In this USA Today bestselling novel, a woman with power over fire and illusion and the enslaved son of a chieftain battle a corrupt empire in this powerful and deeply emotional romantic fantasy.Every year, each village is required to send a young woman to the Empire’s capital–her fate to be burned alive for the entertainment of the masses. For the last five years, one small village’s tithe has … small village’s tithe has been the same woman. Gilene’s sacrifice protects all the other young women of her village, and her secret to staying alive lies with the magic only she possesses.
But this year is different.
Azarion, the Empire’s most famous gladiator, has somehow seen through her illusion–and is set on blackmailing Gilene into using her abilities to help him escape his life of slavery. Unknown to Gilene, he also wants to reclaim the birthright of his clan.
To protect her family and village, she will abandon everything to return to the Empire–and burn once more.
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I was fortunate enough to get my paws on an ARC of this book, and anyone who loves a good fantasy romance romp across the wilds that ramps up to a delightful multi-kingdom struggle will enjoy this. And fans of books involving kidnappings?
This one is so for you.
The world building in this book is fantastic, the ending was sooo satisfying, and it’s going on the list as one of my personal favorites.
Romance, action, adventure and a fire witch. Check out this one by a terrific author!
A fire witch and a gladiator? Yes, please. Heaps of action and adventure, plus a slow-burn romance that will tie you in knots = perfection. I *may* be a little biased, because I’d read Draven’s grocery list, but I loved this.
Loved this book it’s a great read
My goodness this book made my heart beat out of my chest at times. What an incredible, cruel, heartbreaking, beautiful story.
I enjoy a good fantasy, and if it also has an element of romance, I’m a happy reader. But Phoenix Unbound goes so far beyond that, I was left speechless for several minutes with the realization I’d just finished an epic fantasy, every bit as great as anything by George R.R. Martin or Ursula K. LeGuin. Yes, the novel is a true fantasy masterpiece.
Want to talk about pathos? Both Azarion and Gilene have scarred backgrounds including past abuse. The subject was handled deftly with compassion and extreme care as only an author of Ms. Draven’s caliber can.
But be warned and grab your tissues, because Phoenix Unbound reaches in deep and pulls out every emotion you have. I’m not a typical book or movie crier, but I felt tears rolling down my cheeks more than once as I read this amazing story.
The secondary characters also shine, especially Halani. I loved how she embodied the essence of a historic nomadic tribeswoman, and their oral storytelling tradition.
The world building is pure delight. As I read, I could see myself there, wandering the streets of the Empire’s capital or traveling the hard packed dusty roads.
The touches of magic are seamlessly woven into the book and add a wonderful, ethereal air.
I want to read more books populated in this incredible world. I think once you read Phoenix Unbound, you’ll agree with me.
An_Eclectic_Reader received an ARC for review.
I’ve been a fan of Grace Draven for a few years and every time she writes a new book, I am certain that this is the best one ever. With hints of both Gladiator and Game of Thrones, this is an epic story about the Gladius Prime from the Krael Empire, Azarion and Gilene of Beroe. Azarion is sold into slavery and forced to fight in the gladiator arena. After 10 years, he finally finds his chance to escape during the annual Rites of Spring in which young women are burned at the stake as a sacrifice to the gods. Gilene of Beroe, one of the women to be a sacrifice, has a special brand of magic that allows her to control fire, cast illusions, and escape the horror. Azarion forces Gilene to help him and accompany him during his journey back home.
This is an enemy to lovers trope done very, very well. Rather than rushing into an intimate relationship, the author takes her time in developing and deepening the link between Azarion and Gilene. This is perfectly appropriate for a story about a couple whose relationship begins in a dubious manner (he essentially kidnaps her) and are now on the run. This is a hard-fought connection and I relish every minute of it.
Make no mistake, this is a big, Homeric story. The romance is perfectly balanced within the context of battles, schemes, lies, and trials. Ms Draven has raised her game with this book. While keeping her signature wit and humor, she gives more of everything. That is why Phoenix Unbound is my Cherry on Top for this month…and maybe this year!
Holy SMOKES this book is on FIRE!! The world-building is captivating and the characters intriguing. I could not put this book down. Gilene is brave, fierce and a heroine everyone will enjoy. Azarion stole my heart and now I’m heartbroken that the book is over. Grace Draven has created an enchanting story that you’ll want to read over and over again.
Each year the Empire demands a tithe. Women from villages to be burned at the stake in sacrifice. Gilene has a secret and her sacrifice protects the women in her village year after year. She also gives a swift death to those that would suffer her fate.
Unfortunately for her, the Empire’s most famous gladiator can see through her illusions and plans to use her for his own ends and escape.
If there is one thing I can say with certainty – it’s that there isn’t a Grace Draven book that I don’t adore!
Phoenix Unbound is much bleaker than her usual fairytale fantasy romance.
Draven’s writing style lures you in from the very first page and the raw emotion slaps you in the face with every turn of the page. It’s sweet but brutal.
As with all her other books, Phoenix Unbound has that perfect blend of fantasy and an historical romance vibe that make her stories so addictive. There are so many minor details that add layers to this tale – it was so hard to put down I read in one sitting!
For me this story shows that everything comes with a price; your freedom, your love and your power (in this case Gilene’s fire magic).
If you are looking for a sweet but torturous romance – Grace Draven nails it every time!
I’ve held off reading this story as I knew the sequel was coming out in June and I am dying to read it even if it is based on other characters from this world.
A woman with a secret and a man desperate to get home is the setting for this heart-pounding run!
Your heroine has been taught that she’s nothing more than a servant to her village and must fullfil her “duty” to be the sacrifice so that no other woman needs to die as a Flower as a yearly Sacrifice to the gods.
The hero has been a slave. For ten years and has become the Champion Gladiator against all odds. His only desire is to get back home and get revenge on the cousin who sold him into slavery and regain his birthright.
When he’s sure that he’s seen the same woman entire the flames of sacrifice only to return the next year then the next, he plans to use her skills with flame and magic to escape. This is the story of that escape and how each of them learn their Destiny.
I truly enjoyed this book and will be reading future writings of this author.
Amazing story wonderfully told. I loved the premise of a woman with a life-or-death secret and the one man who has guessed it.
Both characters, Gelene and Azarion, felt real to me. Each had a goal in life and the determination to reach it. Their relationship developed subtly from enemies to lovers.
Grace Draven is known for excellent world building, and this book is no exception. She skilfully puts the reader into the world she creates. I could ‘see’ and ‘feel’ places and settings she described. And the world of Phoenix Unbound is not a pretty place. It’s harsh, cold, and cruel, rife with murder and abuse. None of the violence is gory or gratuitous, though. The author has the skill to convey the mood without mundane descriptions.
I didn’t want the book to end, wishing to stay with the characters a little longer.
The only thing I’d wish, it would have more romance between the main couple. This is me, personally, not the book’s fault in any way. I always prefer romance as the main picture, with the rest being the frame. I fell in love with both characters, and I wanted more of tension, romance, and interaction between them.
https://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/2018/09/review-phoenix-unbound-by-grace-draven.html
Grace Draven is a master storyteller, and she amply rewards her readers in Phoenix Unbound with a thrilling tale of love and redemption. The pervasive Krael Empire is monstrous, brutal to its citizens and permissive to its privileged. Two of the Empire’s victims—the fascinating witch Gilene and the bold gladiator Azarion—plot to escape their horrific destinies. Unfortunately to succeed, they must team up to elude their fates. Anything but friends, each complements the other, their combined strengths greater than their individual talents. Azarion and Gilene are outstanding characters—fierce in their loyalties, determined in their struggles, valiant in their pursuits of freedom. The qualities they share bring them harmony with one another and, eventually, the realization that they care deeply for each other. Though unachievable scenarios abound, as they work together, they manage to surmount terrible obstacles. The swift-moving fantasy illuminates a world filled with marvelous detail—from the deadly dangers of berry picking to the divine horsemanship of the Savatar race—profound love, and astonishing adventure. Filled with action, romance, and laughter (though the novel is a dark one), Ms. Draven supplies a powerfully satisfying ending, as well as leaving us lusting for more in the series. I can’t wait.
Like everything I’ve read by Grace Draven, Phoenix Unbound has once again met all the necessary requirements for a good, entertaining read. I especially love the fact that both the main characters are flawed in a way that is very real and raw and that they are willing to make hard sacrifices for both themselves and others. The world Grace creates in Phoenix Unbound is new, yet familiar – a blend of known cultures and those existing in the fantasy realm. The romance is a little slower to develop in this novel, but the focus for both characters is on goals larger than themselves. Having said that, Phoenix Unbound does seem to be missing that little extra special spark I’ve found in Grace’s independently published books, which is unfortunate. Nevertheless, it is still a must-read if you’ve enjoyed any of the other stories by this fabulous author.
Grace Draven is a kind of unsung hero of PNR. Her world building is excellent, characters not just believable but lovable, hateable and just plain enjoyable. Another great story from this talented lady.
Be prepared to fall under the spell of these fierce, passionate characters and to root for them with all your heart!
Phoenix Unbound has been a highly anticipated novel for me. I have enjoyed Grace Draven’s past novels and I couldn’t wait to read this first book in a new series.
I enjoyed getting into this new story. Phoenix Unbound opened up a wonderfully vibrant and detailed new world. The premise alone was fascinating. Engaging characters, and a slow burn romance kept me flipping the pages.
A gladiator and a witch just sounded too fascinating not to pick up.
And I’m glad I did.
Grace Draven knows how to tell a story. Layered, complex and captivating, Phoenix Unbound promises a new wonderful series that I can’t wait to read more about it.
But I must admit, the novel wasn’t perfect. At times the story dragged, and the chemistry between the characters was slow to develop. That could have been because it was the first book in a new series, or because it was only the first book about this couple. At this point I don’t know if the second book will be about Gilene and Azarion again or not. I would certainly love for it to be about Gilene and Azarion. I want to know so much more about this couple, and they just started on their journey together.
But what I can say with certainty is that I’m hooked. I want to read more about this fascinating world, its people and the characters I met so far.
Love the story. Interesting and entertaining storyline. The characters are likable and have depth. Love Ms. Draven’s stories, always immersive and memorable.
4.5 Stars
A beautifully written fantasy romance that’s heavy on the fantasy and world-building with the romance itself being secondary to the plot it’s also very slow-burn. Not an issue for me as I’m used to this author and was expecting it but if you are after something that’s heavy on the romance and heat side this is probably not the book for you. I’d describe this more as fantasy with a romance included but the romance is not the actual focus here.
This was so imaginative and the word building exquisite with such attention to detail it transported me directly into this world. Phoenix Rising is beautifully written with such vivid descriptions that I couldn’t fail to be enthralled by it.
The story focuses on two main characters Gilene of Beroe a young woman with the gift of fire and illusion every year a tithe must be paid to the Empire to appease the gods. Gilene endures this heavy price each year to spare others in her village from death. She doesn’t escape unscathed either her gifts come at a price that she wears permanently on her skin.
Azarion is a slave betrayed by his cousin for his heritage and sold into bondage he’s a survivor and has spent ten years fighting in the Pit he now holds the title of Gladius Prime. He’s also a favourite of the sadistic Empress and her treatment of him makes the pit seem tame in comparison.
Azarion notices Gilene and for some unknown reason, he sees through her illusions and takes note of her true face as she once again becomes a flower of spring a sacrifice to the gods he strikes. Blackmailed for her assistance in escaping his enslavement Gilene wasn’t prepared to be then taken by Azarion who needs her to help overthrow his cousin and reclaim his birthright. what starts as resentment and hatred on Gilene’s part slowly morphs into something more but with the need to return to her village pressing she resigns herself to the inevitable heartbreak loving Azarion will bring.
I enjoyed this a lot I did find the first part slightly slow but once Azarion and Gilene rejoin his people things did step up. I also thought the finish was slightly abrupt and would have preferred a more detailed reunion but saying that this author still manages to draw me in easily and though slow-burn I could feel and believe in the connection forming just don’t go into this expecting this to be romance heavy it isn’t instead this builds a fantasy world that is both character and plot-driven. There’s magic and love and loyalties formed and tested as both Azarion and Gilene slowly build trust together.
There are intimate scenes but there fleeting and not overly explicit which did fit within the setting. This focuses more on the connection that emerges once they get to know each other so no instalove here. I definitely recommend reading this if you like your stories heavy on the fantasy side.
Reviewed By Beckie Bookworm
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4.5/5
I don’t read a huge amount of fantasy, but Draven is one of my top pick authors when I do. And this one doesn’t disappoint.
It revolves around two people (Gilene and Azarion) who have been used and abused by their community/family and find in each other a kindred soul. Gilene is a fire/illusion mage, Azarion a famous gladiator and together they work to unite the oppressed to bring down an evil empire.
Lots of action, heroes to love and root for and a theme of redemption and resilience.
Lots to enjoy, and I look forward to reading the next in series.