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Fire & Brimstone #1
Revelations
an alternate cover edition can be found here
Riley thought he knew what to expect from college, but he never planned for angels, demons, or a team of attractive, overprotective Guardians.
When one fateful night opens his eyes to a world he never knew existed, Riley Shepard must navigate a host of supernatural dangers, all while struggling with new and confusing feelings for his guardian angels. With the promise of friends, family, and freedom finally within his grasp, he fears not only for his heart but for his life as well.
Lucky for him, some things are worth dying for.
*** Revelations is the first book in the slow-burn M/M+ romance series, Fire & Brimstone, featuring hurt/comfort, swoon-worthy guardian angels, sexual awakening, and an unlikely hero, too innocent for his own good. Trigger warnings include: situations of homophobia (both external and internal), past child abuse, self-harm, mental health, and one instance (Prologue) of non-graphic sexual assault. ***
Riley thought he knew what to expect from college, but he never planned for angels, demons, or a team of attractive, overprotective Guardians.
When one fateful night opens his eyes to a world he never knew existed, Riley Shepard must navigate a host of supernatural dangers, all while struggling with new and confusing feelings for his guardian angels. With the promise of friends, family, and freedom finally within his grasp, he fears not only for his heart but for his life as well.
Lucky for him, some things are worth dying for.
*** Revelations is the first book in the slow-burn M/M+ romance series, Fire & Brimstone, featuring hurt/comfort, swoon-worthy guardian angels, sexual awakening, and an unlikely hero, too innocent for his own good. Trigger warnings include: situations of homophobia (both external and internal), past child abuse, self-harm, mental health, and one instance (Prologue) of non-graphic sexual assault. ***
347 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 7, 2020
426 people are currently reading
3106 people want to read
About the author
Nik Knight
30 books596 followersNik Knight (they/them) is a born and bred Hoosier living in a top-secret location in Europe. They are a single parent to two wonderful gremlins, and they write love in all its forms.
When they aren’t busy adulting, Nik can be found in their writing nook, typing away as their fingers turn to nubs.
When they aren’t busy adulting, Nik can be found in their writing nook, typing away as their fingers turn to nubs.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 352 reviews
March 4, 2024
✅ Pace
✅ Quick read
✅ Angels and Demons
✅🆗 Characters
✅🆗 Plot
✅🆗 School setting (but that's probably me being my usual picky self when it comes to school/academic setting)
❗️❗️Trigger warnings: mentions of rape and past abuse, self-punishment, character making themselves throwing up, homophobic characters and slurs
❗️❗️The prologue has very dark themes such as torture and rape, but the rest of the book is not nearly as dark.
3.5 stars
Riley has always been the odd one out. He is socially awkward, does not like physical touch or interactions in general, and is happy with simply going on with his college life and graduating. Things get much more complicated and intense for him though when he is attacked, and discovers that the mysterious guys he's seen on campus a few times are his guardian angels and that for some reason, it has been decided that Riley needed protection.
This storyline has potential, and that's the reason why I will continue with the next book. There are good ideas and I want to know what will happen next, but honestly, the plot for this first book was pretty simplistic and bland.
Riley has to deal with trauma because of his rough childhood, and honestly, at first, I was wondering if he was supposed to be a neurodivergent main character because he struggled so much with social interactions, touches, and second-degree. It is explained by his very strict foster mother brainwashing him and controlling everything he did, so I just think that he is socially awkward and clueless because of that, but while it created a different main character from what I am used to, and it portrayed him as the “damsel in distress” needing to be saved by his strong guardian angels, it got a little annoying near the end to always have to go through his inner monologues where he is anxious, does not understand what is happening, blames himself, and apologize for no reason. I am not saying that this is bad, because it’s part of who Riley is, and the author did a good job with him, I’m just saying that I am ready for Riley to move on and learn how to stand for himself and trust himself more. I need some character growth in the next book and less crying and apologizing.
Riley is 19 years old, but he acts much younger because of the way he was sheltered and mistreated by his foster mother. He knows nothing about relationships, social cues, or sexuality, besides the fact that anything sexual is gross and wrong and that he needs to punish himself if he ever feels attraction towards someone. It was a little weird at first to see a 19 y-o behave in such a juvenile and naïve way, but I got used to it. I have to say though that I am a little wary of how this is going to end up being a polyamorous MMM(M?) relationship, because for now, Riley still thinks wet dreams and erections are bad, and he has NO CLUE about social interaction basics. He does not know if and when someone is flirting with him, he does not understand most of the sexual innuendos, and if he ended up being in a relationship in the second book, it would probably gross me out to be honest, because he has so much work to do on himself before he is ready for a serious relationship.
Regarding world-building, I do like the fact that there are different castes or categories of angels in this book, and I am very curious to see more of the demons because so far we haven’t seen much of them. Jai and Noel are paired together and are tasked with Riley’s protection. They work under the command of their Prime, Gideon, the third member of their guardian unit.
The Guardians were a little immature though. What was supposed to be banter and humor often came across as teenagers bugging each other and being unable to remain serious when they should. It fits with 19 years-old characters, but not with many centuries-old angels. I mean, they keep blowing raspberries at each other? And I lost track of the number of times they all blushed for something silly or because of sexual innuendos. Even Gideon had something off about him. While he didn’t act as immature or silly as the two other guardians, he didn’t give off the “I’m a few millennia old” vibe either. He just acted like a parent trying to deal with his unruly teenagers.
That being said, at least they all have their distinctive personalities, qualities, and flaws and each has their own voice. They are not just angels #1, #2, and #3 with different physical traits. Noel is the (very) sensible and emotional one, he is sweet and soft, while his Other, Jai, is dark, direct, and often too blunt and obstinate, but he is fiercely loyal and oh-so-intense. Gideon is the calmer one, with a steady and reassuring presence that just calms everyone as soon as he walks into a room.
The other secondary character were a little cliché, there is the homophobic bully roommate, the nice and sweet girlfriend, and the superficial girl that can’t understand when a boy is not into her, so I don’t really have anything more to say about them. They were good props to help Riley move along, but they were not that fleshed out or interesting.
While this book was a quick read, the plot was not that developed or engaging to be honest. It did feel more juvenile than what I was expecting, and it’s mostly about Riley going to school and trying to figure out what he’s feeling and apologizing 3672 times a day. Still, I am curious enough to give a try to the second book.
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✅ Quick read
✅ Angels and Demons
✅🆗 Characters
✅🆗 Plot
✅🆗 School setting (but that's probably me being my usual picky self when it comes to school/academic setting)
❗️❗️Trigger warnings: mentions of rape and past abuse, self-punishment, character making themselves throwing up, homophobic characters and slurs
❗️❗️The prologue has very dark themes such as torture and rape, but the rest of the book is not nearly as dark.
3.5 stars
This was the reason I knew the doctors were right about me being crazy. Normal people didn’t see or feel things that didn’t exist. Ergo, I wasn’t normal.
Riley has always been the odd one out. He is socially awkward, does not like physical touch or interactions in general, and is happy with simply going on with his college life and graduating. Things get much more complicated and intense for him though when he is attacked, and discovers that the mysterious guys he's seen on campus a few times are his guardian angels and that for some reason, it has been decided that Riley needed protection.
This storyline has potential, and that's the reason why I will continue with the next book. There are good ideas and I want to know what will happen next, but honestly, the plot for this first book was pretty simplistic and bland.
Riley has to deal with trauma because of his rough childhood, and honestly, at first, I was wondering if he was supposed to be a neurodivergent main character because he struggled so much with social interactions, touches, and second-degree. It is explained by his very strict foster mother brainwashing him and controlling everything he did, so I just think that he is socially awkward and clueless because of that, but while it created a different main character from what I am used to, and it portrayed him as the “damsel in distress” needing to be saved by his strong guardian angels, it got a little annoying near the end to always have to go through his inner monologues where he is anxious, does not understand what is happening, blames himself, and apologize for no reason. I am not saying that this is bad, because it’s part of who Riley is, and the author did a good job with him, I’m just saying that I am ready for Riley to move on and learn how to stand for himself and trust himself more. I need some character growth in the next book and less crying and apologizing.
Riley is 19 years old, but he acts much younger because of the way he was sheltered and mistreated by his foster mother. He knows nothing about relationships, social cues, or sexuality, besides the fact that anything sexual is gross and wrong and that he needs to punish himself if he ever feels attraction towards someone. It was a little weird at first to see a 19 y-o behave in such a juvenile and naïve way, but I got used to it. I have to say though that I am a little wary of how this is going to end up being a polyamorous MMM(M?) relationship, because for now, Riley still thinks wet dreams and erections are bad, and he has NO CLUE about social interaction basics. He does not know if and when someone is flirting with him, he does not understand most of the sexual innuendos, and if he ended up being in a relationship in the second book, it would probably gross me out to be honest, because he has so much work to do on himself before he is ready for a serious relationship.
Regarding world-building, I do like the fact that there are different castes or categories of angels in this book, and I am very curious to see more of the demons because so far we haven’t seen much of them. Jai and Noel are paired together and are tasked with Riley’s protection. They work under the command of their Prime, Gideon, the third member of their guardian unit.
The Guardians were a little immature though. What was supposed to be banter and humor often came across as teenagers bugging each other and being unable to remain serious when they should. It fits with 19 years-old characters, but not with many centuries-old angels. I mean, they keep blowing raspberries at each other? And I lost track of the number of times they all blushed for something silly or because of sexual innuendos. Even Gideon had something off about him. While he didn’t act as immature or silly as the two other guardians, he didn’t give off the “I’m a few millennia old” vibe either. He just acted like a parent trying to deal with his unruly teenagers.
That being said, at least they all have their distinctive personalities, qualities, and flaws and each has their own voice. They are not just angels #1, #2, and #3 with different physical traits. Noel is the (very) sensible and emotional one, he is sweet and soft, while his Other, Jai, is dark, direct, and often too blunt and obstinate, but he is fiercely loyal and oh-so-intense. Gideon is the calmer one, with a steady and reassuring presence that just calms everyone as soon as he walks into a room.
The other secondary character were a little cliché, there is the homophobic bully roommate, the nice and sweet girlfriend, and the superficial girl that can’t understand when a boy is not into her, so I don’t really have anything more to say about them. They were good props to help Riley move along, but they were not that fleshed out or interesting.
While this book was a quick read, the plot was not that developed or engaging to be honest. It did feel more juvenile than what I was expecting, and it’s mostly about Riley going to school and trying to figure out what he’s feeling and apologizing 3672 times a day. Still, I am curious enough to give a try to the second book.
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May 5, 2022
so i don't read reverse harem but this one has me all kinds of intrigued bc gay guardian angel romance???
___________________________
okay so wow. i don't know where to start bc too many thoughts but lets do this
so Riley is a high school student who's shy and not at all out going. he has two friends, bit of a nerd, hates parties and well, you know the type. enter Noel, Jai and Gideon, his overprotective guardian angles.
while Jai and Noel were constants through the book, Gideon started popping up after the initial 20% and still rarely. this along with his mysterious past is probably why im more curious about him than the other two.
also, i have to say the last chapter in Gideons pov??? yea no you can't just end a book like that. i mean it wasn't a cliff hanger per se but it was finally when we were getting to know Gideonand a little about Riley's past but who cares about that next to Gideon aaand the book just ended.
okay so lets talk romance now. a lot of build up, a lot of sexual tension, lot of sneaky touches and not so sneaky hugs and cuddlessince they happened on every page but tbh im not complaining bc they were cute. especially Noel.
they all had a very interesting dynamic. it was obvious that Noel totally liked Riley since he displayed his affection so clearly. Jai, on the other hand, liked Riley a lot and displayed affection for him too but it wasn't as strong as Noel and he flirted with other girls. As for Gideon, he was a tough nut to crack and my favourite of all. he was honourable, kind, blushed a pretty pink and shied away from affection. it was super cute since he was supposed to be the one in charge and all.
the blushing btw was super excessive. at least two out of the four people blushed on every single page. but it wasn't done in an annoying way and so i didn't mind it as much as i think i should have.
now, going back to Gideon, um he was different. he shied away from affection and always watched from afar even though he wanted the assurance of the others being close by and totally liked Riley even though he himself couldn't see it yet.
but, even though they all liked everyone (y'know since its rh) no one made a move towards Riley or anyone else for that matter. and even though there was all this omg i think i like him, and he's so pretty, there wasn't any romance but the build up omg its super slow burn and if Noel doesn't kiss Riley in the second one im gonna die
Riley was totally whiny at times but i didn't mind it that much. maybe it was bc it brought on the overprotectiveness of the others or maybe bc the writing was super good and so i didn't really mind it. either way, it wasn't as annoying as it should've been for someone like me who hates whiny characters.
also, i loved how in the end, Riley brought out his powers and how he stood up for himself when he thought that the others had wronged him. he's been through a lot with the foster homes and Ms. Janet which made him placid, kinda submissive and like denying himself little things that he wants and that made me sad. but he had an amazing character development so that was really good to watch.
also, Ms. Janet that bitch. god the things she filled poor Riley's head with. ngl it was sad to read all that but i guess its a good thing his guardian angels are always there with him.
one of the other things that i did not like was how Riley never questioned the fact that he had guardian angels. i mean they did tell him that not all humans get one but he had three and he never really questioned it which was weird.
also, i totally have a theory about Riley's parents but im not gonna spill it yetbc i hate being wrong bc i want more evidence first
overall, i had a lot of fun while reading this one. it was hilarious and the constant bickering between the three felt really nice. i am scared for the oncoming rh part but at the same time i can't wait to read it. i'd definitely recommend this one and i can't wait for the next one.
___________________________
read #1: may 30, 2021
read #2: may 5, 2022
___________________________
okay so wow. i don't know where to start bc too many thoughts but lets do this
so Riley is a high school student who's shy and not at all out going. he has two friends, bit of a nerd, hates parties and well, you know the type. enter Noel, Jai and Gideon, his overprotective guardian angles.
while Jai and Noel were constants through the book, Gideon started popping up after the initial 20% and still rarely. this along with his mysterious past is probably why im more curious about him than the other two.
also, i have to say the last chapter in Gideons pov??? yea no you can't just end a book like that. i mean it wasn't a cliff hanger per se but it was finally when we were getting to know Gideon
okay so lets talk romance now. a lot of build up, a lot of sexual tension, lot of sneaky touches and not so sneaky hugs and cuddles
they all had a very interesting dynamic. it was obvious that Noel totally liked Riley since he displayed his affection so clearly. Jai, on the other hand, liked Riley a lot and displayed affection for him too but it wasn't as strong as Noel and he flirted with other girls. As for Gideon, he was a tough nut to crack and my favourite of all. he was honourable, kind, blushed a pretty pink and shied away from affection. it was super cute since he was supposed to be the one in charge and all.
the blushing btw was super excessive. at least two out of the four people blushed on every single page. but it wasn't done in an annoying way and so i didn't mind it as much as i think i should have.
now, going back to Gideon, um he was different. he shied away from affection and always watched from afar even though he wanted the assurance of the others being close by and totally liked Riley even though he himself couldn't see it yet.
but, even though they all liked everyone (y'know since its rh) no one made a move towards Riley or anyone else for that matter. and even though there was all this omg i think i like him, and he's so pretty, there wasn't any romance but the build up omg its super slow burn and if Noel doesn't kiss Riley in the second one im gonna die
Riley was totally whiny at times but i didn't mind it that much. maybe it was bc it brought on the overprotectiveness of the others or maybe bc the writing was super good and so i didn't really mind it. either way, it wasn't as annoying as it should've been for someone like me who hates whiny characters.
also, i loved how in the end, Riley brought out his powers and how he stood up for himself when he thought that the others had wronged him. he's been through a lot with the foster homes and Ms. Janet which made him placid, kinda submissive and like denying himself little things that he wants and that made me sad. but he had an amazing character development so that was really good to watch.
also, Ms. Janet that bitch. god the things she filled poor Riley's head with. ngl it was sad to read all that but i guess its a good thing his guardian angels are always there with him.
one of the other things that i did not like was how Riley never questioned the fact that he had guardian angels. i mean they did tell him that not all humans get one but he had three and he never really questioned it which was weird.
also, i totally have a theory about Riley's parents but im not gonna spill it yet
overall, i had a lot of fun while reading this one. it was hilarious and the constant bickering between the three felt really nice. i am scared for the oncoming rh part but at the same time i can't wait to read it. i'd definitely recommend this one and i can't wait for the next one.
___________________________
read #1: may 30, 2021
read #2: may 5, 2022
May 19, 2021
Wow!! SLOW BURN 🔥❤️🔥
Get ready for a new binge-worthy series!
OK, so maybe I’m late to the party, but I’m ready to crank it up!
I had a good excuse: This was a new-to-me author and I received an AUDIOBOOK ARC from GRR. Woot!
So, back to the party!
Guest of honor: Kirt Graves! I could not imagine a more PERFECT NARRATOR for this book!
Cocktails: Noel & Jai...two hot AF guardian angels. One packs a punch...the other is smooth and sweet. Both make me feel divine!
Appetizer: Gideon...a guardian Angel. I got to the food a bit late, but, let me tell you that I’m having a hard time moving from this heavenly spread!
The one I can’t keep my eyes off of: Riley...the ward...timid, submissive, insecure, kind—but what is it about him??? Neither I nor the guardian angels can deny him. Why?
Well, the WHY is the reason for this story & it’s something you don’t learn until almost the end—it’s worth it!
The entertainment: Watch Riley slowly, slowly, shed some of his repressed ideas of “self.” Watch his angels care for him, touch him, hold him. Watch Riley fight his inner demons. Watch them. Watch them build up heat...but don’t expect steam here.
The after party: Why, that’s book two 😉
Triggers: self harm, no sex.
My rec? Let’s party!!
Get ready for a new binge-worthy series!
OK, so maybe I’m late to the party, but I’m ready to crank it up!
I had a good excuse: This was a new-to-me author and I received an AUDIOBOOK ARC from GRR. Woot!
So, back to the party!
Guest of honor: Kirt Graves! I could not imagine a more PERFECT NARRATOR for this book!
Cocktails: Noel & Jai...two hot AF guardian angels. One packs a punch...the other is smooth and sweet. Both make me feel divine!
Appetizer: Gideon...a guardian Angel. I got to the food a bit late, but, let me tell you that I’m having a hard time moving from this heavenly spread!
The one I can’t keep my eyes off of: Riley...the ward...timid, submissive, insecure, kind—but what is it about him??? Neither I nor the guardian angels can deny him. Why?
Well, the WHY is the reason for this story & it’s something you don’t learn until almost the end—it’s worth it!
The entertainment: Watch Riley slowly, slowly, shed some of his repressed ideas of “self.” Watch his angels care for him, touch him, hold him. Watch Riley fight his inner demons. Watch them. Watch them build up heat...but don’t expect steam here.
The after party: Why, that’s book two 😉
Triggers: self harm, no sex.
My rec? Let’s party!!
May 9, 2020
Let me start with this. Jex Lane is the worst of the worst, an absolute torturer of book lovers everywhere. I have been waiting for more books from The Broken Prince series since the day the last book came out, I have waited so long I have grey hair now. No joke, I literally just saw one. Though shes the worst, her FB group are full of angels because I have seen a couple of recommendations and they've all been exceptional.
I enjoyed this book. Not a lot happens if I'm honest but I love the MC, Riley. Seeing him break through years of indoctrination ( I say this after reading book 2 as well) made me sappy. I was so happy. The romance in this book is nonexistent but you could read his lust for his angels and while they refused to admit theirs you could tell it was there.
I've read book 2 and cant wait for book 3. I need to know what Riley is.
I enjoyed this book. Not a lot happens if I'm honest but I love the MC, Riley. Seeing him break through years of indoctrination ( I say this after reading book 2 as well) made me sappy. I was so happy. The romance in this book is nonexistent but you could read his lust for his angels and while they refused to admit theirs you could tell it was there.
I've read book 2 and cant wait for book 3. I need to know what Riley is.
February 9, 2022
2nd Read
Increasing rating to 5 Stars , even better on the 2nd read.
God, I forgot how emotionally draining the main character is, and I don't mean that negatively. It's just, Nikole Knight does an excellent job at portraying a damaged and vulnerable individual. Someone who has been beaten down so much so he has Stockholm syndrome, insecurities, no self-knowledge or acceptance. Top it off with anxiety and being socially awkward. And you have a character that makes you want to scream at to get a backbone, fight back, something for heaven's sake instead of being paralyzed while he is being manipulated, used, and abused from all sides. And other times you just want to take him away and bundle him from the real world and accept he will never be strong enough.
All in all, it's a terrifying thought, to be paralyzed by your anxiety and incapable of saying no or standing up for yourself. And, let me tell you, that comes through clearly in Knight's writing. Scary well. There is also a perfect tear-jerker scene that is truly epic. I'm a girl who loves a book that can make me weep, it's been too long since I've had a good cry as I commiserate with a character in a book. So well done, highly recommend this series for fans of paranormal series with angel-demon themes and well-developed characters that will pull at all your heartstrings.
*4.5 Stars*
Review for entire series! Minor spoilers ahead
This has been one entertaining series.
It has all the goodies of a paranormal tale. Angels vs Fallen. Demons. The ordinary timid boy has a large destiny and birthright. The men who fall in love with him. Who heal him and teach him about self-worth and family. Forbidden love. A great battle. And a swoon-worthy HEA. *happy sigh*
I have to say MMM/harem relationships have been growing on me. This one especially with the slow burn, the jealousy, the adjustment felt very realistic. Their love and their commitment to one another doesn't come easy and expect the first two books to be low-steam but I promise it will eventually burn your kindle down. The wait was not as torturous as I expect and I'm not a fan of slow burn that spans books, but there is such intimacy and UST that I barely noticed the wait.
There is also a lot of inclusivity sexual orientation wise. ACE, Bi, Gay, Demi ^_^
Riley the main protagonist is one lovable creature. So hurt, innocent, vulnerable, abused, bullied, sexually-repressed, selfless. Never knowing intimacy, affection or tenderness. He flourishes beautifully throughout the story, healing one piece at a time.
His men, well I will just say H.O.T. The discovery is to much fun for me to ruin it.
It's not all dark and pain. It's so balanced. And when Nikole Knight drops some humor it's unbearably hilarious. Those moments took me by surprise, laughing until tears rolled down my face. Utterly brilliant.
This has been a very lovely series. Very addictive. I was pretty much reading during every single spare moment and discarding sleep.
Highly recommend for lovers of paranormal & fantasy.
Increasing rating to 5 Stars , even better on the 2nd read.
God, I forgot how emotionally draining the main character is, and I don't mean that negatively. It's just, Nikole Knight does an excellent job at portraying a damaged and vulnerable individual. Someone who has been beaten down so much so he has Stockholm syndrome, insecurities, no self-knowledge or acceptance. Top it off with anxiety and being socially awkward. And you have a character that makes you want to scream at to get a backbone, fight back, something for heaven's sake instead of being paralyzed while he is being manipulated, used, and abused from all sides. And other times you just want to take him away and bundle him from the real world and accept he will never be strong enough.
All in all, it's a terrifying thought, to be paralyzed by your anxiety and incapable of saying no or standing up for yourself. And, let me tell you, that comes through clearly in Knight's writing. Scary well. There is also a perfect tear-jerker scene that is truly epic. I'm a girl who loves a book that can make me weep, it's been too long since I've had a good cry as I commiserate with a character in a book. So well done, highly recommend this series for fans of paranormal series with angel-demon themes and well-developed characters that will pull at all your heartstrings.
*4.5 Stars*
Review for entire series! Minor spoilers ahead
This has been one entertaining series.
It has all the goodies of a paranormal tale. Angels vs Fallen. Demons. The ordinary timid boy has a large destiny and birthright. The men who fall in love with him. Who heal him and teach him about self-worth and family. Forbidden love. A great battle. And a swoon-worthy HEA. *happy sigh*
I have to say MMM/harem relationships have been growing on me. This one especially with the slow burn, the jealousy, the adjustment felt very realistic. Their love and their commitment to one another doesn't come easy and expect the first two books to be low-steam but I promise it will eventually burn your kindle down. The wait was not as torturous as I expect and I'm not a fan of slow burn that spans books, but there is such intimacy and UST that I barely noticed the wait.
There is also a lot of inclusivity sexual orientation wise. ACE, Bi, Gay, Demi ^_^
Riley the main protagonist is one lovable creature. So hurt, innocent, vulnerable, abused, bullied, sexually-repressed, selfless. Never knowing intimacy, affection or tenderness. He flourishes beautifully throughout the story, healing one piece at a time.
His men, well I will just say H.O.T. The discovery is to much fun for me to ruin it.
It's not all dark and pain. It's so balanced. And when Nikole Knight drops some humor it's unbearably hilarious. Those moments took me by surprise, laughing until tears rolled down my face. Utterly brilliant.
This has been a very lovely series. Very addictive. I was pretty much reading during every single spare moment and discarding sleep.
Highly recommend for lovers of paranormal & fantasy.
August 20, 2025
Safety info, content warnings and tropes down below.
It's been a long time since I was this hooked reading an ebook. I didn't even want to/feel the need to check my phone every two pages like I often do. I just wanted to continue reading. It fully captured my attention from the start and held it until the very end. The only reason I'm writing this review so quickly is so that I can start book 2 as soon as possible.
Riley is the sweetest, most broken character I've probably ever had the pleasure of reading. You see the cracks early, but the depth of trauma takes a while to reveal itself, and when it did, my heart just broke for him (and I cried, like a lot). It was so nice to see him start to trust friendships and to accept the physical touch and comfort he's needed for so long.
I'm not sure if Noel or Gideon is my favorite love interest yet -- they're both pretty great. I think Gideon has a special place in my heart already tho. A 'broken', gentle giant is hard to resist. The descriptions of his juicy, cuddly pecs doesn't hurt.
Noel feels like a super sensitive soul and he's a sweetheart. Jai is... a frat bro/dudebro cocky guardian angel. The result of which is a slightly unfortunate personality, but also mixed with a fierce protectiveness. He is clearly not stoked or super clear on what the actual hell he's feeling so protective for tho. He's a bit of a brute.
I'm so excited to continue this series.
Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & content tags ⚠️
Hurt/comfort
Paranormal
Past trauma
Slow burn
Eventual poly
Guardian angels
College freshman
Touch aversion
Tongue piercing
Bit of an age gap
Cuddly angels
Overarching mystery plot
⚠️ Content warning ⚠️
Non-explicit rape of unnamed character (prologue)
On-page torture of unnamed character
Graphic violence
Homophobic slurs
Heavy religious trauma
MC bullied by homophobic roommate
Mentions and details of past psychiatric hospitalization
Prescription drug use (anxiety meds)
PTSD symptoms
Anxiety attacks
On-page verbal, psychological and emotional abuse by MC's foster parent
Detailed past physical abuse by foster parent (flashbacks)
MC coerced and guilted into making out with SC
Alcohol consumption (SCs, on-page intoxication)
Non-consensual encounter between MC and SC -- kissing and groping (MC freezing, unable to say yes or no)
Harry Potter reference (mudblood)
MC and love interests injured on page
Vomiting
Bad guy beheaded on page
Internalized homophobia (MC)
MC purging (vomiting) as 'penance' for perceived sinning
On-page self harm (freezing water, forced vomiting)
Intense feelings of shame related to sexuality and bodily reactions
Brief mention of past attempted sexual assault of MC as a child
Injured MCs
Emotional and psychological impact of MC being abandoned as a child
⚠️Book safety ⚠️
Cheating: No
Other person drama: Some mild jealousy, but there is only friendship between the MCs at this point. Riley doesn't even realize it's jealousy he's feeling.
Breakup: No
POV: 1st person, single (3rd in prologue and epilogue, from other characters)
Genre: Paranormal romance
Pairing: Eventual MMMM (I think)
Strict roles or versatile: N/A
Main characters’ age: 19 and several centuries
Series: Series
Kindle Unlimited: Yes
Pages: 336
Happy ending: No
“Nothing and no one is perfect. We’re all battered and bent, worn around the edges. We have scars, but I like to think they tell a story of strength, not brokenness.”
With an unceremonious kick, Jai effectively shoved Noel off the bed, and before I understood what was happening, I was being hauled horizontal. My brain spun at the sudden upheaval of gravity and motion. As I gathered my bearings, firm arms slipped around my narrow waist, and I froze as Jai snuggled into my back. Barely a second passed before Noel scrambled back onto the bed, whining like a forgotten puppy. “Stop manhandling him. You’re gonna give him a heart attack.” It was rather chaotic, and I kept my body stiff and motionless as I was pushed and prodded this way and that. When the jostling ceased, Noel had somehow wriggled himself into a space I didn’t think he could fit, and I was trapped between two overly warm bodies.
“Looking like what?” The starbursts around his pupils glimmered with humor. When I didn’t reply, he cupped my chin, holding me hostage with his sparkling gaze. “Tell me, Riley.” His melodic voice took on a silky croon, and my brain glitched.
These texts may have been inspired by Holiness, but mankind has always had a knack for misinterpretation.
They let me fall into their trap of affection and empty promises. I reveled in their ideas of family, but I didn’t think family was supposed to hurt like this.
You can find most of my reviews on Instagram as well: https://www.instagram.com/booksafety?...
It's been a long time since I was this hooked reading an ebook. I didn't even want to/feel the need to check my phone every two pages like I often do. I just wanted to continue reading. It fully captured my attention from the start and held it until the very end. The only reason I'm writing this review so quickly is so that I can start book 2 as soon as possible.
Riley is the sweetest, most broken character I've probably ever had the pleasure of reading. You see the cracks early, but the depth of trauma takes a while to reveal itself, and when it did, my heart just broke for him (and I cried, like a lot). It was so nice to see him start to trust friendships and to accept the physical touch and comfort he's needed for so long.
I'm not sure if Noel or Gideon is my favorite love interest yet -- they're both pretty great. I think Gideon has a special place in my heart already tho. A 'broken', gentle giant is hard to resist. The descriptions of his juicy, cuddly pecs doesn't hurt.
Noel feels like a super sensitive soul and he's a sweetheart. Jai is... a frat bro/dudebro cocky guardian angel. The result of which is a slightly unfortunate personality, but also mixed with a fierce protectiveness. He is clearly not stoked or super clear on what the actual hell he's feeling so protective for tho. He's a bit of a brute.
I'm so excited to continue this series.
Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & content tags ⚠️
Hurt/comfort
Paranormal
Past trauma
Slow burn
Eventual poly
Guardian angels
College freshman
Touch aversion
Tongue piercing
Bit of an age gap
Cuddly angels
Overarching mystery plot
⚠️ Content warning ⚠️
Non-explicit rape of unnamed character (prologue)
On-page torture of unnamed character
Graphic violence
Homophobic slurs
Heavy religious trauma
MC bullied by homophobic roommate
Mentions and details of past psychiatric hospitalization
Prescription drug use (anxiety meds)
PTSD symptoms
Anxiety attacks
On-page verbal, psychological and emotional abuse by MC's foster parent
Detailed past physical abuse by foster parent (flashbacks)
MC coerced and guilted into making out with SC
Alcohol consumption (SCs, on-page intoxication)
Non-consensual encounter between MC and SC -- kissing and groping (MC freezing, unable to say yes or no)
Harry Potter reference (mudblood)
MC and love interests injured on page
Vomiting
Bad guy beheaded on page
Internalized homophobia (MC)
MC purging (vomiting) as 'penance' for perceived sinning
On-page self harm (freezing water, forced vomiting)
Intense feelings of shame related to sexuality and bodily reactions
Brief mention of past attempted sexual assault of MC as a child
Injured MCs
Emotional and psychological impact of MC being abandoned as a child
⚠️Book safety ⚠️
Cheating: No
Other person drama: Some mild jealousy, but there is only friendship between the MCs at this point. Riley doesn't even realize it's jealousy he's feeling.
Breakup: No
POV: 1st person, single (3rd in prologue and epilogue, from other characters)
Genre: Paranormal romance
Pairing: Eventual MMMM (I think)
Strict roles or versatile: N/A
Main characters’ age: 19 and several centuries
Series: Series
Kindle Unlimited: Yes
Pages: 336
Happy ending: No
“Nothing and no one is perfect. We’re all battered and bent, worn around the edges. We have scars, but I like to think they tell a story of strength, not brokenness.”
With an unceremonious kick, Jai effectively shoved Noel off the bed, and before I understood what was happening, I was being hauled horizontal. My brain spun at the sudden upheaval of gravity and motion. As I gathered my bearings, firm arms slipped around my narrow waist, and I froze as Jai snuggled into my back. Barely a second passed before Noel scrambled back onto the bed, whining like a forgotten puppy. “Stop manhandling him. You’re gonna give him a heart attack.” It was rather chaotic, and I kept my body stiff and motionless as I was pushed and prodded this way and that. When the jostling ceased, Noel had somehow wriggled himself into a space I didn’t think he could fit, and I was trapped between two overly warm bodies.
“Looking like what?” The starbursts around his pupils glimmered with humor. When I didn’t reply, he cupped my chin, holding me hostage with his sparkling gaze. “Tell me, Riley.” His melodic voice took on a silky croon, and my brain glitched.
These texts may have been inspired by Holiness, but mankind has always had a knack for misinterpretation.
They let me fall into their trap of affection and empty promises. I reveled in their ideas of family, but I didn’t think family was supposed to hurt like this.
You can find most of my reviews on Instagram as well: https://www.instagram.com/booksafety?...
May 17, 2023
VERY slow slowburn romance, set up in a VERY well built up UF universe full of angels, demons and nephilim
If you’re looking for a romance in a standalone book: move on, this book isn’t for you.
What it is, is a very well set up first book of an urban fantasy series, that will (probably) have a MMMM thing going on.
It’s told mainly from Riley’s pov. Riley is 19, but he acts much younger - he’s been in foster care for almost all of his life, and seeing as he had “imaginary friends” as a child, he’s seen his share of hospitals, too. On top of that, his latest foster mother, Miss Janet, fucked him up badly: every time he behaves “unseemly”, he was forced to do penance afterwards, a habit so ingrained by now that he does it voluntarily, even for simply transgressions like hanging out with friends.
Honestly, I’ve rarely hated a side character more. Well maybe except for Riley’s roommate, who’s a homophobic pos.
Are they a bit cliché? Yes, they are. But really, I didn’t expect high literature here, so I didn’t mind. On top of that, their narrated voices were done SO well, that I guess the slightly one-dimensional image you got from “mere” reading was topped off with images of similar characters I’ve seen in movies or books.
That brings me to THE NARRATION.
It’s Kirt. Kirt Graves. I know some of you will forever associate him with the Green Creek books and avoid him because he’s been so exceptionally good there (looking at you, Kati 😅), but really. You’re missing out if you’re not listening to him. Riley’s voice is so perfect, sounding young, slightly insecure, but with so much goodness- you can’t help but ache and root for him. And when he starts standing up to his bullies, it’s a sight to behold. Same goes for the voices Kirt gave to Riley’s guardians (the future MMM to Riley’s M): I knew instantly who’s talking, without keeping track on a conversation.
Speaking of guardians: as you might guess, we’re talking about angels - Noel, the light one. Jai, his dark “other”. And Gideon, their boss (for the lack of a better term). Each well fleshed out by the author, and each brought to life in my head by Kirt.
Not wanting to spoil anything: it’s more YA than I usually go for, but gripping and well written. Thank you Jazer for recommending it, looking forward to the following books!
If you’re looking for a romance in a standalone book: move on, this book isn’t for you.
What it is, is a very well set up first book of an urban fantasy series, that will (probably) have a MMMM thing going on.
It’s told mainly from Riley’s pov. Riley is 19, but he acts much younger - he’s been in foster care for almost all of his life, and seeing as he had “imaginary friends” as a child, he’s seen his share of hospitals, too. On top of that, his latest foster mother, Miss Janet, fucked him up badly: every time he behaves “unseemly”, he was forced to do penance afterwards, a habit so ingrained by now that he does it voluntarily, even for simply transgressions like hanging out with friends.
Honestly, I’ve rarely hated a side character more. Well maybe except for Riley’s roommate, who’s a homophobic pos.
Are they a bit cliché? Yes, they are. But really, I didn’t expect high literature here, so I didn’t mind. On top of that, their narrated voices were done SO well, that I guess the slightly one-dimensional image you got from “mere” reading was topped off with images of similar characters I’ve seen in movies or books.
That brings me to THE NARRATION.
It’s Kirt. Kirt Graves. I know some of you will forever associate him with the Green Creek books and avoid him because he’s been so exceptionally good there (looking at you, Kati 😅), but really. You’re missing out if you’re not listening to him. Riley’s voice is so perfect, sounding young, slightly insecure, but with so much goodness- you can’t help but ache and root for him. And when he starts standing up to his bullies, it’s a sight to behold. Same goes for the voices Kirt gave to Riley’s guardians (the future MMM to Riley’s M): I knew instantly who’s talking, without keeping track on a conversation.
Speaking of guardians: as you might guess, we’re talking about angels - Noel, the light one. Jai, his dark “other”. And Gideon, their boss (for the lack of a better term). Each well fleshed out by the author, and each brought to life in my head by Kirt.
Not wanting to spoil anything: it’s more YA than I usually go for, but gripping and well written. Thank you Jazer for recommending it, looking forward to the following books!
October 3, 2020
The affection they offered rained over me like fresh water after a drought, and my starved heart drank it up, perfectly content to drown.
...........
Wowwwww. This book is so much more than I expected. My preconceived notions were no where near how good and beautiful this gem could deliver at its finest. It's so elegantly written. It made me fall harder and further into the depth of its beauty.
THIS AUTHOR IS UNDENYINGLY TALENTED AND NEVER A DULL MOMENT FOUND IN AN INCH OF THIS TREASURE.
...........
Wowwwww. This book is so much more than I expected. My preconceived notions were no where near how good and beautiful this gem could deliver at its finest. It's so elegantly written. It made me fall harder and further into the depth of its beauty.
THIS AUTHOR IS UNDENYINGLY TALENTED AND NEVER A DULL MOMENT FOUND IN AN INCH OF THIS TREASURE.
August 11, 2020
2.5 Stars
You guys, the Purity Stu is strong in this one. If this particular trope makes you book rage harder than the other Sue/Stus, then i suggest you run fast and far while you can. I get where the author is trying to take us, i very much get that the MC is being presented as someone highly shletered and perhaps even emotionally stunted. That said, just because i get it doesn't mean i liked it.
There is a distinct difference between childlike and childish, and sad to say, the MC is very much the latter for me. I understand that this is a journey of growth for the character, from how he was likely weak and how he found his strength. Truthfully, i never went into this book expecting a character with admirable willpower nor tenacity; i wasn't asking for backbone of steel or even wood. All i was asking for was a hint of a vertebrae or a foundation for which the strength can be built or even demonstrated. No luck. Being a pushover is the least of his flaws, at 36% in he has cried in virtually every other scene he was in (9 and counting). At 80% in, i was almost certain his manifested superpower was gonna be apologizing. Truly, if i were his guardian angels, i would have been most concerned about his hydration and not his safety from demons. I for real and swear on my most holy stack of TBR books that i can't remember the last time i'd met a character who cried and apologised so much. Obviously suffering doesn't build character in this case, crying and apologizing does.
Characters are important in polyamorous relationships, and in the hands of a less skilled writer, the partners can actually blend into one another with no distinguishing trait or feature except for their coloring. This i'm glad to note, wasn't the case-the 3 leads were each different enough with their own flaws and their own character that we never get the sense that they were interchangeable. Did 2 of them perhaps lack a little maturity and behave not as centuries old beings should, yes. But it's not that big of a deterrent. (Or it could be, i was just so desensitized by all the MC's crying and apologizing that regression of maturity by a few centuries is unremarkable by comparison.)
That said, i quite appreciated the world building. Very often in book featuring angels, we get just that one type, here we have different castes of angels with different duties and i very much look forward to exploring more about the underworld side too and if they are just as layered. The slowburn aspect, i didn't really have too much of an issue with. There is nothing quite so gratifying as seeing people slowly and gradually come together, the tension and potential payoff is something i relish. It remains to be seen if there will be unnecessary angst involved.
Despite the problems i had with the MC and the fact that character growth was minimal, i think there is potential in this series and i will at least give it another book or two before deciding if i will follow through with their journey.
I will ,however, caution myself against making a drinking game of the second book, i have no great hopes the great waterworks and apologizing tour will stop anytime soon.
You guys, the Purity Stu is strong in this one. If this particular trope makes you book rage harder than the other Sue/Stus, then i suggest you run fast and far while you can. I get where the author is trying to take us, i very much get that the MC is being presented as someone highly shletered and perhaps even emotionally stunted. That said, just because i get it doesn't mean i liked it.
There is a distinct difference between childlike and childish, and sad to say, the MC is very much the latter for me. I understand that this is a journey of growth for the character, from how he was likely weak and how he found his strength. Truthfully, i never went into this book expecting a character with admirable willpower nor tenacity; i wasn't asking for backbone of steel or even wood. All i was asking for was a hint of a vertebrae or a foundation for which the strength can be built or even demonstrated. No luck. Being a pushover is the least of his flaws, at 36% in he has cried in virtually every other scene he was in (9 and counting). At 80% in, i was almost certain his manifested superpower was gonna be apologizing. Truly, if i were his guardian angels, i would have been most concerned about his hydration and not his safety from demons. I for real and swear on my most holy stack of TBR books that i can't remember the last time i'd met a character who cried and apologised so much. Obviously suffering doesn't build character in this case, crying and apologizing does.
Characters are important in polyamorous relationships, and in the hands of a less skilled writer, the partners can actually blend into one another with no distinguishing trait or feature except for their coloring. This i'm glad to note, wasn't the case-the 3 leads were each different enough with their own flaws and their own character that we never get the sense that they were interchangeable. Did 2 of them perhaps lack a little maturity and behave not as centuries old beings should, yes. But it's not that big of a deterrent. (Or it could be, i was just so desensitized by all the MC's crying and apologizing that regression of maturity by a few centuries is unremarkable by comparison.)
That said, i quite appreciated the world building. Very often in book featuring angels, we get just that one type, here we have different castes of angels with different duties and i very much look forward to exploring more about the underworld side too and if they are just as layered. The slowburn aspect, i didn't really have too much of an issue with. There is nothing quite so gratifying as seeing people slowly and gradually come together, the tension and potential payoff is something i relish. It remains to be seen if there will be unnecessary angst involved.
Despite the problems i had with the MC and the fact that character growth was minimal, i think there is potential in this series and i will at least give it another book or two before deciding if i will follow through with their journey.
I will ,however, caution myself against making a drinking game of the second book, i have no great hopes the great waterworks and apologizing tour will stop anytime soon.
November 26, 2025
5⭐️ Really great world-building and action. I was pulled into the story right away and stayed hooked the whole time. The author’s storytelling style really works for me—information is revealed slowly and deliberately, which keeps the tension high.
It’s a bit dark and gritty with the religious overtones, which makes me uncomfortable but I can tell that’s intentional.
I wasn’t sure how I’d feel about the poly relationship dynamic, but so far it’s all very innocent. Riley and his guardian angels feel like a found family, and I’m excited to see how their familial bond evolves into a romantic connection.
Audiobook narration is good!
It’s a bit dark and gritty with the religious overtones, which makes me uncomfortable but I can tell that’s intentional.
I wasn’t sure how I’d feel about the poly relationship dynamic, but so far it’s all very innocent. Riley and his guardian angels feel like a found family, and I’m excited to see how their familial bond evolves into a romantic connection.
Audiobook narration is good!
March 14, 2020
I heard great things about this book so decided to read it. I’m glad I got it on my KU. I was so bored with this. It was slow and drawn out. 2 quick fights and that’s about it. Mostly it was Riley being a baby. He was literally carried around like a baby a few times. It was a painful read overall.
May 27, 2021
3.5
It's one of those books I find difficult to rate. I really had to push myself through the first chapters and was several times near the point of DNF and it was all because of Riley. His childhood was a nightmare of repression, rejection, abuse and religious conditioning, even a stint at a clinic for mental illness was included. No wonder he's insecure, timid, submissive and socially awkward but his past is revealed only slowly, so at first he appears like a kind but pitiful doormat. It took a lot to read the situations Ms. Knight was putting him through and it didn't help much that his tormentors like Brian or Kayla were only 1 step away from caricatures. That's just not what I want to read but once his guardian angels are coming into play the mood changes. There's still Riley's self harm, his naivety and some cringe-worthy situations but we get more explanations about his past and what's more: the characters of the angels add the much needed balance. Jai and Noel are not what you expect as guardian angels, bickering like an old couple and acting like fresh out of a frat but they are exactly what Riley is needing and adding Gideon as the quintessential big brother turned dad to the mix, Riley finally is getting a family and becomes opens for human friendship.
But while his angels are not the silent, distant kind of guardians, they are still beautiful creatures, powerful, caring and devoted, so no wonder there is first a hero worship which slowly turn into attraction but it's a long way either side is accepting that attraction and it doesn't even happen in the first book, which is perfectly understandable given Riley's background.
So, with a different beginning I would have gladly upgraded into 4 and I admit that I already started book 2 and couldn't stop reading.
It's one of those books I find difficult to rate. I really had to push myself through the first chapters and was several times near the point of DNF and it was all because of Riley. His childhood was a nightmare of repression, rejection, abuse and religious conditioning, even a stint at a clinic for mental illness was included. No wonder he's insecure, timid, submissive and socially awkward but his past is revealed only slowly, so at first he appears like a kind but pitiful doormat. It took a lot to read the situations Ms. Knight was putting him through and it didn't help much that his tormentors like Brian or Kayla were only 1 step away from caricatures. That's just not what I want to read but once his guardian angels are coming into play the mood changes. There's still Riley's self harm, his naivety and some cringe-worthy situations but we get more explanations about his past and what's more: the characters of the angels add the much needed balance. Jai and Noel are not what you expect as guardian angels, bickering like an old couple and acting like fresh out of a frat but they are exactly what Riley is needing and adding Gideon as the quintessential big brother turned dad to the mix, Riley finally is getting a family and becomes opens for human friendship.
But while his angels are not the silent, distant kind of guardians, they are still beautiful creatures, powerful, caring and devoted, so no wonder there is first a hero worship which slowly turn into attraction but it's a long way either side is accepting that attraction and it doesn't even happen in the first book, which is perfectly understandable given Riley's background.
So, with a different beginning I would have gladly upgraded into 4 and I admit that I already started book 2 and couldn't stop reading.
June 22, 2023
Reread/Relisten: June 2023
Trying this series again now that all the audios are out and I like Kirt Graves.
This story on the other hand.. like the first time I read it it took me awhile to warm up to Riley… to be honest I am continuing for the guardians haha mainly Noel and Jai.. but who knows book two could surprise me!
3 stars: January 2021
It was interesting, slow burn aka no romance in this book, it’s building up the world and characters. The friendships and the way the characters interact I very much enjoyed.
I enjoyed it but took me some time to connect with Riley. I think because of his upbringing and how he coped with things it took some time for me to find that believable.
I wish that we have multiple POVs in this book instead of just Riley’s POV, so fingers crossed that the next book will be multiple!
Trying this series again now that all the audios are out and I like Kirt Graves.
This story on the other hand.. like the first time I read it it took me awhile to warm up to Riley… to be honest I am continuing for the guardians haha mainly Noel and Jai.. but who knows book two could surprise me!
3 stars: January 2021
It was interesting, slow burn aka no romance in this book, it’s building up the world and characters. The friendships and the way the characters interact I very much enjoyed.
I enjoyed it but took me some time to connect with Riley. I think because of his upbringing and how he coped with things it took some time for me to find that believable.
I wish that we have multiple POVs in this book instead of just Riley’s POV, so fingers crossed that the next book will be multiple!
dnf
January 20, 2023NOPE. Didn't even finish the first chapter. I can tolerate a lot in books. But torture is not one of them. Maybe it gets better, but if the books open with that much awfulness, I can only imagine what the rest of the book and even series has in store. So big nope and I'm moving on.
November 3, 2023
Solidne 3,5 gwiazdki
O książce słyszałam wiele dobrego i nie powiem, czytałam ją z przyjemnością, mimo że nie jestem fanką haremu (zdecydowanie wolę, gdy wszystkie stony są ze sobą na różnorzędnych zasadach).
Zaintrygował mnie ten świat aniołów, ludzi i demonów. I choć od początku możemy łatwo się domyśleć fabuły (prolog + późniejsze rewelacje), to i tak mam ochotę na więcej. Polubiłam wszystkich bohaterów, mimo ich wad i słabości, i żałuję, że głównie widzimy rozwój fabuły oczami Riley'a, ponieważ epilog i prolog tomu drugiego (pisane z perspektywy aniołów) wnoszą tak wiele nowych informacji.
Główny bohater jest intrygujący. Czytałam różne opinie o jego charakterze, głównie nieprzychylne, ale mimo wszystko wydaje mi się, że potrafię go zrozumieć. Z jednej strony żyje we współczesnym świecie, więc ma dostęp do wiedzy (szkoła + internet), z drugiej - od dziecka wbijano mu do głowy tak ogromne poczucie winy i wstydu, że potrafię sobie wyobrazić sytuację, w której po prostu nie przyjmuje informacji. Ogromnie ciekawa jestem jego rozwoju.
Ogólnie polecam, a sama zabieram się za dalsze tomy. Dla osób kupujących - bardziej opłaca się zainwestować w box set niż pojedyncze tomy.
O książce słyszałam wiele dobrego i nie powiem, czytałam ją z przyjemnością, mimo że nie jestem fanką haremu (zdecydowanie wolę, gdy wszystkie stony są ze sobą na różnorzędnych zasadach).
Zaintrygował mnie ten świat aniołów, ludzi i demonów. I choć od początku możemy łatwo się domyśleć fabuły (prolog + późniejsze rewelacje), to i tak mam ochotę na więcej. Polubiłam wszystkich bohaterów, mimo ich wad i słabości, i żałuję, że głównie widzimy rozwój fabuły oczami Riley'a, ponieważ epilog i prolog tomu drugiego (pisane z perspektywy aniołów) wnoszą tak wiele nowych informacji.
Główny bohater jest intrygujący. Czytałam różne opinie o jego charakterze, głównie nieprzychylne, ale mimo wszystko wydaje mi się, że potrafię go zrozumieć. Z jednej strony żyje we współczesnym świecie, więc ma dostęp do wiedzy (szkoła + internet), z drugiej - od dziecka wbijano mu do głowy tak ogromne poczucie winy i wstydu, że potrafię sobie wyobrazić sytuację, w której po prostu nie przyjmuje informacji. Ogromnie ciekawa jestem jego rozwoju.
Ogólnie polecam, a sama zabieram się za dalsze tomy. Dla osób kupujących - bardziej opłaca się zainwestować w box set niż pojedyncze tomy.
September 19, 2023
Goodness! That was a really impressive start for a series! It made me really excited without giving away too much.
Here we meet Riley with three Guardian Angels. Not only is he so lucky that these angels care about him immensely, but they're also stupid hot too. Introducing the prime protector Gideon, who's yet to warm up to me because he doesn't really appear much. But considering he's standing in their angel hierarchy then it just makes sense. We got Noel, whose beauty you'll never miss. Then we have Jairus, who reminds me of Derek Hale from Teen Wolf
Obviously, he's my favorite so far. That bad boy we always gush about, except this one's caring too. He looks more like a devil than an angel and I swear I will pass out because of how sexy he is in my head. I was never good with imagining things. But for him things are SO VIVID.
Just a heads up. This is SLOWBURN so read only when the right mood strikes. If you're looking for some spicy action there won't be any, considering the MC's childhood, but this is the first book so who knows. It's really good though. It's like the Cassandra Clare's Shadowhunter Chronicles minus the runes and the demon-hunting Nephilims, and make it gay. I was VERY entertained. I've been leaving and dropping books for the past week, so it was a surprise that I devoured this FAST. That prologue is soooo intriguing and much darker than the rest of the book. And by much, I mean tenfold.
I am soooo excited for book 2!
Here we meet Riley with three Guardian Angels. Not only is he so lucky that these angels care about him immensely, but they're also stupid hot too. Introducing the prime protector Gideon, who's yet to warm up to me because he doesn't really appear much. But considering he's standing in their angel hierarchy then it just makes sense. We got Noel, whose beauty you'll never miss. Then we have Jairus, who reminds me of Derek Hale from Teen Wolf
Obviously, he's my favorite so far. That bad boy we always gush about, except this one's caring too. He looks more like a devil than an angel and I swear I will pass out because of how sexy he is in my head. I was never good with imagining things. But for him things are SO VIVID.
Just a heads up. This is SLOWBURN so read only when the right mood strikes. If you're looking for some spicy action there won't be any, considering the MC's childhood, but this is the first book so who knows. It's really good though. It's like the Cassandra Clare's Shadowhunter Chronicles minus the runes and the demon-hunting Nephilims, and make it gay. I was VERY entertained. I've been leaving and dropping books for the past week, so it was a surprise that I devoured this FAST. That prologue is soooo intriguing and much darker than the rest of the book. And by much, I mean tenfold.
I am soooo excited for book 2!
January 26, 2024
I knew this would be an angsty read going in but I honestly wasn’t prepare in the slightest! This series was recommended to me as I wanted to read more all male reverse harem romances. I’ve read another book by this author so thought I’d give it a try.
I read the triggers and thought I knew but wow. The internalized homophobia and religious zealously was insane in this story. It hit me really hard and had me almost in tears at parts feeling for the MC. I found I had to get spoilers as it was really tough. That being said though the story is absolutely worth it. And after a little break to read something not angsty I can’t wait to listen to book 2!
Riley is such a complex character. I had so much heartbreak for him listening to his story. It is a single POV romance. Being in his head and learning what he went through in his childhood and with his foster mom Miss Janet was so sad. I am very happy that he slowly started to work through this. I cannot wait for future books to see him live his life how he wants to!
I loved all the guardian angels! They were all so different but I can absolutely see how this RH will work! They all bring something different to the table that Riley needs. This does end on a cliffhanger of sorts. I am very much looking forward to the next book in the series.
I read the triggers and thought I knew but wow. The internalized homophobia and religious zealously was insane in this story. It hit me really hard and had me almost in tears at parts feeling for the MC. I found I had to get spoilers as it was really tough. That being said though the story is absolutely worth it. And after a little break to read something not angsty I can’t wait to listen to book 2!
Riley is such a complex character. I had so much heartbreak for him listening to his story. It is a single POV romance. Being in his head and learning what he went through in his childhood and with his foster mom Miss Janet was so sad. I am very happy that he slowly started to work through this. I cannot wait for future books to see him live his life how he wants to!
I loved all the guardian angels! They were all so different but I can absolutely see how this RH will work! They all bring something different to the table that Riley needs. This does end on a cliffhanger of sorts. I am very much looking forward to the next book in the series.
October 30, 2022
I wasn’t sure what to expect from this new series and new author for me, but I wasn’t disappointed. I have to say I started it based on the blurb and Kirk Graves as the narrator. I am so happy I did 🤗 this was suspenseful, full of snarky angels and just overall I can’t get enough of this story, more please!!
February 18, 2020
I'm going to start by saying this book drew me in with the prologue and the cover. The cover was beautiful. The prologue was really good and intriguing. To be honest, this book wasn't for me. I had a difficult time finishing it.
For me, nothing actually happened until about 75%. There was a nice action scene about around 25% where Noel and Jai fought a demon, but that was about it until the last quarter of the book. This was definitely a slow burn, and even then, nothing actually happened between the MCs apart from dialogue and little touches. I will say Riley felt comfortable around his angels, and slept in bed with them a few times, which Riley agonized over, but let happen. Riley is extremely shy and apprehensive about everything, especially touch. Towards the end of the book, he was more accepting of touch from the angels: Jai, Gideon, and Noel.
What bothered me about the writing, was that the angels didn't seem like angels at all. Gideon was like a parental figure, and Noel and Jai were very immature and acted like snotty children. I did not get an angelic protectors vibe from them. Not only that, but they and Riley, blushed about everything. With every page, they "pinked" on their ears or cheeks.
I wasn't a fan of Riley, the MC, either. At first, it was sad what he went through. He was in foster care, and his foster mother was very religious. His upbringing led him to be this way. It made me sympathetic to him. But he always apologized for everything and cowered from everything and everyone through the whole book. What really bothered me was his need to cleanse himself all the time because he was "evil, full of sin." I get that it was drilled into him that he was evil, but there was so much of this. We kept getting reminded over and over that Riley sinned and needed to cleanse. Another thing that bothered me was Rileys' roommate's blatant homophobia and hate for Riley. I didn't understand it, or where it came from. From the very beginning he called Riley "Queerbie" and was so mean to him. I didn't think it was necessary.
I thought the world-building was ok. I was very confused about all the different names thrown around, because nothing was explained until the angels explained it to Riley, and that was well past 50% of the book that most of that happened. I liked the concept of Other, two angels created as complete opposites to complement each other as guardians. I thought that was unique.
This book wasn't for me. I had a hard time getting through it. Clearly I'm not the norm. Most people seem to love it, and I guess I'm missing something. Maybe it's my lack of religious beliefs that prevented me from enjoying this. I think the author made a beautiful cover, and the blurb made me want to read it. And like I said earlier, the prologue was very good.
For me, nothing actually happened until about 75%. There was a nice action scene about around 25% where Noel and Jai fought a demon, but that was about it until the last quarter of the book. This was definitely a slow burn, and even then, nothing actually happened between the MCs apart from dialogue and little touches. I will say Riley felt comfortable around his angels, and slept in bed with them a few times, which Riley agonized over, but let happen. Riley is extremely shy and apprehensive about everything, especially touch. Towards the end of the book, he was more accepting of touch from the angels: Jai, Gideon, and Noel.
What bothered me about the writing, was that the angels didn't seem like angels at all. Gideon was like a parental figure, and Noel and Jai were very immature and acted like snotty children. I did not get an angelic protectors vibe from them. Not only that, but they and Riley, blushed about everything. With every page, they "pinked" on their ears or cheeks.
I wasn't a fan of Riley, the MC, either. At first, it was sad what he went through. He was in foster care, and his foster mother was very religious. His upbringing led him to be this way. It made me sympathetic to him. But he always apologized for everything and cowered from everything and everyone through the whole book. What really bothered me was his need to cleanse himself all the time because he was "evil, full of sin." I get that it was drilled into him that he was evil, but there was so much of this. We kept getting reminded over and over that Riley sinned and needed to cleanse. Another thing that bothered me was Rileys' roommate's blatant homophobia and hate for Riley. I didn't understand it, or where it came from. From the very beginning he called Riley "Queerbie" and was so mean to him. I didn't think it was necessary.
I thought the world-building was ok. I was very confused about all the different names thrown around, because nothing was explained until the angels explained it to Riley, and that was well past 50% of the book that most of that happened. I liked the concept of Other, two angels created as complete opposites to complement each other as guardians. I thought that was unique.
This book wasn't for me. I had a hard time getting through it. Clearly I'm not the norm. Most people seem to love it, and I guess I'm missing something. Maybe it's my lack of religious beliefs that prevented me from enjoying this. I think the author made a beautiful cover, and the blurb made me want to read it. And like I said earlier, the prologue was very good.
August 1, 2023
Angels, Demons and Nephilims oh my!
Told only in Riley’s POV until the very very end.
NGL, this book was VERY repetitive and needed some serious editing. Riley was placed in the same situations over and over. It did not advance the story much. We get it Riley is super innocent. He was raised by a VERY strict disciplinarian. Rinse and repeat. I’m 61% in and I’m not sure I want to even read book 2. Meh.
You learn more of the cruelty of his foster Mom, Ms. Janet. It’s very flowers in the attic. Creepy AF with the ice baths, forced vomiting and more. Eeek. Riley had a painful childhood with that woman.
The last 10% of the book was accelerated with action. Thank god because I was almost bored to tears. Do I dare read book 2….
Told only in Riley’s POV until the very very end.
NGL, this book was VERY repetitive and needed some serious editing. Riley was placed in the same situations over and over. It did not advance the story much. We get it Riley is super innocent. He was raised by a VERY strict disciplinarian. Rinse and repeat. I’m 61% in and I’m not sure I want to even read book 2. Meh.
You learn more of the cruelty of his foster Mom, Ms. Janet. It’s very flowers in the attic. Creepy AF with the ice baths, forced vomiting and more. Eeek. Riley had a painful childhood with that woman.
The last 10% of the book was accelerated with action. Thank god because I was almost bored to tears. Do I dare read book 2….
February 19, 2022
I really liked the concept of it, it's a nice start.
I don't usually like poly relationships but I'm curious to see how this will be developed here. I really like Jai, Noel and Gideon but I was often really annoyed by Riley, I know, it's very unfair but that's how I felt while reading it, it doesn't help that this is a first person POV book.
Anyway, I'll keep reading the series because it caught my attention! I want to know more about the angels and demons and also Riley's past.
I don't usually like poly relationships but I'm curious to see how this will be developed here. I really like Jai, Noel and Gideon but I was often really annoyed by Riley, I know, it's very unfair but that's how I felt while reading it, it doesn't help that this is a first person POV book.
Anyway, I'll keep reading the series because it caught my attention! I want to know more about the angels and demons and also Riley's past.
November 3, 2024
Seguo il lavoro della Ink Literary PR da quando è nata e aspettavo con grande trepidazione la pubblicazione del primo romance MM. Quando ho visto che si trattava di un fantasy MM+, la curiosità è salita ancora di più, perché non mi era ancora capitato di leggere dinamiche poli (più per caso, in realtà). Mi sono subito buttata senza manco leggere la trama e i trope (io sono totalmente anti-trope), sapendo solo che il tema generale erano “angeli e demoni” e che la dinamica sarebbe stata MMM/M (e vi consiglio di non indagare sul suo significato se non lo conoscete già). Insomma, ho iniziato a leggerlo alla cieca ed è stato bellissimo perché mi sono goduta la storia al 100%.
.
Il libro è il primo di una serie di sei, dunque va approcciato tenendo in considerazione che sarà molto introduttivo sotto tutto i punti di vista. Il POV è unico ed è quello del dolce Riley, un ragazzo di 19 anni puro dalla testa ai piedi e “ingenuo come una pastorella del presepio”. All’inizio questa cosa mi ha lasciata un po’ delusa, ma è durato una frazione di secondo perché, leggendo, ho capito che è stata la scelta più giusta, in quanto ti consente di conoscere i Guardiani attraverso gli occhi di Riley mantenendo però il mistero che aleggia su di loro.
.
Faccio un mea culpa ammettendo che a leggere MM+ ho pensato che potesse trattarsi di un libro trashino e carico di scene spicy fin dal principio (preciso: non mi sarei lamentata nel caso!). Invece, sono rimasta sorpresa in maniera super positiva a constatare che non è assolutamente così! Il rapporto tra Riley e i Guardiani si sviluppa a piccoli passi, instaurando prima un rapporto di amicizia e fiducia, poi sentimenti sempre più vicini all’attrazione fisica e sentimentale (amanti dello slow burn: qua si va in brodo di giuggiole). Non pensavo che una dinamica poli mi avrebbe affascinata così tanto, sono sempre stata titubante a cercarle nei romance perché PERSONALMENTE ho sempre creduto di non riuscire a empatizzarci. Invece, come al solito, dipende sempre da come una storia viene raccontata. In questo caso, penso sia raccontata bene.
.
Dal punto di vista fantasy, abbiamo già diversi elementi che stuzzicano la curiosità e invogliano a proseguire. Il world building è reso piuttosto chiaro fin da subito ma, per forza di cose, la componente azione è ancora dosata su poche scene. Dal prologo, però, si crea già un hype piuttosto alto per le premesse sulla serie complessiva. E l’epilogo aiuta ulteriormente!
.
Se non avete paura di affrontare una serie intera, se cercate una storia poli ma piena di coccole e dolcezza, Rivelazioni può essere il libro che fa per voi 💕 Lo sconsiglio, invece, ai lettori molto impazienti 😁
.
.
Il libro è il primo di una serie di sei, dunque va approcciato tenendo in considerazione che sarà molto introduttivo sotto tutto i punti di vista. Il POV è unico ed è quello del dolce Riley, un ragazzo di 19 anni puro dalla testa ai piedi e “ingenuo come una pastorella del presepio”. All’inizio questa cosa mi ha lasciata un po’ delusa, ma è durato una frazione di secondo perché, leggendo, ho capito che è stata la scelta più giusta, in quanto ti consente di conoscere i Guardiani attraverso gli occhi di Riley mantenendo però il mistero che aleggia su di loro.
.
Faccio un mea culpa ammettendo che a leggere MM+ ho pensato che potesse trattarsi di un libro trashino e carico di scene spicy fin dal principio (preciso: non mi sarei lamentata nel caso!). Invece, sono rimasta sorpresa in maniera super positiva a constatare che non è assolutamente così! Il rapporto tra Riley e i Guardiani si sviluppa a piccoli passi, instaurando prima un rapporto di amicizia e fiducia, poi sentimenti sempre più vicini all’attrazione fisica e sentimentale (amanti dello slow burn: qua si va in brodo di giuggiole). Non pensavo che una dinamica poli mi avrebbe affascinata così tanto, sono sempre stata titubante a cercarle nei romance perché PERSONALMENTE ho sempre creduto di non riuscire a empatizzarci. Invece, come al solito, dipende sempre da come una storia viene raccontata. In questo caso, penso sia raccontata bene.
.
Dal punto di vista fantasy, abbiamo già diversi elementi che stuzzicano la curiosità e invogliano a proseguire. Il world building è reso piuttosto chiaro fin da subito ma, per forza di cose, la componente azione è ancora dosata su poche scene. Dal prologo, però, si crea già un hype piuttosto alto per le premesse sulla serie complessiva. E l’epilogo aiuta ulteriormente!
.
Se non avete paura di affrontare una serie intera, se cercate una storia poli ma piena di coccole e dolcezza, Rivelazioni può essere il libro che fa per voi 💕 Lo sconsiglio, invece, ai lettori molto impazienti 😁
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August 19, 2021
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.75 stars
As the first book in the series, Revelations is a very character-driven story. While there is some action, the majority of the book centers on getting to know Riley and portraying the depths of religious and psychological conditioning he experienced at the hands of his abusive foster mother and how it dictates his behavior. Knight does an excellent job in making sure that Riley’s inclination to roll over and show throat in every situation (no matter how uncomfortable it makes him) provokes sympathy rather than irritation. As a reader who has little patience for characters that spend the majority of their inner monologues whinging about how bossy their besties are, while refusing to stand up to them, I appreciated the in-depth approach Knight takes in examining Riley’s mental landscape and trauma.
Read Jovan’s review in its entirety here.
4.75 stars
As the first book in the series, Revelations is a very character-driven story. While there is some action, the majority of the book centers on getting to know Riley and portraying the depths of religious and psychological conditioning he experienced at the hands of his abusive foster mother and how it dictates his behavior. Knight does an excellent job in making sure that Riley’s inclination to roll over and show throat in every situation (no matter how uncomfortable it makes him) provokes sympathy rather than irritation. As a reader who has little patience for characters that spend the majority of their inner monologues whinging about how bossy their besties are, while refusing to stand up to them, I appreciated the in-depth approach Knight takes in examining Riley’s mental landscape and trauma.
Read Jovan’s review in its entirety here.
January 26, 2022
This was a very slow introduction. Maybe a little to slow for my liking but I already love the character and the dynamics. I thought it would be a smutty easy MMMMMMM+ read but it wasn't and it was really refreshing.
June 9, 2024
3.5/5.
This was fun. Angels and Demons always are, to be fair.
The slow-burn is something else though, but the plot kept me entertained so in the end, it wasn’t too bad.
This was fun. Angels and Demons always are, to be fair.
The slow-burn is something else though, but the plot kept me entertained so in the end, it wasn’t too bad.
Read
November 3, 2025A Joyfully Jay review.
Story: 4.5 ⭐️
Audio: 4.5⭐️
In his nineteen years, Riley Shepard has been abandoned, abused, institutionalized and conditioned. His only moments of fractured peace came when he submitted to whatever punishment or circumstance he was confronted with. Thus, the most Riley hopes for from college is to be allowed a small measure of freedom to learn and tangentially experience life as a “normal” young adult. Having been taught to cower away from confrontations, feelings and physical contact by the only foster parent that kept him, Ms. Janet, and his own crippling social anxiety, Riley is treated like a servant by his obnoxious, bullying roommate and only has one friend, the kindhearted RA that takes pity on him.
That changes when he meets the intriguing, yet opposite in every way Jai and Noel. As he runs into them on campus and his wariness wears away, he finds himself drawn to the men, and after a series of strange events, Riley learns why. Believing guardian angels are real is relatively easy for Riley—believing that he is somehow worthy of not one but three is something he struggles with…until some of his past is revealed.
As the first book in a series, “Revelations” is a very character driven story. While there is some action, the majority of the book centers on getting to know Riley and portraying the depths of religious and psychological conditioning he experienced at the hands of his abusive foster mother and how it dictates his behavior. Knight does an excellent job in making sure that Riley’s inclination to roll over and show throat in every situation (no matter how uncomfortable it makes him) provokes sympathy rather than irritation. As a reader who has little patience for characters that spend the majority of their inner monologues bitching about how bossy their besties are, while refusing to stand up to them, I appreciated the in-depth approach Knight takes in examining Riley’s mental landscape and trauma.
That being said, this is a rough book to get through in some regards. Riley is too precious and innocent for this world; with Ms. Janet still terrorizing him from afar and threatening to pull him out of school if he isn’t a “good boy”, every interaction this poor baby has is fraught for one reason or another, even with people he likes, filling his day to day life with anxiety, fear, pressure and self-disgust. The few glimpses of what his true personality might be like when he interacts with Jai are welcome breaks.
Additionally, the slow-burn promised in the blurb is glacial. This is not a complaint or a bad thing and makes absolute sense for all the characters and the story. Riley has been trained to view physical contact and attraction to men as sinful so sexual feelings aren’t even on his radar; for the majority of the story, he berates himself for enjoying holding hands and platonic hugs. As for Riley’s Guardians, while the narrative makes it clear that angels in this world are sexual beings and that Jai and Noel are far from virginal, it’s heavily implied that sexual feelings towards their wards is rare. Moreover, Gideon, the prime in the trio of Guardians, is almost as averse to touch as Riley is. There are indications that the natural protectiveness and care the Guardians have for Riley is more intense and personal than usual, and by the end, Riley has become aware that he’s attracted to his Guardians. However aside from a few hints that Noel (the only self-proclaimed gay guy) is sexually attracted to Riley, things remain platonic.
As a book so heavily structured around understanding Riley, narration is super important and Kirt Graves does not disappoint. As usual, Graves manages to deliver a balanced, natural performance that doesn’t try to create drama in quieter scenes or turn emotional moments into overwrought drama, and I honestly never expected to find words like “coitus” and “defiled” expressed in such a prim, pearl-clutching way utterly charming, but Graves pulls it off. Riley’s naïveté, struggles and small triumphs are conveyed with heartstring- pulling sincerity; I could feel his anxiety, panic and quiet joy. There’s a scene where Riley is being accosted by a spoiled sexual predator that I almost couldn’t handle; I’m not sure if I would have experienced Riley’s overwhelming panic and terror as viscerally if I had been reading. I highly enjoyed his take on the characters, and found “Revelations” to be a solid, engaging poly story that I look forward to continuing.
Story: 4.5 ⭐️
Audio: 4.5⭐️
In his nineteen years, Riley Shepard has been abandoned, abused, institutionalized and conditioned. His only moments of fractured peace came when he submitted to whatever punishment or circumstance he was confronted with. Thus, the most Riley hopes for from college is to be allowed a small measure of freedom to learn and tangentially experience life as a “normal” young adult. Having been taught to cower away from confrontations, feelings and physical contact by the only foster parent that kept him, Ms. Janet, and his own crippling social anxiety, Riley is treated like a servant by his obnoxious, bullying roommate and only has one friend, the kindhearted RA that takes pity on him.
That changes when he meets the intriguing, yet opposite in every way Jai and Noel. As he runs into them on campus and his wariness wears away, he finds himself drawn to the men, and after a series of strange events, Riley learns why. Believing guardian angels are real is relatively easy for Riley—believing that he is somehow worthy of not one but three is something he struggles with…until some of his past is revealed.
As the first book in a series, “Revelations” is a very character driven story. While there is some action, the majority of the book centers on getting to know Riley and portraying the depths of religious and psychological conditioning he experienced at the hands of his abusive foster mother and how it dictates his behavior. Knight does an excellent job in making sure that Riley’s inclination to roll over and show throat in every situation (no matter how uncomfortable it makes him) provokes sympathy rather than irritation. As a reader who has little patience for characters that spend the majority of their inner monologues bitching about how bossy their besties are, while refusing to stand up to them, I appreciated the in-depth approach Knight takes in examining Riley’s mental landscape and trauma.
That being said, this is a rough book to get through in some regards. Riley is too precious and innocent for this world; with Ms. Janet still terrorizing him from afar and threatening to pull him out of school if he isn’t a “good boy”, every interaction this poor baby has is fraught for one reason or another, even with people he likes, filling his day to day life with anxiety, fear, pressure and self-disgust. The few glimpses of what his true personality might be like when he interacts with Jai are welcome breaks.
Additionally, the slow-burn promised in the blurb is glacial. This is not a complaint or a bad thing and makes absolute sense for all the characters and the story. Riley has been trained to view physical contact and attraction to men as sinful so sexual feelings aren’t even on his radar; for the majority of the story, he berates himself for enjoying holding hands and platonic hugs. As for Riley’s Guardians, while the narrative makes it clear that angels in this world are sexual beings and that Jai and Noel are far from virginal, it’s heavily implied that sexual feelings towards their wards is rare. Moreover, Gideon, the prime in the trio of Guardians, is almost as averse to touch as Riley is. There are indications that the natural protectiveness and care the Guardians have for Riley is more intense and personal than usual, and by the end, Riley has become aware that he’s attracted to his Guardians. However aside from a few hints that Noel (the only self-proclaimed gay guy) is sexually attracted to Riley, things remain platonic.
As a book so heavily structured around understanding Riley, narration is super important and Kirt Graves does not disappoint. As usual, Graves manages to deliver a balanced, natural performance that doesn’t try to create drama in quieter scenes or turn emotional moments into overwrought drama, and I honestly never expected to find words like “coitus” and “defiled” expressed in such a prim, pearl-clutching way utterly charming, but Graves pulls it off. Riley’s naïveté, struggles and small triumphs are conveyed with heartstring- pulling sincerity; I could feel his anxiety, panic and quiet joy. There’s a scene where Riley is being accosted by a spoiled sexual predator that I almost couldn’t handle; I’m not sure if I would have experienced Riley’s overwhelming panic and terror as viscerally if I had been reading. I highly enjoyed his take on the characters, and found “Revelations” to be a solid, engaging poly story that I look forward to continuing.
November 1, 2024
Ringrazio davvero la Ink Literary PR per la copia arc in anteprima, è stata una lettura davvero intrigante, un fantasy con angeli, demoni e varie creature che mi ha davvero convinta al primo colpo.
Riley è un diciannovenne solitario, timido, poco incline al rapporto fisico, una conoscenza inesistente delle relazioni e il contatto umano, oltre alla gentilezza non sono mai stati parte della sua vita, abbandonato in fasce ha solo avuto genitori adottivi inadatti.
L’ultima è poi, Janet è quella che ancora oggi lo fa sentire come se fosse sempre nel peccato, nella vergogna, inadatto e immeritevole di affetto, una visione bigotta e deleteria che sta mettendo radici in un ragazzino che è bisognoso di affetto.
Ci sono dei personaggi che ruotano attorno al protagonista, tutti ben definiti sia nel bene che nel male, ho amato particolarmente Jai e Noel, i suoi angeli custodi, ma sono ancora più intrigata da Gideon, il terzo elemento che sono certa ha molto da dire ancora.
Un primo volume ben costruito, l’autrice si è presa il suo tempo per impostare una storia coinvolgente con l’inserimento di elementi fantasy che almeno per ora non sono la parte più importante, anche se specie verso il finale ha dato un bello sviluppo alla storia.
Ho trovato importante dare molto spazio ai legami affettivi e all’incapacità di Riley di vivere con tranquillità la sua età, sentirsi in colpa per tutto e non essere libero di provare emozioni anche solo per un tocco o un abbraccio.
Se cercate una nuova serie che vi trasporta in un mondo imperfetto ma ben costruito, con una mitologia che promette davvero una storia appassionante, dovete leggerlo, io aspetto già il due.
Quattro stelle e mezzo.
Riley è un diciannovenne solitario, timido, poco incline al rapporto fisico, una conoscenza inesistente delle relazioni e il contatto umano, oltre alla gentilezza non sono mai stati parte della sua vita, abbandonato in fasce ha solo avuto genitori adottivi inadatti.
L’ultima è poi, Janet è quella che ancora oggi lo fa sentire come se fosse sempre nel peccato, nella vergogna, inadatto e immeritevole di affetto, una visione bigotta e deleteria che sta mettendo radici in un ragazzino che è bisognoso di affetto.
Ci sono dei personaggi che ruotano attorno al protagonista, tutti ben definiti sia nel bene che nel male, ho amato particolarmente Jai e Noel, i suoi angeli custodi, ma sono ancora più intrigata da Gideon, il terzo elemento che sono certa ha molto da dire ancora.
Un primo volume ben costruito, l’autrice si è presa il suo tempo per impostare una storia coinvolgente con l’inserimento di elementi fantasy che almeno per ora non sono la parte più importante, anche se specie verso il finale ha dato un bello sviluppo alla storia.
Ho trovato importante dare molto spazio ai legami affettivi e all’incapacità di Riley di vivere con tranquillità la sua età, sentirsi in colpa per tutto e non essere libero di provare emozioni anche solo per un tocco o un abbraccio.
Se cercate una nuova serie che vi trasporta in un mondo imperfetto ma ben costruito, con una mitologia che promette davvero una storia appassionante, dovete leggerlo, io aspetto già il due.
Quattro stelle e mezzo.
May 26, 2024
¿Os gustan las historias de ángeles y demonios? ¿Habéis dicho que si? ¿Y si os digo que son tres ángeles salvando del peligro a su protegido? ¿Tres ángeles que están para parar un tren?
Vale, tengo que admitir que fue la premisa que me hizo interesarme por este libro,pero es mucho más que tres chicos pertenecientes al colectivo que se gastan bromas entre ellos.
Entre sus páginas conoceremos a Riley, un joven que ha ido de casa en casa de acogida hasta que ha terminado en manos de una señora -a quién me niego a llamar madre- que abusa de él de unas maneras que me ponen el vello de punta.
Debido a esto, Riley tiene una personalidad totalmente sumisa, muchísimos problemas para relacionarse con otras personas y una percepción de lo “normal” muy alterada.
No lo niego, he llorado en muchas partes. De impotencia, de frustración, de rabia, de saber que hay monstruos así en la vida real y que nadie les para los pies.
Pero no todo es negro, a la vida de nuestro chico llegarán tres personas que lo pondrán todo patas arriba.
Noel y Jai son luz y oscuridad, blanco y negro, no son nada el uno sin el otro. Son los ángeles encargados de velar por su protegido, y lo hacen de la manera más dulce, bella y cariñosa del mundo.
Leer cómo se relacionan entre ellos, como se quieren y como protegen con uñas, alas y espadas a su familia, te deja el corazón calentito y lleno de amor.
Por favor, leedlo. Necesito que más personas conozcan a estos chicos y poder hablar de ellos sin parar 🥹❤️
Vale, tengo que admitir que fue la premisa que me hizo interesarme por este libro,pero es mucho más que tres chicos pertenecientes al colectivo que se gastan bromas entre ellos.
Entre sus páginas conoceremos a Riley, un joven que ha ido de casa en casa de acogida hasta que ha terminado en manos de una señora -a quién me niego a llamar madre- que abusa de él de unas maneras que me ponen el vello de punta.
Debido a esto, Riley tiene una personalidad totalmente sumisa, muchísimos problemas para relacionarse con otras personas y una percepción de lo “normal” muy alterada.
No lo niego, he llorado en muchas partes. De impotencia, de frustración, de rabia, de saber que hay monstruos así en la vida real y que nadie les para los pies.
Pero no todo es negro, a la vida de nuestro chico llegarán tres personas que lo pondrán todo patas arriba.
Noel y Jai son luz y oscuridad, blanco y negro, no son nada el uno sin el otro. Son los ángeles encargados de velar por su protegido, y lo hacen de la manera más dulce, bella y cariñosa del mundo.
Leer cómo se relacionan entre ellos, como se quieren y como protegen con uñas, alas y espadas a su familia, te deja el corazón calentito y lleno de amor.
Por favor, leedlo. Necesito que más personas conozcan a estos chicos y poder hablar de ellos sin parar 🥹❤️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 16, 2020
I stayed up until 3am to finish this book, which rarely happens, so you can understand why I might give it a high rating. The first 50% was slow-moving and frankly quite over-the-top with the typical female villain and college roommate villain tropes along with the insecure/anxiety-ridden MC thing. I think this must be typical in all new adult novels, though, because I always end up saying that they are just way too OTT with the melodrama. The second 50% moved along a lot better since the author took care to do all the usual boring world-building stuff in the beginning and could just get into the meat of the story in the back half.
This book was presented to me as a slow-burn polyam and I have to say that it is 0% what I expected. When the author says slow burn... in this case, I think she means no burn. There was platonic hugging and cuddling, and that's it. So if you're going into this book thinking there will be a lot of happy fun times, well, there won't be. At all. I still enjoyed it and thought it was a good story, but it feels quite incomplete since this book gives only about 10% of the story overall. I am looking forward to the next, so I have to give it 4 stars.
This book was presented to me as a slow-burn polyam and I have to say that it is 0% what I expected. When the author says slow burn... in this case, I think she means no burn. There was platonic hugging and cuddling, and that's it. So if you're going into this book thinking there will be a lot of happy fun times, well, there won't be. At all. I still enjoyed it and thought it was a good story, but it feels quite incomplete since this book gives only about 10% of the story overall. I am looking forward to the next, so I have to give it 4 stars.
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