Dawning Ascent

The Pearson Prophecy #1

by Jen L. Grey

Power comes with a price.

Treated like an outcast in her own kingdom, Ariah learned to live in the shadows. As she comes into her powers, she catches the eye of her life long crush and an unlikely ally. Trusting either of them could help her along a dangerous journey… or could bring her journey to a dangerous end.

When enemies come to light and distrust spreads, Ariah’s safety is put in jeopardy. If she places her trust in the wrong people, her hidden powers will be unveiled to those who wish to use them against her. To survive, Ariah must learn who has her best interests at heart. If she chooses wrong, it could mean not only her death, but the crumbling of the entire country.

Genres: Fantasy, Romance, Young Adult, Magic

217 pages, Kindle Edition

First published December 7, 2017

About the author

USA Today Bestselling Author

Reading has always been one of my favorite hobbies, even as a little girl. When I was a toddler, my parents would read stories to me over and over. I would hear them so often that I had the books memorized and could recite the story word by word.

My favorite genres are fantasy, paranormal, and contemporary romance. So of course that's what I'm inclined to write.

​I have a husband, two young daughters, and a mini Australian Shepherd. I've lived in Tennessee the majority of my life and love the state.

I'm extremely addicted to caffeine and enjoy drinking coffee and lattes.
​
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Reviews

[Coco.V]

💝 FREE on Amazon today (2/22/2018)! 💝

Blurb:
Struggle and betrayal will lead to heartache but light can prevail.

Treated like a stranger in her own kingdom, Ariah has learned to live in the shadows. She catches the eye of her life long crush and an unlikely ally as she comes into her own powers. She struggles to find truth and trust along a dangerous journey. Only one thing is certain; nothing will ever be the same for
her again.

Enemies come to light and distrust spreads. She is no longer safe; will she make the right decision on who to trust? Will she be able to keep her growing powers hidden? Only time will tell in the dawning ascent.

[Hetal · Rating 2 out of 5]

To see more reviews, considering taking a peek at my first in series YA book blog here

Thank you Jen L Grey for this free e-ARC.

2.5 stars

Dawning Ascent is a fast- read fantasy with tropes of the YA genre. Two devilishly handsome princes fighting over a special snowflake of a girl. Not to say that's a bad thing, but it's definitely a special snowflake type of story.

Ariah is the older sister of the prophesized savior, Emerson. In essence, she is nothing. Barely tolerated by the cruel king, her only solace is in her long time crush, Prince Nicholas (Nick) and her equally court- despised brother, Logan. They try to stay under the radar, but all of that changes when many happenstances revolving around Ariah's manifesting powers and romantic conundrums.
Nick is forced into an arrangement he cannot overrule, which forced a wedge between himself and Aria. Not too mention a Prince Samuel of a neighboring county vies for Ariah's affections, much to the royal family's ire ( Nick's family.)

There are certain things I really liked. Ariah's steadfast relationship with her friend Claire who is a rockstar and defines the word loyalty. Her deep bond with Logan and how far they'd go for one another, as well as her budding friendship with Sam who knows well and proper that house can't force love and force affections on someone (yes!!). Also undead parent. This isn't a Disney movie and I love seeing supportive parental figures every so often. Also loved the she was a rebel sneaking out at night to get things done. she definitely isn't your boring Mary-Sue!

However, there are a couple things that irked me as well. This next part is going to be a bit nit-picky on grammar, because I care very much about it and it can make or break a story. Many others may have 0 problems at all, but they did bother me:

The writing did not agree with me. It felt like there was a constant strain on trying to write in a "Royal" or "formal" fashion, but just came out sounding awkward and overdone or just not proper English grammar no matter what tone the author was attempting. For example:
" 'Ariah go away right now! I need a minute,' Logan whispers loudly.'"

There is no need to put "right now" in the sentence. it's repetetive and not how we speak English nor old English. The entire book is written in this fashion. I love old time English writing in fantasies. This just wasn't done right.

Other times, modern language was thrown in and completely pulled me right out of the story.

" Nick heads straight to me, like I am the only one in the room. My heart pounds rapidly and he smiles at me. Before he can say anything, Elizabeth gasps.
King Percy sternly says, 'What the hell, boy!'"

Choose one style of writing and stick with it. If you want modern day, cool, no problems. But using both fantastical AND modern day randomly completely takes me out of the setting and story, in addition to the abnormal repetetive and fomal way all the characters spoke. Enough so that I HAD to drop an entire 2 stars for the writing.

Also, don't use future tense when speaking about the present. This too is also thrown in randomly.

"'Oh, I'm sorry Prince Samuel, but I had some things I needed to get done,' I reply, hoping to drop the conversation."

Nonono. You cannot use future tense "had" unless it expresses intent or desire!! "I had something to do but couldn't remember what" " I had intended to do laundry, but napped instead." This happens in couple places and no, speaking in wrong tense doesn't make it formal English.

Otherwise, the plot is simple but good. I got through it in a couple hours.

I always love stories with a charming prince and girls with powers! Ariah's mentors Lydia and Hazel were mysterious and strange and I was slightly annoyed that we didn't know anything about them and they talked in riddles, but Ariah was equally baffled by them, so clearly the author has some plot in mind!

In the end, I would have like a little more character complexity and more plot development. I believe there romance between Nick and Ariah was just there and we were to accept it and I couldn't. I need SOME childhood memories or events leading up to their feelings. Perhaps it's why I'm #teamSam. It also seemed like our main character just literally walked away without a word anytime situations or emotions got difficult. First book, I forgive. The second book, I'd love to see Ariah grow into herself, because quite frankly, albeit understandably given the situation, she is thrown from one scenario to the next with no real agency over her life when the men come around. Finally, a little more on the magic system would have really helped me. I wouldn't even remember there was magic if not for mention at the secret teaching sessions.

This story has a lot of potential and I will be picking up book 2 in hopes of seeing both better writing and a more developed plot with our leading lady not being thrown around into unpleasant situations without any say. I think the person she ends up with in book 1 will nurture her self confidence, foster her loving heart, and stand up for her in a way no one but her brother has ever dared.

Overall, a pleasant read. I recommend it to people around the middle school age looking for an easy uncomplicated fantasy to get into. As for the advanced and well-versed fantasy reader, this might not be your cup of tea unless you're truely looking for something easy and mind numbing with a plot that very clearly caters to some of your favorite romance fantasy tropes.

[Sherry Haynes · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I started this book I didn’t know what to expect. I was greatly surprised at how quickly it pulled me in and has me ready for the next book. It starts with a prophesy but becomes so much more.

Expect surprises, hatred, bullying, unexpected allies and most definitely love.

Gifted a copy and writing voluntary review

[Stacey McCoy · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an intriguing read about magical powers, love and life. Dawning Ascent is a well written book who lovers of this genre I think would enjoy.

[Kennedy Mitchell · Rating 3 out of 5]

Cute story. When I finished it last night I didn't think I'd read the next one but today I find myself wanting to know what happens next.

[Natalia · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book, just WOW! I absolutely enjoyed this wild ride. There is not too much I have to say about this book (except I would LOVE to get a paperback copy, cuz, why not?).

Ariah lives in a kingdom where only women can harness power and her family was named as a target in a prophecy reigning over the four kingdoms. Logan was the first-born child of the Pearson family, and considered a disappointment by King Gabe, and Logan's father. Next to be born was Ariah, the first daughter. But she was not the one they wanted. Second born daughter Emerson is thought to be the Savior, except it seems that Ariah is more fit for this task! Okay, so it sounds a little weird so far, but trust me, it gets really good.

There is one small issue I had with the story. Sometimes the vocabulary used was not what I would expect from people living in a Kingdom such as this one. I don't believe a date/year was given for the time this story takes place, but the odd-placed vocabulary (like "hillbilly") just felt a little strange. It also pulled me from the story. I continued to think, "What? That's weird. That doesn't sound like something someone would say while living in a far-off kingdom?" 

Other than those occasional issues, this story was so good!

--

Check out my blog for the release blitz!

[InkedBookDragon · Rating 5 out of 5]

https://inkedbookdragon.blogspot.com

Dawning Ascent was one of those books that I had trouble putting down. I love a good fantasy that transports me to another place. It started off strongly. The author set up the story so well that it flowed beautifully. It was well written and I was greatly impressed by the character development. This did not feel like a debut novel.

I find myself wanting to write a lot more but I would end up giving away important details and I hate spoilers. I have the story playing out in my head and I want to share everything. However, I won't but I will say that this book left me longing for more. I was drawn in deeply and cannot wait to see where the story will take us.

I am rating this book Five Stars because it was a phenomenal book. I am still in amazement that it was a debut novel. The only true downside that I found is that I was left with a cliffhanger and am a bit frustrated that I have to wait to see what happens. Highly recommend.


InkedBookDragon

[Seraphia Bunny · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dawning Ascent by Jen. L. Grey is book one in her Pearson Prophecy series. Dawning Ascent starts us off with a prophecy concerning a family and two daughters who will be born to that family. King Percy is determined to be the one who holds the power of the Pearsons but he also is determined to hold the power of the kingdoms and he will do what he must to achieve this. This desperation for power will divide a family but it will reach further with each passing day.
Ariah is the first born daughter of the Pearson's and for that fact alone she is cast aside in the eyes of all around her except for her brother who does his best to love and care for her. Ariah's younger sister, Emerson, is treated like a princess by the royals as it is believed that she is the Chosen One of the prophecy. Ariah is strong. She's stronger than they believe her to be but she must hide her powers to stay below the radar of the King. He's cruel and dangerous and has no qualms harming her or her brother. As their lives begin to change and shift Ariah and her brother must come to terms with the changes coming but must also brace themselves for something much much bigger.
This is the first book that I have read by Jen L. Grey and I have to say I really enjoyed it. I will admit that I struggled a bit trying to place it in a time era but I finally just quit and enjoyed the story. This book starts out a bit of a mix-up for me because there is the prologue and then it shifts gears into following Ariah and there are moments of where I'm working to understand but once I do this book really flows. I love the fact that we are given the prophecy right at the beginning. I had to go back and reread it once and once I did the story goes up a notch for me in excitement. You see the cruelty of the king right from the beginning. He's so focused on power that he resents needing anyone for any reason so his cruelty knows no bounds. There is a star-crossed romance in this story and it's sweet and heartbreaking at the same time. I love the small elements and pieces as they come together to make this story a truly engaging read.
I am rating this book 5 out of 5 stars. I cannot wait for the next book in this series. I'm excited to see what Ariah continues to develop into and what lies ahead for her. This is a definite must read and one that I will be recommending. Great job on this one!

[Lene Blackthorn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wielding that much magic might be dangerous. And when the control is crumbling...
Ariah´s life is nothing to envy. Her broken family is under close surveillance of the royal court, and partly of the whole kingdom, because her sister Emerson is believed to be the child of prophecy. Therefore, Emerson and their father were separated from Ariah, her brother Logan, and their mom, the "unwanted" part of the family. And Ariah is not outcast only due to her sister. Her whole appearance is different from any other girl or woman in the kingdom. Bullied by the king and his daughter Elizabeth, Ariah must find a way to control her magic before it´s too late. Her only solace is the close friendship to her brother, and even closer relationship to prince Nicholas. However, this could not work forever...
I absolutely LOVED this book. That was one exciting ride, emotional and action packed, very well balanced when it comes to basically everything. I loved the conversations, the story itself was brilliantly written, descriptions were vivid and well placed, not slowing the story down. The plot developed fast, and with many surprising twist, it raised my adrenaline together with my curiosity.
The concept of magic being held only by women, and the way the magic worked, that was absolutely lovely. Even the fact it reflected on the character´s appearance. And yet, magic wasn´t the condition for me to love a character.
Which leads me to them - the whole amazing set of characters here. Complex and very believable, the range covered from total antagonists to total protagonists, and still being very human, no one flawless. The tangled relationships created really messy situations, their development escalating the heat, and the decisions they were supposed to make were sometimes awfully hard.
I am absolutely impatient what happens next, for this is one of the best books I read lately.

[Aurora · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Dark will prevail, and distrust will run rampant. With the people unaware, an evil tyrant will arise. A corrupt kingdom will prevail until a second of Pearson ascends. Her unrivaled power will transcend after a bond is formed. Trials and tribulations will abound. Only then can she bring the light to the dark, with the power of three and a key.”
Ariah, having grown up feeling like an outcast along with her mother and brother, while her sister and father enjoy the spoils of the castle has learned to go about without notice. However, when her powers start to show stronger than that of her sister’s it attracts the attention of not only the boy she has liked for longer than she can remember, but that of the people who would rather hurt her to stop her from ruining their plans.
Unlikely allies are created and found, and those she believed to be her closest friends are put to the test. With the distrust growing stronger she fears more for not just her life, but those of the ones she cares about as well. This story is one of rapt twists and turns. Leaving you questioning who can she really trust, what will she do next, and will she be the one everyone is hoping for. Jen L. Grey has created a world that utilizes all the readers senses, and pulls on every single emotion. The characters are all strongly developed, and have key parts from the very beginning or even from later in the story when they arrive into her life.
If stories of magic, relationships, and life with a medieval era are things that you enjoy then this book is one for you. It will grab and hold your attention and never let it go even after it has reached the end. Making you unable to wait for the next one.

[Melissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Destiny seems to have made Ariah Pearson, the middle child and oldest daughter of the King’s advisor, the mere sister of the future Savior. But Ariah has strong elemental powers of her own that she must learn to control and love for a boy she knows she may never be with.

This was a very good debut novel by Jen L. Grey! The prologue starts off nicely by giving background on the Pearson Prophecy that so much affects the events of Dawning Ascent. Unlike the rest of the novel, you get viewpoints from a few players. The rest is told in first person from Ariah’s POV as she becomes accustomed to not only being the Savior’s sister, but also realizing her powers and feelings. More or less, it is a coming-of-age story set in a fantasy world where women are elemental magic wielders. It is also full of interesting side characters—my favorites being her say-it-like-it-is best friend, Claire, and the charming foreign prince, Sam. There also seems to be some underlying political intrigue/plots brewing that I look forward to seeing more of in Book 2.

I have to admit that I did, however, need to get used to reading first person POV in present tense. I am more used to first person still being in narrative past tense. But after awhile, I got used to it. There is also a love triangle, which can be overdone, and while the men involved can be a bit dramatic at times, I think Grey pulls it off well in a way that flows with the characters’ personalities.

I believe those who enjoyed Victoria Aveyard’s Red Queen series will especially like this novel. I can’t wait for book 2 to see what further adventures await Ariah!

[Terry · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dawning Ascent (The Pearson Prophecy Book 1) by Jen L. Grey is the author’s debut novel as well as book 1 in the Person Prophecy series. Ariah Pearson, is the middle child and oldest daughter of the King’s Advisor. That doesn’t mean she isn’t special in her own right. Ariah has powers of her own that she has to contend with. There’s also the fact that she is in love with aa man she may never be able to be with. All of these are things that Ariah needs to get accustomed to in her life.

The book starts off with a prophecy about Ariah, her sister and her family. The intrigue escalated from there. As Ariah grows up, she realizes that her elemental powers are strong. In fact she’s stronger than everyone realizes and yet, she had to keep it hidden from the world. What I liked about this novel was the fact that there were many different elements to the story. It wasn’t just a coming of age romance. There was underlying political intrigue and plots as well as the fact that the women had powers that the men of the community revered and looked up to. The story was well developed, the characters and world was well thought out and the side characters were interesting.

While I typically don’t read books that are written in first person present tense because I find them hard to get into, the author did a very good job with this one. It pulled me in right from the beginning.

[Jill-Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

I wasn't sure what to expect from the Pearson Prophecy but once I started I could not put it down! From the beginning I felt like the prophecy was misunderstood. The ending of the book has me almost convinced that I'm right but I now have to wait to find out. The character development of Ariah and her relationships have you wanting more with every turn of the page. Her bond with her brother Logan, her friendship with Claire and even her short interactions with her baby sister Emerson just make you root for her. Her heart is pure and she is just 18. She has been mistreated and underestimated. Her powers grow substantially throughout the book and she begins to trust her gut just a little more.
Her "death" at the end was surprising and unexpected. It makes you wonder what will happen next. What will the King do when he realizes his mistakes. And of course, will she end up with Sam?! I must know.
I also want to see if Gabe realizes he's being a complete toolshed and comes to see the error in his ways and goes back to his wife who still loves him and hopes everyday for his homecoming.
Bring on book 2 Jen!!! I can't wait to read more!

[Romaine Heart · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jen Grey sends us on a magical adventure back in time of kings, commoners, prophecies and magical powers that will captivate you.
Dawning Ascent:The Pearson Prophecies will touch your heart and soul as you are swept away with so many emotions.
An king who is so desperate to fulfill the prophecy at all costs and become the king who will reign over the country is leaving a path of destruction as he continues to manipulate and destroy everyone around him.
A beautiful cast of characters that keeps you intrigued. Each with a unique personality that will make you laugh and pull on your heart strings as you feel like part of the family.
A forbidden love that is tested and faces so many obstacles. A tight bond between a protective brother and kind hearted sister. An special friend. Learning to control element magical powers.
For this to be Jen Grey's debut novel, it was magnificent!! I can only imagine what Enlightened Ascent, Part 2 will bring.
She has spun an intricate web of lies, deceit, betrayal, jealousy, mystery, forbidden love, a broken family, friendship and romance that will keep you on the edge of your seat desperately craving for more. 5 stars +++

[Michelle Fritz PA · Rating 5 out of 5]

My New Favorite Book & Author ♡♡♡♡♡

Oh my heart!!! I loved this novel so hard! Ariah's story is utterly heartbreaking. As you read, you cannot help but want her to have her heart's desires and to finally be loved for who she is. She and Logan are such complex characters! I love the dynamics of their bond and relationship. I just know he's got some surprises for us to discover. This plot is pure genius! There's love, betrayal, hope, defeat, brutality and an ending that encompasses all of those elements. I could not read the pages quickly enough, it's that captivating! If you only read one more book this year, make it this one!!! Ms. Grey is a brand new author! With her having created such an amazingly creative world and characters that you crave to read more about there's a huge question to be answered! Where in the world has Ms. Grey been and why hasn't she always been writing!? I don't know how I'll be patient enough to stand the wait until book 2 is released! I'm so excited to recommend this series to everyone ♡♡♡♡

[The Endless Unread · Rating 5 out of 5]

Truly remarkable storytelling. As I finished the story I knew that my life will not be the same again. I have fallen for this author's writing and cannot wait to devour the next book. The characters were truly inspirational and the storyline was compelling.

It is amazingly intense and the author prepares you for the journey for you to take alongside the characters really well. The characters and story development were perfectly done. This book was extremely well written and has fast become one of my favourites of all time. This book was full of many twists and turns that will keep you guessing what is going to happen until the very end. I devoured it in one sitting. Incredible work!! I absolutely adored reading this book and will be one clicking the rest of this authors work.

The way the author makes you feel everything that the character is experiencing is unlike any other.

I will definitely be recommending this author to everyone I know. Definitely one awesome book to pick up and I can see this author going from strength to strength.

[Lisa Marie ~ Words We Love By · Rating 4 out of 5]

Set in a another world, Dawning Ascent is a fantasy magic story about Ariah, a young woman part of a family that is the central part of a powerful prophecy. As the first daughter, the second daughter being the prophesied "savior" Ariah has at best been ignored, at worst tormented by the Royal family. The exception to this is Prince Nicholas who has set his sights on Ariah. This tale goes onto weave a tale of magical powers, political machinations and the people who get caught up in the schemes.

This is the first book in the Pearson Prophesy series (I'm not sure how many there will be) and most of the book is the set up for readers giving the background of this world, introducing the players which include Ariah's siblings Logan and Emerson, the Prince's evil sister and father the cruel king, and Claire, Ariah's unexpected friend and ally. Ms. Grey also sets the scenery giving a great picture without overtly painting the picture. She leaves it to the reader to complete the tableau I their minds.

The story itself is engaging with palace intrigue, betrayals and alliances, and a young girl who is coming to her powers both as a magic wielder as well as woman.

[Stacy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dawning Ascent by Jen L. Grey was an exceptional book. I do not typically read YA but I thoroughly enjoyed this one. So much so that I am going to suggest that my son read it.

Ariah has two siblings named Emerson and Logan. Emerson is considered the “savior” whom will save the kingdom and is treated as royalty while Ariah and Logan are tossed aside and treated as if they are beneath Emerson and are garbage. King Percy thinks he has everything under control until one minor flaw….Prince Nicholas falls in love with Ariah. You add all of this and Prince Samuel arriving in the kingdom plus the evil and mean Princess Elizabeth. Did I mention that all the girls have special powers as well. This book had it all and I cannot wait until book 2. That ending almost gutted me.

My favorite quote from book,” How we handle controvery and heartbreak defines who we are. Remember, you are a strong woman and we can stand on our own.”

[Laura Henderson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a well written debut novel! I absolutely loved it! The characters were complex and the world building was fantastic. I really loved the plot to this and found it intriguing as it was so unique. Totally on Team Sam by the way...someone else has become Voldemort in my book and will forever be who shall not be mentioned...ever again..... (read the book to understand). I really did love the relationships in this book as it shows you what it's like to love, be loved, have strong family bonds, finding yourself, and what it means to have loyal friends. The story does end on a cliffhanger, so prepare yourself for more to come. I am looking forward to the next installments as this was a one click read for me. It really reads as a seasoned author wrote it and not someone who put out this book as their debut. Also totally love the cover design! 5 stars from me!

[Tonya (Rustic Book Reviews) · Rating 4 out of 5]

***I received this book for free by the author in exchange for an honest exchange***

I was really surprised about this book. I wanted to love it and I did. This cover was amazing to me and that is what drew me to this book.

Ariah's and Logan's journey is this story is compelling. There is a lot of love and betrayal in this book.

Ariah is an kingdom where she fights being an outcast but she and Jordan have been friends since youth and yet she feels like she knows nothing about him. But when things turn bad and she must fight the battle and her powers are unleashed. Secrets are reviled. She battles for her safety and her concerns are now, who can she trust?

How will this story end? Well, read it and find out!

[Lisa Eiff · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed reading this book. You get introduced to Ariah, as well as a full cast of characters that are well developed all have their parts to play along the way. Relationships reign in this book, both those that have been present from the time of characters' youth, those that are adopted between these individuals later in life, and finally those that are strictly being enforced by others.

Expect regular exposure to powerful magical elements, as the protagonist here is working to learn to control her powers from early on. If you are a fan of YA fantasy with a harsh medieval flair, you should definitely invest in this book. I am definitely looking forward to reading the second book in this series.

[Felicia Mathews · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a copy of this book in exchange for a review.

I adored this book! I fell in love with the characters from the very beginning and could not put my Kindle down at all. I had to know what happened next.

I loved how complex the characters are and how well they all work together. I really enjoyed that this story showcased strong and weak family dynamics and that they happened to be the same family that portrayed both types.

The very abrupt cliffhanger at the end literally had me screaming at my Kindle. I need to know what happens next right away!

Overall, I would highly recommend to anyone who enjoys fantasy stories with magic, romance, betrayal, strong and weak family dynamics, and a cast of characters who make you never want to put the book down. I can’t wait to read the sequel to find out what happens!

[Miranda Brock · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jen L. Grey has woven a tantalizing cacophony of magic and strife in her debut novel, Dawning Ascent. Ariah, the heroine of this tale, gets caught up in a tangled web of forbidden romance, social order, and jealousy. You can't help but get swept away in the rollercoaster of emotions as she struggles to not only overcome the King's hatred toward her and her family, but Ariah's journey to find herself, as well. With only a few close allies, including her devoted brother, Logan, Ariah must learn to control her magic and tap into her inner strength. The rise and fall of heartache and triumph will have you anxiously turning the pages for more. Dawning Ascent is a fabulous read. If you love magic, romance, and beautifully constructed characters, don't hesitate to snag this book!

[Debbie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I flew through this book and am anxiously awaiting the next book in the series! The story combines a unique fantastical world centered around a prophecy and a young heroine who is coming into her powers to control the elements. The king of her part of this world is so obsessed with the prophecy and with being the ruler of the entire world that he is cruel, egomaniacal and domineering. Ariah and her brother are just two of his victims, as he uses their family and members of his own family like pawns to get what he desires. Despite all that they go through, they remain gentle, considerate and caring. I loved both of them and the close relationship they share. There is definitely mystery to the prophecy as well – How will it come to pass? Is it being interpreted correctly? – which is a definite plus to any prophecy story. I have my own thoughts about it and can’t wait to find out what happens next!

[Amanda Lindsey Bursting Bookshelf Blog · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed reading and re-reading the updated version of this book. The world is built up of Kingdoms and you begin to get a feel for their world in this first book. You follow the main character, her kingdom, her relationships and family. You begin to get the general feel of the beginning of her story. You begin to fall in love with Ariah's character. She's definately stronger than she thinks. Definately a cliffhanger ends the book but book 2 is quick to pick back up. I adored the general story and connections between the characters. Definitely a great debut by the author. It's the beginning of The Pearson Prophecy!!!!

[Ainsley Jaymes · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a good book, it had a good storyline and compelling characters. It was a little rough for me in the beginning, as it took a little while for me to get invested, but let me tell you, by the end, I wasn’t putting it down. Ms. Grey has established a community that has you questioning the movements and motives of everyone around. There are so many questions that I need answers to, but that’s not a bad thing. It keeps me anxious for her next installment, because trust me, at the end of this book, you’ll want the next installment, like yesterday. (4.5)

[Tori Carlson · Rating 4 out of 5]

You know, when I first opened this book it took a few pages to finally get me engaged, but when it did....Oh did it. Ariahs story is sad, but engaging. You want her to succeed so badly getting drawn further and further into her story.

Jen sends you on a story that just makes you wish you could be there to help Ariah, when others have you seething in anger. My emotions were drawn into this story in a way that books haven't connected with me for a while. Normally I read and I just do it to escape. But this story has drawn me in and thrown me for a loop. I cannot wait to read the next one!

[Kelly Stepp · Rating 4 out of 5]

For a debut novel, this book and series shows a lot of potential. I loved the contrastingly brutal yet beautiful world the author created and could easily envision it while I read. The storyline was great but I felt the writing style was a bit underdeveloped and distracting at times. I was slow to connect with Ariah(the MC) but instantly fell in love with the other characters. The author gives them such depth and complexity, that you can't help getting emotionally attached. I loved all the action and twists towards the end and will definitely be reading the next one!

[Lauren Churchwell · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm out of words! This book was amazing! I loved it. I got so connected with the characters and I couldn't put it down. I even read it at work! This is a book full of emotional drama, a love story, a novel written to capture the hearts of all the readers! Nick isn't my favorite I'll tell you that much!! I fell for Prince Samuel! Sam is such a sweetheart and unlike nick he stood up for ariah. The ending was such a cliff hanger! I'm desperate for book 2 and I'm so excited to read the second book to this marvelous series

[H.L. Girton · Rating 5 out of 5]

A must read for Fantasy lovers! What a great first novel in this series. Grey did a fantastic job writing this. The words just flow off the page and I found myself turning the pages one after the other without being able to put it down. Grey is a new to me author and well, I love her ability to fluently write the words across the pages to keep the reader enthralled. The characters were simple divine and their development steadily progressed with the story line. Can't wait to see what she has to offer us next with this series. I'll be watching out for it. Great job!