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Guardian Saga #1
Fallen
Maggie is unaware of the terrifying fate that awaits her. It isn’t until she lands in New Orleans for a full year at a private high school and her unknown enemies find her does she realize that her life is in danger.
As a mystifying stranger repeatedly intervenes and blocks the attempts on her life, she begins to learn that there is more to him than his need to protect her and that he may be the key to understanding why her enemies have just now arrived.
As a mystifying stranger repeatedly intervenes and blocks the attempts on her life, she begins to learn that there is more to him than his need to protect her and that he may be the key to understanding why her enemies have just now arrived.
286 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 1, 2009
781 people are currently reading
11619 people want to read
About the author
Laury Falter
22 books644 followersLaury Falter is a bestselling author of young adult romantic suspense and urban fantasy. She conjures worlds in which love is born and tested against seemingly insurmountable events.
She has three series out: the Guardian Saga, the Residue Series, and the Apocalypse Chronicles.
Find out more news and information about Laury and her novels on her:
Website: www.lauryfalter.com
Twitter page: twitter.com/LauryFalter
Facebook page: facebook.com/pages/Laury-Falter/19603...
She has three series out: the Guardian Saga, the Residue Series, and the Apocalypse Chronicles.
Find out more news and information about Laury and her novels on her:
Website: www.lauryfalter.com
Twitter page: twitter.com/LauryFalter
Facebook page: facebook.com/pages/Laury-Falter/19603...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 392 reviews
January 1, 2012
ETA: NOTE: this is not the book, "Fallen" by Lauren Kate
I need half stars... I liked this better than a 3 but not quite a 4... but definitely closer to 4. LOL. Call this 3.75 stars.
Okay, so this was a quick little read that surprised the bejeebus out of me. I went in thinking that I'd likely flounce by chapter 2, but I wound up reading the whole thing in one sitting and am very much looking forward to starting up book #2.
1) Writing needs some good editing (some repetition, some punctuation, some grammar, etc), but overall I'd say this was okay/good and better than a lot of the YA fiction I've read. It's not great literature, but it's not bad. Very readable. And like I said, quick. I'll give it a B.
2) The overall world gets an enthusiastic A. It's fresh and fascinating and I found myself very excited to learn about the past, what's going on in this epic battle of good and evil, etc. I love the entire concept of angels and guardians and messengers and Fallen Ones.
3) The execution fell a little flat toward the end. It felt rushed, and the ending was a bit abrupt. I wanted more detail in that battle at the end. I wanted more action, less filling me in after the fact. Also, I wanted more discussion between Eran and Maggie re: a resolution.
Too, some things, in general, felt a little glossed over and some things kind of came out of nowhere. See point 4) below. Overall I'll give execution a B+ through 3/4 of the way and B- for the last 1/4.
4) Background and set up needs some work. I found myself asking why or where did that come from a few times. I wish the author had gone into more detail in several spots. For instance, I'd have liked more than a two paragraph explanation for Gershom and his past. I wanted more detail on who those white lights were at the end. I wanted more on why Maggie and Abaddon were such mortal enemies. The background and info that was given was great... Just... need more of it. I'll give set up a B-.
5) The main characters get a solid B. I'd love to give them an A, because I really liked them, but I have a bit of a hard time doing that because of 4). I really loved what I saw of Eran. He's fantastic in terms of characterization. But again, I needed more background, and I wanted more on why he did certain things. Same for Maggie. For example, why did she choose to be reborn? I'm not certain of all the pertinent rules of the world to really get why she made that decision.
The villains get a C. Need more background. Why are they fighting? Why do they hate Maggie so much? What is it that she can do that they can't stand????
6) The romance. Ahhhh the UST. Now, that was just... lovely. When she saw her names and I recalled Eran's... holy wow. Had little shivers. That part was done very well, and despite wanting more details on why, the romantic conflict was lovely. As the reader, I got that what he was doing was for a reason, and never did I doubt their connection. I'm admittedly a sucker for eternal, fated love. So... big, fat A on that.
All in all, this was a fun read. I'm hoping that the next book(s) in the series provides the much needed background and information that I found lacking in the first book. Even still, this is fast and short, so IMO well worth a read.
*runs off to read the next book*
I need half stars... I liked this better than a 3 but not quite a 4... but definitely closer to 4. LOL. Call this 3.75 stars.
Okay, so this was a quick little read that surprised the bejeebus out of me. I went in thinking that I'd likely flounce by chapter 2, but I wound up reading the whole thing in one sitting and am very much looking forward to starting up book #2.
1) Writing needs some good editing (some repetition, some punctuation, some grammar, etc), but overall I'd say this was okay/good and better than a lot of the YA fiction I've read. It's not great literature, but it's not bad. Very readable. And like I said, quick. I'll give it a B.
2) The overall world gets an enthusiastic A. It's fresh and fascinating and I found myself very excited to learn about the past, what's going on in this epic battle of good and evil, etc. I love the entire concept of angels and guardians and messengers and Fallen Ones.
3) The execution fell a little flat toward the end. It felt rushed, and the ending was a bit abrupt. I wanted more detail in that battle at the end. I wanted more action, less filling me in after the fact. Also, I wanted more discussion between Eran and Maggie re: a resolution.
Too, some things, in general, felt a little glossed over and some things kind of came out of nowhere. See point 4) below. Overall I'll give execution a B+ through 3/4 of the way and B- for the last 1/4.
4) Background and set up needs some work. I found myself asking why or where did that come from a few times. I wish the author had gone into more detail in several spots. For instance, I'd have liked more than a two paragraph explanation for Gershom and his past. I wanted more detail on who those white lights were at the end. I wanted more on why Maggie and Abaddon were such mortal enemies. The background and info that was given was great... Just... need more of it. I'll give set up a B-.
5) The main characters get a solid B. I'd love to give them an A, because I really liked them, but I have a bit of a hard time doing that because of 4). I really loved what I saw of Eran. He's fantastic in terms of characterization. But again, I needed more background, and I wanted more on why he did certain things. Same for Maggie. For example, why did she choose to be reborn? I'm not certain of all the pertinent rules of the world to really get why she made that decision.
The villains get a C. Need more background. Why are they fighting? Why do they hate Maggie so much? What is it that she can do that they can't stand????
6) The romance. Ahhhh the UST. Now, that was just... lovely. When she saw her names and I recalled Eran's... holy wow. Had little shivers. That part was done very well, and despite wanting more details on why, the romantic conflict was lovely. As the reader, I got that what he was doing was for a reason, and never did I doubt their connection. I'm admittedly a sucker for eternal, fated love. So... big, fat A on that.
All in all, this was a fun read. I'm hoping that the next book(s) in the series provides the much needed background and information that I found lacking in the first book. Even still, this is fast and short, so IMO well worth a read.
*runs off to read the next book*
May 29, 2012
This book starts out with a girl who moves to a new town, finds herself in life threatening situations but is miraculously saved each time by a gorgeous boy who moves impossibly fast, who has a very noticeably different body temperature, knows her name without her telling him, and he wont tell her who/what he is because they can't be together and he's trying to protect her. Oh, did you think I was reviewing Twilight? That's funny because several times I thought I was reading a very bad version of Twilight. I thought it was such a shame that so much of this book felt "borrowed", because the actual plot is interesting and had the potential to be great, but it was never really able to take off. The dialogue was painful, there were tons of loose ends and unexplained terms, and most of the characters were pretty flat and unrealistic. If I ever have the time and opportunity to read the next book in this series without wasting any money, I will, but if the opportunity never presents its self, I certainly won't lose any sleep, which says a lot because I almost never walk away from a series before it is done.
May 2, 2012
I love this book - Absolute genius.
Magdalene has never had friends or a place to call home due to the constant moving with her aunt who is a photographer. Life changed for Magdalene when her next residence would be in New Orleans for a year with roommates. Private School was also an added change. Nonetheless, her fulfillment of sending messages to those who have died helped her bring income.
Magdalene is a tough cookie, smart, and has a good sense of humor. Which makes this book more enjoyable as she learns about herself, the past and love interest.
Now the story gets so good....I'm going to be vague because I want the information to unveil itself at the appropriate time.
Magdalene starts feeling sensation on her neck which came along with fear when around certain individuals. This was new to her and she couldn't understand what it meant. Now we encounter Eran who saved her life when she almost got hit by a car. Oddly enough he turns up whenever she is in danger which is happening more often than usual. He keeps his distance and she is hurt by it when she assumes he is only around to protect her. School is not as bad as she thought until she realized that those that gave her an anxious feeling went to her school. She befriended one of them who gave her much insight about her and his own kind Fallen One's..... MUST READ!
Suspense, Love, Sadness.....everything is in this book.
Magdalene has never had friends or a place to call home due to the constant moving with her aunt who is a photographer. Life changed for Magdalene when her next residence would be in New Orleans for a year with roommates. Private School was also an added change. Nonetheless, her fulfillment of sending messages to those who have died helped her bring income.
Magdalene is a tough cookie, smart, and has a good sense of humor. Which makes this book more enjoyable as she learns about herself, the past and love interest.
Now the story gets so good....I'm going to be vague because I want the information to unveil itself at the appropriate time.
Magdalene starts feeling sensation on her neck which came along with fear when around certain individuals. This was new to her and she couldn't understand what it meant. Now we encounter Eran who saved her life when she almost got hit by a car. Oddly enough he turns up whenever she is in danger which is happening more often than usual. He keeps his distance and she is hurt by it when she assumes he is only around to protect her. School is not as bad as she thought until she realized that those that gave her an anxious feeling went to her school. She befriended one of them who gave her much insight about her and his own kind Fallen One's..... MUST READ!
Suspense, Love, Sadness.....everything is in this book.
April 13, 2014
I'm 70 pages into the book and I can't bring myself to read anymore. I thought it would be good but boy was I wrong.
My biggest pet peeve with this book is the names. THE NAMES. MY GOD THEY ARE AWFUL. The book is set in American and so far that I've realized none of the characters are foreign besides Eran and he has the most normal name of all!!! I'm a big fan of exotic names but for Pete's sake KNOW WHEN TO TURN IT DOWN.
My second one is all of the plot holes. They are everywhere.
The fact that she isn't even a LITTLE worried about Eran makes me suspicious. C'mon girl, he's hot we get that. Ted Bundy was said to be very charismatic and attractive and he turned out to be a serial killer!!
The transitions made me cringe. We don't get any building up to emotional moments. They just BAM happen and leave you wondering if the characters were being serious or sarcastic. It took me a whole 2 pages before I realized Ezra was being serious when she was telling Maggie her life story.
I have too many problems with this book. Perhaps I'll finish it over spring break, sitting in a cramped plane with nothing else to do and having read every other book on my kindle.
But for now I'm leaving my rating at 2 stars.
My biggest pet peeve with this book is the names. THE NAMES. MY GOD THEY ARE AWFUL. The book is set in American and so far that I've realized none of the characters are foreign besides Eran and he has the most normal name of all!!! I'm a big fan of exotic names but for Pete's sake KNOW WHEN TO TURN IT DOWN.
My second one is all of the plot holes. They are everywhere.
The fact that she isn't even a LITTLE worried about Eran makes me suspicious. C'mon girl, he's hot we get that. Ted Bundy was said to be very charismatic and attractive and he turned out to be a serial killer!!
The transitions made me cringe. We don't get any building up to emotional moments. They just BAM happen and leave you wondering if the characters were being serious or sarcastic. It took me a whole 2 pages before I realized Ezra was being serious when she was telling Maggie her life story.
I have too many problems with this book. Perhaps I'll finish it over spring break, sitting in a cramped plane with nothing else to do and having read every other book on my kindle.
But for now I'm leaving my rating at 2 stars.
January 12, 2022
When a YA fantasy is as well-written as Fallen, it’s easy to make room on this genre’s shelf. You won’t find a cowering heroine or an over-the-top alpha hero, but you will find an intensely ingenious plot that is equal parts dark, humorous, suspenseful and perfectly plotted and paced.
Magdalene’s life has been far from normal. Mature and independent beyond her years, Magadalene’s aunt/guardian leaves her with “a friend” in New Orleans, where spirits from beyond are known to gather, and she begins a journey of discovery that will shake her to the core on the inside as she shows her worth in the face a danger on the outside. Able to reach souls from beyond the veil, Mags delivers messages from the living to their loved ones. More than one person is watching her, stalking her, how does she know who to trust? What is it these dark entities want from her? Why does Eran always show up to save her? There is something about him that tickles at the back of her mind, as if she knows him, but that’s impossible, right?
Laury Falter digs deep into the darkness to pull Fallen together into a fascinating tale of suspense, secrets and loss, as well as the power of eternal love. Magdalene is tough, snide and her dialogue with other characters is often priceless. Just being within her mind as she processes what is happening around her is a journey worth taking. Filled with characters who range from quirky to purely evil, being in new Orleans, feeling the essence of what makes it unique makes it a completely enjoyable read from start to finish. There are no major info dumps, but carefully metered out tidbits that add to this tale and keeps the reader on their toes!
Series: Guardian Trilogy - Book 1
Publication Date: April 1, 2009
Publisher: Audeamus LLC
Genre: YA Suspense/Urban Fantasy
Print Length: 274 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
Magdalene’s life has been far from normal. Mature and independent beyond her years, Magadalene’s aunt/guardian leaves her with “a friend” in New Orleans, where spirits from beyond are known to gather, and she begins a journey of discovery that will shake her to the core on the inside as she shows her worth in the face a danger on the outside. Able to reach souls from beyond the veil, Mags delivers messages from the living to their loved ones. More than one person is watching her, stalking her, how does she know who to trust? What is it these dark entities want from her? Why does Eran always show up to save her? There is something about him that tickles at the back of her mind, as if she knows him, but that’s impossible, right?
Laury Falter digs deep into the darkness to pull Fallen together into a fascinating tale of suspense, secrets and loss, as well as the power of eternal love. Magdalene is tough, snide and her dialogue with other characters is often priceless. Just being within her mind as she processes what is happening around her is a journey worth taking. Filled with characters who range from quirky to purely evil, being in new Orleans, feeling the essence of what makes it unique makes it a completely enjoyable read from start to finish. There are no major info dumps, but carefully metered out tidbits that add to this tale and keeps the reader on their toes!
Series: Guardian Trilogy - Book 1
Publication Date: April 1, 2009
Publisher: Audeamus LLC
Genre: YA Suspense/Urban Fantasy
Print Length: 274 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
March 31, 2012
I don't normally write reviews, mainly because I am a freelance editor. I am breaking that rule for this book though! I was pleasantly surprised with the level this book reaches. Not only is a good read, it captures you and pulls you along with Mags as she fights to understand her feelings and learn more about the things happening around her. Laury's ability to develop characters to whom you can easily identify with, and cheer for, is unparalleled in the books I have read lately. The detail in which she creates a world with such a gripping story line is incredible. It's been a long time since I read a book that made me sad that I'd reached the last page. I never wanted to set it down and found myself sneaking off at work to read a little more. I am so glad I found this book and this author. I am beyond thrilled that books #2 and #3 are waiting for me to devour right now! Great job Laury Falter; thank you for a GREAT read!!!
October 15, 2017
3.5 Stars
October 29, 2020
I really enjoyed this book it had a slower start but it picked up pretty quickly and it was a great read. I really liked the characters Maggie and Eran most of all I liked how their relationship developed and grew over time they just fit together so well. What I really liked about Maggie was her strength her intelligence and her willingness to what she has to save those she cares about. I really loved the plot it was interesting a very different from anything else I have read lately. I liked all aspects of the plot of Fallens out to kill Maggie with Eran protecting her I liked where it went from there. So overall I loved this book will be continuing the series soon.
September 20, 2019
Not a bad read but I wasn't into the character or story enough for book 2
April 6, 2013
More reviews on my blog: http://missfictional.blogspot.com
Fallen is just another one of those angel stories. Really, it was a chore to read, filled with flat characters, plot holes, and a story that just didn't work.
It can be classified as a mixture of this:
and this:
I am not accusing the author of copying these two books; I am merely pointing out that the similarities are too obvious and difficult to ignore, and that this book blurs in with the other popular paranormal novels out there. It lacks originality and fits the stereotypes of the YA paranormal genre.
First mistake: flat characters. This book has loads of them. Not only were they flat, they were also unreal, and just... uninteresting. I did not feel a connection of any sort to the characters, let alone the protagonist, Maggie.
The dialogue between the characters was very unrealistic; they did not speak like people living in the 21st century, that's how fake the dialogue seemed. An unreal dialogue led to writing that was, to sum it up, choppy. It did not flow at all, and I did not feel like I was viewing things from an adolescent's POV.
The male interest of the protagonist is Eran. Flat, one-dimensional Eran. Now, Eran was meant to come off as swoonworthy, based on how he was portrayed and described. But he was not. He was just another one of those guys so prevalent in YA fiction, the ones that pop up in the main character's room in the middle of the night, *cough*Edward*cough* and this action is put in a positive light because the guy has good intents; he wants to "protect" the heroine. This ticked me off, ALOT. The damsel in distress thing is really grating on my nerves, and I hate that even in modern time, girls are viewed as weak and in need of a guy to take care of them.
I really am confused about the whole guardians-angels thing. The problem was, nothing made sense by the end of the book, as the explanations were confusing and tedious. This is how it is similar to Fallen by Lauren Kate; the explanations are bad and do nothing to explain the plot. There was also the fact that the villain was la-aame. I don't understand what makes the villains "bad guys", and why they are after Maggie.
I feel like I am being a bit harsh in my critique of Fallen, but it is necessary to point out the flaws in a novel. If you are looking for a good angel story, just skip this one. It seems that this sub-genre of YA paranormal is lacking, and in my experience, there are only a select few that represent the angels topic well. Not this one, that's for sure.
Fallen is just another one of those angel stories. Really, it was a chore to read, filled with flat characters, plot holes, and a story that just didn't work.
It can be classified as a mixture of this:
and this:
I am not accusing the author of copying these two books; I am merely pointing out that the similarities are too obvious and difficult to ignore, and that this book blurs in with the other popular paranormal novels out there. It lacks originality and fits the stereotypes of the YA paranormal genre.
First mistake: flat characters. This book has loads of them. Not only were they flat, they were also unreal, and just... uninteresting. I did not feel a connection of any sort to the characters, let alone the protagonist, Maggie.
The dialogue between the characters was very unrealistic; they did not speak like people living in the 21st century, that's how fake the dialogue seemed. An unreal dialogue led to writing that was, to sum it up, choppy. It did not flow at all, and I did not feel like I was viewing things from an adolescent's POV.
The male interest of the protagonist is Eran. Flat, one-dimensional Eran. Now, Eran was meant to come off as swoonworthy, based on how he was portrayed and described. But he was not. He was just another one of those guys so prevalent in YA fiction, the ones that pop up in the main character's room in the middle of the night, *cough*Edward*cough* and this action is put in a positive light because the guy has good intents; he wants to "protect" the heroine. This ticked me off, ALOT. The damsel in distress thing is really grating on my nerves, and I hate that even in modern time, girls are viewed as weak and in need of a guy to take care of them.
I really am confused about the whole guardians-angels thing. The problem was, nothing made sense by the end of the book, as the explanations were confusing and tedious. This is how it is similar to Fallen by Lauren Kate; the explanations are bad and do nothing to explain the plot. There was also the fact that the villain was la-aame. I don't understand what makes the villains "bad guys", and why they are after Maggie.
I feel like I am being a bit harsh in my critique of Fallen, but it is necessary to point out the flaws in a novel. If you are looking for a good angel story, just skip this one. It seems that this sub-genre of YA paranormal is lacking, and in my experience, there are only a select few that represent the angels topic well. Not this one, that's for sure.
January 1, 2014
I'm not usually a fan of Angel's, fallen or otherwise due to books like Hush, Hush which was OK, Fallen which I didn't enjoy and a few other's I can't remember or have repressed the memory.
But then I came across Daughter of Smoke and Bone & Angelfall and both these books managed to change my mind & revisit the genre.
This Fallen manages to fall in between for me. The story itself is intriguing and your kept guessing for maybe a little bit too long IMO, I nearly gave up at one point but at about 38% questions started to be answered and I was glad I kept going.
Maggie is a likable girl, pretty kickass and not your normal self involved teen or the shy, whiny 'why me' type.
Eran is your typical enigmatic love interest.
I'll be honest I didn't really feel the chemistry between the characters, but maybe that was just me.
I did enjoy the writing style, it wasn't too flowery and soppy, but didn't stray into cold and detached. And it was GOOD writing, I feel like teens reading it might actually get a bit of education slipped in without realising it LOL.
Having read reviews of the following books in the series I will definitely be continuing on as it seems like a lot of the questions I had unanswered get a satisfying answer. My only reservation is that they are a lot more expensive than this first one which was only $1.22..well worth it I may add but the follow ups are $12.29!!!!!
But then I came across Daughter of Smoke and Bone & Angelfall and both these books managed to change my mind & revisit the genre.
This Fallen manages to fall in between for me. The story itself is intriguing and your kept guessing for maybe a little bit too long IMO, I nearly gave up at one point but at about 38% questions started to be answered and I was glad I kept going.
Maggie is a likable girl, pretty kickass and not your normal self involved teen or the shy, whiny 'why me' type.
Eran is your typical enigmatic love interest.
I'll be honest I didn't really feel the chemistry between the characters, but maybe that was just me.
I did enjoy the writing style, it wasn't too flowery and soppy, but didn't stray into cold and detached. And it was GOOD writing, I feel like teens reading it might actually get a bit of education slipped in without realising it LOL.
Having read reviews of the following books in the series I will definitely be continuing on as it seems like a lot of the questions I had unanswered get a satisfying answer. My only reservation is that they are a lot more expensive than this first one which was only $1.22..well worth it I may add but the follow ups are $12.29!!!!!
February 16, 2012
The premise of this book was interesting and slightly different than others, but it left so many hanging threads that it left me not really loving it or hating it.
What I liked:
1. the premise
2. the location (who doesn't love New Orleans?)
What I didn't:
1. How can she be the only messenger left if they can 'fall' or be reborn?
2. If you have a guardian to protect you, why would you not tell him that people are trying to kill you?
3. What was the point of the whole 'we can't be together because of the Fallen Ones' build up? It didn't seem to really have a resolution.
My overall impression was Meh.
What I liked:
1. the premise
2. the location (who doesn't love New Orleans?)
What I didn't:
1. How can she be the only messenger left if they can 'fall' or be reborn?
2. If you have a guardian to protect you, why would you not tell him that people are trying to kill you?
3. What was the point of the whole 'we can't be together because of the Fallen Ones' build up? It didn't seem to really have a resolution.
My overall impression was Meh.
June 13, 2012
This book was AMAZING! It was intense and definitely original. I've read plenty of angel books but none have come close to this books plot. The characters are original and funny. Maggie is strong, independent and is used to being closed off from others. So when she realizes shes going to have three roomates with her shes a little apprehensive but they grow on her and become one big family. Then theres the kids at her school are major snobs and some down right hate her, but some arent even human. Then theres Eran, I love him, hes brave, gentle and everything a girl could want! Theres romance, action and plenty of laughs.
August 1, 2012
It was good....... but the kindle edition was FULL of errors, but what can you expect for 1.99. I was a little bummed by the editing. I think that's what kept this from being a "really good" read. Also, it was a little predictable in the way YA fiction tends to be. However, the two main characters were well developed, and I think with a better editor and more focus, the sequel might be worth a read.
May 6, 2015
my SIL was definitely right in saying that I'd totally love this book! WHY DID IT HAVE TO END? I'm just glad the next books are out, so I don't have to be sad forever.
June 11, 2021
Great fast read that'll keep you on the edge of your seat!
June 13, 2012
**This book was submitted to The Book Hookup but did not influence the review**
If you know me you know I love stories about angels. And look at that cover!! So simple and beautiful! Ahhh, onto the book…it starts with Maggie moving to New Orleans while her aunt (her caretaker) is off on a photography job for the next year. She will be living with her aunt’s friend and 2 more roommates. Nearly straight away Maggie’s life is in danger: from a creepy man staring Maggie down and making every fiber of her being stand on end, to a new student giving her a death stare. The prickles of electricity on her neck are like a built in radar to danger, although it’s not clear exactly how yet. However, a very, very handsome stranger appears more than once to literally jump in and save her life. Yes, mindblowingly handsome. His name is Eran and he has blue-green eyes *swoon*. He is not a stranger for very long as Maggie starts to learn what she is up against.
From the start I liked Maggie in the sense that she was independent and mature for her age. While it’s a young adult novel, Maggie had the attitude of someone beyond her years which made me really like her. She seems comfortable with her life, as well as her gift of delivering messages to the dead. She long ago made peace with that, and now provides this service to help others out. However, when she starts her new life in New Orleans danger seems to have found her. Maggie can’t quite make sense of what is going on, but tries to just get through every day.
As far as secondary characters go, I liked both Ezra and Gershom, but could have done without Rufus and Felix. While they were entertaining, I wasn’t sold on them, as I didn’t care for 2 strange men living with a high school student…and the basic story would have been the same without them, maybe even better. However, they might also have another role which I’m not aware of yet….. On that note, Ezra, Maggie’s temporary caretaker, would have been just fine as her roommate alone. She was strong and seemed to know a good few secrets from Maggie’s past. The other secondary character I couldn’t put my finger on was Gershom. I knew he was one of “them” but was never sure which team he was on. He was excellent!
The story itself seemed to take some time to get into, but held my attention the whole time. However, I think that it set itself up so the next installment will be action packed now that I know the foundation for the series. I think it holds so much promise, that while I was given the first book I just bought the 2nd one, Eternity, and plan to start it tonight :) .
If you know me you know I love stories about angels. And look at that cover!! So simple and beautiful! Ahhh, onto the book…it starts with Maggie moving to New Orleans while her aunt (her caretaker) is off on a photography job for the next year. She will be living with her aunt’s friend and 2 more roommates. Nearly straight away Maggie’s life is in danger: from a creepy man staring Maggie down and making every fiber of her being stand on end, to a new student giving her a death stare. The prickles of electricity on her neck are like a built in radar to danger, although it’s not clear exactly how yet. However, a very, very handsome stranger appears more than once to literally jump in and save her life. Yes, mindblowingly handsome. His name is Eran and he has blue-green eyes *swoon*. He is not a stranger for very long as Maggie starts to learn what she is up against.
From the start I liked Maggie in the sense that she was independent and mature for her age. While it’s a young adult novel, Maggie had the attitude of someone beyond her years which made me really like her. She seems comfortable with her life, as well as her gift of delivering messages to the dead. She long ago made peace with that, and now provides this service to help others out. However, when she starts her new life in New Orleans danger seems to have found her. Maggie can’t quite make sense of what is going on, but tries to just get through every day.
As far as secondary characters go, I liked both Ezra and Gershom, but could have done without Rufus and Felix. While they were entertaining, I wasn’t sold on them, as I didn’t care for 2 strange men living with a high school student…and the basic story would have been the same without them, maybe even better. However, they might also have another role which I’m not aware of yet….. On that note, Ezra, Maggie’s temporary caretaker, would have been just fine as her roommate alone. She was strong and seemed to know a good few secrets from Maggie’s past. The other secondary character I couldn’t put my finger on was Gershom. I knew he was one of “them” but was never sure which team he was on. He was excellent!
The story itself seemed to take some time to get into, but held my attention the whole time. However, I think that it set itself up so the next installment will be action packed now that I know the foundation for the series. I think it holds so much promise, that while I was given the first book I just bought the 2nd one, Eternity, and plan to start it tonight :) .
June 13, 2012
**This book was submitted to The Book Hookup but did not influence the review**
Celeste’s review: If you know me you know I love stories about angels. And look at that cover!! So simple and beautiful! Ahhh, onto the book…it starts with Maggie moving to New Orleans while her aunt (her caretaker) is off on a photography job for the next year. She will be living with her aunt’s friend and 2 more roommates. Nearly straight away Maggie’s life is in danger: from a creepy man staring Maggie down and making every fiber of her being stand on end, to a new student giving her a death stare. The prickles of electricity on her neck are like a built in radar to danger, although it’s not clear exactly how yet. However, a very, very handsome stranger appears more than once to literally jump in and save her life. Yes, mindblowingly handsome. His name is Eran and he has blue-green eyes *swoon*. He is not a stranger for very long as Maggie starts to learn what she is up against.
From the start I liked Maggie in the sense that she was independent and mature for her age. While it’s a young adult novel, Maggie had the attitude of someone beyond her years which made me really like her. She seems comfortable with her life, as well as her gift of delivering messages to the dead. She long ago made peace with that, and now provides this service to help others out. However, when she starts her new life in New Orleans danger seems to have found her. Maggie can’t quite make sense of what is going on, but tries to just get through every day.
As far as secondary characters go, I liked both Ezra and Gershom, but could have done without Rufus and Felix. While they were entertaining, I wasn’t sold on them, as I didn’t care for 2 strange men living with a high school student…and the basic story would have been the same without them, maybe even better. However, they might also have another role which I’m not aware of yet….. On that note, Ezra, Maggie’s temporary caretaker, would have been just fine as her roommate alone. She was strong and seemed to know a good few secrets from Maggie’s past. The other secondary character I couldn’t put my finger on was Gershom. I knew he was one of “them” but was never sure which team he was on. He was excellent!
The story itself seemed to take some time to get into, but held my attention the whole time. However, I think that it set itself up so the next installment will be action packed now that I know the foundation for the series. I think it holds so much promise, that while I was given the first book I just bought the 2nd one, Eternity, and plan to start it tonight :) .
Celeste’s review: If you know me you know I love stories about angels. And look at that cover!! So simple and beautiful! Ahhh, onto the book…it starts with Maggie moving to New Orleans while her aunt (her caretaker) is off on a photography job for the next year. She will be living with her aunt’s friend and 2 more roommates. Nearly straight away Maggie’s life is in danger: from a creepy man staring Maggie down and making every fiber of her being stand on end, to a new student giving her a death stare. The prickles of electricity on her neck are like a built in radar to danger, although it’s not clear exactly how yet. However, a very, very handsome stranger appears more than once to literally jump in and save her life. Yes, mindblowingly handsome. His name is Eran and he has blue-green eyes *swoon*. He is not a stranger for very long as Maggie starts to learn what she is up against.
From the start I liked Maggie in the sense that she was independent and mature for her age. While it’s a young adult novel, Maggie had the attitude of someone beyond her years which made me really like her. She seems comfortable with her life, as well as her gift of delivering messages to the dead. She long ago made peace with that, and now provides this service to help others out. However, when she starts her new life in New Orleans danger seems to have found her. Maggie can’t quite make sense of what is going on, but tries to just get through every day.
As far as secondary characters go, I liked both Ezra and Gershom, but could have done without Rufus and Felix. While they were entertaining, I wasn’t sold on them, as I didn’t care for 2 strange men living with a high school student…and the basic story would have been the same without them, maybe even better. However, they might also have another role which I’m not aware of yet….. On that note, Ezra, Maggie’s temporary caretaker, would have been just fine as her roommate alone. She was strong and seemed to know a good few secrets from Maggie’s past. The other secondary character I couldn’t put my finger on was Gershom. I knew he was one of “them” but was never sure which team he was on. He was excellent!
The story itself seemed to take some time to get into, but held my attention the whole time. However, I think that it set itself up so the next installment will be action packed now that I know the foundation for the series. I think it holds so much promise, that while I was given the first book I just bought the 2nd one, Eternity, and plan to start it tonight :) .
July 26, 2011
This was a really great little read. I finished it within a night because I could not stop reading it. The story moved well and the characters really grew on me. I only hope there is a second book to this, because I would not mind one bit learning more about everyone in this book. Laury Falter has made a supernatural book that I have not came across yet, and I loved every page of it.
Now, I have read books about fallen angles, and I love the idea and the stories that come along with it. But this is the first time I have got to read about messengers and fallen angles together. It was a great story and a new spin that I could not get enough of. The whole book keeps you on the edge of your seat though. You learn things about Maggie slowly. You know what she knows, and let me tell you folks, she does not know much.
I can only hope there is a second book to this one, just because of some of the questions that never get answered about certain characters. Also I would love to see more of the romance between Maggie and Eran. I loved those two characters, and wish we would have gotten to see more of their past lives together and the current one. Because I sure do love a good romance.
I was also a little disappointed when it came to the closing battle in the book. It all resolved itself a little too quickly for my taste. But, the way it is written and talked about is that there could be another one to come since not all of the people die...therefore, once again, leaves me hoping for another book to help me fill in the blanks.
Overall, this book was really great. If there was more detail into the characters and questions it left you with, I would have totally given this book five stars. If you are looking for a good book about some fallen angels, then pick this up.
Happy Reading All.
[:
Now, I have read books about fallen angles, and I love the idea and the stories that come along with it. But this is the first time I have got to read about messengers and fallen angles together. It was a great story and a new spin that I could not get enough of. The whole book keeps you on the edge of your seat though. You learn things about Maggie slowly. You know what she knows, and let me tell you folks, she does not know much.
I can only hope there is a second book to this one, just because of some of the questions that never get answered about certain characters. Also I would love to see more of the romance between Maggie and Eran. I loved those two characters, and wish we would have gotten to see more of their past lives together and the current one. Because I sure do love a good romance.
I was also a little disappointed when it came to the closing battle in the book. It all resolved itself a little too quickly for my taste. But, the way it is written and talked about is that there could be another one to come since not all of the people die...therefore, once again, leaves me hoping for another book to help me fill in the blanks.
Overall, this book was really great. If there was more detail into the characters and questions it left you with, I would have totally given this book five stars. If you are looking for a good book about some fallen angels, then pick this up.
Happy Reading All.
[:
June 16, 2011
I really enjoyed reading this book.
It's so much more different than the normal YA of a teen girl who is clueless, immature and just basically annoying.
I know there were some comments about other people wishing that she would write a sequel but I disagree.
I think that this is one of those books that ended perfectly the way it was and will leave the rest to your own imagination.
The only things in this story that kinda bugged me were that you really had no idea what was going on with the main character in the beginning about what brought her to where she was in her life, you had to wait quite awhile to find out.
There was also no real back story on her roommates or Aunt either.
I also wish that Falter would have wrote about her finally meeting her parents. Regardless, I loved the plot and the development of the characters.
It's so much more different than the normal YA of a teen girl who is clueless, immature and just basically annoying.
I know there were some comments about other people wishing that she would write a sequel but I disagree.
I think that this is one of those books that ended perfectly the way it was and will leave the rest to your own imagination.
The only things in this story that kinda bugged me were that you really had no idea what was going on with the main character in the beginning about what brought her to where she was in her life, you had to wait quite awhile to find out.
There was also no real back story on her roommates or Aunt either.
I also wish that Falter would have wrote about her finally meeting her parents. Regardless, I loved the plot and the development of the characters.
August 22, 2013
This started out as a series I hadn't really even heard about and ended with me running around the house screaming that I need to buy the next book ASAP!
Maggie is a kick ass female, independent, witty and doesn't require saving 24-7. Ok fine so the hero does save her but that was totally his job.
Eran *fans self* I found him addictive. I turned the pages hoping he would be on the next one. The intense passion and devotion he has for Maggie is perfect, breathtaking and everything I love to read about in a hero.
Laury Falter is a talented writer, the story was fast paced and had a great original hook. She didn't fail with the secondary characters and leave them shallow support beams. I felt and believed the plot and each character story line.
Maggie is a kick ass female, independent, witty and doesn't require saving 24-7. Ok fine so the hero does save her but that was totally his job.
Eran *fans self* I found him addictive. I turned the pages hoping he would be on the next one. The intense passion and devotion he has for Maggie is perfect, breathtaking and everything I love to read about in a hero.
Laury Falter is a talented writer, the story was fast paced and had a great original hook. She didn't fail with the secondary characters and leave them shallow support beams. I felt and believed the plot and each character story line.
January 4, 2012
Editing could have been better but it did not detract from this wonderful story I read. I loved that it was set in New Orleans. I love strong characters and the leads: Magdalene (aka: Maggie) and Eran. The amount of UST that those two had gave me tingles and loads of SWOON.. I also really loved what became to be Maggie's family: Ezra, Rufus and Felix. In the beginning of Fallen had me laughing a little. I also loved how some questions was answered in this book but they left us dangling a little for more answers (yes, I have a few). Most of all I love the idea of Fated Love. A love that is resurrected. Off to read Eternity (Book 2)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 16, 2012
I like the different twist on the storyline. She is a messenger and he is her protector. I liked how many things were answered when you read closer to the end and yet there were still questions to be answered.
October 30, 2012
Way much better than fallen from Lauren Kate ..... Wow just wow!!!! It took me a while to start reading this book as I was unsure that it would be good... Again... WOW!!!
January 31, 2016
Slow so very slow
February 10, 2017
Wow I didn't have high hopes for this book but it still let me down:/
I mainly read it because it was only $.99 and I read a review that said it gets better. But it doesn't.
Basically there are areas that I thought could've been really interesting that the author hardly mentioned. Not only was this confusing as a reader but it made the book feel like a second book in which the significance of all these things was already explained and we were expected to know it. Because of this there were parts where characters would say something so dramatic and because I didn't get the situation they were in I was like "wow what idiots" (for example why do they care so much that the fallen ones are gonna kill her...isn't she just gonna be sent back to that place where dead people go?)
Anyway I'll list some thoughts I had:
1. I'm probably just being picky but her aunt's job was oh so unpredictable and yet she moved every 3 months? It almost seems like that's a pattern. Sure she couldn't get settled anywhere but shouldn't she come to expect moving? It's not as if she would be one place and her aunt would just take off one day. Also Paris? For a year? It would have been nice if the author had maybe explained that just a bit or in passing. Like "and she got a big job in Paris that would take her a year" because you know everything else had only taken 3 months...
2. I liked how she was "independent" but she never seemed very independent to me...after the beginning she's always pining after her guardian
3. I thought her roommates were interesting enough if a little flat. Speaking of them I thought practically any time they interacted with the main struggle it was really awkward and not good. What I mean by this is when she tells them everything that's been going on and they're just ok with it I was like oh cool that would be awesome if they were in on it somehow. Like they knew the danger she was in and had been there to watch over her. But nooo she comes to the conclusion (that is right somehow) that they are unfazed because they've "seen stuff" in their professions. Like I'm sorry but that's total bull like reading cards is more than a bit different from having a bunch of things trying to kill someone.
4. The fallen ones! I have so many problems with them and the basic system that governs the story! For starters how are they any different from her guardian. Like he mentioned there are 3 ways to go back to earth either the light thing, reborn, or you fall. I was given the impression falling is bad but then it turns out they had expected her to have fallen and have powers. And then I'm like if she had fallen but been reborn when she died as a baby did she just pop into existence? Did she not need new parents to birth her? What exactly is her guardian? Like did he fall? Is that not what makes the fallen ones bad? They're just a group of dead people that decide to fall to earth and be "bad"?
5. I am so peeved that she didn't talk to that old guy. Like he was a perfect opportunity for the author to give readers some information. Like yeah there were definitely bits of action and stuff but they were mostly just to be there and didn't add to the storyline all that well... Also just what the heck was wrong with her that she wasn't more curious about whatever the heck was happening???
6. Ok so the fallen ones are trying to kill her. So? I don't really see a problem with that. She'll just go back to her own heaven right? That's definitely what the author leads us to believe.
7. But then there's definitely that part at the end when her friend the fallen one is dying and she takes him to the after world place and he's surprised that he went there? So not everyone goes there after they die? Is this just a fallen one concern? Can everyone else rest assured they're going back? And everyone it seems has had multiple lives but not back to back so do they also choose when they go back to earth? If anyone and everyone does that it doesn't seem so special.
8. I should come to expect dumb love stories but this one was horribly cringey. I get it she's in distress but why is she always whispering and crying to him? And why does she have the time to fall in love at all? Shouldn't she be more worried about the group trying to kill her?
Also yeah he has healing powers but it seemed more like he was just impervious to injury. Like he never showed any wounds. It would've been clearer if the author like described the wound and the it closing visibly or something.
9. Back to the fallen ones I never really understood why they were trying to kill her. Like yeah they've been "feuding for centuries" I got all that. But why? Me trying to rationalize the severe lack of detail was like this was the first book so maybe the author is holding stuff back for the next ones? But something like this? That is still relabel the for the first book? You can't just not explain the driving force behind the book and expect readers to get it.
Also they're oh so dangerous and yet they seemed kinda dumb. Like if I was really about to kill my "nemesis" I would not waste time talking and not securing her and not leaving the area to travel to a more secure location for torturing her or whatever. Like you'd think after all this time they'd have had enough practice to be better at what they do.
10. Why does her friend the fallen one randomly have wings? I thought it was cute that she was more concerned with him than finding out he has wings but like this author is just throwing shit at us.
11. Every single time she has some sort of an "epiphany" it is the dumbest thing I've ever heard. Like why her roommates are cool with the information. And then when she's like oh they fallen ones can't touch me because my skin hurts them. What exactly led you to believe that? I'm curious. Like isn't her guardian a fallen one? Right? He's on earth and he's not a ball of light and he's not human. And he has control over machines which is literally mentioned a total of once. (that would've been cool to touch upon like maybe he used it in the final boss battle?) anyway he'd touched her and had no reaction in fact the whole time he was like "oh no you must be hurt when I touch you"
And it's not just her. Like when her friend the fallen one (unless it was also her I wouldn't put it past her) was explaining something and he was all impressed at how "quickly" she was picking up what he was throwing down? I was like actually could we please move this along a little faster? I saw this coming like 50 pages ago and also it's not that big of a thing to wrap your head around.
Also when they first meet when he's all "I was looking for someone" and she's like oh whatever. Like that was so obvious it was her. Like she had also gotten those weird feelings plus him basically admitting to stalking her? Like the other times she got the feeling one of them had freakin tried to kill her so you'd think she'd be able to put two and two together....
I'm sorry that was probably really mean but I had some issues.
I mainly read it because it was only $.99 and I read a review that said it gets better. But it doesn't.
Basically there are areas that I thought could've been really interesting that the author hardly mentioned. Not only was this confusing as a reader but it made the book feel like a second book in which the significance of all these things was already explained and we were expected to know it. Because of this there were parts where characters would say something so dramatic and because I didn't get the situation they were in I was like "wow what idiots" (for example why do they care so much that the fallen ones are gonna kill her...isn't she just gonna be sent back to that place where dead people go?)
Anyway I'll list some thoughts I had:
1. I'm probably just being picky but her aunt's job was oh so unpredictable and yet she moved every 3 months? It almost seems like that's a pattern. Sure she couldn't get settled anywhere but shouldn't she come to expect moving? It's not as if she would be one place and her aunt would just take off one day. Also Paris? For a year? It would have been nice if the author had maybe explained that just a bit or in passing. Like "and she got a big job in Paris that would take her a year" because you know everything else had only taken 3 months...
2. I liked how she was "independent" but she never seemed very independent to me...after the beginning she's always pining after her guardian
3. I thought her roommates were interesting enough if a little flat. Speaking of them I thought practically any time they interacted with the main struggle it was really awkward and not good. What I mean by this is when she tells them everything that's been going on and they're just ok with it I was like oh cool that would be awesome if they were in on it somehow. Like they knew the danger she was in and had been there to watch over her. But nooo she comes to the conclusion (that is right somehow) that they are unfazed because they've "seen stuff" in their professions. Like I'm sorry but that's total bull like reading cards is more than a bit different from having a bunch of things trying to kill someone.
4. The fallen ones! I have so many problems with them and the basic system that governs the story! For starters how are they any different from her guardian. Like he mentioned there are 3 ways to go back to earth either the light thing, reborn, or you fall. I was given the impression falling is bad but then it turns out they had expected her to have fallen and have powers. And then I'm like if she had fallen but been reborn when she died as a baby did she just pop into existence? Did she not need new parents to birth her? What exactly is her guardian? Like did he fall? Is that not what makes the fallen ones bad? They're just a group of dead people that decide to fall to earth and be "bad"?
5. I am so peeved that she didn't talk to that old guy. Like he was a perfect opportunity for the author to give readers some information. Like yeah there were definitely bits of action and stuff but they were mostly just to be there and didn't add to the storyline all that well... Also just what the heck was wrong with her that she wasn't more curious about whatever the heck was happening???
6. Ok so the fallen ones are trying to kill her. So? I don't really see a problem with that. She'll just go back to her own heaven right? That's definitely what the author leads us to believe.
7. But then there's definitely that part at the end when her friend the fallen one is dying and she takes him to the after world place and he's surprised that he went there? So not everyone goes there after they die? Is this just a fallen one concern? Can everyone else rest assured they're going back? And everyone it seems has had multiple lives but not back to back so do they also choose when they go back to earth? If anyone and everyone does that it doesn't seem so special.
8. I should come to expect dumb love stories but this one was horribly cringey. I get it she's in distress but why is she always whispering and crying to him? And why does she have the time to fall in love at all? Shouldn't she be more worried about the group trying to kill her?
Also yeah he has healing powers but it seemed more like he was just impervious to injury. Like he never showed any wounds. It would've been clearer if the author like described the wound and the it closing visibly or something.
9. Back to the fallen ones I never really understood why they were trying to kill her. Like yeah they've been "feuding for centuries" I got all that. But why? Me trying to rationalize the severe lack of detail was like this was the first book so maybe the author is holding stuff back for the next ones? But something like this? That is still relabel the for the first book? You can't just not explain the driving force behind the book and expect readers to get it.
Also they're oh so dangerous and yet they seemed kinda dumb. Like if I was really about to kill my "nemesis" I would not waste time talking and not securing her and not leaving the area to travel to a more secure location for torturing her or whatever. Like you'd think after all this time they'd have had enough practice to be better at what they do.
10. Why does her friend the fallen one randomly have wings? I thought it was cute that she was more concerned with him than finding out he has wings but like this author is just throwing shit at us.
11. Every single time she has some sort of an "epiphany" it is the dumbest thing I've ever heard. Like why her roommates are cool with the information. And then when she's like oh they fallen ones can't touch me because my skin hurts them. What exactly led you to believe that? I'm curious. Like isn't her guardian a fallen one? Right? He's on earth and he's not a ball of light and he's not human. And he has control over machines which is literally mentioned a total of once. (that would've been cool to touch upon like maybe he used it in the final boss battle?) anyway he'd touched her and had no reaction in fact the whole time he was like "oh no you must be hurt when I touch you"
And it's not just her. Like when her friend the fallen one (unless it was also her I wouldn't put it past her) was explaining something and he was all impressed at how "quickly" she was picking up what he was throwing down? I was like actually could we please move this along a little faster? I saw this coming like 50 pages ago and also it's not that big of a thing to wrap your head around.
Also when they first meet when he's all "I was looking for someone" and she's like oh whatever. Like that was so obvious it was her. Like she had also gotten those weird feelings plus him basically admitting to stalking her? Like the other times she got the feeling one of them had freakin tried to kill her so you'd think she'd be able to put two and two together....
I'm sorry that was probably really mean but I had some issues.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 21, 2016
I'm sorry...to the author of this book and the fans of this book...if you are either, please do not read because you will be offended. Also, this is PURE OPINION! You may love this book! But for me personally., this was the biggest, hairiest, veiniest load of BALLS that I have read in a long while...(contains swear words, lots of ellipses, capital letters and multiple question and exclamation marks)
SPOILERS YADA YADA *******************
The first few pages had me going. I thought "huh, maybe this wont be totally naf"...*reads a few more pages* "Nope...this is friggin NAF!"
I'm sorry, but although the author is clearly intelligent and well versed in the English language, the plot development and character development is just non existent. It is hard for me to put this into words so I am just going to pick out a few scenes that for me highlight why this book is a load of tripe...
In no particular order -
1) Maggie comments on how it is unlikely that Eran is "supernatural" even though he appears out of nowhere and clearly disappears into thin air. SHE GOES TO THE AFTERLIFE AND SPEAKS TO THE DEAD!!! Hello??? How could she be so sceptical of the supernatural when she speaks to friggin dead people??? STORY 0 HAIRY BALLS 1
2) She comments on how awesome her memory is. When she finds Erans scroll, she recognises the dates as prominent historical events...fair enough. A few pages later she finds her own scroll and the EXACT same places and dates are on there. At first, she isnt sure...but when she comments Eran says, "I was hoping you wouldnt notice that. Youre so perceptive"...HOW THE F WOULD SHE NOT NOTICE THAT?? THATS NOT PERCEPTIVE!! THAT JUST SHOWS SHE HAS FUCKIN FULLY FUNCTIONING EYEBALLS!!! STORY 0 - HAIRY BALLS 2
Also...what the hell? So apparently reincarnation is just a thing...she doesnt even bat an eyelid when she sees so many lives on his or her scroll? STORY 0 HAIRY BALLS 3!
3) When she is talking to Gershom about being in the afterlife or wherever the hell she goes (that bit never really gets explained...) she makes an off hand comment about how she doesnt have the ability of flight, speed or telekinesis when she is there and G is just all like "huh...".
WHAT THE HELL?? So does everyone know something I dont?? Because last I checked, there wasn't some big notice to the world that in the afterlife you can fly, you are super fast and you can move shit with your mind...STORY 0 - HAIRY BALLS 4
4) When Sharraaarrra-whatever-the-hell-his-name-is...lets call him inconsequential random Australian guy...IRAD for short...when Irad chats to Maggie in the square and she shits herself (which is apparently the only thing she does through out this entire book), it turns out that he was actually trying to kill her by putting some rare Asian snake in her bag...so naturally Eran appears and strangles it or some shit, and then she is all like "huh...snakes from that Asian place Irad said he was at last...but even though I commented only a few chapters back that I have a super awesome memory, I am actually a fucking spoon so I cant remember what he said 2 seconds ago..." HUHHH? Coommeee on! STORY 0 - HAIRY BALLS 5
5) Then Eran, awesome soldier with a million past lives and HER GUARDIAN, is all like, "Huh, whaddya know! You had a rare asian snake in your handbag that could have killed ten men! So anyway...lets just flirt! Im not gonna ask you who that random guy was or what he looked like or why he was talking to you or go and investigate a goddamn thing, because...well...chicks have RARE ASIAN SNAKES COMIN OUT OF THEIR HANDBAGS ALL THE TIME!" FFS! STORY 0 - HAIRY BALLS 6
6) Some random cajun dude tells her that the people who are making her shit herself all the time are actually the "fallen ones"... doesnt ask him what they are...or why they make her shit herself...or why they give a crap about her when she is clearly a twit. STORY 0 - HAIRY BALLS 7
7) Falls in love with Eran after 2 seconds of eye contact, is "heartbroken" when she cant find him for a day...STORY 0 HAIRY BALLS 8
8) After revealing that she died along with her parents as a baby and she doesnt know a thing about it, she finds out that Eran was actually there when it happened...doesnt even ask what happened, how they died, how she died, or how she came back to life....STORY 0 - HAIRY BALLS 9
9) G tells her "room mates" that Maggie can somehow "destroy" the guys who are after her...that magggie "returned to earth human" and that she has been "involved in a war for the last couple of centuries"....The only question they have is "how does one sense another person" and Maggie worries that they will think she is crazy when she explains her shit-herself reaction to the fallen...WHAT? THATS WHAT YOU TOOK FROM THAT CONVERSATION? Either she is a fuckin G, or she doesnt seem to give a shit that her only room mates ever just found out that she apparently left earth at some point and wasnt even human....
THEN they "raise their eyebrows" and show some "shock" when they find out that the fallen super old...SERIOUSLY? You just found out that Abbaddon is a) real and b) telekinetic, that his daughter can make any man fall in love with her yada yada...and they are like "meh, just another Friday night"... find out they are old and their all like, "WAIT! BACKUP! THEY ARE OOLLLLDDD???" STORY 0 - HAIRY BALLS 10....
Im only 80% in, so I am sure there are more hairy balls moments to come but right now, on a scale of hairy balls, this books is 10 out of 10! I only wish that the preface had been a little story about how Maggie fell out of the TREE OF DUMBASS and hit every single branch on her way down before landing on her head and becoming a spoon as a child...then the rest of this story would have made more sense.
SPOILERS YADA YADA *******************
The first few pages had me going. I thought "huh, maybe this wont be totally naf"...*reads a few more pages* "Nope...this is friggin NAF!"
I'm sorry, but although the author is clearly intelligent and well versed in the English language, the plot development and character development is just non existent. It is hard for me to put this into words so I am just going to pick out a few scenes that for me highlight why this book is a load of tripe...
In no particular order -
1) Maggie comments on how it is unlikely that Eran is "supernatural" even though he appears out of nowhere and clearly disappears into thin air. SHE GOES TO THE AFTERLIFE AND SPEAKS TO THE DEAD!!! Hello??? How could she be so sceptical of the supernatural when she speaks to friggin dead people??? STORY 0 HAIRY BALLS 1
2) She comments on how awesome her memory is. When she finds Erans scroll, she recognises the dates as prominent historical events...fair enough. A few pages later she finds her own scroll and the EXACT same places and dates are on there. At first, she isnt sure...but when she comments Eran says, "I was hoping you wouldnt notice that. Youre so perceptive"...HOW THE F WOULD SHE NOT NOTICE THAT?? THATS NOT PERCEPTIVE!! THAT JUST SHOWS SHE HAS FUCKIN FULLY FUNCTIONING EYEBALLS!!! STORY 0 - HAIRY BALLS 2
Also...what the hell? So apparently reincarnation is just a thing...she doesnt even bat an eyelid when she sees so many lives on his or her scroll? STORY 0 HAIRY BALLS 3!
3) When she is talking to Gershom about being in the afterlife or wherever the hell she goes (that bit never really gets explained...) she makes an off hand comment about how she doesnt have the ability of flight, speed or telekinesis when she is there and G is just all like "huh...".
WHAT THE HELL?? So does everyone know something I dont?? Because last I checked, there wasn't some big notice to the world that in the afterlife you can fly, you are super fast and you can move shit with your mind...STORY 0 - HAIRY BALLS 4
4) When Sharraaarrra-whatever-the-hell-his-name-is...lets call him inconsequential random Australian guy...IRAD for short...when Irad chats to Maggie in the square and she shits herself (which is apparently the only thing she does through out this entire book), it turns out that he was actually trying to kill her by putting some rare Asian snake in her bag...so naturally Eran appears and strangles it or some shit, and then she is all like "huh...snakes from that Asian place Irad said he was at last...but even though I commented only a few chapters back that I have a super awesome memory, I am actually a fucking spoon so I cant remember what he said 2 seconds ago..." HUHHH? Coommeee on! STORY 0 - HAIRY BALLS 5
5) Then Eran, awesome soldier with a million past lives and HER GUARDIAN, is all like, "Huh, whaddya know! You had a rare asian snake in your handbag that could have killed ten men! So anyway...lets just flirt! Im not gonna ask you who that random guy was or what he looked like or why he was talking to you or go and investigate a goddamn thing, because...well...chicks have RARE ASIAN SNAKES COMIN OUT OF THEIR HANDBAGS ALL THE TIME!" FFS! STORY 0 - HAIRY BALLS 6
6) Some random cajun dude tells her that the people who are making her shit herself all the time are actually the "fallen ones"... doesnt ask him what they are...or why they make her shit herself...or why they give a crap about her when she is clearly a twit. STORY 0 - HAIRY BALLS 7
7) Falls in love with Eran after 2 seconds of eye contact, is "heartbroken" when she cant find him for a day...STORY 0 HAIRY BALLS 8
8) After revealing that she died along with her parents as a baby and she doesnt know a thing about it, she finds out that Eran was actually there when it happened...doesnt even ask what happened, how they died, how she died, or how she came back to life....STORY 0 - HAIRY BALLS 9
9) G tells her "room mates" that Maggie can somehow "destroy" the guys who are after her...that magggie "returned to earth human" and that she has been "involved in a war for the last couple of centuries"....The only question they have is "how does one sense another person" and Maggie worries that they will think she is crazy when she explains her shit-herself reaction to the fallen...WHAT? THATS WHAT YOU TOOK FROM THAT CONVERSATION? Either she is a fuckin G, or she doesnt seem to give a shit that her only room mates ever just found out that she apparently left earth at some point and wasnt even human....
THEN they "raise their eyebrows" and show some "shock" when they find out that the fallen super old...SERIOUSLY? You just found out that Abbaddon is a) real and b) telekinetic, that his daughter can make any man fall in love with her yada yada...and they are like "meh, just another Friday night"... find out they are old and their all like, "WAIT! BACKUP! THEY ARE OOLLLLDDD???" STORY 0 - HAIRY BALLS 10....
Im only 80% in, so I am sure there are more hairy balls moments to come but right now, on a scale of hairy balls, this books is 10 out of 10! I only wish that the preface had been a little story about how Maggie fell out of the TREE OF DUMBASS and hit every single branch on her way down before landing on her head and becoming a spoon as a child...then the rest of this story would have made more sense.
November 21, 2011
First thoughts:
At first glance you might not think there's much to this book, it looks like a simple read, one you can just quickly read and move on. But it isn't, the depth to this book was really good, the story itself was intriguing and worth the effort. I really loved the fact that it wasn't all action, I liked how the tension and action slowly built up, it gave the reader time to understand the situation and question things that were going on. The characters themself were filled with personality and depth, they each had distinct characteristics. The main character especially, I could see that she had her own thoughts and ideas on the view of her world. To see her grow and slowly understand herself was really fun, not all stories offer you that. Some things I had problems with is the fact that it moved at times TOO slow, and I was at times a bit confused on exactly what was going on. I felt that I was withdrawn from the story and presented new material I didn't understand. but around the mid-point it slowly changed. The story definately picked up, the character started to change and things were explained. The description in the story was really good, I thought she captured the life of New Orleans, I've never been there but by the way she described the different places the characters visited, I felt that I was actually there. Like that perhaps I had taken a short trip and was introduced to a new city. And slowly as the story progressed I was able to connect with the character, I was able to understand her line of thinking and therefore understand some of the well to midly put it stupid moves she made. But the more you look at those stupid moves the more you realize that they weren't really stupid in the in; they were just a decision or move that was made based on her inner-being. This book had a great action packed ending, that left me both impressed and satisfied.
GoodReads Summary:
Maggie is unaware of the terrifying fate that awaits her. It isn’t until she lands in New Orleans for a full year at a private high school and her unknown enemies find her does she realize that her life is in danger.
As a mystifying stranger repeatedly intervenes and blocks the attempts on her life, she begins to learn that there is more to him than his need to protect her and that he may be the key to understanding why her enemies have just now arrived.
Last Thoughts:
So in the end I found this book a great read, definately a book you'd want to pull out on a rainy day. The concept of Angels in this book was in a way unique yet also sticking to the same playbook, it was like a mutated form of ideas. The relationships between the characters is something we'd all want and as for the romance it's both breath taking and nail biting. At certain parts of this book I found myself emotional; on the verge of tears. It was definately a book I'd recommend to readers who love angels and to those who enjoy a good romance and suspense. I wouldn't recommend this to those who don't find joy in reading books that build-up to the action and to those who don't like characters to fall in love so easily. But in essence the two characters had a lot of struggles to go through and it makes the romance a little more intense and likeable. But I can't wait to see the transformation in the next book and to see what becomes of the beloved characters.
At first glance you might not think there's much to this book, it looks like a simple read, one you can just quickly read and move on. But it isn't, the depth to this book was really good, the story itself was intriguing and worth the effort. I really loved the fact that it wasn't all action, I liked how the tension and action slowly built up, it gave the reader time to understand the situation and question things that were going on. The characters themself were filled with personality and depth, they each had distinct characteristics. The main character especially, I could see that she had her own thoughts and ideas on the view of her world. To see her grow and slowly understand herself was really fun, not all stories offer you that. Some things I had problems with is the fact that it moved at times TOO slow, and I was at times a bit confused on exactly what was going on. I felt that I was withdrawn from the story and presented new material I didn't understand. but around the mid-point it slowly changed. The story definately picked up, the character started to change and things were explained. The description in the story was really good, I thought she captured the life of New Orleans, I've never been there but by the way she described the different places the characters visited, I felt that I was actually there. Like that perhaps I had taken a short trip and was introduced to a new city. And slowly as the story progressed I was able to connect with the character, I was able to understand her line of thinking and therefore understand some of the well to midly put it stupid moves she made. But the more you look at those stupid moves the more you realize that they weren't really stupid in the in; they were just a decision or move that was made based on her inner-being. This book had a great action packed ending, that left me both impressed and satisfied.
GoodReads Summary:
Maggie is unaware of the terrifying fate that awaits her. It isn’t until she lands in New Orleans for a full year at a private high school and her unknown enemies find her does she realize that her life is in danger.
As a mystifying stranger repeatedly intervenes and blocks the attempts on her life, she begins to learn that there is more to him than his need to protect her and that he may be the key to understanding why her enemies have just now arrived.
Last Thoughts:
So in the end I found this book a great read, definately a book you'd want to pull out on a rainy day. The concept of Angels in this book was in a way unique yet also sticking to the same playbook, it was like a mutated form of ideas. The relationships between the characters is something we'd all want and as for the romance it's both breath taking and nail biting. At certain parts of this book I found myself emotional; on the verge of tears. It was definately a book I'd recommend to readers who love angels and to those who enjoy a good romance and suspense. I wouldn't recommend this to those who don't find joy in reading books that build-up to the action and to those who don't like characters to fall in love so easily. But in essence the two characters had a lot of struggles to go through and it makes the romance a little more intense and likeable. But I can't wait to see the transformation in the next book and to see what becomes of the beloved characters.
April 21, 2012
Personally, I have mixed reviews about Fallen. When I started it, I decided that it'll be one of my favorite books but halfway through it, I decided otherwise. And then again, when I was done with it, I decided it's definitely one of my favorites now (hence, the five stars). And so here I am - writing my review but having no idea how to start it or what to write. (But I'll just say, the cover has elegance and simplicity written all over it.)
I guess I'll start off with Maggie. Maggie is another one of those impossibly stubborn, overly courageous and totally independent with just the right dosage of snarky comments heroines. She has a likable personality and the way she narrates the whole thing is just relateable. But what I don't understand is why everyone is being totally hard on her. I mean she just transferred schools and now The Warden is putting surveillance on her every move and with no legitimate reason [as far as I can see]. What was that about? I thought that maybe he's one of the Fallen Ones but in the end, I guess not. (but there's still book 2, so let's see what happens) Anyway, let's move on... Eran! Oh my, he's gorgeous. He's charming, sweet, protective with just the right tablespoon of wit and humor. [He actually kinda reminded me of William Herondale in some instances.] And, wait, how could I forget?! The roommates. They are all equally intriguing and, for lack of a better word, magical with very different but lovable personalities. They're really funny and I can't wait to see what becomes of them in the next books.
Fallen has a lot of potential. I know, I said that it's now one of my favorites but I'm just saying that it kinda needs improvement. Honestly, I lost interest halfway through the book. Not to mention there were some parts that got me really confused. (Like, I'll ask myself, "What's up with the bad guys? Why are they so hell-ho about killing Maggie anyway?" and then I'll go like, "Oh is that it? Seems kinda shallow to me." And then something major happens and deeper secrets revealed. And then the confusion sets in... *sigh*) And the beginning was somewhat rushed but when I finished reading it, I wanted more and didn't want to have to stop reading. [I know I'm totally confusing you with my mixed thoughts and feelings about this book. But I myself is confused!]
Anyhow, I am itching to get my hands on the second book. I just have a feeling it would turn out better than I expected!
I would love to recommend this book. And see for yourself what the fuss is all about. xD
_end_
"No one will ever accuse you of modesty."
"You apparently have no idea what you do to me."
I guess I'll start off with Maggie. Maggie is another one of those impossibly stubborn, overly courageous and totally independent with just the right dosage of snarky comments heroines. She has a likable personality and the way she narrates the whole thing is just relateable. But what I don't understand is why everyone is being totally hard on her. I mean she just transferred schools and now The Warden is putting surveillance on her every move and with no legitimate reason [as far as I can see]. What was that about? I thought that maybe he's one of the Fallen Ones but in the end, I guess not. (but there's still book 2, so let's see what happens) Anyway, let's move on... Eran! Oh my, he's gorgeous. He's charming, sweet, protective with just the right tablespoon of wit and humor. [He actually kinda reminded me of William Herondale in some instances.] And, wait, how could I forget?! The roommates. They are all equally intriguing and, for lack of a better word, magical with very different but lovable personalities. They're really funny and I can't wait to see what becomes of them in the next books.
Fallen has a lot of potential. I know, I said that it's now one of my favorites but I'm just saying that it kinda needs improvement. Honestly, I lost interest halfway through the book. Not to mention there were some parts that got me really confused. (Like, I'll ask myself, "What's up with the bad guys? Why are they so hell-ho about killing Maggie anyway?" and then I'll go like, "Oh is that it? Seems kinda shallow to me." And then something major happens and deeper secrets revealed. And then the confusion sets in... *sigh*) And the beginning was somewhat rushed but when I finished reading it, I wanted more and didn't want to have to stop reading. [I know I'm totally confusing you with my mixed thoughts and feelings about this book. But I myself is confused!]
Anyhow, I am itching to get my hands on the second book. I just have a feeling it would turn out better than I expected!
I would love to recommend this book. And see for yourself what the fuss is all about. xD
_end_
"No one will ever accuse you of modesty."
"You apparently have no idea what you do to me."
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 5, 2013
I have to say this may be one of the most unique reads I have read in a while. This book hooked me from the first few pages and held me there. I flew through this one because it was just that cool of a read. I will start out by saying having this book set in New Orleans was one of the main draws that made me want to read it. I love everything about this area and the author had such vivid descriptions especially of the people and places of New Orleans with a lot of the action happening on Jackson Square. It just seemed like I was right in the action and in the thick of things. I have to say the character of Maggie was one that I loved. I loved that she was so resilient and able to roll with the punches considering she had a lot being thrown her way. Maggie has her life uprooted and has to get used to living in New Orleans, starting a new school and living with new roommates. You add in the fact that there seems to be something out to get her and I would say she has a lot going on.
Maggie is also not your average girl as she is a messenger for the dead. As in she delivers messages from people to their dead loved ones. Yep not your typical girl by a long shot but she still seemed so down to Earth that she felt like she could be your best friend. She was just a girl trying to make it. Maggie learns very quickly that she is more important than she realizes and there are plenty people that want her dead. Maggie's help comes in the form of Eran. Oh Eran where do I begin with him besides to say he was hot on so many levels and I loved the banter between him and Maggie. I loved that he was kinda mysterious and oh so funny. The connection between Maggie and him that is revealed is a nice twist too that the author throws in. I loved it though and it made me like them together even more. The other characters throughout the book such as Rufus,Felix, Grishom, and Ezra were really cool too. I loved the way they banded around Maggie and wanted to protect her at all costs.
Overall this is probably a little known book that should get more attention. I loved the world building and the characters and the plot was a great one. This was great start to a series and I have to read the rest of it to see what else happens and how it all progresses. I think this one needs to be recommended to all my lovers of angels and demons but be warned this is a completely different take on them but one that I love. I am so sad that it took me this long to get around to reading this one but oh so glad that I did.
Maggie is also not your average girl as she is a messenger for the dead. As in she delivers messages from people to their dead loved ones. Yep not your typical girl by a long shot but she still seemed so down to Earth that she felt like she could be your best friend. She was just a girl trying to make it. Maggie learns very quickly that she is more important than she realizes and there are plenty people that want her dead. Maggie's help comes in the form of Eran. Oh Eran where do I begin with him besides to say he was hot on so many levels and I loved the banter between him and Maggie. I loved that he was kinda mysterious and oh so funny. The connection between Maggie and him that is revealed is a nice twist too that the author throws in. I loved it though and it made me like them together even more. The other characters throughout the book such as Rufus,Felix, Grishom, and Ezra were really cool too. I loved the way they banded around Maggie and wanted to protect her at all costs.
Overall this is probably a little known book that should get more attention. I loved the world building and the characters and the plot was a great one. This was great start to a series and I have to read the rest of it to see what else happens and how it all progresses. I think this one needs to be recommended to all my lovers of angels and demons but be warned this is a completely different take on them but one that I love. I am so sad that it took me this long to get around to reading this one but oh so glad that I did.
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