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Phoenix Rising #4
Shade Kissed
I should have stayed in a coma.
I can’t remember a single second of my life before waking up in a hospital bed in Knoxville, Tennessee. Not who I am. Not what I am. Not the man next to me claiming to be my husband.
But the last shards of my life are about to be burned to the ground. Because someone has to pay for the sins of the past, and I’m wearing the face of the woman who committed them.
The old adage is wrong. What I don’t know will definitely kill me.
I can’t remember a single second of my life before waking up in a hospital bed in Knoxville, Tennessee. Not who I am. Not what I am. Not the man next to me claiming to be my husband.
But the last shards of my life are about to be burned to the ground. Because someone has to pay for the sins of the past, and I’m wearing the face of the woman who committed them.
The old adage is wrong. What I don’t know will definitely kill me.
Kindle Edition
First published January 24, 2017
234 people are currently reading
381 people want to read
About the author
Annie Anderson
57 books2,399 followersAnnie Anderson is the author of the international bestselling Rogue Ethereal series. A United States Air Force veteran, Annie pens fast-paced Paranormal Romance and Urban Fantasy novels filled with strong, snarky heroines and a boatload of magic. When she takes a break from writing, she can be found binge-watching The Magicians, flirting with her husband, wrangling children, or bribing her cantankerous dogs to go on a walk.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews
November 24, 2019
Nicola hasn’t made the easiest decisions to get to where she is and she’s made a lot of difficult compromises and sacrifices. Her one slice of happy is finding Kyle, but the timing is terrible enough. Waking up with no memory who or what she is, however, throws her world into a tailspin.
Kyle, oh man, he was a gentle, lovable giant! Until he gets riled up that is. Then it’s warrior mode in all its glory! I loved him to pieces. Simple as that. He accepted Nicola as she was, good or bad it made no difference to him, and it was easy to see why the two of them were so compatible.
Their romance was spot on. I could chalk it up to adrenaline, but there was a deep emotional connection between them that sang across the pages in a beautiful way. Maybe it was because of how broken they were and how far they had come, but it worked magic for me! It also didn’t hurt that Nicola and Kyle also have the spiciest romance in this series to date;)
Shade Kissed exceeded my expectations! Nicola and Kyle’s story was an emotional wringer! I wasn’t expecting the deets, but darned if I didn’t gobble them up! And the wonderful secondary characters! West, Mena, Asher, Evan, Aurelia, Rhys, Ian-his poor Mustang!- oh my goodness, and Max! I loved Max with her blue hair, tats, and rockabilly self! I think she has her own series? And yes, I’m delving into that one next! Heck, I’m loving everything about this series!
Kyle, oh man, he was a gentle, lovable giant! Until he gets riled up that is. Then it’s warrior mode in all its glory! I loved him to pieces. Simple as that. He accepted Nicola as she was, good or bad it made no difference to him, and it was easy to see why the two of them were so compatible.
Their romance was spot on. I could chalk it up to adrenaline, but there was a deep emotional connection between them that sang across the pages in a beautiful way. Maybe it was because of how broken they were and how far they had come, but it worked magic for me! It also didn’t hurt that Nicola and Kyle also have the spiciest romance in this series to date;)
Shade Kissed exceeded my expectations! Nicola and Kyle’s story was an emotional wringer! I wasn’t expecting the deets, but darned if I didn’t gobble them up! And the wonderful secondary characters! West, Mena, Asher, Evan, Aurelia, Rhys, Ian-his poor Mustang!- oh my goodness, and Max! I loved Max with her blue hair, tats, and rockabilly self! I think she has her own series? And yes, I’m delving into that one next! Heck, I’m loving everything about this series!
January 24, 2017
Total thrill ride. I loved every second of this book.
This is the follow up to Rising Ashes, and the fourth novel in the Ashes to Ashes series.
I was given a copy of this book for an honest review, so many thanks go to the author for the privilege.
When I think of Nicola, I think of this phrase:
“The needs of the many outweigh the needs of the few...or the one”
The sheer amount of effort that Nicola has expended trying to preserve and protect others, often at her own expense, is staggering. She has been forced to make hard choices for other people, when she was the only one who could see the outcome of those choices. Some of those hard choices have led her to where she starts this book, awaking in a hospital with no memory of her former life. She doesn’t know who she is. She doesn’t know what she is, for that matter. All she has to go on is a resounding sense that something in her past went horribly, horribly wrong.
Kyle lost Nicola almost as soon as he found her. The evil being that wore her face for a time has been vanquished, but there are still consequences. Many people that feel that Nicola owes them a tremendous debt of pain. Can he keep her safe, from herself and those hunting her? Is she even a fraction of the woman he knew, or has everything been wiped clean from her mind? He helped her fight her way out of the darkness once before, can he pull another miracle out of his hat?
The world that this author has created pulls you in like a magnet. The mechanics of it - the way this world works -is endlessly fascinating. The characters are so well done that by the end of the book you think of them as friends. I’ve been told that I’m hard to get five stars out of, but it seems that this series has become something of an automatic five star read for me. It really is just that good. I am seriously looking forward to more of this series in the future.
This is the follow up to Rising Ashes, and the fourth novel in the Ashes to Ashes series.
I was given a copy of this book for an honest review, so many thanks go to the author for the privilege.
When I think of Nicola, I think of this phrase:
“The needs of the many outweigh the needs of the few...or the one”
The sheer amount of effort that Nicola has expended trying to preserve and protect others, often at her own expense, is staggering. She has been forced to make hard choices for other people, when she was the only one who could see the outcome of those choices. Some of those hard choices have led her to where she starts this book, awaking in a hospital with no memory of her former life. She doesn’t know who she is. She doesn’t know what she is, for that matter. All she has to go on is a resounding sense that something in her past went horribly, horribly wrong.
Kyle lost Nicola almost as soon as he found her. The evil being that wore her face for a time has been vanquished, but there are still consequences. Many people that feel that Nicola owes them a tremendous debt of pain. Can he keep her safe, from herself and those hunting her? Is she even a fraction of the woman he knew, or has everything been wiped clean from her mind? He helped her fight her way out of the darkness once before, can he pull another miracle out of his hat?
The world that this author has created pulls you in like a magnet. The mechanics of it - the way this world works -is endlessly fascinating. The characters are so well done that by the end of the book you think of them as friends. I’ve been told that I’m hard to get five stars out of, but it seems that this series has become something of an automatic five star read for me. It really is just that good. I am seriously looking forward to more of this series in the future.
February 1, 2017
GAH!!! I love this book!!!! Smoldering Ashes is the 4th book of the Ashes to Ashes series and is Kyle and Nicola's story. I find this book somewhat emotional on some parts but still loved it! Nicola was ripped away from Kyle, but when she was back to his life, she was not the woman he once knew. Nicola lost her memories.. Things get more complicated and interesting when some things will be revealed and she was hounded by people who wore her face/body who committed those horrible things. What I love about this book is that I was easily pulled into the story from the started and up to the last! I also love how I easily felt the emotions of the characters! I can't wait for the next book of this series!!!!!!!
#mustread #bookhangoveralert
#mustread #bookhangoveralert
October 10, 2017
What a thrill ride! Anderson continues to "top" herself with each consecutive book in this series. If you want a series that is going to keep you riveted from page to page and book to book, the Ashes to Ashes series is exactly what you're looking for!
*I received a complimentary ARC of this story in order to read and provide a voluntary, unbiased and honest review, should I choose to do so.
*I received a complimentary ARC of this story in order to read and provide a voluntary, unbiased and honest review, should I choose to do so.
February 4, 2017
The fourth installment of Anderson's Ashes to Ashes Series, far exceeded my expectations. I'm not sure how she does it, but she is always able to draw us into the world she has created. Her beautiful words and vivid imagery are nothing short of mesmerizing.
In true Anderson fashion, she delivers incredibly bold and deep characters that drive her story. Since Kyle was first introduced, I've been intrigued. He's an important part of the group but he's always been on the periphery. I loved being able to get inside his head. He was so wrapped up in Nicola, his love was all encompassing and unconditional.
Nicola has been quite an enigma throughout the series. With so many questions and uncertainty surrounding her, I knew her book would be epic. Being able to discover what lies within was eye-opening. Her resiliency, bravery, and selflessness was inspiring. My heart broke for her for all she had been through.
Anderson creates a sense of unease throughout, we can never be sure what fate has in store for any of her characters, but Nicola's course is so much more uncertain. The added action and mystery had me tearing through the pages and my anxiety raging. I also found myself quite emotional at times, which is no surprise when it comes to this series. Anderson perfectly mixes together all of these aspects to deliver an unstoppable story; a true master of her craft.
September 15, 2017
This is the fourth story in the Ashes To Ashes series and BOOM, I loved it! I really love that we finally get the story of the elusive Nicola and can't wait to see more of hers and Kyles's story in the next book. Now is the torture of waiting for the next installment. I have really loved this series and I know you will too.
December 10, 2023
I love this series. The characters are feisty and fun, the story is engaging and entertaining, and the writing is really well done. The author put it all in there and it shows. I had the best time reading this book and I look forward to whatever comes next.
Well done to the author!
Well done to the author!
February 4, 2017
5 Cranky Stars
I have yet to find a magical story by Annie Anderson that I don't love. She creates these fantastic worlds that make you feel like it's part of your every day life. That there are mythical beings standing right next to you in line at the grocery or at the bank.
Nicola is a Phoenix but not only that she's also the oracle. She's a rare breed that's for sure. She was also never really nice and has made some enemies along the way. The only constant in her life was Kyle. This story has us seeing a new side to Nicola who wakes up in a hospital room with this hulking man by her side. She has no idea who she truly is and is learning about everyone including herself from scratch.
Kyle has always loved Nicola. From the minute she never judged his lineage he knew he'd move heaven and earth for her and in some ways he has. Kyle may seem very intimidating with his giant stature and opposing nature but deep down he loves with his whole soul. He never gives up on Nicola when most would walk away.
I've devoured this series from book one. It keeps me on my toes and wanting so much more. I like how the past characters are knitted into the story yet time progresses. We aren't at a fixed point and its not different stories like some books do its fluid and it moves with time.
I've always been a big Kyle lover. He just moves me with his giant heart and kind words yet please don't make him bad because he's a wraith and will ferry you to Hell.
This is a great paranormal series that I think everyone should experience. Annie Anderson is magical.
I have yet to find a magical story by Annie Anderson that I don't love. She creates these fantastic worlds that make you feel like it's part of your every day life. That there are mythical beings standing right next to you in line at the grocery or at the bank.
Nicola is a Phoenix but not only that she's also the oracle. She's a rare breed that's for sure. She was also never really nice and has made some enemies along the way. The only constant in her life was Kyle. This story has us seeing a new side to Nicola who wakes up in a hospital room with this hulking man by her side. She has no idea who she truly is and is learning about everyone including herself from scratch.
Kyle has always loved Nicola. From the minute she never judged his lineage he knew he'd move heaven and earth for her and in some ways he has. Kyle may seem very intimidating with his giant stature and opposing nature but deep down he loves with his whole soul. He never gives up on Nicola when most would walk away.
I've devoured this series from book one. It keeps me on my toes and wanting so much more. I like how the past characters are knitted into the story yet time progresses. We aren't at a fixed point and its not different stories like some books do its fluid and it moves with time.
I've always been a big Kyle lover. He just moves me with his giant heart and kind words yet please don't make him bad because he's a wraith and will ferry you to Hell.
This is a great paranormal series that I think everyone should experience. Annie Anderson is magical.
February 1, 2017
I'm not sure how to praise Annie Anderson because I'm sure it's all been said a million times and expressed a million different ways. She creates such magical worlds that make you believe people like Nicola and Evangeline and Kyle and the whole group could exist living amongst us daily.
When we last heard from Nicola and Kyle it wasn't good. Nicola was on a rampage and Kyle was trying to save her. Nicola is a Phoenix amongst other things and she wasn't always the nicest person to most. She was brash and bold and was herself. This time it's different she wakes up in a hospital not sure what is truly going on. She's navigating and learning tasks anew. Kyle is her ever present husband and champion. The moment he laid eyes on the firey red headed beauty he knew he'd move all the stars in the sky for her. Kyle is a Wraith and a dash of something extra. He's the guy who ferries the bad souls to hell but under it all he's as loyal as they come. A teddy bear of a man for his Nicola and those he deems worthy. Kyle is forced to tap into a side of himself he swore he'd never touch again. All to save their lives and their love. This story isn't all puppies and rainbows it's two people learning each other all over again hoping they come out unharmed on the other side.
I read this in a day and a half no lies. I had to know where Nicola and Kyle would end up. I kept my fingers crossed for the happy ending they deserve. I love that these books while displaying a different couple you still see the others moving forward as well. We don't get a retelling from a different point of view at the same fixed point in time like the other couples. They move, grow, and struggle. I found no real issues with this book other than a few misspellings but that's bound to happen in any book. I highly recommend this series to anyone who loves paranormal and love stories.
When we last heard from Nicola and Kyle it wasn't good. Nicola was on a rampage and Kyle was trying to save her. Nicola is a Phoenix amongst other things and she wasn't always the nicest person to most. She was brash and bold and was herself. This time it's different she wakes up in a hospital not sure what is truly going on. She's navigating and learning tasks anew. Kyle is her ever present husband and champion. The moment he laid eyes on the firey red headed beauty he knew he'd move all the stars in the sky for her. Kyle is a Wraith and a dash of something extra. He's the guy who ferries the bad souls to hell but under it all he's as loyal as they come. A teddy bear of a man for his Nicola and those he deems worthy. Kyle is forced to tap into a side of himself he swore he'd never touch again. All to save their lives and their love. This story isn't all puppies and rainbows it's two people learning each other all over again hoping they come out unharmed on the other side.
I read this in a day and a half no lies. I had to know where Nicola and Kyle would end up. I kept my fingers crossed for the happy ending they deserve. I love that these books while displaying a different couple you still see the others moving forward as well. We don't get a retelling from a different point of view at the same fixed point in time like the other couples. They move, grow, and struggle. I found no real issues with this book other than a few misspellings but that's bound to happen in any book. I highly recommend this series to anyone who loves paranormal and love stories.
December 26, 2016
*Copy received from author for an honest review*
I love the series, I love these characters and I'm totally #TeamRhys but.... Kyle stole a part of my heart. The SOB is full of surprises... dude has a heart of pure and holy gold.
I'm not a fan of Nicola, or I should say I wasn't until reading Smoldering Ashes. She's still not a favorite but I get the reason behind all the things she did. The tide between what needs to be done and what should be done crash together in the past to lead us to where we are now. Everyone, and yes, I mean everyone has hated her at some point. Well, minus the twins, I think they got to see what she was doing. Who're anyone else. She damned them but she also saved them.
Now, Nicola is the one that's under fire the moment her eyes open. When she wakes in a hospital, there is a lot she doesn't remember. So much has happened and Kyle is left trying to fit the prices back together. Problem is that puzzle no longer fits together as it once had.
Nicola is broken, yet reborn, in some aspects. She has a second chance at making up for all the bad that's been done... problem is, she's clueless as to the amount of trouble she's really in. Her visions cloud her mind and they cause her to act carelessly. Again, it's Kyle who had to step in, suck up his pride and ask for help from some of the very people who despise Nicola
Along with the chaos surrounding them, the bond between Kyle and Nicola grows until it blossoms as it once had. Together they are much stronger than they were apart.
Only problem is... the real trouble is just starting to fester. They've got to fight or it's all for nothing. Nothing can't win, not this time.
I love the series, I love these characters and I'm totally #TeamRhys but.... Kyle stole a part of my heart. The SOB is full of surprises... dude has a heart of pure and holy gold.
I'm not a fan of Nicola, or I should say I wasn't until reading Smoldering Ashes. She's still not a favorite but I get the reason behind all the things she did. The tide between what needs to be done and what should be done crash together in the past to lead us to where we are now. Everyone, and yes, I mean everyone has hated her at some point. Well, minus the twins, I think they got to see what she was doing. Who're anyone else. She damned them but she also saved them.
Now, Nicola is the one that's under fire the moment her eyes open. When she wakes in a hospital, there is a lot she doesn't remember. So much has happened and Kyle is left trying to fit the prices back together. Problem is that puzzle no longer fits together as it once had.
Nicola is broken, yet reborn, in some aspects. She has a second chance at making up for all the bad that's been done... problem is, she's clueless as to the amount of trouble she's really in. Her visions cloud her mind and they cause her to act carelessly. Again, it's Kyle who had to step in, suck up his pride and ask for help from some of the very people who despise Nicola
Along with the chaos surrounding them, the bond between Kyle and Nicola grows until it blossoms as it once had. Together they are much stronger than they were apart.
Only problem is... the real trouble is just starting to fester. They've got to fight or it's all for nothing. Nothing can't win, not this time.
December 11, 2023
I have read the previous three books in this series and they just keep getting better and better! At first, the style of writing, involving separate narrators & many points of time, is a little hard to get used to, but once you get into the hang of it, it is a great read. Nicola has been sacrificing all her life to keep everyone around her alive & well. But instead of a big "Thank You", all she gets is hatred and grief. She has been in a coma for months, with her husband, Kyle, by her side. When she wakes from the coma, her memory is gone.
As the story progresses, you start to think that maybe she would have been better off dead or at least with her memory still missing. How do you cope with memories of doing horrible things & causing death to so many innocent children?
If you love reading about supernatural species (werewolf, phoenix, oracle, witch, etc), you will enjoy this book. There is action, romance, love, hate, violence & some steamy sex. It has something for everyone (unless you are a prude..... Ms. Anderson does warn you in her blurb!).
Favorite quote of the book: "We were just people. We loved who we loved. Blaming someone for their lineage is bullshit." Too bad the real world can't seem to see this!
As the story progresses, you start to think that maybe she would have been better off dead or at least with her memory still missing. How do you cope with memories of doing horrible things & causing death to so many innocent children?
If you love reading about supernatural species (werewolf, phoenix, oracle, witch, etc), you will enjoy this book. There is action, romance, love, hate, violence & some steamy sex. It has something for everyone (unless you are a prude..... Ms. Anderson does warn you in her blurb!).
Favorite quote of the book: "We were just people. We loved who we loved. Blaming someone for their lineage is bullshit." Too bad the real world can't seem to see this!
March 22, 2018
Smoldering Ashes (Book 4 in the Ashes to Ashes series) by Annie Anderson
***5 smoldering stars***
An advanced readers copy was given by author for honest review.
The world that Annie has created for us is completely mesmerizing, full of spectacular characters and amazing plot twists, that keep you yearning for more. This is Nicola’s story, and my how the tables have turned on my opinion of this lost soul.
Nicola has been misjudged by many, but Kyle's love for her has never waivered. His fight to save her from her inner demons and others trying to destroy her in the process, is the epitome of a man devoted.
Waking up in the hospital with no recollection of who she once was, Nicola is a confused mess of emotions. The family who once stood beside her, is now leery of her. All she has left is her strong will to fight and make amends for her past.
As always, loving the return of our beloved crew, with the awesome new addition of Max. She's a witch with a snarky attitude and a personality you can't hide from. She has quickly become my new book bestie, and I can't wait to see what shenanigans she brings to us in the future.
The Ashes to Ashes series is simply phenomenal and will always have a piece of my heart!
***5 smoldering stars***
An advanced readers copy was given by author for honest review.
The world that Annie has created for us is completely mesmerizing, full of spectacular characters and amazing plot twists, that keep you yearning for more. This is Nicola’s story, and my how the tables have turned on my opinion of this lost soul.
Nicola has been misjudged by many, but Kyle's love for her has never waivered. His fight to save her from her inner demons and others trying to destroy her in the process, is the epitome of a man devoted.
Waking up in the hospital with no recollection of who she once was, Nicola is a confused mess of emotions. The family who once stood beside her, is now leery of her. All she has left is her strong will to fight and make amends for her past.
As always, loving the return of our beloved crew, with the awesome new addition of Max. She's a witch with a snarky attitude and a personality you can't hide from. She has quickly become my new book bestie, and I can't wait to see what shenanigans she brings to us in the future.
The Ashes to Ashes series is simply phenomenal and will always have a piece of my heart!
January 10, 2017
I received this book as an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
When Nicola wakes with zero memory of who she is and a hulking, gorgeous male resting vigil by her side; she's even more shocked to learn he's her husband!
Kyle: Things go from bad to worse as the proverbial sh*t hits the fan. As he's trying to help his wife understand what's going on, there's enemies at every turn.
As always, family sticks together. The crew reunites in epic proportions.
Nicola's memory may be gone, but there's one thing that never leaves: love. It's a love that bonds two people, body and soul, beyond time and space. No one can erase it and it's love that guides the battle throughout this entire, spectacular story of sacrifice, loyalty and the true meaning of family.
Annie never disappoints. Her writing draws you into the magical world she's created within her brilliant mind. Smoldering Ashes is nothing short of amazing! If you've yet to read this series, I highly recommend beginning with book one and get comfy. You'll be instantly addicted. Get ready to fall in love with each and every one these characters. 5 stars!!
When Nicola wakes with zero memory of who she is and a hulking, gorgeous male resting vigil by her side; she's even more shocked to learn he's her husband!
Kyle: Things go from bad to worse as the proverbial sh*t hits the fan. As he's trying to help his wife understand what's going on, there's enemies at every turn.
As always, family sticks together. The crew reunites in epic proportions.
Nicola's memory may be gone, but there's one thing that never leaves: love. It's a love that bonds two people, body and soul, beyond time and space. No one can erase it and it's love that guides the battle throughout this entire, spectacular story of sacrifice, loyalty and the true meaning of family.
Annie never disappoints. Her writing draws you into the magical world she's created within her brilliant mind. Smoldering Ashes is nothing short of amazing! If you've yet to read this series, I highly recommend beginning with book one and get comfy. You'll be instantly addicted. Get ready to fall in love with each and every one these characters. 5 stars!!
January 15, 2017
This is the first book I've read by Annie Anderson. It took a little - it always does with a new-to-me author - to get used to the style and figure things out.
I have to say, I think it's best if one read the previous books in the series before jumping into this one. If you're not one to be bothered by having different characters pop up in the story, then you can read this one.
I wasn't bothered by it, but I still felt like I was missing something. Or missing out?
But I did like the fact that it's all with Phoenixes and Wraiths and Witches. An interesting combo and mix, that's for sure.
As the blurb says, hero and heroine are a couple, but something happens and our heroine, Nicola loses her memory, not remembering anything. Much to Kyle, her husband's dismay.
The book is told in dual POVs, past and present colliding for a better understanding - thank you. The background given was much help for a newbie to this series.
What can I say other than I liked it and will look into the previous books - and also what comes after this. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC copy of this book and am rating it 4 stars.
I have to say, I think it's best if one read the previous books in the series before jumping into this one. If you're not one to be bothered by having different characters pop up in the story, then you can read this one.
I wasn't bothered by it, but I still felt like I was missing something. Or missing out?
But I did like the fact that it's all with Phoenixes and Wraiths and Witches. An interesting combo and mix, that's for sure.
As the blurb says, hero and heroine are a couple, but something happens and our heroine, Nicola loses her memory, not remembering anything. Much to Kyle, her husband's dismay.
The book is told in dual POVs, past and present colliding for a better understanding - thank you. The background given was much help for a newbie to this series.
What can I say other than I liked it and will look into the previous books - and also what comes after this. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC copy of this book and am rating it 4 stars.
February 5, 2017
Smoldering Ashes by Annie Anderson is book 4 in the Ashes to Ashes series. This can be read as a standalone because the series takes place in the same world but focuses on a different couple each book and follows their journey. If you read books 1 to 3 first though, this will make for a better and more comprehensive reading experience.
Having said that, I really enjoyed this book. It's the first book I've read by Annie Anderson and I adapted to the writing style very easily. Im a huge fan of paranormal romance/suspense and this did not disappoint. I'm actually looking forward to going back to the earlier books in the series and reading those as well.
I found the story interesting and loved the subject matter of Phoenix, Shifters, wraiths and witches. The characters felt real to me in that they were opinionated and flawed and Ioved the variety of characters and duel narration. The story bounces from past to present quite a bit but it felt right for this story, especially coming into the series with this book.
I voluntarily reviewed this advanced reader copy and I have not been compensated in any way.
Having said that, I really enjoyed this book. It's the first book I've read by Annie Anderson and I adapted to the writing style very easily. Im a huge fan of paranormal romance/suspense and this did not disappoint. I'm actually looking forward to going back to the earlier books in the series and reading those as well.
I found the story interesting and loved the subject matter of Phoenix, Shifters, wraiths and witches. The characters felt real to me in that they were opinionated and flawed and Ioved the variety of characters and duel narration. The story bounces from past to present quite a bit but it felt right for this story, especially coming into the series with this book.
I voluntarily reviewed this advanced reader copy and I have not been compensated in any way.
February 7, 2017
I have a few favourite authors and Annie Anderson is firmly in that list. Smouldering Ashes could have created a flimsy damsel in destress but what I was given was a strong vulnerable woman capable of standing up for herself when needed.
Nicola has no memory of the horrors committed by her body by Iva and she doesn't remember anything of the people she loves. Having her memories gone leaves her vulnerable but she still has a warriors spirit when it comes to what she believes in.
I found myself getting annoyed with Kyle and Rhys wanting someone to jar their heads together and hoping Nicola never remembers. Even as she does start remembering though her fight with herself is angst filled and you hope she can face the demons of her past.
Just as the others, book 4 in the series is fluid and heart wrenching. You feel yourself settling in then have your heart rate sky rocketing because you are not sure this will be a HEA. I didn't think I could hate Iva anymore but #4 proves me wrong.
The only thing I struggled with at first was the before and after, alongside the places and times of different chapters. But honestly it's so minor that the story wasn't affected at all.
Nicola has no memory of the horrors committed by her body by Iva and she doesn't remember anything of the people she loves. Having her memories gone leaves her vulnerable but she still has a warriors spirit when it comes to what she believes in.
I found myself getting annoyed with Kyle and Rhys wanting someone to jar their heads together and hoping Nicola never remembers. Even as she does start remembering though her fight with herself is angst filled and you hope she can face the demons of her past.
Just as the others, book 4 in the series is fluid and heart wrenching. You feel yourself settling in then have your heart rate sky rocketing because you are not sure this will be a HEA. I didn't think I could hate Iva anymore but #4 proves me wrong.
The only thing I struggled with at first was the before and after, alongside the places and times of different chapters. But honestly it's so minor that the story wasn't affected at all.
February 4, 2017
I say keep the glossary close by. It has been awhile since I have read the last book, Rising Ashes and I think it is a complicated story and hard to stay on top. But, by being able to refer to the glossary it helped me stay on track.
I think that Annie Anderson has a fantastic imagination to have been able to write about this magical world of Phoenix’s. Of good and evil.
Oh do look at the warning for this book. Annie Anderson is serious about the warning because all that stuff in the warning happens in this book.
Smouldering Ashes is the 4th book in the Ashes to Ashes Series and is Nicola & Kyle’s story. Annie Anderson takes you on their wild ride.
This book ends with “THE END… for now”. And, it looks like we will get to see more of Nicola & Kyle’s story with “Ashes to Memories, expected release in 2017”.
It’s 2017 now isn’t it. Okay, I guess we almost have the whole year left but, I hope Ashes to Memories comes out sooner than later.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book. But, I also pre-ordered/bought my copy to give it a verified review. I give Smoldering Ashes 4.5 Stars.
I think that Annie Anderson has a fantastic imagination to have been able to write about this magical world of Phoenix’s. Of good and evil.
Oh do look at the warning for this book. Annie Anderson is serious about the warning because all that stuff in the warning happens in this book.
Smouldering Ashes is the 4th book in the Ashes to Ashes Series and is Nicola & Kyle’s story. Annie Anderson takes you on their wild ride.
This book ends with “THE END… for now”. And, it looks like we will get to see more of Nicola & Kyle’s story with “Ashes to Memories, expected release in 2017”.
It’s 2017 now isn’t it. Okay, I guess we almost have the whole year left but, I hope Ashes to Memories comes out sooner than later.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book. But, I also pre-ordered/bought my copy to give it a verified review. I give Smoldering Ashes 4.5 Stars.
February 6, 2017
Fantastic job Annie. This series just keeps getting better and better. This is the forth book in this series and they must be read in order. This book focuses on Kyle and Nicola. Nicola was used in the last book and Kyle looked for her for months. Now that they have her back they are realizing they have more issues. Nicola was in a coma but now she is awake. This should be good except she doesn’t remember who she is or what happened. How can Kyle tell her everything that has happened? He just wants his wife back. This book had my emotions all over the place. I felt so much Kyle and Nicola both for what they had been through and what they are going through. I can’t say enough about this book or Annie Anderson. I need the next book now!! Will Nicola ever remember who she was before? Nicola does things now and then that make Kyle think that his Nicola is still in there somewhere. Kyle is crazy sexy, protective, and so much more. Gah I don’t want to give anything away so I have to stop or I will start writing spoilers and no one likes that. You MUST read this series.
I was given this book in return for an honest review.
I was given this book in return for an honest review.
December 11, 2023
6 years later after rereading this book I stand behind my review!! This awesome cast of characters are back in another epic story of Phoenix, wraiths, shifters and witches. Annie Anderson has done it again and wrote more of this fantastic tale to blow your mind and suck you in. We continue on from book three - Kyle is glued to Nicola's side when she wakes up after months in a coma. Scary thing is she has no memory and now the drama begins. How do you tell the love of your life, your mate that all these horrible things happened but she didn't really do it, someone used her body to do it? Here begins another wild ride with a few crazy witches and a whole coven of witches trying stop the crazies and angry wolves along with some nice ones. You never know what will happen with this group. Never put your guard down. Good vs evil, action, adventure, family, friendship, passion, love and a whole lot of magic are in this story. I still think this would be the most awesome series on TV!!! Annie Anderson is the best!!!!
February 4, 2017
What happens when you do the right thing but it has terrible consequences & you get to watch those consequences destroying people you love . That was the position Nicola Miller was in , blind from birth she has always had visions of death & dying but could do nothing to help anyone except help them pass from this life to the in next peace . Awakening in a hospital room with no memory & a strange man telling her he was her husbandshes scared & confused . Kyle Brennan knows its Nicola , his mate ,in the bed but shes now wearing another face , a face that both phoenix & wraiths hate & want to destroy . The big question is can Kyle help Nicola get her memory back & can they convince everyone that shes not Iva . A couple who both thought they'd lost any chance to ever find love but need to survive whatever's coming their way to keep that love . Even after four book Annie Anderson keeps me wanting more from this series .
February 6, 2017
Rating 4.5 Stars
As usual Annie Anderson gives as good as she gets and scores as usual. This was a very well written book of passion and adventure as usual. This was a story of passion, adventure, as usual characters that will draw you in and till the end. Kyle and Nicola story will hold you captive till the end. The writing draw you in and leave you wanting more and more. Kyles love for his mate will break your heart and by the end of their story and their reunion back to each other and the love they shared.
I really must say that Annie gives some of the best Paranormal stories that grab you and takes you through the emotional struggles of the characters. The roller-coaster ride will leave you emotionally drained and just trying to figure what to do when you finish. This book is great especially how all the characters are worked in without overshowing the main characters. I cannot wait for what’s next.
review by Lindsey
As usual Annie Anderson gives as good as she gets and scores as usual. This was a very well written book of passion and adventure as usual. This was a story of passion, adventure, as usual characters that will draw you in and till the end. Kyle and Nicola story will hold you captive till the end. The writing draw you in and leave you wanting more and more. Kyles love for his mate will break your heart and by the end of their story and their reunion back to each other and the love they shared.
I really must say that Annie gives some of the best Paranormal stories that grab you and takes you through the emotional struggles of the characters. The roller-coaster ride will leave you emotionally drained and just trying to figure what to do when you finish. This book is great especially how all the characters are worked in without overshowing the main characters. I cannot wait for what’s next.
review by Lindsey
January 19, 2017
Nicola Miller has been in a coma for months, when she comes round it's to find she has no memory of who or what she is, or of the sexy man who says he is her husband.
Kyle Brennan has been by his mate's side all the time, but he can't help but be relieved that she can't remember what happened while someone else was in control of her body.
Our heroine is a Phoenix . Our hero a wraith /witch.
They are both in mortal danger because of past actions.
This is the forth book in the series, but you could read it on it's own because our author has us going backwards and forwards in time to explain what happened. Normally that would annoy me, but in this case it's the only way this story can be told. Lots of magical battles and emotional memories. A very exciting paranormal romance with very unusual shifters. I loved it.
Kyle Brennan has been by his mate's side all the time, but he can't help but be relieved that she can't remember what happened while someone else was in control of her body.
Our heroine is a Phoenix . Our hero a wraith /witch.
They are both in mortal danger because of past actions.
This is the forth book in the series, but you could read it on it's own because our author has us going backwards and forwards in time to explain what happened. Normally that would annoy me, but in this case it's the only way this story can be told. Lots of magical battles and emotional memories. A very exciting paranormal romance with very unusual shifters. I loved it.
February 8, 2017
Ahh! Annie Andersons books just keep getting better and better! As soon as I crack one open, I can't put it down until I've demolished it! I've been dying to read it since the last one ended with me craving more!
This one is all about Nicola and Kyle and I think it's the best one yet. We get real insight on how the others came to be and I was really rooting for them.
The best thing about this book, in my opinion is the fierce way Kyle loves Nicola, and the way Nicola feels the same way, even if she's not sure why to begin with.
It's another fast paced action packed read and I loved it.
If I ever need my fix of witches, wraiths, wolves and oracles Annie will always be my first pick!
This one is all about Nicola and Kyle and I think it's the best one yet. We get real insight on how the others came to be and I was really rooting for them.
The best thing about this book, in my opinion is the fierce way Kyle loves Nicola, and the way Nicola feels the same way, even if she's not sure why to begin with.
It's another fast paced action packed read and I loved it.
If I ever need my fix of witches, wraiths, wolves and oracles Annie will always be my first pick!
October 25, 2017
Smoldering Ashes is the 4th book in this series. I was very hesitate on reading it as I hadn’t read the other 3. I was told that this can be read as a standalone but I feel I would have been better equipped reading the others first. There is a lot of vocabulary I had to go back to the glossary to understand what I was reading. I’m also not a huge fan of paranormal romance….all that being said, I was pleasantly surprised with this book! I’m very glad I read it and look forward to going back and reading the others in this series. And it seems there may be a 5th book in the makings… I felt truly drawn into this world and connected with the characters. It kept me up late at night, needing to know what was to happen next.
February 6, 2017
I love the Ashes to Ashes series. It was hard at first to adapt to the writing style of each chapter being a different characters point of view. It didn't take me long to fall in love with that style. It was very intriguing to see the same situation through the eyes of different character. Almost got exhausted reading this series. It was almost non-stop action. It left me wound up and breathless. That is how the author writes, she wraps each of her characters around your mind, making you feel as if they were real and what was happening to them involved you. The author shows with this series, that no character is too small, each have a story and that story will be told.
January 19, 2017
Outstanding!!! I loved Smoldering Ashes...this book has everything! Love and romance...action and adventure with strong characters. I love it when a book draws me in like this...right into the story. Nicola and Kyle's story will have you up all night reading...the author had me feeling their pain...cheering on the good guys and wanting to tear apart the bad guys. I refuse to give away spoilers. Whatever your favorite genre of book, you will love Smoldering Ashes. This Author was new to me but I immediately went in and bought the first 3 books in this series. I can't wait to read them and can't wait for #5 due out some time this year.
January 31, 2017
A bond that can't be broken even when there is no memory of the person the bond is with or herself is to be found. Memories gone and only flashes of death and destruction following her Nicola is in a fight for her life and the life she deserves. Her husband is devoted and will not rest until she has been returned to him (if that is what she wants). Joining forces with a mismatched family to right the injustice that was unleashed the book flashes back and forth from future to past to give a complete look a Nicola's life.
May 8, 2017
Kyle and Nicola are back together, except this time memory loss has Nicola unsure of everything. This amazing writer does an outstanding job emphasizing the passion and heat between this couple! My own impatience made it difficult for me to endure many of those scenes for I wanted faster progression to the story itself. That was my failing tho, and definitely not the writers. This book picked up perfectly from the book prior and every scene could be fully envisioned in your minds eye. As I said, the writing is impeccable and I highly recommend the entire series!
April 17, 2017
Loved it!
This book like all the others in the series is well written and edited. While not overly long or wordy, the storyline is complex, you need to have the time to read these when you can give them your full attention. Believe me the pay off is so well worth it! These characters are so full of depth and dimension. You get the full emotion journey with these books and I can not wait for the next one! I did volunteer to read this for an honest review. But please note while I did not pay for this copy, I will be purchasing the audio when they are released!
This book like all the others in the series is well written and edited. While not overly long or wordy, the storyline is complex, you need to have the time to read these when you can give them your full attention. Believe me the pay off is so well worth it! These characters are so full of depth and dimension. You get the full emotion journey with these books and I can not wait for the next one! I did volunteer to read this for an honest review. But please note while I did not pay for this copy, I will be purchasing the audio when they are released!
February 4, 2017
I wish these
Adventures never end!!
I wasn't sure on Kyle and Nicola at the beginning... I thought he wasn't one of the gang...I thought he wasn't the right fit...but OMG this man....wow!!
Nicola too... what a woman...the lengths she has gone to...OMG!!- She fits in perfectly !
I so love to be taken into these stories and being lost in this world!!
I need more, Annie!!!!!
Best journey!! Can't wait for more❤❤❤❤❤
Adventures never end!!
I wasn't sure on Kyle and Nicola at the beginning... I thought he wasn't one of the gang...I thought he wasn't the right fit...but OMG this man....wow!!
Nicola too... what a woman...the lengths she has gone to...OMG!!- She fits in perfectly !
I so love to be taken into these stories and being lost in this world!!
I need more, Annie!!!!!
Best journey!! Can't wait for more❤❤❤❤❤
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