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Tala Phoenix #1
Tala Phoenix and the School of Secrets
I know that dragons aren't real, okay? It's just that:
1. I'm trapped in a creepy boarding school.
2. Dreaming of burning the teachers alive is pretty weird...
3. Oh, and Axel, the sexiest guy I've ever met, just told me I'm a dragon shifter.
My entire life, I've been imprisoned in the School for the Different, a mysterious home for mentally-ill orphans. But except for my fire dreams, I've never felt crazy. So when I quit my meds, I discover that I've been lied to for years. Magic is real. So are dragons. And witches. Even gods.
That's when things start heating up, literally. My best friend Kian's hands keep glowing. Demi can grow plants overnight. And Jeremy, well, he's just really hungry. And kinda furry. But the clock is ticking: the school's staff are on to us. When Jeremy disappears, I realize we have to escape - and fast.
Finally free, I discover the truth. Dragon shifters are dangerous. Most magicals are terrified of us, and as my powers grow, I find out why. I'm losing control.
And using my magic might mean losing the only family I've ever known...
1. I'm trapped in a creepy boarding school.
2. Dreaming of burning the teachers alive is pretty weird...
3. Oh, and Axel, the sexiest guy I've ever met, just told me I'm a dragon shifter.
My entire life, I've been imprisoned in the School for the Different, a mysterious home for mentally-ill orphans. But except for my fire dreams, I've never felt crazy. So when I quit my meds, I discover that I've been lied to for years. Magic is real. So are dragons. And witches. Even gods.
That's when things start heating up, literally. My best friend Kian's hands keep glowing. Demi can grow plants overnight. And Jeremy, well, he's just really hungry. And kinda furry. But the clock is ticking: the school's staff are on to us. When Jeremy disappears, I realize we have to escape - and fast.
Finally free, I discover the truth. Dragon shifters are dangerous. Most magicals are terrified of us, and as my powers grow, I find out why. I'm losing control.
And using my magic might mean losing the only family I've ever known...
Unknown Binding
Published February 20, 2019
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews
February 20, 2019
Gabby Fawkes has written such a captivating story with the debut novel - Tala Phoenix and the School of Secrets.
Tala is an amazing character, along with her group of friends and the storyline is full of twists, secrets and adventure.
I highly recommend Tala Phoenix and the School of Secrets.
Thank you Gabby Fawkes for writing a refreshing and wonderful story.
Tala is an amazing character, along with her group of friends and the storyline is full of twists, secrets and adventure.
I highly recommend Tala Phoenix and the School of Secrets.
Thank you Gabby Fawkes for writing a refreshing and wonderful story.
February 21, 2019
This book was really interesting.i received it in the morning and could not put it down. The story starts off in a high school and makes it's way to Olympus. The characters were really well developed and the storyline was great. By the cover I expected it to be aimed at younger readers,but I have kids older than the main character and I loved it. It wasn't your every day witch, shifter, vampire or god book,but it includes all of them but from a different view. I love the premise of the story and thought this was a great book!!!
August 4, 2019
This book started slowly but built up so fast it had me spinning. Tala, Kian, Demi and Jeremy have a great dynamic as friends. I absolutely loved this book. I like how Gabby progressed with the introduction of the new characters. The characters of Axel (Ares) and the other Gods added just the right twist. This story has so much potential and I was really happy that this book didn’t end with a major cliffhanger. This book has romance, intrigue and friends whose bonds are unbreakable. I am so ready for the next book.
February 17, 2019
I received an ARC for a honest review.
Gabby's first book and what will hopefully turn into a series was a great start. First of all, this was a longer book than many of the hundreds I have read over the last few years by an independent author. That is a huge plus for me. Next, the story and pace was perfect. I was held in anticipation the whole time curious as to what would happen next. The overall plot was interesting and kept my attention completely. I thoroughly enjoyed this and I look forward to book 2.
Gabby's first book and what will hopefully turn into a series was a great start. First of all, this was a longer book than many of the hundreds I have read over the last few years by an independent author. That is a huge plus for me. Next, the story and pace was perfect. I was held in anticipation the whole time curious as to what would happen next. The overall plot was interesting and kept my attention completely. I thoroughly enjoyed this and I look forward to book 2.
February 23, 2019
I love this story. My heart dropped when I realized I was on the last page. Three sisters by choice are in a school for crazy children for all of their lives as far as they can remember. Tala, Kian and Demi, escape and meet Axel, who turns out to be Ares the God of war. That's just the beginning. I am already anxious for the next book.
July 16, 2019
This is going to be a rant.
Because I am outraged by the way a beautiful story has been ruined by introducing unnecessary romance and irritating characters.
The story begins good.
A mysterious school in the middle of nowhere where kids are suppressed and scared with no real answers on who they are. Then comes a breakthrough for Tala and her gang, who discover strange news and stranger things about themselves.
When their friend goes missing they know its time to leave and they escape to find themselves in Area 51 monitored by a strange govt agency DSA. They then are soon whisked off to Olympus by Axel/Ares where they discover a hidden world of Gods and supernaturals and problems.
So far somewhat okay.
Then we have this forced elements of intimacy between Axel/Ares and Tala - based on basically nothing, cos their interactions thus far had been stilted not to mention the fact that he is a aeons old God and she is a 18yr old shifter.
Even though it was nauseating, it was like "yeah, usual YA romance crap where lust for a hot guy/girl = divine love".
What broke me is the way the plot was developing so horribly.
So from an oppressive environment where they dare not even talk to their headmistress, Tala and others escape to the realm of Gods.
From then on, we are presented with a set of hippy Gods who are no different than regular humans and considerably less powerful than the DSA.
There is no explanation why.
There is no explanation on why a bunch of all powerful gods apparently have no clue about anything. Why bother call them Gods then?
From scared but courageous kids, Tala and her friends transition fast into rude and often obnoxious girls who are allowed to take charge of a gang of Gods comprising of Apollo, Ares etc.
Again, why? No idea.
No explanation is given as to why Ares is interested in dragon shifters.
No explanation on why Ares took the girls to Olympus considering only one of them is a God and another is a witch, whose group is somewhere on Earth - he achieved nothing much by taking them there anyways.
No explanation on how a gang of apparent humans in DSA is able to 'ban' a god , chase them around and even attack them.
There is also the whole abysmal effort spend on humanizing all the Greek gods and making them either comical or creepy.
Considering that Ares and Apollo are milleniums old Gods with all kinda war strategy experience, its amazing how Gabby can write them off as idiots who hides from DSA and is not even able to identify their location.
There is also this whole DSA thingy.
Are they part of US govt?
IF so why is their HQ apparently in Europe?
Does Gabby know US is not the whole world and there are other countries?
Overall, a highly disappointing book cos Gabby has a gift of creating interesting characters but apparently she needs someone to tell her "Nahh nahhh, don't idiotize Greek Gods"
Because I am outraged by the way a beautiful story has been ruined by introducing unnecessary romance and irritating characters.
The story begins good.
A mysterious school in the middle of nowhere where kids are suppressed and scared with no real answers on who they are. Then comes a breakthrough for Tala and her gang, who discover strange news and stranger things about themselves.
When their friend goes missing they know its time to leave and they escape to find themselves in Area 51 monitored by a strange govt agency DSA. They then are soon whisked off to Olympus by Axel/Ares where they discover a hidden world of Gods and supernaturals and problems.
So far somewhat okay.
Then we have this forced elements of intimacy between Axel/Ares and Tala - based on basically nothing, cos their interactions thus far had been stilted not to mention the fact that he is a aeons old God and she is a 18yr old shifter.
Even though it was nauseating, it was like "yeah, usual YA romance crap where lust for a hot guy/girl = divine love".
What broke me is the way the plot was developing so horribly.
So from an oppressive environment where they dare not even talk to their headmistress, Tala and others escape to the realm of Gods.
From then on, we are presented with a set of hippy Gods who are no different than regular humans and considerably less powerful than the DSA.
There is no explanation why.
There is no explanation on why a bunch of all powerful gods apparently have no clue about anything. Why bother call them Gods then?
From scared but courageous kids, Tala and her friends transition fast into rude and often obnoxious girls who are allowed to take charge of a gang of Gods comprising of Apollo, Ares etc.
Again, why? No idea.
No explanation is given as to why Ares is interested in dragon shifters.
No explanation on why Ares took the girls to Olympus considering only one of them is a God and another is a witch, whose group is somewhere on Earth - he achieved nothing much by taking them there anyways.
No explanation on how a gang of apparent humans in DSA is able to 'ban' a god , chase them around and even attack them.
There is also the whole abysmal effort spend on humanizing all the Greek gods and making them either comical or creepy.
Considering that Ares and Apollo are milleniums old Gods with all kinda war strategy experience, its amazing how Gabby can write them off as idiots who hides from DSA and is not even able to identify their location.
There is also this whole DSA thingy.
Are they part of US govt?
IF so why is their HQ apparently in Europe?
Does Gabby know US is not the whole world and there are other countries?
Overall, a highly disappointing book cos Gabby has a gift of creating interesting characters but apparently she needs someone to tell her "Nahh nahhh, don't idiotize Greek Gods"
February 22, 2019
I was given a copy of this book by the author in exchange for my honest review.
I'm not usually a fan of young adult books - there's not usually enough action and too much soppy girly romance for my liking, but I thoroughly enjoyed this one! The main characters are teenage girls, but it didn't always feel like a teen book!
Tala, Kian and Demi are all orphans, living in the School for the Different, where they have been told they need to be drugged to control their "conditions". On the surface this school appears to be like any other boarding school - the strict class teachers, the nasty bully girl, the boring lessons and those trying to escape, but there's another side to it. Students often disappear, having been transferred to other schools, yet they are never heard of again.
Tala decides to stop taking the drugs and she instantly notices a change in herself - she is not longer drowsy and complacent, but now she hears a voice inside her head, one which constantly tell her to burn them, burn them all!
When their close friend Jeremy is taken to the Room and is then "transferred", the three girls know it won't be long before they are next and do everything they can to escape. They soon find out that there is more to this school than they ever believed and more to themselves as well, unbelievable things that they had never imagined they could be. Along with the help of some even more powerful beings, they decide that the School for the Different must be stopped!
I really loved the three main female characters and their bonds of friendship in this book. Yes, there was a touch of romance, but that was very much a sideline to the friendship arc and the main plot of the girls developing their powers. I do like the fact that they all had different powers and hope to see how they can work together with these powers even more now. This book was well written and fast paced too with enough world building for you to jump in but without so much description that it left you hanging on for the action!
I'm looking forward to reading the next book in the series and hope that the girls will be joined by their other friend Jeremy again on what adventure or mission they take on next!
Thank you Gabby for the ARC and congratulations on a great first book!
I'm not usually a fan of young adult books - there's not usually enough action and too much soppy girly romance for my liking, but I thoroughly enjoyed this one! The main characters are teenage girls, but it didn't always feel like a teen book!
Tala, Kian and Demi are all orphans, living in the School for the Different, where they have been told they need to be drugged to control their "conditions". On the surface this school appears to be like any other boarding school - the strict class teachers, the nasty bully girl, the boring lessons and those trying to escape, but there's another side to it. Students often disappear, having been transferred to other schools, yet they are never heard of again.
Tala decides to stop taking the drugs and she instantly notices a change in herself - she is not longer drowsy and complacent, but now she hears a voice inside her head, one which constantly tell her to burn them, burn them all!
When their close friend Jeremy is taken to the Room and is then "transferred", the three girls know it won't be long before they are next and do everything they can to escape. They soon find out that there is more to this school than they ever believed and more to themselves as well, unbelievable things that they had never imagined they could be. Along with the help of some even more powerful beings, they decide that the School for the Different must be stopped!
I really loved the three main female characters and their bonds of friendship in this book. Yes, there was a touch of romance, but that was very much a sideline to the friendship arc and the main plot of the girls developing their powers. I do like the fact that they all had different powers and hope to see how they can work together with these powers even more now. This book was well written and fast paced too with enough world building for you to jump in but without so much description that it left you hanging on for the action!
I'm looking forward to reading the next book in the series and hope that the girls will be joined by their other friend Jeremy again on what adventure or mission they take on next!
Thank you Gabby for the ARC and congratulations on a great first book!
March 2, 2019
Gabby asked me to be one of the readers to help with the publicity of her book, and I agreed. First novels don't do too well, but typically get better as the author goes on. However, this book breaks that "rule".
I have to say I was really REALLY surprised. I was consumed by the book and narrative, and could not put it down. This is also understanding that I was in the middle of three other series, and an additional four books that were by themselves. I devoured this book over the course of three days (dang work).
I was expecting something near "Hogwarts", but this was completely different. Think crazy orphans who are taught skills that have no connection to life (who teaches multiple years of Latin anymore?) and no education in things that you would think they need, like current events, social studies, history and so on. Then add in "The Room", which seems to be reminiscent of "Room 101" from 1984. Add kids disappearing at regular points for no apparent reason, so that the students don't dare make attachments. Add in guards in white uniforms. Add in medicine that these poor crazy waifs are forced to take. Then give Tala a voice in her head encouraging that everyone should be burned. Escape the school, then disappear it, and finally add in Dragon Corpses. That is literally the first several chapters, and none of that is a spoiler, it's all background.
And the story just gets stranger from there.
Some of the twists are obvious and telegraphed well in advance. Some are not. Taken all together, it's a good read, worth adding to your shelf, and I am waiting with bated breath for the next several installments of this series.
I have to say I was really REALLY surprised. I was consumed by the book and narrative, and could not put it down. This is also understanding that I was in the middle of three other series, and an additional four books that were by themselves. I devoured this book over the course of three days (dang work).
I was expecting something near "Hogwarts", but this was completely different. Think crazy orphans who are taught skills that have no connection to life (who teaches multiple years of Latin anymore?) and no education in things that you would think they need, like current events, social studies, history and so on. Then add in "The Room", which seems to be reminiscent of "Room 101" from 1984. Add kids disappearing at regular points for no apparent reason, so that the students don't dare make attachments. Add in guards in white uniforms. Add in medicine that these poor crazy waifs are forced to take. Then give Tala a voice in her head encouraging that everyone should be burned. Escape the school, then disappear it, and finally add in Dragon Corpses. That is literally the first several chapters, and none of that is a spoiler, it's all background.
And the story just gets stranger from there.
Some of the twists are obvious and telegraphed well in advance. Some are not. Taken all together, it's a good read, worth adding to your shelf, and I am waiting with bated breath for the next several installments of this series.
May 12, 2019
Surprise!
I am completely hooked! Tala and her misfit group have grown up in an orphanage for supposedly mentally unstable kids. Over time however they've been slowly realizing that's not exactly true. Why are they forced to learn fluent Latin and battle techniques? Not exactly the norm. Not to mention some of them have vague memories of loved ones. Yet they're being told they were orphaned at birth? Mysteriously over time done of these orphans vanish. Everyone being told they're transferred or sent to the ominous room. It's only when the voice in Yale's head convinces her to stop with her medications that things really take a turn. After telling her tight group of friends what she's done a few others also stop taking them. At that point those who did stop taking them suddenly begin displaying shocking powers. One night after sneaking out after curfew they finds a tv with news of a wildfire in. The shocking thing are the dead dragons?!?!? It took a bit to realize it was in fact the news and NOT a movie. What's going on? They figured this "orphanage" had a horrible alterior motive. Could they escape? Could they discover what was truly going on? The surprises are FAR from over in this exciting start to a series! Intrigue, Gods, power hungry beings, magic, family and friendship all take place within these pages.
I am completely hooked! Tala and her misfit group have grown up in an orphanage for supposedly mentally unstable kids. Over time however they've been slowly realizing that's not exactly true. Why are they forced to learn fluent Latin and battle techniques? Not exactly the norm. Not to mention some of them have vague memories of loved ones. Yet they're being told they were orphaned at birth? Mysteriously over time done of these orphans vanish. Everyone being told they're transferred or sent to the ominous room. It's only when the voice in Yale's head convinces her to stop with her medications that things really take a turn. After telling her tight group of friends what she's done a few others also stop taking them. At that point those who did stop taking them suddenly begin displaying shocking powers. One night after sneaking out after curfew they finds a tv with news of a wildfire in. The shocking thing are the dead dragons?!?!? It took a bit to realize it was in fact the news and NOT a movie. What's going on? They figured this "orphanage" had a horrible alterior motive. Could they escape? Could they discover what was truly going on? The surprises are FAR from over in this exciting start to a series! Intrigue, Gods, power hungry beings, magic, family and friendship all take place within these pages.
May 15, 2019
Oh my gosh! I LOVED this book. It pulls so many of my favorite things together. It’s has such a great story line. Who are these kids? Who are the DSA? What is the School really? Where do the kids go when they transfer? You find the Greek Gods, witches, shifters, and more!
In this book you follow Tala and her two best friends as they start to discover things aren’t quite what they’d been told. They find their way into a new world, make new friends, find out who/what they truly are, learn to trust each other and themselves, and still stay true to themselves and what they know they have to do.
I love the characters. You have Tala, a struggling teen trying to come to grips with herself and finding herself falling for a guy she isn’t sure she can fully trust. You have Demi a sweet, caring young lady who has a love for all growing things in nature. She has a truly green thumb and is calm even when finding out her own true identity and having to face it. Then you have Kian a fiery, feisty young lady with all the attitude and confidence of a true protector. She uses lipstick to calm her nerves and will fight for her friends no matter what. After them you find so many more characters with great stories as well, I cannot wait to dig more into Axel and who he is.
Gabby is a truly gifted writer and I cannot wait to read her second book.
In this book you follow Tala and her two best friends as they start to discover things aren’t quite what they’d been told. They find their way into a new world, make new friends, find out who/what they truly are, learn to trust each other and themselves, and still stay true to themselves and what they know they have to do.
I love the characters. You have Tala, a struggling teen trying to come to grips with herself and finding herself falling for a guy she isn’t sure she can fully trust. You have Demi a sweet, caring young lady who has a love for all growing things in nature. She has a truly green thumb and is calm even when finding out her own true identity and having to face it. Then you have Kian a fiery, feisty young lady with all the attitude and confidence of a true protector. She uses lipstick to calm her nerves and will fight for her friends no matter what. After them you find so many more characters with great stories as well, I cannot wait to dig more into Axel and who he is.
Gabby is a truly gifted writer and I cannot wait to read her second book.
February 21, 2019
*I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review*
I must say that this book was pretty good for an author's first published one, and the first in a series.
I liked the world building even if it did take a long time to get the whole picture. It's not for nothing that it's called The School of Secrets, right?
I absolutely loved the characters, Tala, Kian, Demi and Jer were perfect friends. These are the types of bonds nothing breaks.
Throw in a smoking hot god and some supporting characters and you got yourself a band of misfits that contrary to all misgivings work amazing together.
The plot was very well panned throughout the book and it kept on giving when I thought it would let me hanging.
I have to say that I appreciate the most the fact that it had no cliffhanger. I hate those, and they don't necessary make me want to read the next book.
The author has so many avenues to explore in the sequels to come, I am really interested to find out more about Tala&Co.
Thank you for this opportunity and congratulations on a job well done.
I must say that this book was pretty good for an author's first published one, and the first in a series.
I liked the world building even if it did take a long time to get the whole picture. It's not for nothing that it's called The School of Secrets, right?
I absolutely loved the characters, Tala, Kian, Demi and Jer were perfect friends. These are the types of bonds nothing breaks.
Throw in a smoking hot god and some supporting characters and you got yourself a band of misfits that contrary to all misgivings work amazing together.
The plot was very well panned throughout the book and it kept on giving when I thought it would let me hanging.
I have to say that I appreciate the most the fact that it had no cliffhanger. I hate those, and they don't necessary make me want to read the next book.
The author has so many avenues to explore in the sequels to come, I am really interested to find out more about Tala&Co.
Thank you for this opportunity and congratulations on a job well done.
February 28, 2019
A debut with an interesting mix of urban fantasy, paranormal characters, and Greek mythology. The story had mystery, secrets, and romance with darker undertones that were entertaining but also a lot of competing elements within the story arcs. I admired the friendship between Tala, Demi, and Kian and their bond and commitment to staying together too. Despite these positives, I struggled with the author’s less structured writing style and forming an emotional connection with the characters. The writing was also a bit unpolished and the casual elements and references led to re-reading for clarity. I feel the story has a lot of potential but didn’t quite connect everything for me effectively. The author has demonstrated her ability with this debut and will hopefully continue to hone her skills with experience. If you are looking for something with a bit of everything and don’t mind a more casual tone (like having a friend tell you a story over coffee), then you may want to give this a try.
March 9, 2019
Tala Phoenix and the School of Secrets by Gabby Fawkes has a unique storyline and the world building is incredible. Our main characters -- Tala, Kian, Jeremy, and Demi -- are amazing well developed that you can't help but love them. As they move forward in the story they develop an unbreakable bond of friendship (no one left behind). They are all orphans in a school where kids are drugged and watch others go into "The Room" never to be seen again. They know they have to escape or something drastic will happen to them and began planning their escape. Gabby has written a tale that is exceptionally well planned and keeps you reading as you are pulled into this world and experience the emotions, the action, twists & turns, ups & downs along with the characters. I am very impressed with the ability of Gabby to write a story with such phenomenal depth. I am anxiously looking forward to the sequel to see what Gabby has planned for us. I highly recommend this book. Received a copy and this is my voluntary and honest review.
February 17, 2019
So... Here goes my review... I also received the is as an ARC, started reading this and this book is long and it does kinda have you feeling like your jumping from one scene to another , I did like the adventure, could have a little more steam or romance , was kinda drawn out , and yes at times I felt like the book was losing my attention and I wanted to give it up , but no I kept reading cause I wanted to give this new author a chance . I read a lot of books and give a lot of reviews, some of the books I don't even finish , just bad , but you have at least to give these new author a the chance to shine. Overall I'd like to see if book 2 will be a little more adventurous, maybe a little more in the romance department , something to keep the reader's attention going till the end of the book and saying this book ROCKS !! Bravo Gabby for writing your book !! Hope to see more !!! This book was reviewed by a Book Loving Vixen..
February 21, 2019
ONE INTENSE READ!!!
OMG! Man, talk about one wild rollercoaster ride. A whirlwind of emotions and events that feed from the excitement and nerve racking tension that brings this bad boy roaring to life brilliantly. All twists and turns, ups and downs, along with a few glitches and bumps here and there pull you deeper into this raging storyline and hard hitting plot. Throw in all the drama, intrigue, uncertainty, fear, danger and suspense and you have one intense, page turning bombshell that grabs your attention and holds it from start to finish. The characters are complex and so believable it feels like you can just reach out and touch them. The scenes are so graphic and detailed it really pulls this bad boy together beautifully. You have no trouble picturing every scenario as it plays out perfectly. Gabby definitely nailed this bad boy 100% on point with such realism it really pulls this treasure together flawlessly. Remarkable job Gabby, thanks for sharing this little guy with us.
OMG! Man, talk about one wild rollercoaster ride. A whirlwind of emotions and events that feed from the excitement and nerve racking tension that brings this bad boy roaring to life brilliantly. All twists and turns, ups and downs, along with a few glitches and bumps here and there pull you deeper into this raging storyline and hard hitting plot. Throw in all the drama, intrigue, uncertainty, fear, danger and suspense and you have one intense, page turning bombshell that grabs your attention and holds it from start to finish. The characters are complex and so believable it feels like you can just reach out and touch them. The scenes are so graphic and detailed it really pulls this bad boy together beautifully. You have no trouble picturing every scenario as it plays out perfectly. Gabby definitely nailed this bad boy 100% on point with such realism it really pulls this treasure together flawlessly. Remarkable job Gabby, thanks for sharing this little guy with us.
February 22, 2019
I received this book as an ARC! First ever published book from Gabby Fawkes was not a disappointment!
When I first started the book it felt a bit disjointed to me, you’re thrust into a scene with no idea where you are or what’s going on. I assume it was meant as jumbled thoughts in a teenagers mind. I think if there was either a prologue or a bit more character/scene introduction this could have been avoided. Thankfully after the first couple chapters, once the meds have stopped, things become a bit more focused and easier to follow.
There are also many editing oversights that can be fixed by the next installment, poor wording or phrasing, spelling, or wrong words entirely.
Overall this was an amazing storyline, the book engages you quickly making you not want to put it down. The characters are very detailed and you feel like you can relate to them. A great storyline and I cannot wait for the next one.
When I first started the book it felt a bit disjointed to me, you’re thrust into a scene with no idea where you are or what’s going on. I assume it was meant as jumbled thoughts in a teenagers mind. I think if there was either a prologue or a bit more character/scene introduction this could have been avoided. Thankfully after the first couple chapters, once the meds have stopped, things become a bit more focused and easier to follow.
There are also many editing oversights that can be fixed by the next installment, poor wording or phrasing, spelling, or wrong words entirely.
Overall this was an amazing storyline, the book engages you quickly making you not want to put it down. The characters are very detailed and you feel like you can relate to them. A great storyline and I cannot wait for the next one.
February 21, 2019
Tala and her friends are orphans; as such, they find themselves in an institution: The School For The Different. Drugged and dazed, they watch as one by one their fellow students “leave” or “graduate”, never to be seen again. Tala, Demi and Tian are constantly in trouble with the staff, breaking the rules and out after curfew. But Tala has a knowing; something isn’t right at the school… not to mention the strange voice in her head … “Burn them, burn them all…”
Desperate to escape, the three friends discuss and discard many plans; that is, until the day their friend Jeremy is taken to The Room. Then all bets are off….
Riveting! This book grabbed my attention from the first sentence! Action packed with twists and turns and a merging of mythology with magic that’s unique and fresh! Loved every sentence! Can’t wait
Desperate to escape, the three friends discuss and discard many plans; that is, until the day their friend Jeremy is taken to The Room. Then all bets are off….
Riveting! This book grabbed my attention from the first sentence! Action packed with twists and turns and a merging of mythology with magic that’s unique and fresh! Loved every sentence! Can’t wait
February 19, 2019
Tala and her friends are introduced as orphans attending The School for the Different. They are medicated for supposed mood disorders and not allowed to leave the school. After classmates are taken away under mysterious circumstances. Tala and a few friends manage to escape and encounter Axel, otherwise known as the Greek god Ares. He takes them to Olympus, where they learn about themselves and their skills. This book will definitely appeal to the YA audience but, as an adult, I enjoyed it also. It might do me good to brush up mythological studies but I think the story details enough information to let the personality traits of the gods shine through. With the addition of shifters and witches, readers won’t be able to help being intrigued.
March 7, 2019
Gabby Fawkes has created a stunning debut novel twisted with urban fantasy and Greek mythology!
To start off, I loved how the start of this book consisted of Tala and her friends at school, trying to figure out what was wrong with it. It just swept me in!
As the story went on and Tala and her friends discovered that magic was indeed real I just couldn’t stop reading!
I didn’t expect Greek mythology would come into play but I loved that it did! How tala reacted in this magic filled world and learning of her powers was amazing! It did take me a little bit to read this book since the plot was a bit slow at times but it was an amazing debut and I’m sure it will pick up in book 2!
This read was unlike any urban fantasy book I’ve read before!
To start off, I loved how the start of this book consisted of Tala and her friends at school, trying to figure out what was wrong with it. It just swept me in!
As the story went on and Tala and her friends discovered that magic was indeed real I just couldn’t stop reading!
I didn’t expect Greek mythology would come into play but I loved that it did! How tala reacted in this magic filled world and learning of her powers was amazing! It did take me a little bit to read this book since the plot was a bit slow at times but it was an amazing debut and I’m sure it will pick up in book 2!
This read was unlike any urban fantasy book I’ve read before!
February 18, 2019
Absolutely Fascinating story
This is a fantastic story to read. You got all sorts of magic along with shifters and demigods. This is also a clean type romance suitable for all age groups.
This story starts out in a school for the different and the main characters about to graduate soon. There is some strange stuff about the school and when one of the friends gets taken away a few others rebel. And that’s starts a new adventure for them.
Had I not known it, I would never have been able to tell this is a new author. This story is so very well written with a very entertaining storyline.
I highly recommend this story.
This is a fantastic story to read. You got all sorts of magic along with shifters and demigods. This is also a clean type romance suitable for all age groups.
This story starts out in a school for the different and the main characters about to graduate soon. There is some strange stuff about the school and when one of the friends gets taken away a few others rebel. And that’s starts a new adventure for them.
Had I not known it, I would never have been able to tell this is a new author. This story is so very well written with a very entertaining storyline.
I highly recommend this story.
February 19, 2019
I’ll admit, I wasn’t quite sure how so many different genres of fantasy were going to fit in one book, but this book did it quite well. Tala has a fire inside of her (if you’ll excuse the joke) that leads her to believe something sinister is going on in her school. She’s like a lot of teen girls trying to figure out what’s going on in the world around her when suddenly everything explodes and she and her friends are forced to make a very quick and life changing choice. I hope you all enjoy Tala’s adventure as much as I did and I can’t wait for the next installment of the series! Excellent start to what I’m sure is going to be an excellent career for Gabby Fawkes!
February 22, 2019
Inspiration strikes after reading Riggs', Rowling's books, drop in a few Roman Gods & Goddess & that resulted in the birth of Fawkes' debut of a YA/fantasy novel, Tala Phoenix and the School of Secrets. (This is a spoiler free review, you just have to read the book & review for yourselves.)
There is a sense of mystery, adventure, drama, someone who says this isn't right, I'm gonna go unravel the truth, good guys & bad guys, twists & turns. At times, it got slow & repetitive for me like she & the characters kept repeating themselves in every few paragraphs throughout the book. It'd be interesting to see where book 2 takes us.
(I received an ARC for an honest review.)
There is a sense of mystery, adventure, drama, someone who says this isn't right, I'm gonna go unravel the truth, good guys & bad guys, twists & turns. At times, it got slow & repetitive for me like she & the characters kept repeating themselves in every few paragraphs throughout the book. It'd be interesting to see where book 2 takes us.
(I received an ARC for an honest review.)
March 10, 2019
Amazing first book!!! 😍... To be honest, I didn't expect this book to be this good, I mean this is Gaby's first book ever... But this ladie proved me wrong... Of course her writing needs a little polish, but damn, I couldn't stop reading, I'm immediately fell for the bond Tala, Kian and Demi have, amazing girls, in spite of their youth, they're so loyal, brave, determined, figthing to save their friends, from a truth and an enemy they're don't really understand yet... Oh and the Greek gods they find as allies, man!!!... You totally got me Gaby, magic, shifters, dragons, hot Greek gods... Can't wait for the next book to release!!! 🤓🤩❤️
February 18, 2019
Overall this was a very good story. The pace of the story wasn't slow nor was it too fast. It held you captive with wanting to turn to the next page. The characters were a wide variety of characters, each with their own quirks. There was also good bit of mystery that keep you guessing. The only issue I had was I did not some grammar and punctuation issues. Just needs another editing, I am kinda a stickler for it so it was a little bumpy at times with me reading. All in all I am interested in seeing where it goes.
February 21, 2019
What a lovely surprise this book was, Debut Novels can sometimes be jumpy and confusing but this storey flowed nicely. The characters were well described, easily pictured and everything flowed nicely. The storey line was well written well but lacked a certain amount of tension and suspence in certain areas but that said i did enjoy reading the book and am looking forward to watching this author grow and blossom. Aimed at the teenage / young adult market but I do feel that a bit of heat & sexual tension between Axel and Tala wouldn't go a miss and would add interest to the storey.
February 22, 2019
Honestly, this is a great book. There is so much going on throughout this book! It's exciting and thrilling! I just wanted to jump on my own flying horse and join in! I love the mythology aspect mixed with a "Divergent"/"Harry Potter" feel to it. Then you add in humor, romance, horror, heroism, and just heart wrenching hopefulness and you want to cheer and fight and cry and love too. I cant wait for the next book!!
A received this book as an ARC reader so that I could submit an honest review of this book for other readers.
A received this book as an ARC reader so that I could submit an honest review of this book for other readers.
February 24, 2019
Absolutely intriguing!
I love a book doesn’t give away all its secrets right away. This author does a fantastic job of creating a world that is mysterious and fantastic at the same time. What on earth are the people running the school doing? How did all the children get there? There are SO many questions and only some are answered during this journey. I love the camaraderie between the characters and the action filled with magic! Loved the mythology tie in as well.
Overall fantastic debut by this author! Looking forward to reading more!
I love a book doesn’t give away all its secrets right away. This author does a fantastic job of creating a world that is mysterious and fantastic at the same time. What on earth are the people running the school doing? How did all the children get there? There are SO many questions and only some are answered during this journey. I love the camaraderie between the characters and the action filled with magic! Loved the mythology tie in as well.
Overall fantastic debut by this author! Looking forward to reading more!
March 3, 2019
This is a unique take on how paranormal kids grow up. I wasn't expecting this story to go as it had. I was quite impressed. It was a little slow getting into at the start but really picked up after the girls escaped. I loved reading about the Gods in a different light. Definitely another wonderful surprise. I feel the characters were well developed and this author really nailed it! This is my first book to read by her and now I am a fan of her work. I look forward to following this series. I was given this free review copy at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
March 16, 2019
Really enjoyed the premise! Unique and draws you in! A group of teens are having their supernatural-ness suppressed by their creepy boarding school without their knowledge. They are all in for a surprise when they find out some interesting things about themselves. It’s fun that there are different types of supernaturals, and I enjoyed the mystery element. The writing could’ve flowed a little better, but overall, Fawkes did a good job with her debut book. The world was interesting too, and it’s an entertaining adventure. Looking forward to more!
April 12, 2019
Tala Phoenix
Tala Phoenix I really enjoyed reading this book. Good story line , likable characters. I enjoyed the school of the different. She did a good job writing and creating this book. She left a great lead up to figuring out a part of what was going on and the great friendship bond that kept them striving to help each other. I just would have liked more description on the dragon color looks appearance. Not an compliant just an suggestion. Looking forward to the next book !
Tala Phoenix I really enjoyed reading this book. Good story line , likable characters. I enjoyed the school of the different. She did a good job writing and creating this book. She left a great lead up to figuring out a part of what was going on and the great friendship bond that kept them striving to help each other. I just would have liked more description on the dragon color looks appearance. Not an compliant just an suggestion. Looking forward to the next book !
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