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Realm of Flame and Shadow #1
Redemption
This book was previously published in 2012 by Penguin US under another title and penname, but the current book Redemption has been completely reimagined, rewritten, and edited.
Can the fallen ever be redeemed?
Aurora’s mum is sick, and she’ll do anything to help her. Except she accidentally triggers the wrath of the terrifying Guardians who want her dead. Only the quick thinking of a sexy stranger saves her, but the price is high. She can never go home again.
The Archangel Gabriel’s a mercenary for hire and if the price is right, he’ll do anything. Unless a treacherous human is involved. But he can’t let Aurora be taken. Now, she’s his responsibility. Problem is, he can’t get her out of his mind.
On a mission to find a missing child, he can’t afford to be distracted. But Aurora’s touch is electrifying and the closer they get, the more he craves her. He’s pledged to keep her safe, but she doesn’t make things easy.
As danger stalks them, a devastating secret threatens more than their lives. And with time running out to rescue the child, the only way to survive might be the one thing that tears them apart forever
Can the fallen ever be redeemed?
Aurora’s mum is sick, and she’ll do anything to help her. Except she accidentally triggers the wrath of the terrifying Guardians who want her dead. Only the quick thinking of a sexy stranger saves her, but the price is high. She can never go home again.
The Archangel Gabriel’s a mercenary for hire and if the price is right, he’ll do anything. Unless a treacherous human is involved. But he can’t let Aurora be taken. Now, she’s his responsibility. Problem is, he can’t get her out of his mind.
On a mission to find a missing child, he can’t afford to be distracted. But Aurora’s touch is electrifying and the closer they get, the more he craves her. He’s pledged to keep her safe, but she doesn’t make things easy.
As danger stalks them, a devastating secret threatens more than their lives. And with time running out to rescue the child, the only way to survive might be the one thing that tears them apart forever
308 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 4, 2012
61 people are currently reading
1276 people want to read
About the author
Christina Ashcroft
1 book25 followersPseudonym of Christina Phillips
Christina Ashcroft is an ex-pat Brit who now lives in Western Australia with her high school sweetheart, their three children, an eccentric Maltese-cross and three regal cats. She can't remember a time when she didn't write, and always managed to include an element of fantasy or the paranormal in her English essay homework. Luckily her English teachers didn't mind, despite the fact these stories generally finished with the hero, heroine (or both) coming to a sticky end. Thankfully by the time she hit fourteen she discovered romance novels and the wonder of a Happily Ever After. She now writes about hot archangels and the women who capture their hearts for Penguin/Berkley Heat and her books always have a happily-ever-after.
Christina is a member of the Romance Writers of Australia, Romance Writers of America, the Dark Side Down Under group blog and the Historical Hearts blog. She is a contest judge for RWAm, RWAus and RWNZ. She was a member of the inaugural Professional Development for Authors team and has been part of the editorial team for the Romance Writers of Australia's monthly newsletter, Hearts Talk.
Christina Ashcroft is an ex-pat Brit who now lives in Western Australia with her high school sweetheart, their three children, an eccentric Maltese-cross and three regal cats. She can't remember a time when she didn't write, and always managed to include an element of fantasy or the paranormal in her English essay homework. Luckily her English teachers didn't mind, despite the fact these stories generally finished with the hero, heroine (or both) coming to a sticky end. Thankfully by the time she hit fourteen she discovered romance novels and the wonder of a Happily Ever After. She now writes about hot archangels and the women who capture their hearts for Penguin/Berkley Heat and her books always have a happily-ever-after.
Christina is a member of the Romance Writers of Australia, Romance Writers of America, the Dark Side Down Under group blog and the Historical Hearts blog. She is a contest judge for RWAm, RWAus and RWNZ. She was a member of the inaugural Professional Development for Authors team and has been part of the editorial team for the Romance Writers of Australia's monthly newsletter, Hearts Talk.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
November 8, 2016
This review will perhaps be a bit confusing because I will laugh at and love the book at the same time
It was a shock, but even with some extremely ridiculous lines I managed to absolutely love this book 
First some things about the book you need to know...
1. There are some seriously ridiculous lines in this one, especially at the beginning of the book :D I couldn't stop laughing at it, seriously
I have to admit, the more I read the writing got better (it was still funny, but not totally stupid), but then, maybe my brain got used to it and ignored it all because I just couldn't stop reading it :DDD
2. I'm a total fan of angel books, BUT I don't like it when they pick a famous one. In this case it was Gabriel. Beautiful name, but it sucks cause I couldn't get the song "Gabriel's Message" by Sting out of my head. Damn irritating :D great song though ahahahahhaha
3. The story - the beginning was a bit rough and I couldn't understand a bit of it, astral planes and dimensions and portals and stuff like that. Lucky me, it became very interesting and I just couldn't put it down
4. The mythology - well, you'll get a bit of everything in this one :D
Angels, demons, other planets and galaxies, teleportation, auras, astral planes, aliens and a bunch more :D But I didn't mind it really ahahahah some of it made me laugh, some was simply ridiculous but hey, I enjoyed reading it, what the hell, it can be a bit far-fetched :D
5. Aurora :D that girl has some sick mind I have to tell you that mwahahahahahahahahahahahahahahahaha
But she gets better later in the book :D and a big shocker, she didn't get on my nerves one bit :D I did laugh at her a lot of times though eheheheh :D I'm just terrible, I know
6. Gabe - I totally love the guy! He's an archangel and used to being worshiped, so he can't help but be shocked that Aurora doesn't grovel at his feet :DDD He's like a million years old, and it's hard to cut through some thing's he's gotten used to, but he manages somehow :D
Anyway, I laughed at him too, gosh almost everything he says is so freaking funny :D But later I just fell in love with him I guess so my brain refused to see any ridiculous lines, I just saw the swoony ones
7. It just happens that today I answered a poll about rating a book, what would make you rate it 5 stars. My answer was "Cause I love it. It's a purely emotional response"
Same goes to this book :D At first I just thought it was going to be stupid, and some parts maybe were, as were some lines, but at the end of it, I just totally loved it, no matter the writing or characters. I really enjoyed reading it and I think that's the most important part :)
8. I can't think of anything else to say so I'll give you a bit of quotes to have fun, some quotes are in the status updates if you want to take a look, below the review :D
This is the most epic line ever
"She was being turned on by an unconscious man. It was sad and also, if she thought about it, slightly depraved, but she couldn’t help it. He might be out cold, but his cock was the hottest thing she’d felt in years."
"He was breathtaking. Just as she’d always imagined a fallen angel must look like, radiating sex and sin from every pore. She wanted to bask in his radiance. What she really needed was to get a grip."
"He couldn’t recall the last time he’d seen a woman blush. They often became speechless or incoherent when he chose them, but since conversation was the last thing he was looking for when it came to a quick fuck that never bothered him.
"...and made the fatal error of looking up and catching his smoldering gaze.
For long seconds she remained captivated by the stunning beauty of his eyes. All she really wanted to do was drop to her knees, crawl across the floor and worship at his feet."
"By rights Aurora should now gasp in shock and perhaps collapse onto her knees and grovel at his feet. He’d know what to do with her then. Sweep her into his arms, comfort her and screw her senseless."
"Her lips parted in obvious shock. She was in the perfect position to take him into her mouth."
"It was obvious she had no intention of shutting up. He’d seduce her and exhaust her so thoroughly her brain would require all its power to maintain basic life functions."
"His blood thundered in his arteries, cock strained against his pants, and even though she could do with a damn good shower he couldn’t wait.
They could shower afterward."
"Only her clear exhaustion and inability to keep her eyes open for longer than a few sleepy seconds had prevented him from following through with his insatiable lust."
LOVE THIS ONE <3
“She’s under my protection.” Gabe was obviously irritated enough for the both of them, if the glare he was directing at Zad was any indication. “No one touches her.”
And this one is totally Gabe ahahahah
“Why do you defy me at every turn?” It wasn’t a threat. He sounded as if it was a revelation that not only she dared to defy him, but he’d not struck her down long ago for doing so.
And so, 5 stars for this one :D Loved every second of it, whether I was laughing at it or just loving it :D
*thanks V for doing a buddy with me :D You find the best books eheheh*
January 22, 2013
*ARC courtesy of Berkley Heat via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review*
But I got myself an e-book just so I could quote this epic lines!
The moment he fell on top of her, literally, was the moment I fell for this book!
When I started reading this I couldn't get into the story, something about astral planets, projections, blah, blah, blah....
But then something crushed Aurora! Something hard and big and even unconscious still hard and big and with the beauty of angel...
Someday I will get in my backyard, look at the sky, try to meditate and hope that somebody like Gabriel will fall on me and crush me... he can even be unconscious too....
OMG, I don't even know where to start... how to start...
this book made me laugh like crazy! I really could not believe what am I reading. First i read it to make fun of it, because come on, it's not possible not to laugh at the lines and characters, but then somewhere I got hooked and sucked in the story! And trust me this story has everything! From archangels, demons, aliens, astral projections, teleportations, galaxies, to solving case of kidnapping, to sex (the sex scenes were actually pretty pretty good, very very good, actually I would really love for him to tie me up:D), love, fight, ridiculous dialogues, clubs on other planets, lost love and in the end reincarnation of souls!
So when it comes to characters... I loved them all!!!!
Aurora:
indeed... where else?!
But the most I adored Gabriel! Ahhhh Gabe....
the effect he has on EVERY FEMALE, because if you didn't know archangels have that effect, they even can make you come with "entering" your mind:
Gabe, as an archangel, was full of himself to the highest level. He couldn't believe she, as a human, didn't fall at her kness and start kissing his feet... omg he was hilarious!
By the end of the story I was the one that wanted to "bask in his radiance"!
How could you not?!?!?!
[image error]
As i said, first you will laugh at his lines but later you will really fall for him and will be swooning all the time!!!!! This man/archangel will win your heart in a second!!!!!
So trust me ladies, you will have fun with this book! You will laugh like crazy and then you will love this egomaniac and everything that comes out of his mouth :DDD
But I got myself an e-book just so I could quote this epic lines!
The moment he fell on top of her, literally, was the moment I fell for this book!
This book was E-P-I-C-! EPIC!!!!!
When I started reading this I couldn't get into the story, something about astral planets, projections, blah, blah, blah....
But then something crushed Aurora! Something hard and big and even unconscious still hard and big and with the beauty of angel...
Someday I will get in my backyard, look at the sky, try to meditate and hope that somebody like Gabriel will fall on me and crush me... he can even be unconscious too....
"she was being turned on by unconscious man. it was sad and slightly depraved but she couldn't help it. he might be out cold but his c@ck was the hottest thing she'd felt in years"
"She was aroused, wet and had am amnesiac stranger to deal with."
OMG, I don't even know where to start... how to start...
this book made me laugh like crazy! I really could not believe what am I reading. First i read it to make fun of it, because come on, it's not possible not to laugh at the lines and characters, but then somewhere I got hooked and sucked in the story! And trust me this story has everything! From archangels, demons, aliens, astral projections, teleportations, galaxies, to solving case of kidnapping, to sex (the sex scenes were actually pretty pretty good, very very good, actually I would really love for him to tie me up:D), love, fight, ridiculous dialogues, clubs on other planets, lost love and in the end reincarnation of souls!
U-N-B-E-L-I-E-V-A-B-L-E!
So when it comes to characters... I loved them all!!!!
Aurora:
"without meaning to her glance slid to his crotch.he was still aroused as ever. SHE REALLY WAS A SAD PERVERT."
"the zipper on his jeans was undone and although she tried not to stare at his black underwear it was impossible not to.because the silky material strained over his massive erection and really WHERE ELSE COULD A GIRL LOOK BUT THERE?"
indeed... where else?!
But the most I adored Gabriel! Ahhhh Gabe....
the effect he has on EVERY FEMALE, because if you didn't know archangels have that effect, they even can make you come with "entering" your mind:
"Oh god. he was big all right.... Damp? She was more then damp. She was WET."
"... RADIATING SEX AND SIN FROM EVERY PORE. SHE WANTED TO BASK IN HIS RADIANCE."?!?!?!?!?!
"a moan vibrated.... "that's it" he growled against her lips ."don't hold back. i want to hear your screams. i want to hear how much you want me inside you."
Gabe, as an archangel, was full of himself to the highest level. He couldn't believe she, as a human, didn't fall at her kness and start kissing his feet... omg he was hilarious!
"He was used to mortals passing out in his presence. But usually they did that the second they met him, not twenty minutes later."
"Sooner or later she'd succumb to the desire in her blood and she would come to him. In the meantime he intended to find a couple of willing females and fuck their primitive brains out."
By the end of the story I was the one that wanted to "bask in his radiance"!
How could you not?!?!?!
"Arousal was flooding every cell of his body as if he'd been nanoseconds from orgasm.And despite the last few moments, he still had a hard-on massive inconvenience ("excruciating hard-on")."
"He stood over her like a conquering barbarian: naked, aroused and holding a deadly dagger"
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As i said, first you will laugh at his lines but later you will really fall for him and will be swooning all the time!!!!! This man/archangel will win your heart in a second!!!!!
"Fight all you like. You're not going anywhere.
Get off me.
You're where you belong.
I don't belong here.
You belong wherever I say you do.
You abducted me."
So trust me ladies, you will have fun with this book! You will laugh like crazy and then you will love this egomaniac and everything that comes out of his mouth :DDD
November 25, 2012
e-ARC provided by NetGalley
3 stars
Aurora Robinson is a psychic. She can open the dimension between Earth and another dimension in hope to retain her mother memories and sanity. Her mother is not human and meet Aurora's father in dream before she then decide to live in Earth. That's when she knocked out flat by a gorgeous male with blond hair and sexy body. But he act as jerk, consider him as Archangel Gabriel, Archangel of Mercy and demand Aurora worship him in his feet. I will said "in your dreams!". Alas Aurora just said it in her mind while she is pinned to Earth and her libido elevated. Can't blame her tho. I mean, if I pinned by gorgeous male, I will do the same.
Okay, back to my review. Gabriel aka Gabe, don't know why he come in Ireland, Aurora's home while he plan to go to Manhattan with his fellow Archangel, Mephisto. He try to seduce her after it, but then violet lightning come, and there some ET creature called The Guardian want to capture Aurora because she is find guilty to breach the dimension. So, Gabe bring her to his home in the middle of nowhere that turn its an island in Bermuda Triangle. Gabe is not like usual archangel in angel's story. He more like alien, because he can transport to another planet. His kind created by a goddess, one of Alpha Immortals. But he and his comrade hate his Goddess so they now life on their own.
Aurora that feel trapped in Gabe's home discovered the picture of his deceased family and recognized that Helena, Gabe's long deceased daughter worn a same necklace with her own. Is Aurora decendant of angels as well? Turn that Gabe once have a wife that is Nephilim or archangel's descendant. When the Great Flood come he lost them both, that's why he can't forgive himself. He want to love Aurora, but fear he will betrayed Eleni, his deceased wife. Beside Aurora is a mortal. Their chance to live happily ever after is small.
Beside try to not fall in love for Aurora, Gabe have a request to save a child from another planet system. A child that he recognized in horror had been abducted by Guardians. Aurora try to help him to save the children, but Gabe afraid he will endanger her more. Can Gabe save the child? Can Aurora finally succcess in breach dimension to bring back her mother's memories? And can Gabe accept his feeling to Aurora, even she just a mere mortal?
Archangel of Mercy is a case where a book with a great cover doesn't meet your expectation. I'm a cover whore and angel story ho. So, when the author said there's an e-galley of Archangel of Mercy available on NetGalley, I request it. But its so difficult for me to understand what the author try to tell me with the story. Archangel of Mercy is a mix of paranormal romance with science fiction. There are psychics, alien (yes, you hear me right!), archangel who is not your usual angelkind, not a Biblical angelic even there's nephilim and demon too. Then, a galaxy, pirates, astral plane,reincarnation, apocalypse thing (or armageddon), yada yada yada. I swear my head almost explode when read this.
I discover there a reviewer write endorsement by Laurie London, that Nalini Singh and J.R.Ward fans will love this. I'm a devoted Nalini Singh fans through her Psy-Changeling and Guild Hunter. While archangels in Archangel of Mercy like those angels in Guild Hunter which is of course not from Bible, they're so much different! And I'm still prefer Guild Hunter, because at last the angel world is written in detail and clear. I'm understand the hierarchy and their habit. Not like tha archangel of this book which still have some mysteries. As for J.R.Ward, there's so much endorsement of new book that compare it to BDB lately. I'm sorry to say, BDB still better. I would love if there's no "J.R.Ward fans will love this", etc etc on the cover or praise. Since its seems unfair to compare any new authors with Ward :(
I admit I'm also frustating since I don't have a clue about the story :|. As for the characters, I just can connect with Aurora since she have bone. Yes, she lusted after Gabe but she isn't cowering in the corner when he go alpha-jerk to her. Gabe is a jerk but also a tortured hero. That's make some of his actions understable but doesn't mean I have to like him. Another characters is interesting to read, like Gabe's fellow Archangel Zadkiel, Azrael and the enigmatic Mephisto. There's demon appearance as well. Seems like the author using so many myth to create the beginning of angels and demons, but still I hardly understand. So much world building, but the explanation just a little. The ending kinda save this book, since the author go in unusual route. As for the erotic part, I think its just at steamy level. Ms Ashcroft can write good sexual tension scenes and the actual sex is well written too.
If you like your paranormal romance with some of science fiction element (or vice versa), you will love this. As for me, sadly I just find Archangel of Mercy just okay. Maybe I can entertain myself with seeing the cover. Yes, the cover is awesome :
*sigh* :(
3 stars
Aurora Robinson is a psychic. She can open the dimension between Earth and another dimension in hope to retain her mother memories and sanity. Her mother is not human and meet Aurora's father in dream before she then decide to live in Earth. That's when she knocked out flat by a gorgeous male with blond hair and sexy body. But he act as jerk, consider him as Archangel Gabriel, Archangel of Mercy and demand Aurora worship him in his feet. I will said "in your dreams!". Alas Aurora just said it in her mind while she is pinned to Earth and her libido elevated. Can't blame her tho. I mean, if I pinned by gorgeous male, I will do the same.
Okay, back to my review. Gabriel aka Gabe, don't know why he come in Ireland, Aurora's home while he plan to go to Manhattan with his fellow Archangel, Mephisto. He try to seduce her after it, but then violet lightning come, and there some ET creature called The Guardian want to capture Aurora because she is find guilty to breach the dimension. So, Gabe bring her to his home in the middle of nowhere that turn its an island in Bermuda Triangle. Gabe is not like usual archangel in angel's story. He more like alien, because he can transport to another planet. His kind created by a goddess, one of Alpha Immortals. But he and his comrade hate his Goddess so they now life on their own.
Aurora that feel trapped in Gabe's home discovered the picture of his deceased family and recognized that Helena, Gabe's long deceased daughter worn a same necklace with her own. Is Aurora decendant of angels as well? Turn that Gabe once have a wife that is Nephilim or archangel's descendant. When the Great Flood come he lost them both, that's why he can't forgive himself. He want to love Aurora, but fear he will betrayed Eleni, his deceased wife. Beside Aurora is a mortal. Their chance to live happily ever after is small.
Beside try to not fall in love for Aurora, Gabe have a request to save a child from another planet system. A child that he recognized in horror had been abducted by Guardians. Aurora try to help him to save the children, but Gabe afraid he will endanger her more. Can Gabe save the child? Can Aurora finally succcess in breach dimension to bring back her mother's memories? And can Gabe accept his feeling to Aurora, even she just a mere mortal?
Archangel of Mercy is a case where a book with a great cover doesn't meet your expectation. I'm a cover whore and angel story ho. So, when the author said there's an e-galley of Archangel of Mercy available on NetGalley, I request it. But its so difficult for me to understand what the author try to tell me with the story. Archangel of Mercy is a mix of paranormal romance with science fiction. There are psychics, alien (yes, you hear me right!), archangel who is not your usual angelkind, not a Biblical angelic even there's nephilim and demon too. Then, a galaxy, pirates, astral plane,reincarnation, apocalypse thing (or armageddon), yada yada yada. I swear my head almost explode when read this.
I discover there a reviewer write endorsement by Laurie London, that Nalini Singh and J.R.Ward fans will love this. I'm a devoted Nalini Singh fans through her Psy-Changeling and Guild Hunter. While archangels in Archangel of Mercy like those angels in Guild Hunter which is of course not from Bible, they're so much different! And I'm still prefer Guild Hunter, because at last the angel world is written in detail and clear. I'm understand the hierarchy and their habit. Not like tha archangel of this book which still have some mysteries. As for J.R.Ward, there's so much endorsement of new book that compare it to BDB lately. I'm sorry to say, BDB still better. I would love if there's no "J.R.Ward fans will love this", etc etc on the cover or praise. Since its seems unfair to compare any new authors with Ward :(
I admit I'm also frustating since I don't have a clue about the story :|. As for the characters, I just can connect with Aurora since she have bone. Yes, she lusted after Gabe but she isn't cowering in the corner when he go alpha-jerk to her. Gabe is a jerk but also a tortured hero. That's make some of his actions understable but doesn't mean I have to like him. Another characters is interesting to read, like Gabe's fellow Archangel Zadkiel, Azrael and the enigmatic Mephisto. There's demon appearance as well. Seems like the author using so many myth to create the beginning of angels and demons, but still I hardly understand. So much world building, but the explanation just a little. The ending kinda save this book, since the author go in unusual route. As for the erotic part, I think its just at steamy level. Ms Ashcroft can write good sexual tension scenes and the actual sex is well written too.
If you like your paranormal romance with some of science fiction element (or vice versa), you will love this. As for me, sadly I just find Archangel of Mercy just okay. Maybe I can entertain myself with seeing the cover. Yes, the cover is awesome :
*sigh* :(
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 1, 2013
1st book of 2013! WOOT! And it started out with a good bang. This is ... oh boy.. 4 stars or 5 stars? I think I'll settle on 4.5 stars :0)
It was SO good. It's got the strong heroine, the alpha hero, a great plot.. angels.. demons.. smut ;) All I could ever ask for. Ooh, and a bit of heartbreak too.
I always feel bad for heroines or heroes who comes into the lives of their significant other after their SO's previous beloveds had passed away. I feel that, even they don't mean to, they are competing with dead people. How do you do that? How do you get passed that? Maybe I'm just not at that point in my life where I'm mature enough to handle that... but that's me. And he also lost a CHILD :0( EEK.
This book just really pulled me in and I couldn't wait to finish it and it was interesting from beginning to end. How the heroine was trying to fit all the pieces of the puzzle together was fascinating too. Um, alpha archangel Gabriel was just hotness personified. And the heroines past was ... mind-blowing when you figure it out. Made me happy. Great book :0)
It was SO good. It's got the strong heroine, the alpha hero, a great plot.. angels.. demons.. smut ;) All I could ever ask for. Ooh, and a bit of heartbreak too.
I always feel bad for heroines or heroes who comes into the lives of their significant other after their SO's previous beloveds had passed away. I feel that, even they don't mean to, they are competing with dead people. How do you do that? How do you get passed that? Maybe I'm just not at that point in my life where I'm mature enough to handle that... but that's me. And he also lost a CHILD :0( EEK.
This book just really pulled me in and I couldn't wait to finish it and it was interesting from beginning to end. How the heroine was trying to fit all the pieces of the puzzle together was fascinating too. Um, alpha archangel Gabriel was just hotness personified. And the heroines past was ... mind-blowing when you figure it out. Made me happy. Great book :0)
November 22, 2019
I really enjoyed this story, but let me say I am not a big reader of paranormal, but this one hit the spot with a beautiful romance, a fallen archangel who had no time for humans, but found himself saving a beautiful, strong and inquisitive human, Aurora, and did they have a very sensual and dangerous journey to a HEA for eternity.
Aurora has always known that her mother was from a different dimension and that they could communicate with telepathy, her mother is not well and Aurora is doing her best to get back to her mother’s world and try and find some answers but what she does is open up a world of demons and archangels and the very dangerous guardians who are determined to get to Aurora. When she is saved by Gabe an archangel the spark between them is so strong, it is not something she can ignore.
Archangel Gabe has been travelling the universe for many, many years now since he lost his beloved a lot has happened and he becomes a mercenary, has an island that is protected and really does not like humans but when he is suddenly thrown on top of Aurora his need to protect her from the guardians is a must but the need to have her in bed is huge, he has never felt this way since he lost his beloved, she will work her way under his skin there is such a connection.
This story is fast paced, with a lot going on, a search for the truth, such a hot steamy sensual romance and the fight Gabe has to keep Aurora safe as he is drawn closer to her, I loved Aurora what a strong feisty heroine she never gives up and Gabe alpha hero who does a lot to keep his caring and merciful side closed to everyone. There are a lot of revelations that help to bring Gabe and Aurora together in a way that will keep you turning the pages. There is a fabulous cast of characters that add so much to the story and I look forward to reading their stories, thank you MS Phillips.
Aurora has always known that her mother was from a different dimension and that they could communicate with telepathy, her mother is not well and Aurora is doing her best to get back to her mother’s world and try and find some answers but what she does is open up a world of demons and archangels and the very dangerous guardians who are determined to get to Aurora. When she is saved by Gabe an archangel the spark between them is so strong, it is not something she can ignore.
Archangel Gabe has been travelling the universe for many, many years now since he lost his beloved a lot has happened and he becomes a mercenary, has an island that is protected and really does not like humans but when he is suddenly thrown on top of Aurora his need to protect her from the guardians is a must but the need to have her in bed is huge, he has never felt this way since he lost his beloved, she will work her way under his skin there is such a connection.
This story is fast paced, with a lot going on, a search for the truth, such a hot steamy sensual romance and the fight Gabe has to keep Aurora safe as he is drawn closer to her, I loved Aurora what a strong feisty heroine she never gives up and Gabe alpha hero who does a lot to keep his caring and merciful side closed to everyone. There are a lot of revelations that help to bring Gabe and Aurora together in a way that will keep you turning the pages. There is a fabulous cast of characters that add so much to the story and I look forward to reading their stories, thank you MS Phillips.
December 2, 2019
A fallen archangel saves a woman from a deadly fate, and unleashes an ancient power that could destroy the universe itself...
Gabe has no time for humans after the way they betrayed the ones he loved so long ago. But when he snatches a woman from the jaws of the hellish Guardians, he's compelled to protect her at all costs. Even if she does drive him crazy with her smart mouth and refusal to fall under his archangelic spell.
Desperate to discover her true heritage, Aurora opens a rift between dimensions. But before she can enter her mother's world, the most breathtakingly gorgeous man she's ever met teleports her to an impossible island.
Thrown together, they can't ignore the scorching heat that risks consuming them, or the threat to Aurora's existence. When raw need evolves into something far more dangerous, it's more than their lives that are on the line.
As Gabe and Aurora race against time to outwit the Guardians, they come closer to uncovering an explosive revelation that will challenge everything they've ever believed in.
But deep in the shadows, the merciless Guardians lurk. And they have no intention of allowing Aurora to escape their clutches. Even if it means defying the wrath of an archangel.
This was a very sexy read that had me captivated from the beginning.
Such a well written plot and story line that just grabs you and doesn't let go.
Fabulous well fleshed out and sexy characters that you want to read about.
Author has done a fabulous job of creating the sizzle between the characters along with wonderful world building.
Really enjoyed reading.
Recommend reading.
I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Gabe has no time for humans after the way they betrayed the ones he loved so long ago. But when he snatches a woman from the jaws of the hellish Guardians, he's compelled to protect her at all costs. Even if she does drive him crazy with her smart mouth and refusal to fall under his archangelic spell.
Desperate to discover her true heritage, Aurora opens a rift between dimensions. But before she can enter her mother's world, the most breathtakingly gorgeous man she's ever met teleports her to an impossible island.
Thrown together, they can't ignore the scorching heat that risks consuming them, or the threat to Aurora's existence. When raw need evolves into something far more dangerous, it's more than their lives that are on the line.
As Gabe and Aurora race against time to outwit the Guardians, they come closer to uncovering an explosive revelation that will challenge everything they've ever believed in.
But deep in the shadows, the merciless Guardians lurk. And they have no intention of allowing Aurora to escape their clutches. Even if it means defying the wrath of an archangel.
This was a very sexy read that had me captivated from the beginning.
Such a well written plot and story line that just grabs you and doesn't let go.
Fabulous well fleshed out and sexy characters that you want to read about.
Author has done a fabulous job of creating the sizzle between the characters along with wonderful world building.
Really enjoyed reading.
Recommend reading.
I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
December 4, 2019
I was very very lucky to have been a proof reader for this book and I will be buying a copy I know I've got a copy and I've read it twice but I still need a official copy as it's the best way to support such a wonderful and talented author. So what can I say about Redemption ? I can say a lot but that would be giving away spoilers and i won't do that as there's would be no point in you reading it if I gave the story to you which would be a shame as you really should read this book !! However I will say this book is brilliant the story line is very good and draws you in from the start it's brilliantly written, you have a beautiful young woman and a sexy fallen Angel who feels he must protect her at all cost and it's a full on adventure from there , it is a love story but it's been written in a way that isn't tacky , there is nothing worse than a good story line that's spoilt by been made into a tacky sex book this is not one of those books far from it. It is really well written the story line is like nothing I've ever read before which really does make a nice change it's a whole new story it's not a idea I've seen in any other book and I read a lot as in 6 books a week and I've not seen anything like this book before which makes it such a fantastic story to get lost in as you will not think oh I've read something like this before !! If you like fantasy love story books with adventure in them this is the book for you and I really recommended you read it as I'm sure you will enjoy it as much as I did. I'm really looking forward to reading the next chapter in this story Go on treat yourself and lose your self in this wonderful book 😊📚
November 28, 2012
*ARC reading of this book*
In ARCHANGEL OF MERCY, Ashcroft’s unique world-building blends several familiar mythologies and draws the reader in with a creative and intriguing plot involving archangels, demons, gods, demi-gods and other extraordinary races.
Her characters are fascinating, the story line compelling, the romance scorching – don’t be surprised if you find yourself reading this book late into the night!
Paranormal romance fans could very well discover a new angel addiction in Ashcroft’s series!
In ARCHANGEL OF MERCY, Ashcroft’s unique world-building blends several familiar mythologies and draws the reader in with a creative and intriguing plot involving archangels, demons, gods, demi-gods and other extraordinary races.
Her characters are fascinating, the story line compelling, the romance scorching – don’t be surprised if you find yourself reading this book late into the night!
Paranormal romance fans could very well discover a new angel addiction in Ashcroft’s series!
December 2, 2019
Loved it!!!
November 29, 2012
Review courtesy of All Things Urban Fantasy See site review for similar titles
Long running series like Nalini Singh’s Guild Hunters and Meljean Brook’s The Guardians prove that readers are still clamoring for hot paranormal romances featuring angels. Hoping to feed the demand, Christina Ashcroft introduces a new series featuring Archangels with scorching hot romance. In ARCHANGEL OF MERCY, the hero delivers on the scorching hot promise, but may be too alpha for some readers.
There are going to be readers who are really put off by Gabe, the fallen archangel hero. He is initially very dismissive of Aurora (“I have no need to ever justify my actions to anyone. Least of all to you.”) and he has his own definition of the word ‘no’. He walks a very fine line between forced seduction and just plain force. Due to his supernatural senses, Gabe is attuned to Aurora’s involuntary physical responses, and totally dismisses her numerous and forceful protests (“Fight all you like. You’re not going anywhere.”). I get that he’s a millennial old being who has reason to disdain humans, and I get that he’s very accustomed to getting what he wants when he wants it, I even get that to him, he truly doesn’t see anything wrong with forced seduction. But for me, I’ll admit to feeling slightly uncomfortable in several places.
“Get off me.” She glared up at him, breasts heaving just inches from his chest, desire snaking through every word. “You bastard! Where the hell am I?”
Her disrespect, far from enraging him, tightened the need in his gut, heightened the throb in his temples…“You’re where you belong.” The words were little more than a growl and to reinforce her position he dragged his hand from the back of her neck, curled his fingers around the top of her tank and ripped the material in two.
Her entire body quivered beneath him and her free hand suddenly gripped his throat. It didn’t hurt. She was incapable of hurting him. But it was surprising.
“I don’t belong here.” Her fingers dug in deeper…
I like Alpha males who are controlling and cocky and even a little dangerous. I like that the kind of women who end up with them are just as strong. With Gabe, he’s an acquired taste. He pushes even my limits of acceptable alpha male behavior particularly during the hotter scenes that are told from his point of view. Keep in mind that this is from Berkley’s Heat imprint, so it is very erotic. Initially, Gabe sees Aurora as little more than a walking hole (something she rightly calls him out on), but even when he reigns in on the quasi criminal caveman behavior, the plot gets somewhat convoluted and pulls in one of my least favorite story tropes to explain Gabe’s ‘inexplicable’ attraction for Aurora.
Overall, not my favorite angel paranormal romance. It is hot, and I liked the semi Sci-fi direction they took with the angel mythology that nicely sidestepped any religious dogma, but Gabe’s behavior is challenging to accept. If you are at all sensitive to even a hint of dubious consent, you’ll probably want to skip this one. According to the author’s website, this is the first in a planned series. If I had to guess, I’ll bet Gabe’s friend Mephisto will be the hero in the next book.
Sexual Content:
Several graphic sex scenes. Including hints of forced seduction
Long running series like Nalini Singh’s Guild Hunters and Meljean Brook’s The Guardians prove that readers are still clamoring for hot paranormal romances featuring angels. Hoping to feed the demand, Christina Ashcroft introduces a new series featuring Archangels with scorching hot romance. In ARCHANGEL OF MERCY, the hero delivers on the scorching hot promise, but may be too alpha for some readers.
There are going to be readers who are really put off by Gabe, the fallen archangel hero. He is initially very dismissive of Aurora (“I have no need to ever justify my actions to anyone. Least of all to you.”) and he has his own definition of the word ‘no’. He walks a very fine line between forced seduction and just plain force. Due to his supernatural senses, Gabe is attuned to Aurora’s involuntary physical responses, and totally dismisses her numerous and forceful protests (“Fight all you like. You’re not going anywhere.”). I get that he’s a millennial old being who has reason to disdain humans, and I get that he’s very accustomed to getting what he wants when he wants it, I even get that to him, he truly doesn’t see anything wrong with forced seduction. But for me, I’ll admit to feeling slightly uncomfortable in several places.
“Get off me.” She glared up at him, breasts heaving just inches from his chest, desire snaking through every word. “You bastard! Where the hell am I?”
Her disrespect, far from enraging him, tightened the need in his gut, heightened the throb in his temples…“You’re where you belong.” The words were little more than a growl and to reinforce her position he dragged his hand from the back of her neck, curled his fingers around the top of her tank and ripped the material in two.
Her entire body quivered beneath him and her free hand suddenly gripped his throat. It didn’t hurt. She was incapable of hurting him. But it was surprising.
“I don’t belong here.” Her fingers dug in deeper…
I like Alpha males who are controlling and cocky and even a little dangerous. I like that the kind of women who end up with them are just as strong. With Gabe, he’s an acquired taste. He pushes even my limits of acceptable alpha male behavior particularly during the hotter scenes that are told from his point of view. Keep in mind that this is from Berkley’s Heat imprint, so it is very erotic. Initially, Gabe sees Aurora as little more than a walking hole (something she rightly calls him out on), but even when he reigns in on the quasi criminal caveman behavior, the plot gets somewhat convoluted and pulls in one of my least favorite story tropes to explain Gabe’s ‘inexplicable’ attraction for Aurora.
Overall, not my favorite angel paranormal romance. It is hot, and I liked the semi Sci-fi direction they took with the angel mythology that nicely sidestepped any religious dogma, but Gabe’s behavior is challenging to accept. If you are at all sensitive to even a hint of dubious consent, you’ll probably want to skip this one. According to the author’s website, this is the first in a planned series. If I had to guess, I’ll bet Gabe’s friend Mephisto will be the hero in the next book.
Sexual Content:
Several graphic sex scenes. Including hints of forced seduction
January 23, 2013
4.5 stars
Fans of Nalini Singh and maybe Gena Showalter would enjoy this.
Review to follow.
Angel of Mercy is an awesomely hot read about an angel (Gabe) who once upon had it all. Then it all cam crashing and he was alone. He was bitter and he was a jerk. Then came our lovely Aurora, who's a very smart woman based on what I gathered from the book. Her birth is a mystery (that I won't reveal here). She finds Gabe.. or did Gabe find him? hmmm.. Anyway, they embark into this insta-attraction that totally worked for me. Gabe was always sexy and Aurora was always hot and bothered! It was so funny at times!! Anyway, this book isn't really good because of just that, it's also because of the background of the story. Who would've thought that angels, demons and... *DRUMROLL PLEASE!* ALIENS can exist together. It was all surreal. I don't know whether this book is paranormal or sci-fi. By the look of things, it's probably both.
When all blew up in the end, I was soooo happy because finally! finally!!!
Honestly, I couldn't be bothered that Gabe's wings are nonexistent let alone his being in the end. It's allll good.
I just hate it that it ended without a lot of hint for their future.
Anyway, this one's good. ;)
Fans of Nalini Singh and maybe Gena Showalter would enjoy this.
Review to follow.
Angel of Mercy is an awesomely hot read about an angel (Gabe) who once upon had it all. Then it all cam crashing and he was alone. He was bitter and he was a jerk. Then came our lovely Aurora, who's a very smart woman based on what I gathered from the book. Her birth is a mystery (that I won't reveal here). She finds Gabe.. or did Gabe find him? hmmm.. Anyway, they embark into this insta-attraction that totally worked for me. Gabe was always sexy and Aurora was always hot and bothered! It was so funny at times!! Anyway, this book isn't really good because of just that, it's also because of the background of the story. Who would've thought that angels, demons and... *DRUMROLL PLEASE!* ALIENS can exist together. It was all surreal. I don't know whether this book is paranormal or sci-fi. By the look of things, it's probably both.
When all blew up in the end, I was soooo happy because finally! finally!!!
Honestly, I couldn't be bothered that Gabe's wings are nonexistent let alone his being in the end. It's allll good.
I just hate it that it ended without a lot of hint for their future.
Anyway, this one's good. ;)
December 2, 2019
This was a wonderful paranormal adventure with a woman trying to find her mother, to an archangel that doesn’t like human but is drawn to her after saving her. These two set out to find out what the guardians why they want her at any cost. This was an awesome adventure and danger and intrigue with great characters. I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
October 8, 2019
Another wonderful book from Christina Phillips. The lush world building and the feisty characters are to die for.
December 8, 2019
Another gripping read and a fascinating journey in to Christina's world of angels and alternate realities. Captivating and well written. Love, love, love Phillip's books.
added-it
March 5, 2021🎁 FREE on Amazon today (3/5/2021)! 🎁
February 25, 2013
If only this book went the whole hog, stuck with its campy brilliance and came with a pop-up diagram for the paranormal aspect. The dialogue had legendary epictude potential:
"Am I hurting you?” He ground the words between his teeth. He gave the impression he was in physical pain. “I’m going as slow as I can. Your brain is beautiful.”
Or dispensing words of wisdom you can totally quote to your children:
“With the right one.” Zad finally turned to look at him, and Gabe gritted his teeth against the fleeting desolation he glimpsed in the depths of Zad’s dark eyes. “Sex heals the soul.”
Or just plain.... Huh?
“I’d like to watch you work out."
That one came from Aurora during sex after asking Gabe if he's genetically perfect or if he goes to the gym.
I think this would have worked better as a contemporary romance, in the tradition of Wallbanger and the like. Because anytime the paranormal aspect comes up, it just loses whatever footing it has gained plot-wise amidst snorts and chuckles.
The story starts in Ireland, where Aurora Robinson is trying to reach the astral planes in the hopes of helping her mother remember her heritage, which is not of this world. Yeah, try to wrap your mind around THAT one. While trying to do this, she'd inadvertently pulled the archangel Gabriel from... Manhattan, into her backyard and from there starts what could only be described as paranormal fantasy diarrhea.
I honestly didn't want to review this because I don't know how seriously does the author want me to take this. But the attention she gave to the mythology and the creatures she had popping everywhere were so detailed that its hard to pass it on as... tongue in cheek.
You have different worlds, galaxies, planes of existence and dimensions. I stopped following what co-exists with what in a given reality because I also had to keep track of the archangels, the demons, the nephilim, aliens(!), pirates (!!), and the Guardians. Each of these beings have their own rules and alliances, which are immortal and not-so immortal, which are after the other... Halfway through the book I probably could've learned Mandarin AND play the flute with all the effort I exerted keeping track of everyone.
Oh and there's Gabe's side job as a "private investigator" to the universe. You know, just for shits and giggles.
I just wish Gabe and Aurora stuck with exchanging smoldering, mesmeric or feral gazes and banged all the way through. Never mind the countless repetitions of Aurora/Gabe's sexual longing for the other (it got really redundant early on), their dialogue was crazy funny enough that I didn't mind much that Aurora sounds like she's just discovered sex.
Gabe is just an all around alpha horndog.
I'm however, not a fan of the Eleni/Aurora ret-con. I don't take to the concept of a one true beloved for eternity. It takes away a realism that makes things in a book, yes even in a paranormal, interesting emotionally.
I'm a fan of this sub-genre and I appreciate campy humor as much as the next reader. But I like it better when it's clear if I'm laughing by myself or laughing with the writer.
"Am I hurting you?” He ground the words between his teeth. He gave the impression he was in physical pain. “I’m going as slow as I can. Your brain is beautiful.”
Or dispensing words of wisdom you can totally quote to your children:
“With the right one.” Zad finally turned to look at him, and Gabe gritted his teeth against the fleeting desolation he glimpsed in the depths of Zad’s dark eyes. “Sex heals the soul.”
Or just plain.... Huh?
“I’d like to watch you work out."
That one came from Aurora during sex after asking Gabe if he's genetically perfect or if he goes to the gym.
I think this would have worked better as a contemporary romance, in the tradition of Wallbanger and the like. Because anytime the paranormal aspect comes up, it just loses whatever footing it has gained plot-wise amidst snorts and chuckles.
The story starts in Ireland, where Aurora Robinson is trying to reach the astral planes in the hopes of helping her mother remember her heritage, which is not of this world. Yeah, try to wrap your mind around THAT one. While trying to do this, she'd inadvertently pulled the archangel Gabriel from... Manhattan, into her backyard and from there starts what could only be described as paranormal fantasy diarrhea.
I honestly didn't want to review this because I don't know how seriously does the author want me to take this. But the attention she gave to the mythology and the creatures she had popping everywhere were so detailed that its hard to pass it on as... tongue in cheek.
You have different worlds, galaxies, planes of existence and dimensions. I stopped following what co-exists with what in a given reality because I also had to keep track of the archangels, the demons, the nephilim, aliens(!), pirates (!!), and the Guardians. Each of these beings have their own rules and alliances, which are immortal and not-so immortal, which are after the other... Halfway through the book I probably could've learned Mandarin AND play the flute with all the effort I exerted keeping track of everyone.
Oh and there's Gabe's side job as a "private investigator" to the universe. You know, just for shits and giggles.
I just wish Gabe and Aurora stuck with exchanging smoldering, mesmeric or feral gazes and banged all the way through. Never mind the countless repetitions of Aurora/Gabe's sexual longing for the other (it got really redundant early on), their dialogue was crazy funny enough that I didn't mind much that Aurora sounds like she's just discovered sex.
Gabe is just an all around alpha horndog.
I'm however, not a fan of the Eleni/Aurora ret-con. I don't take to the concept of a one true beloved for eternity. It takes away a realism that makes things in a book, yes even in a paranormal, interesting emotionally.
I'm a fan of this sub-genre and I appreciate campy humor as much as the next reader. But I like it better when it's clear if I'm laughing by myself or laughing with the writer.
September 23, 2018
THIS WAS A UNIQUE STORY ON ITS OWN IN PR. I MEAN YES, WE HAVE READ ANGELS BEFORE AND FRANKLY NALINI SINGH'S WAS A BETTER RENDITION, BUT THIS CAPTIVATED ME ON ITS OWN GROUNDS.
OUR HERO is a Casanova archangel who still holds the wound of losing his lost ones, his wings and basically he's sad cause he's alone. What better way than to lose himself in women and getting intoxicated over the centuries? One day, something strange happens when he's whisked from a frisky sex club to landing atop a beautiful but infuriating human woman. One who pushes all his buttons but yet he can't forget her or remove her from his life. When he makes the rash decision to save her from the Guardians who govern the laws of the universe, he's made his bed. He cannot reason why she matters and he won't let her leave his sanctuary. Their chemistry was sexually tensed in a good way and sometimes you just want to smack Gabriel because he can be an ass. A sexy but also hurtful jerk sometimes. But if there's one good point that conquers all, he's definitely a fighter and a lover.
OUR HEROINE has been studying about the different dimensions or planes that exist beyond the current for 8 years ever since her mother broke off their telepathy connection. I'm not sure about the push that started this story but hey...whatever works after right? So, she finally gone and done it. Went into the astral plane. Yet, a very hot blooded sexy male lands right on her and begins her unlikely relationship with this hot and cold archangel. I think she was a good sport who tried to process the supernatural world that she didn't even know existed. Sure, she knows about psychic abilities or telepathy but angels, aliens and unicorns were supposed to be just fiction. It wasn't hard for her to fall hard for Gabe but she's also wary that he's super hung up on his dead love and daughter.
OVERALL there were times when i was waiting for the ball to drop. It dragged on a bit when the heroine was stuck on Gabe's island in the Bermuda...like when is the good shit gonna happen? When is Gabe going to realise her worth to him? Etc etc. Too bad there wasn't a continuation to this book. A series featuring other archangel would be nice.
OUR HERO is a Casanova archangel who still holds the wound of losing his lost ones, his wings and basically he's sad cause he's alone. What better way than to lose himself in women and getting intoxicated over the centuries? One day, something strange happens when he's whisked from a frisky sex club to landing atop a beautiful but infuriating human woman. One who pushes all his buttons but yet he can't forget her or remove her from his life. When he makes the rash decision to save her from the Guardians who govern the laws of the universe, he's made his bed. He cannot reason why she matters and he won't let her leave his sanctuary. Their chemistry was sexually tensed in a good way and sometimes you just want to smack Gabriel because he can be an ass. A sexy but also hurtful jerk sometimes. But if there's one good point that conquers all, he's definitely a fighter and a lover.
OUR HEROINE has been studying about the different dimensions or planes that exist beyond the current for 8 years ever since her mother broke off their telepathy connection. I'm not sure about the push that started this story but hey...whatever works after right? So, she finally gone and done it. Went into the astral plane. Yet, a very hot blooded sexy male lands right on her and begins her unlikely relationship with this hot and cold archangel. I think she was a good sport who tried to process the supernatural world that she didn't even know existed. Sure, she knows about psychic abilities or telepathy but angels, aliens and unicorns were supposed to be just fiction. It wasn't hard for her to fall hard for Gabe but she's also wary that he's super hung up on his dead love and daughter.
OVERALL there were times when i was waiting for the ball to drop. It dragged on a bit when the heroine was stuck on Gabe's island in the Bermuda...like when is the good shit gonna happen? When is Gabe going to realise her worth to him? Etc etc. Too bad there wasn't a continuation to this book. A series featuring other archangel would be nice.
April 4, 2017
Thoroughly loved this book and not only because I had an acknowledgement at the front of it.
Aurora Robinson is determined to step through dimensions to the one her mother came from. But colliding into her in the astral plane is the arrogant archangel Gabriel. Ancient forces go after Aurora and Gabriel grudgingly decides to protect her.
Fantastic world building and absorbing characters. Ashcroft has a wonderful style that is compelling, and let's not forget her erotic scenes.
A totally engrossing read.
Aurora Robinson is determined to step through dimensions to the one her mother came from. But colliding into her in the astral plane is the arrogant archangel Gabriel. Ancient forces go after Aurora and Gabriel grudgingly decides to protect her.
Fantastic world building and absorbing characters. Ashcroft has a wonderful style that is compelling, and let's not forget her erotic scenes.
A totally engrossing read.
January 21, 2013
Just Wow
Love Really Can Last
Forever!
Love Really Can Last
Forever!
March 13, 2021
What a wild ride!! Great world building, lots of tension and drama.
December 5, 2012
Review posted: Happily Ever After - Reads
Blog rating: C
Aurora is trying to find a way to help her mother, who’s mentally slipping away. Aurora is using her mind to try to breach dimensions when an earthquake of sorts brings her back to her physical body and tackled by one confused and pissed off archangel, Gabriel. He has no memory of how he went from a club in New York to Ireland where Aurora is, but when he sees a violet light open up near Aurora, he knows that trouble, also known as the Guardians, are looking for her and he teleports them to the only safe place he can think of, his home on a private island. What follows is an introduction to many arrogant immortals, travelling around space and dimensions that had me thinking about Star Wars, and an unlikely romance with strong ties to Gabe’s past.
At the start, I had a hard time liking any male character that was introduced on page. They all came off as frankly, asses. Within seconds of meeting Aurora, Gabe just wants sex with her, to get her out of his system and move on and he can’t understand why in the world she resists him. Him! An Archangel! Thankfully, he grew on me in a good way as the story progressed and I really got caught up in their adventures during the second half of the book. The main plot surrounds their romance, a missing girl that Gabe is working to find and trying to figure out why the Guardians want Aurora.
This couple had attraction from the start. They went from hard, rough and fast sex to dealing with feelings that were stronger than they should be after knowing each other for such a short amount of time. Archangel’s have only one beloved, ever. Gabe had his shot at love thousands of years ago and lost not only his love but his daughter. Aurora steam rolls through everything he thought he knew about what should be and he finds in her a connection to his past he never thought possible. Slight spoiler alert: I couldn’t help but think about another paranormal romance couple’s story and how closely it resembled this one. It’s unfortunate, because in no other way does this story read the same, but there’s one specific element to their romance that was hard for me to not compare to this other couples. I’ll be curious to know if anyone else catches this or finds the connection a little too similar.
As far as Gabe and Aurora as characters, I connected with Aurora much easier at the start. She’s a human with a little touch of something else, courtesy of her mother. She’s a bit of an anomaly, not even the immortals know for sure what she is. She’s mortal, but there are things she can do that don’t scream 100% human for her. Gabe, who is a very old immortal, has seen it all, done it all, and at the start just wants sex with Aurora. He grew on me. I definitely liked him more as he softened toward Aurora and started feeling more love than just raw lust. I ended up liking the man he became with Aurora in his life and after a rocky romantic start, he redeems himself.
I found the world building to be typical of a book 1, very detailed and at times confusing to follow. There is the element of the paranormal, the immortals, Gods, Goddesses, demons and such. But there’s also an added twist of their world and traveling beyond Earth, into other dimensions and galaxies. It’s a very unique set up and I think coming back into this world in book 2, it’ll be easier to jump right in and get a quicker grasp on all the details. There are also a few supporting characters introduced that have me intrigued. Gabe’s fellow archangels and one demon, all of whom have my interest in their potential stories.
The ending left me scratching my head a bit. I can’t say that the ending completely ruined the story for me, but I did lower my rating because of it, and I finished the book thinking that just doesn’t seem right, instead of thinking about their happy romantic end.
After a rocky start and a questionable ending, I felt like the bulk of the story was interesting and Aurora and Gabe pulled me into their world and romance. The world that Christina Ashcroft created felt unique and different and I do look forward to seeing where she takes this series. I just hope that the future immortal lead characters have a very different ending than Gabe did.
Blog rating: C
Aurora is trying to find a way to help her mother, who’s mentally slipping away. Aurora is using her mind to try to breach dimensions when an earthquake of sorts brings her back to her physical body and tackled by one confused and pissed off archangel, Gabriel. He has no memory of how he went from a club in New York to Ireland where Aurora is, but when he sees a violet light open up near Aurora, he knows that trouble, also known as the Guardians, are looking for her and he teleports them to the only safe place he can think of, his home on a private island. What follows is an introduction to many arrogant immortals, travelling around space and dimensions that had me thinking about Star Wars, and an unlikely romance with strong ties to Gabe’s past.
At the start, I had a hard time liking any male character that was introduced on page. They all came off as frankly, asses. Within seconds of meeting Aurora, Gabe just wants sex with her, to get her out of his system and move on and he can’t understand why in the world she resists him. Him! An Archangel! Thankfully, he grew on me in a good way as the story progressed and I really got caught up in their adventures during the second half of the book. The main plot surrounds their romance, a missing girl that Gabe is working to find and trying to figure out why the Guardians want Aurora.
This couple had attraction from the start. They went from hard, rough and fast sex to dealing with feelings that were stronger than they should be after knowing each other for such a short amount of time. Archangel’s have only one beloved, ever. Gabe had his shot at love thousands of years ago and lost not only his love but his daughter. Aurora steam rolls through everything he thought he knew about what should be and he finds in her a connection to his past he never thought possible. Slight spoiler alert: I couldn’t help but think about another paranormal romance couple’s story and how closely it resembled this one. It’s unfortunate, because in no other way does this story read the same, but there’s one specific element to their romance that was hard for me to not compare to this other couples. I’ll be curious to know if anyone else catches this or finds the connection a little too similar.
As far as Gabe and Aurora as characters, I connected with Aurora much easier at the start. She’s a human with a little touch of something else, courtesy of her mother. She’s a bit of an anomaly, not even the immortals know for sure what she is. She’s mortal, but there are things she can do that don’t scream 100% human for her. Gabe, who is a very old immortal, has seen it all, done it all, and at the start just wants sex with Aurora. He grew on me. I definitely liked him more as he softened toward Aurora and started feeling more love than just raw lust. I ended up liking the man he became with Aurora in his life and after a rocky romantic start, he redeems himself.
I found the world building to be typical of a book 1, very detailed and at times confusing to follow. There is the element of the paranormal, the immortals, Gods, Goddesses, demons and such. But there’s also an added twist of their world and traveling beyond Earth, into other dimensions and galaxies. It’s a very unique set up and I think coming back into this world in book 2, it’ll be easier to jump right in and get a quicker grasp on all the details. There are also a few supporting characters introduced that have me intrigued. Gabe’s fellow archangels and one demon, all of whom have my interest in their potential stories.
The ending left me scratching my head a bit. I can’t say that the ending completely ruined the story for me, but I did lower my rating because of it, and I finished the book thinking that just doesn’t seem right, instead of thinking about their happy romantic end.
After a rocky start and a questionable ending, I felt like the bulk of the story was interesting and Aurora and Gabe pulled me into their world and romance. The world that Christina Ashcroft created felt unique and different and I do look forward to seeing where she takes this series. I just hope that the future immortal lead characters have a very different ending than Gabe did.
August 5, 2021
This was a good read. A little mind bending, interesting, with great characters, emotions, action, twists, strength and a good ending. I would definitely like to read more and get to know some of the others better. Enjoy!
February 14, 2013
Review courtesy of Dark Faerie Tales.
Quick & Dirty: Potentially great story about an Archangel falls short of my expectations.
Opening Sentence: Aurora Robinson counted seventeen steps east of the ancient oak, three steps north, and then narrowed her eyes at the woodland that bordered her family’s property ten feet in front of her.
The Review:
Archangel of Mercy by Christina Ashcroft has a pretty hot cover. Like in most paranormal romances, Ashcroft promises heat, and lots of it. I would categorize Archangel of Mercy more as an erotica, rather than a romance, so you know there will be a lot of sexy times. Just from the first few pages, it was starting to steam up my glasses. Angel romance does that, but I’m picky. Archangel of Mercy started out great, but slowly lost my attention.
Aurora Robinson yearns to find out more about her mother’s heritage and her past. In order to do so, she opens a rift between dimensions. Consequently, she manages to bring an Archangel, Gabriel, to her as well as alert the paranormal authorities, the Guardians. As a psychic, Aurora can retain her mother’s memories through dimensional rifts. What she doesn’t expect is an out-of-this-world with Gabriel. He brings her to his private sanctum to protect her from the Guardians and herself. Together, they reluctantly discover more about each other than they have before.
Aurora is a good character, but I was concerned about how quickly she gave in. She is a woman with an undiscovered past with psychic abilities. She can open dimensions, but quickly falls for an Archangel that oozes sex. She falls into lust with Gabriel just from a single look. After a few moments (or days) of sexual lust, she thinks clearly and carries out actions that I question.
I had a love and hate relationship with Gabe. I liked his sex appeal. What romance story would be successful without a hunky leading man? But I didn’t like how he was written. Well, not all of him at least. His attitude as an Archangel left me with a feeling of disappointment. My preference of leading men do not include forceful and aggressive personalities. He calmed down his actions near the end of the story, and maybe that’s the whole point, but I could not connect with him at all.
My focus was lost several times, causing my interest to disconnect from the story. The original objective, finding out about her mom, was lost within the sex, hiding from the Guardians, finding out about Gabe’s past, and more sex. The beginning pulled me in, but it went away as Ashcroft introduced more details into the mix. I didn’t think that the reasons were explained thoroughly and I often had to go back and piece things together.
I was excited to read this paranormal romance with an archangel. I just didn’t think Archangel of Mercy was for me. I didn’t find out much about Gabe’s world, at least not fully, and I didn’t think I found out enough about Aurora’s either. I wanted more of this and less of that, but again, this is how my mind prefers things. I would give Archangel of Mercy a try, because those scenes are steamy and hot.
Notable Scene:
The necklace that had haunted her dreams for as long as she could remember. Recurring, endless dreams of rainbows and gold dust and magnificent jewel-like butterfly wings had been her nightly companion as a child. And as an adult she had sought to capture the dream, to make it a reality. To her dad’s horror she’d used a good chunk of her grandmother’s inheritance to commission the piece from one of the top London jewelers.
She’d never seen anything similar to it before. Yet here, in an angel’s treasured painting, was her beloved butterfly necklace’s twin.
It couldn’t be coincidence. There had to be a connection even if for the life of her she couldn’t imagine what.
Besides, it was a lot easier to focus on that than the mind-shattering reality that she’d been saved by an angel.
FTC Advisory: Berkley Trade/Penguin provided me with a copy of Archangel of Mercy. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.
Quick & Dirty: Potentially great story about an Archangel falls short of my expectations.
Opening Sentence: Aurora Robinson counted seventeen steps east of the ancient oak, three steps north, and then narrowed her eyes at the woodland that bordered her family’s property ten feet in front of her.
The Review:
Archangel of Mercy by Christina Ashcroft has a pretty hot cover. Like in most paranormal romances, Ashcroft promises heat, and lots of it. I would categorize Archangel of Mercy more as an erotica, rather than a romance, so you know there will be a lot of sexy times. Just from the first few pages, it was starting to steam up my glasses. Angel romance does that, but I’m picky. Archangel of Mercy started out great, but slowly lost my attention.
Aurora Robinson yearns to find out more about her mother’s heritage and her past. In order to do so, she opens a rift between dimensions. Consequently, she manages to bring an Archangel, Gabriel, to her as well as alert the paranormal authorities, the Guardians. As a psychic, Aurora can retain her mother’s memories through dimensional rifts. What she doesn’t expect is an out-of-this-world with Gabriel. He brings her to his private sanctum to protect her from the Guardians and herself. Together, they reluctantly discover more about each other than they have before.
Aurora is a good character, but I was concerned about how quickly she gave in. She is a woman with an undiscovered past with psychic abilities. She can open dimensions, but quickly falls for an Archangel that oozes sex. She falls into lust with Gabriel just from a single look. After a few moments (or days) of sexual lust, she thinks clearly and carries out actions that I question.
I had a love and hate relationship with Gabe. I liked his sex appeal. What romance story would be successful without a hunky leading man? But I didn’t like how he was written. Well, not all of him at least. His attitude as an Archangel left me with a feeling of disappointment. My preference of leading men do not include forceful and aggressive personalities. He calmed down his actions near the end of the story, and maybe that’s the whole point, but I could not connect with him at all.
My focus was lost several times, causing my interest to disconnect from the story. The original objective, finding out about her mom, was lost within the sex, hiding from the Guardians, finding out about Gabe’s past, and more sex. The beginning pulled me in, but it went away as Ashcroft introduced more details into the mix. I didn’t think that the reasons were explained thoroughly and I often had to go back and piece things together.
I was excited to read this paranormal romance with an archangel. I just didn’t think Archangel of Mercy was for me. I didn’t find out much about Gabe’s world, at least not fully, and I didn’t think I found out enough about Aurora’s either. I wanted more of this and less of that, but again, this is how my mind prefers things. I would give Archangel of Mercy a try, because those scenes are steamy and hot.
Notable Scene:
The necklace that had haunted her dreams for as long as she could remember. Recurring, endless dreams of rainbows and gold dust and magnificent jewel-like butterfly wings had been her nightly companion as a child. And as an adult she had sought to capture the dream, to make it a reality. To her dad’s horror she’d used a good chunk of her grandmother’s inheritance to commission the piece from one of the top London jewelers.
She’d never seen anything similar to it before. Yet here, in an angel’s treasured painting, was her beloved butterfly necklace’s twin.
It couldn’t be coincidence. There had to be a connection even if for the life of her she couldn’t imagine what.
Besides, it was a lot easier to focus on that than the mind-shattering reality that she’d been saved by an angel.
FTC Advisory: Berkley Trade/Penguin provided me with a copy of Archangel of Mercy. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.
October 21, 2013
Rating: 4
Heat Rating: 4 out of 5
This is a difficult review for me to write. I really liked this book but there were a ton of things that were wrong with it. I want you to understand however that I found Archangel of Mercy thoroughly engaging despite its many flaws and I think you should try it.
Let's start with Gabe. He is an extremely unlikable hero. He's a complete elitist who looks down on everybody around him. He treats our heroine Aurora like crap for a good part of the book and expects her to be thrilled with his obnoxious behavior. In spite of all these defects though I found Gabe enjoyable once we got to know the real man. I'm just sorry it took so long to reveal the gem that he truly is.
Another thing that can be considered a flaw in this book was the world-building. Talk about intricate and multilayered! I had a difficult time keeping up with all the info that this book contained. I mean, I understand needing to spend a good portion of the first book in a series on the world-building but I think that this was a bit too much. I can see readers getting lost. Nonetheless the world was fascinating and amazing. I applaud Ashcroft's creativity and imagination. She managed to combine fantasy, paranormal and sci-fi. She even managed to talk about Archangels and demons while totally sidestepping any religious complications. Very impressive.
Something else that I found off about this book was despite all detail there was practically no info about Aurora's mother's home world. That didn't make sense to me. Why put so much effort into creating one world while not even bothering to name another?
While I can forgive a lot of the screw-ups in this book there is one major omission in the story that I can't forget about. It's slightly spoilerish but it needs to be said. How the hell does Gabe have his beloved's necklace? There is just no logic in that. I simply can't comprehend how he would have it with the circumstances that the author created.
There are a couple of other bothersome things about this book, including a scene where Gabe somewhat forces himself on Aurora but I think I highlighted the major ones.
One thing that I can't find fault with in this book was the sexual tension between the protagonists. Holy hotness did they throw off sparks! Their passion was exhilarating and the scenes were absolutely delicious. Be prepared from some serious sexing!
Now I know that I've just given you a bunch of things that was messed up about this book but I honestly mean it when I say that I that I really enjoyed this novel. From the very moment Gabe fell into Aurora's lap I was riveted and engrossed in the story.
This is the first novel by Christina Ashcroft that I've read but I can guarantee that it won't be the last. If you're into dark heroes with tortured pasts and intense sexual desires that will have the pages sizzling in your hands, then I suggest you read Archangel of Mercy.
Heat Rating: 4 out of 5
This is a difficult review for me to write. I really liked this book but there were a ton of things that were wrong with it. I want you to understand however that I found Archangel of Mercy thoroughly engaging despite its many flaws and I think you should try it.
Let's start with Gabe. He is an extremely unlikable hero. He's a complete elitist who looks down on everybody around him. He treats our heroine Aurora like crap for a good part of the book and expects her to be thrilled with his obnoxious behavior. In spite of all these defects though I found Gabe enjoyable once we got to know the real man. I'm just sorry it took so long to reveal the gem that he truly is.
Another thing that can be considered a flaw in this book was the world-building. Talk about intricate and multilayered! I had a difficult time keeping up with all the info that this book contained. I mean, I understand needing to spend a good portion of the first book in a series on the world-building but I think that this was a bit too much. I can see readers getting lost. Nonetheless the world was fascinating and amazing. I applaud Ashcroft's creativity and imagination. She managed to combine fantasy, paranormal and sci-fi. She even managed to talk about Archangels and demons while totally sidestepping any religious complications. Very impressive.
Something else that I found off about this book was despite all detail there was practically no info about Aurora's mother's home world. That didn't make sense to me. Why put so much effort into creating one world while not even bothering to name another?
While I can forgive a lot of the screw-ups in this book there is one major omission in the story that I can't forget about. It's slightly spoilerish but it needs to be said. How the hell does Gabe have his beloved's necklace? There is just no logic in that. I simply can't comprehend how he would have it with the circumstances that the author created.
There are a couple of other bothersome things about this book, including a scene where Gabe somewhat forces himself on Aurora but I think I highlighted the major ones.
One thing that I can't find fault with in this book was the sexual tension between the protagonists. Holy hotness did they throw off sparks! Their passion was exhilarating and the scenes were absolutely delicious. Be prepared from some serious sexing!
Now I know that I've just given you a bunch of things that was messed up about this book but I honestly mean it when I say that I that I really enjoyed this novel. From the very moment Gabe fell into Aurora's lap I was riveted and engrossed in the story.
This is the first novel by Christina Ashcroft that I've read but I can guarantee that it won't be the last. If you're into dark heroes with tortured pasts and intense sexual desires that will have the pages sizzling in your hands, then I suggest you read Archangel of Mercy.
December 10, 2012
I loved this cover when I received the book from the publisher. I figured my love of the cover would equate to my love of the book. WRONG! I could only get myself to read 128 pages of this book and that was forcing myself to get to that point. I hated both of these characters. Gabe, the Archangel Gabriel, was the biggest ass I have ever met in a book (and I generally like the guys with the worst attitudes because they generally have the soft squishy centers). He used woman (human and otherwise) as his play things and moved on. He may have had a crap attitude before he found himself on top of Aurora Robinson in the middle of an Irish field, but he was downright unlikable with Aurora. He saw her as a lesser being and felt he could order her around like a pet. When she balked at his commands, he got even surlier (if that's even possible). His whole demeanor was a turn off...even when he was attempting to do the right thing.
Then there was Aurora. She's trying to help her mother when she finds herself with a god-like, Gabe on top of her. From the moment she meets him, she's attracted to him. She flip flops gawking over his supreme hotness and being mad at the way he treats her. He constantly belittles her and reminds her of how superior he is to her, while he holds her captive at his home. She's mad out of his sight, but as soon as he's near she's in all out lust. If all this wasn't bad enough (and believe me, Gabe was borderline abusive up to his point), there are the events at the demon club which results in Gabe forcing himself on Aurora. She's half fighting for him to get off her and half to finish the job. This was beyond annoying and disturbing. And it was at this point that I had to make the decision not to finish the book.
Gabe and Aurora may redeem themselves in the remaining pages of this story, but I cannot get myself to move on, which is unfortunate since this book has been said to appeal to the BDB (which I love).
If you enjoy angel stories with a bit of Sci-Fi mixed in, this may be for you. Unfortunately, it just wasn't one for me.
Then there was Aurora. She's trying to help her mother when she finds herself with a god-like, Gabe on top of her. From the moment she meets him, she's attracted to him. She flip flops gawking over his supreme hotness and being mad at the way he treats her. He constantly belittles her and reminds her of how superior he is to her, while he holds her captive at his home. She's mad out of his sight, but as soon as he's near she's in all out lust. If all this wasn't bad enough (and believe me, Gabe was borderline abusive up to his point), there are the events at the demon club which results in Gabe forcing himself on Aurora. She's half fighting for him to get off her and half to finish the job. This was beyond annoying and disturbing. And it was at this point that I had to make the decision not to finish the book.
Gabe and Aurora may redeem themselves in the remaining pages of this story, but I cannot get myself to move on, which is unfortunate since this book has been said to appeal to the BDB (which I love).
If you enjoy angel stories with a bit of Sci-Fi mixed in, this may be for you. Unfortunately, it just wasn't one for me.
December 14, 2012
After reading
A very big thank you to Netgalley and Berkley Heat for providing me with an ARC of this book.
As you see from the GIF below, I was really ecstatic over the approval I got plus Christina is such a nice author. I had fun tweeting with her and she actually mailed a swag to me all the way from Australia. So sweet. Now, back to what I think of the book.
Gabe has the whole package. He is the tortured Alpha hero that I didn't fall in love with at first read. He was too alpha for my taste - at first. He was so rude, dismissive of Aurora, so snobbish and I just couldn't stand his bastardness. He is the type that needs some getting used to. He is an acquired taste. To me, he is like bitter gourd. I didn't like and fancy it at first but I grew to like it as I consumed it more. Gabe is just like that.
Aurora is the heroine I love. Tough, courageous and possesses a sheer force of will. She isn't easily intimidated and daunted by anything or anyone. She has a mind of her own, doesn't shrink from speaking what she thinks and doesn't allow anyone to trample all over her.
I like the concept behind the angels mythology. It veered from the usual religious based background. It is a great touch to the whole thing. Overall, Archangel of Mercy is a story that you need to plough through and then you'll find that it is enjoyable after all as it does suffers the first-in-a-series syndrome.
Before reading
My request for this was finally approved yesterday after waiting for a month. Feels like Christmas!!!
A very big thank you to Netgalley and Berkley Heat for providing me with an ARC of this book.
As you see from the GIF below, I was really ecstatic over the approval I got plus Christina is such a nice author. I had fun tweeting with her and she actually mailed a swag to me all the way from Australia. So sweet. Now, back to what I think of the book.
Gabe has the whole package. He is the tortured Alpha hero that I didn't fall in love with at first read. He was too alpha for my taste - at first. He was so rude, dismissive of Aurora, so snobbish and I just couldn't stand his bastardness. He is the type that needs some getting used to. He is an acquired taste. To me, he is like bitter gourd. I didn't like and fancy it at first but I grew to like it as I consumed it more. Gabe is just like that.
Aurora is the heroine I love. Tough, courageous and possesses a sheer force of will. She isn't easily intimidated and daunted by anything or anyone. She has a mind of her own, doesn't shrink from speaking what she thinks and doesn't allow anyone to trample all over her.
I like the concept behind the angels mythology. It veered from the usual religious based background. It is a great touch to the whole thing. Overall, Archangel of Mercy is a story that you need to plough through and then you'll find that it is enjoyable after all as it does suffers the first-in-a-series syndrome.
Before reading
My request for this was finally approved yesterday after waiting for a month. Feels like Christmas!!!
December 24, 2013
Review for Archangel of Mercy I went to the library to pick up a few holds and I think are you sure I ordered this book? To which the librarian looks at me like I am stupid…ok point taken. When I got home I decided to check my TBR list and sure enough there it was. As I read the back of the book I keep wondering why did I want to read this again? Maybe I wanted a Guild Hunter substitute?? One thing is for sure clearly the book and I are not off to a good start!
This book sucks on so many levels. I am actually surprised I finished it. So I am going to skip the whole synopses and get to my thoughts. The writing is actually decent but characterization, world building and plot all leave something to be desired. I think it is one of those things where you build this really complex world in your mind but it just does not come across in the writing.
I am not sure exactly why but I kept losing my focus in this story. I thought the story was supposed to be about Aurora figuring out why the guardians are after her and how to connect with her mom. So many details kept getting added in which muddies the reasons behind the details as well as to the plot at hand. I had a hard time connecting with Gabe and Aurora and while I am fine with the whole lust thing being in love three days later felt extreme.
This is a series that is just not for me
This book sucks on so many levels. I am actually surprised I finished it. So I am going to skip the whole synopses and get to my thoughts. The writing is actually decent but characterization, world building and plot all leave something to be desired. I think it is one of those things where you build this really complex world in your mind but it just does not come across in the writing.
I am not sure exactly why but I kept losing my focus in this story. I thought the story was supposed to be about Aurora figuring out why the guardians are after her and how to connect with her mom. So many details kept getting added in which muddies the reasons behind the details as well as to the plot at hand. I had a hard time connecting with Gabe and Aurora and while I am fine with the whole lust thing being in love three days later felt extreme.
This is a series that is just not for me
October 16, 2019
This is the first book by Christina Phillips that I have read and what a first book to start with, i loved the take on angels and gods and the romance between the two main characters was lush. I can't wait to read about more of the characters and hope to see Aurora and Gabe a little in the next books in the series.
December 13, 2012
*Review posted on Fiction Vixen*
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