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Phoenix Heart: Season 1 #2
Secret Keeper
SHE THOUGHT SHE COULD JUST LEAVE HER TROUBLE BEHIND. SHE WAS WRONG.
Sersha is relieved to be able to leave Landsfall. Her people aren't safe as long as she stays and her future lies with Kazmerev now.
But when her cousin, Mally, makes a series of headstrong decisions, it plunges Sersha and her friends into trouble they can't easily escape. Getting free will push her ethics, her abilities, and her newfound friendship with her beloved phoenix. Will she have what it takes to keep her people safe?
For lovers of DRAGON SCHOOL, CROWN OF FEATHERS, DRAGON RIDERS OF PERN and HOWL'S MOVING CASTLE comes a new serial novella series from USA Today bestselling author, Sarah K. L. Wilson, sure to fill you with the love of adventure and bright hope.
NOTE FROM THE AUTHOR:
Phoenix Heart is a series very much like your favorite streaming tv show. There are seasons and episodes. The episodes are designed to be read in roughly two hours, though fast readers will read more quickly and those of you who like to take your time may go more slowly. They’re intended to be fast-paced and exciting, and they release frequently so that you can keep up with the story even if you have a very busy life. Perfect for lunch breaks, a single evening of enjoyment, and younger readers who prefer bite-sized chunks.
SEASON ONE:
Episode 1: Ashes
Episode 2: Secret Keeper
Episode 3: Bright Feather
Episode 4: Rope Worker
Episode 5: Grand Hadri
Sersha is relieved to be able to leave Landsfall. Her people aren't safe as long as she stays and her future lies with Kazmerev now.
But when her cousin, Mally, makes a series of headstrong decisions, it plunges Sersha and her friends into trouble they can't easily escape. Getting free will push her ethics, her abilities, and her newfound friendship with her beloved phoenix. Will she have what it takes to keep her people safe?
For lovers of DRAGON SCHOOL, CROWN OF FEATHERS, DRAGON RIDERS OF PERN and HOWL'S MOVING CASTLE comes a new serial novella series from USA Today bestselling author, Sarah K. L. Wilson, sure to fill you with the love of adventure and bright hope.
NOTE FROM THE AUTHOR:
Phoenix Heart is a series very much like your favorite streaming tv show. There are seasons and episodes. The episodes are designed to be read in roughly two hours, though fast readers will read more quickly and those of you who like to take your time may go more slowly. They’re intended to be fast-paced and exciting, and they release frequently so that you can keep up with the story even if you have a very busy life. Perfect for lunch breaks, a single evening of enjoyment, and younger readers who prefer bite-sized chunks.
SEASON ONE:
Episode 1: Ashes
Episode 2: Secret Keeper
Episode 3: Bright Feather
Episode 4: Rope Worker
Episode 5: Grand Hadri
82 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 13, 2021
88 people are currently reading
53 people want to read
About the author
Sarah K.L. Wilson
158 books1,129 followersSarah K. L. Wilson is a USA Today Bestselling author who writes fantasy stories featuring practical heroes & heroines in the most impractical circumstances. She loves writing because it is the only way to make a living and give back to the world when your primary skill is an overactive imagination and a tendency toward violent daydreams.
Sarah can be found in the outdoors of Northern Ontario with her young boys and beloved husband, reading a book, or fending off her husband's pet turkeys with a straw broom.
You can find Sarah's books in paperback, hardcover, ebook and audiobook and they have also been translated into Italian, German, and (very soon) Turkish.
Please, do, enjoy the read!
*USA Today bestseller list, November 2, 2017
www.sarahklwilson.com
sarah@sarahklwilson.com
Instagram @sarahklwilson
Facebook @sarahklwilson
TikTok @sarahklwilson
Sarah can be found in the outdoors of Northern Ontario with her young boys and beloved husband, reading a book, or fending off her husband's pet turkeys with a straw broom.
You can find Sarah's books in paperback, hardcover, ebook and audiobook and they have also been translated into Italian, German, and (very soon) Turkish.
Please, do, enjoy the read!
*USA Today bestseller list, November 2, 2017
www.sarahklwilson.com
sarah@sarahklwilson.com
Instagram @sarahklwilson
Facebook @sarahklwilson
TikTok @sarahklwilson
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
July 29, 2021
This story was filled with action and dangers which was very interesting to read. However due to the lack of dialogue I am finding it hard to really enjoy the story. Yes they are talking telepathically, but it isn’t the same. I hoping it will get better in the following books. But nevertheless, I like where this is going, I like how we are seeing the fears, insecurities and hopes of our characters. Eager to find out more.
September 1, 2022
Some of the sweetest and most relatable characters I've ever read, and I'm enjoying it immensely because it still feels so RAW and REAL. Wilson's writing is so darn good (her writing style is on the fast-paced yet still heartfelt and literary side for sure!), and the THEMES speak to my soul and fills me with JOY.
A must read series for sure!!
A must read series for sure!!
October 10, 2021
Three times a fool
I want to like this i do, but the MC is to “goody shoes” for me.
Spoiler
I mean, in the first book she forgave her aunt and cousin for giving her away to be murdered. Now in the second book she forgives her cousin for lying about who the MC is, putting her mortal danger. Her cousin literally tried to get her killed in her place twice and what does the MC do??? Instantly forgives her for a lame reason.
I got to tell you, if someone tried to have me killed three times in their place, I would definitely leave them to reap what they sow. I can not continue to read this.
I want to like this i do, but the MC is to “goody shoes” for me.
Spoiler
I mean, in the first book she forgave her aunt and cousin for giving her away to be murdered. Now in the second book she forgives her cousin for lying about who the MC is, putting her mortal danger. Her cousin literally tried to get her killed in her place twice and what does the MC do??? Instantly forgives her for a lame reason.
I got to tell you, if someone tried to have me killed three times in their place, I would definitely leave them to reap what they sow. I can not continue to read this.
August 3, 2024
Temp pause on this series- it’s a reread tho but I’ll finish the reread later lol
February 20, 2026
Mally is pretty much the worst cousin in history. She’s worse than deadweight when speed is of the essence. She’s basically sabotaging them all and actively helping their enemies. She’s supposed to be important to the turning of the ages? Not when she throws Sersha to the wolves every chapter. I don’t want any part of the age she’d bring to pass.
July 18, 2021
This is a fantastic fast moving series that keeps you on your toes and so engrossed in the story. It’s a fun and entertaining journey and the world building is simply incredible. The characters are surprising and I just love Sersha and her Phoenix and their ability to communicate and although they flee their village they still find themselves in trouble!! It’s turning out to be one hell of a ride and I am anxious to keep going!
June 10, 2022
This is the second of the Phoenix Heart serial, and picks up straight after the battle that had taken place in the Village of Landsfall at the end of book 1, when Sersha’s Aunt Danna had tried to offer her up as the Ai’sletta in place of her own daughter, Sersha’s cousin, Mally, who is the real Ai’sletta. Sersha discovered this, after matching the patterns on Mally’s face to those on the medallion that Judicus had been carrying.
Judicus is a Rope Weaver, and he and Veela, a Flame Rider, had come to find the Ai’sletta and take her back safely to their home, as they have been looking for her for generations. Unfortunately, so have other nefarious factions, such as the people that hired the Raiders to find Mally.
Whilst her mother is adamant she is not going, Mally is determined to leave with Sersha and Judicus, these two having decided that they have to leave as soon as possible for the safety of the village. This has become even more urgent with everyone discovering that Sersha has bonded with Kazmarev, becoming his heart, and his Flame Rider (although at this time, kind of clueless as to how that works). Sersha, with Kazmarev’s aid, managed to not only fly the night before, but use some of her abilities to strike at the Raiders, forcing them back.
As we move into book 2 (and I am not going to give away spoilers – this is just too good a story to ruin it!!), Sersha, along with the severely wounded Judicus and a very bossy, and impertinent Mally, take a small boat, and escape onto the waters, trying to sail away. With Kazmarev overhead as a guardian, they should have been ok, if only Mally would have listened.
And this is where this book has such an amazing quality to it. Sersha is voiceless, as in a mute, unable to speak. She can sign, but this is only helpful if the others can also sign, and in the case of Mally, are willing to watch and ‘Listen’ as such, and translate for those that don’t understand as well (and translate truly!).
We get to see the world through the eyes of someone who hears everyone so clearly, better than nearly everyone around her, as she pays more attention than most, with an exceptional sense of hearing. Sersha is incredibly patient, not only letting others use ‘their words’, but also waiting until others are willing to give her the attention she needs to get her message across. Wilson’s character work with regards to Sersha is masterful, as she has truly captured the frustration of this young woman’s disability, but also how she has adapted to almost turn it into a strength, not a weakness.
When Sersha joins with Kazmarev, it is such a joy for her, as she can actually ‘speak’ with another intelligent being, converse with them like she has never done before. Whilst their ‘heart’ bond is incredibly powerful, this mental bond, the ability to communicate, adds a whole new dimension to their relationship and makes this bond even stronger.
Book 2 is not quite as action-packed as book 1, but there is far more intrigue, and we learn so much more about each of the major characters, not just Sersha and Kazmarev, but Judicus and Mally, as well as some new people as well that I won’t give away. We get to explore this fascinating, and beautiful relationship between Sersha and Kazmarev, seeing how they are not only becoming something more than friends, but Sersha is understanding what a Flame Rider can do. And we get to learn what more about the other aspects of the story such as the Ai’sletta, which is utterly compelling, and just makes you want to dive into book 3 (seriously, you can’t get through these fast enough)
Every aspect of this series is not just captivating, and beautifully written, the writing so easy to read (or listen to), it just flows off the page, Wilson is a masterful wordsmith, but along with this, the character work is just exceptional. This is a powerful, character driven story that has everything you want in a Fantasy story, intrigue, magic, mythical creatures (and a Phoenix!!!), and a heroine who despite her disability, is just remarkable in every sense of the word.
After reading book 1, I went and bought the entire first season, and I am already into book 3 – this is not to be missed!!
Judicus is a Rope Weaver, and he and Veela, a Flame Rider, had come to find the Ai’sletta and take her back safely to their home, as they have been looking for her for generations. Unfortunately, so have other nefarious factions, such as the people that hired the Raiders to find Mally.
Whilst her mother is adamant she is not going, Mally is determined to leave with Sersha and Judicus, these two having decided that they have to leave as soon as possible for the safety of the village. This has become even more urgent with everyone discovering that Sersha has bonded with Kazmarev, becoming his heart, and his Flame Rider (although at this time, kind of clueless as to how that works). Sersha, with Kazmarev’s aid, managed to not only fly the night before, but use some of her abilities to strike at the Raiders, forcing them back.
As we move into book 2 (and I am not going to give away spoilers – this is just too good a story to ruin it!!), Sersha, along with the severely wounded Judicus and a very bossy, and impertinent Mally, take a small boat, and escape onto the waters, trying to sail away. With Kazmarev overhead as a guardian, they should have been ok, if only Mally would have listened.
And this is where this book has such an amazing quality to it. Sersha is voiceless, as in a mute, unable to speak. She can sign, but this is only helpful if the others can also sign, and in the case of Mally, are willing to watch and ‘Listen’ as such, and translate for those that don’t understand as well (and translate truly!).
We get to see the world through the eyes of someone who hears everyone so clearly, better than nearly everyone around her, as she pays more attention than most, with an exceptional sense of hearing. Sersha is incredibly patient, not only letting others use ‘their words’, but also waiting until others are willing to give her the attention she needs to get her message across. Wilson’s character work with regards to Sersha is masterful, as she has truly captured the frustration of this young woman’s disability, but also how she has adapted to almost turn it into a strength, not a weakness.
When Sersha joins with Kazmarev, it is such a joy for her, as she can actually ‘speak’ with another intelligent being, converse with them like she has never done before. Whilst their ‘heart’ bond is incredibly powerful, this mental bond, the ability to communicate, adds a whole new dimension to their relationship and makes this bond even stronger.
Book 2 is not quite as action-packed as book 1, but there is far more intrigue, and we learn so much more about each of the major characters, not just Sersha and Kazmarev, but Judicus and Mally, as well as some new people as well that I won’t give away. We get to explore this fascinating, and beautiful relationship between Sersha and Kazmarev, seeing how they are not only becoming something more than friends, but Sersha is understanding what a Flame Rider can do. And we get to learn what more about the other aspects of the story such as the Ai’sletta, which is utterly compelling, and just makes you want to dive into book 3 (seriously, you can’t get through these fast enough)
Every aspect of this series is not just captivating, and beautifully written, the writing so easy to read (or listen to), it just flows off the page, Wilson is a masterful wordsmith, but along with this, the character work is just exceptional. This is a powerful, character driven story that has everything you want in a Fantasy story, intrigue, magic, mythical creatures (and a Phoenix!!!), and a heroine who despite her disability, is just remarkable in every sense of the word.
After reading book 1, I went and bought the entire first season, and I am already into book 3 – this is not to be missed!!
July 14, 2021
So Mally was supposed to leave Landsfall with Sersha and Irault to keep the raiders from returning since it was the ai’sletta they were after and it was confirmed by Irault that Mally was the ai’sletta, however both Tynsdale and her mother fought them over this idea. So they escaped on a boat during the night as Mally herself, wanting to as usual be the center of attention, wanted to leave with them. However once they were on the boat she took the tiller in hand and started ordering them around, heedless of the danger she was leading them into. Mally is so self-centered unlike Sersha who always tries to put other’s needs before her own. I found Sersha’s character quite baffling at times, her patience was driving mine out of the window, as she kept plunging herself into danger in order to save someone who only thought of themselves every time. Mally betrayed and used Sersha time and time again yet she never wavered in her attempts to save her cousin. In the meantime Irault was mostly out of the battle, being unconscious because of his pain and the little magic he used which left him drained thus he was mostly a burden, which obviously Sersha took upon herself to look after. Poor Kazmerev is driven out of his mind by his bonded’s wishes, as all he wants to do is keep her safe, but if she is nothing else, she is headstrong. I do wish she would learn how to harness her magical flame rider’s powers and not flinch every time she has to use these especially when she is saving her own life. And the Hand of the Rat bring Lady Cassanetta Lightland back into the picture, it seems that she now has allies who are willing to work for her gold yet Horacen, their leader would not obey her orders, thus giving Sersha and Irault some hope. They were waiting for nightfall and the re-birth of Kazmerev, their only hope of escape. This series is very exciting and I am glad that we are not being kept waiting between one episode and the next as the tale is too gripping to want to stop reading.
August 15, 2022
This episode was just as enjoyable as the first one, with maybe a touch more excitement as we face new enemies and learn new secrets.
I love Kazmerev more with every time he speaks. He's just the right amount of sass and ego and kindheartedness, and everyone needs a friend like him.
Mally, on the other hand.... I dislike her immensely. She's selfish and bratty, and I really hope she gets some positive character development (like a serious overhaul) in the future novels, because she does not deserve all the kindness and loyalty she's getting from Sersha, who she treats like an irritating servant for most of the novel despite being her cousin. At least this abhorrent behaviour is pointed out in the novel, not just left to appear as if it's normal or acceptable. Credit where credit is due.
I'll admit, some of the things that happen in this book seem to contradict the events of the previous one and Sersha repeats a lot of her discoveries or ideas a little too often in places, but that ultimately didn't impede my enjoyment of the novel, and I'll certainly be continuing the series!
I love Kazmerev more with every time he speaks. He's just the right amount of sass and ego and kindheartedness, and everyone needs a friend like him.
Mally, on the other hand.... I dislike her immensely. She's selfish and bratty, and I really hope she gets some positive character development (like a serious overhaul) in the future novels, because she does not deserve all the kindness and loyalty she's getting from Sersha, who she treats like an irritating servant for most of the novel despite being her cousin. At least this abhorrent behaviour is pointed out in the novel, not just left to appear as if it's normal or acceptable. Credit where credit is due.
I'll admit, some of the things that happen in this book seem to contradict the events of the previous one and Sersha repeats a lot of her discoveries or ideas a little too often in places, but that ultimately didn't impede my enjoyment of the novel, and I'll certainly be continuing the series!
December 9, 2021
*Note: I received an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review*
Why do the companions always seem smarter than their humans? I mean I get it to an extent because it shows how they have to bond and trust one another but I just feel that sometimes the human gets the short end of the cleverness stick. Sersha seems less sure of herself than other characters the author has written… I like her but I wish she had more confidence. I go back and forth between the character I like least, Mally or Judicus. Actually I take that back definitely Mally. She seems like a real brat. So far the build up is good, as always. I really enjoy Sarah’s writing and can’t wait to see what happens next. Also the day Judicus learns how to communicate with Sersha will be epic. Can Sersha and Kazmerev learn to work together and trust each other? I can’t wait to find out!
Also, if you are questioning if I think you should get the book the answer is yes because who doesn’t like the idea of watching a Phoenix rise every night?
Why do the companions always seem smarter than their humans? I mean I get it to an extent because it shows how they have to bond and trust one another but I just feel that sometimes the human gets the short end of the cleverness stick. Sersha seems less sure of herself than other characters the author has written… I like her but I wish she had more confidence. I go back and forth between the character I like least, Mally or Judicus. Actually I take that back definitely Mally. She seems like a real brat. So far the build up is good, as always. I really enjoy Sarah’s writing and can’t wait to see what happens next. Also the day Judicus learns how to communicate with Sersha will be epic. Can Sersha and Kazmerev learn to work together and trust each other? I can’t wait to find out!
Also, if you are questioning if I think you should get the book the answer is yes because who doesn’t like the idea of watching a Phoenix rise every night?
August 23, 2021
Leaving on a boat, Sersha, Judicus, and Sersha's sister Mally was trying to stay away from the raiders. Sersha couldn't speak but was given the ashes of a Phoenix to be reborn every night from someone who had died from wounds. The raiders were looking for someone who was Ai'sletta, a prophecy person. Now the three were on the run as Mally was the person everyone was looking for and she thought more for herself then help do for others.
August 29, 2021
I'm hooked on this series!
Things keep getting worse for Sercha, even after she discovers her true friend, Kasmerev. She is finally able to be 'heard' by another, but the humans in her life still ignore her, or are unable to understand her. ;excuse of this, she's unable to tell Judicus not to trust the motives of her cousin, Malley. The adventure continues in this thoroughly enjoyable series! On to the next episode!
Things keep getting worse for Sercha, even after she discovers her true friend, Kasmerev. She is finally able to be 'heard' by another, but the humans in her life still ignore her, or are unable to understand her. ;excuse of this, she's unable to tell Judicus not to trust the motives of her cousin, Malley. The adventure continues in this thoroughly enjoyable series! On to the next episode!
September 7, 2021
A Wonderful Series!
Mally is definitely a self-interested and ‘practical’ person! All of which leads to lots of trouble for Sersha and Judicus! Fog and poor planning gets everyone captured by the raiders. Someone Judicus knows shows up but has no intentions of helping him; actually quite the reverse! Again lots of great character development, action and a climatic ending! On to the next Episode!
Mally is definitely a self-interested and ‘practical’ person! All of which leads to lots of trouble for Sersha and Judicus! Fog and poor planning gets everyone captured by the raiders. Someone Judicus knows shows up but has no intentions of helping him; actually quite the reverse! Again lots of great character development, action and a climatic ending! On to the next Episode!
July 7, 2021
Fast reads? Yup, but be warned, the Phoenix Heart tales are totally addictive. Once you start following Sersha and Kazmerev’s adventures you’ll find it ridiculously hard to stop. I meant to just read the first one and pace myself, but ending up zooming through episodes 1 to 3 instead. They’re that much fun. Notwithstanding my warning, though, it’s easy to highly recommend this series so far.
June 25, 2021
The second episode. Sersha has to learn her flame rider powers on the go while Judicus Franzer Irault (loving the name) is still too exhausted to do much. But Mally, oh Mally, you're a handful. Haven't decided yet if I hate her or love her... I think more the latter.
June 30, 2021
Another over-too-quickly instalment in the serial which builds on the first and lets us get to know the main characters better and introduces their (presumed) nemesis. (Of course by the end of the serial they could all be on the same side, guess we just have to wait to see what comes next).
July 16, 2021
I am loving this new series. Bite sized fantasy at its very best.
Don’t think I’ve read a Phoenix story before but it’s breathtaking.
Sersha and Kazmerev are becoming quite a team .
Fast paced story with plenty of action.
Love it.
Don’t think I’ve read a Phoenix story before but it’s breathtaking.
Sersha and Kazmerev are becoming quite a team .
Fast paced story with plenty of action.
Love it.
July 17, 2021
Another fun, quick read. Don't start this unless you have time to finish in one sitting, because it was impossible for me to put down. Things are getting more complicated and Sersha has to learn on the spot without a teacher. Can hardly wait for the next installment.
July 19, 2021
Sersha and Kazmerev are bonding even closer. Mally is acting strangely and has now disappeared with the enemy. Sersha wants to rescue her, but can only get help from Kazmerev at night and Judicus is not much help as he is still badly injured. Things are not looking good.
August 4, 2021
This picks up right after the first one. Sersha, Kaz, Judicus and Mally have their hands full. Mally is super headstrong and refuses to listen to Sersha. I am loving Sersha and looking forward to seeing where the adventure takes her and Kaz.
August 12, 2021
The continuing story of Sersha and the phoenix, Kazmerev, and coming to terms being a Flame Rider. I have to say this story is so unique. I know phoenixes have been done before, but Sarah has come at this from a interesting angle. Loved it.
June 26, 2021
I’m really glad I started this series and I’m loving where it’s going. Something different than the norm as well. Cannot wait for the next one. Highly recommended.
June 29, 2021
Wonderful continuation of the series. The characters get more complex as it goes along and the story keeps you enthralled until the very end.
July 12, 2021
Excellent second chapter in the newest series by the author. Such a cliffhanger!! Can't wait for the next chapter!
August 2, 2021
Fun read
Things are slowly picking up, but it's been an enjoyable ride so far. Now I'll jump into book 3 and continue the adventure.
Things are slowly picking up, but it's been an enjoyable ride so far. Now I'll jump into book 3 and continue the adventure.
August 5, 2021
4.5 stars
October 12, 2021
Fantastic series!
I really enjoyed this story! It was filled with dragons and magic, good and evil. I was amazed at how real the story felt.
I really enjoyed this story! It was filled with dragons and magic, good and evil. I was amazed at how real the story felt.
July 12, 2022
Season 1 Episode 2
I adore this series in every way possible.
I adore this series in every way possible.
November 10, 2024
Okay well her cousin is an idiot 😂 but other than that, still good story. I would be so frustrated if I were Sersha and couldn’t talk. I am for her! Anyways, let’s keep going and see what happens.
May 9, 2025
beautiful and exciting
Another wild adventure! It is amazing how the author manages to keep me up reading! 😂😂. I love it. From one story to another I go!
Another wild adventure! It is amazing how the author manages to keep me up reading! 😂😂. I love it. From one story to another I go!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews