“I don’t believe in angels.” That’s what Cassandra always told herself, anyway. “Oh, but you do. You wouldn’t be here right now if you didn’t.” And it was being caught in that one little lie, in the wrong place at the wrong time, that changed Cas’ life forever, by identifying her as the perfect Guardian for Jasper, an angel who fell while fleeing the war unfolding above. Stripped of his divine wings and way home, Jasper is defenseless in the mortal realm until he can find a way to return to his own world. But doing so is futile unless he can also find a way to thwart Ander, the dangerous usurper bent on bringing The Netherhaven under his rule. Ander seeks to destroy all who would oppose him, both angel and human, by locating and obtaining three keys that unlock a legendary power that would make him invincible. Cassandra has one of these keys. It’s only a matter of time until Ander’s men come for not only Jasper, but the key, and Cas is the only one who can protect them. When her new role as Jasper’s Guardian endangers her best friend Jo, who needs her now more than ever, Cas finds herself on the brink of losing everything. Caught between Jasper and Jo, Cas is forced to choose between saving the angels’ realm and protecting her own, a choice that is made even more difficult when she uncovers a startling secret that binds her to both.
Emily Lankow is the author of The Seven Realms Universe, which includes a pair of interwoven fantasy series that balance heartfelt romance, relationships, and finding a sense of belonging in the unlikeliest of places, with taking risks to protect who and what matters most and overcoming challenges both magical and mundane.
Emily discovered her passion for writing in elementary school, when she entered a young authors’ contest. Her short story placed tenth in the state, illustrating the power stories have to reach and affect total strangers. As an avid reader, the idea of writing stories others could escape into and fall in love with has fueled Emily’s imagination ever since.
Now, Emily is a self-proclaimed Jack-of-all-trades in all things creative. When she isn’t writing, she enjoys painting with acrylics and watercolors, drawing, and crafting sculptures, ball-jointed dolls, and jewelry, as well as making miniatures using whatever materials she can get her hands on.
Emily also enjoys spending time with her husband and their three cats, drinking tea, eating chocolate, doing yoga, and appreciating the many little things that brighten her life.
I was luckily enough to be able to read this book as an Arc and was able to communicate with the wonderful author personally which I know is a wonderful and unique experience. I have been super hyped about this book since finding out about it many many moons ago and it definitely exceeded my expectations. Cassandra is very head strong and independent and feeds on the need to always help others, sometimes not exactly to her own best interest but I was deeply able to relate. Jasper was instantly lovable and I feel captures everything someone who want in a man... a true depiction of what we would want an angel to be..... but they both have some heavy internal struggles that you get to watch them go through and grow through in this book, which is wonderful. Aeon definitely a strong character in this book and though we don't really know why he does what he does and is very morally grey as a character, you can't help but love him! Thank Chaos! The other characters all play a vital role either to the story as a whole or the certain characters specifically which really helped to understand both story and characters. I did enjoy the hints to further mysteries I am super wanting to know more about... the story had a strong hold on me throughout. Emily is amazing with words and I was able to completely envision everything she stated in her world building... I could see it, feel it, smell it... I was captured. I feel I could go on and on about this book but I would then probably write a book myself hahaha. Definitely a highly recommended read!
This book got me hooked from the start, up till the last page!!! When I first read it I was kind of confused, but it only took me a second to get it and I immediately loved the plot ✨
The plot is about angels! Cas who does not believe in angels becomes the perfect guardian of the fallen, Jasper. So, Jasper was stripped of his wings so he cannot return home to stop Ander who is bent on bringing his home Netherhaven under his rule. To get back to Netherhaven Cas must help and protect Jasper in order to save the angels’ realm and her world.
I love how kind and considerate Jasper is and he was a literal angel in my eyes. While Cas was so grounded like she did not actually believe in things that were thrown in her face but she knows in her heart that it’s true. Their romance escalated pretty quickly but I’m not complaining like at all! There was a plot twist in this story that I was so shocked, because I did not see it coming but it all perfectly made sense 🤍
This is a must read for people who loves fantasy romance and for those who are a big fan of the fallen series! It was so good, thank you so much for my first ever ARC and for sharing your story 🤍🕊️
If you're looking for a book that you won't be able to put down, then look no further. I've just started branching out into the fantasy world, and if you are looking for a book to get you started in the genre, or you just really enjoy it, again, this one is for you!!! Emily takes her readers on a magical ride, and I promise you will be hooked right away. I really enjoyed the characters, but Jasper was my favorite. You guys really need to experience this gem for yourself.
This was a charming story of the impossible made possible that stretched my imagination. With just enough realism, the characters were relatable, yet defied expectation. I would recommend this book if you are looking to escape to a world unlike any you have ever known.
Look out Stephanie Meyer, there is a new Author in town! I can easily see this book becoming a movie! There is one thing that is hotter than vampires,and it is Angels!
Plot summary: Gasper is a fallen angel from the realm of Neatherhaven who descended to the human world because it came to be his only way out and lost his wings in the process. There is a war going on up there while he's vulnerable in this new world and other angels are coming after him. Accordingly, he needs a guardian who can protect and help him in his mission of restoring order in his world from our bad guy Ander who happens to be an angel prince. Cassandra's fate is to be his guardian but she is always guarded in her actions. She has other responsibilities which are her priority. It is her best friend Jo that is going through a hard time and needs Cassie more than any time before because she's becoming self-destructive. Now Cassandra is left between the two and their safety is laid on her shoulders.
My thoughts: This book made me want to be a guardian of a fallen angel who needs my help in the realm of humans :D I was hooked from the first few pages, it's nerve-wracking and makes you eager for more from beginning to end. Full of surprises, twists, and fascinating secrets of hidden realms. I finished it in two sittings even though when I was done with 86% of the book new things kept unfolding. The storytelling and the plot are perfectly wrapped. With a writing style that takes you straight to this new creation, I felt that I went to the Netherhaven for a visit and now I'm back :) I loved how the author managed to build this whole world the havenskeep which was made of shimmering crystal and all the imagery she used throughout the book not to mention the visions that Cassandra experienced, the flashbacks, and the magical spells. All in all the whole story is mind-blowing. I loved the wonderfully detailed illustrations in every part. I loved Cassandra's character so much she's a powerful female lead. Cassandra is strong and selfless with a beautiful kind heart. Jasper is an angel, by all means, he's sweet and such a healer. I added him to my favorite book boyfriends list already☺️ Their romance was pure and emotional. It was a bit rushed cause we needed to see more growth in their feelings to make it satisfactory. There are parts in which Jasper's role was almost unnoticeable towards the end leaving room for other characters which I liked a lot. Yet, I wanted Jasper's presence to be more involved in the events.
This book holds a special place in my heart it's one of my faves and I highly recommend you guys read it if you're into -Different realms -Wars between angels -Magical spells -Fluffy romance -Sweet fallen angel -Twists and secrets -Supernatural powers
What comes to your mind when you hear the word "angels"? Right, it is always purity, peace and prosperity that connotates for this word, but what if the bittersweet truth is otherwise? What if their world is not any less monstrous than ours, if they, too, encounter wars evolving from their desperate hunger for power?
The Netherhaven is swaying near the edge of the abyss, and a guardian for a fallen angel sent on a mission to the mortal world is all it takes to curtail the destruction of both worlds. Whether it was choice or destiny, Cassandra doesn't know, but if there's one thing she knows for sure, it is that no one could do that job better, given she has ever been a guardian, a protector.
The adventure altogether was marvellous, and it is awe-striking how Cassandra's task as a guardian turned out more personal than she ever anticipated, clarifying all that has been hazy, even anonymous, about her own self. There was always something happening, something that keeps you looking forward to unveil.
The pacing of the romance was excellent, the writing style was so engaging, descriptions were so vivid, and the ending exceeded the predictable. However, I struggled with the very lengthy chapters, and it was so slow-paced for me until I the last third of the book.
I found the strategy demanded to protect Jasper too basic and negligent; Cassandra was scared to keep him home alone but didn't mind letting him wander around in public? Many details related to the first half of the book felt weak to me, though the second half ultimately compensated, except for parts when I could still feel an inconsistency in the characters' thoughts and emotions.
I liked Aeon, even though I still can't know for sure whether he's an ally or an enemy; he's an angel woven with pure mystery and intelligence. And it's the suspicion towards the promise he made Cassandra make that's scratching at the back of my mind... What benefit does it do him?
Improbable, yes, impossible, never. This is the motto of this book, right from the beginning and up till the very end.
I was fortunate to receive this wonderful book as an ARC and be able to dive into this awesome story ❤ My rating is ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ My thoughts: It had me hooked from the very beginning. I found myself completely engrossed in the story, eagerly turning the pages to see what would happen next. I couldn't put it down. It is extremely immersive, painting a very rich and detailed fantastical world full of angels. The characters are well-developed and the plot is fast-paced and full of twists and turns, keeping me on the edge of my seat until the very end. This amazing author has crafted a captivating and engaging story that will leave readers eagerly anticipating the next installment in the series. Cassandra is my favorite character and I loved the lovely relationship and connection between her and Jasper and how everything changed after his coming. Cassandra is my favorite character and I loved the lovely relationship and connection between her and the fallen angel Jasper and how everything changed after his coming . Cassandra is initially skeptical of the idea of angels, but her feelings for Jasper soon draw her into the world of the Angels of Existence, who are fighting a war against the angel Ander's army. Cassandra and Jasper have an instant attraction, and their romance forms quickly. Despite her doubts, Cassandra finds herself captivated by Jasper and can't help but love him. This amazing author is now in my favorite authors list ❤❤❤Can't wait for the next book in the series ❤❤❤Thank you for writing such an amazing and captivating story ❤❤❤
I haven’t read much Fantasy due to the fact i haven’t really venture out in this genre but I have to say I throughly enjoyed it! This is a very detailed read so you really get a good understanding what’s going on. We have Cassandra who seems like an ordinary girl but doesn’t know her life is literally about get turned upside down when she becomes a guardian for an angel, a fallen angel named Jasper. He is unable to return to the Netherland (homeland). There’s a Angel War going on lead by another angel (Ander) who has made a “angel army” and has taken over the realm and turned against the Angels of Existence which are the Gods basically but Jasper has a plan. Cass is so set on believing Angels don’t exist. That’s what she keeps telling herself and even when seeing things happened right in front her her face, she tries to fight it but deep down in her heart she knows. There’s an instant attraction between the two from the start. Their romance blossomed rather quickly. I can’t help to love Jasper immediately. He has a way with words and you get captivated by him. No wonder Cass is so flustered at times lol. So we see them trying to find these significant keys that hold such power and we are thrown into a new world that leaves you speechless. I knew something was up especially since Cass can see and feel what others can’t. The plot twist definitely shocks you! 😯 I want to know more and need more!
I recently had the pleasure of reading a book that can be best described as a fine glass of wine - meant to be savored and enjoyed slowly. Written with a delectable prose, Emily's writing style is truly remarkable. The author has a unique talent for capturing the intricacies of human thought and behavior, as evidenced by the incredible self-awareness exhibited by the book's main character.
But what truly sets this book apart are the thrilling twists and turns that kept me guessing until the very end. Each new revelation was like a burst of flavor, adding depth and complexity to an already rich narrative. It's rare to find a book that can keep you on the edge of your seat while also providing a deeply satisfying reading experience, but this one certainly did.
The romance in this book is nothing short of breathtaking, with each page brimming with emotional intensity and heart-wrenching moments. The author has a way of capturing the essence of love in all its forms - from the initial spark of attraction to the depth of devotion that can only be found in a true soulmate.
Overall, I cannot recommend this book enough to anyone who loves a good romance with a finely crafted plot and exceptional writing. It's the kind of book that you'll want to savor and appreciate every moment of.
If you enjoy fantasy, pick this book up ASAP. The plot is about angels, protecting and being a guardian to those fallen. Cas who does not believe in angels becomes the perfect guardian of the fallen, Jasper. So, Jasper was stripped of his wings so he cannot return home to stop Ander who is bent on bringing his home Netherhaven under his rule. To get back to Netherhaven Cas must help and protect Jasper in order to save the angels’ realm and her world. Cassandra is very head strong and independent and feeds on the need to always help others, sometimes not exactly to her own best interest but I was deeply able to relate. Jasper was instantly lovable and I feel captures everything someone who want in a man a true depiction of what we would want an angel to be, but they both have some heavy internal struggles. The plot was well thought out and written. There's twists, turns, and everything fantasy. Cas and Jo have a great friendship, but the thing that compelled me was the relationship that Cas and Jasper created throughout this whole book. This book does leave you on a cliff hanger, but is a book you definitely need in your TBR.
The Guardian is a poignant story of love, forgiveness, and healing. The titular character, Cassandra, is relatable as she struggles to find her place in the world while taking care of his adopted sister, Jo, and her mother. Cas works out of an old bookstore in the city, and her life gets turned upside down when she meets an old man, Scry, who turns out to be an angel from the Netherhaven. At first, she is skeptical, but everything she knows changes when she is unwittingly made the Guardian of a fallen angel named Jasper. What follows throughout the rest of the book is a love story that unfolds as secrets, half-truths, and lies all collide with an epic confrontation from the main villain, rouge angel Ander, who has decreed himself the ruler of all. The Guardian is a great story that is told from Cassandra's POV. All in all, Emily Lankow is a talented author, and I am excited to continue reading the journey of Cassandra and Jasper as they work together to defeat Ander and set things right.
Guardian: Rise of The Fallen, is a YA fantasy romance that steals your attention the second you open to page one.
Cassandra is a young lady who feels things that are unexplainable and is constantly playing protector to her best friend, Jo. Jasper is a fallen angel who is need of a guardian while he looks for the key to destroy a power bigger than himself. Cassandra is picked out of everyone to be Jaspers guardian, leaving the two to navigate a world filled with untold truths and dangers.
Emily Lankow's storytelling is both impressive and talented. Taking two worlds and bringing them together in a story that has you needing more. The character development of Cassandra is heart warming and kind and makes you feel truly connected to her.
If you enjoy fantasy, YA, romance or you are looking for a new genre to read, YOU will not be disappointed by this story! I cannot wait for the next installment of this series!
I enjoyed this book. It took a while for it to sink its claws into me but once it did, it was good. Something that is important for me is sentence structure and this was overall very well written!
This story follows Cas, a girl who lives with her best friend Jo and looks after her when she makes bad choices, and Jasper, a fallen angel. I really enjoyed Aeon's character, but my favourite was probably Jo. The way she was written was so raw and so real.
There were a few plot twists in this, some I saw coming, some I didn't. It is a clean romance and I recommend it for people who enjoy stories about angels, both the good and the bad ones! 3.5 stars rounded up to 4.
This is an excellent fantasy novel that had me captivated from the first pages. I loved the description of the gothic church and the haunting effect it has over Cassandra our main protagonist. Cassandra soon became my favourite character. Insisting she doesn’t believe in angels, until an Angel falls into her life. His name is Jasper, and I loved the connection between these two. All Cassandra ever thought she’d do was take care of her friend Jo, but everything changes with Jasper’s arrival.
This is a well written fantasy novel that I definitely recommend.
I really did love this book! I was only sad when I finished it because I wasn't ready to leave the world. Ms. Emily has an amazing writing style. Omg the first chapter was such a hook for readers to be captivated and pulled in! Like seriously if you're here liking for reviews on if you should read this book... This is it... This is your sign to read it 😍 seriously... Stop what you're doing and don't wait! The world, the emotions, the story, the characteristics of it all... On point and I promise it won't disappoint ❤️
It took a bit to get into this book but when I did I became hooked. I loved Cassandra, the main character, as she was a very strong and independent female. Jasper was my favourite, he was so sweet and kind and I loved their romance together. The plot twists were amazing and fitted in well, and the flow of the story was perfect. I would definitely recommend this book for lovers of fantasy and romance.
Absolutely loved this book! Fallen angels, twists and turns it had everything! I loved how the story came together in the end. I love Cas and Jo's friendship, and the relationship that develops between Cas and Jasper. I can't wait to see what the next book has in store!
This book is absolutely exquisite!! If you loved the Hush Hush series this is your next angel series fix! Such a unique story with a beautiful message, worth the read!!