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The Summoning
ISABELLE LOFFLIN lived an ordinary life until her mom mysteriously died four months ago. Now, with the help of her boyfriend, Jeremy, Isabelle is forced to take care of her younger sister, Brett. When Isabelle arranges to have Brett meet a psychic in the hopes of reuniting with their mother, everything goes wrong.
The round-trip turns one-way when the train drives further from Feathercoe. Separated from her family, Isabelle discovers the train has only one stop: a secluded camp that excels in teaching lessons of good and evil. What she doesn’t expect to find is a daring redhead, a spunky Hispanic and a pair of captivating eyes that are too black to pass as brown. Isabelle must decide which fight is more important—finding her sister or achieving moral balance to stay alive.
The round-trip turns one-way when the train drives further from Feathercoe. Separated from her family, Isabelle discovers the train has only one stop: a secluded camp that excels in teaching lessons of good and evil. What she doesn’t expect to find is a daring redhead, a spunky Hispanic and a pair of captivating eyes that are too black to pass as brown. Isabelle must decide which fight is more important—finding her sister or achieving moral balance to stay alive.
- GenresFantasyYoung AdultEbooks
165 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 1, 2020
8 people are currently reading
481 people want to read
About the author
S.V. Filice
4 books48 followersSamantha-Victoria is a Canadian writer of fantasy fiction. Her debut novel, The Summoning, was self-published in 2017. Though, this was not the start of her writing dreams. A storyteller in childhood, a reader in her youth, and a writer in her teens, SV Filice later attended the University of Toronto to study Professional Writing as well as Culture, Communications and Information Technology. After receiving her BA, Filice continues to write short stories and other stand-alone novels. She works on the third book release of the Moral Bloodlines Trilogy, which she will self-publish.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
December 7, 2021
Fun, exciting adventure
This was a fun journey! I really enjoyed learning all the ins and outs of the school where Isabelle finds herself summoned to. The different affinities were interesting, the banter enjoyable, and the spice between her and Calix was the proverbial cherry on top. It took me a while to warm up the her friend, Onyx, and I'm not sure I ever truly did. But seeing as she was a side character, I didn't really mind. Overall, a great supernatural read.
4.5 stars
This was a fun journey! I really enjoyed learning all the ins and outs of the school where Isabelle finds herself summoned to. The different affinities were interesting, the banter enjoyable, and the spice between her and Calix was the proverbial cherry on top. It took me a while to warm up the her friend, Onyx, and I'm not sure I ever truly did. But seeing as she was a side character, I didn't really mind. Overall, a great supernatural read.
4.5 stars
September 29, 2020
(I received the ebook by the author)
WHAT. A. RIDE.
Though The Summoning found its way to me in a time where work and university kept me very busy, the tension in every page made me welcome every opportunity I had to sit down and enjoy some reading time. Angels as a concept are something that, as fantasy readers, we’ve all come across at some point, but S.V. Filice had such an interesting take on these well-known and beloved beings.
Because of the short length of the book, I was surprised by how much world-building was present in the story, and how much I grew to appreciate the characters. The main character is Isabelle, an small-town girl who lives with her younger sister, Brett, and their aunt after the death of her mother and the disappearance of her father. Of the two, Brett is the one who struggles to come to terms with loss the most, and for this reason she asks to visit a psychic in hopes of reconnecting with her mother. From this encounter, Isabelle’s life takes an entirely new course, and she discovers a world far more complex than she thought possible and that her role in this world goes beyond what she ever imagined. In fact, Isabelle and Brett have angel blood, and after their encounter with the psychic they are divided and sent to two different angel boarding schools.
Being divided from her sister forces Isabelle to question everything about who she is and who she wants to be. I found her to be a very believable and relatable character. Her struggles—mental, physical and emotional—are aspects that every girl can relate to, even without angel blood. Unfortunately. Who wouldn’t want to be a badass angel warrior?
The lines between good and evil, angels and demons, were blurred and complex in this world. I really enjoyed learning more about it along with Isabelle and finding myself consumed in this world alongside her. This wouldn’t have been possible without the cast of supporting characters by Isabelle’s side? Do you want women who support women? You have them! Do you want romance—possibly the angsty kind, with a mysterious, brooding male love interest? You have it!
My only problem was that it was hard to understand how the angel abilities worked. It does become easier as you go along, but my difficulty also rested in the fact that I did not have the time to binge this book as I would have liked to. But in the end, I managed, and I love the magic system.
Now it’s time for you to fall in love with this story! If you’re looking for a short read with angels, magic and romance, this is the book you’ve been waiting for!
WHAT. A. RIDE.
Though The Summoning found its way to me in a time where work and university kept me very busy, the tension in every page made me welcome every opportunity I had to sit down and enjoy some reading time. Angels as a concept are something that, as fantasy readers, we’ve all come across at some point, but S.V. Filice had such an interesting take on these well-known and beloved beings.
Because of the short length of the book, I was surprised by how much world-building was present in the story, and how much I grew to appreciate the characters. The main character is Isabelle, an small-town girl who lives with her younger sister, Brett, and their aunt after the death of her mother and the disappearance of her father. Of the two, Brett is the one who struggles to come to terms with loss the most, and for this reason she asks to visit a psychic in hopes of reconnecting with her mother. From this encounter, Isabelle’s life takes an entirely new course, and she discovers a world far more complex than she thought possible and that her role in this world goes beyond what she ever imagined. In fact, Isabelle and Brett have angel blood, and after their encounter with the psychic they are divided and sent to two different angel boarding schools.
Being divided from her sister forces Isabelle to question everything about who she is and who she wants to be. I found her to be a very believable and relatable character. Her struggles—mental, physical and emotional—are aspects that every girl can relate to, even without angel blood. Unfortunately. Who wouldn’t want to be a badass angel warrior?
The lines between good and evil, angels and demons, were blurred and complex in this world. I really enjoyed learning more about it along with Isabelle and finding myself consumed in this world alongside her. This wouldn’t have been possible without the cast of supporting characters by Isabelle’s side? Do you want women who support women? You have them! Do you want romance—possibly the angsty kind, with a mysterious, brooding male love interest? You have it!
My only problem was that it was hard to understand how the angel abilities worked. It does become easier as you go along, but my difficulty also rested in the fact that I did not have the time to binge this book as I would have liked to. But in the end, I managed, and I love the magic system.
Now it’s time for you to fall in love with this story! If you’re looking for a short read with angels, magic and romance, this is the book you’ve been waiting for!
October 13, 2021
What a unique, fresh take on good vs. evil and angels/demons! This YA fantasy was a perfect blend of intrigue, action, and awesome characters. I especially loved Calix and shipped him with Isabelle (the protagonist) right from the start. If you enjoy broody love interests with all the angst, then definitely check this out!
I must also mention how much I loved the world-building and magic system in The Summoning. This is a quick read, but I'm impressed by how much detail was packed into this.
Finally, I have to say: the twist at the end was shocking!! I can't wait to read more by this incredible author!
I must also mention how much I loved the world-building and magic system in The Summoning. This is a quick read, but I'm impressed by how much detail was packed into this.
Finally, I have to say: the twist at the end was shocking!! I can't wait to read more by this incredible author!
September 2, 2020
This book may be short, but it’s so full of tension! I haven’t read many books about angels and demons, but I love the lore and I’m so happy I loved this book! I enjoyed it from the very beginning thanks to its mysterious first chapter. The main character, Isabelle, is one I felt very close to the heart because of her love for her younger sister. Being the eldest in a tightly knit sister duo, I related to this so very much. The author was also amazing at portraying her emotional turmoil as she’s suddenly thrust into an unfamiliar world.
I found the whole aspect of the school to be very interesting, for it touches the topics of good and evil, and the balance of both within each of us, but what I loved the most was the romance. Pretend to be surprised, please. As someone who loves romance, it was a delight finding one so full of angst in this book! I shipped with all my heart and soul and squealed with my sister as we buddy read this book. Calix is…book boyfriend material and let’s live it at that. *wink*
The sequel of this book comes out in October and guess who is excited? ME! I highly recommend you pick up this wonderful book if you’re a fan of angels, demons or fantasy in general.
I found the whole aspect of the school to be very interesting, for it touches the topics of good and evil, and the balance of both within each of us, but what I loved the most was the romance. Pretend to be surprised, please. As someone who loves romance, it was a delight finding one so full of angst in this book! I shipped with all my heart and soul and squealed with my sister as we buddy read this book. Calix is…book boyfriend material and let’s live it at that. *wink*
The sequel of this book comes out in October and guess who is excited? ME! I highly recommend you pick up this wonderful book if you’re a fan of angels, demons or fantasy in general.
April 20, 2021
I won this book in a goodreads drawing.
A girl visits a psychic so her sister can have an encounter with their mother. During the session, she is sent to another plane of existence. Upon returning, her sister is gone, and she decides to take the train home. Bad idea. I guess she hasn't seen The Twilight Zone. The train only has one stop, a bible camp populated by angels and demons that teach morality the hard way.
A girl visits a psychic so her sister can have an encounter with their mother. During the session, she is sent to another plane of existence. Upon returning, her sister is gone, and she decides to take the train home. Bad idea. I guess she hasn't seen The Twilight Zone. The train only has one stop, a bible camp populated by angels and demons that teach morality the hard way.
October 5, 2020
The Summoning presents an entirely unique view to angels & demons, and I found myself completely intrigued by the magic system in the novel and how each person needs to find a proper balance in their Senses in order to keep darkness at bay.
Isabelle attends a psychic with her sister and boyfriend in hopes to lighten her sister’s suffering after their mother’s death. Upon discovering that she lacks balance in the sense of Sight, the psychic sends Isabelle (completely unaware and separated from her sister and her boyfriend) to a camp to train to strengthen her senses.
Isabelle is immediately a very likeable character; she questions everything that she is going through and is very suspicious of the psychic at first, which made her relatable (I love it when characters are not naïve). The storyline is very intriguing and fast paced! Once she is headed to camp, I found myself rereading paragraphs to better understand the Senses and the purpose of the balance. It becomes clearer as the story progresses. The best part of the novel is Calix, you guys KNOW how much I love a mysterious love interest, specially a brooding one. The tension and angst between these too are overwhelmingly addicting, I found myself rooting for her to leave boring Jeremy for him! The Summoning is definitely a great debut fantasy novel and I am super excited for the sequel!
Isabelle attends a psychic with her sister and boyfriend in hopes to lighten her sister’s suffering after their mother’s death. Upon discovering that she lacks balance in the sense of Sight, the psychic sends Isabelle (completely unaware and separated from her sister and her boyfriend) to a camp to train to strengthen her senses.
Isabelle is immediately a very likeable character; she questions everything that she is going through and is very suspicious of the psychic at first, which made her relatable (I love it when characters are not naïve). The storyline is very intriguing and fast paced! Once she is headed to camp, I found myself rereading paragraphs to better understand the Senses and the purpose of the balance. It becomes clearer as the story progresses. The best part of the novel is Calix, you guys KNOW how much I love a mysterious love interest, specially a brooding one. The tension and angst between these too are overwhelmingly addicting, I found myself rooting for her to leave boring Jeremy for him! The Summoning is definitely a great debut fantasy novel and I am super excited for the sequel!
July 29, 2022
The Summoning is an exciting urban fantasy that ticked lots of boxes for me including magic, LGBTQ rep, and romance.
The book focuses on Isabelle and her journey to a special camp after she learns she has powers and she needs to balance herself if she wants to survive. Although she’s excited to learn about this new side of her she’s separated from her sister and her boyfriend and she doesn’t know where they are. During this she is also struggling with her feelings for another student, Calix. He helps her train, but his mysterious attitude intrigues her a bit more than it should.
I loved all of the characters, they were unique and easy to like (or not like in the case of some). The author also does an amazing job with description. I felt like I was in Isabelle’s skin and I appreciated the gritty descriptions of sweat and the uncomfortable sensation of sand. Little things like that really drew me into the book. I also liked that Isabelle was a bit thicker of a person. Sometimes big thighs and boobs are looked down on and even though she wasn’t always happy with her looks (who is?) it was refreshing to be able to relate to a main character’s body size.
I did have some small complaints with this story though. It had SO much potential but I feel like it wasn’t fully realized. The pacing was so quick at times I had whiplash. I wanted more from the beginning. I wanted to fall in love with Brett and Jeremy before the separation, I wanted to know more about Isabelle’s normal life, little things like that. Even Ash and Onyx left me wanting at times. The ending also approached so quickly too. I was so excited for it and then BOOM it was over.
Overall though I really enjoyed this book. It was easy to read and I didn’t want to put it down. The author has a unique, descriptive writing style and I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series!
The book focuses on Isabelle and her journey to a special camp after she learns she has powers and she needs to balance herself if she wants to survive. Although she’s excited to learn about this new side of her she’s separated from her sister and her boyfriend and she doesn’t know where they are. During this she is also struggling with her feelings for another student, Calix. He helps her train, but his mysterious attitude intrigues her a bit more than it should.
I loved all of the characters, they were unique and easy to like (or not like in the case of some). The author also does an amazing job with description. I felt like I was in Isabelle’s skin and I appreciated the gritty descriptions of sweat and the uncomfortable sensation of sand. Little things like that really drew me into the book. I also liked that Isabelle was a bit thicker of a person. Sometimes big thighs and boobs are looked down on and even though she wasn’t always happy with her looks (who is?) it was refreshing to be able to relate to a main character’s body size.
I did have some small complaints with this story though. It had SO much potential but I feel like it wasn’t fully realized. The pacing was so quick at times I had whiplash. I wanted more from the beginning. I wanted to fall in love with Brett and Jeremy before the separation, I wanted to know more about Isabelle’s normal life, little things like that. Even Ash and Onyx left me wanting at times. The ending also approached so quickly too. I was so excited for it and then BOOM it was over.
Overall though I really enjoyed this book. It was easy to read and I didn’t want to put it down. The author has a unique, descriptive writing style and I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series!
July 4, 2020
I loved this book. It's part coming of age story, part paranormal struggle, and part romance. The story starts when Isabelle, her boyfriend, and her sister visit a psychic to contact Isabelle and her sister's mother. There, Isabelle discovers that she has a special power running through her blood. She's then transported (sans sister or boyfriend) to a camp so she can learn how to manifest and control her abilities. I'm not going to mention the nature of these powers because I want to leave that for the reader to discover.
This book is well written, and I think fans of YA/NA supernatural/fantasy will love this story. It's also written in first person present. I like first person and usually prefer past tense, but present works very well here. Highly recommended read.
This book is well written, and I think fans of YA/NA supernatural/fantasy will love this story. It's also written in first person present. I like first person and usually prefer past tense, but present works very well here. Highly recommended read.
February 25, 2023
Filice is such a talented writer that I was drawn in to her tale from the first sentences. Isabelle, her sister and boyfriend visit a psychic, and their lives will never be the same. Isabelle is transported to a special camp, where she meets new friends and learns to fight against evil forces. I look forward to seeing what this author comes up with next!
September 1, 2020
I was gifted an ebook copy by the author
The Summoning is short and sweet, but filled with tension! I was drawn into the story from the very beginning, probably because I immediately felt a connection with the main character, Isabelle, through her love for her younger sister. My connection with this character only grew with time. Her reactions to the mysterious world she is suddenly thrust into, her doubts, her emotional turmoil, were all so easy to relate to and I really enjoyed her as a character.
S.V. Filice’s take on the world of angels and demons was very new to me, and I loved it! A school that teaches you how to be a kickass angel? Sign me up, please. I loved how the entire book played on the balance of good and evil, and how the imbalance between these two parts that are within us all can determine what you become. I admit that the whole mechanism of the abilities was hard for me to grasp, but it became easier as I saw it in action, and I grew to love it a lot.
The true highlight of the book, however, was the romance. For such a short book, the amount of angst that was in this story was incredible and unbearable (but only for my heart!) How does one resist a tragic, black-haired, sassy handsome boy? Calix was absolutely irresistible and his and Isabelle’s interactions were a thing of glory.
So in case it wasn’t clear, I loved this book. I’m so excited for the sequel to be releasing this October because I crave to be reunited with my babies and to know more about this world. I absolutely recommend this book, especially to lovers of angels, demons and romance!
The Summoning is short and sweet, but filled with tension! I was drawn into the story from the very beginning, probably because I immediately felt a connection with the main character, Isabelle, through her love for her younger sister. My connection with this character only grew with time. Her reactions to the mysterious world she is suddenly thrust into, her doubts, her emotional turmoil, were all so easy to relate to and I really enjoyed her as a character.
S.V. Filice’s take on the world of angels and demons was very new to me, and I loved it! A school that teaches you how to be a kickass angel? Sign me up, please. I loved how the entire book played on the balance of good and evil, and how the imbalance between these two parts that are within us all can determine what you become. I admit that the whole mechanism of the abilities was hard for me to grasp, but it became easier as I saw it in action, and I grew to love it a lot.
The true highlight of the book, however, was the romance. For such a short book, the amount of angst that was in this story was incredible and unbearable (but only for my heart!) How does one resist a tragic, black-haired, sassy handsome boy? Calix was absolutely irresistible and his and Isabelle’s interactions were a thing of glory.
So in case it wasn’t clear, I loved this book. I’m so excited for the sequel to be releasing this October because I crave to be reunited with my babies and to know more about this world. I absolutely recommend this book, especially to lovers of angels, demons and romance!
September 3, 2020
I absolutely loved this book!
I would highly recommend it to any fantasy lover. Although this is technically my first YA fantasy novel, I really enjoyed it.
If you love stories like the "Hunger Games" or "Divergent," you'll love "The Summoning"!
S.V. Filice captures the harsh sides of battle while also shedding light on the emotion that stems from fighting for a purpose/person.
I would highly recommend it to any fantasy lover. Although this is technically my first YA fantasy novel, I really enjoyed it.
If you love stories like the "Hunger Games" or "Divergent," you'll love "The Summoning"!
S.V. Filice captures the harsh sides of battle while also shedding light on the emotion that stems from fighting for a purpose/person.
September 26, 2020
Reminiscent of Percy Jackson and The Mortal Instruments, The Summoning is a perfect blend of action and intrigue. Filice plays with a fun cast of characters, each unique and engaging in their own right and in their roles in the novel. A well-written novel leaving me with just enough questions and anticipation for what is next.
October 14, 2020
Light and dark
A visit to a psychic changes three lives. To find that you are part angel is rough. To also find that you must help protect the world from demons is rougher. Thank goodness for camp so you can learn. Unlike anything I've read before. A new take on good versus evil. With some action and a little romance thrown in for spice.
A visit to a psychic changes three lives. To find that you are part angel is rough. To also find that you must help protect the world from demons is rougher. Thank goodness for camp so you can learn. Unlike anything I've read before. A new take on good versus evil. With some action and a little romance thrown in for spice.
October 22, 2020
“The Summoning” follows a young girl named Isabelle whose mom mysteriously died four months ago and now she decides to meet a psychic so she can reunite with her but everything goes wrong.
This was a very interesting read, a little spooky, dark and it has a very addictive plot so it kept me hooked all the time! I read almost all of it in one sitting because it is pretty short and we’re introduced to so many amazing characters and a very fast-paced storyline.
What I absolutely enjoyed about the whole story is the mysterious vibe it radiates, especially since I read this in October, it gave me all the cozy and spooky feels.
I love how the main character is smart and strong and she is truly one of the most likable characters I’ve read about in a while. But Calix takes the spotlight in this book! He is one of these dark, handsome and mysterious characters who have a tragic past and from the moment we get to meet him, we can 100% feel the tension and angst between him and Isabelle.
I totally forgot to mention that there are ANGELS and DEMONS in this book! Yeah, you heard me right!! This is a very unique novel in which angels and demons are a very important part of the plot. And if you know me, you know I’m a sucker for stories with angles! This left me with so many unanswered questions and for that I am highly anticipating the sequel! I highly recommend this to anyone who loves fantasy, especially for those who love The Mortal Instruments!
Note: I got a physical copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review so my opinion is 100% real and not affected by that.
This was a very interesting read, a little spooky, dark and it has a very addictive plot so it kept me hooked all the time! I read almost all of it in one sitting because it is pretty short and we’re introduced to so many amazing characters and a very fast-paced storyline.
What I absolutely enjoyed about the whole story is the mysterious vibe it radiates, especially since I read this in October, it gave me all the cozy and spooky feels.
I love how the main character is smart and strong and she is truly one of the most likable characters I’ve read about in a while. But Calix takes the spotlight in this book! He is one of these dark, handsome and mysterious characters who have a tragic past and from the moment we get to meet him, we can 100% feel the tension and angst between him and Isabelle.
I totally forgot to mention that there are ANGELS and DEMONS in this book! Yeah, you heard me right!! This is a very unique novel in which angels and demons are a very important part of the plot. And if you know me, you know I’m a sucker for stories with angles! This left me with so many unanswered questions and for that I am highly anticipating the sequel! I highly recommend this to anyone who loves fantasy, especially for those who love The Mortal Instruments!
Note: I got a physical copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review so my opinion is 100% real and not affected by that.
December 23, 2020
Isabelle is thrown into a "bible camp" where they teach her magic and where she gets to meet very interesting people and fight the evil forces. This book took a little to get into, because there's lots of exposition and explanations about the world/magic system, but if you keep reading the story gets more and more interesting with every chapter as you get to know the characters better. A great read for lovers of the young adult academy genre.
February 18, 2021
Thoroughly enjoyed this story! Full review to come!
July 23, 2020
Filice’s exquisitely written first installment in Moral Bloodlines series introduces a spunky heroine and an irresistible hero who’re forced to pick a side in the war between light and darkness.
20-year-old Isabelle Lofflin is struggling to raise her younger sister Brett after her parents’ tragic death. But a trip to a psychic turns Isabelle’s life upside down: separated from her sister, Isabelle finds herself in a secluded camp. The search for Brett takes back seat as the mere survival becomes a priority.
Filice's story is charming and fast-paced with a strong, likable heroine and an enigmatic, alluring hero, and it’s the drama between Isabelle and Calix that really drives the story with Filice throwing in layers of darkness and realism. The ending seems a bit rushed but thoroughly satisfying, nonetheless.
The intriguing storyline, endearing cast of characters, and the delicious underlying chemistry between the lead pair make this an entertaining read.
This is a deliciously readable urban fantasy.
20-year-old Isabelle Lofflin is struggling to raise her younger sister Brett after her parents’ tragic death. But a trip to a psychic turns Isabelle’s life upside down: separated from her sister, Isabelle finds herself in a secluded camp. The search for Brett takes back seat as the mere survival becomes a priority.
Filice's story is charming and fast-paced with a strong, likable heroine and an enigmatic, alluring hero, and it’s the drama between Isabelle and Calix that really drives the story with Filice throwing in layers of darkness and realism. The ending seems a bit rushed but thoroughly satisfying, nonetheless.
The intriguing storyline, endearing cast of characters, and the delicious underlying chemistry between the lead pair make this an entertaining read.
This is a deliciously readable urban fantasy.
January 16, 2022
* I was gifted a copy from the author *
I really enjoyed this book and didn't know a lot going into the story which is always a fun ride. The first chapter drew me in because I wasn't sure what was going to happen.
I was pleasantly surprised to find out it was about angels and demons and the main protagonist, Isabelle was off to a camp/school to help keep the balance of good and evil and to discover your affinity. There is of course a broody LI who I loved (which comes at no surprise to me). Who wouldn't want him to train you? It was gratifying to see Isabelle grow more confident within herself. Plus she has a lot of love for her younger sister and I always like to see healthy sister dynamics. It did take me a little bit to understand the affinities and abilities but as the story went on, it became easier to understand.
The book was a fairly quick read and there was lot more packed into the story that I expected. I look forward to continuing on the story.
I really enjoyed this book and didn't know a lot going into the story which is always a fun ride. The first chapter drew me in because I wasn't sure what was going to happen.
I was pleasantly surprised to find out it was about angels and demons and the main protagonist, Isabelle was off to a camp/school to help keep the balance of good and evil and to discover your affinity. There is of course a broody LI who I loved (which comes at no surprise to me). Who wouldn't want him to train you? It was gratifying to see Isabelle grow more confident within herself. Plus she has a lot of love for her younger sister and I always like to see healthy sister dynamics. It did take me a little bit to understand the affinities and abilities but as the story went on, it became easier to understand.
The book was a fairly quick read and there was lot more packed into the story that I expected. I look forward to continuing on the story.
September 11, 2020
Fun YA fantasy!
4.5 stars!
Loved this! The author’s descriptive writing is top notch! Intro chapters could have used some more urgency. Isabelle is a little too willing to believe/way too clam about her missing sister. Things are all righted when we hit the train ride to the compound. Onyx and Ash become a fun way to reach conversational exposition. They are cool, mysterious and sexy!
“Adult” characters are mostly just a little older, more like counselors than teachers, adding to that “bible camp” feel. Which I found hilarious!
Oynx, Lara, Cattia, and Isabelle are real girls and have lots of awesome fun and banter. (Especially Onyx LOVE HER.) enjoyable plot of finding balance. Romance is handled well. Enjoyed the characters and their uncertainty.
Good work! Have the sequel preordered and can’t wait!
4.5 stars!
Loved this! The author’s descriptive writing is top notch! Intro chapters could have used some more urgency. Isabelle is a little too willing to believe/way too clam about her missing sister. Things are all righted when we hit the train ride to the compound. Onyx and Ash become a fun way to reach conversational exposition. They are cool, mysterious and sexy!
“Adult” characters are mostly just a little older, more like counselors than teachers, adding to that “bible camp” feel. Which I found hilarious!
Oynx, Lara, Cattia, and Isabelle are real girls and have lots of awesome fun and banter. (Especially Onyx LOVE HER.) enjoyable plot of finding balance. Romance is handled well. Enjoyed the characters and their uncertainty.
Good work! Have the sequel preordered and can’t wait!
July 2, 2020
I love fantasy. I love YA stories. And I love light-romance. So, I absolutely loved this book.
From the first pages, I was drawn to the characters and their lives.
There were a few confusing moments in the book when all the explanations of the good/evil, light/dark are given for the first time, but that is normal when the author creates a world and a new extraordinary one at that.
I was surprised to see where the story led when the antagonist made the appearance and the main battle of the book came to pass, it was a wonderful resolution for the book.
I’m eager to see on what journey S.V.Filice will lead her characters, and I hope to be able to read the second book!
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From the first pages, I was drawn to the characters and their lives.
There were a few confusing moments in the book when all the explanations of the good/evil, light/dark are given for the first time, but that is normal when the author creates a world and a new extraordinary one at that.
I was surprised to see where the story led when the antagonist made the appearance and the main battle of the book came to pass, it was a wonderful resolution for the book.
I’m eager to see on what journey S.V.Filice will lead her characters, and I hope to be able to read the second book!
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February 15, 2021
Reading about Angels and Demons is always fun, to know different facts enlighten the soul and makes you want more of it. Honestly I was a little apprehensive at the start but as the story progresses you feel good about it. There’s a school which teaches it's students how to be a kick-ass Angel and maintain a balance for the darkness, a new kind of World.
Isabelle is a very likeable character and quite relatable since she questions everything which is not natural in nature. The connection with the characters grows with time. The brooding love interest with Calix is awesome and very balancing. A whole lot of new affinities is shown and new powers are explored. It’s a great debut novel and I’m excited to read the sequel, which I’m going to start right away.
Isabelle is a very likeable character and quite relatable since she questions everything which is not natural in nature. The connection with the characters grows with time. The brooding love interest with Calix is awesome and very balancing. A whole lot of new affinities is shown and new powers are explored. It’s a great debut novel and I’m excited to read the sequel, which I’m going to start right away.
September 17, 2020
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
My Rating: 4 Stars
As a general rule, short books worry me. One of the hardest things an Author has to do within the pages of a book is develop their characters. I’m always concerned about the depth of character development possible in a book with a low page count. Color me incredibly pleasantly surprised by this novel. Somehow, S.V. Filice managed to make me feel immediately connected to the main character. She was likable right off the bat, and I continued to like her throughout the book. I have to say, she handled everything thrown in her path much better than I would have.
The romance in this was so swoony. SO SWOONY! There was so much emotion and the tension was legitimately palpable. You all know I have a weakness for black haired boys, so of course I loved the romantic interest in this.
If you’re a fan of a school setting, you will absolutely devour this book. As soon the school was introduced, I found myself hooked. This was already a quick read, but The Summoning ‘s strength lies in it’s unique premise, a premise that really comes to life at the camp, where Isabelle focuses on the difference between good and evil.
While this wasn’t perfect, and had a couple of pacing issues, it was an impressive start for a debut YA Fantasy Author. I honestly can’t wait to read more from her and more of this series in particular!
My Rating: 4 Stars
As a general rule, short books worry me. One of the hardest things an Author has to do within the pages of a book is develop their characters. I’m always concerned about the depth of character development possible in a book with a low page count. Color me incredibly pleasantly surprised by this novel. Somehow, S.V. Filice managed to make me feel immediately connected to the main character. She was likable right off the bat, and I continued to like her throughout the book. I have to say, she handled everything thrown in her path much better than I would have.
The romance in this was so swoony. SO SWOONY! There was so much emotion and the tension was legitimately palpable. You all know I have a weakness for black haired boys, so of course I loved the romantic interest in this.
If you’re a fan of a school setting, you will absolutely devour this book. As soon the school was introduced, I found myself hooked. This was already a quick read, but The Summoning ‘s strength lies in it’s unique premise, a premise that really comes to life at the camp, where Isabelle focuses on the difference between good and evil.
While this wasn’t perfect, and had a couple of pacing issues, it was an impressive start for a debut YA Fantasy Author. I honestly can’t wait to read more from her and more of this series in particular!
May 30, 2020
Incredible piece from this author. MUST read, completely captivating.
September 27, 2020
This was a fun, fast-paced YA Fantasy that could be read in few hours. I found it entertaining, the characters quite likeable, AND it reminded me a bit of The Mortal Instruments and Percy Jackson - how fun is that?!
October 1, 2021
A wonderful fantasy with interesting twists and turns about the battle between good and evil, angels versus demons.
Love the unexpected twist at the end. Looking forward to book 2.
Love the unexpected twist at the end. Looking forward to book 2.
July 3, 2020
Great character development and an intriguing plot. Generally, I do not enjoy fantasy, but this story avoids many of the pitfalls and cliches of the genre. I would highly reccomend!
February 28, 2021
This was such an intriguing take on angels and demons and how easy it is to fall prey to the darkness. I really enjoyed this story, I felt Isabelle's fear at not knowing where her sister was and how she needed to go along with the challenges set before her in the hope that it would lead her to find her sibling. The characters were funny, sassy, quirky, and fully realised, the plot intriguing, and the ending satisfying. My only criticism is I wish it had been longer! I really wanted more :) Can't wait to read book two!
January 27, 2021
Amazing and well written book!
I was very much impressed on how this Author portrayed the characters with a captivating and intriguing plot, that keeps the reader mesmerized to wanting more!
Would highly recommend reading "The Summoning" for an entertaining and fascinating experience!
Looking forward to this talented Author's upcoming 2nd Book!
I was very much impressed on how this Author portrayed the characters with a captivating and intriguing plot, that keeps the reader mesmerized to wanting more!
Would highly recommend reading "The Summoning" for an entertaining and fascinating experience!
Looking forward to this talented Author's upcoming 2nd Book!
May 31, 2020
Excellent read! Definitely a page-turner, I could not put the book down!
July 9, 2021
Isabelle's life hasn't been easy. After her mother's death, her father has disappeared, leaving her and her younger sister in the care of Aunt Jo. When her sister sets her heart on visiting a psychic, Isabelle decides to humor her. She never expects that the trip would result in a one-way ticket to a camp where she will learn how to use the good within her to battle evil. Can she achieve moral balance or will her desire to be reunited with her sister put her life in danger?
I found this book very difficult to read. I received an advanced copy (in return for an honest review) and it was poorly formatted for the kindle. While the print version on Amazon does not seem to have these issues, the paragraphs were not indented, making it difficult to determine who was speaking during dialogue. There were also many places where scene breaks did not seem to make sense. While I first attributed this to formatting issues, I soon realized that some chapters ended in the middle of a scene, just to continue at the beginning of the next chapter. This made it difficult to follow the story. Overall, scenes tended to blend into one another without obvious starts or endings, leaving me confused about what was happening. It almost felt as if I were reading a comic strip collection where pages were missing. I got glimpses of scenes, but couldn't figure out what had been happening before it.
I also found the worldbuilding a little difficult to follow. I really liked the concepts in this book, but there were places where I felt too much information was given at once, places where information was repeated unnecessarily, and places where I would have liked more information. For example, we learn about the exercises at the camp when Isabelle first arrives, as well as the fact that some people are stronger in some senses than others and that some people must work harder than others. However, for reasons I could not understand, this information was all repeated again at the end of camp. The reader already knew all this, as should all the characters who had been there as long as, if not longer, than the main character.
For a book with a present tense point of view, much of the story takes place in the past tense, indicating something that happened before the scene. I would have rather seen it happen than be told about it after the fact. There were also occasional slips into the second person and some head hopping, making it even harder to follow what was going on.
My other big problem with this story was that the main character, in fact all the characters, are in their early twenties. If she is an adult, why is her aunt her guardian? Shouldn't she be her sister's guardian? And why would they have curfews and segregated dorms at camp? None of this is explained. In fact, when Isabelle reveals her age at camp, I was surprised to learn she wasn't fourteen. She and her campmates all act much younger than I would expect and I often forgot they were adults.
Overall, this book felt incomplete. While it did have a definite beginning, middle, and end, I didn't walk away feeling I fully understood the story.
I found this book very difficult to read. I received an advanced copy (in return for an honest review) and it was poorly formatted for the kindle. While the print version on Amazon does not seem to have these issues, the paragraphs were not indented, making it difficult to determine who was speaking during dialogue. There were also many places where scene breaks did not seem to make sense. While I first attributed this to formatting issues, I soon realized that some chapters ended in the middle of a scene, just to continue at the beginning of the next chapter. This made it difficult to follow the story. Overall, scenes tended to blend into one another without obvious starts or endings, leaving me confused about what was happening. It almost felt as if I were reading a comic strip collection where pages were missing. I got glimpses of scenes, but couldn't figure out what had been happening before it.
I also found the worldbuilding a little difficult to follow. I really liked the concepts in this book, but there were places where I felt too much information was given at once, places where information was repeated unnecessarily, and places where I would have liked more information. For example, we learn about the exercises at the camp when Isabelle first arrives, as well as the fact that some people are stronger in some senses than others and that some people must work harder than others. However, for reasons I could not understand, this information was all repeated again at the end of camp. The reader already knew all this, as should all the characters who had been there as long as, if not longer, than the main character.
For a book with a present tense point of view, much of the story takes place in the past tense, indicating something that happened before the scene. I would have rather seen it happen than be told about it after the fact. There were also occasional slips into the second person and some head hopping, making it even harder to follow what was going on.
My other big problem with this story was that the main character, in fact all the characters, are in their early twenties. If she is an adult, why is her aunt her guardian? Shouldn't she be her sister's guardian? And why would they have curfews and segregated dorms at camp? None of this is explained. In fact, when Isabelle reveals her age at camp, I was surprised to learn she wasn't fourteen. She and her campmates all act much younger than I would expect and I often forgot they were adults.
Overall, this book felt incomplete. While it did have a definite beginning, middle, and end, I didn't walk away feeling I fully understood the story.
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