“Phoenix Rising #1; Elissa’s Quest”

Author:  Erica Verillo

One of my best friends recommended this book to me. She told me repeatedly that it was one of her favorites and that I would be in for a huge treat. I (on the other hand) was not so sure; I didn’t want to get my hopes up until I had read it for myself. And now I am telling you that she was absolutely right, and I am highly recommending it myself. One of my favorite things was that Elissa, the main character, had a lot of things in common with me.  The story ran at an easy pace, with a simple journey and was very interesting. It had a similarity to “East” except I thought the story line in Elissas Quest was a lot better. Also, the author was just wonderful! She can somehow bring the scenes to life right in front of you. I had no trouble visualizing the adventure. The characters had a mediocre depth in voice, they were not great, but they were not bad either. But, don’t let that discourage you, this is only my opinion and it is a very good book. If you want journeys, adventure, slight times of peril and secrecy than you might find this book to be very satisfying. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it, and felt sad when I had finished. I was thrilled to know that the journey was not over! There are two more books after this one and I can’t wait to read the others.

She is 13 years old and lives as an orphan in the small town of High Crossing, dreaming about the day her unknown father will return. Elissa also keeps an extraordinary secret about herself, one that no one else can know about. Her guardian, Nana, is an ancient healer making medicines and tea with fresh dried herbs. Nana doesn’t reveal much of Elissa’s past or information about her father, only the fact that her mother has died.  Strange visitors are received in her small town and when Elissa is introduce to the visiting people. Her quite life in High Crossing will come to an abrupt end.  Setting out on a journey that is soon to become her quest, Elissa learns of her past, becomes a bargaining chip in a trade, and makes new friends. In a palace where rumors spread quickly, the bargaining deal is about to collapse and she must escape before it is too late.  With the help of her new best friend Maya, Elissa embarks on a perilous journey through the desert. 

I don’t want to give too much away, for those of you who have not read this book, because I want you to be surprised! The ending was satisfying, but in a way, it wasn’t. So, you might want to look into the next book. (I know I will!) Again, I would definitely recommend this book.

Click to Read:
Book 1: "Elissa's Quest"
Book 2; "Elissa's Odyssey"
Book 3; "Worlds End"

I want to wish everyone a happy Thanksgiving!  May the Lord bless you and your families.