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Legends Reborn #1
Magic Waking
Die, reincarnate, repeat. It's been a long fifteen hundred years...
Reborn wizard Emma Hale has three goals in life, or rather lives: Track down the present incarnation of the legendary King Arthur, fend off the shadow creatures that hound him for as long as she can, and break the spell that binds their souls in this morbid cycle.
If only she had a better idea how she'd cast that spell in the first place. And if only Arthur's current host wasn't so cocky yet distractingly good-looking. Because Emma is falling even harder for the man she can't have.
When a fae mercenary with power to rival Emma's puts her king in his sights, Emma burns through all her tricks just to stay one step ahead. Now her only chance is to find some way to destroy the mercenary before he and his army of dark forces destroy Arthur.
No human Emma's ever known has managed to kill a fae. But if she can't, and quickly, this death might be their last.
Reborn wizard Emma Hale has three goals in life, or rather lives: Track down the present incarnation of the legendary King Arthur, fend off the shadow creatures that hound him for as long as she can, and break the spell that binds their souls in this morbid cycle.
If only she had a better idea how she'd cast that spell in the first place. And if only Arthur's current host wasn't so cocky yet distractingly good-looking. Because Emma is falling even harder for the man she can't have.
When a fae mercenary with power to rival Emma's puts her king in his sights, Emma burns through all her tricks just to stay one step ahead. Now her only chance is to find some way to destroy the mercenary before he and his army of dark forces destroy Arthur.
No human Emma's ever known has managed to kill a fae. But if she can't, and quickly, this death might be their last.
288 pages, Paperback
First published May 30, 2017
About the author
Eva Chase
141 books4,130 followersEva Chase is an Amazon bestselling author of urban fantasy and paranormal romance. She grew up on a steady diet of magic, mayhem, and romantic angst, and brings plenty of all three to her stories. But no need to fear the dreaded love triangle—her heroines never have to choose.
Eva's best-known series are Flirting with Monsters, Royals of Villain Academy, and Bound to the Fae. She lives in Ontario, Canada with her family and one velcro-like cat. Visit her online at https://www.evachase.com
Eva's best-known series are Flirting with Monsters, Royals of Villain Academy, and Bound to the Fae. She lives in Ontario, Canada with her family and one velcro-like cat. Visit her online at https://www.evachase.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
May 3, 2018
Legends Reborn reviews:
Magic Waking ❤❤❤❤❤ See below!
Soul's Blade ❤❤❤ here
Dragon of Destiny ❤❤❤❤ here
Not too long ago I watched the British TV series "Merlin" and I loved how they've interpreted the famous Arthurian legend. However, after finishing the series I felt kind of empty and in my haunt for the next great story, I threw myself into Arthurian books.
This brought me to Eva Chase’s series and wow pretty much sums up, what I think of this book. In order to truly appreciate it, you need to forget everything you think you know about Merlin and King Arthur. Eva’s Arthurian tale is quite unique as Guinevere and Lancelot never existed, so this story focuses on Merlin and Arthur, instead of Lancelot’s betrayal.
Back in the days of Camelot Arthur and Merlin was fighting the Darkest Fae. In order to save Arthur’s life, Merlin cast a spell to protect the life of his king but the spell didn’t exactly safe Arthur. Well, at least not in that lifetime, but it did somehow create some sort of reincarnation loop, which Merlin and Arthur has been stuck in for about 1500 years.
Emmaline (Emma) is the current reincarnation of Merlin and even though, her gender has changed, her mission hasn’t. She still needs to protect her king above all. This time around he’s a cocky jock named Darton. However, she also wants to finish off the darkest Fae, who’s stirring – and if possible, end their reincarnation cycle.
Whenever, Merlin starts a new life he knows who he is right away and know what his mission is. It’s not quite that simple for Arthur because every time he starts a new life, he doesn’t know who he really is. Physical contact with Merlin will cause his spirit to awaken, which sounds easy enough to make happen. However, there’s just that problem that once Arthur regain that knowledge, it becomes easier for their enemies to track them down, as his spirit serves as a beacon for the Darkest one.
The characters that Eva has brought to life are so great, that I keep wanting more.
With both Merlin and Arthur being well-known characters, it would be easy to just keep it simple. But I love that Eva hasn't done that and I really like that even though, both Emma and Darton has kept some of their original traits, they also seem like they have their own personalities. While the secondary characters could have been easy to overlook, Eva has described them in such a way, that you can't help but get connected to them too.
I think what I personally enjoyed the most, was the unbreakable bond between Merlin and Arthur. How Emmaline yearned for her king, even when she knew she should keep her distance. So even though, Merlin is reincarnated as a female in this life, to me, Eva managed to make that less important, like their bond was there no matter what bodies they inherit. Now that's love
Magic Waking ❤❤❤❤❤ See below!
Soul's Blade ❤❤❤ here
Dragon of Destiny ❤❤❤❤ here
Not too long ago I watched the British TV series "Merlin" and I loved how they've interpreted the famous Arthurian legend. However, after finishing the series I felt kind of empty and in my haunt for the next great story, I threw myself into Arthurian books.
This brought me to Eva Chase’s series and wow pretty much sums up, what I think of this book. In order to truly appreciate it, you need to forget everything you think you know about Merlin and King Arthur. Eva’s Arthurian tale is quite unique as Guinevere and Lancelot never existed, so this story focuses on Merlin and Arthur, instead of Lancelot’s betrayal.
Back in the days of Camelot Arthur and Merlin was fighting the Darkest Fae. In order to save Arthur’s life, Merlin cast a spell to protect the life of his king but the spell didn’t exactly safe Arthur. Well, at least not in that lifetime, but it did somehow create some sort of reincarnation loop, which Merlin and Arthur has been stuck in for about 1500 years.
Emmaline (Emma) is the current reincarnation of Merlin and even though, her gender has changed, her mission hasn’t. She still needs to protect her king above all. This time around he’s a cocky jock named Darton. However, she also wants to finish off the darkest Fae, who’s stirring – and if possible, end their reincarnation cycle.
Whenever, Merlin starts a new life he knows who he is right away and know what his mission is. It’s not quite that simple for Arthur because every time he starts a new life, he doesn’t know who he really is. Physical contact with Merlin will cause his spirit to awaken, which sounds easy enough to make happen. However, there’s just that problem that once Arthur regain that knowledge, it becomes easier for their enemies to track them down, as his spirit serves as a beacon for the Darkest one.
The characters that Eva has brought to life are so great, that I keep wanting more.
With both Merlin and Arthur being well-known characters, it would be easy to just keep it simple. But I love that Eva hasn't done that and I really like that even though, both Emma and Darton has kept some of their original traits, they also seem like they have their own personalities. While the secondary characters could have been easy to overlook, Eva has described them in such a way, that you can't help but get connected to them too.
I think what I personally enjoyed the most, was the unbreakable bond between Merlin and Arthur. How Emmaline yearned for her king, even when she knew she should keep her distance. So even though, Merlin is reincarnated as a female in this life, to me, Eva managed to make that less important, like their bond was there no matter what bodies they inherit. Now that's love
August 31, 2017
Magic Waking is the first book in the Legends Reborn series from Eva Chase.
1500 years ago, Merlin cast a spell to save the life of King Arthur and cursed them both to living life over and over again. For 1500 years Merlin has been searching for a way to break the spell and finally save Arthur for good. In this latest reincarnation, Merlin is reborn as Emmaline and Arthur as Darton. Emma retains the knowledge of her past reincarnations, but Arthur doesn't remember until he has skin-to-skin contact with Emma, something she tries to avoid at all costs. Because the more Arthur remembers, the easier it is for their enemies to track him. Only they seem to be facing a new enemy, one more skilled than the ones they faced in the past. Emma is going to need all her strength and knowledge to beat this one...or this may be the last time they're reborn.
I really like the premise of this series. I've been craving Arthurian romances and I thought this would fit the bill perfectly. While I really enjoyed the flashbacks to their first life as Merlin and King Arthur, the modern day stuff fell a little flat. The pacing was slow and involved a lot of Emma laying protection spells throughout the college campus. I would have liked to know more about their foes, Emma's magic, their past reincarnations, etc. There were times I had to really force myself to keep reading.
The action scenes were pretty good and I enjoyed Arthur, but overall this was just an okay read for me. The story ends on a cliffhanger. I hope the action picks up in the next book.
1500 years ago, Merlin cast a spell to save the life of King Arthur and cursed them both to living life over and over again. For 1500 years Merlin has been searching for a way to break the spell and finally save Arthur for good. In this latest reincarnation, Merlin is reborn as Emmaline and Arthur as Darton. Emma retains the knowledge of her past reincarnations, but Arthur doesn't remember until he has skin-to-skin contact with Emma, something she tries to avoid at all costs. Because the more Arthur remembers, the easier it is for their enemies to track him. Only they seem to be facing a new enemy, one more skilled than the ones they faced in the past. Emma is going to need all her strength and knowledge to beat this one...or this may be the last time they're reborn.
I really like the premise of this series. I've been craving Arthurian romances and I thought this would fit the bill perfectly. While I really enjoyed the flashbacks to their first life as Merlin and King Arthur, the modern day stuff fell a little flat. The pacing was slow and involved a lot of Emma laying protection spells throughout the college campus. I would have liked to know more about their foes, Emma's magic, their past reincarnations, etc. There were times I had to really force myself to keep reading.
The action scenes were pretty good and I enjoyed Arthur, but overall this was just an okay read for me. The story ends on a cliffhanger. I hope the action picks up in the next book.
May 11, 2017
5/5 Stars
Wow. What an incredible journey. Forget all you know about King Arthur. Be prepared for a new story that is just as thrilling as the original myths.
Emmaline (Emma) is the reincarnation of Merlin. Her quest is to find her king in his incarnation, and try to save him from death. AGAIN. Her quest also includes finding a way to defeat the dark fae she had sealed away long ago without killing their current incarnations.
Since this is a modernization of myths most people know, Eva Chase could have completely ignored characterization. But I'm so glad she didn't. Emma is her own person, even if she is the reincarnation of Merlin. She has her own wants, needs, emotions. Are they tied to her past selves? Yes, but at the same time its all new.
Plus we have Darton who is a cocky jock that does not even know who he really is. But once he starts learning, his eagerness is infectious. Eva Chase also did an amazing job on her secondary characters. It would have been easy to ignore them and not flesh them out. But they were so... human and lively that I wanted more.
I have not read many modernizations of King Arthur, but most of them have one thing in common: They pretty much are retellings of the original myth with Arthur, Gwenivere, and Lancelot. But Eva went a new route. Lancelot and Gwen never existed. It was just Merlin and Arthur. And her story is unique since it focuses on a different aspect than the betrayal of Lancelot.
This novel kept me invested throughout every chapter. And that ending?? Ack I need more. I need to know what happens and if they are able to complete their quest completely.
Disclaimer: I received an ARC from the author in exchange for am honest review
Wow. What an incredible journey. Forget all you know about King Arthur. Be prepared for a new story that is just as thrilling as the original myths.
Emmaline (Emma) is the reincarnation of Merlin. Her quest is to find her king in his incarnation, and try to save him from death. AGAIN. Her quest also includes finding a way to defeat the dark fae she had sealed away long ago without killing their current incarnations.
Since this is a modernization of myths most people know, Eva Chase could have completely ignored characterization. But I'm so glad she didn't. Emma is her own person, even if she is the reincarnation of Merlin. She has her own wants, needs, emotions. Are they tied to her past selves? Yes, but at the same time its all new.
Plus we have Darton who is a cocky jock that does not even know who he really is. But once he starts learning, his eagerness is infectious. Eva Chase also did an amazing job on her secondary characters. It would have been easy to ignore them and not flesh them out. But they were so... human and lively that I wanted more.
I have not read many modernizations of King Arthur, but most of them have one thing in common: They pretty much are retellings of the original myth with Arthur, Gwenivere, and Lancelot. But Eva went a new route. Lancelot and Gwen never existed. It was just Merlin and Arthur. And her story is unique since it focuses on a different aspect than the betrayal of Lancelot.
This novel kept me invested throughout every chapter. And that ending?? Ack I need more. I need to know what happens and if they are able to complete their quest completely.
Disclaimer: I received an ARC from the author in exchange for am honest review
May 24, 2017
This was first published on my blog " Lecture toute une Aventure"
I receiveid an arc of this book and voluntary choose to review it
This could be very promising. I loved the plot idea , Arthur reincarnated, and the world building. The rhythm is fast and we are immediately in the centre of what is happening. It's really good and to give us more insight of what happened to put them in the present troubles we travel among Merlin and Arthur memories at the same time they rediscover them.
Emma is very dedicated, after so many centuries of failure it's amazing that she doesn't plan to give up....also a bit sad she doesn't learn from her mistake either. The fact she is determined to do it alone is frustrating even if we can partly understand it. She is attracted to Darton because in reality he is Arthur and she will do anything to protect him . Trying at first to do it in secret wasn't the most subtle way though.
Darton is intrigued by Emma and not happy with his life but he doesn't really understand why as he is always the last of the two to remember their past lives. Even without knowing it though he is still the same: determined, loyal, protective.
We see and learn a bit about the fae in this first book but i really warmed to Sunki , she is young but more open minded and curious than some others.
Darton 's friends Keevan and Izzy i loved them a lot less.... they want to protect him and doesn't understand or trust Emma that i can understand but sometimes they reaction were really too stupid for me.
In fact, the only thing i didn't like was Merlin and Arthur relation.....at first i enjoyed it seeing how they met , what they did etc but the fact it started to hint they were more than friendship feeling between them broke the magic. I mean why couldn't two boy be best friend trust each other above everything else without them being or becoming gay. Why should Merlin had love feeling for Arthur at the time: friendship, admiration , respect all that i could easily envision.. love definitively a NO. The fact he often reincarnate in a female form help but i mean the love feeling could have started at those time no need to say it was there before....that's the only detail that really bothered me in this book but it did bothers me a lot.
If that point isn't a matter for you then it's a perfectly good retelling of Arthur legend. 3,5 stars
I receiveid an arc of this book and voluntary choose to review it
This could be very promising. I loved the plot idea , Arthur reincarnated, and the world building. The rhythm is fast and we are immediately in the centre of what is happening. It's really good and to give us more insight of what happened to put them in the present troubles we travel among Merlin and Arthur memories at the same time they rediscover them.
Emma is very dedicated, after so many centuries of failure it's amazing that she doesn't plan to give up....also a bit sad she doesn't learn from her mistake either. The fact she is determined to do it alone is frustrating even if we can partly understand it. She is attracted to Darton because in reality he is Arthur and she will do anything to protect him . Trying at first to do it in secret wasn't the most subtle way though.
Darton is intrigued by Emma and not happy with his life but he doesn't really understand why as he is always the last of the two to remember their past lives. Even without knowing it though he is still the same: determined, loyal, protective.
We see and learn a bit about the fae in this first book but i really warmed to Sunki , she is young but more open minded and curious than some others.
Darton 's friends Keevan and Izzy i loved them a lot less.... they want to protect him and doesn't understand or trust Emma that i can understand but sometimes they reaction were really too stupid for me.
In fact, the only thing i didn't like was Merlin and Arthur relation.....at first i enjoyed it seeing how they met , what they did etc but the fact it started to hint they were more than friendship feeling between them broke the magic. I mean why couldn't two boy be best friend trust each other above everything else without them being or becoming gay. Why should Merlin had love feeling for Arthur at the time: friendship, admiration , respect all that i could easily envision.. love definitively a NO. The fact he often reincarnate in a female form help but i mean the love feeling could have started at those time no need to say it was there before....that's the only detail that really bothered me in this book but it did bothers me a lot.
If that point isn't a matter for you then it's a perfectly good retelling of Arthur legend. 3,5 stars
February 15, 2018
this is kinda spoilery but not enough to ruin anything...
If youre a fan of the world of avalon/king arthur then READ THIS.
also if youve seen avalon high and liked it then youll like this (probably more)
I LOVE anything king arthur esque and its SO refreshing to have an adaption that isnt cinderella etc.
theres fae theres magic theres danger
theres seriously great chemistry between the leads.
like past lives/destiny/star crossed lovers type vibes
Yes thank-you love this also thank the gods theres no gwendolyn and lancelot cause honestly they are the only thing i hate with the passion of a thousand suns in any version of the story. literally would rather cut off my arm then read/watch cheating or betrayal of that level. like fucking fuck you gwendolyn you can suck it you hussy also lancelot you win the shittest best friend award ever. THOSE TWO ARE THE WORST so thank fuck they dont exist in this version. honestly if i could wipe them from all versions i would.
ps: there is a male best friend and female ex with unrequited love for the main dude that TOTES gave me gwen and lance vibes and at that early part of the book before you know they were 'made up' and not real people well basically i felt sick thinking the book i was seriously into was going to be basically a modern arthur but thankgod even though it has that mythos its nothing like that drama bs. and the author has mercifully changed and improved on the original round table etc. and while i never had a major issue with the knights they were always kinda cool but not so much that i care if their not there either.
i never thought i needed this story but tbh when i have kids in the future i'll be reading them this version as well because its way better.
i hope there is more in avalon memories or at least more stories about whats real maybe some other characters could show or have some sort of connection to the story. but either way i am super digging this. like to the level that i may start drawing little D & E in hearts haha. oh did i mention the heroine and i share a name i mean you should be jealous really. now i just need to magic me up an arthur to swoon over.
OOOO im also looking forward to more of dudes memories coming back. itd be cute to see there more traditional reactions or banter like milady or chivalry stuff idk just give me a ren faire scene and i'll live off that for eternity. ooo with crowns or excalibur or something cute. 😍😍😍
If youre a fan of the world of avalon/king arthur then READ THIS.
also if youve seen avalon high and liked it then youll like this (probably more)
I LOVE anything king arthur esque and its SO refreshing to have an adaption that isnt cinderella etc.
theres fae theres magic theres danger
theres seriously great chemistry between the leads.
like past lives/destiny/star crossed lovers type vibes
Yes thank-you love this also thank the gods theres no gwendolyn and lancelot cause honestly they are the only thing i hate with the passion of a thousand suns in any version of the story. literally would rather cut off my arm then read/watch cheating or betrayal of that level. like fucking fuck you gwendolyn you can suck it you hussy also lancelot you win the shittest best friend award ever. THOSE TWO ARE THE WORST so thank fuck they dont exist in this version. honestly if i could wipe them from all versions i would.
ps: there is a male best friend and female ex with unrequited love for the main dude that TOTES gave me gwen and lance vibes and at that early part of the book before you know they were 'made up' and not real people well basically i felt sick thinking the book i was seriously into was going to be basically a modern arthur but thankgod even though it has that mythos its nothing like that drama bs. and the author has mercifully changed and improved on the original round table etc. and while i never had a major issue with the knights they were always kinda cool but not so much that i care if their not there either.
i never thought i needed this story but tbh when i have kids in the future i'll be reading them this version as well because its way better.
i hope there is more in avalon memories or at least more stories about whats real maybe some other characters could show or have some sort of connection to the story. but either way i am super digging this. like to the level that i may start drawing little D & E in hearts haha. oh did i mention the heroine and i share a name i mean you should be jealous really. now i just need to magic me up an arthur to swoon over.
OOOO im also looking forward to more of dudes memories coming back. itd be cute to see there more traditional reactions or banter like milady or chivalry stuff idk just give me a ren faire scene and i'll live off that for eternity. ooo with crowns or excalibur or something cute. 😍😍😍
March 30, 2020
A wizardy read!
Die, reincarnate, repeat...
It's been a long fifteen hundred years...
This retelling tale of one of my favourite tales is superbly well done with fantastic characters and a great storyline.
I have always been a fan of the Arthurian tales and this book exceeded all of my expectations. Such a mind blowing read with a flippin' fantastic modern retelling!
Full of fae, darkness, light, magic, love, fate and adventure.
Perfect for readers of urban fantasy romances.
Die, reincarnate, repeat...
It's been a long fifteen hundred years...
This retelling tale of one of my favourite tales is superbly well done with fantastic characters and a great storyline.
I have always been a fan of the Arthurian tales and this book exceeded all of my expectations. Such a mind blowing read with a flippin' fantastic modern retelling!
Full of fae, darkness, light, magic, love, fate and adventure.
Perfect for readers of urban fantasy romances.
November 26, 2019
I actually really loved this series. I read all three books back-to-back in a day and a half.
December 20, 2019
Emma happens to be Merlin reborn, and in this 1500 year cycle of death and rebirth, she's looking for Arthur, again, before the glooms (eesh) can find him and carry his soul to the darkest one. That is... if she can find him.
Here's what I didn't like: Lots of it. Half of the story is told through flashbacks, in vivid detail. In italics too. I understand why the author gave herself this opportunity, but I hate flashbacks. This is probably my problem, but none of those flashbacks were interesting. Only one had any kind of impact on the story, and it was given to us by Darton, so we didn't even have to live through it as a reader.
Keev, Izzy, and Priya. They weren't any help on page at all. There was one little thing that they needed Keev for, but that was handled off page. I didn't like the official names for the glooms. Sure, it might be the best way to describe them, but it fell flat and lame with me. The fae seemed loosely hodgepodged together to seem unique, but they didn't quite have any direction or presence for me. All that business with no touching and what happens with the touching. Ay yi yi yi. the execution felt a bit immature. With all the "frustration" at wanting to touch and resisting, the moment Emma and Darton finally give in to touching didn't pay off for all the angst and drama it cultivated. Probably because we'd fall into a random flashback that had no bearing on the immediate story. I don't know why I worked so hard to finish this book. I liked nothing of it.
Why I didn't rate lower: there was editing done so at least it was fairly readable.
Overall, I don't like flashbacks, and that's why this book didn't work out for me, but the storytelling wasn't as enchanting as the story promised to be. I don't recommend it.
Here's what I didn't like: Lots of it. Half of the story is told through flashbacks, in vivid detail. In italics too. I understand why the author gave herself this opportunity, but I hate flashbacks. This is probably my problem, but none of those flashbacks were interesting. Only one had any kind of impact on the story, and it was given to us by Darton, so we didn't even have to live through it as a reader.
Keev, Izzy, and Priya. They weren't any help on page at all. There was one little thing that they needed Keev for, but that was handled off page. I didn't like the official names for the glooms. Sure, it might be the best way to describe them, but it fell flat and lame with me. The fae seemed loosely hodgepodged together to seem unique, but they didn't quite have any direction or presence for me. All that business with no touching and what happens with the touching. Ay yi yi yi. the execution felt a bit immature. With all the "frustration" at wanting to touch and resisting, the moment Emma and Darton finally give in to touching didn't pay off for all the angst and drama it cultivated. Probably because we'd fall into a random flashback that had no bearing on the immediate story. I don't know why I worked so hard to finish this book. I liked nothing of it.
Why I didn't rate lower: there was editing done so at least it was fairly readable.
Overall, I don't like flashbacks, and that's why this book didn't work out for me, but the storytelling wasn't as enchanting as the story promised to be. I don't recommend it.
August 28, 2017
Magic Waking by Eva Chase is book one of the Legends Reborn series. Emma Hale balances life as the reincarnation of a century-old wizard with life as a seemingly ordinary college student. She knows it's only a matter of time before the next incarnation of King Arthur wakes up, making him a target for the dark fae to kill him. Darton isn't anything like how Emma remembers her king to be, but the more she tries to protect him the closer the two become. As the dark fae grows more powerful, Emma struggles to find a way to break their centuries-old curse while trying to keep Darton alive.
Eva Chase twists everything we thought we knew of the legends, bringing the legendary king and wizard to the present. It's clear this is just the beginning of Emma and Darton's story as Magic Waking ends with the need to know what happens next. Having centuries worth of lives, Emma is a mix of old-fashioned and modern point of view. She's the perfect hero, snarky and honest. Darton and Emma have a fun chemistry and a quick banter, with every scene between them better than the last. The side characters are unique and sincere, a ragtag team with only Emma truly understanding what's happening. Darton's friends fill the void of Guinevere and Lancelot, with more humor and loyalty and less drama. Priya is a breath of fresh air, a character that makes you want to learn more. A modern retelling of the King Arthur legend with the same magic and adventure, Magic Waking is refreshing, intriguing, and addictive. A must-read start to a series!
Eva Chase twists everything we thought we knew of the legends, bringing the legendary king and wizard to the present. It's clear this is just the beginning of Emma and Darton's story as Magic Waking ends with the need to know what happens next. Having centuries worth of lives, Emma is a mix of old-fashioned and modern point of view. She's the perfect hero, snarky and honest. Darton and Emma have a fun chemistry and a quick banter, with every scene between them better than the last. The side characters are unique and sincere, a ragtag team with only Emma truly understanding what's happening. Darton's friends fill the void of Guinevere and Lancelot, with more humor and loyalty and less drama. Priya is a breath of fresh air, a character that makes you want to learn more. A modern retelling of the King Arthur legend with the same magic and adventure, Magic Waking is refreshing, intriguing, and addictive. A must-read start to a series!
August 1, 2022
Once upon a time, there was a wizard named Merlin whose purpose was to serve and protect King Arthur. Long story short, Merlin sealed the greatest dark fae away and cast a spell that bound him and King Arthur's soul. For 1,500 years, through many reincarnations, Merlin has been searching for a way to break the spell while also trying to stay alive before the dark fae's minion kills them both, again.
Present day, Merlin was born as a female named Emmaline, and the king as Darton. Both of them are college students. Meanwhile, the dark fae is getting stronger and might escape with the help of her minions. Maybe, it's time for Emma to accept help from the others instead of working alone to ensure their survival.
After binged reading five of Eva's reverse harem series, it's nice to have a break and with just one love interest! Currently, the Legends Reborn series is one of the only two series that's not in that genre.
It was a bit slow at the beginning with all the casting spells act and stalking Darton etc., but when I reached around forty per cent, things got exciting, and by the time I got to fifty per cent, I couldn't put the book down. I always loved it when ordinary humans got involved in the supernatural world!
The story told in this book is nerve-wracking, and I love the scene starting from the auditorium with the gloom until the end of the story! It was thrilling, and I could easily imagine the whole scene while reading the story. I can't wait to read the next book!
Present day, Merlin was born as a female named Emmaline, and the king as Darton. Both of them are college students. Meanwhile, the dark fae is getting stronger and might escape with the help of her minions. Maybe, it's time for Emma to accept help from the others instead of working alone to ensure their survival.
After binged reading five of Eva's reverse harem series, it's nice to have a break and with just one love interest! Currently, the Legends Reborn series is one of the only two series that's not in that genre.
It was a bit slow at the beginning with all the casting spells act and stalking Darton etc., but when I reached around forty per cent, things got exciting, and by the time I got to fifty per cent, I couldn't put the book down. I always loved it when ordinary humans got involved in the supernatural world!
The story told in this book is nerve-wracking, and I love the scene starting from the auditorium with the gloom until the end of the story! It was thrilling, and I could easily imagine the whole scene while reading the story. I can't wait to read the next book!
January 28, 2020
Five Stars
What a fantastic start to this series. For the past year I've pretty much exclusively read RH books, so to be interested in reading something that isn't is rare these days. I was not dissapointed by that decision at all. I believe this book is the best over read from the author so far!
The following is a breakdown of how I typically rate books.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This rating I usually give to books that have an engaging plot with fully developed characters. I was able to emotionally connect with the feelings of the characters. This rating also conveys awesome editing! I would definitely recommend this book to anyone interested in reading it.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A book that I give four Stars typically has too many typos for me to feel it gets five stars. It may have some facts that don't line up with previous descriptions in the story.
⭐️⭐️⭐️
A three star rating is for books that have a fair amount of editing needs. I probably felt this book was an enjoyable read and found it entertaining. I wouldn't discourage anyone who is interested in reading it.
⭐️⭐️
This is a book that I wouldn't put a recommendation on, in fact I would pass and choose something I was more interested in reading.
⭐️
I can't remember ever rating a book one star. I feel an author had to have put too much of themselves into a book to ever deserve one star from me.
What a fantastic start to this series. For the past year I've pretty much exclusively read RH books, so to be interested in reading something that isn't is rare these days. I was not dissapointed by that decision at all. I believe this book is the best over read from the author so far!
The following is a breakdown of how I typically rate books.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This rating I usually give to books that have an engaging plot with fully developed characters. I was able to emotionally connect with the feelings of the characters. This rating also conveys awesome editing! I would definitely recommend this book to anyone interested in reading it.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A book that I give four Stars typically has too many typos for me to feel it gets five stars. It may have some facts that don't line up with previous descriptions in the story.
⭐️⭐️⭐️
A three star rating is for books that have a fair amount of editing needs. I probably felt this book was an enjoyable read and found it entertaining. I wouldn't discourage anyone who is interested in reading it.
⭐️⭐️
This is a book that I wouldn't put a recommendation on, in fact I would pass and choose something I was more interested in reading.
⭐️
I can't remember ever rating a book one star. I feel an author had to have put too much of themselves into a book to ever deserve one star from me.
June 4, 2017
This is an outstanding book. I have read others by Eva Chase and love her writing. Emma has been reincarnating for hundreds of years. In her first life she was Merlin the magician. Darton is a high school football player and is the reincarnation of King Arthur. Emma is aware of the loop her and Darton have been in. Darton reincarnates with no immediate knowledge of the past. Emma is still protecting Arthur/Darton from evil forces out to take his life and his soul.
Can you imagine hundreds of years, numerous lifetimes all ending badly. Now, after finally finding Arthur again, Emma is not sure in the beginning if she even likes Darton, Arthur's newest incarnation. His arrogance grates on her, but even not knowing who she is in relation to him he is attracted to him.
You know, hundreds of lifetimes spent together, fighting for their lives has a way of bonding them to each other that can't be rivaled. Between his friends and her roommate they flee from danger and try to fight the darkness. I absolutely loved the old hunter that took them in and helped them escape a major attack. He had some outrageous weapons he's designed. I was enthralled with the story and was so invested in the story, I didn't want it to end. I highly recommend this book. I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
Can you imagine hundreds of years, numerous lifetimes all ending badly. Now, after finally finding Arthur again, Emma is not sure in the beginning if she even likes Darton, Arthur's newest incarnation. His arrogance grates on her, but even not knowing who she is in relation to him he is attracted to him.
You know, hundreds of lifetimes spent together, fighting for their lives has a way of bonding them to each other that can't be rivaled. Between his friends and her roommate they flee from danger and try to fight the darkness. I absolutely loved the old hunter that took them in and helped them escape a major attack. He had some outrageous weapons he's designed. I was enthralled with the story and was so invested in the story, I didn't want it to end. I highly recommend this book. I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
August 5, 2017
An Arthurian tale told with a magnificent difference!
Deserves more stars!
This is another new to me author, I am getting a mighty long list of favourite authors.
I love the book because I love all things magic and there is is fair bit. When I read the blurb I was a little hesitant as not a fan of historical legends that have died a death. This book offers up an Arthurian legend with a modern twist, what's not to like. So if you love stories about King Arthur & Merlin this is for you.
You will be on the edge of your seats with this book and will not be able to put it down. I was totally captivated & drawn into the story being there to enjoy the truly great acting skills of each of the characters. There was a great deal of thought gone into the creation of the characters, especially Emma & Darton. The descriptions of each scene were done in a way that the reader can picture with ease.
,Light fae battles with dark fae but to what end! Who is the mercenary black fae & what does he want with Arthur. Emma just wants it all to be over but the quest continues.
Recommended for 13/14 and over
Deserves more stars!
This is another new to me author, I am getting a mighty long list of favourite authors.
I love the book because I love all things magic and there is is fair bit. When I read the blurb I was a little hesitant as not a fan of historical legends that have died a death. This book offers up an Arthurian legend with a modern twist, what's not to like. So if you love stories about King Arthur & Merlin this is for you.
You will be on the edge of your seats with this book and will not be able to put it down. I was totally captivated & drawn into the story being there to enjoy the truly great acting skills of each of the characters. There was a great deal of thought gone into the creation of the characters, especially Emma & Darton. The descriptions of each scene were done in a way that the reader can picture with ease.
,Light fae battles with dark fae but to what end! Who is the mercenary black fae & what does he want with Arthur. Emma just wants it all to be over but the quest continues.
Recommended for 13/14 and over
May 26, 2017
This book started out slowly for me. It took a bit to actually get in to the story and wrapping my head around the reincarnation of the main characters over and over again throughout time. The main basis of the story falls back to King Arthur and Merlin made a very interesting twist to the story. Once the story picked up and you could understand what was going on, it flowed very well, and left you wanting more. I liked that King Arthur's reincarnation this time around was a cocky football player named Darton. Merlin's reincarnation was Emma. The detail between their interactions, and the pull to each other based on their history together was very intriguing. However, in general I'd like to see the characters be developed a little bit more. It was almost like they were rushed into the action of fighting the shadows, they couldn't take the time to get to know them well. I'd be interested to read the next installment to this story to see if the characters are developed a little more.
Note: ARC was received in return for an honest review. These opinions are all of my own.
Note: ARC was received in return for an honest review. These opinions are all of my own.
May 10, 2017
provided a review for receiving an advanced reader copy from the author. wow what a tale of good vs evil throughout history so to speak. we meet Emma, who has rememberered bit and pieces from her past lives over 1500 centuries. she is in charge of keeping her king safe even if he doesn't know who he is yet. Emma will know him when she sees him and low and behold he walks into her fencing class and handsome as hell. they have a connection like no other and Emma feels it was her fault her liege keeps dying bc of a spell she cast many moons ago. Emma sees the glooms everywhere and is starting to worry that the dark fae have found him. darton is unaware of whats happening until strange things start to occur...can Emma keep darton safe? will she be able to keep their friends safe on their journey to stop the evil? riveting, drama, lies, history and keeping ones wits about then ensue in the story!!
July 17, 2017
love a good kong Arthur, merlin story and this was really unique and I loved the relationship between emmaline and darton, was super cute and sweet. I didn't like how un trusting emma was but I guess it made sense and izzy and keevan or whatever his name was pissed me off a bit at the start with how hostile they were but they grew on me. I thought it had just the right amount of action but it could've been a bit more of a challenge with the dark fae at the end. I did want more relationship growth with the friends but I guess that will come in the next books which I'm looking forwards too. I'm also looking forwards to more flashbacks I really enjoyed them and seeing what they were like and got up to in past lives. I loved the whole fact that arthur and merlin change genders in different lives but that, that never matters to them (from what I've seen anyway), they have a sweet relationship and I cant wait to see it grow and see past lives.
March 5, 2019
Emma Hale is a reborn wizard and her goal in each life is to track down the latest incarnation of King Arthur and break the spell that bind their souls in a rather depressing cycle. However she can't remember how she initially cast the spell and the current incarnation is not only very good looking but cocky with it. So when a very talented fae mercenary puts the king in his sights she burns through all her tricks just to stay ahead. Can she find a way to kill him and achieve something she has never known before - kill a fae whilst living as a human?
There was plenty of drama and excitement in this story. I found it very hard to get into and found that by persisting I started to enjoy it a lot more - so if you feel the same way just give it more of a chance. Well written it was an interesting story that was enjoyable.
There was plenty of drama and excitement in this story. I found it very hard to get into and found that by persisting I started to enjoy it a lot more - so if you feel the same way just give it more of a chance. Well written it was an interesting story that was enjoyable.
May 12, 2017
OMG! I am absolutely captivated by this miraculously enchanting, chaotic, mystical life you have introduced to me. Emma and Darton's story leapt off my Kindle screen and kept me entranced until I finished in one sitting! The imagery is so lifelike that I felt I was in the story, with them, running for my life. There was so much to take in and learn, I could feel Darton and his friends' confusion, disbelief, and wonder. I can't wait to continue on this quest with them, learning more about their past and themselves as they are presently - to see what trials they must continue to endure as the Darkest One continues to regain her powers. I am really loving this little band of misfits. BRAVO!
I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review
I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review
May 25, 2017
I was surprised how much I loved this story, after all it is a retelling of King Author. Not all retold classic stories/fairy tales are good. But it was well written and grabbed my attention from the very beginning. I liked the different take focused of Author and Merlin and really liked that the wizard was a girl this reincarnation. I liked that I could not predict what was going to happen all the time. Loved how Emma was attracted to "her king". Felt that Emma and Darton had different personalities that fit today's times and not their original ones. A few scenes made me laugh out loud and groan. Worth reading and cannot wait to see what happens next.
August 27, 2017
"[S]arcastic wizardry, cruel fae, and a star-crossed love centuries in the making..."
Yup, that's a pretty good description of this highly original take of the King Arthur and Merlin myths and what happens post-Camelot. Emma and Darton's story might've been centuries in the making but the result is that our sarcastic kick-a** heroine of a wizard is one that can take on all comers, be they unstoppable / unkillable fae mercenaries or anything else. Good thing too as it's needed here. Luckily for we readers, Eva Chase handles things perfectly ... though I do now have a string desire for more and am definitely looking forward to book 2.
Highly recommended.
Yup, that's a pretty good description of this highly original take of the King Arthur and Merlin myths and what happens post-Camelot. Emma and Darton's story might've been centuries in the making but the result is that our sarcastic kick-a** heroine of a wizard is one that can take on all comers, be they unstoppable / unkillable fae mercenaries or anything else. Good thing too as it's needed here. Luckily for we readers, Eva Chase handles things perfectly ... though I do now have a string desire for more and am definitely looking forward to book 2.
Highly recommended.
December 19, 2018
Magic Waking, Book 1 in the Legends Reborn series by Eva Chase. She has the ability to bring the story to life with words. The story line has taken a unique path rather than follow the original legend. In this retelling takes place in modern time and our characters are Emma (Merlin) and Darton (King Arthur). Emma knows she is Merlin but Darton does not know he is King Arthur and the story is a learning process for him. This is extremely well written and the characters really fleshed out that you become so involved in the story experiencing it along with Emma and Darton. It is a fast paced, action packed adventure that I highly recommend and know you will not be disappointed.
September 21, 2025
Magic Waking (Legends Reborn Series Book 1) ~
Magic Waking (Legends Reborn Series Book 1) ~~ This was such a refreshing twist on reincarnation fantasy. Emma Hale has been living, dying, and starting over for fifteen centuries, and the way Eva Chase drops us into her latest life hooked me right away. The magic feels layered and believable, and Emma’s sarcasm makes her instantly relatable. The first half takes its time setting the stage, but once the action picks up—fae mercenaries, ancient enemies resurfacing, and Emma rediscovering just how dangerous her powers can be—I couldn’t put it down. A strong opener that promises even bigger things.
Magic Waking (Legends Reborn Series Book 1) ~~ This was such a refreshing twist on reincarnation fantasy. Emma Hale has been living, dying, and starting over for fifteen centuries, and the way Eva Chase drops us into her latest life hooked me right away. The magic feels layered and believable, and Emma’s sarcasm makes her instantly relatable. The first half takes its time setting the stage, but once the action picks up—fae mercenaries, ancient enemies resurfacing, and Emma rediscovering just how dangerous her powers can be—I couldn’t put it down. A strong opener that promises even bigger things.
May 9, 2017
To be able to pen a story so vividly that a reader can feel the impending doom and gloom, this writer hit pay dirt. Two old souls with destinies intricately entangled through time, my attention could not be distracted from these pages. This is my first exposure to the works of Eva Chase and I must say it has left a very favorable first impression. A wonderfully unique storyline full of characters that sprung to life quickly. The plot flows well with nothing stumbling or taking sidebars. Looking forward to reading more of Ms. Chase's work.
May 26, 2017
*I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book*
I was really looking forward to reading this book because I am a fan of the original King Arthur story and I like rewrites of classics. The plot idea was intriguing to me and could be really good. Unfortunately, I had a really hard time getting into the story. Normally a book this size would take me a couple of hours to read but it took me 3 days. I did finally get into it more towards the end of the book but by then I just wanted to finish it. I just wish I had been able to get pulled into the story sooner.
I was really looking forward to reading this book because I am a fan of the original King Arthur story and I like rewrites of classics. The plot idea was intriguing to me and could be really good. Unfortunately, I had a really hard time getting into the story. Normally a book this size would take me a couple of hours to read but it took me 3 days. I did finally get into it more towards the end of the book but by then I just wanted to finish it. I just wish I had been able to get pulled into the story sooner.
June 3, 2017
Amazing Take on Merlin And King Authur
Emma is in search of someone: the reincarnated embodiment of King Author. For fifteen centuries, incarnation after incarnation, the wizard seeks to find and protect his king from an ancient enemy.
Shortly after they literally cross blades, the first awakening occurs for the once and future king. Unfortunately, not long after their enemy makes its presence known. Will Emma be able to protect her king, or will they once again fall to the dark fae?
Emma is in search of someone: the reincarnated embodiment of King Author. For fifteen centuries, incarnation after incarnation, the wizard seeks to find and protect his king from an ancient enemy.
Shortly after they literally cross blades, the first awakening occurs for the once and future king. Unfortunately, not long after their enemy makes its presence known. Will Emma be able to protect her king, or will they once again fall to the dark fae?
May 21, 2017
Wow, what a great take on the Arthurian era. If you enjoy tales of wizards and kings, magic and faeries, you will love this book. Emma has found her king again. Will she be able to save him this time? With the help of some new friends she just may figure something out. I received an advanced copy from the author for an honest review. I have to say, I can't wait to see if there is more to their story.
May 24, 2017
Emma is a college student that has just switched schools and she is also the reincarnated Merlin.
Darton is a kick with a little attitude and also the reincarnated King Arthur.
Emma job is to try to save her King before he is killed, over and over again.
She always knows who he is but he doesn't know her until it's almost too late.
Chase has written a exciting and interesting story about the reincarnation of Merlin and King Arthur.
Darton is a kick with a little attitude and also the reincarnated King Arthur.
Emma job is to try to save her King before he is killed, over and over again.
She always knows who he is but he doesn't know her until it's almost too late.
Chase has written a exciting and interesting story about the reincarnation of Merlin and King Arthur.
May 25, 2017
I really enjoyed the storyline. It is a unique perspective on the King Arthur and Merlin story. Emma is so determined to protect Darton and make up for the mistakes of the past that have kept bringing them back to live new lives. This time they are college students and on the run from evil. You have lots of action and a sweet romance too that really bring the story to life for the reader. It is a really nice departure from the usual reads.
I am voluntarily reviewing a copy I received.
I am voluntarily reviewing a copy I received.
July 8, 2017
Wow, this book was great, and I can only apologise to the author as I read this back in May, but life got in the way and I never put up the review, which I only just realised, when I was going through my review book. This author grips you from the very start and keeps you turning the pages to read what happens next, it's one of those books that you don't want to put down. Well worth the five stars I've given it.
May 11, 2017
Enjoyed the spin on King Arthur and Merlin continuing to be reborn through the centuries. It was fresh new and different. I like the action and the relationships between the characters. I found it to be a good story and will be looking for the next(I Hope). I received an ARC copy and loved the book.
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