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Fallen Star #4
The Promise
My name is Gemma Lucas and my life's a mess. Alex is gone, my dad's trapped in his own mind, and my mom's working for the dark side. Not to mention Nicholas refuses to quit haunting me. The world has also entered apocalyptic mode. Everyday more vampires, witches, and fey run the streets. Innocent people are dying. The Mark of Malefiscus is showing up everywhere. And I'm the only one who can stop it. The only problem is I have to die in order to do so. And I have to let Alex die. Something I'm not sure I can do.
307 pages, Paperback
First published March 22, 2012
283 people are currently reading
6654 people want to read
About the author
Jessica Sorensen
417 books20.1k followersJessica Sorensen is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author from the snowy mountains of Wyoming. When she's not writing, she spends her time reading and hanging out with her family.
http://www.jessicasorensen.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 420 reviews
May 16, 2012
Okay I read the reviews on the first book in this series halfway through reading it. There were a lot of complaints about characters having no depth, lack of info on their physical descriptions, likes and dislikes, and grammatical and spelling errors.
And here is what I have to say. Yes some of that did happen. But I am one of those readers who looks at the big picture. These books have a great storyline. The plot constantly had me on the edge of my seat. I read this entire series in 4 days! I could not put it down! I understand that writers are human and make mistakes. So I do not focus On those little things. The author has a great imagination and I am recommending this series to everyone I know! I am a twilight fan but I think I may have enjoyed these more. And that's saying a lot for me.
Read them and rate them please! :)
And here is what I have to say. Yes some of that did happen. But I am one of those readers who looks at the big picture. These books have a great storyline. The plot constantly had me on the edge of my seat. I read this entire series in 4 days! I could not put it down! I understand that writers are human and make mistakes. So I do not focus On those little things. The author has a great imagination and I am recommending this series to everyone I know! I am a twilight fan but I think I may have enjoyed these more. And that's saying a lot for me.
Read them and rate them please! :)
March 27, 2012
I love this series and reading The Promise was bitter sweet. I wanted to see how it would end, but I knew once it did I would be sad that the series was over. It is not often that I find a series I wish would go on "just a little bit longer". This book tied the story up beautifully. I just was not ready to let her world go. I am hoping her new series (The first book is Darkness Falls) will fill the void. It is sitting on my coffee table waiting to be read. I plan to savor every stinkin' page. Ok, I am officially the babbling queen.
Here are some of the things I liked about this book:
*It was the perfect conclusion to the series. All of the main questions were answered, but she did not wrap everything up in a little perfect bow. Some questions were left unanswered. As readers, we get to imagine what happens next with some things. No cliff hangers to make you mad, just openness that allows us to imagine.
*This is a story/series I feel comfortable recommending to adults and teens. It is a perfect YA book, in that respect.
*This book definitely had the "I can not put this down" factor. I just had to know what was coming next.
*I loved the message behind the title. It was simply beautiful.
*There was so much that I just did not see coming. Twists and turns that kept me on my toes. I love that.
*OK, this is spoilery, but I am going to say it anyways: I was happy when someone who was dead, was given a second chance at life. I always kind of liked them and was sad at their circumstances.
Overall, I loved this book. I personally think you need to read the first books before you read this one. You could probably get through it and understand what was happening, but you would miss so much. The Fallen Star (book one) is only $.99 on Amazon right now. Do not let the low price fool you. It is an excellent read.
Here are some of the things I liked about this book:
*It was the perfect conclusion to the series. All of the main questions were answered, but she did not wrap everything up in a little perfect bow. Some questions were left unanswered. As readers, we get to imagine what happens next with some things. No cliff hangers to make you mad, just openness that allows us to imagine.
*This is a story/series I feel comfortable recommending to adults and teens. It is a perfect YA book, in that respect.
*This book definitely had the "I can not put this down" factor. I just had to know what was coming next.
*I loved the message behind the title. It was simply beautiful.
*There was so much that I just did not see coming. Twists and turns that kept me on my toes. I love that.
*OK, this is spoilery, but I am going to say it anyways: I was happy when someone who was dead, was given a second chance at life. I always kind of liked them and was sad at their circumstances.
Overall, I loved this book. I personally think you need to read the first books before you read this one. You could probably get through it and understand what was happening, but you would miss so much. The Fallen Star (book one) is only $.99 on Amazon right now. Do not let the low price fool you. It is an excellent read.
April 10, 2012
Not my favorite book of the series, the switching back an forth between the POV was not necessary and I thought forced, it wasn't like we got any new insight into Alex because the writer did this, I can see if you really understood what he has thinking or feeling but at least I did not think it was worth the change in the writting style.
December 25, 2013
I'm not really sure how I managed to read this entire series. I think just because it was a quick easy read. I'm also not sure why someone would publish books obviously so unready to be published. Were these even edited at all? As if the inconsistencies throughout all of the books weren't enough, there were countless wrong choices of words, grammar errors, and spelling errors. There was an instance of one of the main characters' name being spelled wrong for God's sake. Question marks at the end of sentences that were quite clearly not questions, and even more frequently, question marks missing at the end of sentences that are questions. Commas in the middle of a sentence where a comma is not needed, and missing commas when one is needed. A few errors I can overlook, but it got to the point where there was at least one on every page I turned. I started highlighting over halfway through this book, and I really wish I'd done it from the start, but no way am I going back to read them again.
And the inconsistencies. The writing in this was just plain lazy. What exactly is the time frame of this story? And was any research done at all? Because it felt like it all took place in just a few weeks until the last book, when there was a bit of a time jump. But we basically went from winter to summer to winter. They leave a snowy mountain and go directly to Las Vegas where suddenly they can run around in shorts and a tank top. That's not how weather works. Then they go to Maryland where it's suddenly humid. Definitely not how weather works. At one point, it was mentioned that it was summer, but winter does not suddenly give way to summer.
And I like when the world started going to hell in the last book, everyone carried on as if nothing was wrong. School was still in session. TV channels still played like normal. I mean, really? Isn't the world supposed to be in chaos? And there are a lot of other inconsistencies or things that just don't make sense, but I really don't have the energy to mention all of them.
And don't even get me started on the main character. In the first book, Gemma is first experiencing emotions for the first time. I like how she feels something and she just magically knows what it is. It upsets me because the story had so much promise and fun things to play around with, and it was executed so poorly. When she finds out she has the energy of a star in her, I thought it was very interesting. There's almost always something special with the main character of a YA book. But then something else made her special as well, and as if that wasn't enough, let's throw other special things at her as well. It got to the point where it was way overdone and I felt she should just keel over from all the special.
I really could go on and on about this. It had such an interesting concept, but it was executed so poorly. Even the ending of the series felt like a cop out. I like how everything possible goes wrong in every possible way throughout the story (which was unbelievable enough), but then everything is saved and suddenly nothing can go wrong at all.
As far as YA books that are giving the genre a bad name by their cliches and poor writing, this is one of them. I was astounded by the fact that the books seemed to get worse as they went on. That's the opposite of how it's supposed to happen. One usually learns as they write, not the other way around. As I said, the series had such promise, but the poor writing just started dragging it down from the start.
I'd like to mention something about the books I like, but I really can't think of anything. Some of the characters intrigued me, but they were written so poorly that I couldn't grow attached.
I give it 1 star.
And the inconsistencies. The writing in this was just plain lazy. What exactly is the time frame of this story? And was any research done at all? Because it felt like it all took place in just a few weeks until the last book, when there was a bit of a time jump. But we basically went from winter to summer to winter. They leave a snowy mountain and go directly to Las Vegas where suddenly they can run around in shorts and a tank top. That's not how weather works. Then they go to Maryland where it's suddenly humid. Definitely not how weather works. At one point, it was mentioned that it was summer, but winter does not suddenly give way to summer.
And I like when the world started going to hell in the last book, everyone carried on as if nothing was wrong. School was still in session. TV channels still played like normal. I mean, really? Isn't the world supposed to be in chaos? And there are a lot of other inconsistencies or things that just don't make sense, but I really don't have the energy to mention all of them.
And don't even get me started on the main character. In the first book, Gemma is first experiencing emotions for the first time. I like how she feels something and she just magically knows what it is. It upsets me because the story had so much promise and fun things to play around with, and it was executed so poorly. When she finds out she has the energy of a star in her, I thought it was very interesting. There's almost always something special with the main character of a YA book. But then something else made her special as well, and as if that wasn't enough, let's throw other special things at her as well. It got to the point where it was way overdone and I felt she should just keel over from all the special.
I really could go on and on about this. It had such an interesting concept, but it was executed so poorly. Even the ending of the series felt like a cop out. I like how everything possible goes wrong in every possible way throughout the story (which was unbelievable enough), but then everything is saved and suddenly nothing can go wrong at all.
As far as YA books that are giving the genre a bad name by their cliches and poor writing, this is one of them. I was astounded by the fact that the books seemed to get worse as they went on. That's the opposite of how it's supposed to happen. One usually learns as they write, not the other way around. As I said, the series had such promise, but the poor writing just started dragging it down from the start.
I'd like to mention something about the books I like, but I really can't think of anything. Some of the characters intrigued me, but they were written so poorly that I couldn't grow attached.
I give it 1 star.
November 7, 2012
Anticlimactic much? Really? After all of the intrigue that this series has had throughout the four books, *this* is how you choose to end it? It's like, don't read this book if you care about an interesting ending. The last pages go by so quickly and everything happens at the same time that nothing does. Why? Just, why would you do that? Now I'm pissed that I got into your series. Ugh. So mad. Anyway, it wraps everything up in a nice little bow for you and, oh yeah, there's another series right around the corner. Probs not going to waste my time with that. I HAD SUCH HIGH HOPES FOR YOU, FALLEN STAR TETROLOGY! (or maybe it's just time for me to start reading quality books again. Although I hate the perception that YA books have to be so....derivative? crappy? pandering? whatever they are.) Alas, on to bigger and (hopefully) better things.
March 3, 2013
There are two author tricks I hate when I read the final, climactic book in a series. Bless her, Jessica Sorensen avoids both of them in "The Promise," her excellent finale to the "Fallen Star" series.
The first of these sins is "the never-ending goodbye." That's when the story has come to a close, but the author keeps dragging things out, postponing ad nauseamthose final two words, "The End." Three, four, sometimes five or more perfect ending points go by, but the author is still milking it. Ugh.
The second, more egregious violation is what lit major types call deus ex machina. This comes from ancient Greek drama, and basically means "god in the machine." In modern fiction, it means "the author wrote him/herself into a corner, and has to cheat to get him/herself out by pulling some cheap-ass stunt out of thin air." For example, you have your three main characters about to be killed by a street gang of werewolves. Right before the biting starts, one of them suddenly discovers she has the ability to fire lightning bolts out of her fingers, and thus they're saved.
Jessica Sorensen, as I said, was perfect in avoiding these two pitfalls. A number of unusual things happen during the book's climax, but every single one of them was set up earlier in this book (or one of the others). Also, when the story reaches its climax, there is a brief chapter or two after, showing the post-climax world, and that is it.
"The Promise" refers to the blood promise Gemma and Alex made before Gemma's soul was disconnected, back when they were little kids. Through most of this book, the couple were trying to set up for the great showdown with the evil Stephan, Alex and Aislin's father (and a completely evil bastard). There was no doubt that Gemma and Alex would have to die to save the world. They were okay with this, even though each wished the other could be saved somehow.
The duo had plenty of obstacles, too, including a couple of unlikely, unexpected, very powerful new enemies. They managed to work through each trial, and move closer to their inevitable date with death.
This series has been a joy to read, from the first chapter of book one to the last sentence of book four. The characters are beautifully drawn--thank God, there are no "perfect" characters. Like everyone, even the hero and heroine have flaws and foibles, and are prone to occasional bad moods. There are also seemingly evil characters who occasionally show a moment's grace.
The action is steady, but not hyperkinetic. A lot of things happen in "The Vision," but we are spared over-exposition of them. The book would be 8-million pages long the way some authors write.
Jessica Sorensen has written a beautiful series, with very little objectionable material. Tweens and up would probably like it. Hell, I'm a cynical adult with a Literature degree, and I couldn't stop reading these books, so "appeals to all ages" is pretty literal here.
Best of all, the series didn't feel wrung dry by the end. There was still gas in the proverbial tank, and plenty of different stories possible. Fans of the "Fallen Star" series will be glad to note that Ms Sorensen has a new spin-off series called "Fallen Soul." The first novel in that series--The Lost Soul--is available now.
I'm glad, because Gemma, Aislin, Alex, and friends are far too interesting simply to fade away.
The first of these sins is "the never-ending goodbye." That's when the story has come to a close, but the author keeps dragging things out, postponing ad nauseamthose final two words, "The End." Three, four, sometimes five or more perfect ending points go by, but the author is still milking it. Ugh.
The second, more egregious violation is what lit major types call deus ex machina. This comes from ancient Greek drama, and basically means "god in the machine." In modern fiction, it means "the author wrote him/herself into a corner, and has to cheat to get him/herself out by pulling some cheap-ass stunt out of thin air." For example, you have your three main characters about to be killed by a street gang of werewolves. Right before the biting starts, one of them suddenly discovers she has the ability to fire lightning bolts out of her fingers, and thus they're saved.
Jessica Sorensen, as I said, was perfect in avoiding these two pitfalls. A number of unusual things happen during the book's climax, but every single one of them was set up earlier in this book (or one of the others). Also, when the story reaches its climax, there is a brief chapter or two after, showing the post-climax world, and that is it.
"The Promise" refers to the blood promise Gemma and Alex made before Gemma's soul was disconnected, back when they were little kids. Through most of this book, the couple were trying to set up for the great showdown with the evil Stephan, Alex and Aislin's father (and a completely evil bastard). There was no doubt that Gemma and Alex would have to die to save the world. They were okay with this, even though each wished the other could be saved somehow.
The duo had plenty of obstacles, too, including a couple of unlikely, unexpected, very powerful new enemies. They managed to work through each trial, and move closer to their inevitable date with death.
This series has been a joy to read, from the first chapter of book one to the last sentence of book four. The characters are beautifully drawn--thank God, there are no "perfect" characters. Like everyone, even the hero and heroine have flaws and foibles, and are prone to occasional bad moods. There are also seemingly evil characters who occasionally show a moment's grace.
The action is steady, but not hyperkinetic. A lot of things happen in "The Vision," but we are spared over-exposition of them. The book would be 8-million pages long the way some authors write.
Jessica Sorensen has written a beautiful series, with very little objectionable material. Tweens and up would probably like it. Hell, I'm a cynical adult with a Literature degree, and I couldn't stop reading these books, so "appeals to all ages" is pretty literal here.
Best of all, the series didn't feel wrung dry by the end. There was still gas in the proverbial tank, and plenty of different stories possible. Fans of the "Fallen Star" series will be glad to note that Ms Sorensen has a new spin-off series called "Fallen Soul." The first novel in that series--The Lost Soul--is available now.
I'm glad, because Gemma, Aislin, Alex, and friends are far too interesting simply to fade away.
June 19, 2013
This final installment did NOT disappoint.I loved how Gemma and Alex finally figured out their feelings for each other.Loved how we actually got to see 2 endings, the visions, and what really happens.I thought the story lines were nail biting, action packed and swoon worthy throughout the whole book.Once I started reading, it was hard to put the book down, with it's many twists and turns that kept me on my toes during the book.Which is always a good sign for the final book in a series.It was just great.
I can't wait to read the spin off book. The Lost Soul (Fallen Souls Series book 1).In the end I give 'The Promise' by author Jessica Sorensen 5 shiny stars. What can I say, I enjoyed reading it, from start to finish and it was a great end to a amazing debut book series. Jessica Sorensen way of writing and story telling was superb and I highly recommend you give this book series and this author a go, by reading a few of her books.
I can't wait to read the spin off book. The Lost Soul (Fallen Souls Series book 1).In the end I give 'The Promise' by author Jessica Sorensen 5 shiny stars. What can I say, I enjoyed reading it, from start to finish and it was a great end to a amazing debut book series. Jessica Sorensen way of writing and story telling was superb and I highly recommend you give this book series and this author a go, by reading a few of her books.
April 17, 2013
What to say, what to say?
This book was amazing.
When I started this I was anxious to finish because the suspense was fucking killing me. And that's what I love about this whole series. Jessica Sorensen has a way of making everything seem so real. Like you're the character. Like those are your problems, your emotions. Like that is the life you're living. And its so amazing, I love it.
I'm really anxious to see what happens next and I've said this already (maybe Jessica will catch on) but I'm hoping that Laylen and Aislin end up together. I'm really hoping they do because they deserve a happy ending.
I honestly can say that I have no problems with this at all. I loved this book and I have no complaints. None. We are love triangle safe people, no worries!
I'm recommending this series to everyone. If you haven't read it, well what the fuck are you waiting for?!
Enjoy! :)
This book was amazing.
When I started this I was anxious to finish because the suspense was fucking killing me. And that's what I love about this whole series. Jessica Sorensen has a way of making everything seem so real. Like you're the character. Like those are your problems, your emotions. Like that is the life you're living. And its so amazing, I love it.
I'm really anxious to see what happens next and I've said this already (maybe Jessica will catch on) but I'm hoping that Laylen and Aislin end up together. I'm really hoping they do because they deserve a happy ending.
I honestly can say that I have no problems with this at all. I loved this book and I have no complaints. None. We are love triangle safe people, no worries!
I'm recommending this series to everyone. If you haven't read it, well what the fuck are you waiting for?!
Enjoy! :)
August 27, 2012
My one word review of this book: Rushed.
This was clearly rushed out to meet demands as evidence by the chopping writing, poor plotting and numerous grammar and spelling errors.
I wish the author had cut down on the useless situation-escape-situation-escape and flushed out the scenes. I would have loved to understand Annabella's motivations more, for instance.
If you've read the series, it's worth seeing how it ends. But like book 3, there are a lot of unnecessary characters and scenes and that should have been chopped.
Also, author's should be *incredibly* careful about the multiple points of view. Other than the pronouns, Alex's voice was exactly like Gemma's and there was no differentiation. It's a really hard technique to pull off and this just failed.
This was clearly rushed out to meet demands as evidence by the chopping writing, poor plotting and numerous grammar and spelling errors.
I wish the author had cut down on the useless situation-escape-situation-escape and flushed out the scenes. I would have loved to understand Annabella's motivations more, for instance.
If you've read the series, it's worth seeing how it ends. But like book 3, there are a lot of unnecessary characters and scenes and that should have been chopped.
Also, author's should be *incredibly* careful about the multiple points of view. Other than the pronouns, Alex's voice was exactly like Gemma's and there was no differentiation. It's a really hard technique to pull off and this just failed.
September 23, 2012
I LOVED THIS SERIES!!!! I can't say that enough. Jessica's writing style flows and captivates the reader. All the suspenseful twists and turns keeps the reader on the edge of their seat until the very last word. I really enjoyed her take on the paranormal world and brought in a whole new realm of the supernatural. Other ideas and concepts were becoming played out, so it was a breath of fresh air to take a glimpse into Gemma's world!! I finished this entire series in less than a month and I would recommend it to everyone (which I do, lol) I'm excited to start The Lost Soul, 1st book in the Fallen Soul Series!!!! :)
March 24, 2012
This waz ann amazing ending to the series! I waz so pleased by this book ms. sorensen is one of my favorite authors!! I only wish they we they jessica should make like a short story of wen gemma and alex get older, have kids. And also with layen and Aislen!
June 18, 2013
5 BREATHTAKING STARS
It's done! The fallen star series is done, atleast on my part I'm done. I stayed up till 2am to finish this magnificent paranormal book. This is the last installment of the Fallen Star series and I would like to commend Jessica Sorensen for ending it with swoon-fest scene. I'm actually surprised that Jessica didn't end it with a CLIFFHANGER knowing that she's the queen of cliffhangers and also knowing that this has a spin-off.
I was on a whirlpool of emotions while reading this book. Each pages felt like a vacuum sucking air out of me. I just can't breathe!! This book made me laugh, cry, swoon, squirm, annoy (antagonist's side), smile A LOT, worry and all sorts of raw emotions I can think off. It also made me pull my hair out of frustration. I just want to jump inside the book and hollered at them, "Can you both shut up. You won't die!!!" I swear it was exhausting and exhilarating at the same time. I never wanted to bring this down. Every pages, words, letters, punctuation and spaces made my heart flutter and sometimes made me grab the mattress of my bed because of the freaking intense scenes and new blazing stuffs like new characters and new worlds.
Jessica Sorensen made a world that's so wonderful and dangerous at the same time. The idea of a fallen star landing on Earth, the Foreseers & Keepers, the faeries, witches, vampires, the underworld, the queens of the different world, the quest of Gemma & Alex, the stretch out hand of Laylen & Aislin whenever and wherever, the antagonists' never ending evil doings, the ghosts, were all brought to a different and unique level that I can't fathom how good it was. The book was well-written and the characters were well-woven as each books passed. The story progressed in a slow and well detailed pace that I think it was one of its number one success of the whole series.
In this book, everything had come to an end, including the evils that Stephan & Dimitrus was. Gemma and Alex was put into a very fatal situation where their relationship was tested to its extreme. What really amazed and fascinated me was despite how complicated everything was, the author was able to put every puzzle piece together and everything was put in perfect shape like every piece perfectly fitted each other. My mind was on a game where i can't predict what's going to happen next that's why stopping to take a break seemed like a total bummer. The characters that appeared in this book was a total mystery to me. My mouth agape on how these new characters brought the answers to Gemma and Alex. Most of the time I was yelling, "WHAT THE ACTUAL FUCK?" or "DID THAT JUST FREAKING HAPPENED?" No exaggeration, it really happened to me and it might happened to anyone hooked in this book/series.
The secondary characters like Aislin, Laylen and Nicholas were all adorable, well except the fact that Nicholas has this annoying voice and aura while Aislin & Laylen somewhat appeared a threat towards Alex. Ailin was a cry baby here but I loved how she discovered more spells and consumed more power for the betterment of all of them, while Laylen was this very mysterious vampire here which I can't decipher whether he loves Gemma or Aislin. I'm confused, Laylen!!! I really liked Aislin ever since the series started up to its end. She had this i-won't-give-up aura and determination all over her body. I salute her for such commendable will.
Don't start with Gemma and Alex cause I think I'll flip shits.
KINKY ALEX IS KINKY!! It was a turn on okay, I giggled while reading this scene where Gemma was almost turned to a Black Angel. I kept this mantra on me "This is the romance I'm yearning for" which is really true. Alex and Gemma's relationship was one of the best couple I've ever read. Their relationship wasn't the easiest infact I think it's one of the most perplexing relationship ever. I'm always craving for more of them but then again they can't be together that close (which means sexual frustration was very smoldering because always interrupted by those electricity shits). They made me frustrated, tensed and shaky. Whenever Alex give Gemma "the stare" my insides flipped and I'm about to vomit rainbows. I loved how their relationship revolved and ameliorated, it was a total world turner reading how they both discovered the truth. Their souls are bonded forever, so I guess they are stuck with each other for FOREM. Shiz, that word kept hunting me ever since book 2. It was a reminder that I shed tears, burst out giggles and smiled out of either frustration or bliss. I just love them both. Everything improved, corrected and mended the way everything should be.
Aleesa will certainly play a big role on the spin-off. I am just not sure whether it'll be for the good or the bad, but one thing I'm certain of is I really like to discover more about Aleesa. This book and the previous one only gave me a glimpse of her character that's why I'm craving for more of her. See you in Lost Souls Aleesa.
I just want to mention the moral lesson Anabella emphasized in this book. I think their conversation lit up the whole concept of the whole series.
I loved every bits of this book and series. I'm moving forward now, moving my way to the spin off. The whole series exceeded my expectation and I'm glad I read it. If you love paranormal with a mind blowing and heart-fluttering plot then you should grab the whole 4 books of this series and start reading it. I didn't regret devouring this series and I think paranormal junkies will also loved it the way I loved it. It brought out a different reading experience for me and I thank Jessica Sorensen for creating this series which I will always look up to.
It's done! The fallen star series is done, atleast on my part I'm done. I stayed up till 2am to finish this magnificent paranormal book. This is the last installment of the Fallen Star series and I would like to commend Jessica Sorensen for ending it with swoon-fest scene. I'm actually surprised that Jessica didn't end it with a CLIFFHANGER knowing that she's the queen of cliffhangers and also knowing that this has a spin-off.
I was on a whirlpool of emotions while reading this book. Each pages felt like a vacuum sucking air out of me. I just can't breathe!! This book made me laugh, cry, swoon, squirm, annoy (antagonist's side), smile A LOT, worry and all sorts of raw emotions I can think off. It also made me pull my hair out of frustration. I just want to jump inside the book and hollered at them, "Can you both shut up. You won't die!!!" I swear it was exhausting and exhilarating at the same time. I never wanted to bring this down. Every pages, words, letters, punctuation and spaces made my heart flutter and sometimes made me grab the mattress of my bed because of the freaking intense scenes and new blazing stuffs like new characters and new worlds.
Jessica Sorensen made a world that's so wonderful and dangerous at the same time. The idea of a fallen star landing on Earth, the Foreseers & Keepers, the faeries, witches, vampires, the underworld, the queens of the different world, the quest of Gemma & Alex, the stretch out hand of Laylen & Aislin whenever and wherever, the antagonists' never ending evil doings, the ghosts, were all brought to a different and unique level that I can't fathom how good it was. The book was well-written and the characters were well-woven as each books passed. The story progressed in a slow and well detailed pace that I think it was one of its number one success of the whole series.
In this book, everything had come to an end, including the evils that Stephan & Dimitrus was. Gemma and Alex was put into a very fatal situation where their relationship was tested to its extreme. What really amazed and fascinated me was despite how complicated everything was, the author was able to put every puzzle piece together and everything was put in perfect shape like every piece perfectly fitted each other. My mind was on a game where i can't predict what's going to happen next that's why stopping to take a break seemed like a total bummer. The characters that appeared in this book was a total mystery to me. My mouth agape on how these new characters brought the answers to Gemma and Alex. Most of the time I was yelling, "WHAT THE ACTUAL FUCK?" or "DID THAT JUST FREAKING HAPPENED?" No exaggeration, it really happened to me and it might happened to anyone hooked in this book/series.
The secondary characters like Aislin, Laylen and Nicholas were all adorable, well except the fact that Nicholas has this annoying voice and aura while Aislin & Laylen somewhat appeared a threat towards Alex. Ailin was a cry baby here but I loved how she discovered more spells and consumed more power for the betterment of all of them, while Laylen was this very mysterious vampire here which I can't decipher whether he loves Gemma or Aislin. I'm confused, Laylen!!! I really liked Aislin ever since the series started up to its end. She had this i-won't-give-up aura and determination all over her body. I salute her for such commendable will.
Don't start with Gemma and Alex cause I think I'll flip shits.
He paused, his eyes doing a quick sweep up my body, and a dark look crossed his face.
“You can keep the dress, though, if you want to.”
I stared at him blankly, but on the inside my heart was about to explode. “Keep looking at me like that,” I said, my voice surprisingly steady. “And you’re going to kill us both right where we stand.”
KINKY ALEX IS KINKY!! It was a turn on okay, I giggled while reading this scene where Gemma was almost turned to a Black Angel. I kept this mantra on me "This is the romance I'm yearning for" which is really true. Alex and Gemma's relationship was one of the best couple I've ever read. Their relationship wasn't the easiest infact I think it's one of the most perplexing relationship ever. I'm always craving for more of them but then again they can't be together that close (which means sexual frustration was very smoldering because always interrupted by those electricity shits). They made me frustrated, tensed and shaky. Whenever Alex give Gemma "the stare" my insides flipped and I'm about to vomit rainbows. I loved how their relationship revolved and ameliorated, it was a total world turner reading how they both discovered the truth. Their souls are bonded forever, so I guess they are stuck with each other for FOREM. Shiz, that word kept hunting me ever since book 2. It was a reminder that I shed tears, burst out giggles and smiled out of either frustration or bliss. I just love them both. Everything improved, corrected and mended the way everything should be.
“Aleesa’s weird.” He smiled, moving his lips for mine. “And what does it matter if she’s happy.”
“You’re right,” I said and met him the rest of the way, pressing my lips to his.
We kissed, our souls beating as one. Always and forever.
Aleesa will certainly play a big role on the spin-off. I am just not sure whether it'll be for the good or the bad, but one thing I'm certain of is I really like to discover more about Aleesa. This book and the previous one only gave me a glimpse of her character that's why I'm craving for more of her. See you in Lost Souls Aleesa.
I just want to mention the moral lesson Anabella emphasized in this book. I think their conversation lit up the whole concept of the whole series.
“Nothing’s ever easy.”
“Sometimes it is.” She urged the orb at me. “But it’s the easy answers that humans question, which only makes it complicated.”
“I think I understand,” I said, and gently picked up the orb of essence, which was warm in my hand like sunshine.
“Remember,” she said. “Not everything is as hard as you think. Sometimes the answers are right in front of us.”
I loved every bits of this book and series. I'm moving forward now, moving my way to the spin off. The whole series exceeded my expectation and I'm glad I read it. If you love paranormal with a mind blowing and heart-fluttering plot then you should grab the whole 4 books of this series and start reading it. I didn't regret devouring this series and I think paranormal junkies will also loved it the way I loved it. It brought out a different reading experience for me and I thank Jessica Sorensen for creating this series which I will always look up to.
April 8, 2012
Wow. What a great way to end a FANTASTIC series! Honestly, it was perfect.
I was drawn into this Fallen Star world, a little skeptically I might add. I was super frustrated with the first book, to the point where I didn't think I liked it. And I think now, I might how mistook my feelings for anticipation, because thinking back I can't remember why I didn't like it. I have loved the characters, Alex, Aislin, Gemma, Laylen and of course Nicholas and loved the whole concept.
I also loved that in this book, there were alternately viewpoints. So readers got to experience what Alex was feeling/thinking, which I thought was a super exciting aspect. It made every emotion that had even more real.
Jessica Sorensen has beautifully captivated her audience and left us wanting for more. I read a lot of series and I always tell myself that I will spend a little time with each book (you know getting to them eventually...) but I found that difficult to do with the Fallen Star series. Once I read the first book, I couldn't even wait to buy the next two, likewise when the last one came out, that night I purchased it. Needless to say, it's difficult to hold my attention and cause me to read things super quickly but once in a while, when something is SO good that it just needs to be read....as soon as possible.
I think it's obviously that this series is a MUST READ for everyone who believes that there is good in this world and who believes that everyone can get there own happy ending. Two important hopes that I hold dear in my own life.
I had a couple of favorite quotes...but my favorite was definitely:
*Alex* "I shook my head, rubbing my thumb between her brows, erasing her worry. "No, everything's fine." And I wasn't lying to her. Like my mother said, my life was made to protect her. And that's exactly what I would do, until I took my last breath.
And maybe even after that."
OMGOD, if that doesn't make your heart melt, I don't know what will!!! <3<3<3<3<3<3
Thank you Jessica for a fantastic series! I can't wait to read your other books as well. :)
I was drawn into this Fallen Star world, a little skeptically I might add. I was super frustrated with the first book, to the point where I didn't think I liked it. And I think now, I might how mistook my feelings for anticipation, because thinking back I can't remember why I didn't like it. I have loved the characters, Alex, Aislin, Gemma, Laylen and of course Nicholas and loved the whole concept.
I also loved that in this book, there were alternately viewpoints. So readers got to experience what Alex was feeling/thinking, which I thought was a super exciting aspect. It made every emotion that had even more real.
Jessica Sorensen has beautifully captivated her audience and left us wanting for more. I read a lot of series and I always tell myself that I will spend a little time with each book (you know getting to them eventually...) but I found that difficult to do with the Fallen Star series. Once I read the first book, I couldn't even wait to buy the next two, likewise when the last one came out, that night I purchased it. Needless to say, it's difficult to hold my attention and cause me to read things super quickly but once in a while, when something is SO good that it just needs to be read....as soon as possible.
I think it's obviously that this series is a MUST READ for everyone who believes that there is good in this world and who believes that everyone can get there own happy ending. Two important hopes that I hold dear in my own life.
I had a couple of favorite quotes...but my favorite was definitely:
*Alex* "I shook my head, rubbing my thumb between her brows, erasing her worry. "No, everything's fine." And I wasn't lying to her. Like my mother said, my life was made to protect her. And that's exactly what I would do, until I took my last breath.
And maybe even after that."
OMGOD, if that doesn't make your heart melt, I don't know what will!!! <3<3<3<3<3<3
Thank you Jessica for a fantastic series! I can't wait to read your other books as well. :)
December 27, 2012
I finished this entire series in a weeks time. There are 4 books total and it is an easy read. This book caught my attention mainly because the first book "Fallen Star" had an interesting cover and well it was free in kindle form. I am open to reading a book for free or .99 and this book met its qualifications. I am a big reader in the supernatural kind and most of them in some form or another have vampires in it. This book also had vampires but it also had so much more and done with a twist. There were Foreseers, Keepers, Witches, Fairies, Death Walkers, Evil beings, and much more. The series revolves around Gemma who is a girl with a piece of a fallen star inside her. Everyone is trying to keep her safe because they were told she is the key to keeping the underworld closed, but what we learn is her and Alex, her protector both have a piece of the star in them and unless its destroyed the portal will open which means they have to die. The series is the obstacles they face to ensure the world doesn't end and well they want to ensure they don't have to die. They both make the ultimate sacrifice and try and save the other person by making deals and because of what they did in the end they were both brought back to life to live their lives with the stars essence destroyed.
You can tell the author enjoys writing and has a great imagination for writing books, however I noticed that as the series went on there were more and more errors. It seemed like she started to rush more as the series went on (this would be my only complaint) and you would find misspelled words and as simple as some of the characters names.
Other than that great series and she is creating a spin off series called The Fallen Soul Series which I will be reading!
You can tell the author enjoys writing and has a great imagination for writing books, however I noticed that as the series went on there were more and more errors. It seemed like she started to rush more as the series went on (this would be my only complaint) and you would find misspelled words and as simple as some of the characters names.
Other than that great series and she is creating a spin off series called The Fallen Soul Series which I will be reading!
June 2, 2012
I was blown away by this whole series. I loved it, and could not put the book down (my kindle, lol) until I finished the whole book. This final installment did NOT disappoint. I loved how Gemma and Alex finally figured out their feelings for each other. Loved how we actually got to see 2 endings, the visions, and what really happens. It was great. I am actually reading the series over again, can't get enough. I can't wait for the spin off book. The Lost Soul (Fallen Souls Series book 1)
Visit Jessica Sorensen to see all of her books. If you liked this series, then check out her new series called Darkness Falls and the 2nd in series Darkness Breaks
You can also find extras at her website http://jessicasorensensblog.blogspot....
My blog will have more reviews and extras too http://concisebookreviewsbymichelle.b...
Visit Jessica Sorensen to see all of her books. If you liked this series, then check out her new series called Darkness Falls and the 2nd in series Darkness Breaks
You can also find extras at her website http://jessicasorensensblog.blogspot....
My blog will have more reviews and extras too http://concisebookreviewsbymichelle.b...
April 11, 2012
4.5/5
I freaking adored this series and the last book was filled with such awesomeness! It was awesome, just plain freaking awesome. Through out the whole series Gemma was stubborn and one of the best heroines ever. Alex was the jealous, tough guy which I loved by the way. Laylen was the most awesome vampire ever and I still have a huge crush on him.....It seems to deepening, actually. Aislin was her own cheerful self. And the bad guys were still the bad guys...obviously. This whole series was fan-freaking-tastic. I loved every single thing about the characters, the plot and the bonds the happened between the characters. All the forgiveness, the betrayals, the love, the sacrifices. Everything.
The promise was the perfect ending for this series. It contained all the adventure, the action and love that could ever be contained in such a book. I loved it! Highly recommended!
I freaking adored this series and the last book was filled with such awesomeness! It was awesome, just plain freaking awesome. Through out the whole series Gemma was stubborn and one of the best heroines ever. Alex was the jealous, tough guy which I loved by the way. Laylen was the most awesome vampire ever and I still have a huge crush on him.....It seems to deepening, actually. Aislin was her own cheerful self. And the bad guys were still the bad guys...obviously. This whole series was fan-freaking-tastic. I loved every single thing about the characters, the plot and the bonds the happened between the characters. All the forgiveness, the betrayals, the love, the sacrifices. Everything.
The promise was the perfect ending for this series. It contained all the adventure, the action and love that could ever be contained in such a book. I loved it! Highly recommended!
March 25, 2012
Incredibly rushed with too many loose strings but still a satisfying ending to a great series
May 7, 2017
3.5 stars for overall execution, but the plot was def a 4.
And that's a wrap!!! (sorta)
This series was a lot of fun. Laylen literally wins best fictional dude friend ever, and they didn't even have to make him gay, which was awesome!!!
Aislin and her sudden magical prowess was bit of a cop out, but hey, not the worst deus ex machina I've ever seen.
end was predictable once Gemma and Alex started keeping secrets from each other, but whatever, they were so freaking cute together I didn't even care.
so, I enjoyed it a lot, despite some minor plot flaws, but it could never be a 5 star because heavens above, DID THIS BOOK EVER SEE THE EYES OF AN EDITOR!?!?
The mistakes were in abundance and atrocious. I literally cringed when it got to be just too many for me to take. I'm not a grammar freak by any means, but this was just BAD. It's like Sorensen wrote a first draft then just freaking published it.
Also the story just kind of picks up in a weird spot. Aislin knows how to remove the Malefiscus mark ( but we don't find out how). and Aislin and Laylen now have the mark ( But it's just casually mentioned). It was like really big plot points were just casually thrown in. I looked back so fast I swear I got whiplash.
Also, this is officially the end of this series, (though there is a spin-off) that continues the series. That being said, the book shouldn't have ended with an open ending making way for the spin-off. This story should have been closed, with the spin off being a fun way to reintroduce the world without having to leave the original series open ended. Seriously, what if we don't want to read the spin-off. Now I have to because you wrote an open ending. Will I read it? Yeah, at some point to sure, but I need a break from this world for now. BUT WHAT I'M TRYING TO SAY IS: this particular open ending was done in very poor taste, me thinks.
So, it's really hard to actually rate this book and give a wholesome recommendation, so let's break it down shall we?
plot: 4
romance: 4
grammar/literature: 1.5
Ending 3.5
average: 3.5 stars
If you like my review, considering taking a peek and my blog here
And that's a wrap!!! (sorta)
This series was a lot of fun. Laylen literally wins best fictional dude friend ever, and they didn't even have to make him gay, which was awesome!!!
Aislin and her sudden magical prowess was bit of a cop out, but hey, not the worst deus ex machina I've ever seen.
end was predictable once Gemma and Alex started keeping secrets from each other, but whatever, they were so freaking cute together I didn't even care.
so, I enjoyed it a lot, despite some minor plot flaws, but it could never be a 5 star because heavens above, DID THIS BOOK EVER SEE THE EYES OF AN EDITOR!?!?
The mistakes were in abundance and atrocious. I literally cringed when it got to be just too many for me to take. I'm not a grammar freak by any means, but this was just BAD. It's like Sorensen wrote a first draft then just freaking published it.
Also the story just kind of picks up in a weird spot. Aislin knows how to remove the Malefiscus mark ( but we don't find out how). and Aislin and Laylen now have the mark ( But it's just casually mentioned). It was like really big plot points were just casually thrown in. I looked back so fast I swear I got whiplash.
Also, this is officially the end of this series, (though there is a spin-off) that continues the series. That being said, the book shouldn't have ended with an open ending making way for the spin-off. This story should have been closed, with the spin off being a fun way to reintroduce the world without having to leave the original series open ended. Seriously, what if we don't want to read the spin-off. Now I have to because you wrote an open ending. Will I read it? Yeah, at some point to sure, but I need a break from this world for now. BUT WHAT I'M TRYING TO SAY IS: this particular open ending was done in very poor taste, me thinks.
So, it's really hard to actually rate this book and give a wholesome recommendation, so let's break it down shall we?
plot: 4
romance: 4
grammar/literature: 1.5
Ending 3.5
average: 3.5 stars
If you like my review, considering taking a peek and my blog here
January 12, 2025
genuinely so many grammar and spelling errors wtf 😭
August 15, 2025
Ending was rushed and kind of cringe.
July 30, 2012
The Promise is the final book in the Fallen Star series and I'll have to say, I honestly liked it the least.
Alex is gone and the book is told from both Alex and Gemma's point of view. I found that took a bit of getting used to when I was so used to the other three books being told from Gemma's point of view. I found myself having to go back to the beginning of each chapter to make sure I knew who was telling what part of the story.
The group is fractured in this book. I was glad to see them come back together, but parts of it felt too easy.
Again, the ending of this book really didn't do it for me. I never really felt the closure or the happily ever after in the series. After all that everyone had been through, I was expecting a little bit more, but it just...ended.
My final thoughts - the series itself is original in its concept and very interestingly done. I liked the different take on the supernatural beings and the roles they played in the story. I would have like more depth in the emotions and the finale, but that's my personal taste.
Alex is gone and the book is told from both Alex and Gemma's point of view. I found that took a bit of getting used to when I was so used to the other three books being told from Gemma's point of view. I found myself having to go back to the beginning of each chapter to make sure I knew who was telling what part of the story.
The group is fractured in this book. I was glad to see them come back together, but parts of it felt too easy.
Again, the ending of this book really didn't do it for me. I never really felt the closure or the happily ever after in the series. After all that everyone had been through, I was expecting a little bit more, but it just...ended.
My final thoughts - the series itself is original in its concept and very interestingly done. I liked the different take on the supernatural beings and the roles they played in the story. I would have like more depth in the emotions and the finale, but that's my personal taste.
September 20, 2012
ARC reviewed by Gabi for Book Sake.
Like book three, I purchased this so I could complete the story of Gemma and the Fallen Star series. In this book it seems like the world is ending (literally) and we finally learn what Gemma and Alex’s are doing to save it. The Promise brought back the creativity that I enjoyed so much in the first two books of the series, and I was not disappointed in how the series ended.
I can’t really say too much without giving any spoilers, but if you, like me, enjoyed books one and two, then make sure you finish up the story and read book four. This story really isn’t like others that I have read, and while I think fans of the Harry Potter series might like it, I think those who like Twilight would as well so it is diverse enough to please readers that like both romance and action in a paranormal young adult novel. I enjoyed how the entire series wrapped up, and it made me much more likely to read the spin off series based on the Fallen Star.
Book Received: For free from publisher in exchange for an honest review
Like book three, I purchased this so I could complete the story of Gemma and the Fallen Star series. In this book it seems like the world is ending (literally) and we finally learn what Gemma and Alex’s are doing to save it. The Promise brought back the creativity that I enjoyed so much in the first two books of the series, and I was not disappointed in how the series ended.
I can’t really say too much without giving any spoilers, but if you, like me, enjoyed books one and two, then make sure you finish up the story and read book four. This story really isn’t like others that I have read, and while I think fans of the Harry Potter series might like it, I think those who like Twilight would as well so it is diverse enough to please readers that like both romance and action in a paranormal young adult novel. I enjoyed how the entire series wrapped up, and it made me much more likely to read the spin off series based on the Fallen Star.
Book Received: For free from publisher in exchange for an honest review
March 31, 2012
This is one of those few series that, at least to me, was espectacular from the very first to the very last book. I can say that when I found out about the spin-off series from Gemmas POV I was ecstatic! One of my favorite couples will continue on living in another series! That's all an Alex stalker wants in her life....(OK OK I mean me, back off guys)...C;
This book was the cherry on top of an amazing book series ending. I only have one compliant and I'm sure all of you fans (yea, I'm talking to you, sitting there, reading this) do as well. More Alex & Gemma together time! (That's the reason for the 4 STARS & not 5.) Yea I finally said what no one else would say, seeeee!
I almost cried in most parts of the story, especially those moments when I thought the love of my life Alex was going to die C;
June 3, 2012
A satisfying end to a wonderful series. There were a few loose ends that I wish had been wrapped up, like Laylen and Aislin and what direction their lives head... but I think everything ends for Gemma and Alex just as it should. I particularly enjoyed that this book was written from both Alex's and Gemma's points of view. It added depth to their story, seeing how both of them truly wanted the best for each other. The emotional connection was so much deeper seeing it from both of their eyes. The way their thoughts mirrored was such a great way to lead into the ending. It did create some what of a predictable ending but it was wonderful just the same. I'm glad I came across this series and look forward to the spin off series ahead.
Overall a great book and a really fun, quick paced series.
Overall a great book and a really fun, quick paced series.
June 5, 2013
after finishing this series I feel....relieved. overall I think this series had a lot of potential. I thought it was different from the typical YA paranormal vampire/faerie/werewolf book. Bottomline: I didn't like this series.
The elements I didn't like:
By this final book the spelling & grammatical errors were too much. The author needs a new editor.
Where was the Villain this whole series?
Why is it that Gemma would have a deep thought followed by a stupid comment?
I know this is paranormal fiction but was it just me or did a lot of things just not make sense?
Why can't I have a dollar for everytime the author wrote freaking out?
I know that Alex was experiencing conflicting feelings but he sounded like he needed medication.
Why 4 books? The last book was more like a pamphlet.
The elements I liked:
Happy ending
somewhat original story.
This work was freaking!
...... meh?
The elements I didn't like:
By this final book the spelling & grammatical errors were too much. The author needs a new editor.
Where was the Villain this whole series?
Why is it that Gemma would have a deep thought followed by a stupid comment?
I know this is paranormal fiction but was it just me or did a lot of things just not make sense?
Why can't I have a dollar for everytime the author wrote freaking out?
I know that Alex was experiencing conflicting feelings but he sounded like he needed medication.
Why 4 books? The last book was more like a pamphlet.
The elements I liked:
Happy ending
somewhat original story.
This work was freaking!
...... meh?
August 15, 2013
With better editing and more consistency I would have rated this higher, but there were too many things that didn't flow.
1) Chapters are mixed between Gemma and Alex unevenly. There is no rhyme or reason to each chapter separation. It goes 3 chapters of Gemma, 1 chapter of Alex, 1 Chapter Gemma, 1 Chapter Alex... No real logic. Also, the narration is exactly the same. The voices of Alex and Gemma have no differences and I often got confused about which narration I was reading.
2) Inconsistency with ghosts. Gemma was the only person to ever hear the ghosts without seeing them. Then Laylen heard Nicholas once, then he couldn't, then Alex heard him once, and couldn't and then they all could hear him...
3) Lots of spelling errors, even character names. EX: Laylen, Layolen.
With a better editor this could have been much better. The book just seemed so rushed.
1) Chapters are mixed between Gemma and Alex unevenly. There is no rhyme or reason to each chapter separation. It goes 3 chapters of Gemma, 1 chapter of Alex, 1 Chapter Gemma, 1 Chapter Alex... No real logic. Also, the narration is exactly the same. The voices of Alex and Gemma have no differences and I often got confused about which narration I was reading.
2) Inconsistency with ghosts. Gemma was the only person to ever hear the ghosts without seeing them. Then Laylen heard Nicholas once, then he couldn't, then Alex heard him once, and couldn't and then they all could hear him...
3) Lots of spelling errors, even character names. EX: Laylen, Layolen.
With a better editor this could have been much better. The book just seemed so rushed.
July 13, 2012
I don't mean to pick on this author and series in particular, but I've reached my breaking point. So many of the self-published ebooks, and even some supposedly edited hardcovers I've read lately, have horrible grammar and spelling issues. It makes me crazy! An elementary schooler should know the difference between "vile" and "vial". Don't even get me started on your and you're or there, their, and they're. How about "quite" and "quiet"? While many of these books have excellent stories and characters, I just can't help enjoying them much less. Thus ends my rant, applicable to not just this series, but many.
January 28, 2016
Aaargh!!! I hate this. Yu gotta be freaking kidding me. what kind of explanation is this? One second something bad happens and the next second another thing happens which isn't even related. The whole story line sucks anyway!!!This book made me so damn frustrated! i wanted to kill somebody. The manner in which the story unfolds. God !! why the heck did i start this series? I decided to finish this even though it was a pain in a butt (believe me it was) because i didn't want another DNF . I thought this series was gonna be amazing like The coincidence coming from the same writer but this was sorely disappointing.
March 30, 2012
I enjoyed this series overall. The author is very creative, but best of all clean! I appreciated that the language never got worse than "heck" (ok, so sh** does show up here in the last book once), and there was a moment when Alex and Gemma could definitely have done the boom-chicka-wow-wow, but the author chose to make that moment loving but pure and I LOVED that! I don't think most authors would have done that.
The story was fun and entertaining and I can't ask for much more out of a series! I'm excited to start this author's new series!
The story was fun and entertaining and I can't ask for much more out of a series! I'm excited to start this author's new series!
July 4, 2012
The story is excellent, told at a great pace, there is so much more that could be told so I'm looking forward to starting to read the lost souls books. However, the grammatical errors became really annoying and interrupted the steady flow of the narration for me. Mostly homonym errors, but enough of them to make me grind my teeth.
That being said: quick, pleasant read, likable characters, liked the plot. Would definitely want more stories involving these four!
That being said: quick, pleasant read, likable characters, liked the plot. Would definitely want more stories involving these four!
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