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Angel Eyes #3
Dark Halo
One halo brought sight to Brielle. Another offers sweet relief from what she sees.
Brielle can’t help but see the Celestial realm. Even without the halo, it’s everywhere she looks. And with the heavens above Stratus ravaged by war, Brielle wishes for another gift, any gift. Because Jake is gone. The only boy she’s ever loved has been taken by the demon, Damien—and she knows if she ever wants to see him again, she must fight.
But fighting is so hard when everything you see makes you afraid.
When she receives instructions from the Throne Room leading her to Jake, she unknowingly walks into a diabolical and heartbreaking trap. Then the Prince of Darkness himself offers Brielle a halo of his own making. With the dark halo, she won’t have to see the fear and brokenness that surround her. She’ll be free of that unbearable burden. And it comes with a promise: the guarantee of a life with Jake.
When confusing details about Jake’s past emerge, and the battle above reaches a fever pitch, Brielle is forced to make a choice. Will she choose the dark halo and the ignorance that comes with it, or will she choose to live with her eyes wide open and trust the Creator’s design—even if it means a future without Jake?
Brielle can’t help but see the Celestial realm. Even without the halo, it’s everywhere she looks. And with the heavens above Stratus ravaged by war, Brielle wishes for another gift, any gift. Because Jake is gone. The only boy she’s ever loved has been taken by the demon, Damien—and she knows if she ever wants to see him again, she must fight.
But fighting is so hard when everything you see makes you afraid.
When she receives instructions from the Throne Room leading her to Jake, she unknowingly walks into a diabolical and heartbreaking trap. Then the Prince of Darkness himself offers Brielle a halo of his own making. With the dark halo, she won’t have to see the fear and brokenness that surround her. She’ll be free of that unbearable burden. And it comes with a promise: the guarantee of a life with Jake.
When confusing details about Jake’s past emerge, and the battle above reaches a fever pitch, Brielle is forced to make a choice. Will she choose the dark halo and the ignorance that comes with it, or will she choose to live with her eyes wide open and trust the Creator’s design—even if it means a future without Jake?
320 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 20, 2013
17 people are currently reading
1467 people want to read
About the author
Shannon Dittemore
10 books619 followersShannon Dittemore is an author and speaker. Her books include the Angel Eyes trilogy, a supernatural foray into the realm of angels and demons, as well as the fantastical adventure novel Winter, White and Wicked. A sequel to the latter is expected in the fall of 2022.
Shannon's stories often feature strong female leads grappling with fear and faith as they venture into the wilds of the unknown. She’s often wondered if she’s writing her own quest for bravery again and again.
It’s a choice she values highly. Bravery. And she’s never more inspired than when young people ball up their fist and punch fear in the face.
To that end, Shannon frequently offers mentoring tracks at a local school where she provides junior high and high school students with an introduction to writing and the publishing industry. Tools she hopes will enable them to use their voice in new and powerful ways.
Together with authors Stephanie Morrill and Jill Williamson, she encourages young writers online at Go Teen Writers, an instructional blog recognized by Writer’s Digest four years running as a "101 Best Websites for Writers" selection.
Shannon is represented by Holly Root of Root Literary.
Shannon's stories often feature strong female leads grappling with fear and faith as they venture into the wilds of the unknown. She’s often wondered if she’s writing her own quest for bravery again and again.
It’s a choice she values highly. Bravery. And she’s never more inspired than when young people ball up their fist and punch fear in the face.
To that end, Shannon frequently offers mentoring tracks at a local school where she provides junior high and high school students with an introduction to writing and the publishing industry. Tools she hopes will enable them to use their voice in new and powerful ways.
Together with authors Stephanie Morrill and Jill Williamson, she encourages young writers online at Go Teen Writers, an instructional blog recognized by Writer’s Digest four years running as a "101 Best Websites for Writers" selection.
Shannon is represented by Holly Root of Root Literary.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews
August 13, 2023
3 ½ stars 🌟
Things got somewhat confusing in this book with all the reveals and connections between characters. Still enjoyed the series overall, but book 1 was the best.
Things got somewhat confusing in this book with all the reveals and connections between characters. Still enjoyed the series overall, but book 1 was the best.
November 20, 2018
Oh so incredibly good. This was a really great book to end off the series. And there were a bunch of twists that I definitely wasn't expecting, and they threw me for a loop. I honestly wish with all my heart that this series didn't have to end, but following the characters on their journey was worth it.
In this book, we're introduced to some new characters, and I wasn't really sure who to trust and who not to. In addition, there were some really tense moments that had me flipping the pages, and there was a great balance of action, romance, and faith.
When thinking about it, what I think I loved the most in this book was the character growth and development. I think there were some really insightful conclusions that were made, and one of those conclusions was concerning Brielle and Jake's relationship. Specifically in the second book, I noticed that Brielle put a lot of emphasis on being in a relationship with Jake, and at times it seemed like her entire future hinged on it. That slightly bothered me, but I didn't really read much into it but was definitely talked about more in depth in this book.
This is one of the best series I've read in a really long time, and it's a keeper for sure.
In this book, we're introduced to some new characters, and I wasn't really sure who to trust and who not to. In addition, there were some really tense moments that had me flipping the pages, and there was a great balance of action, romance, and faith.
When thinking about it, what I think I loved the most in this book was the character growth and development. I think there were some really insightful conclusions that were made, and one of those conclusions was concerning Brielle and Jake's relationship. Specifically in the second book, I noticed that Brielle put a lot of emphasis on being in a relationship with Jake, and at times it seemed like her entire future hinged on it. That slightly bothered me, but I didn't really read much into it but was definitely talked about more in depth in this book.
This is one of the best series I've read in a really long time, and it's a keeper for sure.
August 26, 2015
This is a review for the entire Angel Eyes trilogy
This series was absolutely amazing. My mind was (and still is) totally blown away. I'd heard good things about it before, but I never really took it to heart. But now I wish I had. My copy of Angel Eyes sat on my shelf, gathering dust, for almost two years before I actually read it. *shame* *head desk* Better late than never though, right?
Okay, so here's the short version: The Angel Eyes trilogy oozes with uniqueness, gorgeous prose, flawless writing, and characters so real you feel what they feel, hear what they hear, see what they see (or rather, don't see). Shannon Dittemore has really outdone herself with this debut trilogy. Not to be missed, and highly recommended!
Now for the long version. I will be breaking it down by reviewing (somewhat) briefly each book individually. Okay *rubs hands together* here we go.
ANGEL EYES
Whoa. *grasps for reality* THIS BOOK. I think it's my favorite of the entire trilogy. It just has the first-book adrenaline, you know? I said it before, but this book sat on my shelf for nearly two years before I read it, and that is one of my biggest regrets. I could have discovered this series so much sooner !!! Gah!!!
So, here we're introduced to Brielle, an 18-year-old professional dancer who's coming back home to Stratus, Oregon after a tragic event Her life is crumbling around her, and emotions are on the fritz.
In comes Jake. The overly friendly and uncomfortably attractive guy who's really hot. But not "hot" hot. Heat literally pulses off his body. Brielle can feel it without even touching him. Why is he so warm?
Fast forward a little bit. A creepy guy named Damien enters Stratus, Jake's guardian Canaan is an angel, and Brielle has obtained a glowing halo that makes her see into the Celestial, an angelic, heavenly realm. Things are getting pretty whacky. Then comes Marco . Now things are seriously ballistic. And the story is full-blown addicting from thereon out.
I found no flaw with Angel Eyes. It was, to me, about the closest a novel could get to perfection. I never wanted to stop turning the pages; my attention was always gripped the moment I cracked the spine till I closed the back flap. Encore! 5 stars to Angel Eyes.
BROKEN WINGS
Fast forward about six(?) months. All is well in Stratus, in the Celestial, and in Brielle's life. Her and Jake's relationship has bloomed into something beautiful. Brielle hasn't loved anyone more in her life; she wouldn't trade what she had with him for the world.
Well, this book starts out pretty happy--and actually stays that way, surprisingly. Only a few bumps in the road (a mysterious woman that rubs Brielle the wrong way named Olivia Holt has come into town, and Brielle's dad is drinking again) keep this from being a fluffy read.
Then we get to about page 30. No, I'm kidding.But seriously. Gigantic angels called Sabres have come down from heaven, and they're tearing down the Veil between the Celestial (angelic realm) and Terrestrial (earthly realm). Their worship and song is beautiful, but what will happen once the Veil tears and the realms collide?
And to add onto that, Damien and the Prince of Darkness himself (Satan) are after Brielle and Jake for their supernatural gifts.
I really didn't care for the ending. A cliffhanger, but not an emotionally gripping one. It literally just left you hanging. Almost like this book and Dark Halo were originally one book, and were separated to make a trilogy. Hmm.
Altogether, I didn't enjoy Broken Wings as much as Angel Eyes, but it was still fantastic nonetheless. Dittemore's writing remained punchy yet musical, and the characters and situations felt real as ever. Bravo! 4.5 stars to Broken Wings.
DARK HALO
Book 3. The finale. As soon I cracked open the spine, I could my heart strings being tugged. This was it. The ending to the trilogy I'd read throughout the summer. It was very bittersweet.
Dark Halo picks up right where Broken Wings left off. Jake and Brielle have been separated--Brielle in Stratus, Jake taken by Damien to the Prince of Darkness. Brielle is heartbroken, desperate to have her true love back. Her faith that's grown so strong throughout the series is dwindling. She's losing hope. What if she and Jake were never meant to be together after all?
But then Brielle receives instructions from the Throne Room (the place where all instructions, etc., comes from in Heaven) that lead her to Jake.
So Brielle and her best friend Kaylee (who I've failed to mention up to this point it seems) hit the road, intent on rescuing Jake.
But they're walking right into a trap. Now Brielle is stranded in a desert with Satan himself. And he's offering her another halo--a mirrored ring that will destroy her Celestial vision.
Will Brielle trade the beauty of the Celestial to taste the feeling of being ordinary again?
Okay, enough summary. This was probably my least favorite book in the trilogy (but holy hot sauce, definitely my favorite cover! I MEAN LOOK AT IT!). There wasn't anything wrong with it, I just prefer it least overall. Maybe it's the grimness of the story? I don't know. It was still a marvelous book.
And the ending. Well, more like the last 50 pages.
PERFECTION.
It really was. The way everything came together was just mind blowing, and the way everyone came out redeemed...it was beautiful.
And the way Brielle (and the others, kind of) defeated Satan was so emotional, so inspiring, heroic, and beautiful. How many times have I used the word "beautiful" in this review? Probably way too many, but that word alone just sums up this entire trilogy. Outstanding! 4.5 stars to Dark Halo.
Okay, so now I just want to briefly sum up some of my favorite things about all three books.
-The writing. Obviously.
-The humor. So many times I snickered or busted out laughing. Shannon has a great sense of humor!
-The characters. Again, obviously. But rather than Brielle or Jake being my favorite characters this time (though their journeys were both so, so beautiful), Kaylee takes the spot as my favorite. She grew so much throughout the trilogy, and she is hilarious! I love her so much. Everyone should have a friend like Kaylee.
-The faith. I don't even know if I should call it that. Spiritual relationship sounds better to me! It was so real. So inspiring. They way all the characters grew in or discovered God...it was like it was happening right in front of me. GAH! THIS SERIES, GUYS!
So. Overall? This is a trilogy I'll be reading over and over again. My only regret is not reading it earlier. Then maybe I could've enjoyed it more! I give all three books my highest recommendation. I hope you all read this trilogy one day!
This series was absolutely amazing. My mind was (and still is) totally blown away. I'd heard good things about it before, but I never really took it to heart. But now I wish I had. My copy of Angel Eyes sat on my shelf, gathering dust, for almost two years before I actually read it. *shame* *head desk* Better late than never though, right?
Okay, so here's the short version: The Angel Eyes trilogy oozes with uniqueness, gorgeous prose, flawless writing, and characters so real you feel what they feel, hear what they hear, see what they see (or rather, don't see). Shannon Dittemore has really outdone herself with this debut trilogy. Not to be missed, and highly recommended!
Now for the long version. I will be breaking it down by reviewing (somewhat) briefly each book individually. Okay *rubs hands together* here we go.
ANGEL EYES
Whoa. *grasps for reality* THIS BOOK. I think it's my favorite of the entire trilogy. It just has the first-book adrenaline, you know? I said it before, but this book sat on my shelf for nearly two years before I read it, and that is one of my biggest regrets. I could have discovered this series so much sooner !!! Gah!!!
So, here we're introduced to Brielle, an 18-year-old professional dancer who's coming back home to Stratus, Oregon after a tragic event Her life is crumbling around her, and emotions are on the fritz.
In comes Jake. The overly friendly and uncomfortably attractive guy who's really hot. But not "hot" hot. Heat literally pulses off his body. Brielle can feel it without even touching him. Why is he so warm?
Fast forward a little bit. A creepy guy named Damien enters Stratus, Jake's guardian Canaan is an angel, and Brielle has obtained a glowing halo that makes her see into the Celestial, an angelic, heavenly realm. Things are getting pretty whacky. Then comes Marco . Now things are seriously ballistic. And the story is full-blown addicting from thereon out.
I found no flaw with Angel Eyes. It was, to me, about the closest a novel could get to perfection. I never wanted to stop turning the pages; my attention was always gripped the moment I cracked the spine till I closed the back flap. Encore! 5 stars to Angel Eyes.
BROKEN WINGS
Fast forward about six(?) months. All is well in Stratus, in the Celestial, and in Brielle's life. Her and Jake's relationship has bloomed into something beautiful. Brielle hasn't loved anyone more in her life; she wouldn't trade what she had with him for the world.
Well, this book starts out pretty happy--and actually stays that way, surprisingly. Only a few bumps in the road (a mysterious woman that rubs Brielle the wrong way named Olivia Holt has come into town, and Brielle's dad is drinking again) keep this from being a fluffy read.
Then we get to about page 30. No, I'm kidding.
And to add onto that, Damien and the Prince of Darkness himself (Satan) are after Brielle and Jake for their supernatural gifts.
I really didn't care for the ending. A cliffhanger, but not an emotionally gripping one. It literally just left you hanging. Almost like this book and Dark Halo were originally one book, and were separated to make a trilogy. Hmm.
Altogether, I didn't enjoy Broken Wings as much as Angel Eyes, but it was still fantastic nonetheless. Dittemore's writing remained punchy yet musical, and the characters and situations felt real as ever. Bravo! 4.5 stars to Broken Wings.
DARK HALO
Book 3. The finale. As soon I cracked open the spine, I could my heart strings being tugged. This was it. The ending to the trilogy I'd read throughout the summer. It was very bittersweet.
Dark Halo picks up right where Broken Wings left off. Jake and Brielle have been separated--Brielle in Stratus, Jake taken by Damien to the Prince of Darkness. Brielle is heartbroken, desperate to have her true love back. Her faith that's grown so strong throughout the series is dwindling. She's losing hope. What if she and Jake were never meant to be together after all?
But then Brielle receives instructions from the Throne Room (the place where all instructions, etc., comes from in Heaven) that lead her to Jake.
So Brielle and her best friend Kaylee (who I've failed to mention up to this point it seems) hit the road, intent on rescuing Jake.
But they're walking right into a trap. Now Brielle is stranded in a desert with Satan himself. And he's offering her another halo--a mirrored ring that will destroy her Celestial vision.
Will Brielle trade the beauty of the Celestial to taste the feeling of being ordinary again?
Okay, enough summary. This was probably my least favorite book in the trilogy (but holy hot sauce, definitely my favorite cover! I MEAN LOOK AT IT!). There wasn't anything wrong with it, I just prefer it least overall. Maybe it's the grimness of the story? I don't know. It was still a marvelous book.
And the ending. Well, more like the last 50 pages.
PERFECTION.
It really was. The way everything came together was just mind blowing, and the way everyone came out redeemed...it was beautiful.
And the way Brielle (and the others, kind of) defeated Satan was so emotional, so inspiring, heroic, and beautiful. How many times have I used the word "beautiful" in this review? Probably way too many, but that word alone just sums up this entire trilogy. Outstanding! 4.5 stars to Dark Halo.
Okay, so now I just want to briefly sum up some of my favorite things about all three books.
-The writing. Obviously.
-The humor. So many times I snickered or busted out laughing. Shannon has a great sense of humor!
-The characters. Again, obviously. But rather than Brielle or Jake being my favorite characters this time (though their journeys were both so, so beautiful), Kaylee takes the spot as my favorite. She grew so much throughout the trilogy, and she is hilarious! I love her so much. Everyone should have a friend like Kaylee.
-The faith. I don't even know if I should call it that. Spiritual relationship sounds better to me! It was so real. So inspiring. They way all the characters grew in or discovered God...it was like it was happening right in front of me. GAH! THIS SERIES, GUYS!
So. Overall? This is a trilogy I'll be reading over and over again. My only regret is not reading it earlier. Then maybe I could've enjoyed it more! I give all three books my highest recommendation. I hope you all read this trilogy one day!
May 29, 2024
Probably more of a 3.5.
Overall, really loved this series (also it’s the first series I’ve finished in a VERY long time. Shoutout to hoopla for actually having the entire thing on audio!)
i love Jake with my entire heart and I love Brielle. The raw emotion in this series is everything. I love the themes. I love the worldbuilding.
Hence why I was so annoyed in the second and third books by the addition of Olivia and by Marco’s real lack of emotional turmoil. He felt like the kind of person who’d go “ITS NOT A PHASE MOM” and mean it. Like…he definitely went through a lot? But it never felt like that got more than skin deep. Not ideal for a POV character. And the subplot with him and Olivia annoyed me more than anything. I care about JAKE, honey, not your little revenge trip. Give me angels doing angel things, not “bad girl is tortured inside” and such.
Overall I’d recommend this series to Christian teens who actually want some heavier themes. Very good for that. I didn’t quite click with these later books, but I have so much respect for this series and its boldness.
Overall, really loved this series (also it’s the first series I’ve finished in a VERY long time. Shoutout to hoopla for actually having the entire thing on audio!)
i love Jake with my entire heart and I love Brielle. The raw emotion in this series is everything. I love the themes. I love the worldbuilding.
Hence why I was so annoyed in the second and third books by the addition of Olivia and by Marco’s real lack of emotional turmoil. He felt like the kind of person who’d go “ITS NOT A PHASE MOM” and mean it. Like…he definitely went through a lot? But it never felt like that got more than skin deep. Not ideal for a POV character. And the subplot with him and Olivia annoyed me more than anything. I care about JAKE, honey, not your little revenge trip. Give me angels doing angel things, not “bad girl is tortured inside” and such.
Overall I’d recommend this series to Christian teens who actually want some heavier themes. Very good for that. I didn’t quite click with these later books, but I have so much respect for this series and its boldness.
July 19, 2016
I do not usually care for angelic warfare novels OR teen romance, but the author won me over to this series with her excellent prose, great characters, and a surprisingly powerful story of growing into a more mature faith. Angel Eyes I liked in spite of myself. Broken Wings inspired both hope and appreciation, and so I was chomping at the bit by the third book.
Dark Halo not only proved a worthy and enjoyable sequel, it lifted the series as a whole to make it one I would recommend to all readers.
In this concluding novel of the Angel Eyes trilogy, teenage protagonist Brielle is reeling from the battles of the previous books. She's stronger now, with a heightened sense of faith and purpose, but the stakes are raised as her boyfriend Jake is held hostage by the Prince of Darkness himself. The cliffhanger from last time implied that Jake may face a most perilous temptation, one that could shatter everything they hold dear. But deception is always at play with demons, and Brielle soon learns that it's her own weaknesses that could destroy them both.
By all rights the reversal of the cliffhanger (one built to over the course of two books) should feel like a cheat. But author Shannon Dittemore really is that good: she completely changed my preconceptions as a reader, even down to my anticipation of this novel's plot. I'd forgotten, as the characters did, that deceit is the ultimate weapon of the enemy, and this novel's devil is no cartoonish caricature. He's sly and subtle, ferocious and fearful, the most metaphorically True depiction of Satan's power I have experienced in a work of fiction (perhaps supplanted only by Lewis's Screwtape Letters).
Brielle's voice continues to be the strongest weapon Dittemore employs in selling the plot's twists and turns. All the characters are at the zenith here, even secondary ones that in lesser hands would crowd a full tale. Instead, everyone's stories unlock meaty theological realities, the bedrock that grounds this supernatural journey. Dark Halo shows the roots of temptation forming in our lives from the inside out, reminding us that sin is a personal responsibility we must accept if we are to truly repent.
Perhaps the ultimate triumph of this novel is that it doesn't overreach. The characters, while growing in maturity, are still teenagers with real life problems. Rather than treat these issues as banal distractions from the deeper fight against evil, Dittemore guides teens to realize that these are the stuff of which such battles are made. Satan is not meant to be defeated by us; instead, we're to let God win that war in His own time, while we are used by Him to serve others.
Nowhere is this clarity in perspective greater than the relationship between Brielle and Jake. What romance, supernatural or not, allows the characters to face the idea of not being together, even to accept such a separation if it means bowing to God's will? Furthermore, what book would dare actually hold the characters to such a proposition even after the main climax is over, not dangling marriage as a prize to be won but a commitment to be pondered and not entered into lightly? These two individuals grew as people first, as a couple second.
There are a very few bumps in this well-hewn road, especially with one secondary's tragic backstory that at times felt tacked on. But such a critique is minor compared to the treasure these books ultimately offer readers. I highly recommend the entire series for any and all who wish to be encouraged, convicted, and inspired.
Dark Halo not only proved a worthy and enjoyable sequel, it lifted the series as a whole to make it one I would recommend to all readers.
In this concluding novel of the Angel Eyes trilogy, teenage protagonist Brielle is reeling from the battles of the previous books. She's stronger now, with a heightened sense of faith and purpose, but the stakes are raised as her boyfriend Jake is held hostage by the Prince of Darkness himself. The cliffhanger from last time implied that Jake may face a most perilous temptation, one that could shatter everything they hold dear. But deception is always at play with demons, and Brielle soon learns that it's her own weaknesses that could destroy them both.
By all rights the reversal of the cliffhanger (one built to over the course of two books) should feel like a cheat. But author Shannon Dittemore really is that good: she completely changed my preconceptions as a reader, even down to my anticipation of this novel's plot. I'd forgotten, as the characters did, that deceit is the ultimate weapon of the enemy, and this novel's devil is no cartoonish caricature. He's sly and subtle, ferocious and fearful, the most metaphorically True depiction of Satan's power I have experienced in a work of fiction (perhaps supplanted only by Lewis's Screwtape Letters).
Brielle's voice continues to be the strongest weapon Dittemore employs in selling the plot's twists and turns. All the characters are at the zenith here, even secondary ones that in lesser hands would crowd a full tale. Instead, everyone's stories unlock meaty theological realities, the bedrock that grounds this supernatural journey. Dark Halo shows the roots of temptation forming in our lives from the inside out, reminding us that sin is a personal responsibility we must accept if we are to truly repent.
Perhaps the ultimate triumph of this novel is that it doesn't overreach. The characters, while growing in maturity, are still teenagers with real life problems. Rather than treat these issues as banal distractions from the deeper fight against evil, Dittemore guides teens to realize that these are the stuff of which such battles are made. Satan is not meant to be defeated by us; instead, we're to let God win that war in His own time, while we are used by Him to serve others.
Nowhere is this clarity in perspective greater than the relationship between Brielle and Jake. What romance, supernatural or not, allows the characters to face the idea of not being together, even to accept such a separation if it means bowing to God's will? Furthermore, what book would dare actually hold the characters to such a proposition even after the main climax is over, not dangling marriage as a prize to be won but a commitment to be pondered and not entered into lightly? These two individuals grew as people first, as a couple second.
There are a very few bumps in this well-hewn road, especially with one secondary's tragic backstory that at times felt tacked on. But such a critique is minor compared to the treasure these books ultimately offer readers. I highly recommend the entire series for any and all who wish to be encouraged, convicted, and inspired.
August 26, 2019
A stunning finale to the trilogy! I had huge hopes for this book and it didn't let me down at all.
The emotions were so real in this one. All the characters are coming to the climax of their arcs, they're going through the darkest and hardest struggles yet, but there's a happy ending eventually! I loved it so much.
Jake and Brielle's relationship panned out so well in the end. It wasn't as fairytale as I originally hoped, but it was so realistic and it fitted them exactly right in the end.
This was just as page turning as the first two books and I was so engrossed in the story the instant I picked it up.
Overall, an amazing trilogy! I think the first book is my favourite, but they were all so good. Definitely recommend!
The emotions were so real in this one. All the characters are coming to the climax of their arcs, they're going through the darkest and hardest struggles yet, but there's a happy ending eventually! I loved it so much.
Jake and Brielle's relationship panned out so well in the end. It wasn't as fairytale as I originally hoped, but it was so realistic and it fitted them exactly right in the end.
This was just as page turning as the first two books and I was so engrossed in the story the instant I picked it up.
Overall, an amazing trilogy! I think the first book is my favourite, but they were all so good. Definitely recommend!
August 19, 2013
The war between angels and demons continues in the final novel in the Angel Eyes Trilogy by Shannon Dittemore, Dark Halo. This is the darkest of the three and the best part I loved about this one is how Shannon spent sometime highlighting the series for those that may have grabbed this one without understanding a bit of the backstory or for those that have and it's been so time between novels, this is a nice reminder of where we left off in Broken Wings.
The novel surrounds Brielle and Jake, a couple fated to fall in love and then be placed in helping to aid in the battle against good versus evil that puts the lives of those most close to them in deadly peril. Brielle has been given a special gift though a halo that Jake gave her, which when worn, allows her to see into the celestial realm and see the spiritual world around her. Jake has been gifted with the ability to heal when he places his hands on those that are injured or dying, and together they are the biggest target the enemy is seeking to destroy. Jake and Brielle's angelic shield, Caanan attempts to protect and lead them in what they need to do to save the enemies attempt to take them from the town of Stratus, Oregon.
When the Broken Wings ended leaving the reader at the cliff hanger ending, a demon by the name of Damien had captured Jake from the safety of Caanan's wings while a heavenly war was raging over the skies of Stratus. Brielle could do nothing to save him but watch as they disappeared into the sky. The Sabre's, a group of twelve angels, whose worship has the capacity to tear through the terrestrial veil and allow the town of Stratus to see just what is harming their small town. Damien has been commissioned by he Prince of Darkness to capture and bring Jake and Brielle to him, and now he has managed to secure the first of the two of them. He can only hope that Brielle's love will bring her to search for Jake and thus secure the one true treasure the Prince of Darkness is seeking, to be able to gift her with the dark halo and give Brielle a break from the nightmares that continue to plague her sleep.
I received Dark Halo by Shannon Dittemore compliments of Thomas Nelson Publishers for my honest review and received no monetary compensation for a favorable one. Having read all three novels in this series, this was the one I anticipated reading the most. Shannon does an exceptional job at answering all the lingering questions that have popped up since being introduced to the first novel. I can even see the opportunity for future books in this series as well. I think she did a masterful job at showing just how deceitful the enemy can be when Brielle comes face to face with Satan and helps readers understand the subtlety he can use to twist his lies into what would appear as the truth. This is such a great series to offer young teens as an alternative to all the fiction flooding the marketplace with paranormal romances and for that reason I rate this one a 5 out of 5 stars. There is also a great discussion guide included for book clubs as well as a sneak peek into the novel Anomaly by Krista McGee.
The novel surrounds Brielle and Jake, a couple fated to fall in love and then be placed in helping to aid in the battle against good versus evil that puts the lives of those most close to them in deadly peril. Brielle has been given a special gift though a halo that Jake gave her, which when worn, allows her to see into the celestial realm and see the spiritual world around her. Jake has been gifted with the ability to heal when he places his hands on those that are injured or dying, and together they are the biggest target the enemy is seeking to destroy. Jake and Brielle's angelic shield, Caanan attempts to protect and lead them in what they need to do to save the enemies attempt to take them from the town of Stratus, Oregon.
When the Broken Wings ended leaving the reader at the cliff hanger ending, a demon by the name of Damien had captured Jake from the safety of Caanan's wings while a heavenly war was raging over the skies of Stratus. Brielle could do nothing to save him but watch as they disappeared into the sky. The Sabre's, a group of twelve angels, whose worship has the capacity to tear through the terrestrial veil and allow the town of Stratus to see just what is harming their small town. Damien has been commissioned by he Prince of Darkness to capture and bring Jake and Brielle to him, and now he has managed to secure the first of the two of them. He can only hope that Brielle's love will bring her to search for Jake and thus secure the one true treasure the Prince of Darkness is seeking, to be able to gift her with the dark halo and give Brielle a break from the nightmares that continue to plague her sleep.
I received Dark Halo by Shannon Dittemore compliments of Thomas Nelson Publishers for my honest review and received no monetary compensation for a favorable one. Having read all three novels in this series, this was the one I anticipated reading the most. Shannon does an exceptional job at answering all the lingering questions that have popped up since being introduced to the first novel. I can even see the opportunity for future books in this series as well. I think she did a masterful job at showing just how deceitful the enemy can be when Brielle comes face to face with Satan and helps readers understand the subtlety he can use to twist his lies into what would appear as the truth. This is such a great series to offer young teens as an alternative to all the fiction flooding the marketplace with paranormal romances and for that reason I rate this one a 5 out of 5 stars. There is also a great discussion guide included for book clubs as well as a sneak peek into the novel Anomaly by Krista McGee.
November 12, 2015
This was an amazing end to this trilogy! I still felt like there could've been a fourth book telling about what happens with Jake and Brielle. But other than that, I LOVED THIS TRILOGY!!! I didn't think I was going to like it this much! But I do! Anyway, READ THIS SERIES! Why I didn't finish this sooner, I have no idea.
Clean rating: Some violence, and some deaths.
Clean rating: Some violence, and some deaths.
June 24, 2013
Oh my goodness! I did NOT want this book to end. What an amazing finale to an amazing series. Exciting plot, well-developed characters, and Truth is woven together so beautifully. Every page is like a work of art. I LOVED this!!
August 15, 2017
THAT ENDING!! A full review will come, but I just have to say this book - and the entire series, honestly - was SO good! But this book. Everything about it tied everything together and was just so flawless!
June 30, 2020
4 stars
April 20, 2024
I love this series! It was entertaining but also had me thinking deeply about my faith.
September 2, 2013
One halo gave Brielle sight. Another one offers her relief. With a heavenly battle occurring in the skies about Stratus, Brielle sees the Celestial all of the time now. Especially since the Terrestrial Veil is being ripped in two. She longs for a chance to be normal and not see. Her boyfriend, Jake, has been taken by the forces of Darkness, and she will do just about anything to save him. When she encounters the Prince of Darkness himself, he offers her a halo that will take her Celestial vision and he promises a future with Jake, something that the Throne Room seems to be taking from her. But the Prince is an accomplished liar and manipulator. Will Brielle take his tempting offer?
This is the conclusion to the Angel Eyes trilogy. I loved seeing the battles between Light and Darkness. It reminded me so much of Frank Perretti's This Present Darkness and Piercing the Darkness books. I enjoyed watching Brielle grow in her faith in these three books. I absolutely loved Kaylee. I'd love to see her in her own book. While I enjoyed the entire series as a whole, I really enjoyed this one. I think it was my favorite of the three. I loved how the encounter with the Prince of Darkness showed Brielle's doubts and her longings.
I received this book for free from Thomas Nelson's Booksneeze program for the purpose of reviewing. My thoughts and opinions are my own.
Recommended to fans of young adult fiction, Krista McGee, Frank Perretti, Steven James.
Rating - 4 stars
This is the conclusion to the Angel Eyes trilogy. I loved seeing the battles between Light and Darkness. It reminded me so much of Frank Perretti's This Present Darkness and Piercing the Darkness books. I enjoyed watching Brielle grow in her faith in these three books. I absolutely loved Kaylee. I'd love to see her in her own book. While I enjoyed the entire series as a whole, I really enjoyed this one. I think it was my favorite of the three. I loved how the encounter with the Prince of Darkness showed Brielle's doubts and her longings.
I received this book for free from Thomas Nelson's Booksneeze program for the purpose of reviewing. My thoughts and opinions are my own.
Recommended to fans of young adult fiction, Krista McGee, Frank Perretti, Steven James.
Rating - 4 stars
August 20, 2013
The third and last book in the series, Dark Halo offers a satisfying ending to the Angel Eyes trilogy. Both Brielle and Jake have some tough decisions to make and I’m just glad that they have some good friends to cheer them on when they feel fearful and uncertain. I like the empowering message in relation to how all things originate from the same source and therefore even the most evil ones can’t escape the desire to have access to something bright and beautiful offered by the Creator. While I’d prefer a much braver Brielle, her flaws feel real and I appreciate her character growth throughout the series. I like Jake and it’s wonderful to see him putting his gifts into very good use in this installment. It’s quite an unexpected surprise to find out about his family secrets and when I finally see how choice/ consequence plays out, I start to understand the significance of the halo. Life may not always be difficult but when challenges present themselves, it’s up to the individual to make the best use of the situation. If you’d like to be inspired, read the Angel Eyes trilogy. Personally, I’ve learned a few things to help me face my own weaknesses, and I feel grateful for the opportunity to have read Dittemore’s work.
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Originally posted on LeisureReads.com.
A copy of the book was provided by publisher for review purposes.
--
Originally posted on LeisureReads.com.
A copy of the book was provided by publisher for review purposes.
September 9, 2013
I’ve been dying to read the conclusion to this series, and I’m so glad I finally got the chance. This is book three in the Angel Eyes trilogy. The first book, Angel Eyes, and the second, Broken Wings, were both amazing, and I couldn’t wait to see how it all ended.
Brielle can see the Celestial realm, and there’s a war going on, right in her hometown of Stratus, Oregon. Angels and demons are fighting to the death over the souls of men. It’s a terrifying sight to see. And it’s even harder now that she and Jake have been parted. He was taken by Damien, so Brielle keeps watch over the trunk in Canaan’s room for word or clue from the Throne Room. One clue leads to another, which leads to another. Jake and Brielle both have mysteries to solve. What happened to Ali? Who was Jake’s father? How is Olivia involved in all this? And how was Brielle’s mother connected to it all? Their investigation leads to all the answers in a satisfying conclusion. Loved it!
I so enjoy Shannon Dittemore’s writing, her characters, and the way she tells a story. I’m sad this was the end, and I can’t wait to read whatever book she writes next. This trilogy was fascinating, and I highly recommend it.
Brielle can see the Celestial realm, and there’s a war going on, right in her hometown of Stratus, Oregon. Angels and demons are fighting to the death over the souls of men. It’s a terrifying sight to see. And it’s even harder now that she and Jake have been parted. He was taken by Damien, so Brielle keeps watch over the trunk in Canaan’s room for word or clue from the Throne Room. One clue leads to another, which leads to another. Jake and Brielle both have mysteries to solve. What happened to Ali? Who was Jake’s father? How is Olivia involved in all this? And how was Brielle’s mother connected to it all? Their investigation leads to all the answers in a satisfying conclusion. Loved it!
I so enjoy Shannon Dittemore’s writing, her characters, and the way she tells a story. I’m sad this was the end, and I can’t wait to read whatever book she writes next. This trilogy was fascinating, and I highly recommend it.
May 30, 2013
I got the wonderful privilege of reading this series' ending earlier than most, and what a gift it was. I'm sad to leave behind the friends that I've grown so close to over the last two books, but I couldn't have asked for a better send off for them. The plot puzzle was more intricate than I could have pictured, and who doesn't love a series that goes out with action, fighting, twists and turns, heartaches, romance and an overwhelming sense of hope for the future?!?! I loved this book! I loved this series! Discover for yourself what these pages hold!
May 2, 2017
Wow! This book had so many twists and turns! And EVERYTHING is connected! Literally everything! And that ending! Wow!
I listened to the audio of this book, and this had a different narrator than the first two books. It took me a bit to get used to. The narrator wasn't bad, and I probably would've liked her better if I hadn't been so attached to the narrator who had done the other two. And, she way over exaggerated her almost crying and crying voice all the time. Way over dramatized. But it was still a decent audiobook.
I listened to the audio of this book, and this had a different narrator than the first two books. It took me a bit to get used to. The narrator wasn't bad, and I probably would've liked her better if I hadn't been so attached to the narrator who had done the other two. And, she way over exaggerated her almost crying and crying voice all the time. Way over dramatized. But it was still a decent audiobook.
November 4, 2013
I won a copy on Goodreads Firstreads.
This book sounded interesting and what I read I found enjoyable. The problem was that this was part 3 of a trilogy. The story was just a little too far along for me to jump into it. I am going to give it some time and try again. Or I might go ahead and get the earlier volumes and read the whole series but right now I have just a few too many books in my to read pile to add another 600 pages or so.
This book sounded interesting and what I read I found enjoyable. The problem was that this was part 3 of a trilogy. The story was just a little too far along for me to jump into it. I am going to give it some time and try again. Or I might go ahead and get the earlier volumes and read the whole series but right now I have just a few too many books in my to read pile to add another 600 pages or so.
December 8, 2015
4.5 stars
September 20, 2015
For now let's just stick with WOW!... there will be more later. I promise.
November 9, 2017
When you get to the climax of the story you have to finish it. I think I read this book in the course of one day. It is kind of short and the writing is very easy to understand, so it wasn't too hard but I couldn't put it down. I love how the story talked about prostitution and human trafficking kind of bringing it to light, not many books I've read actually shows it up close and personal as this one does.
I love how it was wrapped up, and overall the tone through the three books remained on the same par. I personally like book 3 and 1 a bit more than book 2 because Book 3 was wrapped up so nicely that when you finish it you let out such a sigh of content you pick up book 1 just to go through it all over again.
I love how it was wrapped up, and overall the tone through the three books remained on the same par. I personally like book 3 and 1 a bit more than book 2 because Book 3 was wrapped up so nicely that when you finish it you let out such a sigh of content you pick up book 1 just to go through it all over again.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 8, 2023
"Dark Halo" is the stunning conclusion to Shannon Dittemore's Angel Eyes trilogy.
Through superb writing and beautiful prose, "Dark Halo" forges a strong bond between the reader and its characters. Each one is well-developed and unique. Kaylee adds laugh-out-loud humor, Marco ups the intrigue, and Olivia is a marvelous picture of redemption. (It's a great author who can make you cry for a character you previously despised.) I highly recommend this series for those looking for a page-turning and poignant read.
Through superb writing and beautiful prose, "Dark Halo" forges a strong bond between the reader and its characters. Each one is well-developed and unique. Kaylee adds laugh-out-loud humor, Marco ups the intrigue, and Olivia is a marvelous picture of redemption. (It's a great author who can make you cry for a character you previously despised.) I highly recommend this series for those looking for a page-turning and poignant read.
February 20, 2018
It was the final book so I had to read it. However, there was a LOT of crying in this book. a lot of "freaking out" over events and since I listened to the Audio book, I had to hear the narrator "crying" in the reading. It actually got quite annoying. I bet reading it would have been better to not hear the whining. I hear enough whining from my kids every night- I don't need it in my books too.
August 21, 2013
There’s something scary about picking up the last book of a series. Will all your questions be answered? Will your favorite characters survive the climax? Will it end on such a “meh” note that you never return to this world you’ve loved so much? It is the last book after all. This door between worlds is closing forever.
When I finished Dark Halo, I found myself struggling emotionally. As a concluding book, Dark Halo did a superb job answering most of the burning questions from the first book. A few were left a bit open ended in a realistic, life doesn’t fit into a neat little package sort of way. The action successfully resolved, and the main characters all experienced closure. But despite my complete satisfaction in the ending, my chief emotion was heartbreak…because no matter how good it had been, it was still an ending. Over the next few days, I reread the book a few times and tried to identify why this series had resonated so deeply. I read so many books, and could even begin to list all the complete series I’ve found that ended well. But I can list all the series I regretted seeing the last page of, so I began looking for a common thread.
Fortunately, Tolkien himself provided me with the word to describe these endings: eucatastrophes. I know this quote from his essay “On Fairy Stories” is a bit long, but bear with me.
Since we do not appear to possess a word that expresses this opposite — I will call it Eucatastrophe. The eucatastrophic tale is the true form of fairy-tale, and its highest function. The consolation of fairy-stories, the joy of the happy ending: or more correctly of the good catastrophe, the sudden joyous “turn” (for there is no true end to any fairy-tale): this joy, which is one of the things which fairy-stories can produce supremely well, is not essentially ‘escapist’, nor ‘fugitive’. In its fairy-tale—or otherworld—setting, it is a sudden and miraculous grace: never to be counted on to recur… It is the mark of a good fairy-story, of the higher or more complete kind, that however wild its events, however fantastic or terrible the adventures, it can give to child or man that hears it, when the “turn” comes, a catch of the breath, a beat and lifting of the heart, near to (or indeed accompanied by) tears, as keen as that given by any form of literary art…
This reason I think this definition is so important is because it is so seldom achieved. Although, to be fair, I think very few writers try to attain it. There are many, many different types of stories, written for as many different reasons. But there is an almost undeniable sense of greatness achieved by some stories. They touch something in us that very few people will experience in real life. The entire world shifts ever so slightly in our minds. And yet, the same sensation remains deeply human no matter how many elves, aliens, or, in this case, angels are involved.
I have devoured each installment of the Angel Eyes trilogy and scrambled to lay hold of a reason why. I found it here, in the conclusion. Fantasy is made up of stories of good and evil. It’s almost part of the definition. Sometimes, those boundaries are easy to define. Elves are good; orcs are bad. Sometimes they are much harder as many stories in the Star Wars EU have shown us. But the element some stories neglect is the human. We are so caught up in the thousands and thousands of troops, we miss the small, insignificant person standing between them.
This is what Dark Halo has captured. Heaven and Hell, the most archetypal opposing sides, are poised over the world, but it is the decision made in the heart of a teenager that shakes the foundations of reality. And each of Brielle’s choices, right or wrong, are just plan human. As a reader, we get the big picture and can be screaming at her not to go down that path all we like. But if we are honest, if it was us in her shoes, they would still be marching down that same road. Brielle is the perfect everyman.
So for three books, Brielle provides a hole for the reader to step into and experience the exhilaration and agony of this story. For three books, a cosmic war rages with its humans, both character and reader, standing in the middle. And suddenly it’s over.
And it’s not even the kind of over that involves riding off into the sunset for more adventures. Think of what it would have been like if at the end of Harry Potter, his mission complete, he turned in his wand and powers and went off to be a muggle. Or if at the end of Star Wars, Luke decided to never be a Jedi. That’s what this was like. It was over. Brielle, though forever changed, is returning to a normal life that doesn’t involved rips in the cosmic veil. Just as the reader has to set aside the book and go paint the living room or something.
This is a very rare kind of closure. The kind where the book closes with a resounding finality and without the promise of more of same. It is heartbreaking. But with even in that, there is so much hope and joy. Fire and destruction can be rebuilt. Scars can fade. In the deepest of senses, the world can be saved. Eucatastrophe, at it’s very finest.
Republished from www.lytherus.com
When I finished Dark Halo, I found myself struggling emotionally. As a concluding book, Dark Halo did a superb job answering most of the burning questions from the first book. A few were left a bit open ended in a realistic, life doesn’t fit into a neat little package sort of way. The action successfully resolved, and the main characters all experienced closure. But despite my complete satisfaction in the ending, my chief emotion was heartbreak…because no matter how good it had been, it was still an ending. Over the next few days, I reread the book a few times and tried to identify why this series had resonated so deeply. I read so many books, and could even begin to list all the complete series I’ve found that ended well. But I can list all the series I regretted seeing the last page of, so I began looking for a common thread.
Fortunately, Tolkien himself provided me with the word to describe these endings: eucatastrophes. I know this quote from his essay “On Fairy Stories” is a bit long, but bear with me.
Since we do not appear to possess a word that expresses this opposite — I will call it Eucatastrophe. The eucatastrophic tale is the true form of fairy-tale, and its highest function. The consolation of fairy-stories, the joy of the happy ending: or more correctly of the good catastrophe, the sudden joyous “turn” (for there is no true end to any fairy-tale): this joy, which is one of the things which fairy-stories can produce supremely well, is not essentially ‘escapist’, nor ‘fugitive’. In its fairy-tale—or otherworld—setting, it is a sudden and miraculous grace: never to be counted on to recur… It is the mark of a good fairy-story, of the higher or more complete kind, that however wild its events, however fantastic or terrible the adventures, it can give to child or man that hears it, when the “turn” comes, a catch of the breath, a beat and lifting of the heart, near to (or indeed accompanied by) tears, as keen as that given by any form of literary art…
This reason I think this definition is so important is because it is so seldom achieved. Although, to be fair, I think very few writers try to attain it. There are many, many different types of stories, written for as many different reasons. But there is an almost undeniable sense of greatness achieved by some stories. They touch something in us that very few people will experience in real life. The entire world shifts ever so slightly in our minds. And yet, the same sensation remains deeply human no matter how many elves, aliens, or, in this case, angels are involved.
I have devoured each installment of the Angel Eyes trilogy and scrambled to lay hold of a reason why. I found it here, in the conclusion. Fantasy is made up of stories of good and evil. It’s almost part of the definition. Sometimes, those boundaries are easy to define. Elves are good; orcs are bad. Sometimes they are much harder as many stories in the Star Wars EU have shown us. But the element some stories neglect is the human. We are so caught up in the thousands and thousands of troops, we miss the small, insignificant person standing between them.
This is what Dark Halo has captured. Heaven and Hell, the most archetypal opposing sides, are poised over the world, but it is the decision made in the heart of a teenager that shakes the foundations of reality. And each of Brielle’s choices, right or wrong, are just plan human. As a reader, we get the big picture and can be screaming at her not to go down that path all we like. But if we are honest, if it was us in her shoes, they would still be marching down that same road. Brielle is the perfect everyman.
So for three books, Brielle provides a hole for the reader to step into and experience the exhilaration and agony of this story. For three books, a cosmic war rages with its humans, both character and reader, standing in the middle. And suddenly it’s over.
And it’s not even the kind of over that involves riding off into the sunset for more adventures. Think of what it would have been like if at the end of Harry Potter, his mission complete, he turned in his wand and powers and went off to be a muggle. Or if at the end of Star Wars, Luke decided to never be a Jedi. That’s what this was like. It was over. Brielle, though forever changed, is returning to a normal life that doesn’t involved rips in the cosmic veil. Just as the reader has to set aside the book and go paint the living room or something.
This is a very rare kind of closure. The kind where the book closes with a resounding finality and without the promise of more of same. It is heartbreaking. But with even in that, there is so much hope and joy. Fire and destruction can be rebuilt. Scars can fade. In the deepest of senses, the world can be saved. Eucatastrophe, at it’s very finest.
Republished from www.lytherus.com
December 11, 2017
very good!
January 6, 2019
These books are incredible!!!
January 27, 2019
The plot comes together in the last book of the Angel Eyes trilogy. A few unexpected plot twists will keep readers turning pages until the very end.
June 25, 2025
3.5 ⭐️s
January 20, 2014
4.5 Stars
Dark Halo is the thrilling conclusion to the Angel Eyes trilogy. Let me tell you, I have followed this series since the release of the first book and each book just seems to get better than the last. As Dark Halo is the final novel, I was very worried. There is always a lot of pressure on finales--especially for beloved series. I should not have been worried. Shannon Dittemore's story ends just as strongly as it began.
I (again) feel the need to state that I'm not a very religious person. I say that because this is a very religion driven series and I was still very much able to enjoy it. Dittemore's strong prose and plots made it impossible for me to feel anything but love towards this series. Her talent gives Dark Halo the ability to stand on its own merits. There is something for everyone in this book. Though religion is a very heavy theme, I never once felt like it was being shoved down my throat. It is very common for authors to (whether consciously or not) push religion at its readers in novels with angels, and frustrate those who read them, too. I've had this experience several times, but Dittemore never made me feel uncomfortable. I applaud her for that.
There isn't much I can explain in regards to the plot without spoiling the first two books in the series, so I will just say that the cliffhanger from book two is immediately addressed. Jake and Brielle, along with their friends, must find the faith and strength to overcome their enemies while saving the world as they know it.
These characters… I don't even know how to properly describe them. Jake, Brielle, Marco and Kaylee all have found a place in my heart. While I originally found it strange to switch from first to third point-of-view, Dittemore pulls it off. It works well for this book. We get great insight into each of these "players." The different perspectives help us understand the motives behind their actions, and help the audience bond with them. After this novel, I even found that I was able to care for Liv--albeit reluctantly. Though she was not shown as a good guy, her redemption was excellent. Each character, major and minor, was given a role in Brielle and Jake's journey. No one felt out of place, or disjointed. Dittemore sees these each of characters through to the very end.
There is so much intensity in this book, but that's to be expected after the last two.The plot is strong, and moves very steadily. It never felt rushed, or seemed to drag on. The pace fit with the themes and events within Dark Halo very well. Dittemore shapes an excellent story and brings a beloved series to a close while being sure to answer any questions the readers may have. Even as we witness all of the trials these characters are put through, the author leaves us with hope in our hearts and a smile on our faces.
I am so happy I decided to give this series a chance. It was an amazing journey, watching these characters grow and come into themselves. Dittemore has impressed me and it saddens me to let go of these characters, but the ending leaves nothing but smiles. This book/series was amazing. Dittemore is a very talented writer, who I hope to see more of in the future.
I received an e-copy of this novel from the publisher for my honest opinion and review via Netgalley.
This review can also be seen here on my blog.
Dark Halo is the thrilling conclusion to the Angel Eyes trilogy. Let me tell you, I have followed this series since the release of the first book and each book just seems to get better than the last. As Dark Halo is the final novel, I was very worried. There is always a lot of pressure on finales--especially for beloved series. I should not have been worried. Shannon Dittemore's story ends just as strongly as it began.
I (again) feel the need to state that I'm not a very religious person. I say that because this is a very religion driven series and I was still very much able to enjoy it. Dittemore's strong prose and plots made it impossible for me to feel anything but love towards this series. Her talent gives Dark Halo the ability to stand on its own merits. There is something for everyone in this book. Though religion is a very heavy theme, I never once felt like it was being shoved down my throat. It is very common for authors to (whether consciously or not) push religion at its readers in novels with angels, and frustrate those who read them, too. I've had this experience several times, but Dittemore never made me feel uncomfortable. I applaud her for that.
There isn't much I can explain in regards to the plot without spoiling the first two books in the series, so I will just say that the cliffhanger from book two is immediately addressed. Jake and Brielle, along with their friends, must find the faith and strength to overcome their enemies while saving the world as they know it.
These characters… I don't even know how to properly describe them. Jake, Brielle, Marco and Kaylee all have found a place in my heart. While I originally found it strange to switch from first to third point-of-view, Dittemore pulls it off. It works well for this book. We get great insight into each of these "players." The different perspectives help us understand the motives behind their actions, and help the audience bond with them. After this novel, I even found that I was able to care for Liv--albeit reluctantly. Though she was not shown as a good guy, her redemption was excellent. Each character, major and minor, was given a role in Brielle and Jake's journey. No one felt out of place, or disjointed. Dittemore sees these each of characters through to the very end.
There is so much intensity in this book, but that's to be expected after the last two.The plot is strong, and moves very steadily. It never felt rushed, or seemed to drag on. The pace fit with the themes and events within Dark Halo very well. Dittemore shapes an excellent story and brings a beloved series to a close while being sure to answer any questions the readers may have. Even as we witness all of the trials these characters are put through, the author leaves us with hope in our hearts and a smile on our faces.
I am so happy I decided to give this series a chance. It was an amazing journey, watching these characters grow and come into themselves. Dittemore has impressed me and it saddens me to let go of these characters, but the ending leaves nothing but smiles. This book/series was amazing. Dittemore is a very talented writer, who I hope to see more of in the future.
I received an e-copy of this novel from the publisher for my honest opinion and review via Netgalley.
This review can also be seen here on my blog.
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