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Fates Aflame #1
Fates Aflame
A unique blend of sci-fi and magical realism, Fates Aflame combines adventure that will lift your spirits with a romance that will warm your heart. Clean futuristic fantasy for young and young at heart.
Lieutenant Valhara Hawksford has been uprooted from her space station and sent to Earth to adapt to an academy unlike her own. When a curse awakens, and she is suddenly imbued with the ability to conjure magic, she is torn between prophecy and duty. Creatures of ancient lore rise, putting the lives of those she loves in jeopardy. With newfound powers at hand and a dragon companion by her side, Valhara must face trial by fire...
An exciting tale of Magic, Destiny, and friendship.
Fates Aflame is a standalone book, but you may continue the adventures in Fates Awoken and relive the excitement in the all-ages coloring book (separate purchase - ISBN 978-0-9974485-2-8).
Lieutenant Valhara Hawksford has been uprooted from her space station and sent to Earth to adapt to an academy unlike her own. When a curse awakens, and she is suddenly imbued with the ability to conjure magic, she is torn between prophecy and duty. Creatures of ancient lore rise, putting the lives of those she loves in jeopardy. With newfound powers at hand and a dragon companion by her side, Valhara must face trial by fire...
An exciting tale of Magic, Destiny, and friendship.
Fates Aflame is a standalone book, but you may continue the adventures in Fates Awoken and relive the excitement in the all-ages coloring book (separate purchase - ISBN 978-0-9974485-2-8).
- GenresFantasy
430 pages, Paperback
Published May 1, 2020
103 people are currently reading
475 people want to read
About the author
P. Anastasia
28 books89 followersP. ANASTASIA'S fresh take on storytelling resonates with darkness, charm, and passion--the embodiment of her unique writing style. Ensnared by the craft in childhood, she attempted her first book at age eleven. While working toward her college degree, she wrote news and editorial columns for two campus newspapers. After graduating with a degree in communications and spending a year studying abroad in Kofu, Japan, she followed her heart to her publishing aspirations. On the side, she serves as a professional voice talent for radio, television, and audio books. P. Anastasia is the author of nine novels: Exile of the Sky God, the Fluorescence series, Fates Aflame, Fates Awoken, and the historical-paranormal romances, Dark Diary & Grave Burden.
Follow P. Anastasia on
Instagram @ FluorescentOnes
www.facebook.com/FluorescenceBooks
She firmly believes being a writer is not about writing what you want, but writing what needs to be written and faithfully retelling the stories of your characters no matter how uncomfortable they may make you.
"Write the truth!"
Follow P. Anastasia on
Instagram @ FluorescentOnes
www.facebook.com/FluorescenceBooks
She firmly believes being a writer is not about writing what you want, but writing what needs to be written and faithfully retelling the stories of your characters no matter how uncomfortable they may make you.
"Write the truth!"
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
August 16, 2017
This is the second book I have read written by P. Anastasia. I was given this book and the companion Coloring Book in exchange for an honest review.
Being such a huge fan of horror and dark things, it's really nice to have some books on the nightstand that break that up a little bit. This was one of those books for me. Fates Aflame is a fantasy story with a lovable protagonist, magic swords, giant spiders, dragons and a slow burning romance! Who wouldn't love that??
Our narrator and protagonist is, Valhara Hawksford. She's the same age as my daughter, 18 and I really enjoyed being in her head-the author does a great job of writing in a first person narrative, I remember that from her first book I read, Dark Diary.
The beginning of this book started off smoothly but after about 50 pages or so, I got a tiny bit restless with the "set up". All the activity going on seemed liked every day stuff and I was eager for something to happen, for the actual story to start.
Before that actually transpired for me, we were given a different sort of tension arising in the form of a pretty sweet, slow burning romance. It had been awhile for me since I've read a young, budding romance and I found myself sinking into it quite comfortably.
The character's name (the love interest) is Mattheia and I was pleasantly surprised when we switched narratives midway through the story after a major event and got in his head for awhile.
I'm sensing a love triangle forming as there is another main man in Valhara's life, Jacksiun whom Valhara left back at home but she still considers her best friend.
Right around page 250-260ish we finally arrive at the story that is advertised on the back of the book--the action stuff. Which I felt was a long time to get there. I had read the back of the book synopsis so as I was reading and getting further and further into the story, I kept asking myself when all of that was going to transpire. It seemed like a lot of story to squeeze into the last third of the book but when I got there, the pacing seemed natural to the story and I enjoyed the climax and the ending--which set itself up perfectly for the next book, which I am sure will be coming soon. The author did a great job building character (her strong suit) and relationships. I love that there is a map at the beginning of this book--really helped to look at it and find your bearings, although the author does a very nice job with establishing setting-especially in the details.
Overall, this book did feel pretty young for me but I enjoyed it and I will totally read the next books. I'm going to pass this book on to my 13 year old niece too as I'm sure she would really, really enjoy this story very much. I highly recommend it for that age group! (13-16)
Being such a huge fan of horror and dark things, it's really nice to have some books on the nightstand that break that up a little bit. This was one of those books for me. Fates Aflame is a fantasy story with a lovable protagonist, magic swords, giant spiders, dragons and a slow burning romance! Who wouldn't love that??
Our narrator and protagonist is, Valhara Hawksford. She's the same age as my daughter, 18 and I really enjoyed being in her head-the author does a great job of writing in a first person narrative, I remember that from her first book I read, Dark Diary.
The beginning of this book started off smoothly but after about 50 pages or so, I got a tiny bit restless with the "set up". All the activity going on seemed liked every day stuff and I was eager for something to happen, for the actual story to start.
Before that actually transpired for me, we were given a different sort of tension arising in the form of a pretty sweet, slow burning romance. It had been awhile for me since I've read a young, budding romance and I found myself sinking into it quite comfortably.
The character's name (the love interest) is Mattheia and I was pleasantly surprised when we switched narratives midway through the story after a major event and got in his head for awhile.
I'm sensing a love triangle forming as there is another main man in Valhara's life, Jacksiun whom Valhara left back at home but she still considers her best friend.
Right around page 250-260ish we finally arrive at the story that is advertised on the back of the book--the action stuff. Which I felt was a long time to get there. I had read the back of the book synopsis so as I was reading and getting further and further into the story, I kept asking myself when all of that was going to transpire. It seemed like a lot of story to squeeze into the last third of the book but when I got there, the pacing seemed natural to the story and I enjoyed the climax and the ending--which set itself up perfectly for the next book, which I am sure will be coming soon. The author did a great job building character (her strong suit) and relationships. I love that there is a map at the beginning of this book--really helped to look at it and find your bearings, although the author does a very nice job with establishing setting-especially in the details.
Overall, this book did feel pretty young for me but I enjoyed it and I will totally read the next books. I'm going to pass this book on to my 13 year old niece too as I'm sure she would really, really enjoy this story very much. I highly recommend it for that age group! (13-16)
May 2, 2019
Review of Fates Aflame by P. Anastasia
4/5⭐
Wow. Wow. Wow.
Since I don't particularly like the Goodreads synopsis, here is how I would describe this book:
Lieutenant Hawksford is chosen for an academic exchange program, during which she has to attend classes at Silver Diamond, natural rival of Celestial Galaxy.
Between chats with her new friend Amanda, and lovely roof-talks with Commander Draven, the fact that Valhara is an expert with ancient weaponry is uncovered: that's what will lead her and Commander Draven to look for an ancient sword, called the Pegasus Sword.... And troubles will start there.
What can I say, Anastasia'a writing style is phenomenal. The story goes and you can't stop, you go with it. Until you're done.
That's how page turning this book is! Loved it so so much.
There are just minor things that I personally thought weren't perfect, and that's why I gave the novel 4 stars rather than 5:
If I remember correctly, the main character is 18 years old, and the romantic side of the story was a little naive for that age in my opinion, and that naïveté isn't reflected in THE scene (not gonna mention more, otherwise it would be spoiler) at the end.
But besides that, this book was great. I completely loved the storyline, and I even adored how in the middle of the novel there were some chapters narrated from a different point of view.
Chapeau once again.
4/5⭐
Wow. Wow. Wow.
Since I don't particularly like the Goodreads synopsis, here is how I would describe this book:
Lieutenant Hawksford is chosen for an academic exchange program, during which she has to attend classes at Silver Diamond, natural rival of Celestial Galaxy.
Between chats with her new friend Amanda, and lovely roof-talks with Commander Draven, the fact that Valhara is an expert with ancient weaponry is uncovered: that's what will lead her and Commander Draven to look for an ancient sword, called the Pegasus Sword.... And troubles will start there.
What can I say, Anastasia'a writing style is phenomenal. The story goes and you can't stop, you go with it. Until you're done.
That's how page turning this book is! Loved it so so much.
There are just minor things that I personally thought weren't perfect, and that's why I gave the novel 4 stars rather than 5:
If I remember correctly, the main character is 18 years old, and the romantic side of the story was a little naive for that age in my opinion, and that naïveté isn't reflected in THE scene (not gonna mention more, otherwise it would be spoiler) at the end.
But besides that, this book was great. I completely loved the storyline, and I even adored how in the middle of the novel there were some chapters narrated from a different point of view.
Chapeau once again.
April 10, 2018
This is why the late, great Ursula Le Guin recommended fantasy and science fiction for young people.
Rarely in any other genre do you get such epic tales of personal triumph—all the while sparking your imagination. While I did have to wait awhile for the magic to appear, when it did it was awe-inspiring—just as it should be. One thing that impressed and surprised me was that the romance in this tale budded naturally, and it wasn’t over the top like I see in a lot of YA fantasy.
Also, I love to see special swords and sacred weapons at play in fantasy, so I was immediately interested when the Azure Phoenix was mentioned, and I was committed to see its involvement in the story. There were plenty of thrills and adventure here, and the world was vibrant and well-constructed.
Rarely in any other genre do you get such epic tales of personal triumph—all the while sparking your imagination. While I did have to wait awhile for the magic to appear, when it did it was awe-inspiring—just as it should be. One thing that impressed and surprised me was that the romance in this tale budded naturally, and it wasn’t over the top like I see in a lot of YA fantasy.
Also, I love to see special swords and sacred weapons at play in fantasy, so I was immediately interested when the Azure Phoenix was mentioned, and I was committed to see its involvement in the story. There were plenty of thrills and adventure here, and the world was vibrant and well-constructed.
September 23, 2017
I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.
This is the first book in an exciting new fantasy series jam packed with magical creatures. Valhara, our main character is very well developed and really different from most female heroines we see. She has a new attitude style that I really enjoyed. There were so many different mythical beings that were mentioned in the book, of course dragons, and it was so incredible. I felt like I was in a mini museum constantly looking around the corner for the next creature.
The story advanced pretty quickly and there was action on every page. The only reasons I took off two stars were because the writing was a little sporadic at some points and just felt too rushed. I would also probably put this in the middle grade catagory based on the writing and pacing. There are some more advanced romantic scenes though that I really enjoyed and thought were very tastefully done. Overall, I found this book to be a great fantasy ride with lots of different possibilities with this endless world.
This is the first book in an exciting new fantasy series jam packed with magical creatures. Valhara, our main character is very well developed and really different from most female heroines we see. She has a new attitude style that I really enjoyed. There were so many different mythical beings that were mentioned in the book, of course dragons, and it was so incredible. I felt like I was in a mini museum constantly looking around the corner for the next creature.
The story advanced pretty quickly and there was action on every page. The only reasons I took off two stars were because the writing was a little sporadic at some points and just felt too rushed. I would also probably put this in the middle grade catagory based on the writing and pacing. There are some more advanced romantic scenes though that I really enjoyed and thought were very tastefully done. Overall, I found this book to be a great fantasy ride with lots of different possibilities with this endless world.
January 2, 2018
The story was engaging and the characters were lovable! This was easy to just keep reading and reading, action on every page.
My critiques are that there are a few repeated technical errors in it. 'Alright' is used throughout the book - this is incorrect, it should be 'all right'. In addition, with regards to technical errors, the author puts a space after ellipses. I believe there shouldn't be a space either before or after an ellipses (recently looked this up for my own writing).
***WARNING -- SPOILERS AHEAD!!***
Also, while the main character is in a military academy (in fact, basically all the characters are), there's no information whatsoever about what the military is there for - no history, nothing mentioned at all. The military academy setting is nice, but I think there needs to be a point to it that, some history, some info about what the military is doing/has done in the past (was there a great war? are they currently at war? how are relations with other worlds/planets/countries/etc?). Otherwise it almost comes across as just, 'I like military settings so I'm gonna plop my characters into that'.
Last but not least, I think when Valhara discovers that she has powers, it would be helpful to have some reference to what her power is much earlier on. The only reference I could recall was her mentor telling her to be careful not to burn the place down. This could be very confusing for some readers (the cover made it obvious to me what sort of power she had, but one shouldn't rely on the cover to tell any part of the story). Even a simple, 'you have fire powers' from her mentor (or something equally explanatory but less cheesy sounding, lol) would have sufficed.
All my critiques aside, this really was a very enjoyable book, and I loved the ending! Much of it resonated with my own experiences with RP in the early 2000s. Engaging and fun!
My critiques are that there are a few repeated technical errors in it. 'Alright' is used throughout the book - this is incorrect, it should be 'all right'. In addition, with regards to technical errors, the author puts a space after ellipses. I believe there shouldn't be a space either before or after an ellipses (recently looked this up for my own writing).
***WARNING -- SPOILERS AHEAD!!***
Also, while the main character is in a military academy (in fact, basically all the characters are), there's no information whatsoever about what the military is there for - no history, nothing mentioned at all. The military academy setting is nice, but I think there needs to be a point to it that, some history, some info about what the military is doing/has done in the past (was there a great war? are they currently at war? how are relations with other worlds/planets/countries/etc?). Otherwise it almost comes across as just, 'I like military settings so I'm gonna plop my characters into that'.
Last but not least, I think when Valhara discovers that she has powers, it would be helpful to have some reference to what her power is much earlier on. The only reference I could recall was her mentor telling her to be careful not to burn the place down. This could be very confusing for some readers (the cover made it obvious to me what sort of power she had, but one shouldn't rely on the cover to tell any part of the story). Even a simple, 'you have fire powers' from her mentor (or something equally explanatory but less cheesy sounding, lol) would have sufficed.
All my critiques aside, this really was a very enjoyable book, and I loved the ending! Much of it resonated with my own experiences with RP in the early 2000s. Engaging and fun!
September 21, 2017
I received an ARC of this book from the author.
Magical and imaginative! This fantasy story took me for a fun ride with new worlds to explore, lots of mystical creatures, and characters with some very interesting and new names.
An adorable romance ensues between two of the main characters in the book. It was very sweet and endearing.
The main character Valhara makes for a pretty bad-ass female! She's a pretty tough chic. Strong and determined. She goes through a lot of turmoil and sticky situations in the story and only comes out of each one stronger.
I had a lot of fun reading this story. It kept me entertained the whole way through and was never dull or boring. A lot of story was packed nicely into this one book and I am excited to see where it goes from here. I can't really compare this story to any others but I would say that if you enjoy the Percy Jackson series, dragons, or anything fantasy with magic and mystical creatures then you will surely enjoy reading this book. This is definitely a book that will allow you to escape reality and take you away from the troubles of the world. It is story you can get lost in and submerge yourself into a different world and leave troubles behind for a while. With all the devastation going on in the world right now at this present time this book will allow you a moment to escape it all and take your mind off things for a bit. An escape read, if you will.
Magical and imaginative! This fantasy story took me for a fun ride with new worlds to explore, lots of mystical creatures, and characters with some very interesting and new names.
An adorable romance ensues between two of the main characters in the book. It was very sweet and endearing.
The main character Valhara makes for a pretty bad-ass female! She's a pretty tough chic. Strong and determined. She goes through a lot of turmoil and sticky situations in the story and only comes out of each one stronger.
I had a lot of fun reading this story. It kept me entertained the whole way through and was never dull or boring. A lot of story was packed nicely into this one book and I am excited to see where it goes from here. I can't really compare this story to any others but I would say that if you enjoy the Percy Jackson series, dragons, or anything fantasy with magic and mystical creatures then you will surely enjoy reading this book. This is definitely a book that will allow you to escape reality and take you away from the troubles of the world. It is story you can get lost in and submerge yourself into a different world and leave troubles behind for a while. With all the devastation going on in the world right now at this present time this book will allow you a moment to escape it all and take your mind off things for a bit. An escape read, if you will.
September 19, 2017
I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
Fates Aflame is a fantasy novel, and P. Anastasia's second novel that I read. I had quite high expectations going into it, especially after reading the synopsis, and I'm happy to say that every expectation was met!
P. Anastasia does an excellent job at creating original and real characters, and the first person narrative as well as the character development throughout the book really made it stand out for me. Although a bit slow at first, the pacing feels normal and once I got half-way through the story and the action started I couldn't put it down. Being a huge fan of mythology and anything magical I really enjoyed the story and the map at the beginning was a very nice touch.
I totally recommend this book to anyone who likes fantasy. I can't wait for the sequel to come out!
Fates Aflame is a fantasy novel, and P. Anastasia's second novel that I read. I had quite high expectations going into it, especially after reading the synopsis, and I'm happy to say that every expectation was met!
P. Anastasia does an excellent job at creating original and real characters, and the first person narrative as well as the character development throughout the book really made it stand out for me. Although a bit slow at first, the pacing feels normal and once I got half-way through the story and the action started I couldn't put it down. Being a huge fan of mythology and anything magical I really enjoyed the story and the map at the beginning was a very nice touch.
I totally recommend this book to anyone who likes fantasy. I can't wait for the sequel to come out!
September 28, 2017
Such a sweet and moving romance carefully intertwined with an epic-EPIC adventure!! Magic, dragons and even a pegasus!!! The action never stopped and the ending made me DAWWWW while also making me super excited for book II. Mattheia is so sweet and Valhara is a go-getting badass with her mind on her career! 5stars for a strong female protagonist I can finally love. I'm super curious about her friend and his backstory. Firagia is the most adorable dragon you'll ever meet in a book. OMG.
Really, tho, I loved ALL the characters and can't wait for the sequel everyone's already talking about. wooooo! It's also super fun comparing scenes in the coloring book to the those in the novel. I remember this! and This! and this! Happening! SOOO COOL! Now to just get all the colors accurate.
Really, tho, I loved ALL the characters and can't wait for the sequel everyone's already talking about. wooooo! It's also super fun comparing scenes in the coloring book to the those in the novel. I remember this! and This! and this! Happening! SOOO COOL! Now to just get all the colors accurate.
September 5, 2017
This was quite an amazing blend of fiction. I enjoyed the story greatly, and was pulled in to find out where the magic came in, more about their world, and more about what was going on. I cannot wait for the next one.
March 9, 2019
Good
This story started slow but by about 30% it had picked up. I loved the characters and that is what kept me going until the action started. Very sweet and clean. Definitely a good story
This story started slow but by about 30% it had picked up. I loved the characters and that is what kept me going until the action started. Very sweet and clean. Definitely a good story
February 7, 2020
Well this story was a surprise. It sucked me right in and I couldn't put it down. Fantasy romance action you get it all with this book
June 1, 2019
Interesting Story and Introduction to a Different World
Valhara is different! The story follows the events of her life as she awakens to what she is and what really matters is life. The focus is on Valhara and Commander Devron.
In the first half of the story, things happen to our protagonist. She is not in control and seems more about a puppet than the master. That changes which definitely saves the book.
The military academy backdrop feels artificial and doesn't contribute much to the story. It's more of a prop than a real player. Even the rank structure felt awkward. As someone who has lived that life, it wasn't at all familiar.
Fortunately, there is enough other things of interest to keep you engaged. The roots of Arthurian legend and mystical beasts was nicely developed.
Valhara is different! The story follows the events of her life as she awakens to what she is and what really matters is life. The focus is on Valhara and Commander Devron.
In the first half of the story, things happen to our protagonist. She is not in control and seems more about a puppet than the master. That changes which definitely saves the book.
The military academy backdrop feels artificial and doesn't contribute much to the story. It's more of a prop than a real player. Even the rank structure felt awkward. As someone who has lived that life, it wasn't at all familiar.
Fortunately, there is enough other things of interest to keep you engaged. The roots of Arthurian legend and mystical beasts was nicely developed.
December 13, 2018
Is ANYBODY Who EVERYBODY Thinks They Are?
Including themselves?
I'm not into gaming, but my son and DIL are, and if this book is an example of gaming then maybe I'm missing out on something.
I mean, last time Patrick and I disagreed ok what I might like to read, I picked up one of his fantasy novels and never looked back.
I enjoyed Fates Aflame quite a lot. Characters from literature and from who's imagination blended seamlessly.
Anastasia produces highly readable fiction that I don't quite understand yet. But I think I will.
Recommended for readers of fantasy and gaming novels.
Including themselves?
I'm not into gaming, but my son and DIL are, and if this book is an example of gaming then maybe I'm missing out on something.
I mean, last time Patrick and I disagreed ok what I might like to read, I picked up one of his fantasy novels and never looked back.
I enjoyed Fates Aflame quite a lot. Characters from literature and from who's imagination blended seamlessly.
Anastasia produces highly readable fiction that I don't quite understand yet. But I think I will.
Recommended for readers of fantasy and gaming novels.
January 8, 2019
Fates
I enjoyed reading about Valhara and how she came into her powers. But why didn't she know about her power or her sister? Even though she lost her parents at a young age, she should ha e known someway or somehow that she could use energy from the air.
I enjoyed reading about Valhara and how she came into her powers. But why didn't she know about her power or her sister? Even though she lost her parents at a young age, she should ha e known someway or somehow that she could use energy from the air.
May 29, 2023
Didn't finish, couldn't get into the story- The story glossed over pretty much anything that did not involve the MC interaction with love interest. Plot threads are hinted at begun then dropped so the story was floundering.
December 27, 2018
Enjoyable
Strong character. Interesting story line. Slight hesitant pauses in flow of story?? Felt more aloof than what I felt for a romance
Strong character. Interesting story line. Slight hesitant pauses in flow of story?? Felt more aloof than what I felt for a romance
March 22, 2019
3.75 Stars
I did like, I'm just not sure if I'll seek out the second book yet.
I did like, I'm just not sure if I'll seek out the second book yet.
May 16, 2024
Fantasíubók sett í herskóla samfélagi, sem var ástæðan sem ég var næstum því búin að slökkva á henni. Aðalpersónan náði mér þó, með óvæntu twisti í anda fantasíubóka.
Spennt yfir framhaldinu.
Spennt yfir framhaldinu.
November 24, 2021
So I listened to it the second time around and I still am sticking by my original thoughts when I read this book. This is P’s best work I’ve read so far! I love her other books but this one is something else!
Soooooo it's been about 3 months but I finally finished it!!! I'm totally gonna write a full review and post it on my blog, I hope to start that up for real this time since there is no more pesky school in the way!!!
Soooooo it's been about 3 months but I finally finished it!!! I'm totally gonna write a full review and post it on my blog, I hope to start that up for real this time since there is no more pesky school in the way!!!
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews