous immortal cilvil war between the Essites and the Brais. Cole Moretti is an Essites who has killed, saved, and endangered Thea. Her transition to vampire by his hand awakens a rare elemental magic within that marks her as the rogue Brais' next target. She must resist being consumed by their need to destroy humanity before they kill Cole and all those she cares for.
A magical and suspenseful contemporary dark fantasy perfect for fans of Vampire Academy and The Vampire Diaries.
*Trigger warning: death of a loved one, death
When Thea Knight is involved in a fatal car accident, she falls victim to the sinister shadows looming in the darkness who change her life forever. She wakes up...craving blood.
Thea is immediately thrust into a dangerous immortal cilvil war between the Essites and the Brais. Cole Moretti is an Essites who has killed, saved, and endangered Thea. Her transition to vampire by his hand awakens a rare elemental magic within that marks her as the rogue Brais' next target. She must resist being consumed by their need to destroy humanity before they kill Cole and all those she cares for.
A magical and suspenseful contemporary dark fantasy perfect for fans of Vampire Academy and The Vampire Diaries.
*Trigger warning: death of a loved one, death
275 pages, Paperback
Published April 1, 2022
2 people are currently reading
2766 people want to read
About the author
Arleta Rae
4 books50 followersArleta is a NA author of fantasy and paranormal stories with a hint of dark and romance themes. She is currently working on her debut series, Children From Sacrifice. More than just a writer, Arleta has her master's degree in ecopsychology from Naropa University, and has plans to create a nature retreat. When she isn't writing, she is working in a greenhouse, wandering a bookstore with a latte, or exploring the forests. Local to the beautiful Berkshires, there is no shortage of pristine wilderness to be inspired by.
You can follow her on Instagram or TikTok: @authorarletarae or on Facebook: Arleta Rae Books.
You can follow her on Instagram or TikTok: @authorarletarae or on Facebook: Arleta Rae Books.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
March 23, 2022
I made the mistake of starting this ARC while at work waiting on a patient to eat, and I was very disappointed when I had to put it down and work! With that being said, first impressions = page turner. So make sure when you start reading too save time to keep on going!
November 16, 2024
Not the usual kind of vampire fiction I usually read: felt like a more competently written version of Twilight (Cole and Thea were far more engaging than Edward and Bella)... Not a bad book, just not my particular cup of tea
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March 25, 2022This book gave me vampire diaries with a hint of twilight vibes. The story was well written and the characters relatable. I actually was a little surprised by a couple of twist towards the end that left me with questions and a need for a sequel. Very enjoyable read with a fast enough pace to keep you from wanting to put it down.
April 4, 2022
ARC Review:
This book is a PAGE TURNER!
I made the mistake of starting this book at bedtime…thinking “oh, I’ll just read a few chapters and pick it up again in the morning.” Oh no. I finished this thing in a matter of a couple hours. I couldn’t stop.
I love the magic of this book. The use of elemental magic, vampires, witches, talk of dragons and possibly even the existence of fae. Each vampire has elemental magic and psychic abilities. Two opposing groups of vampires…one group is for the destruction (the Brias), and one group is for protection of the human race (the Essites). The main character, Thea, is a new vampire with A LOT OF POWER, so of course both sides want her, but especially the Brias, and if they can’t have her, they will kill her instead.
Cole, Thea’s sire, is just swoon worthy. Very protective. There’s a lot of desire between the two of them. This is a very slow burn. No spice, but that really works here! You can feel the build up but it keeps the focus on the events unfolding.
This book ends on a cliffhanger…but it’s a interesting one! I have still so many questions about so many things, and all of it just makes me more and more ready for the next book!
Great debut book!
This book is a PAGE TURNER!
I made the mistake of starting this book at bedtime…thinking “oh, I’ll just read a few chapters and pick it up again in the morning.” Oh no. I finished this thing in a matter of a couple hours. I couldn’t stop.
I love the magic of this book. The use of elemental magic, vampires, witches, talk of dragons and possibly even the existence of fae. Each vampire has elemental magic and psychic abilities. Two opposing groups of vampires…one group is for the destruction (the Brias), and one group is for protection of the human race (the Essites). The main character, Thea, is a new vampire with A LOT OF POWER, so of course both sides want her, but especially the Brias, and if they can’t have her, they will kill her instead.
Cole, Thea’s sire, is just swoon worthy. Very protective. There’s a lot of desire between the two of them. This is a very slow burn. No spice, but that really works here! You can feel the build up but it keeps the focus on the events unfolding.
This book ends on a cliffhanger…but it’s a interesting one! I have still so many questions about so many things, and all of it just makes me more and more ready for the next book!
Great debut book!
April 6, 2022
ARC READER
Firstly this is the first Paranormal book I have read! I found it intriguing and has left me wanting to read the rest of the series. Please don't leave us hanging!
At first the in depth description of everything was a little "odd" to me, I thought it was taking from my imagination of the scene and setting, but by Chapter 3, I was a gonna! I was use to them and LOVED the in depth descriptions, I was in the story with the characters, as a bystander.
At Chapter 3 the book really took off and as a reader you are hooked. The main characters are welcoming - but I wish Thea was warmer.
I hope there would be a bit more background to Valeria and her connection to Cole. Maybe this could be a spin off in another series!!
This book has definitely opened my mind to read other paranormal romance (it was very PG compared to what I have read!)
Firstly this is the first Paranormal book I have read! I found it intriguing and has left me wanting to read the rest of the series. Please don't leave us hanging!
At first the in depth description of everything was a little "odd" to me, I thought it was taking from my imagination of the scene and setting, but by Chapter 3, I was a gonna! I was use to them and LOVED the in depth descriptions, I was in the story with the characters, as a bystander.
At Chapter 3 the book really took off and as a reader you are hooked. The main characters are welcoming - but I wish Thea was warmer.
I hope there would be a bit more background to Valeria and her connection to Cole. Maybe this could be a spin off in another series!!
This book has definitely opened my mind to read other paranormal romance (it was very PG compared to what I have read!)
April 4, 2022
It was nice! The writing is easy to read, characters are lovely, and the world building pretty clear so we know exactly what is going on. I love how Thea and Cole relationship progressed slowly and not rushed. I also love Thea's friendship with Sarah, and definitely curious to get to know the Brais more in book 2!
I wish the opposing sides of vampires (essites and brais) and their history would be explained with more events/actions than a lengthy talk at a restaurant, but maybe more actions would happen in the next book. The story is also little lighter than I thought it would be, but it's just me and my preference for darker tales.
Overall it was a nice, light vampire story! Excited for the next book!
I wish the opposing sides of vampires (essites and brais) and their history would be explained with more events/actions than a lengthy talk at a restaurant, but maybe more actions would happen in the next book. The story is also little lighter than I thought it would be, but it's just me and my preference for darker tales.
Overall it was a nice, light vampire story! Excited for the next book!
May 29, 2022
Rising Ember by Arleta Rae is the first book in a fast paced story about a girl named Thea who is unexpectedly thrown into a world of magic, vampires, and witches and has to adapt to a completely new life and quickly learn her power to join the centuries long battle between two vampire gangs.
The story has a strong, badass, full of love female main character, it has found/chosen family, and was giving Twilight and Vampire Diaries vibes. Definitely pick this one up if you're a fan of modern day vampires and witches!
The story has a strong, badass, full of love female main character, it has found/chosen family, and was giving Twilight and Vampire Diaries vibes. Definitely pick this one up if you're a fan of modern day vampires and witches!
November 19, 2022
Nice vampire tale
Kudos for not making the lead be a smarter all the time.Neat world that told quite well.Good prose and sincerity in dialogue and no constant one snark.
Kudos for not making the lead be a smarter all the time.Neat world that told quite well.Good prose and sincerity in dialogue and no constant one snark.
April 9, 2023
I really liked this book.
We are following main character whose life drastically changes one evening. And mysterious guy saves her life. For sure he is hot as f*, his attractiveness makes our legs jelly and our cheeks are blushing all the time.
Unfortunately, there is not a fine moment to have a normal romance when there is a war going on between vampires and our FMC is put right in the middle of the conflict. Which path she will choose? What secrets this pretty boy has? Is it possible that her best friend is part of the paranormal world? What mysteries and battles await our heroes?
First book ended with such a cliffhanger that i need to start second book ASAP. And i need answers, sooooooo many answers. There are still unclear moments in the world and magic which drive me crazy T_T
I can recommend this book for all lovers of vampire diaries and series from late 00's.
We are following main character whose life drastically changes one evening. And mysterious guy saves her life. For sure he is hot as f*, his attractiveness makes our legs jelly and our cheeks are blushing all the time.
Unfortunately, there is not a fine moment to have a normal romance when there is a war going on between vampires and our FMC is put right in the middle of the conflict. Which path she will choose? What secrets this pretty boy has? Is it possible that her best friend is part of the paranormal world? What mysteries and battles await our heroes?
First book ended with such a cliffhanger that i need to start second book ASAP. And i need answers, sooooooo many answers. There are still unclear moments in the world and magic which drive me crazy T_T
I can recommend this book for all lovers of vampire diaries and series from late 00's.
May 17, 2022
ARC reviewer: I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. (Spoiler alert)
First the things I didn’t like too much: There are a decent amount of spelling/grammar mistakes that are mildly distracting, and some repetitive adjectives. These are knit-picky details though. There were also a couple inconsistencies, like how after Thea is turned, it is mentioned somewhere that her heart isn’t beating but there were a few times later in the book that she felt her heart pounding in her chest.
There were far more things that I enjoyed about this book than those I didn’t. The start was a little slow (as most books are) but I did feel that some interactions between the main characters felt a bit shallow and not too fleshed out at times. I felt that Thea was a bit too forgiving and too willing to take things at face value instead of pushing more for the answers she deserved. But after she was turned, I felt this shift a lot in her personality the more she used her magic. At first I didn’t connect much with the emotions she was feeling (except her wonderful passion for the Forrest and life) and felt that her emotions were just a little shallow. But they continued to become deeper. I could really connect with her rage and sorrow during some pivotal moments in the second half of the book and started buying into the romance that didn’t feel very fleshed out initially. The story definitely twisted in ways I didn’t expect and Thea has grown on me. I’m eager to see more of Cole’s and Sarah’s personalities be even more displayed so that I can develop the same connection with them! The book definitely left on a cliff hanger and it truly left me wondering what will happen next. This book evolves as you read it, but one of my favorite parts is how much of the author’s own passion for the earth and life and fantasy shine through on the pages. Arleta is one of my best friends and I’m so proud of her for putting out a fun and interesting read into the world! She has a lot to be proud of!
First the things I didn’t like too much: There are a decent amount of spelling/grammar mistakes that are mildly distracting, and some repetitive adjectives. These are knit-picky details though. There were also a couple inconsistencies, like how after Thea is turned, it is mentioned somewhere that her heart isn’t beating but there were a few times later in the book that she felt her heart pounding in her chest.
There were far more things that I enjoyed about this book than those I didn’t. The start was a little slow (as most books are) but I did feel that some interactions between the main characters felt a bit shallow and not too fleshed out at times. I felt that Thea was a bit too forgiving and too willing to take things at face value instead of pushing more for the answers she deserved. But after she was turned, I felt this shift a lot in her personality the more she used her magic. At first I didn’t connect much with the emotions she was feeling (except her wonderful passion for the Forrest and life) and felt that her emotions were just a little shallow. But they continued to become deeper. I could really connect with her rage and sorrow during some pivotal moments in the second half of the book and started buying into the romance that didn’t feel very fleshed out initially. The story definitely twisted in ways I didn’t expect and Thea has grown on me. I’m eager to see more of Cole’s and Sarah’s personalities be even more displayed so that I can develop the same connection with them! The book definitely left on a cliff hanger and it truly left me wondering what will happen next. This book evolves as you read it, but one of my favorite parts is how much of the author’s own passion for the earth and life and fantasy shine through on the pages. Arleta is one of my best friends and I’m so proud of her for putting out a fun and interesting read into the world! She has a lot to be proud of!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 21, 2022
I received an ARC copy and really enjoyed the story. I went in pretty much blind and was pleasantly surprised with the plot. I think the writing was well done and would have rated the book 4 stars if it hadn’t been for a few things that kept pulling me out of the story as I read. First, there were a few grammatical errors that will hopefully be fixed before printing. Lastly, there was repetitive phrasing that actually had me roll my eyes once. For example: their fists clenched like 5 times in one conversation, and the “nutrients” of the blood she was drinking was repeated multiple times. We get it. The blood is nourishing.
I really did enjoy the story and it’s definitely worth the read.
I really did enjoy the story and it’s definitely worth the read.
April 8, 2022
I've been waiting to get an ARC of this book forever! I remember talking with Arleta about her book in earlier stages, and I was already hooked without having read it.
Now that I have read it...
AMAZING!
I loved the story, the descriptive language was beautiful, so immersive and detailed. The story flowed really well, and you get right into the action from the jump. Thea and Cole are just... adorable and I loved seeing their relationship build throughout the story and can't wait to see where they go in book 2. The ending was great I love a good cliffhanger and it just left me wanting more. Such a great debut, and I'm excited to read anything Arleta writes in the future!
FIVE STARS!!
Now that I have read it...
AMAZING!
I loved the story, the descriptive language was beautiful, so immersive and detailed. The story flowed really well, and you get right into the action from the jump. Thea and Cole are just... adorable and I loved seeing their relationship build throughout the story and can't wait to see where they go in book 2. The ending was great I love a good cliffhanger and it just left me wanting more. Such a great debut, and I'm excited to read anything Arleta writes in the future!
FIVE STARS!!
April 2, 2022
Fun and light vampire story
Good debut novel. The story has a good story that sets up the world and future novels. There are layers that get revealed, if somewhat a little easy predict. It's a fast read, some light romance but pretty PG. Interesting use of descriptive language, not necessarily my taste. Main character was very calm and didn't seem to get a deeper sense of her emotions in her description of everything around her. Overall enjoyable.
Good debut novel. The story has a good story that sets up the world and future novels. There are layers that get revealed, if somewhat a little easy predict. It's a fast read, some light romance but pretty PG. Interesting use of descriptive language, not necessarily my taste. Main character was very calm and didn't seem to get a deeper sense of her emotions in her description of everything around her. Overall enjoyable.
April 8, 2022
Not going to lie. At first I was not into it. I was a chapter in and wanting to dnf but I told the author I would read it so I carried on. And boy am I glad I did. The tension alone between Thea and Cole was more than enough to keep my intrigued. Thea is the main character the story follows. About her turning into a vampire and how she is learning about a war and how powerful she really is. This book was a page turner and I couldn't put it down once I was hooked.
April 14, 2022
ARC READER. This was an interesting take on the usual vampire mythology. I liked the additions of a system of elemental magic. The characters were compelling and generally enjoyable. The story was a tad bit abrupt in spots, I would have enjoyed a little more fleshing out to certain parts, but overall I liked it. The cliffhanger ending has peaked my interest, I would continue reading the series to get some more answers. Overall a decent debut novel. Can’t wait to see the continued evolution!
May 30, 2023
I was very excited to read this book especially since it's a local author and about vampires, I literally ran to Barnes and Noble to get the signed second book as soon as I got back from college (before even reading the first one).
The only reason it's not 5 stars is because the beginning was a little slow for me, and I'm not a fan of modern pop culture being mentioned. The pop culture in this book actually bothered me less than it usually does, I've read ones that nonstop talk about Hamilton or had Kanye + Taylor Swift turning into vampires so a little Starwars and Avatar references here and there wasn't too bad.
As soon as the vampire turning happened and all of the magic started, I was hooked. I adore Cole and love getting to know more about him and his backstory, I hope we hear more about his time as a brais. Also, I am really interested in Amaund and the king.
Overall, I am looking forward to continuing the second one
The only reason it's not 5 stars is because the beginning was a little slow for me, and I'm not a fan of modern pop culture being mentioned. The pop culture in this book actually bothered me less than it usually does, I've read ones that nonstop talk about Hamilton or had Kanye + Taylor Swift turning into vampires so a little Starwars and Avatar references here and there wasn't too bad.
As soon as the vampire turning happened and all of the magic started, I was hooked. I adore Cole and love getting to know more about him and his backstory, I hope we hear more about his time as a brais. Also, I am really interested in Amaund and the king.
Overall, I am looking forward to continuing the second one
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 29, 2022
From the very first page to the last sentence it kept me on my toes. I couldn't put this book down. The character development of love and family, mixed with new emotions is the perfect combination to make an explosive plot. I highly recommend carving out time to read this book. You will not be disappointed.
April 5, 2022
I had the privilege of reading this as an ARC reader, of which my only complaint is that I did not get the whole pretty cover in my hands for my first read!! I enjoyed Arleta's poetic prose and ability to be descriptive in her scenes in a concise manner. A skill indeed. Can't wait for more! Thank you, Arleta Rae!
May 6, 2023
I couldn't put this one down! I had asked for suggestions for my A to Z challenge and this one was recommended! I didn't read any back story on this so I had no idea what I was getting into. Once figuring out its a vampire story, I could not stop wondering what was going on. I loved the development and the different take on the vampire side. Incredible!
March 29, 2022
I was so excited when I got this ARC. I would have devoured this book in a day if I didn’t have responsibilities. It was a great read from the first page. I fell in love with the characters and I can’t wait to see what else this writer brings us.
March 30, 2022
Got this book a week ago and I have been dying to read it. Well I finally had a chance to pick it up this week and I loved it! I couldn’t put the book down. Definitely gave me twilight/vampire diaries vibes!
April 5, 2022
Loved this, loved the characters and the set up. I loved how when one question was answered more would open up and take the plot in different unexpected directions. Can’t wait for the next one to see how things go.
March 30, 2022
Wow!! I just finished, "Raising Ember". What a page turner. I love Thea and Cole! Their powers are a welcoming change in the world of vampires. I can't wait for book 2!
April 7, 2022
I really enjoyed this book and I highly recommend it. It was thoroughly entertaining and I can't wait until the next one!
October 1, 2022
Well written page turner that I read in one sitting. The descriptions and characters had me hooked the entire time. If you're into fantasy, don't pass this one up. Eagerly awaiting book 2!
April 19, 2023
A must read! Such a great debut novel! I sped through it as I jumped into book 2 right after. 😍
January 16, 2023
Loved this book. I started it and couldn’t wait to get home to finish! Waiting on the next book to find out where it goes and if Thea and Cole kiss.
March 16, 2023
I was unable to put thus book down. I do not usually read fantasy but now I am definitely a fan. I can’t wait for book two to find out what happens next.
January 22, 2024
Arleta does a great job here making vampires feel relatable. As someone who has sensory issues and can get overloaded, that makes it easier to connect with Thea as she gets used to her new senses.
Thankfully, the details of the world of vampires and witches are built up slowly to avoid overload. It’s a fast, easy read one could burn through in a day (pun intended). Action is written well, and settings are beautifully clear in mind.
The supporting cast of Cole, Sarah, and Helios (adorable) are well-developed, with plenty of room for more as the series goes on.
All in all, great fun to read. Highly recommended.
Thankfully, the details of the world of vampires and witches are built up slowly to avoid overload. It’s a fast, easy read one could burn through in a day (pun intended). Action is written well, and settings are beautifully clear in mind.
The supporting cast of Cole, Sarah, and Helios (adorable) are well-developed, with plenty of room for more as the series goes on.
All in all, great fun to read. Highly recommended.
April 26, 2022
This is a must read for fantasy readers! The dynamics between Thea and Cole are irresistible, it makes you wanting them to take their relationship further “right now”! Throw Theas best friend in the mix and the civil war between the vampire fractions and you can’t put the book down. The description of the plot setting the author did is beautiful, it fills your imagination with a beautiful backdrop even among a war between vampire fractions with a twist of witches and witchcraft!! Love it !!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews