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Guardian Witch #1
Awakening the Fire
Guardian Witch Book One
Arianna Calin has sworn to keep the peace in Riverdale. Mostly, the Otherworlders prefer to haunt the Olde Town district—partying at vampire strip clubs, dining in its elegant supper clubs, or hiding in the cliffside caverns along the Mississippi. Being a cop is a tough job, but Ari has a silver dagger, a gun, and a bag of charms against things that prowl the dark streets. She is also a fire witch—a pedigree that comes in handy, since her partner Ryan is only human.
When a virtual reality drug hits the streets, people - and Otherworlders - start to die, and an elusive pack of werewolves threatens the status quo. Ari and Ryan are drawn into a web of murder and evil that will lead sworn enemies into a bloody confrontation. While the city simmers around them, only Ari can prevent an all-out supernatural war...
Arianna Calin has sworn to keep the peace in Riverdale. Mostly, the Otherworlders prefer to haunt the Olde Town district—partying at vampire strip clubs, dining in its elegant supper clubs, or hiding in the cliffside caverns along the Mississippi. Being a cop is a tough job, but Ari has a silver dagger, a gun, and a bag of charms against things that prowl the dark streets. She is also a fire witch—a pedigree that comes in handy, since her partner Ryan is only human.
When a virtual reality drug hits the streets, people - and Otherworlders - start to die, and an elusive pack of werewolves threatens the status quo. Ari and Ryan are drawn into a web of murder and evil that will lead sworn enemies into a bloody confrontation. While the city simmers around them, only Ari can prevent an all-out supernatural war...
245 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 12, 2012
38 people are currently reading
3871 people want to read
About the author
Ally Shields
19 books471 followersAlly Shields is the fantasy pen name of Janet L Buck, who also writes historical mysteries as J L Buck.
Ms Shields' Guardian Witch series was first released between 2012 and 2015 and were withdrawn by Etopia Press in 2023. Revised and updated editions were released later in 2023 with new covers and one title change.
Due to an ongoing story line, the author recommends this series be read in order, beginning with Awakening the Fire.
A sequel trilogy may be re-released in the future.
The Maggie York Paranormal Mystery trilogy, set in New Orleans and the Crosskeys trilogy may also be re-released with revised editions as time permits.
When not writing, Ms Shields reads multiple genres--urban fantasy, thrillers, mysteries, historical romance, and she loves to travel--anywhere, anytime.
Ms Shields' Guardian Witch series was first released between 2012 and 2015 and were withdrawn by Etopia Press in 2023. Revised and updated editions were released later in 2023 with new covers and one title change.
Due to an ongoing story line, the author recommends this series be read in order, beginning with Awakening the Fire.
A sequel trilogy may be re-released in the future.
The Maggie York Paranormal Mystery trilogy, set in New Orleans and the Crosskeys trilogy may also be re-released with revised editions as time permits.
When not writing, Ms Shields reads multiple genres--urban fantasy, thrillers, mysteries, historical romance, and she loves to travel--anywhere, anytime.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 79 reviews
May 11, 2017
My casting:
The book follows Arianna Calin who is a Guardian in Riverdale, Olde Town. She's young and talented. Strong and independent. She also has powerful power, fire. Yup, you guessed it, Ari is a fire witch. Which comes in handy considering she's up against vampires, werewolves, and a whole lot more Otherworlders, and on top of that, her partner, Lt. Ryan Foster, is only human. On her first big mission, she has to solve a mysterious case were people die, werewolves makes trouble and a drug called 'Fantasty' hits the street, someone is trying to control the vampires..
While being on a patrolling she meets the powerful and mysterious Andreas De Luca. A vampire who seems to be more than he lets people think he is. His and Ari's magic seem to, how to say this, connect, which frightens Ari.
Ally Shields writes in a phenomenal way were you get to connect and grown with the characters. She writes in a way that you feel that your a part of the book, were you have to solve the cases. That fact that she can make a fantastic book were there are none love triangles, is just great. I hate love triangles and to be honest, I was afraid that this book would have exactly that, but lucky me, it didn't :D I loved how she describes how the humans and the otherworlders were able to live together in somewhat peace. The dynamics and tension between everyone.. It all just worked.
A great start on a series :)! I love it! <3 The characters were awesome, and Andreas was freaking awesome! I love that this book didn't have insta-love and that you fall in love with the characters while Ari falls in love with them. Ari was just the type of character that I love. She so independent woman. She tough, smart and snarky but has so much emotions inside that she refuses to show anyone.
So in a way she's vulnerable, and I love it. I just hope that she let's someone in, and with that someone i mean . Ari's very loyal and goes by an oath which she refuses to break. She has to go through some tough things that can break a weak person, but luckily she takes all that pain and anger and makes it to a good thing. Andreas is just.. my man! I love him, and I want more!!!
I can't wait to read more about Ari and Andreas. Though the series reminds me of Anita Blake series by Laurell K. Hamilton, it's great. To be honest, I kinda like this book more than I did A.B series.. The things I didn't like was that things were a bit slow, and I wish more had happened. Other than that, the book was great and I can't wait to read more! :)
The book follows Arianna Calin who is a Guardian in Riverdale, Olde Town. She's young and talented. Strong and independent. She also has powerful power, fire. Yup, you guessed it, Ari is a fire witch. Which comes in handy considering she's up against vampires, werewolves, and a whole lot more Otherworlders, and on top of that, her partner, Lt. Ryan Foster, is only human. On her first big mission, she has to solve a mysterious case were people die, werewolves makes trouble and a drug called 'Fantasty' hits the street, someone is trying to control the vampires..
As Ari watched his dark head bend over the door, silent amusement bubbled in her throat. The ever-so-cool Mr. De Luca was acting as if he didn’t trust himself. Probably a good thing, she thought. Deep inside, she was feeling very smug.
While being on a patrolling she meets the powerful and mysterious Andreas De Luca. A vampire who seems to be more than he lets people think he is. His and Ari's magic seem to, how to say this, connect, which frightens Ari.
Ari brought her chin up. She hated it when someone told her what to do. Or even worse, what she couldn’t do. “You keep forgetting I can take care of myself.”
“So you’ve said before. But it would be better to stay out of situations where you might have to prove it.”
Ally Shields writes in a phenomenal way were you get to connect and grown with the characters. She writes in a way that you feel that your a part of the book, were you have to solve the cases. That fact that she can make a fantastic book were there are none love triangles, is just great. I hate love triangles and to be honest, I was afraid that this book would have exactly that, but lucky me, it didn't :D I loved how she describes how the humans and the otherworlders were able to live together in somewhat peace. The dynamics and tension between everyone.. It all just worked.
“I don’t want to get better. That’s the problem.” Ari didn’t bother to hide the confusion she felt. “I want to stay angry. Need the anger. I’m going to find them and kill them.” Ari looked at her friend’s shocked face. “Does that make me as bad as they are?”
A great start on a series :)! I love it! <3 The characters were awesome, and Andreas was freaking awesome! I love that this book didn't have insta-love and that you fall in love with the characters while Ari falls in love with them. Ari was just the type of character that I love. She so independent woman. She tough, smart and snarky but has so much emotions inside that she refuses to show anyone.
So in a way she's vulnerable, and I love it. I just hope that she let's someone in, and with that someone i mean . Ari's very loyal and goes by an oath which she refuses to break. She has to go through some tough things that can break a weak person, but luckily she takes all that pain and anger and makes it to a good thing. Andreas is just.. my man! I love him, and I want more!!!
I can't wait to read more about Ari and Andreas. Though the series reminds me of Anita Blake series by Laurell K. Hamilton, it's great. To be honest, I kinda like this book more than I did A.B series.. The things I didn't like was that things were a bit slow, and I wish more had happened. Other than that, the book was great and I can't wait to read more! :)
January 20, 2013
When I first began reading this book, I was reminded of all the things I loved about the first two Anita Blake (Laurell K. Hamilton) books. Ari, the heroine, is somebody you can root for in a book. She's committed to her job, smart as a whip, and vulnerable to a sexy guy. When I say vulnerable, I mean that you can sense her attraction to the powerful vampire in town. It doesn't mean she jumped into bed after meeting him. I loved the tension.
I also felt like this book was similar to watching CSI (which I love). There are twists, interesting suspects, and murders to solve. Although it's a paranormal, Shields does a terrific job of making it seem normal to hang out with a witch and vampires. There are other supernatural creatures as well, but Shields doesn't belabor the descriptions.
Ally Shields is an author to watch. I try to take off my writer's cap while reading for pleasure. It's difficult. I can honestly say that I am in awe of her skill in subtle world-building, snappy and entertaining dialogue, and characters I grew to love. Speaking of dialogue, I laughed a lot at the humorous interactions between Ari and the other characters. Shields is highly quotable.
I also felt like this book was similar to watching CSI (which I love). There are twists, interesting suspects, and murders to solve. Although it's a paranormal, Shields does a terrific job of making it seem normal to hang out with a witch and vampires. There are other supernatural creatures as well, but Shields doesn't belabor the descriptions.
Ally Shields is an author to watch. I try to take off my writer's cap while reading for pleasure. It's difficult. I can honestly say that I am in awe of her skill in subtle world-building, snappy and entertaining dialogue, and characters I grew to love. Speaking of dialogue, I laughed a lot at the humorous interactions between Ari and the other characters. Shields is highly quotable.
April 19, 2017
Awakening the Fire by Ally Shields is captivating, well written and full of action. I instantly connected with the characters and the intrigue kept me turning the pages to see what happened next. The beginning is a little slow but once you get beyond that, the plot moves quickly.
My Rating: 4.5 stars
My Rating: 4.5 stars
October 3, 2012
I just had the honor of reading Ally Shield’s “Awakening the Fire,” and it lived up to its name. It awakened all my senses and left me waiting for more. This story is an amazing piece of art, weaving the characters, relationships, plots, backstories and drama into a masterpiece.
Ally has a wonderful way with words, describing her characters with such depth and ease, that you truly feel like you are there in the story. The connection and pull between the characters is palatable. From the different dynamics between the vampires, itches, werewolves and humans, to the forbidden desire between the characters, a wide range of feelings is explored. This is a story that draws you in, invests your feelings in their relationships and outcomes, and does not disappoint in the twists and turns.
Her fantasy world is clearly defined, and imaginable. The boundaries between the mystical and the human are concrete, and the cohesion of the two worlds very natural. This is a place you know, a town set up in a manner you are familiar with. The clubs, the park, the town, all places that you can relate to and imagine being in.
The premise of the story is original, and suspenseful. I was on the edge of my seat the entire time. Completely hooked from page one, I am eagerly awaiting the next in this series. Overall, the highest rating I can give it. Fantastic book.
Ally has a wonderful way with words, describing her characters with such depth and ease, that you truly feel like you are there in the story. The connection and pull between the characters is palatable. From the different dynamics between the vampires, itches, werewolves and humans, to the forbidden desire between the characters, a wide range of feelings is explored. This is a story that draws you in, invests your feelings in their relationships and outcomes, and does not disappoint in the twists and turns.
Her fantasy world is clearly defined, and imaginable. The boundaries between the mystical and the human are concrete, and the cohesion of the two worlds very natural. This is a place you know, a town set up in a manner you are familiar with. The clubs, the park, the town, all places that you can relate to and imagine being in.
The premise of the story is original, and suspenseful. I was on the edge of my seat the entire time. Completely hooked from page one, I am eagerly awaiting the next in this series. Overall, the highest rating I can give it. Fantastic book.
March 31, 2016
25% through and I feel like I've been reading for years. Nothing is happening and the main character has proven herself to be a horribly inept investigator. I think that's a pet peeve of mine, when an investigator or police officer or guardian of some sort just stumbles through the story. She has no plan and no idea what to do, so I'm pretty sure she's TSTL and I'm not interested. Shame, because I have four books in this series and now they're all going in the trash.
Update: I jumped to 80% to see how things were going. And I was pleasantly surprised to find Ari coming across as the competent Guardian slash police officer I was hoping for. So I kept reading and things were really looking good. And then she chased numerous werewolves down a dark maze with no weapon. Uuugghh. So yeah, she actually is TSTL. And then she saves the day with blind luck. That was some bullshit. Well written and engaging, but the victory was total bullshit. I don't think I'm left with any better an impression than when I quit before. It's almost worse this time because I enjoyed it for a while around 80% where I skipped ahead and then that enjoyment was brutally snatched away.
Update: I jumped to 80% to see how things were going. And I was pleasantly surprised to find Ari coming across as the competent Guardian slash police officer I was hoping for. So I kept reading and things were really looking good. And then she chased numerous werewolves down a dark maze with no weapon. Uuugghh. So yeah, she actually is TSTL. And then she saves the day with blind luck. That was some bullshit. Well written and engaging, but the victory was total bullshit. I don't think I'm left with any better an impression than when I quit before. It's almost worse this time because I enjoyed it for a while around 80% where I skipped ahead and then that enjoyment was brutally snatched away.
September 20, 2012
This book was great. I loved Ari the witch guardian for Olde Town. She was spunky, strong and no-nonsense. I liked that she was clear headed, knew what she was doing and didn't back down. I loved Andreas (hunky vamp) he really made me read because I wanted to know what was going to happen between the two. The plot was different, interesting and kept me on my toes. I like that. I highly recommned as a good read.
September 26, 2012
Some authors imagine they can copy the style of a genre such as the fantasy world inhabited by witches, vampires, werewolves and the like, but only manage to fool a few of their readers. Not so Ally Shields who has truly mastered the occult nuances of fantasy, and, gathered together the ingredients for a sound, fast moving plot. She has added her considerable flair as a wordsmith: descriptions in the opening pages of the book were stunning. Awakening the Fire is a genuinely exciting story that focuses on Ari the beautiful witch who has been appointed a Guardian by her otherworld community. We’ve hardly begun the story when a violent attack on two teens by a werewolf is foiled by her immediate response on their behalf. Immediately the author wastes no time to introduce Andreas, the sexy but dangerous vampire who features in the story. From there we move from one-attention grabbing event after another. Andreas turning on the charm, Andreas verbally dueling with Ryan the human policeman in a verbal dual with Andreas, the “collaborator” he does not trust. There was a point when I agreed with Sheila that recriminations could have been less frequent, but the sheer pace of the tale, Ari’s audacity that took her through confrontation after skirmish, to the all out attack on Prince Daron’’s encampment convinced me that here was a writing talent that deserves full marks. But don’t ask me how I stopped the blood dripping from my fangs as I read.
March 17, 2013
NOTE: I received this book from the author/publisher in exchange for a review.
Ari (Arianna) Calin is a guardian in the riverfront section of Riverdale. A city where humans and otherworlders, vampires, werewolves, witches and others co-exist to an extent. She handles anything to do with magic or the otherworlders and her human partner Lt. Ryan Foster the human side of it. The story starts with Ari patrolling when she heard screams and comes upon a teen couple trying to ward off a werewolf, something that shouldn't be happening. After running the werewolf off she meets Andreas Deluca, someone high up in the vampire counsel and also someone who appeals to her magic. It develops that there is many things going on including a drug war, attacks on people and who knows what else.
Ms Shields has done a very good job on developing a new twist on human/otherworlders stories. She has all parties either working with or against each other in a battle for the city and the control of the vampires. When I was finally able to start reading this book I didn't want to stop and am looking forward to more from this writer
Ari (Arianna) Calin is a guardian in the riverfront section of Riverdale. A city where humans and otherworlders, vampires, werewolves, witches and others co-exist to an extent. She handles anything to do with magic or the otherworlders and her human partner Lt. Ryan Foster the human side of it. The story starts with Ari patrolling when she heard screams and comes upon a teen couple trying to ward off a werewolf, something that shouldn't be happening. After running the werewolf off she meets Andreas Deluca, someone high up in the vampire counsel and also someone who appeals to her magic. It develops that there is many things going on including a drug war, attacks on people and who knows what else.
Ms Shields has done a very good job on developing a new twist on human/otherworlders stories. She has all parties either working with or against each other in a battle for the city and the control of the vampires. When I was finally able to start reading this book I didn't want to stop and am looking forward to more from this writer
May 25, 2013
I have to admit, I was a little concerned starting the book. The story started with alot of imagery that and I was worried it was one of those books that described every small detail. But the truth is it set the stage for the story and dove right into the good stuff. You get an understanding of the young witch with an incredible amount of responsibility and power. Ari, the main character, is mature and levelheaded, with a good sense of humor. In addition to Ari, you meet Ryan her human counterpart and Andreas, her vampire counterpart. You are brought into a world that supernatural beings coincide with humans. I found it very interesting that there were two factions of law enforcement, one for humans and one for the supernatural. The story is about cases that involve both, and how the two groups work together solving abnormal cases. I found this very entertaining and could not stop once I started reading this book. I was very happy to have the second book to continue the story. I am looking forward to reading more in this story. Ally Shields is definitely a writer to watch.
September 29, 2012
Think your life is complicated?
In the split world of Riverdale,Fire Witch Arianna is a Guardian/police for the Otherworld side. Dealing with vampires, werewolves, and all the other Otherworld inhabitants is one tricky job just on a regular day, but there have been violent murders. Inexplicable. And a human is the first victim. The perfect prescription for real trouble from every side if Arianna and her human police partner don't find the murderers.
And then there's deliciously intriguing vampire Andreas. Is he involved in the murders? Or is he flipping Arianna's life from all business to something hotter? Or both?
Mea Culpa. I first read Awakening the Fire when Ally was writing it. It was just plain good then, and now in its polished published form it's just plain wonderful. Warning. If Etopia Press is as smart as I think they are, they are publishing more in this series very soon. As much as I loved this first book, they only get better. I know, doesn't seem possible, but then it's Riverdale and Arianna. Anything can happen.
In the split world of Riverdale,Fire Witch Arianna is a Guardian/police for the Otherworld side. Dealing with vampires, werewolves, and all the other Otherworld inhabitants is one tricky job just on a regular day, but there have been violent murders. Inexplicable. And a human is the first victim. The perfect prescription for real trouble from every side if Arianna and her human police partner don't find the murderers.
And then there's deliciously intriguing vampire Andreas. Is he involved in the murders? Or is he flipping Arianna's life from all business to something hotter? Or both?
Mea Culpa. I first read Awakening the Fire when Ally was writing it. It was just plain good then, and now in its polished published form it's just plain wonderful. Warning. If Etopia Press is as smart as I think they are, they are publishing more in this series very soon. As much as I loved this first book, they only get better. I know, doesn't seem possible, but then it's Riverdale and Arianna. Anything can happen.
May 13, 2013
OMG! Talk about a strong female leading lady! Arianna is independent, out-spoken and loyal Fire Witch who is the Guardian of the Riverdale Otherworld. She is just starting out as a guardian and I like that the story starts here so you can watch her character grow. Andrea and Ryan are great supporting characters (I for one am happy that there is no love triangle between Ari, Andrea and Ryan).
The story is an interesting mystery for you to uncover. I would have like for the there to be more clues that pointed to different people so I could try to figure it out before her. But it is still good without this factor. There is a lot going in the Otherworld, with all the Vampires, Witches, Were creatures and Elf’s etc. Who is causing the all trouble with this drug and why?
As I am looking forward to the next book as I wonder what kind of connection a Fire Witch and a Vampire could have.
The story is an interesting mystery for you to uncover. I would have like for the there to be more clues that pointed to different people so I could try to figure it out before her. But it is still good without this factor. There is a lot going in the Otherworld, with all the Vampires, Witches, Were creatures and Elf’s etc. Who is causing the all trouble with this drug and why?
As I am looking forward to the next book as I wonder what kind of connection a Fire Witch and a Vampire could have.
January 5, 2013
Vampires, werewolves, and witches oh my!
In a journey through a magical world with a witch named Arianna will have you lost under her spell. As the Otherworld community gets lost in an almost unavoidable war, Ari finds that within herself there are many secrets. She meets the vampire Andreas whose magic seems to always try to mix with hers whenever they are near. Ari loses people that she considered a huge part of her life and some that came to be a vital part of her new life in this war. Suspicious run deep as people who suppose to be trusted turn out to be people who can't be trusted.
Ally Shields does a magnificent job at keeping the reader attached to this mystical world that seems to be just out of reach yet right in front of the readers face. The bittersweet ending will leave you wanting more.
In a journey through a magical world with a witch named Arianna will have you lost under her spell. As the Otherworld community gets lost in an almost unavoidable war, Ari finds that within herself there are many secrets. She meets the vampire Andreas whose magic seems to always try to mix with hers whenever they are near. Ari loses people that she considered a huge part of her life and some that came to be a vital part of her new life in this war. Suspicious run deep as people who suppose to be trusted turn out to be people who can't be trusted.
Ally Shields does a magnificent job at keeping the reader attached to this mystical world that seems to be just out of reach yet right in front of the readers face. The bittersweet ending will leave you wanting more.
September 17, 2012
What a read! This has something for everyone, witches, vampires, werewolves, wood nymphs, magic and so much more. Ari Calin has a murder mystery to solve and she intends to do just that. Dubrey has information that can help solve the murders however; Ari arrives and it is already too late and then she sadly loses her good friend Yana. Who exactly are the murderers and will anyone help Ari find them? It seems someone is always one step ahead of Ari which is delaying her progress to resolve the mystery. There is plenty of danger and action in this book and it was a pleasure to read a well written novel by a new author. This one comes highly recommended!! Awakening the Fire
October 14, 2012
In Riverdale, two communities live parallel lives – the world of humans and the Otherworld of vampires, witches, elves, nymphs and werecreatures. Ari is a Guardian. She is also a witch – but there is nothing twitchy-nosed about her. Ari is a special kind of law enforcer and when a horrific series of murders threatens all-out war in the Otherworld, she is the one that must lead the hunt, no matter what the cost… Ally Shields is a real find. She makes the implausible possible and creates a rollicking good story with strong characters, depth and atmosphere. Fantasy at its best and kept me turning the pages so that I read it all in one sitting as I couldn’t put it down. This is the first of a series and I can’t wait for the second part. Highly recommended.
December 20, 2012
I think this will be a great new series. I can't believe she's not just a cop but she's a witch. Wow, I can't wait to find out what exactly Arianna's ability as a fire witch will be. I'm not sure what a fire witch can do. Its going to be enduring, consuming, and overwhelming story to discover her power and see how she will take back the Old Town District in the OtherWorld's in her town of Riverdale. I can't wait to read this new series. Thank you for the giveaway and the chance to win this enticing book.
December 22, 2012
The characters, minor as well as major, drew me in and held my interest throughout. I'm eagerly awaiting the second book in the series! Ari is believable as the witch cop, and the human/Otherworld interactions are well-done.
June 25, 2013
great book
September 13, 2024
(FYI I tend to only review one book per series, unless I want to change my scoring by 0.50 or more of a star. -- I tend not to read reviews until after I read a book, so I go in with an open mind.)
2.25*
Could have done with more world-building.
IMHO the MC was a bit of an idiot and I'm not too keen on the love interest.
I'm also not a fan of
I might give the next book a try sometime but I'm not in any hurry.
------------------
Edited to update -- realised I already own book 2, so read the burb.
Apparently MC thinks she and the would be love interest
First time read the author's work?: Yes
Will you be reading more?:Possibly No
Would you recommend?:Probably not No
------------
How I rate Stars: 5* = I loved (must read all I can find by the author)
4* = I really enjoyed (got to read all the series and try other books by the author).
3* = I enjoyed (I will continue to read the series)
or
3* = Good book just not my thing (I realised I don't like the genre or picked up a kids book to review in error.)
All of the above scores means I would recommend them!
-
2* = it was okay (I might give the next book in the series a try, to see if that was better IMHO.)
1* = Disliked
Note: adding these basic 'reviews' after finding out that some people see the stars differently than I do - hoping this clarifies how I feel about the book. :-)
Could have done with more world-building.
IMHO the MC was a bit of an idiot and I'm not too keen on the love interest.
I'm also not a fan of
I might give the next book a try sometime but I'm not in any hurry.
------------------
Edited to update -- realised I already own book 2, so read the burb.
Apparently MC thinks she and the would be love interest
First time read the author's work?: Yes
Will you be reading more?:
Would you recommend?:
------------
How I rate Stars: 5* = I loved (must read all I can find by the author)
4* = I really enjoyed (got to read all the series and try other books by the author).
3* = I enjoyed (I will continue to read the series)
or
3* = Good book just not my thing (I realised I don't like the genre or picked up a kids book to review in error.)
All of the above scores means I would recommend them!
-
2* = it was okay (I might give the next book in the series a try, to see if that was better IMHO.)
1* = Disliked
Note: adding these basic 'reviews' after finding out that some people see the stars differently than I do - hoping this clarifies how I feel about the book. :-)
January 7, 2018
Млада вещица пазител има големи проблеми в района си. Някой от вампирите изчезват, други откачат и могат да бъдат усмирени само с кол в сърцето. Всичко се заплита около мистериозна групичка канадски върколаци пришълци, които разпространяват нова магична дрога. С помощта на влиятелен местен вампир (съдържател на нощен клуб) Ариана разплита случая, като по пътя открива възможностите на силата си и лапва по зъбатият си партньор.
С тази не се погодихме. Вървеше ми като постен преразказ на история за Анита Блейк с малко Бъфи елементи.
Криминалната загадка беше интригуваща, но много странно поднесена - елементите се разкриваха на парче, а финалното заключение беше слабо и не разкри много неща.
Романсът явно е оставен за следващите книги от серията, които няма да чета. ТУк беше доста нефелен и неубедителен.
Свръхестествените твари - вампири върколаци и някой друг превръщенец, бяха далеч от нивото на Лоръл К. Хамилтън, въпреки че ми се сториха директно взаимствани.
Книгата е писана в трето лице и имаше Ари, Ари, Ари(да не говоря колко ме дразни да шибнеш някакво дълго име на герой, а после като разказвач да ползваш съкратено) по двадесет пъти на страница, страшно досадно. Ако беше използвано класическото за жанта 1л. ед. ч. щеше да е къде, къде по-добре.
С тази не се погодихме. Вървеше ми като постен преразказ на история за Анита Блейк с малко Бъфи елементи.
Криминалната загадка беше интригуваща, но много странно поднесена - елементите се разкриваха на парче, а финалното заключение беше слабо и не разкри много неща.
Романсът явно е оставен за следващите книги от серията, които няма да чета. ТУк беше доста нефелен и неубедителен.
Свръхестествените твари - вампири върколаци и някой друг превръщенец, бяха далеч от нивото на Лоръл К. Хамилтън, въпреки че ми се сториха директно взаимствани.
Книгата е писана в трето лице и имаше Ари, Ари, Ари(да не говоря колко ме дразни да шибнеш някакво дълго име на герой, а после като разказвач да ползваш съкратено) по двадесет пъти на страница, страшно досадно. Ако беше използвано класическото за жанта 1л. ед. ч. щеше да е къде, къде по-добре.
April 23, 2017
Just finished reading this book... what can I say other then I'm in love!
It has everything required for a fantastic read...
-a spunky heroine
-a sexy allusive vamp
-a human side kick who's harbouring a crush
-a great story base
-a continual plot that never dulled.
This book didn't hide behind too much inner dialogue or over description, the author has a great grip on true balance of character build, suspense and humour.
For anyone who loves paranormal novels this is a must read!
It has everything required for a fantastic read...
-a spunky heroine
-a sexy allusive vamp
-a human side kick who's harbouring a crush
-a great story base
-a continual plot that never dulled.
This book didn't hide behind too much inner dialogue or over description, the author has a great grip on true balance of character build, suspense and humour.
For anyone who loves paranormal novels this is a must read!
March 28, 2016
I loved this read! It was my first by this author and I cannot wait to read the rest of the series! If you are a fan of supernatural/paranormal and like when it mixes with the real world, this is going to rock your socks.
I thought the storyline was excellent. It was very unique, in both the plot and the way it was told. It mixed the real world and the imaginary very well, not giving us too much of either, but blending in a way that they were truly intermingled with one another. I also liked that the story didn't just have one person who was working to fix the 'issue' and solve what is happening, it was a team and the team was a mixture of all sorts.
The characters were developed brilliantly. There was depth, personality and a certain quirk about them that made me really connect with them. I liked that each was unique, but they still interacted, and even if they didn't always agree, they stuck together for the greater good. There were strong and intelligent characters leading the team, and they were passionate and empathetic.
I found the pace really matched the story. We had fast paced sections, to really set apart the fact that there was a rush and a dire need to solve the crime and to find out who was behind it and why. There were also slower sections that really matched the fact that they needed to stop and think, to really breakdown what was taking place. I felt like this made it a lot more real.
The story was easy to connect with and I really found myself hooked. I couldn't wait to get back and read more and now I find myself itching to dive into book two.
I highly recommend this series. I think it is a brilliant book and I can tell that the rest of the series is going to continue to get even better.
**I received this book for free in exchange for my honest an unbiased opinion.
I thought the storyline was excellent. It was very unique, in both the plot and the way it was told. It mixed the real world and the imaginary very well, not giving us too much of either, but blending in a way that they were truly intermingled with one another. I also liked that the story didn't just have one person who was working to fix the 'issue' and solve what is happening, it was a team and the team was a mixture of all sorts.
The characters were developed brilliantly. There was depth, personality and a certain quirk about them that made me really connect with them. I liked that each was unique, but they still interacted, and even if they didn't always agree, they stuck together for the greater good. There were strong and intelligent characters leading the team, and they were passionate and empathetic.
I found the pace really matched the story. We had fast paced sections, to really set apart the fact that there was a rush and a dire need to solve the crime and to find out who was behind it and why. There were also slower sections that really matched the fact that they needed to stop and think, to really breakdown what was taking place. I felt like this made it a lot more real.
The story was easy to connect with and I really found myself hooked. I couldn't wait to get back and read more and now I find myself itching to dive into book two.
I highly recommend this series. I think it is a brilliant book and I can tell that the rest of the series is going to continue to get even better.
**I received this book for free in exchange for my honest an unbiased opinion.
September 3, 2016
Rating 3.5 / 5 stars
This is the second time reading Awakening the Fire. It really is amazing how much you don't pick up the first time you read a book, and it's so great how much more you notice the next time you read it. The book starts off with an intense and intriguing scene with Ari out on patrol as the Guardian of Olde Town.
Characters 3/5
Ally creates well rounded and likable characters. There is some room for development but good grounding was formed in this book.
Ari - Ari is feisty and you can connect with her easily. I find it amazing that she survives on so little sleep! She is a great heroine - she holds her own ground and doesn't swoon and fall over when she meets the hero of the book. I was very intrigued by her powers that are developing, and are yet to develop.
Andreas - Andreas is smooth and charming. Even in the book he doesn't fit the stereotype of your typical vampire. He plays a low key role for the first half of the book and a much bigger role in second half. He is an intriguing and interesting character. I liked this character and am eager to see how he develops further in the series.
Steffan - Steffan is your fun, friendly, fun to be around, nice guy/werewolf. He was my favourite character in the book. If Ari doesn't end up with Andreas, I hope she gives it a shot with Steffan!
Plot, Pace & Writing Style 4/5
You definitely ease into the story easily. Ally has a great easy writing style - the pace is great, the story has a very nice flow and the story has good world building.
Cover talk 3/5 - I like the cover - It's got a nice paranormal feel to it and I love the purple flames!
Final Thoughts: I will definitely continue with this series and have high hopes for it.
This is the second time reading Awakening the Fire. It really is amazing how much you don't pick up the first time you read a book, and it's so great how much more you notice the next time you read it. The book starts off with an intense and intriguing scene with Ari out on patrol as the Guardian of Olde Town.
Characters 3/5
Ally creates well rounded and likable characters. There is some room for development but good grounding was formed in this book.
Ari - Ari is feisty and you can connect with her easily. I find it amazing that she survives on so little sleep! She is a great heroine - she holds her own ground and doesn't swoon and fall over when she meets the hero of the book. I was very intrigued by her powers that are developing, and are yet to develop.
Andreas - Andreas is smooth and charming. Even in the book he doesn't fit the stereotype of your typical vampire. He plays a low key role for the first half of the book and a much bigger role in second half. He is an intriguing and interesting character. I liked this character and am eager to see how he develops further in the series.
Steffan - Steffan is your fun, friendly, fun to be around, nice guy/werewolf. He was my favourite character in the book. If Ari doesn't end up with Andreas, I hope she gives it a shot with Steffan!
Plot, Pace & Writing Style 4/5
You definitely ease into the story easily. Ally has a great easy writing style - the pace is great, the story has a very nice flow and the story has good world building.
Cover talk 3/5 - I like the cover - It's got a nice paranormal feel to it and I love the purple flames!
Final Thoughts: I will definitely continue with this series and have high hopes for it.
May 14, 2013
As a witch and the guardian in Riverdale, Arianna straddles the human world and the Otherworld of vampires, werewolves and things that go bump in the night. Working with a human cop, she tries to keep the peace between the worlds. This is hard to do when a new drug, affecting Otherworlders, shows up on the streets and humans and Otherworlders start dying.
This urban fantasy was my first book by Ally Shields, but it will not be my last. Arianna reminded me of an early version of Anita Blake from Laurell K. Hamilton's series. Her character was a take charge witch with a no nonsense attitude.
As the first book in the series, Ms. Shields had to set the stage for her readers. She made her characters interesting and likable. Arianna was a working girl with a lot of responsibility and stress on her shoulders. She takes her job seriously and it shows. She doesn't think she has time for romance until she meets a certain vampire and a dormant part of her magic is awakened.
If you like your urban fantasy with a dash of romance, Ms. Shields does not disappoint. The romance is on the back burner but it's there. I can't wait to see how Arianna grows as a fire witch or how she handles this fledging romantic relationship.
Do yourself a favor and read this book. The second book in the series, Fire Within, is already available. I'm looking forward to reading more of Arianna's story.
This urban fantasy was my first book by Ally Shields, but it will not be my last. Arianna reminded me of an early version of Anita Blake from Laurell K. Hamilton's series. Her character was a take charge witch with a no nonsense attitude.
As the first book in the series, Ms. Shields had to set the stage for her readers. She made her characters interesting and likable. Arianna was a working girl with a lot of responsibility and stress on her shoulders. She takes her job seriously and it shows. She doesn't think she has time for romance until she meets a certain vampire and a dormant part of her magic is awakened.
If you like your urban fantasy with a dash of romance, Ms. Shields does not disappoint. The romance is on the back burner but it's there. I can't wait to see how Arianna grows as a fire witch or how she handles this fledging romantic relationship.
Do yourself a favor and read this book. The second book in the series, Fire Within, is already available. I'm looking forward to reading more of Arianna's story.
May 30, 2013
Awakening the Fire is a FANTASTIC book! It's the first in a series, and tells the story of Ari, a fire witch and Guardian in a world where humans live next to all sort of preternatural creatures. Her job is to keep the peace, but one night, Ari stumbles onto a werewolf attacking a couple of kids. She fights the werewolf off, saving the children, and shortly thereafter meets a vampire named Andreas. This coincidental meeting leads Ari onto a huge crime that is ongoing. As a cop, she investigates with the help of Andreas and many others, later discovering that the crimes are all part of something much larger than she ever dreamed.
This book pulled me and didn't let go until the epilogue ended. I loved Ari and her determination to solve the crimes she was faced with. I also enjoyed her relationships with the other characters in the book. She is a strong heroine and easily moves the book along.
I highly recommend Awakening the Fire to all urban fantasy/mystery fans, as well as anyone who enjoys strong characters and witty dialogue. This book is the newest addition to my keeper shelf!
I give this book 5 stars and look forward to reading the next book in the series!
Note: I was given a copy of this book for review purposes. This had no effect on my review.
Note II: This review is cross-posted to Shelfari, Amazon, and Barnes & Noble.
This book pulled me and didn't let go until the epilogue ended. I loved Ari and her determination to solve the crimes she was faced with. I also enjoyed her relationships with the other characters in the book. She is a strong heroine and easily moves the book along.
I highly recommend Awakening the Fire to all urban fantasy/mystery fans, as well as anyone who enjoys strong characters and witty dialogue. This book is the newest addition to my keeper shelf!
I give this book 5 stars and look forward to reading the next book in the series!
Note: I was given a copy of this book for review purposes. This had no effect on my review.
Note II: This review is cross-posted to Shelfari, Amazon, and Barnes & Noble.
March 16, 2016
You can find a longer review on my blog: Raquel Gabrielle's Blog
I loved this first one it was definitely hard to put down and got me back into reading after not keeping to a book for about a month or so. I am glad that I can say I thoroughly enjoyed this and also plan to read book 2 and 3 right away so I will also have reviews up for those as well. So far I like how the romance is slow and not really there. Ari is an awesome witch with some fire magic that she doesn't always seem to understand, and then comes Andreas to stir things up and cause trouble, good kind of trouble of course. :)
I loved this first one it was definitely hard to put down and got me back into reading after not keeping to a book for about a month or so. I am glad that I can say I thoroughly enjoyed this and also plan to read book 2 and 3 right away so I will also have reviews up for those as well. So far I like how the romance is slow and not really there. Ari is an awesome witch with some fire magic that she doesn't always seem to understand, and then comes Andreas to stir things up and cause trouble, good kind of trouble of course. :)
January 19, 2015
The author has captured the essence of a good fast moving plot. The world building and fantastically described characters is wonderful to read. The relationships between the characters are heartfelt and meaningful even to the reader. The author is able to intertwine flawlessly the plethora of different fantasy species comingling and existing together while keeping their unique personality characteristics intact.
I am highly anticipating reading the next book in the series.
Note: I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I am highly anticipating reading the next book in the series.
Note: I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
February 24, 2013
***Won this book in a first reads giveaway***
I really liked the world that they author created in this story and am looking forward to the next book in the series. I liked that you saw the steps in the investigation and it felt like a real investigation without magical leaps in order to solve the crimes. There were a lot of questions left up in the air, about Ari's powers. It would have been nice to have a few explanations about those powers and Andreas.
I really liked the world that they author created in this story and am looking forward to the next book in the series. I liked that you saw the steps in the investigation and it felt like a real investigation without magical leaps in order to solve the crimes. There were a lot of questions left up in the air, about Ari's powers. It would have been nice to have a few explanations about those powers and Andreas.
April 18, 2013
Enjoyed this, even though I found some of the things that went down didn't make any sense. The main character is sometimes very annoying - for someone with her life on the line makes stupid decisions and doesn't listen to people with real experience. Additionally, for someone that's been learning her trade since childhood she doesn't seem to know much about her field. Well, can't have everything I guess...
March 29, 2013
The book is a good read. It has everything bad guys, good guys, love and little bit of mystery. It is a tiny bit predictable in the mystery part, but the book still leaves you wanting just a little bit more, and you still get the urge to read the next in the series.
Its an enjoyable relaxed read.
Its an enjoyable relaxed read.
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