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Angel Undone
alternate cover edition of ASIN 9781626227583
The Archangel Michael is tired. He fought wars and shoved his brother Lucifer out of heaven all before the Dark Ages rolled around. His role as protector of Israel now encompasses all of humanity, and while he performs his job perfectly, there's little personal joy in it.
Until one night in a bar when he meets Asher.
Michael isn’t sure what it is about the vulnerable, self-deprecating Asher that calls to him, but something about his restrained depths, gentle smiles, and encyclopedic knowledge of flowers tugs at Michael in a way that can’t be denied. Too bad romance isn’t part of his mission.
Facing an eternity of perfect submission to God’s authority, rebellion stirs in Michael. Questions of free will, angelic vocation, and the role of love and lust demand answers that just might cost Michael his place in heaven.
Warnings: this novella contains urban fantasy, wings, angels doing unangelic things, erotic content, and playful blasphemy.
Word Count: 25,000
The Archangel Michael is tired. He fought wars and shoved his brother Lucifer out of heaven all before the Dark Ages rolled around. His role as protector of Israel now encompasses all of humanity, and while he performs his job perfectly, there's little personal joy in it.
Until one night in a bar when he meets Asher.
Michael isn’t sure what it is about the vulnerable, self-deprecating Asher that calls to him, but something about his restrained depths, gentle smiles, and encyclopedic knowledge of flowers tugs at Michael in a way that can’t be denied. Too bad romance isn’t part of his mission.
Facing an eternity of perfect submission to God’s authority, rebellion stirs in Michael. Questions of free will, angelic vocation, and the role of love and lust demand answers that just might cost Michael his place in heaven.
Warnings: this novella contains urban fantasy, wings, angels doing unangelic things, erotic content, and playful blasphemy.
Word Count: 25,000
90 pages, ebook
First published July 18, 2016
About the author
Leta Blake
68 books1,824 followersAuthor of the bestselling book Smoky Mountain Dreams and fan favorites Training Season, Will & Patrick Wake Up Married, and Slow Heat, Leta Blake has been captivating M/M Romance readers for over a decade. Whether writing contemporary romance or fantasy, she puts her psychology background to use creating complex characters and love stories that feel real. At home in the Southern U.S., Leta works hard at achieving balance between her writing and her family life.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 86 reviews
July 6, 2016
Blasphemy that would leave my grandma open-mouthed and open-eyed in horror and my other grandma saying “Eh?”.
Well, it’s not that extreme, by if you are a little sensitive, this book is not for you.
I have read nothing of Neil Gaiman, so I have no way to compare.
This is the first book I’ve read by Leta Blake. I think her style is solid and the acid sense of humor kept me going until the very end.
But, honestly, there is little to be happy about.
The love story is off-off-off. And I’d like to say the fantasy/angelic theme was something innovative and great, but it wasn’t.
See, Michael, the Archangel, is given missions to save people on Earth. His task now is to save 40-year-old Jewish Asher, who has lived all his existence in the closet and is close to make a big mistake that would only push him deeper into his misery. Michael has to make him see light, and well, Asher does see light, in more than one sense.
I’ve heard this blurb before. It’s a well-worn topic.
I don’t know exactly where and when I heard or read it, but Lucifer being a surf boy didn’t sound as something new to my ears. I expected the badass angel to be something of the sort. Not surprised.
God being an asshole who gets amused mandhandling humans at his will was very typical, too.
The Christian part was broadly made fun of, but the Jewish part was a little wasted, in my opinion. Islam is only mentioned with their profet Muhammad. I don’t expect Family Guy or South Park here, but I think those little jokes could have gone further. Maybe the author has more respect towards these religions, maybe she decided the Christian religion was enough, or maybe she just didn’t dare with the other two big monotheisms. Whatever the reason, I was a little let down.
Michael has spent thousands of years in utter submission and obedience towards his Father. But this time, he’s compelled to initiate a rebellion, as his brother Lucifer did a long time ago. The reason is this human with his Father’s imprint on him that calls him like a siren that he simply cannot resist.
I saw no other reason for Michael’s desire to be with Asher. Yes, they have very hot sex scenes together, but their interactions are of the physical sphere rather than really falling in love, and their dialogues were so vague and cryptic I was growing a little frustrated myself, because they are obviously not enough to form a real bond. Insta-love? Probably. Insta-lust? Clearly so.
I couldn’t believe the love story. And much less, I couldn’t believe why Michael decides to give up the divine favor just because of him. I can understand he was tired of serving, or not fulfilling his own needs, of not having his own life. But I can’t understand Asher being the cause and end of all of that.
All in all, I’m really disappointed in this novella. I expected much more, more originality, a more daring scheme of things, and of course, a love story that would make me lose my breath. Unfortunately, my expectations were not met.
*****
***Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.***
Well, it’s not that extreme, by if you are a little sensitive, this book is not for you.
I have read nothing of Neil Gaiman, so I have no way to compare.
This is the first book I’ve read by Leta Blake. I think her style is solid and the acid sense of humor kept me going until the very end.
But, honestly, there is little to be happy about.
The love story is off-off-off. And I’d like to say the fantasy/angelic theme was something innovative and great, but it wasn’t.
See, Michael, the Archangel, is given missions to save people on Earth. His task now is to save 40-year-old Jewish Asher, who has lived all his existence in the closet and is close to make a big mistake that would only push him deeper into his misery. Michael has to make him see light, and well, Asher does see light, in more than one sense.
I’ve heard this blurb before. It’s a well-worn topic.
I don’t know exactly where and when I heard or read it, but Lucifer being a surf boy didn’t sound as something new to my ears. I expected the badass angel to be something of the sort. Not surprised.
God being an asshole who gets amused mandhandling humans at his will was very typical, too.
The Christian part was broadly made fun of, but the Jewish part was a little wasted, in my opinion. Islam is only mentioned with their profet Muhammad. I don’t expect Family Guy or South Park here, but I think those little jokes could have gone further. Maybe the author has more respect towards these religions, maybe she decided the Christian religion was enough, or maybe she just didn’t dare with the other two big monotheisms. Whatever the reason, I was a little let down.
Michael has spent thousands of years in utter submission and obedience towards his Father. But this time, he’s compelled to initiate a rebellion, as his brother Lucifer did a long time ago. The reason is this human with his Father’s imprint on him that calls him like a siren that he simply cannot resist.
I saw no other reason for Michael’s desire to be with Asher. Yes, they have very hot sex scenes together, but their interactions are of the physical sphere rather than really falling in love, and their dialogues were so vague and cryptic I was growing a little frustrated myself, because they are obviously not enough to form a real bond. Insta-love? Probably. Insta-lust? Clearly so.
I couldn’t believe the love story. And much less, I couldn’t believe why Michael decides to give up the divine favor just because of him. I can understand he was tired of serving, or not fulfilling his own needs, of not having his own life. But I can’t understand Asher being the cause and end of all of that.
All in all, I’m really disappointed in this novella. I expected much more, more originality, a more daring scheme of things, and of course, a love story that would make me lose my breath. Unfortunately, my expectations were not met.
*****
***Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.***
July 1, 2016
On the night that 40 year old virgin, Asher Rosenthal decides he's finally going to be intimate with a man, God himself sends Asher a guardian angel, to keep him from making a terrible, potentially dangerous mistake.
And since the Archangel Michael thinks God incapable of making mistakes, the immediate, unmistakable draw that Michael feels for Archer isn't even questioned. It just is.
But when Michael wants to continue his budding romantic relationship with Asher, long after Asher's life has been saved, that act of defiance against God's orders brings up all sorts of questions for the Archangel.
Most of the action in this short read happened in one of two places: either between Michael's ears or between his legs.
Lots of page time is devoted to what might happen if Michael decides to follow his heart and choose a life with Asher -- over his current life with God. Scary, contemplative stuff, that, right?
And most of the remaining pages were devoted to the rubbing of naughty bits in all the best places, which was pretty steamy, particularly if you have a thing for wings.
I enjoyed both characters, Michael slightly more than Asher, but my only real complaint was that, other than it didn't feel that there was a lot that actually happened event-wise, so the story was a bit light on the external conflict for my usual tastes.
Overall, I'd rate this one around 3.5 stars.
------------------------------------------------
My ARC copy of the book was provided by the author in exchange for a fair, unbiased review.
Read
June 30, 2016Plenty of playful blasphemy in this little book! May we all be forgiven! ;)
July 9, 2016
As angels go, the Archangel Michael has some pretty serious cred. He's referred to as a warrior of God who led the angelic army in triumphing over the powers of evil, casting his brother Lucifer out of heaven. He's also known as an advocate and protector of the Jewish people.So what is this angelic warrior doing in a bar trying to pick up Asher, a 40-yr-old Jewish virgin who lives with his parents? Michael's mission from the Father is to protect and comfort desperate souls, sometimes in a very ... intimate manner. And there is something in Asher's very soul that speaks to Michael, that makes him wonder about falling ... falling in love, falling away from the grace of God ... falling from heaven.
How humans ever get any work accomplished when Father allows them to share this, he has no idea. No wonder their church and culture have so twisted his father's words and creation in the attempt to put orgasm into a box.
Along the way, Michael gets some advice from his brother, Lucifer, who works in a surf shop. He's tan and gorgeous with blonde hair hanging in long waves, blue eyes - after all, he is a fallen angel.
I loved the concept of this book and thought the implementation was all kinds of wonderful. Leta Blake had me in the palm of her hand .... until about 85%. But, all in all, a very solid 4 stars and I'd like to read more similar stuff from Leta Blake.
I received an ARC of this book from Indigo Marketing in exchange for an honest review..
Visit my blog, Sinfully Good Gay Book Reviews
June 30, 2016
I have mixed feelings about Angel Undone. On one hand, I appreciated how different it was. It's not often we have a love story between an Archangel and a human. There were more positives than negatives so let us begin with the positives first:
My highlights:
-Plot. As I mentioned above the plot- it was different and creative. There's no doubt Leta Blake is an excellent writer.
-Humor. There were some hilarious parts courtesy of Lucifer (Archangel Michael's brother).
-The steam. It was sexy and... imaginative.
-The flow (for the most part) was effortless.
-The love story was incredibly sweet and will have you rooting for the characters to get their HEA.
-The end was nicely executed.
But-
-There was a time lapse in the story that didn't quite make sense to me that brought the rating down. It added nothing to the story. Since Angel Undone is a novella, the time lapse stood out like a sore thumb.
-The length. This story could've been longer for sure.
In the end, would I recommend this book? Yes, it was unique, sexy, and thought provoking. 3.80 Stars
July 3, 2016
This one didn't work for me at all, which makes me all kinds of sad because Leta Blake and dirty angel.
But Michael's not so dirty, just confused. His brother Lucifer runs a surf shop and is portrayed as kind of a good guy, even if he does stir up trouble.
The theology here made not a lick of sense. Asher's Jewish, though, which is cool, cause I'm all about the Jews.
However, the present-tense, third-person POV rarely works for me, and even though I found it bearable here, I never fully connected with the MCs. The story felt rushed and abstract, like I was reading a parable of some kind vs. a romance.
I also don't consider the ending a HEA.
But Michael's not so dirty, just confused. His brother Lucifer runs a surf shop and is portrayed as kind of a good guy, even if he does stir up trouble.
The theology here made not a lick of sense. Asher's Jewish, though, which is cool, cause I'm all about the Jews.
However, the present-tense, third-person POV rarely works for me, and even though I found it bearable here, I never fully connected with the MCs. The story felt rushed and abstract, like I was reading a parable of some kind vs. a romance.
I also don't consider the ending a HEA.
August 18, 2019
** 3.25 stars **
I can't say I particularly liked either Michael or Asher, but I loved the whole angel falls in love with and chooses mortal man. There was some steam, some bits and pieces of history as told in religious texts. What made me like it less was that despite Michael's choice to stay on Earth with Asher, he didn't give up his immortality or any of his powers, so all of the angst about making a choice was kind of moot point since nothing really changed for Michael except a loss of "connection" to Father. If he became mortal and sacrificed his divinity, yeah, I would have loved it. This was nice story though. I enjoyed Lucifer's glib no nonsense attitude for everything. And yet despite all that he was there to listen to Michael like any brother would.
I can't say I particularly liked either Michael or Asher, but I loved the whole angel falls in love with and chooses mortal man. There was some steam, some bits and pieces of history as told in religious texts. What made me like it less was that despite Michael's choice to stay on Earth with Asher, he didn't give up his immortality or any of his powers, so all of the angst about making a choice was kind of moot point since nothing really changed for Michael except a loss of "connection" to Father. If he became mortal and sacrificed his divinity, yeah, I would have loved it. This was nice story though. I enjoyed Lucifer's glib no nonsense attitude for everything. And yet despite all that he was there to listen to Michael like any brother would.
August 13, 2019
Dear Book Blurb: You had me at "playful blasphemy"!
...and this story absolutely delivered. Loved this. 4.5 Stars
...and this story absolutely delivered. Loved this. 4.5 Stars
July 3, 2016
3,5 stars
This was a difficult one to rate. I sat here with my thinking cap on for quite a while. Clicking on the stars finally helped me to decide. 4 stars - really liked. 3 stars - liked it. It is definitely somewhere in-between.
I can see why Leta Blake acknowledges Neil Gaiman in her preface for inspiration. I've read 'Good Omens' by Neil Gaiman and Terry Pratchett, and the tone of 'Angel Undone' is very similar. There is a lot of sharp sarcasm and humour close to the bone. Add a very naughty angel and you get the idea.
But is Michael really that naughty? Well, he does have hot sex with Archer (and right, I did love the thing with the wings, I could easily go for that, please don't judge me), but actually that isn't the problem. No, it is the fact that Michael falls in love with Archer and he isn't supposed to do that because he is an angel, who has strict guidelines what to do do and not to do.
Michael knows he is in trouble right from the start, but he can't help himself. He isn't able to deny himself the glorious feeling of love, even though he is aware he is going to have to pay for it eventually.
I must say the whole scenario raised about 101 questions, the main ones being:
Why would a benevolent God play with Michael the way he does and test him in this cruel way ? The question is never answered in the story.
Does Father want Michael to choose love? I wasn't sure. It was never made clear.
Why would a God of love 'punish' Michael for loving?
Or is what looks like punishment actually God's way of releasing Michael to love? Archer's comment at the end that they might hint at that.
Mmmm. I still haven't made up my mind. But imo God wasn't portrayed as a particularly good guy most of the time, with a lot of critique attached to his 'working methods'. I am not very religious, so I didn't mind, but if you are, maybe this is not the book for you.
There can be no doubt that this is a most interesting, thought-provoking read and if you fancy something different you should definitely go for it!
Recommended.
ARC received from author via Indigo Marketing And Design in exchange for an honest review.
This was a difficult one to rate. I sat here with my thinking cap on for quite a while. Clicking on the stars finally helped me to decide. 4 stars - really liked. 3 stars - liked it. It is definitely somewhere in-between.
I can see why Leta Blake acknowledges Neil Gaiman in her preface for inspiration. I've read 'Good Omens' by Neil Gaiman and Terry Pratchett, and the tone of 'Angel Undone' is very similar. There is a lot of sharp sarcasm and humour close to the bone. Add a very naughty angel and you get the idea.
But is Michael really that naughty? Well, he does have hot sex with Archer (and right, I did love the thing with the wings, I could easily go for that, please don't judge me), but actually that isn't the problem. No, it is the fact that Michael falls in love with Archer and he isn't supposed to do that because he is an angel, who has strict guidelines what to do do and not to do.
Michael knows he is in trouble right from the start, but he can't help himself. He isn't able to deny himself the glorious feeling of love, even though he is aware he is going to have to pay for it eventually.
I must say the whole scenario raised about 101 questions, the main ones being:
Why would a benevolent God play with Michael the way he does and test him in this cruel way ? The question is never answered in the story.
Does Father want Michael to choose love? I wasn't sure. It was never made clear.
Why would a God of love 'punish' Michael for loving?
Or is what looks like punishment actually God's way of releasing Michael to love? Archer's comment at the end that they might hint at that.
Mmmm. I still haven't made up my mind. But imo God wasn't portrayed as a particularly good guy most of the time, with a lot of critique attached to his 'working methods'. I am not very religious, so I didn't mind, but if you are, maybe this is not the book for you.
There can be no doubt that this is a most interesting, thought-provoking read and if you fancy something different you should definitely go for it!
Recommended.
ARC received from author via Indigo Marketing And Design in exchange for an honest review.
Did Not Finish
April 3, 2023I’ve been digging around in the proverbial basement of my kindle and unearthing (a) books I’ve read and yet don’t remember, and (b) books I’ve purchased and never gotten around to reading. I’m on a mission to clear some of these out while rating and possibly deleting some along the way. This is one of those books.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Rating/opinion:
Zzzzzzzzz….
DNF, no rating
Love the idea…. But wow was I bored. According to my kindle I’ve read part of this before but abandoned it and I can see why.
Book type: read-but-don’t-remember
Purchased: 2018
Verdict: delete
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Rating/opinion:
Zzzzzzzzz….
DNF, no rating
Love the idea…. But wow was I bored. According to my kindle I’ve read part of this before but abandoned it and I can see why.
Book type: read-but-don’t-remember
Purchased: 2018
Verdict: delete
July 3, 2016
After the Great Battle, the Archangel Michael is in the business of protection. He is sent by His Father to the souls that need saving emotionally or physically. One such mission brings him to Asher Rosenthal. He is a 40 year old man about to make a mistake that can cost him his life. So Michael swoops in to save Asher. What would have been a routine mission for Michael turns out to be something bigger when he starts developing feelings for Asher. He has not felt such intense attraction or feelings for a human being in a long time and Asher becomes more than a mission to him. One night is not enough, and though he is scared of getting cut off from God, Michael braves God’s wrath to be with Asher.
This is a novella, so it’s short and most of the book was about Michael’s inner war deciding whether to go against God or not. Michael can’t help but defy God when he chooses to see Asher even after his work is done. There was very little about Asher and Michael’s relationship. Almost all the time Michael is waiting to fall from God’s grace because of his defiance and the rest is filled with some sexy/sweaty hook-ups between Asher and Michael.
I liked the inclusion of Lucifer in the story. He is working as a surfboard shop owner and is always ready to make Michael rebel against God. He was Naughty! (What more can you expect from Satan!!)
The story is unique and I liked it till almost 80% of it but that time gap took a huge part off the short novella. I found that part of the plot lacking. I loved the writing and I think it would have worked better as a short novel than a novella. I wanted more Asher and Michael time and just not them having sex. Plot wise there was very little happening throughout. More events in the story than the constant debate in Michael’s head would have been great. So there, I enjoyed it but did not love it.
*This review has been cross posted at GayBookReviews*
July 2, 2016
I just finished this book and I'm sat here typing, deleting and retyping...I really don't know what to say about this book.
Don't get me wrong I enjoyed it, the writing is great as anything written by Leta Blake is.
The archangel Michael falls in love with his 'mark' 40 year old virgin, Asher.
Cue lots of wrath from God, worry from Michael about what will happen if he leaves his father and follows his heart with Asher, along with amusing appearances by Lucifer.
Yes really.
I mean it shouldn't work...but somehow it does.
I really enjoyed it but I'm still a bit bemused by it all...
I received an ARC of this book from the author via IndiGo Marketing & Design in exchange for an honest review.
Don't get me wrong I enjoyed it, the writing is great as anything written by Leta Blake is.
The archangel Michael falls in love with his 'mark' 40 year old virgin, Asher.
Cue lots of wrath from God, worry from Michael about what will happen if he leaves his father and follows his heart with Asher, along with amusing appearances by Lucifer.
Yes really.
I mean it shouldn't work...but somehow it does.
I really enjoyed it but I'm still a bit bemused by it all...
I received an ARC of this book from the author via IndiGo Marketing & Design in exchange for an honest review.
July 12, 2016
This novella is out of the ordinary in the best way. I found it a refreshing change of pace to read about the Archangel Michael's struggle with his vocation and his urge for love and a simple life with a human, Asher. Their romance is sweet and very sexy. I'm not religious, and I enjoyed the take on God and his motivations. Michael's brother Lucifer is also a standout character who made me laugh out loud several times. I betaed this story and am admittedly bias, but I think this is a terrific read!
June 30, 2016
Soooo not my cup of tea, but it's Leta Blake!
When it comes out, that is.
When it comes out, that is.
July 4, 2016
Not my favourite Leta Blake I have to say, although I do appreciate that it was an unusual and well thought out read. I just didn't connect with the MC's I'm afraid, and the present tense used irritated the hell out of me, although it has to be said that I didn't have that problem with the Will & Patrick Wake Up Married series that Leta did, which was exactly the same. I think the truthful answer is I just didn't like Archangel Michael and Asher, I didn't feel the love, whereas I <3 Will and Patrick to bits!! Sorry. 3 stars from me.
January 2, 2019
RECENSIONE QUI: https://thereadingslove.blogspot.com/...
3.5 stelle
Michael ha alle spalle secoli di guerre e di missioni, il suo compito ora è quello di proteggere chi ne ha bisogno e la sua ultima missione lo porta ad incrociare gli occhi e un'anima che lo scuotono e turbano nel profondo. Asher è un uomo che non accetta la sua sessualità per paura di deludere la sua famiglia, si sente un fallito nella vita, è timido e vulnerabile. Una missione si trasforma in un incontro bollente e in un'attrazione a cui è impossibile resistere. La storia si dipana tra i desideri carnali del corpo di Michael e le sue inquietudini nel desiderare quello che mai sarà accettato da Dio, i ricordi dei secoli passati quando lo stesso desiderio lo ha toccato ma in modo meno intenso e l'irresistibile impulso di ribellarsi. Tutta l'attenzione è incentrata su Michael delineato perfettamente sia nel suo corpo umano con i propri istinti, i desideri e sentimenti sia come angelo devoto e prostrato al volere superiore; di conseguenza Asher l'ho percepito più ai margini e poco approfondito, il rapporto tra i due dall'inizio prettamente carnale velocemente vira verso un sentimento più grande ma comunque non approfondito nei sentimenti. Il pezzo forte per me che ha dato pepe alla storia alleggerendola dalle tante elucubrazioni è assolutamente Lucifer con le sue esternazioni degne di un piccolo demonio, assolutamente irriverenti, centrato perfettamente nel suo ruolo, decisamente fantastico. Essendo una novella scorre e si risolve velocemente, forse anche troppo, lo stile è fluido e diretto, sacro e profano si intrecciano…
CONTINUA SUL NOSTRO BLOG. VENITE A TROVARCI
https://thereadingslove.blogspot.com/
3.5 stelle
Michael ha alle spalle secoli di guerre e di missioni, il suo compito ora è quello di proteggere chi ne ha bisogno e la sua ultima missione lo porta ad incrociare gli occhi e un'anima che lo scuotono e turbano nel profondo. Asher è un uomo che non accetta la sua sessualità per paura di deludere la sua famiglia, si sente un fallito nella vita, è timido e vulnerabile. Una missione si trasforma in un incontro bollente e in un'attrazione a cui è impossibile resistere. La storia si dipana tra i desideri carnali del corpo di Michael e le sue inquietudini nel desiderare quello che mai sarà accettato da Dio, i ricordi dei secoli passati quando lo stesso desiderio lo ha toccato ma in modo meno intenso e l'irresistibile impulso di ribellarsi. Tutta l'attenzione è incentrata su Michael delineato perfettamente sia nel suo corpo umano con i propri istinti, i desideri e sentimenti sia come angelo devoto e prostrato al volere superiore; di conseguenza Asher l'ho percepito più ai margini e poco approfondito, il rapporto tra i due dall'inizio prettamente carnale velocemente vira verso un sentimento più grande ma comunque non approfondito nei sentimenti. Il pezzo forte per me che ha dato pepe alla storia alleggerendola dalle tante elucubrazioni è assolutamente Lucifer con le sue esternazioni degne di un piccolo demonio, assolutamente irriverenti, centrato perfettamente nel suo ruolo, decisamente fantastico. Essendo una novella scorre e si risolve velocemente, forse anche troppo, lo stile è fluido e diretto, sacro e profano si intrecciano…
CONTINUA SUL NOSTRO BLOG. VENITE A TROVARCI
https://thereadingslove.blogspot.com/
April 14, 2020
2⭐
Meh.
Esperaba algo como "Blasphemy!" de T.J. Klune o peor, y como que contaba con ello después de que leí el aviso del principio del libro. Pero me decepcionó un poco, esperaba más.
Con respecto a la pareja principal, pues es un jodido insta-love, por lo que no tengo mucho que decir. Tampoco de los personajes, ya que es como una novela corta, por lo que no tenemos mucho desarrollo de personaje. La verdad es que la leí principalmente por la blasfemia que me prometieron y que no cumplieron TAN bien, si me permiten decirlo.
¿La recomiendo? Pues, sí me reí un par de veces. Si eres como yo y te gusta el humor blasfémo, puedes darle una oportunidad.
Meh.
Esperaba algo como "Blasphemy!" de T.J. Klune o peor, y como que contaba con ello después de que leí el aviso del principio del libro. Pero me decepcionó un poco, esperaba más.
Con respecto a la pareja principal, pues es un jodido insta-love, por lo que no tengo mucho que decir. Tampoco de los personajes, ya que es como una novela corta, por lo que no tenemos mucho desarrollo de personaje. La verdad es que la leí principalmente por la blasfemia que me prometieron y que no cumplieron TAN bien, si me permiten decirlo.
¿La recomiendo? Pues, sí me reí un par de veces. Si eres como yo y te gusta el humor blasfémo, puedes darle una oportunidad.
Read
June 30, 2016Ack! Leta Blake went and made me swoon over a rebellious angel who isn’t Lucifer! Blasphemy in deed.
I love stories about forbidden love and what could be more forbidden than the love between an ethereal creature and a human? Fallen Angels are my jam, I still cannot think of a few stories or even movies I’ve seen with them where I don’t get emotional. I mean, come on. Falling in love and giving all for love is a theme my romantic heart holds dear and giving up everything that comes with being an angel for romantic love… just mother effing swoon. Okay?
So, as the stories tell us the Archangel Michael is a protector and in this story that remains true. He is sent by his father to protect one Asher Rosenthal from making a huge mistake in choosing a stranger at a bar for his first sexual experience. BUT it’s not just the sex Michael is protecting Asher from, he’s also there to show Asher self-acceptance as he moves forward in his life and sexuality.
I loved how the story was laid out and told completely from the POV of our story telling angel. It was amazing to be in Michael’s head as he sees Asher, as he seduces Asher and how he falls in so many ways for this human man who is worth it all.
I won’t go into a bunch of detail because the story is too much fun to read and I don’t spoil books. I will say that the take on religion in this was refreshing. The issues it handles were done well and I really do hope that the way Michael’s Father sees things is how he would want them to be. I am not a religious person, though I grew up Roman Catholic, so seeing the new take on not only angels and their slavery devotion to their father, was a pure joy to read. I love that the author made Lucifer a fun character though he was pitiful, but enlightening. I get a kick out of authors making Lucifer different than the one sided stories for generations have told us he was in black and white, I like getting a fun, flirty yet still devilish side of the first fallen angel.
But this… all of it was such a good story. I loved Michael’s struggle and how he questioned what was right. I loved his lies by omission but how he becomes honest. I loved Asher’s vulnerability and his magnetic attraction to the archangel and how he prayed to him. I loved Michael getting advice from Lucifer and I just adored the holy hell out of this story.
Yeah, it was good. Yeah, it was fun. Yeah, it was sexy as all get out and it was utterly romantic and… sigh.
Maybe I’m the one undone after reading it?
Ginger undone?
Ginger out.
I love stories about forbidden love and what could be more forbidden than the love between an ethereal creature and a human? Fallen Angels are my jam, I still cannot think of a few stories or even movies I’ve seen with them where I don’t get emotional. I mean, come on. Falling in love and giving all for love is a theme my romantic heart holds dear and giving up everything that comes with being an angel for romantic love… just mother effing swoon. Okay?
So, as the stories tell us the Archangel Michael is a protector and in this story that remains true. He is sent by his father to protect one Asher Rosenthal from making a huge mistake in choosing a stranger at a bar for his first sexual experience. BUT it’s not just the sex Michael is protecting Asher from, he’s also there to show Asher self-acceptance as he moves forward in his life and sexuality.
I loved how the story was laid out and told completely from the POV of our story telling angel. It was amazing to be in Michael’s head as he sees Asher, as he seduces Asher and how he falls in so many ways for this human man who is worth it all.
I won’t go into a bunch of detail because the story is too much fun to read and I don’t spoil books. I will say that the take on religion in this was refreshing. The issues it handles were done well and I really do hope that the way Michael’s Father sees things is how he would want them to be. I am not a religious person, though I grew up Roman Catholic, so seeing the new take on not only angels and their slavery devotion to their father, was a pure joy to read. I love that the author made Lucifer a fun character though he was pitiful, but enlightening. I get a kick out of authors making Lucifer different than the one sided stories for generations have told us he was in black and white, I like getting a fun, flirty yet still devilish side of the first fallen angel.
But this… all of it was such a good story. I loved Michael’s struggle and how he questioned what was right. I loved his lies by omission but how he becomes honest. I loved Asher’s vulnerability and his magnetic attraction to the archangel and how he prayed to him. I loved Michael getting advice from Lucifer and I just adored the holy hell out of this story.
Yeah, it was good. Yeah, it was fun. Yeah, it was sexy as all get out and it was utterly romantic and… sigh.
Maybe I’m the one undone after reading it?
Ginger undone?
Ginger out.
July 6, 2016
Angels fascinate me, and though we don’t know how Heaven works - if it even exists – there is a high number of interpretations of how it might be run. The world and logic that Leta Blake creates in ‘Angel Undone’ has many familiar elements, but the unique combination of characters, their attitudes, and the central conflict Archangel Michael faces were interesting and both entertaining and thought-provoking.
Michael is a conflicted angel. He has done his bit fighting wars and protecting Heaven against revolution for many centuries. He is loyal to his father and does his best to fulfill his various missions of salvation. Then he runs into Asher, his newest assignment, and everything changes. Michael is supposed to show Asher that loving men is okay, thus avoiding Asher becoming depressed or worse. But there is something in Asher that calls to Michael on a primal level, and he begins to consider breaking the rules so he can stay with Asher. Love is, after all, one of the driving forces of the universe and something very much encouraged by the God of this author’s world.
Michael’ conflict is heartbreaking. He wants to be the “good angel”, the “loyal servant” of the heavenly father, but he has also spoken to Lucifer – who runs a surfing equipment shop – and discovered that being Fallen isn’t as bad as rumors make everyone believe. The whole discussion of perfect submission to God versus free will, the consequences of choosing a different path, and the decision-making process is fascinating. The final confrontation between Michael and God himself is well written, unexpected, and paints a very modern picture of the whole divine situation.
If you like angels who appear in a very modern light, if you believe in free will – no matter what the consequences, and if you’re looking for a read that challenges “accepted wisdom” and might just make you smile, and possibly laugh out loud, then you will probably like this novella.
NOTE: This book was provided by Indigo Marketing for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Michael is a conflicted angel. He has done his bit fighting wars and protecting Heaven against revolution for many centuries. He is loyal to his father and does his best to fulfill his various missions of salvation. Then he runs into Asher, his newest assignment, and everything changes. Michael is supposed to show Asher that loving men is okay, thus avoiding Asher becoming depressed or worse. But there is something in Asher that calls to Michael on a primal level, and he begins to consider breaking the rules so he can stay with Asher. Love is, after all, one of the driving forces of the universe and something very much encouraged by the God of this author’s world.
Michael’ conflict is heartbreaking. He wants to be the “good angel”, the “loyal servant” of the heavenly father, but he has also spoken to Lucifer – who runs a surfing equipment shop – and discovered that being Fallen isn’t as bad as rumors make everyone believe. The whole discussion of perfect submission to God versus free will, the consequences of choosing a different path, and the decision-making process is fascinating. The final confrontation between Michael and God himself is well written, unexpected, and paints a very modern picture of the whole divine situation.
If you like angels who appear in a very modern light, if you believe in free will – no matter what the consequences, and if you’re looking for a read that challenges “accepted wisdom” and might just make you smile, and possibly laugh out loud, then you will probably like this novella.
NOTE: This book was provided by Indigo Marketing for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
July 3, 2016
3.5 stars
You know those days when you question your career and wonder if maybe it's time to do something else with your life? Well Michael is there. And that's a kind of a problem when you're "The" Michael (as in the archangel Michael). When Michael is sent on a new mission and he meets Archer he is supposed to offer comfort and help Archer to accept his sexuality. Instead he ends up finding himself attracted to the shy man and subsequently falling for him. Archer is in a place of transition himself. He's dedicated himself to caring for an elderly grandmother and as a result has not worked or had a relationship before. The two begin a sweet romance and along the way Michael finds himself questioning his role in the world, his relationship with his Father and many of the things he's been taught before.
I enjoyed this a lot. The plot was creative and while I know there is a warning that there is blasphemy in the story I didn't read it that way. I liked the thought process and questions Michael has and I thought the talk with his Father/God was done in a cool way. I didn't think it was offensive at all. (although I'm probably not the best judge of that) The story had some sweet moments and some steamy moments and Michael's brother Luke (who is actually Lucifer and runs a surf board shop) added some humorous moments to the story. (I would totally read a story about Luke....hint, hint author)
Overall, very creative and enjoyable story. Definitely one you should check out.
*ARC provided through Indigo IndiGo Marketing and Design in exchange for an honest review.*
You know those days when you question your career and wonder if maybe it's time to do something else with your life? Well Michael is there. And that's a kind of a problem when you're "The" Michael (as in the archangel Michael). When Michael is sent on a new mission and he meets Archer he is supposed to offer comfort and help Archer to accept his sexuality. Instead he ends up finding himself attracted to the shy man and subsequently falling for him. Archer is in a place of transition himself. He's dedicated himself to caring for an elderly grandmother and as a result has not worked or had a relationship before. The two begin a sweet romance and along the way Michael finds himself questioning his role in the world, his relationship with his Father and many of the things he's been taught before.
I enjoyed this a lot. The plot was creative and while I know there is a warning that there is blasphemy in the story I didn't read it that way. I liked the thought process and questions Michael has and I thought the talk with his Father/God was done in a cool way. I didn't think it was offensive at all. (although I'm probably not the best judge of that) The story had some sweet moments and some steamy moments and Michael's brother Luke (who is actually Lucifer and runs a surf board shop) added some humorous moments to the story. (I would totally read a story about Luke....hint, hint author)
Overall, very creative and enjoyable story. Definitely one you should check out.
*ARC provided through Indigo IndiGo Marketing and Design in exchange for an honest review.*
July 20, 2016
To quote the brilliant Oscar Wilde, “The only way to get rid of a temptation is to yield to it. Resist it, and your soul grows sick with longing for the things it has forbidden to itself, with desire for what its monstrous laws have made monstrous and unlawful." Temptation—it’s been excellent fodder for fiction since the serpent tempted Eve with the forbidden fruit from the tree of knowledge of good and evil. And seriously, what’s more tempting than forbidden love?
Leta Blake’s Angel Undone is the story of ultimate temptation in the seductive lure of desire and the bonds of a soul-deep connection between the Archangel Michael and a human he’s been sent by the Father to save. Asher Rosenthal is an unhappy man living an unfulfilling life. Middle aged, unemployed, and denying himself the right to be happy, Asher is fighting—and losing—an internal battle. He can’t be gay. It goes against everything his religion has taught him, not to mention his own father, and it’s at the moment that Asher is considering taking his first baby steps into exploring his sexuality that Michael falls into his life.
There is always something so seductive about the corruption of the incorruptible, isn’t there? Which is one of the reasons I adored this story so much. Angels are legion, servants of Heaven and beholden to Him… Until the unthinkable happens and that angel falls in love with a human. I really liked the twist on theology in this story, and the idea that God, in His infinite wisdom and glory, wants love for all mankind and not just those whom society deems acceptable.
And then, obviously, there’s Lucifer. Where would a temptation story be without the Angel of Darkness himself? I couldn’t get enough of him and his deliciously wicked self, and loved the irreverent humor he brings to the story.
The relationship that grows between Asher and Michael is sweet and seductive. There’s no shortage of chemistry between these two men, and no shortage of anticipation in how their story will unfold and then, ultimately, resolve. The idea of freewill versus duty is a major stumbling block on the road to their happily ever after. How could it not be when Michael isn’t in control of his own existence, and Asher has been forced by fear to live his entire adult life in the closet?
Once again, as she often does so eloquently, Leta Blake poked me right in the feels, and I’m not even sorry about it. Angel Undone is one of those stories that’s exactly what you expect it to be, in only the best possible way. It’s romance with a soupçon of angst, sweet with just the right amount of spice, and poignant with exactly the right amount of cheek to keep it from becoming overdramatic.
Reviewed by Lisa for The Novel Approach Reviews
Leta Blake’s Angel Undone is the story of ultimate temptation in the seductive lure of desire and the bonds of a soul-deep connection between the Archangel Michael and a human he’s been sent by the Father to save. Asher Rosenthal is an unhappy man living an unfulfilling life. Middle aged, unemployed, and denying himself the right to be happy, Asher is fighting—and losing—an internal battle. He can’t be gay. It goes against everything his religion has taught him, not to mention his own father, and it’s at the moment that Asher is considering taking his first baby steps into exploring his sexuality that Michael falls into his life.
There is always something so seductive about the corruption of the incorruptible, isn’t there? Which is one of the reasons I adored this story so much. Angels are legion, servants of Heaven and beholden to Him… Until the unthinkable happens and that angel falls in love with a human. I really liked the twist on theology in this story, and the idea that God, in His infinite wisdom and glory, wants love for all mankind and not just those whom society deems acceptable.
And then, obviously, there’s Lucifer. Where would a temptation story be without the Angel of Darkness himself? I couldn’t get enough of him and his deliciously wicked self, and loved the irreverent humor he brings to the story.
The relationship that grows between Asher and Michael is sweet and seductive. There’s no shortage of chemistry between these two men, and no shortage of anticipation in how their story will unfold and then, ultimately, resolve. The idea of freewill versus duty is a major stumbling block on the road to their happily ever after. How could it not be when Michael isn’t in control of his own existence, and Asher has been forced by fear to live his entire adult life in the closet?
Once again, as she often does so eloquently, Leta Blake poked me right in the feels, and I’m not even sorry about it. Angel Undone is one of those stories that’s exactly what you expect it to be, in only the best possible way. It’s romance with a soupçon of angst, sweet with just the right amount of spice, and poignant with exactly the right amount of cheek to keep it from becoming overdramatic.
Reviewed by Lisa for The Novel Approach Reviews
July 2, 2016
I like religious themes in my fiction, whether more serious, skating boundaries, or of a more erotic nature – this definitely ticks the latter two boxes. Michael’s inner questions regarding his relationship with God, his earthly questions of Lucifer, and the romance between himself and Asher all make for entertaining storytelling. If you like some sexy writing with an angel and his love for a mortal then this is flirty and fun… and delightfully irreverent.
In the wrap up, I enjoyed Angel Undone. It’s sexy. It’s a little different than most – a gay erotic romance set around Biblical scriptures in a contemporary setting. There’s the Archangel Michael’s inner thoughts and feelings for a human, for Asher, his feelings about his Creator/Father, as well as Asher’s closeted feelings cutting free, his reciprocation of love for Michael.
In the wrap up, I enjoyed Angel Undone. It’s sexy. It’s a little different than most – a gay erotic romance set around Biblical scriptures in a contemporary setting. There’s the Archangel Michael’s inner thoughts and feelings for a human, for Asher, his feelings about his Creator/Father, as well as Asher’s closeted feelings cutting free, his reciprocation of love for Michael.
July 2, 2016
*3.75 stars*
This was enjoyable, quick, sexy, with a little angst thrown in.
Michael is an angel, and spends his time on missions from God that help people. On this particular mission, he is sent to help Asher, a 40 year old man finally trying to come to terms with his sexuality (also a Virgin). At first Asher is a very sad depressed and confused man. It doesn't take long for Michael to use whatever heavenly powers he possesses to change that, and what was supposed to be a one night mission turns into more, which is forbidden in Michaels world.
Soon feelings develop, and decisions have to be made.
They quickly fall into a relationship, which is sweet and happy, but with an underlying fear of their unknown future.
It's a short novella and I don't want to give to much away by writing more. There is a HEA for those who like that, but for me it was a tad bitter sweet.
There were a couple things near the end I wasn't happy about, but overall a nice, quick and different read. Recommend.
Also a shout out to Lucifer. Can't have a book about angels without him featuring, and I really enjoyed his character.
-Arc provided by Indigo Marketing & Design-
This was enjoyable, quick, sexy, with a little angst thrown in.
Michael is an angel, and spends his time on missions from God that help people. On this particular mission, he is sent to help Asher, a 40 year old man finally trying to come to terms with his sexuality (also a Virgin). At first Asher is a very sad depressed and confused man. It doesn't take long for Michael to use whatever heavenly powers he possesses to change that, and what was supposed to be a one night mission turns into more, which is forbidden in Michaels world.
Soon feelings develop, and decisions have to be made.
They quickly fall into a relationship, which is sweet and happy, but with an underlying fear of their unknown future.
It's a short novella and I don't want to give to much away by writing more. There is a HEA for those who like that, but for me it was a tad bitter sweet.
There were a couple things near the end I wasn't happy about, but overall a nice, quick and different read. Recommend.
Also a shout out to Lucifer. Can't have a book about angels without him featuring, and I really enjoyed his character.
-Arc provided by Indigo Marketing & Design-
June 1, 2021
Interesting take on the Archangel Michael. I think I like him this way...
March 30, 2022
An interesting exploration of what it means to be an angel and if love is worth falling for. Michael and Asher are great together.
July 20, 2022
RECENSIONE A CURA DI EVELYNE
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July 18, 2016
A Joyfully Jay review.
3.75 stars
Angel Undone is the story of two kind and loving men who find an instant connection, but are separated by this great divide. Michael is supposed to be done with Asher as soon as their night is over, but he can’t make himself leave this man he is so drawn to. At the same time, Michael has to hide just about everything about himself from Asher, which further adds to the conflict. I found these guys sweet together and I wanted to see them happy. I think the ending takes a nice twist, not fully expected, which I enjoyed. And I particularly liked Michael’s relationship with his brother, Lucifer, and how the two interact.
I did find I had somewhat of a hard time with the connection between these two guys and I am not quite sure why. I just didn’t feel the spark between them the way I wanted. I did enjoy the way Michael slowly brings Asher out of his shell, but I had a hard time getting just what made that key difference with Asher that had Michael ready to abandon his whole life for him. I think partly this is because there is a lot of discussion about whether Father played a role in this, whether he is engineering the connection, and just what is going on. The speculation and back and forth actually left me kind of confused as to what was really happening — what is orchestrated, what is fate, what is spark? Maybe that is kind of the point, but it did leave me feeling a little bit removed from the connection between them.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
3.75 stars
Angel Undone is the story of two kind and loving men who find an instant connection, but are separated by this great divide. Michael is supposed to be done with Asher as soon as their night is over, but he can’t make himself leave this man he is so drawn to. At the same time, Michael has to hide just about everything about himself from Asher, which further adds to the conflict. I found these guys sweet together and I wanted to see them happy. I think the ending takes a nice twist, not fully expected, which I enjoyed. And I particularly liked Michael’s relationship with his brother, Lucifer, and how the two interact.
I did find I had somewhat of a hard time with the connection between these two guys and I am not quite sure why. I just didn’t feel the spark between them the way I wanted. I did enjoy the way Michael slowly brings Asher out of his shell, but I had a hard time getting just what made that key difference with Asher that had Michael ready to abandon his whole life for him. I think partly this is because there is a lot of discussion about whether Father played a role in this, whether he is engineering the connection, and just what is going on. The speculation and back and forth actually left me kind of confused as to what was really happening — what is orchestrated, what is fate, what is spark? Maybe that is kind of the point, but it did leave me feeling a little bit removed from the connection between them.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
September 18, 2016
Leave it to Leta Blake to Make Blasphemy Adorable
With a trope like this, I expected either black comedy or kooky, over the top Dogma style humor. But this surprised me- I actually found myself giggling throughout the book. It was really unique. Admittedly, for someone who has such negative feelings toward most all types of religion, I have a weird obsession with the Bible. I thought I'd find this trope annoying, but I loved it.
This is a short, quick read. Though God and Lucifer were important secondary characters in the story, the focus remained on the connection between between Asher and Michael. There's the fun, paranormal, extra-intense-because-I'm-an-angel attraction between the two MCs, and it unfolds in a delightful one true love, fairy tail way. As usual, Leta Blake surprised me by making me adore a story I didn't think I'd be into. I should expect this by now.
With a trope like this, I expected either black comedy or kooky, over the top Dogma style humor. But this surprised me- I actually found myself giggling throughout the book. It was really unique. Admittedly, for someone who has such negative feelings toward most all types of religion, I have a weird obsession with the Bible. I thought I'd find this trope annoying, but I loved it.
This is a short, quick read. Though God and Lucifer were important secondary characters in the story, the focus remained on the connection between between Asher and Michael. There's the fun, paranormal, extra-intense-because-I'm-an-angel attraction between the two MCs, and it unfolds in a delightful one true love, fairy tail way. As usual, Leta Blake surprised me by making me adore a story I didn't think I'd be into. I should expect this by now.
July 7, 2016
I received a copy of Angel Undone by Leta Blake via Indigo Marketing & Design in exchange for an honest review. I wanted to read this book because I enjoyed the Will and Patrick serial so much. I knew it probably would be less humorous and it is, but it is also a delightful story of renewal and grace. The eponymous character Michael is wonderfully human in his questioning, despite his angelic being. When he is supposed to save Asher from a major mistake, Michael winds up falling for him, thus setting up the conflict in the story. It is fun to watch the two navigate the always challenging waters of a serious relationship. There is humor from the character of Michael’s fallen brother, who also helps Michael make his choice about his future. Blake managed an ending that did not disappoint. I enjoyed it so much I read it in one day.
August 3, 2016
Gorgeous <3
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