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The Awakening
As their territory is thrown into chaos, princess Lilja and her keeper, a unique guardian by the name of Kaden, must find a resolution and return peace to a people driven by fear. But how does one exactly restore a fallen kingdom if they can’t even remember it? After an incident of war, Lilja has found herself just there—lost inside her own mind and a stranger to hervery existence. Their destinies entwined, Lilja and Kaden’s only hope restsin the hands of a magic wielder whose price for salvationmay just be more dangerous than the war itself. Together they must forge a path to save their civilization, but first they will need to come to terms with who they both truly are, because the past is always just around the corner.
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Published June 16, 2020
19 people are currently reading
55 people want to read
About the author
K.L. Hagaman
5 books65 followersHailing from a land of make-believe, KL Hagaman found freedom through reading, writing, and other artist expressions at a young age. She desires to encourage and inspire others to pursue their interests, whatever they may be, without over-thinking. The true beauty of creative works, is that there is no wrong or right way of doing…anything.
When she's not trying to regain control of the blimp she stole before it collides with the spires of the nearest imaginarium, she enjoys spending time with her spectacular family that consists of a dreamy husband, an adorable tiny human that resembles them both, and a pair of cats who ignore each other in a fashion that only the closest of family can.
When she's not trying to regain control of the blimp she stole before it collides with the spires of the nearest imaginarium, she enjoys spending time with her spectacular family that consists of a dreamy husband, an adorable tiny human that resembles them both, and a pair of cats who ignore each other in a fashion that only the closest of family can.
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
December 9, 2018
A fantastic debut from an author whose progress I’ve been following for a while now.
Where to begin? What truly blew me away was the author’s utilisation of pacing, character development and descriptive terminology, which are all just fantastic. There's a rhythm to the way she weaves words together that I really enjoyed.
There were also scenes so wonderfully executed that I could almost smell the wood-smoke, and the emotional beats hit me hard.
Onto the characters themselves…Kaden and Lilja steal the show, their dynamic always heartfelt and, at times, hilarious. But there are so many nuanced additional characters that drew me in. Not least of which, the primary antagonist.
By the time I felt I had a good handle on where the story was heading it led to an ending that…well to say would be to spoil it. But I was concerned it would be a hard story to end. I needn’t have worried. I was in good hands right the way to the explosive ending, which had me gripped.
Despite being a genre I wouldn’t automatically lean towards reading, this story has everything I look for in a book.
I even found myself awakening – pardon the pun – from a dream where I was in the world the author had built. A true testament to how this story has stuck with me.
Katie Hagaman is a Word Weaver to keep your eye on.
The only negative is that I now have to wait for the next instalment.
Where to begin? What truly blew me away was the author’s utilisation of pacing, character development and descriptive terminology, which are all just fantastic. There's a rhythm to the way she weaves words together that I really enjoyed.
There were also scenes so wonderfully executed that I could almost smell the wood-smoke, and the emotional beats hit me hard.
Onto the characters themselves…Kaden and Lilja steal the show, their dynamic always heartfelt and, at times, hilarious. But there are so many nuanced additional characters that drew me in. Not least of which, the primary antagonist.
By the time I felt I had a good handle on where the story was heading it led to an ending that…well to say would be to spoil it. But I was concerned it would be a hard story to end. I needn’t have worried. I was in good hands right the way to the explosive ending, which had me gripped.
Despite being a genre I wouldn’t automatically lean towards reading, this story has everything I look for in a book.
I even found myself awakening – pardon the pun – from a dream where I was in the world the author had built. A true testament to how this story has stuck with me.
Katie Hagaman is a Word Weaver to keep your eye on.
The only negative is that I now have to wait for the next instalment.
Read
February 7, 2020A thoroughly enjoyable story by a writer with great potential. The only drawback is that I'll have to wait to see what happens next…
December 19, 2018
Katie created an amazing world, and I love her characters. I would love to see this as a movie one day!
December 10, 2018
4.5/5
To start off with - Loved this book! This is not a genre I spend a lot of time reading. Especially the YA offshoot of Fantasy. The story in these pages made sure that wasn't an issue.
I have been following K.L. Hagaman for some time now on twitter because of her other release "In This Book You Will Find." She wrote and illustrated it and it is simply gorgeous. I am actually snagging copies of that book for my son and nephews!
This is K.L.'s first novel and boy did she deliver. The pacing is fantastic, the setting lush and the characters are described in deep detail. The stars of this, Book 1, are Kaden and Lilja. K.L. does a great job of building their relationship while creating each back story.
The add in characters do well to move the story along and as the tension begins to ratchet up and we reach the conclusion of the first book, you can already begin to see the direction the next 2-4 books will be heading.
As I mentioned, I don't read a lot of this type of stuff, but what I do read, this easily holds it's own against those. This would sit nicely on a shelf beside Patrick Rothfuss, Terry Brooks, George RR Martin or even Guillermo Del Toro's movies. I truly loved it, so glad I snagged it and took a chance and I really can't wait to read where the story goes from here!
To start off with - Loved this book! This is not a genre I spend a lot of time reading. Especially the YA offshoot of Fantasy. The story in these pages made sure that wasn't an issue.
I have been following K.L. Hagaman for some time now on twitter because of her other release "In This Book You Will Find." She wrote and illustrated it and it is simply gorgeous. I am actually snagging copies of that book for my son and nephews!
This is K.L.'s first novel and boy did she deliver. The pacing is fantastic, the setting lush and the characters are described in deep detail. The stars of this, Book 1, are Kaden and Lilja. K.L. does a great job of building their relationship while creating each back story.
The add in characters do well to move the story along and as the tension begins to ratchet up and we reach the conclusion of the first book, you can already begin to see the direction the next 2-4 books will be heading.
As I mentioned, I don't read a lot of this type of stuff, but what I do read, this easily holds it's own against those. This would sit nicely on a shelf beside Patrick Rothfuss, Terry Brooks, George RR Martin or even Guillermo Del Toro's movies. I truly loved it, so glad I snagged it and took a chance and I really can't wait to read where the story goes from here!
February 14, 2019
Loved the book!
Kaden and Lilja's chemistry is beautifully portrayed.
And that is not all. The detailing of the story and the description is excellent and immediately drew me in.
Loved every bit of the story and the way it dragged me in.
Kaden and Lilja's chemistry is beautifully portrayed.
And that is not all. The detailing of the story and the description is excellent and immediately drew me in.
Loved every bit of the story and the way it dragged me in.
March 15, 2019
I honestly didn't know what to expect when I started this book, but I had to give it a try. It was certainly not what I was expecting by any length and I had to adjust and just let myself go with it. At first I thought it was a sci-fi/fantasy tale with a love story, but it is in fact actually the opposite. Through an interesting method of storytelling, we are carried through a tapestry of memories that weave the beginning of a series. The world-building in this is quite subtle, but the character development is immense. The princess and her keeper evoke a wonderful story in themselves and that is what this book to me is truly about, their connection and love through the coming and enduring of dark times. And they are indeed solid characters for such an endeavor. If you are looking for all-out action, then you have come to the right place, but if you are looking for a tremendous start to what could be an epic tale/adventure, then I highly recommend this book. I am curious to see how the story unfolds and like the subtlety of this book, you will be slowly and surely pulled in to the story. There were a few word choices/errors that I noticed through the story, but nothing that is going to detract you from a beautifully woven tale. It is truly a book for different types of readers and I feel like it could even bring/introduce some readers into the world of sci-fi/fantasy and that is a truly good thing. All in all, it is a solid first step and I will certainly be reading book two to see where the adventure takes me as well as explore further works from this author.
May 1, 2019
The Awakening is one of those novels that keeps you up past your bedtime as you have to read just a little bit more, then you realise its 5am and you have to leave for work in two hours.
I love the way the story is structured. An exciting opening filled with danger and threat, then we learn more about the main characters and their world and what led to the opening scenes.
Kaden and Lilja are very interesting characters, strong in their own ways but utterly reliant on each other. Kaden shines in this book, I'd imagine that in the sequel it will be Lilja's turn.
Talking of the sequel, can I pre-order it yet? Please. Pretty please? I won't beg. Pllllleeeeeeaaaaassssee?
A brilliant debut novel, I highly recommend.
I love the way the story is structured. An exciting opening filled with danger and threat, then we learn more about the main characters and their world and what led to the opening scenes.
Kaden and Lilja are very interesting characters, strong in their own ways but utterly reliant on each other. Kaden shines in this book, I'd imagine that in the sequel it will be Lilja's turn.
Talking of the sequel, can I pre-order it yet? Please. Pretty please? I won't beg. Pllllleeeeeeaaaaassssee?
A brilliant debut novel, I highly recommend.
June 22, 2019
Well... What do I say?... Perfection is a good word, right?
I read this book because I had heard some great things about it, and I have to agree with what was said. The characters and setting were perfectly balanced, and the story was paced perfectly. I will not mention the specifics of the story (I would not spoil it for people) but I will just say that this book has depth, wit, and wisdom. So I take my hat off to Katie and give her a long slow clap! On to book 2!
***** 5 Stars
I read this book because I had heard some great things about it, and I have to agree with what was said. The characters and setting were perfectly balanced, and the story was paced perfectly. I will not mention the specifics of the story (I would not spoil it for people) but I will just say that this book has depth, wit, and wisdom. So I take my hat off to Katie and give her a long slow clap! On to book 2!
***** 5 Stars
October 4, 2019
An excellent debut novel by K. Hagaman! I don't read much YA fantasy but this book sucked me right into Lilja and Kaden's world and had me invested in their plight. Hagaman does an incredible job with world-building, pacing, and character development. Also, I loved the unique premise of the book where a "weaver" can help retrieve lost memories.
I'm looking forward to reading more of this series and can't wait to see what happens next.
I'm looking forward to reading more of this series and can't wait to see what happens next.
April 9, 2019
Here is my review of The Awakening
Immersion: 5 of 5
Well right off the bat, we’re falling out of the sky. Grabbed my attention ASAP. Then as each chapter ended, it would leave us a question or something for us to want to read more.
Long story short, I was only able to read 20% before life bogged me down. Weeks later, I came back. Immediately re-immersed and I literally finished the book in one sitting!
Characters: 4 of 5 (But Kaden kinda makes it a 5 of 5)
I only knock this a point because I wish I got to meet some name characters more. With that said, I love this book's characters. Especially Kaden. Kaden is a win, A++. He has a lot of great character moments and moments we as readers can take to heart. Lilja, our main character, was great and I loved her personality. The banter between her and Kaden remind me of dialog I’ve had with close friends, so it was realistic to me.
Ending: 5 of 5
No spoilers.
I knew halfway into this book, “There’s a book 2.”
(It's also in the title... book 1)
Which is a win for me as I want more of Lilja and Kaden
It definitely set up well for the sequel.
The romantic in me screamed though
But hey… always book 2
Storyline: 5 of 5
I don’t want to spoil anything, so I’ll keep it short. The story is told differently than what I am used to reading, but it was done well and I liked it. There is a bit of time jumping, which some author’s botch and can confuse readers. Not the case here. KL Hagaman made it easy for us to follow along.
The last chapter’s twist somehow took me by surprise; well played KL.
The story drew me in and kept me turning the pages until the end
Personal Enjoyment: 5 of 5
This was a great story! I truly loved it and I’m upset it’s taken me so long to fully enjoy this book. From Characters to settings, to twists, and reveals, I had a great time reading this book.
So… potential reader
Should you buy this book?
HARD YES!
James Stevens’ novel was my 2018’s book of the year
We are 4 months into 2019, and it might already be claimed by The Awakening.
Take the jump, dive into this adventure, and enjoy the ride
Challenge accepted?
Final Score: 24 out of 25 (25 out of 25… if you count the “Kaden Factor”)
5 Stars!
Immersion: 5 of 5
Well right off the bat, we’re falling out of the sky. Grabbed my attention ASAP. Then as each chapter ended, it would leave us a question or something for us to want to read more.
Long story short, I was only able to read 20% before life bogged me down. Weeks later, I came back. Immediately re-immersed and I literally finished the book in one sitting!
Characters: 4 of 5 (But Kaden kinda makes it a 5 of 5)
I only knock this a point because I wish I got to meet some name characters more. With that said, I love this book's characters. Especially Kaden. Kaden is a win, A++. He has a lot of great character moments and moments we as readers can take to heart. Lilja, our main character, was great and I loved her personality. The banter between her and Kaden remind me of dialog I’ve had with close friends, so it was realistic to me.
Ending: 5 of 5
No spoilers.
I knew halfway into this book, “There’s a book 2.”
(It's also in the title... book 1)
Which is a win for me as I want more of Lilja and Kaden
It definitely set up well for the sequel.
The romantic in me screamed though
But hey… always book 2
Storyline: 5 of 5
I don’t want to spoil anything, so I’ll keep it short. The story is told differently than what I am used to reading, but it was done well and I liked it. There is a bit of time jumping, which some author’s botch and can confuse readers. Not the case here. KL Hagaman made it easy for us to follow along.
The last chapter’s twist somehow took me by surprise; well played KL.
The story drew me in and kept me turning the pages until the end
Personal Enjoyment: 5 of 5
This was a great story! I truly loved it and I’m upset it’s taken me so long to fully enjoy this book. From Characters to settings, to twists, and reveals, I had a great time reading this book.
So… potential reader
Should you buy this book?
HARD YES!
James Stevens’ novel was my 2018’s book of the year
We are 4 months into 2019, and it might already be claimed by The Awakening.
Take the jump, dive into this adventure, and enjoy the ride
Challenge accepted?
Final Score: 24 out of 25 (25 out of 25… if you count the “Kaden Factor”)
5 Stars!
February 12, 2020
You know when you start a first book and within a matter of a few chapters, you find yourself hooked for the duration of the series, assured that you're going to love it? The Awakening has that effect.
It'd been awhile since I read a fantasy novel, so for the first couple pages, I was as disorientated as the amnesiac Princess Lilja, getting my bearings in Hagaman's technologically-advanced kingdom where magic is an archaic art and weavers of said art are regarded with suspicion.
There is a heavy bit of passive voice at the very beginning of this tale, but the author's admirable storytelling shines through in the perfect pacing (seamless transitions between past memories and present progress), splendid word-building, and excellent character development.
This first book in the trilogy is revealed to be more keeper Kaden's story than Princess Lilja's, understandable since she is indisposed after a bump to the head and fine by me since the sweet and courteous warrior/weaver is my favorite character. But I liked how even without her memories, the princess has intuition, intelligence, and spunk.
I loved the playful banter and subtle romance between princess and protector.
I must have gotten an early copy, because I did come across a hefty amount of typos. Rye instead of wry. Vein instead of vain. Relieved instead of relived. Etc.
But still, this book is a 5-star read that both YA and Adult audiences will enjoy! I highly recommend.
It'd been awhile since I read a fantasy novel, so for the first couple pages, I was as disorientated as the amnesiac Princess Lilja, getting my bearings in Hagaman's technologically-advanced kingdom where magic is an archaic art and weavers of said art are regarded with suspicion.
There is a heavy bit of passive voice at the very beginning of this tale, but the author's admirable storytelling shines through in the perfect pacing (seamless transitions between past memories and present progress), splendid word-building, and excellent character development.
This first book in the trilogy is revealed to be more keeper Kaden's story than Princess Lilja's, understandable since she is indisposed after a bump to the head and fine by me since the sweet and courteous warrior/weaver is my favorite character. But I liked how even without her memories, the princess has intuition, intelligence, and spunk.
I loved the playful banter and subtle romance between princess and protector.
I must have gotten an early copy, because I did come across a hefty amount of typos. Rye instead of wry. Vein instead of vain. Relieved instead of relived. Etc.
But still, this book is a 5-star read that both YA and Adult audiences will enjoy! I highly recommend.
April 15, 2019
Where's the 6th star? (*Looks around*). You've GOT to be kidding me! This novel of wonder, fantasy, beauty, humor, and adventure, surely deserves a 6-star rating! Kaden is the kind of man, whom is well-deserving as Princess Lilja's "Keeper". His charge to her never once wanders, nor does his quest to keep her safe, waver one iota. Bravo for weaving a story of most epic proportions, Katie! Onto the next part of the adventure!
January 15, 2019
Looking forward to more
Fun read! Great start to a new series. There’s nothing better than a story about friendship, trust and honor and betrayal. Wonderful messages of acceptance. This story has all the feels that you can want. And Hagaman’s enjoyable humor is also spread throughout. Another wonderful story that has created an anticipation for the next book.
Fun read! Great start to a new series. There’s nothing better than a story about friendship, trust and honor and betrayal. Wonderful messages of acceptance. This story has all the feels that you can want. And Hagaman’s enjoyable humor is also spread throughout. Another wonderful story that has created an anticipation for the next book.
October 18, 2019
I confess, I had some trouble getting into the story at first, but it was totally worth it. Once I got to the flashbacks, the bond between the main characters became alive and I wanted nothing more than to see how their story turns out.
January 1, 2019
Such an awesome adventurous story... Had fun reading it and looked forward to what will happen next
April 9, 2019
Can't wait for part 2!
January 21, 2020
I really enjoyed the world building taking place in this book. A sort of sci-fi with magic setting containing characters that are fully fleshed out. The relationship between the princess and her "keeper", a sort of magical body guard, develops in the most delightful way. For fans of sci-fi and fantasy, I strongly recommend tagging along with Princess Lilja on this wonderful journey.
October 8, 2020
Swoony page-turning adventure
I fell right into this book the way Lilja fell into that sleep!
This was one of those books that was so easy to get tied up in and lose track of time reading. It’s one of those books that you can’t wait to get to steal a moment to read.
I mean, the appeal of a forbidden romance between a princess and her ‘Keeper’ was enough. *chills* But then there’s all this magic and danger as well! This book gives you everything you want and more.
Princess Lilja is an easily admirable character from the get-go. With her headstrong and clever personality. She’s mischievous and loving and protective of her family and Kaden. She’s independent and capable and a heroine in her own right.
Then there’s her hero, Kaden. Mysterious, patient, wise, and goodness, so loyal! His quiet strength and his love for Lilja is everything. Also, who doesn’t love a jokester?
I loved this story. I’m curious to know what happens next.
I fell right into this book the way Lilja fell into that sleep!
This was one of those books that was so easy to get tied up in and lose track of time reading. It’s one of those books that you can’t wait to get to steal a moment to read.
I mean, the appeal of a forbidden romance between a princess and her ‘Keeper’ was enough. *chills* But then there’s all this magic and danger as well! This book gives you everything you want and more.
Princess Lilja is an easily admirable character from the get-go. With her headstrong and clever personality. She’s mischievous and loving and protective of her family and Kaden. She’s independent and capable and a heroine in her own right.
Then there’s her hero, Kaden. Mysterious, patient, wise, and goodness, so loyal! His quiet strength and his love for Lilja is everything. Also, who doesn’t love a jokester?
I loved this story. I’m curious to know what happens next.
November 25, 2019
An interesting steam flavoured adventure with magic woven within, this was an interesting story with a new take on a princess in a tower and her knight, or in this case keeper. A sudden start to the story gives it a pull that makes you want to know what happened and why, but it was the character's attitudes that I loved, Lilja and Kaden are well thought out characters that make the story enjoyable. Because of the aspects of rediscovering Lilja's memory I did find some parts a bit slow to get through, and rather telling than experiencing. I was also somewhat disappointed by the ending as while I knew this was first in a series I almost felt that this was more backstory to what was to come, rather than the story of these characters in itself.
August 6, 2021
Hagaman's narration of her own novel is magic. She takes me right to the setting with her tone and tempo.
Not entirely my go to genre, but I was glad to pick it up. Fantastic characters and working back through the unlocking of memories. Royalty and war and magic and budding romance. So many good aspects. I didn't pick up totally on the sci-fi vibe until I realized that airships were involved. With two more novels following, I'm sure this will be a great run!
Not entirely my go to genre, but I was glad to pick it up. Fantastic characters and working back through the unlocking of memories. Royalty and war and magic and budding romance. So many good aspects. I didn't pick up totally on the sci-fi vibe until I realized that airships were involved. With two more novels following, I'm sure this will be a great run!
March 14, 2020
It was an interesting structure with a well built world. I’ve read better fantasy before as well as better romance but I still enjoyed it. It was a quick read, good for when you need something to read to pass the time.
March 24, 2023
An amazing start to an engaging trilogy! I love the clever dialogue and interaction between Lilja and Kaden. The unrequited romantic tension is so palpable at times! I look forward to reading the second book.
November 9, 2023
A wonderful tale
I really enjoyed the world Katie weaved in this book. She created a very vivid tale. I loved Kaden and Lilja's banter and friendship... Also I totally ship them!
Looking forward to seeing where the story goes from here!
I really enjoyed the world Katie weaved in this book. She created a very vivid tale. I loved Kaden and Lilja's banter and friendship... Also I totally ship them!
Looking forward to seeing where the story goes from here!
May 12, 2020
What I Did Like:
-Memory angle is refreshing and new. I LOVED it. That made for a great story that was unraveling in an interesting way.
-Characters. This book is the first book in a series done right. The unique memory angle makes this intriguing while introducing you to characters who will power the rest of the series because you already love them. Kaden is incredibly well written. Despite the fact that he’s not technically the main character, he pulls this story along. I can’t wait to find out more about him!
-Magic. I love when the magic system introduced in a book is intriguing and different. This one is definitely that! I look forward to watching it grow in the remaining books in the series.
Who Should Read This One:
-Fantasy fans … yes, all of you. This has epic battles, flying, magic, and great characters. A little something for every fantasy reader.
My Rating:
-4 Stars. This one will appeal to fantasy fans, for sure!
For Full Review (including what I didn’t like): https://youtu.be/e27XHLzNjdg
-Memory angle is refreshing and new. I LOVED it. That made for a great story that was unraveling in an interesting way.
-Characters. This book is the first book in a series done right. The unique memory angle makes this intriguing while introducing you to characters who will power the rest of the series because you already love them. Kaden is incredibly well written. Despite the fact that he’s not technically the main character, he pulls this story along. I can’t wait to find out more about him!
-Magic. I love when the magic system introduced in a book is intriguing and different. This one is definitely that! I look forward to watching it grow in the remaining books in the series.
Who Should Read This One:
-Fantasy fans … yes, all of you. This has epic battles, flying, magic, and great characters. A little something for every fantasy reader.
My Rating:
-4 Stars. This one will appeal to fantasy fans, for sure!
For Full Review (including what I didn’t like): https://youtu.be/e27XHLzNjdg
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews