Surrender the Sky

Sary #3

by Meradeth Houston

Gabby lives by two unbreakable rules: don’t expose her kind, the Sary, and don’t fall in love—too bad some rules are made to be broken.

When Gabby’s most difficult charge accidentally shoots her in front of a class full of students, the event exposes her carefully hidden identity. She shifts from looking like a normal teen to her secret Sary form, revealing her wings and the existence of her kind—immortals who try to keep people from committing suicide. Her incident attracts the attention of the next leader of the Sary, Jassen, who offers her an impossible bargain: she can keep her wings if she makes amends with those who know the truth. Things get more complicated when a rebel Sary, intent on exposing them to the world, starts interfering with Gabby’s work. And there’s no denying her attraction to Jassen, who is torn between his duties and his heart. With threats at every turn and her immortality on the line, Gabby has to find a way to save the Sary or surrender the sky forever.

Genres: Paranormal, Angels, Fantasy, Young Adult

Unknown Binding

First published May 1, 2014

About the author

Meradeth Houston lives in Montana where she’s an anthropology professor and scientist. If you let her, she’ll tell you more than you ever wanted to know about getting DNA out of dead stuff. She enjoys escaping the snow by imagining herself back in her favorite places in her home state of California, with a little drama or supernatural flare added in.

Reviews

[Cassidie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC eight days ago from Ms. Houson. I had encountered the book at a cover reveal and it instantly caught my eyes. The story seemed nice and this new race, called the Sary, particularly piqued my attention. I had never heard such beings and if you read my blog, you know how much I like new, original ideas. Saries are people who died before their first breath and so they could choose to become Sary, who have wings and help suicidal mortals to overcome their depression.

I loved the idea of the Sary. The idea that people who were not given the opportunity to have a life, are given the opportunity to thwart other people from taking their own. It touched me deeply. Indeed the whole story did. I have noticed that most authors have their particularly strong points. Some of them yields us profound and wonderfully penned landscapes, some of them have especially hilarious lingo and some of them transmit the emotions excellently. Well, Ms Houston's way to describe emotions is just simply outstanding. I'm absolutely sure she can bring tears into everybody's eyes.

This skill perfectly matched with our female protagonist, whose POV the novel is in, and who is a very sentient, nonetheless not tractable, but courageous and ready to make sacrificies for her race and loved ones. With all these traits, she is far from an exquisite Sary, however, in my opinion, she is better than most of them for the same reason.

After a 'little' accident the successor of the Sary leading visits Gabby, who is called Jassen and they fall in love with each other, despite the fact that it's forbidden. He is different than most of the YA guy major characters. He's not snarky but utterly reserved, he does need help sometimes and he is not afraid to admit it. In one word, he is just as sentient as Gabby. They make a really lovable couple, by the way.

The only thing I regretted, that Marcus only had one scene. He seemed to be a nice guy and I would have been glad to find out more about him, but that's just me, and it wasn't necessary for the plot. Speaking of which, it was full of unexpected twists and it could surprise me, when I expected it to do so the least.

All in all, I adored every word of it, and although I haven't read the prior novels yet, it definitely made me want to do so.

Thank you for reading it, and thank you, dear author, to supply me with a copy.

[L · Rating 4 out of 5]

As magnetic as the beautiful cover ‘Surrender the Sky’ is an addictive read!

This fantastic YA paranormal romance is hauntingly beautiful and full of heartrending poignancy. With eager enthusiasm I kept turning the pages, lost within a wonderfully wrought tale of emotive connotation and lasting memorability. The characters were intriguing and the love interest was so enchanting, I could not help but melt over these two star-crossed lovers! Book 3 of this well-written series is a compelling, engaging read full of intensity and passion all deftly woven into the action-packed plot.
The inspired creation of ‘The Sary’ (a race of Angel-type beings who protect humanity, namely from committing suicide) is simply brilliant, and so I loved finding out more about this within the novel. Gabby and Jassen are two well-crafted characters whose profound connection and relationship is undeniably striking, and so it is very hard not to become entangled within their story.

There are a few grammatical errors within the writing and in places I felt there could have been a bit more detailed description, to balance out the action & dialogue. Overall I was kept glued to the pages throughout this highly readable novel and loved the convincing saga that unravelled, to reveal unexpected surprises and ‘twists’. In this YA/ teen romance you gain an insight into the consequences of immortality and a glimpse at how fragile life is, additionally to how love transcends all boundaries. Surrender the Sky is a stand alone title that follows COLORS LIKE MEMORIES and THE CHEMISTRY OF FATE, with cameos from several of the characters in the first books! It will be available in May wherever ebooks are sold!

Emotionally impacting and wonderfully wrought this stunning sequel is a gripping read and one that I thoroughly enjoyed. Meradeth Houston’s spectacular story is a brilliant page-turner and one that has sparked an interest as to the subsequent novels within this series. I am looking forward with interest as to this author’s other published works, whilst recommending this riveting read to fans of this genre that are looking for something new and exciting.

*I would like to thank the author for providing me with an e-copy of Surrender the sky to read and review.

[Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a Sary, Gabby knows she is not allowed to let anyone see her wings. She is also supposed to be helping troubled souls and keeping them from committing suicide. Gabby has a rule that she won’t fall in love because it would just be too complicated. Her worst nightmare comes true when she sees the gun in her charge’s backpack during class. Although she tries to stop him, things get out of control and people in the class see who she really is. Will Gabby lose her wings now that it's known that she has them? The head of the Sary, Jassen, comes to watch over her and determine her fate. Being around him definitely makes it hard to think straight! Things become even more complicated when she finds out that Jassen has a twin brother who is out to do something that will change the Sary life forever and he needs Gabby for his plan. What will happen to Gabby? What is the destiny of the Sary? Get swept up in this adventure and find out what happens next.

I couldn't wait to pick up the next Sary adventure by Meradeth Houston. Surrender the Sky did not disappoint! I fell right back into the Sary world without any problem. I felt a connection with Gabby and the characters were all well developed. Her best friend cracked me up and she added so much to the plot! I loved the tension between Jassen and Gabby; it definitely made my heart beat faster. The storyline seems very relevant with things that are happening today. Reading this book made me realize how important the Sary are and I wish they really were among us. For anyone that has not read a Sary story- you're missing out! They can each be read out of order, as they have their own storyline and characters. Still, I am always a fan of reading books in order. In this case you may discover that some old friends are tucked inside the pages. I recommend that you pick up one of these books as soon as you can! I know I can't wait for the next one.

[Laetitia · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first book I got to review on NetGalley and wow I am so thrilled by this reading. I chose this book because I liked the cover and the story seemed great. As it turns out I LOVED it !!! I got hooked up on the story from the first line and I could not stop reading !!!
This book is about this girl Gabby who is not a normal girl but a Sary. The Sary are immortal creatures whose only goal is to protect the humans who are suicidal. After a incident at school, she got hurt and accidentally exposed her true nature to her whole class. As she faced the reality of the situation and is dreading to get released and become human, the future leader of the Sary Jassen, comes to her house and decides not to release her on some conditions. She will have to make amends to the people who saw her true identity.
Gabby is instantly attracted to Jassen but she can't expose her feelings because two Sary can not be together ?! I know right this is so unfair ! Gabby was so cute and I loved following her thoughts about Jassen. There was a situation in the book that was hilarious and so awkward !! Thankfully Gabby has a best friend Bea who she can confides in. She is just the best best friend in the world !! She is so smart and supportive of Gabby and her situation.
Due to the arrival of a Sary Leon who intends on exposing the Sary, Gabby will have to make the best of this mess and find a way to protect the Sary.
There was a lot of OMG moments in this book and the author kept me wondering what will happen to Gabby, Jassen and the others. The end was everything I hoped for and I could not be happier.
Surrender the sky was an amazing book, with awesome characters with fears and doubts. I loved discovering the Sary and their universe. After reading the book I discovered there was two other books by the author with the Sary but with other main characters ! I will definitely read them and hope they are as good as surrender the sky.

[Marcie Kremer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Because I've read one of Houston's earlier Sary books, THE CHEMISTRY OF FATE, I knew I was in for a treat, and, once again, she did not disappoint! Not usually being a paranormal fan, I was hesitant to read the first book, but Houston's ability to create worlds and other-worldly beings that are so realistic that you're looking over your own shoulder for a Sary with wings made me sure I would enjoy this newest book, and I most definitely did.
One of the finest parts of Houston's writing is her sense of personal voice. The reader feels at one with the heroine, Gabby, empathizing completely with her struggles and her moral dilemmas, of which there are many, as she strives to prevent humans from committing suicide and wrestles with the forbidden attraction to a fellow Sary, the soon-to-be leader. Houston has mastered the YA voice perfectly, the self-deprecating humor, the quick wit and banter, and the reader thoroughly enjoys getting to know her characters. The key to writing believable paranormal must be the descriptions, and Houston excels in this area, as when she writes, "How I'd love to touch his wings!" Her description of love being similar to flying into a warm, golden sunset was truly evocative.
Without a spoiler, all I can say is, if you are willing to try a YA paranormal that will keep you turning the pages as you eagerly – and anxiously – await the resolution of the major moral dilemmas posed and find out what Gabby has decided to do, pick this book out now and download it! Watch those wings behind you, though…..

[Katie Carroll · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gabby is a Sary, an angel-like creature who in human form helps those contemplating suicide. When Gabby's charge kills himself in a room full of their classmates and Gabby accidentally shows her wings, she breaks the Sary's most important rule of not exposing their kind to humans. Jassen, the next leader of the Sary, gives her a second chance at keeping her wings if she can make things right again with her classmates. The challenge is more difficult than Gabby ever expected, especially when she fears she might be breaking the ever-important rule of not falling in love. But maybe matters of the heart are more important than remaining with the Sary.

Meradeth Houston scores another winner with Surrender the Sky, the third book in the Sary Society series. With a fresh cast of unforgettable characters and a few cameos from old favorites in previous books, the world of the Sary and the humans they help continues to evolve. Though Gabby has wings like an angel, she is far from perfect, and both her struggle to make amends with those who witnessed the tragedy and to come to terms with her personal feelings drives the story. I loved Gabby's tell it like it is human best friend, Bea. And, well, Jassen is no slouch to read about either!

[Nora · Rating 5 out of 5]

I never know when I'll fall for a book on an emotional level, but Surrender the Sky turned out to be just the right book for the moment. It's my favorite yet in the Sary Society series, and I raced through it in less than a day. As love interest and future leader of the Sary, Jassen was an intriguing character, and I plugged into the chemistry between him and Gabby. At the same time, there was plenty going on beyond romance, thematically and in terms of plot. I liked learning more about how the Sary work -- the secret gifts, especially Jassen and Gabby's, the administration, the issues they find themselves dealing with, and what they stand for. It's especially cool to get a look at the system from within, having seen how it affects ordinary Sary in the other books. Leon posed a substantive challenge to the Sary way of life as I understood it, and I kind of wish he could have been less of a villain so we could examine the philosophical issues his position raised more plainly. No matter, it was a good, compelling read, and I'm looking forward to Book 4!

[April Chaney · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thought this was an amazing book. This is the first book of this series I've read and I definitely look forward to reading the others. I was intrigued by the plot and am so glad I was able to read it. I appreciated that there was more to it than the romance angle. All of the characters came across as believable and learning about the Sary and their purpose was fascinating. I would love to know more about Leon's background and what caused some of his actions, hopefully there will be more about him and possibly a continuation of this specific story. I won this book in exchange for a review and I'm so glad I did.

[Sandra "Jeanz" · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh wow loved it! This is a great addition to the brilliant Sary Society collection of books!


INITIAL THOUGHTS
As I loved the other Sary Society stories I am looking forward to reading another great Sary story. What will the main character Sary in this book be like?" Will Gabby's charge be saved?

MY REVIEW
I received a review copy of this one from the author in exchange for my honest review.
The cover in my opinion really fits a section in the book when Gabby is trying to turn into her Sary form and is unable to do so, I'm not going to say the hows and whys of her situation as that would include spoilers. I think the cover really conveys how trapped and claustrophobic Gabby must have been feeling. The atmospheric effect of the dark blues of the turbulent sky also fit several scenes within the book. I'd also say that this cover fits well with the other two books set within the Sary Society.
Now to the book, this book covers a Sary called Gabby. To explain how Gabby became a Sary . . .To be truly honest I'm rather undecided as to whether I like the hows and why's of how Gabby became a Sary. That she was a baby that had never drawn breath and her choice was to become a Sary or forever wander as a spirit that could not touch or feel. A child that didn't draw breath suggests a miscarriage or a stillborn. Why would such an innocent life lost be treat like a suicide and sentenced to wander forever as a spirit? Maybe I am more sensitive on the subject having had a miscarriage/child that never drew breath. I prefer to think my child is in heaven or maybe even being something like a Sary rather than the image of a spirit with no body forever wandering and not being able to touch or feel anything.
Gabby is staying within a community, going to school to try and bring to an end a boy named Chad from taking his own life and any of the lives of the other students in his class. Sadly Gabby fails to prevent an incident occurring in the school. In her attempt to block Chad from shooting the bully of the class Bobby, she throes herself at Chad and ends up being shot herself. Being shot triggers a change within Gabby and she transforms into her Sary form in front of the whole class.
The Sary clean up team turns up to try and sort out the situation. Gabby is terrified yet accepts that her punishment for revealing her form is to be "released". Being "released" is a horrible, painful process where the Sary are stripped of their powers and their wings.
So when Jassen, the deputy leader of the Sary turns up she fully expects to be released, and is somewhat shocked and confused when he tells her that he is their to help the clean up team and put things right,. not release her. Jassen is also there to help Gabby develop a very special gift she doesn't quite know she has and how to use it too. As the gift is so rare, at first Gabby denies it, until Jassen begins to teach her how to use it. Gabby is so embarassed by her mess up and kind of mortified that Jassen is staying at her lowly flat. Gabby has always found Jassen attractive, and she she learns more about the next leader of the Sary she begins to love him even more, but he couldn't possibly ever reciprocate her feelings could he?
It's considered a Sary law that they do not have relationships with mortals or each others.
So when one of the clean up team and Gabby's old room mate from her training days Nathan, ends up in a relationship with her best mortal friend Bea, it is frowned upon but surprisingly allowed. Could things be changing within the Sary Society? The fact that Bea and Nathan's relationship is allowed to continue gives Gabby hopes for the future, but it's a fragile hope that maybe she could have some sort of relationship with Jassen.
We also meet Jassen's twin, Leon in this book who wishes for the Sary to take over and rule the world, and to walk around in their true forms, wings and all. Can the Sary from the Island prevent Leon and his plans for the Sary?
So what I have said above is just a small part of the book there's so much more to the book and it's story. I also think it teaches the reader that though suicides are usually viewed to be a selfish way out of life, that in most cases there is so much more going on around a suicide, such as in this book Chad being bullied. We also learn the reason why Bobby is such a bully at school too. The characters have plenty of drama and ups and downs that you can empathise with as well as ample of secrets to be discovered about the Sary.
The descriptions of the different Sary's wings actually reflect some of that Sary's qualities. The book certainly makes you visualize the many scenes in the book. I think these books would make an outstanding TV Series along the lines of the "Highway To Heaven series I remember from years ago.
So did I enjoy the book? Yes, I really enjoyed the book. Would I recommend the book? Yes, I would, specifically to fans of Mary Ting's Crossroads Saga. Would I read another book about the Sary Society? Oh yes please. I'd love to know more about the other Sary we met in this book as well as catching up with Ari, Tom, Bea and Nathan. I'd also like to read more about Gabby and Jassen, perhaps a book set on the Island of the Sary. Would I read other titles by Meradeth Houston? I would certainly take a serious look at anything written by this author. I really take pleasure in Meradeth's writing style, it flows so easily and truly enjoy reading her books.

[Holly · Rating 4 out of 5]

*Full review can be found at Part of that World.

I didn't realize this was part of a series until I started reading the book. It freaked me out for a minute there, because I hate reading books out of order. But these books of the Sary Society can be read as standalones, and I really enjoyed this story a lot that I think I'll read the other two that I missed. :)


Actual rating: 3.5 Stars!

The Sary reminded me of angels, though I'm not sure that is what they are exactly supposed to be. Sary are immortal beings with wings who are sent on jobs to try and stop people from committing the worst act imaginable: suicide. They're guardian angels who are recruited when they die (Gabby herself never actually took her first breath). When they fail, it sucks and it hurts. Then they just get another assignment. But when they show their wings, severe consequences follow. They're never, ever in any circumstances supposed to show their true forms. Unfortunately for Gabby, an unforeseen incident causes chaos in her world.

After failing her assignment and showing her true form, Gabby is sure of one thing: she'll be released. But when the Sary leader offers her a solution, she's still unsure she'll take it. After all, she wasn't able to save her assignment and the kids in the classroom saw her wings. She thinks she deserves to be released. Gabby was a likable character who just wants to do her job, save her assignments, and keep her wings. She's spunky, loves her job, and has been around a long time that she's pretty much seen everything. But when both of her worlds collide, Gabby is forced to question herself, her job, and what she wants out of life. All the while dodging kids who know her secret, a rebel intent on exposing the Sary to the world, and a one-sided love with a guy who will always put duty above everything else.

I thought the secondary characters were great, as well. They added more layers to the story-line and brought on some much needed fun and comedic relief.

But the romance felt rushed, between both Gabby and Jassen and Bea and Nathan (which never felt that believable to me). I would have liked more development between Gabby and Jassen, a little more interactions and depth of feeling. And I never fully understood why either of them had fallen for the other.

I truly loved this concept! The idea that these Sary try and help people who are contemplating suicide or straddling that line is something I haven't read before. And I adored the concept. Suicide is such a sensitive subject, and I thought the author handled it with such care. I felt the emotions in this story, the heart-wrenching stories and Gabby's grief at being unable to save Chad (her assignment). But I thought the plot centering around Leon and his evil intent felt rushed. The scenes were sort of smoothed over, and I would have liked more action and depth surrounding him and his plans. And I would have loved more background info on Gabby herself, especially about other assignments and people she's met over the course of the century she's been a Sary.

The book was very fast-paced and didn't take me that long to finish. Gabby's voice drew me in, and the concept of the Sary and what they do held my attention until the end. I'm definitely going to be reading the first two books! :)

[Pauline Ang · Rating 4 out of 5]

Originally posted at Fathomless Reveries

I'm not really a big fan of stories with angels and all those things, but this one was amazing. Right from the start, I already got sucked in to the story. Gabby, a Sary, helps people not to commit suicide, but she failed to do so in one of her assignments. Not only that, but her identity as a Sary got exposed when her wings appeared, which was a big no-no in their society. When that happens, she gets released and becomes a mortal being again. With this kind of plot, I got really hooked up and wanted to know what's going to happen to Gabby.

It was very intense. I sympathized with Gabby the moment she felt guilty with herself. It wasn't her fault, and she really didn't deserve on what was given to her. Saving people who are having suicidal thoughts is very admirable, but no one can save everybody, so it isn't really her fault. Despite her world starting to crash down on her, she still remained strong and concerned for others' well-being. At first, I thought that she would be an unrelatable character for me because she seemed flawless and too selfless, but I was wrong. All the pain and heartache she felt got transferred to me, and my heart felt really constricted while I was reading her story. Oh, there are just so many times that I have to stop reading and absorb everything that was happening. I just wanted to cry for her.

Jassen, the heir to the Sary, was so mysterious and swoony. Seeing him do a lot of things just for Gabby is just too much. Even though Surrender the Sky was written in Gabby's POV, I could feel Jassen's uncertainty and responsibilities. At such a young age, he was already being restricted by the rules in his society and position, which was really sad. There were at times that I just simply hated him because I really cannot understand what he was thinking, and his thoughts seemed to be all over the place. He just doesn't know what he wants and was conflicted. However, Jassen and Gabby both were so cute together! The way they'd tease each other and all those stuff were just so adorable. <3

Surrender the Sky is a wonderful story about responsibilities and duties both to others and to oneself. It taught me that the most selfless people are the ones that are really in pain. It just shows that we really cannot judge others based on their actions and words because we really do not know their thoughts. And sometimes, it's okay to be selfish also once in a while because everyone deserves to be happy, even ourselves. I am excited to read the other books in this series, and I definitely recommend that you read Surrender the Sky!

[Faye · Rating 4 out of 5]

I didn't even know this was part of a series when I started reading Surrender the Sky because it didn't mention anything. But to my surprise it technically is part of a series. It would have been better to read the first two books but it does not mean I enjoyed reading Surrender the Sky.

Although the plot was interesting wherein Gabby might have lost her wings because she failed her mission it did not happen due to Jassen's interference, the next leader of the Sary. As the story goes on we later learned that Jassen has a twin brother named Leon and he wants to change the ways of the Sary and not for the better. At the same time Gabby is given a chance to retain her wings by helping those who saw her true form.

I'm not so sure where to place Gabby. Although her character was okay, I just continued reading it because what made the story more interesting for me was Leon, Nathan, and Bea.

Her romantic feelings for Jassen is not one sided but it is a taboo for them to fall in love but it happened. I hated her indecisiveness regarding keeping her Sary form. In the beginning she wanted to retain them despite her failed mission but when the going get's tough she wanted to lose her wings plus she learned that she has an additional gift like Jassen. Luckily, Jassen was able to change her mind.

I like Jassen enough. It was funny and satisfying to see that he lost control of himself regaring his feelings for Gabby. And though their scenes were short it was still steamy. It's nice that he still looks out for his brother at the end even if Leon's decision regarding the Sary way's were different.

Now, I understand Leon better since it was revealed why he acted the way he is but I wish there was more information behind Leon's past. It felt unsatisfying to be given just that information.

I love the relationship between Nathan and Bea despite Nathan at first made the wrong choice. They are really sweet together. I'm glad that they would be able to have their HEA. Bea's friendship with Gabby was great. And there is more to Bea despite her ball of energy. I liked that she accepted Gabby for the way she is and that she even cared when Gabby was shot.

I would like to know more about the other Sary and I will definitely read the first two books. I also wish there would be something more about Leon. Despite him being the bad guy I really felt for him.

I received this book in exchange for an honest review (LoP or Lovers of Paranormal)

[Lucy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Gabe isn't your typical high school girl, in fact, she isn't a human at all. Gabe is one of the Sary that look after the troubled mind. When her current assignment gone wrong, she was sure that she will lose her wings and become a mortal. Then the heir of Sary arrived, not only Gabe isn't going to lose her wing, but she might have an even bigger problem then losing her wings.

Imagined one of your high school classmate was actually a Sary, and she was sent to help prevent someone from your class to hurt themselves, and those around him. That's Gabe's latest assignment, though it didn't turn out the way she have hope to be, she did save tons of people that day. Just not her assignment.

This book did not wasted anytime and dive straight into action from the beginning. (although, I did find out after I finished this book, that this book is part of a series) I was hooked from page one, and immediately draw to the story and characters. I really enjoy the concept of this new Angelkind, where their existent is to help the trouble minds.

Overall I enjoy reading Surrender the Sky, Gabe is a kind Sary that will do what she can to prevent tragedy, even if it means to sacrifice herself. It was interesting to learn that having feeling for another Sary was consider a taboo among the Sary. Gabe's attraction for Jessen gradually straighten throughout the book, and it turn out Jessen have noticed her long ago but because of his position, he couldn't express nor he planned on acting on them.

I would like to read more about Bea and Nathan, since they were secondary characters, the book didn't really talk about what's going on between them and what will happen now he is staying permanently. I imagined things are going to change in the Sary society, and wonder how much will Gabe impact in the new change.

I requested to read this book via NetGalley, was approved and received eARC via NetGalley and the publisher.

[Kimber Wheaton · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.

Surrender the Sky is a fast-paced YA paranormal with hair-raising action scenes and a sweet romance. There were lots of things I liked about this book and a few that I didn't. For one, I love the way the book begins. We're thrown into a desperate situation before we know the characters, and yet it works, giving the reader a unique look at what happens when everything doesn't go right for Gabby's kind, the Sary.

Main character Gabby is at least a century old (I think) but acts like a hormonal teenager. Perhaps Sary have a slow mental and emotional maturity rate... I'm not quite sure how that works. She does have a strong sense of duty and seems to truly care about the humans she tries to save from themselves. Being an immortal angel doesn't stop her from falling in love, even though she knows a relationship is improbable.

I found the plot to be confusing at times. The Sary have clean-up crews for damage control when things go awry. So it confused me when Gabby had to make amends. If humans weren't supposed to know about the Sary, I assumed they would wipe the memories or something of the sort. In this story, Gabby has to explain and get these teenagers to accept her for what she is without really explaining anything.

Romantic interest Jassen and his twin brother Leon were interesting characters. For being a great future leader, Jassen seemed a bit wimpy and easy to manipulate. This is really apparent at the end when Gabby is forced to save the day. My impression was that the author spent so much time building Gabby into a strong character that she weakened the male lead and the villain in the process.

All that aside, I quite enjoyed this novel and had a difficult time putting it down. The plot is action packed, moving the plot forward at a brisk clip. The overall premise is interesting even if it is somewhat confusing at times. If you like paranormal stories, especially those about angels and forbidden love, I think you'll really enjoy Surrender the Sky.

[Sharon · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review: 3 ½ out of 5 star

I am such a sucker for a pretty cover and a unique sounding synopsis so I was eager to read Surrender the Sky by Meradeth Houston and thankfully it didn’t fail to disappoint and kept me riveted from the very beginning.

A Sary is a form of immortal angel who are charged with helping humans that are contemplating suicide; Our MC Is a Sary named Gabby who at the beginning of the book failed to stop the boy she was in charge of from causing chaos in class which inadvertently caused her to expose her true identity – her wings, after being accidentally shot, something forbidden for her kind.

When punishment is to be dealt, the future Sary leader, Jassen arrives and offers her an opportunity to make up for her mistake and deal with the people who saw what she really was. The premise was quite interesting and I found myself enjoying the authors’ creativity and endearing characters. Jassen was enigmatic and a great love interest, the forbidden aspect made things all the more exciting and Bea was the most wonderful best friend, I adored her forthright attitude, the interactions between the characters was great. The villain, a rogue Sary named Leon was also written well and I enjoyed learning about why he was the way he was but I would have loved a few more background details, I felt he lacked the angst and evil vibe needed to make him truly terrifying.

The plot was detailed and filled with many surprising moments, I had no idea this book was a part of a series; I don’t feel I missed anything from not reading the other books as the main characters aren’t continued from the previous books.

The writing was entertaining and the details vivid, I am eager to learn more about the Sary society so I look forward to reading the next book in the series.

Thank you to MuseIt Up Publishing via Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review Surrender the Sky.

[Becca · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 Stars!!

“I wasn’t here for fairness. I had the gift of this body, of my wings to help mortals. Nothing more.”

I have a love for angels and a soft spot for books about guardian angels and protecting angels. When I read the synopsis for Surrender the Sky I knew that I had to read it simply for this reason.

There were a lot of things that I liked about this. The concept of Angels (Sary’s in this story) on Earth to help humans who are thinking of committing suicide just struck me so hard emotionally. I really liked how Meradeth Houston portrayed this concept in her book. You could feel the fear, love and loss of these victims.

I had some issues with the writing, I really felt that it was rushed and it some places it came across as unbelievable and somewhat corny. I felt like the concept and story line were very good, but unfortunately the execution just wasn’t there for me.

I ultimately did like the Characters. Gabby was so kind and giving. Jassen was strong and had the weight of a true leader on his shoulders. Bea was the crazy but perfect BFF and Leon was the perfect villain. However, this book had one flaw that I have serious issues with… insta-love… GASP! And it was really overdone, although I totally got the connection between Jassen and Gabby… it was rushed just like the story line.

“We can do it. You know that, right? Together, we could make things different.”

I hope that this review is not coming across as all negative, I really did like a lot of things about this book. Especially because I am totally sappy and gushy over Angel books! So if you are like me and cannot turn down a good Guardian Angel story with a little romance… give this one a try :)

Check out this review and more on my blog!

[Skaistė Girtienė · Rating 4 out of 5]

Firstly, I'm excited there is one more story about the Sary. I liked previous two books a lot and waited for more. And again it caught me with the first sentence. Intensive beginning took me aback. I couldn't imagine this one task would go this way. It got more and more complicated.  At some points it made me scared and at some it made me smile. Sometimes I was sad and sometimes shocked. It's interesting story and it kept me reading till the end.  

Every book about the Sary is different and I like it. This one brought in some new points about the Sary and some more bits of their story. It told about some new and some old characters, gave a chance to know them better. In here there was a new side of the Sary story. It told about some events I wondered about while reading previous books. Also the cover is very nice. I would say it's catching atention more than these of previous books.  

I thought for a few days how to rate this book. Whether to give it 4 stars or 5 stars as I've given for the other books. I decided to give it 4. For me it was worth that. Just previous books made a bigger impression on me. These were much more emotional for me. This time I didn't feel such strong emotions. I don't know whether it was because then it was something new, or whether now I was in a different mood than I was then, or just because this book is different than others.

Nonetheless I liked it and now I'll be waiting for more stories about the Sary. I'm even wondering to reread previous books to get to remember them better, to feel once more all these powerful feelings, to immerse myself again in to these wonderful stories of lovable characters.  

I received this book in exchange for an honest review (Lovers of Paranormal).

[Michelle's Paranormal Vault of Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was so happy when I found out this is another book about the Sary, they are angel like that try to save people who are wanting to commit suicide. I fell in love with this unique world of the Sary back last year when I read Colors Like Memories, and loved that one too.

I was hooked from the start, and really was able to connect with the main characters. I liked Gabby a lot and really liked Jassen.

This book had many twist an turns I didn’t see coming at all. I was pretty shocked at a few of them. I can’t stress enough how awesome this Paranormal Romance book is. If you like paranormal romance books at all, then this is for you.

I highly recommend this book, and give it 5 out of 5 stars.

I was given this book by the author for my honest review.

Cover review: I think this cover is really cool. Besides the fact that the same model and look and style ( not color) has been used before in another book I read. But still, very cool. I still love the first books cover best.

[Star]

Gabby is a Sary, the soul of a child who died before taking her first breath and given the option to return in the flesh to help those on the verge of suicide. While Gabby has been helping those close to suicide for a long time, she’s up against her most challenging ward, Chad, to date. When Chad brings a gun to school, intending to use it on others and himself, she must intervene but in doing so she inadvertently exposes her hidden identity and her kind to humans. This is a grave offense in the Sary world, punishable by release – being made human and giving up their wings forever. While Gabby knows she deserves this punishment she does not relish the idea. When Jassen, the future leader of the Sary, gives her a second chance Gabby jumps at the chance. Gabby also is immensely attracted to Jassen, but the second rule of the Sary is to never fall in love. However, when a rogue Sary is hellbent on exposing all the Sary to the world it’s up to Gabby to figure out a way to keep the Sary a secret. Otherwise she’ll be forced to surrender the sky forever. SURRENDER THE SKY is a well-written story and I liked most of the characters. I do wish Gabby had been a little more stable and mature, especially for someone who has been alive so long. Some of the plot points seem convoluted at times, but there was enough action and romance to help smooth it all out in the end. The whole concept of the Sary is intriguing and unique, which is always a plus for me. SURRENDER THE SKY is another good journey into the world of the Sary.

[Debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

She has the ability to help people. She feels the pull of the skies. She is a Sary known to the mortal world as Gabby. Then she makes a HUGE mistake that cost lives and she knows that her wings will be taken away. She is positive of this fact. It is engrained in her from training. The clean up crew with take care of the rest. This is what was supposed to happen but then Jasson the next in line to head up the Sary shows up.

This book blew me away with its quick wit, explosive scenes, and the amazing likeability of the characters. The author really knows how to keep the reader on their toes. No secrets were given away and chapter upon chapter just led to more questions. I couldn't put this book down. I read it through the night because I just couldn't handle sleep without knowing how Gabby would get out of her latest predicament.

I found this book to be a refreshing change from most "angel type" books and I really believed in the story the author was telling. The author depicted the YA voice perfectly and did not at any point lose her reader in useless information as some authors sometimes do.

I gave this book five stars because of so many different things. Qualities that can't be explained but just are. This book won me over, get your copy today so it can do the same to you!

[Maria Dodd · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was given this book in exchange for an honest review by the author via Lovers of Paranormal.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The Sary are an angel-type being that are sent to protect people from committing suicide. Their main rule is not to be seen in their angel form. When Gabby is shot and shows her true form to her class mates her whole world changes and is under threat.

The relationship between Gabby and Jassen, the heir to the Sary leadership is very well-written and the characters are believable and likable. As the two have feelings for each other, which they both hide, and the fact that it is Jassen that would 'release' Gabby for the sin of being seen it could have all become rather cliche but it was handled well and more interesting aspects of Gabby's character and her gifts were revealed. The plot travels along well and keeps your interest.

This was a well=written book without the, unfortunately common, almost expected, grammatical errors and typos. It was an absolute joy to read.

I hadn't realised there were more books in this series, I will definitely go and look them up!I would love there to be a sequel to this book to learn more about Gabby and Jassen's future on the Island and to find out what happens to Leon.

[Angela · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book jumps directly into the action there is no waiting at all, it keeps going from there. I enjoyed the story as a whole. Gabby accidently reveals her Sary form (from what I understand sort of like angels that are to stop people from committing suicide; it’s the best way I know how to describe it) and as a result she should lose her wings and become mortal. Jassen wants her to stay with the Sary for more than one reason and his evil twin wants to use her for his own evil plan.

The only thing that did not sit right with me was when Gabby had to make amends and people just accepted the fact that she was what she was, there was no flipping out or anything. To me it did not sit right, her best friend who pieced it together I understood that because she figured things out from having spent so much time with Gabby.

I would recommend this book. It was well written, it was an original storyline (at least for me, I’ve not come across anything like this), this is something that I think a lot of people will enjoy. My daughter being one of them.

[Crystal Collier · Rating 4 out of 5]

Can I just say, the title for this book is epic?

When this story opened up, I couldn’t read fast enough. From page one, Surrender the Sky throws you right into the conflict.

Gaby is in a predicament after her suicidal “charge” causes more damage than could have been anticipated. She’s faced with the reality of losing her adorable human best friend, Bea (who was my favorite character, thank you,) and her wings. The issue only escalates when Bea points out that the Sary leader who has to decide Gaby’s fate is crushing on her, even though crushing is strictly prohibited among the Sary. And rare. And unacceptable for a leader. Not that she minds—as she’s crushing back.

There were a few “gasp” moments, and admittedly, a place or two where I wanted to smack the characters, but overall this was a good read.

[Medeia Sharif · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gabby is a Sary on a mission to save a high school boy from making a huge mistake. She fails, which fills her with worry. What if she loses her wings? What if she has exposed the mysterious Sary society to others?

When a crazed rebel Sary attempts to use her powers and reveal the truth of their society to the world, Gabby must fight. The rebel, Leon, is hard to beat and causes much pain and confusion in Gabby’s life. With the help of other Sary and the caring humans around her, Gabby has to find a way to beat Leon and maintain her immortality.

This book was intense. I really felt for Gabby. She was in emotional turmoil, as well as in physical pain when Leon and others attacked her. I loved her relationship with mortals and the romance she experienced with another Sary being. This is a great ending to a paranormal series.

[Deborah · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Sary are angels that try to save people who are wanting to commit suicide.They wear a human form as it is a rule they are not to be seen in their true form. Gaby is a Sary and is assigned to a young man and is shot while trying to protect him from himself. Her true form appears as she loses control and fails at her assignment. Now Gabby is in real trouble. She could loss her wings and have to live as a human. No longer to fly in the beautiful sunsets of the sky.The leader of the Sary makes Gabe an offer. Can she do it? Will she fall in love? Things seem to go from bad o worse for Gabby as she tries to keep her wings.

[Christy · Rating 4 out of 5]

A new type of FAE. I love Fae based stories and this is a totally new Fae, a very cool one I might add. Gabby is everything a Stary not suppose to be, yet she is Stary true. The ideal that are Fae among us for no other reason than to help us in our times of need and despair is great. Gabby struggle to help Chad and the aftermath is a story that is very current for teens today. I enjoyed the story line and love Bea, she is awesome sauce. I will getting the next book soon in the series.(Please say there will be more)

[Courtney LaSalle · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 Stars
I had never read about or even heard of a Sary before Surrender the sky. This book was so awesome! I have no idea why I even put it off for as long as I did, but I'm sure glad I decided to read this. It was Action packed, fun, and had an awesome romance as well. Yes, this book was definitely a triple threat!

Click to see Full review

[Pam Vickers · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love this series! The Sary are placed on Earth to save those people thinking about suicide, but are unable to love a normal life... Each book in the Sary series offers enthralling characters, wonderful romance and enough action to keep you on the edge of your seat!

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love the Sary! Review to come!

[NaTaya Hastings · Rating 3 out of 5]

*contains spoilers*


This was a very decent story. I give it three stars because I'm a tough critic, and I have to put it up against things like the "A Song of Ice and Fire" books and "American Gods" which are what I consider five star books, but honestly, I think most average readers of these types of books would probably give it a four.

The book centers around Gabby, a member of the Sary, which are basically guardian angels who come down to earth in the guise of humans to "guard" potential suicide victims and try everything to keep them from killing themselves and ending up in the vast nothingness that awaits suicides after death. This is the sole purpose of the Sary's existence. They do not fall in love; they do not have families; they do not do anything outside of their sacred duty.

Gabby's assignment is a troubled high school student, and within five pages of the book's opening, she has obviously very much failed in her assignment. The worst part, however, isn't that the student killed himself. Instead, it is that, in killing himself, the student shot Gabby, and in her pain and shock at being shot, she accidentally changes her form and exposes all six-feet of the winged goodness that is her Sary form.

This, of course, causes massive problems because secrecy is totally imperative for the Sary. Enter Jassen, next in line for the Sary crown -- although there is no ACTUAL crown, mind you. Beautiful, powerful, dutiful Jassen, who is dedicated to the Sary's solitary way of life. So, of course, he becomes the love interest. :-p Seriously though, I joke about it -- and it IS a bit predictable -- but still, it was a really good story all in all.

And it isn't just romance. Jassen has a twin brother who is a bit psychotic and isn't happy with the way Jassen and the Teacher (the leader of the Sary) are running things. He believes the Sary should live out in the open, sort of a Gods-among-men situation, and because they are identical twins, he causes all sorts of trouble, not just for the Sary, but for Gabby in particular.

I actually really enjoyed the story, but there were a few places in which the action was a little weak, and those spots brought my overall opinion of the story down a bit. For instance, Gabby's best friend, Bea -- the only true friend she's ever really had -- falls in love with a Sary member of the "clean-up crew" sent to fix Gabby's mess. This particular Sary, Nathan, eventually turns on Gabby, Jassen, and the rest of the Sary and allies himself with Jassen's twin, Leon. He does a couple of terrible things, including kidnapping Gabby, and is caught and locked up in a bedroom for a day. Then, he helps heal Gabby, and he is all out about, lying in Bea's lap, letting her stroke his hair.

I'm sorry, but I have a best friend, too, and no matter how much she loved her significant other, if he kidnapped me and led to me suffering a serious injury -- even if he helped patch me back together afterwards -- she would never forgive him, much less in a little over a day. That was completely ridiculous and unbelievable to me, and it really bothered me quite a bit. It bothered me so much, in fact, that it truly did affect my overall opinion of the book.

However, that being said, again I will say that I did enjoy the book, and it is a very solid three star story.