What do you think?
Rate this book
The Light-Bringer Series #1
A Gift of Wings
Half-Seraph and skilled fighter, Aidan Townsend could no longer live with the consequences of being a celebrated member of the Forces of the Fallen, so he walked away from it all. Now, he has created a new life for himself--a human life as songwriter and lead singer for a successful Chicago band. And he keeps his angelic abilities carefully hidden, even from himself. Lucky Monroe is just an ordinary girl--or so she thinks. About to turn eighteen and with high school behind her, she's looking for a job, contemplating the possibility of college, and gradually coming to terms with her beloved grandmother's descent into early-onset Alzheimer's. Then her cousin Josh takes her to hear a popular local band and she sees fiery wings extending from the back of the handsome and charismatic lead singer. Suddenly, she finds herself enmeshed in a world of Fallen angels, demons, and ancient deities--a world that promises knowledge of her newfound powers, as well as a budding romance, but also threatens all she holds dear.
- GenresUrban FantasyAngels
514 pages, Paperback
First published October 14, 2012
6 people are currently reading
332 people want to read
About the author
Stephanie Stamm
5 books18 followersStephanie Stamm is the author of the Light-Bringer Series of NA/YA urban fantasy novels. She lives with her spouse, a shy cat, and a part-time dog on a small urban farm outside of Atlanta.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
November 7, 2013
How do I review this book? I've pondered that since I finished it. I'm not a fiction reader. But here's the thing, by the 100th page I was tied to the story. The scenes held my attention and made me lose the words on the page for the images they conjured. The interaction between Lucky and Aidan is great, though I worry that I'm going to have to pick a team in book two... but I won't write a review with spoilers.
I enjoy all of the characters and look forward to Lucky coming into form and full inner strength in book two. There's a lot to like about this story and its characters.
Enjoy! I did.
I enjoy all of the characters and look forward to Lucky coming into form and full inner strength in book two. There's a lot to like about this story and its characters.
Enjoy! I did.
December 5, 2023
A page turner!
Well written and completely engaging. Not a false note in any of the characters. I can't wait to continue Lucy's saga.
Well written and completely engaging. Not a false note in any of the characters. I can't wait to continue Lucy's saga.
May 23, 2024
Cute young adult novel but reads like this is the first book the author wrote (not sure if it was?). Not bad but could be improved as it got a bit boring at times.
July 12, 2013
I loved all the angles and aspects that Stephanie Stamm added to her first book in the series. I liked how she added "real" life problems to Lucky's life, for example, how her grandmother has Alzheimer's. Stephanie helped me connect with Lucky by helping me feel what she was feeling with her emotions. A lot of books just do the same old same old with just a few differences. But Stephanie added some many twists that it kept me on the edge of my seat, so to speak. I could not put the book down, I even read it at the YMCA when I was biking and doing core. I am known as the "Book Girl" there!
I could tell that Stephanie added her passion into this book with all the research and facts that she touched base to create her own world. I also like how she added music as a major part in the book, Aidan's passion. Music is such a major part of our society today, she explained the connection between Aidan's music and Lucky perfectly when she did not know what was happening to her the first time she heard him sing.
Normally, when you think of angels you think of righteous beings who always do good. However, Aidan came off as a 'normal' boy who is battling what 'normal' boys do. I mean he even has a pet ferret! That aspect allowed me to connect more and appreciate the book even more.
Oh boy, then comes the love triangle. I love Lucky with Aidan! But I can also see her with his brother, Kev. Normally, I know right away who I want the main character to get together with in the end, but I am having a really hard time with this series. I think that makes the book even more interesting because that means I have no idea what to expect.
Overall, I loved the book with all its twists and detailed angles that Stephanie added. If you are looking for a different and unique book about angels then this is your book!!
I could tell that Stephanie added her passion into this book with all the research and facts that she touched base to create her own world. I also like how she added music as a major part in the book, Aidan's passion. Music is such a major part of our society today, she explained the connection between Aidan's music and Lucky perfectly when she did not know what was happening to her the first time she heard him sing.
Normally, when you think of angels you think of righteous beings who always do good. However, Aidan came off as a 'normal' boy who is battling what 'normal' boys do. I mean he even has a pet ferret! That aspect allowed me to connect more and appreciate the book even more.
Oh boy, then comes the love triangle. I love Lucky with Aidan! But I can also see her with his brother, Kev. Normally, I know right away who I want the main character to get together with in the end, but I am having a really hard time with this series. I think that makes the book even more interesting because that means I have no idea what to expect.
Overall, I loved the book with all its twists and detailed angles that Stephanie added. If you are looking for a different and unique book about angels then this is your book!!
September 18, 2013
Not usually a fan of the YA/NA paranormal/urban fantasy genre, I enjoyed reading Stephanie Stamm's A Gift of Wings. And I know why.
Stamm cleverly incorporates today's world via a setting in Chicago with a young woman facing real, today's world issues. Alongside this setting, Stamm builds a host of characters from other worlds -- seraphs, cherubims, fallen angels, demons and ancient deities. Perhaps this combination is what made my enjoyment reach an "I really liked this book" peak.
Stamm is masterful at developing characters with depth and using good descriptive language. Lucky, the female protagonist, is a young, strong, and happy woman facing many issues -- looking for a job, a grandmother with Alzheimer's and living in a care facility, and, of course, financial struggles. Early on a touch of romance is added when Lucky attends one of Aidan's concerts. No one ever said tall, dark and handsome in a leather motorcycle jacket would not make the perfect love interest in a young woman's life.
Fascinating me the most was Stamm's use of words, flowing language that keeps you reading. A couple of quotes that I fell in love with:
She had forgotten how substantial his voice seemed until he spoke, and the sound flowed into the room like the waves of the ocean, rolling and resonant and ancient. (Kindle location 1552)
His footsteps echoed hollowly in the hall, a staccato accompaniment to the anxiety that was settling deep into his bones. (Kindle location 863)
Stamm hasn't just written a YA, NA Paranormal or Urban Fantasy novel. Stamm has written a first-rate novel. With this book, the genre does not seem important to me. I found myself reading because it was a good story line with believable and engaging characters.
My Recommendation:
For anyone who likes YA, NA paranormal, urban fantasy or is just look for a first-rate novel.
Stamm cleverly incorporates today's world via a setting in Chicago with a young woman facing real, today's world issues. Alongside this setting, Stamm builds a host of characters from other worlds -- seraphs, cherubims, fallen angels, demons and ancient deities. Perhaps this combination is what made my enjoyment reach an "I really liked this book" peak.
Stamm is masterful at developing characters with depth and using good descriptive language. Lucky, the female protagonist, is a young, strong, and happy woman facing many issues -- looking for a job, a grandmother with Alzheimer's and living in a care facility, and, of course, financial struggles. Early on a touch of romance is added when Lucky attends one of Aidan's concerts. No one ever said tall, dark and handsome in a leather motorcycle jacket would not make the perfect love interest in a young woman's life.
Fascinating me the most was Stamm's use of words, flowing language that keeps you reading. A couple of quotes that I fell in love with:
She had forgotten how substantial his voice seemed until he spoke, and the sound flowed into the room like the waves of the ocean, rolling and resonant and ancient. (Kindle location 1552)
His footsteps echoed hollowly in the hall, a staccato accompaniment to the anxiety that was settling deep into his bones. (Kindle location 863)
Stamm hasn't just written a YA, NA Paranormal or Urban Fantasy novel. Stamm has written a first-rate novel. With this book, the genre does not seem important to me. I found myself reading because it was a good story line with believable and engaging characters.
My Recommendation:
For anyone who likes YA, NA paranormal, urban fantasy or is just look for a first-rate novel.
March 25, 2013
I read the book in less than 12 hours after I purchased it from my neighborhood used bookstore. I love Kazoo Books and thank Gloria, Nick and Jim for showing me new books to check out. (My bookshelves may not be as happy as I am.) Great store, great crew and cats!
I'm reading it a second time, and catching more details. I love being able to read a book more than once and finding new things to enjoy about it.
Stephanie has written a wonderful first book. It has the bits and bobs that make a great adventure book (and series!) fun to read. The books is Indy published, but has a lovely cover and is cleanly printed. Well done!
1) Characters that are easy to relate to and realistic to their ages/experience level. The secondary characters help build/break tension when needed, but aren't annoying.
2) Real world setting that the fantastical elements can be built into. I'm a Michigan girl and it's fun to see the parts of Chicago that I remember.
3) Mysteries that aren't left hanging, but aren't fully solved. This makes me want to read more!
4) Good and evil, though enough grey area to make you wonder about motivations.
5) You aren't hit over the head with the religious aspects and the myth/fantasy world blends neatly into the reality.
6) Stephanie knows her stuff. And she clearly enjoys what she's writing/researching.
7) Relationship problems that aren't the main storyline. (I don't know what will happen later in the series, but I hope for this to not drag out. I like Aidan and Lucky, so dropping hints of Kev into the equation might help, but the cliches could hurt the story too.)
I'm looking forward to more from Stephanie Stamm.
I'm reading it a second time, and catching more details. I love being able to read a book more than once and finding new things to enjoy about it.
Stephanie has written a wonderful first book. It has the bits and bobs that make a great adventure book (and series!) fun to read. The books is Indy published, but has a lovely cover and is cleanly printed. Well done!
1) Characters that are easy to relate to and realistic to their ages/experience level. The secondary characters help build/break tension when needed, but aren't annoying.
2) Real world setting that the fantastical elements can be built into. I'm a Michigan girl and it's fun to see the parts of Chicago that I remember.
3) Mysteries that aren't left hanging, but aren't fully solved. This makes me want to read more!
4) Good and evil, though enough grey area to make you wonder about motivations.
5) You aren't hit over the head with the religious aspects and the myth/fantasy world blends neatly into the reality.
6) Stephanie knows her stuff. And she clearly enjoys what she's writing/researching.
7) Relationship problems that aren't the main storyline. (I don't know what will happen later in the series, but I hope for this to not drag out. I like Aidan and Lucky, so dropping hints of Kev into the equation might help, but the cliches could hurt the story too.)
I'm looking forward to more from Stephanie Stamm.
July 8, 2013
I've read vampires, werewolves, witches, zombies, shape-shifters, ghosts, demons, etc.; however, the limited knowledge I had of angels came from Cassandra Clare's Mortal Instrument Series, so this was basically new territory for me. A Gift of Wings was completely refreshing and a highly enjoyable read. Stephanie Stamm is a first time author and she's done an incredible job with this book. The writing flowed so well, it was hard to believe this was her debut novel. As a reader of many independent books, I've come across numerous mistakes in publishing, but if this book had flaws, I completely missed them.
Something that really impressed me was the diversity of the characters, an aspect I think is lacking in many YA and New Adult books. Diverse characters add to the depth of the story, in my opinion, and are a better representation of today's world.
Lucky Monroe was a strong female protagonist and I genuinely liked her. Her journey through life hasn't been easy and judging by the end of this book, her struggles have just begun. Aiden Townsend wormed his way into my heart from the first page. I've always had a soft spot for sexy guys in leather jackets who ride motorcycles - who wouldn't? The author also gave the reader wonderful insight into the supporting characters, and I particularly liked Zeke. To me, he was the embodiment of safety, knowledge, strength, and reassurance.
The story was well-paced, offering some twists I didn't see coming and I look forward to its continuation in the second installment. I'd recommend this book to any YA/New Adult readers and feel it's appropriate for ages 15 and up.
Something that really impressed me was the diversity of the characters, an aspect I think is lacking in many YA and New Adult books. Diverse characters add to the depth of the story, in my opinion, and are a better representation of today's world.
Lucky Monroe was a strong female protagonist and I genuinely liked her. Her journey through life hasn't been easy and judging by the end of this book, her struggles have just begun. Aiden Townsend wormed his way into my heart from the first page. I've always had a soft spot for sexy guys in leather jackets who ride motorcycles - who wouldn't? The author also gave the reader wonderful insight into the supporting characters, and I particularly liked Zeke. To me, he was the embodiment of safety, knowledge, strength, and reassurance.
The story was well-paced, offering some twists I didn't see coming and I look forward to its continuation in the second installment. I'd recommend this book to any YA/New Adult readers and feel it's appropriate for ages 15 and up.
September 12, 2014
Stephanie Stamm takes us on a whirlwind journey through mysticism, mythology, and religion ideology in A Gift of Wings. As I settled down to read A Gift of Wings, I soon discovered myself pulled into a world that was all at once familiar and completely foreign. Stamm took me soaring through the air and dragged me through the streets of Chicago. She teased my senses and tested my sense of reality. My heart ached for Lucky. Lucky must make sense of her beloved G-Ma's transition into an assisted living facility just as she begins to have experiences that force her to question her sanity. When she learns that what thinks are hallucinations are real, she struggles to accept her new reality. When the people around her fight over the role she must play in the battle between supernatural factions, Lucky finds herself struggling to figure out who is good and who is evil. The decision is made for her when her cousin, an innocent, is attacked in order to force the issue. Lucky learns of family secrets and the deceptions that have kept her safe. I feared for Lucky. I cheered for Lucky. I wanted to scream at Lucky a few times. Mostly, I just wanted to save Lucky from her destiny even as she embraced it. Stamm creates a world that feels all too real filled with a cast of characters the reader loves, hates, and most of all wants to know better. A Gift of Wings forced me to think about how gifts that come with strings rarely have the wings to give us flight...
May 25, 2013
I've read a lot of fantasy and supernatural fiction.
I've read -- and taught -- a lot of theology, mythology, comparative religion, etc.
"A Gift of Wings" will be highly satisfying to fans or aficionados of any of those genres or topics.
But perhaps more important, it is quite simply a very good novel. The characters are believable and compelling (even when they're repellent -- you're fascinated anyway). The ordinary human events and personal interactions are just as effective and gripping as the superhuman spectacular scenes -- and the latter are sharply detailed and utterly plausible to read, if impossible (maybe?) to believe.
That's how I would define successful fantasy fiction -- able to make you suspend disbelief so effectively that you don't realize you've done so.
In "A Gift of Wings," Stephanie Stamm achieves that, and makes it look effortless.
If you're interested in a girl becoming an adult in a complex and sometimes frightening world, and seeing how she faces the challenge, you'll love the book.
If you like reading about combat between beings bearing ancient, mysterious powers, you'll love the book.
If you just love good books, you'll love the book.
I've read -- and taught -- a lot of theology, mythology, comparative religion, etc.
"A Gift of Wings" will be highly satisfying to fans or aficionados of any of those genres or topics.
But perhaps more important, it is quite simply a very good novel. The characters are believable and compelling (even when they're repellent -- you're fascinated anyway). The ordinary human events and personal interactions are just as effective and gripping as the superhuman spectacular scenes -- and the latter are sharply detailed and utterly plausible to read, if impossible (maybe?) to believe.
That's how I would define successful fantasy fiction -- able to make you suspend disbelief so effectively that you don't realize you've done so.
In "A Gift of Wings," Stephanie Stamm achieves that, and makes it look effortless.
If you're interested in a girl becoming an adult in a complex and sometimes frightening world, and seeing how she faces the challenge, you'll love the book.
If you like reading about combat between beings bearing ancient, mysterious powers, you'll love the book.
If you just love good books, you'll love the book.
May 10, 2013
This book is a wonderful mix of the familiar and the unexpected. For anyone who has lived in Chicago, the underlying setting is comfortable, known and superbly recreated. Layered on top of this setting is a new world, unknown to most, where good and evil, and those who protect us, wage an ongoing battle. One young woman, more special than she could possibly imagine. Stephanie does a wonderful job taking us on Lucky's journey from a human teen to an independent young woman who becomes so much more. Her joys, fears, triumphs and confusions are realistically portrayed as she navigates this new world. Her struggle to maintain who she is while adjusting to changes within herself that she cannot stop are wonderfully written and will resonate with the young adults for whom this book is intended as well as for those of us who remember these times. I highly recommend this book and look forward to the sequel.
October 26, 2016
I picked this novel up from the "emerging authors" tent at the Decatur book festival. The world is fascinating and I'm intrigued by the larger story that is clearly going on in the background. I found myself wishing I could learn more about the big picture and the side characters. The thing that kept me from completely loving this book (and it's sequel) was the large amount of romantic drama. I felt like it received a disproportionate amount of time in the book and left the non-romantic relationships under explored. That said, it takes a lot to ever get me invested in a romance, so if you typically enjoy them you might well disagree with me on this :)
June 28, 2013
This novel was such a pleasure to read. I'd recommend it to anyone who enjoys compelling characters, a strong plot, beautiful prose. Lucky, the young protagonist, experiences a range of sensitively detailed thoughts and emotions as her life changes just about as dramatically as a life can. I'm already anticipating the next book in this series, if only because I've grown to care so much about this character.
July 29, 2016
I throughly enjoyed Gift of Wings and am looking forward to the next in the series. In fact, I read it cover to cover. Ms Stamm is a beautiful writer and has created a fascinating stage for these wonderful characters. I read all of the Twilight books, which was my first foray into fantasy, supernatural fiction. I really enjoyed those, but can honestly say I found this book far more interesting and exciting.
February 17, 2013
This debut novel grabs you and keeps you absorbed until the very end where you find yourself craving the next book. Not my go-to genre, but I'll be reading whatever Stephanie writes from now on. The characters are very real and just a little fantastical. I'm sharing this book. Well done, Stephanie! What will the future bring for Lucky? I want to know.
January 1, 2013
A compelling story that kept me reading long into the night, in spite of the fact that I'm not normally a fan of fantasy nor of angels. I'm calling this a thriller, and recommending it to one and all, young adults and adults. It was fun to recognize lots of places in the Chicago setting, too.
June 9, 2013
I LOVED this book!!! I was hooked after the first page! Stephanie Stamm did an incredible job on this book. I can't wait for the next one! The romance in this is amazing. This was a great book.
January 20, 2014
Just have to say the book was awesome from page one great people great romance details are awesome cant wait for te next one
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews