Rise from Darkness

Battle for Souls #1

by Ciara Knight

Alexander Lorre gives new meaning to the term “tormented teen.” He’s a newly fallen angel, which means he has the self-control of a three-year-old, the hormones of a teenager and the strength of an angel. When he rescues Gaby Moore from drowning, the chemistry between them is undeniable. With a local demon threatening Gaby’s life, he struggles to find a balance between remaining close enough to protect her but distant enough to control his desires.

As danger draws closer, Gaby uncovers shattering secrets that will lead to an ultimate choice. Will she fight alongside her father, an earthbound hunter killing fallen angels and demons, give into the demon blood coursing through her veins and join the demon world, or save the man she loves from both? The first two choices damn her, but the last one could destroy them all.

Genres: Young Adult, Angels, Paranormal Romance, Fantasy, Paranormal, Demons, Fiction

252 pages, Kindle Edition

First published March 18, 2012

About the author

Ciara Knight is a USA Today bestselling and Maggie Award-winning author of heartwarming romance.

Her popular sweet romance series, Sweetwater County (rated for all audiences and enjoyed by over a million readers), is a small-town romance full of family trials, friendly competition, and community love.

Reviews

[Liz at Fictional Candy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Gaby is a teen girl who has recently lost her mother in a car accident. Her father has some mysterious and dangerous job for the government, and they move a lot. Gaby never really gets the opportunity to form close bonds with anyone. Her dad works a lot and she basically raises herself. But she has her artwork, and that can be her safe haven in the storm, so to speak.

The very first chapter of this book made my chest tighten up. Gaby has gone into the water for a swim, trying to cleanse her mind. She gets flipped around in the water, a bit disoriented… then she hears some laughter, sees swimming shapes around her. It was some very powerful imagery and a perfect introduction into the rest of the book.

Gaby finally makes two new friends in Alex and Sammy. They are fallen angels are here to protect her. But why would she need protection? Well it seems Gaby has also drawn the interest of a demon – Forras. The thing is, Gaby doesn’t realize anyone is anything other than what they seem. Sammy and Alex are impossibly wonderful to her, even if Alex is a bit standoffish at time. Forras is an overbearing jerk, along with the rest of his friends on the football team.

I really enjoyed reading this story. The twists and turns of the plot were fantastic, as you watched everything unfold in front of you. Alex and Gaby begin to have a crush on each other. You get a bit annoyed with Alex because he is obviously hiding something, and sometimes he acts like a bit of a jerk. But then you get to go inside his head for a bit and everything becomes clear to you. There are so many secrets in this story that when the truth of everything finally starts coming out you find yourself finally exhaling! This is definitely one of those stories where not everything is as it seems; nothing is just black and white. The surprises were fantastic and definitely made this book all that much more interesting.

I loved getting to know all of these characters. Even Gaby’s father, who just seems like an alcoholic who isn’t really present for his own daughter’s life, has some amazing growth inside these pages. There is definitely more than meets the eye with this man. I look forward to reading the next book and finding out what is in store for Gaby, as there are some definite game changing and life changing events that happen to her in this story. Just imagine going from every day normal life to finding out there are angels and demons among us, and not only that – you’re dating one! Oh, and your best friend is one, your dad fights them, your mother had something to do with it all too – and on top of everything else, there is more to you than you even knew yourself!

[Shari · Rating 3 out of 5]

Fans of young adult angel romance novels will be in heaven! (pun wasn't intentionally intended, honest) I was immediately intrigued by Ciara Knight's novel Rise From Darkness. Right away you are drawn into the story with action and wonderfully flawed characters. Gaby's character seems to be barely holding it together at first glance. When she meets Alexander and Sammy they instantly start to fill the gaping loneliness that she has been dealing with since the death of her mother. As the story unfolds and secrets are revealed Alex and Gaby both have their doubts that they will ever be together.

PLOT: A good twist on angels and demons. I've read a few angel books and this one managed to feel different. I was a little surprised that Gaby's reaction to finding out that fallen angels and demons walked the Earth wasn't more of a.......reaction, I guess. A few tiny plot holes, but I have decided to overlook them.
CHARACTERS: Very well written. Alexander is able to come off both strong and vulnerable. Gaby is sweet without being saccharine and really steps up when it's time. Boon quickly became my favorite character, read it and you'll see why. Grace, everyone needs a Grace in their lives. Sammy is peppy and adorable and I hope to see a lot more of her in the upcoming books.
WRITING: For the most part I really enjoyed Knight's writing style. Every now and again there were hiccups in the writing, and I would have to reread a little to figure out what was going on.
ENDING: I was really happy that there was not a major cliffhanger but that it is clear that another book will be forthcoming. Everything for this book wrapped up pretty nicely though.
KID FRIENDLY: Yes, I believe so. Gaby's father has become an alcoholic since the death of his wife, but the kids don't drink. There is violence between the angels and demons but I feel like that is to be expected when you have a book with angels and demons and it's not overly gory or anything.
OVERALL: one of the better angel books I've read.
COVER: I love the colors, and the picture resonates with the story well. I just wish they had had the model pull his pants up to cover his underwear (especially since recently I was told what that means). Does that make me sound old?

[Romancing the Book · Rating 4 out of 5]

First Posted on Romancing the Book Blog
Reviewed By~Aubrey
Review Copy Provided By~Bewitching Book Tour


I don't often read YA novels but when I do I always love them! I really should start reading more. I really enjoyed Rise from Darkness. It had such an interesting world with the perfect mix of paranormal elements and real world issues. I was hooked to this novel from the first page and could not put it down. I wanted to find out what happened next and finished the novel in a couple hours. It really doesn't happen often any more where I'm left guessing what is going to happen next or where I have to really think about what is going on. The storyline in Rise from Darkness is very complex with many secondary characters. It is one of those novels that you want to read more than once because you know you have missed something the first time around.

The main character Gaby has a lot things in her life that she doesn't quite understand and it frustrates her. Her life is not like those around her and she really wishes it was. She never had friends growing up and forget about a boyfriend. Her dad is way too strict for that. Her life completely changes when she meets Alex and his sister Sammy on the beach. They appear to be human but they really are not. Gaby isn't quite human either. Alex and Gaby become more than friends. Their relationship takes a lot of hits that most relationships don't endure but they find a way to stay together.

Rise from Darkness is an excellent first novel in a series where it gives us all the information needed to know what is going on and sets the reader up for future novels and this was all done seamlessly. I will be looking for the next novel in the series because I'm so anxious to find out how Gaby deals with all the changes in her life. Knight is definitely an author to watch out for!

[DiAnn · Rating 4 out of 5]

The first book in the Battle for Souls series by Ciara Knight takes up where the novella, Love's Long Shadow, ends. Both fallen angel brother and sister, Alexander and Sammy, are living with Grace when they meet Gaby, a high school aged girl new to their community. The book begins with Gaby being saved by Alexander when she is attacked by demons. There is an immediate connection between Gaby and Alex, but they have no idea the kind of challenges they will face from these demons. Gaby's life was been very difficult since the death of her mother and her father's descent into alcoholism due to feeling responsible for his wife's death. The demons who attacked Gaby and know Alex pose as high school students where Gaby and Alex both attend school. From there, the battles begin for the demons versus Gaby, Alex, and Sammy. The multi-layered storyline with plenty of interesting secondary characters, drama, action, and mystery makes this a book that is impossible to put down until you get to the very end! The main characters, Gaby, Alex, and Sammy, are very endearing and you find yourself cheering for them as they face many difficult situations. Fortunately, the next book in the series, Fall from Grace, is available and I plan to start it ASAP.

[Lynn Rush · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. Alex is an awesome hero. Stoic, loving, and caring all rolled up into a tough guy who will do anything to protect you. Even if it means making the wrong choice. All he can see is the safety of those he cares about.

Enter the heroine.

Gaby is sweet, tortured, delicate all rolled up into a strong girl. She's faced a lot in her limited years and made it through. I like that in a heroine. Yet she's vulnerable still, which makes her endearing.

Alex and Gaby are a fun couple to read about. I was immediately drawn into their story, anxious to see how things turned out. It's a true YA novel, so there is the teenage angst, which I like in limited dosages, but Ciara Knight's Battle for Souls trilogy is one I'll be following closely!

Nicely done, Ciara.

[Hildie McQueen · Rating 5 out of 5]

A new take. I loved that this story is not what you expect at all. The sadness compels you to feel for the heroine (Gaby) who is pretty much on her own and trying to make the best out of her life. Her mom is dead, her father when he isn't absent is drunk. Ciara Knight does a great job in bringing you into the emotions of teenagers and how they deal with situations, so unlike adults.

I applaud the author's ability to bring the reader into Alex's (the Hero) and Gaby's world, I not only felt the events, but could see the scenes developing around the characters.

The bad guys were bad without being overdone, the supporting characters all came to life without overshadowing the story, but actually propelling it forward.

I'm excited about the sequel! Cannot wait to see where this story goes.

Great job Ciara!

[Tish · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a surprise. I ran into this book on Amazon for free download on my Kindle. I didn't expect much but was pleasantly pleased to find a book I would have been pleased to pay for. I will definitely read the second book and happily pay any price. I love that the author handled "sensitive" subjects with creativity and class. I would let my young adult read this book without any concerns- so unlike many books in this genre

[Kristina Snyder · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rise From Darkness is a riveting story about good versus evil. Who doesn't love that concept? That alone, made me want to read this book. Then when I found out that it was about angels, I couldn't get my hands on it quick enough. Ciara Knight even takes this book in a whole new direction adding a twist to angel lore. I loved Ciara's writing style with this book. It was told in third person, but it is split between Gabby's voice and Alexander's voice.

Gabby has been suffering in so many different ways since her mother died. Living with an alcoholic father who pays no attention to her, Gabby has always felt alone. They never stay in a place long and being home schooled, she has never had anyone there for her. Believing that she suffers from delusions is another fight she faces alone. I adored Gabby as a character. Everything she faces is something many people have faced making her easy to relate to. She is stubborn and always putting others over herself and that is what I loved about her. She never gave up. Alexander came in the picture saving her from a demon attack yet that seemed to make it worse. Now Gabby has a target on her and has been marked by Forras. Ugh I didn't like him at all. He got what he deserved at the end. Anyway, Alexander and Sammy, his sister, become her protectors and watch her like a hawk. Alexander is a brooding, sexy fallen angel. He is so protective over Gabby that he constantly puts himself in danger. I loved watching him try out dating since he has never been on a date. Sammy was one of my favorite characters in this story. I love her relationship with Boon.They had to keep their relationship a secret from Alexander, because he didn't want his sister dating a demon. But is Boon really a demon?

Rise from Darkness was an enthralling story full of love, mystery, suspense and action. This story was a real page turner. I honestly could not put the book down. Each chapter left me wanting more and more to the point I couldn't flip the pages fast enough. There were a few twists in this book that completely shocked me!!! I can't wait to see where Ciara takes it from there!!! Gabby and Alex were a fun couple to read about. I can't wait to see what happens next with. This is a book that I will definitely reread!!! I highly recommend it!!!

[Judy & Marianne from Long and Short Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Originally posted at: http://aurorareviews.blogspot.com/201...


This story consumed me from the exciting beginning to the very satisfying ending - to the point that I even dreamed about fallen angels and epic battles between good and evil.

Alexander is everything that I typically look for in a hero. He's arrogant, good looking, and protective to a fault. I immediately knew this story would entertain me when introduced to this character who wants to save everyone. The way he interacts with his not so little sister, Sammy, had me smiling like the Cheshire Cat because it reminded me of so many sibling relationships. When he falls head over heels for Gaby I knew she would have a handful with him.

The plot line of this story is the age-old battle of good versus evil with a twist. You not only have fallen angels, and demons competing but also a hunter looking to destroy them all as well as other creatures, who may not be angels or demons but something entirely different. For someone like me, who enjoys an exciting paranormal element within a story, this book easily kept me captivated. The author also throws in a few other twists that had me on the edge of my seat and engrossed in the action.

The secondary cast of this story are as entertaining as the main characters if not more so at times. Especially Alex’s sister Sammy and one of Forras’s demon flunkies, Boon. Sammy’s bubbly personally is amusing. I couldn't help but laugh out loud when she turns into the bossy girl who seems to know more than one may think. Sammy could absolutely have her own story that would be just as enjoyable as this one.

This is a story I will gladly recommend to others because I know it will stick with me for a while. I eagerly await the next installment of the Battle of the Souls series.

[Kurt Bennett · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rise from Darkness was not what I thought it would be when I picked it up. And truthfully the first chapter made me realize this book was written for a younger audience than this 50+ year old warhorse. But since I really like Ciara and her writing, and my own wife says I am into chick flicks, I gave it a go.

Rise from Darkness was very hard to put down. The story pulls you in and there is so much going on that you just have to keep reading to see what is going to happen. Incredible detail was given to the set and characters, it was so easy to visualize what they looked like, what they were doing, and where they were at. The scenes and action flowed smoothly and there were quite a few twists to throw you off track, the story is not predictable by any means and up until the last two chapters I didn’t know for sure who the victors would be.

And let’s not forget it is a romance novel for a young audience. The romantic scenes were tasteful, very well written and believable. The innocence of the four main characters was refreshing and delightful.

Thumbs up to Ciara for such a great story. Hoping for a sequel on this one just to see how it plays out in the long run. If you have a chance pick this one up to read it, you don’t have to be a young adult to read it, but it’s nice to know we can still be young at heart.

[Julie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I fell in love with this book from the first page. The heroine of the story is a teenage girl who has experienced a terrible tragedy. From the first time you meet her, you can sense her vulnerability as well as her strength of character. Ciara Knight has created a character you want to root for from the very beginning.

The hero of the story is a brooding teenage boy who is a lot more than eye candy. While he is gorgeous and hunky, he is also troubled and wounded by his own past actions. The author has done a sensational job of bringing to life a character that evokes a wide range of emotions from the reader. One moment you love him, the next you are annoyed at him, and then you are empathizing with him.

Ciara Knight's writing is fresh and intelligent. She has written a story that sets itself apart from the pack and delivers the kind of originality that makes reading a luxury. I was totally invested in the characters of the story and the plot did not disappoint. Ms. Knight has written an intriguing novel full of teenage angst, romance, turmoil and wraps it all up nicely in a completely compelling conclusion. I am anxiously awaiting the next installment to the Battle for Souls trilogy.

[Shy The WidowMaker · Rating 3 out of 5]

The author has a hit on her hands. The first thing that I loved about this book was the amazing cover the blue and black colors just popped and made me want to read this book. As everyone knows I love angel stories and this one didn't dissappoint. Alex and Gabby have amazing chemistry and made me want them to have a happy ending. Gabby was a great heroine and I loved how she held it all together with all she had to deal with between her mom's death and her dad's alcholihism. She showed great strength and courage.Oh where do I begin with Alex. Alex is a fallen angel but so much more. He was such a sweet,protective, caring guy. I love how the author eased us into a romance between the two of them instead of jumping straight into it. This story was fast paced with heart pumping action throughout. I love how the author showed us the effects demons can have on people which was evident in Gabby's dad. The author used great metaphors to paint some vivid images for the readers. I would say that this book is a must read for readers who love angel and demon stories. This is also a great book for romance lovers as there is a great romance in the works with Alex and Gabby. Overall this was a highly enjoyable read.

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

If I had to sum this book up in two words it would be: completely unexpected.

From the first page I was sucked in, and didn't put it down until the last line. Most angel books I've read have been quite the same, formulaic to a fault. Then came along Gaby, Alex, Sammy, Boon and the rest of the very well rounded cast of characters. Gaby finds herself displaced once again by her often gone and more often drunk father after her mothers tragic death. Although she's used to being alone, being secretive, and being scared, she craves normalcy. In walks Alexander who offers her security and protection, but at a high price - what's left of his soul. I adore the numerous backstories that all fit into the puzzle, driving home the point that one cannot pass judgement on another without fully, and truly, understanding the big picture.

I love how Knight paints her pictures with words as effortlessly as Gaby paints and draws her prophetic dreams. It is as if you can see the deep, dark woods rise up before you on the page as they conceal all the horrors facing Gaby and Alex. The character descriptions are no less enthralling and well developed that they too, assault your senses as if they were right there with you as you journey with them.

[Faye · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed reading Rise from Darkness and couldn't put it down once started.

Here you'll meet Gabby whose life is about to change especially when she meets Alex and his sister Sammy. The beginning you'll find out that Gabby lost her mother during a car accident and her father who became an alcoholic because he blamed himself for the death of his wife since he was the one driving. After the accident happened, Gabby has been experiencing things which leads her to question her sanity especially during the episode at the beach where Alex saved her. Little did she know that she's been marked by a demon.

Loved Alex even though he was a jerk (but there's a reason for that). Alex and Gabby's relationship was sort of insta-love even though Alex wanted to deny it but the heart can't help what it wants and luckily for Gabby, he gave in. But the story doesn't end there because of the demons, Gabby's experiences, and well a lot of secrets. Though the twist and turns of the story will hook you up that you just couldn't help but finished reading it.

I can't wait to read the rest of this series.

I received a copy from YA BOUND BOOK TOURS.

[Jenna · Rating 4 out of 5]

Unexpectedly good. There are lots of angel stories springing up from everywhere, and some of them honestly are not good enough. But Rise from Darkness doesn't belong to that criteria. It's awesome delicate story brings on the hype of its fastpaced telling that makes you keep reading. Sure the main gist of the novel is not all new, but Ciara has this gift of making it into something that has never been done before, as far as I can remember.

Another thing that makes me love stories are the great characters. Well, Rise from darkness certainly has them. Gabby, the main protagonist of the story can be labeled as a strong heroine from zero to hero. Alex, on the other hand has this vulnerability that makes me want to hug him tight but also he has this strong and dependable personality that makes me want to hind under his wings, metaphorically speaking, but can also be literal if you want. Lol.

Overall, this an incredible first book for the trilogy. A great read that makes me want to follow the series!

[Anne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thanks to R2R and Ciara Knight for giving me the opportunity to this. It was a very enjoyable YA book. Knight 's interpration of the angel genre, their relevance and interactions is a unique twist on an age old theory and a strong start to the trilogy. She presents a strong story with twists and turns that keep the reader interested and intrigued.
Knight created teenage characters for this series that are endearing and believable, enabling the reader to feel connected to them and their plight. Life gets very complicated as they learn that things are not as they seem on the surface. I found myself rooting for Alexander and Gaby while feeling their angst as they struggle with their own personal demons, learn unexpected truths and have to make decisions that effect not only them, but all the people they love.
My only commplaint was that the end of the book seemed forced or rushed.
Looking forward to seeing where this series goes and how it gets there!

[C.M. Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

I cannot wait to read the second book in this series by Ciara Knight. I really want to know what will happen next.

The lives of the characters in this story become entwined with one another and it will interesting to see where the story goes from this point and how it will progress.

Reading "Rise from Darkness" I connected most with Alexander and found myself understanding his emotions and self doubt as he battled to protect Gaby from himself as well as the demons.

Gaby changed during the story, gaining strength as she learned about her gifts: to foresee the future, drawing the visions in detail and the special talents which are released at the end of the story as she fights to save Alexander and her father from the demons.

I found "Rise from Darkness" a great read, involving Angles, demons, hunters and destiny!

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Gaby is a teenage girl who lost her mother in a car accident. Since then she has been having nightmares of demonic creatures. Her dad has some job with the government so he is never around and she is pretty much on her own. Gaby has never really had friends or a boyfriend while growing up. Her father is very strict and wouldn't allow boyfriends. The very first chapter Gaby is on the beach and goes for a swim. She begins to drown and is saved by Alex and his sister Sammy. Gaby forms a friendship with Alex and Sammy. What she doesn't know is that Alex is not a human.

I loved the writing style of Ciara Knight. She has brought a creative and interesting setting to this story. The twists in the plot made me want to keep reading through to the end. I enjoyed learning about the characters in this story and will be excited to read the next in the series.

Thank you Ciara Knight!

[Melissa Rheinlander · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW! This is a great start to the Battle of Souls Series!! Ciara (as always) does a wonderful job with creating a story line that grabs you and doesn't let go! The characters are realistic and you become invested in the outcome. There are several twist and turns and you are not disappointed in where you end up. I cannot wait to read the next book in the series ~ Fall from Grace. You can also check out Love's Long Shadow a prequel Novella, I read it first and felt that I had a better understanding of the characters. If you are looking for a new series then this is it for you!! I will definitely be reading more from Ciara Knight!!

Disclosure: I received one copy of the book from the Author for review purposes only. I was not compensated to write a positive or favorable review. This is Keeping Up With The Rheinlander's personal opinion.

[Daphne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rise from Darkness is enjoyable and a mighty quick read.

Gaby Moore lost her mother from a car accident which made her father become a workaholic and a alcoholic. Her paintings were her escape from her solitude and the revelation about her hidden gifts. She found herself drawn to the handsome Alexander the minute she first looked at him while saving her life. Gaby learned that her new friends Alexander and Sammy were actually fallen angels and was not scared by the news. Instead, she tried to overcome fears to give chance to a relationship with Alexander.

This is a fun read. I only wish that the romance between Alexander and Gaby was not as fast. I wish the courting was longer before they professed their love.

[Anino · Rating 3 out of 5]

After reading this book, I have mixed feelings.. On one hand, I loved the creative take on "Creation" (God, Angels, Fallen Angels, Demons, etc, and I loved the relationship/angst that was building between Alexander and Gaby...

On the other hand, I felt like there was something amiss with the way that it was written.. In a way, the writing seemed a little too simplistic (??)... This might be due to the fact that it's written for teens...

Because this is a YA, I'm going to give it a pass and give it 3 stars.

Overall, it was a fairly good book, and for me, the series has a lot of potential.

[Kamla · Rating 3 out of 5]

I won this book from the Goodreads giveaways drawing. Thank you Ciara for the signed copy and bracelet. Having received this for free has no bearing on my review.

Rise from Darkness is an enjoyable quick read for the first book in a new YA Paranormal series. Interesting characters and set up of plot dynamics for the series. I can see all sorts of possibilities for future developments and will be keeping and eye on this one.

[Molly Frenzel · Rating 3 out of 5]

See the full review at GraveTells.com here: http://gravetells.com/2012/05/16/revi...

With archaic powers of an angel and the self-control of a toddler, Alexander is on the fallen angel fast-track to Hell. Seeking redemption and a second chance to ascend, he saves a girl from a torturous death by some local demons. Now with targets on their backs, Alex must guard Gaby with his life or risk losing his heart and both of their souls.

[Joy Whiteside · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book just kept on going from beginning to end.

I really enjoyed the characters and the story and couldn't wait to see what was going to happen next.

Ciara Knight has written a story that has an interesting world, interesting characters that you hope no matter what overcome whatever ends up in their way.

I am looking forward to reading more from Ciara Knight and more of these stories.

[Maranda Prigmore · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was the second series I've read by this author. I previously read escapement first. I thoroughly enjoyed it & so I decided to read this one as well. I loved the story & felt as though the characters are developing quite nicely. I love the writing style of Ciara & do feel as though she puts her whole heart into the writing. I'm not a huge angel fan but I'm willing to go beyond my doubts & continue on w/this series as well. I really enjoyed it & I'm ready for the next installment. :-)

[Lindi Peterson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ciara Knight has done it again. Wrote a book that pulled me and kept me intrigued. There are so many great facets to this book--YA romance, mystery, action, relationships involving friends and family. Ciara blends these aspects into a story that begs you to keep reading. Can't wait to read book 2. If you like YA this is a book you need to read.

[J Kiwibooknerd · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a bit of a chance book for me as I wasn't 100% sure....But I actually enjoyed it....

Even though there are so many books out there about fallen angels etc, this one had a unique story line.... Would recommend...

[Peggy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once you start reading Rise from Darkness be prepared to become addicted to it. It will have turning the pages and not able to put the book down! A great read! But beware of what you may not see just from reading the back of the book!

*Received for an honest review*

[Heather Robbins · Rating 5 out of 5]

Awesome! want more .... review to come

[Ginny Purvis · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love all the characters in this book. I am looking forward to the next one in the series. Oooh...I hope it's a series?