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The Angel of 13th Street #2
Fallen Angel
Who can save the rescuer of lost souls?
For ten years ex-rent boy Noah Everett has fought the good fight, offering second chances to those still in the life. Now he’s cracking under the stress. What began as a two-man mission is now going corporate, meaning rules, regulations and inexperienced volunteers needing guidance in a field Noah makes up as he goes along. Who can he turn to when his mentor’s strength is all but gone and his lover is leaving for college—possibly for good?
Four years at State with a full ride scholarship will launch Jeremy Kincaid’s future, but his present includes Noah, Doc, and the closest he’s ever had to a family. And a meth addict who’s become Jeremy’s own personal mission.
An attack sends Noah spinning out of control. Jeremy has to find the way to reach Noah before the man he knows and loves disappears forever.
For ten years ex-rent boy Noah Everett has fought the good fight, offering second chances to those still in the life. Now he’s cracking under the stress. What began as a two-man mission is now going corporate, meaning rules, regulations and inexperienced volunteers needing guidance in a field Noah makes up as he goes along. Who can he turn to when his mentor’s strength is all but gone and his lover is leaving for college—possibly for good?
Four years at State with a full ride scholarship will launch Jeremy Kincaid’s future, but his present includes Noah, Doc, and the closest he’s ever had to a family. And a meth addict who’s become Jeremy’s own personal mission.
An attack sends Noah spinning out of control. Jeremy has to find the way to reach Noah before the man he knows and loves disappears forever.
ebook
First published May 1, 2012
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About the author
Eden Winters
88 books673 followersYou will know Eden Winters by her distinctive white plumage and exuberant cry of “Hey, y’all!” in a Southern US drawl so thick it renders even the simplest of words unrecognizable. Watch out, she hugs!
Driven by insatiable curiosity, she possibly holds the world’s record for curriculum changes to the point that she’s never quite earned a degree but is a force to be reckoned with at Trivial Pursuit.
She’s trudged down hallways with police detectives, learned to disarm knife-wielding bad guys, and witnessed the correct way to blow doors off buildings. Her e-mail contains various snippets of forensic wisdom, such as “What would a dead body left in a Mexican drug tunnel look like after six months?” In the process of her adventures, she has written over thirty gay romance novels, lost count of novellas and short stories, has won Rainbow Awards, was a Lambda Awards Finalist, and lives in terror of authorities showing up at her door to question her Internet searches.
When not putting characters in dangerous situations she’s cosplaying for children's charities or hanging out at the farm being a mother, grandmother, and vegetarian.
Her natural habitats are hardware stores and on the backs of motorcycles.
Driven by insatiable curiosity, she possibly holds the world’s record for curriculum changes to the point that she’s never quite earned a degree but is a force to be reckoned with at Trivial Pursuit.
She’s trudged down hallways with police detectives, learned to disarm knife-wielding bad guys, and witnessed the correct way to blow doors off buildings. Her e-mail contains various snippets of forensic wisdom, such as “What would a dead body left in a Mexican drug tunnel look like after six months?” In the process of her adventures, she has written over thirty gay romance novels, lost count of novellas and short stories, has won Rainbow Awards, was a Lambda Awards Finalist, and lives in terror of authorities showing up at her door to question her Internet searches.
When not putting characters in dangerous situations she’s cosplaying for children's charities or hanging out at the farm being a mother, grandmother, and vegetarian.
Her natural habitats are hardware stores and on the backs of motorcycles.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
May 13, 2012
One thing in advance: this is not a light and easy read. Not unexpectedly so for those who are familiar with this book's prequel, The Angel of 13th Street, but rather unlike many other books from Eden Winters. With this book, the author shows herself from a more serious, pensive side.
This is very much Noah's story; one could justifiably call it his backstory, since there are many flashbacks to his rentboy years and to his hangups on Billy, his former boyfriend and fellow rentboy.
Although we also get Jeremy's voice, and although there are quite a few erotic scenes (and I loved to see Jeremy as Noah's mature, self-conscious lover in those), Noah's problems were there front and center.
Outside the bedroom, Jeremy and Noah had less page space together than Noah's inner musings took, and they walked parallel for a big part of the book rather than together, each caught up in his own problems. Their relationship is established, though somewhat under duress lately, mainly with Jeremy's upcoming departure for college, but also with the changes that Doc, Noah's mentor, puts on the streetworker organization for which Noah has been working during the last ten years.
But that's just the surface. The real problem is, for one, that Noah hasn't quite arrived in his still-new relationship. He's still full of guilt and remorse about Billy, so much so that he wakes from sleeping screaming his former lover's name (much to Jeremy's chagrin) Unconsciously Noah is still thinking of Jeremy as his "ward", someone he has to protect and keep safe at all cost, even though he knows that Jeremy is all grown-up by now, even though he acknowledges Jeremy as his equal partner. As a result, Noah keeps things to himself, even keeps things FROM Jeremy, and tries to work out everything by his lonesome like he was used to doing before he had a partner. Which, of course, puts some strain on their relationship. This goes beyond typical male incommunicado, it's a problem Noah doesn't even realize he has and, once he does, has to work at very hard to overcome.
For another, Noah is seriously burnt out. But with his abovementioned communication issues, Noah won't even admit his state of emotional exhaustion to himself, much less ask for help from his nearest and dearest. His friend have to drag him out of the swamp of his self-destruction by his hair, which doesn't go without some kicking and screaming on Noah's side.
This is a character-driven book. Following Noah's slow struggle out of the chains of his past is not always pleasant, even exhausting at times, and yes, as other reviewers have stated, the ending has its melodramatic moments, and there's a loose thread which bothered me as much as it did Simsala. But I was once again taken by the honesty of this tale, by the sincerity that shines through the pages.
Not for every mood or every day, but definitely recommended
This is very much Noah's story; one could justifiably call it his backstory, since there are many flashbacks to his rentboy years and to his hangups on Billy, his former boyfriend and fellow rentboy.
Although we also get Jeremy's voice, and although there are quite a few erotic scenes (and I loved to see Jeremy as Noah's mature, self-conscious lover in those), Noah's problems were there front and center.
Outside the bedroom, Jeremy and Noah had less page space together than Noah's inner musings took, and they walked parallel for a big part of the book rather than together, each caught up in his own problems. Their relationship is established, though somewhat under duress lately, mainly with Jeremy's upcoming departure for college, but also with the changes that Doc, Noah's mentor, puts on the streetworker organization for which Noah has been working during the last ten years.
But that's just the surface. The real problem is, for one, that Noah hasn't quite arrived in his still-new relationship. He's still full of guilt and remorse about Billy, so much so that he wakes from sleeping screaming his former lover's name (much to Jeremy's chagrin) Unconsciously Noah is still thinking of Jeremy as his "ward", someone he has to protect and keep safe at all cost, even though he knows that Jeremy is all grown-up by now, even though he acknowledges Jeremy as his equal partner. As a result, Noah keeps things to himself, even keeps things FROM Jeremy, and tries to work out everything by his lonesome like he was used to doing before he had a partner. Which, of course, puts some strain on their relationship. This goes beyond typical male incommunicado, it's a problem Noah doesn't even realize he has and, once he does, has to work at very hard to overcome.
For another, Noah is seriously burnt out. But with his abovementioned communication issues, Noah won't even admit his state of emotional exhaustion to himself, much less ask for help from his nearest and dearest. His friend have to drag him out of the swamp of his self-destruction by his hair, which doesn't go without some kicking and screaming on Noah's side.
This is a character-driven book. Following Noah's slow struggle out of the chains of his past is not always pleasant, even exhausting at times, and yes, as other reviewers have stated, the ending has its melodramatic moments, and there's a loose thread which bothered me as much as it did Simsala. But I was once again taken by the honesty of this tale, by the sincerity that shines through the pages.
Not for every mood or every day, but definitely recommended
May 22, 2012
This book is a continuation of Jeremy and Noah’s story.
Without giving away spoilers this story shows both the good and bad. The hope and despair. The wins and the loses.
Chip will leave you both frustrated and sad.
Lark was a wonderful character that you were pulling for from the moment you meet him.
We get to see Doc in a more fleshed out role, and Jeremy is still the hopeful young guy that is full of optimism.
But this is still mostly Noahs story.
Noah is still trying to save everyone although there are cracks appearing that do not bode well. We see Noah struggle to put his past to rest while accepting his future with Jeremy.
Eden Winters again delivers a book that will put you through a range of emotions and leave you both saddened and hopeful at the same time.
Without giving away spoilers this story shows both the good and bad. The hope and despair. The wins and the loses.
Chip will leave you both frustrated and sad.
Lark was a wonderful character that you were pulling for from the moment you meet him.
We get to see Doc in a more fleshed out role, and Jeremy is still the hopeful young guy that is full of optimism.
But this is still mostly Noahs story.
Noah is still trying to save everyone although there are cracks appearing that do not bode well. We see Noah struggle to put his past to rest while accepting his future with Jeremy.
Eden Winters again delivers a book that will put you through a range of emotions and leave you both saddened and hopeful at the same time.
May 13, 2012
3,5 stars
More insightful review from Feliz here
Reading the last chapters of the book it slowly dawned on me...
This was the m/m rent boy version of the Frank Capra movie "It`s A Wonderful Life" with James Stewart. The characters lining up at the end to ask/show a depressed Noah "What would have happened if you hadn`t been there?"
Too much melodrama, a bleak overall atmosphere and an open question at the end - what happened to Chip?
Third book is on the way and I hope I will get an answer..;-)
More insightful review from Feliz here
Reading the last chapters of the book it slowly dawned on me...
This was the m/m rent boy version of the Frank Capra movie "It`s A Wonderful Life" with James Stewart. The characters lining up at the end to ask/show a depressed Noah "What would have happened if you hadn`t been there?"
Too much melodrama, a bleak overall atmosphere and an open question at the end - what happened to Chip?
Third book is on the way and I hope I will get an answer..;-)
May 23, 2012
4.5 Stars - I am glad I waited until I could read both of these stories back to back, it made it much easier to follow. This book was much more about Noah and his history, but all the characters and some new ones from the prior book added to this story. I must say that I wanted to just smack Chip upside the head and Doc and Lark just about broke my heart. This book did have more angst in it than the previous story, some of it frustrating. While I did love this book as much as the first, I felt that the ending was kinda abrupt. While I know it sets up for a third book, it just didn't give me the completeness that the first one did. Still, I highly recommend both of these books and look forward to the continuation of these characters.
June 4, 2018
3.5 stars
May 16, 2012
I waited until I was in the mood for this book and I timed it right. I liked the fact that, while this was really Noah's story, there were more secondary characters to add to the tapestry of Fallen Angel: Doc, Lark, Mary, Sumner... Eden's customary great writing and three dimensional characters were a good balance to angst, which I don't usually like. Still, the book warmed my heart and I am looking forward to reading Lark's book.
Feliz has better, more analytical review here. Be sure to check it out. ^^
Feliz has better, more analytical review here. Be sure to check it out. ^^
Want to read
May 9, 2012Must read ASAP!
May 26, 2012
It was so good to see this pair again. And bless Doc's heart.
April 8, 2017
In this sequel to The Angel Of 13th Street, we catch up with Noah and Jeremy shortly after the ending of the first book.
Jeremy is trying to help a meth addict off the streets, Noah is struggling with memories and haunted still by whom he couldn't save while he's trying to save another teenager, and Doc is making plans to turn the mission over to Noah, formalize it more, and get more volunteers.
And Jeremy is about to graduate from high school with plans to attend college on a scholarship, which will likely take him away from Noah.
In this book, Noah stumbles hard and nearly falls, and it's the Angel himself who needs saving this time around. Stuck in the memories from his former life on the streets, Noah lets his anger and his grief nearly consume him, full of doubt that he's doing any good at all, because he couldn't save Billy, not realizing that he's approaching an emotional meltdown.
This book is primarily Noah's story, whereas the first one was primarily about Jeremy finding his feet. We see flashback after flashback to Noah's life with Billy, his time as a rentboy, a drug addict, and the fall that nearly killed him but ended up saving him. We watch Noah fight his demons, and struggle with depression and hopelessness when he can't save Chip from the clutches of his pimp.
Eden Winters doesn't mince words here, and there's no fluff inside either. This is raw and gritty, showing the seedy underbelly of society that most of us don't want to see.
But there's love and hope too, and there are successes, such as Lark, who finds the strength to leave Tina behind and pull himself out of the mess his life has become.
We also get a full glimpse into Noah's and Jeremy's domesticity, and it was lovely to see Jeremy maturity level increase even more. I really enjoyed seeing him be so patient with Noah, not pushing, but also not allowing Noah to completely self-destruct either. I think that Noah's burned out emotionally, and he's not yet fully realized that Jeremy is an equal partner in the relationship, and not just the kid he saved and who's now running the Tub Of Suds next to the bar. The fact that Noah keeps things to himself and, even worse, keeps things from Jeremy is super not cool, but also understandable within Noah's frame of mind.
There are some intimate scenes, and these further the plot, showcasing how Jeremy catches Noah when he stumbles, which really drives home the point how much Jeremy has grown into himself.
Again, this is not a fluffy book, but it feels real, it's superbly crafted, it has fully fleshed out, three-dimensional characters, and the author is never afraid to call a spade a spade. I, for one, appreciate that.
I look forward to Lark's story.
** I received a free copy of this book via Indigo Marketing and Design. A positive review was not promised in return. **
Jeremy is trying to help a meth addict off the streets, Noah is struggling with memories and haunted still by whom he couldn't save while he's trying to save another teenager, and Doc is making plans to turn the mission over to Noah, formalize it more, and get more volunteers.
And Jeremy is about to graduate from high school with plans to attend college on a scholarship, which will likely take him away from Noah.
In this book, Noah stumbles hard and nearly falls, and it's the Angel himself who needs saving this time around. Stuck in the memories from his former life on the streets, Noah lets his anger and his grief nearly consume him, full of doubt that he's doing any good at all, because he couldn't save Billy, not realizing that he's approaching an emotional meltdown.
This book is primarily Noah's story, whereas the first one was primarily about Jeremy finding his feet. We see flashback after flashback to Noah's life with Billy, his time as a rentboy, a drug addict, and the fall that nearly killed him but ended up saving him. We watch Noah fight his demons, and struggle with depression and hopelessness when he can't save Chip from the clutches of his pimp.
Eden Winters doesn't mince words here, and there's no fluff inside either. This is raw and gritty, showing the seedy underbelly of society that most of us don't want to see.
But there's love and hope too, and there are successes, such as Lark, who finds the strength to leave Tina behind and pull himself out of the mess his life has become.
We also get a full glimpse into Noah's and Jeremy's domesticity, and it was lovely to see Jeremy maturity level increase even more. I really enjoyed seeing him be so patient with Noah, not pushing, but also not allowing Noah to completely self-destruct either. I think that Noah's burned out emotionally, and he's not yet fully realized that Jeremy is an equal partner in the relationship, and not just the kid he saved and who's now running the Tub Of Suds next to the bar. The fact that Noah keeps things to himself and, even worse, keeps things from Jeremy is super not cool, but also understandable within Noah's frame of mind.
There are some intimate scenes, and these further the plot, showcasing how Jeremy catches Noah when he stumbles, which really drives home the point how much Jeremy has grown into himself.
Again, this is not a fluffy book, but it feels real, it's superbly crafted, it has fully fleshed out, three-dimensional characters, and the author is never afraid to call a spade a spade. I, for one, appreciate that.
I look forward to Lark's story.
** I received a free copy of this book via Indigo Marketing and Design. A positive review was not promised in return. **
June 10, 2012
For those of you who haven’t read The Angel of 13th Street, go fix that right now. Okay, you’re back? Good. Now we can talk, not so much because you need all the background in the first book as because it’s just that good and this follows on. Fallen Angel stands alone but is that much richer if you’ve read the first one.
Jeremy and Noah are several months into their relationship, and it’s unusual in that while Jeremy is of age, he’s still in high school—aging out of the foster system before he graduated (and before he met Noah), he’s had to scramble just to make it this far. It’s a triumph that not only is he turning his cap, but doing it with style, honors, and a scholarship that he’s busted his ass for. Should be happiness on a plate, right? Not so fast.
Noah also has what he’s worked so hard for—he’s got help rescuing the street kids and rent boys now, where before it was him and Doc, whose backstory is wrenching and entwined with Noah’s own. Helpers, donations, and resources fade into the background when all Noah can see is the young man who can reach out but not grab on to Noah’s offered hand. Noah can help the young men who will meet him halfway—the ones he gets out of “the life” become notches on his doorpost. The ones who don’t become notches on his heart, and they just might make him bleed to death.
This is a story of reevaluating—both partners have learning and growing to do, and reassessing of goals and their routes to those goals. The road is bumpy and full of dangers—Noah and Jeremy are sweet together, but that might not be enough when Noah turns inward after an attack. For all that he’s a dozen years older than Jeremy, sometimes he’s the less mature partner—sometimes he’s stuck in the past, and sometimes he’s afraid to move into the future.
There is plenty of plot, but the characters’ growth is the important part of the story. We find out a lot more of Noah’s past; there are a lot of flashbacks and references to the first book, but with much added detail and depth—it isn’t filler rehash. There just are a lot of flashbacks. Jeremy is the one who is truly moving forward in life, and for a while there, it seems like Noah won’t be able to go with him. It’s heartbreaking, in best Eden Winters style, and she does bring the sun back, but not before Doc, Jeremy, Lark the meth addict, and all the readers want to kick Noah’s butt.
This isn’t purely Noah and Jeremy’s story: Doc, Lark, and the rent boy, Chip, all have significant roles, both in their own arcs and as Noah and Jeremy’s friends. Sometimes their roles are the more interesting, some of Noah and Jeremy’s scenes, while happy and moving the story, are just a little too slice-of-life-y to maintain intense interest. But other scenes will yank you right out of your chair, or make you reach for your tissues. Sometimes both at once. Poor Chip.
A major issue with sequels is that the intense romantic question of “how will they get together” has already been answered. The problems shift to how do they stay together, certainly important, but the focus has to be different and the feel of the book is not the same. Fallen Angel addresses the ways these two very different men tackle the same problems, and the end will make you snuffle and smile all at once. 4.5
Jeremy and Noah are several months into their relationship, and it’s unusual in that while Jeremy is of age, he’s still in high school—aging out of the foster system before he graduated (and before he met Noah), he’s had to scramble just to make it this far. It’s a triumph that not only is he turning his cap, but doing it with style, honors, and a scholarship that he’s busted his ass for. Should be happiness on a plate, right? Not so fast.
Noah also has what he’s worked so hard for—he’s got help rescuing the street kids and rent boys now, where before it was him and Doc, whose backstory is wrenching and entwined with Noah’s own. Helpers, donations, and resources fade into the background when all Noah can see is the young man who can reach out but not grab on to Noah’s offered hand. Noah can help the young men who will meet him halfway—the ones he gets out of “the life” become notches on his doorpost. The ones who don’t become notches on his heart, and they just might make him bleed to death.
This is a story of reevaluating—both partners have learning and growing to do, and reassessing of goals and their routes to those goals. The road is bumpy and full of dangers—Noah and Jeremy are sweet together, but that might not be enough when Noah turns inward after an attack. For all that he’s a dozen years older than Jeremy, sometimes he’s the less mature partner—sometimes he’s stuck in the past, and sometimes he’s afraid to move into the future.
There is plenty of plot, but the characters’ growth is the important part of the story. We find out a lot more of Noah’s past; there are a lot of flashbacks and references to the first book, but with much added detail and depth—it isn’t filler rehash. There just are a lot of flashbacks. Jeremy is the one who is truly moving forward in life, and for a while there, it seems like Noah won’t be able to go with him. It’s heartbreaking, in best Eden Winters style, and she does bring the sun back, but not before Doc, Jeremy, Lark the meth addict, and all the readers want to kick Noah’s butt.
This isn’t purely Noah and Jeremy’s story: Doc, Lark, and the rent boy, Chip, all have significant roles, both in their own arcs and as Noah and Jeremy’s friends. Sometimes their roles are the more interesting, some of Noah and Jeremy’s scenes, while happy and moving the story, are just a little too slice-of-life-y to maintain intense interest. But other scenes will yank you right out of your chair, or make you reach for your tissues. Sometimes both at once. Poor Chip.
A major issue with sequels is that the intense romantic question of “how will they get together” has already been answered. The problems shift to how do they stay together, certainly important, but the focus has to be different and the feel of the book is not the same. Fallen Angel addresses the ways these two very different men tackle the same problems, and the end will make you snuffle and smile all at once. 4.5
June 11, 2012
This is a sequel to The Angel of 13th Street, which is one of my favorite M/M reads and my favorite book by Eden Winters. I was eager to see what was going to happen in the aftermath of all the intensity and violence that took place in the first book.
At the beginning we find that Noah and Jeremy are living together and everything is seemingly fine between them, at least on the surface. Doc's cause had broadened in scope and Jeremy was becoming very involved. To me there was loads of realism in the emotions and actions of the characters in this story, even though they exasperated me at time. It was very plausible to me - given the events long past along with recent and current ones- that Noah was struggling with where his life was headed and what he perceived may be the best decisions for Jeremy and Jeremy's future. I like that Jeremy was very mature in general, especially regarding his running a business, his involvement with Doc's cause and how he faced plans for his future. Where he needed more support and input from Noah was in their personal relationship. While it was obvious how much Noah loved Jeremy, Noah was just not emotionally up to the task of being the anchor throughout much of the story, which led to Jeremy to feeling hurt as well as very concerned for Noah's well being.
The event that became a turning point for Noah was well done in that the source was unexpected. While hard to endure for Noah and Jeremy (and the reader), it actually served to quiet Noah's mind about some of the doubts he was having. The support, wisdom and love coming from Jeremy, Doc and their friends throughout the book was very evident and convincing and all served in leading to a satisfying ending.
I will add that while Chip's story was sad, I felt it was in line with the harsh realities dealt with in both this book and it's predecessor, and essential in a way to understanding Noah's self doubts.
I enjoyed meeting Lark and look forward to more of his story in the next book of the series. I hope to also see quite a bit of how Noah and Jeremy are doing and what they are up to. Thanks Eden for Fallen Angel, a great follow up to one of my favorites.
At the beginning we find that Noah and Jeremy are living together and everything is seemingly fine between them, at least on the surface. Doc's cause had broadened in scope and Jeremy was becoming very involved. To me there was loads of realism in the emotions and actions of the characters in this story, even though they exasperated me at time. It was very plausible to me - given the events long past along with recent and current ones- that Noah was struggling with where his life was headed and what he perceived may be the best decisions for Jeremy and Jeremy's future. I like that Jeremy was very mature in general, especially regarding his running a business, his involvement with Doc's cause and how he faced plans for his future. Where he needed more support and input from Noah was in their personal relationship. While it was obvious how much Noah loved Jeremy, Noah was just not emotionally up to the task of being the anchor throughout much of the story, which led to Jeremy to feeling hurt as well as very concerned for Noah's well being.
The event that became a turning point for Noah was well done in that the source was unexpected. While hard to endure for Noah and Jeremy (and the reader), it actually served to quiet Noah's mind about some of the doubts he was having. The support, wisdom and love coming from Jeremy, Doc and their friends throughout the book was very evident and convincing and all served in leading to a satisfying ending.
I will add that while Chip's story was sad, I felt it was in line with the harsh realities dealt with in both this book and it's predecessor, and essential in a way to understanding Noah's self doubts.
I enjoyed meeting Lark and look forward to more of his story in the next book of the series. I hope to also see quite a bit of how Noah and Jeremy are doing and what they are up to. Thanks Eden for Fallen Angel, a great follow up to one of my favorites.
July 30, 2012
I'm rating this and the book before it in the series (The Angel of 13th Street) as a whole, because that's how I think they should be taken. Finishing the first book, it felt incomplete, but after reading the second I felt like I'd gotten the whole story and it was wonderful. Definitely read these books in order and back to back.
"The Angel of 13th Street" is the story of a former prostitute, who after being rescued from the life, makes it his mission to help other young men who have been pushed by circumstances to sell themselves. He meets Jeremy, an 18-year-old orphan and high school senior who was left homeless when he aged out of the system. Jeremy is living in an abandoned warehouse, destitute and starving, but determined to excel at school and make something of himself. So far he has managed to avoid getting sucked into prostitution, but the local pimp has Jeremy on his radar and is looking to force matters. Noah, known on the streets as the Angel for all the men he's saved, takes Jeremy in, giving him shelter and a job. He and Jeremy are attracted to each other almost immediately, but because of the age difference (Noah is almost 30) and the fact that Jeremy is dependent on Noah, the older man resists anything more than friendship.
The end of the book sees Noah and Jeremy together romantically for a very short time, not giving the reader any real sense that they'll be able to overcome the obstacles to their relationship. Readers get to see that in "Fallen Angel," where they're put to the test by Jeremy's impending departure for college and a series of difficulties surrounding Noah's rescue work.
I highly recommend these books.
"The Angel of 13th Street" is the story of a former prostitute, who after being rescued from the life, makes it his mission to help other young men who have been pushed by circumstances to sell themselves. He meets Jeremy, an 18-year-old orphan and high school senior who was left homeless when he aged out of the system. Jeremy is living in an abandoned warehouse, destitute and starving, but determined to excel at school and make something of himself. So far he has managed to avoid getting sucked into prostitution, but the local pimp has Jeremy on his radar and is looking to force matters. Noah, known on the streets as the Angel for all the men he's saved, takes Jeremy in, giving him shelter and a job. He and Jeremy are attracted to each other almost immediately, but because of the age difference (Noah is almost 30) and the fact that Jeremy is dependent on Noah, the older man resists anything more than friendship.
The end of the book sees Noah and Jeremy together romantically for a very short time, not giving the reader any real sense that they'll be able to overcome the obstacles to their relationship. Readers get to see that in "Fallen Angel," where they're put to the test by Jeremy's impending departure for college and a series of difficulties surrounding Noah's rescue work.
I highly recommend these books.
May 17, 2012
Between Feliz's review and Simsala's review, I really have nothing more to add. They summed it up perfectly, and the ending really did feel like "It's a Wonderful Life".
I guess the one place I differ is that I didn't feel Chip's story was hanging, as Noah's hospital exchange with Sumner made it clear there is still work to be done there. I'm looking forward to the third book, and wondering how it will sell me on Lark and Sam as a couple. I loved Lark in this one and would love to see him happy with someone, but I'm not yet convinced that Sam wasn't being creepy, taking unfair advantage of a vulnerable patient. I'm willing to like him, I just need to be persuaded theirs can be a relationship of true equals.
ETA: A little birdie dropped a hint that led me to reread a particular scene, and I'm feeling much better about Sam and Lark as a couple. Just one sentence changes my perception of them entirely and now I'm really looking forward to reading their story! I've also learned a valuable lesson: Eden Winters does not waste words, so it behooves me to pay attention to all the little details in her stories.
I guess the one place I differ is that I didn't feel Chip's story was hanging, as Noah's hospital exchange with Sumner made it clear there is still work to be done there. I'm looking forward to the third book, and wondering how it will sell me on Lark and Sam as a couple. I loved Lark in this one and would love to see him happy with someone, but I'm not yet convinced that Sam wasn't being creepy, taking unfair advantage of a vulnerable patient. I'm willing to like him, I just need to be persuaded theirs can be a relationship of true equals.
ETA: A little birdie dropped a hint that led me to reread a particular scene, and I'm feeling much better about Sam and Lark as a couple. Just one sentence changes my perception of them entirely and now I'm really looking forward to reading their story! I've also learned a valuable lesson: Eden Winters does not waste words, so it behooves me to pay attention to all the little details in her stories.
May 18, 2012
4 1/2 stars!
Eden Winters often writes about the underbelly of society, the sordid lives of those we try not to notice and assume are someone else’s problem. FALLEN ANGEL is the second book in THE ANGEL OF 13TH STREET series, but it is a well-crafted stand-alone book as well as a continuation of the series.
I’m never sure whether Ms Winters stories are character-driven or plot-driven so we’ll say this one is both as the characters are integral to the plot and would not be as fully developed without the story behind them.
This book tells Noah’s story, during his rentboy years up to his present day calling to rescue other rentboys. It is full of flashbacks to his former boyfriend Billy and a much younger Jeremy. We are privy to Noah’s thought process, telling us how he got where he is and what it cost him to leave others behind.
Please see my complete review May 19, 2012 at http://mrsconditreadsbooks.com/index....
Eden Winters often writes about the underbelly of society, the sordid lives of those we try not to notice and assume are someone else’s problem. FALLEN ANGEL is the second book in THE ANGEL OF 13TH STREET series, but it is a well-crafted stand-alone book as well as a continuation of the series.
I’m never sure whether Ms Winters stories are character-driven or plot-driven so we’ll say this one is both as the characters are integral to the plot and would not be as fully developed without the story behind them.
This book tells Noah’s story, during his rentboy years up to his present day calling to rescue other rentboys. It is full of flashbacks to his former boyfriend Billy and a much younger Jeremy. We are privy to Noah’s thought process, telling us how he got where he is and what it cost him to leave others behind.
Please see my complete review May 19, 2012 at http://mrsconditreadsbooks.com/index....
September 17, 2012
Yes it was a book that is about Hope and Possibilities. It is about redemption, forgiveness and recovery. It is about the tremendous strength of character people are capable of. It is about the personal weaknesses we all face. It is about evil and how it preys upon its victims.
I am still recovering from burn-out and this story is too close. The wounds are too fresh and now are seeping again. I'll heal again. I hope to re-join the battle again soon. Until then, good wishes, and my deepest respect go out to those recovering from addiction and other chronic health issues. It takes courage and strength to get up everyday, to participate in life. My good wishes and deepest respect go out to those who support and mentor these courageous souls. May loving kindness walk with you on your journey.
I am still recovering from burn-out and this story is too close. The wounds are too fresh and now are seeping again. I'll heal again. I hope to re-join the battle again soon. Until then, good wishes, and my deepest respect go out to those recovering from addiction and other chronic health issues. It takes courage and strength to get up everyday, to participate in life. My good wishes and deepest respect go out to those who support and mentor these courageous souls. May loving kindness walk with you on your journey.
October 26, 2013
Follow up to The Angel of 13th Street'. So glad I took a chance on them. 4.5 stars and
. Noah has been trying to run from painful memories for 10 years and eventually after a violent attack, he succumbs to a breakdown. Jeremy is left to try and pick up the pieces and 'Doc' realises that his days of pretending that he isn't ill are at an end. Really good sequel, and I'm now working my way through Eden Winters' back catalogue.N.B. Have to say I originally bought this book and it's prequel from Torquere Press, but after I'd unzipped the files (and what a complete nightmare that was) the books appeared in a disjointed manner with dashes everywhere so I gave up in the end...I won't be buying from them again!!
August 7, 2012
We were introduced to Noah and Jeremy in The Angel of 13th Street. This is the sequel to that book.
Noah and Jeremy have grown much closer in their relationship, but ghosts of the past still haunt them. Especially Noah. He is haunted by the ghost of his ex-lover Billie and all the young men he couldn't help get off the streets. This fear and angst eventually surfaces and threatens Noah and Jeremy's relationship just when they need each other the most.
I think this is a good sequel to the previous book, however, I hope there will be another book because nothing was resolved with Chip. And you can't just leave a character hanging.
Noah and Jeremy have grown much closer in their relationship, but ghosts of the past still haunt them. Especially Noah. He is haunted by the ghost of his ex-lover Billie and all the young men he couldn't help get off the streets. This fear and angst eventually surfaces and threatens Noah and Jeremy's relationship just when they need each other the most.
I think this is a good sequel to the previous book, however, I hope there will be another book because nothing was resolved with Chip. And you can't just leave a character hanging.
May 15, 2012
Most of the times I wanted to smack upside the head one character or another. Chip for his stupidity, Noah for his hanging on the past and both Noah and Jeremy for the lack of communication. It was like going one step forward and two steps back. Only Doc and Lark seem to follow the chosen path, the only obstacles to their plans being physical.
This course of plotting might be more realistic, but boy was it frustrating.
This course of plotting might be more realistic, but boy was it frustrating.
June 1, 2013
I have mixed feelings about this sequel. Although I admire the skilful and highly emotional way in which the story has been written, I must admit that I was quite frustrated with Noah... The focus of the plot seemed often too one-dimensional - Noah battling his 'demons' by himself and pushing people who loved him away. Jeremy was indeed very patient and resilient; in the end, I hardly felt as if the two had consolidated or deepened their bond as a couple compared to the wonderful prequel.
July 14, 2016
It was good to visit with Noah and Jeremy again... and I loved spending time with their "family" both old and a couple of new members! It wasn't an easy road for these two to finally get where they needed to be... they both made some hard choices and helped a few in need along the way... and sadly lost a few also... but they got where they were always meant to be with their pasts behind them and crazy mad in love with each other!
June 11, 2012
Darn - I wish I had realized this was a second/sequel.
This one brought me to tears quite a few times. I really get pulled in to Ms. Winter's characters, and felt the cause in this story, as well as each character's trials, questions, and weaknesses deeply.
Thank you for such a heartfelt story.
This one brought me to tears quite a few times. I really get pulled in to Ms. Winter's characters, and felt the cause in this story, as well as each character's trials, questions, and weaknesses deeply.
Thank you for such a heartfelt story.
August 2, 2012
This is the sequel to Angel of 13th Street and this time we get to see inside Noah's head. It's not a light read. It felt at times dark and depressing. I love Jeremy with his optomism, Lark with his hope and Doc with his love and understanding. It was truly frustrating at times, but in the end it all came together.
August 6, 2012
Awesome sequel, loved revisiting these characters again!!!
Want to read
April 21, 2012CANNOT WAIT!!!
May 19, 2012
Wonderful sequel - loved it
June 9, 2012
Great follow up...continues story well.
March 2, 2017
Blog Post: http://lovebytesreviews.com/2017/02/2...
Warning: You will need your tissues!!
Noah Everette is tired. He’s been the Angel of 13th Street for the last 10 years, saving the rent boys and girls who wanted to be saved. Noah started working with Doc, the man who saved his life when he himself was a rent boy and consequently almost killed when he was thrown out of a window and landed on the bonnet of a car. Noah’s boyfriend Jeremy is in his last days at high school, which means he’s studying like a fiend and still trying to save ex-rent boy Lark. Lark is only 27 years old but he looks like he’s in his late 30’s. Whilst Jeremy is trying to keep up with his school work, his job at the laundromat, his job trying to give people who want it a second chance and on top of all that keep his relationship with Noah fresh and strong.
Things start to fall apart when Chip, the young man Noah has been trying to help keeps giving him the runaround, then his boyfriend {pimp} decides to meet Noah to make sure he knows to leave Chip alone, forcefully! Then, everything falls apart, Lark tries to commit suicide, Noah begins lying to Jeremy to keep him “safe”, Doc makes a lot of new rules and regulations about their cause, which Noah has named Cook’s Cause, after Doc who started trying to give rent boys a second chance when his only son died in his arms after being beaten to death for no reason.
The stress gets that bad Noah is getting stress headaches constantly, he becomes paranoid about keeping Jeremy safe. While Noah is falling apart Jeremy is trying to finish high school, gain a full-ride scholarship to College, help Lark recover from his suicide attempt and drug addiction and stay sane. Jeremy knows Noah is falling apart but he can’t do anything to help him if he won’t acknowledge that anything is wrong.
Fallen Angel is the brilliantly written conclusion to The Angel of 13th Street. Eden has once again been able to not only ensnare the reader but keep you engrossed in the unfolding story. Although I would dearly love to read one final story of what happens to Noah, Jeremy, Doc, Lark and everyone else involved with Cook’s Cause. I have no hesitation in recommending this book for you to read.
Warning: You will need your tissues!!
Noah Everette is tired. He’s been the Angel of 13th Street for the last 10 years, saving the rent boys and girls who wanted to be saved. Noah started working with Doc, the man who saved his life when he himself was a rent boy and consequently almost killed when he was thrown out of a window and landed on the bonnet of a car. Noah’s boyfriend Jeremy is in his last days at high school, which means he’s studying like a fiend and still trying to save ex-rent boy Lark. Lark is only 27 years old but he looks like he’s in his late 30’s. Whilst Jeremy is trying to keep up with his school work, his job at the laundromat, his job trying to give people who want it a second chance and on top of all that keep his relationship with Noah fresh and strong.
Things start to fall apart when Chip, the young man Noah has been trying to help keeps giving him the runaround, then his boyfriend {pimp} decides to meet Noah to make sure he knows to leave Chip alone, forcefully! Then, everything falls apart, Lark tries to commit suicide, Noah begins lying to Jeremy to keep him “safe”, Doc makes a lot of new rules and regulations about their cause, which Noah has named Cook’s Cause, after Doc who started trying to give rent boys a second chance when his only son died in his arms after being beaten to death for no reason.
The stress gets that bad Noah is getting stress headaches constantly, he becomes paranoid about keeping Jeremy safe. While Noah is falling apart Jeremy is trying to finish high school, gain a full-ride scholarship to College, help Lark recover from his suicide attempt and drug addiction and stay sane. Jeremy knows Noah is falling apart but he can’t do anything to help him if he won’t acknowledge that anything is wrong.
Fallen Angel is the brilliantly written conclusion to The Angel of 13th Street. Eden has once again been able to not only ensnare the reader but keep you engrossed in the unfolding story. Although I would dearly love to read one final story of what happens to Noah, Jeremy, Doc, Lark and everyone else involved with Cook’s Cause. I have no hesitation in recommending this book for you to read.
February 11, 2023
Chip broke my heart
March 2, 2017
4 Stars!
Fallen Angel is book 2 in The Angel of 13th Street series, and I strongly suggest reading book 1 first, since it refers to the same couple in this book. Unfortunately, I hadn’t read the previous book, so even if the author gave some background information, I didn’t feel as invested in the characters and their story.
For the last decade, ex-rent boy Noah has been devoted to saving other boys that like he did fell prey of ‘boyfriends’ that ended up pimping them. However, the stress of trying to save them all, of his mentor losing his strength and on top of it all, the idea of his lover, Jeremy, leaving for college, possibly for good, has been doing a number on Noah.
In the meantime, Jeremy is working hard to finish his senior year and get the scholarships he needs to continue his studies, while working hard alongside Noah. After an attack sends Noah in a downward spiral, Jeremy will need all the help he can get to save the man he loves.
This was not an easy read. It’s angsty and it touches a lot of difficult issues; however, it’s undeniable that Eden Winters is a very gifted writer and dealt with it all in a very sensitive manner. The book is well-written and while I’m not fan of multiple (more than two) POVs, it worked well in this case. Recommendable, although please keep in mind that some of the subjects treated in this book can be triggering for some readers.
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn’t a requirement. ***
Fallen Angel is book 2 in The Angel of 13th Street series, and I strongly suggest reading book 1 first, since it refers to the same couple in this book. Unfortunately, I hadn’t read the previous book, so even if the author gave some background information, I didn’t feel as invested in the characters and their story.
For the last decade, ex-rent boy Noah has been devoted to saving other boys that like he did fell prey of ‘boyfriends’ that ended up pimping them. However, the stress of trying to save them all, of his mentor losing his strength and on top of it all, the idea of his lover, Jeremy, leaving for college, possibly for good, has been doing a number on Noah.
In the meantime, Jeremy is working hard to finish his senior year and get the scholarships he needs to continue his studies, while working hard alongside Noah. After an attack sends Noah in a downward spiral, Jeremy will need all the help he can get to save the man he loves.
This was not an easy read. It’s angsty and it touches a lot of difficult issues; however, it’s undeniable that Eden Winters is a very gifted writer and dealt with it all in a very sensitive manner. The book is well-written and while I’m not fan of multiple (more than two) POVs, it worked well in this case. Recommendable, although please keep in mind that some of the subjects treated in this book can be triggering for some readers.
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn’t a requirement. ***
March 4, 2017
The Urban dictionary defines a fallen angel as: “A person who has been jaded by life but has not let it destroy their inner beauty of their compassion. They still believe in mankind and will go above and beyond for friends and family. However, romantic love still eludes them as they have created walls in their heart that are difficult to breach.” This defines Noah of 'Fallen Angel' by Eden Winters absolutely. In this sequel to 'The Angel of Thirteenth Street' the story picks up where the first left off. Even after all they have been through, Noah is still wrestling with his past demons of guilt and unworthiness. He knows he loves Jeremy, but can't quite break through the barriers of his remorse, enabling him to realize that he deserves Jeremy's love. It's like a specter, hanging between him and Jeremy, one which only Noah can exorcize.
It's odd, but sometimes we plan for something and work toward it for a long time, only to realize that the effort has been made for all the wrong reasons. Jeremy realizes that the goals he set about his education at the start, are not the same ones he has now. He's grown, his perspective on a lot of things has changed. He's simply not the same person he was at the beginning. It's confusing and frustrating, but Jeremy is such a good, strong soul, that I knew he'd figure it out and do what is best for everyone involved. I love Jeremy and applaud his strength, persistence, and common sense. If only more young people had his insight. He, once again, shines as a leader and as a steadfast supporter of Noah and his work. He's gained everyone's admiration and respect, especially Doc's. Jeremy is Noah's touchstone as much as he is his best friend and soul mate.
Noah knows he's blessed to have Jeremy in his life. He wants Jeremy to have all the experiences he missed as a young man. Although he means well, Noah's vision is even more clouded than ever; he makes some bad decisions which affect everyone negatively. Although being relieved that things are better now that Willie Corden's business venture is dissolved, Noah is devastated about the part of Willie, known as Billy, Noah's past lover's demise. The pimp's violent death magnifies Noah's remorse about leaving Billy behind, by ten-fold; Noah can't deal with it and implodes. He plunges into a deep despair and behavior which is self-destructive, and worse yet, he won't let Jeremy or any of his friends help him weather the storm. On top of that, Doc, who is ailing, has expanded their rescue efforts to include more people and Noah doesn't do change very well at all. He sees the new rules as limiting and is frustrated that things can't be the way they were when it was just the two of them and considers quitting altogether.
This, like the first story, is not an easy read. The subject of abandoned children, left to suffer and struggle to survive, could never be considered light. This book is a powerful message of love, redemption, closure. It's also a re-affirmation that, even though it's an ongoing battle, the fight for right continues, one child at a time. Although it could be read alone, I don't recommend it. There is too much history in the first story and, without it, your reading experience will be lacking and possibly even confusing. For the best effect, I recommend reading them in sequential order, one closely followed by the next. If you would like to read a story of love hard won, a tale that will give you pause, and make you think, then I'd recommend this book. Thanks, Eden, for giving Noah and Jeremy their happily-ever-after.
NOTE: This book was provided by the author for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
It's odd, but sometimes we plan for something and work toward it for a long time, only to realize that the effort has been made for all the wrong reasons. Jeremy realizes that the goals he set about his education at the start, are not the same ones he has now. He's grown, his perspective on a lot of things has changed. He's simply not the same person he was at the beginning. It's confusing and frustrating, but Jeremy is such a good, strong soul, that I knew he'd figure it out and do what is best for everyone involved. I love Jeremy and applaud his strength, persistence, and common sense. If only more young people had his insight. He, once again, shines as a leader and as a steadfast supporter of Noah and his work. He's gained everyone's admiration and respect, especially Doc's. Jeremy is Noah's touchstone as much as he is his best friend and soul mate.
Noah knows he's blessed to have Jeremy in his life. He wants Jeremy to have all the experiences he missed as a young man. Although he means well, Noah's vision is even more clouded than ever; he makes some bad decisions which affect everyone negatively. Although being relieved that things are better now that Willie Corden's business venture is dissolved, Noah is devastated about the part of Willie, known as Billy, Noah's past lover's demise. The pimp's violent death magnifies Noah's remorse about leaving Billy behind, by ten-fold; Noah can't deal with it and implodes. He plunges into a deep despair and behavior which is self-destructive, and worse yet, he won't let Jeremy or any of his friends help him weather the storm. On top of that, Doc, who is ailing, has expanded their rescue efforts to include more people and Noah doesn't do change very well at all. He sees the new rules as limiting and is frustrated that things can't be the way they were when it was just the two of them and considers quitting altogether.
This, like the first story, is not an easy read. The subject of abandoned children, left to suffer and struggle to survive, could never be considered light. This book is a powerful message of love, redemption, closure. It's also a re-affirmation that, even though it's an ongoing battle, the fight for right continues, one child at a time. Although it could be read alone, I don't recommend it. There is too much history in the first story and, without it, your reading experience will be lacking and possibly even confusing. For the best effect, I recommend reading them in sequential order, one closely followed by the next. If you would like to read a story of love hard won, a tale that will give you pause, and make you think, then I'd recommend this book. Thanks, Eden, for giving Noah and Jeremy their happily-ever-after.
NOTE: This book was provided by the author for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
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