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Xavier Knight #1
Knight's Fall
Xavier Knight was an angel—until Heaven kicked him out. Now he’s a private detective in New Orleans, trying to put his old immortal life behind him while avoiding Lucifer’s bounty hunters. But when his latest case uncovers a plot to end the world with a supernatural drug, he’ll need all the otherworldly help he can get to stop it.
An apprentice mage on the run, a nosy storefront psychic, a vial of angel blood, and a surly cherub are hardly the stuff of legends. But they’re all he’s got.
324 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 1, 2015
105 people are currently reading
698 people want to read
About the author
Angela Henry
29 books287 followersAngela Henry is an Amazon Charts bestselling and award-winning author of twisty mysteries, thrillers, and urban fantasy. A retired library reference specialist, she’s the author of the Kendra Clayton mystery series and the Xavier Knight series, as well as the thrillers The Perfect Affair, Her Pretty Lies, The Family Lies, and The Paris Secret. She also writes middle-grade fiction as Angie Kelly. Angela lives in Ohio with her husband and their spoiled Chiweenie, Gidget.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
September 6, 2017
Another good read!
Rtc
Rtc
March 17, 2017
Xavier Knight was an angel. Yes, one of those strange beings who do God’s work on Earth. Then, it all came apart and Xavier found himself (minus his wings, of course) among humans. What is an ex-angel to do? First he just tries to get by. Then, he falls back on his past life of helping those in need. Finally, he discovers a talent in this world for investigation. He becomes ex-angel P.I.
Angela (nice first name) Henry is world building in this first of a series featuring Xavier Knight. What better place to put X than in a city that is known for its spirits and spiritualists, New Orleans. Without giving up too much of the plot, the following should be enough for you to determine whether you want to get aboard:
1. The world is not what it appears to us “muggles.”
2. If there are angels, there must also be bad guys including: demons, shapeshifters, undead, etc.
3. There is an organization (not in heaven) that tracks all these “things.”
4. There is a threat to all of humanity that Xavier stumbles upon.
Yes, there is love in the mix, though mostly unrequited. Yes, there are battles to the death. Some of this is very adroitly handled, but Jim Butcher does not need to be looking over his shoulder.
Because Knight’s Fall is book #1, there are many points where Henry has to pause and give us parts of the world she has built. This slows down the pace in a way that she won’t need to do in future books. I don’t regret the time spent reading this, but I expect that the next one will be more engaging and we will learn more about Xavier, both on Earth and in Heaven.
Angela (nice first name) Henry is world building in this first of a series featuring Xavier Knight. What better place to put X than in a city that is known for its spirits and spiritualists, New Orleans. Without giving up too much of the plot, the following should be enough for you to determine whether you want to get aboard:
1. The world is not what it appears to us “muggles.”
2. If there are angels, there must also be bad guys including: demons, shapeshifters, undead, etc.
3. There is an organization (not in heaven) that tracks all these “things.”
4. There is a threat to all of humanity that Xavier stumbles upon.
Yes, there is love in the mix, though mostly unrequited. Yes, there are battles to the death. Some of this is very adroitly handled, but Jim Butcher does not need to be looking over his shoulder.
Because Knight’s Fall is book #1, there are many points where Henry has to pause and give us parts of the world she has built. This slows down the pace in a way that she won’t need to do in future books. I don’t regret the time spent reading this, but I expect that the next one will be more engaging and we will learn more about Xavier, both on Earth and in Heaven.
January 17, 2016
I must be brutally honest when I first started reading this book I was so done with this book after just a few chapters. In fact, I put the book aside and walked away from it with no plans to pick it up again. Yet, as I was looking for a book to read I came across this book again. I decided to try it again because when I read the summary I did want to read this book. So, I picked it up but without much excitement. Something changed and I found myself getting into the story and Xavier.
So if you are thinking about checking this book out be warned that it does start out a little slow but it gets better as you keep reading. I felt for Xavier. This is a good thing as it means I was invested in him and his mission. Also, I thought the story was dark but not so dark that those who like cozy mysteries would not like this book and fans of paranormal novels will enjoy this book as well.
So if you are thinking about checking this book out be warned that it does start out a little slow but it gets better as you keep reading. I felt for Xavier. This is a good thing as it means I was invested in him and his mission. Also, I thought the story was dark but not so dark that those who like cozy mysteries would not like this book and fans of paranormal novels will enjoy this book as well.
January 29, 2016
While I've read a book or two with fallen angels, have to say that Knight's Fall is the first where the ex-angel is a PI. In New Orleans, no less! With just those two facts, you know it's going to be a good read!
Loved the main character, Xavier! Despite being a former angel, he wasn't all preachy or goody two shoes. In fact, he was more than a little annoyed that he'd been thrown out of Heaven and was now mortal. But a guy has to make a living, so he becomes a private eye.
After the initial set-up, Xavier takes on a case that isn't what it seems and that's where the fun really begins!
There's a secret government agency, an addictive otherworldly drug with devastating results, and hints of a conspiracy that point towards Xavier getting his wings clipped because he was framed. And did I mention the zombies? Not your typical movie zombies either, but a whole new breed. Yikes!
There's also a secondary story of Xavier trying to track down the woman he loved, who also caused his "fall from grace." Strange that she no longer seems to exist, but what an intriguing explanation presented!
Xavier was front and center as the main narrator, but the secondary characters were just as good! While his was the main voice, the transition between narrators was smooth and I was never confused or disoriented by the switch.
Minx, Xavier's savior and roommate who just happens to be a world-famous supermodel/cat shifter, was fascinating. Wanted to see more of her!
Also really liked Madame LuLu, a storefront psychic who's the real deal, Granger the apprentice mage, and Marius, now my favorite cherub. Loved how in Henry's universe, cherubs aren't cute, chubby little cupids but rather the short, stocky janitors of Heaven. Talk about a mind-blowing revalation!
Thought that this was a well written story with interesting characters, a decently-paced plot, and an original take on angels. Already looking forward to Xavier's next adventure!
**Review copy received from Pump Up Your Books**
Loved the main character, Xavier! Despite being a former angel, he wasn't all preachy or goody two shoes. In fact, he was more than a little annoyed that he'd been thrown out of Heaven and was now mortal. But a guy has to make a living, so he becomes a private eye.
After the initial set-up, Xavier takes on a case that isn't what it seems and that's where the fun really begins!
There's a secret government agency, an addictive otherworldly drug with devastating results, and hints of a conspiracy that point towards Xavier getting his wings clipped because he was framed. And did I mention the zombies? Not your typical movie zombies either, but a whole new breed. Yikes!
There's also a secondary story of Xavier trying to track down the woman he loved, who also caused his "fall from grace." Strange that she no longer seems to exist, but what an intriguing explanation presented!
Xavier was front and center as the main narrator, but the secondary characters were just as good! While his was the main voice, the transition between narrators was smooth and I was never confused or disoriented by the switch.
Minx, Xavier's savior and roommate who just happens to be a world-famous supermodel/cat shifter, was fascinating. Wanted to see more of her!
Also really liked Madame LuLu, a storefront psychic who's the real deal, Granger the apprentice mage, and Marius, now my favorite cherub. Loved how in Henry's universe, cherubs aren't cute, chubby little cupids but rather the short, stocky janitors of Heaven. Talk about a mind-blowing revalation!
Thought that this was a well written story with interesting characters, a decently-paced plot, and an original take on angels. Already looking forward to Xavier's next adventure!
**Review copy received from Pump Up Your Books**
January 13, 2016
I received this book to give an honest review.
I love reading about fallen angels as they always seem to be fallen for a crazy reason. Xavier Knight is no exception. So when he is kicked out of Heaven and found by someone who is not human he is very lucky. What is he to do for the rest of his mortal life, well he becomes a P.I. and helps people nothing too crazy. Though when he gets a case it is way more than expects, not only is he uncovering something very deadly, he starts learning the reason why he was kicked out of Heaven.
I liked Xavier as a character as he seemed to sometimes find himself in awkward situations. The whole beetle incident had me giggling a bit.
I really enjoyed the whole way zombies were coming about now this isn't a zombie story but when you read it and see what is going on you will totally understand.
Will Xavier and the E.A. be able to stop what is happening or will it be too late?
I really like the build up of where there has to be a book two in the works and I plan on reading that one
I love reading about fallen angels as they always seem to be fallen for a crazy reason. Xavier Knight is no exception. So when he is kicked out of Heaven and found by someone who is not human he is very lucky. What is he to do for the rest of his mortal life, well he becomes a P.I. and helps people nothing too crazy. Though when he gets a case it is way more than expects, not only is he uncovering something very deadly, he starts learning the reason why he was kicked out of Heaven.
I liked Xavier as a character as he seemed to sometimes find himself in awkward situations. The whole beetle incident had me giggling a bit.
I really enjoyed the whole way zombies were coming about now this isn't a zombie story but when you read it and see what is going on you will totally understand.
Will Xavier and the E.A. be able to stop what is happening or will it be too late?
I really like the build up of where there has to be a book two in the works and I plan on reading that one
January 16, 2016
Xavier Knight lost his wings and was kicked out of heaven after he fell in love with a human and let one of his charges die. Now he lives with his cat shape shifter best friend and works as a private investigator. He doesn't expect the evil he will unravel with his latest case.
Knight's Fall is the first book I read by Angela Henry. I will definitely be reading more. It was intriguing and kept me guessing up until the very end. I love imperfect heros and Xavier Knight definitely fit the bill.
I would recommend Knight's fall for fans of supernatural suspense and urban fantasy. It is full of intrigue and action and a truly fascinating world.
Knight's Fall is the first book I read by Angela Henry. I will definitely be reading more. It was intriguing and kept me guessing up until the very end. I love imperfect heros and Xavier Knight definitely fit the bill.
I would recommend Knight's fall for fans of supernatural suspense and urban fantasy. It is full of intrigue and action and a truly fascinating world.
September 29, 2015
I received this book as part of a Goodreads First reads promotion.
I don't often give 5 star reviews, but I had to for this book! I enjoyed reading it from beginning to end. It is about an angel named Xavier Knight who has been given the boot by heaven. He now works as a detective in the great city of New Orleans. He finds out that there is a plan to end the world. He must solve this case using whatever help he can get. Unfortunately he ends up with a less than stellar trio of help. Will they save the world, read the book to find out!
I don't often give 5 star reviews, but I had to for this book! I enjoyed reading it from beginning to end. It is about an angel named Xavier Knight who has been given the boot by heaven. He now works as a detective in the great city of New Orleans. He finds out that there is a plan to end the world. He must solve this case using whatever help he can get. Unfortunately he ends up with a less than stellar trio of help. Will they save the world, read the book to find out!
August 29, 2015
Great book
This book was good from beginning to the end. This book was action packed and where else could , angels, magicians and a secret police agency all reside. New Orleans, is the setting of this story and it fits n so well, with the Nawlins folklore.
This book was good from beginning to the end. This book was action packed and where else could , angels, magicians and a secret police agency all reside. New Orleans, is the setting of this story and it fits n so well, with the Nawlins folklore.
October 11, 2015
Still chuckling
This was a really great story. There are lots of little tidbits that will, no doubt, show up in the next books. There's a lot of creativity at play in this story, such a great twist on the whole zombie thing. I can't wait to read more.
This was a really great story. There are lots of little tidbits that will, no doubt, show up in the next books. There's a lot of creativity at play in this story, such a great twist on the whole zombie thing. I can't wait to read more.
December 31, 2015
I received this as a Goodreads giveaway and found it to be a well written action novel. I enjoyed reading about the various twists and turns that the protagonist faced throughout the story. I'm looking forward to the author's next work in this series.
December 28, 2015
I received a copy of this book for an honest review.
Wow, I seriously loved every second of this story. It was well written and I was completely pulled into Knight's world. Amazing book, and I seriously can't wait to read the next one. This does end on a bit of a cliffhanger.
Wow, I seriously loved every second of this story. It was well written and I was completely pulled into Knight's world. Amazing book, and I seriously can't wait to read the next one. This does end on a bit of a cliffhanger.
August 9, 2015
Amazing
I finished this in a day and a half and loved every bit of it. Its captivating from beginning to end. I didn't want it to end. Can't wait for the next book!
I finished this in a day and a half and loved every bit of it. Its captivating from beginning to end. I didn't want it to end. Can't wait for the next book!
August 28, 2015
evil doings in heaven...an angel is framed and his wings taken and he is cast defenseless to earth. why? and by whom?
November 5, 2015
Knight's fall review
A little slow starting, but well worth the reading. Enjoyed the plot twists and turns. Highly recommend this book. Enjoy
A little slow starting, but well worth the reading. Enjoyed the plot twists and turns. Highly recommend this book. Enjoy
November 13, 2015
Wonderful imagination
I really enjoyed this story and hope there is another book to fulfill the story as it's filled with great imagination to bring a wonderful read !!
I really enjoyed this story and hope there is another book to fulfill the story as it's filled with great imagination to bring a wonderful read !!
November 22, 2015
Fallen Angel for a noir perspective.
I am not a fantasy reader. However this story was written as if I was reading a detective yarn with Bogart as a character.
I am not a fantasy reader. However this story was written as if I was reading a detective yarn with Bogart as a character.
September 14, 2022
Calling all of the Constantine Collective, the Sandman stans, the Dresden detectives, the Supernatural simps , this one is for you! Xavier Knight been clipped and canned from his job as a guardian angel. He has fallen from heaven and now as a mortal, completes odd jobs for those of the living. On a job that should have been routine, Xavier gets caught up in something way over his halo. We follow Xavier in first person perspective and then we get to change to third perspective and follow several different characters. Normally changing perspectives can through the pacing off but that does not apply here. Because of the clever perspective changes we get actual story instead of info dumps. This book also has realistic relationships (ex. Our MC has a roommate that’s just his roommate and there’s no sexual tension, just friends). And there’s a little bit of spice in this one. Which is fine because this book is about the mystery and adventure. It’s got cherubs, brains, necromancers, shifters, and so much more.
February 23, 2022
I enjoyed this book and read it in one day. When I had to put it down I was quick to pick it back up again when time allowed. I enjoyed the world created for this series and look forward to reading the next which I think is just out or coming very soon.
I only gave it four stars instead of five because sometimes it seemed to me the events were over the top. I felt this was a "pantser" book versus a plotted book and while everything works out there are times it is contrived.
All in all, I enjoyed the book. It was a wild ride after the story was set up. Any book that has me wanting to return as soon as possible is a GOOD book.
I only gave it four stars instead of five because sometimes it seemed to me the events were over the top. I felt this was a "pantser" book versus a plotted book and while everything works out there are times it is contrived.
All in all, I enjoyed the book. It was a wild ride after the story was set up. Any book that has me wanting to return as soon as possible is a GOOD book.
December 18, 2016
This is a great book!
I'd never taken advantage of borrowing a book on Prime, but I decided to take a chance with Knight's Fall. I was pleasantly surprised. The characters are well written and it speeds along with action and surprises. In fact, I started it this morning and read through, breaking only to run errands. I would have taken it along if it had been an audible version. I'm already looking for mor Angela Henry books! Excellent read.
I'd never taken advantage of borrowing a book on Prime, but I decided to take a chance with Knight's Fall. I was pleasantly surprised. The characters are well written and it speeds along with action and surprises. In fact, I started it this morning and read through, breaking only to run errands. I would have taken it along if it had been an audible version. I'm already looking for mor Angela Henry books! Excellent read.
January 3, 2019
This was actually better than I expected. I had it on my TBR list for months and finally decided to read it. I finished it in one setting. I believe this is the first of a series but it was published in 2015 and there isn't a sequel yet. I've looked at her list of books on Amazon and other than 2013, she is very slow to publish. I'm looking forward to reading more but not holding my breath.
March 1, 2024
Loved it!!!!
I’ve read a few of Angela Henry books so I’m familiar with her work. However this Xavier Knight series is different. I love the fallen angel angle as well as the men in black type of agency in the background. Great traitor in heaven story tied together with Knights quest to figure out why his wings were clipped. Can’t wait to start reading the second installment so I can find out what happens next👍🏽
I’ve read a few of Angela Henry books so I’m familiar with her work. However this Xavier Knight series is different. I love the fallen angel angle as well as the men in black type of agency in the background. Great traitor in heaven story tied together with Knights quest to figure out why his wings were clipped. Can’t wait to start reading the second installment so I can find out what happens next👍🏽
July 1, 2017
Really enjoyed the story. It's is different take with a fallen angel and a twist on the zombie theme. I wish, however, I'd know it was the first in a series. It was published 2 years ago (?) and the second book isn't out yet. I read over 100+ books a year so by the time the next one comes out I'll have forgotten a lot of the details and won't want to read it.
July 20, 2017
Great Book
This was a very intriguing novel. It was an unusual look at the life of angels and Nefphlim (spelling?). It is a little slow in the beginning but once the groundwork was laid, it took off like a rocket. Suspense and action and a dash of romance. I got this book for free in exchange for writing a review. I recommend this book to anyone who has a good imagination.
This was a very intriguing novel. It was an unusual look at the life of angels and Nefphlim (spelling?). It is a little slow in the beginning but once the groundwork was laid, it took off like a rocket. Suspense and action and a dash of romance. I got this book for free in exchange for writing a review. I recommend this book to anyone who has a good imagination.
August 20, 2017
Funny, a bit gory at times, a hint at romance. This story of a fallen angel was a quick, fun read. The author cleverly uses character names the complete opposite of who the characters are: Grace for a doctor was anything but filled with grace, plus other little subtleties. Nice descriptions throughout, well-developed characters, intriguing plot.
December 20, 2022
A new hero is born
Xavier Knight is good man…he started out an angel though. I enjoyed every part of this books. The world Xavier lives in is a dangerous and interesting one. You just never know when things are about to jump off. This story is full of action and very vivid descriptions. You usually don’t find both in urban fantasy, did I say I love this story? I loved it!
Xavier Knight is good man…he started out an angel though. I enjoyed every part of this books. The world Xavier lives in is a dangerous and interesting one. You just never know when things are about to jump off. This story is full of action and very vivid descriptions. You usually don’t find both in urban fantasy, did I say I love this story? I loved it!
July 8, 2019
This was a unique mesh between fantasy and biblical references. I wasn't as engulfed in this one as I have been other books by this author, and I didn't particularly care for the ending, but it was a good enough read to recommend to those who like Fantasy.
March 11, 2018
Excellent
Could put it down!
Looking forward to reading more about Xavier Knight and his new adventures.
Just great reading !
Could put it down!
Looking forward to reading more about Xavier Knight and his new adventures.
Just great reading !
August 10, 2018
Really fun book, loved the characters. I hope there will be a book 2! It seems like there should be but it's been a while so maybe not...
November 18, 2018
Different worlds
For a world beyond it held my interest! It was intriguing get I couldnt put it down! I won't differently recommend it!
For a world beyond it held my interest! It was intriguing get I couldnt put it down! I won't differently recommend it!
January 18, 2019
A frolicking good read!
I chose this rating because the author’s imagery was made utterly believable.
I like the way she was obviously caught up in her own words.
Good show.
I chose this rating because the author’s imagery was made utterly believable.
I like the way she was obviously caught up in her own words.
Good show.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews