Story: 17-year-old Yssa has known all her life that she was destined to take up duties as the Phoenix Prophetess. She's spent her life so far trying not to get too close (physically) to people for fear of having visions of their fate. But soon the time is coming when she will have no choice but to take up the mantle of prophetess and adviser to the queen. It's true that at first after Yssa takes up her duties, life sort of plods along a bit tediously - though there are hints of drama all the way through the story, and it's obvious there are secrets the reader isn't privy to. But it's after Yssa has a horrifying vision of her parents back home in grave peril that the action really picks up. From then on, Yssa's own life is constantly in danger, and the reader is never quite sure who to trust - just as Yssa herself isn't sure.

My thoughts: I feel rather honoured to be one of the first people to read this book prior to its publication. Back in high school days, I read largely fantasy - it was my staple reading material, other than Dean Koontz books anyway. But in recent times I've really branched out, so it's not all that often I read a fantasy book anymore. I didn't know what to expect of this one, but I can say I was delighted with the read.

The action was fast-paced and the world-building was intriguing. There is intrigue aplenty and while some mysteries are solved by this book's end, many more clearly need to be solved in future books. And I'd say the fact that I am eager to read book 2, having just finished book one about 5 minutes ago, is a very good sign about the quality of the book!

So, in short ... bring on book 2!!

I just couldn't get into it. Unfortunately, my 'to read' pile is huge, and my life is busy, so books like this that I might have slogged through years ago just get abandoned now.

The plot looked interesting, but the execution was dry and difficult to read. I don't care enough about the characters to force myself through it. Sorry.

Reborn is an excellently crafted novel from beginning to end with perfect pacing, great characterization, and world-building that invites the reader into the character's lives and moves the story forward. I read it all in one evening/night, and I found it go be a gripping adventure. Yssa, the main character, has a tough road ahead of her and her choices seem limited, and yet, she digs within herself to grow as a character and push the limitations she is confronted with as the Phoenix prophetess. The romance is sweet and wonderful, and I really enjoyed how the relationships were developed over the course of the book. Nothing felt too rushed, and the plot twists were exciting and developed well.

Cherie Reich is a talented author, and this is her best work so far! I highly recommend Reborn to Fantasy readers who enjoy a touch of romance.

If you like Esther Friesner's Nobody's Princess or Sphinx's Princess, you would love this book!