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Angel Fire #1
Angel Fire
He doesn’t have to like his new mate, even if she is the only angel to accept him.
Bryant should’ve behaved himself. Now he’s been ordered to find a mate. Easier said than done when a bloke like him looks the way he does in a realm full of angels. He’d rather be fighting the good fight in the human realm. But mating the ravishing female that claims him shouldn’t be a hardship. If only her father wasn’t the reason for his scars.
Perhaps mating the surly, scowling warrior wasn’t Odessa’s best idea. But she’s committed, and he’s…frustrating. Enticing. Carrying a grudge she knows nothing about. Yet when her boss winds up dead and she’s attacked, he’s there to save her.
Digging into the danger Odessa’s facing uncovers an ambitious plot against the realm. Good thing Bryant’s a persistent guy. He’ll stick to Odessa’s side and keep her safe, all so he can let her go in the end. Because one thing he’s learned about the down-to-earth angel is that she deserves better than him.
Except Odessa doesn’t want to be rid of the loyal warrior. But that’s an argument for a day when someone’s not trying to kill them.
Bryant should’ve behaved himself. Now he’s been ordered to find a mate. Easier said than done when a bloke like him looks the way he does in a realm full of angels. He’d rather be fighting the good fight in the human realm. But mating the ravishing female that claims him shouldn’t be a hardship. If only her father wasn’t the reason for his scars.
Perhaps mating the surly, scowling warrior wasn’t Odessa’s best idea. But she’s committed, and he’s…frustrating. Enticing. Carrying a grudge she knows nothing about. Yet when her boss winds up dead and she’s attacked, he’s there to save her.
Digging into the danger Odessa’s facing uncovers an ambitious plot against the realm. Good thing Bryant’s a persistent guy. He’ll stick to Odessa’s side and keep her safe, all so he can let her go in the end. Because one thing he’s learned about the down-to-earth angel is that she deserves better than him.
Except Odessa doesn’t want to be rid of the loyal warrior. But that’s an argument for a day when someone’s not trying to kill them.
342 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 18, 2019
235 people are currently reading
354 people want to read
About the author
Marie Johnston
100 books1,060 followersMarie Johnston is an award-winning, best-selling paranormal and contemporary romance writer. She grew up in the upper Midwest and planned to go to college for English. Didn't happen. She started college in accounting and was awful! Grabbing her inner science geek by the pocket protector, she changed to microbiology and medical technology where her only writing involved scientific articles and procedures.
Eventually, she left full-time work for full-time baby raising but kept thinking, "one day, I'd like to write a book." Finally, before any more time passed, Marie decided to buckle down and write. She loves it!
Eventually, she left full-time work for full-time baby raising but kept thinking, "one day, I'd like to write a book." Finally, before any more time passed, Marie decided to buckle down and write. She loves it!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews
March 24, 2019
3.5 Stars
So not having read anything by this particular author before I wasn't quite sure what to expect.
Thankfully this was by far a positive experience and "Angel Fire" itself really was an imaginative endeavour with some pretty hefty word building.
I did originally find that the staging here as it introduced this new series left me somewhat confused initially and as a consequence, it took me a while to get my head around the whole complicated infrastructure that we are introduced to here.
But when I did manage to find my groove all was good with the world.
So this was told from multiple POV's and really did an excellent job of laying the groundwork for future story development.
I liked how the Angel's here were like everyday people with their own internal inadequacies and personality traits just like the humans they were tasked with serving.
Found it super interesting how they were all being held to a higher standard when they were just as imperfect as their human charges were.
Although I wasn't quite sure what to think about the black and white rule system these supposed higher beings abide by, the no grey or middle ground really seemed justly unfair to me.
So Odessa I liked a lot she had some issues in her background that caused a lot of internal insecurities but she really tried to not let this dictate her future choices negatively.
She knew what she wanted from the start and there was no artifice or malice where she was concerned.
Bryant well I liked him but there were definitely times he needed a kick where the sun don't shine if you get my actual drift.
His constant blowing hot and cold where Odessa is concerned really got a tad irritating I wanted to shout "Make up your mind man".
The way he was always thinking of ways he could sever ties with Odessa for her sake, of course, was an insult to her inert character.
Though I did like the fact that Bryant wasn't a player and was also scarred, growly and imperfect.
I like my males to be somewhat flawed adds to there overall charm.
So this was an intriguing start and I am interested in seeing where this story eventually goes.
Especially in regards to the sister, I am hoping she gets her book alongside the pompous rigid Julien: to see him taken down a peg or two and eat some humble pie would be so fantastic.
I voluntary reviewed a copy of "Angel Fire".
All opinions expressed here are entirely my own.
Reviewed By Beckie Bookworm
https://www.facebook.com/beckiebookworm/
www.beckiebookworm.com
March 14, 2022
Wanted a paranormal romance series to binge that would go by relatively fast to read and this one seems to fit that. Not the most swoony or intriguing story so far but an entertaining read nevertheless
June 8, 2022
I loved it.
Usually multiple point of view stories doesn’t appeal to me much. But in this book it worked. Also I’m very VERY choosy about the series I continue to read. But I’ve found one more to add to my list!
This had one of my favourite trope- marriage of convenience. I loved the different characters. There were many varieties and characterisation was bomb 👌.
Add a solid and thrilling plot, a dangerous world, many villains, reverting writing style- you’ve got an interesting and enjoyable book.
It was amusing to read how hero Braynt always tried to stay away from heroine Odessa but never quite manage to do so. He was smitten pretty early on.
I loved Odessa’s growth in this book. She had such strength despite suffering all that trauma. Her bold moves where hero was concerned, cracked me up.
I can’t wait to read her sister’s story.
I would say this book isn’t standalone. At the ending I was baffled for a minute, as many issues remained unresolved, so I would say this book is more like part 1.
Not kindle unlimited, safe and recommended.
Usually multiple point of view stories doesn’t appeal to me much. But in this book it worked. Also I’m very VERY choosy about the series I continue to read. But I’ve found one more to add to my list!
This had one of my favourite trope- marriage of convenience. I loved the different characters. There were many varieties and characterisation was bomb 👌.
Add a solid and thrilling plot, a dangerous world, many villains, reverting writing style- you’ve got an interesting and enjoyable book.
It was amusing to read how hero Braynt always tried to stay away from heroine Odessa but never quite manage to do so. He was smitten pretty early on.
I loved Odessa’s growth in this book. She had such strength despite suffering all that trauma. Her bold moves where hero was concerned, cracked me up.
I can’t wait to read her sister’s story.
I would say this book isn’t standalone. At the ending I was baffled for a minute, as many issues remained unresolved, so I would say this book is more like part 1.
Not kindle unlimited, safe and recommended.
April 5, 2019
DNF at 80% and somewhere between 2 or 3 stars.
Had a really strong start but slowly lost its momentum when the hero and heroine were interrupted for the 100th time and the plot took over the romance. Most of the time, I had no idea what was going on. Angel lingo was being thrown at me and I didnt know what any of it meant.
Or the fact that the hero had a destined mate that wasnt the heroine.... thats a really big buzz kill in my book. Even though the H never even meets his destined mate, the heroine is always always always going to feel like second best. Made even worse by the fact that the hero treats her like absolute shit for 40% of the book. I love me a grumpy hero, but this guy was far too dense to root for. Even at the 80% mark he was STILL telling the heroine that he could up and leave her if she didnt want to be with him anymore. What was even the point of bringing up destined mates if youre going to write a story with characters that are not destined to be together?!!? All very confusing.
Nah bitch! Fight for your lady!
Safe:
No OW/OM drama
Lots of push and pull done by the H
No other people after meeting
Hero wasnt a manwhore and the heroine wasnt a virgin.
Had a really strong start but slowly lost its momentum when the hero and heroine were interrupted for the 100th time and the plot took over the romance. Most of the time, I had no idea what was going on. Angel lingo was being thrown at me and I didnt know what any of it meant.
Or the fact that the hero had a destined mate that wasnt the heroine.... thats a really big buzz kill in my book. Even though the H never even meets his destined mate, the heroine is always always always going to feel like second best. Made even worse by the fact that the hero treats her like absolute shit for 40% of the book. I love me a grumpy hero, but this guy was far too dense to root for. Even at the 80% mark he was STILL telling the heroine that he could up and leave her if she didnt want to be with him anymore. What was even the point of bringing up destined mates if youre going to write a story with characters that are not destined to be together?!!? All very confusing.
Nah bitch! Fight for your lady!
Safe:
No OW/OM drama
Lots of push and pull done by the H
No other people after meeting
Hero wasnt a manwhore and the heroine wasnt a virgin.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 25, 2019
REVIEWED ON http://bookaddict.live,
I loved being in at the beginning of a new series and this the book one of a new series featuring Angels, demons and fallen angels. We have a fallen Angel who has thrown in his lot with demons and crooked angels in important positions.
Our hero in this book are a scarred warrior Bryant vale and Odessa who sync with other for several reasons, but learn to full in love among the schemes and actions of our baddies.
The world building gave me a firm picture in my head, and I felt connected to most of characters including some of the baddies. We are all not one or the other.
What a great start to a new Paranormal Romance, with plenty of action. This was I got to finish book for me, as I wanted to find out if what happened. I will say this a complete story as far as Bryant and Odessa love story. To follow the world and larger picture I am happily waiting book two.
I loved being in at the beginning of a new series and this the book one of a new series featuring Angels, demons and fallen angels. We have a fallen Angel who has thrown in his lot with demons and crooked angels in important positions.
Our hero in this book are a scarred warrior Bryant vale and Odessa who sync with other for several reasons, but learn to full in love among the schemes and actions of our baddies.
The world building gave me a firm picture in my head, and I felt connected to most of characters including some of the baddies. We are all not one or the other.
What a great start to a new Paranormal Romance, with plenty of action. This was I got to finish book for me, as I wanted to find out if what happened. I will say this a complete story as far as Bryant and Odessa love story. To follow the world and larger picture I am happily waiting book two.
March 28, 2019
While I enjoyed this book I would have liked the hero to be a bit more sure and alpha. Also all the characters and side stories where a bit distracting.
December 7, 2019
About two thirds through when I can't take any more. I'm giving up, I'm so bored :(
August 1, 2022
This was an exciting series opener and it has everything you could want in a book - intrigue, action, betrayal, mystery and, of course, steamy romance ;D I really enjoyed this world and all the characters in. Expect a ton of detail to really take you on a reading ride.
January 8, 2022
I NEEDED MORE BRYANT AND ODESSA LOVEY-DOVEY TIME AND YES, MORE OF THE DIRTY DEEDS. As much as I want to appreciate this story being plot focused, (perhaps it's because it's the first book of the series?) I also wanted to see the MCs interacting much more...physically. Is that too demanding? Well, the fact that after two sexy times and not entirely detailed...we are left with blackout sex scenes. I'll admit the couple pairing automatically gains a star from me, because I'm a sucker of #beautyandthebeast pairings.
BRYANT would seriously test your patience and I want to blame him, but I also understand how much self-doubt can ruin a person's self-confidence and ego, especially when living beings are generally attracted to beauty. Bryant's not entirely popular before his face became damaged, though whatever he lacked for beauty, he made up for with his massive aura - the power, his reliability and honour and not to mention masculine virility that has nothing to do with how he looks. The only annoying trait of his character was how he tended to have a low self-esteem that he kept pushing our heroine away, always giving her an out in their mating which if I were a man, I'd have a serious case of blue balls because the author cockblocks the readers TWO FUCKING TIMES when things were about to get heated and serious. I COULDN'T APPRECIATE THAT AT ALL. Other than that, Bryant's Mr.Grumpy who gets saddled with a beautiful, elite angel. He doesn't believe he's good enough for her, and battles with his own insecurities and protecting her at the same time. Honestly, their chemistry could have gone to greater heights but, I wonder if the author decided to play it safe?
ODESSA might come off clingy and weak but strangely I found that part of her endearing. Not weak, per se...merely traumatized and a young woman without any family support or any kind of emotional support to help her inner scars heal. It's no wonder a strong warrior like Bryant appeals to her and she takes no qualm to accept him as her mate when the opportunity presents itself. I was thrilled by the way she claimed him in front of everything in the first two chapters. Though, if I were honest...that might have been the only highlight of their story. Frankly, I thought the dark past that plagued Odessa was something huge but it was anticlimactic, it made her sister, Felicia's story much more substantial to take interest of.
OVERALL I'm afraid I was obsessed with the MCs romance and conversations than the whole bad guy plotting going on. Although, it could have been done better...which an equal balance of push and pull because, all I felt was the heroine offering, and offering more than the hero did. And then, by the time they were together...the entire ongoing with the bad guy just overshadowed them. Nonetheless, I'm looking forward to reading the rest of the books in this series.
BRYANT would seriously test your patience and I want to blame him, but I also understand how much self-doubt can ruin a person's self-confidence and ego, especially when living beings are generally attracted to beauty. Bryant's not entirely popular before his face became damaged, though whatever he lacked for beauty, he made up for with his massive aura - the power, his reliability and honour and not to mention masculine virility that has nothing to do with how he looks. The only annoying trait of his character was how he tended to have a low self-esteem that he kept pushing our heroine away, always giving her an out in their mating which if I were a man, I'd have a serious case of blue balls because the author cockblocks the readers TWO FUCKING TIMES when things were about to get heated and serious. I COULDN'T APPRECIATE THAT AT ALL. Other than that, Bryant's Mr.Grumpy who gets saddled with a beautiful, elite angel. He doesn't believe he's good enough for her, and battles with his own insecurities and protecting her at the same time. Honestly, their chemistry could have gone to greater heights but, I wonder if the author decided to play it safe?
ODESSA might come off clingy and weak but strangely I found that part of her endearing. Not weak, per se...merely traumatized and a young woman without any family support or any kind of emotional support to help her inner scars heal. It's no wonder a strong warrior like Bryant appeals to her and she takes no qualm to accept him as her mate when the opportunity presents itself. I was thrilled by the way she claimed him in front of everything in the first two chapters. Though, if I were honest...that might have been the only highlight of their story. Frankly, I thought the dark past that plagued Odessa was something huge but it was anticlimactic, it made her sister, Felicia's story much more substantial to take interest of.
OVERALL I'm afraid I was obsessed with the MCs romance and conversations than the whole bad guy plotting going on. Although, it could have been done better...which an equal balance of push and pull because, all I felt was the heroine offering, and offering more than the hero did. And then, by the time they were together...the entire ongoing with the bad guy just overshadowed them. Nonetheless, I'm looking forward to reading the rest of the books in this series.
July 23, 2022
Odessa's one of those stand out characters. Deeply scarred by her experience, she fights to survive while living alone in the same house where she was attacked. But cracks have formed in her coping mechanism and she seeks another way to mend them. Her bonding with Bryant, while outwardly seeming to be cold and calculating, truly shows her courage in the face of outward opposition. But will her inner heart be torn asunder by his disbelief? Will his fears of being alone disappear when he realizes just what a treasure she is?
My second read through of this story was just as compelling as my first.
My second read through of this story was just as compelling as my first.
March 27, 2019
The Angels had me from the beginning! This is one of the best new paranormal romances I've read in awhile. Just terrific with the spectacular world building, fierce characters, thrilling storyline, villains galore. Demons and the Fallen along with fantastic heroes and heroines that fight to keep the realms separate and humans safe. Odessa is a wonderful heroine. Strong and noble but she needs a Warrior to keep her safe from her enemies. And there's none better than Bryant. When she chooses him to bond with in hopes of saving herself from her enemies she is glorious. Ignoring his battle scars that make him self conscious she is ready to take him on with all his growls and groans. He can't believe she did it! He thinks no woman will want him and he doesn't want to be bonded. No way, but she slowly wins him over and it's hot. When they finally work out their differences and come together they are a magnificent couple. Such steamy chemistry! There's a lot going on in the story that keeps things interesting and kept me turning the pages. Also, lots of fantastic characters for future stories. I can't wait. This is a terrific start to a new series by an author that gives us passionate characters, new worlds and intriguing stories. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC. 4.5 STARS
March 30, 2019
Angel Fire is book one in the Angel Fire series. The storyline is intriguing with warrior angels, fallen angels and demons. The world building is amazing and the characters well developed and relatable. The angels are both good and evil pretty much like humans. Our main characters are Bryant and Odessa. These two have a lot of personal baggage to get thru if they are to mate as well as solve a mystery. This is an exceptionally well written tale with action, mystery, drama, intrigue, and romance. It was a page turner and kept your interest to the end as well as the desire to read the next in series. It is an easy book to recommend. Received an ARC and this is my voluntary and honest review.
January 19, 2025
Angels and demons
Odessa needs protecting, Bryant needs a mate, but with his scars he doesn't expect a beautiful young angel to truly want him. There is a conspiracy afoot, and Odessa and her father are somehow in danger ...
A common pairing and story, but with the added interest of the protagonists being angels. Some thrilling scenes and anxious moments. The denouement is a little rushed and I dropped a star. An ongoing tale.
Odessa needs protecting, Bryant needs a mate, but with his scars he doesn't expect a beautiful young angel to truly want him. There is a conspiracy afoot, and Odessa and her father are somehow in danger ...
A common pairing and story, but with the added interest of the protagonists being angels. Some thrilling scenes and anxious moments. The denouement is a little rushed and I dropped a star. An ongoing tale.
February 26, 2019
Oh my smoking hot Angels!!! I could not put this book down! Angel's, Demons, Fallen Angel's and so much more.
Enticing, thrilling, sexy, sweet, with some action and a bit of drama makes this story so fantastic!
Enticing, thrilling, sexy, sweet, with some action and a bit of drama makes this story so fantastic!
March 2, 2019
‘Angel Fire’ is a new series by Marie Johnston about Angels, Demons and the Fallen. Fair warning though, these angels aren’t like any you have read about in the past. There might be some do-gooders in the bunch, but think humans, only with wings. There is nothing angelic about this bunch. They are as messed up as the humans they are supposed to watch over and protect.
Bryant is a Warrior Angel with many scars and Odessa is a brainy analyst whose father is an Angel Senator. She and her sister Felicia survived a horrible attack when she was young and she needs protection from a Warrior. Instead of waiting for her destined mate, she chooses to sync with Bryant. Bryant is being pressured by his boss, Director Richter to sync so that when he goes into battle his mate will be able to heal his wounds. After meeting the gorgeous Odessa he agrees to the bond and things take off from there.
There is a lot going on in this story with quite a bit of new world building seamlessly woven in. The bad Angels are truly bad, and there are even Demons thrown into the mix. I must admit that I found the Archmaster Demon Sandeen rather intriguing and wonder if he will have his own story in the future. I know he’s supposed to be an evil Demon, but any person who grieves the tragic loss of a pet just doesn’t seem all that evil to me no matter what bad things he was shown to have done. I also enjoyed Felicia and the Warrior Angel Jagger being thrown together and watching the sparks fly. I suspect their story will be next.
As usual Marie doesn’t disappoint in how she writes her female heroines. Odessa is no weak female and she makes poor Bryant work for it when his insecurities keep sabotaging their relationship. The sex scenes are hot and the couple work well together while trying to solve a series of murders.
There are some truly tragic moments that brought tears to my eyes in this story. Notably what happens to Director Leo Richter, as well as a few other innocent Angels and watching an angel become Fallen and losing his wings. I’m feeling rather ambivalent about Sierra after what she allows herself to be forced into doing. I think her story is going to be a hard one to tell since I’m not sure I will be able to forgive her for her cowardice allowing something awful to happen to one of the characters.
Then there is Jameson Haddock. I must admit I had a terrible time with his last name. Every time I read it all I could think about was fish! LOL! Plus he is just a horrible Fallen Angel that just needs to be taken out by the Warriors. Since he seems to be the main villain for the series, I don’t think I will get my wish until the last book in the series most likely.
So now I will just have to wait as patiently as possible for the next book in the series to be written. If you enjoy Marie’s other series, you won’t be disappointed with this one either.
Bryant is a Warrior Angel with many scars and Odessa is a brainy analyst whose father is an Angel Senator. She and her sister Felicia survived a horrible attack when she was young and she needs protection from a Warrior. Instead of waiting for her destined mate, she chooses to sync with Bryant. Bryant is being pressured by his boss, Director Richter to sync so that when he goes into battle his mate will be able to heal his wounds. After meeting the gorgeous Odessa he agrees to the bond and things take off from there.
There is a lot going on in this story with quite a bit of new world building seamlessly woven in. The bad Angels are truly bad, and there are even Demons thrown into the mix. I must admit that I found the Archmaster Demon Sandeen rather intriguing and wonder if he will have his own story in the future. I know he’s supposed to be an evil Demon, but any person who grieves the tragic loss of a pet just doesn’t seem all that evil to me no matter what bad things he was shown to have done. I also enjoyed Felicia and the Warrior Angel Jagger being thrown together and watching the sparks fly. I suspect their story will be next.
As usual Marie doesn’t disappoint in how she writes her female heroines. Odessa is no weak female and she makes poor Bryant work for it when his insecurities keep sabotaging their relationship. The sex scenes are hot and the couple work well together while trying to solve a series of murders.
There are some truly tragic moments that brought tears to my eyes in this story. Notably what happens to Director Leo Richter, as well as a few other innocent Angels and watching an angel become Fallen and losing his wings. I’m feeling rather ambivalent about Sierra after what she allows herself to be forced into doing. I think her story is going to be a hard one to tell since I’m not sure I will be able to forgive her for her cowardice allowing something awful to happen to one of the characters.
Then there is Jameson Haddock. I must admit I had a terrible time with his last name. Every time I read it all I could think about was fish! LOL! Plus he is just a horrible Fallen Angel that just needs to be taken out by the Warriors. Since he seems to be the main villain for the series, I don’t think I will get my wish until the last book in the series most likely.
So now I will just have to wait as patiently as possible for the next book in the series to be written. If you enjoy Marie’s other series, you won’t be disappointed with this one either.
July 31, 2022
Bryant Vale is a warrior angel who's dedicated to saving angels and humans alike from demons. He was scarred by Angel Fire after being sent on a mission that was supposed to kill his team. He must find his sync mate or be benched from duty.
Odessa Montclaire is an angel analyst. Born to privilege with a Senator father but a past that haunts her to this day. Afraid of the dark, she knows Bryant will protect her if she accepts him for her sync mate.
Odessa's open heart has her work cut out for her. Dealing with a grumpy male who holds a grudge against her corrupt father, it's going to take a miracle for this couple to unite.
While they are trying to navigate being mated, danger and plots abound putting angel and humans alike in danger. Odessa's life is on the line after she discovers concerning recurrences on Earth. It will take Bryant and his whole team to keep her safe and unravel the threat.
It was wonderful seeing Odessa fight her fears and start to believe in herself, but Bryant's hang-ups with his scars and feelings of unworthiness had me wanting to smack him upside the head a few times.
First, I should say I'm not always the greatest fan of angel stories but Johnston creates an interesting world told from multiple viewpoints that pulls you in and lets you get invested with her characters. A new take on angels and demons. The story will take twists and turns you expect and some you won't. While Bryant and Odessa get their happily ever after the overall storyline will be continued in future books in the series. I wasn't the biggest fan of the abrupt ending and dangling storyline but the next book is already available so I won't need to wait to find out what happens next.
For more of my reviews follow my blog at https://wyldheartreads.wordpress.com/
If you prefer to listen to my reviews, you can find my reviews on Spotify here: https://anchor.fm/wyldheart-reads
Odessa Montclaire is an angel analyst. Born to privilege with a Senator father but a past that haunts her to this day. Afraid of the dark, she knows Bryant will protect her if she accepts him for her sync mate.
Odessa's open heart has her work cut out for her. Dealing with a grumpy male who holds a grudge against her corrupt father, it's going to take a miracle for this couple to unite.
While they are trying to navigate being mated, danger and plots abound putting angel and humans alike in danger. Odessa's life is on the line after she discovers concerning recurrences on Earth. It will take Bryant and his whole team to keep her safe and unravel the threat.
It was wonderful seeing Odessa fight her fears and start to believe in herself, but Bryant's hang-ups with his scars and feelings of unworthiness had me wanting to smack him upside the head a few times.
First, I should say I'm not always the greatest fan of angel stories but Johnston creates an interesting world told from multiple viewpoints that pulls you in and lets you get invested with her characters. A new take on angels and demons. The story will take twists and turns you expect and some you won't. While Bryant and Odessa get their happily ever after the overall storyline will be continued in future books in the series. I wasn't the biggest fan of the abrupt ending and dangling storyline but the next book is already available so I won't need to wait to find out what happens next.
For more of my reviews follow my blog at https://wyldheartreads.wordpress.com/
If you prefer to listen to my reviews, you can find my reviews on Spotify here: https://anchor.fm/wyldheart-reads
October 28, 2021
Slow start
Odessa needs a protector. Bryant has been told he either mates or gets pulled off duty. It's a match made in Heaven. Or, Numen, rather. Their less than holy union involves a lot of miscommunication, a decades old family trauma, several investigations converging, and some Numen corruption.
Spoilers ahead.
This starts off like an old fashioned bodice ripper. Then all the pieces start getting dragged out and put together. POV rotates, a lot. Mostly it's Bryant and Odessa. We also get Felicia, Jagger, Jameson, Sandy, and a few other insights. It gets crowded quick. Some of the mystery you guess before the characters do. Some of it, well, we don't get a lot of world building, so maybe it gets explained in later books. What other roles do angels play? How does syncing provide healing power? What's the difference between syncing and true mating? How large is the angel population? Because a lot of the jobs seem to need a lot more people than what's mentioned. How is angel fire made? What sustains the Numen realm? If it's a whole planet why can't they have livestock? If it isn't, please refer to the previous question. The demon realms have a lot more beings. Why? Why does Gloom have more life to it than Mist? Who controls the demon realms? How does the Numen Senate function? What's the difference between enforcers and warriors? So much is left unanswered. And there's too many characters involved with the focus changing each book. Some of that could be put at the end of the book as bonus scenes, or in novellas. I give it 4 stars for a sustainable plot with a lot of mystery but it's so chaotic, too many unanswered questions, and there's too many unresolved threads for focal changes to interest me enough to continue.
Odessa needs a protector. Bryant has been told he either mates or gets pulled off duty. It's a match made in Heaven. Or, Numen, rather. Their less than holy union involves a lot of miscommunication, a decades old family trauma, several investigations converging, and some Numen corruption.
Spoilers ahead.
This starts off like an old fashioned bodice ripper. Then all the pieces start getting dragged out and put together. POV rotates, a lot. Mostly it's Bryant and Odessa. We also get Felicia, Jagger, Jameson, Sandy, and a few other insights. It gets crowded quick. Some of the mystery you guess before the characters do. Some of it, well, we don't get a lot of world building, so maybe it gets explained in later books. What other roles do angels play? How does syncing provide healing power? What's the difference between syncing and true mating? How large is the angel population? Because a lot of the jobs seem to need a lot more people than what's mentioned. How is angel fire made? What sustains the Numen realm? If it's a whole planet why can't they have livestock? If it isn't, please refer to the previous question. The demon realms have a lot more beings. Why? Why does Gloom have more life to it than Mist? Who controls the demon realms? How does the Numen Senate function? What's the difference between enforcers and warriors? So much is left unanswered. And there's too many characters involved with the focus changing each book. Some of that could be put at the end of the book as bonus scenes, or in novellas. I give it 4 stars for a sustainable plot with a lot of mystery but it's so chaotic, too many unanswered questions, and there's too many unresolved threads for focal changes to interest me enough to continue.
November 11, 2021
An okay read...
I love angel stories - think Sharon Shinn - but this story leans to the much darker side for villians. The author has created a fantastical world with angels, demons, humans and everything in between. The data dumps leave your head spinning trying to keep track of the many types of evil demons and masters, and who could possess who, along with what realms they could exist within and what the rules are for each type. A flow chart at the start of each book would be helpful. The author is confused with keeping them all straight, when on page 232 she names Jameson (a fallen) instead of Jagger (warrior angel). There are only 4 angels in the scene and Jameson is not one of them. A good editor should have caught this mistake. There are a multitude of unanswered questions about nearly every aspect of the created world and its characters that leave the reader wanting. The angels have surprising little in the way of 'powers' from what we've always thought and their ability to do things comes with unlimited variables.
I enjoyed the author's writing style, believing it to be sofisticated, until I came across 'Duh', more than once, being used by a high-born angel. This, along with dropping the 'F' word many times lowered my opinion and enthusiasm for both the author and the book series. When will authors learn that these unnecessary words only serve to deduct from an otherwise well-written story?
I couldn't read it straight through but was drawn back to it to keep reading and finish it. In spite of this, I won't be reading anything else by this author.
I love angel stories - think Sharon Shinn - but this story leans to the much darker side for villians. The author has created a fantastical world with angels, demons, humans and everything in between. The data dumps leave your head spinning trying to keep track of the many types of evil demons and masters, and who could possess who, along with what realms they could exist within and what the rules are for each type. A flow chart at the start of each book would be helpful. The author is confused with keeping them all straight, when on page 232 she names Jameson (a fallen) instead of Jagger (warrior angel). There are only 4 angels in the scene and Jameson is not one of them. A good editor should have caught this mistake. There are a multitude of unanswered questions about nearly every aspect of the created world and its characters that leave the reader wanting. The angels have surprising little in the way of 'powers' from what we've always thought and their ability to do things comes with unlimited variables.
I enjoyed the author's writing style, believing it to be sofisticated, until I came across 'Duh', more than once, being used by a high-born angel. This, along with dropping the 'F' word many times lowered my opinion and enthusiasm for both the author and the book series. When will authors learn that these unnecessary words only serve to deduct from an otherwise well-written story?
I couldn't read it straight through but was drawn back to it to keep reading and finish it. In spite of this, I won't be reading anything else by this author.
March 17, 2024
I have to admit I don't read a lot of books with angels. Most paranormal I read has shifters not angels and demons. In this book, the angels don't live in heaven and they act a lot like humans. They eat, sleep, have families and have cravings just like humans. They also get injured, depressed, unsure and they're not immortal. There are different kinds of demons. This story is not like other angel/demon stories I've read.
Bryant is a scarred warrior who must get mated or stop being an active warrior. Odessa is a senator's daughter who was attacked fourteen years ago and isn't over it. She's afraid of the dark and always scared so when she gets a chance to mate with a warrior she takes it in order to feel safe. She doesn't know that her father is responsible for the warrior's scars and for the death of most of his team. When the warrior mates (marries) her but doesn't want anything to do with her, she puts on her big girl pants and presses the issue instead of allowing him to dismiss her. Soon, it becomes clear that she is again in danger and he steps up to protect her and figure out who is after her.
Fast-paced and full of action, this is an intriguing story. There are heat and eventual flames between Odessa and Bryant, but they may not have a future once she no longer needs him. The relationship between them is happily resolved, however the source of the danger is ongoing at the end of this book. It's not what I consider a cliffhanger, but there is definitely more to the story which continues in the series.
Bryant is a scarred warrior who must get mated or stop being an active warrior. Odessa is a senator's daughter who was attacked fourteen years ago and isn't over it. She's afraid of the dark and always scared so when she gets a chance to mate with a warrior she takes it in order to feel safe. She doesn't know that her father is responsible for the warrior's scars and for the death of most of his team. When the warrior mates (marries) her but doesn't want anything to do with her, she puts on her big girl pants and presses the issue instead of allowing him to dismiss her. Soon, it becomes clear that she is again in danger and he steps up to protect her and figure out who is after her.
Fast-paced and full of action, this is an intriguing story. There are heat and eventual flames between Odessa and Bryant, but they may not have a future once she no longer needs him. The relationship between them is happily resolved, however the source of the danger is ongoing at the end of this book. It's not what I consider a cliffhanger, but there is definitely more to the story which continues in the series.
March 23, 2019
Angel Fire was super fun and interesting. Angel Fire is about Angels, Demons, and Fallen Angels. There was so much mystery surrounding everything I was kept on my toes throughout the story.
Bryant is in hell when he is forced to have a mating ceremony. When he met his previous mate she was so put off by his mangled face that she stopped dead in traffic and died. Now years later he has no hope of finding someone to stick it out for eternity with him. When at the last minute Odessa comes in and claims him he doesn't know what to think. Odessa is the daughter of the man who got half his team killed and his face horribly mangled by Angel Fire. At first, Bryant doesn't want anything to do with Odessa, but the minute he finds out she's in trouble he leaps in to take care of her.
Odessa has had nightmares since she was a child and suffered a terrible tragedy in her home. Years later she's back at home and finds the man she thinks will keep her safe. She quickly finds out that he hates her on sight.
Angel Fire is more than just a romance. It's also a story with amazing secrets and murder and conspiracies. I had a lot of fun reading this. My only complaint was the obsessive world building, description, and pace. The book dragged in so many areas.
Angel Fire was a very interesting read. There was so much mystery that it kept me going when the pacing made me want to throw my hands up in exasperation.
Bryant is in hell when he is forced to have a mating ceremony. When he met his previous mate she was so put off by his mangled face that she stopped dead in traffic and died. Now years later he has no hope of finding someone to stick it out for eternity with him. When at the last minute Odessa comes in and claims him he doesn't know what to think. Odessa is the daughter of the man who got half his team killed and his face horribly mangled by Angel Fire. At first, Bryant doesn't want anything to do with Odessa, but the minute he finds out she's in trouble he leaps in to take care of her.
Odessa has had nightmares since she was a child and suffered a terrible tragedy in her home. Years later she's back at home and finds the man she thinks will keep her safe. She quickly finds out that he hates her on sight.
Angel Fire is more than just a romance. It's also a story with amazing secrets and murder and conspiracies. I had a lot of fun reading this. My only complaint was the obsessive world building, description, and pace. The book dragged in so many areas.
Angel Fire was a very interesting read. There was so much mystery that it kept me going when the pacing made me want to throw my hands up in exasperation.
October 18, 2021
💫💫💞Review Post💞💫💫
Angel Fire
@mariejohnston @everythingromaceblog
⭐⭐⭐⭐Story
🔥🔥🔥🔥Steamy
😇Okay do Angel Fire introduces Marie Johnston's world of Angels, Fallen, and Demons. Numen is the dimension that the angels who take care of human world live. There is Daemon for the demons. The Mist is the in-between for the angels and the demons have the Gloom. I really enjoy the complimentary dimensions for both sides.
😇So Bryant Vale is damaged after being a Warrior Angel as long as he has been. He has some anger at Senator Montclaire for sending his team into a way too dangerous mission 14 years prior to the start of the story.
😇Odessa Montclaire was attacked 14 years prior to the start of the story to get her father Senator Montclaire to comply with something. And she is afraid. So when Bryant Vale is looking for a sync(mate/wife) she jumps at the chance, not knowing the history between Bryant and her father. She is also insanely attracted to him, which he doesn't trust cuz dude has trust issues.
😇So we find a conspiracy plot in Numen, brought to us by a Fallen. And Odessa finds her life in more danger. So now Bryant is out to protect her and his team is involved.
😇Really this story was about world building and getting the rules of this world down. I enjoyed it tho some times getting to the point was rough. Also ugh Bryant is so likeable but he is so into beating himself up it was sad. Looking forward to reading the next book tho.
Angel Fire
@mariejohnston @everythingromaceblog
⭐⭐⭐⭐Story
🔥🔥🔥🔥Steamy
😇Okay do Angel Fire introduces Marie Johnston's world of Angels, Fallen, and Demons. Numen is the dimension that the angels who take care of human world live. There is Daemon for the demons. The Mist is the in-between for the angels and the demons have the Gloom. I really enjoy the complimentary dimensions for both sides.
😇So Bryant Vale is damaged after being a Warrior Angel as long as he has been. He has some anger at Senator Montclaire for sending his team into a way too dangerous mission 14 years prior to the start of the story.
😇Odessa Montclaire was attacked 14 years prior to the start of the story to get her father Senator Montclaire to comply with something. And she is afraid. So when Bryant Vale is looking for a sync(mate/wife) she jumps at the chance, not knowing the history between Bryant and her father. She is also insanely attracted to him, which he doesn't trust cuz dude has trust issues.
😇So we find a conspiracy plot in Numen, brought to us by a Fallen. And Odessa finds her life in more danger. So now Bryant is out to protect her and his team is involved.
😇Really this story was about world building and getting the rules of this world down. I enjoyed it tho some times getting to the point was rough. Also ugh Bryant is so likeable but he is so into beating himself up it was sad. Looking forward to reading the next book tho.
October 27, 2021
I love paranormal stories.
I’ve read and loved the author’s Oil King’s Series.
So I was looking forward to seeing how the author would work in this genre.
Reading this was an amazing journey. The author brought her usual descriptive brilliance, bringing a whole new world for me to obsess over 😉 Bringing these angels and their lives to life…
Bryant doesn’t need a mate! It might center him, it could even help heal the hideous scars he has on his face. But the angels can’t see past his scars, and Bryant doesn’t want to settle for being second best! He’s going to concentrate on his job, and love can just go and do one!!
Odessa needs protection, and picking the biggest, baddest angel as a mate makes perfect sense.
She might give off a brave vibe, but she’s scared…..
I loved this couple and loved the connection they had.
But I did find it a little annoying that Bryant kept trying to push Odessa away (I think he was trying to convince himself more than anyone else!)
Luckily Odessa saw through him and brought him up on his behaviour.
And when she gets kidnapped? Will it be too late for Bryant to tell her how he really feels?
First book in a four book series (although there is another book due out soon)
And I loved it. Lots of world and character building (it was also fun to see if I’m right about future couples)
Secrets, intrigue and a little angst.
A mating that could go either way!
And don’t forget the backstabbing and bad guys 😉
Next book please……
🦋
April 28, 2022
This is my first book by this author, and the first book in a series. It is written in third person from multiple POV.
I liked the world and the intricate plot the author created. I think that the characters were engaging. Odessa was a complex and brave heroine who was willing to risk everything when it was right. Bryant is a brave and valiant warrior marred by battle scars. I love the attraction between them, and when they finally get there- the heated scenes they share. They are basically strangers when they bond, but I have to admit to a little frustration at the interruptions to them figuring each other out sooner.
There is a lot going on in this book. A lot of characters are introduced and the world has to be created. It takes time, and sometimes the time it takes to do it feels like it is dragging. I will confess to skimming passages. I found the relationship between Bryant and Odessa much more interesting than the overall conspiracy plot which takes up so much of the book.
This book ends with Bryant and Odessa happily together but without the conspiracy resolved. It looks like that plot line is carried into the next books in the series. I am not sure if I will pursue any more books in the series, but I found this to be an interesting world to spend a day in.
#fantasy
I liked the world and the intricate plot the author created. I think that the characters were engaging. Odessa was a complex and brave heroine who was willing to risk everything when it was right. Bryant is a brave and valiant warrior marred by battle scars. I love the attraction between them, and when they finally get there- the heated scenes they share. They are basically strangers when they bond, but I have to admit to a little frustration at the interruptions to them figuring each other out sooner.
There is a lot going on in this book. A lot of characters are introduced and the world has to be created. It takes time, and sometimes the time it takes to do it feels like it is dragging. I will confess to skimming passages. I found the relationship between Bryant and Odessa much more interesting than the overall conspiracy plot which takes up so much of the book.
This book ends with Bryant and Odessa happily together but without the conspiracy resolved. It looks like that plot line is carried into the next books in the series. I am not sure if I will pursue any more books in the series, but I found this to be an interesting world to spend a day in.
#fantasy
July 27, 2022
This is the first story in the series and I loved it! I’ve actually read a couple of the later books and even though they are standalone, you get a better feel for the characters and story line starting at the beginning.
This story starts with warrior Bryant Vale at a sync gathering. The warrior director has told him he needs to find a mate to settle him down. He was scarred by angel fire on his face during a mission. In walks Odessa with no time to spare and claims him. She’s had a childhood trauma that leaves her scared of the dark and being alone at night. She figures he’s an impressive warrior and can protect her.
It takes a little time to figure each other out, but it’s all worth it.
Odessa is an analyst and uncovered some disturbing news about the human realm, a fallen angel, and corrupt senators. Bryant’s team of warriors help to uncover what’s going on. This story is action packed and I couldn’t put it down. I liked how it sets the characters for the stories. Since I have read a couple of the latest books, I see how they actually met in the beginning. I can’t wait to read book 2! There is a HEA, however, the bad guys weren’t caught, so the mystery will continue into the next book.
This story starts with warrior Bryant Vale at a sync gathering. The warrior director has told him he needs to find a mate to settle him down. He was scarred by angel fire on his face during a mission. In walks Odessa with no time to spare and claims him. She’s had a childhood trauma that leaves her scared of the dark and being alone at night. She figures he’s an impressive warrior and can protect her.
It takes a little time to figure each other out, but it’s all worth it.
Odessa is an analyst and uncovered some disturbing news about the human realm, a fallen angel, and corrupt senators. Bryant’s team of warriors help to uncover what’s going on. This story is action packed and I couldn’t put it down. I liked how it sets the characters for the stories. Since I have read a couple of the latest books, I see how they actually met in the beginning. I can’t wait to read book 2! There is a HEA, however, the bad guys weren’t caught, so the mystery will continue into the next book.
November 1, 2021
Bryant is being forced to take a mate… except nobody wants him. Until Odessa arrives and claims him. He just doesn’t know why, and he’s all too aware of their different stations in life. Odessa needs to feel safe and Bryant is tough enough to protect her. If only he wasn’t so annoyed at being mated to her.
This book did have a lot of promise, but it did just fall short for me. It could use a little work. It was a bit slow to get going, and there were a few mistakes such as head-hopping and and characters’ names being misspelled. There were a few info dumps which slowed down the story, and yet I felt that the whole set up wasn’t explained as well as it could have been. I wasn’t always sure what the rules were and what was going on. Also, the ending did seem a little rushed and skimmed over.
Still, I did really like the characters. Not just Bryant and Odessa, but also the supporting characters. I liked Bryant and Odessa’s relationship, particularly the more combative nature of it nearer the beginning.
Overall, this was a decent read, but it could use a bit more work to make it better.
This book did have a lot of promise, but it did just fall short for me. It could use a little work. It was a bit slow to get going, and there were a few mistakes such as head-hopping and and characters’ names being misspelled. There were a few info dumps which slowed down the story, and yet I felt that the whole set up wasn’t explained as well as it could have been. I wasn’t always sure what the rules were and what was going on. Also, the ending did seem a little rushed and skimmed over.
Still, I did really like the characters. Not just Bryant and Odessa, but also the supporting characters. I liked Bryant and Odessa’s relationship, particularly the more combative nature of it nearer the beginning.
Overall, this was a decent read, but it could use a bit more work to make it better.
January 30, 2024
Solid 3 stars. I would have rated this higher if there had only been the 2 main characters POV’s. We get a lot of other random characters perspective’s and I was skipping ahead because I didn’t really care about them.
Odessa and Bryant both need mates for different reasons. Bryant, who is horribly scarred, reluctantly holds a mating ceremony and Odessa is the only one to step forward.
I really liked Odessa. She was so hopeful when she agreed to be Bryant’s mate. She had lived in fear for so long and wanted to make it work with him from the start. Bryant was distrustful of Odessa’s motives and kept pushing her away. At first I understood why he was so hesitant but even after he gets to know her he kept hurting her “for her own good.”🙄 I wanted more of their relationships and interactions. There is a lot going on and it detracted from the romance, which was the best part of the story.
I don’t have much desire to dive right into the next book but maybe down the road.
Odessa and Bryant both need mates for different reasons. Bryant, who is horribly scarred, reluctantly holds a mating ceremony and Odessa is the only one to step forward.
I really liked Odessa. She was so hopeful when she agreed to be Bryant’s mate. She had lived in fear for so long and wanted to make it work with him from the start. Bryant was distrustful of Odessa’s motives and kept pushing her away. At first I understood why he was so hesitant but even after he gets to know her he kept hurting her “for her own good.”🙄 I wanted more of their relationships and interactions. There is a lot going on and it detracted from the romance, which was the best part of the story.
I don’t have much desire to dive right into the next book but maybe down the road.
March 14, 2019
Bit long but interesting
Bryant is a warrior angel and he likes it that way. He’s been horribly disfigured in battle and believes that’s why no female wants to mate with him. What he doesn’t realize it’s not his looks but his attitude. An attitude that has made him reckless. His superior wants him to mate in the hopes that it will calm him down and give him a reason to live. But will it work?
Odessa’s life changed after one night of tragedy. It pulled her family apart and none of them ever recovered from it. She lives in constant fear and thinks if she mates with Bryant she’ll feel safe again. But will it work?
What neither of them realizes is that what began on the night of Odessa’s tragedy began a series of events that bound them together before either knew the other existed. Can they unravel the mystery before they or anyone else gets killed?
Bryant is a warrior angel and he likes it that way. He’s been horribly disfigured in battle and believes that’s why no female wants to mate with him. What he doesn’t realize it’s not his looks but his attitude. An attitude that has made him reckless. His superior wants him to mate in the hopes that it will calm him down and give him a reason to live. But will it work?
Odessa’s life changed after one night of tragedy. It pulled her family apart and none of them ever recovered from it. She lives in constant fear and thinks if she mates with Bryant she’ll feel safe again. But will it work?
What neither of them realizes is that what began on the night of Odessa’s tragedy began a series of events that bound them together before either knew the other existed. Can they unravel the mystery before they or anyone else gets killed?
April 16, 2020
Wowie
I’m a paranormal fan, absolutely, and this hit all the right marks for me.
We have a villain that’s pretty cool, ‘Sandy’ was one of my favourite characters here. If he doesn’t get a story with Harlowe I’m going to be very upset.
Out h was at times needy, but I respected that she was aware of it and worked on it. I really like Felicia, there’s definitely more to her character.
Somebody had written that they wished the H was more macho, I kind of understand where they’re coming from but I really liked his insecurities and doubts. Made him a more likeable and real for me.
I’m upset that there are so many ends still loose, but that’s the nature of books like this.
Our author has created a good base for some really interesting stories and I’m looking forward to reading the next in the series.
My first book by this writer, but certainly won’t be my last.
I’m a paranormal fan, absolutely, and this hit all the right marks for me.
We have a villain that’s pretty cool, ‘Sandy’ was one of my favourite characters here. If he doesn’t get a story with Harlowe I’m going to be very upset.
Out h was at times needy, but I respected that she was aware of it and worked on it. I really like Felicia, there’s definitely more to her character.
Somebody had written that they wished the H was more macho, I kind of understand where they’re coming from but I really liked his insecurities and doubts. Made him a more likeable and real for me.
I’m upset that there are so many ends still loose, but that’s the nature of books like this.
Our author has created a good base for some really interesting stories and I’m looking forward to reading the next in the series.
My first book by this writer, but certainly won’t be my last.
August 11, 2022
A lot is going on in this first in series, which is probably why it took a few chapters before I found my rhythm.
Angel Fire not only introduces us to the different realms and characters but also us a bit of the backstories
Angel Fire is teeming with heart-stopping breath-stealing moments, a few teary-eyed scenes, along with some painful moments of betrayal - All balanced with hades hot smexy moments
The characters are a wonderful blend of personalities
Vale was a little rough on himself - no more than I think anyone would be in his situation - He was his own saboteur when it came to his relationship
Odessa wasn't my favorite person in the beginning. She wasn't weak perse just wore blinders - Don't fear she eventually removes them and takes charge of her destiny
I am excited to move on to Wicked Fire - Those two are going to be nothing but trouble
Angel Fire not only introduces us to the different realms and characters but also us a bit of the backstories
Angel Fire is teeming with heart-stopping breath-stealing moments, a few teary-eyed scenes, along with some painful moments of betrayal - All balanced with hades hot smexy moments
The characters are a wonderful blend of personalities
Vale was a little rough on himself - no more than I think anyone would be in his situation - He was his own saboteur when it came to his relationship
Odessa wasn't my favorite person in the beginning. She wasn't weak perse just wore blinders - Don't fear she eventually removes them and takes charge of her destiny
I am excited to move on to Wicked Fire - Those two are going to be nothing but trouble
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