Phoenix Unbound

The Fallen Empire Series, Book 1

By: Grace Draven

Narrated by: Katharine Lee McEwan

Length: 14 hrs and 2 mins

Publisher's summary

In this USA Today best-selling novel, a woman with power over fire and illusion and the enslaved son of a chieftain battle a corrupt empire in this powerful and deeply emotional romantic fantasy.

Every year, each village is required to send a young woman to the Empire's capital - her fate to be burned alive for the entertainment of the masses. For the last five years, one small village's tithe has been the same woman. Gilene's sacrifice protects all the other young women of her village, and her secret to staying alive lies with the magic only she possesses.

But this year is different.

Azarion, the Empire's most famous gladiator, has somehow seen through her illusion - and is set on blackmailing Gilene into using her abilities to help him escape his life of slavery. Unknown to Gilene, he also wants to reclaim the birthright of his clan.

To protect her family and village, she will abandon everything to return to the Empire - and burn once more.

©2018 Grace Draven (P)2018 Penguin Audio

Critic reviews

“Grace Draven's exciting romantic fantasy features characters who are fresh and original. Their problems and triumphs will keep you reading into the night.” (Charlaine Harris, number-one New York Times best-selling author)

“Fierce and captivating, Phoenix Unbound is the story of a gladiator and a fire witch fighting for their freedom against an empire that wants them enslaved. With impossible odds, breathtaking battles, terrifying magic, and an unlikely love, this book is a must read. Grace Draven is a master of romantic heroic fantasy.” (Ilona Andrews, number-one New York Times best-selling author)

“Fabulous. Quite possibly Grace Draven's best book yet. I couldn't put it down, and I didn't want it to end!” (C.L. Wilson, New York Times best-selling author of The Sea King)

really great world to enter

I really didn’t think I would enjoy this book and so put off reading it for almost two years. That was a mistake as I really loved it and can not wait for book two to come out this June! The characters are really well created, the romance feels gradual and not at all forced - it’s a joy to see the couple finally get together, rather than never ending frustration and annoyance at anyone going from “enemies to beloved” after near (or flat out) violence the entire book. The other characters around the main are really well crafted, too. No one feels flat and the cultures are really well developed, as is the world overall. I had fun reading this one.

Right off the top...I love Grace Draven

Well....right off the top I want to say I love Grace Draven....like seriously absolutely looovveee her.
The way she creates an entire world I feel like I could just step into is amazing. I am absolutely looking forward to the next book
I wish I could have given this a five but a few things made that impossible. For one was it just me or were all the other characters completely one dimensional - no background, very little personality. Her family and village were such a big part of who and what she was and we got zero details or scenes with her there
The romance sort of just switched on, I didn't feel any build up. One minute they were captor and captive and the next they both had feelings. Once it got rolling I was into it but the start was a bit rocky
I loved the way it ended but am confused...is the next book about Gilene and Azarion or not? I really really hope it is b/c I really didn't feel for any of the other characters
Despite my complaints I thoroughly enjoyed this book, Grace Draven's writing is beautiful drags you into the story

chefs kiss

I have yet to read a Grace Draven book that I haven't loved. I love her storytelling, it's topnotch.

Phoenix unbounded

I totally enjoyed listening to this book I am left speechless and sad that my story is over. can't wait to listen to more

I hope book 2 hits Audible soon

was definitely a slow burn between the mc, I wish they had gotten together sooner. I love how the empire of the story could be compared to the Roman empire. Good world building, good tale and a HEA. It's a 4 1/2 for sure.

absolutely adore this book and the series

there is nothing I don't live about this book. Grace Draven has never let me down with any of her books. She's so good at making this characters that seem so genuine and compelling. Katharine McEwan's narration is the cream on the pie.

wow...what a story

The weaving of a story in a new world generated from the brilliance of the imagination is a truely a talent...and Draven has this talent!! She built a world & introduced you to her characters in a way that you grew to like & understand them...such a good story!!

Loved it

Another great book from a great author. Complete story with open threads, no cliffhangers and great characters and story.

Classic Draven

All the elements that makes up a Draven story. Action, intrigue, angst and romance with well fleshed out characters. Good narration.

Lovely, lovely story

Well written, wonderful narrator, a must listen! Adventure, heartbreak, fear, happiness, all you could hope for in a love story.