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Keeper of the Gate
Anna, the girl with flaming red hair and attitude to match, never felt she belonged. In her final year of high school, when she can’t even connect with the right guy, she meets mysterious, Bible-loving Devin and feels strangely drawn to him. There’s more to Devin than good looks and his weird obsession with scripture,and Anna finally understands the emptiness she’s felt her entire life. Join Anna as she searches for answers about her past with Devin, struggles to accept her true identity, and begins an adventure into the City of Fire to reseal the gates of Hell.
- GenresYoung Adult
Paperback
First published November 6, 2014
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489 people want to read
About the author
Paula Kennedy
9 books39 followersWhen Paula is not spending time with her children, she’s buried in her endless ‘to be read’ pile of books or frantically baking muffins with the freezer full of bananas her husband threatens to throw away.
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Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews
December 22, 2014
Reading KEEPER OF THE GATE, a paranormal horror adventure by Paula Kennedy, is quite a bit like what I imagine parasailing through a meteor shower might be like. It’s fast, chaotic. There’s so much going on, your mental reflexes will struggle to keep up. And—if you’re into that kind of thing—one Hell of a lot of fun.
The capital H on “Hell” is intentional, by the way. But wait. I’m getting ahead of myself.
Annalisa Harold is a senior in high school, with family, friends, and an inexplicable interest in a mysterious boy named Devin. She pals around with her BFF Stacey (whose almost-emo twenty-something brother, Charlie, turns out to be very important, early in the story). She attends classes, plays the game of life with only a passing misgiving at her self-imposed severance from church services—which she does not, herself, understand. She’s going to be a nurse. Here, on the cusp of adulthood, she seems to have most things figured out.
That’s until she’s attacked in a dark alley by a shadow monster. And rescued by Devin. Well, to say she’s “rescued” by Devin might not be giving Anna enough credit—because the secrets Devin so closely guards serve only to unlock Anna’s own dormant power, and a sleeping secret identity of her own, one that tremulously cradles the fate of the world in her seemingly human hands.
Devin’s got a brother, too. And if you think your family has issues …
I have to be careful about giving things away, here. You see, Anna does not, herself, remember much of what she truly is, or was, and that story device serves two essential purposes. First, it’s critical to the plot, as we learn toward the end of the tale. Secondly, it allows the reader to reawaken with Anna, experiencing with her the fulfillment of her cataclysmic potential, even as she expresses her fears and reluctance in terms any 21st century teenager will relate to.
This is not a “pretty” paranormal tale—not unless you find self-mortification, immolation, and death by clouds of razor blades attractive. This is a real horror story and a starkly imaginative subterranean fantasy, complete with a tour through the city streets and sewers of the Underworld. Think “Dante’s Inferno” meets “Degrassi,” and you’re close to the vibe created here.
I’m guessing that what we have here is the opening salvo of a much larger tale. At its end, there is still much to be learned, and a virtually infinite landscape of conflicts still needing resolution. But it’s a self-contained story, as well, as Anna—and the reader—emerge from out of one darkened ally, exhausted but still alive, and look out onto a blossoming, and wholly new, story universe.
The capital H on “Hell” is intentional, by the way. But wait. I’m getting ahead of myself.
Annalisa Harold is a senior in high school, with family, friends, and an inexplicable interest in a mysterious boy named Devin. She pals around with her BFF Stacey (whose almost-emo twenty-something brother, Charlie, turns out to be very important, early in the story). She attends classes, plays the game of life with only a passing misgiving at her self-imposed severance from church services—which she does not, herself, understand. She’s going to be a nurse. Here, on the cusp of adulthood, she seems to have most things figured out.
That’s until she’s attacked in a dark alley by a shadow monster. And rescued by Devin. Well, to say she’s “rescued” by Devin might not be giving Anna enough credit—because the secrets Devin so closely guards serve only to unlock Anna’s own dormant power, and a sleeping secret identity of her own, one that tremulously cradles the fate of the world in her seemingly human hands.
Devin’s got a brother, too. And if you think your family has issues …
I have to be careful about giving things away, here. You see, Anna does not, herself, remember much of what she truly is, or was, and that story device serves two essential purposes. First, it’s critical to the plot, as we learn toward the end of the tale. Secondly, it allows the reader to reawaken with Anna, experiencing with her the fulfillment of her cataclysmic potential, even as she expresses her fears and reluctance in terms any 21st century teenager will relate to.
This is not a “pretty” paranormal tale—not unless you find self-mortification, immolation, and death by clouds of razor blades attractive. This is a real horror story and a starkly imaginative subterranean fantasy, complete with a tour through the city streets and sewers of the Underworld. Think “Dante’s Inferno” meets “Degrassi,” and you’re close to the vibe created here.
I’m guessing that what we have here is the opening salvo of a much larger tale. At its end, there is still much to be learned, and a virtually infinite landscape of conflicts still needing resolution. But it’s a self-contained story, as well, as Anna—and the reader—emerge from out of one darkened ally, exhausted but still alive, and look out onto a blossoming, and wholly new, story universe.
January 17, 2015
Let me preface this review by saying that I hardly ever read Young Adult novels. One of the exceptions I make is for novels by Paula Kennedy. I loved her last series and was excited to read this one when she asked me to review it for her. Keeper of the Gate starts out with an awkward high school girl just trying to find where she fits into the world. Plagued by an emptiness that she’s never been able to figure out, never able to find a guy, Anna can’t believe it when her head it turned by the new guy, Devin, only to find out he’s a bible obsessed weirdo. Just her luck. Devin seems to know more about her than he should and his vague warnings and Jekyll and Hyde behavior towards her should have her steering clear of him, but she can’t stay away. Her whole life changes when the truth of her past if revealed to her and the fate of the world is left in her hands. Devin was a complex character that both irritated the hell out of me as well as pulled at my heartstrings. His passion for his lord was palpable and his feelings for Anna were obviously a source of much heartache.
I absolutely loved this book! Kennedy again has developed characters that seem to have a life of their own. She was able to show Anna as an awkward teenage girl yet at the same time have her be a thousand year old (making an assumption on age) bad ass demon destroying warrior. The underworld she describes left a vivid picture for the reader as a backdrop to the breathtaking story of good versus evil and those in the middle that are charged with keeping the balance. Devin and Anna haven’t left my mind and I want to know more about their past, their future, and the history/future of the other Keepers of the Gate. This is a young adult book but I think any age from 14-adult would enjoy. I read this with my daughter (12) and she enjoyed it immensely and wants more!
5 STARS!
I absolutely loved this book! Kennedy again has developed characters that seem to have a life of their own. She was able to show Anna as an awkward teenage girl yet at the same time have her be a thousand year old (making an assumption on age) bad ass demon destroying warrior. The underworld she describes left a vivid picture for the reader as a backdrop to the breathtaking story of good versus evil and those in the middle that are charged with keeping the balance. Devin and Anna haven’t left my mind and I want to know more about their past, their future, and the history/future of the other Keepers of the Gate. This is a young adult book but I think any age from 14-adult would enjoy. I read this with my daughter (12) and she enjoyed it immensely and wants more!
5 STARS!
January 9, 2015
I am a huge fan of anything that Paula writes. She has a way with words that will have you feeling as if you are in the story itself going through everything that her characters are and Keeper of the Gate is no exception.
This is one of those rare books where you love everything about it from the storyline, characters, and the world itself. And trying to put into words just how much I loved it without spoiling the book has been extremely hard because I could just go on and on about how amazing everything is so I am going to just touch on a few things I loved starting with Anna herself. Anna has become one of my favorite heroines. When her dormant power starts to surface along with her secret identity she handles it well because I know if it was my destiny I don’t think I could handle it. I should say without giving too much away Anna doesn’t really know herself or remembers what she is and Paula does a really good job of explaining this in the story so to fully understand Anna you need to read this book. Another reason I love this book is Devin. He is just amazing! I have a huge crush on him. He plays a big rule in Anna starting to find out just who she is by the closely guarded secrets he has. And if you thought you had family issues wait until you meet Devin’s brother. But to know more about Anna, Devin, and what secrets they are hiding you have to read Keeper of the Gate. But know that this is not a paranormal romance. It’s a dark twisted horror story that is beautifully written as only Paula Kennedy could have done. And I am waiting impatiently for more and since I love this book so much I am giving it 10/10 Bloody Fangs
This is one of those rare books where you love everything about it from the storyline, characters, and the world itself. And trying to put into words just how much I loved it without spoiling the book has been extremely hard because I could just go on and on about how amazing everything is so I am going to just touch on a few things I loved starting with Anna herself. Anna has become one of my favorite heroines. When her dormant power starts to surface along with her secret identity she handles it well because I know if it was my destiny I don’t think I could handle it. I should say without giving too much away Anna doesn’t really know herself or remembers what she is and Paula does a really good job of explaining this in the story so to fully understand Anna you need to read this book. Another reason I love this book is Devin. He is just amazing! I have a huge crush on him. He plays a big rule in Anna starting to find out just who she is by the closely guarded secrets he has. And if you thought you had family issues wait until you meet Devin’s brother. But to know more about Anna, Devin, and what secrets they are hiding you have to read Keeper of the Gate. But know that this is not a paranormal romance. It’s a dark twisted horror story that is beautifully written as only Paula Kennedy could have done. And I am waiting impatiently for more and since I love this book so much I am giving it 10/10 Bloody Fangs
November 12, 2014
Anna has always felt as though something was wrong with her. What else would explain the inability to keep a boyfriend for more than a few days and the inexplicable emptiness she feels inside that not even the love of her adoptive parents can fill. Stacey and Anna have been best friends since grazed school and encourages Anna to give the guy thing one more chance. Taking that one chance on Devin turns out to be WAY more than what Anna ever imagined. Anna sees things and learns things that blow her mind and turn her world upside down. How does one cope with the knowledge that their whole life has been one big fat lie? That what you thought was real was only a cover to keep you safe from the King Of Darkness himself? Can Anna recover her memories and her abilities in time to stop The Dark Prince from rising and taken over the realms? Or will Devin fail and all be lost?
January 7, 2016
I received an eARC in exchange for an honest review. I made no guarantee of a favorable review and the opinions expressed here are unbiased and my own.
This fast paced read kept me on my toes from the very beginning and to the bitter end.
This young adult book has a strong plot and strong characters. The world building is amazing and you quickly feel drawn to Anna and Devin. I loved how the author's creativity pulls you in and immerses you into the story line.
I cannot wait to see what happens next! So glad to have had the opportunity to review this book.
November 20, 2014
OMG....I was blown away by! This story is amazing - the best thing I've read in a long time!!!! Devin...oh my god...I love him. And the ending..... You have to read this!! Ten stars!!!! I want more....
February 7, 2015
Review coming soon!
January 10, 2016
Reviewed on behalf of 2 girls who love books blog
This is a paranormal read and I have to say although it was quite a slow starter I really did enjoy it. Anna is a young woman who has a destiny and chosen path but she has forgotten everything about herself and now the clock is ticking until the gates of hell open. Devin is an angel sent to protect Anna and try and get her to regain her memory but can he succeed?
Follow Anna and Devin through the story as they overcome obstacles and Devin helps Anna remember who she is.
The story line is good with some excellent characters and fabulous twists and turns along the way. The story flows well and there is a real religious side to the story which I wasn’t too sure of if im honest. Don’t be put off but how slow the story starts because once it gets going it is really good.
It seemed to end a little suddenly I would have liked to have seen more about Annas gifts and what they are and what happened to Devin.
It is a very enjoyable read and would recommend it.
I rate this story 4 stars
This is a paranormal read and I have to say although it was quite a slow starter I really did enjoy it. Anna is a young woman who has a destiny and chosen path but she has forgotten everything about herself and now the clock is ticking until the gates of hell open. Devin is an angel sent to protect Anna and try and get her to regain her memory but can he succeed?
Follow Anna and Devin through the story as they overcome obstacles and Devin helps Anna remember who she is.
The story line is good with some excellent characters and fabulous twists and turns along the way. The story flows well and there is a real religious side to the story which I wasn’t too sure of if im honest. Don’t be put off but how slow the story starts because once it gets going it is really good.
It seemed to end a little suddenly I would have liked to have seen more about Annas gifts and what they are and what happened to Devin.
It is a very enjoyable read and would recommend it.
I rate this story 4 stars
January 11, 2016
Reviewed on behalf of 2 Girls Who Love Books Blog.
Anna is a senior in high school and planning to attend college for nursing. Anna experiences an attack while at school. The only one around to save her was Devin. She has been watching him for awhile but lost interest when she sees that he is reading a Bible.
She begins to understand that her life isn't what she thinks it is. She is put on this earth as a Keeper of the Gate, as in the gate of hell. Her destiny in this life was to reseal the gates of hell.
She discovers there are three keepers and one has came up missing. She is sent to find the missing keeper.
Devin was sent to protect her. He is her angel. He tries to help her remember her past that will help with the task at hand.
Anna is such a strongly written character. I found myself cheering her on.
I really enjoyed this book. It was slow moving at first but it took off rather quickly. I couldn't put it down.
4 Stars for Keeper of the Gate.
Anna is a senior in high school and planning to attend college for nursing. Anna experiences an attack while at school. The only one around to save her was Devin. She has been watching him for awhile but lost interest when she sees that he is reading a Bible.
She begins to understand that her life isn't what she thinks it is. She is put on this earth as a Keeper of the Gate, as in the gate of hell. Her destiny in this life was to reseal the gates of hell.
She discovers there are three keepers and one has came up missing. She is sent to find the missing keeper.
Devin was sent to protect her. He is her angel. He tries to help her remember her past that will help with the task at hand.
Anna is such a strongly written character. I found myself cheering her on.
I really enjoyed this book. It was slow moving at first but it took off rather quickly. I couldn't put it down.
4 Stars for Keeper of the Gate.
September 20, 2015
Pour in a half cup of Laini Taylor's "Daughter of Smoke and Bone"... and a half cup of Dan Brown's "The Lost Symbol"... and a half cup of Tracy Clark's "Deviate"...
*shake vigorously*
and you get a fast-paced journey of self-discovery wrapped in a quest of epic proportions, with a side order of romance!
Keeper of the Gate is a riveting contemporary fantasy full of angels and demons, mysticism and mythology.
*shake vigorously*
and you get a fast-paced journey of self-discovery wrapped in a quest of epic proportions, with a side order of romance!
Keeper of the Gate is a riveting contemporary fantasy full of angels and demons, mysticism and mythology.
April 24, 2016
*I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
This was a very interesting read that raised a lot of questions that will hopefully all be answered in later installments! We tag along with Anna, who has always thought of herself as a typical teen, on her journey of self-discovery (or re-discovery). When Anna finally gets the gall to talk to the new guy at school, Devin, things seem to spiral downward in Anna's life. She is thrown so much information and finds it extremely hard to process, and I don't blame her one bit! As she finds out more about herself she is led into a whole new world where things get stranger and stranger. And on top of all this new information she has learned about herself, she has to save the world as we know it, or all Hell will literally break loose. Now that's a lot of responsibility on a simple teen girl!
I did feel a little wishy-washy about the characters. One minute I would love how they're connecting and getting along, and then they'd be fighting like cats and dogs! I hope that gets resolved in later installments. Anna was one stubborn girl, and I have a feeling that will cause her more trouble than good. I also felt that she was a bit weak, but I think she'll get stronger! Now Devin, I would like him one minute, but then he'd go and open his mouth and ruin it! I'm not quite sure what his problem is, but hopefully he'll get over it soon!
Overall, I felt that this was a good start. I still have a lot of questions, and I hope they all get answered!
This was a very interesting read that raised a lot of questions that will hopefully all be answered in later installments! We tag along with Anna, who has always thought of herself as a typical teen, on her journey of self-discovery (or re-discovery). When Anna finally gets the gall to talk to the new guy at school, Devin, things seem to spiral downward in Anna's life. She is thrown so much information and finds it extremely hard to process, and I don't blame her one bit! As she finds out more about herself she is led into a whole new world where things get stranger and stranger. And on top of all this new information she has learned about herself, she has to save the world as we know it, or all Hell will literally break loose. Now that's a lot of responsibility on a simple teen girl!
I did feel a little wishy-washy about the characters. One minute I would love how they're connecting and getting along, and then they'd be fighting like cats and dogs! I hope that gets resolved in later installments. Anna was one stubborn girl, and I have a feeling that will cause her more trouble than good. I also felt that she was a bit weak, but I think she'll get stronger! Now Devin, I would like him one minute, but then he'd go and open his mouth and ruin it! I'm not quite sure what his problem is, but hopefully he'll get over it soon!
Overall, I felt that this was a good start. I still have a lot of questions, and I hope they all get answered!
Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews