What do you think?
Rate this book
Records of the Ohanzee, #2
Reflection: Harbinger of the Phoenix
The masquerade is over and the masks have been removed. But not everyone’s true face has been revealed…
King Casimer of Marise has assassinated the Royal Family of Chiyo and usurped the throne. He doesn’t know that the Heiress of Chiyo, Nerissa, is still alive and has joined the Ohanzee, a group of guardians who have secretly protected the country for generations. Disguising herself as a young man, Nerissa seeks a way to depose Casimer and restore her country’s independence. An uncanny stroke of luck leads her to the mysterious seer Shae, who has discovered a fragment of an ancient prophecy warning of events that will bring about the end of civilization. And Casimer has already set some of those events into motion.
With the future of not only Chiyo, but all of Renatus at stake, Nerissa and her six Ohanzee companions set out on a journey in search of the remaining fragments, where they will find unlikely allies and uncover new enemies.
Reflection: Harbinger of the Phoenix is Book 2 of 4 in the first story arc of the Records of the Ohanzee series, which is written in a serialized style with a story line that flows continuously between books.
King Casimer of Marise has assassinated the Royal Family of Chiyo and usurped the throne. He doesn’t know that the Heiress of Chiyo, Nerissa, is still alive and has joined the Ohanzee, a group of guardians who have secretly protected the country for generations. Disguising herself as a young man, Nerissa seeks a way to depose Casimer and restore her country’s independence. An uncanny stroke of luck leads her to the mysterious seer Shae, who has discovered a fragment of an ancient prophecy warning of events that will bring about the end of civilization. And Casimer has already set some of those events into motion.
With the future of not only Chiyo, but all of Renatus at stake, Nerissa and her six Ohanzee companions set out on a journey in search of the remaining fragments, where they will find unlikely allies and uncover new enemies.
Reflection: Harbinger of the Phoenix is Book 2 of 4 in the first story arc of the Records of the Ohanzee series, which is written in a serialized style with a story line that flows continuously between books.
221 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 29, 2015
69 people are currently reading
828 people want to read
About the author
Rachel R. Smith
8 books133 followersReceive updates on new releases from Rachel by subscribing to her newsletter! http://bit.ly/2BBMVrR
Rachel R. Smith lives near Cincinnati, Ohio with her husband and the cutest dog in the world, Sumo. When not writing, she plots to fill the interior of their home with books and mineral specimens and to cover the exterior with roses. Stay up to date on the series and learn more about Rachel by visiting her blog at http://www.recordsoftheohanzee.com or by following Records of the Ohanzee on Facebook (RecordsOfTheOhanzee), Twitter (@RRSmithAuthor), and Instagram (@rachel_r._smith).
Rachel R. Smith lives near Cincinnati, Ohio with her husband and the cutest dog in the world, Sumo. When not writing, she plots to fill the interior of their home with books and mineral specimens and to cover the exterior with roses. Stay up to date on the series and learn more about Rachel by visiting her blog at http://www.recordsoftheohanzee.com or by following Records of the Ohanzee on Facebook (RecordsOfTheOhanzee), Twitter (@RRSmithAuthor), and Instagram (@rachel_r._smith).
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
June 13, 2016
The usurper to the throne of Chiyo has assassinated the Royal family, but is unaware that one rebellious action by the Princess Nerissa has saved her life, allowing her to be whisked away to safety and a new life, as she plans her moves to re-take what is rightfully hers, freeing her people from the treachery of King Casimer. Disguised as a young soldier, her quest begins and fate lends a helping hand in the form of a mysterious seer who has uncovered part of an ancient prophecy that will mean the end of humanity. Nerissa knows that the events that will bring the prophecy to fruition have begun at the bloodied hands of Casimer and time is running short to find the other missing pieces of the prophecy to save the world. The journey will be fraught with peril, intrigue and one can never know who can be trusted and who will see her demise for a few gold coins.
Within the pages of Reflection: Harbinger of the Phoenix Rachel R. Smith delivers us back to the world of the Ohanzee, the secret guardians of Chiyo and the brave young princess, Nerissa as she comes of age during the worst of times, discovers young love and finds she is clueless to what really goes on in the streets and villages of the land. Ms. Smith details each scene so well, I felt chills at the thought of bathing in an icy river, riding through storms and having to watch my every move as well as the moves of those around me. Wonderful fantasy reading in a land far, far away.
I received this copy from Rachel R. Smith in exchange for my honest review.
Series: Records of the Ohanzee - Book 2
Publication Date: September 28, 2015
Publisher: Rachel R. Smith
Genre: Young Adult Scifi | Fantasy
Print Length: 220 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
Within the pages of Reflection: Harbinger of the Phoenix Rachel R. Smith delivers us back to the world of the Ohanzee, the secret guardians of Chiyo and the brave young princess, Nerissa as she comes of age during the worst of times, discovers young love and finds she is clueless to what really goes on in the streets and villages of the land. Ms. Smith details each scene so well, I felt chills at the thought of bathing in an icy river, riding through storms and having to watch my every move as well as the moves of those around me. Wonderful fantasy reading in a land far, far away.
I received this copy from Rachel R. Smith in exchange for my honest review.
Series: Records of the Ohanzee - Book 2
Publication Date: September 28, 2015
Publisher: Rachel R. Smith
Genre: Young Adult Scifi | Fantasy
Print Length: 220 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
June 17, 2016
I really enjoyed Reflection: Harbinger of the Phoenix, and it proved to be a strong sequel in this series!
"The new Heir and his guardian, wielding twin swords as they go on a quest to take back the throne!"
Now that the tone of the story has been set, everything seemed to flow a lot better. The book begins with us back in Niamh with Charis, Nerissa's best friend, as she is reading and trying to figure out Amon's true intentions. We don't see a lot of Charis and Amon in this book, but there are hints to the roles they will play in this story. Shae and Desta are in Niamh as well because they are looking for more books that contain those special crystals. I enjoyed seeing how every character in this book will play a part in the main plot.
In the first book the different POVs made the story feel a bit heavy, but I have to say that in this book it's perfectly paced out and easily enjoyable. Finding these books that contain the special crystals draws all of our characters together. Nerissa is still the key to everything, and she's determined to gain Chiyo's independence back from Casimer.
As the story progresses, we catch up with all of the characters we met in the first book. The Ohanzee are still my favorite aspect of this story and I was happy to learn more about their history! Now that we know who all the characters are, the story becomes less confusing. The world and backstory have all been set up, so in this book everything was straight to the point of the plot. Nothing seemed to drag out and I appreciated this.
Our beloved characters set out on a mission to help Nerissa claim back the throne and it leads to lots of action, reunions, and revelations. Nerissa is still just as great as she was in the first book. She knows what she wants in her life and she's not afraid to go get it, which makes her incredibly brave. We also get to know more about Raysel, Rian, Shae, and Desta. Guys, these characters are great and I'm fully invested into their story now.
"I know that I have stunningly good looks, but I've never seen them actually stun anyone before."
There wasn't much romance in the story, but there were a lot of cute moments. Some had me smiling with all the feels! I'm not going to spoil it for you, but with the little moments that some characters shared.. I was left satisfied with the romance aspect of the story.
The book wraps up well, there was action and a few twists that kept the story interesting. Like I said, this book flows a lot better than the first one because everything has already been set up. Rachel R. Smith's writing is still great. It completely works for this story. Smith's endings seem to work for this series, too.. Even though they just sort of end, they set up the next book well and leave readers intrigued!
"Beware of the spirit that protects the book hidden in the cave."
Overall, I really enjoyed this book. All of the tiny flaws I saw in the first one weren't present in the second book. There were less characters so it focused on the main ones, which made me feel more connected to the story. It was full of action, drama, and suspense - all things I love in a fantasy read. I'm excited to read the future books in this series!
"The new Heir and his guardian, wielding twin swords as they go on a quest to take back the throne!"
Now that the tone of the story has been set, everything seemed to flow a lot better. The book begins with us back in Niamh with Charis, Nerissa's best friend, as she is reading and trying to figure out Amon's true intentions. We don't see a lot of Charis and Amon in this book, but there are hints to the roles they will play in this story. Shae and Desta are in Niamh as well because they are looking for more books that contain those special crystals. I enjoyed seeing how every character in this book will play a part in the main plot.
In the first book the different POVs made the story feel a bit heavy, but I have to say that in this book it's perfectly paced out and easily enjoyable. Finding these books that contain the special crystals draws all of our characters together. Nerissa is still the key to everything, and she's determined to gain Chiyo's independence back from Casimer.
As the story progresses, we catch up with all of the characters we met in the first book. The Ohanzee are still my favorite aspect of this story and I was happy to learn more about their history! Now that we know who all the characters are, the story becomes less confusing. The world and backstory have all been set up, so in this book everything was straight to the point of the plot. Nothing seemed to drag out and I appreciated this.
Our beloved characters set out on a mission to help Nerissa claim back the throne and it leads to lots of action, reunions, and revelations. Nerissa is still just as great as she was in the first book. She knows what she wants in her life and she's not afraid to go get it, which makes her incredibly brave. We also get to know more about Raysel, Rian, Shae, and Desta. Guys, these characters are great and I'm fully invested into their story now.
"I know that I have stunningly good looks, but I've never seen them actually stun anyone before."
There wasn't much romance in the story, but there were a lot of cute moments. Some had me smiling with all the feels! I'm not going to spoil it for you, but with the little moments that some characters shared.. I was left satisfied with the romance aspect of the story.
The book wraps up well, there was action and a few twists that kept the story interesting. Like I said, this book flows a lot better than the first one because everything has already been set up. Rachel R. Smith's writing is still great. It completely works for this story. Smith's endings seem to work for this series, too.. Even though they just sort of end, they set up the next book well and leave readers intrigued!
"Beware of the spirit that protects the book hidden in the cave."
Overall, I really enjoyed this book. All of the tiny flaws I saw in the first one weren't present in the second book. There were less characters so it focused on the main ones, which made me feel more connected to the story. It was full of action, drama, and suspense - all things I love in a fantasy read. I'm excited to read the future books in this series!
January 27, 2016
I received an ARC copy from the author in exchange for a honest review.
First off all, I enjoyed this book even more than the first one! The pace is just perfect, and I realised how much I love the writing style. I read it in one day, and now I will patiently wait for the sequel to be released.
I loved the fact that we got to see characters from the first book again, even if they hadn’t played a really big part so far – Charis and Shae for example. I really like how Shae and Desta’s storyline turned out too, I would have loved to see a little bit more of Shae though! And Desta really is an interesting character.
I really love how the relationship between Nerissa and Raysel evolves, they’re both really interesting characters and clearly they work well together so it’s really enjoyable to read.
Another thing I loved is how Rian and Nerissa are slowly getting closer – she obviously feels something, even if she can’t remember that she already met him, and he is uncovering the mystery around “Caeneus” little by little. I’m looking forward to seeing how the story will evolve between those too!
The rest of the side characters are also lovely, I love the twins, they really add something to the story, and Jarold and Leal add something more calm and mature to the group, which shows how balanced their party is: well done!
As to the story itself, I really like the turn it is taking. The prophecy is fascinating, it unveils itself little by little and keeps the reader alert. As much as it confused me in the first book, I think it’s good to see sometimes other points of view such as Casimer’s part, since it gives a little more information to the reader, while keeping the suspense.
I’m really immersing in this world, and once again the story stopped with a lot of suspense!
The only thing that saddens me is that Nerissa still has to hide as a boy, but it’s obviously part of the story and she manages pretty well. I’m just curious as to how things will turn out when people realise who she really is!
First off all, I enjoyed this book even more than the first one! The pace is just perfect, and I realised how much I love the writing style. I read it in one day, and now I will patiently wait for the sequel to be released.
I loved the fact that we got to see characters from the first book again, even if they hadn’t played a really big part so far – Charis and Shae for example. I really like how Shae and Desta’s storyline turned out too, I would have loved to see a little bit more of Shae though! And Desta really is an interesting character.
I really love how the relationship between Nerissa and Raysel evolves, they’re both really interesting characters and clearly they work well together so it’s really enjoyable to read.
Another thing I loved is how Rian and Nerissa are slowly getting closer – she obviously feels something, even if she can’t remember that she already met him, and he is uncovering the mystery around “Caeneus” little by little. I’m looking forward to seeing how the story will evolve between those too!
The rest of the side characters are also lovely, I love the twins, they really add something to the story, and Jarold and Leal add something more calm and mature to the group, which shows how balanced their party is: well done!
As to the story itself, I really like the turn it is taking. The prophecy is fascinating, it unveils itself little by little and keeps the reader alert. As much as it confused me in the first book, I think it’s good to see sometimes other points of view such as Casimer’s part, since it gives a little more information to the reader, while keeping the suspense.
I’m really immersing in this world, and once again the story stopped with a lot of suspense!
The only thing that saddens me is that Nerissa still has to hide as a boy, but it’s obviously part of the story and she manages pretty well. I’m just curious as to how things will turn out when people realise who she really is!
August 20, 2017
I don't really have a lot of things to say... This one was much better than the first one, the characters were really likeable and had developed really well, the action amd adventure was amazing and it was fast-paced and a quick read: the perfect YA Fantasy book! P.S: and there wasn't a ton of romance, just an enough dose to keep you interested!
Rating: 5/5⭐️s
Rating: 5/5⭐️s
May 2, 2017
This book can only be read after reading book one. I started reading the first page and it was like I had just turned the last page of the first book! The story just continues on exactly from where it left us.
The scene is set and we have met the characters, with only a few new editions, my favorite being Eloc and Cole.
Once again there is a List Of Characters at the back of the book which is great if your like me and get confused with names easy.
Nerissa is still the main character, closely followed by Raysel, who you would remember from the first book.
There is no serious romance in the story but with subtle hints being dropped maybe there could be something soon, a possible love triangle?
PLOT - King Casimer has taken over the Royal Throne of Chiyo. With Nerissa still in hiding, no one is aware of the Heiress but the Ohanzee. The Ohanzee discover Queen Echidna had visited the seer, Shae, before the attack on Chiyo so it's time to pay her a visit. With Nerissa disguised as a man she travels along to meet with Shae but the Ohanzee find out more than they bargained for.
Compared to book one, book two is quite fast paced and much more adventurous, even a bit of humor thrown in.
I would have liked to have found out more about what Amon has planned, but maybe that's waiting for us in book three!!
4 stars!
The scene is set and we have met the characters, with only a few new editions, my favorite being Eloc and Cole.
Once again there is a List Of Characters at the back of the book which is great if your like me and get confused with names easy.
Nerissa is still the main character, closely followed by Raysel, who you would remember from the first book.
There is no serious romance in the story but with subtle hints being dropped maybe there could be something soon, a possible love triangle?
PLOT - King Casimer has taken over the Royal Throne of Chiyo. With Nerissa still in hiding, no one is aware of the Heiress but the Ohanzee. The Ohanzee discover Queen Echidna had visited the seer, Shae, before the attack on Chiyo so it's time to pay her a visit. With Nerissa disguised as a man she travels along to meet with Shae but the Ohanzee find out more than they bargained for.
Compared to book one, book two is quite fast paced and much more adventurous, even a bit of humor thrown in.
I would have liked to have found out more about what Amon has planned, but maybe that's waiting for us in book three!!
4 stars!
November 15, 2017
Rating 4
"The masquerade is over and the masks have been removed. But not everyone’s true face has been revealed”...and that includes Nerissa, the Heiress of Chiyo. All isn't what it seems and Nerissa has much to learn Nerissa has been miraculously rescued and taken to the Ohanzee, the guardians of the heirs of Chiyo, to recuperate and somehow achieve the seemingly impossible...freedom for Chiyo. The story becomes much more involved and the characters more complex…especially Nerissa. And there are obvious signs of blooming love; but which one? Raysel or Rian??? Nerissa continues her story, her destiny as the prophecy of dreams of 600 years ago begins to unfold…
"The masquerade is over and the masks have been removed. But not everyone’s true face has been revealed”...and that includes Nerissa, the Heiress of Chiyo. All isn't what it seems and Nerissa has much to learn Nerissa has been miraculously rescued and taken to the Ohanzee, the guardians of the heirs of Chiyo, to recuperate and somehow achieve the seemingly impossible...freedom for Chiyo. The story becomes much more involved and the characters more complex…especially Nerissa. And there are obvious signs of blooming love; but which one? Raysel or Rian??? Nerissa continues her story, her destiny as the prophecy of dreams of 600 years ago begins to unfold…
June 18, 2017
Rating: 4/5
This book was given to me by the author Rachel R. Smith for an honest review. This review is not affected by anything, it containts my true feelings.
The fact that books play a major part in this story is one of the affective sides for me to like a novel more. Also, who can resist libraries, books, and the characters who loves reading as much as the actual readers of this book?
“ I read a little bit of everything” she replied haughtily.”It’s called being well rounded.”
Nerissa’s journey to find the six powerful and critical books about the secret prophecy continues in this amazing sequel.
After Shae and Desta accidently split water on a book at their place, they realize that one of the books the whole kingdom has been searching was this close to them all this time. Now, they all plan to find the other five to save their kingdom and the royal family.
They were so close to find some real answers at the ending. It made me want to start the next one immediately. The lenght of these novels are not over 200 pages but it was full of mysteries and happenings, I felt like it was longer than it actually is.
This book was given to me by the author Rachel R. Smith for an honest review. This review is not affected by anything, it containts my true feelings.
The fact that books play a major part in this story is one of the affective sides for me to like a novel more. Also, who can resist libraries, books, and the characters who loves reading as much as the actual readers of this book?
“ I read a little bit of everything” she replied haughtily.”It’s called being well rounded.”
Nerissa’s journey to find the six powerful and critical books about the secret prophecy continues in this amazing sequel.
After Shae and Desta accidently split water on a book at their place, they realize that one of the books the whole kingdom has been searching was this close to them all this time. Now, they all plan to find the other five to save their kingdom and the royal family.
They were so close to find some real answers at the ending. It made me want to start the next one immediately. The lenght of these novels are not over 200 pages but it was full of mysteries and happenings, I felt like it was longer than it actually is.
February 23, 2016
Full Review @http://www.abookishescape.com/2016/02...
The End, everything is underway Nerissa and her motley crew are much closer to their goal. They have faced betrayal and close calls together they will find all of the missing pieces and save the kingdom. This didn’t end in a cliffhanger but it does set the next book up quite nicely. Nerissa has always been very special and I look forward to seeing what her full potential holds. Come on NEXT INSTALLMENT!!
My Rating
4.0 This quest is fully underway and soon all the pieces will fall together full Stars!
The End, everything is underway Nerissa and her motley crew are much closer to their goal. They have faced betrayal and close calls together they will find all of the missing pieces and save the kingdom. This didn’t end in a cliffhanger but it does set the next book up quite nicely. Nerissa has always been very special and I look forward to seeing what her full potential holds. Come on NEXT INSTALLMENT!!
My Rating
4.0 This quest is fully underway and soon all the pieces will fall together full Stars!
September 6, 2018
It's been a while since I've read the first book in this series, but I remembered liking it and wanting to read more. So when I got a free three month trial of Kindle Unlimited, I immediately thought of this series.
I love how this book so fluidly flows from where the first book ended. I had no question about what had gone on since I left the story since there was no time jump for me to ponder over.
All of the character have some depth to them and none of them were boring.
I may have noticed an inkling of a love triangle starting to make an appearance, but seeing as that's not part of the main plot, it shouldn't annoy me.
I read this in one sitting. I couldn't put it down. I'm looking forward to seeing what the rest of the series has in store for me.
In fact, I'm going to start the next one right now!
I love how this book so fluidly flows from where the first book ended. I had no question about what had gone on since I left the story since there was no time jump for me to ponder over.
All of the character have some depth to them and none of them were boring.
I may have noticed an inkling of a love triangle starting to make an appearance, but seeing as that's not part of the main plot, it shouldn't annoy me.
I read this in one sitting. I couldn't put it down. I'm looking forward to seeing what the rest of the series has in store for me.
In fact, I'm going to start the next one right now!
October 1, 2017
It was definitely a lot more action packed than the first book
There were a lot more funny moments that occurred especially with some of the other Ohanzee members. I also liked that we got to see what the enemy was up to even if it was only for a little bit.
I also like that there isn't a lot of romance I mean there are hints here and there but it doesn't take away from the rest of the story. As well as I enjoyed all the character development from the first novel and the new characters that were introduced.
I'm now really excited to read the rest of the series to see what happens. 4 1/2 to 5 stars thank you so Rachel for the opportunity to read and review this book and the rest of the series im sincerely looking forward to it.
There were a lot more funny moments that occurred especially with some of the other Ohanzee members. I also liked that we got to see what the enemy was up to even if it was only for a little bit.
I also like that there isn't a lot of romance I mean there are hints here and there but it doesn't take away from the rest of the story. As well as I enjoyed all the character development from the first novel and the new characters that were introduced.
I'm now really excited to read the rest of the series to see what happens. 4 1/2 to 5 stars thank you so Rachel for the opportunity to read and review this book and the rest of the series im sincerely looking forward to it.
July 2, 2018
Adventurous
I am really enjoying the plot as Marissa uses a crystal to disguise her voice, dresses like a man, and learns some combat. I loved how this book turned out and wanted to read more. Ready for the next book in the series!
I am really enjoying the plot as Marissa uses a crystal to disguise her voice, dresses like a man, and learns some combat. I loved how this book turned out and wanted to read more. Ready for the next book in the series!
October 12, 2019
Adventures Continue
Book 2 in the series keeps the characters searching for the secret books. The adventure continues on with more clues and help from the characters along the way. This series is truly hard to put down.
Book 2 in the series keeps the characters searching for the secret books. The adventure continues on with more clues and help from the characters along the way. This series is truly hard to put down.
April 30, 2020
Great follow-up
I really enjoyed this second book in the Ohanzee series! We're starting to get more of a glimpse into our characters. I really can't say more without spoilers, but I definitely recommend!
I really enjoyed this second book in the Ohanzee series! We're starting to get more of a glimpse into our characters. I really can't say more without spoilers, but I definitely recommend!
August 9, 2017
Loving the series! The adventure continues, with Nerissa in deadly danger if her disguise is revealed, during the search for the remaining sections of the prophecy. Tense and exciting.
October 22, 2017
Enjoyable
This book was an excellent sequel to the first book. I throughly enjoyed this book and the twins added light entertainment to the storyline.
This book was an excellent sequel to the first book. I throughly enjoyed this book and the twins added light entertainment to the storyline.
February 9, 2018
Awesome Story
This is a very good story. I can't wait to see the next book in the series. I loved the book and couldn't put it down once I started reading it.
This is a very good story. I can't wait to see the next book in the series. I loved the book and couldn't put it down once I started reading it.
June 15, 2019
I'm really enjoying the series despite the weird editing things that pop up to me. Good, quick fantasy read.
December 14, 2019
Very good storyline!
This series is really good! Very different than I usually read but well written. Really enjoyed both so far! Clean and exciting!
This series is really good! Very different than I usually read but well written. Really enjoyed both so far! Clean and exciting!
April 10, 2018
I loved this entire series! I read the entire series back to back and I am truly hoping that the author (Rachel R. Smith) keeps the story alive for a while longer. She is on my "watch" and "follows" list.
I really want to know, what happens next!? I would recommend this series, I am shocked more people have not reviewed the books as it is highly engaging and creative. For this reason I took the time to write this as "sharing is caring!"
Happy reading! -rcc
I really want to know, what happens next!? I would recommend this series, I am shocked more people have not reviewed the books as it is highly engaging and creative. For this reason I took the time to write this as "sharing is caring!"
Happy reading! -rcc
October 13, 2017
This is review for Records of the Ohanzee 1-4.
Honestly when I first saw this Book 1 Reflection: The Stranger in the Mirror, I thought this is a beautiful cover. It reminder me of The Winner’s curse, The Jewel or even the Selections series. While I enjoyed those reading they all lacked the depths in which you’ll find in the Records of Ohanzee. Masterfully sculpted the words in this book bring to you Chiyo and its demise brought onto to it by King Casimer. But from the ashes rises none other than the Heir Nerissa thought to have been brought down with her parents in the epic journey of not revenge but restoration of what rightfully is her kingdom.
Rachel S. Smith has a vivid imagination that she successfully translated into word for your enjoyment. She is able to set the scene with the utmost important details to be told but yet leaving room for your imagination to expand on the image. The dialogue is intriguing, witty, thoughtful and with the help of Eloc and Cole it can be very comedic.
While traveling to try to find the 6 books that exposes the prophecy that will restore Nerissa her thrown, you watch a girl grow into the strong woman she was meant to be.
This book is more than what meets the eye. Yes….They are beautiful covers that draw you in, but the content inside will keep you wanting to stay in that realm. As I stated before the author does a commendable job with this describing the setting, but what I find the most intriguing that the story does not just follow the point of view of one or two characters. Rachel S. Smith takes the character whose viewpoint adds the most depth to the story and continuously flow through the book in such a fashion. So while one chapter maybe from Nerissa POV the next could be from Desta of Charis. (Note the author so kindly denotes whom viewpoint you reading from at the beginning of each chapter).
To read the full review ---->https://shealwaysreads.com/2017/09/14...
Honestly when I first saw this Book 1 Reflection: The Stranger in the Mirror, I thought this is a beautiful cover. It reminder me of The Winner’s curse, The Jewel or even the Selections series. While I enjoyed those reading they all lacked the depths in which you’ll find in the Records of Ohanzee. Masterfully sculpted the words in this book bring to you Chiyo and its demise brought onto to it by King Casimer. But from the ashes rises none other than the Heir Nerissa thought to have been brought down with her parents in the epic journey of not revenge but restoration of what rightfully is her kingdom.
Rachel S. Smith has a vivid imagination that she successfully translated into word for your enjoyment. She is able to set the scene with the utmost important details to be told but yet leaving room for your imagination to expand on the image. The dialogue is intriguing, witty, thoughtful and with the help of Eloc and Cole it can be very comedic.
While traveling to try to find the 6 books that exposes the prophecy that will restore Nerissa her thrown, you watch a girl grow into the strong woman she was meant to be.
This book is more than what meets the eye. Yes….They are beautiful covers that draw you in, but the content inside will keep you wanting to stay in that realm. As I stated before the author does a commendable job with this describing the setting, but what I find the most intriguing that the story does not just follow the point of view of one or two characters. Rachel S. Smith takes the character whose viewpoint adds the most depth to the story and continuously flow through the book in such a fashion. So while one chapter maybe from Nerissa POV the next could be from Desta of Charis. (Note the author so kindly denotes whom viewpoint you reading from at the beginning of each chapter).
To read the full review ---->https://shealwaysreads.com/2017/09/14...
February 26, 2017
ARC kindly provided by Rachel R. Thompson in exchange for an honest review.
Review
Rating Plan
1 star : Strongly did not like the book, writing and plot was bad. Idea of the book was against my liking.
2 star : Didn't like it, didn't find it interesting or gripping. Seemed to drag on to me.
3 star : An average book. Wasn't bad or good. Everything else was well done. Original idea.
4 star : Like a 3 star but has potential to it as a series or the book grew on me as it progressed and certain scenes captured me. I Enjoyed it and read it in one sitting.
5 star : I LOVED IT! I stayed up late until 3 am. Author is a genius, characters, plot, idea, development, EVERYTHING was EXCELLENT. Nothing else can possibly be said except that its 5 STAR!
Review
'Reflection: Harbinger of the Phoenix' was certainly amongst the BEST self-published/independently-published fantasy novels which I've had the pleasure of reading. I've really enjoyed the first instalment in the series and I can guarantee any reader that this series (and novel) will be one of the MOST pleasantly surprising novels they'll have read in a while!
This has probably been the most fastest yet one of the best YA reads I've picked up in a LOOOONG time. If you've read the blurb and remember it, you may have noticed that it mentions a "serialised style with a storyline that flows continuously between books." This means that this instalment read unlike many novels. There wasn't the usual introduction, then the complication and resolution sort of structure. In fact, the novel appeared to be more of an expansion of the story in book 1. I get the feeling the entire series is more like one giant book which is ENTIRELY to large to publish as one novel, and it has been split exactly into quarters for easier readability.
One of the perks was how quickly I read the instalment. It's 200+ pages were read in less than 3 hours. Of course, the credit goes not only to its length but to its plot as well.
Every moment had some unique pearl in it that managed to keep me reading with a fairly constant intrigue. Despite the lack of an official "complication" and the somewhat...calm...storyline of the novel, (by calm I mean there wasn't anything that could be deemed as MOMENTOUS in the plot and that it wasn't heavy on the reader) I really enjoyed the read. It was a little bit of a confusion returning to the world after being introduced to it so long ago in book one, but I caught on fairly quickly and this didn't really diminish from the reading experience.
I absolutely loved the romances and couples in this series. I felt like the author made them believable and every moment was tense with chemistry and the possibility of the unknown.
This leads me to the author's writing. I loved the flow and the professionalism which oozed from every word on the page. Reading the first few pages was like savouring a favourite candy. It was sweet and held the promise of more. I loved how liberal imagery was something the author didn't fail to neglect. Every word appeared clearly in my minds eye and this really made itself know during moments like battle scenes which involve intensely packed, high-action.
And I loved the world-building. I feel that the author has done a great job creating a world where everything about it has been slowly revealed - bit by bit - and will astound and astonish all it's readers in the final instalments. Already I'm looking forward to reading books three and four! I can't wait to see how it all goes down!
Congratulations to Rachel R. Smith on publishing the second instalment in the 'Records of the Ohanzee' series!
Rating Plan
1 star : Strongly did not like the book, writing and plot was bad. Idea of the book was against my liking.
2 star : Didn't like it, didn't find it interesting or gripping. Seemed to drag on to me.
3 star : An average book. Wasn't bad or good. Everything else was well done. Original idea.
4 star : Like a 3 star but has potential to it as a series or the book grew on me as it progressed and certain scenes captured me. I Enjoyed it and read it in one sitting.
5 star : I LOVED IT! I stayed up late until 3 am. Author is a genius, characters, plot, idea, development, EVERYTHING was EXCELLENT. Nothing else can possibly be said except that its 5 STAR!
June 17, 2016
Great story
A great story that leaves you wanting more. Mystery, superstition and disguises make this a must read for young adult fantasy readers.
A great story that leaves you wanting more. Mystery, superstition and disguises make this a must read for young adult fantasy readers.
September 28, 2017
The end of this book completely snuck up on me. I was not expecting it to end when it did. The Mulan vibes are still strong in this book and I love it.
The majority of this book was travel. The group is on their quest to accomplish the mission. While I did enjoy the book there seemed to be a bit too much time that dragged on. However I completely understand the need for the explanations and story development.
I am excited to see where it goes from here now that the story is rolling and things are starting to pick up.
The majority of this book was travel. The group is on their quest to accomplish the mission. While I did enjoy the book there seemed to be a bit too much time that dragged on. However I completely understand the need for the explanations and story development.
I am excited to see where it goes from here now that the story is rolling and things are starting to pick up.
February 4, 2018
The Stranger in the Mirror is very promising so I have a high anticipation with Harbinger of the Phoenix. Actually, this is my December current read but I stopped because I suddenly lost my interest maybe because of the last Christmas season which made me so busy so I suffered in a book slump last month. After all the parties and Christmas rushes, thank God my hectic schedule is over and I finally got a chance to pick this up again.
At first, the pacing is so slow and lots of talk. I also felt that it seems like there’re a lot of characters so I have no choice but to take a peek at the back of the book where there’s a compilation of the characters. Maybe it’s because it's been months since I have read the first book so I already forgot some of them.
I thought book one is far more better than this and I am about to put it down again.. But! (Here’s the exciting part) I was suddenly hook when Rian came to the picture, and Desta also. The moment they started their journey, the moment they travel for the mission, the moment they face the Senka Operatives, makes me excite. The stimulus in my body, the fire, the vibes, and the hype unexpectedly came. It was a sudden lit! With Jarold, Leal, Desta, the twins, Eloc and Cole, Raysel, Rian, and Caeneus are a perfect squad! They’re lit!
I enjoyed reading this book so far and there are lots of time I find some of the scenes so funny as in funny ha-ha and not peculiar. I also love the cleverness and being pesky in a good way of the twins. How they make Rian annoy and fear Raysel’s words. The twins have a big part in the book because they add more colors to the story. Isn’t obvious they’re my favorite characters?
So I am recommending this book to you guys. I’m sure you’ll like it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews