Echoes of the Past by Regina J. Robinson – A Book Review

Posted October 7, 2020 by Booksandblurbs in Fantasy, Reverse Harem, Reviews / 1 Comment

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Echoes of the Past

(Phoenix Reborn Trilogy – Book 1)

by Regina J. Robinson
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Slow Burn Fantasy RH
Available on Kindle and Kindle Unlimited

Down & Dirty

It’s intriguing… but confusing. A new Phoenix Story for the Fantasy lover out there. Free on Kindle Unlimited.

What is it about?

(Blurb from GoodReads)

A Phoenix, a sarcastic horse, and a farmer walk into a barn…

Sounds like the beginning of a bad joke, but my life is far from humorous.

Centuries have passed since my creation and I have lived hundreds of lives. Each one a constant reminder of the sadistic monster who hunts me and fuels my nightmares.

It seems that when the gods are involved my life will never be easy, especially when I’m entangled with secrets that span across centuries and realms.

After yet another painful death, I regenerate again. But this time I find allies in the sarcastic stallion Shadowbolt and handsome farmer Killian.

When my past catches up with me and I am once again confronted by the monster who wants me dead, will I be able to protect those I have grown to love? Or will he destroy us all?

Truths will be revealed and love may be found…but can it thrive when the monster has me in his sights?

Author’s Note:

Revised version that has been re-edited and includes new scenes.

This book was previously published under the pen name Regina J. Robinson, and the series name The Alina Chronicles.

My Thoughts on Echoes of the Past

Interesting

This is an interesting new take on the Phoenix myth, an approach that pits gods against men, and our own minds.

While the base is good, I had a hard time getting behind the actual characters, or the scattered way the narrative is presented. Reactions seemed misplaced or disjointed – not to mention the numerous time jumps, none of which are chronological.

I’m intrigued, but I’m not hooked.

Pros:

Love between particular characters feels palpable.
I really, really enjoyed Shadowbolt.
Not all gods are evil…. I think?

Cons:

Reactions seem odd. A huge black horse just pops out of the ground, and she barely blinks. Cool, cool.
Time jumps. I get that the story needs to be told, but going back and forth, then farther back again, boggles the mind.
How can such devotion develop so quick? I mean, didn’t he really just meet her? I’m confused….

Perspective:

First Person, Multiple POV

Ending Type:

Cliffhanger

Rating:

R to adult. 18+ only

Character Age Range:

All character are adults.

My Final Verdict on Echoes of the Past

I love stories about Phoenixes…. their lives and rebirths are fascinating to me. This one attempts to bring that magic forward, and while the tale is interesting, it lacks that punch that would lead it to captivating. Still a fun, if sometimes painful, read. Free on Kindle Unlimited.