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The Watchers #3
Forgiven
As the holiday season approaches, so does the eagerly awaited wedding of Lilly and Brand. However, in the midst of planning her future with Brand, Lilly and her loyal companions continue their relentless quest to unearth Lucifer's sinister plans for her.With the specter of danger looming even closer, Lilly comes to the stark realization that the idyllic future she envisions with Brand might be snatched away from her at any moment. In response, she resolves to embrace life, knowing that each moment is precious. Encouraged by her makeshift family, Lilly embraces every experience without reservation.Reading Order of Watcher Books by Series (All books FREE to read through Kindle Unlimited):The Watchers Trilogy CursedBlessedForgivenThe Watcher ChroniclesBrokenKindredOblivionAscensionCaylin's Story TimelessDevotedAiden's Story Alternate Earth SeriesCataclysmUprisingJudgmentSweet Devotion (Mae and Tristan's Story)The Redemption Series MalcolmAnnaLuciferRedemptionThe Dominion Series AwakeningReckoningEnduringThe Everlasting Fire SeriesWar Angel ContingentBetween Two WorldsShattered SoulsGuardians of the Void RestorationAtonementExodusWar Angel AcademyHarbingerNemesisChampionA Very Watcher Christmas
276 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 15, 2012
734 people are currently reading
1239 people want to read
About the author
S.J. West
75 books1,188 followersOnce upon a time, a little girl was born on a cold winter morning in the heart of Seoul, Korea. She was brought to America by her parents and raised in the Deep South where the words ma'am and y'all became an integrated part of her lexicon. She wrote her first novel at the age of eight and continued writing on and off during her teenage years. In college she studied biology and chemistry and finally combined the two by earning a master's degree in biochemistry. After that she moved to Yankee land where she lived for four years working in a laboratory at Cornell University. Homesickness and snow aversion forced her back South where she lives in the land which spawned Elvis Presley, Oprah Winfrey, John Grisham and B.B. King. After finding her Prince Charming, she gave birth to a wondrous gift named Caylin and they all lived happily ever after.
The second book to the Harvester of Light trilogy will be available for purchase no later than December 2012.
The second book to the Harvester of Light trilogy will be available for purchase no later than December 2012.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 192 reviews
June 19, 2018
What can I say??? I really did love this series, despite the flaws mentioned in my reviews of Cursed and Blessed. And to be fair, I felt that the author finished strong with Forgiven.
At first, I felt uneasy with Ms. West's interpretation of Christian theology and the way she abused it to tell her story. I never like when someone "humanizes" God (e.g., the tv series, Lucifer, even though I love that show). It makes me feel guilty.
So, even though the theology was absurd, I couldn't help but be thoroughly engrossed and entertained. Again, I don't really want to review this book because it would require way too many spoilers. Suffice it to say that if you love YA paranormal romance, Hallmark movies and happy endings, and if you don't mind super cheesy dialogue or plot holes, this is the series for you! 😍❤️
At first, I felt uneasy with Ms. West's interpretation of Christian theology and the way she abused it to tell her story. I never like when someone "humanizes" God (e.g., the tv series, Lucifer, even though I love that show). It makes me feel guilty.
So, even though the theology was absurd, I couldn't help but be thoroughly engrossed and entertained. Again, I don't really want to review this book because it would require way too many spoilers. Suffice it to say that if you love YA paranormal romance, Hallmark movies and happy endings, and if you don't mind super cheesy dialogue or plot holes, this is the series for you! 😍❤️
October 15, 2014
The concept of this trilogy - that is what the characters are, the roles each are destined to play, and how they interact with each other - was actually very intriguing.
The plot throughout the trilogy was subtly mysterious, with some elements being obvious without giving away the specific 'whys' immediately & some cloaked by shadows that are slowly lifted throughout the series. The books have dramatic scenes, but they aren't blood and gore or real duke it out action.
Religion, albeit nondescript, played heavily in the plot of the third book. God and Lucifer both had voices in the book.
Lilly and Brand remain very overwritten in the book - too understanding, too naive, too sweet, too innocent, etc to be true. It's overplayed and often detracts from whatever emotions, scenes they're playing out throughout the story. I'm sure a lot of people will swoon over the perfect romance, but it's just not my thing {kisses to Shatter Me and Lux book boyfriends.}
Malcolm... Oh Malcolm! Well I'm always a sucker for the dirty minded bad boy turned good by love. He has an edgy dry humor that saves a lot of the monotonous bad romance novel dribble of the two MCs.
The writing itself was okay, typical. This is standard narrative with casual dialogue. It flowed well enough, but did lull a lot with unnecessary clothing, food, and other mundane descriptions.
The end of the trilogy answers the questions and gives readers a happy ending. There isn't a cliffhanger, but I see that the trilogy shifts to a series that continues on with supporting characters interacting with new characters and a few cameos by the MCs.
I'd recommend for those that like a solid mystery laced in heavy romance. Just an FYI for parents - the first two books feature PG13 romance that's kissing and heavy petting. However, the third book does have multiple tame sex scenes & talk of condoms and contraception.
The plot throughout the trilogy was subtly mysterious, with some elements being obvious without giving away the specific 'whys' immediately & some cloaked by shadows that are slowly lifted throughout the series. The books have dramatic scenes, but they aren't blood and gore or real duke it out action.
Religion, albeit nondescript, played heavily in the plot of the third book. God and Lucifer both had voices in the book.
Lilly and Brand remain very overwritten in the book - too understanding, too naive, too sweet, too innocent, etc to be true. It's overplayed and often detracts from whatever emotions, scenes they're playing out throughout the story. I'm sure a lot of people will swoon over the perfect romance, but it's just not my thing {kisses to Shatter Me and Lux book boyfriends.}
Malcolm... Oh Malcolm! Well I'm always a sucker for the dirty minded bad boy turned good by love. He has an edgy dry humor that saves a lot of the monotonous bad romance novel dribble of the two MCs.
The writing itself was okay, typical. This is standard narrative with casual dialogue. It flowed well enough, but did lull a lot with unnecessary clothing, food, and other mundane descriptions.
The end of the trilogy answers the questions and gives readers a happy ending. There isn't a cliffhanger, but I see that the trilogy shifts to a series that continues on with supporting characters interacting with new characters and a few cameos by the MCs.
I'd recommend for those that like a solid mystery laced in heavy romance. Just an FYI for parents - the first two books feature PG13 romance that's kissing and heavy petting. However, the third book does have multiple tame sex scenes & talk of condoms and contraception.
March 25, 2013
I am a huge fan of this series. I felt that most of the characters in the boom were devolved really well. The only exception being Will. I think she should've played more into what went on with him and why he was so important in Lily's life.
I definitely think she chose the right person and I think the ending was nice and happy.
I definitely think she chose the right person and I think the ending was nice and happy.
May 7, 2013
Aww! The ending was so cute! Loved it! Though I wanted to read more, more, more!!
I liked this book a lot, though there were some things I didn't like much. Like Lilly's sudden attraction to Malcom. I mean, I get that he's hot and cute and sexy and very insistent, but I didn't like how she reacted to him just a few days before the wedding. That said, if it was the unmarried non-engaged me in her stead, I would have kissed the hell out of him. Them. I love also Brand veeeeeeery much, as I said in my review of the previous books. But the idea I had of Lilly and her feelings was that of a devoted fiancee who loved immensely her man, and it annoyed me how easily she found herself kissing another guy.
Regardless, I liked Malcom a lot in this book. He was so cute at times, and so very sexy at others, it was hard to resist him. I didn't find him annoyingly insistent like in the previous books, but I found him very caring and lovely toward Lilly. Kind of sweet even in rare moments. Like what he did for her at the wedding. I'd like a book dedicated to him and maybe about him finding the love of his life.
Will was less annoying than usual and I even found him nice for the sacrifice he made. But I'm still not a huge fan of him.
Tara and Malik were cute, although I would have liked to know him better and read more about him and his connection to Lilly too.
Utha Mae is always the smartest of all them and very sweet. I liked her.
I'm still confused about how I feel about Cora, Lilly's mother. But she seemed nicer toward the end, and we got to learn the reasons for some of her behaviours.
Lucifer was pure Evil, and a stupid, jealous, childish man. Angel.. Devil.. Whatever...
I would have liked to know Michael, that's something I regret in this book. I would have liked for Lilly to meet him at least once.
I liked a lot the character of God. A lot like I think of Him in books. I'm not sure He'd be like that in real life, if He ever exists.
I liked the dreams too.
The wedding and the honeymoon were nice. Hot, too, although I would have liked more detailed scenes. Oh well...
I liked this book veeeeeeery much and one reason is that it made me all emotional and I could connect easily to all the characters, especially Lilly, Brand and Malcom, and I could feel how they felt.
Very good this trilogy! I enjoyed all three the books.
I liked this book a lot, though there were some things I didn't like much. Like Lilly's sudden attraction to Malcom. I mean, I get that he's hot and cute and sexy and very insistent, but I didn't like how she reacted to him just a few days before the wedding. That said, if it was the unmarried non-engaged me in her stead, I would have kissed the hell out of him. Them. I love also Brand veeeeeeery much, as I said in my review of the previous books. But the idea I had of Lilly and her feelings was that of a devoted fiancee who loved immensely her man, and it annoyed me how easily she found herself kissing another guy.
Regardless, I liked Malcom a lot in this book. He was so cute at times, and so very sexy at others, it was hard to resist him. I didn't find him annoyingly insistent like in the previous books, but I found him very caring and lovely toward Lilly. Kind of sweet even in rare moments. Like what he did for her at the wedding. I'd like a book dedicated to him and maybe about him finding the love of his life.
Will was less annoying than usual and I even found him nice for the sacrifice he made. But I'm still not a huge fan of him.
Tara and Malik were cute, although I would have liked to know him better and read more about him and his connection to Lilly too.
Utha Mae is always the smartest of all them and very sweet. I liked her.
I'm still confused about how I feel about Cora, Lilly's mother. But she seemed nicer toward the end, and we got to learn the reasons for some of her behaviours.
Lucifer was pure Evil, and a stupid, jealous, childish man. Angel.. Devil.. Whatever...
I would have liked to know Michael, that's something I regret in this book. I would have liked for Lilly to meet him at least once.
I liked a lot the character of God. A lot like I think of Him in books. I'm not sure He'd be like that in real life, if He ever exists.
I liked the dreams too.
The wedding and the honeymoon were nice. Hot, too, although I would have liked more detailed scenes. Oh well...
I liked this book veeeeeeery much and one reason is that it made me all emotional and I could connect easily to all the characters, especially Lilly, Brand and Malcom, and I could feel how they felt.
Very good this trilogy! I enjoyed all three the books.
April 7, 2017
Excellent ending to a fabulous series. This is by far....one of the best Angel series I have had to pleasure of reading. I will definitely be re-reading the whole series again!! I wasn't ready to say goodbye to Brand and Lilly and their family and friends!!
March 31, 2013
I really enjoyed the characters and although Brand was the right choice I really was pulling for Malcolm.
May 17, 2020
Excellent
The final book of this trilogy answers so many questions as well as a perfect HEA. It also sets up the watcher chronicles, the next series from S.J. West set in the same world of angels.
The final book of this trilogy answers so many questions as well as a perfect HEA. It also sets up the watcher chronicles, the next series from S.J. West set in the same world of angels.
April 22, 2016
2 stars. It was okay.
I'm going to get to the heart of the issue behind this series. The author did have great ideas. She had everything she needed to write an epic angel fantasy: fallen angels, heroine with a unique parentage, hero quests, save the world type senario. (Okay, basically what you see in every paranormal YA book.) But it was the execution that fell through.
First let's address the first issue: the plotting. The author needed to take all elements of all the books and break them apart and put them together in different combinations. She needed to look at what themes were relevent and see how she could enhance them. Look at the weaknesses and analyse WHY they aren't working. Maybe changing something else would change one weakness into a strength.
Second issue: the romance. Readers root for romances that have captured their hearts. The characters have to earn the right to be together. They have to go above and beyond to show the reader that they belong together. Having other angels throw themselves at Lilly and her constantly turning them down doesn't prove to me that Lily and Brand deserve to be together. The romantic chemistry between Lily and Brand didn't prove their love to me. All I saw was that their romance was easy. "Love at first sight, and bam. Let's be together for ever. Yay for us!"
It's what keeps lovers apart that holds interest for readers, not how lovely they are together. I need to see them go through many trials to be together for it to feel deserved. But they were together from the start.
Same goes for victories... It just felt too easy for the heroine. I don't think she even had to do much.
Another major problem is that the heroine just wasn't a strong character. Her powers were just handed to her and things came easily to her, no matter how much she worried over them before they happened.
But the protagonist wasn't the only character with a bad "flaw". The antagonist, Lucifer, was a weak character himself too. In order to have a strong story, the bad guy can't be all bad. We have to feel compassion towards him. This grey moral area is what makes for a good bad guy. It's what creates a good opposing force to the hero, and gives the story a venue to show the hero's highlights and depth of character. The only author who's ever succeeded in writing an 'all-bad' guy was J.K. Rowling. So, unless you're J.K. Rowling, don't even try to write a purely evil antagonist. It won't work. It will make your story look amateur and the bad guy look ridiculous.
On a good note, I did see that this last book was an improvement over the last two in terms of plot. The author is testing the heroine (but unfortunately, she botched the way the tests are supposed to play out in a story). This third book proves that the author is maturing as a writer, but she's still in the beginner stage. I know the author says she's been writing stories since she was eight, but that's not the same thing as a decade of practice after you've begun your adult life. That maturity mixed with the learning what comes of it and attempting to try to pen that knowledge into a story is what gives strong stories later on (after a lot of practice). If the author had maybe left her trilogy after finishing it, kept writing her stories, and come back to reread her trilogy more than five years later, that experience and perspective could have been really beneficial in editing the overall structure and the way the themes were presented. We could have been looking at a best seller.
In conclusion, this series had so much potential, but it failed. Her writing lacks the tension and conflict that a mature writer would naturally put, due to lots of experience, in places that S.J. West completely overlooked. I think that if the author had the chance to show her whole story to a good editor and gotten constructive feedback, she could have given herself the time to fix the problems and learn from them and why they don't work. This series had the potential of 4 stars. But, as it stands, I can't recommend it.
I'm going to get to the heart of the issue behind this series. The author did have great ideas. She had everything she needed to write an epic angel fantasy: fallen angels, heroine with a unique parentage, hero quests, save the world type senario. (Okay, basically what you see in every paranormal YA book.) But it was the execution that fell through.
First let's address the first issue: the plotting. The author needed to take all elements of all the books and break them apart and put them together in different combinations. She needed to look at what themes were relevent and see how she could enhance them. Look at the weaknesses and analyse WHY they aren't working. Maybe changing something else would change one weakness into a strength.
Second issue: the romance. Readers root for romances that have captured their hearts. The characters have to earn the right to be together. They have to go above and beyond to show the reader that they belong together. Having other angels throw themselves at Lilly and her constantly turning them down doesn't prove to me that Lily and Brand deserve to be together. The romantic chemistry between Lily and Brand didn't prove their love to me. All I saw was that their romance was easy. "Love at first sight, and bam. Let's be together for ever. Yay for us!"
It's what keeps lovers apart that holds interest for readers, not how lovely they are together. I need to see them go through many trials to be together for it to feel deserved. But they were together from the start.
Same goes for victories... It just felt too easy for the heroine. I don't think she even had to do much.
Another major problem is that the heroine just wasn't a strong character. Her powers were just handed to her and things came easily to her, no matter how much she worried over them before they happened.
But the protagonist wasn't the only character with a bad "flaw". The antagonist, Lucifer, was a weak character himself too. In order to have a strong story, the bad guy can't be all bad. We have to feel compassion towards him. This grey moral area is what makes for a good bad guy. It's what creates a good opposing force to the hero, and gives the story a venue to show the hero's highlights and depth of character. The only author who's ever succeeded in writing an 'all-bad' guy was J.K. Rowling. So, unless you're J.K. Rowling, don't even try to write a purely evil antagonist. It won't work. It will make your story look amateur and the bad guy look ridiculous.
On a good note, I did see that this last book was an improvement over the last two in terms of plot. The author is testing the heroine (but unfortunately, she botched the way the tests are supposed to play out in a story). This third book proves that the author is maturing as a writer, but she's still in the beginner stage. I know the author says she's been writing stories since she was eight, but that's not the same thing as a decade of practice after you've begun your adult life. That maturity mixed with the learning what comes of it and attempting to try to pen that knowledge into a story is what gives strong stories later on (after a lot of practice). If the author had maybe left her trilogy after finishing it, kept writing her stories, and come back to reread her trilogy more than five years later, that experience and perspective could have been really beneficial in editing the overall structure and the way the themes were presented. We could have been looking at a best seller.
In conclusion, this series had so much potential, but it failed. Her writing lacks the tension and conflict that a mature writer would naturally put, due to lots of experience, in places that S.J. West completely overlooked. I think that if the author had the chance to show her whole story to a good editor and gotten constructive feedback, she could have given herself the time to fix the problems and learn from them and why they don't work. This series had the potential of 4 stars. But, as it stands, I can't recommend it.
June 30, 2017
I was practically scolding myself for not reading other readers' reviews before I started the first book. And I definitely will NOT RECOMMEND the trilogy to others.
I have yet to find an angel fantasy novel that I will truly like (excepting Mortal Instruments because the shadowhunters are not really angels). I accidentally stumbled upon Cursed. I was burrowing another book but received this trilogy accidentally.
I thought I like it (when I finished the first book). The triangle between the three characters made sense. I found myself sad that Lilly chose Will over Brand (I don't want to give spoiler but I don't feel guilty giving them...you'll read why), but I like the other guy as well so I guess its okay. I also like Malcom's character, when he was introduced in the story, the first man that came to my mind was Ian Somerhalder and his character as Damon (gosh I so loooove that man he is my character of choice to every hot hero/antihero in every novel I read). Anyway, I really thought I will love The Watchers Trilogy until I read Blessed (which I had a struggle reading)...and then finally Forgiven (which I finally put down without finishing).
The story was beautifully written, or so I thought. What change my heart was the inclusion of God, portrayed like a Greek mythology god. I know its just fiction but I still feel prejudiced to using Him in a novel this way just to sell books---it just feels wrong and blasphemous for me. I read the Bible and the lives of saint and that's how I want to see Him and His greatness. You might say “Hey, you've read The Davinci Code and its good,” but for me that novel is more theory woven together from clues Dan Brown believed to have “some sense of truth” for him. But to actually put Him in a fiction novel...and then manifest to a human and for the character to start conversation as if talking with an ordinary person your equal, made and me flinch nonstop, the character did not even show reverence to God, for goodness sake. Even Kate Lauren's book about fallen angels did not go “there.” In real life, when you face a person of authority (lets say a President of a country), no matter how you hate that person...you show respect because you acknowledge his/her position, you might even felt awed (I know because I've been put in that situation). Some even cry or pass out. For a character who believe in God and even attend the church even if she is not a Catholic, and then meet God and not show reverence like kneel or look down and feel somewhat unworthy...is preposterous. In our Faith, He did not even show Himself to Mary, He sent His messenger. And even Moses cannot look at God directly in Mt. Sinai. How could SJ West write these scenes and not write them properly as close to a real thing as possible showing RESPECT to God. True, she had good intentions but I still think the scenes with Lily and God were disrespectful and wrong. I skipped on them. I jumped from the first dream encounter to epilogue (which included God 'scolding' her grandfather for giving her cold shoulders--so God shows favoritism too?). I REALLY HATE this book because of that with a PASSION.
My “obsessive-compulsive reading disorder” when I started a book in a series forced me to struggle to read through the second book, but thank goodness is not strong enough to want to finish the third halfway through it...and then not to read the other books in the chronicles.
I have yet to find an angel fantasy novel that I will truly like (excepting Mortal Instruments because the shadowhunters are not really angels). I accidentally stumbled upon Cursed. I was burrowing another book but received this trilogy accidentally.
I thought I like it (when I finished the first book). The triangle between the three characters made sense. I found myself sad that Lilly chose Will over Brand (I don't want to give spoiler but I don't feel guilty giving them...you'll read why), but I like the other guy as well so I guess its okay. I also like Malcom's character, when he was introduced in the story, the first man that came to my mind was Ian Somerhalder and his character as Damon (gosh I so loooove that man he is my character of choice to every hot hero/antihero in every novel I read). Anyway, I really thought I will love The Watchers Trilogy until I read Blessed (which I had a struggle reading)...and then finally Forgiven (which I finally put down without finishing).
The story was beautifully written, or so I thought. What change my heart was the inclusion of God, portrayed like a Greek mythology god. I know its just fiction but I still feel prejudiced to using Him in a novel this way just to sell books---it just feels wrong and blasphemous for me. I read the Bible and the lives of saint and that's how I want to see Him and His greatness. You might say “Hey, you've read The Davinci Code and its good,” but for me that novel is more theory woven together from clues Dan Brown believed to have “some sense of truth” for him. But to actually put Him in a fiction novel...and then manifest to a human and for the character to start conversation as if talking with an ordinary person your equal, made and me flinch nonstop, the character did not even show reverence to God, for goodness sake. Even Kate Lauren's book about fallen angels did not go “there.” In real life, when you face a person of authority (lets say a President of a country), no matter how you hate that person...you show respect because you acknowledge his/her position, you might even felt awed (I know because I've been put in that situation). Some even cry or pass out. For a character who believe in God and even attend the church even if she is not a Catholic, and then meet God and not show reverence like kneel or look down and feel somewhat unworthy...is preposterous. In our Faith, He did not even show Himself to Mary, He sent His messenger. And even Moses cannot look at God directly in Mt. Sinai. How could SJ West write these scenes and not write them properly as close to a real thing as possible showing RESPECT to God. True, she had good intentions but I still think the scenes with Lily and God were disrespectful and wrong. I skipped on them. I jumped from the first dream encounter to epilogue (which included God 'scolding' her grandfather for giving her cold shoulders--so God shows favoritism too?). I REALLY HATE this book because of that with a PASSION.
My “obsessive-compulsive reading disorder” when I started a book in a series forced me to struggle to read through the second book, but thank goodness is not strong enough to want to finish the third halfway through it...and then not to read the other books in the chronicles.
October 22, 2013
3.8. I liked the book more than I disliked it, but I did think everything fell into place just a little too easily. I also felt like there wasn’t enough suspense. I would have liked more details on the final showdown.
Plot:
Lilly and Brand plan their wedding as they continue to try and find out how Lucifer is going to use Lilly to end the world.
Characters:
In Forgiven, we find out why everyone is so enamored of Lilly. Since I hate books where every single character falls in love with the heroine, it was nice to actually see an explanation. Other people mentioned this in their reviews…. Lilly had made her choice, and she loved Brand so much that I thought it was a little out of character for her to finally realize that she might be attracted to Malcolm. I’m sure some of you will want to kill me, but Malcolm just totally gets on my nerves.
Brand remains sweet, romantic Brand. He must really be trying to get back in God’s good graces because he was way more forgiving about the whole Malcolm situation than I would have been. I did think it was sweet that they waited until they were married to consummate their relationship, although it is getting a little cliché to me that it’s always the guy who wants to wait.
Will continued to be pouty in this one, but he came through in the end when we needed him most. I would have liked to see him find happiness earlier in the book. We also get to see a completely different side of Tara in this one. I do like her a little sassier, but I thought the moments with her and Malik were very sweet.
We met Lucas in the last book, but we get to know more about him in this one. I would have expected him to be a LOT meaner. We also meet some of the other fallen, but there aren’t a whole lot of details about any of them except for Mason. (Side note: Mason is one of the main characters in the Watcher Chronicles, which I’m reading now. I wish I had paid a little more attention to him here.)
Writing:
People complained that the first two books were too lovey-dovey. It was a nice change of pace for me, but I do have to say that it was awkward reading about the implied sex that Lilly and Brand had … a lot. Also, there were LOTS of spelling/punctuation/grammatical errors.
The Bottom Line:
Again, the book was good, not exceptionally great, but I was glad to find out how things turned out. Though it is the end of the series, some things were kind of left up in the air. I can tell already that some of those things are addressed in the Watcher Chronicles. I’ve already started reading, and it looks like things will be a little edgier in that series.
Plot:
Lilly and Brand plan their wedding as they continue to try and find out how Lucifer is going to use Lilly to end the world.
Characters:
In Forgiven, we find out why everyone is so enamored of Lilly. Since I hate books where every single character falls in love with the heroine, it was nice to actually see an explanation. Other people mentioned this in their reviews…. Lilly had made her choice, and she loved Brand so much that I thought it was a little out of character for her to finally realize that she might be attracted to Malcolm. I’m sure some of you will want to kill me, but Malcolm just totally gets on my nerves.
Brand remains sweet, romantic Brand. He must really be trying to get back in God’s good graces because he was way more forgiving about the whole Malcolm situation than I would have been. I did think it was sweet that they waited until they were married to consummate their relationship, although it is getting a little cliché to me that it’s always the guy who wants to wait.
Will continued to be pouty in this one, but he came through in the end when we needed him most. I would have liked to see him find happiness earlier in the book. We also get to see a completely different side of Tara in this one. I do like her a little sassier, but I thought the moments with her and Malik were very sweet.
We met Lucas in the last book, but we get to know more about him in this one. I would have expected him to be a LOT meaner. We also meet some of the other fallen, but there aren’t a whole lot of details about any of them except for Mason. (Side note: Mason is one of the main characters in the Watcher Chronicles, which I’m reading now. I wish I had paid a little more attention to him here.)
Writing:
People complained that the first two books were too lovey-dovey. It was a nice change of pace for me, but I do have to say that it was awkward reading about the implied sex that Lilly and Brand had … a lot. Also, there were LOTS of spelling/punctuation/grammatical errors.
The Bottom Line:
Again, the book was good, not exceptionally great, but I was glad to find out how things turned out. Though it is the end of the series, some things were kind of left up in the air. I can tell already that some of those things are addressed in the Watcher Chronicles. I’ve already started reading, and it looks like things will be a little edgier in that series.
January 2, 2016
This was such a bad book hahahaha. I don't even know how to describe it. It was just... bad.
And yet.. I couldn't stop reading. It was like an addiction. A really bad, poorly written addiction filled with spelling mistakes and plot holes. It felt like I was reading a fanfiction written by some prepubescent 12 year old. The author also needs to learn how to finish off books well enough to continue the sequel. All three endings were bad. Really bad. (Especially that ending. Damn. How cliche)
I'm a sappy, lovey-dovey type of girl, though, and I have to say, some of the moments between Brand and Lilly made me squeal. They were so cute although, in the end, I wanted her to end up with Malcolm because, damn. I just love bad boys.
Those sex scenes tho... THEY WERE SO CLICHE. "Why Mr. Cole. I do believe you're happy to see me." ARE YOU KIDDING ME. I LITERALLY THREW DOWN MY PHONE AND SCREAMED "I'M DONE." AND THEN DISNEY WORLD? WHILE THE WORLD IS ENDING YOU CHOOSE DISNEY WORLD TO GO TO????
This story drove me insane. I don't recommend it, but it did keep me busy throughout the last few days because it was an easy read and did have some interesting characters. All in all, I'd say 4/10.
And yet.. I couldn't stop reading. It was like an addiction. A really bad, poorly written addiction filled with spelling mistakes and plot holes. It felt like I was reading a fanfiction written by some prepubescent 12 year old. The author also needs to learn how to finish off books well enough to continue the sequel. All three endings were bad. Really bad. (Especially that ending. Damn. How cliche)
I'm a sappy, lovey-dovey type of girl, though, and I have to say, some of the moments between Brand and Lilly made me squeal. They were so cute although, in the end, I wanted her to end up with Malcolm because, damn. I just love bad boys.
Those sex scenes tho... THEY WERE SO CLICHE. "Why Mr. Cole. I do believe you're happy to see me." ARE YOU KIDDING ME. I LITERALLY THREW DOWN MY PHONE AND SCREAMED "I'M DONE." AND THEN DISNEY WORLD? WHILE THE WORLD IS ENDING YOU CHOOSE DISNEY WORLD TO GO TO????
This story drove me insane. I don't recommend it, but it did keep me busy throughout the last few days because it was an easy read and did have some interesting characters. All in all, I'd say 4/10.
July 16, 2017
Here are my random thoughts on this book and series:
- I'm 100% Team Malcolm, Brand is far too clean cut and Prince Charming for me.
- This series is a little too religious for me. I've read series based on Angels before but they haven't been drowning in religion. This was.
- I've not really experienced any feels with this series until Utha May. Big feels.
- Bonus points for Walt Disney World.
- Ending was good.
- I'm 100% Team Malcolm, Brand is far too clean cut and Prince Charming for me.
- This series is a little too religious for me. I've read series based on Angels before but they haven't been drowning in religion. This was.
- I've not really experienced any feels with this series until Utha May. Big feels.
- Bonus points for Walt Disney World.
- Ending was good.
January 22, 2016
Its offical, i'm addicted to this series..
This book in the trilogy is the bringer of the ugly cry. I sobbed my heart out in a few parts of the book. Although Lilly gets her happy ending and true love fixed everything I just couldnt bring myself to be happy.. I need to read more! Such brilliant characters and storyline this trilogy is high among my favorites.
#stillteammalcolm
This book in the trilogy is the bringer of the ugly cry. I sobbed my heart out in a few parts of the book. Although Lilly gets her happy ending and true love fixed everything I just couldnt bring myself to be happy.. I need to read more! Such brilliant characters and storyline this trilogy is high among my favorites.
#stillteammalcolm
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 25, 2012
I love the story but this book is in dire need of an editor. There were so many spelling and grammatical mistakes that it's not funny!
April 12, 2013
This book lacked detail. I feel like the author just skimmed the surface of some of the biggest events in the trilogy. I'm glad I finished the trilogy though.
January 18, 2020
Zero plot
March 19, 2018
SPOILERS
OMG I LOVED THIS SERIES.
Okay, I'm usually a pessamist when I start books. Which is not a good way to start a series. But, I'm always afraid I'm going to waste my time reading a book I hate.
I really loved all the characters in this whole series, and the family Lilly creates for herself.
I have to say the one thing I hate is the name BRAND. I mean it's not the most sexiest names I can think of. His last name COLE should have been his first name. But, that's just me being picky.
Yes, Lilly and Brand's relationship is a bit to Sweet to much at times. And, sometimes I felt I was reading one of those dime a dozen romance novels. BUT! We have to understand that we are talking about an angel who wants to earn God's trust back.
I LOVED Malcom! I mean I love how the reader could feel the love he had for her, and he ended up being one of my favorite characters in the book. He loved her enough that he just wanted her to be happy even if it wasn't with him.
I LIKED WILL- After Brand, I felt that Malcom would be my second choice for Lilly. Will I always just felt bad for. He would have loved to marry his best friend, and we find out the reason he stayed away from Lilly was that Lucifer told him that if he got to close he would get someone else to watch over her, so Will stayed to protect her
Lilly's father- I would have really loved if she got to meet her father! I really think that should have happen. Even a short scene. I read a few other angel themed books and the girls always meets their "Angel" father.
Yeah, this book could be seen as a too religious.BUT!!! We are dealing with a book about ANGELS!! Hello. I did not mind it, but I guess if you are sensitive to that kind of thing it would bother you.
I agree with some readers who said that their love was too easy! There wasn't any real struggle to be together. No one blocking there relationship in any huge way. She just saw him and fell in love.
Also, I'm not one to judge the writing so much in that I love a good told story and characters I want to care about. And, to me that's the two important things. NOW, if you a person who really breaks down books they read to an analytical level, then not sure you would love this one.
The ENDING: MADE ME HAPPY. I will always love a happy ending. I loved how the fallen angels had earn a chance of redemption and their children. ANd, I loved how Lilly and Brand got to have the family they always dreamed of and be humans.
Overall, I really enjoyed this series. She has a list of other books in the series and I plan to read most of them.
OMG I LOVED THIS SERIES.
Okay, I'm usually a pessamist when I start books. Which is not a good way to start a series. But, I'm always afraid I'm going to waste my time reading a book I hate.
I really loved all the characters in this whole series, and the family Lilly creates for herself.
I have to say the one thing I hate is the name BRAND. I mean it's not the most sexiest names I can think of. His last name COLE should have been his first name. But, that's just me being picky.
Yes, Lilly and Brand's relationship is a bit to Sweet to much at times. And, sometimes I felt I was reading one of those dime a dozen romance novels. BUT! We have to understand that we are talking about an angel who wants to earn God's trust back.
I LOVED Malcom! I mean I love how the reader could feel the love he had for her, and he ended up being one of my favorite characters in the book. He loved her enough that he just wanted her to be happy even if it wasn't with him.
I LIKED WILL- After Brand, I felt that Malcom would be my second choice for Lilly. Will I always just felt bad for. He would have loved to marry his best friend, and we find out the reason he stayed away from Lilly was that Lucifer told him that if he got to close he would get someone else to watch over her, so Will stayed to protect her
Lilly's father- I would have really loved if she got to meet her father! I really think that should have happen. Even a short scene. I read a few other angel themed books and the girls always meets their "Angel" father.
Yeah, this book could be seen as a too religious.BUT!!! We are dealing with a book about ANGELS!! Hello. I did not mind it, but I guess if you are sensitive to that kind of thing it would bother you.
I agree with some readers who said that their love was too easy! There wasn't any real struggle to be together. No one blocking there relationship in any huge way. She just saw him and fell in love.
Also, I'm not one to judge the writing so much in that I love a good told story and characters I want to care about. And, to me that's the two important things. NOW, if you a person who really breaks down books they read to an analytical level, then not sure you would love this one.
The ENDING: MADE ME HAPPY. I will always love a happy ending. I loved how the fallen angels had earn a chance of redemption and their children. ANd, I loved how Lilly and Brand got to have the family they always dreamed of and be humans.
Overall, I really enjoyed this series. She has a list of other books in the series and I plan to read most of them.
April 7, 2020
Just What I Needed
I enjoyed the first two books in this series. They were in a similar vein to other series I had enjoyed, but there was one thing about these novels that truly set them apart. While full of fallen angels, temptation, sin, and college students doing what they tend to do, these books still managed to come across as reasonably clean reads. They had plenty of action and passionate tension, yet this was accomplished without resorting to adult language or graphic sex scenes. In fact, the main characters Brand and Lily, who through the entire series are so hot for each other they could scorch cinder blocks just by walking near, actually make a pact to wait for sex until their wedding day. They don't do this lightly, and it's not easy for them. But they did it for the right reasons and they stick by it even when they don't feel like it. Pretty impressive. None of the similar books I read had that kind of morality going on...
Before you think everyone in this novel is a Bible-thumping good guy who walks a straight line, let me assure you that even the "good guys" that want to do the "right thing" don't always manage to pull it off. Plus there are characters that are absolutely honest about their anger with the Big Guy. Or their belief that they could never be loved or forgiven for what they've done. All in all, this author has done an amazing job with something that could sound so moral (and therefore BORING!), but is in truth just the opposite. This story is riveting, haunting, remarkable. It's a story that seeps into your bones and makes you think. If you let it. It's a super YA series, but it's mature enough to keep even the older adults entertained as well. Like I said, there's plenty of meat on this bone...if you want to chew on it a while.
I enjoyed the first two books in this series. They were in a similar vein to other series I had enjoyed, but there was one thing about these novels that truly set them apart. While full of fallen angels, temptation, sin, and college students doing what they tend to do, these books still managed to come across as reasonably clean reads. They had plenty of action and passionate tension, yet this was accomplished without resorting to adult language or graphic sex scenes. In fact, the main characters Brand and Lily, who through the entire series are so hot for each other they could scorch cinder blocks just by walking near, actually make a pact to wait for sex until their wedding day. They don't do this lightly, and it's not easy for them. But they did it for the right reasons and they stick by it even when they don't feel like it. Pretty impressive. None of the similar books I read had that kind of morality going on...
Before you think everyone in this novel is a Bible-thumping good guy who walks a straight line, let me assure you that even the "good guys" that want to do the "right thing" don't always manage to pull it off. Plus there are characters that are absolutely honest about their anger with the Big Guy. Or their belief that they could never be loved or forgiven for what they've done. All in all, this author has done an amazing job with something that could sound so moral (and therefore BORING!), but is in truth just the opposite. This story is riveting, haunting, remarkable. It's a story that seeps into your bones and makes you think. If you let it. It's a super YA series, but it's mature enough to keep even the older adults entertained as well. Like I said, there's plenty of meat on this bone...if you want to chew on it a while.
May 25, 2020
This book was better than the second one, getting deeper into the story and finding out more about Lucifer and God's relationship, and Lucifer's plans. However, the story still had a little too much sappy romance for me. The wedding seemed to overplay the rest of the story, as if Lilly and Brand's relationship is more important than the world being split open and allowing God knows what into their own world. It's almost as if the wedding was the main story and the drama between Lucifer and God was more of a small background story in comparison. The ending of the book was rather anti-climactic. I felt that this series was building up to Lucifer's big plan, and the actual execution of his plan was short-lived in comparison to the rest of the story.
Regardless of the romance, I still think the story has potential and is interesting enough for me to continue to follow. I like the way S.J. West writes and describes her characters, I just wish there was more emphasis on the seemingly more important aspects of the story, versus the relationship between characters. I am all about a good love story and I do enjoy reading about how relationships grow between main characters, but I don't think it should overpower the more important parts of the story.
Regardless of the romance, I still think the story has potential and is interesting enough for me to continue to follow. I like the way S.J. West writes and describes her characters, I just wish there was more emphasis on the seemingly more important aspects of the story, versus the relationship between characters. I am all about a good love story and I do enjoy reading about how relationships grow between main characters, but I don't think it should overpower the more important parts of the story.
August 12, 2022
Paranormal
I finished this book a couple of days ago and it was a very good conclusion to this series. I still love the characters and we finally find out what lily is and what she can do for everybody. How is decisions are a life balance without giving anything away she has this way of making everyone be calm and able to sort out their lives Daily... She just natural born later find out why. Brain is definitely a natural natural natural natural born leader just the way he acts everyday I still love him . You find out more about will in the story also and what happened and it's really becoming how everyone has grown throughout these books. If you're looking for something spicy this is not the book this is a paranormal romance For young adults. I'm not saying it is a bad book I'm just saying that if you have young readers or you do like young adult romance with no spice this is definitely a series you should read because the writing is very good in it and it does keep you drawing too everyone that is in it.
I finished this book a couple of days ago and it was a very good conclusion to this series. I still love the characters and we finally find out what lily is and what she can do for everybody. How is decisions are a life balance without giving anything away she has this way of making everyone be calm and able to sort out their lives Daily... She just natural born later find out why. Brain is definitely a natural natural natural natural born leader just the way he acts everyday I still love him . You find out more about will in the story also and what happened and it's really becoming how everyone has grown throughout these books. If you're looking for something spicy this is not the book this is a paranormal romance For young adults. I'm not saying it is a bad book I'm just saying that if you have young readers or you do like young adult romance with no spice this is definitely a series you should read because the writing is very good in it and it does keep you drawing too everyone that is in it.
March 29, 2025
Again, mixed feelings. I couldn’t not find out how the trilogy ended, but at the same time, too much behind closed doors sex between the main characters. It’s like the entire book takes place in the brief moments they aren’t in bed. (They are married, but still…) It just ruined the tension in the story and made the characters seem immature and silly. It became hard to take the end of the book seriously.
I did like the appearance of God, and the ending was what I predicted and wanted. Overall, great characters and an interesting storyline, but it lost its way in the overabundance of “passion.” The love became obsession, which was unfortunate.
I did like the appearance of God, and the ending was what I predicted and wanted. Overall, great characters and an interesting storyline, but it lost its way in the overabundance of “passion.” The love became obsession, which was unfortunate.
May 13, 2018
As the last of the watchers series. I will say I was disappointed. The last “battle “ was boring as all hell. Lilly and bran finally get married and we lose a couple of characters. I’m not really into religious kind of books so I didn’t like that too much. It took too long to fisure what what was happening and when. I’m glad I finished the series but I’m disappointed. There should of been another book to redeem will maybe get him someone and malcom as well. I didn’t like how Bran will lose his powers it’s just sad. Glad it’s over but disappointed
April 2, 2021
Brand is a true romantic and way beyond understanding. The show is hands down perfection. Lucas is who? You have got to be kidding me! I do feel bad for Malcom. Robert got what he deserved in my opinion. Lily's father is who? Seriously. Tara in the store is hysterical. Of course who doesn't love a wedding. Utha Mae is the sweetest woman ever. The whole Prince Charming and Cinderella thing is adorable. I can't believe the ring belongs to him. The ending made me cry. This was beautiful. Priceless! Easy 5 stars.
September 10, 2024
oh thank goodness I have finally moved past this so I can get on to the next trilogy and not have it spoiled.
This series was NOT for me. It was way too religious and goody. The VA was not great. Why is this in the south but only two characters have southern accents?
I also did a FF through at least 3-4 chapters of content on this one because I couldn't take it anymore.
I'm hoping the next series (which so far started off strong for me) will continue to be more my style. If not at least now I know to dip out early instead of suffering through.
This series was NOT for me. It was way too religious and goody. The VA was not great. Why is this in the south but only two characters have southern accents?
I also did a FF through at least 3-4 chapters of content on this one because I couldn't take it anymore.
I'm hoping the next series (which so far started off strong for me) will continue to be more my style. If not at least now I know to dip out early instead of suffering through.
March 30, 2019
What a great YA series
I enjoyed this series for because I the story is imaginative. I read a lot of YA fantasy and this hero's journey had elements that I wasn't expecting and didn't see coming. I genuinely liked the characters. Will was the most dimensional. The second book was the best as the arch was introduced and there were a few plot twists. I don't think you'll be disappointed by this sweet story.
I enjoyed this series for because I the story is imaginative. I read a lot of YA fantasy and this hero's journey had elements that I wasn't expecting and didn't see coming. I genuinely liked the characters. Will was the most dimensional. The second book was the best as the arch was introduced and there were a few plot twists. I don't think you'll be disappointed by this sweet story.
December 5, 2021
The end of Brand and Emma’s story and how the tear was created by Lucifer. It told the tale of lifelong friends Tara, Emma and Will and how their love for each other lasted a lifetime. It also explained how the watchers were expelled from heaven. Further explanation for the fallen and how vampires were created as well as werewolves. It also showed how God’s love for his children I’d never ending if you are just sincere in your asking for His forgiveness.
February 19, 2018
Walmart
Tara.....Wal-Mart.....black Friday....I laughed so hard I cried! Lucifers plan comes out, Utha Mae finally gets to go be with her Harry, sniff sniff, will gets redemption, and God gives brand and Lily a few precious gifts. Fantastic book but Tara in Wal-Mart on black Friday...Best part of the engine series thus far!
Tara.....Wal-Mart.....black Friday....I laughed so hard I cried! Lucifers plan comes out, Utha Mae finally gets to go be with her Harry, sniff sniff, will gets redemption, and God gives brand and Lily a few precious gifts. Fantastic book but Tara in Wal-Mart on black Friday...Best part of the engine series thus far!
November 27, 2018
Read them all!
Wow! An amazing story and amazing characters that we can see develop throughout the series. I couldn't put any other the books down. The had me smiling, laughing, and crying but it's true about the saying love conquers all. Give this series a chance you won't regret it!
Wow! An amazing story and amazing characters that we can see develop throughout the series. I couldn't put any other the books down. The had me smiling, laughing, and crying but it's true about the saying love conquers all. Give this series a chance you won't regret it!
August 9, 2019
I read the first book of this trilogy to complete a criteria in a reading challenge, used the second for another, and just finished this one just because I couldn’t get enough of it. This is normally not my favorite books to read but I honestly could not put it down. Such a good book and series!!!
November 6, 2020
Love This Series
Forgiven if book 3 of S. J. West's The Watches Trilogy. The sorry is wrapped up wonderfully in this book. Once I started it I could not put if down to I read the whole book. Yes, it's that good. I love the characters and I'm thrilled to know that they will be part of additional books in several other series from Mrs West.
Forgiven if book 3 of S. J. West's The Watches Trilogy. The sorry is wrapped up wonderfully in this book. Once I started it I could not put if down to I read the whole book. Yes, it's that good. I love the characters and I'm thrilled to know that they will be part of additional books in several other series from Mrs West.
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