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Phoenix Rising #1

Flame Kissed

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You can’t outrun fate.

As a phoenix on the run from her Legion, I’ve done my best to stay one step ahead of the hunters on my tail. So far, I’ve managed to hide from everyone—everyone except Rhys.

Bonded against my will, I’ve avoided my mate for the better part of a century—hating him for the life he stole from me. But he’s always there. Waiting. Watching.

When I’m found, it’s my mate who saves me from a fate worse than death. It’s the mate I rejected who keeps me free. But being this close to him comes at a price—one I don’t want to pay.

Because if we’re going to survive, choosing him may be the only option I have left.

Kindle Edition

First published October 27, 2015

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About the author

Annie Anderson

42 books1,973 followers
Annie Anderson is the author of the international bestselling Rogue Ethereal series. A United States Air Force veteran, Annie pens fast-paced Paranormal Romance and Urban Fantasy novels filled with strong, snarky heroines and a boatload of magic. When she takes a break from writing, she can be found binge-watching The Magicians, flirting with her husband, wrangling children, or bribing her cantankerous dogs to go on a walk.

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383 (22%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 290 reviews
Profile Image for Jasmine.
458 reviews878 followers
June 4, 2018
First of all, I got and read this book because I participated in a "blind date with a book" event hosted by Quirky Blind Date with a Book (Club). The special part about this blind date is that you choose the book you're interested in by its tagline instead of the cover. Hence, Scattered Ashes is my first blind date and I have to admit that it isn't something I would normally read. The story turns out to be okay for me but I can't say I enjoy it tremendously.

I'll review this book in the form of Q&A just like the questionnaire I'm required to fill out for the book club.

Here we go:

Did you relate to the characters? Why or why not?
A: Not really. I found it hard to feel what Aurelia felt in the book and her romance with Rhys didn't fascinate me as much as I hoped.

Is there a character you wanted to know more about?
A: Despite the fact that I didn't relate to the characters much, I would like to see more of Rhys' past and what kind of adventure he's going to experience.

What did you enjoy about the book? How did it make you feel?
A: This book captured my attention in its own way, especially the author's writing style. Her words were meticulously chosen and I would love to read her other books.

What didn't you like about the book? What was missing? Why?
A: I think it's the chemistry between the characters that was lacking since I value good development of romance in a book. All I see in the romance here is lust and nothing more in-depth.

Favourite Quote or line from the book
A: "I glance down, and I’m horrified at what I see. Not because Rhys is ugly, he could never be ugly. He could be missing limbs, his face could be half gone, and it wouldn’t matter.”

Favourite Scene and why?
A: Probably the parts where Aurelia and Rhys bickered; they were adorable sometimes.

In general, I won't specifically recommend this book since I don't have enough reasons to convince anyone to read it but if you're still intrigued by the blurb/genres/cover, Scattered Ashes is still worth a try!

***Thanks to the author and Quirky Blind Date with a Book for providing me with an e-copy in exchange for an honest review.***
Profile Image for Lučka.
353 reviews71 followers
March 19, 2017
~~~ 3.5 stars~~~

I'm not sure how to rate this book. I really enjoyed it, due to the humor, action and fast-paced story with an intriguing paranormal plot, but I had lots of issues with it.

Aurelia was a kickass, foul-mouthed, stubborn and sassy Seer/Oracle/Phoenix heroine.

Rhys was a tortured, loyal, protective and sweet Soldier/Guardian/Phoenix hero.

Rhys killed her husband in order to save Aurelia, her unborn child dies and she was being tortured. Rhys and Aurelia were forced to bond.
I'm not sure if he was the one who killed her child and if they were bonded before or after he killed her husband.
I found that explanation (and many others) really confusing. A few times I questioned my understanding of English language.
description

The story starts off with Aurelia holding a grudge over Rhys for 100+ years. I would be fine with this if it weren't for the stuff in the spoiler.

What bothered me the most were the lack of characters' development, confusing parts of the plot and that weird shit with her grudge.

That shit didn't sit well with me. At all.
description

I think I need to put my Kindle aside for a few hours, because this feels like the beginning of a reading slump...
description
Profile Image for Nikki.
140 reviews
October 27, 2015
Aurelia Constantine is one Sassy, Badass Phoenix!

As a seer with a past full of heartache and an infinite future to deal with the pain, Aurelia has hardened herself to many things most yearn for. Even in sleep she can not escape the pain. No, for Aurelia sleep is when the visions come. Visions of heartbreaks to come. Try though she might, she can not stop the events from unfolding, she can only sit and watch the terrors occur.

Rhys is her Soldier, her protector, the one chosen to watch over her. His job is not easy considering she hates him "with every single fiber of her being." No matter how much she protests, Rys will always be in the shadows, watching and doing his duty to keep her safe.

Not being what you'd call a true blue fan of paranormal I was initially terrified to read this. Phoenix and shifters not being my thing I figured I had my work cut out for me on this one. But from the first chapter of Scattered Ashes, I was intrigued. This book is truly unlike anything I've read and much to my great relief; I found myself thoroughly enjoying the read. The story is interesting and made me want to keep reading, in fact, I found it hard to put down.

The author, Annie Anderson, sets up the book with a glossary and a fantastic warning letting the reader know "shit's about to get real." From the visions and the fight scenes to the humor and down right hot sex, Annie Anderson has delivered a well-rounded, exciting Debut Novel. I am now a fan of Phoenix shifters and look forward to more from this series and Annie Anderson.

I happily rate this book 5 stars and would recommend it to all fans of the paranormal genre.

**I was given a complimentary copy of this book for an honest review, but I have enjoyed it so much I preordered my ebook as well.
Profile Image for Kelli.
49 reviews3 followers
April 4, 2016
Scattered Ashes is the first book in a brand new series, Ashes To Ashes, by Annie Anderson. In book one we meet Aurelia Constantine, a phoenix that is over 100 years old, has visions because she is an oracle, and has been on the run for over a century because the leader of her kind deemed all Oracles are to lose their eyes; Aurelia happens to like them right where they are!

Rhys Stevens is bound to Aurelia through no choice of his own. He has done many things through no choice of his own. Because of the binding, it is Rhys' job to protect Aurelia at all costs. He has many things to atone for when it comes to Aurelia.

Will she ever forgive him? Will he ever confess that he has loved her almost their entire lives?

Only time will tell!

http://crazyforindies.blogspot.com/20...
Profile Image for Misty Nickels.
Author 2 books8 followers
October 21, 2015
(¯`•.•´¯) (¯`•.•´¯)
*`•.¸(¯`• .•´¯)¸.•´
¤ º° ¤`•. HOT! Suspenseful! Action Packed! ¸.•´ ¤ °º

I had no idea what to expect when I started reading this book. Ok, I am beginning to notice that I am always skeptical by a new book by an author that I do not know. I may eventually get out of this bias, and I am working on it.

After the first chapter of this book I was hooked. Once the book started flowing past the introductions and history (that at the time was confusing to me) the book was exactly something I would read. I have never read a book about a phoenix before, much less a book about phoenix’s, wraiths, a revenant, and the guardians of the phoenixes.

I have to admit, after finding out that Rhys had been the one to kill Aurelia’s husband I was so ready to hate Rhys, but by the middle of the book I found myself rooting for him. I wanted to smack Aurelia into realizing she should give him a chance!

I loved the story line leading from the art show, to the compound, to the attack on the compound, and Aurelia being kidnapped. I love the fact that there is a supernatural romance with action in it. I love it. I haven’t seen this very often. This book went into detail about the types of weapons that the characters would be using, what the weapons were good for, and I loved that the female characters were not girlie girls. I like an action/paranormal/romance! I think it takes a lot to pull of this type of writing. A lot of research or a lot of knowledge. Take your pick.

The story flowed well even if the reader was not always able to detect what was going to happen next. In this case I enjoyed the surprise. I did not expect the revenant to be who it was. Let’s just say that!
I didn’t catch very many grammatical errors or typos, which is a big plus for me! If there are too many I can’t finish the book. This book was great when it came to errors! There is no way this book would not earn 5 stars and I cannot wait to read the next story about her sister!

~Misty Nickels Reviewer for Bloggin with M. Brennan
Profile Image for Jewlsbookblog.
2,153 reviews72 followers
November 1, 2019
I liked a lot about this book. Aurelia was sassy, resilient, and determined, and she had a...well, huge grudge against Rhys. Poor Rhys! Rhys was the strong, protective guy and a silent pillar of support in the face of Aurelia’s hate. Their argumentative discussions were amusing because they played so well off one another, even in anger. Their romance, however, was where I struggled. I think Rhys truly has feelings for Aurelia, but her about face came too fast after a century of hate. I would rather it have been a slow burn relationship that developed further in the next book to be more invested. Good start to the series though and I will continue on.
Profile Image for Beauté De Livres  (Vivian Freeman).
227 reviews22 followers
November 2, 2015
3.5 STARS!!

I haven't read a Paranormal Romance in so long and after reading Scattered Ashes I don't exactly know why I stayed away for so long. If you need to be introduced to this genre or reminded of all the reasons why you should continue to read it - Scattered Ashes is for you.

Getting introduced to a world filled with Phoenixes, Wraiths & Seers in a circle of connections that continue to live through centuries, we meet Aurelia and Rhys. A fiery Seer and her dedicated guard. Bound together in the most sincerest of ways a lifetime filled with pain, loss and danger shrouds their better judgement and keeps them apart.

As they fight a war focused on the demise of Aurelia and Rhys, Annie Anderson's words will immerse you into a world of evil, murder and destruction. Bringing to life these amazing characters providing details that enhance their presence and importance in understanding the way this story unfolds. In her debut novel Anderson will have you hooked in a dialogue, that has sass and seriousness all rolled into one.
Wanting more is the only down fall of this story. The hopeless romantic in me wanted to see more of Aurelia and Rhys outside of the gruesome, grim and dangerous setting and can't wait for book two, to have a different focus and to see Rhys and Aurelia in a different light.
Profile Image for Merissa (Archaeolibrarian).
3,749 reviews108 followers
November 2, 2023
FLAME KISSED is the first book in the Phoenix Rising series. It is a fast-paced and action-packed story involving Wraiths and Phoenixes.

There is a whole new world here, just waiting to be explored. Where you have Oracles and Seers, Soldiers and Scholars. Where torture is not unknown and you can be bonded to someone against your will. From a heartbreaking start to a climactic finish, this book will hit pretty much every emotion as you read it. You will laugh at Aurelia and her sassy, take no prisoners, attitude. And then there is the banter between her and Evan, Rhys, West, and the rest of the crew.

I get the feeling that this book has only just scratched the surface of what is to come, and I for one, am looking forward to learning more! Definitely recommended.

** same worded review will appear elsewhere **

* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book; the comments here are my honest opinion. *

Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!

Nov 2, 2023
Profile Image for Kristie.
313 reviews7 followers
March 27, 2016
My Review:

As with any new book, I went into Scattered Ashes with the hope that it would take me away….into a new place, a new realm, where the impossible could exist, and where sexy heroes, and heroines alike, were there to swoop in and save the day. I wasn’t disappointed. I was immediately drawn in by the main character, Aurelia Constantine. She is a total bad ass. Faced with devastating betrayal and injustice in her youth, Aurelia had no choice but to fend for herself. In doing so, she taught herself to fight, and learned skills way beyond the average male action hero. She is truly a lethal beauty, with enough heart and sass to give any male a run for his money.

“Boy, you’re a regular Chatty Kathy. Do you have a last name, West? What do you do here? And more importantly, why are you on my best friend like white on rice? Cause, i gotta say, it’s not sitting so well with me.”

The fact that she is also a phoenix, and a Seer, made the story that much more intriguing. That being said, I have a confession…..*standing up, I clear my throat and look nervously around the room* “Hi….my name is Kristie, and I am a book addict.” Now, with that confession out there, the fact that I can honestly say that this is the first book I remember that had a phoenix in it, let alone as the lead character, is really saying something. For me, it made the story so much better, so much more dynamic. It was a new and fresh spin on the characters, as well as the storyline. I absolutely loved it.

Of course, it wouldn’t be a paranormal romance without a sexy male character, which is where Rhys Stevens comes in. Also a phoenix, he has loved Aurelia from the time they were children. Watching his only love marry his best friend had to be devastating, but to then be bound to her as her Soldier? Damn. Twist the knife, why don’t you? Add to that the insurmountable tasks that he had to complete to keep her safe, which also effectively insured her hatred of him for the extended future, the man lived in pure hell. But, as any good hero does, he always had her back….even if she didn’t want him to. Keeping her under surveillance, Rhys did his damnedest to make sure she was safe, even though he knew she could hold her own. When an exhibition of Aurelia’s art goes awry, and they are thrown together again, they are forced to deal with their history and secrets are revealed that change their relationship forever. I have sung the praises of the lead female character, but Rhys is no slouch. Incredibly sexy and strong, he is also loyal, considerate, loving, and compassionate. Rhys successfully melted my heart (and my panties) on more than one occasion.

“If you get out of bed right now and let me do naughty things to you in the shower, I’ll make you an entire pot of coffee.”

He is definitely an Alpha male with his ripped body, strong protective urges, and willingness to go into battle for his woman. That being said, I do think Aurelia may have showed him up a bit in this story. As I said before, she is pretty damn bad ass, and truly the hero here.

The estrogen didn’t stop flowing there either, with the introduction of Evan Black (Aurelia’s BFF), the women are definitely the stars of this show. I loved the playful banter between the friends, as well as the many supporting characters. I do wish there had been more detail on the history of their friendship, and how both Aurelia and Evan got involved in the art scene. Maybe we will learn more in the books to come. One can only hope…..*nudges Annie Anderson and winks* I do want to explain why I didn’t give this book a full 5 stars, as the plot and characters were deserving. My one complaint with the book was that it seemed to go too quickly in some areas, and not quickly enough in others. As a new author, I think Annie Anderson has performed brilliantly, and I absolutely adored every minute of this book. Thank you, Annie for giving me the escape I so desperately needed.

~Kristie~
Profile Image for Barb Shuler.
Author 110 books157 followers
April 7, 2019
For the love of all that is holy and fiery....

Wait before I get into this let me thank Annie Anderson and HEA Book Tours for allowing me a copy of this book to read in exchange for an honest review. This is my first book by Annie Anderson and I can promise you it won't be the last. Not even a chance of that happening.

I love paranormal reads. Period. One of my favorites and I've read many wonderful books but this one, Scattered Ashes is different than anything I have read to date. That's saying a lot. In a special new love for the Phoenix. It's not only a mythological creature but one that pulls your attention in. And pair that new found love with a wicked part of me that the wraiths hold and we've got a match made in fire. And I'm sorry but a big ass, hunky man who has to watch the woman he loves but can't touch cause she hates his guts... dynamite!

When we meet Aurelia she is not a happy little damsel in distress. No. Not even close. Girlfriend is one shady, twitchy, trigger happy woman. Ha! Can't blame her though. Know the saying, "fire hot, fire burn"? If you don't, learn it. And Rhys... poor misunderstood, judge man has his work cut out for him. As her warrior he is bonded to Aurelia. Should be a match made in heaven. Two hot tempered warriors fighting side by side.... but it's far from that.

Their past is keeping them apart. But when danger approaches Rhys is there to "save the day". Thing is... Our sweet, feisty little hottie doesn't need much help. And If she did, she'd not admit it. She hates him. He loves her. It's a slow building hurricane that as it grows gets more and more hearty. Aurelia takes them to a "safe house" in the mountains. Her friend Evan (who I frigging love, cause she is bad-ass) has her dad’s place ready when they get there. They are not there alone though. The king of wraiths, aka Evan's dad is there with his minions are hiding out as well.

Thing is it seems the she-bitch, I mean Queen of the Phoenix's is on a mission to use her minions to take out both Ari and Rhys. Bitch should know better than that. It’s not that easy. With her gift of foresight she gets a really good idea of what is going to happen…. but things never go quite as hoped. So when Ari is taken by the queen and held captive for days on end she’s a bit pissy when she wakes up. Seems she doesn’t like being caged anymore than anyone else. Ari gets herself out of dodge just in time to see Rhys, Evan and the gang there to save her. Oops. She took all the fun out of it. Dang stubborn woman.

You think it ends there? Then you would be wrong. The real fight starts then. A game of cat and mouse of the supernatural proportions. Seems while she was captive the queen found a way to push aside the one gift keeping the she beast of of Aurelia’s head. So now it’s a mental fight for her as the others fight to defeat the physical threat that surrounds them. Defeat is not an option. In order to stave off anymore unnecessary killings, saving not only the phoenix's but the wraiths as well. Freedom comes at a cost that they are all willing to put their lives on the line for. But is it too late for them? You will have to see for yourself.
Profile Image for Kathleen R..
1,408 reviews43 followers
October 28, 2015
Overall Stars: 4 STARS

Supernatural
Seer


Her capacity to see the future prepares her to change it if need be, but she never was able to change her past.

Aurelia Constantine is having a rough century.
Plagued by visions of murder, death and destruction, she has resigned herself to the nightmare her life has become. When an enemy from her past comes to her rescue, she must let go of old wounds and heal the breach so she may survive the evil poisoning her mind.

Rhys Stevens is guilty. Murder. Betrayal. Treason. Take your pick; he's guilty of them all. On the path of redemption, he must beg for forgiveness from the one person he fought to save - the woman he has always loved.
Thrown together in the trenches of war, they must work as a team to stop a monstrous puppet master from pulling their strings.
Ashes, ashes. We all fall down. Get ready to burn. (Amazon blurb)

The supernatural is an either you like it or you don't like it genre. It's rare you get a middle ground since it's science fiction and the ideas can be highly removed from reality or closer to reality - everything depends on the author and their desires. What Annie Anderson has done with her novel is add an element that many would argue is true - seers do exist in many forms, psychics, gypsy fortune tellers, tarot card readers, the possibilities are endless, but at least this element allows readers to connect with the difficulties Aurelia must face daily. Her past with Rhys ended in heartbreak, but her present still has a chance to be her happily ever after, at least readers get to read some sweet, amazing and hot as all heck scenes between two characters that will leave you all hot and bothered.

**Received a copy in exchange for an honest review. Read and reviewed by Kathleen for Alpha Book Club**
Profile Image for Jewel Book Lover.
216 reviews23 followers
November 4, 2015
ACR copy received in exchange of an honest review

Lately I’ve not read a lot of paranormal romances so I had no idea what to expect from this book. But turning the first pages I saw the word “phoenix” and I knew I’d be hooked. The phoenix has always been a creature that fascinated me, a creature that rises from its ashes. For me the symbol of how to live my life: fight, accept the defeat, but always be able to rise over and over again.
At the beginning the story was a little bit confusing to me. I had some issue following the characters and I often got back to the glossary. Phoenix, Wraiths, Guardians, Revenant, Oracle…
Aurelia is hiding from her enemy trying to escape her fate.
Rhys is her guardian and the one who killed Aurelia husband and her unborn child.
She hated Rhys for ages, century. Rhys has been always in love with her.
When the war against Iva, their worst enemy, begins, Aurelia and Rhys find their way toward love, redemption and forgiveness.
Aurelia is a strong woman and very stubborn, I loved her loyalty and that in her relationships, good or bad, she gives heart and soul.
Rhys at the beginning seems to the bad boy, the enemy, but when I’ve found out the reasons of his actions, I changed my mind. He’s loyal, sweet and hot, so so hot.
The author gives voice to a secret world full of darkness, secrets, action, hate, betrayal. And love, friendship, courage, loyalty, redemption, forgiveness.
Well written, the story flows very fast with actions and surprises. At the last page I realized how much I’ve missed reading Paranormal Romance. Thanks Annie to have kicked me again in this wonderful world!
An amazing ride till the end where I find out that this book will has a sequel…I’m ready!
October 29, 2015
Scattered Ashes- Annie Anderson.

5 Sizzling Stars!

Aurelia Constantine is one bad ass phoenix!

She's had a lot to deal with over the years, that's for sure. It seems all she wants to do i, be left alone with her paints!
She's been on the run from her legion since 1855 following a tragedy that took away the two things she cared about the most, her husband Lucien and their unborn child.

Rhys.

Rhys is another story all together and one of the reasons she has been on the run. For some reason unknown to her at this point they have been paired and she is not happy about this at all! Even if there is obviously auch deeper connection there. He goes on to play a major role throughout the book along with Evan, Aurelias best friend and wraithe, who she couldn't and wouldn't be without.

When times get tough Aurelia really learns who she can trust and who is going to betray her.

She has a real battle on her hand when Iva, who reigns over the whole legion comes back in to her life with an almighty crash!
We find out some shocking truths about just how powerful Aurelia is along the way, she doesn't even know her self, just what she is capable of and it keeps you gripped, needing to know what happens next!

Aurelia really is a great character. She's a really strong woman. She's got heart and is completely loyal to those she cares about but she's also sassy and opinionated and doesn't suffer fools easily.

I went into this book blind, really not knowing what to expect at all and I loved it.

Especially that ending!

I can't wait to read what happens next.
Profile Image for Cranky - The Book Curmudgeon.
2,091 reviews153 followers
January 20, 2016
***** 5 Cranky Stars *****



Annie Anderson's debut novel is impressive. This is a wonderful paranormal story filled with love, loss, and the fight to survive.



Our heroine, Aurelia, is witty, tough, and has a lot of sass. Just the way I like them. She's an immortal seer and has been on the run for centuries, but the past has a way of catching up.



Her visions turn nightmarish and then she runs into Rhys, her protector. The same guy she's been avoiding for many years.



Their parting was epic... but as new threats and enemies emerge on the horizon, they have to join forces.



This book has a cast of wonderful characters. Aurelia's best friend, Evan, is a particular favorite. She has her own powers and a temper to match.



If you like paranormal or just strong women characters, I highly recommend this book. Desperately awaiting the sequel.



Profile Image for Lindsey.
148 reviews4 followers
October 28, 2015
I received an ARC for an honest review for United Indie Book Blog

We all want to know what the future holds but sometimes knowing what to come, and the consequences and lasting effects that comes with it. Aurelia past comes with a lot of pain and devastation and the one man she is destined to be tied to for the rest of her long life is the man she feels is responsible her all her pain and suffering . Rhys is her guardian and love he has been there even when she detested him he loved her. This story is about a journey of self-discovery and forgiveness.
The adventures of Rhys and Aurelia and their friends is packed with action, passion, and so much mutual growth .When I first started reading this story I distinct think I was going to like this novel at first but he more I read the more I feel in love with the characters .The story kept me until the I have to say that if you are a paranormal lover than this is definitely a book you would want to read.
This is a story of a world of secret and evil and with it comes a soul shaken purpose to beat the evil that is lurking. Scattered Ashes is about rising above the doubt, pain and begin reborn anew to once again become whole and learn to once again live.
Profile Image for Amanda Lee Disheveled Book Blog.
525 reviews26 followers
October 29, 2015
This was a great unexpected Paranormal Romance, sometimes I'm asked to read a book and I may read the blurb or not. With this one I took a chance on it without really looking too much into it. In the end I was so impressed, I haven't read a PR book in awhile and reading this made me realize just how over due I was for a book from this genre. Annie has created an amazing world that you will find yourself getting lost in, I couldn't put this book down. Also for a debut author the writing was top notch.

For the story I really enjoyed it, I found myself getting lost in every single bit of it. I loved the dynamic, love, depth, and history between Aurelia and Rhys. They were hot and sweet, and so so perfect. I loved their banter and I even found Aurelia's hate for him entertaining in the beginning as well. I can't wait for more from these characters, I enjoyed them all Evan too she was spunky, loving, caring, and I just want to know about her and West.
Profile Image for The Book Fairy Reviews.
2,274 reviews42 followers
November 3, 2015
Filled with passion, suspense and danger even when you fall asleep this book is amazing. Aurelia's gift is not what she would consider a gift, seeing the future and not being able to do anything to help the out come is not what you would imagine this gift to be. It haunts he sleep making it impossible to close her eyes.
She hides from the on that has hunted her for years, but she has her protector Rhys. Although she hates him for doing the unthinkable, her bond to him in permanent. Rhys will do anything to protect his love.
As paranormal reads this one is fantastic. Not always so serious you find whit in Aurelia in her inner musings.
Rhys and Aurelia are powerful and emotional and passionate. I love every minute.
Annie has given us a world that you will want to visit over anf over again and after reading this you will be begging her to give you book two immediately!! *hint *hint ;)
Profile Image for Nadine.
1,808 reviews2 followers
May 22, 2017
Fast-paced paranormal thriller with some serious heat

Aurelia is fiery, sarcastic, capable and (understandably) angry. She is very independent and a fighter. Yes, attitude is what she has in spades. Rhys loves Aurelia and is very likeable, although Aurelia hates him. HATES him. The story is dark and suspenseful. The POV changes from Aurelia and Rhys (first person) which gives you both sides of the story, which is nice, but it can get a bit confusing because you have to switch all the time. The graphic scenes that you have to be 18+ for are intense and fit well within the storyline. And be warned: there is a lot of fighting / violence, blood and gore. This book is not for the weak hearted! At three quarters of the book and I just couldn’t put it down anymore.

The glossary of terms is helpful but a bit much to take in at first. It’s just a bit annoying having to look up terms when you’re in the middle of the story. But you get used to it.
Profile Image for Petula.
2,766 reviews75 followers
October 28, 2015
This is a very fast paced book. Our heroine Aurelia is a Phoenix and a seer. She escaped from her destiny after the murder of her husband. She has to stay hidden, or she will be dragged back and tortured again. In the human world she makes a very good living as an artist.
Rhys is Aurelia's soldier. Her protector and mate. This bond was forced on them many years ago, but because he is the one who killed her husband Aurelia refuses to have anything to do with him.
The Primary of the Phoenix, is the one that is hunting and torturing any who go against her. Aurelia is number one on her list.
The battles against huge odds are epic. The visions that torment our heroine's dreams would have all of us refusing to sleep. Our sexy hero is ready to do anything to stay with the love of his life.
A very exciting read, with the promise of a great series.
Profile Image for Brandi Reeves-Pearson.
385 reviews10 followers
October 28, 2015
First starting out with this book, I was drawn in just from the prologue. I found myself confused and very interested in what was going on. We slowly get the story behind everything, and I was shocked to say the least. I never thought that outcome would happen. This book is packed full of action and two sides that never thought they would work together, help fight off the one person who wants them all dead. I thought some parts was funny, so it was nice to have a bit of humor. Other parts didn’t hold my attention like others did, but overall it was very interesting to read. I’ve read tons of paranormal books, and it’s getting hard for them to be unique, but I will say I did like this one. It’s different in its own way, and I’m looking forward to seeing what comes next. I would recommend checking this book out, and giving it a try.
Profile Image for Kaye.
7,178 reviews67 followers
December 11, 2019
ONE BLAZING EXPERIENCE!!!
Buckle up! Annie rocks the boat, swirling, swaying and staying afloat with every sense engaged jolting this baby together flawlessly. A spinning vortex chocked-full of astonishing events that propels every emotion bursting into play front and center. Trudging through the trials and tribulations along with a bounty of plot twists that blasts this bad boy to life spectacularly. Sparks fly as danger, drama, intrigue and suspense sends this baby into a tailspin with staggering results. Throw in distress, turmoil and revelations and you have the recipe for one block busting delight. The characters on point personalities balance and blend with enough depth showcasing the diversity. The characters and scenes are so colorfully detailed and descriptive it fuses this gem together beautifully. Fantastic job Annie, thanks for sharing this bad boy with us.
Profile Image for Tracey.
1,397 reviews69 followers
October 7, 2015
A strong start to a new series.

This is a whole new world to me, Phoenix are completely reimagined. There's also a hierarchy, not all people that rule are good though.

Aurelia and Rhys are great main characthers and I really enjoyed them ironing out there problems in between the battles going on around them.

Evan makes a fun but deadly sidekick to Aurelia.

This is a first in series so there's lots of background/history bought into book which all help you to be pulled in into this new and interesting paranormal world.

I look forward to reading more in the series.

Four Phoenix stars
Profile Image for Cathy.
195 reviews2 followers
March 4, 2016
I received this book by entering a goodreads drawing.
3.5 stars
Annie Anderson has done a good job writing this paranormal romance. The story has lots of action and flows quickly so I found it very easy to keep reading. There are explicit sex scenes so this is definitely not for under 18. The characters are well developed so it is easy to get into their lives and care what happens to them.

I had never come across a human phoenix before. Ms. Anderson has done a great job describing the challenges and advantages of the phoenix, Aurelia Constantine.

I would highly recommend this book to any adult who enjoys paranormal romance.
Profile Image for Terri Wilson.
Author 48 books143 followers
April 8, 2017
This is another case where I would love to be able to give a 3.5. It's a great story, but I would have liked to see a little more character development. However, I will add that for a debut novel she did a good job and I bet the rest of the series will only get better. This unique story started off with a bang and only continues to build from there. When Aurelia and Rhys get together their pain and passion work against and for them. I liked the blending of paranormal characters that we don't often see. I thought she did a good job with the action scenes. I felt like I was in the fight right along with everyone else. I added the rest of the series to my TBR.
Profile Image for Angela Sanders.
Author 44 books982 followers
November 8, 2016
What a unique twist on the lives of both Phoenix and Wraith!

This book is action packed and full of twists that will leave you reeling! The author developed not only the main characters, but side characters as well. They're all neatly woven into a mysterious tale of treachery, hatred and a drive for revenge that pushes two lost loves into one another's arms. I fell in love with this story immediately and couldn't put it down! I can't wait to sink my teeth into book two! 5 stars!
Profile Image for M Will.
789 reviews9 followers
January 25, 2022
What a ride! This story starts off slow and works up to a rather explosive climax. Hiding from a tragic past, Aurelia Constantine avoids connections and honestly is barely living as she avoids her destined fate as a seer.. Almost a hermit, she limits herself to interacting with a few select supernatural friends.
When her past finally catches up to her, she must learn to not only accept help, but to allow herself to truly evaluate everything she believes about her past.
The story has lots of humor, snark and steam encapsulated in a very action packed story that I truthfully wish was a bit longer. I want more of Rhys and Aurelia. The story is part of a series so I am eagerly awaiting the next book. The author has crafted a very interesting supernatural world where Phoenixes and Wraiths, historically enemies, unite as a team to confront a bigger baddie in the world. Hurts are confronted, truths are exposed and so many feelings happen in this book. If you enjoy supernatural books, take a chance. I believe Annie Anderson has started an adventure worthy of your time.
281 reviews1 follower
February 24, 2018
Excellent! What a great story! And very well written!

Oh! I loved this book! The character development was awesome and the way the author brought in their backstories was brilliant! It was such a well written story too - which any voracious reader knows is just too rare a happening. This book made me so happy, simply because it was so well done in every area, ie, story and character development, dark plots and painful loss, fighting and torture that is respected for its long term negative effects. No glossing over the grit of conflict here. Our heroes are battle and psyche scarred and we readers are privileged to see them dig deep within themselves to find the resources needed to survive. Amazing.
369 reviews3 followers
March 26, 2017
Just amazing!! I love Aurelia she is sassy and bada$$ just loved her!
she had to put up with lot i know I Would be killing everyone around me after
losing the love of my life and child and being bonded with the man who took that
all away having to deal with him god she amazing women!!

well she forgive Rhys for everything he had to do and well she give him the chance to tell his
side of the story? and well the all live long to with the evil around every corner?

bloggin with m.brennan
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