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Phoenix Rising #5
Blaze of Wrath
Politics are a deadly game, and things are heating up. As winter sets in, my mates and I are in a careful dance as we try to avoid the Council's suspicions and gain acceptance into the rebellion. Every secret we uncover is more deadly than the last, as the truth of the Council is brought to light. It's not just the Council we have to watch - the rebellion is hiding secrets of their own, and the challenges they set may be enough to break our family to pieces. Will we be able to make it through the trials whole, or will we go up in a Blaze of Wrath?
*Warning this book contains scenes and references of abuse that some readers may find triggering. This book also contains some m/m themes.*
*Warning this book contains scenes and references of abuse that some readers may find triggering. This book also contains some m/m themes.*
310 pages, Paperback
Published August 15, 2019
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 180 reviews
November 2, 2019
Every author everywhere repeat after me: if your female main character has suffered severe abuse and sexual assault in her past the guys dominating her in the bedroom isn't sexy. People abused this way cannot enjoy that kind of play, they are literally being re traumatized and the guys are super creepy @$$holes for m ever even crossing that line with her. And I'll hit you until you like yourself is not sexy and not okay even if she orgasms. That is abuse. Stop writing this b.s. you are harming actual people who read this and think that kind of abuse is ok because some idiot writer wrote that this is what true love looks like. It's not. And their harm is on your shoulders. If you are adults who don't have trauma in your past that is a different story, but someone who was physically and sexually abused her entire childhood and has only been out of that situation for a few months is just being further abused by guys who are supposed to be her true mates.
Beyond that b.s. the story goes increasingly choppy as it progresses without thought as to what was previously said. She goes off for a date, runs into trouble minutes into the date, and her first thought is the guys will come looking for us soon. No they won't! You just left on a date! It will be hours before anyone thinks you are missing! And them being sent on the mountain makes literally no sense. We are going to put people we don't trust yet in a position to save some of our most vulnerable people in a situation that is incredibly risky to them and when they get therr there will be there for literally five minutes before being sent back like they didn't just hike the hardest peake for days?!? And what about the fact they have no time to stop and rest to let their creatures recharge to safely cross but then five minutes later have time to stop for an entire night with no repercussions?!?!! Think things through. Where are your beta readers?
Each book in this series has disappointed me more than the previous. Arthurs needs to slow down, take time to focus on the writing, make sure everything makes sense, that she doesn't have continued errors, and really improve the product she is putting out and stop with the abuse equals love b.s. hitting the person to make them.like themselves is abuse. Always.
Beyond that b.s. the story goes increasingly choppy as it progresses without thought as to what was previously said. She goes off for a date, runs into trouble minutes into the date, and her first thought is the guys will come looking for us soon. No they won't! You just left on a date! It will be hours before anyone thinks you are missing! And them being sent on the mountain makes literally no sense. We are going to put people we don't trust yet in a position to save some of our most vulnerable people in a situation that is incredibly risky to them and when they get therr there will be there for literally five minutes before being sent back like they didn't just hike the hardest peake for days?!? And what about the fact they have no time to stop and rest to let their creatures recharge to safely cross but then five minutes later have time to stop for an entire night with no repercussions?!?!! Think things through. Where are your beta readers?
Each book in this series has disappointed me more than the previous. Arthurs needs to slow down, take time to focus on the writing, make sure everything makes sense, that she doesn't have continued errors, and really improve the product she is putting out and stop with the abuse equals love b.s. hitting the person to make them.like themselves is abuse. Always.
September 25, 2019
I really enjoyed the first 2 books of this series, and then it started going downhill for me after that. This one though...I barely liked it.
*Spoilers*
I don't think the Nix matches her backstory. I know the authors have defended this, but I just don't agree (which is okay). Our MC was murdered over and over for years and years, and I'm supposed to believe that she's so well adjusted after 3 months...I just don't buy it. It's not believable to me. That kind of trauma is astounding and should takes years to overcome. Even if Nix was a crazy adaptable person (which she isn't really described as such), it's still too fast. It's like the authors wanted to make the worst backstory they could imagine, but not write the effects of it.
Also, I could care less about Joshua. I liked the idea of him being outside the original 5, but there was no character progression, so when he left at the end, I was like, "Okay, bye."
The last three books just haven't done it for me the way the first two did.
*Spoilers*
I don't think the Nix matches her backstory. I know the authors have defended this, but I just don't agree (which is okay). Our MC was murdered over and over for years and years, and I'm supposed to believe that she's so well adjusted after 3 months...I just don't buy it. It's not believable to me. That kind of trauma is astounding and should takes years to overcome. Even if Nix was a crazy adaptable person (which she isn't really described as such), it's still too fast. It's like the authors wanted to make the worst backstory they could imagine, but not write the effects of it.
Also, I could care less about Joshua. I liked the idea of him being outside the original 5, but there was no character progression, so when he left at the end, I was like, "Okay, bye."
The last three books just haven't done it for me the way the first two did.
July 18, 2020
I nearly give this book 1 star but the ending was unexpected and actually made me tear up so 2. I honestly hated parts of this book. This book is like season 7 of Game of Thrones. Lots of flaws people are willing to over look based on how good the 1st few book were. I have a feeling it’s just going to get worse from here. I hope not. This series has so much potential. Author needs to read back book 1. Abuse victims aren’t fixed just because someone loves them.
...
...
Kinda Spoiler-ish:
-The council is after you go on a mission for the rebellion that would take days. Do you have a cover story? Nope. Do you take a different vehicle to the airport? Nope. Nothing was done to cover their tracks and the ending was a result of their stupidity like tf.
-I always felt meh about Hiro because he’s on of those characters who wasn’t written properly you can take him out and replace him with a lamp and the story will progress. In that particular chapter 😩 I couldn’t. I didn’t even read it I skimmed over after he was talking about teaching her a lesson and was just like nope. Nix was a used for years and a few months later someone she claims to love is going to do that to her. If they wanted to include some BDSM make her the dom. You’ll be able to justify that.
-The Nix of book 1 and 2 is not the Nix now. I hate how she’s miraculously fixed without counseling. Why didn’t anyone suggest her getting help. She was abused for yeeeears and murdered every few days and let’s not forget she was also raped. I really thought this series was going to go somewhere else. She can deal with people touching her not looking for the nearest exit and is skittish. The guys are really Killian and Hiro needs to go. Ryker is meh I thought they were going to do something with his storyline. So far this book as soooo much plot holes I’m just trying to finish it at this point don’t think I’ll read book 7 though. Thank God for kindle unlimited because if I paid for this book individually I would have been pissed.
...
...
Kinda Spoiler-ish:
-The council is after you go on a mission for the rebellion that would take days. Do you have a cover story? Nope. Do you take a different vehicle to the airport? Nope. Nothing was done to cover their tracks and the ending was a result of their stupidity like tf.
-I always felt meh about Hiro because he’s on of those characters who wasn’t written properly you can take him out and replace him with a lamp and the story will progress. In that particular chapter 😩 I couldn’t. I didn’t even read it I skimmed over after he was talking about teaching her a lesson and was just like nope. Nix was a used for years and a few months later someone she claims to love is going to do that to her. If they wanted to include some BDSM make her the dom. You’ll be able to justify that.
-The Nix of book 1 and 2 is not the Nix now. I hate how she’s miraculously fixed without counseling. Why didn’t anyone suggest her getting help. She was abused for yeeeears and murdered every few days and let’s not forget she was also raped. I really thought this series was going to go somewhere else. She can deal with people touching her not looking for the nearest exit and is skittish. The guys are really Killian and Hiro needs to go. Ryker is meh I thought they were going to do something with his storyline. So far this book as soooo much plot holes I’m just trying to finish it at this point don’t think I’ll read book 7 though. Thank God for kindle unlimited because if I paid for this book individually I would have been pissed.
August 20, 2019
I love this series so much!!! I've got to have more Theo times! Gimme the next book now please!
skimmed
February 17, 2020Skimming for Hiro and Ryder.
It’s interesting, because I skimmed this entire series - at its core, I think it was way too long winded for me, but I like how these authors construct characters - I was invested in their relationship :)
It’s interesting, because I skimmed this entire series - at its core, I think it was way too long winded for me, but I like how these authors construct characters - I was invested in their relationship :)
September 15, 2019
3.75 Star
I feel like this series is beginning to drag a wee bit. I still love these characters but the plot is slow.
I feel like this series is beginning to drag a wee bit. I still love these characters but the plot is slow.
August 10, 2023
The one thing any governing body likes is a rebellion. So of course when the council hears of their existence they try to wipe them out so they can remain in power. Unfortunately this series has finally taken a darker turn now that the council is aware and at least aware of betrayals from within. Nyx and her guys have to be on the run and I'm not sure what this means for them. I'm still shocked she added another guy to the harem bringing it up to 6 guys but Joshua is a nice addition to the group. Good thing she can regenerate because that's a whole lotta guys to keep entertained ;P It's cool that everyone is starting to exhibit new traits-if not whole new powers so I'm really excited for this explosive end I feel is on the horizon.
April 4, 2020
I've really enjoyed this series, and though this book is no different it still lacked some in the plot... Admittedly, I thought this was the last one. But it really doesn't read as such. I'm all for adding more men to a harem, when it's done in a good way. But to add someone 5 books in, seems like a disaster waiting to happen. How will they ever get a fair shot? Especially, when it's a new character... I don't know, to me he never stood a chance and I didn't like how any of them treated him. Least of all Nix who's all like "if my other mates don't agree, I'll basically reject you". Well jeez, don't make him feel too welcome!
While I'm all for some sexy times and especially when it's a hot mix of MM, MFM, MMFMM (basically all the M's). But that seemed to be the majority of the book?? Sure, there was talk about the future, danger and all that drama. But I didn't really feel it. At least not till the end..... but boy what an end!!
To me, though, the worst was that I felt there was so many loose ends.
I know there's at least one more book coming, but still... it was things that I felt was treated as inconsequential, despite how much they were built up.
I'm so gutted the next one isn't out, because I am dying to see what happens now.
As for all the hate about Nix enjoying some light BDSM... get over it, people!
There's no handbook for how abuse victims needs to act. For some it will be a turn off and a trigger, for some it'll be what they crave... and for some it'll be something they're curious about.
If someone enjoys rape role play, can they not still be raped? Stop trying to be the sex police and tell people how others should act. Let's instead celebrate the individuality we're all entitled to!
While I'm all for some sexy times and especially when it's a hot mix of MM, MFM, MMFMM (basically all the M's). But that seemed to be the majority of the book?? Sure, there was talk about the future, danger and all that drama. But I didn't really feel it. At least not till the end..... but boy what an end!!
To me, though, the worst was that I felt there was so many loose ends.
I know there's at least one more book coming, but still... it was things that I felt was treated as inconsequential, despite how much they were built up.
I'm so gutted the next one isn't out, because I am dying to see what happens now.
As for all the hate about Nix enjoying some light BDSM... get over it, people!
There's no handbook for how abuse victims needs to act. For some it will be a turn off and a trigger, for some it'll be what they crave... and for some it'll be something they're curious about.
If someone enjoys rape role play, can they not still be raped? Stop trying to be the sex police and tell people how others should act. Let's instead celebrate the individuality we're all entitled to!
October 6, 2019
Couldn't finish it
I read the other four books and was looking forward to this book. I was disapointed. Yes sir ..and spankings on an abuse victim and she was totally ok with it. It wasn't even sexy spankings. It was that creepy demeaning don't talk unless I tell you or I'll punish you spankings. On someone who has been raped and murdered. Even if you can possibly believe that she was ok with this....i can't like the dude shes with anymore cuz ew. What kind of person who knows their "loved one" has been through that would even try that? Just couldnt get past it. Actually gave me a panic attack.
I read the other four books and was looking forward to this book. I was disapointed. Yes sir ..and spankings on an abuse victim and she was totally ok with it. It wasn't even sexy spankings. It was that creepy demeaning don't talk unless I tell you or I'll punish you spankings. On someone who has been raped and murdered. Even if you can possibly believe that she was ok with this....i can't like the dude shes with anymore cuz ew. What kind of person who knows their "loved one" has been through that would even try that? Just couldnt get past it. Actually gave me a panic attack.
August 28, 2019
Get ready to cry
Steamy? Check
Funny? Check
Drama? Check
Action? Check
Mystery? Check
Crying for the last fifth of the book?...Check
This fifth instalment has everything I loved about the first couple of books in it.
Spoiler?
I do feel as though Joshua gets a really raw end of the deal, he gets the least time with Nix due to jealousy and not knowing he’s a true mate and then by the end, sacrifices himself to stay behind and spy on the Council. I kind of want a few chapters where there’s no drama and the WHOLE harem can just enjoy one another’s company.
Steamy? Check
Funny? Check
Drama? Check
Action? Check
Mystery? Check
Crying for the last fifth of the book?...Check
This fifth instalment has everything I loved about the first couple of books in it.
Spoiler?
I do feel as though Joshua gets a really raw end of the deal, he gets the least time with Nix due to jealousy and not knowing he’s a true mate and then by the end, sacrifices himself to stay behind and spy on the Council. I kind of want a few chapters where there’s no drama and the WHOLE harem can just enjoy one another’s company.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 17, 2019
Omg what is there to say about this series that hasn’t been said before I love it. Such amazing characters. Will have you laughing one minute and crying the next.
But the end of the book fucking hell I still can’t believe it, was in tears reading the last chapter and then there is the last couple of pages totally heartbreaking 💔
Well and truly worth the read can’t wait for book 6. Thanks for another amazing book guys xx
But the end of the book fucking hell I still can’t believe it, was in tears reading the last chapter and then there is the last couple of pages totally heartbreaking 💔
Well and truly worth the read can’t wait for book 6. Thanks for another amazing book guys xx
February 11, 2026
The emotional punches continue, I nearly cried at the end of this book.
There's a surprise for the group, but was a expected development (if you noted the signs) for the group.
There's passion and spice, but not as much smex as the last book.
More importantly the troubles in the shifter world are breaking out and war is coming.
I'm still enjoying the characters and I'm not tired of the series yet. The series, although it has heavy and triggering past drama, isn't that heavy...well not as much as it could be. The angst doesn't twist into the series, and to me it's pretty light even with the pretence and council issues.
I was surprised when I'm reminded it's only been 3 months so far, because so much has happened and it should be exhausting, but it's just not. maybe with more drives into the spliced DNA children, lost family, reminders of the past trauma and more show of impact from that trauma...it just seems to skim the top of deeper angst, but doesn't dive into that darkness if that makes sense.
Bad news if you read this through audio format, it's still disappointing. good news I'm nearly use to it...6 books in and nearly use it...yea it's not really good news. But get past the audio and enjoy the book.
4ish stars
Anyway onwards
There's a surprise for the group, but was a expected development (if you noted the signs) for the group.
There's passion and spice, but not as much smex as the last book.
More importantly the troubles in the shifter world are breaking out and war is coming.
I'm still enjoying the characters and I'm not tired of the series yet. The series, although it has heavy and triggering past drama, isn't that heavy...well not as much as it could be. The angst doesn't twist into the series, and to me it's pretty light even with the pretence and council issues.
I was surprised when I'm reminded it's only been 3 months so far, because so much has happened and it should be exhausting, but it's just not. maybe with more drives into the spliced DNA children, lost family, reminders of the past trauma and more show of impact from that trauma...it just seems to skim the top of deeper angst, but doesn't dive into that darkness if that makes sense.
Bad news if you read this through audio format, it's still disappointing. good news I'm nearly use to it...6 books in and nearly use it...yea it's not really good news. But get past the audio and enjoy the book.
4ish stars
Anyway onwards
May 16, 2020
Expected more from this series. This installment to the series felt very rushed in comparison to the previous books. The story line was still compelling with a great climactic ending, but it felt that the usual attention to detail I have come to expect from this series was lacking. Looking forward to the next installment, but was disappointed with the brevity of book 5.
September 28, 2020
4.5 rounded up
But of a brutal ending.... actually, a very brutal ending, not just a bit. Emotional, angst filled and dangerous is the name of this installment. The Phoenix is rising, and her incredibly strong mates are with her. Nicely done.
But of a brutal ending.... actually, a very brutal ending, not just a bit. Emotional, angst filled and dangerous is the name of this installment. The Phoenix is rising, and her incredibly strong mates are with her. Nicely done.
Read
April 1, 2021dnf @14%
September 11, 2022
I would like to express my deep deep appreciation and thanks for the Author's Note in this book!!
It is raw, honest and empowering!! And I would only like to add that people should not generalize what does or doesn't work for them to be the standard for someone else.
For those who haven't read the author's note in this book, I would like to share it (hopefully with approval of both author's) as I think a big part of this statement should be more available to people who have opinions about what does or doesn't apply to survivor's of abuse. I would love to see more author's who write about these subjects to make it so clear that one should never be censured or ashamed of what gives someone pleasure as long as it is consensual for all involved!
Authors’ Note:
As Harper and I were getting things finalized for Blaze of Wrath and getting feedback in, an issue arose that we thought needed to be addressed. It's been hinted at before in our books, but some of our characters are into BDSM. Now, this book isn't classified as dark, so you don't have to worry there. But something we've gotten feedback for (including hate mail and negative reviews) is that Nix shouldn't be enjoying vanilla sex, let alone BDSM and group sex. As an abuse survivor, this is incredibly derogatory and I wanted to address it. Being a survivor of abuse means MANY different things, and everyone's experience is going to be different. Nix is the brainchild of both Harper and I, and as such, some of what she handles is based on our experiences. As a survivor of sexual abuse, many of Nix’s reactions are based on my personal experience with sex and how I react, so it is drawn from real life. It has always been our goal to keep this seriesas realistic as possible, but we would like to remind our readers that everyone’s experiences are going to differ greatly. There is no right way to cope or deal with abuse. Again, I highlight that it is different for everyone, but, to clarify that, please remember: Being a survivor does not always mean you hate all sex. Being a survivor does not always mean that you have panic attacks or flashbacks at every single encounter. Being a survivor does not mean always mean that things that have caused panic attacks in the past will continue to cause them in the present or in the future. Being a survivor does not always mean that you can't enjoy rough sex or even BDSM - for some survivors they prefer BDSM because it is different from their experience. Sometimes it is "normal" sex that can be a problem because it most closely resembles what they lived through. Being a survivor does not always mean that your triggers make sense; some things you expect to be sensitive to, you aren’t; some things you don't realize bother you pop up at the worst, mostunexpected times. For some, it may mean all of these things. For some, it may mean none of these things. And all of that is okay. Nix, in particular, has a problem with weight directly on top of her impeding her breathing. She has other triggers as well that you may pick up on and see crop up now and again. BDSM, and other kinks, are not in and of themselves triggers for Nix, nor for many others. Nix is a character, but she's still a person. Survivors need to do whatever it takes to make them happy and whole. More of Nix's back story will come to light as she is comfortable revealing it to her mates. She will enjoy many different kinks with her mates. She'll grow as a person and find things that she likes and dislikes. She'll communicate with them and develop a healthy, fulfilling sex life. And we hope that you enjoy her journey along the way. To all my survivors out there, I'm so sorry for what you've been through, and I'm so proud of where you are today. You're not alone, and support is always here if you need it. Be happy. You've earned it. I hope Nix has helped to ease your burden just a little, as she has helped mine.
Love,Quinn (and Harper)
Ooh and for those who didn't understand yet, I highly recommend this series! 😘
It is raw, honest and empowering!! And I would only like to add that people should not generalize what does or doesn't work for them to be the standard for someone else.
For those who haven't read the author's note in this book, I would like to share it (hopefully with approval of both author's) as I think a big part of this statement should be more available to people who have opinions about what does or doesn't apply to survivor's of abuse. I would love to see more author's who write about these subjects to make it so clear that one should never be censured or ashamed of what gives someone pleasure as long as it is consensual for all involved!
Authors’ Note:
As Harper and I were getting things finalized for Blaze of Wrath and getting feedback in, an issue arose that we thought needed to be addressed. It's been hinted at before in our books, but some of our characters are into BDSM. Now, this book isn't classified as dark, so you don't have to worry there. But something we've gotten feedback for (including hate mail and negative reviews) is that Nix shouldn't be enjoying vanilla sex, let alone BDSM and group sex. As an abuse survivor, this is incredibly derogatory and I wanted to address it. Being a survivor of abuse means MANY different things, and everyone's experience is going to be different. Nix is the brainchild of both Harper and I, and as such, some of what she handles is based on our experiences. As a survivor of sexual abuse, many of Nix’s reactions are based on my personal experience with sex and how I react, so it is drawn from real life. It has always been our goal to keep this seriesas realistic as possible, but we would like to remind our readers that everyone’s experiences are going to differ greatly. There is no right way to cope or deal with abuse. Again, I highlight that it is different for everyone, but, to clarify that, please remember: Being a survivor does not always mean you hate all sex. Being a survivor does not always mean that you have panic attacks or flashbacks at every single encounter. Being a survivor does not mean always mean that things that have caused panic attacks in the past will continue to cause them in the present or in the future. Being a survivor does not always mean that you can't enjoy rough sex or even BDSM - for some survivors they prefer BDSM because it is different from their experience. Sometimes it is "normal" sex that can be a problem because it most closely resembles what they lived through. Being a survivor does not always mean that your triggers make sense; some things you expect to be sensitive to, you aren’t; some things you don't realize bother you pop up at the worst, mostunexpected times. For some, it may mean all of these things. For some, it may mean none of these things. And all of that is okay. Nix, in particular, has a problem with weight directly on top of her impeding her breathing. She has other triggers as well that you may pick up on and see crop up now and again. BDSM, and other kinks, are not in and of themselves triggers for Nix, nor for many others. Nix is a character, but she's still a person. Survivors need to do whatever it takes to make them happy and whole. More of Nix's back story will come to light as she is comfortable revealing it to her mates. She will enjoy many different kinks with her mates. She'll grow as a person and find things that she likes and dislikes. She'll communicate with them and develop a healthy, fulfilling sex life. And we hope that you enjoy her journey along the way. To all my survivors out there, I'm so sorry for what you've been through, and I'm so proud of where you are today. You're not alone, and support is always here if you need it. Be happy. You've earned it. I hope Nix has helped to ease your burden just a little, as she has helped mine.
Love,Quinn (and Harper)
Ooh and for those who didn't understand yet, I highly recommend this series! 😘
May 2, 2022
*some mild spoilers for previous books*
I’ve loved this series up until this point, but I’ve got some major grievances with this entry.
Firstly, what nearly made me throw the whole series away: for Christ’s sake why did that scene with Hero and Nix need to take place? Nix has experienced constant abuse during her life and a previous sexual assault. Doing a bdsm scene with no prior discussion of limits, safewords, or even telling Nix what was going to happen, was not it. In what world would Nix, someone who we have seen to have severe PTSD, be ok with bondage and impact play. I don’t see how Nix has gotten over her triggers so quickly, they’ve been completely forgotten in this book and this scene in particular was incredibly disappointing and awful to read.
Moving past that, this book and the previous book have felt like filler. This series should have been far shorter. It drags constantly, the pacing all over the place. There are so many unnecessary plot points that don’t further the story or the relationship between the characters.
Which brings me to Joshua. I was sceptical when they introduced him this late in the game. I loved Joshua but it didn’t feel like he fit in, and I was interested to see how the authors would integrate him into the harem. After reading this book, I gotta say they didn’t. His place feels incredibly forced and pointless. Everything that Joshua did in this book could have (and should have) been done by Damien. In fact, it would have been far more impactful if it had been done by Damien.
I’m going to continue the series as I’ve gotten this far, I can only hope that the plot quickens to come form of conclusion instead of dragging along as it felt it has the past few books. I do love Nix as a protagonist, and I love her guys. I just wish this had been more thoroughly edited and streamlined.
I’ve loved this series up until this point, but I’ve got some major grievances with this entry.
Firstly, what nearly made me throw the whole series away: for Christ’s sake why did that scene with Hero and Nix need to take place? Nix has experienced constant abuse during her life and a previous sexual assault. Doing a bdsm scene with no prior discussion of limits, safewords, or even telling Nix what was going to happen, was not it. In what world would Nix, someone who we have seen to have severe PTSD, be ok with bondage and impact play. I don’t see how Nix has gotten over her triggers so quickly, they’ve been completely forgotten in this book and this scene in particular was incredibly disappointing and awful to read.
Moving past that, this book and the previous book have felt like filler. This series should have been far shorter. It drags constantly, the pacing all over the place. There are so many unnecessary plot points that don’t further the story or the relationship between the characters.
Which brings me to Joshua. I was sceptical when they introduced him this late in the game. I loved Joshua but it didn’t feel like he fit in, and I was interested to see how the authors would integrate him into the harem. After reading this book, I gotta say they didn’t. His place feels incredibly forced and pointless. Everything that Joshua did in this book could have (and should have) been done by Damien. In fact, it would have been far more impactful if it had been done by Damien.
I’m going to continue the series as I’ve gotten this far, I can only hope that the plot quickens to come form of conclusion instead of dragging along as it felt it has the past few books. I do love Nix as a protagonist, and I love her guys. I just wish this had been more thoroughly edited and streamlined.
August 18, 2019
Blaze of Wrath (Phoenix Rising Book 5) Kindle Edition
by Harper Wylde (Author), Quinn Arthurs (Author)
I borrowed this book via the Kindle Unlimited program and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Wow! Just gobsmacking wow!
I'm a huge fan of this series, tearing through each of the installments with alacrity. Ms. Wylde and Ms. Arthurs are masters at this genre of RH combined with supernatural intrigue, and this is the best of the series so far.
Joshua, the basilisk, joins Nix's family as the last of her fated soul mates. The finally finished family has to prove themselves to the rebellion and still keep their covers. Things never go quite as planned and the end was a shock and a stunning zig when I thought they would zag.
There is plenty of smexy time but it isn't the center of the story. Rather, the growing rebellion and the stress it puts on Nix and her 6 mates takes center place. The twists and dangerous turns the story takes are … wow! Just gobsmacking!
I can't recommend this series enough!
5 stars out of 5.
https://www.amazon.com/Blaze-Wrath-Ph...
by Harper Wylde (Author), Quinn Arthurs (Author)
I borrowed this book via the Kindle Unlimited program and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Wow! Just gobsmacking wow!
I'm a huge fan of this series, tearing through each of the installments with alacrity. Ms. Wylde and Ms. Arthurs are masters at this genre of RH combined with supernatural intrigue, and this is the best of the series so far.
Joshua, the basilisk, joins Nix's family as the last of her fated soul mates. The finally finished family has to prove themselves to the rebellion and still keep their covers. Things never go quite as planned and the end was a shock and a stunning zig when I thought they would zag.
There is plenty of smexy time but it isn't the center of the story. Rather, the growing rebellion and the stress it puts on Nix and her 6 mates takes center place. The twists and dangerous turns the story takes are … wow! Just gobsmacking!
I can't recommend this series enough!
5 stars out of 5.
https://www.amazon.com/Blaze-Wrath-Ph...
September 23, 2019
So I didn’t finish this one. I’m about 23% through it and I need to stop, especially since I just found out there’s going to be a 6th book. I had to force myself to start the 5th. So, time-out for now. Maybe I’ll pick it back up later.
October 15, 2019
Why!!!
Ah these cliffhangers kill me every time. So much happened in this book. Joshua!? Council drama!? So. Much. I love this series & each book gets more intense and amazing! The ending of this book broke my heart & I can’t wait to see what happens next.
Ah these cliffhangers kill me every time. So much happened in this book. Joshua!? Council drama!? So. Much. I love this series & each book gets more intense and amazing! The ending of this book broke my heart & I can’t wait to see what happens next.
August 28, 2019
My wrath.
How dare you do this to us, you monsters. How dare. Fellow readers, stock up on tissues now, this one’s a doozy.
How dare you do this to us, you monsters. How dare. Fellow readers, stock up on tissues now, this one’s a doozy.
March 13, 2022
Alright so Book 5 really ups the ante in this series and it was just the right amount of action, suspense, angst, tension, and steam! The added rebellion tasks and secrets made for an increasingly compelling storyline. I don't want to give much away because of these twists I didnt see coming and I wouldn't want to ruin it for anyone reading.
So we get to see more development with Nix and her mates and an addition to the group which I was actually really happy to see. I had hoped something could be there after how he presented himself earlier in the series and was happy to see it was fate all along. I think he really tried to fit in with the group, going at their pace and Nix's pace. I think he is probably one of my favorite guys, because of the way people treat his alter and how genuine and just a good person despite being raised in the Council/planned to take over. I felt so bad what happened with him in the previous book and I know Nix is going to regret it for awhile and make it up to him.
The ending of the book was gut wrenching and I couldn't stop being emotional. Not because the the characters were my favorites because they did have some flaws, but the way things ended and the confessions and the heartbreak was amazing in terms of the storyline (and so devastating). We end with some intense scenes, separation, and now being on the run with the rebellion, so onward to book 6 we go! I am glad this whole series is done because I would be itching for the next audiobook haha.
I think Nix really grows in book 5 and I think starts really allowing the love of the others to help her become the woman she was always meant to be. The ordeals this group has to go through makes them stronger, makes them realize how horrible the Council has been. I also really enjoyed getting more air time with the side characters, with Nix and her girlfriends and their moms. Kieran is still a comedic addition that I love and shake my head at constantly. Love that he is going to be part of a group too, he deserves some love!
Oh and we get to see some new sides of the guys, the heat is turned up, some kinks come out haha, and I was happy with every second of it. I love M/M so getting that was great too. I also enjoyed seeing things progress with the guy couple, see them take care of Nix, and that the group can be interactive together and give pleasure to her (and sometimes play with each other a bit). One thing I did notice if they brush over some play that wasn't mentioned but said it had been happening. I am not used to that being alluded to, usually its brought up as a new experience to listen/read about. But it didnt detract from the story.
So I still am not a fan in terms of the audio of the female narrator and her accents for the guys. I have to force myself not to react when she does them. But it does see as the books get further along the male narrator has more POVs and so we don't have to endure the changing and bad accent attempts by the female narrator. So despite that, I had to give this an overall 5 stars, even if the narration was more a 3.5-4 stars.
Already onto book 7 to be honest haha, couldn't stop listening long enough to write this review before devouring 6 ❤️
So we get to see more development with Nix and her mates and an addition to the group which I was actually really happy to see. I had hoped something could be there after how he presented himself earlier in the series and was happy to see it was fate all along. I think he really tried to fit in with the group, going at their pace and Nix's pace. I think he is probably one of my favorite guys, because of the way people treat his alter and how genuine and just a good person despite being raised in the Council/planned to take over. I felt so bad what happened with him in the previous book and I know Nix is going to regret it for awhile and make it up to him.
The ending of the book was gut wrenching and I couldn't stop being emotional. Not because the the characters were my favorites because they did have some flaws, but the way things ended and the confessions and the heartbreak was amazing in terms of the storyline (and so devastating). We end with some intense scenes, separation, and now being on the run with the rebellion, so onward to book 6 we go! I am glad this whole series is done because I would be itching for the next audiobook haha.
I think Nix really grows in book 5 and I think starts really allowing the love of the others to help her become the woman she was always meant to be. The ordeals this group has to go through makes them stronger, makes them realize how horrible the Council has been. I also really enjoyed getting more air time with the side characters, with Nix and her girlfriends and their moms. Kieran is still a comedic addition that I love and shake my head at constantly. Love that he is going to be part of a group too, he deserves some love!
Oh and we get to see some new sides of the guys, the heat is turned up, some kinks come out haha, and I was happy with every second of it. I love M/M so getting that was great too. I also enjoyed seeing things progress with the guy couple, see them take care of Nix, and that the group can be interactive together and give pleasure to her (and sometimes play with each other a bit). One thing I did notice if they brush over some play that wasn't mentioned but said it had been happening. I am not used to that being alluded to, usually its brought up as a new experience to listen/read about. But it didnt detract from the story.
So I still am not a fan in terms of the audio of the female narrator and her accents for the guys. I have to force myself not to react when she does them. But it does see as the books get further along the male narrator has more POVs and so we don't have to endure the changing and bad accent attempts by the female narrator. So despite that, I had to give this an overall 5 stars, even if the narration was more a 3.5-4 stars.
Already onto book 7 to be honest haha, couldn't stop listening long enough to write this review before devouring 6 ❤️
October 15, 2023
Shifters/RH MMMMMMM/Lost Phoenix
SYNOPSIS (of 7 Book Series): This is set in the modern world world but where humans and shifters live separately. The FC (Nix) is the last phoenix. She did not know she was a shifter and has been raised by an abusive father. She escapes to university and discovers that there is a whole shifter community. The shifter community is run by a corrupt council who try to control shifters’ lives and breeding and is run by a strict class system with rare shifters at the top. The series covers the FC finding her mates and bonding with them, discovering her background and trying to bring down the corrupt council. There’s a HEA.
The books are well written and edited with only a few typing and formatting issues. On the whole this is an enjoyable series with a decent amount of world, character and relationship building. The FC is likeable and strong - although not overly kickass and each of the MCs is distinct enough in their characters to give depth and diversity in the FC interactions with them.
The sex level is hot and well written. It ramps up over the books until, for me, it became too much and went on for pages. When you’re already looking at a 7 books series the last thing it needed was more padding. I also find 6 too many for RH and into the realms of ridiculous numbers and logistics!
The problem I had with this series is that it is too long with not enough happening to justify its length. The first 2-3 Books keep moving enough as the basic story line develops and the FC meets and gets to know the different MCs but then it just seems to dry up and start dragging. I was skimming large parts of the story by Book 4. The other issue I had was that whilst the author had no issue describing some pretty gruesome things that happened to the “good guys” and showing how evil the villains were when it came to meting out vengeance the Good Guys were all - can’t kill anyone despite how hideous and evil they are. Whilst you may not want your heroes randomly killing where there is no justification books where you have truly evil villains are let down by authors who do not then give their readers a real sense of justice and closure. Finally, and lastly, the final battle was ridiculously drawn out and then, whilst you get a description of the final fight with Stepanov you don’t hear what happens to the other villains. The whole climax left me with a sense of anticlimax and disappointment. I also didn’t see the point of the epilogues which seemed to add little to the ending.
There are a few inconsistencies and gaps in the story - unclear exactly what the phoenix blood does or what happened to the people on the Island who were supposed to be moved to a different place etc.
In conclusion, a decent enough story just long and drawn out with a disappointing ending.
SYNOPSIS (of 7 Book Series): This is set in the modern world world but where humans and shifters live separately. The FC (Nix) is the last phoenix. She did not know she was a shifter and has been raised by an abusive father. She escapes to university and discovers that there is a whole shifter community. The shifter community is run by a corrupt council who try to control shifters’ lives and breeding and is run by a strict class system with rare shifters at the top. The series covers the FC finding her mates and bonding with them, discovering her background and trying to bring down the corrupt council. There’s a HEA.
The books are well written and edited with only a few typing and formatting issues. On the whole this is an enjoyable series with a decent amount of world, character and relationship building. The FC is likeable and strong - although not overly kickass and each of the MCs is distinct enough in their characters to give depth and diversity in the FC interactions with them.
The sex level is hot and well written. It ramps up over the books until, for me, it became too much and went on for pages. When you’re already looking at a 7 books series the last thing it needed was more padding. I also find 6 too many for RH and into the realms of ridiculous numbers and logistics!
The problem I had with this series is that it is too long with not enough happening to justify its length. The first 2-3 Books keep moving enough as the basic story line develops and the FC meets and gets to know the different MCs but then it just seems to dry up and start dragging. I was skimming large parts of the story by Book 4. The other issue I had was that whilst the author had no issue describing some pretty gruesome things that happened to the “good guys” and showing how evil the villains were when it came to meting out vengeance the Good Guys were all - can’t kill anyone despite how hideous and evil they are. Whilst you may not want your heroes randomly killing where there is no justification books where you have truly evil villains are let down by authors who do not then give their readers a real sense of justice and closure. Finally, and lastly, the final battle was ridiculously drawn out and then, whilst you get a description of the final fight with Stepanov you don’t hear what happens to the other villains. The whole climax left me with a sense of anticlimax and disappointment. I also didn’t see the point of the epilogues which seemed to add little to the ending.
There are a few inconsistencies and gaps in the story - unclear exactly what the phoenix blood does or what happened to the people on the Island who were supposed to be moved to a different place etc.
In conclusion, a decent enough story just long and drawn out with a disappointing ending.
July 14, 2023
it’s the Author’s Note in the beginning that made me appreciate the series (finally!)
As an abuse survivor, and as a combat veteran with sever PTSD issues I did NOT enjoy the books prior to this. But for obviously different reasons than other readers. Story line has been great. The MMC’s have been fabulous. Writing draws you in.. it’s been the lead female who’s set me off.
I personally came out a fighter and a vicious protector. I despised how weak I saw the FMC in the first books. Despise is probably a very weak word for the feelings I had.
I faced my own “triggers” head on. I learned to fight to protect not myself but others so they never had to face things I lived through.
PTSD.. I know my triggers and avoid them because, again, I came out fighting.
I know more survivors of both abuse and combat who came out as hard core fighters than Ive even herd about that came out weaker. And the female lead in this..
She needs more spine. More fight. More conviction.
The authors note in the beginning is the saving grace for the series and why I was willing to even try and finish.
A protective order is only a piece of paper. Teach your children how to stand up to bullies. Bullies do not stop until either the victim or someone else makes them stop. Words aren’t enough. And I don’t care what anyone says.. It takes a violent person who has control of their actions to stop a violent person who’s intent on harming. You can’t negotiate with them.
Life is not and cannot always be peace and love. You have to fight for it. And those who do not know war can’t truly understand the taste of peace. Period.
As an abuse survivor, and as a combat veteran with sever PTSD issues I did NOT enjoy the books prior to this. But for obviously different reasons than other readers. Story line has been great. The MMC’s have been fabulous. Writing draws you in.. it’s been the lead female who’s set me off.
I personally came out a fighter and a vicious protector. I despised how weak I saw the FMC in the first books. Despise is probably a very weak word for the feelings I had.
I faced my own “triggers” head on. I learned to fight to protect not myself but others so they never had to face things I lived through.
PTSD.. I know my triggers and avoid them because, again, I came out fighting.
I know more survivors of both abuse and combat who came out as hard core fighters than Ive even herd about that came out weaker. And the female lead in this..
She needs more spine. More fight. More conviction.
The authors note in the beginning is the saving grace for the series and why I was willing to even try and finish.
A protective order is only a piece of paper. Teach your children how to stand up to bullies. Bullies do not stop until either the victim or someone else makes them stop. Words aren’t enough. And I don’t care what anyone says.. It takes a violent person who has control of their actions to stop a violent person who’s intent on harming. You can’t negotiate with them.
Life is not and cannot always be peace and love. You have to fight for it. And those who do not know war can’t truly understand the taste of peace. Period.
March 5, 2024
Series review: It's just too long, too many books and not enough action to fill them. It becomes very repetitive. The beginning I was very into - I like the cast a lot, the guys have a lot of depth and dimension, and I like the atypical shifters. Bunny! But by the 3rd or 4th book I started becoming very irritated by most plot points, so I'm unlikely at this point to read the 7th book.
I'm so close to the end of book 6 and I just can't bring myself to continue. So many things make me mad: . I pick up to read, get immediately irritated, put it back down.
I'm so close to the end of book 6 and I just can't bring myself to continue. So many things make me mad: . I pick up to read, get immediately irritated, put it back down.
July 18, 2021
Major spoilers so DO NOT read this review if you haven't finished the book. I am not responsible for your anger/disappointment if you do not heed this warning and decide to read this review anyways.
I was not expecting what transpired at the end. I hurt for the LaCroix family. Celine was just at the house a few days prior asking to be more integrated into Nix and her mates lives only to have hers ended along with her husband. And Joshua is staying behind?? Even though we just got him back after his near death experience?? And even though logically there should be no way the Council didn't see him fighting to get to Nix in her wrath over Celine and Raphael's deaths. And lets not even talk about the mess Theo created by idiotically drinking Nix's blood and putting everyone at grave risk on the mountain trek. The others may not be mad at him but I am. This just..it was intense. And it wasn't what I expected at all. But the thing that chafes the most is this ending. Damien's poor parents. Devastating 3
I was not expecting what transpired at the end. I hurt for the LaCroix family. Celine was just at the house a few days prior asking to be more integrated into Nix and her mates lives only to have hers ended along with her husband. And Joshua is staying behind?? Even though we just got him back after his near death experience?? And even though logically there should be no way the Council didn't see him fighting to get to Nix in her wrath over Celine and Raphael's deaths. And lets not even talk about the mess Theo created by idiotically drinking Nix's blood and putting everyone at grave risk on the mountain trek. The others may not be mad at him but I am. This just..it was intense. And it wasn't what I expected at all. But the thing that chafes the most is this ending. Damien's poor parents. Devastating 3
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 19, 2020
Surprising
When the book first started, I was annoyed. It seemed like a filler book, with little development to the series. And although I felt this way at various points, I realized at the end how important every scene is. So have patience when reading, dive deep into the love story between Nix and Joshua. Realize that every scene has its purpose, even it it seems like they are rehashing the same stuff. These scenes now will be the characters memories later on.
Before I started this book, I thought this was the last of the series. It is not. There will be a book 6. And yes, this book leaves on a pretty big cliffhanger.
Full of plot twists and turns, so be prepared to cry, laugh and cry more. I read the comments before starting the book and I saw someone mentioned that we should be prepared to cry.. I didn’t believe them, but I struggled to keep my tears from falling. So good luck with that!
When the book first started, I was annoyed. It seemed like a filler book, with little development to the series. And although I felt this way at various points, I realized at the end how important every scene is. So have patience when reading, dive deep into the love story between Nix and Joshua. Realize that every scene has its purpose, even it it seems like they are rehashing the same stuff. These scenes now will be the characters memories later on.
Before I started this book, I thought this was the last of the series. It is not. There will be a book 6. And yes, this book leaves on a pretty big cliffhanger.
Full of plot twists and turns, so be prepared to cry, laugh and cry more. I read the comments before starting the book and I saw someone mentioned that we should be prepared to cry.. I didn’t believe them, but I struggled to keep my tears from falling. So good luck with that!
May 3, 2021
Getting a bit sloppy
Okay, so the story is getting down to the nitty gritty, but it seems this book was a bit sloppy. There were more typos than have seen in the previous books which drew me out of the story. The initial first chapter just seemed to throw caution out the window in regards to all the secrecy that was invoked in the previous books concerning the rebellion. It almost felt like adding Joshua was an after thought. It didn't sit right with me with how his presence wasn't organic and just thrust into everything. The love between them wasn't as genuine in my opinion.
There were some things that just didn't sit right with how key scenes played out. As mentioned before, came across as after thoughts or merely a nifty idea that was used to lend credence to previously mentioned tidbits... but they seemed so out of character for what went down. Those came out of left field and so abruptly it was jarring. *shrug*
Okay, so the story is getting down to the nitty gritty, but it seems this book was a bit sloppy. There were more typos than have seen in the previous books which drew me out of the story. The initial first chapter just seemed to throw caution out the window in regards to all the secrecy that was invoked in the previous books concerning the rebellion. It almost felt like adding Joshua was an after thought. It didn't sit right with me with how his presence wasn't organic and just thrust into everything. The love between them wasn't as genuine in my opinion.
There were some things that just didn't sit right with how key scenes played out. As mentioned before, came across as after thoughts or merely a nifty idea that was used to lend credence to previously mentioned tidbits... but they seemed so out of character for what went down. Those came out of left field and so abruptly it was jarring. *shrug*
Read
July 19, 2026🔗2026 Instagram listened to...
🔗2026 Tiktok
⚫️ Series: Phoenix Rising
⚫️ Dark romance, shifters
⚫️ Reverse harem / mmfmmmm
⚫️ Pace: medium
🚨 Make sure to read the trigger warnings
📚 Audiobook: dual
🎙️ Heather Costa
🎙️ Brandon Utah
⚫️ Microtropes: shifters, funny, fated mates, rebelion, 'war', political/court, magic, powers
🔗2026 Tiktok
⚫️ Series: Phoenix Rising
⚫️ Dark romance, shifters
⚫️ Reverse harem / mmfmmmm
⚫️ Pace: medium
🚨 Make sure to read the trigger warnings
📚 Audiobook: dual
🎙️ Heather Costa
🎙️ Brandon Utah
⚫️ Microtropes: shifters, funny, fated mates, rebelion, 'war', political/court, magic, powers
•I'm like a fungus - I'll be growing on you before you know it.•
•A heart is not a jacket, limited by it's size, but grows to fit all who may need it's care •
August 17, 2019
I think this book was my favorite from the entire series. I can’t even begin to describe the depths of amazingness performed by Harper and Quinn on this one. Seriously. It was one crazy rollercoaster ride from hell with my emotions and it just kept me being surprised and thrown around with all the punches. So, basically, it was completely and utterly spectacular. This book made me cry, it made me laugh, it made me yell, it made me go all mushy... it really encompassed all the emotions a reader could have and then some.
And don’t even get me started on character development, because I would be here all day.
If you’re looking for an amazing read that will keep you on the edge of your seat and awake until the early hours of the morning, this is definitely the one you’re looking for. Because this was one ride worth taking.
And don’t even get me started on character development, because I would be here all day.
If you’re looking for an amazing read that will keep you on the edge of your seat and awake until the early hours of the morning, this is definitely the one you’re looking for. Because this was one ride worth taking.
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