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Az
An alternative cover edition for this ASIN can be found here.
Can innocent love heal your heart even if you're the Angel of Death?
While battling the devil throughout the ages, the Angel of Death loses all faith in humanity until a little girl helps him see the light once more. But will she also be the key to his demise?
Azrail is an archangel, one of the original four. He's also the Angel of Death, the harvester of souls, the One who comes to your deathbed and offers redemption. Time and Man's constant atrocities, however, turn him into a bitter cynic until he finds Kay. She becomes his light, the beacon that brings him back from the depths of his darkened soul. But Lucifer couldn't have that, and orchestrates the perfect plan that causes Az's permanent downfall. Az is thrown far deeper than ever before into his hopelessness and contempt for Man. As he looms over the outcome of his brother's malefic plan, all he can see is his own end, all he can think of is a final and destructive revenge.
Az - Revenge of an Archangel, is a dark fantasy centered around the highest form of sibling rivalry: the fight between Lucifer and the Angel of Death for the human soul. But it is also about love, deception and self-discovery, and when a small light can touch you so deeply that you change and start believing once again. Az is a fast-paced, action packed story full of emotion, witty dialogue, and dark humor as narrated by the edgy angel of death himself.
Can innocent love heal your heart even if you're the Angel of Death?
While battling the devil throughout the ages, the Angel of Death loses all faith in humanity until a little girl helps him see the light once more. But will she also be the key to his demise?
Azrail is an archangel, one of the original four. He's also the Angel of Death, the harvester of souls, the One who comes to your deathbed and offers redemption. Time and Man's constant atrocities, however, turn him into a bitter cynic until he finds Kay. She becomes his light, the beacon that brings him back from the depths of his darkened soul. But Lucifer couldn't have that, and orchestrates the perfect plan that causes Az's permanent downfall. Az is thrown far deeper than ever before into his hopelessness and contempt for Man. As he looms over the outcome of his brother's malefic plan, all he can see is his own end, all he can think of is a final and destructive revenge.
Az - Revenge of an Archangel, is a dark fantasy centered around the highest form of sibling rivalry: the fight between Lucifer and the Angel of Death for the human soul. But it is also about love, deception and self-discovery, and when a small light can touch you so deeply that you change and start believing once again. Az is a fast-paced, action packed story full of emotion, witty dialogue, and dark humor as narrated by the edgy angel of death himself.
248 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 10, 2015
195 people are currently reading
123 people want to read
About the author
A.A. Bavar
4 books19 followersAmir Bavar was born in 1968 in Iran. One day, in 1978, at the age of nine, he was rushed out of school by his mother and found himself boarding a plane for Italy. The Iranian Islamic Revolution had arrived, and although he didn't understand it at the time, it was the beginning of his exile.
Life for Amir became an adventure, from going to school in an ancient castle in Firenze and playing tennis on the famed lawns at Wimbledon, to dribbling a soccer ball on the white, sandy beaches of Brazil. However, what he did not realize at the time was that his roots had been permanently upheaved, that the life he knew and the family and friends he had left behind would only live in his memories. It was a new start, and although fortunate to be among the ones to get away, he was unwittingly catapulted into a new sense of identity and a lifelong journey in search of that ever elusive feeling of belonging.
After high school in Brazil, Amir moved to the U.S. and majored in computer systems engineering with a concentration in creative writing. He met his future wife in engineering lab and got married soon after graduation. Together, they moved to Brazil and started a successful post-production and desktop publishing company.
In 1999, Amir wrote his first feature screenplay, Shutdown, which was considered for production by New Line Cinema with Harrison Ford as one of the attached actors. He then wrote several other screenplays which were very well received and published his first novel, Az - Revenge of an Archangel, in 2015.
In 2016, he wrote an episode for the sitcom Last Man Standing called, My Truck Needs a Wash.
In 2017, Amir's second and third novels, Samantha and Kiss Me at the Finish Line, will be published.
Life for Amir became an adventure, from going to school in an ancient castle in Firenze and playing tennis on the famed lawns at Wimbledon, to dribbling a soccer ball on the white, sandy beaches of Brazil. However, what he did not realize at the time was that his roots had been permanently upheaved, that the life he knew and the family and friends he had left behind would only live in his memories. It was a new start, and although fortunate to be among the ones to get away, he was unwittingly catapulted into a new sense of identity and a lifelong journey in search of that ever elusive feeling of belonging.
After high school in Brazil, Amir moved to the U.S. and majored in computer systems engineering with a concentration in creative writing. He met his future wife in engineering lab and got married soon after graduation. Together, they moved to Brazil and started a successful post-production and desktop publishing company.
In 1999, Amir wrote his first feature screenplay, Shutdown, which was considered for production by New Line Cinema with Harrison Ford as one of the attached actors. He then wrote several other screenplays which were very well received and published his first novel, Az - Revenge of an Archangel, in 2015.
In 2016, he wrote an episode for the sitcom Last Man Standing called, My Truck Needs a Wash.
In 2017, Amir's second and third novels, Samantha and Kiss Me at the Finish Line, will be published.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
December 21, 2015
This reminded me of a cross between Kevin Smith’s 1999 film Dogma, Ingmar Bergman’s The Seventh Seal and Bill and Ted’s Bogus Journey. With a nod to Piers Anthony’s On a Pale Horse.
Az - Revenge of an Archangel tells the story of Azrail, one of four archangels – he is the Angel of Death, who collects the souls of the departed. The author also includes Michael, Gabriel – and Lucifer.
As fun as the narrative is, what stands out the most is the manner in which the writer crafts his novel; told with wit, dark humor, and in modern vernacular. The angel of death comes across as a misunderstood hipster.
Bavar describes Az’s perspective of Cain’s murder of Abel, the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah, and other Biblical events as Az contemplates ennui and an existential angst made better by his relationship with a child. The writer also includes over the top elements of allegory that might lose some readers, but when considered a part of the mildly tongue in cheek delivery, it is contextually sound.
Original and unique, this is fast paced and approachable.
Az - Revenge of an Archangel tells the story of Azrail, one of four archangels – he is the Angel of Death, who collects the souls of the departed. The author also includes Michael, Gabriel – and Lucifer.
As fun as the narrative is, what stands out the most is the manner in which the writer crafts his novel; told with wit, dark humor, and in modern vernacular. The angel of death comes across as a misunderstood hipster.
Bavar describes Az’s perspective of Cain’s murder of Abel, the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah, and other Biblical events as Az contemplates ennui and an existential angst made better by his relationship with a child. The writer also includes over the top elements of allegory that might lose some readers, but when considered a part of the mildly tongue in cheek delivery, it is contextually sound.
Original and unique, this is fast paced and approachable.
March 29, 2019
My rating 4.5
The book "The Revenge of an Archangel" by A.A. Bavar is a very good story about angels. Throughout the book are pooled biblical themes and faith in the man who used to be quite moving away from the good and moves to the side of evil. Archangel Azrail by the will of God becomes the angel of death and through his story, we learn how to become a collector of souls and realize his fight against his brother Lucifer. His struggle for the salvation of souls takes place eons, but it is constantly reviewed, trying to understand the reasons that people choose evil versus good. Lucifer at all costs wants to get hold of the soul that he is trying to save, but in the course of the book because of the constant struggle with AZRAIL, wants to destroy the soul of his brother. I liked the book and the writer did a very good job with the feelings and thoughts of the characters. How easy it is to fall under the influence of Lucifer who uses all the means of destroying goodness in people. Fortunately, there are still angels that keep us. I would recommend the book to the lovers of angels and those who believe in the goodness of human and angelic souls.
The book "The Revenge of an Archangel" by A.A. Bavar is a very good story about angels. Throughout the book are pooled biblical themes and faith in the man who used to be quite moving away from the good and moves to the side of evil. Archangel Azrail by the will of God becomes the angel of death and through his story, we learn how to become a collector of souls and realize his fight against his brother Lucifer. His struggle for the salvation of souls takes place eons, but it is constantly reviewed, trying to understand the reasons that people choose evil versus good. Lucifer at all costs wants to get hold of the soul that he is trying to save, but in the course of the book because of the constant struggle with AZRAIL, wants to destroy the soul of his brother. I liked the book and the writer did a very good job with the feelings and thoughts of the characters. How easy it is to fall under the influence of Lucifer who uses all the means of destroying goodness in people. Fortunately, there are still angels that keep us. I would recommend the book to the lovers of angels and those who believe in the goodness of human and angelic souls.
December 22, 2016
Brilliant Writing - Flawed Angels.
'I am thousands of years old and have won many battles, but tonight I lost the war.'
Az is Azrail the Angel of Death. He is an archangel, created by 'Father' and his brothers are Gabriel, Michael and Lucifer. Having accomplished something none of the others had dared, Az was rewarded by being custody over human souls. But that meant he had to take them from life on earth. We follow him in his fight for human souls against Lucifer from Cain and Able, via Sodom and Gomorrah , through the Crucifixion and into the modern day. The book is a wonderful mix of myths and we get a really creative and fitting explanation for why Death carries a scythe and wears black.
If you park accepted religious interpretations of angels and Biblical stories, this is an interesting variant on the 'reaper' theme using a lot of well-known religious names and themes and a few quite original ideas. It is a very human story of emotional hardening, cynicism, betrayal, pride and family in-fighting. It traces the journey of Az from heartless disconnection to compassion through the redeeming power of love. It is a powerful, moving and beautiful story.
"Fear always supersedes love when obedience is concerned.”
This is a very well written book and I was drawn in from the first intriguing line and read it right though in one sitting. The use of language is almost flawless and the development of the characters we encounter, from archetype into individual personality is a fluent and effective journey. The use of familiar landmarks from religion and myth are woven into a tightly paced narrative which keeps the reader moving forward and wanting to know what will happen next. Even when the end of the event is a known, the way it will be told and its consequences in the story remain a fascination. I found the story itself a really gripping and unusual urban fantasy. The mixing of magic and modernity, so often the downfall of such books, was well achieved, blending them in a believable way.
"Ultimately, it’s the legacy you leave behind defined by what you’ve done and the choices that you’ve made because of your circumstances."
So why am I not stamping this with five blazing stars? Well, for a couple of rather impacting reasons.
Primarily, because it fell into the trap that too many such stories fall into. It is supposed to be about angels - creatures of a nature that is higher than human. But, as I said earlier in this review, 'it is a very human story'. This is a story of very human characters. They might be immortal and have super-powers, but they still have totally human emotions, outlooks, weaknesses and strengths. It would be completely understandable that Az becomes the cynical and callous individual he does, if he were a human trying to do the job he does. Az comes over more like Louis in 'Interview With the Vampire' than any idea I have of what an angel might be like. But he is not human and not a vampire, he is an arch-angel, supposedly the highest rank of spiritual being. So the whole basis of the story just does not wash.
The second reason it fails, is too much internal inconsistency. The story is predicated on the idea that Christian belief is true, all humans are offered redemption and when you die you still exist. But Az seemed to act as if he sees death as an utter ending - as if when someone he cares for dies, they are lost forever. And this despite the book presenting the case very strongly, more than once, that this is not so. This all too human view of death as an end, rather than the beginning of life eternal. is an internal inconsistency which leads Az to making some plot crucial important decisions which run against the knowledge he should have, regarding the true nature of mortal death in his reality.
These two flaws I struggled with a lot as I read, even wondering in parts of the book if it was intended as a deliberate satirical effect, if the final denouement would be a cynical slap in the face for religious sensitivities. But no. So, sadly, for me, it left a rough edge which the brilliance of the storytelling could not quite completely obscure.
This is still a really great book which, despite the flaws I have mentioned, is one I would recommend as a thoroughly good read. But suspend your disbelief, forget any religious preconceptions and try and buy into it as urban fantasy.
'I am thousands of years old and have won many battles, but tonight I lost the war.'
Az is Azrail the Angel of Death. He is an archangel, created by 'Father' and his brothers are Gabriel, Michael and Lucifer. Having accomplished something none of the others had dared, Az was rewarded by being custody over human souls. But that meant he had to take them from life on earth. We follow him in his fight for human souls against Lucifer from Cain and Able, via Sodom and Gomorrah , through the Crucifixion and into the modern day. The book is a wonderful mix of myths and we get a really creative and fitting explanation for why Death carries a scythe and wears black.
If you park accepted religious interpretations of angels and Biblical stories, this is an interesting variant on the 'reaper' theme using a lot of well-known religious names and themes and a few quite original ideas. It is a very human story of emotional hardening, cynicism, betrayal, pride and family in-fighting. It traces the journey of Az from heartless disconnection to compassion through the redeeming power of love. It is a powerful, moving and beautiful story.
"Fear always supersedes love when obedience is concerned.”
This is a very well written book and I was drawn in from the first intriguing line and read it right though in one sitting. The use of language is almost flawless and the development of the characters we encounter, from archetype into individual personality is a fluent and effective journey. The use of familiar landmarks from religion and myth are woven into a tightly paced narrative which keeps the reader moving forward and wanting to know what will happen next. Even when the end of the event is a known, the way it will be told and its consequences in the story remain a fascination. I found the story itself a really gripping and unusual urban fantasy. The mixing of magic and modernity, so often the downfall of such books, was well achieved, blending them in a believable way.
"Ultimately, it’s the legacy you leave behind defined by what you’ve done and the choices that you’ve made because of your circumstances."
So why am I not stamping this with five blazing stars? Well, for a couple of rather impacting reasons.
Primarily, because it fell into the trap that too many such stories fall into. It is supposed to be about angels - creatures of a nature that is higher than human. But, as I said earlier in this review, 'it is a very human story'. This is a story of very human characters. They might be immortal and have super-powers, but they still have totally human emotions, outlooks, weaknesses and strengths. It would be completely understandable that Az becomes the cynical and callous individual he does, if he were a human trying to do the job he does. Az comes over more like Louis in 'Interview With the Vampire' than any idea I have of what an angel might be like. But he is not human and not a vampire, he is an arch-angel, supposedly the highest rank of spiritual being. So the whole basis of the story just does not wash.
The second reason it fails, is too much internal inconsistency. The story is predicated on the idea that Christian belief is true, all humans are offered redemption and when you die you still exist. But Az seemed to act as if he sees death as an utter ending - as if when someone he cares for dies, they are lost forever. And this despite the book presenting the case very strongly, more than once, that this is not so. This all too human view of death as an end, rather than the beginning of life eternal. is an internal inconsistency which leads Az to making some plot crucial important decisions which run against the knowledge he should have, regarding the true nature of mortal death in his reality.
These two flaws I struggled with a lot as I read, even wondering in parts of the book if it was intended as a deliberate satirical effect, if the final denouement would be a cynical slap in the face for religious sensitivities. But no. So, sadly, for me, it left a rough edge which the brilliance of the storytelling could not quite completely obscure.
This is still a really great book which, despite the flaws I have mentioned, is one I would recommend as a thoroughly good read. But suspend your disbelief, forget any religious preconceptions and try and buy into it as urban fantasy.
August 29, 2017
Ohhh yeah, now this is what I’m talking about.
As someone who is a sucker for anything even remotely touching on religion, mixed with fantasy elements this is right up my alley.
Was going to write up a great, big, long review, but then something stopped me. So I won’t go into details here at all because I started this novel with NO idea what it was about, and that is exactly how one should dive in.
Let’s just say if you’re a fan of good vs. evil, this is done in such a way that it withholds from straying too far down a familiar path - as this type of story has been done almost as many times as Hallelujah has been covered.
Only criticism, however, is the sometimes too eloquently phrased paragraphs - but what a thing to complain about. I am personally fond of eloquence in narrative but only to a certain degree. Again, I’m being picky.
So jump in, be absorbed, and just let the story take you. It’s worth it.
As someone who is a sucker for anything even remotely touching on religion, mixed with fantasy elements this is right up my alley.
Was going to write up a great, big, long review, but then something stopped me. So I won’t go into details here at all because I started this novel with NO idea what it was about, and that is exactly how one should dive in.
Let’s just say if you’re a fan of good vs. evil, this is done in such a way that it withholds from straying too far down a familiar path - as this type of story has been done almost as many times as Hallelujah has been covered.
Only criticism, however, is the sometimes too eloquently phrased paragraphs - but what a thing to complain about. I am personally fond of eloquence in narrative but only to a certain degree. Again, I’m being picky.
So jump in, be absorbed, and just let the story take you. It’s worth it.
June 16, 2015
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review. The follow is simply my unbiased opinion.
4 out of 5 stars = I really liked it, but it wouldn't be my first pick
Go ahead and list all the angels you know. Okay, so Michael, Gabriel, and Lucifer pop into your head first, and maybe even Rafael or Uriel, but is Azrail (Azrael) in that list? Azrail may be the lesser known of the four archangels, but here is his story.
Az summary:
-Azrail, the archangel of death, feels ostracized by his fellow brothers; he is not the ruthless killer like Lucifer, nor the peaceful biblical angels like Michael and Gabriel. He finally finds his place on Earth with a girl named Kay, who unknowingly brings out the humanity within him, and is willing to sacrifice everything in order to protect her.
Stats:
-Fantasy
-292 pages
-30 chapters
-Fully published in 2015
-Standalone
-First Person (Az's POV)
Things I liked:
-Great action scenes
-Good characterizations of both Az and Lucifer
-Somewhat follows biblical approach of archangels
-Humorous dialogue ("Azrail smash!")
-Badass female character (Yeah go Kay!)
-The cover (Oh gosh, the cover...)
Things I didn't really like:
-Questionable plot moments (might just be me)
-Minor spelling errors
Some quotes:
Final verdict:
This is a very good book for one that is self-published and by a new author. If you're into angelic/supernatural themed books, this would probably be a good fit for you. The plot was slightly confusing, but that could've just have been me. I will totally try to find a physical copy. Amir is also a very kind person, to kudos to you for having your first book out!
4 out of 5 stars = I really liked it, but it wouldn't be my first pick
Go ahead and list all the angels you know. Okay, so Michael, Gabriel, and Lucifer pop into your head first, and maybe even Rafael or Uriel, but is Azrail (Azrael) in that list? Azrail may be the lesser known of the four archangels, but here is his story.
Az summary:
-Azrail, the archangel of death, feels ostracized by his fellow brothers; he is not the ruthless killer like Lucifer, nor the peaceful biblical angels like Michael and Gabriel. He finally finds his place on Earth with a girl named Kay, who unknowingly brings out the humanity within him, and is willing to sacrifice everything in order to protect her.
Stats:
-Fantasy
-292 pages
-30 chapters
-Fully published in 2015
-Standalone
-First Person (Az's POV)
Things I liked:
-Great action scenes
-Good characterizations of both Az and Lucifer
-Somewhat follows biblical approach of archangels
-Humorous dialogue ("Azrail smash!")
-Badass female character (Yeah go Kay!)
-The cover (Oh gosh, the cover...)
Things I didn't really like:
-Questionable plot moments (might just be me)
-Minor spelling errors
Some quotes:
Final verdict:
This is a very good book for one that is self-published and by a new author. If you're into angelic/supernatural themed books, this would probably be a good fit for you. The plot was slightly confusing, but that could've just have been me. I will totally try to find a physical copy. Amir is also a very kind person, to kudos to you for having your first book out!
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January 20, 2017
Disclaimer: I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.
I enjoyed this story quite a bit. It is the story of Azrail, the angel of death, and his struggles against Lucifer for the souls of man. This struggle culminates in a single girl.
My biggest enjoyment here was the author referencing artists, authors, and philosophers across time. It's as if Azrail had been friends with these people. There was also an abundance of philosophical questions and poetic imagery.
At the same time, I disliked the overuse of double modifiers, and am now more determined to avoid them myself. Often a single description would have sufficed. The action felt slightly lacklustre. Added to that, the ending felt slightly rushed and I perceived some plot elements that didn't resonate with me.
***Spoilers
Why did Lucifer anticipate Azrail using that specific reaping technique on Martha? He hadn't done so since Abel. If it was because Kay had made him happier, why hadn't he used it in those twenty something years?
How can Azrail like artists and the like but meet no Man he believed worthy? Did the mentioned sages not qualify?
How did the PERCEPTION of being a fallen angel mean Azrail's wings didn't grow back? The second he found out he was still an angel, everything magically became better.
*** Spoilers end
All in all, I believe that this novel is well worth the read, even while slightly imbalanced.
I enjoyed this story quite a bit. It is the story of Azrail, the angel of death, and his struggles against Lucifer for the souls of man. This struggle culminates in a single girl.
My biggest enjoyment here was the author referencing artists, authors, and philosophers across time. It's as if Azrail had been friends with these people. There was also an abundance of philosophical questions and poetic imagery.
At the same time, I disliked the overuse of double modifiers, and am now more determined to avoid them myself. Often a single description would have sufficed. The action felt slightly lacklustre. Added to that, the ending felt slightly rushed and I perceived some plot elements that didn't resonate with me.
***Spoilers
Why did Lucifer anticipate Azrail using that specific reaping technique on Martha? He hadn't done so since Abel. If it was because Kay had made him happier, why hadn't he used it in those twenty something years?
How can Azrail like artists and the like but meet no Man he believed worthy? Did the mentioned sages not qualify?
How did the PERCEPTION of being a fallen angel mean Azrail's wings didn't grow back? The second he found out he was still an angel, everything magically became better.
*** Spoilers end
All in all, I believe that this novel is well worth the read, even while slightly imbalanced.
July 13, 2017
Gosh, I wish this book would have started at its half-way mark.
This is the story of Azrail, the Archangel of Death, and as it turns out in this tale, eons-long opponent of Lucifer.
Those eons stretch out across the first half of the novel, with Azrail - not Azrael, the spelling I'd be more familiar with but hey, no harm in a bit of variation - getting into confrontation after confrontation at scenes of Biblical significance. Crime Scene Bible, you might say, with an archangel taking off his sunglasses as The Who scream Yeaaaahhhhhh.
So we have conflicts over Cain and Abel, we stop by Sodom and Gomorrah and see how Lot and his family were urged to leave and the unfortunate ending of his wife, and so on. This vast timespan makes it a little hard to engage with the first half of the book. We drop in and out over centuries. We leave Lot and pop up at the crucifixion of Jesus - what was happening in the intervening time? Does it matter?
And then we leap again and come to... a really good bit of storytelling. The reaper Azrail discovers a girl who he spared from drowning as a baby, and becomes her guardian. Suddenly, we're more rooted to our world and connected to an intriguing tale, of an innocent child being protected by an angel - who she nicknames AZ - in the face of Lucifer's machinations. If we'd started here, this might have been a great tale, but I can't help but feel the first half of the book is going to lose a lot of readers before they get here. There are some odd anachronistic references too - the angel's dialogue can use slang that's a bit too modern at times, and there was one bit where he referenced a computer game that really broke me out of the novel.
All in all, it's an intriguing premise, but a tighter focus on a shorter period of time would have done it the world of good.
This is the story of Azrail, the Archangel of Death, and as it turns out in this tale, eons-long opponent of Lucifer.
Those eons stretch out across the first half of the novel, with Azrail - not Azrael, the spelling I'd be more familiar with but hey, no harm in a bit of variation - getting into confrontation after confrontation at scenes of Biblical significance. Crime Scene Bible, you might say, with an archangel taking off his sunglasses as The Who scream Yeaaaahhhhhh.
So we have conflicts over Cain and Abel, we stop by Sodom and Gomorrah and see how Lot and his family were urged to leave and the unfortunate ending of his wife, and so on. This vast timespan makes it a little hard to engage with the first half of the book. We drop in and out over centuries. We leave Lot and pop up at the crucifixion of Jesus - what was happening in the intervening time? Does it matter?
And then we leap again and come to... a really good bit of storytelling. The reaper Azrail discovers a girl who he spared from drowning as a baby, and becomes her guardian. Suddenly, we're more rooted to our world and connected to an intriguing tale, of an innocent child being protected by an angel - who she nicknames AZ - in the face of Lucifer's machinations. If we'd started here, this might have been a great tale, but I can't help but feel the first half of the book is going to lose a lot of readers before they get here. There are some odd anachronistic references too - the angel's dialogue can use slang that's a bit too modern at times, and there was one bit where he referenced a computer game that really broke me out of the novel.
All in all, it's an intriguing premise, but a tighter focus on a shorter period of time would have done it the world of good.
July 6, 2017
This is the story of Azrail's fall - he's an archangel so it gets messy. The early part of the book felt a little clunky in places and personally anything to do with religion is a turn off for me however I really enjoyed the second half of the tale when we explore the relationship Azrail has with Martha, Mary & Kay. Lucifer, Michael & Gabriel all felt a little too obvious, nothing they did was surprising and then Az is described as wearing an overcoat and I can't get the tv show Supernatural out of my head. There's a lot of violence in the book but it's not too gory or overdone, it feels like powerful beings fighting. The new female reaper adds a great element of mystery to begin with and a convenient twist at the end.
March 12, 2017
I’d start by praising how much I loved the cover. It’s mystical. So is the plot of the story. I’ve seen the portrait of ‘angel of death’ in movies and TV series such as Charmed but not in the story, so it didn’t take long for me to immerse in the storyline. Azrail, the archangel of Death, is intense emotional character. His relationship with his brother Lucifer is one of the themes of the story. There is also a girl named Kay who he wished to protect.
I think the overall plot and line up of story is very good. It’s strange and unpredictable and dark. The topic is very interesting as talking about dark side of humanity is not a job description anyone would want to give. There are some good character names and early in the book he talked about my three musketeers and how is it more interesting than bible that I agree. I’m not going to reveal much. But if you’d like to know more about Angel of Death, what’s his responsibilities and relationship with his brother Luicfer, and Michael and Gabriel, then read this novel.
I think the overall plot and line up of story is very good. It’s strange and unpredictable and dark. The topic is very interesting as talking about dark side of humanity is not a job description anyone would want to give. There are some good character names and early in the book he talked about my three musketeers and how is it more interesting than bible that I agree. I’m not going to reveal much. But if you’d like to know more about Angel of Death, what’s his responsibilities and relationship with his brother Luicfer, and Michael and Gabriel, then read this novel.
July 12, 2016
An intriguing look into a unique fantasy sub-genre. The story of Azrail is a character study of humanity through the lens of a biblical perspective. As one of the original Angels, the author takes the reader through key events in history and how they were impacted upon by the servants of God. Any fantasy enthusiast should enjoy this well-written story without having to worry about the context of the events.
I was really torn with this novel. The story is interesting and has a nice twist to entertain. Between plot and writing style, this book is a solid read. The fact that I am torn is because the events and depiction of the heavenly/hellish cast conflict heavily with my own impressions and understanding. It begs the question of a certain target demographic (of which I am a part) that would consider the subject matter non-fiction. Despite adopting a fictitious mindset was not sufficient enough to prevent the lurching I experienced with certain characteristics. I just couldn’t settle into the roles and setting, perhaps because it was deviating too much. It would be like reading historical fiction and feeling/knowing that the character depictions were implausible. This was my experience.
I found the redemption theme deviated as well from mainstream theology. I can understand why the author may have chosen this, for he is walking a thin line between fantasy and religious genres. This book is not trying to recreate the Christian theme, although several key settings from biblical origin appear. This skirting of the theology edge is perhaps what makes the novel so unique.
The story is well depicted and each action sequence is engaging. The author takes the time to remind you of how the main character is feeling. Az is a brooding, observant, and somewhat oversensitive character. I did find his reflections on his condition of misery heavy at times. Most of the story is a flashback with occasional jumps to the present. This was done well and did not disconnect me from the main narrative.
Overall, an entertaining read when taken as a wholly fictional piece. I received a free copy of the novel for an honest non-reciprocal review.
I was really torn with this novel. The story is interesting and has a nice twist to entertain. Between plot and writing style, this book is a solid read. The fact that I am torn is because the events and depiction of the heavenly/hellish cast conflict heavily with my own impressions and understanding. It begs the question of a certain target demographic (of which I am a part) that would consider the subject matter non-fiction. Despite adopting a fictitious mindset was not sufficient enough to prevent the lurching I experienced with certain characteristics. I just couldn’t settle into the roles and setting, perhaps because it was deviating too much. It would be like reading historical fiction and feeling/knowing that the character depictions were implausible. This was my experience.
I found the redemption theme deviated as well from mainstream theology. I can understand why the author may have chosen this, for he is walking a thin line between fantasy and religious genres. This book is not trying to recreate the Christian theme, although several key settings from biblical origin appear. This skirting of the theology edge is perhaps what makes the novel so unique.
The story is well depicted and each action sequence is engaging. The author takes the time to remind you of how the main character is feeling. Az is a brooding, observant, and somewhat oversensitive character. I did find his reflections on his condition of misery heavy at times. Most of the story is a flashback with occasional jumps to the present. This was done well and did not disconnect me from the main narrative.
Overall, an entertaining read when taken as a wholly fictional piece. I received a free copy of the novel for an honest non-reciprocal review.
June 10, 2015
If you are looking for a book that delivers on several different planes, then this one is for you. It's the story of Azrail, the archangel of death - although I think the more common spelling is Azrael - and his rise and fall.
We are introduced to Az as he sits in a dark chamber waiting for his replacement - the new face of death to take him. He is anxious to end it all but we don't know why. The hooded figure that arrives is mysteriously silent, but seemingly, not ready to take/damn his soul. Furthermore, it's a she, a fact that adds to Az's anxiety because there is a connection there and we're not privy to, and so we're left to wonder who she is until the end of the book. Of course, as the story unfolded, I tried to guess, but...
Anyway, Az becomes infuriated when she doesn't immediately take him, thinking that she is waiting for him to repent, so he is forced to show her why he is beyond salvation. From this point on, we are thrown into a series of flashbacks and follow Az's journey of how he becomes the angel of death, the creation of mankind, his rivalry with Lucifer, and finally his revenge.
The writing is very strong and moves quickly. There is a lot of action - and by a lot, I mean a lot - and intense scenes. But what I enjoyed most was the dialogue - it was smart and layered with subtle and usually dark humor. The book made me stop and think, and there were some references that I didn't quite get, but Google was there to save me.
I recommended Az to my 16-year-old daughter and she read it, I think, in a couple of days. Her comment was that it was very different from the books she's been reading lately and that she liked it so much that she wants to buy the hardcover.
I think that any avid reader will enjoy Az.
We are introduced to Az as he sits in a dark chamber waiting for his replacement - the new face of death to take him. He is anxious to end it all but we don't know why. The hooded figure that arrives is mysteriously silent, but seemingly, not ready to take/damn his soul. Furthermore, it's a she, a fact that adds to Az's anxiety because there is a connection there and we're not privy to, and so we're left to wonder who she is until the end of the book. Of course, as the story unfolded, I tried to guess, but...
Anyway, Az becomes infuriated when she doesn't immediately take him, thinking that she is waiting for him to repent, so he is forced to show her why he is beyond salvation. From this point on, we are thrown into a series of flashbacks and follow Az's journey of how he becomes the angel of death, the creation of mankind, his rivalry with Lucifer, and finally his revenge.
The writing is very strong and moves quickly. There is a lot of action - and by a lot, I mean a lot - and intense scenes. But what I enjoyed most was the dialogue - it was smart and layered with subtle and usually dark humor. The book made me stop and think, and there were some references that I didn't quite get, but Google was there to save me.
I recommended Az to my 16-year-old daughter and she read it, I think, in a couple of days. Her comment was that it was very different from the books she's been reading lately and that she liked it so much that she wants to buy the hardcover.
I think that any avid reader will enjoy Az.
April 26, 2016
By looking at the cover I wasn't sure what to think. I got started and wow the cover really showcases what you will find in the book. The story starts out with archangels as brothers with all the fighting, battles, words you would expect from brothers. It was really cool to to see how flesh out all the characters are, to the point that you can see them in your mind's eye what each would look like, dress and even attitudes. You also get to see how each archangel interacts as they see/cry/fight for man in some of the earliest Bible stories.
This is a first person story about how Az becomes the Angel of Death. As told by Az to whom he thought was there to take his soul and become the next Angel of Death. You feel like you are a fly on the wall! You want to root for him in hopes that he doesn't end up where he thought he would be heading once his job was done. Tiny spoiler, the person he talks to is female and you figure that out really quick. Also he talks about Jesus on the cross.. The writer took great care, to honor the son of God and it was very well well-written.
There was a few really really good twists in the story I didn't see coming from the beginning, and even at the end. That was not what I expected at all!! With the ending twist the biggest one of them! But you have to read the book to see just what I am talking about ;)
Oh and once I started reading, I couldn't stop till I finished it! It is a real roller coaster of emotions..
I look forward to reading more books by A. A. Bavar.. and I totally recommend Az the story of the Angel of Death..
This is a first person story about how Az becomes the Angel of Death. As told by Az to whom he thought was there to take his soul and become the next Angel of Death. You feel like you are a fly on the wall! You want to root for him in hopes that he doesn't end up where he thought he would be heading once his job was done. Tiny spoiler, the person he talks to is female and you figure that out really quick. Also he talks about Jesus on the cross.. The writer took great care, to honor the son of God and it was very well well-written.
There was a few really really good twists in the story I didn't see coming from the beginning, and even at the end. That was not what I expected at all!! With the ending twist the biggest one of them! But you have to read the book to see just what I am talking about ;)
Oh and once I started reading, I couldn't stop till I finished it! It is a real roller coaster of emotions..
I look forward to reading more books by A. A. Bavar.. and I totally recommend Az the story of the Angel of Death..
June 16, 2017
Here we are, my first official review. Ì won’t hand out five stars ratings like popcorn at the theater. 5 is supposed to be amazing and I can’t think of that many books written by professionals that would even deserve it. For me 4 stars is one hell of a good book and I’d recommend it highly to my friends.
Now back to business; I received a free copy of Az in a review round.
That being said, Az had potential, but, to my tastes, lacked execution. I’m going to detail why so people with different tastes than me can perhaps find something they will like and make their own opinion.
The foundations for the characters were interesting, spinning a fantasy out of biblical figures and humanizing them to a certain degree drew me in. We follow Az through several biblical moments, but some of them feel rushed (Lucifer’s fallout with God).
This succession of set pieces everyone is familiar with if they know what the bible is didn’t bring much in terms of character growth for me. The two I remember most were Azrail being angry at mankind, being taunted by Lucifer and one ends in a Dragonball-esque showdown between them. Two overpowered beings duking it out without consequences can be entertaining for a moment, but it doesn’t make a lasting impression. There were glimmers of interesting anecdotes in the prologue that piqued my interest but never were explored further (such as the four archangels having inspired Alexandre Dumas’ three musketeers).
As for the pace, I felt the core of the book was in the relationship between Azrail and his protégé. Unfortunately this is only actually the last quarter of the book, which perhaps didn’t help me bond with Kay the way I should have.
Use of language seemed particularly off for me. I understand actualizing ancient speech (not sure reading characters talking to each other in Olde English all the time is anyone’s passion), but reading about millennia old angels talking/thinking by referencing video games seemed…strange. The video game reference only happens once, but in a critical moment and it took me right out of the atmosphere. Just like Azrail calling Lucifer an “asshole” did. So if
In terms of logic, the Angels’ power are never really explained nor their limits worked out. For me, it’s hard to care, or fear for a character’s life, when they call pull out Deus Exes out of their sleeves. But if magic mechanics do not bother you and you like style, then you will likely enjoy it more than I did.
One of the worst sins I can think of reading is a villain spouting a monologue on the cusp of victory, just to give the hero time to recover and make his last heroic burst to victory. That’s exactly what happens here. If you like old James Bond movies, then perhaps this is for you, but I’m more of a Kingsman crowd where the villain would say “This ain’t that kind of movie” before making the killing move.
So, for the good premise but also several critical issues, I would rate Az two (2) stars on the goodreads rating. It was ok.
Now back to business; I received a free copy of Az in a review round.
That being said, Az had potential, but, to my tastes, lacked execution. I’m going to detail why so people with different tastes than me can perhaps find something they will like and make their own opinion.
The foundations for the characters were interesting, spinning a fantasy out of biblical figures and humanizing them to a certain degree drew me in. We follow Az through several biblical moments, but some of them feel rushed (Lucifer’s fallout with God).
This succession of set pieces everyone is familiar with if they know what the bible is didn’t bring much in terms of character growth for me. The two I remember most were Azrail being angry at mankind, being taunted by Lucifer and one ends in a Dragonball-esque showdown between them. Two overpowered beings duking it out without consequences can be entertaining for a moment, but it doesn’t make a lasting impression. There were glimmers of interesting anecdotes in the prologue that piqued my interest but never were explored further (such as the four archangels having inspired Alexandre Dumas’ three musketeers).
As for the pace, I felt the core of the book was in the relationship between Azrail and his protégé. Unfortunately this is only actually the last quarter of the book, which perhaps didn’t help me bond with Kay the way I should have.
Use of language seemed particularly off for me. I understand actualizing ancient speech (not sure reading characters talking to each other in Olde English all the time is anyone’s passion), but reading about millennia old angels talking/thinking by referencing video games seemed…strange. The video game reference only happens once, but in a critical moment and it took me right out of the atmosphere. Just like Azrail calling Lucifer an “asshole” did. So if
In terms of logic, the Angels’ power are never really explained nor their limits worked out. For me, it’s hard to care, or fear for a character’s life, when they call pull out Deus Exes out of their sleeves. But if magic mechanics do not bother you and you like style, then you will likely enjoy it more than I did.
One of the worst sins I can think of reading is a villain spouting a monologue on the cusp of victory, just to give the hero time to recover and make his last heroic burst to victory. That’s exactly what happens here. If you like old James Bond movies, then perhaps this is for you, but I’m more of a Kingsman crowd where the villain would say “This ain’t that kind of movie” before making the killing move.
So, for the good premise but also several critical issues, I would rate Az two (2) stars on the goodreads rating. It was ok.
April 18, 2019
A fun but occasionally frustrating read.
Azriel, the Angel of Death, has seriously had it with the human race. Since biblical times, Azriel has watched endless butchery and cruelty and is ready to let his brother, Lucifer, have the whole lot of them. But when a set of circumstances leaves a young girl in Azriel's care he begins to see something worth saving. If only he can keep his brother from destroying it all.
Overall I thought this book began and ended strong. It started off with an interesting concept and ended with an angelic battle royal that reminded me of a fight scene from a Japanese anime. It was action-packed and engaging. However, it feels like the story loses its way and wanders in the middle. Its as if the author knew how the story began and ended but wasn't sure how to connect the two. The writing is clear and vivid. It sometimes gets a little purple for my tastes, but is otherwise solid.
The biggest issue I had was consistency. There were several instances in the story where the author referred to events earlier in the book but the way he describes them later were not how they were written earlier. Characters appear and disappear without anything establishing where they came from or where they went. Some of the established 'rules' of this universe are broken without explanation. All in all I spent a lot of time flipping to earlier pages to try and figure out if I missed something only to realize that I hadn't. Things were just missing or not as later described.
Also I feel this book could benefit from some more world building. Through most of it I felt like I was missing something. I found myself with tons of questions with no clues and no guidance. For example, how Death works in this universe is never defined. Does Azriel have to show up to every death? What exactly happens to human souls once they die? How exactly are angels different from humans? Can humans harm angels? Do they have more physical strength or is their power more ethereal? What about human - angel interaction? Are humans allowed to know they exist? Maybe there are some conventions in fantasy genre, especially when it comes to angels, that I am just ignorant to but I feel a lot of the consistency issues would be solved with an established lore against which the characters can act.
To be honest, this book is far enough out of my area of expertise to know exactly who this might appeal to. There are some moral messages that might appeal to fans of Christian literature as well as some themes and ideas that might appeal to the YA crowd. But as a comparatively quick, fun read with plenty of action it wouldn't surprise me to have it find traction across multiple genres and tastes.
Azriel, the Angel of Death, has seriously had it with the human race. Since biblical times, Azriel has watched endless butchery and cruelty and is ready to let his brother, Lucifer, have the whole lot of them. But when a set of circumstances leaves a young girl in Azriel's care he begins to see something worth saving. If only he can keep his brother from destroying it all.
Overall I thought this book began and ended strong. It started off with an interesting concept and ended with an angelic battle royal that reminded me of a fight scene from a Japanese anime. It was action-packed and engaging. However, it feels like the story loses its way and wanders in the middle. Its as if the author knew how the story began and ended but wasn't sure how to connect the two. The writing is clear and vivid. It sometimes gets a little purple for my tastes, but is otherwise solid.
The biggest issue I had was consistency. There were several instances in the story where the author referred to events earlier in the book but the way he describes them later were not how they were written earlier. Characters appear and disappear without anything establishing where they came from or where they went. Some of the established 'rules' of this universe are broken without explanation. All in all I spent a lot of time flipping to earlier pages to try and figure out if I missed something only to realize that I hadn't. Things were just missing or not as later described.
Also I feel this book could benefit from some more world building. Through most of it I felt like I was missing something. I found myself with tons of questions with no clues and no guidance. For example, how Death works in this universe is never defined. Does Azriel have to show up to every death? What exactly happens to human souls once they die? How exactly are angels different from humans? Can humans harm angels? Do they have more physical strength or is their power more ethereal? What about human - angel interaction? Are humans allowed to know they exist? Maybe there are some conventions in fantasy genre, especially when it comes to angels, that I am just ignorant to but I feel a lot of the consistency issues would be solved with an established lore against which the characters can act.
To be honest, this book is far enough out of my area of expertise to know exactly who this might appeal to. There are some moral messages that might appeal to fans of Christian literature as well as some themes and ideas that might appeal to the YA crowd. But as a comparatively quick, fun read with plenty of action it wouldn't surprise me to have it find traction across multiple genres and tastes.
March 30, 2019
The subject matter of this book--creation, Archangels, the Fall of Lucifer, etc.-- was clearly well- researched by the author.
While I can't recall any of the nuns who occasionaly gave my knuckles a good wrap for asking "impertenant" questions ever saying that an Angel of Death existed, I really liked how Azriel became that angel by standing up to Lucifer over the murder of Abel by his brother, Cain. That was clever.
I was, however, a bit disconcerted at the idea that an immortal being might be killed, even by one of his own kind. But the world is well-established by the author, lending it credibility.
There were many other examples of Biblical history woven into the narrative, but I won't add spoilers. Suffice to say that such details led me to hope that what I felt was the REAL story would be handled with the same build-up.
Kay, a human child, is left under the guardianship of Az when her mother passes, and he grows to love the human being as she grows into a person worthy of redemption--something Az has seen very little of over the ages.
I had hoped that this relationship, which transforms the cynical and bitter Archangel Az into a reaper of souls willing to see that some humans actually can embrace good over evil, would have had a lot more time and attention devoted to it, but it ended up seeming rushed and rather like an outline. I know it was the big build-up to a confrontation between Azriel and Lucifer, and I would have liked it to be more involved.
Still, I read this quickly, unable to stop once I got into it, and I found it an engaging and enjoyable story. I was left feeling that it would be an entertaining graphic novel, if the author cared to adapt it in a second form.
I would recommend this to readers who enjoy an energetic battle or two between good and evil.
While I can't recall any of the nuns who occasionaly gave my knuckles a good wrap for asking "impertenant" questions ever saying that an Angel of Death existed, I really liked how Azriel became that angel by standing up to Lucifer over the murder of Abel by his brother, Cain. That was clever.
I was, however, a bit disconcerted at the idea that an immortal being might be killed, even by one of his own kind. But the world is well-established by the author, lending it credibility.
There were many other examples of Biblical history woven into the narrative, but I won't add spoilers. Suffice to say that such details led me to hope that what I felt was the REAL story would be handled with the same build-up.
Kay, a human child, is left under the guardianship of Az when her mother passes, and he grows to love the human being as she grows into a person worthy of redemption--something Az has seen very little of over the ages.
I had hoped that this relationship, which transforms the cynical and bitter Archangel Az into a reaper of souls willing to see that some humans actually can embrace good over evil, would have had a lot more time and attention devoted to it, but it ended up seeming rushed and rather like an outline. I know it was the big build-up to a confrontation between Azriel and Lucifer, and I would have liked it to be more involved.
Still, I read this quickly, unable to stop once I got into it, and I found it an engaging and enjoyable story. I was left feeling that it would be an entertaining graphic novel, if the author cared to adapt it in a second form.
I would recommend this to readers who enjoy an energetic battle or two between good and evil.
June 23, 2019
Az will be entirely what the doctor ordered for some readers. I don't doubt that based on the other reviews, however for me it was hard to read. The writer is well able to put together the inner mindscape of the lead protagonist, but unfortunately the dialogue was stiff and burdensome and I felt more effort was devoted to the inner-worlds than the world the characters inhabited.
The many allusions to the Hulk were fitting because many characters spoke like bland, on the nose comicbook superheroes. Nothing was left to be inferred, characters spoke at length and were often attempting quips and putdowns which detracted, I felt, from the story.
For beings that were meant to be almost eternal, nobody really seemed to have that sense about them, they felt completely modern, in a negative way. They referenced superheroes and present day writers and spoke like somewhat petulant and snotty teenagers. I didn't think they were angels but fairly privileged teenagers grappling with new found feelings. The timelessness of their background stories never really shone. I understand they needed to have faults, biases and troubles but Az comes across as stroppy and it was hard to be lumped with him as he went about his business. I felt a little like I was reading the script for an 80s or early 90s action film with bad guys and ne'er-do-wells smirking, girning and blustering their way through the next dastardly plan to destroy the world.
The story was missing the gravitas, wit and weight that I felt a story about archangels and fights for souls of mankind might have. But, like I said some people will enjoy the action-packed, almost swashbuckling tit-for-tats between Az and Lucifer. Unfortunately, despite the writer's energy and best efforts I didn't.
The many allusions to the Hulk were fitting because many characters spoke like bland, on the nose comicbook superheroes. Nothing was left to be inferred, characters spoke at length and were often attempting quips and putdowns which detracted, I felt, from the story.
For beings that were meant to be almost eternal, nobody really seemed to have that sense about them, they felt completely modern, in a negative way. They referenced superheroes and present day writers and spoke like somewhat petulant and snotty teenagers. I didn't think they were angels but fairly privileged teenagers grappling with new found feelings. The timelessness of their background stories never really shone. I understand they needed to have faults, biases and troubles but Az comes across as stroppy and it was hard to be lumped with him as he went about his business. I felt a little like I was reading the script for an 80s or early 90s action film with bad guys and ne'er-do-wells smirking, girning and blustering their way through the next dastardly plan to destroy the world.
The story was missing the gravitas, wit and weight that I felt a story about archangels and fights for souls of mankind might have. But, like I said some people will enjoy the action-packed, almost swashbuckling tit-for-tats between Az and Lucifer. Unfortunately, despite the writer's energy and best efforts I didn't.
January 7, 2018
This heroic tale by A. A. Bavar is unique and eminently enjoyable. It is ambitious in scope, rife with dramatic imagery and epic battles. Bavar's angels are gritty yet monumental. They can be hurt in battle, but never killed. The central figure, Az, or Azriel, is one of the four archangels. He is the angel of death, harvesting souls for God and presenting them with one last chance at salvation. The main conflict of this story is a central one for all humankind: with so much hatred and sinfulness in mankind, is there anyone worth saving? Does mankind deserve the chance the Father has given it for salvation and eternal glory? The young Az believes in mankind and initially does his job with zeal. Then, he loses hope as he sees the centuries upon centuries of man's atrocities. It only the purest love that can change his mind, which he finds in the heart of a young girl named Kay. I have never read anything like Az in modern times. It reminds me of older classics, like Milton's Paradise Lost, except with the drama and excitement of a modern action movie. Az was a delight to read and one I highly recommend. This will be on my favourites list for a long time to come!
September 3, 2020
Caught me by surprise and reminded me a little of Interview with a Vampire.
I'm not really sure where to start. The writing is exceptional, but others have already said that...
Although it's the story of the Angel of Death and his journey, it's much more human than anything else. I definitely connected with how Azrail (the Angel of Death) was disillusioned with mankind and wanted nothing to do with it. However, since it was his job to offer redemption, he had no choice. This led to the irony of mankind having free will while angels - a much more powerful being - did not.
The story was very well told from Az's point of view, his constant battle with Lucifer, and his search for a reason to believe in mankind. After millennia, he finally found it in a little girl called Kay. She restored his faith, but at the same time gave Lucifer the ammunition he needed to destroy Az.
The book is intense, with massive fights and battles... but truly deep dialogue. This is definitely on my favorites list. I recommend it.
I'm not really sure where to start. The writing is exceptional, but others have already said that...
Although it's the story of the Angel of Death and his journey, it's much more human than anything else. I definitely connected with how Azrail (the Angel of Death) was disillusioned with mankind and wanted nothing to do with it. However, since it was his job to offer redemption, he had no choice. This led to the irony of mankind having free will while angels - a much more powerful being - did not.
The story was very well told from Az's point of view, his constant battle with Lucifer, and his search for a reason to believe in mankind. After millennia, he finally found it in a little girl called Kay. She restored his faith, but at the same time gave Lucifer the ammunition he needed to destroy Az.
The book is intense, with massive fights and battles... but truly deep dialogue. This is definitely on my favorites list. I recommend it.
April 2, 2019
Az- Revenge of an Archangel.
This is a quick read, and I found it to be well written. However I would have liked to see more of Az’s journey to who he becomes- the archangel of death disillusioned with humanity. As it is it felt very quick and I as the reader didn’t feel the arduousness that the character was feeling.
The author clearly knows a lot about the subject matter. As a reader with a non-biblical background I would have liked more information about the angels super human abilities earlier in the story. I was not sure what they could and could not do. If they were totally immortal, or fallible.
The story is very exciting with lots of battles and would appeal to action fans.
The relationship between the two rivals of the story- Az and Lucifer leaves you wondering about the difference between man and the angels. Are they really so different as Az seems to believe, or is man made from the same clay after all?
This is a quick read, and I found it to be well written. However I would have liked to see more of Az’s journey to who he becomes- the archangel of death disillusioned with humanity. As it is it felt very quick and I as the reader didn’t feel the arduousness that the character was feeling.
The author clearly knows a lot about the subject matter. As a reader with a non-biblical background I would have liked more information about the angels super human abilities earlier in the story. I was not sure what they could and could not do. If they were totally immortal, or fallible.
The story is very exciting with lots of battles and would appeal to action fans.
The relationship between the two rivals of the story- Az and Lucifer leaves you wondering about the difference between man and the angels. Are they really so different as Az seems to believe, or is man made from the same clay after all?
June 9, 2019
Azrail, the Angel of Death, is about to be replaced. His life from inception, metaphorically spills into his memory and is shared with the reader. The writing is strong, lyrical and full of dark wit—Az's personal commentary on good and evil throughout the ages since the dawn of man. Through his filter we meet the other three arch-angles Michael, Gabriel and Lucifer. The latter becomes his nemesis. Using Biblical events as a plot map, Az relives his transformation from a dispassionate taker of souls into the compassionate saver of souls. The tale feels like a classic allegory with a modern twist.
It's an interesting read. Clever idea. Well executed. Because I read it on Kindle, more paragraph breaks would have been nice… especially before and after dialogue. I give this a 4.5—rounded up to a 5.
It's an interesting read. Clever idea. Well executed. Because I read it on Kindle, more paragraph breaks would have been nice… especially before and after dialogue. I give this a 4.5—rounded up to a 5.
September 3, 2020
Surprisingly human and full of emotion while fighting the devill all the way...
A touching story on many levels. As others have said, yes it's full of action and fight scenes. But the conflict plaguing Azrail (the angel of death) is far deeper. It's his search for humanity's nobility and why he should offer souls a chance at redemption. I truly enjoyed the intelligent dialogue between the devil and Az. I also loved his relationship with Kay, the little girl who makes her way into his heart.
I wholeheartedly recommend this book to action lovers (not necessarily angels) and those who love a well written story with a meaning. Can't wait to read the next book in the series that just cam out. Thank you.
A touching story on many levels. As others have said, yes it's full of action and fight scenes. But the conflict plaguing Azrail (the angel of death) is far deeper. It's his search for humanity's nobility and why he should offer souls a chance at redemption. I truly enjoyed the intelligent dialogue between the devil and Az. I also loved his relationship with Kay, the little girl who makes her way into his heart.
I wholeheartedly recommend this book to action lovers (not necessarily angels) and those who love a well written story with a meaning. Can't wait to read the next book in the series that just cam out. Thank you.
June 3, 2019
The Devil you don’t know
The words in this book aren’t written, they’re crafted, carved into the page. They represent some of the finest prose I’ve read and harken to writers like Charles Dickens who paint a picture in your mid. It’s a dark tale of man’s frailties and of the Devil’s treachery, but there is just enough hope to get you to the end.
Masterfully written, you’re going to want to read it in big bites, maybe in just one sitting.
Enjoy
The words in this book aren’t written, they’re crafted, carved into the page. They represent some of the finest prose I’ve read and harken to writers like Charles Dickens who paint a picture in your mid. It’s a dark tale of man’s frailties and of the Devil’s treachery, but there is just enough hope to get you to the end.
Masterfully written, you’re going to want to read it in big bites, maybe in just one sitting.
Enjoy
April 10, 2023
the fight of angels
Good story about angels and their fight with humanity and for humanity. Good vs. Evil! Who wins? Not exactly an easy fight. You think you know how its going to go but than the twists and turns take you by surprised. A good book worth reading if you like the thought of angels protecting humans and fighting for their lives. And if you don’t mind a fight that’s pretty descriptive with other angels. Than read this book!
Good story about angels and their fight with humanity and for humanity. Good vs. Evil! Who wins? Not exactly an easy fight. You think you know how its going to go but than the twists and turns take you by surprised. A good book worth reading if you like the thought of angels protecting humans and fighting for their lives. And if you don’t mind a fight that’s pretty descriptive with other angels. Than read this book!
April 6, 2018
I truly enjoyed this book, it walked me trougth thousands of years of biblical story.
Amir truly did his job on the research. I couldnt find mistakes even thought I put it under the magnify glass.
The hooded figure was a surprise and there's a lot to comment on the tricks the games, the fights, the descriptions.
Highly recommend
Amir truly did his job on the research. I couldnt find mistakes even thought I put it under the magnify glass.
The hooded figure was a surprise and there's a lot to comment on the tricks the games, the fights, the descriptions.
Highly recommend
April 9, 2020
Energy
In most books like this, you end up with an edgy mc with major issues. In this one, you still did,but it was so well written and the story so powerful, that it only made it better. This is the kind of writing that I hope to be capable of one day. That you, the author, for this piece of art. To anyone who has or plans to read it, enjoy. I know I did.
In most books like this, you end up with an edgy mc with major issues. In this one, you still did,but it was so well written and the story so powerful, that it only made it better. This is the kind of writing that I hope to be capable of one day. That you, the author, for this piece of art. To anyone who has or plans to read it, enjoy. I know I did.
July 15, 2023
How can I get so emotional over the angel of death? A great story. The perception of Death being evil is not necessarily true. I could not put this book down, reading all hours of the night. A truly original story that will change your perception.
October 8, 2023
This is my first time reading a book by this author and I enjoyed this book very much. Although it's not romance it's still a good book. This book is about Azrail the angel of death trying to save humanity. I can't wait for the 2nd book to come out here in Canada
June 27, 2016
This book is not like anything I've ever read before; a great premise. This is (as the title suggests) about the archangels, and this works really well, especially the first half which tallies nicely with the Book of Genesis. Part of me wants to believe that this is how Genesis plays out, but I know that's not true - this is a solid modern fiction novel with borrowed context. It's great.
Without giving too much away (but nonetheless giving some away), this book follows Az, the Angel of Death, as he struggles to balance his duty to deliver mankind to heaven, with his distress at the depths to which mankind is able to descend - something that his archangel brother, Lucifer, is obviously keen to take advantage of. The ultimate question is thus: "is there enough 'good' in mankind to keep the grim reaper on the straight and narrow? What a great conflict. What's not to like?
And the pace of the first half of the novel is absolutely electric - right up my street. We span notable millennia in mere pages (including the creation of Mother Earth herself), and the chosen backdrops for the story development are well chosen. I raced hungrily through the first half of the book as a consequence of this excellent recipe.
But in actual fact, despite the pace, the story is actually more static than this, narrated as it is by Az from a point in the future - the Angel of Death is reminiscing! It never feels past tense, though, and the action is right in your senses; which is great. The structure is actually a bit like a novella I'm writing, and it's good to see it done so well. Nice work.
And indeed, just as the Angel of Death is on the edge of despair, he finds salvation in a very personal exposure to the goodness in Man. This central part of the story quite reasonably slows down, and you can start to see the weave of the forthcoming chapters. We are moving towards the finale. And a great finale at that.
It ends in 21st Century NYC - there's nothing wrong with that! But although the second half isn't short of action, it didn't seem to quite have the pace of the first. This may be simply a function of the vast spectrum of time covered in the first half vs. the more contained period in the second, but there is something intangibly slower - but to reiterate, it is still packed with action.
And we are moving towards a fitting and cleverly constructed showdown finale, which is exactly where we want to be.
This, however, leads to my main problem (a relatively small one at that); and it is a structural one. The "finale" chapter is very long in comparison to all the others (c. 5 times I think) and this presents a problem. We have been set a tone - and a fast paced one at that - and we therefore have expectations on the key timings within each chapter. But when a chapter is then so much longer than all the others, our radar is out, and we don't know when we are expected to pause and reflect (which we'd do naturally after a chapter). Perhaps we're not meant to reflect, though that would leave us breathless.
Of course, this could be considered a somewhat pedantic observation, but I raise it because it was the only time in the book that I scanned forward to get sight of my journey. And of course - different length chapters is absolutely reasonable, but this only resonated because it was a single lengthy anomaly in a series of high octane pockets. It just stuck out.
But alas - though this is my main concern, it is still a small one. I managed to find my own breaks and enjoyed the finale very much; very cleverly constructed with lots of twists and turns (arguably one too many twists in fact!) A really interesting read, and great imagination at the end.
So, what were my favourite bits of this? Here's a list:
- The writing is very well done, and it appears to be well edited too. A solid foundation for any novel.
- The pace and the energy I have already talked about - excellent.
- The characters are well formed and individual, and Lucifer is particularly good fun; not as I would have necessarily painted him, but a great representation.
Were there any other things that I didn't like so much? Maybe just a couple:
- I may have actually been a bit tired of hearing about humanity's failings by the end. It's a central tenet of the story, and therefore entirely forgivable, but there's only so much morality bashing one can take!
- As briefly mentioned above, there may have been one too many twists and turns in the ultimate stand-off.
But another thing that was really nice in here was the subtle references to historical literary figures (and their relationship with the Angel of Death!) Some examples that are lodged in my head are: Shakespeare, Dickens, and Stephen King - but there are many others.
All in all I really enjoyed this book, and devoured it in very short order. A great read and thanks to the author.
And to continue my theme of pairing books with music, this requires a faster pace but a very grand context from a musical perspective. I have gone for Meltdown, a fabulous track by Orbital.
http://www.jhockley.com/epic-fantasy/...
Without giving too much away (but nonetheless giving some away), this book follows Az, the Angel of Death, as he struggles to balance his duty to deliver mankind to heaven, with his distress at the depths to which mankind is able to descend - something that his archangel brother, Lucifer, is obviously keen to take advantage of. The ultimate question is thus: "is there enough 'good' in mankind to keep the grim reaper on the straight and narrow? What a great conflict. What's not to like?
And the pace of the first half of the novel is absolutely electric - right up my street. We span notable millennia in mere pages (including the creation of Mother Earth herself), and the chosen backdrops for the story development are well chosen. I raced hungrily through the first half of the book as a consequence of this excellent recipe.
But in actual fact, despite the pace, the story is actually more static than this, narrated as it is by Az from a point in the future - the Angel of Death is reminiscing! It never feels past tense, though, and the action is right in your senses; which is great. The structure is actually a bit like a novella I'm writing, and it's good to see it done so well. Nice work.
And indeed, just as the Angel of Death is on the edge of despair, he finds salvation in a very personal exposure to the goodness in Man. This central part of the story quite reasonably slows down, and you can start to see the weave of the forthcoming chapters. We are moving towards the finale. And a great finale at that.
It ends in 21st Century NYC - there's nothing wrong with that! But although the second half isn't short of action, it didn't seem to quite have the pace of the first. This may be simply a function of the vast spectrum of time covered in the first half vs. the more contained period in the second, but there is something intangibly slower - but to reiterate, it is still packed with action.
And we are moving towards a fitting and cleverly constructed showdown finale, which is exactly where we want to be.
This, however, leads to my main problem (a relatively small one at that); and it is a structural one. The "finale" chapter is very long in comparison to all the others (c. 5 times I think) and this presents a problem. We have been set a tone - and a fast paced one at that - and we therefore have expectations on the key timings within each chapter. But when a chapter is then so much longer than all the others, our radar is out, and we don't know when we are expected to pause and reflect (which we'd do naturally after a chapter). Perhaps we're not meant to reflect, though that would leave us breathless.
Of course, this could be considered a somewhat pedantic observation, but I raise it because it was the only time in the book that I scanned forward to get sight of my journey. And of course - different length chapters is absolutely reasonable, but this only resonated because it was a single lengthy anomaly in a series of high octane pockets. It just stuck out.
But alas - though this is my main concern, it is still a small one. I managed to find my own breaks and enjoyed the finale very much; very cleverly constructed with lots of twists and turns (arguably one too many twists in fact!) A really interesting read, and great imagination at the end.
So, what were my favourite bits of this? Here's a list:
- The writing is very well done, and it appears to be well edited too. A solid foundation for any novel.
- The pace and the energy I have already talked about - excellent.
- The characters are well formed and individual, and Lucifer is particularly good fun; not as I would have necessarily painted him, but a great representation.
Were there any other things that I didn't like so much? Maybe just a couple:
- I may have actually been a bit tired of hearing about humanity's failings by the end. It's a central tenet of the story, and therefore entirely forgivable, but there's only so much morality bashing one can take!
- As briefly mentioned above, there may have been one too many twists and turns in the ultimate stand-off.
But another thing that was really nice in here was the subtle references to historical literary figures (and their relationship with the Angel of Death!) Some examples that are lodged in my head are: Shakespeare, Dickens, and Stephen King - but there are many others.
All in all I really enjoyed this book, and devoured it in very short order. A great read and thanks to the author.
And to continue my theme of pairing books with music, this requires a faster pace but a very grand context from a musical perspective. I have gone for Meltdown, a fabulous track by Orbital.
http://www.jhockley.com/epic-fantasy/...
May 6, 2021
Very interesting read
A sharp and clever take on biblical teachings with a good story line.Loved the fast paced nature of this book
A sharp and clever take on biblical teachings with a good story line.Loved the fast paced nature of this book
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