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Vigilant
Ari Grant spends her days helping the troubled youth of Glory City, and her nights trying to feel something other than the cold numbness that has settled in her bones. For years, she satisfies this urge with trips to the tattoo parlor or late night clubbing, but everything changes when she becomes a victim of an armed robbery.
She manages to escape notice from the gunman, a former client, but only because she’s saved by Glory City’s own Vigilante. A hooded man who has impeccable timing when it comes to those in need.
It seems Ari isn’t the only one trying to save lost souls or looking for a life outside their job. She’s caught the attention of Nick Sanders, a handsome attorney at juvenile court. Solid and steady, he seems the perfect fit, but Ari has developed an obsession with Davis, the mysterious and sexy director of a local fight club that rehabilitates delinquent boys.
Each of these men fight for the less fortunate, but not everyone has altruistic motives. When Ari’s female clients begin to disappear, she can’t figure out who to trust. Soon enough it becomes obvious that while Ari watches over the kids of Glory City, someone else has taken to watching over her.
She manages to escape notice from the gunman, a former client, but only because she’s saved by Glory City’s own Vigilante. A hooded man who has impeccable timing when it comes to those in need.
It seems Ari isn’t the only one trying to save lost souls or looking for a life outside their job. She’s caught the attention of Nick Sanders, a handsome attorney at juvenile court. Solid and steady, he seems the perfect fit, but Ari has developed an obsession with Davis, the mysterious and sexy director of a local fight club that rehabilitates delinquent boys.
Each of these men fight for the less fortunate, but not everyone has altruistic motives. When Ari’s female clients begin to disappear, she can’t figure out who to trust. Soon enough it becomes obvious that while Ari watches over the kids of Glory City, someone else has taken to watching over her.
268 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 23, 2013
9 people are currently reading
410 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
October 1, 2013
Good grief, forgot to post this review after I posted it at my earlier blog! So sorry, and thank you, Ms. Lawson, for the ARC of Vigilant.
The first chapter of this book was fabulous. It opens right in the middle of a robbery and Ari being saved by the city's resident crime fighter, The Vigilante. And the action continues from there.
The Vigilante does seem to crop up where she is, when she needs a bit of help. And she's drawn to him.
Ari appears to be a tough cookie, but she has some fears, which is to be expected. She's a case worker who know to never turn her back on her charges. Never. That would be a hard way to live. To get some relief, she works out, jogs with her roommate (Oliver), and goes to clubs to dance the stress away. On one visit she checks out the guys performing parkour tricks. One of them really grabs her attention, and he notices her, too. They proceed to make out like teenagers in a darkened hallway. To her chagrin, she meets him in her capacity as a case worker the next day. He's the director at the resident facility where one of her clients is placed. Davis is his name and he's gorgeous.
Wouldn't be prudent to pursue him, for sure. But does he even know she's who he was kissing? Maybe not.
There's another man interested in her. Nick is solid, steady, and stable. He wants to take things slow.
I enjoyed how Ari decided on some of what she wanted, and she went after it. Same for Davis. I like that honesty in a relationship. I also enjoyed her deep friendship with her roommate, Oliver. He's a stand up guy and very THERE for her. After the sadness in her young life, she really needs that.
As the tale unfolds there are many threads unraveling. Girls that Ari works with are disappearing. There's rumors of a prostitution ring that uses kidnapped girls. There's the police looking for the Vigilante. And then there's Ari's love life. The safe and steady or the wild and hot? What a choice. And just what is happening at that youth center?
Although I came to realize what the scam was, and who was in charge, early on, it was a rush to watch Ari figure it all out. The ending leaves some threads loose, for a sequel as mentioned in the author's notes at the end. There were some editing issues that pulled me out of the story a few times and a few plot devices that lowered the rating for me. The action scenes were quite thrilling, though.
Crime Fighters for the win. This is a solid 3.5 for me. I'll round it up to a four for Goodreads accounting.
I want to see more of these guys in action.
*This book was given to me by the author in exchange for an honest review.
For those wondering what Parkour is, yes, I'm linking wiki: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parkour
You might want to check out some videos. I sit mesmerized, watching guys and gals flipping over railings and pouncing on brick walls.
The first chapter of this book was fabulous. It opens right in the middle of a robbery and Ari being saved by the city's resident crime fighter, The Vigilante. And the action continues from there.
The Vigilante does seem to crop up where she is, when she needs a bit of help. And she's drawn to him.
Ari appears to be a tough cookie, but she has some fears, which is to be expected. She's a case worker who know to never turn her back on her charges. Never. That would be a hard way to live. To get some relief, she works out, jogs with her roommate (Oliver), and goes to clubs to dance the stress away. On one visit she checks out the guys performing parkour tricks. One of them really grabs her attention, and he notices her, too. They proceed to make out like teenagers in a darkened hallway. To her chagrin, she meets him in her capacity as a case worker the next day. He's the director at the resident facility where one of her clients is placed. Davis is his name and he's gorgeous.
Wouldn't be prudent to pursue him, for sure. But does he even know she's who he was kissing? Maybe not.
There's another man interested in her. Nick is solid, steady, and stable. He wants to take things slow.
I enjoyed how Ari decided on some of what she wanted, and she went after it. Same for Davis. I like that honesty in a relationship. I also enjoyed her deep friendship with her roommate, Oliver. He's a stand up guy and very THERE for her. After the sadness in her young life, she really needs that.
As the tale unfolds there are many threads unraveling. Girls that Ari works with are disappearing. There's rumors of a prostitution ring that uses kidnapped girls. There's the police looking for the Vigilante. And then there's Ari's love life. The safe and steady or the wild and hot? What a choice. And just what is happening at that youth center?
Although I came to realize what the scam was, and who was in charge, early on, it was a rush to watch Ari figure it all out. The ending leaves some threads loose, for a sequel as mentioned in the author's notes at the end. There were some editing issues that pulled me out of the story a few times and a few plot devices that lowered the rating for me. The action scenes were quite thrilling, though.
Crime Fighters for the win. This is a solid 3.5 for me. I'll round it up to a four for Goodreads accounting.
I want to see more of these guys in action.
*This book was given to me by the author in exchange for an honest review.
For those wondering what Parkour is, yes, I'm linking wiki: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parkour
You might want to check out some videos. I sit mesmerized, watching guys and gals flipping over railings and pouncing on brick walls.
April 25, 2013
Let me start off by saying Angel is a new to me author. I saw her commenting on a post on facebook and the cover sort of drew me in. I added her, then went to amazon to see what she had. I sampled four books, actually wanted to buy them all, but I am on a horrible book budget at the moment so I had to pick ONE! Yes, I know! For a book hoarder thats like evil hell!
Anyways, I'm digressing.
To put it blunt, I LOVED this book. I mainly loved the story as a whole. It wasn't too much, it wasn't too little it was just the right blend of intrigue possible supernatural, and violence that kept me reading until the end. I devoured this book in one sitting and GOD I WANT MORE DAVIS!!!!!!!!!!! He is like that awesomesause dangerous fellow you know must have a heart of gold under all that hotness. This book is labeled Urban Fantasy, for me it was more suspense/thriller but I see where the fantasy element comes in and I was fascinated by how the author worked it.
The book read like movie. I was alway casting characters in my head and could totally see it on the big screen. I love female characters that are tough but still vulnerable. They have the ability to die or even cry when pushed to far and I need that in my heroes. Invincibility is overrated--this author however is not! I will be wish listing the rest of this authors books and slowly getting them as the budget allows! BRING ON BOOK TWO!!!!!
Anyways, I'm digressing.
To put it blunt, I LOVED this book. I mainly loved the story as a whole. It wasn't too much, it wasn't too little it was just the right blend of intrigue possible supernatural, and violence that kept me reading until the end. I devoured this book in one sitting and GOD I WANT MORE DAVIS!!!!!!!!!!! He is like that awesomesause dangerous fellow you know must have a heart of gold under all that hotness. This book is labeled Urban Fantasy, for me it was more suspense/thriller but I see where the fantasy element comes in and I was fascinated by how the author worked it.
The book read like movie. I was alway casting characters in my head and could totally see it on the big screen. I love female characters that are tough but still vulnerable. They have the ability to die or even cry when pushed to far and I need that in my heroes. Invincibility is overrated--this author however is not! I will be wish listing the rest of this authors books and slowly getting them as the budget allows! BRING ON BOOK TWO!!!!!
March 26, 2013
I received an advance reader copy of this novel and am happy to be able to give it a positive review. Lawson's debut into the urban fantasy genre is promising. While the book's strength is plot, the characters have enough going on for themselves to keep things interesting over the course of a series. Ari is a refreshingly strong, believable, female lead. The Vigilante and his supporting cast have a lot of potential. His identity was a bit predictable, but there's enough mystery and suspense to go around without relying on that. On that note, I'm glad Lawson doesn't go down the UST route--her character are empowered and seem to know what they want. It's a relief not to be subjected to suspense of the romantic variety in lieu of real plot. If you're into superheroes, crime-fighting, and romance, this is a good one for you. I'm looking forward to the next installment.
April 26, 2013
Official Summary:
Ari Grant spends her days helping the troubled youth of Glory City, and her nights trying to feel something other than the cold numbness that has settled in her bones. For years, she satisfies this urge with trips to the tattoo parlor or late night clubbing, but everything changes when she becomes a victim of an armed robbery.
She manages to escape notice from the gunman, a former client, but only because she’s saved by Glory City’s own Vigilante. A hooded man who has impeccable timing when it comes to those in need.
It seems Ari isn’t the only one trying to save lost souls or looking for a life outside their job. She’s caught the attention of Nick Sanders, a handsome attorney at juvenile court. Solid and steady, he seems the perfect fit, but Ari has developed an obsession with Davis, the mysterious and sexy director of a local fight club that rehabilitates delinquent boys.
Each of these men fight for the less fortunate, but not everyone has altruistic motives. When Ari’s female clients begin to disappear, she can’t figure out who to trust. Soon enough it becomes obvious that while Ari watches over the kids of Glory City, someone else has taken to watching over her.
The first chapter of this book was fabulous. It opens right in the middle of a robbery and Ari being saved by the city's resident crime fighter, The Vigilante. And the action continues from there.
The Vigilante does seem to crop up where she is, when she needs a bit of help. And she's drawn to him.
Ari appears to be a tough cookie, but she has some fears, which is to be expected. She's a case worker who know to never turn her back on her charges. Never. That would be a hard way to live. To get some relief, she works out, jogs with her roommate (Oliver), and goes to clubs to dance the stress away. On one visit she checks out the guys performing parkour tricks. One of them really grabs her attention, and he notices her, too. They proceed to make out like teenagers in a darkened hallway. To her chagrin, she meets him in her capacity as a case worker the next day. He's the director at the resident facility where one of her clients is placed. Davis is his name and he's gorgeous.
Wouldn't be prudent to pursue him, for sure. But does he even know she's who he was kissing? Maybe not.
There's another man interested in her. Nick is solid, steady, and stable. He wants to take things slow.
I enjoyed how Ari decided on some of what she wanted, and she went after it. Same for Davis. I like that honesty in a relationship. I also enjoyed her deep friendship with her roommate, Oliver. He's a stand up guy and very THERE for her. After the sadness in her young life, she really needs that.
As the tale unfolds there are many threads unraveling. Girls that Ari works with are disappearing. There's rumors of a prostitution ring that uses kidnapped girls. There's the police looking for the Vigilante. And then there's Ari's love life. The safe and steady or the wild and hot? What a choice. And just what is happening at that youth center?
Although I came to realize what the scam was, and who was in charge, early on, it was a rush to watch Ari figure it all out. The ending leaves some threads loose, for a sequel as mentioned in the author's notes at the end. There were some editing issues that pulled me out of the story a few times and a few plot devices that lowered the rating for me. The action scenes were quite thrilling, though.
Crime Fighters for the win. This is a solid 3.5 for me. I'll round it up to a four for Goodreads accounting.
I want to see more of these guys in action.
![]()
*This book was given to Beyond the Squee by the author in exchange for an honest review.
For those wondering what Parkour is, yes, I'm linking wiki: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parkour
You might want to check out some videos. I sit mesmerized, watching guys and gals flipping over railings and pouncing on brick walls.
Ari Grant spends her days helping the troubled youth of Glory City, and her nights trying to feel something other than the cold numbness that has settled in her bones. For years, she satisfies this urge with trips to the tattoo parlor or late night clubbing, but everything changes when she becomes a victim of an armed robbery.
She manages to escape notice from the gunman, a former client, but only because she’s saved by Glory City’s own Vigilante. A hooded man who has impeccable timing when it comes to those in need.
It seems Ari isn’t the only one trying to save lost souls or looking for a life outside their job. She’s caught the attention of Nick Sanders, a handsome attorney at juvenile court. Solid and steady, he seems the perfect fit, but Ari has developed an obsession with Davis, the mysterious and sexy director of a local fight club that rehabilitates delinquent boys.
Each of these men fight for the less fortunate, but not everyone has altruistic motives. When Ari’s female clients begin to disappear, she can’t figure out who to trust. Soon enough it becomes obvious that while Ari watches over the kids of Glory City, someone else has taken to watching over her.
The first chapter of this book was fabulous. It opens right in the middle of a robbery and Ari being saved by the city's resident crime fighter, The Vigilante. And the action continues from there.
The Vigilante does seem to crop up where she is, when she needs a bit of help. And she's drawn to him.
Ari appears to be a tough cookie, but she has some fears, which is to be expected. She's a case worker who know to never turn her back on her charges. Never. That would be a hard way to live. To get some relief, she works out, jogs with her roommate (Oliver), and goes to clubs to dance the stress away. On one visit she checks out the guys performing parkour tricks. One of them really grabs her attention, and he notices her, too. They proceed to make out like teenagers in a darkened hallway. To her chagrin, she meets him in her capacity as a case worker the next day. He's the director at the resident facility where one of her clients is placed. Davis is his name and he's gorgeous.
Wouldn't be prudent to pursue him, for sure. But does he even know she's who he was kissing? Maybe not.
There's another man interested in her. Nick is solid, steady, and stable. He wants to take things slow.
I enjoyed how Ari decided on some of what she wanted, and she went after it. Same for Davis. I like that honesty in a relationship. I also enjoyed her deep friendship with her roommate, Oliver. He's a stand up guy and very THERE for her. After the sadness in her young life, she really needs that.
As the tale unfolds there are many threads unraveling. Girls that Ari works with are disappearing. There's rumors of a prostitution ring that uses kidnapped girls. There's the police looking for the Vigilante. And then there's Ari's love life. The safe and steady or the wild and hot? What a choice. And just what is happening at that youth center?
Although I came to realize what the scam was, and who was in charge, early on, it was a rush to watch Ari figure it all out. The ending leaves some threads loose, for a sequel as mentioned in the author's notes at the end. There were some editing issues that pulled me out of the story a few times and a few plot devices that lowered the rating for me. The action scenes were quite thrilling, though.
Crime Fighters for the win. This is a solid 3.5 for me. I'll round it up to a four for Goodreads accounting.
I want to see more of these guys in action.
*This book was given to Beyond the Squee by the author in exchange for an honest review.
For those wondering what Parkour is, yes, I'm linking wiki: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parkour
You might want to check out some videos. I sit mesmerized, watching guys and gals flipping over railings and pouncing on brick walls.
April 23, 2013
4.5 Stars
*I'd like to thank the author for giving me an ARC of this book, in exchange for my honest review.*
This book looked really interesting to me from the beginning. The synopsis made it sound very intriguing, mentioning things like a compassionate but troubled heroine, a city filled with crime, and an unknown person protecting citizens. I'm so happy to say that I got all that, and more. This book was very action-packed, and there were lots of unexpected twists and turns, with some characters not being at all what they first appear to be.
Ari was a wonderful heroine. She was really compassionate, and just wanted to help all the youth of the city. She really had their best interests at heart, even when the teenagers themselves were being so self-destructive. It was a bit disheartening to watch, and I now have a lot of sympathy for people who do that kind of work. However, in addition to her compassion, Ari was also really strong, and when she made some not-so-great decisions, she knew it, and owned up to it. Needless to say, I thought she was great, and I loved reading this story through her eyes.
Then, there's the oh-so-mysterious Davis. He was pretty interesting, right from the get-go. I loved watching the scenes with Ari and Davis, because you could definitely sense their chemistry. However, there was way more to him than just being a love interest. He was a hero in his own right, trying to help troubled teens in his own ways, with his own unconventional methods. I loved how at their core, Ari and Davis were pretty similar, and I thought he made a great love interest.
The side characters of this novel were interesting, as well. I liked Oliver, since he was such a great best friend for Ari. It was clear that he would do anything for her, even if he didn't understand it. I thought he was written very well. There was also Nick, who was another love interest for Ari. It was really interesting to see Ari fight between what she really wanted, and what she should want. However, with that said, I never liked Nick. He always seemed a bit off, and we do find out his backstory. That was a pretty interesting and unexpected twist to the story, and it just shows how well the author wrote her characters, because while I didn't like him, I never suspected what was truly going on.
The actual plot of the novel was really interesting. Right from the start, there was a lot of action, since it started out with an armed robbery, and Ari being rescued by the vigilante. It just took off from there. Right away, I was interested in seeing more of him, and finding out who he was. This was a big part of the novel, but there was also the complexities of Ari's love life, the tension of the crime-filled streets of the city, and there was also someone after Ari. Needless to say, it was hard for me to put down. THe author had a great style of writing, especially her action scenes and emotional parts. She did a wonderful job at describing the gritty life in Glory City as well, and I found that that added a whole other element to the book, and i really loved it.
Therefore, I thought that this book was really good. There was a whole lot of action and suspense, with Ari not really knowing who to trust. The love triangle was done very well, but I felt like it wasn't hard to see who would get the upper hand. Eventually, the situation just became nonexistent, so if you don't like those, it does get resolved. Either way, whether or not you dislike love triangles, you should definitely give this book a shot. It was really action-packed, well-written, and the heroine was a great character. As a bonus, this is a series, so there will be plenty more to come.
*I'd like to thank the author for giving me an ARC of this book, in exchange for my honest review.*
This book looked really interesting to me from the beginning. The synopsis made it sound very intriguing, mentioning things like a compassionate but troubled heroine, a city filled with crime, and an unknown person protecting citizens. I'm so happy to say that I got all that, and more. This book was very action-packed, and there were lots of unexpected twists and turns, with some characters not being at all what they first appear to be.
Ari was a wonderful heroine. She was really compassionate, and just wanted to help all the youth of the city. She really had their best interests at heart, even when the teenagers themselves were being so self-destructive. It was a bit disheartening to watch, and I now have a lot of sympathy for people who do that kind of work. However, in addition to her compassion, Ari was also really strong, and when she made some not-so-great decisions, she knew it, and owned up to it. Needless to say, I thought she was great, and I loved reading this story through her eyes.
Then, there's the oh-so-mysterious Davis. He was pretty interesting, right from the get-go. I loved watching the scenes with Ari and Davis, because you could definitely sense their chemistry. However, there was way more to him than just being a love interest. He was a hero in his own right, trying to help troubled teens in his own ways, with his own unconventional methods. I loved how at their core, Ari and Davis were pretty similar, and I thought he made a great love interest.
The side characters of this novel were interesting, as well. I liked Oliver, since he was such a great best friend for Ari. It was clear that he would do anything for her, even if he didn't understand it. I thought he was written very well. There was also Nick, who was another love interest for Ari. It was really interesting to see Ari fight between what she really wanted, and what she should want. However, with that said, I never liked Nick. He always seemed a bit off, and we do find out his backstory. That was a pretty interesting and unexpected twist to the story, and it just shows how well the author wrote her characters, because while I didn't like him, I never suspected what was truly going on.
The actual plot of the novel was really interesting. Right from the start, there was a lot of action, since it started out with an armed robbery, and Ari being rescued by the vigilante. It just took off from there. Right away, I was interested in seeing more of him, and finding out who he was. This was a big part of the novel, but there was also the complexities of Ari's love life, the tension of the crime-filled streets of the city, and there was also someone after Ari. Needless to say, it was hard for me to put down. THe author had a great style of writing, especially her action scenes and emotional parts. She did a wonderful job at describing the gritty life in Glory City as well, and I found that that added a whole other element to the book, and i really loved it.
Therefore, I thought that this book was really good. There was a whole lot of action and suspense, with Ari not really knowing who to trust. The love triangle was done very well, but I felt like it wasn't hard to see who would get the upper hand. Eventually, the situation just became nonexistent, so if you don't like those, it does get resolved. Either way, whether or not you dislike love triangles, you should definitely give this book a shot. It was really action-packed, well-written, and the heroine was a great character. As a bonus, this is a series, so there will be plenty more to come.
April 23, 2013
Rating: 4
The Low Down: Ari Grant is tough, no doubt. She’s a caseworker that deals with mostly female teens in the lowest of circumstances and the worst of situations. Ari knows how to take care of herself, especially since she’s been on her own for the last five years, no family to speak of. The death of her parents and her need to be strong has created a wall around her; in her line of work, there can be no visible weakness or vulnerability or you’re sunk.
All she needed from the hardware store was a Phillips screwdriver. Next things she knows, she's face-down on the floor while the store is robbed. Unfortunately, Ari recognizes one of the would-be thieves. Just as she’s fearing for her life, someone shoves her into a closet to hide her. Who knew she was about to come face to hoodie with the Glory City Vigilante?
To forget her stresses and numbness, Ari likes to frequent a local dance club alone. There she can totally let loose, forget everything and show off her collection of star tattoos. But that night, as a group of guys show up and demonstrate their parkour skills, Ari is drawn to the leader...and into his arms. And when taking a male client to his new living situation at the Glory Youth Center, she is shocked to see a familiar face...lips...shoulders...and his name is Davis.
Some of Ari’s girls are disappearing, then returning with unbelievable tales of being kidnapped. Assuming these are fabrications so they can work the system, it is not until one girl is found dead and Ari herself is being threatened that Ari starts to look deeper into their claims. At least she has her handsome and sweet co-worker, Nick, to help her. Is this the beginning of something more between them?
But the Vigilante...Davis...Nick...
Best Thang ‘Bout It: This is Ms. Lawson’s first foray into adult fiction, and I loved it. Big surprise, as I am always banging my ANGEL LAWSON FOR PRESIDENT drum. She’s created an exciting story that is suspenseful and vividly drawn. I can completely see this place called Glory City and all of the characters within it; I can feel Ari’s numbness, the bravado of her charges. The secondaries aren’t ciphers, but fully-fleshed as well. I loved her roommate, Oliver, and their relationship.
Stripped down to its bones, this story probably has been told before. What I like about this author is that she takes stories and themes and turns them out in completely new ways. Vigilantes? Parkour? Boxing? Tattoos? Loneliness? Mystery Men? Secrets? We’ve seen them all before (well, maybe except for the parkour), but these ideas have been mashed together and squeezed through your old Fuzzy Pumper Barber Set and freshly reformed.
And the cover? Fabulous.
I’m Cranky Because: Did I smell a sequel? OK, if so, that’s not the end of the world...I kinda liked the folks in Glory City.
The Bottom Line: Purchase this book today so you can be ahead of the curve. Then, while you’re at it, check out all of Angel Lawson’s books. You’ll be glad you did.
Vigilant by Angel Lawson was self-published today. A free copy of this book was given to Ink and Page in return for an honest review. Big thanks to Angel Lawson.
The Low Down: Ari Grant is tough, no doubt. She’s a caseworker that deals with mostly female teens in the lowest of circumstances and the worst of situations. Ari knows how to take care of herself, especially since she’s been on her own for the last five years, no family to speak of. The death of her parents and her need to be strong has created a wall around her; in her line of work, there can be no visible weakness or vulnerability or you’re sunk.
All she needed from the hardware store was a Phillips screwdriver. Next things she knows, she's face-down on the floor while the store is robbed. Unfortunately, Ari recognizes one of the would-be thieves. Just as she’s fearing for her life, someone shoves her into a closet to hide her. Who knew she was about to come face to hoodie with the Glory City Vigilante?
To forget her stresses and numbness, Ari likes to frequent a local dance club alone. There she can totally let loose, forget everything and show off her collection of star tattoos. But that night, as a group of guys show up and demonstrate their parkour skills, Ari is drawn to the leader...and into his arms. And when taking a male client to his new living situation at the Glory Youth Center, she is shocked to see a familiar face...lips...shoulders...and his name is Davis.
Some of Ari’s girls are disappearing, then returning with unbelievable tales of being kidnapped. Assuming these are fabrications so they can work the system, it is not until one girl is found dead and Ari herself is being threatened that Ari starts to look deeper into their claims. At least she has her handsome and sweet co-worker, Nick, to help her. Is this the beginning of something more between them?
But the Vigilante...Davis...Nick...
Best Thang ‘Bout It: This is Ms. Lawson’s first foray into adult fiction, and I loved it. Big surprise, as I am always banging my ANGEL LAWSON FOR PRESIDENT drum. She’s created an exciting story that is suspenseful and vividly drawn. I can completely see this place called Glory City and all of the characters within it; I can feel Ari’s numbness, the bravado of her charges. The secondaries aren’t ciphers, but fully-fleshed as well. I loved her roommate, Oliver, and their relationship.
Stripped down to its bones, this story probably has been told before. What I like about this author is that she takes stories and themes and turns them out in completely new ways. Vigilantes? Parkour? Boxing? Tattoos? Loneliness? Mystery Men? Secrets? We’ve seen them all before (well, maybe except for the parkour), but these ideas have been mashed together and squeezed through your old Fuzzy Pumper Barber Set and freshly reformed.
And the cover? Fabulous.
I’m Cranky Because: Did I smell a sequel? OK, if so, that’s not the end of the world...I kinda liked the folks in Glory City.
The Bottom Line: Purchase this book today so you can be ahead of the curve. Then, while you’re at it, check out all of Angel Lawson’s books. You’ll be glad you did.
Vigilant by Angel Lawson was self-published today. A free copy of this book was given to Ink and Page in return for an honest review. Big thanks to Angel Lawson.
June 7, 2013
Vigilant is a dark, unforgiving tale with a strong and determined heroine. As a social worker frustrated with the system, Ari really struggled to keep her optimism, and she fought to keep the kids she was assigned off the streets and out of trouble. It was a thankless and disheartening job, but she wasn't as alone in her fight as she thought. The Glory City Vigilante and "walking temptation" Davis, owner of one very unique youth center, both had her back in ways she never imagined!
I have to say, I LOVED how different this story was!! I definitely find myself in a rut with books from time to time, so when I come across something this entirely unique, it's so incredibly refreshing! Angel Lawson has managed to take the gritty suspense of dark superhero stories, the sexiness of contemporary romance, and the thrills of a great mystery and tossed it all together to make this action-packed tale that I very much enjoyed. Ari is the new and improved Lois Lane, and the Glory City Vigilante is the perfect blend of knight in shining armor with a hint of superhero mixed in, and I'm really for more books with these awesome characters!!
Ari had a strength all her own that made her the perfect heroine for this bold role. I was on edge FOR her when she had to go back out and do her job despite the danger she faced, and the kids she was trying to help just seemed so hopeless sometimes. When sexy bad boy Davis stepped in with his program that was a little unorthodox but got results, things were looking up in more ways than one! He was mysterious, but something about him was just hard to resist, even with hottie lawyer Nick moving in to mark Ari as his territory. Nick was really just an afterthought for me, because Davis was front and center as the love interest in my mind. I loved Ari and Davis together, and even though their relationship was more about being there physically for each other, I hope that in the future they end up much more than that. The way they just understood deep down what the other needed, well it just seemed meant to be!
And that Glory City Vigilante? Well, of course I’m not going to spoil the secret of who he is, but I will say that the revelation of what’s behind his role was really neat. It definitely was a unique twist on the typical hero tale, with a subtle feel-good theme underneath it all that brings the story around full circle. I’m officially impressed by Angel Lawson’s work, and I very much look forward to more from her in the future…especially the Vigilant sequel!!
Both had reminders of how much they’d suffered. This time they marked one another differently, with desire and affection. Loc 2187
She raked her fingernails over his stubbly hair. He wanted to feel something other than the horror of Alvarez’s death. Ari understood this. They were the same. The same desperation and hollowness had led them to one another. Loc 2011
I have to say, I LOVED how different this story was!! I definitely find myself in a rut with books from time to time, so when I come across something this entirely unique, it's so incredibly refreshing! Angel Lawson has managed to take the gritty suspense of dark superhero stories, the sexiness of contemporary romance, and the thrills of a great mystery and tossed it all together to make this action-packed tale that I very much enjoyed. Ari is the new and improved Lois Lane, and the Glory City Vigilante is the perfect blend of knight in shining armor with a hint of superhero mixed in, and I'm really for more books with these awesome characters!!
Ari had a strength all her own that made her the perfect heroine for this bold role. I was on edge FOR her when she had to go back out and do her job despite the danger she faced, and the kids she was trying to help just seemed so hopeless sometimes. When sexy bad boy Davis stepped in with his program that was a little unorthodox but got results, things were looking up in more ways than one! He was mysterious, but something about him was just hard to resist, even with hottie lawyer Nick moving in to mark Ari as his territory. Nick was really just an afterthought for me, because Davis was front and center as the love interest in my mind. I loved Ari and Davis together, and even though their relationship was more about being there physically for each other, I hope that in the future they end up much more than that. The way they just understood deep down what the other needed, well it just seemed meant to be!
And that Glory City Vigilante? Well, of course I’m not going to spoil the secret of who he is, but I will say that the revelation of what’s behind his role was really neat. It definitely was a unique twist on the typical hero tale, with a subtle feel-good theme underneath it all that brings the story around full circle. I’m officially impressed by Angel Lawson’s work, and I very much look forward to more from her in the future…especially the Vigilant sequel!!
Both had reminders of how much they’d suffered. This time they marked one another differently, with desire and affection. Loc 2187
She raked her fingernails over his stubbly hair. He wanted to feel something other than the horror of Alvarez’s death. Ari understood this. They were the same. The same desperation and hollowness had led them to one another. Loc 2011
June 29, 2013
Goodreads shelves this book as urban fantasy, but I would say this is a contemporary fantasy with a slight superhero twist.
Ari is a young social worker who loves her job and worries about the teens she is helping constantly. To keep her stress at bay she hits the gym, has a new tattoo once in a while and dances with abandon in the neighboring nightclub.
When a local superhero, Vigilante, saves her from attention of robbers in a shop she happens to be, her fascination with the mysterious man in a hoodie grows, and she is dying to find out who he is.
At the same time, teenage girls from her work cases keep going missing and their friends spread stories about kidnappings and being forced into prostitution on the threat of death.
The charming lawyer, Ari is seeing is not taking her seriously but the same can't be said about a charismatic director of a new program for the troubled teens which involves a fight club-like structure and a hell of a lot of discipline. Davis listens to her, they have a wild spark going on between them and a lot of hidden secrets, which come out when Ari and Davis start investigating the disappearances together along with attacks on Ari herself.
Lovely, interesting, refreshing, well-developed story of superheroes vs villains, and ordinary but gutsy gals in between. Recommended. By the way, Fangirl by Angel Lawson is also an excellent read!
Ari is a young social worker who loves her job and worries about the teens she is helping constantly. To keep her stress at bay she hits the gym, has a new tattoo once in a while and dances with abandon in the neighboring nightclub.
When a local superhero, Vigilante, saves her from attention of robbers in a shop she happens to be, her fascination with the mysterious man in a hoodie grows, and she is dying to find out who he is.
At the same time, teenage girls from her work cases keep going missing and their friends spread stories about kidnappings and being forced into prostitution on the threat of death.
The charming lawyer, Ari is seeing is not taking her seriously but the same can't be said about a charismatic director of a new program for the troubled teens which involves a fight club-like structure and a hell of a lot of discipline. Davis listens to her, they have a wild spark going on between them and a lot of hidden secrets, which come out when Ari and Davis start investigating the disappearances together along with attacks on Ari herself.
Lovely, interesting, refreshing, well-developed story of superheroes vs villains, and ordinary but gutsy gals in between. Recommended. By the way, Fangirl by Angel Lawson is also an excellent read!
April 9, 2013
Just finished reading my preview copy of Vigilant. I know I'm biased because of my history with Angel, but I can honestly say that I totally forgot I was reading one of her books. Not because it was better or completely different than her others, but because it was just a story that I read off and on when I had time, like it was any other book I had been recced. I found myself trying to slip in five or ten minutes to read, just to get a little further. Generally, I read for hours at a time, and don't feel a need to sneak in extra time.
The characters were well-formed, the story was smooth, and the plot was (while not completely original--what story is these days) well-detailed and had a great twist, one I never saw coming. Urban Fantasy is a good genre, simply because it isn't supernatural, isn't crime, isn't YA, isn't romance...but it is a merging of each in a way that is realistic.
PS, Davis is hot. Hott.
The characters were well-formed, the story was smooth, and the plot was (while not completely original--what story is these days) well-detailed and had a great twist, one I never saw coming. Urban Fantasy is a good genre, simply because it isn't supernatural, isn't crime, isn't YA, isn't romance...but it is a merging of each in a way that is realistic.
PS, Davis is hot. Hott.
April 20, 2013
I received Vigilant as an ARC from the author. The story of Ari, a social worker in the probation department and Davis, the director of a youth program starts out like any other story. Ari is doing her job, which is demanding and stressful (like all social work jobs) and goes to a club to blow off some steam. She meets this stranger and ends up making out with him in the hallway. The next day she goes about her life as usual. This is where things take a turn. Without giving too many details, Ari's relationship with Davis gets complicated and a mystery unfolds that involves them both. I found myself so into this story that I finished the book in 1 day. I liked that Ari is a social worker (I am too), which you don't see often in romance novels. She is tough even in the face of danger, not willing to be "taken care of" by a man. I enjoy books with a strong female lead and Vigilant is definitely one of these books. 4 out of 5! babusbookshelf.blogspot.com
April 23, 2013
Ms. Lawson tells a great story, full of suspense, lust, and mystery. I was thoroughly engrossed, and finished in one sitting. There were a few editing errors, the most jarring when "Nick" was interchanged with "Oliver". Otherwise, I am looking forward to the next book!
April 15, 2013
I was fortunate enough to score an ARC of this book from the author. It was a thoroughly enjoyable, fast-paced, exciting read! Full review coming soon at thereadiacs.com.
July 24, 2013
OMW! I loved this book. It's been a while since I read a 'couldn't-put-down' book. Thank you. I want some more Ari and definitely lots more Davis. Hope we don't have to wait too long....
August 11, 2013
Actual rating: 3.5 stars
Oh man, reading self-published books is always a little terrifying. Will it be edited? Will a negative review garner you the sort of attention you don't want? With Vigilant there was also another kind of pressure: would I lose the friendship of the author who I've chatted with on Twitter? Angel Lawson's been very nice to me about Cover Snark (I think that's what she first tweeted me about) and we've had some great conversations about negative reviews. I know she's cool, but I'd still just feel so awful if I didn't like her book. Thankfully, it's a Sadie Hawkins miracle (only not really, because that's not what miracles are), because I actually really liked Vigilant.
As you may know about me by now, I tend not to read blurbs, so unless the cover is seriously indicative of the book inside, I generally have no clue what's going on. As such, I was totally stoked to realize that Vigilant is about superheroes. Well, not quite, but about vigilante justice. Do you know how much I love this sort of stuff? SO MUCH. Now, the Vigilante, as he's being called, isn't dressing up in a costume. There's no cape, no calling card, and no screaming hordes of fans. It's just a guy in a hoodie, coming to help save people when the cops can't or won't.
Vigilant opens with a robbery. Ari, the heroine, is kneeling on the floor, trying to escape notice as armed men rob the hardware store in which she was shopping. The Vigilante arrives, saving her specifically before capturing all but one of the bad guys. Pretty thrilling start, no? During the robbery, Ari recognizes one of the perpetrators from her day job. No, she's not a criminal. She's a case worker for juvenile delinquents, one with the utmost belief in her charges. Ari has a really huge heart, and hopes for bright futures for all of them. Though she's not meant to, she reacts emotionally to each and every case, believing in them like no one really has before. I love this about Ari, and it's not a profession I've read about before.
Vigilant takes place in lower income neighborhoods, most of the characters are delinquents or work with them daily. This could easily go very wrong, but Lawson handles it well. In no way does anyone feel stereotyped or dismissed because of how they were born. While some of the delinquents give up on themselves, others are respectable people who didn't know what else to do in horrible circumstances. The racially diverse cast and the unique setting really make Vigilant stand out from the norm.
Ari has two sides to her: the caring professional and the wild, tattooed girl who likes to go out dancing. Even her roommate and best friend Oliver has no idea about her other self. One night, out at the dance club, she makes out with this random guy, who turns out to be significant. During the daylight hours, she's being wooed slowly (too slowly!) by Nick, a lawyer. The two men appeal to the different sides in her nature, and Vigilant also focuses on her own journey to self-acceptance and finding a way to bring the two halves of herself together. The romance sort of represents this journey, but doesn't take over. Even when she's made her choice, she remains independent first and in love second, which is fabulous.
Can we talk about Oliver a little more? How many books have a straight man and a straight woman who are roommates and best friend and aren't going to fall in love by the end of the story? NOT MANY. Now, they did sleep together once a long time ago, but they have no sexual tension now. They care for one another, they banter, and they discuss each other's romantic lives openly. I loved their friendship so much; I get tired of the whole men and women can't be friends thing, because they can, Harry. They really can.
When it comes to the plot, I saw most of the twists coming, but that wasn't really a big deal. It was well executed and entertaining whether surprising or no. There are some slight hints of possible paranormal twists if there prove to be follow up books, but that could really go either way. There's a good deal of action, as well as day to day life working as a case worker.
I can definitely recommend Angel Lawson's Vigilant. It's got a smart, practical, caring heroine, a respectful hero, and a unique setting. The book's been fairly well edited, as I only noticed a couple of significant mistakes (the most amusing of which was "marital arts" instead of martial), which I plan to report to Angel, so hopefully they'll be fixed soon. Vigilant is an all around quick and enjoyable read.
Oh man, reading self-published books is always a little terrifying. Will it be edited? Will a negative review garner you the sort of attention you don't want? With Vigilant there was also another kind of pressure: would I lose the friendship of the author who I've chatted with on Twitter? Angel Lawson's been very nice to me about Cover Snark (I think that's what she first tweeted me about) and we've had some great conversations about negative reviews. I know she's cool, but I'd still just feel so awful if I didn't like her book. Thankfully, it's a Sadie Hawkins miracle (only not really, because that's not what miracles are), because I actually really liked Vigilant.
As you may know about me by now, I tend not to read blurbs, so unless the cover is seriously indicative of the book inside, I generally have no clue what's going on. As such, I was totally stoked to realize that Vigilant is about superheroes. Well, not quite, but about vigilante justice. Do you know how much I love this sort of stuff? SO MUCH. Now, the Vigilante, as he's being called, isn't dressing up in a costume. There's no cape, no calling card, and no screaming hordes of fans. It's just a guy in a hoodie, coming to help save people when the cops can't or won't.
Vigilant opens with a robbery. Ari, the heroine, is kneeling on the floor, trying to escape notice as armed men rob the hardware store in which she was shopping. The Vigilante arrives, saving her specifically before capturing all but one of the bad guys. Pretty thrilling start, no? During the robbery, Ari recognizes one of the perpetrators from her day job. No, she's not a criminal. She's a case worker for juvenile delinquents, one with the utmost belief in her charges. Ari has a really huge heart, and hopes for bright futures for all of them. Though she's not meant to, she reacts emotionally to each and every case, believing in them like no one really has before. I love this about Ari, and it's not a profession I've read about before.
Vigilant takes place in lower income neighborhoods, most of the characters are delinquents or work with them daily. This could easily go very wrong, but Lawson handles it well. In no way does anyone feel stereotyped or dismissed because of how they were born. While some of the delinquents give up on themselves, others are respectable people who didn't know what else to do in horrible circumstances. The racially diverse cast and the unique setting really make Vigilant stand out from the norm.
Ari has two sides to her: the caring professional and the wild, tattooed girl who likes to go out dancing. Even her roommate and best friend Oliver has no idea about her other self. One night, out at the dance club, she makes out with this random guy, who turns out to be significant. During the daylight hours, she's being wooed slowly (too slowly!) by Nick, a lawyer. The two men appeal to the different sides in her nature, and Vigilant also focuses on her own journey to self-acceptance and finding a way to bring the two halves of herself together. The romance sort of represents this journey, but doesn't take over. Even when she's made her choice, she remains independent first and in love second, which is fabulous.
Can we talk about Oliver a little more? How many books have a straight man and a straight woman who are roommates and best friend and aren't going to fall in love by the end of the story? NOT MANY. Now, they did sleep together once a long time ago, but they have no sexual tension now. They care for one another, they banter, and they discuss each other's romantic lives openly. I loved their friendship so much; I get tired of the whole men and women can't be friends thing, because they can, Harry. They really can.
When it comes to the plot, I saw most of the twists coming, but that wasn't really a big deal. It was well executed and entertaining whether surprising or no. There are some slight hints of possible paranormal twists if there prove to be follow up books, but that could really go either way. There's a good deal of action, as well as day to day life working as a case worker.
I can definitely recommend Angel Lawson's Vigilant. It's got a smart, practical, caring heroine, a respectful hero, and a unique setting. The book's been fairly well edited, as I only noticed a couple of significant mistakes (the most amusing of which was "marital arts" instead of martial), which I plan to report to Angel, so hopefully they'll be fixed soon. Vigilant is an all around quick and enjoyable read.
June 15, 2013
3.5 STARS
I stumbled across Vigilant on Christina's (A Reader of Fictions) Cover Snark feature. I knew I'd pick this book up sooner or later because of it's super gorgeous cover! That was until I read the synopsis. A Vigilante?! Holy Smoking Batman, I wanted it ASAP.
Ari Grant was a refreshing character-Caring, reckless, flawed yet strong. She clearly cared about the youth that she worked with because she went to great lengths to make sure that they stayed out of trouble. And even when the kids did get into trouble she tried to helped them out despite the repeated threats to her life.
Her relationship with her roommate, Oliver was written quite well. They had each other's back and supported each even if it was for something completely crazy!
Ari makes a couple of decisions that were less than sensible but she does rectify these mistakes sooner or later. Her determination to make sure that these troubled kids stayed safe at all costs was something that I really admired. It was not an easy job so I could understand to a certain extent why she'd make those less-than-sensible choices.
Davis was one of those guys-Mysterious, hot, caring and completely irresistible. I loved the fact that both Ari and Davis were able to connect and understand each other because they both fought to help the troubled youth although they both did use different ways to do it.
And then there was Nick whom I disliked from the beginning. Where as Davis was mysterious, Nick was the 'steady' guy who worked as a attorney at juvenile court. This is where he meets Ari.
Vigilant is the first book that I've read that follows the super hero story line. The story line was strengthened by a set of characters who were well formed. Watching the Ari fight against all the crappy stuff that life threw at her, grow and make the right choice was wonderful. Vigilant was well-paced, I loved the fact that Angel Lawson incorporated Parkour in the story.
There were a few things that deterred me from giving Vigilant 4 stars-If there's anything I love as much as gummy bears it's a well choreographed action scene that gets your heart racing. I felt that the action scenes in Vigilant could have been a little better.
We were introduced to Davis's past, I would also have loved to see a little more of Ari's.
Overall, it was an entertaining book that left me wanting more. Can't wait to see more of Ari and Davis soon!
INTERNATIONAL Giveaway of Vigilant at Say It with Books
I stumbled across Vigilant on Christina's (A Reader of Fictions) Cover Snark feature. I knew I'd pick this book up sooner or later because of it's super gorgeous cover! That was until I read the synopsis. A Vigilante?! Holy Smoking Batman, I wanted it ASAP.
"He was like Batman or Superman or The Green Arrow, but not the made-up fantasies of men who never grew up and who sketched their heroes into comic books. He was real, and he’d just saved Ari from four armed gunmen. He was the Glory City Vigilante.
Ari Grant was a refreshing character-Caring, reckless, flawed yet strong. She clearly cared about the youth that she worked with because she went to great lengths to make sure that they stayed out of trouble. And even when the kids did get into trouble she tried to helped them out despite the repeated threats to her life.
Her relationship with her roommate, Oliver was written quite well. They had each other's back and supported each even if it was for something completely crazy!
“I’m about to do something reckless and possibly stupid. Do you want to come with me?”
Oliver furrowed his eyebrows for a moment. “Scale of one to ten, ten being the highest, how reckless and stupid?
“Seven.”
After a moment of consideration he smiled. “I’m in. Let me get my coat.”
Ari makes a couple of decisions that were less than sensible but she does rectify these mistakes sooner or later. Her determination to make sure that these troubled kids stayed safe at all costs was something that I really admired. It was not an easy job so I could understand to a certain extent why she'd make those less-than-sensible choices.
Davis was one of those guys-Mysterious, hot, caring and completely irresistible. I loved the fact that both Ari and Davis were able to connect and understand each other because they both fought to help the troubled youth although they both did use different ways to do it.
And then there was Nick whom I disliked from the beginning. Where as Davis was mysterious, Nick was the 'steady' guy who worked as a attorney at juvenile court. This is where he meets Ari.
Vigilant is the first book that I've read that follows the super hero story line. The story line was strengthened by a set of characters who were well formed. Watching the Ari fight against all the crappy stuff that life threw at her, grow and make the right choice was wonderful. Vigilant was well-paced, I loved the fact that Angel Lawson incorporated Parkour in the story.
There were a few things that deterred me from giving Vigilant 4 stars-If there's anything I love as much as gummy bears it's a well choreographed action scene that gets your heart racing. I felt that the action scenes in Vigilant could have been a little better.
We were introduced to Davis's past, I would also have loved to see a little more of Ari's.
Overall, it was an entertaining book that left me wanting more. Can't wait to see more of Ari and Davis soon!
INTERNATIONAL Giveaway of Vigilant at Say It with Books
June 22, 2016
Amazing and enjoyable book that contains some very heavy social topics but is not a morality tale.
First, I'd like to say that I stayed up late to finish this. Could not put it down. The story was riveting; the characters and plot engrossing. The execution of the sum, excellent.
I loved this book not only for the story telling itself, but for incorporating some topics of which many Americans are either completely unaware or in denial. Like the way that poverty and its associated violence effects our youth, sex slavery, and kids the system fails or exploits of whom there are so many. I spent 5 years doing IT at a community mental health provider and had to read some of our case workers' clients' charts from time to time for my work. I certainly saw documentation of situations that when strung together could have led to this story being reality.
I love this book for portraying most of those who serve our country's underprivileged youth as the hard working heroes they are. And for portraying how the same kids also can be horribly taken advantage of by the system responsible for protecting them.
This story is incredibly nuanced. It wasn't bleeding heart sappy or callously overdramatized. For me, it hit a sweet spot that rang of truth (I know. It's still fiction.) without preaching or pushing the reader in any direction. The story unfolded in such a way that it felt like I was hearing it from a friend who just needed to tell it, not out of care for what I thought or to make a point, but because they needed to unload to process their stress.
5 F'ing stars and each one well deserved. You should read this.
Also, I want to give a double thumbs up for nailing the ending. So many times a book can be ruined for me by a weak ending or even no ending at all as a dramatic cliff hanger or some form of To Be Continued. The major plot lines in this story were completed and completed well. The ending was not a patsy ride into the sunset making me want to gag nor did it leave me saying, "But what about ...?!" The door is left wide open for this to become a series, but this book is capable of standing on its own as a great read. If the author does follow up with more about this character, I'll definitely buy/read it because this author tells a darn good tale. Not because I was left hanging by a cheap trick of a partial story. Loud. Slow. Clap.
First, I'd like to say that I stayed up late to finish this. Could not put it down. The story was riveting; the characters and plot engrossing. The execution of the sum, excellent.
I loved this book not only for the story telling itself, but for incorporating some topics of which many Americans are either completely unaware or in denial. Like the way that poverty and its associated violence effects our youth, sex slavery, and kids the system fails or exploits of whom there are so many. I spent 5 years doing IT at a community mental health provider and had to read some of our case workers' clients' charts from time to time for my work. I certainly saw documentation of situations that when strung together could have led to this story being reality.
I love this book for portraying most of those who serve our country's underprivileged youth as the hard working heroes they are. And for portraying how the same kids also can be horribly taken advantage of by the system responsible for protecting them.
This story is incredibly nuanced. It wasn't bleeding heart sappy or callously overdramatized. For me, it hit a sweet spot that rang of truth (I know. It's still fiction.) without preaching or pushing the reader in any direction. The story unfolded in such a way that it felt like I was hearing it from a friend who just needed to tell it, not out of care for what I thought or to make a point, but because they needed to unload to process their stress.
5 F'ing stars and each one well deserved. You should read this.
Also, I want to give a double thumbs up for nailing the ending. So many times a book can be ruined for me by a weak ending or even no ending at all as a dramatic cliff hanger or some form of To Be Continued. The major plot lines in this story were completed and completed well. The ending was not a patsy ride into the sunset making me want to gag nor did it leave me saying, "But what about ...?!" The door is left wide open for this to become a series, but this book is capable of standing on its own as a great read. If the author does follow up with more about this character, I'll definitely buy/read it because this author tells a darn good tale. Not because I was left hanging by a cheap trick of a partial story. Loud. Slow. Clap.
April 25, 2013
Reviewed by Inna @Inna's Little Bookshelves
I would like to thank Angel Lawson for providing me with an ARC review her novel in exchange for my honest review.
Being completely honest I went into this book not really knowing what to expect. I had a basic idea and this book sounded very intriguing but beyond a basic understanding of the main character i knew nothing about this book. However, I must say I immensely enjoyed the original plot of this book and the tough heroine.
Lets start with Ari. She was so different. She was a social worker which isn't a common profession in novels. Ari was tough as nails. She didn't want to depend on a guy for everything and she made her choices. She also dealt with the consequences that came with making a rash decision. Ari was a believable lead and I liked how she developed in the novel. Though I questioned her choices sometimes she was a smart heroine and I liked how she handles situation.
The plot was fast and action filled. There were events that I expected but also there were twist and turns that I never saw coming. I was definitely on the edge of my seed while reading this book.I also liked the supporting characters especially Oliver. He was a great friend to Ari and I liked having him in the book.
Davis... Oh Man... I'm keeping my mouth shut about him... Okay, I'll tell you this he's hot. Very hot.
Definitely check out this book. It's an exciting and different read.
I would like to thank Angel Lawson for providing me with an ARC review her novel in exchange for my honest review.
Being completely honest I went into this book not really knowing what to expect. I had a basic idea and this book sounded very intriguing but beyond a basic understanding of the main character i knew nothing about this book. However, I must say I immensely enjoyed the original plot of this book and the tough heroine.
Lets start with Ari. She was so different. She was a social worker which isn't a common profession in novels. Ari was tough as nails. She didn't want to depend on a guy for everything and she made her choices. She also dealt with the consequences that came with making a rash decision. Ari was a believable lead and I liked how she developed in the novel. Though I questioned her choices sometimes she was a smart heroine and I liked how she handles situation.
The plot was fast and action filled. There were events that I expected but also there were twist and turns that I never saw coming. I was definitely on the edge of my seed while reading this book.I also liked the supporting characters especially Oliver. He was a great friend to Ari and I liked having him in the book.
Davis... Oh Man... I'm keeping my mouth shut about him... Okay, I'll tell you this he's hot. Very hot.
Definitely check out this book. It's an exciting and different read.
May 10, 2013
I have always been a fan of Angel Lawson. I appreciate her writing style as well as her passion for her craft. It took me a bit to start reading this book, I had been stuck in a love tunnel and wasn't ready to branch but am so glad I did.
This book, while much different than Angel's other work, is great. The characters she created were real and honest and the world was fascinating. Her main character, Ari, was strong and passionate about her life and her work. It was admirable and realistic. Davis, the other main figure in this book, was dark and a little scary but intriguing. At the core he is a kind soul and also an admirable character. Watching this woman's life unfold, from her public persona to her private, the twists and turns in her secondary characters and her relationship with her best friend Oliver hooked me right away.
Although a few of the mysteries in the story weren't really mysterious, the action and suspense was well done. As an avid reader, I appreciated the way Angel approached the love/sex scenes. So many books are getting over the top detailed in these areas. The way Angel allows her readers to use their own imagination with some coaching was refreshing.
I am anxiously awaiting the next volume of this story (as well as the last volume of the Wraith series).
This book, while much different than Angel's other work, is great. The characters she created were real and honest and the world was fascinating. Her main character, Ari, was strong and passionate about her life and her work. It was admirable and realistic. Davis, the other main figure in this book, was dark and a little scary but intriguing. At the core he is a kind soul and also an admirable character. Watching this woman's life unfold, from her public persona to her private, the twists and turns in her secondary characters and her relationship with her best friend Oliver hooked me right away.
Although a few of the mysteries in the story weren't really mysterious, the action and suspense was well done. As an avid reader, I appreciated the way Angel approached the love/sex scenes. So many books are getting over the top detailed in these areas. The way Angel allows her readers to use their own imagination with some coaching was refreshing.
I am anxiously awaiting the next volume of this story (as well as the last volume of the Wraith series).
August 19, 2013
My newest favorite story from Angel - This heroine is a tough woman with a complicated life which becomes more complicated as we get into the story. I found myself invested in what would happen to her and how the questions in the story would work themselves out. As always, I find myself dreading the end of the book because I'd like to keep reading! Truthfully, I "sat" on this book for about 3 months because I didn't want to be without a story to look forward to!!
She is a stellar author, consistently good and I am always happy with her characters and their stories!! You need to read her!!
She is a stellar author, consistently good and I am always happy with her characters and their stories!! You need to read her!!
August 30, 2013
I really like the pacing in this book. The first third is a slow build of "what's going on here?" action scenes that spins into full on adventure of epic comic book proportions.
The men, of course, are marvelous. Hunky best friend roommate, mysterious sexy dancer at a local night spot, warm and attentive co-worker. Even the trainers at the local youth boxing club are yummy.
Ari is complicated and interesting. We see glimpses of her past obliquely, with no backwards foray, but through her moods and reactions to "numbness" she battles, and the men who coax her back to feeling.
More, please!
The men, of course, are marvelous. Hunky best friend roommate, mysterious sexy dancer at a local night spot, warm and attentive co-worker. Even the trainers at the local youth boxing club are yummy.
Ari is complicated and interesting. We see glimpses of her past obliquely, with no backwards foray, but through her moods and reactions to "numbness" she battles, and the men who coax her back to feeling.
More, please!
April 29, 2013
I love how you are able to feel the wariness and emotions of the main characters which helps to explain their actions and decisions. You can feel the atmosphere and desperation as Ari tries to do the best job she can with limited resources and co-operation from her clients. You can see both sides of her personality and through her interactions with others, eg Oliver, just how human she can be outside office-hours. As for Davis and Nick, let's not go there, shall we? Great drama at the end of the book, glad it is the first in a series, need I say more?
May 1, 2013
I really liked the story as a whole. It was something quite different from what I've read by this author. The only issue I had was that I found a lot of silly mistakes that distracted me. Blub instead me bulb, marital instead of martial; there was even a case of calling a character by the name of another character, and that was something that I didn't find in her other books. If you can overlook this and you like a bit of mystery, mixed with super heroes and kick ass main characters, I'd recommend this book.
July 16, 2013
I'm really feeling like this was about 3.5 stars so I'll round up and go with 4. Good story line, likable characters. Kinda figured out that Davis was the good guy and there was something "off" about Nick but I can honestly say I didn't expect him to be Reg. I liked the chemistry between Ari and Davis. I enjoyed Oliver. There were some simple editing errors where the wrong name was used etc and while it caught my eye and disrupted my flow it wasn't a huge issue.
September 13, 2013
Angel Lawson Her story about a female vigilante and a male vigilante who find each other and then she has also found a man that helps kids. Then the unspeakable happens people are disappearing and she fears it one of the two men she has grown close to. interesting reading
June 9, 2013
I had previously read Angel Lawson's Serial Summer and in some ways I like this better. The plot is deeper and more intriguing. I couldn't put it down, which is really the mark of a good book for me.
Such is the nature of self-published works that there are some minor errors but nothing too awful.
Such is the nature of self-published works that there are some minor errors but nothing too awful.
August 24, 2013
It's probably just me, but the typo on page 68 of "disciple" instead of "discipline" was really jarring. Other than that, enjoyed the story and liked Ari in particular.
January 27, 2016
Review to come :)
September 23, 2013
Very good - thoroughly enjoyed it!
October 25, 2013
I need to learn my lesson! Vigilant is another book that has been sat idling on my Kindle for a while after Angel Lawson kindly donated the copy to me in exchange for an honest review. Yet, I always find it is with these books that I end up thinking 'why didn't I read this sooner?'
Vigilant has a mix of fantasy, mystery and romance. The plot is steamy and unpredictable (yes I may have gasped out loud in shock!) and Angel Lawson's characterization is strong, distinct and powerful.
Ari is likeable because of the job she does, taking care of young people, and because she is relatively emotionally vulnerable herself.
The story begins with Ari caught in a Hardware store raid, fronted by a dangerous young man who had been on her case load, but she finds herself saved by the city's Vigilante. She is threatened again, each time the Vigilante saving her, but like Spiderman he is targeted by the media as a villain!
Ari's world becomes more complicated when she is sent to Glory Youth Centre, with a client and re-encounters Davis, who is dark, mysterious, brooding and gorgeous! He has his own secrets, and Ari has problems at work with young girls disappearing, but can they work out the answer together?
Angel Lawson's writing is compelling and clever; although I felt I had the plot resolved I was still surprised by its intricacies, and it was these kept me turning the pages.
I look forward to reading more from Angel Lawson and recommend Vigilant to all readers.
Vigilant has a mix of fantasy, mystery and romance. The plot is steamy and unpredictable (yes I may have gasped out loud in shock!) and Angel Lawson's characterization is strong, distinct and powerful.
Ari is likeable because of the job she does, taking care of young people, and because she is relatively emotionally vulnerable herself.
The story begins with Ari caught in a Hardware store raid, fronted by a dangerous young man who had been on her case load, but she finds herself saved by the city's Vigilante. She is threatened again, each time the Vigilante saving her, but like Spiderman he is targeted by the media as a villain!
Ari's world becomes more complicated when she is sent to Glory Youth Centre, with a client and re-encounters Davis, who is dark, mysterious, brooding and gorgeous! He has his own secrets, and Ari has problems at work with young girls disappearing, but can they work out the answer together?
Angel Lawson's writing is compelling and clever; although I felt I had the plot resolved I was still surprised by its intricacies, and it was these kept me turning the pages.
I look forward to reading more from Angel Lawson and recommend Vigilant to all readers.
October 9, 2013
I enjoyed this book. Good suspenseful mystery read.
This is the story of Ari, who is a case worker that is very invested in the lives of the kids she is helping. She wants to make a difference and help them turn around their lives. She also happens to be in the wrong place at the wrong time a lot of times or somehow crime seems to happen around here quite frequently. But there is a Vigilante in town who also happens to be close to the action when Ari is in danger. And oh, la, la! I would totally fancy a Vigilant that constantly saves me from the bad guys.
The plot thickens and some of the girls that Ari has assigned to her start disappearing and then the proverbial "shut" hits the fan. Won't go into any more details as not to spoil the story for you. I liked the plot, the pace, the story and characters. A good book by this promising writer.
This is the story of Ari, who is a case worker that is very invested in the lives of the kids she is helping. She wants to make a difference and help them turn around their lives. She also happens to be in the wrong place at the wrong time a lot of times or somehow crime seems to happen around here quite frequently. But there is a Vigilante in town who also happens to be close to the action when Ari is in danger. And oh, la, la! I would totally fancy a Vigilant that constantly saves me from the bad guys.
The plot thickens and some of the girls that Ari has assigned to her start disappearing and then the proverbial "shut" hits the fan. Won't go into any more details as not to spoil the story for you. I liked the plot, the pace, the story and characters. A good book by this promising writer.
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