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Dirty Angel
Dying Sucks Particularly when you discover there really is a hell. Aden thinks there’s no way he can avoid going down, but when an angel and demon can’t agree over his fate, Aden is given one more month to gain redemption. He doubts he can find a way to become a better man in so short a time. But it’s worth a try, right? Living sucks Particularly when you can’t shake free of an obsessive ex. Brody might be managing to hold down his job as a vet, but his personal life is a mess. If he doesn’t pull himself together soon, he’s going to be sliding downhill too fast to stop. One wet night, on a dark country lane, two worlds collide and destinies change forever.
286 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 29, 2016
37 people are currently reading
692 people want to read
About the author
Barbara Elsborg
100 books1,677 followersBarbara Elsborg lives in Kent in the south of England. She always wanted to be a spy, but having confessed to everyone without them even resorting to torture, she decided it was not for her. Volcanology scorched her feet. A morbid fear of sharks put paid to marine biology. So instead, she spent several years successfully selling cyanide.
After dragging up two rotten, ungrateful children and frustrating her sexy, devoted, wonderful husband (who can now stop twisting her arm) she finally has time to conduct an affair with an electrifying plugged-in male, her laptop.
Her books feature quirky heroines and bad boys, and she hopes they are as much fun to read as they are to write.
After dragging up two rotten, ungrateful children and frustrating her sexy, devoted, wonderful husband (who can now stop twisting her arm) she finally has time to conduct an affair with an electrifying plugged-in male, her laptop.
Her books feature quirky heroines and bad boys, and she hopes they are as much fun to read as they are to write.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 121 reviews
June 4, 2016
Loved it!!
Aden is not a good man.He takes what he wants and walks away and makes no apologies for it.Neglected by his parents from a young age he's always put himself first and has no concept of love.
Brody is a successful Vet.He's desperately trying to get his life together and brake free from a controlling and abusive ex.
Aden is at a concert one night when his world is turned upside down.
He finds himself caught between Heaven and Hell,with an Angel and Demon both wanting his soul.
Dante,a fallen Angel,is convinced Aden would make a great addition in Hell due to his many past mistakes.
Raphael(the good Angel) sees something beyond his mistakes in Aden.
When Aden grows a black and a white wing they both realize that neither of them can claim his soul......so they send him back to earth.
He is given 7 chances,or lives and has one month to become a better man.In that time he must try and understand what love is,what it means.
Brody and Aden meet when Brody accidentally knocks him over in his car and so one 'life' is gone.
For the first time in his life Aden sees something in Brody and wants more than sex.....but is conflicted.He knows his time on Earth is short.
This was a heart stopping read.I was desperate to get to the finish line to see which way it would go.
Do they get their HEA??....I'm not giving anything away at all.Believe me,you should just read it to find out.
Must mention Dante,the sexy as sin Demon.I loved his impromtu(or were they) visits to Earth is his different guises.Just a brilliant character.
This obviously has a fantasy element about it but it actually came across as realistic due to the writing.
I absolutely loved it and would definitely recommend for M/M fans and for fans of this Author's work......
Aden is not a good man.He takes what he wants and walks away and makes no apologies for it.Neglected by his parents from a young age he's always put himself first and has no concept of love.
Brody is a successful Vet.He's desperately trying to get his life together and brake free from a controlling and abusive ex.
Aden is at a concert one night when his world is turned upside down.
He finds himself caught between Heaven and Hell,with an Angel and Demon both wanting his soul.
Dante,a fallen Angel,is convinced Aden would make a great addition in Hell due to his many past mistakes.
Raphael(the good Angel) sees something beyond his mistakes in Aden.
When Aden grows a black and a white wing they both realize that neither of them can claim his soul......so they send him back to earth.
He is given 7 chances,or lives and has one month to become a better man.In that time he must try and understand what love is,what it means.
Brody and Aden meet when Brody accidentally knocks him over in his car and so one 'life' is gone.
For the first time in his life Aden sees something in Brody and wants more than sex.....but is conflicted.He knows his time on Earth is short.
This was a heart stopping read.I was desperate to get to the finish line to see which way it would go.
Do they get their HEA??....I'm not giving anything away at all.Believe me,you should just read it to find out.
Must mention Dante,the sexy as sin Demon.I loved his impromtu(or were they) visits to Earth is his different guises.Just a brilliant character.
This obviously has a fantasy element about it but it actually came across as realistic due to the writing.
I absolutely loved it and would definitely recommend for M/M fans and for fans of this Author's work......
May 17, 2016
"Worried you'll get lost?"
"I've been lost all my life ... "
"Not lost ... Just undiscovered."
Even if you don't believe in an afterlife or heaven and hell, think about this: If you died tomorrow, would you be proud of how you've lived? Do your good deeds outweigh the bad? Are you selfish? Do you lie? Have you ever truly loved and been loved in return?
In that shadowed corner of your heart where secrets hide, how do you judge yourself?
Aden has had a hard-knock life. Raised by abusive, neglectful parents, he's learned to survive by putting himself first. Aden isn't honest. If he wants your jacket, he'll take it. If he sees a pretty boy he wants to fuck, he does.
Aden is at a concert in London when his world comes to an end. He doesn't believe it at first, but he can't deny the wings, one black, one white, and the agony when they grow and are later ripped from his body.
Aden doesn't belong in hell, not quite, but he doesn't belong in heaven either. As Raphael and Dante fight over his soul, Aden is given another chance, or rather seven chances: ONE month, SEVEN tries, to resist temptation and find love.
Brody is a successful veterinarian, but his heart is shattered and bruised. Brody saves the animals in his care, but he can't save himself. Driving home late one night, Brody hits and kills Aden with his car. Except Aden is already dead.
Brody is as fucked up as Aden. He's been in a twisted, abusive, on-again/off-again relationship for half his life. His ex, Matt, is older and stronger; he manipulates Brody, stalks him, controls him. Matt's love is a sick obsession, and Aden is convinced he has to stop Matt before he kills Brody.
This is a dark, angsty book. There's on and off-page violence, as well as physical, sexual, and emotional abuse, including the sexual abuse of a child. Even though there are no warning tags, I was prepared for the pain because this is Barbara Elsborg, and she makes her MCs claw and fight for their HEA.
The men's passion burns so brightly, it hurts, but Aden doesn't believe in himself and Brody doesn't trust that Aden won't leave. Aden can't tell Brody the truth, not yet, maybe never. Because who'd believe a Dirty Angel come back from the dead?
Amidst the darkness, there is this: Aden's relationship with Captain, Brody's horse, and his insistence on saving the last stray sheep ("I am the good shepherd. I know my sheep and my sheep know me"); racing on the beach; triple-cooked chips; two children, saved.
Dirty Angel is intense and brutal and SEXY. It's a wicked fantasy of good vs. evil, right vs. wrong. It feels real because it IS real. Even if there's no judgement day, there's LIFE, the here and now, and we're obliged to make the best of it.
When I found out how Aden died (the first time), I cried. I can guarantee your heart won't come out unscathed. But despite the suffering, it's worth it. Love always is.
"You're going to fall ... Why bother trying not to?"
"Because I might fly."
January 7, 2020
I usually am not one to post about trigger warnings, but with this book it needs mentioning. I'll spoiler tag it for those who like to be surprised by these things.
I usually find one or more of those aforementioned trigger warnings to be a hard limit for me with reading, but I decided to read on because I love, LOVE Barbara Elsborg. I think very few authors do witty dialogue like Barbara Elsborg, and though this book wasn't quite as funny as some others by her, the dialogue still had that signature snappy wit about it. I really adore that about her stuff, and it is part of the reason that I keep reading everything that she puts out.
I usually am pretty good with angst, but this book was angsty. It really was a heartbreaking read at times, with MCs Aden and Brody both having such devastating histories. Both men have been abused and mistreated, and the internal and external scars that they carry are extensive. I was really in awe of how the author really made me believe the love story, without a "magic dick" solution to all of their pain and trauma. Aden and Brody had so much baggage between them that it could fill a jumbo jet. However, Barbara Elsborg didn't dwell on it in a way that made it impossible for the book to have lightness. There was lots of darkness, to be sure, but there was also some humor and happiness there.
Aden was returned to earth after death to make a turnaround in his behavior and beliefs to save his soul. The paranormal aspect of the story was intriguing, but it wasn't the most important part of the plot. Sure, the whole premise has to do with Aden being a "dirty angel" and the powers-that-be trying to figure out if he should go to heaven or hell, but the powerful parts of the story had to do with Aden and Brody and their relationship. That was the whole bread and butter, and what I think was the most successful part of the story. I loved the chemistry between Aden and Brody, and I really understood them as a couple. I liked how the author took her time developing the trust between them, which really fit with their characters.
I wasn't super into the whole sexual tension with Brody and his boss, but that was a side note and not really important to the story. I'm actually kind of hoping that we see more from the boss in the future- maybe a whole town full of angels getting their redemption??
I really liked this story, which is impressive because it was a tough read for me (see trigger warnings). I think viewers expecting an emotional, well-written, intense read will be very happy with this one.
**Copy provided in exchange for an honest review**
I usually find one or more of those aforementioned trigger warnings to be a hard limit for me with reading, but I decided to read on because I love, LOVE Barbara Elsborg. I think very few authors do witty dialogue like Barbara Elsborg, and though this book wasn't quite as funny as some others by her, the dialogue still had that signature snappy wit about it. I really adore that about her stuff, and it is part of the reason that I keep reading everything that she puts out.
I usually am pretty good with angst, but this book was angsty. It really was a heartbreaking read at times, with MCs Aden and Brody both having such devastating histories. Both men have been abused and mistreated, and the internal and external scars that they carry are extensive. I was really in awe of how the author really made me believe the love story, without a "magic dick" solution to all of their pain and trauma. Aden and Brody had so much baggage between them that it could fill a jumbo jet. However, Barbara Elsborg didn't dwell on it in a way that made it impossible for the book to have lightness. There was lots of darkness, to be sure, but there was also some humor and happiness there.
Aden was returned to earth after death to make a turnaround in his behavior and beliefs to save his soul. The paranormal aspect of the story was intriguing, but it wasn't the most important part of the plot. Sure, the whole premise has to do with Aden being a "dirty angel" and the powers-that-be trying to figure out if he should go to heaven or hell, but the powerful parts of the story had to do with Aden and Brody and their relationship. That was the whole bread and butter, and what I think was the most successful part of the story. I loved the chemistry between Aden and Brody, and I really understood them as a couple. I liked how the author took her time developing the trust between them, which really fit with their characters.
I wasn't super into the whole sexual tension with Brody and his boss, but that was a side note and not really important to the story. I'm actually kind of hoping that we see more from the boss in the future- maybe a whole town full of angels getting their redemption??
I really liked this story, which is impressive because it was a tough read for me (see trigger warnings). I think viewers expecting an emotional, well-written, intense read will be very happy with this one.
**Copy provided in exchange for an honest review**
February 11, 2017
This book was amazing !! It was hard to read at times, because this book contains several triggers, like (sexual) abuse and rape. It was also heartwarming, sweet, funny and sexy :)
One minute, Aden is at a concert, fucking some pretty boy in the bathroom and the next, he's standing in front of an angel and a demon, being told that he's dead. The being dead part however isn't even the hard part. It's the fact that they can't seem to agree weather Aden belongs in heaven or hell. Aden is bad, but there is also good in him. Aden has had a very hard time growing up and when I say hard, I mean "horrible". He lived with his abusive parents and when they died he went into the system, when he was 10 years old, where more people continued to fuck with him. This has led Aden to grow up the way he is. He could have made better choices in his life...but he didn't. The fact that he now has two wings growing out of his back, one black and one white, says enough.
Dante (the fallen angel) wants Aden to join him in hell. He thinks Aden is a liar, a thief, an all around fuck up and fuck around badboy, which he is. Raphael (white angel) however, thinks Aden has a lot of good in him and he has some proof of this in his file (he is also right). Since they can't agree and since Aden has two different wings, there is only one way to settle this.
Aden is send back to earth to try to be a good person and to find out the meaning of love and make someone love him. He will only have the clothes on his back and everything he does will be registered. So no lying and stealing....He has one month to prove, he belongs in heaven and within this month, he will have 7 chances (lives). Time is ticking...tick tock...
He ends up being run over by Brody on his first day. Brody is a veterinarian, who has his own fucked up past to deal with. He has been in a very unhealthy relationship since he was 14 years old, with his chemistry teacher, who's also married with kids. Their relationship has always been quite volatile. Their last encounter almost cost Brody his life. He wants to get away from his ex, but he doesn't know how to stop himself from wanting to be hurt. Brody was pretty messed up in the head.
Aden ends up staying at the ranch were Brody and his borther live and for the first time in his life, he's starting to actually care about another person more than he does about himself. But will a month be enough and does he actually want Brody to love him, when he knows he will only have to leave him behind...
I loved this book. It had everything I look for in a good book. There were parts that made me cry, made me laugh and made me hot. Aden was an awesome character. I loved him from beginning to end, I wish I could have an Aden for my own !! It took me a bit longer to warm up to Brody, because I just couldn't believe someone could be that stupid...than again, love makes you blind right...
I really hope there will be more books like this, because for me this was perfect.
5 stars from me !!
December 16, 2017
Barbara Elsborg never disappoints you. And yes, she did it again!
I loved this book, absolutely, amazingly, endlessly, thoroughly loved it. There was just so much pain and then consequent sweetness to make us forget that pain, the two things that I love to read in my romances.
The tug of war between being good and bad is something that most of us suffer through. There is so much hate and evil in the world, and we end up in situations where we need to decide whether to be the bigger person and ignore or give it tit for tat. But even if we make someone pay for the wrongs against us, our decisions pile up in our own karma list. The fight Aden went through to curb his extreme reactions and to become good, to get a chance at a life with Brody, to be able to feel the love he felt for Brody for more time, it just tugged at my heartstrings until my heart just gave way to him.
Aden’s unconscious good deeds, Brody’s slow and steady softening towards Aden and what he envisioned for them both in the future, Dante’s and Raphael’s interferences, Matt’s poisonous role, Des’ supportive role, everything had a place and a time, and everything contributed towards making this story a memorable one.
A valuable addition to my favourite books. ❤️
I loved this book, absolutely, amazingly, endlessly, thoroughly loved it. There was just so much pain and then consequent sweetness to make us forget that pain, the two things that I love to read in my romances.
The tug of war between being good and bad is something that most of us suffer through. There is so much hate and evil in the world, and we end up in situations where we need to decide whether to be the bigger person and ignore or give it tit for tat. But even if we make someone pay for the wrongs against us, our decisions pile up in our own karma list. The fight Aden went through to curb his extreme reactions and to become good, to get a chance at a life with Brody, to be able to feel the love he felt for Brody for more time, it just tugged at my heartstrings until my heart just gave way to him.
Aden’s unconscious good deeds, Brody’s slow and steady softening towards Aden and what he envisioned for them both in the future, Dante’s and Raphael’s interferences, Matt’s poisonous role, Des’ supportive role, everything had a place and a time, and everything contributed towards making this story a memorable one.
A valuable addition to my favourite books. ❤️
January 7, 2020
4.25 Hearts
I'm not sure if Elsborg is some sort of precog or what, but I do know this was written and released pre-Orlando, but reading it post-Orlando inspired some existential feels. When did terrorist attacks become accepted as a part of the fabric of our existence? When did they become a plausible happenstance when leaving our homes? Back in the day the number one fear of going out was not getting picked up by the popo on the way home from the club not whether or not you'd make it home ALIVE.
Aden goes out for an innocent night of fun and never gets to go home again. Instead he finds himself in a weird place with lots of ether about to stand judgment for his life. At first he thinks he's dreaming and can't wake up, but the fact that he can't remember going to sleep is troubling. Naturally, this got me thinking about those 49 people who maybe found themselves in a similar situation.
Needless to say I had some... moments but the level of romance Elsborg injected into Dirty Angel balanced out a lot of them. I found the experience soothing to an extent in the wake of yet another avoidable tragedy.
Aden is given a second chance-one month to prove himself worthy of Heaven, to find out the meaning of love which will decide his fate. Heaven or Hell. He has the power to impact how his eternity will be spent.
No money.
No lying.
No friends.
No phone.
No going home.
Seven chances at redemption.
Aden's truly not a bad person. He's been dealt a shit hand that has colored his worldview. He doesn't allow himself to get close to other people because they've repeatedly disappointed him. He has a tendency to be opportunistic and has used people, but he's far from diabolical.
Brody and Aden meet almost immediately when Brody hits him with his car. Aden takes off for fear of having to explain things to the police/EMTs and is discovered camped out in Brody's horse's stall the next morning. I really loved that horse. Captain is fussy, kind of intimidating and highly intuitive. That horse is a keeper.
Brody's a veterinarian who's trying to keep a low profile due to a past abusive/obsessive relationship, so he's moved to the country to live on the family farm. Brody has also developed a rather unhealthy addiction to anonymous sex which has gotten out of hand.
Both men have pasts that have shaped them and continue to affect them in many ways and both must battle their pasts to a certain extent to gain what they want most.
Elsborg is rapidly becoming one of my favorite authors for a couple of reasons. First and foremost, I appreciate that she doesn't sugarcoat life. Her characters usually have to contend with awful childhoods or tragedies or what have you, be able to come to grips with that before getting to the HEA which I find makes the reading experience more rewarding. Second, DAMN! can she bring the romance and the heat. This was swoony-I'm-gonna-pass-out romance. Sooooo much kissing and wanting and desire and sexiness.
Also, I liked getting my learn on with all the miscellaneous animal knowledge. The psycho ex-boyfriend storyline is predictable and the pieces fall together quickly, but that's not the focus of this book. Dirty Angel is about two men who have been knocked around in life figuring out if they're right for each other and trying to figure out how to get the love thing right. Or at least right enough to be with each other and make the most out of a second chance.
If you're looking for a romance that'll put a smile on your face and a swoon in your step, give this a try.
Trigger Warnings: on page violence, mentions of childhood sexual abuse, on page rape and terrorist attack
An ARC was provided in exchange for an honest review.
I'm not sure if Elsborg is some sort of precog or what, but I do know this was written and released pre-Orlando, but reading it post-Orlando inspired some existential feels. When did terrorist attacks become accepted as a part of the fabric of our existence? When did they become a plausible happenstance when leaving our homes? Back in the day the number one fear of going out was not getting picked up by the popo on the way home from the club not whether or not you'd make it home ALIVE.
Aden goes out for an innocent night of fun and never gets to go home again. Instead he finds himself in a weird place with lots of ether about to stand judgment for his life. At first he thinks he's dreaming and can't wake up, but the fact that he can't remember going to sleep is troubling. Naturally, this got me thinking about those 49 people who maybe found themselves in a similar situation.
Needless to say I had some... moments but the level of romance Elsborg injected into Dirty Angel balanced out a lot of them. I found the experience soothing to an extent in the wake of yet another avoidable tragedy.
Aden is given a second chance-one month to prove himself worthy of Heaven, to find out the meaning of love which will decide his fate. Heaven or Hell. He has the power to impact how his eternity will be spent.
No money.
No lying.
No friends.
No phone.
No going home.
Seven chances at redemption.
Aden's truly not a bad person. He's been dealt a shit hand that has colored his worldview. He doesn't allow himself to get close to other people because they've repeatedly disappointed him. He has a tendency to be opportunistic and has used people, but he's far from diabolical.
"I've been lost all my life," Aden replied quietly.
"Not lost," Brody squeezed his fingers. "Just undiscovered."
Brody and Aden meet almost immediately when Brody hits him with his car. Aden takes off for fear of having to explain things to the police/EMTs and is discovered camped out in Brody's horse's stall the next morning. I really loved that horse. Captain is fussy, kind of intimidating and highly intuitive. That horse is a keeper.
Brody's a veterinarian who's trying to keep a low profile due to a past abusive/obsessive relationship, so he's moved to the country to live on the family farm. Brody has also developed a rather unhealthy addiction to anonymous sex which has gotten out of hand.
Both men have pasts that have shaped them and continue to affect them in many ways and both must battle their pasts to a certain extent to gain what they want most.
"They prefer to swim in pairs with their tales linked. Sounds like fun, linking tails."
Elsborg is rapidly becoming one of my favorite authors for a couple of reasons. First and foremost, I appreciate that she doesn't sugarcoat life. Her characters usually have to contend with awful childhoods or tragedies or what have you, be able to come to grips with that before getting to the HEA which I find makes the reading experience more rewarding. Second, DAMN! can she bring the romance and the heat. This was swoony-I'm-gonna-pass-out romance. Sooooo much kissing and wanting and desire and sexiness.
Also, I liked getting my learn on with all the miscellaneous animal knowledge. The psycho ex-boyfriend storyline is predictable and the pieces fall together quickly, but that's not the focus of this book. Dirty Angel is about two men who have been knocked around in life figuring out if they're right for each other and trying to figure out how to get the love thing right. Or at least right enough to be with each other and make the most out of a second chance.
If you're looking for a romance that'll put a smile on your face and a swoon in your step, give this a try.
Trigger Warnings: on page violence, mentions of childhood sexual abuse, on page rape and terrorist attack
An ARC was provided in exchange for an honest review.
June 6, 2016
3.75 Stars!
I'm a big Barbara Elsborg fan. Big. Huge. I even read her MF stuff. And I don't read much paranormal, but I read hers.
This was definitely paranormal light. Most of the time it didn't even feel paranormal. And I really liked the books take on angels/demons.
But, this book took me forever to read. It was long, for sure. And the pacing was really slow, though it picked up some in the last 30-40%. Coupled with the heaviness of both MCs pasts I found myself not as engrossed. I wasn't just dying to pick it up.
I hated Matt.
And the way Brody defended him.....UGH!
Despite all of that...I wanted to see what happened with Brody and Aden. Would Aden end up in heaven or hell? Would Aden and Brody fall in love? How did Aden die in the first place? What would happen at the end of their month together? Could they somehow be together?
Bottomline, the message was good. The writing on par. The humor managed to lighten things up a bit. And as always Barbara Elsborg can deliver with the steam. Just a bit too long and slow paced for my personal tastes.
I'm a big Barbara Elsborg fan. Big. Huge. I even read her MF stuff. And I don't read much paranormal, but I read hers.
This was definitely paranormal light. Most of the time it didn't even feel paranormal. And I really liked the books take on angels/demons.
But, this book took me forever to read. It was long, for sure. And the pacing was really slow, though it picked up some in the last 30-40%. Coupled with the heaviness of both MCs pasts I found myself not as engrossed. I wasn't just dying to pick it up.
I hated Matt.
And the way Brody defended him.....UGH!
Despite all of that...I wanted to see what happened with Brody and Aden. Would Aden end up in heaven or hell? Would Aden and Brody fall in love? How did Aden die in the first place? What would happen at the end of their month together? Could they somehow be together?
Bottomline, the message was good. The writing on par. The humor managed to lighten things up a bit. And as always Barbara Elsborg can deliver with the steam. Just a bit too long and slow paced for my personal tastes.
July 25, 2019
DNF @ 40%
I wish it was more relationship-focused but alas we don’t get what we want always. The pace was so so slow for my taste. Considering all the good reviews, so it’s me and not the book. Hope you like it more than me!
I wish it was more relationship-focused but alas we don’t get what we want always. The pace was so so slow for my taste. Considering all the good reviews, so it’s me and not the book. Hope you like it more than me!
June 2, 2016
When I started Dirty Angel, I wasn't sure I was going to like it. Even though I love this type of story, neither MC was particularly likable. Aden came off as selfish and uncaring of anyone else, and Brody seemed rather whiny and pathetic - so I was concerned. I needn't have worried, though, I liked them both, soon enough.
The story was such a neat concept -- a young man has died, unexpectedly, and when it comes time for Judgement...things aren't so clear. Should he be Heaven bound? Hell bound? Hmmm...Seems our Aden is a bit of a bad boy...with a dash or two of good thrown in there for good measure. But what you see can sometimes be deceiving. Aden has spent his life - his entire life - just trying to survive. No one else cared about him, so he he did what he had to in order to survive. Coming into adulthood, those learned responses were all he had, so he continued using them, all the while, not letting himself get too attached to anyone or really even care about anyone.
Brody is a successful young veterinarian in hiding from an ex (Matt) who does not seem to know the meaning of "no" or "stop". Matt is not a good guy, at all. He began a relationship with Brody when Brody was only 14 -- Matt was one of Brody's teachers. Yeah... But Brody has the classic victim mentality where he blames himself for Matt's actions and also believes that Matt loves him. And because of Matt's grooming, Brody believes that violent sex is what he deserves, no matter if he wants it or not, so he is on a self destructive path that is bound to put him in hospital - or worse - if he keeps on.
So, Dirty Angel is not just about Aden realizing he can be better and then becoming a better man, but also Brody realizing he deserves better than what he has been given and striving for that better. Through the machinations of Raphael and Dante, the Angel and Demon in charge of Aden's fate, Aden collides with Brody...or the other way around. And from there, their fates are intertwined.
There was one thing that really bugged me, though -- I wasn't fond of the insinuation that non-believers are either morally bankrupt (Aden) or so emotionally messed up that they will let anyone abuse them (Brody). I'm going to assume and hope that this isn't what the author really intended. The story, as a whole, is about learning how to be a better person and figuring out how to be happy, and that's certainly a good message. And since the whole framework is a heaven and hell thing, ok, I'll forgive it. Mostly.
I do think that Barbara Elsborg excels at fantasy heaven/hell stories and this one is a fantastic addition to her lineup! And for those that are wondering, Dirty Angel is not a part of the Unnamed London PNR series. Dirty Angel completely stands alone.
-----
ARC of Dirty Angel generously provided by the author, in exchange for an honest review.
The story was such a neat concept -- a young man has died, unexpectedly, and when it comes time for Judgement...things aren't so clear. Should he be Heaven bound? Hell bound? Hmmm...Seems our Aden is a bit of a bad boy...with a dash or two of good thrown in there for good measure. But what you see can sometimes be deceiving. Aden has spent his life - his entire life - just trying to survive. No one else cared about him, so he he did what he had to in order to survive. Coming into adulthood, those learned responses were all he had, so he continued using them, all the while, not letting himself get too attached to anyone or really even care about anyone.
Brody is a successful young veterinarian in hiding from an ex (Matt) who does not seem to know the meaning of "no" or "stop". Matt is not a good guy, at all. He began a relationship with Brody when Brody was only 14 -- Matt was one of Brody's teachers. Yeah... But Brody has the classic victim mentality where he blames himself for Matt's actions and also believes that Matt loves him. And because of Matt's grooming, Brody believes that violent sex is what he deserves, no matter if he wants it or not, so he is on a self destructive path that is bound to put him in hospital - or worse - if he keeps on.
So, Dirty Angel is not just about Aden realizing he can be better and then becoming a better man, but also Brody realizing he deserves better than what he has been given and striving for that better. Through the machinations of Raphael and Dante, the Angel and Demon in charge of Aden's fate, Aden collides with Brody...or the other way around. And from there, their fates are intertwined.
There was one thing that really bugged me, though -- I wasn't fond of the insinuation that non-believers are either morally bankrupt (Aden) or so emotionally messed up that they will let anyone abuse them (Brody). I'm going to assume and hope that this isn't what the author really intended. The story, as a whole, is about learning how to be a better person and figuring out how to be happy, and that's certainly a good message. And since the whole framework is a heaven and hell thing, ok, I'll forgive it. Mostly.
I do think that Barbara Elsborg excels at fantasy heaven/hell stories and this one is a fantastic addition to her lineup! And for those that are wondering, Dirty Angel is not a part of the Unnamed London PNR series. Dirty Angel completely stands alone.
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ARC of Dirty Angel generously provided by the author, in exchange for an honest review.
July 22, 2016
4.5 stars!!!
Yea, I loved it. I was a little nervous to read this one, afraid it was going to be too dark for me, but I ended up losing myself in the story.
Aden North is confused. He was at a club, now he is waiting in line to find out if he will end up in Heaven or Hell. Is he dead? He doesn’t remember anything. When it is his turn to learn his fate, Aden and the two Angels (Dante and Raphael) discover he grows one black wing and one white wing, meaning he has both good and bad in him. Dante wants him in Hell, Raphael thinks he deserves Heaven. So he is released back to earth for 30 days to redeem himself and become a better person. After the 30 days, it will be decided, Heaven or Hell.
Aden had a horrific childhood. Neglected and abused by his parents, he honestly did what he had to do to survive. He grew accustomed to living on his instincts, not learning right from wrong, just survival.
Brody recently moved back to the family farm and is working as a veterinarian. He is hiding from his very abusive ex who will not let him go. Brody is broken and doesn’t understand the turmoil he is feeling. When he meets Aden, they both have strange feelings for each other. Feelings neither of them understand. Can Aden start anything if he only has 30 days?
The only problem I had with this book was the fact it was told in a 3rd person POV. It annoyed me in the beginning, but I got used to it and started liking how we knew what each person was thinking and feeling. Like I said, I loved it and would highly recommend it.
WARNING
Yea, I loved it. I was a little nervous to read this one, afraid it was going to be too dark for me, but I ended up losing myself in the story.
Aden North is confused. He was at a club, now he is waiting in line to find out if he will end up in Heaven or Hell. Is he dead? He doesn’t remember anything. When it is his turn to learn his fate, Aden and the two Angels (Dante and Raphael) discover he grows one black wing and one white wing, meaning he has both good and bad in him. Dante wants him in Hell, Raphael thinks he deserves Heaven. So he is released back to earth for 30 days to redeem himself and become a better person. After the 30 days, it will be decided, Heaven or Hell.
Hard to be good when he was so used to being bad. Hard to be a giver when he was accustomed to being a taker. Hard to care when he never had. Hard to move the protective shield away from his heart. Was he capable of changing?
Aden had a horrific childhood. Neglected and abused by his parents, he honestly did what he had to do to survive. He grew accustomed to living on his instincts, not learning right from wrong, just survival.
Brody recently moved back to the family farm and is working as a veterinarian. He is hiding from his very abusive ex who will not let him go. Brody is broken and doesn’t understand the turmoil he is feeling. When he meets Aden, they both have strange feelings for each other. Feelings neither of them understand. Can Aden start anything if he only has 30 days?
The only problem I had with this book was the fact it was told in a 3rd person POV. It annoyed me in the beginning, but I got used to it and started liking how we knew what each person was thinking and feeling. Like I said, I loved it and would highly recommend it.
WARNING
June 3, 2016
If the road to hell is paved with good intentions, what paves the road to heaven?
'Dirty Angel' is my first time reading a book by this author and all I can think is 'Holy hell how did I not know about her? Why have I not read her books sooner?' well for whatever reason I haven't so let's move on from there.
Whether you believe in angels and demons, heaven and hell or life after death really is irrelevant. What matters is did you love? Were you loved? Did you strive to leave this world a better place than it was when you came into it? What matters isn't what happens when we leave this existence, but what we do with the time we are given while we're here. These are the questions that face Aden when his life ends unexpectedly and he is given what most of us can only hope for...a second chance. A chance to redefine himself and find out if who he was is all that he can truly hope to be.
Dirty Angel was by no means a realistic book...I mean really? Angels? Demons? Nope no realism there but what it was for me was a believable book. I started reading this story and bang I was there, I was in Aden's world standing in line with him as he awaited his judgement and what I found at first was that Aden wasn't a nice person. What I learned as the story progressed was that he was a survivor and sometime the choices he made were the expedient ones and not necessarily the best ones.
Brody has spent the better part of his life as a victim and not even realizing it. But he's finally figured out that what he has isn't what's good for him or even what he wants.
Aden and Brody have each got their own secrets and their own demons that they're trying to exorcise. Aden is straddling the line between heaven and hell with only one month to determine where his eternity will be spent. Brody wants to escape his past and maybe find a little bit of happiness but he's just not sure how to make this happen.
It's in the blink of an eye one rainy night that these two men literally collide. This is not a story of insta-love but a journey taken as both men are forced to look at who they are, what they've done and where they're going. Aden has one month to find out what love means and Brody realizes he has one month to convince Aden that they could be good together. It's only as each reveals their secrets that they both begin to find the answers they need and begin to heal themselves and each other.
I found my self totally involved in the lives of these to men as they faced their challenges both together and on their own. As Brody shared his story with Aden, he broke my heart what was done to him was wrong in so many ways. That he came through this and became determined to reclaim his life and his dignity was in part due to Aden and how much he cared. Watching Aden as he learned little by little what love means and the caring and compassion that he began to show towards people and the animals he suddenly found himself surrounded with was incredibly sweet.
There were moments when I had no hope of doing anything but cry. When Brody, who was a veterinarian had to euthanize a dog, I was there in that moment crying for Sam right along with his owners, listening to Brody tell Aden about his past more tears and Aden...Aden broke my heart he wasn't a bad person to me he didn't deserve an eternity in hell but sometimes what we get and what we deserve aren't always the same thing. Along with the tears and angst there were laughs, passion, love and some very steamy moments.
By the end I loved both Brody and Aden, I really liked Karen and Des and while I liked Raphael, I cannot tell a lie Dante was totally my bad boy. Did I trust him...hell no, but he definitely knew how to keep things interesting.
As much as the actual story which I found myself happily involved in I liked that it made me ask myself questions...things like if I died tomorrow would I go to heaven or hell? Have I been loved? Did I love in return? Have I been the best person that I can be? Will I leave this world a better place than it was when I came into it? And most importantly would I tell other people to read this book? Oh hell yeah!
********************
An ARC of this book was graciously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
'Dirty Angel' is my first time reading a book by this author and all I can think is 'Holy hell how did I not know about her? Why have I not read her books sooner?' well for whatever reason I haven't so let's move on from there.
Whether you believe in angels and demons, heaven and hell or life after death really is irrelevant. What matters is did you love? Were you loved? Did you strive to leave this world a better place than it was when you came into it? What matters isn't what happens when we leave this existence, but what we do with the time we are given while we're here. These are the questions that face Aden when his life ends unexpectedly and he is given what most of us can only hope for...a second chance. A chance to redefine himself and find out if who he was is all that he can truly hope to be.
Dirty Angel was by no means a realistic book...I mean really? Angels? Demons? Nope no realism there but what it was for me was a believable book. I started reading this story and bang I was there, I was in Aden's world standing in line with him as he awaited his judgement and what I found at first was that Aden wasn't a nice person. What I learned as the story progressed was that he was a survivor and sometime the choices he made were the expedient ones and not necessarily the best ones.
Brody has spent the better part of his life as a victim and not even realizing it. But he's finally figured out that what he has isn't what's good for him or even what he wants.
Aden and Brody have each got their own secrets and their own demons that they're trying to exorcise. Aden is straddling the line between heaven and hell with only one month to determine where his eternity will be spent. Brody wants to escape his past and maybe find a little bit of happiness but he's just not sure how to make this happen.
It's in the blink of an eye one rainy night that these two men literally collide. This is not a story of insta-love but a journey taken as both men are forced to look at who they are, what they've done and where they're going. Aden has one month to find out what love means and Brody realizes he has one month to convince Aden that they could be good together. It's only as each reveals their secrets that they both begin to find the answers they need and begin to heal themselves and each other.
I found my self totally involved in the lives of these to men as they faced their challenges both together and on their own. As Brody shared his story with Aden, he broke my heart what was done to him was wrong in so many ways. That he came through this and became determined to reclaim his life and his dignity was in part due to Aden and how much he cared. Watching Aden as he learned little by little what love means and the caring and compassion that he began to show towards people and the animals he suddenly found himself surrounded with was incredibly sweet.
There were moments when I had no hope of doing anything but cry. When Brody, who was a veterinarian had to euthanize a dog, I was there in that moment crying for Sam right along with his owners, listening to Brody tell Aden about his past more tears and Aden...Aden broke my heart he wasn't a bad person to me he didn't deserve an eternity in hell but sometimes what we get and what we deserve aren't always the same thing. Along with the tears and angst there were laughs, passion, love and some very steamy moments.
By the end I loved both Brody and Aden, I really liked Karen and Des and while I liked Raphael, I cannot tell a lie Dante was totally my bad boy. Did I trust him...hell no, but he definitely knew how to keep things interesting.
As much as the actual story which I found myself happily involved in I liked that it made me ask myself questions...things like if I died tomorrow would I go to heaven or hell? Have I been loved? Did I love in return? Have I been the best person that I can be? Will I leave this world a better place than it was when I came into it? And most importantly would I tell other people to read this book? Oh hell yeah!
********************
An ARC of this book was graciously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
January 4, 2019
I fell so hard for Aden from the get go, what a character! I took a bit longer to connect with Brody, I just felt he kinda held himself back.
Both Aden and Brody had horrendous things happen to them in their childhoods that no child should endure, and given their pasts I felt the author played this just right.
Loved it!
Both Aden and Brody had horrendous things happen to them in their childhoods that no child should endure, and given their pasts I felt the author played this just right.
Loved it!
October 31, 2017
3.5 tirando a 4 porque la verdad es que cuando lo cogí (hace bastante) esperaba encontrarme con una aventura urbana mezclada con tintes sobrenaturales y poco más y en cambio me he encontrado con una historia que te golpea en las primera páginas y que te hace pensar en lo bajo que podemos caer como personas y en lo importante que es el amor, porque al fin y al cabo, es una historia de amor y redendión a partes iguales. No sé si es un libro que recomendaría aunque a mi me ha gustado mucho, hay escenas on/off de temas bastante fuertes, como el abuso infantil y las relaciones que son cualquier cosa menos sanas, y aunque creo que le sobran unas páginas, me ha enganchado de principio a fin. Sorpresa mayúscula y esta vez de las buenas.
June 1, 2016
This was really good, even though I did have some trouble with a few things.
Aden is dead. He died when terrorists attack the concert he is at. But it appears he is neither bad nor good, so the angel from hell, Dante, and the angel from heaven, Raphael, don’t quite know what to do with him.
So Aden gets sent back for a month. He has so learn what love is. To love and be loved.
So Aden gets dropped in the middle of nowhere with no possessions, except the clothes on his back. He then gets hit by a car when he is walking on a dirt road.
The person who hit him, is veterinarian Brody. Brody cannot believe he just hit someone, even though the guy seems fine. Aden ends up at the farm where Brody lives in a cottage, next to his brother, Des. When Aden saves Des’ son when he falls down the roof, Des offers him a job and a place to stay.
Brody and Aden get close, without them wanting to. Aden has to think about his life and doesn’t want to drag Brody down with him. And Brody has an abusive ex, who is still after him..
I loved these guys. I would have to say that the paranormal aspect of this was tinier than I thought it would be. Yes, Aden is dead, but this concentrated more on relationship and character development, than anything else.
The thing that bothered me the most, was how Brody kept defending his ex, even though the dude tried to kill him. That felt so wrong to me. It went on too long. I really wanted Brody to see the light, but he just didn’t.
And the end was a bit meh. I thought the last part could have used a few more pages. I felt there were some things that needed to be resolved.
But even though I had a few issues with the story, it was still very good.
Aden is dead. He died when terrorists attack the concert he is at. But it appears he is neither bad nor good, so the angel from hell, Dante, and the angel from heaven, Raphael, don’t quite know what to do with him.
So Aden gets sent back for a month. He has so learn what love is. To love and be loved.
So Aden gets dropped in the middle of nowhere with no possessions, except the clothes on his back. He then gets hit by a car when he is walking on a dirt road.
The person who hit him, is veterinarian Brody. Brody cannot believe he just hit someone, even though the guy seems fine. Aden ends up at the farm where Brody lives in a cottage, next to his brother, Des. When Aden saves Des’ son when he falls down the roof, Des offers him a job and a place to stay.
Brody and Aden get close, without them wanting to. Aden has to think about his life and doesn’t want to drag Brody down with him. And Brody has an abusive ex, who is still after him..
I loved these guys. I would have to say that the paranormal aspect of this was tinier than I thought it would be. Yes, Aden is dead, but this concentrated more on relationship and character development, than anything else.
The thing that bothered me the most, was how Brody kept defending his ex, even though the dude tried to kill him. That felt so wrong to me. It went on too long. I really wanted Brody to see the light, but he just didn’t.
And the end was a bit meh. I thought the last part could have used a few more pages. I felt there were some things that needed to be resolved.
But even though I had a few issues with the story, it was still very good.
August 8, 2016
*ARC won from Shh... Summer Buzz Book Event*
TY, TY!!!
Barbara cherry popped...
For a first Barbara read, it was definitely a winner!
Aden has been handed a unique opportunity to redeem himself. When his fate couldn’t be decided after his death, he was sent down again to the world of the living to prove (or disprove) things to the people who will decide his ultimate destination. For someone who felt like there’s nothing redeemable about him, turns out there may be some hope, thanks to meeting Brody.
Brody has been trying to move forward and make something of his life after someone messed up his mind. For someone who’s floundering, turns out there may be a shot to a better future, thanks to “running into” Aden.
I love the self-deprecating and dry humor that both Aden and Brody possess. It definitely added levity but it also made things more heartrending in my head. There are a lot of potential triggers in this book, so be warned. The things they went thru, they were vile and despicable. My heart broke for these 2. Curiously enough, as dark as their pasts were, it felt more sad than gloomy. Even more curious is the hopefulness despite the darkness. I think that’s Barbara ability to convey the strength of the MCs even when the MCs themselves don’t acknowledge it. Isn’t that what inner strength is all about? And I think Barbara’s words were chosen carefully enough that what could have easily led to cheese-dom just felt real and sincere.
Their union is smokin’ hot, but even hotter, I thought, were their kisses. There is so much emotion expressed in such a tiny act… le sigh...
I guess there’s a reason why I’ve been keeping an eye for a while now on Barbara’s books. Well, I mean, I guess I see now why a lot of friends on Goodreads are fans of her work. I think I am now too:)
TY, TY!!!
Barbara cherry popped...
For a first Barbara read, it was definitely a winner!
Aden has been handed a unique opportunity to redeem himself. When his fate couldn’t be decided after his death, he was sent down again to the world of the living to prove (or disprove) things to the people who will decide his ultimate destination. For someone who felt like there’s nothing redeemable about him, turns out there may be some hope, thanks to meeting Brody.
Brody has been trying to move forward and make something of his life after someone messed up his mind. For someone who’s floundering, turns out there may be a shot to a better future, thanks to “running into” Aden.
I love the self-deprecating and dry humor that both Aden and Brody possess. It definitely added levity but it also made things more heartrending in my head. There are a lot of potential triggers in this book, so be warned. The things they went thru, they were vile and despicable. My heart broke for these 2. Curiously enough, as dark as their pasts were, it felt more sad than gloomy. Even more curious is the hopefulness despite the darkness. I think that’s Barbara ability to convey the strength of the MCs even when the MCs themselves don’t acknowledge it. Isn’t that what inner strength is all about? And I think Barbara’s words were chosen carefully enough that what could have easily led to cheese-dom just felt real and sincere.
Their union is smokin’ hot, but even hotter, I thought, were their kisses. There is so much emotion expressed in such a tiny act… le sigh...
I guess there’s a reason why I’ve been keeping an eye for a while now on Barbara’s books. Well, I mean, I guess I see now why a lot of friends on Goodreads are fans of her work. I think I am now too:)
May 6, 2017
**4.5 stars**…It surprised me and I loved it !!!
Another hit for me from Barbara Elsborg. With a fantasy tale filled with angels, demons, bad boys and a second chance at life and love.
Aden didn’t have an easy start from life, far away from that, and it’s no wonder it hardened him. After a night at a concert, he’s killed, but at the gates of Heaven, Dante and Gabriel can’t decide of his fate between Heaven and Hell and they send Aden back to Earth with 7 lives, no money, no contact to his past nor lies allowed, and a month to understand what love is.
When back to the human world, Aden meets Brody, a kind veterinarian who tries to get back on his feet after realizing he lived for too long in an abusive relationship and escaping from it.
The development of their relationship is wonderful but not easy one, as Aden is constantly reminded of his past actions and the deal he made and has to interact with other human beings in a level he never had to before, and as Brody is full of insecurities and low self-esteem. And Dante is as eager to make Aden fall as Gabriel to bend the rules and give Aden some help.
Both Aden and Brody’s pasts are painful and their journey is both heart-breaking and emotional. But around all this angst, there are some hope for a second chance. And, because it’s Barbara Elsborg, it’s sinfully hot.
HIGHLY Recommended.
PS : Major hugs to you, Wendy, for gifting me this book !!! And I couldn’t help but add one of your visuals that summarized this wonderful book so rightly.
Another hit for me from Barbara Elsborg. With a fantasy tale filled with angels, demons, bad boys and a second chance at life and love.
Aden didn’t have an easy start from life, far away from that, and it’s no wonder it hardened him. After a night at a concert, he’s killed, but at the gates of Heaven, Dante and Gabriel can’t decide of his fate between Heaven and Hell and they send Aden back to Earth with 7 lives, no money, no contact to his past nor lies allowed, and a month to understand what love is.
When back to the human world, Aden meets Brody, a kind veterinarian who tries to get back on his feet after realizing he lived for too long in an abusive relationship and escaping from it.
The development of their relationship is wonderful but not easy one, as Aden is constantly reminded of his past actions and the deal he made and has to interact with other human beings in a level he never had to before, and as Brody is full of insecurities and low self-esteem. And Dante is as eager to make Aden fall as Gabriel to bend the rules and give Aden some help.
Both Aden and Brody’s pasts are painful and their journey is both heart-breaking and emotional. But around all this angst, there are some hope for a second chance. And, because it’s Barbara Elsborg, it’s sinfully hot.
HIGHLY Recommended.
PS : Major hugs to you, Wendy, for gifting me this book !!! And I couldn’t help but add one of your visuals that summarized this wonderful book so rightly.
May 31, 2016
I LOVED THIS BOOK!!!
Dirty Angel is a very unique and heart warming story about "Second Chances". I had a hell of a time enjoying this awesome book. Kudos to the author for creating such meaningful characters and such an unique plot to describe GOOD and BAD. I was amazed by the plot, character and setting with every page i turned.
Whats it about:
Aden North is the ultimate bad boy. He is a thief and a petty criminal. He is selfish and never hesitates in taking advantage of a situation or a person to aid his own personal gain. In one word: BAD. So, when he dies it is obvious that he will go to hell but due to a selfless act Aden finds himself straddling the line between Good and Bad i.e. Heaven and Hell. Aden is given a 30 days extension on his life to redeem himself by learning "How to be Loved" and "How to offer Love". His performance and ability to stay in the straight and narrow path of truth and honesty will determine whether he will go to Heaven or Hell. So, the half good and half bad Aden is dropped in the small town of Caterham for his one month in Earth. Here he meets Brody Sanders, a vet who is hiding in his home town from his abusive and crazy ex. The sparks fly almost instantaneously but is this attraction really meant to be??? Is Brody "THE ONE" who can give Aden LOVE??? Will Aden be able to find a way to go to heaven without hurting or disappointing Brody??? Well, don't wait and pick up this book to find out!!!
My!!! this book was crazy good. It had quite an unique concept with the Final Judgement and then a second chance to be GOOD. I liked the way the good and bad side is shown to be always battling in Aden's head. The bad side always tempts him to take the easier path but the good side encourages him to have strength to walk on the more harder good path. This book have a very deep and profound lesson about what being Good actually entails. Aden already had good i him, he just needed a chance to actually try and use his good side.
Aden North is a very complicated human being who had a very rough history of sexual abuse. His past is inserted in little doses throughout the story which helps in understanding Aden's lack of need to create a deeper connection with another person other than meaningless sexual encounters. The final reveal about his parents was shocking. Aden did what he needed to survive. The scales on his bad side is overflowing but one selfless act evens out all his past doings and earns him a chance to actually fall in love and live a meaningful life while making good choices.
Brody Sanders lives with the burden of a huge self- inflicted blame. He has been abused by his teacher from a very young age, which leaves very deep scars on his mind as well as body. Brody was like a boat without a tether and Aden comes in his life like the anchor he needs. he struggles with his past but he opens up to Aden, who finally makes him realize that his relationship with the teacher is "abuse" and "not Love". Brody and Aden both saves each other.
Brody and Aden's love was the best thing that could have happened to both. It starts with physical attraction but turns into love without them even realizing it. The guys had very hot chemistry. Brody is looking for a casual hookup from Aden, but for the first time Aden is aware of the repercussions of his getting involved with Brody. He knows he will hurt Brody eventually but the temptation of Love is too great to resist. Love finally sets them free.
The plot develops pretty quickly. The notorious demon Dante and the angel Raphael both try to influence Aden's time among the living. I loved Dante. He was persistent and a very very naughty Demon. The feather trick was a nice touch. What i liked most was that there was no sugar coating or excuses for Aden's bad deeds. Aden owns his bad choices and tries his level best to make good use of the second chance he has been given. The finale was perfect. It was not exactly sunshine and rainbows but the boys found heaven on earth through their LOVE for each other.
Bottom line, this book is hands down one of the best reads about "second chances". It was unique and beautiful and i enjoyed it a lot. It has some pretty distressing issues about abuse which is written amazingly well. This book has been a 5 STAR read for me and i would recommend to all.
Dirty Angel is a very unique and heart warming story about "Second Chances". I had a hell of a time enjoying this awesome book. Kudos to the author for creating such meaningful characters and such an unique plot to describe GOOD and BAD. I was amazed by the plot, character and setting with every page i turned.
Whats it about:
Aden North is the ultimate bad boy. He is a thief and a petty criminal. He is selfish and never hesitates in taking advantage of a situation or a person to aid his own personal gain. In one word: BAD. So, when he dies it is obvious that he will go to hell but due to a selfless act Aden finds himself straddling the line between Good and Bad i.e. Heaven and Hell. Aden is given a 30 days extension on his life to redeem himself by learning "How to be Loved" and "How to offer Love". His performance and ability to stay in the straight and narrow path of truth and honesty will determine whether he will go to Heaven or Hell. So, the half good and half bad Aden is dropped in the small town of Caterham for his one month in Earth. Here he meets Brody Sanders, a vet who is hiding in his home town from his abusive and crazy ex. The sparks fly almost instantaneously but is this attraction really meant to be??? Is Brody "THE ONE" who can give Aden LOVE??? Will Aden be able to find a way to go to heaven without hurting or disappointing Brody??? Well, don't wait and pick up this book to find out!!!
My!!! this book was crazy good. It had quite an unique concept with the Final Judgement and then a second chance to be GOOD. I liked the way the good and bad side is shown to be always battling in Aden's head. The bad side always tempts him to take the easier path but the good side encourages him to have strength to walk on the more harder good path. This book have a very deep and profound lesson about what being Good actually entails. Aden already had good i him, he just needed a chance to actually try and use his good side.
Aden North is a very complicated human being who had a very rough history of sexual abuse. His past is inserted in little doses throughout the story which helps in understanding Aden's lack of need to create a deeper connection with another person other than meaningless sexual encounters. The final reveal about his parents was shocking. Aden did what he needed to survive. The scales on his bad side is overflowing but one selfless act evens out all his past doings and earns him a chance to actually fall in love and live a meaningful life while making good choices.
Brody Sanders lives with the burden of a huge self- inflicted blame. He has been abused by his teacher from a very young age, which leaves very deep scars on his mind as well as body. Brody was like a boat without a tether and Aden comes in his life like the anchor he needs. he struggles with his past but he opens up to Aden, who finally makes him realize that his relationship with the teacher is "abuse" and "not Love". Brody and Aden both saves each other.
Brody and Aden's love was the best thing that could have happened to both. It starts with physical attraction but turns into love without them even realizing it. The guys had very hot chemistry. Brody is looking for a casual hookup from Aden, but for the first time Aden is aware of the repercussions of his getting involved with Brody. He knows he will hurt Brody eventually but the temptation of Love is too great to resist. Love finally sets them free.
The plot develops pretty quickly. The notorious demon Dante and the angel Raphael both try to influence Aden's time among the living. I loved Dante. He was persistent and a very very naughty Demon. The feather trick was a nice touch. What i liked most was that there was no sugar coating or excuses for Aden's bad deeds. Aden owns his bad choices and tries his level best to make good use of the second chance he has been given. The finale was perfect. It was not exactly sunshine and rainbows but the boys found heaven on earth through their LOVE for each other.
Bottom line, this book is hands down one of the best reads about "second chances". It was unique and beautiful and i enjoyed it a lot. It has some pretty distressing issues about abuse which is written amazingly well. This book has been a 5 STAR read for me and i would recommend to all.
December 11, 2021
DNF 34%. Sooooooo much talking!!!! Guys just don't talk like that!! They don't lay out all they're thinking into coherent speech!!!
Soooooo boring!!!
Soooooo boring!!!
June 10, 2016
Another epic Barbara Elsborg read, and God, can the woman can write raunchy, raw and scorching sex scenes **fans self**!! Yes, yes... OK fine, there are some triggers that you should look out for if you're so inclined (see above), but as with Give Yourself Away, the quality of the writing far outweighs any niggling discomfort you should feel. 5 stars from me.
Black and white feathers play a huge part in Dirty Angel, and for a really in-depth look at the story, I can only point you towards Dani's excellent review **thumbs up**, but as far as the story goes, another absolute belter from Barbara and thank you...I'm glad someone has finally given Heston's thrice-cooked chips the recognition they deserve!! :D
venture-out
November 6, 2016
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January 29, 2019
4.5 stars! Oh, I loved this! I loved the characters, the story and the development. Barbara Elsborg has convinced me that I need to go back and read her whole backlist. <3
February 7, 2022
Whoa, this book is freaking spectacular!!!
Is there anyone on the planet who writes better damaged characters than Barbara Elsborg? Not in my humble opinion.
The way these men heal over the course of the story is beautifully done. Poor, sweet Brody deserves every bit of peace and happiness he can find. And Aden, whose task is immense, comes so far in just a few weeks.
Simply stunning story, incredibly intimate romance, and gorgeous erotic lovemaking. Barbara Elsborg is a goddess!
Is there anyone on the planet who writes better damaged characters than Barbara Elsborg? Not in my humble opinion.
The way these men heal over the course of the story is beautifully done. Poor, sweet Brody deserves every bit of peace and happiness he can find. And Aden, whose task is immense, comes so far in just a few weeks.
Simply stunning story, incredibly intimate romance, and gorgeous erotic lovemaking. Barbara Elsborg is a goddess!
November 23, 2020
So many fabulous ratings and most of my GR friends loved this but it was just slow for me. I didn't love it and I didn't hate it. I guess it was just a case of not for me.
August 24, 2020
"You’re going to fall,” Dante said. “Why bother trying not to?”
“Because I might fly.” Aden glared at him.
............
“Okay?” Aden asked.
“Yep.”
Aden took his hand off his knee.
“Not okay,” Brody said.
Aden put his hand back.
“Okay,” Brody said.
Aden laughed.
............
Because we should be accountable for how we live our lives. There has to be a price to pay for choosing the wrong path, a reward for picking the right one.
...........
My first reaction about this story was skepticism. How could a bad guy who deceived, lied, stole, murdered, and fucked around have a second chance at resurrection and rewriting his fate by proving his value to be worthy of love or to be loved?
He himself did not even know, let alone experienced any of them while living. He douted himself and questioned everything . How could you love someone in a month? What is love? What is compassion? Kindness? Sympathy?generosity? All good humanitarian badge. He had none.
What he did have was a second chance.
( and a useful package from angel and demon)
This story held you captive with its unique and one-of-a-kind storyline. Aden and Brody were desperate for the same thing: love. Aden gradually learned to push past his old self to become a good man. Brody had bordered a secret for years and it haunted him every day and night. It held him back. It fogged him from the truth of deception and abuse.
Aden and Brody complemented, mended, filled, and lit up the new light, the new path and hope in the drakness for the better.
Aden was a dirty angel , and all it took to wash away that blemish was Brody'love.
“Because I might fly.” Aden glared at him.
............
“Okay?” Aden asked.
“Yep.”
Aden took his hand off his knee.
“Not okay,” Brody said.
Aden put his hand back.
“Okay,” Brody said.
Aden laughed.
............
Because we should be accountable for how we live our lives. There has to be a price to pay for choosing the wrong path, a reward for picking the right one.
...........
My first reaction about this story was skepticism. How could a bad guy who deceived, lied, stole, murdered, and fucked around have a second chance at resurrection and rewriting his fate by proving his value to be worthy of love or to be loved?
He himself did not even know, let alone experienced any of them while living. He douted himself and questioned everything . How could you love someone in a month? What is love? What is compassion? Kindness? Sympathy?generosity? All good humanitarian badge. He had none.
What he did have was a second chance.
( and a useful package from angel and demon)
This story held you captive with its unique and one-of-a-kind storyline. Aden and Brody were desperate for the same thing: love. Aden gradually learned to push past his old self to become a good man. Brody had bordered a secret for years and it haunted him every day and night. It held him back. It fogged him from the truth of deception and abuse.
Aden and Brody complemented, mended, filled, and lit up the new light, the new path and hope in the drakness for the better.
Aden was a dirty angel , and all it took to wash away that blemish was Brody'love.
dnf
February 19, 2020Couldn’t even get through the sample. Overly simplistic writing and ideology. Not my cuppa.
FEB 2020: Tried again. Couldn’t get beyond 22%. A thoroughly unlikable cast of characters.
FEB 2020: Tried again. Couldn’t get beyond 22%. A thoroughly unlikable cast of characters.
April 12, 2017
Really enjoyable, I started this one immediately after finishing Dirty Games - which I ADORED. This book, although it had so much depressing subject matter, really bad, I felt had a silver lining vibe to it, less angsty. I am definitely loving Barbara Elsborg - Thank you Judith who I can always count on ;)
March 20, 2022
I got a little bored but the plot is really interesting
June 11, 2016
This book wasn’t so much in believing about Heaven of Hell for that matter. For me it was about remembering about doing right, living your life to the fullest!!
Both Aden and Brody had quite some baggage. Aden had suffered through anything seemingly possible, from child-abuse, neglect, rape etc. It has made him a unforgiving person. He doesn’t let anyone close, he cheats, steals, anything to put himself first.
One day he gets killed and is being judged by Dante (angel of Hell) and Raphael (angel of Heaven). They don’t know what to do with him. Should he go to Hell of should he be allowed to go to Heaven.
He gets another chance on earth to see if he can experience a better life, if he can do right this time, if he can experience love and be loved.
A month and seven lives he gets to get it right this time. The first night he gets run-over by Brody. Brody, convinced he killed the man, meets him the day after at his brother’s farm. Alive…
After Aden saves Des’s son (Brody’s brother), he offered to help on the farm.
Aden and Brody become close but Aden has only a month. He doesn’t want to become too close to Brody and hurt him again by leaving again when he’ll die definitely this time…
“He didn’t deserve Brody. Aden almost laughed. Well, he hadn’t got Brody. He was just on loan for a while, while Aden learned about life and love.”
Brody has his own problems. He still is haunted by his ex. Although he is very succesfull as an vet, he feels very much a failure in his private life.
I really loved the guys together.
My favorite quote;
“Worried you’ll get lost?”
“I’ve been lost all of my life,” Aden replied quietly.
“Not lost.” Brody squeezed his fingers. “Just undiscovered.”
I would’ve loved more pages in the ending. For my taste it was all resolved a bit too quick.
But even so, a very enjoyable read!!
November 4, 2017
WOW
I was hesitant with this book at first because I read a few books from this author (not much but a few) and as good as they were, I found them pretty heavy. AND, I am not a religious person and the religions in romance tend to make me cringe...
I didn't know if I was in the right place to read that kind of book but... I do not regret to finally open that book! THIS WAS GOOD!
There is no religion here. Just a sweet Angel and a filthy (hot?) demon...
I loved how she introduced some paranormal in a pretty real world. I found English writers are so good at doing that, in books and movies. They just keep it real with the extraordinary!!!
Aden died in a terrorist attack and is now at the gate of heaven and hell. The Angel and Demon that are here to tell him where he belongs just can't seem to decide.
See, Aden is a bad man, he did a lot of shitty things in his life but the Angel agreed that the way he was brought to life and growing up with these parents well that did not helped.
So they agreed to give him 1 month back on earth to prove that he can be good and he can learn what LOVE means...
I really loved Aden. He was so real and so unapologetic. He knew exactly what he did and who he was. He just wanted to earn his right to have, for once, a normal life. With someone to love and who love him.
Brody was equally fucked up as Aden on a personal level at least. I won't go into everything that happened to him, it's heartbreaking!
Aden arrive in his life like a miracle, literally... He allowed him to open up and to healed his scars.
I loved Brody too. He was so lost. So confused, which is often the case with people who suffered like he did.
Aden and Brody together just fit and I loved watching them learned to care and to love.
Very good writing, as always with this author and very original story.
I was hesitant with this book at first because I read a few books from this author (not much but a few) and as good as they were, I found them pretty heavy. AND, I am not a religious person and the religions in romance tend to make me cringe...
I didn't know if I was in the right place to read that kind of book but... I do not regret to finally open that book! THIS WAS GOOD!
There is no religion here. Just a sweet Angel and a filthy (hot?) demon...
I loved how she introduced some paranormal in a pretty real world. I found English writers are so good at doing that, in books and movies. They just keep it real with the extraordinary!!!
Aden died in a terrorist attack and is now at the gate of heaven and hell. The Angel and Demon that are here to tell him where he belongs just can't seem to decide.
See, Aden is a bad man, he did a lot of shitty things in his life but the Angel agreed that the way he was brought to life and growing up with these parents well that did not helped.
So they agreed to give him 1 month back on earth to prove that he can be good and he can learn what LOVE means...
I really loved Aden. He was so real and so unapologetic. He knew exactly what he did and who he was. He just wanted to earn his right to have, for once, a normal life. With someone to love and who love him.
Brody was equally fucked up as Aden on a personal level at least. I won't go into everything that happened to him, it's heartbreaking!
Aden arrive in his life like a miracle, literally... He allowed him to open up and to healed his scars.
I loved Brody too. He was so lost. So confused, which is often the case with people who suffered like he did.
Aden and Brody together just fit and I loved watching them learned to care and to love.
Very good writing, as always with this author and very original story.
June 2, 2016
REVIEWED FOR PRISM BOOK ALLIANCE
4.5 Stars
When Aden’s life is abruptly ended and he stands in line for judgement day should he be on his way to heaven or hell?
This is the dilemma he finds himself in even if initially he doesn’t quite believe it.
Has Aden’s life been good or bad? In all honesty it’s been pretty bad but then another question has to be asked – was it entirely Aden’s fault? Really, what chance did he stand? It seems even the angels and the demons can’t agree on this as when judgement is passed Aden sprouts one white wing and one black. One good and one bad. He’s an anomaly so is sent back to earth for a month with seven chances to learn about love and to try and redeem himself.
Brody is a vet who has recently returned home, or rather run back to hide. He is trying to rebuild his life whilst licking his wounds. He has surrounded himself with family but keeps them firmly locked out of his life. Brody is broken and doesn’t look to be getting fixed anytime soon – until he hits Aden with his car, killing him, again, and using up one of his precious chances, and then suddenly, maybe Brody stands a chance.
Barbara Elsborg is not known for giving her readers fluffy stories and that is definitely true here. Both characters have to come to terms with abusive pasts both on and off page and it’s not an easy task for either of them. The attraction is almost instant between them but Brody is still getting over a relationship and Aden has never had a relationship in his life – his motto was always fuck ‘em and move on. Aden is a dead man walking – how is this supposed to work?
More than worrying about whether he will end up in heaven and hell Aden starts to realise more and more just how much he wants to live. Being welcomed into a family is a first, being loved is a first, being cared about is a first, mattering to somebody else is a first and he is suddenly blown away by what could have been. He becomes the man he could have been, should have been and a final selfless act leaves him back standing before Dante and Raphael.
But what will there decision be……..
4.5 Stars
When Aden’s life is abruptly ended and he stands in line for judgement day should he be on his way to heaven or hell?
This is the dilemma he finds himself in even if initially he doesn’t quite believe it.
Has Aden’s life been good or bad? In all honesty it’s been pretty bad but then another question has to be asked – was it entirely Aden’s fault? Really, what chance did he stand? It seems even the angels and the demons can’t agree on this as when judgement is passed Aden sprouts one white wing and one black. One good and one bad. He’s an anomaly so is sent back to earth for a month with seven chances to learn about love and to try and redeem himself.
Brody is a vet who has recently returned home, or rather run back to hide. He is trying to rebuild his life whilst licking his wounds. He has surrounded himself with family but keeps them firmly locked out of his life. Brody is broken and doesn’t look to be getting fixed anytime soon – until he hits Aden with his car, killing him, again, and using up one of his precious chances, and then suddenly, maybe Brody stands a chance.
Barbara Elsborg is not known for giving her readers fluffy stories and that is definitely true here. Both characters have to come to terms with abusive pasts both on and off page and it’s not an easy task for either of them. The attraction is almost instant between them but Brody is still getting over a relationship and Aden has never had a relationship in his life – his motto was always fuck ‘em and move on. Aden is a dead man walking – how is this supposed to work?
More than worrying about whether he will end up in heaven and hell Aden starts to realise more and more just how much he wants to live. Being welcomed into a family is a first, being loved is a first, being cared about is a first, mattering to somebody else is a first and he is suddenly blown away by what could have been. He becomes the man he could have been, should have been and a final selfless act leaves him back standing before Dante and Raphael.
But what will there decision be……..
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