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Writer and Filmmaker Margaret M. MacDonald is passionate about telling stories which transport people into other worlds and make this one a little more extraordinary. Her visual writing style, shaped by her background as a designer, conveys a tangible sense of place, inviting readers into the story world. Born and raised in the United States now living in Australia, Margaret likes to bring a mix of both cultures into her work.
Margaret's six-part sci-fi fantasy series 'The Phoenix Effect' was inspired by a multi award-winning screenplay and has been her true passion project. 'Part 1: The Reuniting' and 'Part 2: Regeneration' are out now with 'Part 3: Pursuing Echoes' to be released in 2025. She can't wait to share the rest of this exciting epic journey with the world!
Margaret has also written a library of screenplays and novels in a mix of genres and directed several short films, including spontaneous, experimental and one-woman projects. She has been lucky enough to earn awards for both her writing and films. Margaret enjoys embracing a creative challenge and wants, more than anything else, to tell a story audiences will love.
In addition to writing and filmmaking, Margaret helps to run Disorder Gallery in Sydney. She is also a dog-walker and pet carer with several loyal furry costumers.
Find Margaret at https://www.immmagination.com/
Follow at @immmagination
Buy Books at https://www.immmagination.com/the-phoenix-effect-series
Reviewed by Juan Lynch for Readers' Favorite
The Phoenix Effect, Part 1: The Reuniting by Margaret M. MacDonald is a compelling science-fiction novel. The Unity, a government-like powerhouse, is set on taking over the world with its seemingly immortal army. Their soldiers have all been injected with nanites that drastically increase strength and healing factors at the cost of the ability to feel emotions. Arin joined the army and quickly moved up the ranks to commander. His childhood sweetheart, Lia, strongly opposed his enlistment. Years later, they reunite as enemies on the battlefield. Arin, a rational, emotionless soldier, has the chance to end her life, but he doesn't. He is now a traitor in the eyes of The Unity. However, would the resistance army that Lia is a part of accept him?
I thoroughly enjoyed reading The Phoenix Effect, Part 1 by Margaret M. MacDonald. This story has an exciting plot that blends science-fiction, action, adventure, mystery, and comedy into a well-paced thriller. I appreciated how genuine all the characters felt. I understood the motivation behind the actions taken by every person in this story. It was easy to emotionally bond with Arin and Lia, and empathize with Roland, Lia's husband. The themes of romantic love, betrayal, governmental oppression, and resistance were brilliantly highlighted. I was forced to consider what I would do if faced with living in a totalitarian regime. MacDonald shows that when oppressed, some desire equality, while others hope to flip the tables and become the oppressors. I highly recommend The Phoenix Effect, Part 1 to everyone.
