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Black Bird of the Gallows #1
Black Bird of the Gallows
A simple but forgotten truth: Where harbingers of death appear, the morgues will soon be full.
Angie Dovage can tell there’s more to Reece Fernandez than just the tall, brooding athlete who has her classmates swooning, but she can’t imagine his presence signals a tragedy that will devastate her small town. When something supernatural tries to attack her, Angie is thrown into a battle between good and evil she never saw coming. Right in the center of it is Reece—and he’s not human.
What’s more, she knows something most don’t. That the secrets her town holds could kill them all. But that’s only half as dangerous as falling in love with a harbinger of death.
Angie Dovage can tell there’s more to Reece Fernandez than just the tall, brooding athlete who has her classmates swooning, but she can’t imagine his presence signals a tragedy that will devastate her small town. When something supernatural tries to attack her, Angie is thrown into a battle between good and evil she never saw coming. Right in the center of it is Reece—and he’s not human.
What’s more, she knows something most don’t. That the secrets her town holds could kill them all. But that’s only half as dangerous as falling in love with a harbinger of death.
309 pages, Hardcover
First published September 5, 2017
149 people are currently reading
7926 people want to read
About the author
Meg Kassel
5 books242 followersMeg Kassel is an author of paranormal and speculative books for young adults. A New Jersey native, Meg graduated from Parson's School of Design and worked as a graphic designer before embracing her true passion, writing. She now lives in a log house in the Maine woods with her family, and is busy at work on her next novel. A fan of ’80s cartoons, original Netflix series, daydreaming, and ancient mythology, Meg has always been fascinated and inspired by the fantastic, the creepy, and the futuristic. When she’s not writing, Meg is reading, hanging out with her husband and daughter, hiding her peanut butter cups, or walking her rescue mutt, Luna.
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March 2, 2023
ARC provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
📖💗: You can win an exclusive Book Nerd T-Shirt by being one of the first 100 people to leave a review of Black Bird of the Gallows by Meg Kassel on Amazon! Enter to win Here!
📖💖: Three people can also win a Black Bird of the Gallows canvas tote bag (11“x14”) which includes a custom made crow pendant and ball chain, bookmark and stickers, $10 Amazon Gift Card (INT) Enter to win Here!
📖💕: And check out the rest of the reviews, interviews, and more from this blog tour Here!
Black Bird of the Gallows is a debut standalone paranormal YA romance that reads like a mixture of Candyman meets The Birds meets Twilight. (And I mean that mashup in the best way possible!)
Angie Dovage lives in a small town in southwest Pennsylvania and is counting down the days of her senior year of high school, so she can finally graduate and escape the small town that won’t let her forget her childhood. She is living with her father, making music with her two best friends, and trying to ignore that past that still haunts her. That is, until a new boy moves in next door and makes her realize there may be more to her small sleepy town than anyone realizes.
Reece is not your regular human boy, but is also harboring a secret that will change Angie’s world forever. Together they are trying to uncover the fate of their small town, while also learning to trust one other and overcoming their own personal fears.
This book has a dark and spooky vibe throughout its entirety. The writing is beautiful and for sure helps create this haunted aesthetic vibe, which I loved. This book feels and reads very much like a mystery thriller, even though it is for sure a paranormal romance. Also, I feel like the story itself was just super unique.
I had a little problem with the romance in this book, and how fast and instant it seemed to be. The story later addresses this with more back content, but that addition just made me feel a little creeped out. I also felt like the ending was a little too easy and convenient for my liking, as well. But those were the only two issues I really had. Besides those, this was a really enjoyable read.
I do think it’s important to note that this book centers around death a lot. So, trigger warnings for talk of death, child abuse, and a minor plot point that surrounds a school shooting. Yes, this is a YA novel, but the nature of this book definitely deals with some dark subject matters, so please go into this book knowing that.
I completely recommend this, especially for a fun Halloween paranormal read! I really enjoyed Angie’s friendships with Deno and Lacey and then her parental relationship with her father. Also, I love that this is a standalone, because those are so unheard of nowadays, especially in the paranormal genre. This is a quick and easy read that would be super enjoyable for the fall season. And I will definitely read future books by Meg Kassel, because of this wonderful debut.
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The quotes above were taken from an ARC and are subject to change upon publication.
📖💗: You can win an exclusive Book Nerd T-Shirt by being one of the first 100 people to leave a review of Black Bird of the Gallows by Meg Kassel on Amazon! Enter to win Here!
📖💖: Three people can also win a Black Bird of the Gallows canvas tote bag (11“x14”) which includes a custom made crow pendant and ball chain, bookmark and stickers, $10 Amazon Gift Card (INT) Enter to win Here!
📖💕: And check out the rest of the reviews, interviews, and more from this blog tour Here!
“Stay away from the bees.”
Black Bird of the Gallows is a debut standalone paranormal YA romance that reads like a mixture of Candyman meets The Birds meets Twilight. (And I mean that mashup in the best way possible!)
“The energy flows over me, fills me, and none of it feels tainted, contaminated by the darkness of my mother’s mistakes.”
Angie Dovage lives in a small town in southwest Pennsylvania and is counting down the days of her senior year of high school, so she can finally graduate and escape the small town that won’t let her forget her childhood. She is living with her father, making music with her two best friends, and trying to ignore that past that still haunts her. That is, until a new boy moves in next door and makes her realize there may be more to her small sleepy town than anyone realizes.
Reece is not your regular human boy, but is also harboring a secret that will change Angie’s world forever. Together they are trying to uncover the fate of their small town, while also learning to trust one other and overcoming their own personal fears.
“If you had asked me a few weeks ago, I’d have said magic is impossible. Irrational. Just considering its existence in this world is insane. But I saw bees crawl out of a man’s mouth. I saw him change faces like pages of a book.”
This book has a dark and spooky vibe throughout its entirety. The writing is beautiful and for sure helps create this haunted aesthetic vibe, which I loved. This book feels and reads very much like a mystery thriller, even though it is for sure a paranormal romance. Also, I feel like the story itself was just super unique.
“I endured two centuries of horrors, and maybe it was all so I could be here with you. If my unnatural existence means nothing else, it means this. I get to be here, now, with you.”
I had a little problem with the romance in this book, and how fast and instant it seemed to be. The story later addresses this with more back content, but that addition just made me feel a little creeped out. I also felt like the ending was a little too easy and convenient for my liking, as well. But those were the only two issues I really had. Besides those, this was a really enjoyable read.
I do think it’s important to note that this book centers around death a lot. So, trigger warnings for talk of death, child abuse, and a minor plot point that surrounds a school shooting. Yes, this is a YA novel, but the nature of this book definitely deals with some dark subject matters, so please go into this book knowing that.
I completely recommend this, especially for a fun Halloween paranormal read! I really enjoyed Angie’s friendships with Deno and Lacey and then her parental relationship with her father. Also, I love that this is a standalone, because those are so unheard of nowadays, especially in the paranormal genre. This is a quick and easy read that would be super enjoyable for the fall season. And I will definitely read future books by Meg Kassel, because of this wonderful debut.
Blog | Twitter | Tumblr | Instagram | Youtube | Twitch
The quotes above were taken from an ARC and are subject to change upon publication.
November 21, 2017
I would rather the first boy who makes my heart beat like this, who makes my senses come alive, be a normal, human one, but I shouldn't be surprised. "Normal" hasn't exactly defined much of my life.
I loved the paranormal romance genre as a teen, but hadn't picked it up in a while, so when I was offered a copy of this book, I jumped at the chance - and I'm so glad that I did!
Angie is a really likable narrator; she's been through a lot of hell in her eighteen years, and she portrays it believably with her anxiety and insecurities. She's just trying to keep her head down and survive high school when she meets Reece, and while she's instantly attracted to him, she's not willing to rush into anything until he explains a few things to her: like why he's frequently surrounded by the new murder of crows surrounding her town, or why a man with an ever-changing face seems to be unreasonably concerned with not only Reece, but now Angie as well.
I appreciated it wasn't super insta-lovey (though towards the middle it feels a little rushed, but it's explained later and is pretty adorable), and I really loved the banter and tension between Angie and Reece. It feels a little cheesy at times, but in that really fun, dramatic style that I fully expect from the PNR genre.
I hold my breath and watch the crow glide away. It melts into the blackness, silent as a ghost. Lonely as the night. Dark as a boy's eyes.
A few loose ends were left untied by the end, and I wouldn't have minded another 50-100 pages to dive into the magical world's history a bit more. There's some potential for really cool magical world-building, but the opportunity wasn't seized. I especially wanted more information on the Strawmen, a mythical creature who is a very powerful entity, but we never get to see more than a brief glimpse of.
Altogether, this was a captivating romance and had some very tender moments. I had so much fun reading it, and I would highly recommend it to anyone who loves YA paranormal romance stories.
Entangled was kind enough to send me a free copy of this book for reviewing purposes, but in no way did it affect my opinions!
You can find this review (and more) on my blog here!
I loved the paranormal romance genre as a teen, but hadn't picked it up in a while, so when I was offered a copy of this book, I jumped at the chance - and I'm so glad that I did!
Angie is a really likable narrator; she's been through a lot of hell in her eighteen years, and she portrays it believably with her anxiety and insecurities. She's just trying to keep her head down and survive high school when she meets Reece, and while she's instantly attracted to him, she's not willing to rush into anything until he explains a few things to her: like why he's frequently surrounded by the new murder of crows surrounding her town, or why a man with an ever-changing face seems to be unreasonably concerned with not only Reece, but now Angie as well.
I appreciated it wasn't super insta-lovey (though towards the middle it feels a little rushed, but it's explained later and is pretty adorable), and I really loved the banter and tension between Angie and Reece. It feels a little cheesy at times, but in that really fun, dramatic style that I fully expect from the PNR genre.
I hold my breath and watch the crow glide away. It melts into the blackness, silent as a ghost. Lonely as the night. Dark as a boy's eyes.
A few loose ends were left untied by the end, and I wouldn't have minded another 50-100 pages to dive into the magical world's history a bit more. There's some potential for really cool magical world-building, but the opportunity wasn't seized. I especially wanted more information on the Strawmen, a mythical creature who is a very powerful entity, but we never get to see more than a brief glimpse of.
Altogether, this was a captivating romance and had some very tender moments. I had so much fun reading it, and I would highly recommend it to anyone who loves YA paranormal romance stories.
Entangled was kind enough to send me a free copy of this book for reviewing purposes, but in no way did it affect my opinions!
You can find this review (and more) on my blog here!
September 29, 2017
5+stars
Like a huge wave Black Bird of the Gallows engulfed me in its magic world and did not release me before the last sentence was over. It left me ashore a little stunned and with starry eyes.
Meg Kassel achieved the high feat of making me rediscover a genre that I've read often. No blazé reader here!
-The concept was original with Harbingers and Beekeepers.
-The pace was just right not too rushed not too slow.
-The characters were endeering and relatable.
-The romance was swoony.
-Everything worked perfectly.
But I gush and I haven't explained the story yet!
Take a seventeen year old Angie living with her dad in a small old mining town. Angie has lived a life of neglect with her mom for years until some tragic event led her in her loving father's arms again.
Angie has bagage. She is loaded with traumatic memories but thanks to music and probably therapy she is one of the most sane teenagers I know. She lives happily with her dad and has two great nerd/musicians best friends.
Now introduce a new family moving in the haunted house next door. Haunted as some horrific events happened in the house and no one wants to live in this house anymore.
Of course Angie is curious about her new neighbors. And of course she'll look after her dad's binocular to have a better view. Certainly not to check the new extra gorgeous boy next door...
No luck though as there is a lot of crows in the way. Crows multiplying for weeks. Crows with red eyes and bringing small trove to Angie. Weird you say?
Well add a mysterious man in a wool jacket and a changing blurry face and see if it gets weirder by the day.
Of course the new neighbor would be built and handsome and kind and...Angie is falling for Reece.
All would be well if Reece did not have a huge secret. And if Angie's town was not on the brink of a huge change.
Ok I stop here for the plot.
To make it short:
-Reece was the perfect YA hero. The one to make you wish go back to your first crush. See what he told Angie and tell me if it does not make you fall hard for him:
-Angie was the right mix between strong and flawed, caring and curious, beautiful but not ostentatious.
-The side kicks as in her best friends, her dad and Reece's family had just enough substance to help run the story smoothly.
-The fantasy creatures were a new and fresh concept.
-I love star crossed or doomed lovers.
-The romance was just swoony and had me all starry eyes. A little heart broken for them too.
-The ending was unpredictable and just..right.
Books like this one are real treats for Fantasy YA lovers like me. So read it as it's one of my best 2017 books. It wil certainly not be my last Meg Kassel's.
And buy the printed book as not only is the cover gorgeous but the insidd of the book is just as beautiful!!!
Thanks for reading!
Buy link->http://amzn.to/2ytsd87
Find me on:
Wordpress: Beware Of The Reader
Facebook: Beware Of The Reader
Facebook besties: Best Reading Blogs Ever
Instagram: @bewareofthereader
Twitter: @BewareOffReader
Like a huge wave Black Bird of the Gallows engulfed me in its magic world and did not release me before the last sentence was over. It left me ashore a little stunned and with starry eyes.
Meg Kassel achieved the high feat of making me rediscover a genre that I've read often. No blazé reader here!
-The concept was original with Harbingers and Beekeepers.
-The pace was just right not too rushed not too slow.
-The characters were endeering and relatable.
-The romance was swoony.
-Everything worked perfectly.
But I gush and I haven't explained the story yet!
Take a seventeen year old Angie living with her dad in a small old mining town. Angie has lived a life of neglect with her mom for years until some tragic event led her in her loving father's arms again.
Angie has bagage. She is loaded with traumatic memories but thanks to music and probably therapy she is one of the most sane teenagers I know. She lives happily with her dad and has two great nerd/musicians best friends.
Now introduce a new family moving in the haunted house next door. Haunted as some horrific events happened in the house and no one wants to live in this house anymore.
Of course Angie is curious about her new neighbors. And of course she'll look after her dad's binocular to have a better view. Certainly not to check the new extra gorgeous boy next door...
No luck though as there is a lot of crows in the way. Crows multiplying for weeks. Crows with red eyes and bringing small trove to Angie. Weird you say?
Well add a mysterious man in a wool jacket and a changing blurry face and see if it gets weirder by the day.
Of course the new neighbor would be built and handsome and kind and...Angie is falling for Reece.
All would be well if Reece did not have a huge secret. And if Angie's town was not on the brink of a huge change.
Ok I stop here for the plot.
To make it short:
-Reece was the perfect YA hero. The one to make you wish go back to your first crush. See what he told Angie and tell me if it does not make you fall hard for him:
"The world reeks of death and pain, and you smell like life and joy and everything I can never have."
-Angie was the right mix between strong and flawed, caring and curious, beautiful but not ostentatious.
-The side kicks as in her best friends, her dad and Reece's family had just enough substance to help run the story smoothly.
-The fantasy creatures were a new and fresh concept.
-I love star crossed or doomed lovers.
-The romance was just swoony and had me all starry eyes. A little heart broken for them too.
-The ending was unpredictable and just..right.
Books like this one are real treats for Fantasy YA lovers like me. So read it as it's one of my best 2017 books. It wil certainly not be my last Meg Kassel's.
And buy the printed book as not only is the cover gorgeous but the insidd of the book is just as beautiful!!!
Thanks for reading!
Buy link->http://amzn.to/2ytsd87
Find me on:
Wordpress: Beware Of The Reader
Facebook: Beware Of The Reader
Facebook besties: Best Reading Blogs Ever
Instagram: @bewareofthereader
Twitter: @BewareOffReader
August 29, 2017
(I received an advance copy of this book for free. Thanks to Entangled Publishing, LLC and NetGalley.)
This was a YA paranormal romance featuring a harbinger of death who could turn into a crow.
Angie was an okay character, and I understood how she didn’t like attention after being labelled a freak after the situation she had been in with her mother. Living in a van with a drug-addicted mother, and being taken away shortly before her mother overdosed was hard enough for her without all the unwanted attention associated.
The storyline in this was about Angie meeting Reece, her new next-door neighbour, and realising that something was off about him and the crows that were suddenly everywhere. Slowly she began to find out more about him, and after following him forced him to confess that he was a harbinger of death, and could turn into a crow! We also got a storyline about Beekeepers, paranormal beings which house bees, which sting people and turn them mentally unstable. The paranormal aspect of this book was done well, and the ideas were pretty unique, but I did find the pace a little slow for me, and it took me a while to get through it.
The ending to this a little confusing for me, but things were wrapped up fairly well, and there was no cliff-hanger.
6.5 out of 10.
This was a YA paranormal romance featuring a harbinger of death who could turn into a crow.
Angie was an okay character, and I understood how she didn’t like attention after being labelled a freak after the situation she had been in with her mother. Living in a van with a drug-addicted mother, and being taken away shortly before her mother overdosed was hard enough for her without all the unwanted attention associated.
The storyline in this was about Angie meeting Reece, her new next-door neighbour, and realising that something was off about him and the crows that were suddenly everywhere. Slowly she began to find out more about him, and after following him forced him to confess that he was a harbinger of death, and could turn into a crow! We also got a storyline about Beekeepers, paranormal beings which house bees, which sting people and turn them mentally unstable. The paranormal aspect of this book was done well, and the ideas were pretty unique, but I did find the pace a little slow for me, and it took me a while to get through it.
The ending to this a little confusing for me, but things were wrapped up fairly well, and there was no cliff-hanger.
6.5 out of 10.
August 15, 2017
Angie Dovage is like most people would be, a bit curious as to who her new neighbors are and what they will be like. When Angie runs into Reece Fernandez at the bus stop her curiosity is piqued even more by the good looking strange boy. Angie takes it upon herself to follow Reece and find out just what is behind the mysterious new boy.
What Angie ends up finding about Reece would send most people running and screaming. Reece is not a normal human boy, he's a harbinger of death. When a death happens Reece feeds off the energy of the dying due to a curse he's been living with for centuries. But Reece is not the only supernatural in town and Angie finds herself in danger with Reece vowing to protect her.
The one thing that I would complain about with Black Bird of the Gallows is that starting off it definitely had that feel of let's check off all the young adult fantasy expectations. The beginning of the story had flashes of Twilight to it which had me wondering if I'd find any originality buried within the pages. Of course too that brings me to the warning of the instalove that bother a lot of people since it's a typical oh the new boy is cute start but eventually there are more reasons added to the relationship.
Thankfully the story of the battle between good and evil within the pages of this one did bring a bit of newness to it which made this one an interesting read. After reading this one I'll certainly be looking at crows and bees a bit differently so the author certainly got a bit creative with the supernatural side of the story which ended up making this one worth the read instead of just checking off what is expected in a young adult novel.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.wordpress....
What Angie ends up finding about Reece would send most people running and screaming. Reece is not a normal human boy, he's a harbinger of death. When a death happens Reece feeds off the energy of the dying due to a curse he's been living with for centuries. But Reece is not the only supernatural in town and Angie finds herself in danger with Reece vowing to protect her.
The one thing that I would complain about with Black Bird of the Gallows is that starting off it definitely had that feel of let's check off all the young adult fantasy expectations. The beginning of the story had flashes of Twilight to it which had me wondering if I'd find any originality buried within the pages. Of course too that brings me to the warning of the instalove that bother a lot of people since it's a typical oh the new boy is cute start but eventually there are more reasons added to the relationship.
Thankfully the story of the battle between good and evil within the pages of this one did bring a bit of newness to it which made this one an interesting read. After reading this one I'll certainly be looking at crows and bees a bit differently so the author certainly got a bit creative with the supernatural side of the story which ended up making this one worth the read instead of just checking off what is expected in a young adult novel.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.wordpress....
September 6, 2017
4.5 stars. Very, very good. =)
***Review posted on The Eater of Books! blog***
Black Bird of the Gallows by Meg Kassel
Publisher: Entangled Teen
Publication Date: September 5, 2017
Rating: 4 stars
Source: Review copy sent by the publisher
Summary (from Goodreads):
A simple but forgotten truth: Where harbingers of death appear, the morgues will soon be full.
Angie Dovage can tell there’s more to Reece Fernandez than just the tall, brooding athlete who has her classmates swooning, but she can’t imagine his presence signals a tragedy that will devastate her small town. When something supernatural tries to attack her, Angie is thrown into a battle between good and evil she never saw coming. Right in the center of it is Reece—and he’s not human.
What's more, she knows something most don't. That the secrets her town holds could kill them all. But that’s only half as dangerous as falling in love with a harbinger of death.
What I Liked:
I'd been looking forward to reading this book for quite some time, ever since a description was released. It has been a high-priority read for me, and a high-priority publication for Entangled. I had hoped that my expectations were not too high and I wouldn't be disappointed. I had nothing to worry about. This stunning debut is dark, imaginative, and enthralling, worth every bit of attention and hype it has received.
In this story, Angie Dovage's world is turned to chaos, and it starts with crows. It has been years since anyone bought the neighboring house, but one day, a family moves in. Angie's new neighbors are a little strange, especially the teenage boy who is in many of her classes. What's even stranger is the arrival of many crows - and bees. There is more to Reece Fernandez, there is more to the crows who follow him - and Angie - and there is more to the bees. Angie finds herself in the midst of a supernatural war between the cursed Beekeeper and the harbingers of death. The town of Cadence is marked, and there can only be one outcome: death.
From the start, I was hooked and I couldn't stop reading. There was no chance of me putting down the book until I finished. Kassel's writing and the flow of the story made it easy to get sucked into the story and lose track of time. I was never bored, so there was no worry about DNFing.
I was a little surprised when I connected with Angie almost right away! She is a bit of a social outcast in her high school, due to something in her past surrounding her mother. But she is very gifted with music, and is a DJ at a club on weekends. She is smart and talented and a hard worker. She is also so strong and resilient, especially with everything she went through with her mother.
I liked how that was revealed incrementally (what happened with Angie's mother). The first time you realize something is different about Angie's parental life, it's just this one phrase, a few words. The author slowly reveals parts of Angie's past. I love how the author ties it all together by the end.
Reece is the male protagonist and I absolutely adored him. He is more than a swoony love interest (though he definitely is that). He's sweet and thoughtful, and occasionally he has broody moments, and protective moments, and a whole bunch of selfless moments. Reece is by no means a perfect guy, but he is very smart and full of worldly knowledge, so he understands certain things better than most. I liked him a lot and I thought he was a great character opposite Angie.
There were many lovely secondary characters worth mentioning. Angie's dad is such a cool guy; he is fairly well-off, after a lot of hard work. He loves Angie so much and has a great relationship with her. He's a single dad, but he is really slaying the parenting thing. Here is an excellent example of a healthy parent-child relationship in YA lit - he is there, in his kid's life, and he isn't oblivious or always working.
And then there are Angie's friends, Deno and Lacy. They are wonderful friends, so supportive and loyal. I also love that they each have a thing for each other - such a cute slow-burn almost-romance happening there. But mostly I was happy to see a great friendship between the three of them.
Reece's family isn't as present as the other characters (and with good reason), but they are a wonderful family as well. I especially liked Reece's mom and really wished something could have happened between Reece's mom and Angie's dad!
I loooooved the romance between Reece and Angie. They meet and the attraction begins, but it takes more than that for them to fall for each other. The interest is there, but the feelings start to build as the story goes. Kassel packs this book with plenty of Reece/Angie interactions, and there are a number of yummy swoons too. The romance progressed at a good pace, not too insta-love-y but not too slow either. I loved watching these two interact!
The story is very action-packed and fast-paced, though not in an overwhelming way. The beginning of the book is more focused on Angie trying to figure out what is going on with the crows, the bees, Reece, and this creepy guy (who is revealed to be the villain). Then, when things are revealed to her, the real danger begins. The creepy buy - the Beekeeper - is intent on hurting Reece, and he'll go through Angie to do so. The "why's" and the "how's" are explained!
The ending is very exciting and it wraps up well. There is a HEA. I believe this book is a standalone and I'm all for it - the story ends in a great place. But I also wouldn't hate seeing another book to follow, though it would be cool for this book to remain as it is. I loved the story and will probably being saying this a lot in the future!
What I Did Not Like:
There isn't anything specific that I didn't like. However, I would have loved to understand a little better what happened to Angie at the very end, in terms of this one thing. I didn't have a great grasp of this one aspect - the story went from one chapter to the next, one scene to the next. I can't say more without being specific and spoilery but there is something about the ending that could have used a little more explanation.
Also, I wouldn't have minded more from Reece and Angie in terms of their relationship! They were incredibly cute and lovely together.
Would I Recommend It:
Fans of YA paranormal romance, this is a book for you! I love this kind of story. I love this kind of romance. I would definitely reread this again and I highly recommend it. It is appropriate for younger teens and up, as it is low on "inappropriate" language, sex, and violence. Well, there is violence, but it isn't too graphic or gruesome. In any case, this book would be a great addition to any YA reader's shelf!
Rating:
4.5 stars. My default is to round down but this is most likely going to end up on at least 2017 favorites list of mine, regardless of the rating. I'll be looking out for more by this author for sure. This book is a one-of-a-kind debut that should be on everyone's radars!
***Review posted on The Eater of Books! blog***
Black Bird of the Gallows by Meg Kassel
Publisher: Entangled Teen
Publication Date: September 5, 2017
Rating: 4 stars
Source: Review copy sent by the publisher
Summary (from Goodreads):
A simple but forgotten truth: Where harbingers of death appear, the morgues will soon be full.
Angie Dovage can tell there’s more to Reece Fernandez than just the tall, brooding athlete who has her classmates swooning, but she can’t imagine his presence signals a tragedy that will devastate her small town. When something supernatural tries to attack her, Angie is thrown into a battle between good and evil she never saw coming. Right in the center of it is Reece—and he’s not human.
What's more, she knows something most don't. That the secrets her town holds could kill them all. But that’s only half as dangerous as falling in love with a harbinger of death.
What I Liked:
I'd been looking forward to reading this book for quite some time, ever since a description was released. It has been a high-priority read for me, and a high-priority publication for Entangled. I had hoped that my expectations were not too high and I wouldn't be disappointed. I had nothing to worry about. This stunning debut is dark, imaginative, and enthralling, worth every bit of attention and hype it has received.
In this story, Angie Dovage's world is turned to chaos, and it starts with crows. It has been years since anyone bought the neighboring house, but one day, a family moves in. Angie's new neighbors are a little strange, especially the teenage boy who is in many of her classes. What's even stranger is the arrival of many crows - and bees. There is more to Reece Fernandez, there is more to the crows who follow him - and Angie - and there is more to the bees. Angie finds herself in the midst of a supernatural war between the cursed Beekeeper and the harbingers of death. The town of Cadence is marked, and there can only be one outcome: death.
From the start, I was hooked and I couldn't stop reading. There was no chance of me putting down the book until I finished. Kassel's writing and the flow of the story made it easy to get sucked into the story and lose track of time. I was never bored, so there was no worry about DNFing.
I was a little surprised when I connected with Angie almost right away! She is a bit of a social outcast in her high school, due to something in her past surrounding her mother. But she is very gifted with music, and is a DJ at a club on weekends. She is smart and talented and a hard worker. She is also so strong and resilient, especially with everything she went through with her mother.
I liked how that was revealed incrementally (what happened with Angie's mother). The first time you realize something is different about Angie's parental life, it's just this one phrase, a few words. The author slowly reveals parts of Angie's past. I love how the author ties it all together by the end.
Reece is the male protagonist and I absolutely adored him. He is more than a swoony love interest (though he definitely is that). He's sweet and thoughtful, and occasionally he has broody moments, and protective moments, and a whole bunch of selfless moments. Reece is by no means a perfect guy, but he is very smart and full of worldly knowledge, so he understands certain things better than most. I liked him a lot and I thought he was a great character opposite Angie.
There were many lovely secondary characters worth mentioning. Angie's dad is such a cool guy; he is fairly well-off, after a lot of hard work. He loves Angie so much and has a great relationship with her. He's a single dad, but he is really slaying the parenting thing. Here is an excellent example of a healthy parent-child relationship in YA lit - he is there, in his kid's life, and he isn't oblivious or always working.
And then there are Angie's friends, Deno and Lacy. They are wonderful friends, so supportive and loyal. I also love that they each have a thing for each other - such a cute slow-burn almost-romance happening there. But mostly I was happy to see a great friendship between the three of them.
Reece's family isn't as present as the other characters (and with good reason), but they are a wonderful family as well. I especially liked Reece's mom and really wished something could have happened between Reece's mom and Angie's dad!
I loooooved the romance between Reece and Angie. They meet and the attraction begins, but it takes more than that for them to fall for each other. The interest is there, but the feelings start to build as the story goes. Kassel packs this book with plenty of Reece/Angie interactions, and there are a number of yummy swoons too. The romance progressed at a good pace, not too insta-love-y but not too slow either. I loved watching these two interact!
The story is very action-packed and fast-paced, though not in an overwhelming way. The beginning of the book is more focused on Angie trying to figure out what is going on with the crows, the bees, Reece, and this creepy guy (who is revealed to be the villain). Then, when things are revealed to her, the real danger begins. The creepy buy - the Beekeeper - is intent on hurting Reece, and he'll go through Angie to do so. The "why's" and the "how's" are explained!
The ending is very exciting and it wraps up well. There is a HEA. I believe this book is a standalone and I'm all for it - the story ends in a great place. But I also wouldn't hate seeing another book to follow, though it would be cool for this book to remain as it is. I loved the story and will probably being saying this a lot in the future!
What I Did Not Like:
There isn't anything specific that I didn't like. However, I would have loved to understand a little better what happened to Angie at the very end, in terms of this one thing. I didn't have a great grasp of this one aspect - the story went from one chapter to the next, one scene to the next. I can't say more without being specific and spoilery but there is something about the ending that could have used a little more explanation.
Also, I wouldn't have minded more from Reece and Angie in terms of their relationship! They were incredibly cute and lovely together.
Would I Recommend It:
Fans of YA paranormal romance, this is a book for you! I love this kind of story. I love this kind of romance. I would definitely reread this again and I highly recommend it. It is appropriate for younger teens and up, as it is low on "inappropriate" language, sex, and violence. Well, there is violence, but it isn't too graphic or gruesome. In any case, this book would be a great addition to any YA reader's shelf!
Rating:
4.5 stars. My default is to round down but this is most likely going to end up on at least 2017 favorites list of mine, regardless of the rating. I'll be looking out for more by this author for sure. This book is a one-of-a-kind debut that should be on everyone's radars!
dnf
December 24, 2017Yeah....I'm calling it. dnfing around page 70. (so early, Katie? I know!)
I don't rate books I don't finish, but right now I'd give this a 1- 1.5 stars.
The writing style isn't for me. I don't like the characters. The instalove is already too much. And for lack of a better word, this book is just too weird for me. (and this is coming from someone who loves weird).
Too much angst. Too much immaturity. Maybe I would have enjoyed this more in high school but I don't know. It feels pretty cliche. Honestly, it feels like I'm reading a twisted book version of the first Twilight movie.
I don't rate books I don't finish, but right now I'd give this a 1- 1.5 stars.
The writing style isn't for me. I don't like the characters. The instalove is already too much. And for lack of a better word, this book is just too weird for me. (and this is coming from someone who loves weird).
Too much angst. Too much immaturity. Maybe I would have enjoyed this more in high school but I don't know. It feels pretty cliche. Honestly, it feels like I'm reading a twisted book version of the first Twilight movie.
September 11, 2017
Blackbird singing in the dead of night, take these broken wings and learn to fly ... Sorry, I kept hearing this song each time I read the title and music does feature in the book so it's not completely out there ...
The first thing I absolutely have to address about Black Bird of the Gallows is that cover. If you want people to need to buy a book without even knowing what it's about, then it seems like L.J. Anderson from Mayhem Cover Creations is your go to person. I simply adore the cover design and use of colour. I want a huge framed print of this cover artwork for my wall so I can constantly admire it.
Now, where was I? Oh, the book. I really enjoyed it. What was it about? The birds and the bees, but not the way you're thinking!
Angie has had it tough, spending a large part of her upbringing living in a van or at random mens' places with her drug addicted mother. While she's still haunted by her past, she now lives with her father, one of the most adorably sweet fathers I've come across in real life or the other real life (books). She has great friends, Lacey and Deno, and her very own secret identity as Sparo, a DJ in a nightclub.
The house next door has been vacant since a tragedy made it impossible to sell. However, one day a moving truck appears and lo and behold, Angie spies (literally, through binoculars) the new cute boy moving in next door with his family. Mystery cute boy with the dark eyes isn't what he appears to be and as Angie gets to know him, she learns he's not quite as human as he looks, and apparently he looks really, really good.
I loved the whole premise of this story. I'm a sucker for anything mythological so naturally I was drawn in by the origin stories of the tortured harbingers and Beekeepers. I wanted to know more about them though and I definitely wanted a backstory for the Strawmen. I'd love to read something from all of their perspectives that shed more of a light on them. Plus there's indications there are other entities/creatures/part human part something else types in this world and I want all the details about them as well.
I had two favourite characters in this book. Rafette, who we spend a considerable amount of the book running from or on the lookout for, is someone I really empathised with. I found myself seeing the story from his point of view and didn't view him as a baddie at all. Maybe it's partly due to the soft spot I have for bees but my heart broke for Rafette and the pain he's endured in his life. I need to know so much more about him! And best friend Lacey ... supportive, intuitive and loving, yet willing to bash her best friend over the head with a golf club if that's what it takes to keep her safe. I loved Lacey!
Tissues Used: 0, which surprised me as I came prepared. Although my icy cold heart experienced somewhat of an earthquake, none of the cracks melted into tears.
Food craved during reading: Pancakes. Oh, they sounded so delectably droolworthy.
Something I thought would be important to remember when reading or rereading: The names and stories of those you don't think will come back into the story. I found sections of this book to be in the 'six degrees of separation' category where peoples' stories linked together like one big crow shaped jigsaw puzzle. Prepare to get halfway through the book and go 'oh, I remember them!'
Now for the niggles:
* A minor thing, sure, but what's Reece's real name?
* The insta-love frustrated me along with the whole 'our love is destined to be doomed and we'll both be miserable for all of eternity or for as long as we live (whichever is applicable) so we shouldn't be together. But first, let's kiss some more'.
* Reece telling Angie that he's been in love with her since they were six. Now, this would have been worthy of an aww if not for the fact that .
* The whole thing about the big 'event' when loved ones are being searched for.
* You know the whole horror movie girl victim/heroine who is always running up the stairs when she should be running out the door? I had that frustration with Angie. I kept wanting to yell at her to just leave! You can't say she didn't have ample warning time, yet she still managed to wind up caught up in the 'event' like everyone else. What use is fair warning if you don't listen, sweetheart?
So, my rating. If I didn't have this many niggles, the writing would've deserved ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️. The niggles and frustration I felt while I was reading would usually have made it a ⭐️⭐️⭐️ but the writing was just so darn good. So I'm splitting the difference and giving this ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.
I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley (thank you so much to NetGalley and Entangled Publishing, LLC for the opportunity) in exchange for honest feedback. I will definitely read future books by Meg Kassel and I'll be stalking Amazon to grab my copy of the prequel novella when it's released in October 2017.
The first thing I absolutely have to address about Black Bird of the Gallows is that cover. If you want people to need to buy a book without even knowing what it's about, then it seems like L.J. Anderson from Mayhem Cover Creations is your go to person. I simply adore the cover design and use of colour. I want a huge framed print of this cover artwork for my wall so I can constantly admire it.
Now, where was I? Oh, the book. I really enjoyed it. What was it about? The birds and the bees, but not the way you're thinking!
Angie has had it tough, spending a large part of her upbringing living in a van or at random mens' places with her drug addicted mother. While she's still haunted by her past, she now lives with her father, one of the most adorably sweet fathers I've come across in real life or the other real life (books). She has great friends, Lacey and Deno, and her very own secret identity as Sparo, a DJ in a nightclub.
The house next door has been vacant since a tragedy made it impossible to sell. However, one day a moving truck appears and lo and behold, Angie spies (literally, through binoculars) the new cute boy moving in next door with his family. Mystery cute boy with the dark eyes isn't what he appears to be and as Angie gets to know him, she learns he's not quite as human as he looks, and apparently he looks really, really good.
I loved the whole premise of this story. I'm a sucker for anything mythological so naturally I was drawn in by the origin stories of the tortured harbingers and Beekeepers. I wanted to know more about them though and I definitely wanted a backstory for the Strawmen. I'd love to read something from all of their perspectives that shed more of a light on them. Plus there's indications there are other entities/creatures/part human part something else types in this world and I want all the details about them as well.
I had two favourite characters in this book. Rafette, who we spend a considerable amount of the book running from or on the lookout for, is someone I really empathised with. I found myself seeing the story from his point of view and didn't view him as a baddie at all. Maybe it's partly due to the soft spot I have for bees but my heart broke for Rafette and the pain he's endured in his life. I need to know so much more about him! And best friend Lacey ... supportive, intuitive and loving, yet willing to bash her best friend over the head with a golf club if that's what it takes to keep her safe. I loved Lacey!
Tissues Used: 0, which surprised me as I came prepared. Although my icy cold heart experienced somewhat of an earthquake, none of the cracks melted into tears.
Food craved during reading: Pancakes. Oh, they sounded so delectably droolworthy.
Something I thought would be important to remember when reading or rereading: The names and stories of those you don't think will come back into the story. I found sections of this book to be in the 'six degrees of separation' category where peoples' stories linked together like one big crow shaped jigsaw puzzle. Prepare to get halfway through the book and go 'oh, I remember them!'
Now for the niggles:
* A minor thing, sure, but what's Reece's real name?
* The insta-love frustrated me along with the whole 'our love is destined to be doomed and we'll both be miserable for all of eternity or for as long as we live (whichever is applicable) so we shouldn't be together. But first, let's kiss some more'.
* Reece telling Angie that he's been in love with her since they were six. Now, this would have been worthy of an aww if not for the fact that .
* The whole thing about the big 'event' when loved ones are being searched for.
* You know the whole horror movie girl victim/heroine who is always running up the stairs when she should be running out the door? I had that frustration with Angie. I kept wanting to yell at her to just leave! You can't say she didn't have ample warning time, yet she still managed to wind up caught up in the 'event' like everyone else. What use is fair warning if you don't listen, sweetheart?
So, my rating. If I didn't have this many niggles, the writing would've deserved ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️. The niggles and frustration I felt while I was reading would usually have made it a ⭐️⭐️⭐️ but the writing was just so darn good. So I'm splitting the difference and giving this ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.
I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley (thank you so much to NetGalley and Entangled Publishing, LLC for the opportunity) in exchange for honest feedback. I will definitely read future books by Meg Kassel and I'll be stalking Amazon to grab my copy of the prequel novella when it's released in October 2017.
August 31, 2017
So far so good. Not. Lured by the synopsis I began reading this book, and so far I find it to be full of topics:
- curious girl who feels atracted to the new guy who just moved into town and nest house
- misterious brooding new guy who just moved into town
- paranormal events: crows and flies flyring around, another misterious brooding guy who seems to be an enemy to the first
- main girl ability to read on every little movement and glance of the new guy, never mind they have only talked for like ten minutes, she is now an expert on everything "him"
- the attraction. O, the attraction! Comes out of nowhere, but o the attraction.
- hot girl from school, enemy of the main character who she bullies trying to seduce the new guy. Of course.
- and of course, one of the best friends is also an ex who sometimes creates some friction.
Really? I used to love paranormal, and YA paranormal, but lately seems like it is so full of instalove, instaromance, insta attraction, insta high school recipe that it is dishearting. Will keep on reading because the prose is good and want to see if there is more to the book than just topics (which I believe could be).
Aaaand... sadly I am done. I can't keep on reading this book. The "now I talk to you and now I don't but we always seem to be doing this on and off thingie" between the two main characters is just more than I can take besides all that I summed up before.
It is a pity because the book shows promise and is very well written, but judging by the synopsis I thought I was going to read some kind of urban scyfi and not some YA "love me-love not and here I am to save your life while being esquive and aloft" kind of thing.
While the narrative is great the characters are more on the plain side (for me they never went far from the archetypical ones), but I think the author shows promise. And probably someone who is more into this kind of book would love it.
- curious girl who feels atracted to the new guy who just moved into town and nest house
- misterious brooding new guy who just moved into town
- paranormal events: crows and flies flyring around, another misterious brooding guy who seems to be an enemy to the first
- main girl ability to read on every little movement and glance of the new guy, never mind they have only talked for like ten minutes, she is now an expert on everything "him"
- the attraction. O, the attraction! Comes out of nowhere, but o the attraction.
- hot girl from school, enemy of the main character who she bullies trying to seduce the new guy. Of course.
- and of course, one of the best friends is also an ex who sometimes creates some friction.
Really? I used to love paranormal, and YA paranormal, but lately seems like it is so full of instalove, instaromance, insta attraction, insta high school recipe that it is dishearting. Will keep on reading because the prose is good and want to see if there is more to the book than just topics (which I believe could be).
Aaaand... sadly I am done. I can't keep on reading this book. The "now I talk to you and now I don't but we always seem to be doing this on and off thingie" between the two main characters is just more than I can take besides all that I summed up before.
It is a pity because the book shows promise and is very well written, but judging by the synopsis I thought I was going to read some kind of urban scyfi and not some YA "love me-love not and here I am to save your life while being esquive and aloft" kind of thing.
While the narrative is great the characters are more on the plain side (for me they never went far from the archetypical ones), but I think the author shows promise. And probably someone who is more into this kind of book would love it.
July 31, 2020
Thank you so much to Entangled and NetGalley for allowing me to read and review this AWESOME paranormal treat by Meg Kassel! Wow, this was so different from anything else I've read lately and I really loved Meg Kassel's originality in creating this supernatural world and plot elements.
Angie hasn't had the easiest past with a neglectful mother, and now lives with her father. When a new family moves in next door, into a house where there was a grisly murder, she's immediately curious about their teenage son, Reese. Of course, as we can expect, things don't turn out to be quite what they seem with Reese, and Angie soon finds herself drawn in to a super-creepy world inhabited by crows and beekeepers.
I loved the chemistry between Reese and Angie. Angie is independent enough that her entire life doesn't go by the wayside over Reese, and their outlook on the reality of what's going on makes their relationship refreshing and enjoyable. The paranormal side of what's going on is at times... well... creepy. I don't want to give too much away. But definitely not straight up Edward Cullen "you're my heroin" romantic. And I was completely okay with that because I liked the way it added conflict.
This was very well-paced, and the world-building was nicely done, too. Just a very enjoyable read.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book from the author.
Please excuse typos. Entered on screen reader.
Angie hasn't had the easiest past with a neglectful mother, and now lives with her father. When a new family moves in next door, into a house where there was a grisly murder, she's immediately curious about their teenage son, Reese. Of course, as we can expect, things don't turn out to be quite what they seem with Reese, and Angie soon finds herself drawn in to a super-creepy world inhabited by crows and beekeepers.
I loved the chemistry between Reese and Angie. Angie is independent enough that her entire life doesn't go by the wayside over Reese, and their outlook on the reality of what's going on makes their relationship refreshing and enjoyable. The paranormal side of what's going on is at times... well... creepy. I don't want to give too much away. But definitely not straight up Edward Cullen "you're my heroin" romantic. And I was completely okay with that because I liked the way it added conflict.
This was very well-paced, and the world-building was nicely done, too. Just a very enjoyable read.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book from the author.
Please excuse typos. Entered on screen reader.
September 21, 2024
4.5 stars
September 22, 2017
3 stars!!!
When I first read the blurb for this book, I was pretty excited I have to say. But, unfortunately, this turned out to be a very average read for me. I guess it's because I found the story to have a usual YA elements. There wasn't enough of unique elements to push me to give it 4 or 5 stars. To get a clearer picture of why this was, let me unpack my reasons.
Firstly, I thought the book had potential to be awesome. I liked the concept of a world where there are these otherworldly beings that took on animal spirits but could morph into humans. The idea of harbingers and beekeepers was interesting enough. I liked the backstory and history of how these beings came about and the curse that seems to be affecting them. The book has enough of a dark atmosphere to keep it engaging and the worldbuilding was mediocre at best.
Secondly, the MC Angie is your average cliched YA girl. She has a passion for music, but can't seem to find herself. She doesn't really fit in and there's a mean girl whose on her case at school. I tend to find these kinds of MCs too boring, to be honest. There's no real depth of character. Yes, she's trying to be unique and she doesn't make overly stupid decisions but she's just meh. Add to this, she has some tragic past that she seems to be overcoming. I've read this character is scores of other YA books. However, I did like her relationship with her friends, her Dad and she seems like a level-headed girl. So, I couldn't necessarily dislike her. I just wanted more.
Thirdly, the so-called "epic" romance was another cliche. She meets this handsome guy, Reece, and falls in love with him instantly because she feels a zing towards him. What? She barely even knows him. No one falls in love so instantly. Plus, she seems way too accepting when she finds out what he is. She doesn't even freak out once. I thought this was way too farfetched. Although, their romance is sweet. It lacks flaws and realness. Plus, it had no real feels. It was way too perfect. The author does add a touch of messiness to it but I felt it wasn't raw enough.
Lastly, the overall plot had enough reveals to keep it interesting but the ending was very predictable and loose ends were tied in a neat bow. I was happy with it but it wasn't remarkable. There was plenty of action in the storyline which I appreciated. But as I said, everything fell into place way too perfect for my taste. The novel was structured really well and the facing was fast. There wasn't too much of irrelevant material which prevented it from being too tedious. That being said, I could see this book being darker with a more immersive world. I think it was too narrow and the overly sweet romance shadowed the grimmer elements. Maybe the author was going for a more hopeful approach. Either way, this novel is good for a one-time read and if you are looking for something to pass the afternoon.
When I first read the blurb for this book, I was pretty excited I have to say. But, unfortunately, this turned out to be a very average read for me. I guess it's because I found the story to have a usual YA elements. There wasn't enough of unique elements to push me to give it 4 or 5 stars. To get a clearer picture of why this was, let me unpack my reasons.
Firstly, I thought the book had potential to be awesome. I liked the concept of a world where there are these otherworldly beings that took on animal spirits but could morph into humans. The idea of harbingers and beekeepers was interesting enough. I liked the backstory and history of how these beings came about and the curse that seems to be affecting them. The book has enough of a dark atmosphere to keep it engaging and the worldbuilding was mediocre at best.
Secondly, the MC Angie is your average cliched YA girl. She has a passion for music, but can't seem to find herself. She doesn't really fit in and there's a mean girl whose on her case at school. I tend to find these kinds of MCs too boring, to be honest. There's no real depth of character. Yes, she's trying to be unique and she doesn't make overly stupid decisions but she's just meh. Add to this, she has some tragic past that she seems to be overcoming. I've read this character is scores of other YA books. However, I did like her relationship with her friends, her Dad and she seems like a level-headed girl. So, I couldn't necessarily dislike her. I just wanted more.
Thirdly, the so-called "epic" romance was another cliche. She meets this handsome guy, Reece, and falls in love with him instantly because she feels a zing towards him. What? She barely even knows him. No one falls in love so instantly. Plus, she seems way too accepting when she finds out what he is. She doesn't even freak out once. I thought this was way too farfetched. Although, their romance is sweet. It lacks flaws and realness. Plus, it had no real feels. It was way too perfect. The author does add a touch of messiness to it but I felt it wasn't raw enough.
Lastly, the overall plot had enough reveals to keep it interesting but the ending was very predictable and loose ends were tied in a neat bow. I was happy with it but it wasn't remarkable. There was plenty of action in the storyline which I appreciated. But as I said, everything fell into place way too perfect for my taste. The novel was structured really well and the facing was fast. There wasn't too much of irrelevant material which prevented it from being too tedious. That being said, I could see this book being darker with a more immersive world. I think it was too narrow and the overly sweet romance shadowed the grimmer elements. Maybe the author was going for a more hopeful approach. Either way, this novel is good for a one-time read and if you are looking for something to pass the afternoon.
August 25, 2017
Meg Kassel's debut novel was packed with thrill, romance and a chase unlike any other. Delve into the world of paranormal and be prepared for the rush as the author delivered a gothic horror novel that is both thrilling and chilling in this original story of ancient mythical creatures and the battle of good versus evil - featuring the
harbingers of death.
Angie Dovage is a survivor of a childhood horror story that made her a victim of the rumors headlining the news. Now that she lives with her dad, next to a house with the history of a family massacre, you can't blame her for being curious when the new family in town, the Fernandezes moved in into the house that has been vacant since the tragedy. And that includes stalking a particularly handsome young man, Reece, with her dad's binoculars. But the athletic and charming teen that is slowly taking over her heart is holding back a grave secret, one that not only threatens to ruin their newfound relationship but also destroys the very people she loves - can you fall in love with a harbinger of death?
"The world reeks of death and pain, and you smell like life and joy and everything I can never have."
The author takes forbidden romance to a whole new level. I am incredibly impressed with the storyline, albeit predictable, the writing was enchanting and pulled me in from the start! I am so over forbidden romance ever since my Twihard years, but the intense chemistry between Angie and Reece was hard to ignore and even harder to not fall in love with.
Angie is an independent heroine that you just can't help but look up to. Given what she endured in her past, I loved the fact that she is discovering herself in this book and that she is brave enough to stand up for herself and own her decisions. Which brings me to my favorite character, Reece. Unlike the typical alpha male, Reece does not dictate or in any way forces Angie into making decisions that favor himself. Even when disaster strikes, he does not just sweeps in and save the day - a harbinger of death and all.
There are so many things about the book that I fell in love with - the dynamics of Angie's friendship with Deno and Lacey, Angie's relationship with her father, uncovering the mystery behind the ancient curse and the whole idea of beekeepers and harbingers, it was the ending that made me almost cried happy tears. From the start to the finish line, it was definitely a helluva roller coaster!
Thank you Entangled Teen and the author for the reviewing opportunity! I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book.
Angie Dovage is a survivor of a childhood horror story that made her a victim of the rumors headlining the news. Now that she lives with her dad, next to a house with the history of a family massacre, you can't blame her for being curious when the new family in town, the Fernandezes moved in into the house that has been vacant since the tragedy. And that includes stalking a particularly handsome young man, Reece, with her dad's binoculars. But the athletic and charming teen that is slowly taking over her heart is holding back a grave secret, one that not only threatens to ruin their newfound relationship but also destroys the very people she loves - can you fall in love with a harbinger of death?
"The world reeks of death and pain, and you smell like life and joy and everything I can never have."
The author takes forbidden romance to a whole new level. I am incredibly impressed with the storyline, albeit predictable, the writing was enchanting and pulled me in from the start! I am so over forbidden romance ever since my Twihard years, but the intense chemistry between Angie and Reece was hard to ignore and even harder to not fall in love with.
Angie is an independent heroine that you just can't help but look up to. Given what she endured in her past, I loved the fact that she is discovering herself in this book and that she is brave enough to stand up for herself and own her decisions. Which brings me to my favorite character, Reece. Unlike the typical alpha male, Reece does not dictate or in any way forces Angie into making decisions that favor himself. Even when disaster strikes, he does not just sweeps in and save the day - a harbinger of death and all.
There are so many things about the book that I fell in love with - the dynamics of Angie's friendship with Deno and Lacey, Angie's relationship with her father, uncovering the mystery behind the ancient curse and the whole idea of beekeepers and harbingers, it was the ending that made me almost cried happy tears. From the start to the finish line, it was definitely a helluva roller coaster!
Thank you Entangled Teen and the author for the reviewing opportunity! I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book.
May 25, 2018
I liked this. I seriously appreciated a YA paranormal that did not include not one damn vampire or werewolf nor faerie!!
Side note: while I love a damn good faerie, I hate to admit that they’re starting to become the new vamps and weres of the last decade.
I freaking love crows. Or ravens. Or whatever. My inner goth adores them! So I was instantly drawn to Black Bird of the Gallows. Hello gorgeous cover! And hello creepy crow boys!
I loved the mc, Angie. She is this secretly badass electro-pop-techno DJ on the mixing tables who works under the uber cool stage name of, “Sparo”. She’s so hipster she doesn’t even know it! I liked that. It felt unique. And it was fun getting an insight into that lifestyle and performance!
I enjoyed this story. But unfortunately I didn’t love it. At times I got serious Bella and Edward vibes that I just couldn’t shake no matter how hard I tried to put Twilight out of my head and that kind of distanced me from everything.
I didn’t feel emotionally attached to the characters which means I didn’t feel compelled into “page-gripping” during action scenes, which means I felt underwhelmed.
As well, we’ve got some insta-love going on. And an *alllllllllmost* love-triangle like whew close one, but kudos for writing that nasty trope out. But all was forgiven because as I said in the beginning here, we need more paranormal reads outside of flipping vampires and werewolves!
Looking forward to book 2 though....if it’s still going to happen. Mostly because a certain someone is 18 and has their own apartment..........woo woo! And if there is ever one thing I quest for more in the bookish world, it is a more NA than YA paranormal (sans effing vamps and weres), like perhaps this one with college age mc’s with a bit more college-age-shenanigans but written in a classy more subjective way like in YA?????!! Please tell me you get me??
And here’s a rec along the same-ish lines as this read:
If you enjoyed Black Birds of the Gallows then you’ll also enjoy Nevermore by Kelly Creagh!
If you’re looking for something similar for your inner goth to keep you going until book 2 , I highly recommend the Nevermore trilogyby Kelly Creagh!!!
Side note: while I love a damn good faerie, I hate to admit that they’re starting to become the new vamps and weres of the last decade.
I freaking love crows. Or ravens. Or whatever. My inner goth adores them! So I was instantly drawn to Black Bird of the Gallows. Hello gorgeous cover! And hello creepy crow boys!
I loved the mc, Angie. She is this secretly badass electro-pop-techno DJ on the mixing tables who works under the uber cool stage name of, “Sparo”. She’s so hipster she doesn’t even know it! I liked that. It felt unique. And it was fun getting an insight into that lifestyle and performance!
I enjoyed this story. But unfortunately I didn’t love it. At times I got serious Bella and Edward vibes that I just couldn’t shake no matter how hard I tried to put Twilight out of my head and that kind of distanced me from everything.
I didn’t feel emotionally attached to the characters which means I didn’t feel compelled into “page-gripping” during action scenes, which means I felt underwhelmed.
As well, we’ve got some insta-love going on. And an *alllllllllmost* love-triangle like whew close one, but kudos for writing that nasty trope out. But all was forgiven because as I said in the beginning here, we need more paranormal reads outside of flipping vampires and werewolves!
Looking forward to book 2 though....if it’s still going to happen. Mostly because a certain someone is 18 and has their own apartment..........woo woo! And if there is ever one thing I quest for more in the bookish world, it is a more NA than YA paranormal (sans effing vamps and weres), like perhaps this one with college age mc’s with a bit more college-age-shenanigans but written in a classy more subjective way like in YA?????!! Please tell me you get me??
And here’s a rec along the same-ish lines as this read:
If you enjoyed Black Birds of the Gallows then you’ll also enjoy Nevermore by Kelly Creagh!
If you’re looking for something similar for your inner goth to keep you going until book 2 , I highly recommend the Nevermore trilogyby Kelly Creagh!!!
September 10, 2018
3.5 Stars
Review:
*I received an ecopy of this book via YA Bound Book Tours. This has not influenced my review.*
This book had many of the typical YA trappings, but it also had a lot of uniqueness, and that was why I liked it.
I loved how this author took the idea of crows being harbingers of death and turned it into an actual supernatural creature. I have no idea if any author has ever done that before, but if they have, I've not come across it. It was unique and creative, and everything about the harbingers was interesting. As for the beekeepers, I don't know if that idea came from anything, but it was sure unique too. I won't go into detail about any of these things though since I think it's more fun to learn about them in the story.
But as I said, there were some less unique things as well---high school cliques, something that felt a lot like instalove, and the brooding, tortured, centuries-old supernatural dating the teenage girl. Personally I could've done without some of these, but tropes are not inherently bad, and everyone likes different things.
Plus, there were other things I enjoyed (in addition to the creativity of the supernatural elements). The writing and story had this great ominous feel. The main character was believable and likeable. The friendship she had with her two best friends and the relationship she had with her father were not the main focus but were sweet nonetheless. The DJ/music stuff was fun to read about. The disaster scenes were intense.
Overall, this was a quick but ominous and enjoyable read, and I loved how unique the supernatural element was!
Original Review @ Metaphors and Moonlight
Review:
*I received an ecopy of this book via YA Bound Book Tours. This has not influenced my review.*
This book had many of the typical YA trappings, but it also had a lot of uniqueness, and that was why I liked it.
I loved how this author took the idea of crows being harbingers of death and turned it into an actual supernatural creature. I have no idea if any author has ever done that before, but if they have, I've not come across it. It was unique and creative, and everything about the harbingers was interesting. As for the beekeepers, I don't know if that idea came from anything, but it was sure unique too. I won't go into detail about any of these things though since I think it's more fun to learn about them in the story.
But as I said, there were some less unique things as well---high school cliques, something that felt a lot like instalove, and the brooding, tortured, centuries-old supernatural dating the teenage girl. Personally I could've done without some of these, but tropes are not inherently bad, and everyone likes different things.
Plus, there were other things I enjoyed (in addition to the creativity of the supernatural elements). The writing and story had this great ominous feel. The main character was believable and likeable. The friendship she had with her two best friends and the relationship she had with her father were not the main focus but were sweet nonetheless. The DJ/music stuff was fun to read about. The disaster scenes were intense.
Overall, this was a quick but ominous and enjoyable read, and I loved how unique the supernatural element was!
Original Review @ Metaphors and Moonlight
Want to read
July 16, 2017I don't mind authors who give themselves 5 stars or so. It's their work and they've invested time into bringing it to life. No judgement there.
Also, anyone else get a Scythe (that is another book) feel from this blurb? Just the thing where death follows the Harbinger in this one and death follows a Scythe in Scythe.
Also, anyone else get a Scythe (that is another book) feel from this blurb? Just the thing where death follows the Harbinger in this one and death follows a Scythe in Scythe.
April 10, 2018
Finally! I recommended a book to the library...and they actually purchased it for lil ole me! :D But when I went to mark it as currently reading on Goodreads, I noticed that there's now a sequel listed and I'm all Noooo! I thought this was a stand-alone! The book gods are cruel like that. Except...the way this one ended, you wouldn't necessarily have to continue with the series. And I doubt I will be. The premise of this story had so much promise, but the execution just fell flat. It didn't have any depth, the romance was abrupt, and the conclusion was just so perfect, it made me want to yack. I'm just immensely disappointed...
September 5, 2017
3.5 Stars
Black Bird of the Gallows is such a unique fantasy story! (and I think it’s a standalone too) We follow Angie Dovage as she gets to know her new neighbor, Reece Fernandez in a town that’s primed for disaster. With the town’s crow and bee populations increasing, Angie thinks Reece might have answers. The atmosphere is dark and the world building is fantastic, Black Birds of the Gallows is a reading experience you won’t soon forget.
Things I Liked
I really love all the mythology we get in the story! We learn so much about the Harbingers and the Beekeepers; we get their origins,how they live, what their life is like, and I LOVED it all. It was so unique and really kept me turning the pages. I was hooked!
I also really enjoyed the creepy vibe the story has going on. There’s just a really great atmosphere to the story that is dark and gritty and a bit dangerous. The story does not shy away from danger and aggression. And really tries to hook you with mystery in the beginning of the story. The overall vibe makes this a seriously perfect book for fall.
Things I Didn’t Like
I was completely satisfied with the world building in the story, it just felt like it took a little too long to get to get to all the fantastic world building. We really get most of the world building at around the halfway mark. I definitely would have been hook into the story quicker if I got some worldbuilding in the beginning.
I thought that Kiera really lacked depth. She was just another incarnation of the bratty mean girl. She never really seemed like a character to me, so her semi resolution with Angie didn’t carry much weight.
Even though I didn’t connect with any of the characters, the world building made this book unforgettable. This is such a unique concept that stands out in a sea of paranormal creature books. It was so easy to read, and I just can’t get enough of the mythology. Black Bird of the Gallows is a strange but compelling tale of bravery, sacrifice, love, and tragedy.
I received a copy of the book from Entangled Teen via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
“I hold my breath and watch the crow glide away. It melts into the blackness, silent as a ghost. Lonely as the night.
Dark as a boy’s eyes.”
Black Bird of the Gallows is such a unique fantasy story! (and I think it’s a standalone too) We follow Angie Dovage as she gets to know her new neighbor, Reece Fernandez in a town that’s primed for disaster. With the town’s crow and bee populations increasing, Angie thinks Reece might have answers. The atmosphere is dark and the world building is fantastic, Black Birds of the Gallows is a reading experience you won’t soon forget.
Things I Liked
I really love all the mythology we get in the story! We learn so much about the Harbingers and the Beekeepers; we get their origins,how they live, what their life is like, and I LOVED it all. It was so unique and really kept me turning the pages. I was hooked!
I also really enjoyed the creepy vibe the story has going on. There’s just a really great atmosphere to the story that is dark and gritty and a bit dangerous. The story does not shy away from danger and aggression. And really tries to hook you with mystery in the beginning of the story. The overall vibe makes this a seriously perfect book for fall.
Things I Didn’t Like
I was completely satisfied with the world building in the story, it just felt like it took a little too long to get to get to all the fantastic world building. We really get most of the world building at around the halfway mark. I definitely would have been hook into the story quicker if I got some worldbuilding in the beginning.
I thought that Kiera really lacked depth. She was just another incarnation of the bratty mean girl. She never really seemed like a character to me, so her semi resolution with Angie didn’t carry much weight.
Even though I didn’t connect with any of the characters, the world building made this book unforgettable. This is such a unique concept that stands out in a sea of paranormal creature books. It was so easy to read, and I just can’t get enough of the mythology. Black Bird of the Gallows is a strange but compelling tale of bravery, sacrifice, love, and tragedy.
I received a copy of the book from Entangled Teen via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Read
June 16, 2017Beautifully written, Black Bird of the Gallows is a love story filled with curses and people who have seen far to much in their lives that you won't be able to put down. Meg Kassel develops a unique mythology with harbingers of death, beekeepers, and other ancient brings that are mysterious and infinitely more terrifying...maybe because we know so little about them. (Perhaps in another book?!?) I can't wait for the ebook novella, Cleaner of Bones, and the companion, The Beekeeper. Highly recommended for fans of Maggie Stiefvater, Brenna Yovanoff, and readers / critics of the female gothic tradition.
September 15, 2017
Black Bird of the Gallows was hauntingly addicting, and I found myself completely mesmerized as the story unfolded. The creatures and curses were not only unique, but an eerie combination that at times terrified me. There were so many moments of subtle humor that had me laughing out loud and kept a smile on my face. And when you add to that characters that won my heart, well Black Bird of the Gallows easily became one of my favorite books from this year!
The book started out with Angie learning she has new neighbors. And her first interaction with Reece, a boy about her age, had so many unexplainable moments. He was speaking to a man whose face constantly changed, crows seemed to follow yet be playful with him, and he reminded her of something she couldn't quite pinpoint. Despite all that, they started towards a tentative friendship. While there was a few bumps in the road, the way it developed felt so sweet and innocent. But there was also moments between the two of them that made my heart race. And I'm not one to usually talk about butterflies, but I SO did have them! Watching Angie and Reece together made me feel like I was falling in love for the first time all over again.
Yet their relationship was forbidden. It shouldn’t have grown the way it did. It seemed like they were destined for broken hearts. And because of them growing closer, creatures took interest in Angie. That could only lead to horrific things. You see, Reece's arrival in her town was a horrible sign, since he's a harbinger of death. Once he was in her town, there was a shift in the demeanor of the town’s people. Violence and chaotic events started to become more commonplace. Then it all started to take an even darker turn. I was terrified yet intrigued with how it would all play out. Especially in regards to the bees. When I fully understood the bees *shudders*, I realized that I will forever be haunted by them. I can't ever look at a honeybee normally again. *sobs*
And while I LOVED the storyline, I was even more obsessed with Reece and Angie. Oh my gosh you guys, Reece may be one of the most tortured souls I've ever read about. He gutted me. He broke my heart and then shattered it into the tiniest of pieces. But he also had the ability to completely captivate my attention and melt my heart. And did I mention he was full of secrets? He was such a complex soul and was deliciously addicting! I loved, loved, loved Reece!
And then there was Angie. From the moment Angie stated that she preferred footwear that wasn't practical, I just knew her and I were going to be bffs! But seriously, she had such a huge heart and a good head on her shoulders, I easily liked Angie right away. While she had a troubled past, she tried her hardest to not let that define her. And I was so grateful to see she had a wonderful support system with her two best friends and father. The relationship she had with her father was realistic, and I loved that he played an active role in her life. It was so refreshing to see that in a YA book!
With curses, love, friendship, trust, and sacrifice, Black Bird of the Gallows truly had it all! It was a page turner, it was impossible to put down, it made me sob out of happiness and sorrow. And did I mention it reads as a standalone?! So now I will patiently wait until I can read every single future release from this author. She has made me a fan for life, and I'm so grateful I got to pick up this book and discover what was inside!
*ARC kindly provided by Entangled Teen via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review*
For more of my reviews, please visit:
“ What are you?” The question slips out— suddenly, vitally relevant.
For a moment , we just stare at each other, our mingling breath making white puffs in the cold air. He drops his gaze. I know, then, the answer is horrible. He’s kept his secrets for a reason, and that reason may be as scarring as the scene before us.
The book started out with Angie learning she has new neighbors. And her first interaction with Reece, a boy about her age, had so many unexplainable moments. He was speaking to a man whose face constantly changed, crows seemed to follow yet be playful with him, and he reminded her of something she couldn't quite pinpoint. Despite all that, they started towards a tentative friendship. While there was a few bumps in the road, the way it developed felt so sweet and innocent. But there was also moments between the two of them that made my heart race. And I'm not one to usually talk about butterflies, but I SO did have them! Watching Angie and Reece together made me feel like I was falling in love for the first time all over again.
I hold my breath and watch the crow glide away. It melts into the blackness, silent as a ghost. Lonely as the night.
Dark as a boy’s eyes.
Yet their relationship was forbidden. It shouldn’t have grown the way it did. It seemed like they were destined for broken hearts. And because of them growing closer, creatures took interest in Angie. That could only lead to horrific things. You see, Reece's arrival in her town was a horrible sign, since he's a harbinger of death. Once he was in her town, there was a shift in the demeanor of the town’s people. Violence and chaotic events started to become more commonplace. Then it all started to take an even darker turn. I was terrified yet intrigued with how it would all play out. Especially in regards to the bees. When I fully understood the bees *shudders*, I realized that I will forever be haunted by them. I can't ever look at a honeybee normally again. *sobs*
He leans his terrible face close. Way too close . “He watches you. Why?”
My heart smashes against my ribs. His nightmare face is inches from mine, but no breath comes from that changing mouth. No puff of white in the cold darkness. Only the disorienting scent of honey and a skin-crawling drone that sounds an awful lot like bees. A lot of bees.
And while I LOVED the storyline, I was even more obsessed with Reece and Angie. Oh my gosh you guys, Reece may be one of the most tortured souls I've ever read about. He gutted me. He broke my heart and then shattered it into the tiniest of pieces. But he also had the ability to completely captivate my attention and melt my heart. And did I mention he was full of secrets? He was such a complex soul and was deliciously addicting! I loved, loved, loved Reece!
Reece goes perfectly still. “You are important to me,” he says finally. “More important than anything any cursed creature thinks he could do to me.”
And then there was Angie. From the moment Angie stated that she preferred footwear that wasn't practical, I just knew her and I were going to be bffs! But seriously, she had such a huge heart and a good head on her shoulders, I easily liked Angie right away. While she had a troubled past, she tried her hardest to not let that define her. And I was so grateful to see she had a wonderful support system with her two best friends and father. The relationship she had with her father was realistic, and I loved that he played an active role in her life. It was so refreshing to see that in a YA book!
His lips brush against mine in the whisper of a kiss. It’s different from any other. It tastes of certainty and sadness and promises that can never be made.
With curses, love, friendship, trust, and sacrifice, Black Bird of the Gallows truly had it all! It was a page turner, it was impossible to put down, it made me sob out of happiness and sorrow. And did I mention it reads as a standalone?! So now I will patiently wait until I can read every single future release from this author. She has made me a fan for life, and I'm so grateful I got to pick up this book and discover what was inside!
*ARC kindly provided by Entangled Teen via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review*
For more of my reviews, please visit:
September 8, 2017
Oh NO, it really finished guys :( !, that makes me so sad, I feel I need more of this world and its characters, read this book it was all an experience, I underestimated it and it really surprised me
I want to thank NetGalley and Entangled Publishing,LLC for providing me with this copy in exchange for an honest review
4/5 Stars
You can find this on andmore of my review on my blog A Book. A Thought.
Black Bird of the Gallows is the typical paranormal story that follows the typical character of the innocent beautifull girl, and the handsome and miterious guy. I feel that it has many similarities to Twilight, the Lux saga or even to Hush Hush, and even when I've enjoyed of most of those series, that was a long time ago, so nowadays to find a book that reminds me of the typical Ya Paranormal story, it was something that scared me a little bit. Being honest, I thought, since the beginning, that I wouldn't like it and took me completely by surprise, I didn't just started to enjoying it once I got more into it but in the end I feel that I need more of this fabulous paranormal plot. I don't know if there will be more books, because although it works well as stand-alone it would really be incredible to have at least a duology. Yes guys, I liked it that much lol
The paranormal aspects are very original, the author's idea to use animals like bees and crows, and put all this legend around them and make the whole thing something dark and cursed is great, never heard nothing like it before. At first I wasn't sure if it worked, I found the whole thing a little bit weird, but ended up working and being something unique. I also liked that the whole plot takes place in a small town where appearances deceive and everything has an mystery aura, that has been great, it gives a touch of tv serie, something like The Vampire Diaries or Supernatual. In fact I think if you enjoy some of those shows you like the book too
There is nothing really amazing about the characters, they are quite normal and typical in this type of story,. at one point I thought it would exist a kind of love triangle and I was really worried about that, but it ended up being the opposite and didn't fall into that topic, which sometimes bothers us so much, was a good thing
What I want to highlight and what I most enjoy was the Meg Kassel writing style, is incredible, super cool and easy to read, I also sincerely think that you could read this book easily in one day, it's so addictive and fast-paced, I sadly didn't have the chance to finish it so fast because life lol, but I would have liked to do it if I could. Once you start with it is very difficult to put it down. I'm 100% sure that I'll read anything by this author in the future. I highly recommend this book if you're in the middle of some reading challenge, it's perfect for such occasions.
I feel that at one point there was a lot of action going on and I was terrified by the result and then PUM!, the book ended, and here I am, still with a million questions. So I don't know how to feel about the end, I think it was rushed. Easily I could have devoured 100 pages more of this story without getting tired and maybe I would have more answers to my questions or at least to know more about what happened with the secondary characters, that is why I hope there is a continuation. And although the book, as I said, ends quite well, I feel that it is not one of my favorite endings and it's from those books that you stay waiting for more.
I highly recommend it if you want a funny paranormal reading, you'll read it very fast and you'll surely enjoy the writing style that is cool and it's not heavy at all. I also want to add that if you don't mind the typical Paranormal YA topics then surely you'll enjoy it, it's a fresh and entertaining reading, GO FOR IT!
I want to thank NetGalley and Entangled Publishing,LLC for providing me with this copy in exchange for an honest review
4/5 Stars
You can find this on andmore of my review on my blog A Book. A Thought.
Black Bird of the Gallows is the typical paranormal story that follows the typical character of the innocent beautifull girl, and the handsome and miterious guy. I feel that it has many similarities to Twilight, the Lux saga or even to Hush Hush, and even when I've enjoyed of most of those series, that was a long time ago, so nowadays to find a book that reminds me of the typical Ya Paranormal story, it was something that scared me a little bit. Being honest, I thought, since the beginning, that I wouldn't like it and took me completely by surprise, I didn't just started to enjoying it once I got more into it but in the end I feel that I need more of this fabulous paranormal plot. I don't know if there will be more books, because although it works well as stand-alone it would really be incredible to have at least a duology. Yes guys, I liked it that much lol
The paranormal aspects are very original, the author's idea to use animals like bees and crows, and put all this legend around them and make the whole thing something dark and cursed is great, never heard nothing like it before. At first I wasn't sure if it worked, I found the whole thing a little bit weird, but ended up working and being something unique. I also liked that the whole plot takes place in a small town where appearances deceive and everything has an mystery aura, that has been great, it gives a touch of tv serie, something like The Vampire Diaries or Supernatual. In fact I think if you enjoy some of those shows you like the book too
There is nothing really amazing about the characters, they are quite normal and typical in this type of story,. at one point I thought it would exist a kind of love triangle and I was really worried about that, but it ended up being the opposite and didn't fall into that topic, which sometimes bothers us so much, was a good thing
What I want to highlight and what I most enjoy was the Meg Kassel writing style, is incredible, super cool and easy to read, I also sincerely think that you could read this book easily in one day, it's so addictive and fast-paced, I sadly didn't have the chance to finish it so fast because life lol, but I would have liked to do it if I could. Once you start with it is very difficult to put it down. I'm 100% sure that I'll read anything by this author in the future. I highly recommend this book if you're in the middle of some reading challenge, it's perfect for such occasions.
I feel that at one point there was a lot of action going on and I was terrified by the result and then PUM!, the book ended, and here I am, still with a million questions. So I don't know how to feel about the end, I think it was rushed. Easily I could have devoured 100 pages more of this story without getting tired and maybe I would have more answers to my questions or at least to know more about what happened with the secondary characters, that is why I hope there is a continuation. And although the book, as I said, ends quite well, I feel that it is not one of my favorite endings and it's from those books that you stay waiting for more.
I highly recommend it if you want a funny paranormal reading, you'll read it very fast and you'll surely enjoy the writing style that is cool and it's not heavy at all. I also want to add that if you don't mind the typical Paranormal YA topics then surely you'll enjoy it, it's a fresh and entertaining reading, GO FOR IT!
January 26, 2019
This was good, could have been great. Easy read. It felt Twilight-ish but the plot was entertaining. It got a tad messy in parts, and the writing style was plain. The end was corny and didn't flow well with the rest of the story as if the writer didn't know how to wrap it up. I wanted to love this book but I couldn't.
November 6, 2017
Black Bird of the Gallows was creepy and enchanting and captured my attention until the very end!
This was such a unique book to read. From the plot and world building to the pacing and mythological ties, this book really made you feel like you were a part of this crazy adventure. I have to admit that around the first 38% of the book, I was a little iffy on whether or not I liked it but I am so happy that I kept reading.
I really enjoyed reading about Angie and Reece. The chemistry between them was sizzling hot and heartwarming at the same time. Their relationship was so enjoyable to read and refreshing (compared to other paranormal books...cough, Twilight, cough). Don't even get me started on the ending, I was an emotional mess .
If you enjoyed reading the LUX series or Twilight then I highly suggest checking this book out.
For this review and more check out:
Website | Twitter | Instagram | Wattpad
This was such a unique book to read. From the plot and world building to the pacing and mythological ties, this book really made you feel like you were a part of this crazy adventure. I have to admit that around the first 38% of the book, I was a little iffy on whether or not I liked it but I am so happy that I kept reading.
I really enjoyed reading about Angie and Reece. The chemistry between them was sizzling hot and heartwarming at the same time. Their relationship was so enjoyable to read and refreshing (compared to other paranormal books...cough, Twilight, cough). Don't even get me started on the ending, I was an emotional mess .
If you enjoyed reading the LUX series or Twilight then I highly suggest checking this book out.
For this review and more check out:
Website | Twitter | Instagram | Wattpad
June 3, 2017
I received this book from BookExpo America. It's an Advance Reading Copy. I was fortunate to meet the author, who signed it for me! I knew I would enjoy her writing as early as reading page 2 ....... the dad's running shirt is described as being, "a retina-piercing shade of highlighter yellow"! Love it!
The story involves a shy, motherless, teenage girl who falls for the new neighbor; a handsome, charming, teenage boy. Both have troubled pasts and live with secrets that are too difficult for any one person to handle alone. Their lives are further complicated by other-worldly creatures; Harbingers and Beekeepers. These beings are not quite human, not quite animal, not quite dead or alive.
As disaster heads for town, this unlikely couple shares the task of defending the town while trying to save each other. The characters' backstories are intricately woven together, as are their futures. As one chapter ends and another begins, the only constant is, HOPE. That theme permeates the story. Hope is supported by love; a real tenderness and passion between these two characters.
The story is wonderful, as is the writing! It's a YA that is suitable for young people and adults. I'm honored to have had the opportunity to read the ARC ... and ... to have met the lovely author!!
The story involves a shy, motherless, teenage girl who falls for the new neighbor; a handsome, charming, teenage boy. Both have troubled pasts and live with secrets that are too difficult for any one person to handle alone. Their lives are further complicated by other-worldly creatures; Harbingers and Beekeepers. These beings are not quite human, not quite animal, not quite dead or alive.
As disaster heads for town, this unlikely couple shares the task of defending the town while trying to save each other. The characters' backstories are intricately woven together, as are their futures. As one chapter ends and another begins, the only constant is, HOPE. That theme permeates the story. Hope is supported by love; a real tenderness and passion between these two characters.
The story is wonderful, as is the writing! It's a YA that is suitable for young people and adults. I'm honored to have had the opportunity to read the ARC ... and ... to have met the lovely author!!
January 21, 2018
★3.5 Stars! Black Bird of the Gallows...
“His lips brush against mine in the whisper of a kiss. It’s different from any other. It tastes of certainty and sadness and promises that can never be made.”
A few words to describe this book:
1) Intriguing
2) Unique
3) Creepy
3) A great balance of friendship, love, family, pain and sacrifice.
5) But...predictable.
“His lips brush against mine in the whisper of a kiss. It’s different from any other. It tastes of certainty and sadness and promises that can never be made.”
A few words to describe this book:
1) Intriguing
2) Unique
3) Creepy
3) A great balance of friendship, love, family, pain and sacrifice.
5) But...predictable.
September 11, 2017
Meg Kassel nails it with her debut novel. Black Bird of the gallows was an intriguing YA fantasy/paranormal read.
"Don't follow me again, Angie. Death is never far behind me. I don't want it to catch you."
I love the unique ideas and paranormal elements Meg gives us in this book. She created very interesting world of harbingers and beekeepers. I love how she built everything up and introduced us to this world, I just wish she would have added more of these elements a little earlier on in the book.
The beginning of the book was a tad slow for me, but not too slow to where it made me lose interest - I think it was just missing those extra fantasy elements that would have made the pace a bit more enjoyable. But once everything started to come together, the book definitely got more entertaining and interesting.
Crack your bones and eat the marrow, snap your spines like broken arrows."
I really enjoyed Angie and Reece and their interactions. Despite Angie have a rough upbringing with her mother, at times she came across as reserved, you could still sense her strong demeanor just below the surface. You know something is up with Reece that second we meet him, but we just aren't sure what that it is. I enjoyed the mysteriousness of him and how we slowly learned more and more about him.
Overall, Meg wrote a very enticing YA fantasy read. I loved how she panned things out and gave us a new world to fall into. What I loved most about this book was Meg's writing style. She really made this whole story way more interesting than I anticipated and it's her writing that made this book stand out to me. I am looking forward to her companion novels to this book and what she brings us next.
"Don't follow me again, Angie. Death is never far behind me. I don't want it to catch you."
I love the unique ideas and paranormal elements Meg gives us in this book. She created very interesting world of harbingers and beekeepers. I love how she built everything up and introduced us to this world, I just wish she would have added more of these elements a little earlier on in the book.
The beginning of the book was a tad slow for me, but not too slow to where it made me lose interest - I think it was just missing those extra fantasy elements that would have made the pace a bit more enjoyable. But once everything started to come together, the book definitely got more entertaining and interesting.
Crack your bones and eat the marrow, snap your spines like broken arrows."
I really enjoyed Angie and Reece and their interactions. Despite Angie have a rough upbringing with her mother, at times she came across as reserved, you could still sense her strong demeanor just below the surface. You know something is up with Reece that second we meet him, but we just aren't sure what that it is. I enjoyed the mysteriousness of him and how we slowly learned more and more about him.
Overall, Meg wrote a very enticing YA fantasy read. I loved how she panned things out and gave us a new world to fall into. What I loved most about this book was Meg's writing style. She really made this whole story way more interesting than I anticipated and it's her writing that made this book stand out to me. I am looking forward to her companion novels to this book and what she brings us next.
October 8, 2017
"Fly with me, baby, there’s nothing to fear. Stay with me today, before you have to go. Be with me, baby, no need to hide. In the light of the new day, the fire’s burning low. Can’t stop searching, for some spark of hope. Find your way to dry land, the sea will drag me down. Swimming to the far shore, to the lonely underground. You’ll be gone before I’ve drowned. Before I ever make a sound, I’ll never make a sound…"
I. Loved. This. Book.
To say this book was good is like saying that Florida is warm in the summer. Florida is dang hot in the summer, and this book is dang awesome!!!
I loved the characters. Especially the two main characters, Angie and Reece, and yes I really liked their relationship. A lot of people compared the romance to Twilight’s instalove. So, yes, if you don’t like that kind of thing you might not enjoy the romance. I, however, loved the romance in Twilight (it’s the only thing I like about Twilight) and I loved watching this romance develop.
But, even if you don’t like the romance....this book is SO MUCH MORE!!! The crows, the folklore of harbingers of death, the bees (I’m still trying to sort that out in my head, and hope with further Books on the series to understand...why bees) and very old curses. There lots of action/adventure, survival stuff. This book is filled with a lot!!! I don’t want to give away too much, so that’s why I’m being vague, but I want you to know this isn’t just a romance book, and it’s definitely NOT BORING!!!
If you like Young Adult, Paranormal, Folklore,Romance, Action/Adventure Survival stuff...then give this book a try. I really think you’ll like it. I gave it 5/5 Stars.
I. Loved. This. Book.
To say this book was good is like saying that Florida is warm in the summer. Florida is dang hot in the summer, and this book is dang awesome!!!
I loved the characters. Especially the two main characters, Angie and Reece, and yes I really liked their relationship. A lot of people compared the romance to Twilight’s instalove. So, yes, if you don’t like that kind of thing you might not enjoy the romance. I, however, loved the romance in Twilight (it’s the only thing I like about Twilight) and I loved watching this romance develop.
But, even if you don’t like the romance....this book is SO MUCH MORE!!! The crows, the folklore of harbingers of death, the bees (I’m still trying to sort that out in my head, and hope with further Books on the series to understand...why bees) and very old curses. There lots of action/adventure, survival stuff. This book is filled with a lot!!! I don’t want to give away too much, so that’s why I’m being vague, but I want you to know this isn’t just a romance book, and it’s definitely NOT BORING!!!
If you like Young Adult, Paranormal, Folklore,Romance, Action/Adventure Survival stuff...then give this book a try. I really think you’ll like it. I gave it 5/5 Stars.
April 3, 2022
Actual rating: 3.5🌟
It wasn't bad, but wasn't good either. Do you get me?
What I found really interesting: crows as harbingers of death - I don't think I read any book focused on this, but I liked this one.
On the other hand, the protagonist annoyed me (way too often) and there were a few things I encountered in the book that had no impact to the story so I'd say they were, in a word, useless.
The romance was ok. That's the only way I can describe it. It's introduced as an insta-love (which I don't like) but then ... things change and it turns out to be more ... realistic (sorry if my wording is wrong)
As for the ending ... rushed.
It wasn't bad, but wasn't good either. Do you get me?
What I found really interesting: crows as harbingers of death - I don't think I read any book focused on this, but I liked this one.
On the other hand, the protagonist annoyed me (way too often) and there were a few things I encountered in the book that had no impact to the story so I'd say they were, in a word, useless.
The romance was ok. That's the only way I can describe it. It's introduced as an insta-love (which I don't like) but then ... things change and it turns out to be more ... realistic (sorry if my wording is wrong)
As for the ending ... rushed.
September 22, 2017
Thank You to Entangled Teen and NetGalley for letting me read and review an early copy of Black Bird of the Gallows by Meg Kassel. My thoughts and opinions are 100% honest and 100% my own.
I'm also excited to be a part of the Black Bird of the Gallows Blog Tour! This tour is hosted by Chapter by Chapter and Entangled Teen. I'm happy to be a part of it.
Black Bird of the Gallows is an interesting mix of things. First and foremost, it's a paranormal romance, which I always love. There are also sprinklings of disaster fiction, danger, mystery, and a bit of horror. It's an interesting mix for a book, a mix I rather enjoyed reading. The book introduces the different parts in different spots. It unveils itself as it goes along. It definitely kept me reading.
This story brought to mind some other stories I have read and enjoyed. The beginning and middle really reminded me a lot of Twilight by Stephenie Meyer, in a good way! I know that comparison might not be a good omen for some people, but reading Black Bird of the Gallows gave me that feeling of when I first read Twilight, how sucked in I got to the story, and how much fun I had reading it. Black Bird of the Gallows also had a more sinister vibe, and it reminded me of a more sinister book I had read a couple of years ago. That book is The Waking Dark by Robin Wasserman, which is a crazy, scary, and good book! More people should read that one.
Black Bird of the Gallows had a lot packed into it. It almost felt like it could have been put into two book, instead of just the one. There was a lot to take in, and everything went pretty fast. I would have liked the last half of the book to have been slowed down a little, but that's just because I really like reading disaster fiction.
I really liked the premise of this book. I'll admit, when I started it, I had no idea what a Harbinger of Death was. It was a very interesting life to imagine. I would have loved for Angie to have been looking at old disaster articles and pictures, and then spotting Reece in them, that would have been cool.
I also enjoyed Angie as a character. I liked how she did her own thing, and her being a DJ was an interesting hobby to have. I also really liked the relationship she had with her dad.
I don't know if I would say I swooned over the romance. I liked it well enough, but it did kind of speed along. I did enjoy the build up to it, Angie spying, but not spying on this cute, mysterious boy across the street.
I wasn't mad at the ending of the book, in fact, I think it did a good job wrapping up. As I was getting near the end, I really did wonder what was going to happen. There were directions this could have gone that I wouldn't have been happy with. So while I do think this book could have benefitted, or had the potential to be a series, I appreciate how everything wrapped up.
All in all, I enjoyed this read. Black Bird of the Gallows was fun! It had the most interesting mix of paranormal romance, mystery, horror, and disaster. It was a story that sucked me in and I enjoyed. I'd definitely say give it a read.
BOOKCITEMENT LEVEL 3.8/5
A Cool Mix.
I'm also excited to be a part of the Black Bird of the Gallows Blog Tour! This tour is hosted by Chapter by Chapter and Entangled Teen. I'm happy to be a part of it.
Black Bird of the Gallows is an interesting mix of things. First and foremost, it's a paranormal romance, which I always love. There are also sprinklings of disaster fiction, danger, mystery, and a bit of horror. It's an interesting mix for a book, a mix I rather enjoyed reading. The book introduces the different parts in different spots. It unveils itself as it goes along. It definitely kept me reading.
This story brought to mind some other stories I have read and enjoyed. The beginning and middle really reminded me a lot of Twilight by Stephenie Meyer, in a good way! I know that comparison might not be a good omen for some people, but reading Black Bird of the Gallows gave me that feeling of when I first read Twilight, how sucked in I got to the story, and how much fun I had reading it. Black Bird of the Gallows also had a more sinister vibe, and it reminded me of a more sinister book I had read a couple of years ago. That book is The Waking Dark by Robin Wasserman, which is a crazy, scary, and good book! More people should read that one.
Black Bird of the Gallows had a lot packed into it. It almost felt like it could have been put into two book, instead of just the one. There was a lot to take in, and everything went pretty fast. I would have liked the last half of the book to have been slowed down a little, but that's just because I really like reading disaster fiction.
I really liked the premise of this book. I'll admit, when I started it, I had no idea what a Harbinger of Death was. It was a very interesting life to imagine. I would have loved for Angie to have been looking at old disaster articles and pictures, and then spotting Reece in them, that would have been cool.
I also enjoyed Angie as a character. I liked how she did her own thing, and her being a DJ was an interesting hobby to have. I also really liked the relationship she had with her dad.
I don't know if I would say I swooned over the romance. I liked it well enough, but it did kind of speed along. I did enjoy the build up to it, Angie spying, but not spying on this cute, mysterious boy across the street.
I wasn't mad at the ending of the book, in fact, I think it did a good job wrapping up. As I was getting near the end, I really did wonder what was going to happen. There were directions this could have gone that I wouldn't have been happy with. So while I do think this book could have benefitted, or had the potential to be a series, I appreciate how everything wrapped up.
All in all, I enjoyed this read. Black Bird of the Gallows was fun! It had the most interesting mix of paranormal romance, mystery, horror, and disaster. It was a story that sucked me in and I enjoyed. I'd definitely say give it a read.
BOOKCITEMENT LEVEL 3.8/5
A Cool Mix.
August 27, 2017
Black Bird of the Gallows was an interesting and creative YA fantasy novel. I really enjoyed the mythology and fantasy elements of this book. The author created an immersive and mesmerizing world that I got lost in. The world-building was executed very well, and I kept wanting to learn more and more about the world. I would have liked for the fantasy elements to have been presented a little earlier in the book to help pick up the pace, however, I still enjoyed the way the world was introduced.
The beginning of this book felt cliche and predictable, but I still found myself wanting to know what was going to happen next. It was a slow beginning, but once the fantasy elements were introduced, the book got a lot more interesting. The book actually got quite creepy and mysterious, at times, which was something I was not expecting. I really enjoyed those elements, even though I was freaked out!
The characters were all very likable. Angie, the main character, was a strong and independent girl. I liked that she didn't let her past define her and that she always stood up for herself. Reece, the main male character, was a swoony and mysterious guy. I was very intrigued by him, and just like Angie, I could tell there was more to his personality that he was trying to hide.
The romance in this novel was predictable but it had so many sweet moments. I thought the author did a great job at creating some extremely swoon-worthy moments. I ended the book shipping Angie and Reece really hard and I was rooting for them to end up together!
This book was an intriguing and dark novel. Black Bird of the Gallows was an emotional roller coaster, and I look forward to seeing what the author comes up with next!
3 / 5 Fangs
*This ebook was given to me in exchange for an honest review. *
MrsLeif's Two Fangs About It
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The beginning of this book felt cliche and predictable, but I still found myself wanting to know what was going to happen next. It was a slow beginning, but once the fantasy elements were introduced, the book got a lot more interesting. The book actually got quite creepy and mysterious, at times, which was something I was not expecting. I really enjoyed those elements, even though I was freaked out!
The characters were all very likable. Angie, the main character, was a strong and independent girl. I liked that she didn't let her past define her and that she always stood up for herself. Reece, the main male character, was a swoony and mysterious guy. I was very intrigued by him, and just like Angie, I could tell there was more to his personality that he was trying to hide.
The romance in this novel was predictable but it had so many sweet moments. I thought the author did a great job at creating some extremely swoon-worthy moments. I ended the book shipping Angie and Reece really hard and I was rooting for them to end up together!
This book was an intriguing and dark novel. Black Bird of the Gallows was an emotional roller coaster, and I look forward to seeing what the author comes up with next!
3 / 5 Fangs
*This ebook was given to me in exchange for an honest review. *
MrsLeif's Two Fangs About It
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