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Angelborn Cycle #1
Angelborn
He gave up eternity for love… and lost. Will she be his second chance?
Maia sees dead people. Since she can't distinguish them from the living, she ignores everyone in order to appear sane. But the ghost haunting her roommate breaks through her hardened shell. Not only does he claim to not be dead, he makes her feel things she never has before—dangerous feelings for a man who can never be hers.
For an angelborn like Caleb, dying without a soul sentenced him to eternity in the Wasteland. Now he's escaped, but the only way to stay free is by convincing his true love to share her soul with him. You only get one soulmate and his is not the broken, scarred young woman he can't stay away from. With dangerous angels hunting him, Maia is a distraction he can't afford.
After inadvertently leading a threat to Caleb's door, Maia is willing to risk anything to keep him safe. Even if that means losing him forever.
Maia sees dead people. Since she can't distinguish them from the living, she ignores everyone in order to appear sane. But the ghost haunting her roommate breaks through her hardened shell. Not only does he claim to not be dead, he makes her feel things she never has before—dangerous feelings for a man who can never be hers.
For an angelborn like Caleb, dying without a soul sentenced him to eternity in the Wasteland. Now he's escaped, but the only way to stay free is by convincing his true love to share her soul with him. You only get one soulmate and his is not the broken, scarred young woman he can't stay away from. With dangerous angels hunting him, Maia is a distraction he can't afford.
After inadvertently leading a threat to Caleb's door, Maia is willing to risk anything to keep him safe. Even if that means losing him forever.
123 pages, ebook
First published April 28, 2015
38 people are currently reading
512 people want to read
About the author
L. Penelope
37 books1,107 followersL. Penelope (also writing as Leslye Penelope) has been writing since she could hold a pen and loves getting lost in the worlds in her head. She is an award-winning author of fantasy and paranormal romance.
She was born in the Bronx, just after the birth of hip hop, but left before she could acquire an accent. Equally left and right-brained, she studied Film at Howard University and minored in Computer Science. This led to a graduate degree in Multimedia and a career in website development. She's also an award-winning independent filmmaker, co-founded a literary magazine, and sometimes dreams in HTML.
Leslye lives in Maryland with her husband and their furry dependents. Sign up for new release information and giveaways on her website: http://www.lpenelope.com.
She was born in the Bronx, just after the birth of hip hop, but left before she could acquire an accent. Equally left and right-brained, she studied Film at Howard University and minored in Computer Science. This led to a graduate degree in Multimedia and a career in website development. She's also an award-winning independent filmmaker, co-founded a literary magazine, and sometimes dreams in HTML.
Leslye lives in Maryland with her husband and their furry dependents. Sign up for new release information and giveaways on her website: http://www.lpenelope.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
November 20, 2018
(3.25-3.5 Stars)
Maia, the heroine, has had a difficult life because of her abilities and has understandably grown quite withdrawn. She's an interesting, imperfect, and sympathetic character. You feel for her and root for her because of everything she's been through.
I did like this book and I especially enjoyed the last 10%, though the very end felt somewhat abrupt. However, I think I would've liked it more as an Urban Fantasy, or more likely a Supernatural Suspense with the focus being on Maia and maybe her growing as a character, but not so much the love story aspect. And as someone who ♥'s the Romance genre, I can't believe I'm saying that!
This book does handle the duties of angels and their guilds in a very cool way. The hero, Caleb, who's half human/half angel is sweet and good, if not a bit confused about love. His wishy-washiness and uncertainty brought a love triangle situation into play and I'll admit, I'm not here for that. :/ I actually found myself more intrigued by an angel character I was definitely (probably) not supposed to be drawn to, lol. To date I don't believe any subsequent books in this series feature him, but he's a character I'd like to get to know better.
A few other things that took me out of the story were the 1st person, present tense POV (not sure if both characters' voices were strong enough for it) and the significant flashback scenes to both of the MC's early lives. Also, this had a firm NA feel to it with the characters being in college, which was only compounded by Maia's repeated use of the term "boys" for men... To be fair I know women in their late 30's who use this term, but it grates my nerves something fierce and I'm not used to seeing it in adult PNRs.
Again, Maia was great even though the rest didn't click with me as much as I was hoping. But it was absolutely a story that held my interest and made me want to know how it was resolved. ☺
Maia, the heroine, has had a difficult life because of her abilities and has understandably grown quite withdrawn. She's an interesting, imperfect, and sympathetic character. You feel for her and root for her because of everything she's been through.
I did like this book and I especially enjoyed the last 10%, though the very end felt somewhat abrupt. However, I think I would've liked it more as an Urban Fantasy, or more likely a Supernatural Suspense with the focus being on Maia and maybe her growing as a character, but not so much the love story aspect. And as someone who ♥'s the Romance genre, I can't believe I'm saying that!
This book does handle the duties of angels and their guilds in a very cool way. The hero, Caleb, who's half human/half angel is sweet and good, if not a bit confused about love. His wishy-washiness and uncertainty brought a love triangle situation into play and I'll admit, I'm not here for that. :/ I actually found myself more intrigued by an angel character I was definitely (probably) not supposed to be drawn to, lol. To date I don't believe any subsequent books in this series feature him, but he's a character I'd like to get to know better.
A few other things that took me out of the story were the 1st person, present tense POV (not sure if both characters' voices were strong enough for it) and the significant flashback scenes to both of the MC's early lives. Also, this had a firm NA feel to it with the characters being in college, which was only compounded by Maia's repeated use of the term "boys" for men... To be fair I know women in their late 30's who use this term, but it grates my nerves something fierce and I'm not used to seeing it in adult PNRs.
Again, Maia was great even though the rest didn't click with me as much as I was hoping. But it was absolutely a story that held my interest and made me want to know how it was resolved. ☺
June 22, 2015
So first thing's first.
Jesse Williams as Caleb..PERFECT!
I must say there are very few stories I've ever read that I immediately enjoyed. Firstly, I'm a fan of angels, fallen angels, Nephilim, and the like so I was enthralled by the concept of Nephilim children who are not born of a union between male angels and female humans but female angels and male humans (Angelborn).
I love the fact that this is a paranormal romance that does not rely on the faux bad boy cliché, which those of us who have read enough paranormal romance can attest to (though his escape from the Wasteland and fugitive status can be dubbed "bad boy" to an extent).
I found Caleb and Maia both to be very likable characters, though their cluelessness was a bit frustrating at times they're both very solid and well rounded characters. I found Genna to be annoying and kind of shallow, she means well but is a bit ditzy.
The language of the book is very sophisticated and written almost poetically. I was hypnotized by the author's style of writing alone.
The only bad merit I'd give this book is that it ended...
It kept me on a rollercoaster the entire way.
I'm really not displeased by the fact that it's a standalone or that it was a novella because it felt like a fully packed novel. This actually stands out very far from other angel novels I've read.
Very well done, this will NOT be the last time I read this author.
PS Chapter 13; HOT!!!
Jesse Williams as Caleb..PERFECT!
I must say there are very few stories I've ever read that I immediately enjoyed. Firstly, I'm a fan of angels, fallen angels, Nephilim, and the like so I was enthralled by the concept of Nephilim children who are not born of a union between male angels and female humans but female angels and male humans (Angelborn).
I love the fact that this is a paranormal romance that does not rely on the faux bad boy cliché, which those of us who have read enough paranormal romance can attest to (though his escape from the Wasteland and fugitive status can be dubbed "bad boy" to an extent).
I found Caleb and Maia both to be very likable characters, though their cluelessness was a bit frustrating at times they're both very solid and well rounded characters. I found Genna to be annoying and kind of shallow, she means well but is a bit ditzy.
The language of the book is very sophisticated and written almost poetically. I was hypnotized by the author's style of writing alone.
The only bad merit I'd give this book is that it ended...
It kept me on a rollercoaster the entire way.
I'm really not displeased by the fact that it's a standalone or that it was a novella because it felt like a fully packed novel. This actually stands out very far from other angel novels I've read.
Very well done, this will NOT be the last time I read this author.
PS Chapter 13; HOT!!!
February 12, 2016
Simply Beautiful
A wonderful story. I enjoyed it immensely - the characters, main and supporting, the narrative, the emotions, the fantastical elements and descriptions. Well written and conceptualized, simply beautiful storytelling in a sweet, short novella.
A wonderful story. I enjoyed it immensely - the characters, main and supporting, the narrative, the emotions, the fantastical elements and descriptions. Well written and conceptualized, simply beautiful storytelling in a sweet, short novella.
May 24, 2015
What a beautifully written novella! What happens when a halfling angel falls in love with a human but is unable to bind with her soul? In Caleb's case, it lands him in the Wasteland, a dark place where those with no soul wait for the rare chance to get a new soul. But Caleb escapes and goes in search of the soul of the woman he loves--a soul that's been reincarnated in the body of Genna, a college student whose modern sensibilities confuse Caleb.
And then there is Maia, Genna's roommate, who is haunted--literally. She sees ghosts and is haunted by one whose anger sometimes physically manifests itself in violent ways. When Caleb and Maia meet, an undeniable connection is formed that leaves them both questioning what they want and why they want it. It makes them question the very nature of love. Maia and Caleb's story was captivating from page one. One of my favourite aspects about Angelborn is how L. Penelope writes about angels *without* adding biblical overtones. Her portrayal of angels is more reminiscent of deities from mythology, which allows a secular person like me to be able to enjoy a story without getting a lesson from the Bible.
With finely etched characters and a compelling plot, Angelborn will leave you wanting to know more of Caleb and Maia's story. This was my first time reading L. Penelope and I am sure it won't be the last time.
And then there is Maia, Genna's roommate, who is haunted--literally. She sees ghosts and is haunted by one whose anger sometimes physically manifests itself in violent ways. When Caleb and Maia meet, an undeniable connection is formed that leaves them both questioning what they want and why they want it. It makes them question the very nature of love. Maia and Caleb's story was captivating from page one. One of my favourite aspects about Angelborn is how L. Penelope writes about angels *without* adding biblical overtones. Her portrayal of angels is more reminiscent of deities from mythology, which allows a secular person like me to be able to enjoy a story without getting a lesson from the Bible.
With finely etched characters and a compelling plot, Angelborn will leave you wanting to know more of Caleb and Maia's story. This was my first time reading L. Penelope and I am sure it won't be the last time.
August 24, 2016
Astounding.
Angelborn is the kind of book that you just can't seem to forget about. The cover, the world building and the characters are all so uniquely and artistically crafted, it's a masterpiece on their own.
I've read a lot of angel/demons related books, from the infamous Hush Hush series to the Fallen series, while I love how those authors portrayed angels as kickass heroes, Caleb was on a whole different level. I fell in love from the start!
It's fantastic that I get to read about a black heroine for once, and the fact that Maia was such an alluring character just sealed the deal, making Angelborn my "Top 5 favourite book of this year". From forbidden romance to fast paced action scenes, I finished the book in less than 2 hours (I was flipping through the pages like a maniac!) While I love the plot, I have to say that the world building was probably my favourite part of the book. Purgatory is a place that is rarely explored and a world that fascinates me the most, it's wonderful that I get to read about that in Angelborn.
This is the first book from L.Penelope that I have read, but I'm definitely going to hunt down her books in the future! Thanks Netgalley for introducing me to such an artist!
Angelborn is the kind of book that you just can't seem to forget about. The cover, the world building and the characters are all so uniquely and artistically crafted, it's a masterpiece on their own.
I've read a lot of angel/demons related books, from the infamous Hush Hush series to the Fallen series, while I love how those authors portrayed angels as kickass heroes, Caleb was on a whole different level. I fell in love from the start!
It's fantastic that I get to read about a black heroine for once, and the fact that Maia was such an alluring character just sealed the deal, making Angelborn my "Top 5 favourite book of this year". From forbidden romance to fast paced action scenes, I finished the book in less than 2 hours (I was flipping through the pages like a maniac!) While I love the plot, I have to say that the world building was probably my favourite part of the book. Purgatory is a place that is rarely explored and a world that fascinates me the most, it's wonderful that I get to read about that in Angelborn.
This is the first book from L.Penelope that I have read, but I'm definitely going to hunt down her books in the future! Thanks Netgalley for introducing me to such an artist!
July 25, 2021
I can't believe I waited so long to read this! I also wish there were more stories in this series. I could not put this book down! I'm hoping L. Penelope will write more set in this world, or maybe publish this in paperback so I can add it to my shelf!
April 7, 2016
I rated it 2 stars because it was okay. I didn't hate it because there were too many things that didn't work for me. The first being, I don't like romance that's based entirely on a person's physical attributes and that's what I felt Caleb and Maia's relationship was. I know it's a short book but we never get the idea that the two like each other for their thoughts.
The writing left a lot to be desired. Because it's told from first person between Caleb and Maia, the writing did a lot of telling rather than showing.
By that I mean, the writing would just have Maia and Caleb tell us their feelings about each other but never really showed us exactly why they felt that way. Now you could argue that it's because of the "true love" storyline; being someone's true love or being "the one" has this romantic view of a relationship being based on it simply being part of one's destiny, that these two individuals automatically connect because the universe wants them to be together.
But I personally don't like that type of writing. Again, I understand that it's a short book but I like relationships to take some time. Caleb and Maia don't really have too many conversations beyond Caleb's situation and Maia being able to see ghosts (and her past).
The main thing I can't get over is how it took the Vultures weeks to find Caleb. If the Vultures went to the Recordkeepers, they would've known what Caleb's human form looked like (since he's been in that form in the past and the Recordkeepers would know what he looked like) and they would've known where he'd gone to. The main reason Caleb was in the Wasteland was because he fell in love with a human. Logic dictates that would be the first person he would go to.
I'm just saying, if a prisoner broke out of a jail, the first places you look are places where the prisoner has personal connection to, which would be Vivian/Genna.
The writing left a lot to be desired. Because it's told from first person between Caleb and Maia, the writing did a lot of telling rather than showing.
By that I mean, the writing would just have Maia and Caleb tell us their feelings about each other but never really showed us exactly why they felt that way. Now you could argue that it's because of the "true love" storyline; being someone's true love or being "the one" has this romantic view of a relationship being based on it simply being part of one's destiny, that these two individuals automatically connect because the universe wants them to be together.
But I personally don't like that type of writing. Again, I understand that it's a short book but I like relationships to take some time. Caleb and Maia don't really have too many conversations beyond Caleb's situation and Maia being able to see ghosts (and her past).
The main thing I can't get over is how it took the Vultures weeks to find Caleb. If the Vultures went to the Recordkeepers, they would've known what Caleb's human form looked like (since he's been in that form in the past and the Recordkeepers would know what he looked like) and they would've known where he'd gone to. The main reason Caleb was in the Wasteland was because he fell in love with a human. Logic dictates that would be the first person he would go to.
I'm just saying, if a prisoner broke out of a jail, the first places you look are places where the prisoner has personal connection to, which would be Vivian/Genna.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 10, 2015
A good read. I wish it could be a little longer. I haven't read a good angel paranormal in a long time. This is the first book I have read by the author I will read more. She did a good job. Read this book won't be disappointed.
Happy Reading!!
Happy Reading!!
October 29, 2015
Such a great story. Characters Maia and Caleb were so well done and fleshed out. The writing was immaculate. I was so sad when it ended. I hope the author releases a sequel soon.
February 10, 2016
http://bookreviewsandknittycreations....
Caution I do spoil the book in my review :)
Caution I do spoil the book in my review :)
March 12, 2023
Angel Born
By L.Penelope
This book genre is not usual for me, but when I find an author who has a deep imagination with a wonderful descriptive dialogue you find it impossible to turn down the amazing storyline’s that actually take you away into the clouds.
Ms Penelope is one such author with the descriptive power to create the energy of angels and their different dimension’s as we are introduced to characters who try to understand the world of mortals.
Calib had already met his special one and is lucky enough to get a second chance at spending eternity with her, hopefully this time her faith will not stop her from binding with him.
Gemma wants nothing more than to have Calib as her partner yet is unaware of the depth of emotions Calib is dealing with plus she cannot fathom why he’s so different to the other guys around.
In a strange situation Calib finds himself wanting to help and protect one of Gemma’s friends, he knows it’s only because of his angel heritage so protecting Mia becomes something he feels strongly about although for some unknown reason he cannot understand why??
Tthis whole tale is extremely intense with plenty of deep emotions that jump off the pages, so I was not surprised when I had tears running down my face. When certain choices that are made become very painful to those involved
Ms Penelope has a unique ability to create such strong feelings within her characters especially when the event’s that were occurring around Calib didn’t seem to show him what was happening right in front of him yet we as reader’s can see why his life is going the way it is.
An intense storyline with strong imaginative characters who really do jump off the pages at us their understanding and emotional ideas keep us guessing through to the end and I must say the twist at the end is surprising to say the least.
If action and fast paced situations while trying to actually work out the direction of the characters is something you enjoy then this supernatural genre and storyline is definitely something you should grab immediately.
By L.Penelope
This book genre is not usual for me, but when I find an author who has a deep imagination with a wonderful descriptive dialogue you find it impossible to turn down the amazing storyline’s that actually take you away into the clouds.
Ms Penelope is one such author with the descriptive power to create the energy of angels and their different dimension’s as we are introduced to characters who try to understand the world of mortals.
Calib had already met his special one and is lucky enough to get a second chance at spending eternity with her, hopefully this time her faith will not stop her from binding with him.
Gemma wants nothing more than to have Calib as her partner yet is unaware of the depth of emotions Calib is dealing with plus she cannot fathom why he’s so different to the other guys around.
In a strange situation Calib finds himself wanting to help and protect one of Gemma’s friends, he knows it’s only because of his angel heritage so protecting Mia becomes something he feels strongly about although for some unknown reason he cannot understand why??
Tthis whole tale is extremely intense with plenty of deep emotions that jump off the pages, so I was not surprised when I had tears running down my face. When certain choices that are made become very painful to those involved
Ms Penelope has a unique ability to create such strong feelings within her characters especially when the event’s that were occurring around Calib didn’t seem to show him what was happening right in front of him yet we as reader’s can see why his life is going the way it is.
An intense storyline with strong imaginative characters who really do jump off the pages at us their understanding and emotional ideas keep us guessing through to the end and I must say the twist at the end is surprising to say the least.
If action and fast paced situations while trying to actually work out the direction of the characters is something you enjoy then this supernatural genre and storyline is definitely something you should grab immediately.
April 23, 2024
I picked this book up while I am currently spending my days and nights in bed recovering from surgery. I knew my attention span probably couldn’t handle a full length novel, but I did want to try reading instead of binge watching a reality show for the sixth day in a row. This 123 page ebook was the perfect escape from my reality, and welcomed me into an urban fantasy I devoured.
Our story has two points of views and follows two POC MCs. Our female MC is currently a college student who has always been able to see, and unfortunately interact with, ghosts. Our male MC is half angel, half human who decided to leave Euphoria for a chance to find his soulmate and bind their souls together for all eternity. In addition to dual POV’s this story also consists of flashbacks for both characters, diving into their childhoods or, in the halfling’s case, lifetimes ago.
While the present held my interest the most I have to admit the flashbacks added a lot of substance to these characters. It added to the sense of urgency, despair, and at times outright terror. This novel was quick but it packed a punch in the gruesome details of death, decay, the harsh realities of war, and the very real paranoia of never knowing who was alive.
The chemistry between our characters was a slower burn, or as slow as it can be for 123 pages, but I enjoyed the pacing a lot. The college, urban setting worked so well for the haunting aspect as well as the angelic forces at work. I truly have no complaints as a reader. Did this novel stun and amaze at every turn? No, but it was a really enjoyable quick read about two tortured characters trying to navigate a world that is seemingly always out to get them.
Our story has two points of views and follows two POC MCs. Our female MC is currently a college student who has always been able to see, and unfortunately interact with, ghosts. Our male MC is half angel, half human who decided to leave Euphoria for a chance to find his soulmate and bind their souls together for all eternity. In addition to dual POV’s this story also consists of flashbacks for both characters, diving into their childhoods or, in the halfling’s case, lifetimes ago.
While the present held my interest the most I have to admit the flashbacks added a lot of substance to these characters. It added to the sense of urgency, despair, and at times outright terror. This novel was quick but it packed a punch in the gruesome details of death, decay, the harsh realities of war, and the very real paranoia of never knowing who was alive.
The chemistry between our characters was a slower burn, or as slow as it can be for 123 pages, but I enjoyed the pacing a lot. The college, urban setting worked so well for the haunting aspect as well as the angelic forces at work. I truly have no complaints as a reader. Did this novel stun and amaze at every turn? No, but it was a really enjoyable quick read about two tortured characters trying to navigate a world that is seemingly always out to get them.
March 12, 2023
Tears
This tale is not one I often grab but every so often, I find authors who have an uncanny ability to describe the power's and energy of angels and other dimensions, Ms Penelope is one such author.
Caleb wanted nothing more than to believe his soul mate is the one person he had met during world war two, hoping they could spend eternity together he is unable to convince his lover of what she needs to do.
Meeting Gemma in her second life gives him the second chance at keeping her with him throughout eternity.
I found this tale to be emotional on so many levels, especially when Calib goes to every extent he can to get Gemma to understand what she means to him.
Calib gets sidetracked by Gemma's friend Mia, finding curiosity at watching what it is that people go through while living their lives.
Is it possible to convince Gemma to make the vow needed to bind them together, or will Calib have to return to where he came from
Honestly, Ms. Penelope had me in tears with many of her imaginative descriptive words expressing intense feelings, I could almost feel what Calib was going through as he understood what was finally happening.
An amazing storyline with unique, intense characters who are personalities full of what if??, this storyline shows how often people make the wrong choices in their lives.
If you enjoy books that express supernatural genres, then you're going to love this. It has an ending that you will not expect
This tale is not one I often grab but every so often, I find authors who have an uncanny ability to describe the power's and energy of angels and other dimensions, Ms Penelope is one such author.
Caleb wanted nothing more than to believe his soul mate is the one person he had met during world war two, hoping they could spend eternity together he is unable to convince his lover of what she needs to do.
Meeting Gemma in her second life gives him the second chance at keeping her with him throughout eternity.
I found this tale to be emotional on so many levels, especially when Calib goes to every extent he can to get Gemma to understand what she means to him.
Calib gets sidetracked by Gemma's friend Mia, finding curiosity at watching what it is that people go through while living their lives.
Is it possible to convince Gemma to make the vow needed to bind them together, or will Calib have to return to where he came from
Honestly, Ms. Penelope had me in tears with many of her imaginative descriptive words expressing intense feelings, I could almost feel what Calib was going through as he understood what was finally happening.
An amazing storyline with unique, intense characters who are personalities full of what if??, this storyline shows how often people make the wrong choices in their lives.
If you enjoy books that express supernatural genres, then you're going to love this. It has an ending that you will not expect
September 5, 2023
okay
This book had a lot of details. I found myself skipping over parts and getting boa rd with all the confusion and details regarding g angels and the eternal life and the wasteland. Maia was an emotional rollercoaster of a character. This girl had been through way to much to still have goodness inside her. Any other person would have tossed in the towel on humanity a long time ago. Caleb’s character did not have enough time to develop in my opinion. We did not get to know him like we should have. This was my first read by the author and I think I would like to read book 2. I want to see how the story develops. Overall I give this story 2.75 stars.
This book had a lot of details. I found myself skipping over parts and getting boa rd with all the confusion and details regarding g angels and the eternal life and the wasteland. Maia was an emotional rollercoaster of a character. This girl had been through way to much to still have goodness inside her. Any other person would have tossed in the towel on humanity a long time ago. Caleb’s character did not have enough time to develop in my opinion. We did not get to know him like we should have. This was my first read by the author and I think I would like to read book 2. I want to see how the story develops. Overall I give this story 2.75 stars.
February 10, 2018
Started reading the blurb on storybundle, and before day's end I finished the book. This is a delightful twist on the usual boy meets girl. I will not spoil it for you, but the story building sucks you in and things do not go as planned. Which always makes the best stories...right? Try this author, you will not be disappointed.
August 1, 2021
This has a super YA feel to me, but I’m going to be honest, fated mates type stuff always (emotionally) gives me YA vibes. Enjoyable if not particularly memorable.
For once my readers advisory note will be a TV recommendation, readers who liked this may enjoy Oh My Ghostess! A K drama with a similar conceit for a heroine
For once my readers advisory note will be a TV recommendation, readers who liked this may enjoy Oh My Ghostess! A K drama with a similar conceit for a heroine
May 30, 2022
Angelborn was our choice for Episode 2 of Season 2 - a novella that somehow packs in epic world-building with angels and ghosts, as well as an emotional romance. To hear more and access the podcast episode via your preferred podcast platform, click on the link below:
E2S2
E2S2
March 7, 2019
I really loved this book, it was refreshing in every way. The author is an excellent story teller. It literally had me on the edge of my seat all the way to the end. So for those of you who loves fantasy books this is the one for you.
November 29, 2022
My Angel to love💞
I have admired Genna, Maia, and Caleb's love tryst. They stole my heart, and soul! (Almost) Ive enjoyed this story about a half long finding his true love, and I believe you will too💞 Please check her books out.💞
I have admired Genna, Maia, and Caleb's love tryst. They stole my heart, and soul! (Almost) Ive enjoyed this story about a half long finding his true love, and I believe you will too💞 Please check her books out.💞
March 13, 2023
The novel started out great but then it got slower towards the end and I started to lose interest. Predictable end. Wanted more out of this book but it wasn't horrible. I still love books where characters can see ghosts and the paranormal so I wanted to give this one a shot. It's a quick read.
May 22, 2023
Another homerun
An amazing story about an awkward college student realizing that she's good enough for the right people. I'd love to be able to read more about Maia coming into her power of helping the dead.
An amazing story about an awkward college student realizing that she's good enough for the right people. I'd love to be able to read more about Maia coming into her power of helping the dead.
November 12, 2025
I honestly didn't expect much going into this one. I was surprised by this dual POV and multi timeline that is well written. My only issue is I now wish it was longer. And I want books about Helix and Onyx.
March 11, 2018
3.5 stars... I liked this more than I thought I would!
March 9, 2019
I liked this sweet fantasy romance.
Here is the link to my booktrailer:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zuBKg...
Here is the link to my booktrailer:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zuBKg...
May 26, 2019
Really good
Loved the story, the characters & the twist at the end.
Can't wait to read book 2! I definitely recommend.
Loved the story, the characters & the twist at the end.
Can't wait to read book 2! I definitely recommend.
July 2, 2020
Read in one day
Short easy read. Need more sex lol. But I totally enjoyed. I read it in one day it felt like a novella
Short easy read. Need more sex lol. But I totally enjoyed. I read it in one day it felt like a novella
July 20, 2021
Really cool premise with how angels interact with humans, also thought the characters felt very real. A short read but a strong one.
CWs for self harm, gaslighting, child abuse off page.
CWs for self harm, gaslighting, child abuse off page.
February 17, 2023
4.75 — this short little book hit me in the feels from start to finish!
October 17, 2015
3.5 stars (rounded to 4 stars)
Altered from review posted on Romancing the Social Sciences
I'm mourning the fact that Angelborn was a novella and not a full-length novel - the format left me feeling like I accidentally got an appetizer instead of a main meal. I'm still hungry and that's a testament to Angelborn, really. It was SO GOOD, but it all got wrapped up too quickly and I never really got to know the hero as much as I'd like and the epilogue was too short and now I want to cry.
Angelborn was a fresh combination of New Adult and Paranormal. Half-angel, half-human Caleb found his soulmate once, but she died before he could ensure they would be reborn together, and he was banished to the nether realm of the Wasteland. Now, by some miracle, he's escaped back to the human plane and to his reincarnated soulmate, Genna.
Being able to see and interact with the dead has defined Maia's whole life. She's managed to keep a relatively low profile at college, but then Caleb starts hanging around her roommate; sometimes Genna can see him, and sometimes he's invisible to everyone but Maia. Caleb's running out of time, and Maia's running from everything, including the boy who is clearly not meant for her.
Frankly, I found another character, the angel Helix, to have much more personality than Caleb, but I understand that he is an inherently amorphous character, having had his experience as a human constructed around his soul mate and then being stuck in limbo for 70 years. I loved Maia though; she was witty and tough, and yet all too vulnerable.
The world Penelope built for Angelborn was distinct, and I respected that it did not rely on a Judeo-Christian framework. The idea that angels harvest human souls because they act as power sources for their realm of Euphoria was neat, and, like many aspects, I wished there had been more detail.
Partly because Penelope's worldbuilding was so absorbing, my list of unanswered questions is massive. How did Caleb's angel dam meet his father? Why did Maia have the ability to see the dead? How did Wren, who brought Caleb back to the human realm, know how to escape the Wasteland? I get that a lot of these things are meant to be ambiguous and that the character themselves don't understand, but there are so many interesting titbits I want to know! Hopefully, Penelope chooses to expand this world, but even if she doesn't, she's a wonderful storyteller and I look forward to reading some longer works of hers.
Altered from review posted on Romancing the Social Sciences
I'm mourning the fact that Angelborn was a novella and not a full-length novel - the format left me feeling like I accidentally got an appetizer instead of a main meal. I'm still hungry and that's a testament to Angelborn, really. It was SO GOOD, but it all got wrapped up too quickly and I never really got to know the hero as much as I'd like and the epilogue was too short and now I want to cry.
Angelborn was a fresh combination of New Adult and Paranormal. Half-angel, half-human Caleb found his soulmate once, but she died before he could ensure they would be reborn together, and he was banished to the nether realm of the Wasteland. Now, by some miracle, he's escaped back to the human plane and to his reincarnated soulmate, Genna.
Being able to see and interact with the dead has defined Maia's whole life. She's managed to keep a relatively low profile at college, but then Caleb starts hanging around her roommate; sometimes Genna can see him, and sometimes he's invisible to everyone but Maia. Caleb's running out of time, and Maia's running from everything, including the boy who is clearly not meant for her.
Frankly, I found another character, the angel Helix, to have much more personality than Caleb, but I understand that he is an inherently amorphous character, having had his experience as a human constructed around his soul mate and then being stuck in limbo for 70 years. I loved Maia though; she was witty and tough, and yet all too vulnerable.
The world Penelope built for Angelborn was distinct, and I respected that it did not rely on a Judeo-Christian framework. The idea that angels harvest human souls because they act as power sources for their realm of Euphoria was neat, and, like many aspects, I wished there had been more detail.
Partly because Penelope's worldbuilding was so absorbing, my list of unanswered questions is massive. How did Caleb's angel dam meet his father? Why did Maia have the ability to see the dead? How did Wren, who brought Caleb back to the human realm, know how to escape the Wasteland? I get that a lot of these things are meant to be ambiguous and that the character themselves don't understand, but there are so many interesting titbits I want to know! Hopefully, Penelope chooses to expand this world, but even if she doesn't, she's a wonderful storyteller and I look forward to reading some longer works of hers.
February 27, 2016
Reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf
Angelborn will take you into a world of wonder, of halfling angels, soul mates, and a young woman who really does see dead people.. all the time.
Caleb is a halfling angel – his father was human. As a halfling he had no soul, until he could find his soul mate and she would share her soul with him making him complete. But Caleb’s soul mate died before she could share with him and now Caleb has been sent to the Wastelands to stay or to wait for the chance to return and search out his love in her reincarnated body. When he escapes and finds his love – he also finds another young woman with a tormented life, a young woman who he cannot help but feel something for but he will not be turned away from his desire to reunite with his soul mate.
Maia has seen ghosts for as long as she can remember. Waking, sleeping she can never escape them. She’s learned to tune them out somewhat and tries to live a normal life… but that’s not easy. When she sees what she believes is a ghost near her roommate – this feels different. As Caleb explains what has happened to him and his soul mate, Maia is already starting to fall for him. And when he becomes her champion she is certain that he is the man she could love forever. But he is destined for another or is he?
I enjoyed my time in the world of Angelborn. The world building has a mystical feel to it, and the characters are a fascinating mix. The plot will twist and take you places you never expected.
I gave it a 3 star rating for a couple reasons. Good story = 3 stars. While I enjoyed the story, I simply never connected with the characters. I didn’t fall into the story, but I did enjoy the experience. And that’s what a good story should do, give me a satisfying experience while visiting the author’s world.
*I received an e-ARC of Angelborn from the publisher and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. That does not change what I think of this novel.*
Angelborn will take you into a world of wonder, of halfling angels, soul mates, and a young woman who really does see dead people.. all the time.
Caleb is a halfling angel – his father was human. As a halfling he had no soul, until he could find his soul mate and she would share her soul with him making him complete. But Caleb’s soul mate died before she could share with him and now Caleb has been sent to the Wastelands to stay or to wait for the chance to return and search out his love in her reincarnated body. When he escapes and finds his love – he also finds another young woman with a tormented life, a young woman who he cannot help but feel something for but he will not be turned away from his desire to reunite with his soul mate.
Maia has seen ghosts for as long as she can remember. Waking, sleeping she can never escape them. She’s learned to tune them out somewhat and tries to live a normal life… but that’s not easy. When she sees what she believes is a ghost near her roommate – this feels different. As Caleb explains what has happened to him and his soul mate, Maia is already starting to fall for him. And when he becomes her champion she is certain that he is the man she could love forever. But he is destined for another or is he?
I enjoyed my time in the world of Angelborn. The world building has a mystical feel to it, and the characters are a fascinating mix. The plot will twist and take you places you never expected.
I gave it a 3 star rating for a couple reasons. Good story = 3 stars. While I enjoyed the story, I simply never connected with the characters. I didn’t fall into the story, but I did enjoy the experience. And that’s what a good story should do, give me a satisfying experience while visiting the author’s world.
*I received an e-ARC of Angelborn from the publisher and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. That does not change what I think of this novel.*
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