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Neophyte
Addisyn White thought she had her new life, her after life, all figured out. Granted death had not brought her to the pearly white gates, she hadn’t even left Earth. But death had its perks; she got to live forever with her best friend and her assigned Link of Angels, in a beautiful beach house. Even with the changes she was going through to turn her human body into an angelic one, everything seemed pretty easy. Until a gray winged angel comes into her life, then all the secrets and lies her Link had been keeping start crumbling away, exposing a whole new world of dangers she didn’t even know about.
Now Addisyn must fill in the blanks before things escalate too far. Will she save her Link? Or will she be buried in their secrets forever?
Now Addisyn must fill in the blanks before things escalate too far. Will she save her Link? Or will she be buried in their secrets forever?
313 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 22, 2012
1 person is currently reading
581 people want to read
About the author
Emmalee Aple
4 books41 followersEmmalee Aple was born and raised in Wisconsin, but always dreamed of life on the coast. Now, grown with a handsome computer geeky husband and two beautiful blonde monsters of her own, she uses what spare time she can manage to squeeze out of her day, writing, sewing and crafting. Emmalee’s debut novel, Neophyte, was released in February 2012. She is excited to share the beginning of this story with you, and is currently busy working on Rogue, the second book in this series.
Emmalee lives off of carmel fraps and sprees. She strongly believes that a childs imagination is the most important part of growing up, and that the cleaning elves are avoiding her messy house.
She loves a good book that sucks you in and doesnt let go until the pages run out. And can not get enough of the show Glee. (Although she will admit she DVRs Degrassi, Pretty Little Liars, Vampire Diaries and Fringe).
Growing up her favorite movie was Annie and she knows all the lyrics to almost every disney song!
Did you know that Emmalee has her own fan club? Become a member today for exclusive deleted scenes and up to date news about other Emmalee Aple books! http://www.goodreads.com/group/show/7...
Emmalee lives off of carmel fraps and sprees. She strongly believes that a childs imagination is the most important part of growing up, and that the cleaning elves are avoiding her messy house.
She loves a good book that sucks you in and doesnt let go until the pages run out. And can not get enough of the show Glee. (Although she will admit she DVRs Degrassi, Pretty Little Liars, Vampire Diaries and Fringe).
Growing up her favorite movie was Annie and she knows all the lyrics to almost every disney song!
Did you know that Emmalee has her own fan club? Become a member today for exclusive deleted scenes and up to date news about other Emmalee Aple books! http://www.goodreads.com/group/show/7...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
July 5, 2016
I am such a sucker for angel stories. What makes this one so irresistible for me is the fact that it’s not filled with fallen angels. When I first started reading I was like a chicken with its head freshly cut off. I couldn’t get a handle on what was going on. But in the end Apple pulled the rabbit out of the hat.
I was a little off put the Links that insisted on keeping secrets from Addison. Oh, and how sweet is that her best friend is a guy. I was utterly and completely emotionally wrapped up in book.
As strange as it may be for some to comprehend I laughed, I cried, I sighed and I clung to the edge of my chair in anticipation. Apple is a talented new author and I most defiantly will be expecting more from her and I can’t wait for Addison’s story to continue.
If this book is on your to-read list, move it immediately to the top your reading list. If you haven’t picked up your copy yet, my gosh what are you waiting for? You will not be disappointed.
I was a little off put the Links that insisted on keeping secrets from Addison. Oh, and how sweet is that her best friend is a guy. I was utterly and completely emotionally wrapped up in book.
As strange as it may be for some to comprehend I laughed, I cried, I sighed and I clung to the edge of my chair in anticipation. Apple is a talented new author and I most defiantly will be expecting more from her and I can’t wait for Addison’s story to continue.
If this book is on your to-read list, move it immediately to the top your reading list. If you haven’t picked up your copy yet, my gosh what are you waiting for? You will not be disappointed.
March 2, 2012
(This book was given to me for free by the author on a read-to-review basis.)
18-year-old Addisyn is a neophyte. That is, she’s in the process of becoming an angel.
Shot in her high school cafeteria, Addi was killed instantly, then reborn three days later as a neophyte. That was two years ago, which means that she still has three more years to go before her body fully completes its transition from human to angel, and until then she can still die a human death.
Addisyn lives with 5 other angels: Everett and Wilhelm who are born angels (not changed as Addisyn will be), Greysan (the love interest), Graham (Greysan’s twin), and Hunter (Addisyn’s best friend and companion – Angels are bound in pairs, and Addisyn and Hunter are bound for eternity). As a group of six, they refer to themselves as a ‘Link’ – sort of like an angel family.
What Addisyn doesn’t realise though, is that her Link are keeping secrets from her, in their minds to protect her. This backfires though when an Angel who looks like Greysan tries to kidnap her.
Luckily, Addisyn’s Link are able to save her, but not before she watches Greysan kill the angel that tried to kidnap her. Shocked when she realises that angels can be killed, she demands that her Link tell her what is going on.
Her Link have many secrets that they can’t tell her though, and as more and more is revealed to Addi, the more confused she gets. But with both brightly glowing angels and grey angels following her around, and her Link thinking that they are protecting her by not telling her things, Addisyn doesn’t understand the danger that she’s in.
I’m in two minds about this book, at the beginning I felt a bit like I had been dropped in at the deep end – there was so much going on, the characters were all new, and I found it really difficult to keep track of what was going on. After the initial excitement though, things took a totally different turn, with Addisyn starting to date Greysan, and going to prom, and the threat of the other angels was almost forgotten at times!
The romance angle was also quite different when it started too. It sort of felt to me like a friend describing her feelings for their boyfriend, rather than actually feeling like I was experiencing it myself. I can’t put my finger on why though!
Thankfully, these little niggles seemed to have ironed themselves out by about half-way through and I found myself really wanting to know what happened next. There were a few instances where I just thought what?! They are in here (don’t want to spoil it for anyone) -
As much as there were things that annoyed me about this story though, there were also things that I loved. I loved the way that Addisyn continued to stick up for herself against the rest of her Link, and continued to try and convince them that she wasn’t a baby and needed to be able to protect herself, even though they continually shot her down.
Even though she was in some cases hundreds of years younger, they did try to make her feel small at times by continually carrying her around and telling her when it was time for her to go to bed, and it was nice to find a heroine who would not stand for being bossed about by men who think they are older and wiser!
I loved the way that Addisyn also continued to fight for the other unclaimed angels, even though the others told her it was too late to save them, as this really showed her character, and her determination to do the right thing.
I also loved the ending. Enough of an ending for there to be an ending, but with enough insight to make you very excited about the adventures that are coming next for Addi! I must admit that even as undecided as I am on some aspects of this book, I do really want to read the next instalment!
Thanks Emmalee for an enjoyable read!
Well worth a read. 7 out of 10.
Added on: The author assures me that some of the above questions will be answered in the next book! Yay!
18-year-old Addisyn is a neophyte. That is, she’s in the process of becoming an angel.
Shot in her high school cafeteria, Addi was killed instantly, then reborn three days later as a neophyte. That was two years ago, which means that she still has three more years to go before her body fully completes its transition from human to angel, and until then she can still die a human death.
Addisyn lives with 5 other angels: Everett and Wilhelm who are born angels (not changed as Addisyn will be), Greysan (the love interest), Graham (Greysan’s twin), and Hunter (Addisyn’s best friend and companion – Angels are bound in pairs, and Addisyn and Hunter are bound for eternity). As a group of six, they refer to themselves as a ‘Link’ – sort of like an angel family.
What Addisyn doesn’t realise though, is that her Link are keeping secrets from her, in their minds to protect her. This backfires though when an Angel who looks like Greysan tries to kidnap her.
Luckily, Addisyn’s Link are able to save her, but not before she watches Greysan kill the angel that tried to kidnap her. Shocked when she realises that angels can be killed, she demands that her Link tell her what is going on.
Her Link have many secrets that they can’t tell her though, and as more and more is revealed to Addi, the more confused she gets. But with both brightly glowing angels and grey angels following her around, and her Link thinking that they are protecting her by not telling her things, Addisyn doesn’t understand the danger that she’s in.
I’m in two minds about this book, at the beginning I felt a bit like I had been dropped in at the deep end – there was so much going on, the characters were all new, and I found it really difficult to keep track of what was going on. After the initial excitement though, things took a totally different turn, with Addisyn starting to date Greysan, and going to prom, and the threat of the other angels was almost forgotten at times!
The romance angle was also quite different when it started too. It sort of felt to me like a friend describing her feelings for their boyfriend, rather than actually feeling like I was experiencing it myself. I can’t put my finger on why though!
Thankfully, these little niggles seemed to have ironed themselves out by about half-way through and I found myself really wanting to know what happened next. There were a few instances where I just thought what?! They are in here (don’t want to spoil it for anyone) -
As much as there were things that annoyed me about this story though, there were also things that I loved. I loved the way that Addisyn continued to stick up for herself against the rest of her Link, and continued to try and convince them that she wasn’t a baby and needed to be able to protect herself, even though they continually shot her down.
Even though she was in some cases hundreds of years younger, they did try to make her feel small at times by continually carrying her around and telling her when it was time for her to go to bed, and it was nice to find a heroine who would not stand for being bossed about by men who think they are older and wiser!
I loved the way that Addisyn also continued to fight for the other unclaimed angels, even though the others told her it was too late to save them, as this really showed her character, and her determination to do the right thing.
I also loved the ending. Enough of an ending for there to be an ending, but with enough insight to make you very excited about the adventures that are coming next for Addi! I must admit that even as undecided as I am on some aspects of this book, I do really want to read the next instalment!
Thanks Emmalee for an enjoyable read!
Well worth a read. 7 out of 10.
Added on: The author assures me that some of the above questions will be answered in the next book! Yay!
June 12, 2012
I’ll admit, I was very hesitant to read this book since I know Emmalee from here on Goodreads. I’m sure most bloggers can understand that it’s sometimes difficult to start a book if you know the author. The normal questions run through your head, the main one being ‘what if I don’t like it?’. I always give a honest review no matter the source of the book but I would feel bad if I didn’t like it and had to write a negative review.
Once I got over my mental roadblock and started reading I quickly realized that my worrying was very much unfounded. Neophyte is the first angel book that I have loved and it gives me hope that there are more angel books out there that I can enjoy.
There’s a great dynamic within Addisyn’s Link. Each character had their own role to play and I loved each of them and seeing them interact with eachother.While one of favorite characters is Hunter, I felt most connected to the main character Addi. She has been kept in the dark about a lot of things and throughout the book you watch her as she puts together the pieces of her past and the pasts of the other members of the link. Sure, I wanted to yell at her at times (and I did, haha) but I also wanted her to live happily ever after (yes, I'm a complete sucker for happy endings). I can't spoil the ending for you though so you'll just have to read the book to find out if she gets her happy ending.
If you're looking for a new angel book that is interesting, funny, tense, and sometimes emotional then this is definitely a book for you.
Once I got over my mental roadblock and started reading I quickly realized that my worrying was very much unfounded. Neophyte is the first angel book that I have loved and it gives me hope that there are more angel books out there that I can enjoy.
There’s a great dynamic within Addisyn’s Link. Each character had their own role to play and I loved each of them and seeing them interact with eachother.While one of favorite characters is Hunter, I felt most connected to the main character Addi. She has been kept in the dark about a lot of things and throughout the book you watch her as she puts together the pieces of her past and the pasts of the other members of the link. Sure, I wanted to yell at her at times (and I did, haha) but I also wanted her to live happily ever after (yes, I'm a complete sucker for happy endings). I can't spoil the ending for you though so you'll just have to read the book to find out if she gets her happy ending.
If you're looking for a new angel book that is interesting, funny, tense, and sometimes emotional then this is definitely a book for you.
January 8, 2013
First off – let me say that I received this book via Goodreads program Read2Review. I enjoyed this book and rated it 4 Stars.
My thoughts:
I am very excited about Rogue and will be watching for it to come out from Emmalee Aple! Now, on to the review :)
I enjoyed this character – especially the boys – I mean really, who among us doesn’t love a good looking man with a personality?! I loved Hunter and his personality! Addi was great – I loved feeling as confused and conflicted as she was throughout the book. Grey… oh Grey… what can I say? I love a conflicted male character – the fact that Addi is surrounded by all these boys and the issues that arise from that situation just crack me up!
This book had a lot of what I love about reading – the characters seem like real people, the scenes were painted in a way that I could see and hear what was going on at the Beach House, the emotions were believable and I understood what was going on inside Addi’s head. I really enjoyed this book and loved the characters – I have to admit, I even cried during the book… and that right there is enough to describe the emotional connection I felt with this book and the characters.
Like I said above, I am really looking forward to Rogue and what will happen next for Addi and her Link.
Enjoy,
@jendsmit
My thoughts:
I am very excited about Rogue and will be watching for it to come out from Emmalee Aple! Now, on to the review :)
I enjoyed this character – especially the boys – I mean really, who among us doesn’t love a good looking man with a personality?! I loved Hunter and his personality! Addi was great – I loved feeling as confused and conflicted as she was throughout the book. Grey… oh Grey… what can I say? I love a conflicted male character – the fact that Addi is surrounded by all these boys and the issues that arise from that situation just crack me up!
This book had a lot of what I love about reading – the characters seem like real people, the scenes were painted in a way that I could see and hear what was going on at the Beach House, the emotions were believable and I understood what was going on inside Addi’s head. I really enjoyed this book and loved the characters – I have to admit, I even cried during the book… and that right there is enough to describe the emotional connection I felt with this book and the characters.
Like I said above, I am really looking forward to Rogue and what will happen next for Addi and her Link.
Enjoy,
@jendsmit
April 4, 2015
“You’re not very stealthy,” he teased. His eyes let out a small glimmer of playfulness as I finally looked into them. “You’re laying directly above my room.” He pointed to the roof below his body. “It’s not December, so you couldn’t have possibly been Santa Claus.”
There were grammatical errors that put me off at times.
But still, I can't wait for the next book.
Addisyn:
I seriously wanted to slap you back to reality at times.
Your stubborn, but that I liked.
Greysan:
Unfortunately, I fell in love with you.
I love your protectiveness over Addi.
I just love you ;)
Hunter:
OMG, I loved you.
I love how you always had a smirk on your face.
But you needa control your anger.
The ending:
There were grammatical errors that put me off at times.
But still, I can't wait for the next book.
April 1, 2012
Literally just finished reading this book and I'm not exactly sure what to say about it.
The Story
When someone becomes an angel it takes them 5 years for the full transformation into becoming an angel. During this time the person is vulnerable as they are not as fast or strong or have the abilities that a full fledged angel has. Addi finds out that her angel "pack" called a Link is keeping secrets from her "for her own protection" and this puts everyone in danger. Love interest enfolds and a choice can be made whether to be a light or dark angel...basically.
Likes
Uhm...I liked that she had a guy as a best friend!!
I liked the ideas behind the story and the plot.
The ideas were good, but just not expanded on enough...somehow because there seemed to be plenty of pages in the book.
Dislikes
What I mean about not expanded on, what is the deal between Grey and Farren? How does the angel society work, it was hinted on but I didn't get any feel of how it worked, and WTF is the courtyard thing that Everett was talking about when he said that's where the Elders may have sent Addi?
Why were the secrets they were keeping from her for her safety? I didn't see any reason why that information would have helped protect her. Were there more secrets that we didn't find out yet and this was supposed to be confusing?
The fact that too much was put into the relationship and not enough into the world building.
Conclusion
The underlying story was good, but left me feeling like there was too much left out. I can't decide if I am going to read the next book yet or not.
The Story
When someone becomes an angel it takes them 5 years for the full transformation into becoming an angel. During this time the person is vulnerable as they are not as fast or strong or have the abilities that a full fledged angel has. Addi finds out that her angel "pack" called a Link is keeping secrets from her "for her own protection" and this puts everyone in danger. Love interest enfolds and a choice can be made whether to be a light or dark angel...basically.
Likes
Uhm...I liked that she had a guy as a best friend!!
I liked the ideas behind the story and the plot.
The ideas were good, but just not expanded on enough...somehow because there seemed to be plenty of pages in the book.
Dislikes
What I mean about not expanded on, what is the deal between Grey and Farren? How does the angel society work, it was hinted on but I didn't get any feel of how it worked, and WTF is the courtyard thing that Everett was talking about when he said that's where the Elders may have sent Addi?
Why were the secrets they were keeping from her for her safety? I didn't see any reason why that information would have helped protect her. Were there more secrets that we didn't find out yet and this was supposed to be confusing?
The fact that too much was put into the relationship and not enough into the world building.
Conclusion
The underlying story was good, but left me feeling like there was too much left out. I can't decide if I am going to read the next book yet or not.
April 11, 2012
Neophyte is about Addi a teenager who died and has been reborn to live as an angel. She will truly transform in her fifth year; becoming strong and gaining new talents. Until then she is more human and vulnerable to evil influency. Hunter an angel is Addi's companion and has been at her side since childhood all the way upto her death and reborn life. There close friendship is strong and he will do anything to protect her more so then the others in her link. Now we have the evil Farran who wants Addi and her gorgeous love interest Greysan to join his pack. He will stop at nothing to get what he wants and now Addi has to make an important decision to save the life of her new family and love.
I was hoping to give a five star rating but I just wasn't drawn to the book. One of the many dilemmas was not truly understanding why Addi was reborn, or why Farran wants her so badly. I also didn't see the point of the councils I did not get any sense of urgency to follow their rules. Although I'm sure all answers will be introduced in the next book, I found myself with too many unanswered questions which in turn didn't allow me to fully enjoy the book.
I must say toward the end it got interesting to the point I started tearing up in regards to a loss in the link.
I look forward to the next book and hope all the answers will keep me captivated.
I was hoping to give a five star rating but I just wasn't drawn to the book. One of the many dilemmas was not truly understanding why Addi was reborn, or why Farran wants her so badly. I also didn't see the point of the councils I did not get any sense of urgency to follow their rules. Although I'm sure all answers will be introduced in the next book, I found myself with too many unanswered questions which in turn didn't allow me to fully enjoy the book.
I must say toward the end it got interesting to the point I started tearing up in regards to a loss in the link.
I look forward to the next book and hope all the answers will keep me captivated.
March 27, 2012
How many pages did I require to get intrigued in this novel? Only four: when Addisyn decides to give up the book in which she’s engrossed and take a late-night flight (against rules) with the Angel Link she considers the hottest. Only he’s not-not whom she thinks, I mean-and from then on, I was right with this story. Addisyn has been deceased for two years, and as such she is a Changed angel. Of the five in her Link of Angels, some are Changed, as is she; some are Born. When she is temporarily abducted by the grey-winged Sebastian, she realizes immediately that the Link has been secretive; there’s even more to know about the afterlife than she’s already discovered.
Author Emmalee Aple does a lovely job of building up suspense, of reeling out secrets little by little, like playing out the worm on a fishing line. With each paragraph, the reader wants to find out more, and is more hooked to continue the story. Especially as Addy discovers that her own Link is keeping secrets, and Sebastian lets slip that she may be of more value than she has been informed, the need to expose the secrecy nearly explodes in the reader.
I recommend this novel for YA readers (and fans of YA Paranormal).
Author Emmalee Aple does a lovely job of building up suspense, of reeling out secrets little by little, like playing out the worm on a fishing line. With each paragraph, the reader wants to find out more, and is more hooked to continue the story. Especially as Addy discovers that her own Link is keeping secrets, and Sebastian lets slip that she may be of more value than she has been informed, the need to expose the secrecy nearly explodes in the reader.
I recommend this novel for YA readers (and fans of YA Paranormal).
April 30, 2012
Where do I start with this? I really liked this book... like I freaking loved this book. That being said, this was my first angel book. I've been so hesitant to venture into the topic because I've read such mixed reviews. Well let me say that I'm so happy this was my first. This book has everything that really sucks you into a story and doesn't let you go. I was a goner from the first page. The story line flowed well and each character was so fun and unique. I really enjoyed trying to imagine how each of the members of Addisyn's Link interacted with her and each other. Like I said this is my first Angel book so I don't know if the idea of a Link is original to Ms. Aple or if it's common but regardless it's such a neat concept and I really loved it. Oh, and Greysan... be still my beating heart! Greysan threw me for a loop and his devotion to Addisyn shocked me in such a great way. I love how much he loves her! Overall the whole book was fantastic and I CAN NOT WAIT for the next one to come out. I will most definitely be purchasing it.
February 17, 2016
I'm still working on reading this. I can't put it down. If I could get away with it I would read all day but I don't think my bosses would like that too much so I find myself sneaking to read a few pages here and there.
I will have my full review up in a couple of days.
OMG. All I have to say is I loved loved loved it. I am dying for the next book Rogue to come out.
Addyson was in her senior year just a few days away from graduation when she was shot and killed instantly. She became a part of a Link which is a group of angels. Addy is not a full angel yet. It takes 5 years to become an angel. Her link is threatened by a couple of "dark angels". And some drastic things need to happen to keep Addy safe.
I don't want to give anything away. All I can say is it is highly recommended.
I will have my full review up in a couple of days.
OMG. All I have to say is I loved loved loved it. I am dying for the next book Rogue to come out.
Addyson was in her senior year just a few days away from graduation when she was shot and killed instantly. She became a part of a Link which is a group of angels. Addy is not a full angel yet. It takes 5 years to become an angel. Her link is threatened by a couple of "dark angels". And some drastic things need to happen to keep Addy safe.
I don't want to give anything away. All I can say is it is highly recommended.
August 13, 2012
To be Published on K-Books tomorrow.
"My only concern is your safety, first and formost."
Wow, I have no idea where to even start with this review. I was a little skeptical about reading this book at first, not only am I good friends with the author and was terrified I wouldn't like it and what I would say to her if I didn't but also because I am not the biggest fan of angel stories. Don't get me wrong I love my share of angel books but most angel books I find similar to others and I find it very difficult to find an original angel story. Before reading Neophyte the only angel book I've ever really loved is Angel Burn by LA Weatherly. That book is such an original angel book, whereas all the others I've read seem very similar to me (Hush Hush series and Fallen series).
However once I got going with Neophyte I realised all my fear about this book was completely unnecessary. Not only was I completely hooked to the storyline and the characters but it turned out to be one of the most original angel books I've ever read.
Addisyn is an angel, well kind of. She's still kinda human as she hasn't fully transformed into an angel yet. Living with her trusted Link, the other angels helping her through the process of becoming an angel, Addison feels safe and like nothing could go wrong. But then she learns that her link are keeping secrets from her. She is determined to find out the truth, but will she be able to find the truth without putting herself and her Link in danger? Add the romantic complications between Addi and the gorgeous, swoon-worthy Greysan and you are in for a fast-paced action-packed and totally heart-stopping ride.
It's true that I didn't instantly love the book right from the start. From the first chapter I was really intrigued as to what was going to happen, and what the secrets were. One think that I love about Neophyte is that as Addi goes through her journey to finding out the truth and dealing with her feelings for super broody-boy Greysan, we all go through that journey with her. I couldn't put the book down as I just had to keep on reading and find out what was going to happen. Emmalee does a great job of completely grabbing your attention right at the start and not letting it go until the end of the book. I was reading as fast as I possibly could because I was dying to find out what was going to happen.
Addi is such a fantastic character. I absolutely love her. There were times when I really doubted her and found her kind of selfish at the beginning of the book. When she first finds out about danger, it affects the whole link but Addi only thinks 'but what about me' and that really annoyed me and made me not like her at the beginning but she soon grows out of it. One thing I love about books is when the main character really grows as a person throughout the books and Addi really did do that. By the end of the book she is a completely different person and a lot stronger who will do anything to protect her link even if it means she must sacrifice things that she wants.
I completely fell in love with two guys in this book... don't worry there's no love triangle. Hunter, I instantly loved Hunter, Addi's best friend. He is just so sweet and cocky and I love him! I just want to hug him and I want a best friend like Hunter. What I loved about this book is that the best friend didn't secretly harbor feelings for the main character. It's really rare to find a male-female friendship in YA literature where one of them (at least) is not secretly in love with the other so I loved that in this book.
Greysan... *enter dreamy sigh here* he is so sweet and perfect and the guy that every girl will fall in love with. He is definitely the broody type but once you read more you realise all these horrible things that have happened to him and you feel so bad for the guy... I love Greysan and throughout the book I just wanted things to work out for him and Addi. I really love their relationship.
It is so difficult for me to talk about this book rationally because I am so angry about the ending. My heart completely shattered and I cried so bad. I don't think I will ever forgive Emmalee for the ending of this book.
This is one of the best angel books I have ever read and I will be impatiently waiting for the next book. Neophyte has breath-taking romance, heart-stopping action and will have you laughing one moment and crying the next. You will definitely be left pining for more.
Amazing!
"Because I will not chance losing you, I could not live with myself if I lost you, Addisyn."
"My only concern is your safety, first and formost."
Wow, I have no idea where to even start with this review. I was a little skeptical about reading this book at first, not only am I good friends with the author and was terrified I wouldn't like it and what I would say to her if I didn't but also because I am not the biggest fan of angel stories. Don't get me wrong I love my share of angel books but most angel books I find similar to others and I find it very difficult to find an original angel story. Before reading Neophyte the only angel book I've ever really loved is Angel Burn by LA Weatherly. That book is such an original angel book, whereas all the others I've read seem very similar to me (Hush Hush series and Fallen series).
However once I got going with Neophyte I realised all my fear about this book was completely unnecessary. Not only was I completely hooked to the storyline and the characters but it turned out to be one of the most original angel books I've ever read.
Addisyn is an angel, well kind of. She's still kinda human as she hasn't fully transformed into an angel yet. Living with her trusted Link, the other angels helping her through the process of becoming an angel, Addison feels safe and like nothing could go wrong. But then she learns that her link are keeping secrets from her. She is determined to find out the truth, but will she be able to find the truth without putting herself and her Link in danger? Add the romantic complications between Addi and the gorgeous, swoon-worthy Greysan and you are in for a fast-paced action-packed and totally heart-stopping ride.
It's true that I didn't instantly love the book right from the start. From the first chapter I was really intrigued as to what was going to happen, and what the secrets were. One think that I love about Neophyte is that as Addi goes through her journey to finding out the truth and dealing with her feelings for super broody-boy Greysan, we all go through that journey with her. I couldn't put the book down as I just had to keep on reading and find out what was going to happen. Emmalee does a great job of completely grabbing your attention right at the start and not letting it go until the end of the book. I was reading as fast as I possibly could because I was dying to find out what was going to happen.
Addi is such a fantastic character. I absolutely love her. There were times when I really doubted her and found her kind of selfish at the beginning of the book. When she first finds out about danger, it affects the whole link but Addi only thinks 'but what about me' and that really annoyed me and made me not like her at the beginning but she soon grows out of it. One thing I love about books is when the main character really grows as a person throughout the books and Addi really did do that. By the end of the book she is a completely different person and a lot stronger who will do anything to protect her link even if it means she must sacrifice things that she wants.
I completely fell in love with two guys in this book... don't worry there's no love triangle. Hunter, I instantly loved Hunter, Addi's best friend. He is just so sweet and cocky and I love him! I just want to hug him and I want a best friend like Hunter. What I loved about this book is that the best friend didn't secretly harbor feelings for the main character. It's really rare to find a male-female friendship in YA literature where one of them (at least) is not secretly in love with the other so I loved that in this book.
Greysan... *enter dreamy sigh here* he is so sweet and perfect and the guy that every girl will fall in love with. He is definitely the broody type but once you read more you realise all these horrible things that have happened to him and you feel so bad for the guy... I love Greysan and throughout the book I just wanted things to work out for him and Addi. I really love their relationship.
It is so difficult for me to talk about this book rationally because I am so angry about the ending. My heart completely shattered and I cried so bad. I don't think I will ever forgive Emmalee for the ending of this book.
This is one of the best angel books I have ever read and I will be impatiently waiting for the next book. Neophyte has breath-taking romance, heart-stopping action and will have you laughing one moment and crying the next. You will definitely be left pining for more.
Amazing!
"Because I will not chance losing you, I could not live with myself if I lost you, Addisyn."
May 5, 2012
This book did not hold my attention, and so, despite the interesting premise, I find it difficult to assign it a high rating.
I constantly felt like I should have been much further along than I was. The pacing was strange, and very slow at first. Several characters were not terribly developed, but at the same time character development seemed to be all that was happening. This contradiction is confusing, admittedly, but it is one I will stand by.
Addy is completely unlikable. But apparently, that isn't really a rub to being an angel. In fact, even intentionally saving someone's life doesn't seem to be a prerequisite. Simply dying in the process of someone else not dying, which may be the reason why there are so many gray wings around. After all, accidents do not heroes make.
I didn't love Greysan either. His tortured act got old really quick. The unbending quality to the male characters was extremely frustrating. And although most of them had their downsides, I think Greysan may have been the most frustrating. Him, or perhaps Everett. Graham was the most interesting character, and he was at least decently developed, but of course, needed to take a backseat to his more broody and annoying twin and the ridiculous romance. At least no one can argue that Grey and Addy don't deserve each other...
Addy repeats herself a lot. She goes through the same motions and expects different results. She is constantly PMSing. She throws tantrums. She never states her case logically, and she instantly decides no one will listen. Some of these things might be "teenage girl", but they certainly aren't "angel". At least not to me. Also, Addy has been with these guys for a while already. But she knows nothing about them, apparently. And hasn't learned to tell when they are lying. And can't seem to string together simple cause & effect. Her unwillingness to use her brain to solve the "big secrets" they are keeping from her is pretty irritating. And the book itself is whine - secret - tantrum - confrontation - shuffle and repeat. Why would a guy as old as Grey possibly want anything to do with this hormonal infant? How could she alone be that special person to make him feel again? This is the trouble I have with these young heroines and their ageless boyfriends.
All of that being said, many people received the book quite well. It may simply not be my type of story. I found the pacing off, and that contributed to a very slow read for me. Perhaps if I hadn't read it in gulps and swallows I would have liked it more. I do think that there are some excellent characters and some very interesting ideas that went into the creation of this book. Personally, I did not enjoy the execution, but I do think the book would be great for some people.
I constantly felt like I should have been much further along than I was. The pacing was strange, and very slow at first. Several characters were not terribly developed, but at the same time character development seemed to be all that was happening. This contradiction is confusing, admittedly, but it is one I will stand by.
Addy is completely unlikable. But apparently, that isn't really a rub to being an angel. In fact, even intentionally saving someone's life doesn't seem to be a prerequisite. Simply dying in the process of someone else not dying, which may be the reason why there are so many gray wings around. After all, accidents do not heroes make.
I didn't love Greysan either. His tortured act got old really quick. The unbending quality to the male characters was extremely frustrating. And although most of them had their downsides, I think Greysan may have been the most frustrating. Him, or perhaps Everett. Graham was the most interesting character, and he was at least decently developed, but of course, needed to take a backseat to his more broody and annoying twin and the ridiculous romance. At least no one can argue that Grey and Addy don't deserve each other...
Addy repeats herself a lot. She goes through the same motions and expects different results. She is constantly PMSing. She throws tantrums. She never states her case logically, and she instantly decides no one will listen. Some of these things might be "teenage girl", but they certainly aren't "angel". At least not to me. Also, Addy has been with these guys for a while already. But she knows nothing about them, apparently. And hasn't learned to tell when they are lying. And can't seem to string together simple cause & effect. Her unwillingness to use her brain to solve the "big secrets" they are keeping from her is pretty irritating. And the book itself is whine - secret - tantrum - confrontation - shuffle and repeat. Why would a guy as old as Grey possibly want anything to do with this hormonal infant? How could she alone be that special person to make him feel again? This is the trouble I have with these young heroines and their ageless boyfriends.
All of that being said, many people received the book quite well. It may simply not be my type of story. I found the pacing off, and that contributed to a very slow read for me. Perhaps if I hadn't read it in gulps and swallows I would have liked it more. I do think that there are some excellent characters and some very interesting ideas that went into the creation of this book. Personally, I did not enjoy the execution, but I do think the book would be great for some people.
April 24, 2012
I haven't read a lot of angel books and so I was definitely excited when I read the description of the book! I quickly signed up to review this book, and was not disappointed!
I loved the story line! It did kind of remind me of Twilight - clumsy girl kept in the dark about things that might hurt her. Love interest is much older/damaged and very protective, and the best friend doesn't seem to approve of the relationship. That being said, I happen to like Twilight, and I also happen to like this book! After the first couple of chapters, I thought the story moved at a good pace and I loved the interactions between the characters. You really learn a lot about them by how they react to situations, and I found myself sympathizing with a lot of them (most surprisingly Graham)! I was only planning on starting this book last night, annnndd found myself finishing it at 2 in the morning, unable to put it down to go to sleep. By the end I was so emotional that I made chocolate fondue to ease my feelings. (hey, there were apples...sooo it's not TOTALLY bad. right..?)
I would have liked to see the beginning play out a bit differently (delivery-wise). It was almost like the we jumped into the story too quickly without understanding enough about the world and the characters. For me, that made it a bit difficult to get into. THAT BEING SAID, as soon as I figured out who was who, I was hooked. I do like how we don't find everything out in the beginning and we learn things as the story progresses, but the start was a bit too unstructured for me. There were a couple of lines that I wasn't all that fond of (ex: "My lips begged for his like two starving piranhas hungrily anticipating the first touch of another’s flesh against them.") but they were few and far in between.
I can't wait for the next book to come out! I have a lot of questions from this book that I imagine will get addressed in the next one! Such as:
-why would the relationship not be approved by the elders?
-why wouldn't the link just tell her what is going on?! It's clear she is putting herself in more danger not knowing anything...so there must be something big behind the scenes!
-what will her "powers" be!? ahhh I know there will be more and I am impatient! haha
In the end, the premise and the characters were what drew me into this story. I found that the writing was smooth and the ending unexpected. The author wrapped up a lot of character arcs but left enough open for the next book in the series (which I will definitely read)!
3.5 stars! :)
I loved the story line! It did kind of remind me of Twilight - clumsy girl kept in the dark about things that might hurt her. Love interest is much older/damaged and very protective, and the best friend doesn't seem to approve of the relationship. That being said, I happen to like Twilight, and I also happen to like this book! After the first couple of chapters, I thought the story moved at a good pace and I loved the interactions between the characters. You really learn a lot about them by how they react to situations, and I found myself sympathizing with a lot of them (most surprisingly Graham)! I was only planning on starting this book last night, annnndd found myself finishing it at 2 in the morning, unable to put it down to go to sleep. By the end I was so emotional that I made chocolate fondue to ease my feelings. (hey, there were apples...sooo it's not TOTALLY bad. right..?)
I would have liked to see the beginning play out a bit differently (delivery-wise). It was almost like the we jumped into the story too quickly without understanding enough about the world and the characters. For me, that made it a bit difficult to get into. THAT BEING SAID, as soon as I figured out who was who, I was hooked. I do like how we don't find everything out in the beginning and we learn things as the story progresses, but the start was a bit too unstructured for me. There were a couple of lines that I wasn't all that fond of (ex: "My lips begged for his like two starving piranhas hungrily anticipating the first touch of another’s flesh against them.") but they were few and far in between.
I can't wait for the next book to come out! I have a lot of questions from this book that I imagine will get addressed in the next one! Such as:
-why would the relationship not be approved by the elders?
-why wouldn't the link just tell her what is going on?! It's clear she is putting herself in more danger not knowing anything...so there must be something big behind the scenes!
-what will her "powers" be!? ahhh I know there will be more and I am impatient! haha
In the end, the premise and the characters were what drew me into this story. I found that the writing was smooth and the ending unexpected. The author wrapped up a lot of character arcs but left enough open for the next book in the series (which I will definitely read)!
3.5 stars! :)
March 27, 2012
Read more of my reviews at Nick's Book Blog.
First of all, I'd like to thank the author for having sent me a copy of her book for review.
When I first got the book, I had no idea of what to expect. Angels and I have not gotten along very well, in the past, but I still decided to give this one a try. I'm going to be honest, I don't like the cover too much. I'll be writing a mini-review for this one since I feel like I'll give away too much if I write my usual long review!
The book introduces us to Addisyn (how do you pronounce that ? Addi - sin or Addi-sine) who has recently died and has returned as an angel. She lives with 5 other angels in a group known in the book as a "Link". She soon realizes that her Link has been keeping secrets from her and they refuse to give her answers right away in order to protect her.
As soon as the book starts, there's action. It intrigued me and thrilled me since I love when books are action-packed. However, things were very confusing too in this case. It took me some time to get used to the world that the author has created, but I enjoyed the world of angels that the author has imagined. It's different from other angel books I've read and it'll appeal to readers looking for originality.
The characters are all quite likable. I enjoyed reading through Addisyn's mind. She was sweet and caring, but she could also be very ignorant, not realizing the dangers she could face. Those imperfections only made her seem more realistic. She was also very brave and stood up for herself. I liked that she didn't let the others guys "over-protect" her. I, especially, liked the relationship she had with the other angels in her Link. I'm not so sure I liked the romance in the book. It simply didn't do it for me, because I, as a reader, didn't get to see why Addisyn liked Greysan so much. Also, they lacked chemistry. I didn't really feel much whenever the two were present in a scene. I hope the author develops it further in the next books.
As I mentioned before, the plot of the book itself is interesting. Initially, I admit, I was a bit perplexed by what was happening, but fortunately, the author does a great job at clearing up my confusions.
Overall, I think the book had huge potential and I look forward to reading the next installments of this series.
March 6, 2012
I was given this book to review free from the author. First I want to say thank you to Emmalee Aple for giving me this amazing book to read, it was on my to be read pile since I heard of it.
Addisyn was shot in her high school cafeteria, worse part is she was killed automatically. But just 3 days later was re-born as a Neophyte. Neophyte's has 5 years before their tranformation from human to angel is completed and it has already been 2 years for Addisyn. Now she lives with 4 links, Greysan and Graham who are twins but Greysan is also a love interest for Addisyn, then there is Wilhem and Evertt. They call themself a link, they live in a beach house but what Greysan, Graham, Wilhem and Evertt also have in common is they are keeping a huge secret from Addisyn which they think is protecting her. What they dont know is that their secret is hurting her. One day Addisyn gets kidnap by an angel who looks like Greyson. Thankfullly, Addisyn link is there just in time to kill the angel who kidnap her. They decide to tell Addisyn some stuff but not all of it once again ebcause they think is protecting her but as they are telling Addisyn all of this the more confused and frustrated she gets. By the link not telling Addisyn everything is just putting her in more danger after the next. Can Addisyn save her link only knowing half the truth? Or will she die among them in their secrets?
At first I have to admit I was lost in this book. When I started reading it, I didnt know what was going on, who was who, nothing just lost. I actually had to write down some things while reading this book but the more the book went on the more I got a hang of everything and got pulled into the book more. I think what confused me was there was so much going on that I couldnt keep up, so if you find yourself stuck in that situation in this book just wait you will get the hang of it and you will love it! I wasnt sure on where this book was going with the end, I had something in mind but nothing to what the author wrote. Emmalee sure does know how to write a great story!
I give this book a 5 out of 5 stars. Yes it was confusing but without being confused I dont know if I would have loved this book. So give it a try you wont be disappointed!
Addisyn was shot in her high school cafeteria, worse part is she was killed automatically. But just 3 days later was re-born as a Neophyte. Neophyte's has 5 years before their tranformation from human to angel is completed and it has already been 2 years for Addisyn. Now she lives with 4 links, Greysan and Graham who are twins but Greysan is also a love interest for Addisyn, then there is Wilhem and Evertt. They call themself a link, they live in a beach house but what Greysan, Graham, Wilhem and Evertt also have in common is they are keeping a huge secret from Addisyn which they think is protecting her. What they dont know is that their secret is hurting her. One day Addisyn gets kidnap by an angel who looks like Greyson. Thankfullly, Addisyn link is there just in time to kill the angel who kidnap her. They decide to tell Addisyn some stuff but not all of it once again ebcause they think is protecting her but as they are telling Addisyn all of this the more confused and frustrated she gets. By the link not telling Addisyn everything is just putting her in more danger after the next. Can Addisyn save her link only knowing half the truth? Or will she die among them in their secrets?
At first I have to admit I was lost in this book. When I started reading it, I didnt know what was going on, who was who, nothing just lost. I actually had to write down some things while reading this book but the more the book went on the more I got a hang of everything and got pulled into the book more. I think what confused me was there was so much going on that I couldnt keep up, so if you find yourself stuck in that situation in this book just wait you will get the hang of it and you will love it! I wasnt sure on where this book was going with the end, I had something in mind but nothing to what the author wrote. Emmalee sure does know how to write a great story!
I give this book a 5 out of 5 stars. Yes it was confusing but without being confused I dont know if I would have loved this book. So give it a try you wont be disappointed!
April 9, 2012
*Received a copy through Read to Review program on Goodreads. Thanks to the author and the program for making this happen. Thanks!*
Note: The honest review is in no way influenced by the source of the ebook.
Neophyte started with Addisyn White being captured by Sebastian, whom she thought was Greysan. She only realized it when she saw his wing--it was grey instead of its usual white. Then she realized she was in danger. The rest of her Angel Link came to her rescue trying to negotiate terms with Sebastian and getting him to let go of Addi. Greysan commanded Addi to "bloom" and unable to resist his order, her wings popped out forcing Sebastian to let go of her and he was attacked by her Link. Sebastian was killed by Greyson and the group turned mournful. Addi didn't understand what was going on... Who was Sebastian and what did he want from her? And Sebastian was saying something about his Link. Will her own Link answer her questions? Or will she have to find them on her own?
Neophyte is an Angel story, where Angels are either born or changed. It was revealed later than Addi died in her school's cafeteria and was reborn as angel 3 days later and her Link was already there for her. It would take her a full 5 years to complete the transformation from human to Angel and she has 2 more years to go. Hence, she was currently a half-angel. This concept interesting, a little different from the other Angel stories. The author did a good job in explaining the whole process and Addi's struggles to go through them as well as how she fought for some answers which her Link wouldn't provide her. I also like her characters, both good and evil. They are realistic enough for me to relate to them easily. The story flowed pretty smoothly, except for the beginning where the plot jumped from present to past and present again. It was a little confusing. I had a lot of questions in my mind when I read the first few chapters and was left confused again, but everything was slowly explained over the rest of the story.
Overall, Neophyte is an enjoyable Angel story once I've got through the first few chapters.
4/5 Stars for Neophyte. Looking forward to the next book in the series.
Note: The honest review is in no way influenced by the source of the ebook.
Neophyte started with Addisyn White being captured by Sebastian, whom she thought was Greysan. She only realized it when she saw his wing--it was grey instead of its usual white. Then she realized she was in danger. The rest of her Angel Link came to her rescue trying to negotiate terms with Sebastian and getting him to let go of Addi. Greysan commanded Addi to "bloom" and unable to resist his order, her wings popped out forcing Sebastian to let go of her and he was attacked by her Link. Sebastian was killed by Greyson and the group turned mournful. Addi didn't understand what was going on... Who was Sebastian and what did he want from her? And Sebastian was saying something about his Link. Will her own Link answer her questions? Or will she have to find them on her own?
Neophyte is an Angel story, where Angels are either born or changed. It was revealed later than Addi died in her school's cafeteria and was reborn as angel 3 days later and her Link was already there for her. It would take her a full 5 years to complete the transformation from human to Angel and she has 2 more years to go. Hence, she was currently a half-angel. This concept interesting, a little different from the other Angel stories. The author did a good job in explaining the whole process and Addi's struggles to go through them as well as how she fought for some answers which her Link wouldn't provide her. I also like her characters, both good and evil. They are realistic enough for me to relate to them easily. The story flowed pretty smoothly, except for the beginning where the plot jumped from present to past and present again. It was a little confusing. I had a lot of questions in my mind when I read the first few chapters and was left confused again, but everything was slowly explained over the rest of the story.
Overall, Neophyte is an enjoyable Angel story once I've got through the first few chapters.
4/5 Stars for Neophyte. Looking forward to the next book in the series.
April 13, 2012
Eighteen year old Addyson White wakes up dead just before graduation. Someone came into the school cafeteria and shot her three days ago. This was not her plan for life and now she’s with her friend Hunter, living in a beach house with four other guys. These guys just happen to be angels and Addyson is now a Neophyte, the beginning stage of becoming an angel.
Everett is the leader of the “link,” which is the name of the grouping of angels who take neophyte angels and raise and protect them for the five years it takes for the human to change to a full angel. Then they go off to be trained in whatever angelic job they are going to have. Wilhelm is his second and both angels were born as angels. With them are Hunter and the twins Graham and Greysan, all former neophytes who are now helping teach Addyson about her new life as well as trying to protect her from things that could harm her.
Their biggest challenge to Addy’s safety is another Link, formed by fallen angels who have gray wings, unlike the angels with Addyson who have white wings. Addyson is suddenly grabbed; she thinks by Greysan and carried off. But the real Greysan gives chase and ends up killing the fallen angel, which triggers a war between the two links.
Neophyte is a young adult novel. The angels Hunter and Addyson go to school, have homework, and go to prom. There is some romance involved but it’s confined to kissing. It starts out slow but quickly begins to build the story of Addyson’s new life and the choices she has to make. Emmalee Aple has made her heroine a strong girl who is not easily intimidated by the other angels of either link. She is kept in the dark by her own link but she keeps trying to find out what they know and demands to be trained to protect herself. There are times when she almost seems to be temperamental in some of her actions and demands.
This is Aple’s first book and the first of the Neophyte series. The book flows well, is well written with action and descriptions. The book ends with a well-done cliff-hanger and this book me interested enough to look for the sequel once it comes out.
Everett is the leader of the “link,” which is the name of the grouping of angels who take neophyte angels and raise and protect them for the five years it takes for the human to change to a full angel. Then they go off to be trained in whatever angelic job they are going to have. Wilhelm is his second and both angels were born as angels. With them are Hunter and the twins Graham and Greysan, all former neophytes who are now helping teach Addyson about her new life as well as trying to protect her from things that could harm her.
Their biggest challenge to Addy’s safety is another Link, formed by fallen angels who have gray wings, unlike the angels with Addyson who have white wings. Addyson is suddenly grabbed; she thinks by Greysan and carried off. But the real Greysan gives chase and ends up killing the fallen angel, which triggers a war between the two links.
Neophyte is a young adult novel. The angels Hunter and Addyson go to school, have homework, and go to prom. There is some romance involved but it’s confined to kissing. It starts out slow but quickly begins to build the story of Addyson’s new life and the choices she has to make. Emmalee Aple has made her heroine a strong girl who is not easily intimidated by the other angels of either link. She is kept in the dark by her own link but she keeps trying to find out what they know and demands to be trained to protect herself. There are times when she almost seems to be temperamental in some of her actions and demands.
This is Aple’s first book and the first of the Neophyte series. The book flows well, is well written with action and descriptions. The book ends with a well-done cliff-hanger and this book me interested enough to look for the sequel once it comes out.
June 21, 2012
Disclaimer: The fact that I received this book in exchange for an honest review has not affected my rating.
I think the main problem regarding my reading experience with this book is the fact that I read two favorites of mine right before Neophyte. I suppose when I read this book, I kept on comparing it to my favorites, therefore downgrading my rating slightly…
For me, the main problem with this book is the relationship between Greyson and Addiysn. I’ll admit that their romantic scenes are endearing and pleasing for the hormone-controlled teenager. However, especially at the beginning, I felt no chemistry between them – it was more like insta-love. For example, Greyson mentions that “from the moment I saw you being born, I knew that I would love you. I have watched you do this when you were five, this when you were seven…” I’m not sure if I’m the only one, but I’m pretty sure that was kind of stalker-ishk, considering Greyson is about 200 years old and is watching this seven year old girl.
Other than that, I suppose my only other problem is regarding my own personal tastes. During the majority of the book, I felt Addisyn was more of a passive character. I understand that the rest of the Link was trying to keep secrets from here, although I wished her involvement in the plot and knowledge about angels could grow more. Moreover, there were times I didn’t want to read about typical prom drama or scenes about kissing on the moonlight-filled roof – I wanted action and more about angels!
The redeeming factors, however, were Hunter and the ending. I loved Hunter’s relationship with Addi – it presented true bonds of friendship and loyalty. His actions actually show that he cares about her as a part of his family. Addi also pulls her side of the bargain by doing what she does in the end – in order to honor Hunter and protect her family. It is probably because of the ending that I may be interested in checking out the next book.
Overall, Neophyte is a good read for those who like angel love stories or Twilight or are romantic readers (there’s lots of romance/making out between Greyson and Addi – that’s for sure!) c:
I think the main problem regarding my reading experience with this book is the fact that I read two favorites of mine right before Neophyte. I suppose when I read this book, I kept on comparing it to my favorites, therefore downgrading my rating slightly…
For me, the main problem with this book is the relationship between Greyson and Addiysn. I’ll admit that their romantic scenes are endearing and pleasing for the hormone-controlled teenager. However, especially at the beginning, I felt no chemistry between them – it was more like insta-love. For example, Greyson mentions that “from the moment I saw you being born, I knew that I would love you. I have watched you do this when you were five, this when you were seven…” I’m not sure if I’m the only one, but I’m pretty sure that was kind of stalker-ishk, considering Greyson is about 200 years old and is watching this seven year old girl.
Other than that, I suppose my only other problem is regarding my own personal tastes. During the majority of the book, I felt Addisyn was more of a passive character. I understand that the rest of the Link was trying to keep secrets from here, although I wished her involvement in the plot and knowledge about angels could grow more. Moreover, there were times I didn’t want to read about typical prom drama or scenes about kissing on the moonlight-filled roof – I wanted action and more about angels!
The redeeming factors, however, were Hunter and the ending. I loved Hunter’s relationship with Addi – it presented true bonds of friendship and loyalty. His actions actually show that he cares about her as a part of his family. Addi also pulls her side of the bargain by doing what she does in the end – in order to honor Hunter and protect her family. It is probably because of the ending that I may be interested in checking out the next book.
Overall, Neophyte is a good read for those who like angel love stories or Twilight or are romantic readers (there’s lots of romance/making out between Greyson and Addi – that’s for sure!) c:
April 27, 2012
Ms. Aple's writing grips you from the moment you start reading about Addisyn and her Link. She has the ability to weave a spell as you turn page after page, your eyes hungry for more as you lose yourself in this book.
No, I'm not kidding. It took all of my Gryffindor willpower NOT to finish this in one sitting - I would force myself to put the book down to do mundane things such as make dinner, do the dishes, take a shower, pick the husband up for work and sleep.
Who needs sleep when you have a gripping Angel book to read?!
Addisyn has the ability to make you love and dislike her at the same time. Her Link does what they can to keep her safe, not even understanding completely who and what she is, but she tries to undermine them time and time again.
There were a few questions that I hope get explained in the sequel. One is, what exactly is a companion and how are you chosen to have one? In simple terms, I guess a companion would just be a friend, but Hunter seemed to be so much more than that to Addisyn. In fact, in my opinion, it's like he was her Guardian Angel while she was human. I'd love to delve into who shot Addi and why - I know it was a school shooting, but what made that kid walk into the lunchroom and open fire? Did not even the Elders know that there is something special about Addi? That she possibly is the one to save new Angels from "Bad Angels" like Farron? How did Graham not know that Addi was going to leave them in the end? How...well, I could go on, but I'm sure that Ms. Aple will supply the answers in her new book.
Really, this is one of THE BEST BOOKS I have read all year. Even if you're not religious or don't like Angel books...READ THIS. It is an interesting take on Angels that I am so glad I came upon.
I was given a review copy of this book in exchange for my review. However, I would have happily paid for this book and still given it as glowing a review as I have. I am going to be waiting with eager anticipation for the sequel.
No, I'm not kidding. It took all of my Gryffindor willpower NOT to finish this in one sitting - I would force myself to put the book down to do mundane things such as make dinner, do the dishes, take a shower, pick the husband up for work and sleep.
Who needs sleep when you have a gripping Angel book to read?!
Addisyn has the ability to make you love and dislike her at the same time. Her Link does what they can to keep her safe, not even understanding completely who and what she is, but she tries to undermine them time and time again.
There were a few questions that I hope get explained in the sequel. One is, what exactly is a companion and how are you chosen to have one? In simple terms, I guess a companion would just be a friend, but Hunter seemed to be so much more than that to Addisyn. In fact, in my opinion, it's like he was her Guardian Angel while she was human. I'd love to delve into who shot Addi and why - I know it was a school shooting, but what made that kid walk into the lunchroom and open fire? Did not even the Elders know that there is something special about Addi? That she possibly is the one to save new Angels from "Bad Angels" like Farron? How did Graham not know that Addi was going to leave them in the end? How...well, I could go on, but I'm sure that Ms. Aple will supply the answers in her new book.
Really, this is one of THE BEST BOOKS I have read all year. Even if you're not religious or don't like Angel books...READ THIS. It is an interesting take on Angels that I am so glad I came upon.
I was given a review copy of this book in exchange for my review. However, I would have happily paid for this book and still given it as glowing a review as I have. I am going to be waiting with eager anticipation for the sequel.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 1, 2012
Neophyte
By Emmalee Aple
Addisyn White died two years ago, but three days after her death she was reborn as an angel. Not a full-fledged angel it will take her five years to become one, she is still mostly human and must still go through training with her Link five other angels who will protect her and teach her. There is Hunter her companion in this new life that can read her thoughts and will always share a special connection with and then there is Greysan, handsome and kind and the love of her life. When Addisyn is sleeping on the porch and her Link has left to run an errand a fallen angel stumbles upon her leading to Addisyn being in the greatest danger of her life, and this is just the beginning.
This is an interesting book full of romance and intrigue, the author has taken a new look at angels and most of them are just like all of us. Emmalee Aple creates an intricate and unique world where angels are born or created when a person dies protecting someone else, with elders and companions it is certainly an interesting perspective and then the author brings a beautiful romance to all of this that makes the book worth the read. Though I still have one major question why is Addisyn so important? I am hoping this will be answered in the next book. The only problem I found with this book is that it needs to be edited as it is right now it is riddled with grammatical mistakes but even though this is an issue, Emmalee Aple’s writing is actually quite remarkable.
As always if you have any requests or recommendations email me at:
Reflections.of.a.BookWorm@gmail.com
Be sure to visit my blogs at:
http://reflectionsofabookworm.wordpre...
http://bookwormrflects8.blogspot.com/
You can even follow me on Twitter
@BookWormRflect
By Emmalee Aple
Addisyn White died two years ago, but three days after her death she was reborn as an angel. Not a full-fledged angel it will take her five years to become one, she is still mostly human and must still go through training with her Link five other angels who will protect her and teach her. There is Hunter her companion in this new life that can read her thoughts and will always share a special connection with and then there is Greysan, handsome and kind and the love of her life. When Addisyn is sleeping on the porch and her Link has left to run an errand a fallen angel stumbles upon her leading to Addisyn being in the greatest danger of her life, and this is just the beginning.
This is an interesting book full of romance and intrigue, the author has taken a new look at angels and most of them are just like all of us. Emmalee Aple creates an intricate and unique world where angels are born or created when a person dies protecting someone else, with elders and companions it is certainly an interesting perspective and then the author brings a beautiful romance to all of this that makes the book worth the read. Though I still have one major question why is Addisyn so important? I am hoping this will be answered in the next book. The only problem I found with this book is that it needs to be edited as it is right now it is riddled with grammatical mistakes but even though this is an issue, Emmalee Aple’s writing is actually quite remarkable.
As always if you have any requests or recommendations email me at:
Reflections.of.a.BookWorm@gmail.com
Be sure to visit my blogs at:
http://reflectionsofabookworm.wordpre...
http://bookwormrflects8.blogspot.com/
You can even follow me on Twitter
@BookWormRflect
April 2, 2012
This young adult story about a senior in high school who dies and wakes up an angel has a unique premise. Her body is gradually transforming into an angel over the course of several years, and she continues to live in the US and finish high school. Suddenly she finds herself at risk, and she comes to learn there are truths that have been kept secret from her.
I found the premise for this book really intriguing. It is not a run-of-the-mill angel story. However, I felt that some of the typical YA theme were present: a lot of angst; a desperate passion; a tortured/emotionally damaged love interest; the inability to reach out to others to help with difficult situations. Although, I have to admit that given how she has been kept in the dark by her new family, or Link, I probably wouldn't want to ask them for help either. Overall, I felt that Addisyn's reactions were pretty realistic. At least her romance didn't blow up out of the blue.
While I appreciated the lack of a love triangle, I found the controlling tension between her love interest and (male) best friend to be a bit over the top. Also, what is with the seductive influence that the bad guy has over her? It didn't quite feel right. It made me wonder if there is a proposed love triangle in the works for future books. And the final chapter made me uncomfortable. Given all that she now knows she doesn't know, why would she make that choice? It just makes her that much more vulnerable. I don't buy her argument.
Finally, there were some editing errors. Not too many, but a few that made me have to stop and figure out the sentence.
I read this for Read 2 Review and received a free copy.
I found the premise for this book really intriguing. It is not a run-of-the-mill angel story. However, I felt that some of the typical YA theme were present: a lot of angst; a desperate passion; a tortured/emotionally damaged love interest; the inability to reach out to others to help with difficult situations. Although, I have to admit that given how she has been kept in the dark by her new family, or Link, I probably wouldn't want to ask them for help either. Overall, I felt that Addisyn's reactions were pretty realistic. At least her romance didn't blow up out of the blue.
While I appreciated the lack of a love triangle, I found the controlling tension between her love interest and (male) best friend to be a bit over the top. Also, what is with the seductive influence that the bad guy has over her? It didn't quite feel right. It made me wonder if there is a proposed love triangle in the works for future books. And the final chapter made me uncomfortable. Given all that she now knows she doesn't know, why would she make that choice? It just makes her that much more vulnerable. I don't buy her argument.
Finally, there were some editing errors. Not too many, but a few that made me have to stop and figure out the sentence.
I read this for Read 2 Review and received a free copy.
April 23, 2012
Start by saying that, being passionate of these kinds of stories, I began to read with lots of expectations. Althought i'm very fascinated by stories where the protagonists are angels, I must say that I haven't been very satisfied by the reading of this book.
In particular, I found the start too fast, in contrast to the next chapters that have been rather slowand, and especially, an introduction almost absent.
What I liked, however, was the style of the writer and the way in which he gave life to the characters. In my opinion, it isn't easier to manage many people simultaneously, but the author was able to create a large group of friends, describing, for each of them, a different and well defined personality.
I also loved the story of Greysan: touching and moving. (Ultimately, I can say that Greysan has become one of my favorite characters, along with Hunter)
Another point in favor of the author was the final part.
Overall, I can say that the story it's ok and i liked it, but from my point of view, (maybe because of my too many expectations) there would be some elements that should be changed.
In particular, I found the start too fast, in contrast to the next chapters that have been rather slowand, and especially, an introduction almost absent.
What I liked, however, was the style of the writer and the way in which he gave life to the characters. In my opinion, it isn't easier to manage many people simultaneously, but the author was able to create a large group of friends, describing, for each of them, a different and well defined personality.
I also loved the story of Greysan: touching and moving. (Ultimately, I can say that Greysan has become one of my favorite characters, along with Hunter)
Another point in favor of the author was the final part.
Overall, I can say that the story it's ok and i liked it, but from my point of view, (maybe because of my too many expectations) there would be some elements that should be changed.
April 23, 2012
I received a free copy of Neophyte on Goodreads from the Read it and Reap Giveaways and am so happy I did. Thank you!
As Neophyte begins, you jump right into the action. I liked the fact that the background was slowly revealed. It kept me engaged. You may feel a little disjointed at first, but the writing style is smooth and you'll be sucked in pretty quickly.
I loved the interactions with the characters. When there are a lot of characters, it's easy for them to blend together, but the author did a good job distingushing them. I must say that I loved Hunter, but the others were pretty great, too.
This is an angel story, but the angels don't overwhelm the plot. I mean that in a good way. I liked that the angels were more of a backdrop. The author didn't diminish the importance of the fact that they were angels, but she didn't become so involved in that aspect that it was boring.
I really enjoyed Neophyte. I am putting this author on my don't forget shelf because I want to see where she goes with this series. I would recommend this book and author, especially if you are looking for a paranormal romance (not to categorize). It is YA and stays PG, but I think it is appropriate for older readers, too.
As Neophyte begins, you jump right into the action. I liked the fact that the background was slowly revealed. It kept me engaged. You may feel a little disjointed at first, but the writing style is smooth and you'll be sucked in pretty quickly.
I loved the interactions with the characters. When there are a lot of characters, it's easy for them to blend together, but the author did a good job distingushing them. I must say that I loved Hunter, but the others were pretty great, too.
This is an angel story, but the angels don't overwhelm the plot. I mean that in a good way. I liked that the angels were more of a backdrop. The author didn't diminish the importance of the fact that they were angels, but she didn't become so involved in that aspect that it was boring.
I really enjoyed Neophyte. I am putting this author on my don't forget shelf because I want to see where she goes with this series. I would recommend this book and author, especially if you are looking for a paranormal romance (not to categorize). It is YA and stays PG, but I think it is appropriate for older readers, too.
April 28, 2012
Spoiler Alert:
I received this book through the ARR program so I want to thank the author for giving me the opportunity to read her book. Neophyte is a book about a girl whose life has been predestined to become an Angel. She dies an untimely death; shot in her school cafeteria while trying to save someone else and is reborn into an Angel with five "Guardians"(angels)at her side to protect her and guide her for five years until she trains and receives her assignment as an Angel. She finds love and loss with her human side taking over most of the time. The characters were likeable but the plot was a little confusing because it was never revealed why the fallen angels were after her and/or why they wanted the protector she loved. The constant banter and the overprotecting of the main character, Addisyn by her "brother" angels was a little overbearing in the story. The story however did end where the reader does wonder what is Addisyn to do? Maybe in the next book we will find out Addisyn's truth, why she didn't die when her companion in her Angel life did, what will happen to her "Link" or her band of remaining brothers and her love for Greysan? Most important will her sacrifice be in vain?
I received this book through the ARR program so I want to thank the author for giving me the opportunity to read her book. Neophyte is a book about a girl whose life has been predestined to become an Angel. She dies an untimely death; shot in her school cafeteria while trying to save someone else and is reborn into an Angel with five "Guardians"(angels)at her side to protect her and guide her for five years until she trains and receives her assignment as an Angel. She finds love and loss with her human side taking over most of the time. The characters were likeable but the plot was a little confusing because it was never revealed why the fallen angels were after her and/or why they wanted the protector she loved. The constant banter and the overprotecting of the main character, Addisyn by her "brother" angels was a little overbearing in the story. The story however did end where the reader does wonder what is Addisyn to do? Maybe in the next book we will find out Addisyn's truth, why she didn't die when her companion in her Angel life did, what will happen to her "Link" or her band of remaining brothers and her love for Greysan? Most important will her sacrifice be in vain?
April 24, 2012
I love me some Angles!!!
Graysan, Wilhelm, Hunter Everett and Grayham are the only family that Addi has left since her death. She has 5 gorgeous hunks to keep her out of trouble until she totally crosses over which according to them, it takes several years. Addi is different from the rest of the angels but no one knows how special she really is. Therefore the five hunks are very protective of her and since it takes year to complete the transformation we can only conclude that there will be a second book that continues to keep getting better and better. Addi character is for the most part a sweet mature teenager that sees only the good in individuals. I would say a little on the naïve side. But sometimes she makes decisions that get her in hot water and really does not think of the consequences.
The story is easy to follow, and took me an average of 12 hours to complete. Toward the end; the story has a great climax moment that had me talking out loud at my office, my co-workers thought I had finally lost my marbles! Don’t get me wrong the story was full of excising twists and turns but the last one had me making all sorts of sounds and discussions with myself!
Graysan, Wilhelm, Hunter Everett and Grayham are the only family that Addi has left since her death. She has 5 gorgeous hunks to keep her out of trouble until she totally crosses over which according to them, it takes several years. Addi is different from the rest of the angels but no one knows how special she really is. Therefore the five hunks are very protective of her and since it takes year to complete the transformation we can only conclude that there will be a second book that continues to keep getting better and better. Addi character is for the most part a sweet mature teenager that sees only the good in individuals. I would say a little on the naïve side. But sometimes she makes decisions that get her in hot water and really does not think of the consequences.
The story is easy to follow, and took me an average of 12 hours to complete. Toward the end; the story has a great climax moment that had me talking out loud at my office, my co-workers thought I had finally lost my marbles! Don’t get me wrong the story was full of excising twists and turns but the last one had me making all sorts of sounds and discussions with myself!
March 17, 2013
Its a pretty good book and definitely worth a read. Angels are not my thing but it is still enjoyable. The premise and characters are interesting. I particularly liked Hunter and his loyalty to Addisyn. There is action right at the start and it continues on pretty well throughout the book. How little Addi's link tells her about being an angel does get a bit repetitive. Also her whining gets to be a bit on the extreme side although I understand her frustrations.
Something I loved about the book was learning how Addisyn died and would like to know more about how it is decided who gets reincarnated as angels. The basic idea is shown but I think it would be interesting to learn more. Another thing I found enjoyable and different was Addi and Grey's secret code to identify themselves.
My biggest issue is there are still some editing problems, these tend to take away from the story. Improper usage of words is very frustrating for me as a reader and there are currently some of those issues in this story as well as general spelling and grammar mistakes. I do look forward to reading more from this author who also happens to be a great friend.
Something I loved about the book was learning how Addisyn died and would like to know more about how it is decided who gets reincarnated as angels. The basic idea is shown but I think it would be interesting to learn more. Another thing I found enjoyable and different was Addi and Grey's secret code to identify themselves.
My biggest issue is there are still some editing problems, these tend to take away from the story. Improper usage of words is very frustrating for me as a reader and there are currently some of those issues in this story as well as general spelling and grammar mistakes. I do look forward to reading more from this author who also happens to be a great friend.
April 29, 2012
I wanted to love this book so bad. The plot is great. I don't know I just couldn't get into it like I would've liked to. The family of Addisyn was pretty strange. Not your typical family. Her and five guys. At first I started to love Greysan but then idk my feelings just changed. I loved Hunter. As for Addisyn I would have rather her be more kick ass. She came off so weak and pathetic to me. Always being pushed around. Grow a pair girl!!!! Lol. Another thing was all the secrets. I kept on thinking, are they gonna reveal it now? Now? NOW?!! How about now? At one point it was like ahhhhhh!!! *pulls hair* OH and before I forget!!! Chuckling angels much?!! They were chuckling the whole storyline. It made me LOL.
Anyways, I am not gonna lie. The end definitely made me tear up. It left me *deep sighing* Also, even though the book didn't suck me in I couldn't help but anticipate if there's going to be another book. If there is I definitely want to read it and find out what happens.
I give this book 3.5 stars
Anyways, I am not gonna lie. The end definitely made me tear up. It left me *deep sighing* Also, even though the book didn't suck me in I couldn't help but anticipate if there's going to be another book. If there is I definitely want to read it and find out what happens.
I give this book 3.5 stars
April 9, 2012
When reviewing a book I understand that grammer is important but I feel the story is the most important part of any book. If the author pulls me into the story then all the mispellings in the world won't make a difference to me. I love to read and I love to read a good story but this was not one that made my list. I was confused during most of my time reading this book but some parts were realistic reactions to situations that were difficult. Hopefully the next book, if there is one, will be better.
April 22, 2012
I loved Emmalee Aple’s unique take on angels and enjoyed getting to know all the characters. Neophyte is an emotional rollercoaster filled with well drawn, interesting characters. My personal favourite was Hunter and I really enjoyed his interactions with Addison. This book was like a snowball, slowly rolling and building to a huge climax, and I was happy to jump on board for the ride. I don’t want to give too much away, but if you like a story full of depth, emotion, action and hot guys, this is the one for you.
February 17, 2013
I am going to go ahead and write my review even though I am not done reading this book. I am not sure when I will finish it as I can't seem to get into this book. I don't believe it is any fault of the author, it seems to be well written and I like the characters. I think it is just me at the time and I seem to be reading slow. I am giving it a 3 star rating as I am enjoying it and I will write a new review when I finish it.
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