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Halos #1

Shattering Halos

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I am Gaia Samuelle and I should have died in the car accident that killed my friends. Only I didn't. It wasn't a miracle that saved me; it was love. My best friend Marina thinks I'm being seduced by a demon. She thinks she can save me. But she doesn't understand. I don't need saving. All I need is him.

Gabriel is my Protector. He's watched over mortals for centuries. Not once has he broken the rules. Until now. For reasons neither he nor I understand, he let me live. He traded my death for love--our love. And that's forbidden. If Heaven finds out, he'll be annihilated.

Now, we're caught in a war between Heaven and Hell. The battle has begun.

364 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 22, 2014

27 people are currently reading
1820 people want to read

About the author

Sunniva Dee

29 books2,128 followers

Sunniva Dee is a USA Today and Amazon top 100 bestselling author with an eclectic taste in books. Born and raised in Norway, Sunniva lived in the United States for 17 years before returning to the mothership, where she sucks inspiration from trolls and barn gnomes and cold little mermaids popping their heads out of the fjords. Oh, and Spotify. Always Spotify.

Sunniva dabbles in literary romance, romantic comedy, contemporary romance, young adult fiction, new adult fiction, dark romance, and paranormal. Unlike some authors, she was not raised by fairies, and unlike others, she’s not also a musician. But she boasts a ridiculous sense of humor and an obsession with furry mammals, both evident in the bestselling rom-com series #LovePranks.

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5 stars
156 (40%)
4 stars
118 (30%)
3 stars
66 (16%)
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32 (8%)
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18 (4%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 139 reviews
Profile Image for Cheryl McIntyre.
Author 37 books2,161 followers
February 24, 2014
AMAZING debut novel!

Guardian Angel, Gabriel, breaks all the rules to save Gaia's life, gaining the attention of Heaven and Hell. Regardless of the consequences, he cannot resist the beautiful, young girl he's been watching and protecting for years. He'll shatter his halo in a heartbeat in order to gain Gaia's heart.

Gaia finds herself infatuated with the sexy stranger who saved her from the accident. He draws her in like no other, consuming her thoughts and fantasies. She'll stop at nothing to unveil the mystery surrounding gorgeous Gabriel.

Sunniva Dee has created a brand new genre in Shattering Halos, merging new adult and paranormal romance seamlessly. Sexy, action-packed, and oh, so sweet, this book will stay on your mind long after the last page. And supporting character, Cassiel, will leave you pleading for a sequel.

I loved this book and cannot wait for more!




Profile Image for Alexandra Lyngstad.
12 reviews3 followers
January 16, 2014
Shattering Halos is one of those books you cannot put down. It is action-packed, with interesting characters, a tale of innatainable love and of seduction. Spruced up with a little angelic magic makes it so that you never know what is going to happen, and it is easy to relate to the girl-next-door main character who had a regular life before everything changed. I'd recommend this to anyone who loves a little romance or fantasy. An epic story which escalates to dizzying heights
Sunniva Dee Shattering Halos
Profile Image for Em Anteg.
22 reviews
November 13, 2014

Sooooo...I couldn’t put this book down ever since I started reading it. And it’s Sunniva Dee’s fault. Thanks to her, and for allowing me the chance to read the eARC of her debut novel, Shattering Halos.  I remember the day I got the eARC copy, when I started reading it I could not put it down. Yes! Even though I had several things I should have been doing, like my college papers, and house chores...I realized those things can wait but my excitement, eagerness and ardor, CAN’T! Ha!

I have read a number of paranormal romance books before but Shattering Halos is different. I love the idea of guardian angels, which I found original. The question now is that what makes it different then? Well, this book is not the typical average good girl meets bad boy also known as douche-ier dude plot (though I have a thing for bad boys and Cassiel is one of them :D) Also, the writing was good even in alternating POVs. It wasn’t confusing because both character’s perspectives were distinguishable and you’ll really get to know the other side of the story and not just from the protagonist’s POV. I think that’s what makes it different also because instead of Gabriel’s, it’s the other dude’s POV.

Now, about the plot… It’s quite fast - but this may just be my reflection because of the writing style. Sunniva Dee does an amazing job and the writing and creativity with words is absolutely beautiful. She has a fantastic way of writing the story itself. Descriptions are vivid and dialogues are catchy. The characters are amazing as well. They aren’t over the top. At first, I’ll admit I was a bit annoyed with Gaia here and there, but overall, I enjoyed her character! Yes, she could occasionally be selfish, but also tried hard to do the right thing. She found herself in a pretty crap situation and dealt with it rather well. The character of Gabriel was incredibly enigmatic, and also really well done. Cassiel was pretty cool too. I’m kind of torn between the two guys because I loved them both, I’m not sure if Cassiel’s considered as one of the antagonists. I don’t know if I should be annoyed with him or not because of the things he has done. I think you just have to read it to know what I’m talking about. Anyway, the bad guys are horrifically creepy and evil. Okay. No spoilers, but I liked the resolution a lot, in fact, the whole last three chapters of the book were my favourite scenes. I like how things ended, how things proceeded and how they ended up especially the last three chapters. There are quite several questions that have left to be answered at the end BUT just like the usual...those are like tidbits that you are just curious about, I mean not major things that you must know in order to feel like the story ended.

After reading the book, I feel like I’m in a state of literal fever, enchanted but exhausted, and overdosed by all these Gabriel and Cassiel hotness.

I commend Sunniva on a wonderfully written debut novel. I’m sure we’ll be seeing great things to come from her. I sure cannot wait!

*An eARC of this novel was provided by the author for an honest review. This has not affected my opinion/review in any way.

Profile Image for Beth Michele.
Author 14 books952 followers
February 24, 2014
Shattering Halos was my first foray into paranormal and it did not disappoint. It is a beautiful and wonderfully written novel that pulls you into a world of fantasy, heaven and hell if you will. It will draw you in with colorful descriptives, a sexy angel named Gabriel, a resilient Gaia, and a host of other fascinating characters. There are so many twists and turns your head will be spinning. This is a captivating, unique, and steamy love story that will take you on a spellbinding journey where you will experience a rollercoaster of emotions. I can not recommend this book highly enough!

A brilliant debut novel!
Profile Image for D. King.
Author 16 books450 followers
February 23, 2014
One Word: A-freaking-mazing! I would suggest, however, to make sure you have a large chunk of time because you won't be able to put this down! I burnt dinner because I couldn't! Believable characters, awesome dialog, sexy bad boy, war between Heaven and Hell, it's all there! Sunniva Dee hit a huge home run with this fantastic debut novel!
February 23, 2014

***I've got an ARC from Sunniva for the honest review.***

It's an amazing debut novel from Sunniva. I loved every moment of it, with it's twists and turns.

First of all, I have a hots for all kind of Angel, and I think the cover of the book is the most beautiful I have ever seen.

The thoughts of guardian angels is something new to me, so I loved it.
Gaia had an accident, where she lost most of her friends, the only surviver is she. And she saw him there...He save her, and it was against the rules, the rules of heaven, the rules of being a guardian angel.

I traded my death for love. I wasn’t given a choice. His decision has caught up with us, so now I am a living, breathing catalyst to war between Heaven and Hell...

Gabriel...her guardian, stayed by her side at the hospital while she was healing... and feeling.

"Gaia, my happiness is being with you, loving you, as long as I can. But I can't promise what tomottow will bring."

"I'm an angel, and you're a human. We were never supposed to be together in this way. Much less were we created to melt into one."


description


To be honest Gaia was childish for me sometimes, annoying, but considering her ages it's okey :) I love the tentative way how they approached each other, mostly Gabriel was who held back, because he feared of the consequences.

Cassiel, the brother og Gabriel who was angry about Gaia, and sometimes freaked my out... But he was charming, and a great character.
I loved the different POV's, and a lot of actions.

"My biggest fear is to find you lifeless in my arms. Daughters of man have died from this love..."

Oh God, you just fall onto a heavenly roller-coaster...

For every day he protects me, the consequences loom darker and taller. Soon, they’ll crash down on us.

The war is about to begin.


description


I don't wanna give away the story, and I really can't because you have to read it to fell it. You will get the HEA and there is no cliffhanger.

" The Heavens appreciate everything you have done.In case you're still in a doubt, be assured that no punishment is to be doled out. "

"When your thoughts screamed out my name in the kitchen,
I could finally ease your pain. "




Profile Image for Laura Thalassa.
Author 57 books25.7k followers
September 25, 2014
Screw it. I’m jumping the gun and putting this review up early.
This entire story gave me butterflies and tingles—you know, the excitement that’s associated with a book that’s even better than you hoped it would be.

description

What the description doesn’t tell you is this: Gaia, the main character survives what should’ve been a lethal car accident. One of the few things she remembers is that a strange and beautiful man stayed by her side. And once she recovers from her injuries, she starts to see this same mysterious man, even while others can’t. Hooked? Yeah, I was too.

And that’s only the beginning. I won’t spoil the amazing plot, but it. Is. Epic.

Now, what I want to spend the rest of this review discussing is the hot-as-hell romance.

description

I loved the main character, Gaia. She’s resilient super relatable! Gabriel, the love interest—all that is holy I’m overheating just thinking about him. He’s definitely one of my book boyfriends. Not only is he sexy, but he’s a good guy. I rarely read about sexy and sweet (usually the love interest is some type of bad boy), and I find it even rarer for an author to pull off sexy and sweet. Ms. Dee not only managed to pull it off, the book left me yearning for the kind of relationship that her two main characters had. Lastly, fans of romance will not be disappointed with the steamy scenes between the two main characters!

If you love paranormal romance or new adult novels, I would absolutely recommend reading Shattering Halos!!! I can’t WAIT to read more from this author!
Profile Image for Logan Keys.
Author 56 books273 followers
July 9, 2014
This book is such a beautifully told story.


Some moments were a bit edge of your seat too!





The language is so gorgeous, and keeps with certain themes ;) (cough)


Gaia...hard to spell that one is such a neat character and tough too!




Every character was their own and fully developed and felt so very real.


The end scenes and places were out of this world. Literally!




I look forward to the next one!

Me waiting on the next book>>>


Profile Image for Jen.
705 reviews
February 23, 2014
Shattering Halos is a powerful and gripping paranormal love story. It's creative and fresh and has you hooked from the first page. You have a forbidden love between a beautiful stubborn girl, who cheats death and a strong sexy angel who will stop at nothing to protect her. Their chemistry is off the charts and leaves you breathless.It's also full of action with an amazing ending that leaves you wanting more. I've read this twice now and I just cant get enough..It's amazing!!!
Profile Image for Maari.
473 reviews
August 3, 2016
I LOVED Shattering Halos!! If I could give it more than 5 stars, I would!! Sunniva had me crying on the first page, before the first chapter even began!! I couldn't put it down, in fact, read it a couple times, just to get more from it! This book made me so passionate about a character from the very beginning.. A book hasn't done that to me in awhile! To evoke such strong emotions.. I Love when a book does that & I then get stuck in it, until it ends & leaves me kind of empty when it is finished.. needing so much more! I NEED more, Sunniva!! ;)
Profile Image for Cailin.
33 reviews
February 23, 2014
Shattered . . . And it feels so good!
This wonderous debut novel is captivating, beautifully written, and SEXY AS SIN! Shattering Halos is, at once, both an N/A and supernatural experience that takes you on a ride through heaven and hell, and back again. Fans of Abbi Glines' Existence Trilogy will undoubtably fall happily into the seductive arms of Gabriel, this story's hero (if heaven has angels like this . . . ;-) ), and surrender to the all-consuming heat of this story. If you are a fan of either genre, this is a MUST READ! You can thank me later.
Profile Image for Stacy Lynn.
38 reviews
July 23, 2016
Shattering Halos is a debut novel by Author Sunniva Dee. And, after reading this book, it's extremely hard to believe that this is only her first novel. The story is very well written, it has many layers to it, and it has a beautiful love story entwined. It is full of hope, love, sexiness, and hotness... ;-) I was captivated from the beginning to the very last page of the book. Shattering Halos was such an Amazing book and I can't wait to read any new novels that Sunniva Dee releases. This book was so good that if there had been more than 5*stars, I would have given them...
3 reviews
March 25, 2014
An absolute wonderful touching book. You Fall in love with every character. As you read you feel like you are right in the book yourself. Description of each character makes you able to see each one of them. I loved every Angel and even those who have fallen given a second chance. Can't wait til next book by Sunniva. Writing is exquisite. Forever reader. Must READ xxx

Profile Image for Mandy Sickle.
1,462 reviews152 followers
July 19, 2014
I received Shattering Halos in return for an honest review as part of the tour hosted by Xpresso Book Tours. Gaia should have died with her friends in a fatal car accident but by some miracle she survived. At the scene of the accident, in her hospital room, and even at home Gaia has seen a handsome stranger only to learn that he’s an angel her guardian who saved her life. Her friend instantly tells her about him being a fallen angel a demon wanting to control her but Gaia knows that he is something different.

Gaia can’t get him out of her mind even though he’s all wrong for her she knows she has to have him in her life. However Gaia knows that guardian angles don’t act like Gabriel is, that she shouldn’t be able to tempt him the way she does. Gabriel hopes that it’s Michael giving him another chance but even when she asks him to remain invisible he can’t stop protecting her. An angel in love with his charge, and a girl in love with her guardian angel a relationship that tests them both changing everything they know.

Right off I liked Gaia and Gabriel there was something about each of them I just couldn’t get enough of. I like that that author gave us an insight into Gabriel so I had an idea where he was coming from and knew that he wasn’t such a bad guy after all. I wasn’t sure at first about Gaia’s insta love obsession with Gabriel but it works.

I haven’t read many books with Angels so when I saw the tour for Shattering Halos I jumped at the chance to read the book. I found the concept for the book unique the way the author put her own spin on the angel romance was clever. Shattering Halos is a captivating story it’s filled with raw emotion as the pair find their way keeping the reader drawn in till the very end. I honestly really enjoyed the story it is well written from start to finish flowing smoothly. The characters are great I was really able to connect with Gaia which I liked. I finished Shattered Halos in just a few short hours and I’m looking forward to seeing what happens in the next book of the series.
Profile Image for Books By Ces.
523 reviews45 followers
March 23, 2014
3.5

This book was a refreshing dose of Guardian Angel sweetness.

Gaia is just an ordinary girl; Gabriel is her Guardian Angel. A terrible car accident leaves Gaia shattered and in a coma; there weren’t supposed to be any survivors. Gabriel interfered and now he is in trouble, he doesn’t understand why he is drawn to this girl he’s been guarding since birth and now, Gaia can see him and become infatuated with him; eventually they give in to the attraction.

The concept of the book as a whole is really cool! The love story between Gaia and Gabriel is sweet, weird and ultimately sexy but… Yes there is a but. I was immersed in the story from chapter one, I liked it, it was intriguing and Gabriel was just so pure and kind and just loved Gaia to the Core! So, what are my negatives and the reasons for not going all the way to 4 stars? Here you go:

1.- The way Gaia’s friend just accepted and knew what Gabriel was from the beginning.. I mean she didn’t even flinch regarding the implausibility of it all. Also, Gaia’s attraction was immediate and I didn’t feel it true in the beginning.

2.- The whole Cassiel/Gaia thing. It was an attempt at a love triangle without being one…and Gaia just fel for it all. I loved Cassiel though, snarky and loyal!!

3.- Sometimes I didn’t know if I was reading YA or NA… obviously I know it’s the later due to some scenes but, everything else… YA.

The rest!! Just great. Lot’s of Angels, lots of drama, lots of love and loss of consciousness inducing sexy times!
Profile Image for Nicole Emerald Book Reviews  McCurdy.
404 reviews61 followers
February 24, 2014
I was actually commenting the other day that the last book hangover I had was Archer's Voice by Mia Sheridan. One of those insanely brilliant books that just stays with you. I find myself rehashing scenes or quotes or events that happened throughout the book and day-dreaming whilst doing dishes or even at work...well move over Archer because Gabriel is trying to steal your thunder.

Shattering Halo's has become my new book hangover.

Literally within hours of it going live I was trolling Amazon to snag my copy and now I'm sitting here barely twelve hours later and I'm finished. Done. Read the whole damn book. Where do I go from here, except to tell you- the next potential reader of this book- to get your ass in gear and go grab a copy. Like. Right. Now.

It was quite hard to believe this is a debut book. The writing is flawless, the characters are beautiful, the dialogue effortless and inspiring and the storyline is fantastic!!! (who doesn't love a good ol' battle between Heaven n Hell) Although it starts with a very sad, horrific event, this event is the premise and catalyst for the whole story. It's where our hero and heroine meet, where destiny changes...

I honestly can't say enough good things about Shattering Halos! Phenomenal start to a very promising career.
Profile Image for Ørjan Brenne.
2 reviews1 follower
February 23, 2014
When I looked for a new paranormal romance, the cover of Shattering Halos totally pulled me in. I know I shouldn’t judge by the cover, but if the book was even remotely as good as the cover, I’d be happy. And it kicks **s! It’s steamy, fast, has super-good chemistry with the guy or angel more like it, haha. I loved it!!! I’d recommend this to people who like new adult novels and anything fantasy-like with relationships in them. For instance Beautiful Disaster and Thoughtless and Easy. Ember X by Jessica Sorensen. Great books like that.
Profile Image for Kimberly.
13 reviews2 followers
February 25, 2014
Shattering Halos is a debut novel by Author Sunniva Dee. This Paranormal Romance is full of love, hope, and hotness. It is a beautiful story that has been so well written you will embrace the characters from the beginning chapter to the end of the book. I was immediately pulled into this delightful fantasy world of Sunniva's and it kept me enthralled to the very end. I am so thankful to have found a new author that has impressed me so much. This is a definite worthy, must-read book. I look forward to more adventures with this unique author.
Profile Image for Heather Steele-Stone.
266 reviews33 followers
March 12, 2014
Wow...Amazing debut novel. I love paranormal romance and this one delivered. Where can I sign up I want a Gabriel of my very own!
Profile Image for Clarice.
400 reviews6 followers
February 25, 2014
Gaia was supposed to die that day. All of her friends in the vehicle had. And she was supposed to as well. Instead she lived. And while she was lying on the side of the road, unable to move, she watched him.
He was barefoot and absolutely beautiful. Maybe even shimmery. While she was in her hospital room trying to recover from a broken neck, this mystery guy returns. After a while she starts to think he is just a figment of her imagination. Once she gets out of the hospital she goes back to school to try and get back to normal again. Except how can you do that when you lost three of your friends? And then there is the guy. He shows back up at school except when Gaia tries to tell her new friend Marina about him and point him out, she doesn't see him. Is her mind just making this up? Gaia sure doesn't think so when she goes into the janitor's closet at school to get away from it all and he appears there. Not only does he appear, but she kisses him. And he feels real enough. His name is Gabriel. And Gabriel is her guardian angel. He is the reason she is alive. And he broke the rules for her. Gaia was never really supposed to see him, but Gabriel has a hard time hiding himself when he is around her. She feels his presence, and she is falling in love with an angel. Marina, after finally seeing him, thinks he is a demon because his actions and the attention he gives Gaia doesn't seem like the attention a normal human would get from an angel. And she is somewhat right. It isn't normal. But that doesn't make Gabriel a demon either. Gradually Gabriel's love of Gaia starts making him act more human. His want of her and need to be around her is more human than angel and there is no explanation for it. He also doesn't understand why he isn't being punished for breaking so many of the rules with her. Although he is in love with her more than he is willing to openly admit, he is fighting it and trying to do what is right. But their love has set in motion something much bigger than anything they could ever imagine. A war could be started between angels, demons, and the fallen angels. All of Hell wants to take back over Heaven, and they have a plan that could succeed.


For this to be Sunniva Dee's debut book, it is a great start into the writing world! A book about angels and demons and forbidden love between a guardian angel and a human makes for a good read. You go through most of the book wondering if punishment is going to be handed down from on high. But the truth to everything turns out to be more shocking than how Gaia and Gabriel had wondered all along if this thing between them would be so completely ended that she would never see him again and possibly not even remember him. However, the journey to the great catalyst is one full of wondering what Gaia and Gabriel should do, whether they should just give in to their feelings or fight it and try to go on as it should be, with Gabriel being the invisible guardian he was meant to be. But the journey is heavy with temptation, and Gaia's willpower is not near as strong as Gabriel's. Once she realizes what could be at stake she tries to be good, but all she can see is him, even when she can't see Gabriel. The temptation to just fling themselves off of that precipice is great indeed.






Profile Image for Brandee (un)Conventional Bookworms.
1,479 reviews157 followers
July 16, 2014
When I started Shattering Halos, I was sure it was going to be a 3-3.5 Bookworm read for me. I don't know if it was the initial world building or what, but I was having a hard time connecting to the story and characters. Then about a quarter of the way through, it morphed into a 4-4.25 Bookworm read. I became so intrigued with the hows and the whys of the connection between Gaia and Gabriel. Ms. Dee's use of angels and demons, Heaven and Hell mythology, began to reel me into the story and suddenly I was very invested in Gaia and Gabriel's story and its possible outcomes. By the end, Shattering Halos was engrossing, exciting, and exhilarating.
Gaia Samuelle is 17 when she's involved in an accident that claims the lives of her friends and should have taken hers. It's the night of the accident she first sees Gabriel. As Gaia recovers and continues on with her life - graduating high school, starting college - she and Gabriel work at trying to create a relationship that will work for them both. Gaia was a contradiction for me at times. She was very mature, having experienced what she had but at other times she was very much the 18 year old she is. She is a good daughter, sister, and friend. And despite her determination to be the cause of Gabriel's fall, her love and loyalty for him is unquestionable.

Gabriel has been protecting Gaia since she was born. Somewhere along the way, though, he began having human feelings for her. He has fought it, he doesn't understand it, but he can't deny it. Saving her the night of the accident - her being able to see him - changed things. And neither he nor Gaia could guess at the repercussions. Gabriel is everything angelic, really. He loves Gaia and does whatever he can to protect her, and give her her heart's desire.

Cassiel is a Fallen and is Gabriel's brother. He is essentially sex on a stick and human women literally fall at his feet swooning. Cassiel has always enjoyed this perk of being a Fallen. But his future is tied to Gabriel and Gaia's, for whatever reason. And he works in conjunction with them in trying to figure out what's simmering between Heaven and Hell. Cassiel is cocky and full of snark. I quite enjoyed his scenes.

The war between Heaven and Hell, that Gabriel and Gaia seemingly instigated, was exciting. I liked trying to figure out what was going to happen - I didn't - and all the biblical mythology made it that much more riveting. Being told from both Gaia's and Cassiel's POVs enhanced the pleasure of this story. I particularly liked getting into Cassiel's head. ;) And with the exception of the beginning, the pacing was great.

Those of you that don't like cliffies will be glad to know this doesn't end in one. However, I'm very eager to see where this story is going to go from here. This is a great debut!

**I received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.**
Profile Image for Holly Reads Xx.
879 reviews100 followers
March 5, 2014
For a giveaway and an interview with Sunniva Dee where the author has a message for her fans, and we talk future books in the series, including the title of #3, then just head over to Holly's Hot Reads

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It's been five months since the first time I read this book. Five months in which I've opened up a page countless times attempting to review it. Trying to let you know exactly why this book made my list of Top 13 Books Of 2013 before it was even released. But how do I find the words that will do a book as incredible as SHATTERING HALOS justice?

A book that blew me away so much that the only notes I could forward to the author was "WOW!" It left me speechless, with my mind in overdrive trying to put all my thoughts together, and even now, after all this time, I get a thrill when I think of this book but I'm still struggling to say anything other than WOW!!

Getting told from one of my most favourite authors out there, "Holly, you NEED to read this book. It's so amazing, you will love it." SOLD! I couldn't wait to get stuck into it (at which point it had a different title) and when Sunniva sent it over I dove straight in to this story that felt so real and alive, that I was in this book haze for days afterwards. Just wandering around replaying scene after scene in my head, like memories of something that had actually happened to me.

If you're not such a fan of Paranormal then that's ok. You don't need to be. SHATTERING HALOS is very much an NA book, only with the added perfection of shimmering, and brooding angels that will win you over, and have you swooning in no time at all. But I'm going to say this now - and because I read it so long ago I absolutely have the right to say this - Cassiel is mine. I've laid claim to him in all his smoldering splendour.

There's a reason why I loved this book so hard last October. There's a reason that I love it just as much (if not more) with every reread that I do. There's a reason this was my favourite book of 2013. And there's a reason it had 23 5 STAR reviews on Amazon within 9 hours of it going LIVE. Sunniva Dee's writing is flawless and her way of telling a story leaves you desperate for more.

My advice? Read this book right away so you can say you were a part of her journey from the beginning. I see a very bright future for this author in the book world, and for anyone to miss out on seeing it for themselves would be one heck of a shame.

SHATTERING HALOS definitely deserves a special place on my bookshelf of favourites and Sunniva Dee has worked her way onto my list of elite authors that I will read everything they release. A book and an author not to be missed.

*ARC received in exchange for an honest review*
Profile Image for My Secret Book Spot.
662 reviews23 followers
March 1, 2014
Shattering Halos by Sunniva Dee
4 out of 5 Stars
I HAD to read this book because of Sunniva Dee’s webpage which gives you the opportunity to read the first page of the book. She writes, “A slight movement revealed him sitting in the grass next to me, cross-legged. So serene, so beautiful, so still. He owned the silence the way they should. I felt like laughing, but the sound didn’t come out so I stared instead. He was barefoot, and his hair passed his shoulders in tumbles of gold. Well-worn jeans clutched his hips, and a white shirt flowed ghostlike to his waist. With head tilted and chin resting in his hands, he gazed at me curiously. Does he have all the time in the world? I wondered.” (I added the italics to show you what stood out to me) Something about the way she spoke about Gabriel the Angel was completely different than any book I had ever read about angels, and believe me, I’ve read A LOT! It was what angels and Heavenly/Hellish beings would be like. Free of time and worldly constraints like sound, hunger, pain, cold; such a new and exciting idea was an immediate top of my TBR that I actually stopped reading other books to pick this one up! All the way through this book her descriptions of both types of beings were phenomenal! Except where it needed to be otherwise, which explaining that would be a spoiler so I won’t…just suffice it to say you WILL not be disappointed!
My only reason for not giving the 5th star in this review is I would have liked more description of the characters outside of their emotional and physical feelings. Gaia, the heroine in the book, is obviously in love, she goes to school, has a few friends, and you know a few basic facts, but who is she? Gabriel is drop dead gorgeous and concerned for Gaia but that’s all we truly know of him. Cassiel has the most well rounded personality but even he is limited to mostly physical and emotional feelings. So for that reason alone I gave it 4 Stars, otherwise the book was a fantastic read and I truly can’t wait to read the next book in the series where I hope the fleshing out of the characters continues!
As a first novel I would say Sunniva Dee has taken a page from the Angel of Beauty and placed a true gem on my Nook!
*A free digital copy was given in exchange for an honest review*
Pepper, My Secret Book Spot
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Profile Image for Kristine.
747 reviews15 followers
March 31, 2014
Original review found at http://kristineandterri.blogspot.ca/2...

Shattering Halos is Sunniva Dee's debut novel and I think fans of paranormal romance are going to devour it. If this book is any indication of what her future work will look like then we are in for a real treat!

Let me just say that this book grabs you from the very first page. I was hooked! Gaia is lying injured at the side of a horrific accident in which she was a passenger and everyone else was killed. She looks up and sees a beautiful man sitting beside her, watching her, and somehow comforting her without a touch or word. He then shows up in her hospital room and school. What??? She should be dead but she's not. If that doesn't grab your attention then I don't know what will. In fact I was so intrigued that I was plowing through the story until my kindle died and I had to take a break. Even still, I was able to finish it in one day.

This is ultimately a love story between two people that should not be together and the havoc it creates because of it. There is something to be said about the characters trying so hard to be good and stay apart that makes you want them to be together even more. I was routing for them along the way and hopeful that they could find a way to give in to their desires. It is written in an easy to understand style that readers of all ages can enjoy although there is some descriptive sexual content.

I have never read a story about guardian angels before but let me just say that Gabriel would be my top pick if I had one for myself. That is if I was younger...not married...and didn't have kids. He was definitely swoon worthy and I'm sure many young readers will discover a new book boyfriend in him. Gaia was likeable as well but at times I found her a little too immature and naive. I chalked it up to her age and the unbelievable situation she found herself in. Gabriel's brother, although he was a Fallen and not so good, was interesting to me as well. I think a second book continuing his story would be wonderful...hint...hint...nudge...nudge.

All in all it was a great and imaginative debut novel that allowed me to escape reality for a few hours.
Profile Image for Melyssa Winchester.
Author 32 books241 followers
February 25, 2014
As a writer of young-adult paranormal fiction with the supernatural twist with her own complicated relationship with angels, demons and everything in between, I eagerly anticipated this book. In fact I'm pretty sure I was close to shouting it off rooftops with my excitement over it. I just want to start off by saying that it delivered in every single way imaginable for the level of excitement I had.

You're drawn into the light by Gaia, feeling sympathy instantly for her plight and it doesn't let up from there. Gabriel enters her existence and the minute he does, bringing along Cassiel for the ride, you're swept up into a world where anything is possible.

When writing a book like this, too much detail is always a risk. When you're explaining history and things of that nature, you always have to tread carefully in terms of how much information you give so you don't bog down the reader with it and Sunniva delivers in that regard as well. When the history of the angels, etc (don't wanna spoil it) were given, it flowed so perfectly, you're unaware its even happening. I found that to be absolutely brilliant.

I want to fan girl over this book. I do. I'm trying to write a review that speaks to the strengths of the novel as a whole but I'll be damned if I can't get Cassiel out of my head. Gabriel may be Gaia's star, but Cassiel...he was mine. I do like me a bad boy who is not quite as bad as he appears. lol.

It's got romance, it's got a battle of good and evil, it's got bad ass angels and it's got a strong heroine. What more could you want? It's perfection personified. I loved every minute I spent reading this book. I definitely recommend it for any reader, not just ones in the paranormal or romance genre. Great Read!

Profile Image for Jazzy .
129 reviews20 followers
March 11, 2014
~Was given an ARC, in exchange for an honest review~

Gaia’s life changed, after surviving an accident where she wasn’t supposed to live. She meets her guardian angel Gabriel. Yes! This book is full of HOT angels!!! Gabriel and Cassiel to name a few!!! *SWOON* Okay, where was I? Oh, yeah! ;) Gabriel wasn’t supposed to save Gaia, but he couldn’t help it. Ever since the accident, Gaia now can see Gabriel, but no one else can, except for a few people. I love how Sunniva brought Gabriel’s and Gaia’s chemistry to life, it’s like you can actually feel it! And those certain scenes! OH-MY-ANGEL-HOTNESS!!!!!
Both Gaia and Gabriel know that they can’t be together, but when Cassiel enters the picture, he is attracted to Gaia, instantly! And Gabriel is not happy!!! If I had to choose between Gabriel or Cassiel, I don’t think that I could!!!!! I may be greedy, but I want both of them!!! This is actually one book, where I wish that I could sit down with Sunniva, and chat about this book! So many things that I want to know!!!
If you love Angels, or HOT guys, or HOT Angel guys! Than this book is for you!!! Go ahead, I dare you to read this book, and not have a book hangover, afterwards!!!! After reading Shattering Halos, I am definitely a fan of Sunniva Dee, I can’t wait to read what she publishes next!
Profile Image for Tracy.
447 reviews27 followers
August 13, 2014
I know I have more than likely stated this before, but.....I LOVE STORIES ABOUT ANGELS!! ;)
(And this is the perfect example why).

Ms. Sunniva Dee has written a beautiful story about loss, love, hope, compassion, anger, hatred and any other human emotion we can feel. It is beautifully written in such a way, you can't put this book down and when you are finished...you suffer withdrawls!!! ;)
I will definitely have to re-read this book to make sure I didn't miss anything the first time through. Her characters are very real and relatable. Gaia is wonderful and I sure wish Gabriel was my Guardian angel!!! (wink, wink)....Even Cassiel, one of the Fallen, is intruiging! The Bad-boy Cassiel is such a great contrast to the Good-guy Gabriel, and I love how they still act as brothers and have each others backs when needed. But the love between Gaia and Gabriel is truly beautiful and is what feeds the story. It even gives you hope when the war breaks out between Heaven and Hell....which OMG....had my heart beating double time!!!

You have got to read this amazing book!! Go get it today!

(I look forward to book 2, but I definitely need more on Gabriel and Gaia...I have sooooo many questions in my head!!!) Thank you Ms. Dee for this amazing read!! ;)
4,119 reviews116 followers
May 28, 2016
The Wild Rose Press and NetGalley provided me with an electronic copy of Shattering Halos, in exchange for an honest review.

Gaia Samuelle was saved from death by Gabriel, although it is expressly forbidden according to the rules. While the car accident killed all of her friends, Gaia was spared. As she tries to reintegrate herself back into high school without the support of her best friends, Gaia soon realizes that things are not as they were, especially since she keeps seeing Gabriel. When the consequences of Gabriel's actions becomes apparent, what will happen to Gaia and Gabriel?

The biggest problem that I had with Shattering Halos was the writing style. Between the changing perspectives, the awkward transitions, and the Teenage Movie of the Week type drama, the story itself never stood a chance. As a love story, this was lacking because the author throws the reader into the action without any type of background. The connection to the characters simply was not there and did not allow for the premise to blossom or grow. The many high reviews bolstered my interest in reading Shattering Halos, but they served only to usher in a sense of crushing disappointment. With some reworking, this book has some interesting possibilities, but it is just not for me.
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