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Ravenwood Coven #1
Dawn Unearthed
The moment Sage Reed makes her way to Ravenwood, she knows the small town lives up to its mystical lore—even if she doesn’t believe that she’s a witch. After losing her husband, she’s ready for change, and her aunt’s bookstore affords the perfect opportunity.
Rome Baker has secrets of his own—even some that he’s kept from the town he calls home. But when a striking and intriguing stranger saves his life the moment she steps into his path, his inner bear knows that she’s the one for him. However, with the town under fire, he worries he might run out of time before he can show her what they can have together.
A new enemy is on the horizon, one who hides in the shadows, whose history is steeped in lies. And if Sage and Rome aren’t careful, Sage’s new powers won’t be the only thing that spirals into flame.
Rome Baker has secrets of his own—even some that he’s kept from the town he calls home. But when a striking and intriguing stranger saves his life the moment she steps into his path, his inner bear knows that she’s the one for him. However, with the town under fire, he worries he might run out of time before he can show her what they can have together.
A new enemy is on the horizon, one who hides in the shadows, whose history is steeped in lies. And if Sage and Rome aren’t careful, Sage’s new powers won’t be the only thing that spirals into flame.
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First published August 17, 2021
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About the author
Carrie Ann Ryan
252 books6,226 followersCarrie Ann Ryan is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of contemporary, paranormal, and young adult romance. Her works include the Montgomery Ink, Talon Pack, Promise Me, and Elements of Five series, which have sold millions of books worldwide. She's the winner of a RT Book of the Year and a Prism Award in her genres. She started writing while in graduate school for her advanced degree in chemistry and hasn’t stopped since. Carrie Ann has written over seventy-five novels and novellas with more in the works. When she’s not losing herself in her emotional and action-packed worlds, she’s reading as much as she can while wrangling her clowder of cats who have more followers than she does.
The Montgomery Ink World contains the following series, though each series is a stand alone and can be read in any order. Feel free to hop around:
The Montgomery Ink Series
The Gallagher Brothers Series
The Montgomery Ink: Colorado Springs Series
The Whiskey and Lies Series
The Fractured Connections Series
The Montgomery Ink: Boulder Series
The Less Than Series
The Promise Me Series
Her Elements of Five Series is her Young Adult Romance series while her other series are all adult.
Her Talon Pack series is set in the same world as the Redwood Pack series, only 30 years later.
The Dante's Circle, Holiday, Montana, and Branded Packs series are all individual series as well.
The Montgomery Ink World contains the following series, though each series is a stand alone and can be read in any order. Feel free to hop around:
The Montgomery Ink Series
The Gallagher Brothers Series
The Montgomery Ink: Colorado Springs Series
The Whiskey and Lies Series
The Fractured Connections Series
The Montgomery Ink: Boulder Series
The Less Than Series
The Promise Me Series
Her Elements of Five Series is her Young Adult Romance series while her other series are all adult.
Her Talon Pack series is set in the same world as the Redwood Pack series, only 30 years later.
The Dante's Circle, Holiday, Montana, and Branded Packs series are all individual series as well.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 265 reviews
March 8, 2022
Dawn Unearthed is book one in a brand new series Ravenwood Coven by Carrie Ann Ryan.
Sage comes to Ravenwood, at the request of her aunt, and at the time she is morning the loss of her husband. She soon discovers that the town is not what it seems and is immersed in magic, shifters, witches, and fae. She doesn’t just fall into her magic, she has to discover it and work on it. The one thing that got on my nerves about Sage is her monologs. They become very repetitive.
The romance is fated mates, but what I like is that they don’t just fall into each other’s arms. It’s not set in stone if they will get together. It’s sweet and sexy. The novel also features a verity of interesting paranormal characters and secondary characters that captured and bewitched. We are also treated to an enchanting mythology aspect.
The thing that really didn’t work for me is the villain. It’s a bit cliché and the ending battle felt a bit too much.
All and all I enjoyed Dawn Unearthed and look forward to reading on in the Ravenwood Coven series.
Rated: 3 Stars
Sage comes to Ravenwood, at the request of her aunt, and at the time she is morning the loss of her husband. She soon discovers that the town is not what it seems and is immersed in magic, shifters, witches, and fae. She doesn’t just fall into her magic, she has to discover it and work on it. The one thing that got on my nerves about Sage is her monologs. They become very repetitive.
The romance is fated mates, but what I like is that they don’t just fall into each other’s arms. It’s not set in stone if they will get together. It’s sweet and sexy. The novel also features a verity of interesting paranormal characters and secondary characters that captured and bewitched. We are also treated to an enchanting mythology aspect.
The thing that really didn’t work for me is the villain. It’s a bit cliché and the ending battle felt a bit too much.
All and all I enjoyed Dawn Unearthed and look forward to reading on in the Ravenwood Coven series.
Rated: 3 Stars
August 17, 2021
Amazing start to the series!
DAWN UNEARTHED is the first book in the RAVENWOOD COVEN SERIES, in this book we meet Sage Reed who is moving to Ravenwood to start the next chapter in her life. Sage's Aunt Penelope convinces her to come to her quaint town to start over. Sage thought this would be the perfect opportunity to open a bakery and start fresh, what she didn't expect was to find out who she really was.
Rome Baker is a Bear Shifter and Alpha to his pack, he has been living in Ravenwood for a long time and has become good friends with all of the different paranormal entities that live there. The moment Rome meets Sage he knows there is something different about her and is instantly drawn to her. I absolutely loved the way Rome was with Sage, right from the start you could feel the connection they had.
This was an action packed, edge of your seat, must read Paranormal Romance. I stayed up well past my bedtime to finish this amazing read, my poor eyes were red and swollen the next morning and it wasn't only because of the lack of sleep. I cannot wait for Dusk Unveiled.
If you enjoy Paranormal Romances I highly recommend this series to you.
Happy Reading!!!
Find out more here: http://bit.ly/NBReviewDU1
**I have voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Readers Copy of this book for my Blog, Nadine's Obsessed with Books**
You can find me here: https://linktr.ee/NadineBookaholic
DAWN UNEARTHED is the first book in the RAVENWOOD COVEN SERIES, in this book we meet Sage Reed who is moving to Ravenwood to start the next chapter in her life. Sage's Aunt Penelope convinces her to come to her quaint town to start over. Sage thought this would be the perfect opportunity to open a bakery and start fresh, what she didn't expect was to find out who she really was.
Rome Baker is a Bear Shifter and Alpha to his pack, he has been living in Ravenwood for a long time and has become good friends with all of the different paranormal entities that live there. The moment Rome meets Sage he knows there is something different about her and is instantly drawn to her. I absolutely loved the way Rome was with Sage, right from the start you could feel the connection they had.
This was an action packed, edge of your seat, must read Paranormal Romance. I stayed up well past my bedtime to finish this amazing read, my poor eyes were red and swollen the next morning and it wasn't only because of the lack of sleep. I cannot wait for Dusk Unveiled.
If you enjoy Paranormal Romances I highly recommend this series to you.
Happy Reading!!!
Find out more here: http://bit.ly/NBReviewDU1
**I have voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Readers Copy of this book for my Blog, Nadine's Obsessed with Books**You can find me here: https://linktr.ee/NadineBookaholic
January 17, 2022
This was a fun read and I thought the world building was done pretty well, especially for a new series. Where it lost me was the characters though. It actually got a little annoying how slow Sage was to get with the program and after a while the constant scenes of someone having to explain Ravenwood became too much. It also made it hard not to get annoyed with the other characters that were still keeping things from her or not telling her everything at once. The explanations even got to the point that it felt like it was pushing the romance to the background and had the connection between Sage and Rome lacking the intensity I've come to love from this author.
Overall, I still enjoyed this book and I do think the series had a lot of potential so I can't wait to see where it will lead.
Overall, I still enjoyed this book and I do think the series had a lot of potential so I can't wait to see where it will lead.
August 21, 2021
DNF at 62%
So just go through my highlights and notes and you can see the problems with this book
The good:
Neat world (not original but has potential)
The bad: spoilers ahead
The heroine is an idiot. She just keeps saying “I don’t understand” and “I’m so confused” over and over and over. But she never asks a specific question. And people spoon feed her information, even repeating the same info multiple times, and she’s still like “I don’t get it” so I think she might be a moron.
What is the backstory? Why did her parents take her out of Ravenwood? Why is no one more freaked that there was a spell that kept her out? Where are her parents? Was she married at 18? What is up with her in-laws? She bounces back and forth between “they weren’t very nice” to “they failed to protect me”.
Insta love is usually okay with me. This though was just silly. The bad brother was dumb and cliched.
Finally the author’s style is just so underdeveloped. She gives tons of exposition and then repeats it until you want to throw the book physically away from you.
And the internal monologue of the dumb heroine is shit like “I am where I need to be now. I am not the same person I was” repeated a million times. She keeps saying “I just feel like I don’t know anything and I’m so behind” and everyone seems to secretly think she’s dumb but decided to be nice to her
So just go through my highlights and notes and you can see the problems with this book
The good:
Neat world (not original but has potential)
The bad: spoilers ahead
The heroine is an idiot. She just keeps saying “I don’t understand” and “I’m so confused” over and over and over. But she never asks a specific question. And people spoon feed her information, even repeating the same info multiple times, and she’s still like “I don’t get it” so I think she might be a moron.
What is the backstory? Why did her parents take her out of Ravenwood? Why is no one more freaked that there was a spell that kept her out? Where are her parents? Was she married at 18? What is up with her in-laws? She bounces back and forth between “they weren’t very nice” to “they failed to protect me”.
Insta love is usually okay with me. This though was just silly. The bad brother was dumb and cliched.
Finally the author’s style is just so underdeveloped. She gives tons of exposition and then repeats it until you want to throw the book physically away from you.
And the internal monologue of the dumb heroine is shit like “I am where I need to be now. I am not the same person I was” repeated a million times. She keeps saying “I just feel like I don’t know anything and I’m so behind” and everyone seems to secretly think she’s dumb but decided to be nice to her
August 21, 2021
Phenomenal start to series🤩
Oh my gosh, what an action-packed and suspenseful start to a wonderful series by Carrie Ann Ryan❣️I just knew after reading her Talon Pack series that I was going to LOVE this and I did😍
Sage moves to Ravenwood after tying up all loose ends from her “previous” life after her husband passes away suddenly, a few years earlier😢When she starts to get closer to Ravenwood a storm appears out of no where and disappears just as quickly😳 But more astonishing is the man under a tree who she feels compelled to help - Rome🥰
This story has me itching for more and I can’t wait to dig into the next one❤️
Oh my gosh, what an action-packed and suspenseful start to a wonderful series by Carrie Ann Ryan❣️I just knew after reading her Talon Pack series that I was going to LOVE this and I did😍
Sage moves to Ravenwood after tying up all loose ends from her “previous” life after her husband passes away suddenly, a few years earlier😢When she starts to get closer to Ravenwood a storm appears out of no where and disappears just as quickly😳 But more astonishing is the man under a tree who she feels compelled to help - Rome🥰
This story has me itching for more and I can’t wait to dig into the next one❤️
August 17, 2021
Rounding up to 4 Stars
Dawn Unearthed is my first paranormal romance from author Carrie Ann Ryan and is the first book in the Ravenwood Coven Series.
Ravenwood is a town filled with magic, mystery, and secrets. Sage thinks she’s going to Ravenwood for a fresh start and to move on from the loss of her husband. But, fate has other plans for Sage. An unexpected meeting with Rome will turn her life upside down and lead her down the most unexpected path. Suddenly everything she thinks she knows is being thrown out of the window. As secrets are revealed, a new threat is on the horizon that threatens to destroy everything…..
Dawn Unearthed kicks off the Ravenwood Coven Series and hits the ground running. I was hooked instantly and could not wait to see what this story had in store for me. One of the things I really enjoyed was how unique this story was I mean it has different kinds of shifters, witches, fae, and other paranormal entities. I loved how all of the paranormal elements came together and just how intertwined they were.
Rome and Sage had amazing chemistry right off the bat. I loved how patient and understanding Rome was. He knew that Sage was his destiny, but didn’t want to burden her or force her into anything. And Sage, well, here world was turned upside down and she just kind of went with the flow. She was so open to this world that she never knew existed and wasn’t afraid of who Rome was or what he was destined to be with her. Together, these two are an undeniable force. They left me on the edge of my seat and I couldn’t wait to see how their story was going to play out.
Dawn Unearthed was an intriguing read from beginning to end. I loved the magic. I loved the paranormal creatures. I loved the romance and the moments that left me breathless. This book had its fair share of twists and turns and surprising moments, and I enjoyed every second of it. And while this story may wrap up Sage and Rome’s story for now, I’m looking forward to seeing what lies ahead for us readers in the next book…
*I was provided an ARC copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review*
Dawn Unearthed is my first paranormal romance from author Carrie Ann Ryan and is the first book in the Ravenwood Coven Series.
Ravenwood is a town filled with magic, mystery, and secrets. Sage thinks she’s going to Ravenwood for a fresh start and to move on from the loss of her husband. But, fate has other plans for Sage. An unexpected meeting with Rome will turn her life upside down and lead her down the most unexpected path. Suddenly everything she thinks she knows is being thrown out of the window. As secrets are revealed, a new threat is on the horizon that threatens to destroy everything…..
Dawn Unearthed kicks off the Ravenwood Coven Series and hits the ground running. I was hooked instantly and could not wait to see what this story had in store for me. One of the things I really enjoyed was how unique this story was I mean it has different kinds of shifters, witches, fae, and other paranormal entities. I loved how all of the paranormal elements came together and just how intertwined they were.
Rome and Sage had amazing chemistry right off the bat. I loved how patient and understanding Rome was. He knew that Sage was his destiny, but didn’t want to burden her or force her into anything. And Sage, well, here world was turned upside down and she just kind of went with the flow. She was so open to this world that she never knew existed and wasn’t afraid of who Rome was or what he was destined to be with her. Together, these two are an undeniable force. They left me on the edge of my seat and I couldn’t wait to see how their story was going to play out.
Dawn Unearthed was an intriguing read from beginning to end. I loved the magic. I loved the paranormal creatures. I loved the romance and the moments that left me breathless. This book had its fair share of twists and turns and surprising moments, and I enjoyed every second of it. And while this story may wrap up Sage and Rome’s story for now, I’m looking forward to seeing what lies ahead for us readers in the next book…
*I was provided an ARC copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review*
August 19, 2021
Yes yes yes!! I’m so excited that Carrie Ann Ryan has written a paranormal romance again! Finally!😊 Dawn Unearthed is an amazing start to a new series. I love the worldbuilding and the mystery, the thrilling mix of danger and romance. There are a lot of fascinating secondary characters walking around in Ravenwood, and I’ve already grown fond of several, apart from our lovable main characters, Sage and Rome.
Sage and Rome are fated mates, of course, but Sage is completely new to the magical world of shifters and witches, and I really loved how understanding and patient Rome is with her. He doesn’t push and keeps a tight lid on his emotions so she doesn’t feel forced into anything. I also loved how the notion of consent was woven in.
I like that there is a common story arc that will develop across multiple romances, and the next couple in the series was set up subtly. I had hoped for a redemption arc for one of the villains as that is one of my favorite tropes, but sadly it wasn’t to be. I will also say that I was gutted by some of the things that happened, as in utterly shocked and heartbroken. So as for surprising plot twists … check!
Can’t wait to see what will happen next!
Sage and Rome are fated mates, of course, but Sage is completely new to the magical world of shifters and witches, and I really loved how understanding and patient Rome is with her. He doesn’t push and keeps a tight lid on his emotions so she doesn’t feel forced into anything. I also loved how the notion of consent was woven in.
I like that there is a common story arc that will develop across multiple romances, and the next couple in the series was set up subtly. I had hoped for a redemption arc for one of the villains as that is one of my favorite tropes, but sadly it wasn’t to be. I will also say that I was gutted by some of the things that happened, as in utterly shocked and heartbroken. So as for surprising plot twists … check!
Can’t wait to see what will happen next!
August 20, 2021
I really like this author's contemporary romance books, so I was excited to try her PNR books, witches, shifters, it's all right in my sweet spot. Sadly this one didn't work out for me. I made it 30% in before giving it up. Sage bothered me, she was so clueless (by design) surrounded by everyone who knew what was going on. They way that they all tried to inform/teach/clue in Sage was horrible. Each one kept stumbling over the other, not wanting to say too much, that they should have been in a certain location for it to go better. Give me a break! Sage was purposely kept away from her heritage, some thing is happening to the town, rip that bandage off, give her the info she needs so that she can really help you, not be bumbling around. Then there is the issues with the bears with the one triplet that seems to be undermining the triplet that is the Alpha, that can't go well. All in all, this one was too much of a mess for me to keep reading.
September 10, 2021
Dawn Unearthed is the first title in the new Ravenwood Coven paranormal romance series. The story focuses on Sage who, at the request of her aunt, is moving to Ravenwood to start anew after mourning the loss of her husband. As soon as Sage enters the town, she realizes things are not “normal.” She finds herself immersed in a world of magic, shifters, witches, and fae. One thing I really liked is that Sage does’t magically come into her powers, rather she’s got to practice and do the time in order to gain power.
Dawn Unearthed is a good PNR. It’s got all the best of the PNR world, including a sizzling fated pairing and lots of interesting paranormal characters. I appreciate that the author creates a fascinating mythology for her series. I also like that the fated mates isn’t quite set in stone, nor does it cause a lot of drama. Sage and bear shifter Rome have a connection that may seem sudden, but it fills a void neither realized was present. Their mating is sexy and sweet. I enjoyed the romance aspect of the story.
What didn’t work well for me were the villains of the tale. Faith, a necromancer witch, felt over-the-top and a bit cliche. She even performs a supervillain monologue outlining her evil plot. I also didn’t like how “things go down” (being vague to prevent spoilers). The final battle of the book was “too much” for my liking.
Narration: I enjoyed the performances of Victoria Mei and Aiden Snow. The story is primarily shared in the alternating, first person POVs of Sage and Rome, and both narrators are equally suited to their roles. Mr. Snow has a gravely, deep voice, giving gravitas and a very sexy vibe to the bear shifter. His female voices are softer and distinguishable, and while not overly feminine, they are unique and identifiable. Ms. Mei uses a soft and gentle voice for the curious Sage, softening the tone when Sage expresses sorrow, but hardening it during high-intensity moments. Her males are deeper than the females and fitting for the story. She provides unique voices to each of the primary characters. My biggest issue with the narration is due to the writing - there is a character named Rowen, which sounds a lot like Rome and caused confusion at times.
While Dawn Unearthed is a satisfying PNR, I’m finding that unfortunately, I just don’t love this genre like I once did. With that said, I will probably pick up the second book to see which direction the author takes the cast of characters.
My ratings:
Story: C+
Narration: B
Dawn Unearthed is a good PNR. It’s got all the best of the PNR world, including a sizzling fated pairing and lots of interesting paranormal characters. I appreciate that the author creates a fascinating mythology for her series. I also like that the fated mates isn’t quite set in stone, nor does it cause a lot of drama. Sage and bear shifter Rome have a connection that may seem sudden, but it fills a void neither realized was present. Their mating is sexy and sweet. I enjoyed the romance aspect of the story.
What didn’t work well for me were the villains of the tale. Faith, a necromancer witch, felt over-the-top and a bit cliche. She even performs a supervillain monologue outlining her evil plot. I also didn’t like how “things go down” (being vague to prevent spoilers). The final battle of the book was “too much” for my liking.
Narration: I enjoyed the performances of Victoria Mei and Aiden Snow. The story is primarily shared in the alternating, first person POVs of Sage and Rome, and both narrators are equally suited to their roles. Mr. Snow has a gravely, deep voice, giving gravitas and a very sexy vibe to the bear shifter. His female voices are softer and distinguishable, and while not overly feminine, they are unique and identifiable. Ms. Mei uses a soft and gentle voice for the curious Sage, softening the tone when Sage expresses sorrow, but hardening it during high-intensity moments. Her males are deeper than the females and fitting for the story. She provides unique voices to each of the primary characters. My biggest issue with the narration is due to the writing - there is a character named Rowen, which sounds a lot like Rome and caused confusion at times.
While Dawn Unearthed is a satisfying PNR, I’m finding that unfortunately, I just don’t love this genre like I once did. With that said, I will probably pick up the second book to see which direction the author takes the cast of characters.
My ratings:
Story: C+
Narration: B
August 18, 2021
After her husband passed away Sage needed a new beginning and where better than the legendary town of Ravenwood as her aunt lives there as well. Once there she meets Rome and starts a journey of self-discovery not only when it comes to her but to everyone else in town as well.
From the moment that Rome met Sage the bear in him knew that she was his mate, but he also knew he needed to be cautious. She had so much to discover about the unknow abilities she holds, who he really is and the people that are determined to work against them and one false move could send her careening out of town and his life.
Sage and Rome take us on adventure filled with unexpected surprises, intrigue and a captivating storyline that leaves you wanting more of this town and the great characters who reside there.
From the moment that Rome met Sage the bear in him knew that she was his mate, but he also knew he needed to be cautious. She had so much to discover about the unknow abilities she holds, who he really is and the people that are determined to work against them and one false move could send her careening out of town and his life.
Sage and Rome take us on adventure filled with unexpected surprises, intrigue and a captivating storyline that leaves you wanting more of this town and the great characters who reside there.
August 17, 2021
So happy to see Carrie Ann Ryan jumping back into the paranormal world- since I fell in love with her writing first from a paranormal series. And, I was particularly curious about this one given this witchy element. But, we got lots of paranormal flair- shiters, fae, witches, OH MY!
And, this is a great start to the series. Like with so many initial series started for paranormal or fantasy series, we have a lot of world building and information to work through. And, our poor heroine Sage starts out like us- very much not in the “know.” She was hard for me to connect with at first, but in part that is because we’ve got a bigger infrastructure to build around her. But, as we learn more about her and how much she’s endured, I liked her more. And Rome is just yummy- alpha shifter energy for days. We also have some great intriguing side characters that have me curious about more to come.
3.5 stars
And, this is a great start to the series. Like with so many initial series started for paranormal or fantasy series, we have a lot of world building and information to work through. And, our poor heroine Sage starts out like us- very much not in the “know.” She was hard for me to connect with at first, but in part that is because we’ve got a bigger infrastructure to build around her. But, as we learn more about her and how much she’s endured, I liked her more. And Rome is just yummy- alpha shifter energy for days. We also have some great intriguing side characters that have me curious about more to come.
3.5 stars
August 17, 2021
Oh my gosh! This book was so good! It is the first in a brand new paranormal romance series from Carrie Ann Ryan but it does happen in her previously established paranormal world. So references to other towns with shifters and witches were fun little Easter eggs. The two main characters were fabulous though Rome could have acted a bit more like the alpha he was. I liked how the first book dealt with a heroine who was new to the whole supernatural world so that readers got the background they needed but it was done in a way that wasn't just for the readers but rather for the heroine. I will warn readers that I definitely had all the tears in this book. It got intense fast and the author did not shy away from killing some characters off. I cannot wait for the next book in the series. This one is a definite must-read.
*I received an ARC for an honest review*
*I received an ARC for an honest review*
March 21, 2022
Well… it was a good story and kept my attention (and me from my sleep tonight!) but there was way too much repetition in this book. After the first couple of time of Sage describing how she didn’t understand and others not actually giving her information I was just so frustrated. Maybe that was the author’s intention, to let the readers feel Sage’s frustration, but I didn’t enjoy it at all.
The last third of the book the action and the romance picked up. Though not actually a cliff hanger ending, the story is not yet finished however, so now we must read the next in the series to find out if they manage to get rid of the evil perpetrator. And yes I have already downloaded it in KIndle Unlimited so the story was engaging enough for me to want to know more - please!
The last third of the book the action and the romance picked up. Though not actually a cliff hanger ending, the story is not yet finished however, so now we must read the next in the series to find out if they manage to get rid of the evil perpetrator. And yes I have already downloaded it in KIndle Unlimited so the story was engaging enough for me to want to know more - please!
December 6, 2021
I'm sorry, but this book just wasn't good! I tried to give it the benefit of the doubt, thinking that the fact that I'm not usually a Paranormal Romance fan ruined it, or the fact that I'm currently clinically depressed made me hate it more than I should, but that's not the fact!
The fact is that, while these things may have made me a little harder to impress, this book has so many issues, I don't even know how to speak about it!
The short version is; This book is a YA Paranormal ROmance, but with an adult cast. It has every trope you can imagine from both genres, leading to unnecessary drama and miscommunication, jealousy, and everything petty you can imagine.
The writing and thought process of both MCs is repetitiv, saying the same thing over and over, and the writing in general was... maybe not bad on a technical level, but some of the descriptions just... *gag*
Two notes I made along the way:
"My ovaries nearly exploded at the mention of him."
What the fuck? I've had the hots for both women and men before, and my ovaries never reacted. Maybe I'm just the weird one?
"Throw her over my shoulder like some kind of viking."
I'm guessing this is an attempt at descalating a character from "barbarian/savage" to something that's considered hot by mainstream media, but come on! It's just... It's... I don't even have words. It's just so stupid!
Oh, and then there was the whole thing with Faith actually looking Sage up to threaten her, which is such a cheap move trick that is't almost hilarious, if it wasn't so sad. And I don't even want to go into the whole ''keeping Safe in the dark'' or ''botching explanations'' thing that was going through this whole book, in every conversation! It's just... not good.
So, yeah, I was not impressed, to say the least, and I will def not be continuing on with this series. The only reason I survived listening to this entire book, was because I didn't have anything else in my library I wanted to listen to, and kept hoping the Audible Daily Deal would throw me a rope.
The fact is that, while these things may have made me a little harder to impress, this book has so many issues, I don't even know how to speak about it!
The short version is; This book is a YA Paranormal ROmance, but with an adult cast. It has every trope you can imagine from both genres, leading to unnecessary drama and miscommunication, jealousy, and everything petty you can imagine.
The writing and thought process of both MCs is repetitiv, saying the same thing over and over, and the writing in general was... maybe not bad on a technical level, but some of the descriptions just... *gag*
Two notes I made along the way:
"My ovaries nearly exploded at the mention of him."
What the fuck? I've had the hots for both women and men before, and my ovaries never reacted. Maybe I'm just the weird one?
"Throw her over my shoulder like some kind of viking."
I'm guessing this is an attempt at descalating a character from "barbarian/savage" to something that's considered hot by mainstream media, but come on! It's just... It's... I don't even have words. It's just so stupid!
Oh, and then there was the whole thing with Faith actually looking Sage up to threaten her, which is such a cheap move trick that is't almost hilarious, if it wasn't so sad. And I don't even want to go into the whole ''keeping Safe in the dark'' or ''botching explanations'' thing that was going through this whole book, in every conversation! It's just... not good.
So, yeah, I was not impressed, to say the least, and I will def not be continuing on with this series. The only reason I survived listening to this entire book, was because I didn't have anything else in my library I wanted to listen to, and kept hoping the Audible Daily Deal would throw me a rope.
August 2, 2021
Well once I realised that Carrie was writing a new paranormal series I was definitely happy to jump on board. This time it's more a story about Witches but fear not we get Shifters and Fae too in the secretive town of Ravenwood.
This book begins with Sage determined to make a new life for herself in the town where her Aunt lives. Sage has experienced awful tragedy and loss but has no idea that her life is about to change in dramatic ways. She arrives as a freak storm descends and helps a man cut down by the storm but Rome is no ordinary man because Rome shifts into an alpha Bear and that is not the only shock in store for Sage.
As usual this author writes characters that are vivid and honestly I just wanted to give Sage a hug . This book is a romance and honestly Rome makes a delicious leading man but I think I found the supporting characters so intriguing that I am already clamouring for the next book. This is going to be a series that I feel should be read in order and I very much look forward to learning more about these fascinating characters and the strange goings on in their town.
This voluntary take is of a copy I requested from Netgalley and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair
This book begins with Sage determined to make a new life for herself in the town where her Aunt lives. Sage has experienced awful tragedy and loss but has no idea that her life is about to change in dramatic ways. She arrives as a freak storm descends and helps a man cut down by the storm but Rome is no ordinary man because Rome shifts into an alpha Bear and that is not the only shock in store for Sage.
As usual this author writes characters that are vivid and honestly I just wanted to give Sage a hug . This book is a romance and honestly Rome makes a delicious leading man but I think I found the supporting characters so intriguing that I am already clamouring for the next book. This is going to be a series that I feel should be read in order and I very much look forward to learning more about these fascinating characters and the strange goings on in their town.
This voluntary take is of a copy I requested from Netgalley and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair
November 10, 2021
what started out lovely quickly took a nosedive
I’m fairly new to the works of Ms. Ryan and I enjoyed the previous books I’ve read of hers. As this was the start of a new series, I had really high hopes.
This had such a sweet beginning, that I honestly thought the story would be about Sage learning magic existed while struggling to accept she had a mate. Then all this other stuff happened, then more stuff happened and the story was just too much.
I get we’re world building and we’re setting up for a series about all 3 (possibly 4) coven members but why throw in all this stuff about curses without anyone trying to say oh the curse is responsible for this or we believe the curse originated when old great-great grandpappy decided to sacrifice a shifter instead of the bear that stole a tomato or something equally “grave.”
Rome had such a big internal struggle with the mate bond and yet when he was forced to fight his alpha challenge they didn’t bring it up as another blow to his pride?
There was too much unevenness and I really thought Trace was going to be part of a triad with Rowen and Ash. Now there goes that idea!
I’m fairly new to the works of Ms. Ryan and I enjoyed the previous books I’ve read of hers. As this was the start of a new series, I had really high hopes.
This had such a sweet beginning, that I honestly thought the story would be about Sage learning magic existed while struggling to accept she had a mate. Then all this other stuff happened, then more stuff happened and the story was just too much.
I get we’re world building and we’re setting up for a series about all 3 (possibly 4) coven members but why throw in all this stuff about curses without anyone trying to say oh the curse is responsible for this or we believe the curse originated when old great-great grandpappy decided to sacrifice a shifter instead of the bear that stole a tomato or something equally “grave.”
Rome had such a big internal struggle with the mate bond and yet when he was forced to fight his alpha challenge they didn’t bring it up as another blow to his pride?
There was too much unevenness and I really thought Trace was going to be part of a triad with Rowen and Ash. Now there goes that idea!
August 22, 2021
Carrie Ann Ryan is back to paranormals with her latest series Ravenwood Coven and Dawn Unearthed starts it off with a bang. The chemistry between Rome and Sage was off the chart and toss in some small-town paranormal suspense and you have the perfect recipe for an amazing new series. Ms. Ryan takes us through some unexpected twists and turns. I am looking forward to Book 2.
September 4, 2021
"Believe in your heart that you're meant to live a life full of passion, purpose, magic and miracles". ~Roy T. Bennett~♡
I really enjoyed this book. I wouldn't say it was angsty, more like lots of suspense with twists and turns that keep your attention and interest throughout the story.
The narration was phenomenal! I absolutely love Aiden Snow, his voice is pure chocolate! Just smooth and delicious♡. He could read anything and make it sound magical!! I also very much loved Victoria Mei, her voice for Sage was beautiful and fit her well. She also did a fantastic job by switching between characters. Between the two narrators I was never pulled from the story or felt like it was two different people talking. I was invested the whole time and it really flowed.
There were a couple of things that threw me off and why I only gave it 4 stars instead of 5. The first issue was with Sage and the fact that it was such a repetitive storyline for the first few chapters. An example would be people keeping things from her and then that would repeat constantly. It just felt frustrating after a while. The next was the names used; Rome was the main male bear shifter MC and then there was Rowan who was a side character but almost felt like a main character because of how huge her role was in the story. However, when the two characters were together in a situation it was really hard to tell them apart because their names sound so familiar. I felt like the narrators tried really hard to make sure to differentiate the names but it was still confusing at times.
Other then those minor peeves the overall story was really good. I was pretty sad by the end of the audio though. There was a lot going on and some of the confrontations were heartbreaking. I needed a fluffy story after this. Not because there were any real triggers but just because I was sad for some of the characters.
I really enjoyed this book. I wouldn't say it was angsty, more like lots of suspense with twists and turns that keep your attention and interest throughout the story.
The narration was phenomenal! I absolutely love Aiden Snow, his voice is pure chocolate! Just smooth and delicious♡. He could read anything and make it sound magical!! I also very much loved Victoria Mei, her voice for Sage was beautiful and fit her well. She also did a fantastic job by switching between characters. Between the two narrators I was never pulled from the story or felt like it was two different people talking. I was invested the whole time and it really flowed.
There were a couple of things that threw me off and why I only gave it 4 stars instead of 5. The first issue was with Sage and the fact that it was such a repetitive storyline for the first few chapters. An example would be people keeping things from her and then that would repeat constantly. It just felt frustrating after a while. The next was the names used; Rome was the main male bear shifter MC and then there was Rowan who was a side character but almost felt like a main character because of how huge her role was in the story. However, when the two characters were together in a situation it was really hard to tell them apart because their names sound so familiar. I felt like the narrators tried really hard to make sure to differentiate the names but it was still confusing at times.
Other then those minor peeves the overall story was really good. I was pretty sad by the end of the audio though. There was a lot going on and some of the confrontations were heartbreaking. I needed a fluffy story after this. Not because there were any real triggers but just because I was sad for some of the characters.
August 24, 2021
*Updated... Added Audio Review*
"The magic within me? It's like I'm so full of power, too full of everything. I need to release it. And I need you, Rome. Since the first moment I saw you, I've needed you."
Dawn Unearthed is a paranormal, fated mates romance which is the beginning of the Ravenwood Coven series and told from the first-person point of view of multiple characters but mainly Rome and Sage.
Rome, the grizzly bear alpha of Ravenwood, is out making sure everything is safe during a storm when a tree falls on him. When he is shocked awake, he comes face to face with Sage, his fated mate. Upon this realization, Rome is now determined to keep her safe, no matter what comes at them.
Sage has just moved to Ravenwood to start her life over. When she arrives in Ravenwood things are a lot different than she expected. Finding out magic is real, she is a witch, and needs to help save the town, Sage does not believe everything at first until she has no choice but to believe and fight for her new home and family.
My Thoughts...
A great beginning to a new series that was so much more than I expected. Rome and Sage are great together and make a cute couple. I loved a lot of the side characters and can not wait to see what is in store for them. There are some extremely interesting twists in the story, even some that made me really sad. It has renewed my love of paranormal romances, I am already addicted to it, and can not wait for more as there are some questions still waiting to be answered.
Audio... Aiden Snow and Victoria Mei made this book so much more. They did a perfect job of bringing the character and the story to life, giving it so much emotion.
*advanced copy requested and honestly reviewed on behalf of Canadian Girl Book Blog*
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"The magic within me? It's like I'm so full of power, too full of everything. I need to release it. And I need you, Rome. Since the first moment I saw you, I've needed you."
Dawn Unearthed is a paranormal, fated mates romance which is the beginning of the Ravenwood Coven series and told from the first-person point of view of multiple characters but mainly Rome and Sage.
Rome, the grizzly bear alpha of Ravenwood, is out making sure everything is safe during a storm when a tree falls on him. When he is shocked awake, he comes face to face with Sage, his fated mate. Upon this realization, Rome is now determined to keep her safe, no matter what comes at them.
Sage has just moved to Ravenwood to start her life over. When she arrives in Ravenwood things are a lot different than she expected. Finding out magic is real, she is a witch, and needs to help save the town, Sage does not believe everything at first until she has no choice but to believe and fight for her new home and family.
My Thoughts...
A great beginning to a new series that was so much more than I expected. Rome and Sage are great together and make a cute couple. I loved a lot of the side characters and can not wait to see what is in store for them. There are some extremely interesting twists in the story, even some that made me really sad. It has renewed my love of paranormal romances, I am already addicted to it, and can not wait for more as there are some questions still waiting to be answered.
Audio... Aiden Snow and Victoria Mei made this book so much more. They did a perfect job of bringing the character and the story to life, giving it so much emotion.
*advanced copy requested and honestly reviewed on behalf of Canadian Girl Book Blog*
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August 21, 2021
Sage is ready for a change in her life and decides opening a bakery in Ravenwood near her aunt's bookstore is the change she needs. Rome Baker is a bear shifter who alpha of the bear shifters who call Ravenwood their home. Rome and Sage meet when Sage saves Rome's life after a tree falls on him during an unnatural storm that hits Ravenwood the same time as Sage's arrival. Sage is for a big surprise when she learns she is a witch who has extremely powerful magic. Can Sage use her power to help save Ravenwood and its occupants? How will Sage react when she learns her life with her husband and his death were orchestrated by something evil? How will Sage react when she learns that Rome is her mate? Can Rome protect Sage from the evil that is coming for her and Ravenwood? I absolutely loved Dawn Unearthed by Carrie Ann Ryan! Dawn Unearthed is a great book that will keep the reader on the edge of their seats from beginning to end. Dawn Unearthed has great characters, secrets, magic, and evil. Dawn Unearthed is full of twists and turns that will keep the reader in suspense. A shocking twist at the end had this reader in tears. I love Carrie Ann Ryan! I would highly recommend getting Dawn Unearthed by Carrie Ann Ryan. I received an ARC copy of this book, and I am leaving my honest review.
August 24, 2021
First I want to thank Author Collective 20 for approving me for an ARC via NetGalley!
Dawn Unearthed was my first Carrie Ann Ryan book and I really like it, and can't wait to read more of her books.
In this book, we follow Sage who after losing her husband, decides to take back her life in hand and following an invitation from her aunt, decides to move to Ravenwood, to open a bakery. But this city is very different from what Sage thinks and it will discover many secrets about the world and her family. She will also meet a man, Rome, who will help her to advance in this new life.
This is a paranormal romance and I really appreciated the fact that she is not aware of the supernatural world but especially that she learns that she is part of it and that her reaction is authentic. We do not have a discovery that lasts two pages and then after all seems normal. No, here we have a real development in her reaction to this announcement. I also very much liked the couple of Sage and Rome, the evolution of their relations is not forced
The only thing that bothers me is that the sequel will no longer be focused on Sage and Rome, We are going to have a change of couple and I remain on my end because there were for me still many things to see for their history and I became attached to them and I would have preferred not to have a change.
But otherwise it was a very good book with many twists and action, so I recommend it!
Dawn Unearthed was my first Carrie Ann Ryan book and I really like it, and can't wait to read more of her books.
In this book, we follow Sage who after losing her husband, decides to take back her life in hand and following an invitation from her aunt, decides to move to Ravenwood, to open a bakery. But this city is very different from what Sage thinks and it will discover many secrets about the world and her family. She will also meet a man, Rome, who will help her to advance in this new life.
This is a paranormal romance and I really appreciated the fact that she is not aware of the supernatural world but especially that she learns that she is part of it and that her reaction is authentic. We do not have a discovery that lasts two pages and then after all seems normal. No, here we have a real development in her reaction to this announcement. I also very much liked the couple of Sage and Rome, the evolution of their relations is not forced
The only thing that bothers me is that the sequel will no longer be focused on Sage and Rome, We are going to have a change of couple and I remain on my end because there were for me still many things to see for their history and I became attached to them and I would have preferred not to have a change.
But otherwise it was a very good book with many twists and action, so I recommend it!
August 20, 2021
This is my first Paranormal from Carrie Ann Ryan, Let me tell you I have been missing out. I usually don't read paranormal, I like the Inked series and the Fort Collins series, I just never could get into shifters and all that but this is action packed, and a story line that keeps you reading and wanting more. The story begins with Sage, she has faced the loss of her husband and has decided to make a new life for herself. She decides to open her own bakery in the town of Ravenwood, where her aunt lives here and she thinks it will be a good change for her to find herself again. Little does she know things are about to change in ways she can't imagine. She finally leaves for Ravenwood and just crosses into town and strange things begin to happen, things she can't explain, things she isn't sure she is seeing. Through a few twists and turns, and love and heartbreak, your emotions will be all over the place you will feel like you are right there in the middle of town seeing it happen. You will feel everything. Totally worth the read!! Wish I just given Carrie Ann's paranormal series a shot sooner. Deff hooked now!!! Go and get it you won't be disappointed!!!!
August 22, 2021
“It starts with a pull, a connection, a literal Thread between two people-at least in this case-that will forever tie you together. Unless you choose to walk away.”
Sage’s life has been hidden of who she truly is, but a viel will soon be lifted and everything will soon be revealed. Will Sage be ready to truly accept her fate and fight the darkness?
Rome is the fixer, the alpha and one of the many protectors of the town of Ravenwood and all who reside there. But soon Rome will Feel the Pull of Something he has been missing while fighting the darkness that is threatening everything and everyone.
I have read several books by Carrie Ann Ryan, this is a first for me on her Paranormal books. Dawn unearthed will grip you from the start. It does have its moments of being slow with apropos of Fierce action and a twist of mystery. Can't wait for the next book.
Sage’s life has been hidden of who she truly is, but a viel will soon be lifted and everything will soon be revealed. Will Sage be ready to truly accept her fate and fight the darkness?
Rome is the fixer, the alpha and one of the many protectors of the town of Ravenwood and all who reside there. But soon Rome will Feel the Pull of Something he has been missing while fighting the darkness that is threatening everything and everyone.
I have read several books by Carrie Ann Ryan, this is a first for me on her Paranormal books. Dawn unearthed will grip you from the start. It does have its moments of being slow with apropos of Fierce action and a twist of mystery. Can't wait for the next book.
August 19, 2021
Witches, shape shifters. dark magic, fae, mating bonds and much more in this first book of this new series making me say oh my!
In what starts as a mystery type feel, secrets are revealed for Sage who discovers that she is a witch when she moves to a new town to restart her life after loosing her husband. She finds a mate upon arrival in Rome when she meets him and she wasn't even looking for such a bond. Together with others in the coven, they fight against the dark magic that is threatening the town of Ravenwood.
Where I am generally not a paranormal reader, this was a good read. It was well written and captivating, keeping my attention throughout this story and hooking me to the events that took place. The characters were well written and make for an incredible couple.
Overall, this was a good read that I would recommend to others that are interested in this tpe of read.
In what starts as a mystery type feel, secrets are revealed for Sage who discovers that she is a witch when she moves to a new town to restart her life after loosing her husband. She finds a mate upon arrival in Rome when she meets him and she wasn't even looking for such a bond. Together with others in the coven, they fight against the dark magic that is threatening the town of Ravenwood.
Where I am generally not a paranormal reader, this was a good read. It was well written and captivating, keeping my attention throughout this story and hooking me to the events that took place. The characters were well written and make for an incredible couple.
Overall, this was a good read that I would recommend to others that are interested in this tpe of read.
August 28, 2021
4.5-stars!
Narrated by Aiden Snow and Victoria Mei, they brought to life Sage and Rome’s story in Dawn Unearthed by Carrie Ann Ryan. This is the first book in her new paranormal series, Ravenwood Coven, and I loved it! We are introduced to a new town, Ravenwood, and its residents where not everything is as it seems. Sage needs a fresh starts and that is how she finds herself in Ravenwood. When she meets Rome, the chemistry between them is off the charts. However, she has no idea of what changes are to come, both about her and those around her. Rome is patient and caring and I just loved him. As Sage settles in and learns about Rome and others, there is romance, suspense and so much more. I could not stop listening! I am so excited to see what is next in the series!
Happy listening!
Narrated by Aiden Snow and Victoria Mei, they brought to life Sage and Rome’s story in Dawn Unearthed by Carrie Ann Ryan. This is the first book in her new paranormal series, Ravenwood Coven, and I loved it! We are introduced to a new town, Ravenwood, and its residents where not everything is as it seems. Sage needs a fresh starts and that is how she finds herself in Ravenwood. When she meets Rome, the chemistry between them is off the charts. However, she has no idea of what changes are to come, both about her and those around her. Rome is patient and caring and I just loved him. As Sage settles in and learns about Rome and others, there is romance, suspense and so much more. I could not stop listening! I am so excited to see what is next in the series!
Happy listening!
August 16, 2021
Dawn Unearthed by Carrie Ann Ryan is the First book in the Ravenwood Coven Series.
This is the story of Rome Baker and Sage Reed. Rome is a bear shifter who is also the Alpha to his pack. Sage is a widower who is coming to Ravenwood, Pennsylvania to be with her aunt. This leads her to meet Rome who she is attracted to. Rome realizes that Sage his his mate but the path to claim her isn't so easy. Sage learns that she is a witch that needs training. This was a page turning read.
This is the story of Rome Baker and Sage Reed. Rome is a bear shifter who is also the Alpha to his pack. Sage is a widower who is coming to Ravenwood, Pennsylvania to be with her aunt. This leads her to meet Rome who she is attracted to. Rome realizes that Sage his his mate but the path to claim her isn't so easy. Sage learns that she is a witch that needs training. This was a page turning read.
September 9, 2021
Very intense
This introduction to the town of Ravenwood and it's inhabitants is very intense. It brought out a huge range of emotions from me. Happiness, sadness, love, hate, anger, tears, betrayal, life, death and so much more all between the pges of this book.
I am so happy that this author is back into the land of paranormal romance!! I hope that there are many more books to come in this genre. I have been missing them fiercely.
This introduction to the town of Ravenwood and it's inhabitants is very intense. It brought out a huge range of emotions from me. Happiness, sadness, love, hate, anger, tears, betrayal, life, death and so much more all between the pges of this book.
I am so happy that this author is back into the land of paranormal romance!! I hope that there are many more books to come in this genre. I have been missing them fiercely.
August 20, 2021
Was quite happy when Carrie Ann announced she was going back to paranormal. Witches, bears, shifters of other kinds, color me excited! Sage moves to Ravenwood to be with her aunt and start a new chapter in her life. On her way, a crazy storm happens, and even crazier things from there. I’m not going to tell you everything that happens. I am going to tell you to be prepared for some shocks (I was not). I look forward to the second book in the series
August 22, 2021
I loved reading Sage and Rome's story. Sage had been through so much before going to Ravenwood. Her emotions and journey were very obvious where Rome did a job of hiding his pain and challenges more so. Add in outside forces trying to destroy everyone and it was a strong story to start the series. I can't wait to read the others and see where things go from here.
August 25, 2021
Wow, the start of another great paranormal series by Carrie Ann.
Ravenwood is a town full of witches, shifters, fae and other paranormal creatures. There is danger ahead for this small town. This story will take you on a journey of love, loss, good versus evil and keep you guessing. The chemistry between Sage and Rome is off the charts you can’t help but fall in love with these characters. Can’t wait for the next book in the series.
Ravenwood is a town full of witches, shifters, fae and other paranormal creatures. There is danger ahead for this small town. This story will take you on a journey of love, loss, good versus evil and keep you guessing. The chemistry between Sage and Rome is off the charts you can’t help but fall in love with these characters. Can’t wait for the next book in the series.
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