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Dae Portals #2
Unawakened
In order to restore peace after the Dawn of Dae, the United States has declared martial law. Enforcing the militant regime won't be easy, and a new policing force of dae and their bonded humans has been mustered to keep the populace under tight control.
Alexa wants nothing to do with the government, its army, or the special forces meant to keep rebellion at bay, but she has a choice: do what Kenneth Smith wants or die a quick death. As one of the unawakened, she has no chance of infiltrating the police on her own. Forced to partner with Kenneth's dae, who dislikes her almost as much as she dislikes it, her life hinges on how well she convinces others she's a big, bad monster just like them instead of an ordinary human woman.
Working for the police is no easier than dealing with Kenneth's work. During the day, she's a part of the law, but at night, she's a tool of crime and war. It's only a matter of time before she's caught--or fails her mission and is killed by her drug-dealing boss.
If she wants to live a free life, she'll need to take care of Kenneth once and for all. Since he won't listen to reason and let her go, she's determined to buy her freedom with his death.
Unfortunately, Kenneth isn't the only problem in her life, and unless she does something about Rob, she'll lose the independence she fought so hard for. Worse, unless she's careful, he'll make her like it...
Alexa wants nothing to do with the government, its army, or the special forces meant to keep rebellion at bay, but she has a choice: do what Kenneth Smith wants or die a quick death. As one of the unawakened, she has no chance of infiltrating the police on her own. Forced to partner with Kenneth's dae, who dislikes her almost as much as she dislikes it, her life hinges on how well she convinces others she's a big, bad monster just like them instead of an ordinary human woman.
Working for the police is no easier than dealing with Kenneth's work. During the day, she's a part of the law, but at night, she's a tool of crime and war. It's only a matter of time before she's caught--or fails her mission and is killed by her drug-dealing boss.
If she wants to live a free life, she'll need to take care of Kenneth once and for all. Since he won't listen to reason and let her go, she's determined to buy her freedom with his death.
Unfortunately, Kenneth isn't the only problem in her life, and unless she does something about Rob, she'll lose the independence she fought so hard for. Worse, unless she's careful, he'll make her like it...
324 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 26, 2016
77 people are currently reading
155 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
May 14, 2023
May 2023
Kindle edition
It feels like such a long time ago since I read the first book. All I really remembered was that it was weird and there was a sentient lasagna thing. It was a casserole. Called Colby. There's a little recap so I pieced it together. College student working for the bad guy, freed by an entity that came out of the fridge. I did like Rob and his protectiveness. The family vibe between the trio was sweet and entertaining. Alexa on her own not so much. Kenneth deserved to get hit by a nuke and Jacob was creepy the way he stalked her around the police job.
The second part was a lot more entertaining, with more characters being introduced and some returnees from the first book. Sullivan and the rest of the portal dae were fun, especially the unicorn and dragon. I'm curious about Samael and why he was so happily screwing with Kenneth. Was Oliver a gift from him? The Dean felt like a loose end. Strange but entertaining.
Kindle edition
It feels like such a long time ago since I read the first book. All I really remembered was that it was weird and there was a sentient lasagna thing. It was a casserole. Called Colby. There's a little recap so I pieced it together. College student working for the bad guy, freed by an entity that came out of the fridge. I did like Rob and his protectiveness. The family vibe between the trio was sweet and entertaining. Alexa on her own not so much. Kenneth deserved to get hit by a nuke and Jacob was creepy the way he stalked her around the police job.
The second part was a lot more entertaining, with more characters being introduced and some returnees from the first book. Sullivan and the rest of the portal dae were fun, especially the unicorn and dragon. I'm curious about Samael and why he was so happily screwing with Kenneth. Was Oliver a gift from him? The Dean felt like a loose end. Strange but entertaining.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 24, 2018
Still completely bonkers. In all the best ways.
May 15, 2016
I was not really feeling the first book, yet, this second one is a different story. This time the second was better than the first book. This is because this time the story just flowed and I was more engaged in the characters. Although at times Alexa showed she had flaws as well. She would back pedal and not be as strong as I thought she always was and wanted to yell at her to get it together. Yet, this showed that I was invested in her and what was happening in that moment. Colby was fine as this time Colby was not as featured as much and the "mommy" was kept to a minimum. To be honest, I am still a little unsure as to just what a dae does. However, the battle between Alexa and Kenneth was good. At least I was able to focus on the story and wanted to keep reading.
February 8, 2016
What a Fun Cover!
After reading the first, I was definitely excited to see what kind of direction Trillian Anderson would take Alexa in this time. I think she has done a great job of taking a character we have already come to know and helping her grow from the first novel. The action in this one is stepped up a notch. There is a lot going on, and it keeps the reader invested throughout.
After reading the first, I was definitely excited to see what kind of direction Trillian Anderson would take Alexa in this time. I think she has done a great job of taking a character we have already come to know and helping her grow from the first novel. The action in this one is stepped up a notch. There is a lot going on, and it keeps the reader invested throughout.
May 19, 2021
The author continues with her depiction of a world gone wild, where magic has swept in and changed ... everything. Alexa is one of a very few Unawakened, those rare humans who do not have a dae or have not turned into a magical creature. That in itself would paint a target on her but to also be the bone of contention between two very different and powerful men? Life is both comfortable and uncomfortable for a girl who only wants to get ahead by her own efforts. Time for Alexa to step up and take control of the situation - that means it is time for explosions! I am in awe of the author's imagination - this is one of the weirdest apocalypses I have read (and that includes the Bureau 13's various ends-of-the-world-as-we-know-it). Please tell me there will be a book 3!
February 1, 2022
enjoyable book taking place in a strange world
While the word is a little strange, I really enjoyed the book. It has a lot of humor, action and a strong female protagonist. It’s a book that will turn your world view upside down.
I am looking forward to the next installment in this series.
RJ Blain writes the kind of books you can read again and again. That’s why I don’t complain over having to wait for the next book. Instead I always look forward to reading the series again when the next book comes out.
While the word is a little strange, I really enjoyed the book. It has a lot of humor, action and a strong female protagonist. It’s a book that will turn your world view upside down.
I am looking forward to the next installment in this series.
RJ Blain writes the kind of books you can read again and again. That’s why I don’t complain over having to wait for the next book. Instead I always look forward to reading the series again when the next book comes out.
January 15, 2018
Great fun with a body count
An imagination outside the box, a heroine aiming to work her way into upper castes, an obsessed criminal drug dealer and a stunning Dae who claims her as his own. Throw in a kidnapping, a vicious drug, sentient macaroni and cheese and you are ready for mayhem.
An imagination outside the box, a heroine aiming to work her way into upper castes, an obsessed criminal drug dealer and a stunning Dae who claims her as his own. Throw in a kidnapping, a vicious drug, sentient macaroni and cheese and you are ready for mayhem.
March 14, 2018
Alexa and Rob did not disappoint me. Looking forward to reading another book about them.
A book with a body count AND a kidnapping! You can't go wrong. I hope there will be another book soon! But I fear the author has so many book ideas in her head it may wait a while. I couldn't put this book down. This author always delivers the best books!
A book with a body count AND a kidnapping! You can't go wrong. I hope there will be another book soon! But I fear the author has so many book ideas in her head it may wait a while. I couldn't put this book down. This author always delivers the best books!
August 15, 2021
Nice wrap of the story arc
I re-read "Dawn of the Dae" to get me back into that world. Alexa and Rob are so much more than what was shown in the first book.. Talk about strength of character; Alexa has it is spades! Sentient mac & cheese... I wonder what bedtime stories the author told her children? Bet they were fantastic!
I re-read "Dawn of the Dae" to get me back into that world. Alexa and Rob are so much more than what was shown in the first book.. Talk about strength of character; Alexa has it is spades! Sentient mac & cheese... I wonder what bedtime stories the author told her children? Bet they were fantastic!
August 19, 2021
Fascinating
This book continues a complex story line, and, good news, Colby learns TWO words! In my humble opinion, this series is a direct commentary on what is happening to the United States in this ugly 2020 - 2021 present. I am afraid for our future. However, that doesn't take away from the outstanding story telling.
This book continues a complex story line, and, good news, Colby learns TWO words! In my humble opinion, this series is a direct commentary on what is happening to the United States in this ugly 2020 - 2021 present. I am afraid for our future. However, that doesn't take away from the outstanding story telling.
August 16, 2021
This was SO GOOD! I'm looking forward to "the Chameleon and the Hound"
December 12, 2021
Good story line and interesting plot.
June 1, 2022
Looking forward to the next book!
I'm enjoying the story and look forward to seeing what happens next. I look forward to seeing how many other allies Alexa gains. So interesting.
I'm enjoying the story and look forward to seeing what happens next. I look forward to seeing how many other allies Alexa gains. So interesting.
April 30, 2021
Loving this in spite of myself
When I first heard about Dawn of the Dae , book one, I wasn't too impressed. Sentient mac 'n cheese? I should have known better with R.J. Blain. I reread book one before reading this one and I'm glad I did. Aside from the fact that it's a good book, it reminded me of a number of things that made reading book two more fun. Alexa has gathered a number of interesting people (although I use the term rather loosely, again, sentient mac 'n cheese) and I've enjoyed learning more about this world and everyone in it. Even better, she's continuing this series with at least one more book. There's so much to explore in this world, I'm looking forward to it.
When I first heard about Dawn of the Dae , book one, I wasn't too impressed. Sentient mac 'n cheese? I should have known better with R.J. Blain. I reread book one before reading this one and I'm glad I did. Aside from the fact that it's a good book, it reminded me of a number of things that made reading book two more fun. Alexa has gathered a number of interesting people (although I use the term rather loosely, again, sentient mac 'n cheese) and I've enjoyed learning more about this world and everyone in it. Even better, she's continuing this series with at least one more book. There's so much to explore in this world, I'm looking forward to it.
May 3, 2021
Bored
I really enjoyed the zany, unique world of book 1. This not so much. I’m not sure I really liked any of the characters. The macaroni was the only I ended up still caring about. Actions and crazy antics is no substitute for character development and relationships.
I really enjoyed the zany, unique world of book 1. This not so much. I’m not sure I really liked any of the characters. The macaroni was the only I ended up still caring about. Actions and crazy antics is no substitute for character development and relationships.
May 3, 2021
Awesome
I really love this book and seeing Rob and Alexa together again in this world! I can’t wait to see what happens next!!
I really love this book and seeing Rob and Alexa together again in this world! I can’t wait to see what happens next!!
April 27, 2021
Excellent
Waking to my pre-ordered new R.J. Blain book on my Kindle is enough to make me grin. Reading the further adventures of Alexa, Rob, and Colby makes my day; I mean, come on! How can a story featuring a sentient mac 'n cheese not raise a smile or three?!
The storyline is well paced, the plotlines are well thought out and executed and the characters excellently detailed and written. Highly, highly recommended.
Waking to my pre-ordered new R.J. Blain book on my Kindle is enough to make me grin. Reading the further adventures of Alexa, Rob, and Colby makes my day; I mean, come on! How can a story featuring a sentient mac 'n cheese not raise a smile or three?!
The storyline is well paced, the plotlines are well thought out and executed and the characters excellently detailed and written. Highly, highly recommended.
April 29, 2021
Loved it!
Great continuation of the story started in Dawn of Dae. I love the sheer madness of characters and events. Thank you for the entertainment.
Great continuation of the story started in Dawn of Dae. I love the sheer madness of characters and events. Thank you for the entertainment.
April 27, 2021
Awesome book
I absolutely loved this story. It was hard for me to put down I had to find out what happened next. Look forward to the next book. Awesome job RJ
I absolutely loved this story. It was hard for me to put down I had to find out what happened next. Look forward to the next book. Awesome job RJ
December 2, 2019
I received a copy in exchange for a honest review.
This is exciting to tell you about. Martial law has been instated in the United States. There are curfews and weird laws. Alexa is on a mission to bring everyone down who has wronged her. The top of her list is Kenneth and Artur. She will do what it takes to bring them down and boy does she. Rob is now by her side and ready to fight along with her. Don't forget Colby is there to help as well. I mean you have a possessive dae and a sentient macaroni and cheese what could go wrong? She is unawakened and quite desirable to Kenneth, the college and the police department. Don't cross her because she is woman on a mission.
We got to meet all the major players in book 1 so it was fun to learn a little bit about their history. I loved learning about Rob because he seems so dreamy. He drives Alexa nuts in a loving sort of way. I love their banter back and forth and you could really sense the feelings they have for one another. I loved how intense this storyline became. It was set up pretty well in book 1 but book 2 took it to a new level. I was once again was on #fridgewatch2016 because I want a fridge portal too. A character I was impressed with was Colby. He was my favorite in the first book but I felt he developed even more in this book. I know it is crazy to say but my heart belongs to macaroni and cheese. This book took me on quite a ride. I look forward to reading anything else this author writes because I enjoy their style.
This is exciting to tell you about. Martial law has been instated in the United States. There are curfews and weird laws. Alexa is on a mission to bring everyone down who has wronged her. The top of her list is Kenneth and Artur. She will do what it takes to bring them down and boy does she. Rob is now by her side and ready to fight along with her. Don't forget Colby is there to help as well. I mean you have a possessive dae and a sentient macaroni and cheese what could go wrong? She is unawakened and quite desirable to Kenneth, the college and the police department. Don't cross her because she is woman on a mission.
We got to meet all the major players in book 1 so it was fun to learn a little bit about their history. I loved learning about Rob because he seems so dreamy. He drives Alexa nuts in a loving sort of way. I love their banter back and forth and you could really sense the feelings they have for one another. I loved how intense this storyline became. It was set up pretty well in book 1 but book 2 took it to a new level. I was once again was on #fridgewatch2016 because I want a fridge portal too. A character I was impressed with was Colby. He was my favorite in the first book but I felt he developed even more in this book. I know it is crazy to say but my heart belongs to macaroni and cheese. This book took me on quite a ride. I look forward to reading anything else this author writes because I enjoy their style.
January 21, 2016
>Book Review – Unawakened –
>This book is the second story in the Dae Portals and kind of ends in an HEA. Alexa is finally taking charge, bolstered by other portal Dae, like Rob. Alexa joins the police force in order to use their resources to take down the drug lord, Smith and tying him to the school dean. There are a lot of interesting characters in this story. Alexa teams up with a bunch of Dae when Rob is kidnapped by Smith. There are a lot of cool action sequences and very tricky uses of English, especially during the wishing scenes.
>This story explains more about the Dae and has a distinctive religious undertone. The government is very communistic and controlling in regards to information allowed to the public. History is forbidden and was even before the Dae arrived. I would like to see Alexa meet another unawakened human, like herself. The portal Dae keep mentioning that such humans exist.
>The relationship between Rob and Alexa is really strengthened in this book. I love when Rob treats Alexa’s new pet, the octopus, Oliver, like a Prince due to the fact Oliver saved Alexa’s life. Colby is still a fun character, learning a few new words and saving the day. I have a feeling Oliver is going to be just as fun to watch.
>For such a silly story, it really sticks with you. I can’t wait to read more. I am a reviewer for Paranormal Authors and Romance that Rocks. I am giving this book 5 stars.
>This book is the second story in the Dae Portals and kind of ends in an HEA. Alexa is finally taking charge, bolstered by other portal Dae, like Rob. Alexa joins the police force in order to use their resources to take down the drug lord, Smith and tying him to the school dean. There are a lot of interesting characters in this story. Alexa teams up with a bunch of Dae when Rob is kidnapped by Smith. There are a lot of cool action sequences and very tricky uses of English, especially during the wishing scenes.
>This story explains more about the Dae and has a distinctive religious undertone. The government is very communistic and controlling in regards to information allowed to the public. History is forbidden and was even before the Dae arrived. I would like to see Alexa meet another unawakened human, like herself. The portal Dae keep mentioning that such humans exist.
>The relationship between Rob and Alexa is really strengthened in this book. I love when Rob treats Alexa’s new pet, the octopus, Oliver, like a Prince due to the fact Oliver saved Alexa’s life. Colby is still a fun character, learning a few new words and saving the day. I have a feeling Oliver is going to be just as fun to watch.
>For such a silly story, it really sticks with you. I can’t wait to read more. I am a reviewer for Paranormal Authors and Romance that Rocks. I am giving this book 5 stars.
January 27, 2016
Taking over where the Dawn of the Dae left off, this book manages to successfully carry the torch, or in this case, small handheld nuke, of the first book.
The main character, Alexa, with the help of Rob, Colby and several other Dae are working together to uncover the truth and take down Alexa's former boss and associates. At a notable disadvantage as an unawakened - a human without a mysterious joined dae, Alexa doesn't let that bother her. In fact it fuels her will to succeed.
Forced to join forces with drugpin Kevin's dae, Jacob, in order to gain access to the Police and their information, this is but the first in a series of escalating annoyances. Others include being the object of a self-propagating wish-powered tracker and being forced to go clothing shopping.
The plot quickly thickens and before you know it, Alexa is bounced around downtown clinging to the back of a snarky unicorn while carrying a bomb the size of a marble in her pocket.
What I liked:
Trillian manages to keep it interesting
-Alexa prods for answers and gets some, though not all of them
-Colby makes an appearance as does Colby's unexpected and new friend, Oliver.
-Interesting characters with strengths and weeknesses
-Unexpected twists, including Oliver.
What I didn't like:
-having to wait so long for the next book
-not being able to eat the food described. And I'm not talking about Colby
The main character, Alexa, with the help of Rob, Colby and several other Dae are working together to uncover the truth and take down Alexa's former boss and associates. At a notable disadvantage as an unawakened - a human without a mysterious joined dae, Alexa doesn't let that bother her. In fact it fuels her will to succeed.
Forced to join forces with drugpin Kevin's dae, Jacob, in order to gain access to the Police and their information, this is but the first in a series of escalating annoyances. Others include being the object of a self-propagating wish-powered tracker and being forced to go clothing shopping.
The plot quickly thickens and before you know it, Alexa is bounced around downtown clinging to the back of a snarky unicorn while carrying a bomb the size of a marble in her pocket.
What I liked:
Trillian manages to keep it interesting
-Alexa prods for answers and gets some, though not all of them
-Colby makes an appearance as does Colby's unexpected and new friend, Oliver.
-Interesting characters with strengths and weeknesses
-Unexpected twists, including Oliver.
What I didn't like:
-having to wait so long for the next book
-not being able to eat the food described. And I'm not talking about Colby
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 27, 2016
The government is trying to maintain peace or order after Dawn of Dae. There is martial law and strange new laws. Alexa is now on a mission to buy her freedom from Kenneth. To do so she partners with Kenneth’s dae, who hates her just as much as she hates it, to join the police force. Things are just going to keep getting complicated trying to live as a cop during the day and for a criminal at night. With the help of Rob and Colby she might just make it through.
This is a crazy story but a great one. You learn more about the Dae and this story starts to make sense, in a crazy sort of way. I loved Alexa, she is a woman on a mission and will do everything she can to kill Kenneth and get her freedom from him. I really liked how Rob and her have become closer. Their banter helps make them even more of a great couple in my mind.
I am really starting to love this series. It’s odd and out there but it really starts growing on you. It is definitely original and one of my favorite series. I can’t wait to see what happens next. I hope there is another book.
I received Unawakened for free from Reading Additions Virtual Book Tours in exchange for an honest review.
This is a crazy story but a great one. You learn more about the Dae and this story starts to make sense, in a crazy sort of way. I loved Alexa, she is a woman on a mission and will do everything she can to kill Kenneth and get her freedom from him. I really liked how Rob and her have become closer. Their banter helps make them even more of a great couple in my mind.
I am really starting to love this series. It’s odd and out there but it really starts growing on you. It is definitely original and one of my favorite series. I can’t wait to see what happens next. I hope there is another book.
I received Unawakened for free from Reading Additions Virtual Book Tours in exchange for an honest review.
January 28, 2016
I was given an advanced reader copy of this book for an honest review free of persuasion from the author or anyone else affiliated with this book.
SPOILER ALERT
**This is the second book in a series. You must read Dawn of Dae for this book to make sense.
WOW! After reading book one, I was anxious to read this book. The author did not disappoint. All of the excitement, subterfuge, and the Dae are continued in this book without dropping a beat. The story continues in the same vein, not losing anything.
Finally finding a man who can touch her and not leave a rash or hives, Alexa falls in lust/love. Her allergy to human touch can leave her a blistered mess. After a man has stepped out of her refrigerator, live will never be the same.
I really like this book. It is intriguing. It covers a wide range of genres. The author does a great job of making the story come to life. I wouldn't want to live Alexa's life but it isn't too hard to imagine what it might be like. I really hope there is another book to this series! Trillian Anderson is great writer. I hope to see more books by her!
January 25, 2016
Alexa and talking Mac & Cheese are back!
As silly as that's sounds this bizzar story is back and it sees Alexa join with other Dae in order to allow her the chance to take out all those who have wronged her - mainly Kenneth Smith. We see her relationship build more with Rob, and my favourite character Colby the Mac & Cheese develops as much as a Mac & Cheese can I guess.
We learn a bit more about the Dae but I still feel that there is more to them.... This was yet again a strange read but I am loving how Trillian Anderson has brought this story together and I am looking forward to reading more from them.
As silly as that's sounds this bizzar story is back and it sees Alexa join with other Dae in order to allow her the chance to take out all those who have wronged her - mainly Kenneth Smith. We see her relationship build more with Rob, and my favourite character Colby the Mac & Cheese develops as much as a Mac & Cheese can I guess.
We learn a bit more about the Dae but I still feel that there is more to them.... This was yet again a strange read but I am loving how Trillian Anderson has brought this story together and I am looking forward to reading more from them.
April 8, 2016
I can't believe I forgot to review Unawakened!! More Colby! More Rob! More Alexa! And a fascinating, often hilarious, group of secondary characters who are finding a place in my already crowded heart. Another reviewer nicknamed this series "abnormal fantasy" and I can't disagree with that assessment, but abnormality isn't usually so enjoyable. I can't wait to see what happens next.
September 18, 2025
Careful what you wish for
This world that RJ has created is just so awesome and different from any other fantasy world yet. Seeing the development of the main characters has been great. So many possibilities here. I can't wait for their next adventure and what crazy creature Alexa will acquire next!
This world that RJ has created is just so awesome and different from any other fantasy world yet. Seeing the development of the main characters has been great. So many possibilities here. I can't wait for their next adventure and what crazy creature Alexa will acquire next!
February 8, 2016
I really enjoyed Dawn of Dae. I was super excited to start this next installment. I think Trillian Anderson did a great job of picking up with the last novel left off and keeping things fresh and fun throughout. There is a lot of action and the characters are even more fun to read about in this one
April 15, 2023
So very good
Excellent world building and great characters are a given in books written by RJ Plain or her alter egos. There is a seriously twisted plot and some very snide humor to go with it in this book.
Excellent world building and great characters are a given in books written by RJ Plain or her alter egos. There is a seriously twisted plot and some very snide humor to go with it in this book.
August 18, 2016
MUCH better than the first book!
Also, Colby is bae ❤️
Also, Colby is bae ❤️
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews