Hope Rises from the Ashes

by L.F. Falconer

Destiny's path is not always a clear cut trail, a discovery the tinker's daughter is about to make in this dramatic sequel to Hope Flies on Broken Wings. Armed with little more than a tattered shirt, a whisper of hope, and a protective charm, Collie flees from the seaside ghosts of Donnel that haunt her soul and dares to cross into the Tillaman Realm. There, she succumbs to a charismatic young knight named Morgan who offers her sanctuary, only to learn that a pretty smile is not always to be trusted. Her ultimate fate is precariously held within the mind of a catatonic child, and a deep winter snow has settled over the boundary mountains, blocking all roads of escape. Bound to Morgan and hopelessly entangled in a dangerous game of brutality and possession, all Collie wants now is to return home.

Genres: Fantasy

252 pages, Paperback

First published July 19, 2013

About the author

Award-winning author L.F. Falconer's powerful, page-turning style of dark fantasy has been consistently praised as both "gripping" and "captivating." Skillful, character-based artistry fuses magic and the supernatural with reality to bring her audience a unique reading experience.

Awards:

The Vagabond's Son: Prelude to a Legacy
Finalist in Epic Fantasy, Readers' Favorite International Book Awards, 2015

A Debt of Survival
Horror Finalist in 2017 Foreword INDIES Book of the Year
Horror Finalist In 2018 Next Generation Indie Book Awards.
Horror Finalist in 2017 Reader Views Book Awards

Reviews

[K.P. Ambroziak · Rating 5 out of 5]

I raced through this because, as is true to form, Falconer grabbed me with “Hope Flies on Broken Wings,” and I couldn’t move on with life until I’d found out what happened to Collie. This writer has a gift for showing a character’s growth without a heavy hand. Falconer makes choices that fit the setting, and though you wonder what the hell the character is thinking at times, you can’t help but love him or her through it. I’ll admit, I was worried a few times as I read this, finding myself conflicted about who to love, as does Collie. But in the end I was silly not to trust Falconer. She knows what she’s doing. I was fed to satisfaction, moved to tears, and gleefully smiling by the close of this resurrection, a love story that proves eternal and beautiful in ways one can’t quite put into words.

[Dianne · Rating 5 out of 5]

The sequel to Hope Flies on Broken Wings, Hope Rises from the Ashes by L. F. Falconer is like stepping back into a time where the value of a human is often no more than the value of a pound of salt. Christianity is in its infancy and the power of the sword, the blood in one’s veins and the coin in one’s pocket rules the masses as law. Life is harsh, and survival is a daily challenge in this world where not even a young woman’s virtue is sacred and any act of defiance or disagreement against the ruling class could cost a person their very life.

Collie leaves her life behind after tragedy strikes and her heart is forever broken with the loss of Dugan. Desperate and alone in a strange village, with no one to champion her, no means of support, she lowers herself to becoming the property of a Tillaman warrior, whose treatment runs from gentle to brutally painful on a whim. Tricked into false friendships, used, abused and grieving, Collie is too ashamed to go home, becoming a prisoner in a world full of pain and deceit. Can she ever find happiness again? Can she ever go home?

L. F. Falconer managed to turn back the clock with her ability to paint each scene with such earthy detail that my mind’s eye could see the world Collie was living in. The dialogue between characters, using words and phrases that felt medieval further colored in a world that is part of long ago history and attitudes! With strong characters and a heart-wrenching, yet intriguing story, Ms. Falconer brought her tale to life and filled it with strong historical details of a long ago era!

I'd like to thank Ms. Falconer for inviting me to share Collie's journey.


Publication Date: July 15, 2013
Publisher: Outskirts Press, Inc.
Sequel to: Hope Flies on Broken Wings
ISBN: 147870246X
Number of Pages: 280
Genre: Historical Romance/Adults
My Rating: 5 stars
Available from: Amazon / Barnes & Noble
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[Laraemilie · Rating 3 out of 5]

In a Middle-Age world full of fantasy, romance and fights for honour, young Collie learns that being a woman is not easy, especially away from home. After her love died at sea, she flees to another realm in order to start life anew. But with a winged-lion threatening the kingdom, fiery knights duelling for her and jealous young women trying to harm her, her journey is not as she had imagined... and it is only the beginning.
In Hope rises from the ashes, L.F. Falconer continues the story of Collie after she lost Dugan. Although it is the second book of the series, reading Hope flies on broken wings is not required in order to understand the plot. We are given enough hints of what took place before in order to understand the young lady’s motivations to leave her memories behind and look for something else.
The plot itself is easy and everything comes slowly into place. There are a few quicker scenes, but we mostly have time to concentrate on the characters, which are all vividly described: the proud knights Morgan and Thoren, innocent and naive Collie, talkative Giselle, faithful Brother John, mischievous Damile and Lisana, sad and broken Natt... Their psychology is shown little by little, keeping the suspense all through the story.
The contrast between Collie and the other women of Tillaman realm is strong and she quickly understands that being a foreigner is not an advantage. The author raises many interesting questions about the condition of women, the integration of strangers and, above all, about love.
We focus on Collie’s new life, but we are also given an idea of how she used to live in Donnel – her birth realm – which enables the reader to compare the differences in the society and traditions of these two places. We can also feel the historical period through the way characters live and through various other typical things such as the problems of communication and transport between the different realms, the knights who protect the town and the importance of religion for some people.
The writing style is surprising and it is possibly the reason why it took me so long to become immersed in the story. The present tense used to describe the adventures seemed a little strange, especially as it is taking place in the Middle-ages. L.F. Falconer also writes in an oral style, not only in the dialogues, but in the description as well, which is quite unusual. However, after a few chapters, I came to enjoy it because the story seemed livelier and we really feel as if we are experiencing Collies story with her. It is also a contrast with the chapters told by other characters and shows the differences in people’s accents and ways of speaking.
Of course, we all wish for a happy ending, especially after seeing the main protagonist in so many desperate situations. Several twists and turns will keep the reader’s attention until the last pages, in which the rhythm of the action becomes quicker and quicker. Although I am satisfied with the story altogether, I felt that the end was rushed – despite a few welcomed surprises – and a few chronological details were not accurate, or rather not believable.
Hope rises from the ashes is a beautiful tale of love and honour which mixes several genres. Between romance, history and fantasy, L.F. Falconer published an unusual book which will seduce readers from various horizons, whether they are interested in fantasy, history or romance.
I would like to conclude this review by thanking Bostick Communications who made it possible for me to discover this book. Thank you very much to author L.F. Falconer for providing me with a – signed – copy of her book in exchange of my honest review.

[Shawn Remfrey · Rating 5 out of 5]

First, let's start off with the fact this is a sequel. I haven't read the first book, but having read this one, I wish I had. Don't get me wrong. This stands alone perfectly fine. There's just enough information to keep you from being confused without it becoming redundant. The main reason I wish I'd read the first book is that I enjoyed this one so much. It's kind of like getting to watch the second season of a television show you fall in love with. You have to go back and watch the first season in order to find out what all you've missed.

I don't have any complaints here. The characters are great. You care about them from the beginning and feel a connection with them. The storytelling factor is great. It's easy to get swept away and not want to return to reality. It flows smoothly to the point that you don't even realize you've nearly finished it until you flip the last page wondering how you possibly read the entire thing already. It has great escape quality. It has a wonderful other worldly factor. There are politics and religion, but not enough to bore you, just enough to keep you intrigued. Honestly, I can't find a single thing wrong with this book.

Now, let me tell you what I loved. This book has great 'BAM!' factor. You're reading along and the scene is set and you think you know the direction it's going to take, when all of a sudden BAM! You're wrong. Something insane has happened that makes complete sense, but you totally didn't see it coming. I despise cookie cutter writing. The main reason is that it's predictable and dull. I like an exciting read where the writer can take me somewhere and I can't see the future, I can only guess. Then, "BAM! I was wrong! I had no idea that would happen! Well, what's going to happen next? Holy Crow! Did that really just happen?" You get so excited reading that you find yourself bouncing up and down in your seat because it's just so thrilling! Falconer is a genius at this. It's an amazing escape from reality with the truth of reality still being vibrantly alive. One moment we're in a sweet, loving scene and the next the blood is flowing freely! There are a few gruesome scenes, but they aren't over the top. The purpose isn't to gross you out, it's more because that's what happened in Falconer's head. That's simply where the story went. There's just enough to give you a shock factor.

A surprisingly well-done book. I'll happily review the first in the series, L.F.! *hint hint* For those of you who like a touch of everything and a whole lot of excitement, this is a great read. It's fast-paced and enjoyable. Don't let the book cover fool you!

[Pam · Rating 4 out of 5]

****This is the second book in a series, so if you like to be totally surprised you might not want to read this review. ****

The story starts out with Collie and a young boy hiding under a wagon while the boy’s father is being devoured by a huge lion with wings. Collie and the boy, Natt, manage to escape alive. They soon meet up with two Tillaman warriors who give them a ride to their town. Since her money is lost in the wagon that the lion attacked, Collie ends up agreeing to allow one of the warriors to pay for her food and her place at the inn as long as she’ll be his mistress. This goes against Collie’s morals, but she doesn’t want to be put out on the street, and her heart is already broken thinking her first love is dead. The situation goes from bad to worse though, as the man who is supposed to be protecting her, turns out to be a monster himself.

I should have read the first book, but even though I didn’t I was able to follow the story. And wow, what a story! It had me hooked from the first page. The story is a little dark, so if you only like to read about flowers, unicorns, and rainbows, this probably isn’t the book for you. Seriously though, this book deals with not only heartache, but physical abuse. However, Collie is a strong woman and pulls through.

The point of view changes back and forth from Collie to one other. I’m usually not a fan of the point of view switch-a-roo, but it was done from chapter to chapter and done for a reason which I don’t want to give away if you’ve read the first book.

Also, the genre is a little hard to categorize. It feels mostly like a historical romance, but there is a little fantasy in there; a dragon, a flying lion. But even with those aspects of fantasy, the story feels closer to reality than fantasy. The author even states in the beginning, “Thus, I deliver Hope Rises from the Ashes (again, a story that rides the cusp of genre. Purists beware.)”

Although this story is pretty dark, it is really good. I didn’t want to stop reading; I had to find out what happened next. Pick up a copy and get lost in Collie’s world for a while. In the end, you’ll be glad you did.


My Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

~Pam

*****I received this book free from the author in exchange for an honest review.*****

[Sarah-Jayne Briggs · Rating 4 out of 5]

(I received this book for free as part of Goodreads First Reads giveaways).

(This review may contain spoilers).

This is another book I have some very mixed feelings towards, though I found it to be extremely well-written, if very intense for most of the time.

I liked Collie, though it took me a while to fully adapt to her name. I was able to emphasise with her very quickly. Despite the hardships she went through, she was still a likable character and I liked the fact that she still cared for people and tried to do the right thing.

There were plenty of characters I didn't like. Lisana and Damile spring to mind, as does Morgan - his relationship with Collie was clearly an abusive one and I couldn't see any good in him. In fact, his periods of kindness actually made him worse.

I'm not entirely sure what I think of Thoren. Although nicer than Morgan in some respects, he did some things that were really quite cruel. Also, if someone isn't going to be happy in a relationship unless they have a challenge, the chances are they won't be happy at all.

I did find it kind of confusing to keep switching between first person perspectives, even though they were separated by chapters. I kept forgetting whose head I was in at what point - and the first time in Dugan's head, I still thought I was in Collie's.

I liked the uses of fantasy in this book. It wasn't a major part, but it was a nice crossover between genres. It was also interesting to see Collie's accent written out and it didn't make the story unreadable like I've seen before.

The descriptions in the book worked really well and I could see a lot of what was happening taking place in my head. I cared about what happened to Dugan and Collie and that's what kept me reading the book. I always find character-driven stories to be best.

I can't say that I'd read this book any time soon, but I'd definitely recommend it to people I think might like this kind of crossover between genres. If there was a book following on from this, I'd probably give that a try as well.

[Gayle Pace · Rating 4 out of 5]

THIS BOOK CONTAINS SOME ADULT SITUATIONS THAT MIGHT BE INAPPROPRIATE FOR YOUNGER READERS.

REVIEW

HOPE RISES FROM THE ASHES is the sequel to HOPE FLIES ON BROKEN WINGS, by L.F. Falconer. Christianity is little known of. Power lies in different things, not Faith. The rule of the majority is determined by how much coin you have, how much courage you have in using your sword and what blood flows through your veins. Human life means nothing. There is no value to mankind.

This is a life where even a woman is just someone to take advantage of. Life is hard and just trying to live day by day is almost impossible. You didn't dare go against the upper class or your life could be taken. The author lays out the story with great detail. You can almost picture what is going on as if you are there. Collie has become desperate in this world that is nothing but lies and hurt. She has left her tragic stricken life behind. The loss of Dugan broke her heart forever. Alone in a strange place, no coin and no one, she becomes the property of a Tillaman warrior. He is hot and cold with her. Gentle to brutal at the strike of a match. She wants to leave and go home but she is ashamed. She is locked in a world of lies and pain. Ms. Falconer's character's used language that was of the time period. The author does a wonderful job of keeping you turning those pages. I love books that cause you to turn those pages. If not, you're not sure if you want to finish or not. The author gave us everything possible, romance, lust, greed, action, hurt,danger and so much more. She didn't fail us. This book is all and then some. Thanks to you, Ms. Falconer for writing such a good book. This is a good read for everyone.

I would give this book 4 Stars.

I was given a complimentary copy of HOPE RISES FROM THE ASHES by the author, L.F.Falconer for my review.

[Elizabeth Good · Rating 5 out of 5]

Let me start this review by saying this: If Hope Flies on Broken Wings and Hope Rises from the Ashes are not on your TO-READ list, then you need to add them---pronto! If these books already are included in your queue, then bring them to the TOP of your list of must-reads. You will be glad you did.

This sequel to Hope Flies on Broken Wings is most enjoyable and so well-written. Ms. Falconer is a talented writer who deserves accolades mostly reserved for only the famous, non-Indie, authors. I am glad to have stumbled upon these gems through my association here on Goodreads.

She drew me immediately in the beginning of Hope Rises From The Ashes, seamlessly picking up where Collie left off in the first installment. Yet, this book can stand on its own merit, being thoroughly enjoyable in its own right.

I give this sequel one-star more than the first book, and not sure why exactly. I think the plot had more depth, more twists, more meatiness, and certainly more hope for a happy ending. I will not spoil with specifics because I dislike ruining the reading experience for others, but I'll tell you this...you will want more books from Ms. Falconer. I guarantee it.

[Lance Carney · Rating 5 out of 5]

The loss of her love Dugan causes Collie to flee her home and parents. Landing in the Kingdom of Donnel after a tragic encounter with a winged lion, Collie is forced to grow up quickly. Penniless, she falls in with a Tillaman warrior, abusive and possessive. Her dreams of escape or marriage are squashed, over and over. If only Dugan hadn’t died, hadn’t drowned in the sea...

I actually enjoyed this sequel, Hope Rises from the Ashes, more than the first book, Hope Flies on Broken Wings. Set in the same medieval land, Hope Rises has winged lions, dragons and more elements of fantasy. But it is still first and foremost a character study, and Collie must face the challenges and pitfalls of adulthood. L.F. Falconer’s writing and storytelling are exciting and unique. I have read all her work except for Exit Strategy, which I will be purchasing now.

[Dalene · Rating 4 out of 5]

First, I would like to thank the author L.F. Falconer for giving me this book for an honest review. This book kept me turning the pages until the very end. This book is the second book in a series, I had not read the first book, which was fine as the author gave enough info for you not to be lost on what was going on. The main character Collie is a strong woman who deals with a lot, while trying to find her way. I look forward to reading more from this author.

[Michaela · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this book for free as part of Goodreads First Reads giveaways.
A very enjoyable and well written read. I wasn't sure what to expect from this book but it certainly delivered and I found myself getting lost in the book and in some parts didn't want to put it down.I loved the characters, even the not so nice ones! 4/5 stars

[Jacci · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is my new favorite author. You all have tot try L.F. Falconer! It's a love story set in a different time and place. The characters and their circumstances are interesting and there are many challenges to overcome. The writer maintains a dialect throughout and the story is new and engaging. Great work L.F.!

[Meshell · Rating 3 out of 5]

So I entered the competition for this book not realising that this was number two.

Despite this the book was quite easy to follow. I don't know if the book referrers a lot to things that have happened in the first but I got the gist of what was happening easily enough.

I've rated it three stars for 'I liked it' and I think that was fair.

For me personally it did not have a strong opening (again this could be because I hadn't read the first) and then the story at the end felt....strange. I know that is an odd way to describe something but I didn't feel the ending at all. I felt the story lost what it was supposed to be about.

That said this was in no way a bad book, not by far. I don't think I will read it again but I certainly don't regret spending time on it now.