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Heavenly #1
Heavenly
I met someone who changed everything. Matthias. My autistic sister's guardian angel. Honest. Inspiring. Funny. Hot. And immortal. That was the problem. What could I do? I did what any other girl would do-I fell in love with him. Zoe's sister darts in front of cars. Her brother's a pothead. Her parents are so overwhelmed; they don't see Zoe lost in her broken life. Zoe escapes the only way she knows partying. Matthias, a guardian sent from Heaven, watches over Zoe's autistic sister. After Zoe is convinced he's legit, angel and lost girl come together in a love that changes destiny. But Heaven on Earth can't last forever.
294 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 1, 2009
61 people are currently reading
6991 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Laurens
16 books1,048 followersJennifer, aka JM Warwick was born and raised in Southern California and her hometown of Palos Verdes Estates flavors her books: A Season of Eden and An Open Vein. She doesn't limit herself to writing one genre, and was the first to author four romance novels centered around the popular sport of ballroom dancing.She has YA novels published under her YA romance name of Jennifer Laurens: Falling for Romeo, Magic Hands, Nailed and the Heavenly series: Heavenly ( 2009) Penitence (2010) and Absolution (2010) A Season of Eden (2011) and Overprotected ( 2011 ) Grace Doll ( 2012 ) .An Open Vein is under her JM Warwick pen name. Jennifer lives in Utah and has 6 children, one of whom has autism. Jennifer doesn't put stock in reviews - in fact she never reads them.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 354 reviews
December 1, 2011
Heavenly by Jennifer Laurens has been a book I have eagerly been anticipating to read. I had read several wonderful reviews. Let me tell you Jennifer Larens did not disappoint with Heavenly, this book exceeded my expectations.
There are so many things I would like to share however I will keep them at a minimum so I don’t spoil this book for anyone. I would like to share, what usually draws me into a book is the romance between the characters however this family’s struggles is what kept me turning the pages. Now don’t get me wrong I loved the romance in this book however it was so much more. I was able to connect with each character as a parent, as a child and as parent of a kiddo who has some special needs.
Zoe, the main character of this book and narrator, is an amazing young woman. Her character was so well written and drew me in from the start. It was lovely to see how much she changed from the beginning of the book to the end. The way she cared for her family and those in need stole me heart. She transformed from a party girl to a wonderful young woman, not that there is anything wrong with a party girl. I was in awe of her special gift, which I won’t say much about because I don’t want to spoil this book for anyone. She was by far my favorite character and one I feel like I know so very well.
Abria, Zoe’s little sister with special needs pulled at my heartstrings. I found myself thinking about her when I wasn’t reading the book. As a parent I wanted to help take care of her needs. Abria is what made the book feel so real to me. There are so many families with an autistic child or special needs; this book is life, reality!
As for the romance….. well of course there was romance. The relationship between Zoe and Matthias was sweet and pure. Oh do I love Matthias. He not only is beautiful he is such a gentleman and well for lack of a better word heaven sent. I wish we all had a Matthias in our lives and well, who knows, we may just.
If you were considering reading this book I say READ IT! It is a wonderful book and a page turner that flows seamlessly. I will warn you though… the end is a bit of a cliffhanger make certain you have the next book on hand before finishing.
There are so many things I would like to share however I will keep them at a minimum so I don’t spoil this book for anyone. I would like to share, what usually draws me into a book is the romance between the characters however this family’s struggles is what kept me turning the pages. Now don’t get me wrong I loved the romance in this book however it was so much more. I was able to connect with each character as a parent, as a child and as parent of a kiddo who has some special needs.
Zoe, the main character of this book and narrator, is an amazing young woman. Her character was so well written and drew me in from the start. It was lovely to see how much she changed from the beginning of the book to the end. The way she cared for her family and those in need stole me heart. She transformed from a party girl to a wonderful young woman, not that there is anything wrong with a party girl. I was in awe of her special gift, which I won’t say much about because I don’t want to spoil this book for anyone. She was by far my favorite character and one I feel like I know so very well.
Abria, Zoe’s little sister with special needs pulled at my heartstrings. I found myself thinking about her when I wasn’t reading the book. As a parent I wanted to help take care of her needs. Abria is what made the book feel so real to me. There are so many families with an autistic child or special needs; this book is life, reality!
As for the romance….. well of course there was romance. The relationship between Zoe and Matthias was sweet and pure. Oh do I love Matthias. He not only is beautiful he is such a gentleman and well for lack of a better word heaven sent. I wish we all had a Matthias in our lives and well, who knows, we may just.
If you were considering reading this book I say READ IT! It is a wonderful book and a page turner that flows seamlessly. I will warn you though… the end is a bit of a cliffhanger make certain you have the next book on hand before finishing.
March 23, 2009
This book blew my mind. I read it in one sitting, I was so enthralled. It captures so well the struggle of a family dealing with an autistic child, as well as teenagers who abuse drugs and alcohol. I speak from experience when I say that this novel described with perfect accuracy the struggles, heartache, and emotions a family like Zoe's would live through. Her relationship with Matthias is beautiful - fulfilling the need within all humans to be loved for who they are, even with all their flaws and shortcomings. The forbidden love aspect just adds a little spice to the romance - keeping me on the edge of my seat (and often squeaking with teen-girl-ish delight) throughout the entire experience. Also, for readers who are hesitant to embark on a literary journey involving angels - don't let that stop you for a second. No matter one's beliefs, this story is timeless, and one that everyone, without exception, can relate to. Read it. It will lift you up and stick with you long after you've stopped devouring the pages at incredible speeds... :) This is definitely my favorite book by Jennifer Laurens so far, and I can't wait for the story to continue.
March 5, 2009
This book is amazing. I read it in a day and a half. One word: REAL.
Often times I've found myself reading YA books where you get the feeling the author hasn't even TALKED to a teenager/young adult in ten years, let alone knows enough to write for them. This book has an amazing story, characters you won't forget and leaves you thinking about it. This book is far from just fluff, so if that's what you're looking for, don't read it.
All in all, five stars. The book didn't try too hard like so many YA novels seem to, was real and you feel like you know Zoe and are equally in love with Matthias as she is by the end!
Excellent book.
Often times I've found myself reading YA books where you get the feeling the author hasn't even TALKED to a teenager/young adult in ten years, let alone knows enough to write for them. This book has an amazing story, characters you won't forget and leaves you thinking about it. This book is far from just fluff, so if that's what you're looking for, don't read it.
All in all, five stars. The book didn't try too hard like so many YA novels seem to, was real and you feel like you know Zoe and are equally in love with Matthias as she is by the end!
Excellent book.
December 6, 2010
Giveaway open until 12/16 Heavenly, Penitence or Absolution:
http://iamareadernotawriter.blogspot....
4.5 Stars
I must admit I thoroughly enjoyed reading Heavenly. Although classified as fantasy, Jennifer Lauren's version of "guardian angels" is a version I can believe actually exist.
See my full review:
http://iamareadernotawriter.blogspot....
http://iamareadernotawriter.blogspot....
4.5 Stars
I must admit I thoroughly enjoyed reading Heavenly. Although classified as fantasy, Jennifer Lauren's version of "guardian angels" is a version I can believe actually exist.
See my full review:
http://iamareadernotawriter.blogspot....
Read
October 20, 2021I think this was my first book after City of Bones (first book I’ve ever read). Became my favorite and re-read it a few times, but now, 10 years later, can’t for the life of me remember what happens. I just know it’s about a guardian angel and I thought it was the sweetest story every written. But again, I was 10 lmao.
August 18, 2011
First I wanna say a special thanks to Jennifer Laurens for giving my this copy for review. I have had Heavenly on my TBR for a LONG time and when she asked me to review it I jumped at the chance...so Thank You!
So like I said I have been wanting to read this for close to forever now, so I naturally wanted to love it. But in the beginning it was quite the opposite of love I was feeling. Zoe is a 18 yr old teenage girl whose little sister, Abria, is autistic. But in the beginning Zoe just came off as mean, and heartless when it came to her sister. The resentment Zoe felt for all the struggles that came along with living with Abria really grated with me. In fact I almost threw the book down and walked away...I just couldn't do it. But like I said I have really wanting to read this so I scoured pages upon pages of reviews on Goodreads, only to find out that 90% of the population LOVED this book. So I thought to myself...why don't I? With shear determination I decided that I was not giving up on this book. I was going to find out why so many people love this story.
And...I...Did!
You are taken through a rough journey about a family that it falling apart. Due to the struggles and the strain of living with someone with autism they all start to unravel. Zoe turns to drinking, and hooking up with guys. Luke, her 16 yr old brother, turns to smoking pot, and eventually selling Lortabs to supply his habit. All the while both of the parents seem to overlook their older children, grasping at straws, just praying for the strength to make it through another day. It isn't until Matthias, Abria's guardian angel, steps in the picture that things start to change. Abria clams down from his touch, making everyone else's life that much easier, but Zoe can see Matthias when no one else can...
The relationship between Zoe and Matthias had me laughing out loud on more then one occasion. Zoe and her thoughts kept getting her in trouble. I also love the way Zoe kept trying to save her brother from the mistakes he was making once she got herself straightened out. I will say that this was a little to clean cut for me. I mean there is definitely some twists and turns you won't see coming and OMG the ending is fantastic in the most tragic way, but the way Zoe stops drinking and becomes the good girl, Luke stops smoking pot, gets a job, does his homework. The way their parents actually start to take stock in their older children's lives and everyone just seems, all of a sudden, So Happy Together, seems a little forced to me. I just don't see it going down that way in the real world. This is very much one of those books that is sending the message Put your faith in God and everything will work out. So if that's your kind of thing I say go for it, you'll prolly love it! I'm just not one of those girls. But overall this was a good read, with the most awesome twist at the end...a twist that made me cry.
So like I said I have been wanting to read this for close to forever now, so I naturally wanted to love it. But in the beginning it was quite the opposite of love I was feeling. Zoe is a 18 yr old teenage girl whose little sister, Abria, is autistic. But in the beginning Zoe just came off as mean, and heartless when it came to her sister. The resentment Zoe felt for all the struggles that came along with living with Abria really grated with me. In fact I almost threw the book down and walked away...I just couldn't do it. But like I said I have really wanting to read this so I scoured pages upon pages of reviews on Goodreads, only to find out that 90% of the population LOVED this book. So I thought to myself...why don't I? With shear determination I decided that I was not giving up on this book. I was going to find out why so many people love this story.
And...I...Did!
You are taken through a rough journey about a family that it falling apart. Due to the struggles and the strain of living with someone with autism they all start to unravel. Zoe turns to drinking, and hooking up with guys. Luke, her 16 yr old brother, turns to smoking pot, and eventually selling Lortabs to supply his habit. All the while both of the parents seem to overlook their older children, grasping at straws, just praying for the strength to make it through another day. It isn't until Matthias, Abria's guardian angel, steps in the picture that things start to change. Abria clams down from his touch, making everyone else's life that much easier, but Zoe can see Matthias when no one else can...
The relationship between Zoe and Matthias had me laughing out loud on more then one occasion. Zoe and her thoughts kept getting her in trouble. I also love the way Zoe kept trying to save her brother from the mistakes he was making once she got herself straightened out. I will say that this was a little to clean cut for me. I mean there is definitely some twists and turns you won't see coming and OMG the ending is fantastic in the most tragic way, but the way Zoe stops drinking and becomes the good girl, Luke stops smoking pot, gets a job, does his homework. The way their parents actually start to take stock in their older children's lives and everyone just seems, all of a sudden, So Happy Together, seems a little forced to me. I just don't see it going down that way in the real world. This is very much one of those books that is sending the message Put your faith in God and everything will work out. So if that's your kind of thing I say go for it, you'll prolly love it! I'm just not one of those girls. But overall this was a good read, with the most awesome twist at the end...a twist that made me cry.
December 30, 2015
Review copy provided by author
Why I Read this Book: I just recently came across Heavenly after seeing it somewhere in the book blogging community. I read the blurb and it appealed to me. I found the premise of an unattainable love with a guardian angel to be quite interesting.
What I Liked: The author created real characters with real everyday situations, with the exception of guardian angels of course.
Autism is not something that I am familiar with, however the author did a wonderful job shedding some light on this difficult condition. I like how Zoe was honest with her feelings in regards to Abria, her younger and autistic sister. Of course Zoe loves Abria but the reader also gets to witness the frustrations and overwhelming situations Zoe is put through time and time again. Zoe sees how stressful her younger sister can be on her parents so she tries to alleviate some of that stress by tending to Abria. None of the characters in Heavenly are perfect; in fact, each has their own demons and addictions.
What I Didn’t Like: I usually like it when a book starts off at a scene that takes place towards the end of the book and then takes the reader through the journey on how it got to that point. But in this case it didn’t work for me. The first part of the first chapter felt out of place and left me confused.
I wasn’t too fond of Zoe’s character. She’s a good person but at times she was selfish and a hypocrite. She gave her brother, Luke, a hard time about doing pot when there she was drowning her own misery with booze. Zoe is in complete denial of being a alcoholic and sadly at the tender age of 18.
There is still one question, and to me it’s an important one, that hasn’t been answered. I can’t get it out of my head and won’t be able to until it gets addressed. Chase, Zoe’s friend from school, brings up a very good point (page 138 for those of you who have read this book already) and it goes right over Zoe’s head. She wasn’t asking the million dollar question. It isn’t until about 30 pages later (page 172-173), that it’s brought up again (this time by Matthias) and she finally asks this important question. But we don’t get a clear answer from Matthias.
Overall Impression: Heavenly didn’t initially pull me in so I put the book down for a while. I came back to it to find that it still wasn’t catching my attention but I was determined to finish it. The reason being all the 4 and 5 star ratings I’ve seen. I thought that there must be some kind of WOW factor somewhere in this book, seeing that this book got mostly glowing reviews, and I didn’t want to miss out on that. The last third of the book was when things started happening but the WOW moment for me, and it was quite the WOW moment, occurred in the last 10 pages. OMG! Totally not the ending I was expecting; I didn’t see that ending coming at all! It really blew me away. If only the rest of the book had affected me that way.
All the way up to page 270, this book was a 2 star rating for me. Those last 10 pages redeemed itself and ultimately got it a 3 Frog rating. That said, I will most likely pick up Penitence to see where things take Zoe. I’ve seen the book trailer for Penitence (do NOT watch it unless you’ve read Heavenly because there are spoilers) and it looks like Zoe is in quite the predicament and there’s also a love triangle involved.
Why I Read this Book: I just recently came across Heavenly after seeing it somewhere in the book blogging community. I read the blurb and it appealed to me. I found the premise of an unattainable love with a guardian angel to be quite interesting.
What I Liked: The author created real characters with real everyday situations, with the exception of guardian angels of course.
Autism is not something that I am familiar with, however the author did a wonderful job shedding some light on this difficult condition. I like how Zoe was honest with her feelings in regards to Abria, her younger and autistic sister. Of course Zoe loves Abria but the reader also gets to witness the frustrations and overwhelming situations Zoe is put through time and time again. Zoe sees how stressful her younger sister can be on her parents so she tries to alleviate some of that stress by tending to Abria. None of the characters in Heavenly are perfect; in fact, each has their own demons and addictions.
What I Didn’t Like: I usually like it when a book starts off at a scene that takes place towards the end of the book and then takes the reader through the journey on how it got to that point. But in this case it didn’t work for me. The first part of the first chapter felt out of place and left me confused.
I wasn’t too fond of Zoe’s character. She’s a good person but at times she was selfish and a hypocrite. She gave her brother, Luke, a hard time about doing pot when there she was drowning her own misery with booze. Zoe is in complete denial of being a alcoholic and sadly at the tender age of 18.
There is still one question, and to me it’s an important one, that hasn’t been answered. I can’t get it out of my head and won’t be able to until it gets addressed. Chase, Zoe’s friend from school, brings up a very good point (page 138 for those of you who have read this book already) and it goes right over Zoe’s head. She wasn’t asking the million dollar question. It isn’t until about 30 pages later (page 172-173), that it’s brought up again (this time by Matthias) and she finally asks this important question. But we don’t get a clear answer from Matthias.
Overall Impression: Heavenly didn’t initially pull me in so I put the book down for a while. I came back to it to find that it still wasn’t catching my attention but I was determined to finish it. The reason being all the 4 and 5 star ratings I’ve seen. I thought that there must be some kind of WOW factor somewhere in this book, seeing that this book got mostly glowing reviews, and I didn’t want to miss out on that. The last third of the book was when things started happening but the WOW moment for me, and it was quite the WOW moment, occurred in the last 10 pages. OMG! Totally not the ending I was expecting; I didn’t see that ending coming at all! It really blew me away. If only the rest of the book had affected me that way.
All the way up to page 270, this book was a 2 star rating for me. Those last 10 pages redeemed itself and ultimately got it a 3 Frog rating. That said, I will most likely pick up Penitence to see where things take Zoe. I’ve seen the book trailer for Penitence (do NOT watch it unless you’ve read Heavenly because there are spoilers) and it looks like Zoe is in quite the predicament and there’s also a love triangle involved.
January 26, 2011
I finished this book a few days ago and have been having trouble really putting my feelings about his book into writing. I was so touched by this book. Each character felt so real, like I could meet them anywhere. I could feel how connected the author is to the story making it much more than just a story rather a movie unfolding before my eyes. Each person was so well defined, it was not like just the main people were defined but each and every person. When there was pain, I felt it like I was in the story. I enjoyed that way that the author build life to Matthias and let the read build their own assumptions and ideas. The plot was well thought out and believable. I see this happening in any house across the county. I really enjoyed the honesty in the book and it truly opened my eyes. No spoiler here but I am going to say that I never expected the ending. I also did not want this book to stop. I wanted to keep reading about this family and the challenges. Please if you get the opportunity to read this book - DO IT! I am looking forward to reading the other books by Jennifer Laurens in the near future.
March 11, 2009
one of the best books I've ever read. The story, the language, the characters, are so real you really feel for all of them. Its kind of Twilight Done Right, if you ask me. A forbidden love story with some REAL meat.
November 23, 2020
One star is for the idea & because I believe in guardian Angels. The other star is for the addition of the evil black figures. “Transparent black images moved like vapors of smoke, slithering in and out, around and on top, underneath and between the oblivious teenagers” that was a very creepy image along with them clinging to the backs of unsuspecting people. I also believe In Satan and his helpers that try to sway you into sin.
Eeek!
The element of caring about and living with an addict seemed spot on. I could tell the author knew a lot about home and life with a child with a disability. Those parts had merit
Otherwise I really didn’t like Zoe. She was the most hypocritical character I have ever read about. At one moment she is selfish and treating people like objects and a quick fling and in the next sentence mad that they are treating her like one. Mad that someone would refer to her guardian Angel as a “hottie” or “fling” then the next second fantasizing about him in those words that exact way.
The whole book is that over and over and her very shallow friendship with Britt drove me nuts. The talk about Zoe being popular was also a joke. That girl had no friends because she used people. She was transparent and had no depth.
The way her and Mathias finally “touched” over a bag of garbage had me snickering. That was so strange ha ha
Anyway I feel mean and I am half sorry! I probably won’t read the others but please feel free to summarize what happens for me if you read them. I want to know but not enough.
Eeek!
The element of caring about and living with an addict seemed spot on. I could tell the author knew a lot about home and life with a child with a disability. Those parts had merit
Otherwise I really didn’t like Zoe. She was the most hypocritical character I have ever read about. At one moment she is selfish and treating people like objects and a quick fling and in the next sentence mad that they are treating her like one. Mad that someone would refer to her guardian Angel as a “hottie” or “fling” then the next second fantasizing about him in those words that exact way.
The whole book is that over and over and her very shallow friendship with Britt drove me nuts. The talk about Zoe being popular was also a joke. That girl had no friends because she used people. She was transparent and had no depth.
The way her and Mathias finally “touched” over a bag of garbage had me snickering. That was so strange ha ha
Anyway I feel mean and I am half sorry! I probably won’t read the others but please feel free to summarize what happens for me if you read them. I want to know but not enough.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 26, 2015
the more i think about this book, the more i like it - it's an interesting premise (although i'm not sure how i feel about the whole family members as guardian thing) with real, believable characters and a kick-ass main character whose personality isn't all that far from my own. not to say that my life is anything like zoe's, but i 'clicked' with her (if that's possible with a character) once i was able to read her thoughts and feelings in regard to her family, struggles and friends.
i'm sorry to say that i am not in love with matthias - he seems too stilted, too naive in certain areas and too knowledgeable in others. my biggest issue is the fact that he falls in love with zoe. it makes perfect sense why zoe falls for him (chase makes his case, which is a legitimate one), but there's no basis behind matthias's feelings. yes, zoe's interesting and feisty and demanding and sassy, but what is it about her that makes him fall for her?
i was slightly reminded of 'sleepless' where a guy from the past (prohibition era-ish) comes back supernaturally and is learning about new technology and is amused by new-fangled things. i'm not sure that that type of storyline works well with me - it's cute at first, but then i tire of it quickly.
as for the plot, it was decent - nothing earth-shattering. the ending threw me for a loop for a bit, but i also was expecting it. i'll admit i was pulling for chase, because for some reason i wanted some sense of reality in this book. i didn't want it to be possible for zoe and matthias to be together at all. but this is only the first in a trilogy, meaning there's more to explore and more drama to be had.
on a side note: i'm glad that the author placed such heavy focus on the importance of family. despite all of the problems and trouble that zoe's family goes through, you can see that her parents are truly trying and aren't merely absent or too wrapped up in their own lives. at the same time, it's sad to see what can happen in a family when the parents are too focused on one of the children; the others get overlooked, which could potentially send them spiraling into bad habits.
i'm sorry to say that i am not in love with matthias - he seems too stilted, too naive in certain areas and too knowledgeable in others. my biggest issue is the fact that he falls in love with zoe. it makes perfect sense why zoe falls for him (chase makes his case, which is a legitimate one), but there's no basis behind matthias's feelings. yes, zoe's interesting and feisty and demanding and sassy, but what is it about her that makes him fall for her?
i was slightly reminded of 'sleepless' where a guy from the past (prohibition era-ish) comes back supernaturally and is learning about new technology and is amused by new-fangled things. i'm not sure that that type of storyline works well with me - it's cute at first, but then i tire of it quickly.
as for the plot, it was decent - nothing earth-shattering. the ending threw me for a loop for a bit, but i also was expecting it. i'll admit i was pulling for chase, because for some reason i wanted some sense of reality in this book. i didn't want it to be possible for zoe and matthias to be together at all. but this is only the first in a trilogy, meaning there's more to explore and more drama to be had.
on a side note: i'm glad that the author placed such heavy focus on the importance of family. despite all of the problems and trouble that zoe's family goes through, you can see that her parents are truly trying and aren't merely absent or too wrapped up in their own lives. at the same time, it's sad to see what can happen in a family when the parents are too focused on one of the children; the others get overlooked, which could potentially send them spiraling into bad habits.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 2, 2011
In an age where YA has become a universal phenomenon, it can be increasingly difficult to produce a book completely original. But that is exactly what Jennifer Laurens has done.
With a trend comes the risk of being compared to other authors, other stories. The rise in popularity of the angel novels has seen many new takes on the creatures, but I can honestly say, hand over heart, that none have been done that can even be compared to Heavenly.
Though obviously a paranormal novel, this book felt so real to me. It's heart may be in the clouds, in paradise and in Heaven, but it's roots are undoubtedly in here on earth. The romance in the book was delicious, excruciatingly well written and beautifully described. With a leading man who possessed perfect looks and a wry sense of humour, there was nothing lacking when it came to him. But strangely...it wasn't the love story that had me hooked.
Actually...yes it was. Though I adored Zoe and falling for Matthias, I was hooked on the love she had for her family, flawed as they were. I think a lot of teens, male and female, can relate to this book. They will be able to find something relate-able with either Zoe, her home life, her brother, her problems.
The first in a series, Heavenly will wrap around you like a thick blanket, making you feel cozy and safe as you pour over this delicious book. If you don't run out your front door or get straight on the computer to Amazon for the next book, there is something seriously wrong with you!
With a trend comes the risk of being compared to other authors, other stories. The rise in popularity of the angel novels has seen many new takes on the creatures, but I can honestly say, hand over heart, that none have been done that can even be compared to Heavenly.
Though obviously a paranormal novel, this book felt so real to me. It's heart may be in the clouds, in paradise and in Heaven, but it's roots are undoubtedly in here on earth. The romance in the book was delicious, excruciatingly well written and beautifully described. With a leading man who possessed perfect looks and a wry sense of humour, there was nothing lacking when it came to him. But strangely...it wasn't the love story that had me hooked.
Actually...yes it was. Though I adored Zoe and falling for Matthias, I was hooked on the love she had for her family, flawed as they were. I think a lot of teens, male and female, can relate to this book. They will be able to find something relate-able with either Zoe, her home life, her brother, her problems.
The first in a series, Heavenly will wrap around you like a thick blanket, making you feel cozy and safe as you pour over this delicious book. If you don't run out your front door or get straight on the computer to Amazon for the next book, there is something seriously wrong with you!
April 22, 2011
I wanted to read this YA book because it seemed to have a storyline I had thought up back when Twilight was so popular. It is essentially about a girl falling in love with an angel. It was a fast read. I didn't love it or hate it. I thought it was okay. The writing is typical for YA books (not noteworthy). Some things that fell short for me was the relationship between the two main characters seemed unsubstantial, maybe a little lustful, which was hard to imagine with an angel. Also, the conversations were lacking. Sometimes I would think, 'If I had just met an angel I would be asking ..." However, I thought the author did a good job on writing about real-life issues (autism, drugs, alcohol, teenage sex, and partying). The ending was a surprise that I didn't much care for until I read the preview of book 2. Now I'm very interested in reading book 2 (good writing there). I was actually surprised to see how many excellent reviews this book received, so it must have hit a chord with a lot of people.
September 25, 2013
No. Just no. From the five chapters I read, I noticed numerous grammatical errors and I just can't stand the main character. She is completely obnoxious and sanctimonious. Her little sister has autism, but instead of trying to adapt and deal with her struggles our bitch of a MC wants her put in a home because she can't stop texting enough to watch her. A freaking state ran home. She also judges her brother for smoking weed when she binge drinks. I also have vibes that this is heavy religion lit more than typical angel YA. After Halo, I don't really want to read anything going in this direction and based on the narration I got on the sample I read I don't think I'll be continuing further. That is why this book is rated one star.
February 26, 2011
Review from: More Than Just A Book
Matthias is the perfect guy, he is nice (too nice), honest, funny, and hot. Oh, and did I mention he is an angel assigned to protect Zoe's little sister Abira?
Zoe has it tough, I don't know how it is to have an autistic family member but through Zoe's eyes I can see that it is not easy. To some extent I see her point of view, and I see why she does all they partying and the drinking and first. And I would like to say that at the beginning I didn't like her much as a character.
She was pissed that Abira couldn't act like other children her age and that she was always stuck taking care of her. But as the story unfolds and she meets Matthias and he helps her understand more things about herself and her sister.
I loved Matthias, he was so innocent and pure. So much like I imagined and angel would be If I ever met one. He is also hot, funny, and charming which are things I hope to find if I ever meet an angel. I have read other novels and I they made the image of an angel so impure and non-celestial it kind of throws me off. But with Matthias he is the perfect balance of innocent and old-fashioned an immortal angel should be. Just wanted to point that out.
The story plot was very interesting and the ending, you will never see it coming. I know I didn't.
I love reading books where the main character has a change of heart for the best and this is one of them. Internal struggle between what it right and what the heart wants. It was an original love story with a twist and I loved every page of it. There is also a second possible love interest but you'll have to read the book yourselves to find out. Then come and talk to me about it! You wanna clue? Nerdy-hot! My favorite kind of guy. Is that really a word? Probably not, but it is now.
This book has a special place in my book loving heart, I will never forget it. I am not being melodramatic here, I truly and really enjoyed it. The characters are so real and so easy to like. And the story has issues people like me and you go through every day.
So want to read about an agnsty-but then not angsty- teen, who during that transition meets a handsome old-fashioned angel who is assigned to protect her little sister but they end up liking each other a little too much? Then this book, fellow book lover, is the perfect book for you!
Matthias is the perfect guy, he is nice (too nice), honest, funny, and hot. Oh, and did I mention he is an angel assigned to protect Zoe's little sister Abira?
Zoe has it tough, I don't know how it is to have an autistic family member but through Zoe's eyes I can see that it is not easy. To some extent I see her point of view, and I see why she does all they partying and the drinking and first. And I would like to say that at the beginning I didn't like her much as a character.
She was pissed that Abira couldn't act like other children her age and that she was always stuck taking care of her. But as the story unfolds and she meets Matthias and he helps her understand more things about herself and her sister.
I loved Matthias, he was so innocent and pure. So much like I imagined and angel would be If I ever met one. He is also hot, funny, and charming which are things I hope to find if I ever meet an angel. I have read other novels and I they made the image of an angel so impure and non-celestial it kind of throws me off. But with Matthias he is the perfect balance of innocent and old-fashioned an immortal angel should be. Just wanted to point that out.
The story plot was very interesting and the ending, you will never see it coming. I know I didn't.
I love reading books where the main character has a change of heart for the best and this is one of them. Internal struggle between what it right and what the heart wants. It was an original love story with a twist and I loved every page of it. There is also a second possible love interest but you'll have to read the book yourselves to find out. Then come and talk to me about it! You wanna clue? Nerdy-hot! My favorite kind of guy. Is that really a word? Probably not, but it is now.
This book has a special place in my book loving heart, I will never forget it. I am not being melodramatic here, I truly and really enjoyed it. The characters are so real and so easy to like. And the story has issues people like me and you go through every day.
So want to read about an agnsty-but then not angsty- teen, who during that transition meets a handsome old-fashioned angel who is assigned to protect her little sister but they end up liking each other a little too much? Then this book, fellow book lover, is the perfect book for you!
May 17, 2011
Read paperback version and write the review in my own languange, Indonesia
Zoe merasa kehidupannya tidak sama lagi setelah kelahiran adik perempuannya Abria. Abria yang autis membuat keluarga Zoe sangat protektif terhadapnya, dan membuat hubungan Zoe, adik laki-lakinya Luke, dan orangtua mereka menjadi renggang, karena orangtua Zoe lebih memfokuskan perhatian mereka terhadapa Abria. Untuk mengisi kekosongan dalam hidupnya, Zoe melakukan satu-satunya hal yang dia tahu : berpesta dan hura-hura.
Suatu hari, saat Zoe menemani Abria bermain di taman, dia kehilangan Abria. Panik karena tahu Abria adalah anak autis yang tidak bisa diam, Zoe mencari ke penjuru taman, dan mendapati Abria bersama dengan seorang laki-laki, yang memanggil adiknya “Miss Abria”. Keanehan terjadi, karena hanya Zoe dan Abria yang bisa melihat laki-laki itu, yang belakangan memperkenalkan dirinya sebagai Matthias.
Matthias memberitahu Zoe bahwa dia adalah “guardian angel” dan dia ditugaskan sebagai pelindung Abria. Zoe, yang sedikit shock dengan keberadaan Mathhias, mendapati bahwa sang adik Luke, ternyata mengalami ketergantungan terhadap obat-obatan. Belum lagi, sahabat karibnya, Britt, yang tidak mengacuhkan dirinya setelah berpacaran dengan laki-laki populer di sekolah, Weston. Dan, teman baru Zoe, Chase, yang mengaku bahwa dia mengetahui keberadaan “guardian angel” dan ingin mengetahui lebih dalam tentang Matthias. Seolah belum cukup, orangtua Zoe mengetahui ketergantungan Luke terhadap obat-obatan dan kegemaran Zoe yang suka minum-minuman keras.
Lelah dengan semua masalah yang menimpanya, Zoe mendapati keberadaan Mathhias menenangkannya, walaupun dia hanya bisa bertemu Matthias saat bersama Abria. Sedikit demi sedikit keadaan keluarga Zoe mulai membaik, dan Matthias tidak hanya menjadi “guardian angel” Abria, tapi juga “guardian angel”nya. Zoe kemudian menyadari bahwa dia mencintai Matthias, namun Matthias tidak merespon, hanya memanggil namanya “Zoe” sebagai jawaban. Saat itulah Zoe menyadari bahwa dirinya dan Matthias tidak bisa bersatu karena kehidupan mereka yang berbeda.
Untuk sebuah YA, Heavenly merupakan awal yang bagus untuk sebuah buku dengan genre ini. Dan juga keberanian Jennifer Laurens, sang pengarang , untuk membuat suatu karakter yang terkena autisme (dalam hal ini Abria) dan how to deal with autism character.
Jadi pengen baca lanjutannya, Penitence dan Absolutely (sayang aku ga dikasih bukunya, hmpfh =)) )
Zoe merasa kehidupannya tidak sama lagi setelah kelahiran adik perempuannya Abria. Abria yang autis membuat keluarga Zoe sangat protektif terhadapnya, dan membuat hubungan Zoe, adik laki-lakinya Luke, dan orangtua mereka menjadi renggang, karena orangtua Zoe lebih memfokuskan perhatian mereka terhadapa Abria. Untuk mengisi kekosongan dalam hidupnya, Zoe melakukan satu-satunya hal yang dia tahu : berpesta dan hura-hura.
Suatu hari, saat Zoe menemani Abria bermain di taman, dia kehilangan Abria. Panik karena tahu Abria adalah anak autis yang tidak bisa diam, Zoe mencari ke penjuru taman, dan mendapati Abria bersama dengan seorang laki-laki, yang memanggil adiknya “Miss Abria”. Keanehan terjadi, karena hanya Zoe dan Abria yang bisa melihat laki-laki itu, yang belakangan memperkenalkan dirinya sebagai Matthias.
Matthias memberitahu Zoe bahwa dia adalah “guardian angel” dan dia ditugaskan sebagai pelindung Abria. Zoe, yang sedikit shock dengan keberadaan Mathhias, mendapati bahwa sang adik Luke, ternyata mengalami ketergantungan terhadap obat-obatan. Belum lagi, sahabat karibnya, Britt, yang tidak mengacuhkan dirinya setelah berpacaran dengan laki-laki populer di sekolah, Weston. Dan, teman baru Zoe, Chase, yang mengaku bahwa dia mengetahui keberadaan “guardian angel” dan ingin mengetahui lebih dalam tentang Matthias. Seolah belum cukup, orangtua Zoe mengetahui ketergantungan Luke terhadap obat-obatan dan kegemaran Zoe yang suka minum-minuman keras.
Lelah dengan semua masalah yang menimpanya, Zoe mendapati keberadaan Mathhias menenangkannya, walaupun dia hanya bisa bertemu Matthias saat bersama Abria. Sedikit demi sedikit keadaan keluarga Zoe mulai membaik, dan Matthias tidak hanya menjadi “guardian angel” Abria, tapi juga “guardian angel”nya. Zoe kemudian menyadari bahwa dia mencintai Matthias, namun Matthias tidak merespon, hanya memanggil namanya “Zoe” sebagai jawaban. Saat itulah Zoe menyadari bahwa dirinya dan Matthias tidak bisa bersatu karena kehidupan mereka yang berbeda.
Untuk sebuah YA, Heavenly merupakan awal yang bagus untuk sebuah buku dengan genre ini. Dan juga keberanian Jennifer Laurens, sang pengarang , untuk membuat suatu karakter yang terkena autisme (dalam hal ini Abria) dan how to deal with autism character.
Jadi pengen baca lanjutannya, Penitence dan Absolutely (sayang aku ga dikasih bukunya, hmpfh =)) )
August 21, 2010
When I read the description I KNEW I had to read this book. Of course it was for the emotional connection I would feel ...relating to a family that had a child with special needs (which is not always physically noticeable to everyone)
Mostly what I felt was compassion, familiarity and tiredness with their circumstance. I soo have known the feeling of having my own son disappearing on me. I would love to know that there IS a guardian angel out there that is protecting him, and it would take a lot of the worry away!
As I type this tonight (and this is why I am motivated to type this tonight) I have heard the words ‘love you’ of course not clearly....(but the intention and sound was there) spoken by my son (3.3years) to me for the first time . And I have been tearing up and crying about it for the last 2 and ½ hours. The feeling of knowing that words are trapped somewhere in your child’s head is frustrating and heartbreaking... And it’s those simple little words that when you hear them brings tears to your eyes.
What I wouldn’t do to hear what went on inside his head!! To know what he is feeling!! How he sees the world through his eyes!
So for all of those reasons and many more..... How did I feel about the families choices they made... I felt scared!!!! Scared because that is the elephant in the room.... to wonder how my daughter will develop.. When there is a lot of attention on the other sibling... Do I wonder whether she feels ignored? Whether she will rebel...YES! And it’s incredible confronting to read a story like this... thinking how will we be in years to come.
So for those reasons I understood why Zoe, her brother, her parents were the way they were. And which made Zoe and Matthias love story even more powerful!
It is a love story that pushes the boundaries that surround its characters. It’s a love story that makes you believe the impossible is possible.
I love how Jennifer has made this very real, and very relatable!
And even though you can feel the writing building and you know something will happen...it still leaves you gasping and sobbing when it happens! (For good and not so good reasons!)
And it was a story that had me putting it down..only to reach for the 2nd book Penitence straight away.
Mostly what I felt was compassion, familiarity and tiredness with their circumstance. I soo have known the feeling of having my own son disappearing on me. I would love to know that there IS a guardian angel out there that is protecting him, and it would take a lot of the worry away!
As I type this tonight (and this is why I am motivated to type this tonight) I have heard the words ‘love you’ of course not clearly....(but the intention and sound was there) spoken by my son (3.3years) to me for the first time . And I have been tearing up and crying about it for the last 2 and ½ hours. The feeling of knowing that words are trapped somewhere in your child’s head is frustrating and heartbreaking... And it’s those simple little words that when you hear them brings tears to your eyes.
What I wouldn’t do to hear what went on inside his head!! To know what he is feeling!! How he sees the world through his eyes!
So for all of those reasons and many more..... How did I feel about the families choices they made... I felt scared!!!! Scared because that is the elephant in the room.... to wonder how my daughter will develop.. When there is a lot of attention on the other sibling... Do I wonder whether she feels ignored? Whether she will rebel...YES! And it’s incredible confronting to read a story like this... thinking how will we be in years to come.
So for those reasons I understood why Zoe, her brother, her parents were the way they were. And which made Zoe and Matthias love story even more powerful!
It is a love story that pushes the boundaries that surround its characters. It’s a love story that makes you believe the impossible is possible.
I love how Jennifer has made this very real, and very relatable!
And even though you can feel the writing building and you know something will happen...it still leaves you gasping and sobbing when it happens! (For good and not so good reasons!)
And it was a story that had me putting it down..only to reach for the 2nd book Penitence straight away.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 29, 2011
3.5/5
Me gustaría decir que Heavenly fue una lectura fácil, pero no fue así. Zoe es una adolescente que tiene que lidiar con la falta de atención de sus padres, que están volcados en atender a su hija pequeña, Abria, que tiene autismo. Su hermano que está metido en las drogas y ella, que tiene un montón de responsabilidades a causa de la condición de su hermanita. Zoe lo único que desea es ir a fiestas, salir con chicos y olvidar sus penas en alcohol. Está desorientada, no hay nadie que pueda ver por ella o lo que le sucede.
Un día, pierde de vista a su hermanita mientras estaban en un parque, asustada por la desaparición de Abria, comienza a buscarla hasta que la ve aparecer de la mano de un chico, Mathias. A partir de ese momento, la historia entre ellos se desarrolla, al principio con dudas por parte de Zoe que lo considera peligroso, hasta que es inevitable dejar de sentir lo que ambos sienten. El problema es que ella es humana y él, un ángel; ni más ni menos que el ángel guardián de su hermana con autismo. ¿Cómo romper las barreras que los separan?
Heavenly es una historia muy bien escrita, que muestra de manera clara los problemas del alcohol y las drogas en la adolescencia, y sobre todo, te ayuda a saber más sobre el autismo, un tema del que particularmente no sabía nada, ni había visto un libro de ficción que hablase al respecto, eso lo hace un libro encomiable. El hecho de que haya un romance y elementos sobrenaturales lo hace muy atractivo, sobre todo porque los personajes Zoe y Mathias son realmente carismáticos, son personajes fuertes, y que te transmiten sus emociones de una manera muy linda, son sin duda, una pareja estupenda.
Es muy probable que necesites pañuelos a tu lado para cuando leas esto, por que la historia es profunda, con temas fuertes pero tratados de una manera que es fácil de digerir. Mi único problema con el libro fue el ritmo que se me hacía muy lento, y para una historia con temas como los que les he mencionado, se me hacía muy difícil de leer. Aún así, veo en esta saga un enorme potencial, por que sin duda la autora tiene un don enorme para la escritura.
Me gustaría decir que Heavenly fue una lectura fácil, pero no fue así. Zoe es una adolescente que tiene que lidiar con la falta de atención de sus padres, que están volcados en atender a su hija pequeña, Abria, que tiene autismo. Su hermano que está metido en las drogas y ella, que tiene un montón de responsabilidades a causa de la condición de su hermanita. Zoe lo único que desea es ir a fiestas, salir con chicos y olvidar sus penas en alcohol. Está desorientada, no hay nadie que pueda ver por ella o lo que le sucede.
Un día, pierde de vista a su hermanita mientras estaban en un parque, asustada por la desaparición de Abria, comienza a buscarla hasta que la ve aparecer de la mano de un chico, Mathias. A partir de ese momento, la historia entre ellos se desarrolla, al principio con dudas por parte de Zoe que lo considera peligroso, hasta que es inevitable dejar de sentir lo que ambos sienten. El problema es que ella es humana y él, un ángel; ni más ni menos que el ángel guardián de su hermana con autismo. ¿Cómo romper las barreras que los separan?
Heavenly es una historia muy bien escrita, que muestra de manera clara los problemas del alcohol y las drogas en la adolescencia, y sobre todo, te ayuda a saber más sobre el autismo, un tema del que particularmente no sabía nada, ni había visto un libro de ficción que hablase al respecto, eso lo hace un libro encomiable. El hecho de que haya un romance y elementos sobrenaturales lo hace muy atractivo, sobre todo porque los personajes Zoe y Mathias son realmente carismáticos, son personajes fuertes, y que te transmiten sus emociones de una manera muy linda, son sin duda, una pareja estupenda.
Es muy probable que necesites pañuelos a tu lado para cuando leas esto, por que la historia es profunda, con temas fuertes pero tratados de una manera que es fácil de digerir. Mi único problema con el libro fue el ritmo que se me hacía muy lento, y para una historia con temas como los que les he mencionado, se me hacía muy difícil de leer. Aún así, veo en esta saga un enorme potencial, por que sin duda la autora tiene un don enorme para la escritura.
January 13, 2011
It took me a few pages to actually get into Heavenly, but once I was snagged - I was there for the rest of the book. Heavenly was a great read with real-life issues packed into the story to make it relatable to anyone that may pick up this book.
I think the best part for me was the characters. They were flawed and sometimes made the worst decisions ever, but their actions and solutions were all very realistic. I loved Zoe and could definitely relate to her. I don’t know if I agreed with every decision she made, but I know why she made the decisions that she did. I wasn’t too fond of her overall obsessive thoughts of Matthias that constantly flooded the pages. HOWEVER, she is a teenager and teens typically are very dramatic over their first loves. I’ve been through it, so I know. Plus, her keeping Matthias on her mind at all times helped her make better life choices, and that’s something to be grateful for. Matthias … oh, how I love thee! It’s nice to see an angel that can love, yet not completely abandon his duties and responsibilities for that love. As far as Britt and the guys, I think we’ve all known people like that in our lives before. I think I was the most empathetic toward Luke and his addiction. Actually, I feel for their whole family - dealing with a disability is never really an easy thing, but I think at the end there was a good compromise and hopefully the family has completely pulled together.
Speaking of the end: It’s so bittersweet! I don’t want to give anything away, but the entire last couple of chapters was nothing but an endless roller coaster ride of emotions for me. It’s not a bad thing, and there’s always the sweet happily ever after ending that’s not completely happy - but it’s the best ending for this book, I think.
I think the beginning was a little slow, but once it picked up the pace it stayed constant. Heavenly was a pretty easy read and had a wonderful premise. It’s definitely on my list of great reads.
I think the best part for me was the characters. They were flawed and sometimes made the worst decisions ever, but their actions and solutions were all very realistic. I loved Zoe and could definitely relate to her. I don’t know if I agreed with every decision she made, but I know why she made the decisions that she did. I wasn’t too fond of her overall obsessive thoughts of Matthias that constantly flooded the pages. HOWEVER, she is a teenager and teens typically are very dramatic over their first loves. I’ve been through it, so I know. Plus, her keeping Matthias on her mind at all times helped her make better life choices, and that’s something to be grateful for. Matthias … oh, how I love thee! It’s nice to see an angel that can love, yet not completely abandon his duties and responsibilities for that love. As far as Britt and the guys, I think we’ve all known people like that in our lives before. I think I was the most empathetic toward Luke and his addiction. Actually, I feel for their whole family - dealing with a disability is never really an easy thing, but I think at the end there was a good compromise and hopefully the family has completely pulled together.
Speaking of the end: It’s so bittersweet! I don’t want to give anything away, but the entire last couple of chapters was nothing but an endless roller coaster ride of emotions for me. It’s not a bad thing, and there’s always the sweet happily ever after ending that’s not completely happy - but it’s the best ending for this book, I think.
I think the beginning was a little slow, but once it picked up the pace it stayed constant. Heavenly was a pretty easy read and had a wonderful premise. It’s definitely on my list of great reads.
May 8, 2009
I really enjoyed reading this book. I really liked the fact that although the little sister had autism, the family was together. I can only imagine (and the book gave an excellent illustration) of how difficult and challenging it must be to keep a family together with the amount of stress that there was, but they did. I loved the fact that they went to church and were really a unit. Most YA books don’t incorporate the family unit as well as this book did. I could really relate to the relationship between Zoe and her brother. They looked out for each other and even when they we’re angry with each other, they looked out for each other’s best interest. I was almost more interested in Zoe and her family then in the relationship between her and Matthias…..almost. =) You can’t help as the reader to fall for him. When he would disappear, I felt as much want for Mathias to return as Zoe did. I love the bodyguard dynamic. He was truly a guardian angel. This book was so in-depth to so many different subjects and in my opinion, that’s the best part about it. It wasn’t just a love story. It dealt with the way Zoe and her brother dealt with things in hard times, pressures from friends, and their will power to do better. Family strength and remaining a family unit even when there was resentment. And how in a sense, Matthias was able to not only protect Zoe and her sister, he was able to bring Zoe closer to her family and give her strength to better herself. I loved this book and I can’t wait Penitence. Thank you Jennifer for writing such a down to earth, original, heart warming book in a time where this story is very much needed.
January 7, 2013
Me llevó dos años, pero lo terminé :D
Zoe es una protagonista totalmente odiosa, al principio odiaba como trataba a su hermanita, al final ese cambio a lo Madre Teresa de Calcuta fue totalmente inverosímil y sabía cómo iba a terminar porque cometí el error de leer la sinopsis del libro que le sigue y en la primera línea ya tiene un tremendo spoiler.
Matthias, es bastante encantador, pero no me terminó de cerrar.
Al final estuvo entre pasable y lindo, me gustó que el romance fuera imposible durante todo el libro y no fuera lo que movía la trama. Pero después está odiosa Zoe, y lo dejamos en it was ok :P
Sé que es una trilogía, que la historia continua, pero el final de este libro estuvo bueno, cierra todo muy bien y no tengo ganas de complicarme la vida jaja Así que para mí la historia termina acá ^^
Zoe es una protagonista totalmente odiosa, al principio odiaba como trataba a su hermanita, al final ese cambio a lo Madre Teresa de Calcuta fue totalmente inverosímil y sabía cómo iba a terminar porque cometí el error de leer la sinopsis del libro que le sigue y en la primera línea ya tiene un tremendo spoiler.
Matthias, es bastante encantador, pero no me terminó de cerrar.
Al final estuvo entre pasable y lindo, me gustó que el romance fuera imposible durante todo el libro y no fuera lo que movía la trama. Pero después está odiosa Zoe, y lo dejamos en it was ok :P
Sé que es una trilogía, que la historia continua, pero el final de este libro estuvo bueno, cierra todo muy bien y no tengo ganas de complicarme la vida jaja Así que para mí la historia termina acá ^^
June 13, 2010
Rating 3.5 stars
For some reasons I finding it hard to write a review for this book so I'm going to keep this short. I enjoyed this book but I founded it to be more of an emotional read than I expected. I felt it dealt with with the family issues and addiction in an honest way. The characters were good but I didn't really fall in love with any of them. The ending definitely took me by suprise but in a good way. I like that she put in a sneak peek of Penitence as it got me wondering what direction the second book is going to take which I'm kinda of excited to read despite my confused feelings on this book at the moment.
For some reasons I finding it hard to write a review for this book so I'm going to keep this short. I enjoyed this book but I founded it to be more of an emotional read than I expected. I felt it dealt with with the family issues and addiction in an honest way. The characters were good but I didn't really fall in love with any of them. The ending definitely took me by suprise but in a good way. I like that she put in a sneak peek of Penitence as it got me wondering what direction the second book is going to take which I'm kinda of excited to read despite my confused feelings on this book at the moment.
February 17, 2009
I loved this book. I totally didn't see the ending coming. Just what I needed.
December 19, 2010
Heavenly was a true delight to read! Very authentic. I would categorize Heavenly as realistic fiction with hints of the paranormal. The struggles that come with raising a child with autism is highlighted in this book. There is an incredible depth to this story, whose solid foundation comes from the fact that Laurens has a lot of personal experience with raising a child with autism. What I loved about this book was that it’s more than just a paranormal romance between Zoe and Matthias, who is the guardian angel of Zoe’s autistic sister Abria. There is much more substance to the book. It zooms deep into heart of the family’s issues revolving around Abria’s autism. The characteristics of autism, the details of what goes on inside this autistic household, the effects of autism on this family, as well as how individual family members unfortunately cope in negative ways (Zoe: partying/drinking and her brother Luke: drugs/pot), are all shown with such pure honesty and realism that you can’t help but be disheartened by what is going on. Especially how non-autistic children get unintentionally overlooked, since the autistic child requires so much care and attention. This story will definitely tug at your emotions. But on a brighter side, this story shows you the inspiring resilience of the human spirit when faced with difficulties and also teaches you that there is always room for personal growth - no matter how small. The family clings to hope and faith that they can eventually mend their broken family.
I also enjoyed the romantic aspect of the story. Aside from partying and drinking, spending time with Matthias is another escape from Zoe’s stressful life at home. So to her, being with Matthias is that much more heavenly when they are together. Their relationship develops organically in a very realistic way and over time. I loved how Matthias’ inner qualities - his intelligence and philosophical nature, being caring and protective - are qualities that Zoe is attracted to more than just his dreamy physical appearance, and this is the strong basis for them bonding so well. Their chemistry is easily visible. Heavenly establishes Zoe and Matthias’ love, but questions such as “Can they even be together?” and “What will the consequences be?” are some things that keep your interest as you are reading the story. As expected with many paranormal romances, there are obstacles to face in Heavenly as well. Who said loving a guardian angel was easy! The ending was a complete surprise, I didn’t see it coming. I am curious and excited about where the story will go from here. I will definitely be continuing the series to find out how the story unfolds. Penitence is book two and Absolution is the final book in the Heavenly series.
Honestly, there was hardly anything that I disliked about Heavenly, but if I had to nit-pick, Zoe reprimands her brother Luke for how he deals with his family issues, when she was coping in a negative way as well. But this just shows that she loves her brother and doesn’t want him to ruin his life, even if she is dealing with things in a bad way.
Heavenly is more of a slower paced book, which was fine because I was interested in what I was reading and it allowed me to really digest the information. I think what made me attached to Heavenly was the fact that I have autistic cousins, so I was able to really relate to this book. It was nice knowing that my aunt and uncle and I (when I visit) have witnessed and experienced the same kinds of issues that Abria’s family experiences in Heavenly. And it reaffirms that we are not alone in having to deal with the struggles that autism places on a family. I highly recommend this book, not only to people who are dealing with autism in their family, but to others who want to learn more about it. And for those who crave paranormal romances, while you may find this one to be a little more subtle and innocent, it is definitely more profound than many paranormal romances I have read, making it one to not be forgotten.
I also enjoyed the romantic aspect of the story. Aside from partying and drinking, spending time with Matthias is another escape from Zoe’s stressful life at home. So to her, being with Matthias is that much more heavenly when they are together. Their relationship develops organically in a very realistic way and over time. I loved how Matthias’ inner qualities - his intelligence and philosophical nature, being caring and protective - are qualities that Zoe is attracted to more than just his dreamy physical appearance, and this is the strong basis for them bonding so well. Their chemistry is easily visible. Heavenly establishes Zoe and Matthias’ love, but questions such as “Can they even be together?” and “What will the consequences be?” are some things that keep your interest as you are reading the story. As expected with many paranormal romances, there are obstacles to face in Heavenly as well. Who said loving a guardian angel was easy! The ending was a complete surprise, I didn’t see it coming. I am curious and excited about where the story will go from here. I will definitely be continuing the series to find out how the story unfolds. Penitence is book two and Absolution is the final book in the Heavenly series.
Honestly, there was hardly anything that I disliked about Heavenly, but if I had to nit-pick, Zoe reprimands her brother Luke for how he deals with his family issues, when she was coping in a negative way as well. But this just shows that she loves her brother and doesn’t want him to ruin his life, even if she is dealing with things in a bad way.
Heavenly is more of a slower paced book, which was fine because I was interested in what I was reading and it allowed me to really digest the information. I think what made me attached to Heavenly was the fact that I have autistic cousins, so I was able to really relate to this book. It was nice knowing that my aunt and uncle and I (when I visit) have witnessed and experienced the same kinds of issues that Abria’s family experiences in Heavenly. And it reaffirms that we are not alone in having to deal with the struggles that autism places on a family. I highly recommend this book, not only to people who are dealing with autism in their family, but to others who want to learn more about it. And for those who crave paranormal romances, while you may find this one to be a little more subtle and innocent, it is definitely more profound than many paranormal romances I have read, making it one to not be forgotten.
January 21, 2011
Partying. Drinking. Hooking up. Some consider this fun. For Zoe Dodd it was just a way to escape.
Escape from the responsibility of taking care of her autistic young sister Abria. Escape to anyone who would give her the attention that she was missing from her parents and so desperately desired.
She never would have thought that all she needed were the feelings of peace, comfort and warmth that Matthias could give to her. But then she never thought that Guardian Angel’s existed either.
Matthias was not her Guardian Angel. He was sent to protect her sister Abria, an innocent. Yet Zoe could see him and talk to him as if he were mortal. The one thing she could not do was touch him. And she so wanted to touch him.
You can’t choose who you fall in love with, and Zoe is no exception. No matter how inconvenient or impractical, Zoe loves him. But does he love her back? With all her mistakes and flaws why would he? Can an Angel even love her as a mortal man would? And even if he does, what price would Heaven demand?
Is getting what you wish for worth any cost?
***
Heavenly is a stunningly beautiful story about love, forgiveness and understanding. Only with the arrival of Abria’s Guardian Angel Matthias is Zoe finally able to find happiness and peace. Knowing her sister has someone Heaven-sent who is looking out for her takes that extra burden off her shoulders and gives her the strength to change the course of her life.
Not everyone is as accepting of Zoe’s happiness. No longer willing to turn a blind eye, Zoe is set on fixing her brother’s addiction. And with her new-found sobriety, Zoe’s best friend Britt has lost her party-girl partner in crime.
Complicating matters is Zoe’s growing love for Matthias. Her heart is fragile and the joy he has given to her can quickly lead to despair if her feelings go unrequited.
Jennifer Laurens has written a book that is a rollercoaster of emotions. Heavenly is sad, sweet, heartbreaking and heartwarming. Although involving the supernatural, the author has written a very real and believable story, touching on many issues that a girl of Zoe’s age might face.
Zoe is an extremely sympathetic character who is very easy to connect with and relate to. Abria is absolutely delightful. Her simple joy and sweet nature come through in the writing, making it easy to see why everyone is willing to sacrifice so much for her. And of course, Matthias is absolutely heavenly.
While this is the first book of three, it can be read on its own. The ending will not leave you hanging unless you choose to read the sneak peek of Penitence.
On a personal note:
I absolutely love this book. It’s one I’ve now read twice, and want to go back and read again.
That’s not to say that I don’t love the other two books in the series, but things take a much darker turn in Penitence and I just want to enjoy the smiley feeling I get from Heavenly for awhile before going on with the remainder of the trilogy.
Matthias is the perfect, not-so-perfect, Guardian Angel. I think his old-fashioned references are absolutely adorable. Only he could pull off saying something is “dandy” and get away with it. And I definitely don’t think Zoe would let anyone else call her a “sassy bearcat.”
His very interesting mortal past and circumstances surrounding his death are just teasers in this book, so you’ll have to read on to find out Matthias’s deep, dark secrets.
Though this is a story about Guardian Angels (versus fallen angels), it does not have an overly religious or morally preachy feel.
I did not completely fall apart after reading Heavenly though I did tear up. But if I recall correctly I did sob a bit while reading Penitence and Absolution.
This book, if you haven’t yet read it, is a must read for young (or not) adults who love stories about angels or just love a good love story.
Escape from the responsibility of taking care of her autistic young sister Abria. Escape to anyone who would give her the attention that she was missing from her parents and so desperately desired.
She never would have thought that all she needed were the feelings of peace, comfort and warmth that Matthias could give to her. But then she never thought that Guardian Angel’s existed either.
Matthias was not her Guardian Angel. He was sent to protect her sister Abria, an innocent. Yet Zoe could see him and talk to him as if he were mortal. The one thing she could not do was touch him. And she so wanted to touch him.
You can’t choose who you fall in love with, and Zoe is no exception. No matter how inconvenient or impractical, Zoe loves him. But does he love her back? With all her mistakes and flaws why would he? Can an Angel even love her as a mortal man would? And even if he does, what price would Heaven demand?
Is getting what you wish for worth any cost?
***
Heavenly is a stunningly beautiful story about love, forgiveness and understanding. Only with the arrival of Abria’s Guardian Angel Matthias is Zoe finally able to find happiness and peace. Knowing her sister has someone Heaven-sent who is looking out for her takes that extra burden off her shoulders and gives her the strength to change the course of her life.
Not everyone is as accepting of Zoe’s happiness. No longer willing to turn a blind eye, Zoe is set on fixing her brother’s addiction. And with her new-found sobriety, Zoe’s best friend Britt has lost her party-girl partner in crime.
Complicating matters is Zoe’s growing love for Matthias. Her heart is fragile and the joy he has given to her can quickly lead to despair if her feelings go unrequited.
Jennifer Laurens has written a book that is a rollercoaster of emotions. Heavenly is sad, sweet, heartbreaking and heartwarming. Although involving the supernatural, the author has written a very real and believable story, touching on many issues that a girl of Zoe’s age might face.
Zoe is an extremely sympathetic character who is very easy to connect with and relate to. Abria is absolutely delightful. Her simple joy and sweet nature come through in the writing, making it easy to see why everyone is willing to sacrifice so much for her. And of course, Matthias is absolutely heavenly.
While this is the first book of three, it can be read on its own. The ending will not leave you hanging unless you choose to read the sneak peek of Penitence.
On a personal note:
I absolutely love this book. It’s one I’ve now read twice, and want to go back and read again.
That’s not to say that I don’t love the other two books in the series, but things take a much darker turn in Penitence and I just want to enjoy the smiley feeling I get from Heavenly for awhile before going on with the remainder of the trilogy.
Matthias is the perfect, not-so-perfect, Guardian Angel. I think his old-fashioned references are absolutely adorable. Only he could pull off saying something is “dandy” and get away with it. And I definitely don’t think Zoe would let anyone else call her a “sassy bearcat.”
His very interesting mortal past and circumstances surrounding his death are just teasers in this book, so you’ll have to read on to find out Matthias’s deep, dark secrets.
Though this is a story about Guardian Angels (versus fallen angels), it does not have an overly religious or morally preachy feel.
I did not completely fall apart after reading Heavenly though I did tear up. But if I recall correctly I did sob a bit while reading Penitence and Absolution.
This book, if you haven’t yet read it, is a must read for young (or not) adults who love stories about angels or just love a good love story.
March 10, 2011
One word: REAL! Let me start of by saying that this book is so much more than a girl and her guardian angel. When I read the back of the book I thought, “Oh hey, another paranormal romance novel. I’ll put it in my TBR pile” this was 3 months ago- I am seriously kicking my own ass for not picking it up sooner!
In this story we follow 17 year old Zoe, who has turned to drinking and partying as an escape from reality. Zoe's younger sister, Abria, has autism, her parents are walking on a very thin line with all struggles that come with having a disabled child and her brother’s stress has led him to turn to drugs as his own personal means of escape. Enter Matthias, Abrias’s guardian angel. Zoe and Abria are the only ones that can see him. The lovely thing about Matthias is that he see’s Zoe for who she truly is; a girl who’s lost her way. Mathias is loving, caring and never judges. He slowly makes Zoe realize that she is worth more than a lousy one-night hook ups. She shouldn’t have to drink to escape her fears, they won’t go away, she needs to face them head on. Then of course, the inevitable happens; Zoe can no longer deny that she has feelings for Matthias… but that’s all sorts of wrong; he’s an angel, she can’t possibly be in love with him…. Right?
This book was marvelous! Having an autistic child herself, Mrs. Laurens was able to fully capture the struggles and frustrations that autistic families go though. Her characterization was freaking amazing! You can’t help but feel for and hurt with the characters in the story. My hearts was synchronized perfectly with theirs; I applauded their achievements and frowned upon their bad decisions. Zoe was a great protagonist and very easy to relate to. We see her grow tremendously throughout the whole book. There was such emotion and honesty in each scene… I teared up various times throughout the book. This book also created in me awareness. I never imagined the difficulties that others around me live on a day to day basis when it came to raising an autistic child. You can definitely feel the frustration and emotion coming of the pages when Abria’s around, but at the same time- you can feel the love and bond that Zoe’s family has for one another- behind all the stress and problems. They would do anything for Abria, she’s what holds them together. She’s their weakness but also their greatest strength. BEAUTIFULLY written, Mrs. Laurens. Bravo!
Oh and Matthias…. Gosh, he is wonderful! I’m usually all about the handsome young male protagonists, but something about Matthias makes him more than just a swoon worthy character. Maybe it’s his unceasing love for Abria or how he’s so forgiving and loving towards Zoe- either way, Matthias is amazing. All the scenes with him in it were very calm and comforting to read. The love Zoe feels for him is unique, she doesn’t wear her feelings on her sleeve and its cute to read how she approaches Matthias with her love and how he responds to her.
Everything about this book feels real; the characters, the story, the ending…. This is an amazing, incredible, in depth novel that every YA reader should pick up. So please, give it a look and see if you like it…. In the beginning, it did take me a couple of pages to really get into the story, but don’t let that stop you- keep going! Trust me when I say- you will not be disappointed. Just go read it, NOW!
In this story we follow 17 year old Zoe, who has turned to drinking and partying as an escape from reality. Zoe's younger sister, Abria, has autism, her parents are walking on a very thin line with all struggles that come with having a disabled child and her brother’s stress has led him to turn to drugs as his own personal means of escape. Enter Matthias, Abrias’s guardian angel. Zoe and Abria are the only ones that can see him. The lovely thing about Matthias is that he see’s Zoe for who she truly is; a girl who’s lost her way. Mathias is loving, caring and never judges. He slowly makes Zoe realize that she is worth more than a lousy one-night hook ups. She shouldn’t have to drink to escape her fears, they won’t go away, she needs to face them head on. Then of course, the inevitable happens; Zoe can no longer deny that she has feelings for Matthias… but that’s all sorts of wrong; he’s an angel, she can’t possibly be in love with him…. Right?
This book was marvelous! Having an autistic child herself, Mrs. Laurens was able to fully capture the struggles and frustrations that autistic families go though. Her characterization was freaking amazing! You can’t help but feel for and hurt with the characters in the story. My hearts was synchronized perfectly with theirs; I applauded their achievements and frowned upon their bad decisions. Zoe was a great protagonist and very easy to relate to. We see her grow tremendously throughout the whole book. There was such emotion and honesty in each scene… I teared up various times throughout the book. This book also created in me awareness. I never imagined the difficulties that others around me live on a day to day basis when it came to raising an autistic child. You can definitely feel the frustration and emotion coming of the pages when Abria’s around, but at the same time- you can feel the love and bond that Zoe’s family has for one another- behind all the stress and problems. They would do anything for Abria, she’s what holds them together. She’s their weakness but also their greatest strength. BEAUTIFULLY written, Mrs. Laurens. Bravo!
Oh and Matthias…. Gosh, he is wonderful! I’m usually all about the handsome young male protagonists, but something about Matthias makes him more than just a swoon worthy character. Maybe it’s his unceasing love for Abria or how he’s so forgiving and loving towards Zoe- either way, Matthias is amazing. All the scenes with him in it were very calm and comforting to read. The love Zoe feels for him is unique, she doesn’t wear her feelings on her sleeve and its cute to read how she approaches Matthias with her love and how he responds to her.
Everything about this book feels real; the characters, the story, the ending…. This is an amazing, incredible, in depth novel that every YA reader should pick up. So please, give it a look and see if you like it…. In the beginning, it did take me a couple of pages to really get into the story, but don’t let that stop you- keep going! Trust me when I say- you will not be disappointed. Just go read it, NOW!
February 27, 2011
I'm definitively in love with angel guardian...Very spiriual, love book. A great wrting! I love it!
Zoé à 18 ans, une soeur de 4 ans (ce n'est pas dit clairement mais j'estimerais son âge ainsi) et un frère de 16ans.Des parents qui l'aime, ainsi qu'une amie Britt avec qui elle partage ses secrets.Tout serait parfait si Abria , sa petite soeur n'était pas autiste, si son frère Luke n'était pas un accro aux drogues et que ses parents ne s'en rendaient même pas compte et si sa meilleure amie ne s'amusez pas à sortir avec tout ce qui bouge.Voilà la vie cachée de Zoé, elle se sent seule et perdue.
L'auteur décrit avec justesse et parfois avec rudesse (ce qui surprend le lecteur) les sentiments de Zoé, par rapport à ses parents et à Abria, qui pour elle est la cause de tout les problèmes rencontrés dans sa famille.Mais se sera aussi grâce à elle qu'elle va rencontrer Matthias, l'ange guardien d'Abria.
Les anges guardien ne sont rattachés qu'aux êtres au coeurs purs, Abria en fait partie et au fur et à mesure de l'histoire Zoé va se rendre compte que ces sentiments changent vis à vis de sa soeur et que tout n'est pas concentré autour d'Abria, mais qu'elle doit vivre sa vie aussi.Mais rencontrer un ange s'est bien, mais le voir c'est une autre histoire...Et peu de gens ont cette faculté.
Les personnages sont décrits de manière très naturelle, justes, l'auteur n'y va pas par quatre chemins. Etant elle-même mère de 6 enfants dont un est autiste, elle décrit très bien cet handicap au sein d'une famille et la manière dont les autres perçoivent cet enfant, c'est très lucide.
Zoé est une jeune fille, perdue, qui ne sait plus où aller pour montrer qu'elle est là, bien présente et qu'elle vit elle aussi. Elle est très attachée à sa famille et se montre parfois intransigeante envers elle.Mais elle évolue,Matthias lui montre d'autre choix. C'est un personnage féminin que j'apprécie.
Et il y a Matthias, ange guardien de 20 ans, venant du siècle passé (avec les expressions qui vont avec ^^, il m'a un peu fait penser à Edward, de part sa description physique et son vocabulaire d'un autre temps, même si c'est en anglais). Il est très attachant dans les courtes apparitions qu'il fait.
Car ce premier tome met en place l'histoire, le contexte, et est plus accès sur l'environnement de Zoé, que sur sa relation avec l'ange.Mais cela ne rend les apparitions de Matthias que plus irrésistibles.
Une lecture lucide et spirituelle, avec un cliff-hanger inatendu!J'ai enfin trouvé mon livre sur les anges!
Zoé à 18 ans, une soeur de 4 ans (ce n'est pas dit clairement mais j'estimerais son âge ainsi) et un frère de 16ans.Des parents qui l'aime, ainsi qu'une amie Britt avec qui elle partage ses secrets.Tout serait parfait si Abria , sa petite soeur n'était pas autiste, si son frère Luke n'était pas un accro aux drogues et que ses parents ne s'en rendaient même pas compte et si sa meilleure amie ne s'amusez pas à sortir avec tout ce qui bouge.Voilà la vie cachée de Zoé, elle se sent seule et perdue.
L'auteur décrit avec justesse et parfois avec rudesse (ce qui surprend le lecteur) les sentiments de Zoé, par rapport à ses parents et à Abria, qui pour elle est la cause de tout les problèmes rencontrés dans sa famille.Mais se sera aussi grâce à elle qu'elle va rencontrer Matthias, l'ange guardien d'Abria.
Les anges guardien ne sont rattachés qu'aux êtres au coeurs purs, Abria en fait partie et au fur et à mesure de l'histoire Zoé va se rendre compte que ces sentiments changent vis à vis de sa soeur et que tout n'est pas concentré autour d'Abria, mais qu'elle doit vivre sa vie aussi.Mais rencontrer un ange s'est bien, mais le voir c'est une autre histoire...Et peu de gens ont cette faculté.
Les personnages sont décrits de manière très naturelle, justes, l'auteur n'y va pas par quatre chemins. Etant elle-même mère de 6 enfants dont un est autiste, elle décrit très bien cet handicap au sein d'une famille et la manière dont les autres perçoivent cet enfant, c'est très lucide.
Zoé est une jeune fille, perdue, qui ne sait plus où aller pour montrer qu'elle est là, bien présente et qu'elle vit elle aussi. Elle est très attachée à sa famille et se montre parfois intransigeante envers elle.Mais elle évolue,Matthias lui montre d'autre choix. C'est un personnage féminin que j'apprécie.
Et il y a Matthias, ange guardien de 20 ans, venant du siècle passé (avec les expressions qui vont avec ^^, il m'a un peu fait penser à Edward, de part sa description physique et son vocabulaire d'un autre temps, même si c'est en anglais). Il est très attachant dans les courtes apparitions qu'il fait.
Car ce premier tome met en place l'histoire, le contexte, et est plus accès sur l'environnement de Zoé, que sur sa relation avec l'ange.Mais cela ne rend les apparitions de Matthias que plus irrésistibles.
Une lecture lucide et spirituelle, avec un cliff-hanger inatendu!J'ai enfin trouvé mon livre sur les anges!
July 25, 2011
I had high expectations for this book, but it did not deliver. I've tried to wait until my reasoning can sound more like reasoning and less like a rant. Here's why the book lost three stars...
Minus 1.5 stars - CONTENT - Alright, I read this for a good clean read. This read was too edgy for my taste, and not something I'd let my daughter under 17 read. Though probably very realistic, there are liberal references to Zoe's sexual conquests, lusty desires, and "hunting" for boys. Add to that the drunken parties where everyone, aka the cool kids, are "hooking up" (having casual sex), her druggie brother, attempted rape, and licentious demons circling kids at parties and I was a little more than surprised a book called "Heavenly" could be so un-heavenly.
Minus 1 star - YEA-RIGHT! RELATIONSHIP between the two main characters - Zoe is not a "good" girl. Oh, but she has a good heart...Matthias is an angel. Pure, but with a past? He tells her only the good or innocent can see angels. She is neither pure nor innocent, but she can see him? (The underlying message being that she really is good even though she has lived a wild lifestyle. I don't like that message being subtly propagated.) Leading to the question of why an angel would like her...There seems to be no build up or foundation to Matthias's feelings. **SPOILER ALERT** (But all of a sudden he's declaring his love for Zoe.) Yea, right!
Minus 1/2 star - UNDERLYING MESSAGES not really very good - Some might argue I missed the point of the book. That Zoe changes when the angel enters her life and brings her thoughts upward. Maybe, but I don't like so many small and subtle ways these characters and their actions lead to messages I would not want my kids to receive. Will they encounter some of these situations(peer pressure, drug use, drinking, sexual promiscuity), probably yes. Is this book instructive in good vs bad ways to respond to these situations? Not really. Though it does show some of the consequences of poor choices...It just felt a little voyeuristic at times. There are enough amazing reads out there that I feel confident someone could find something better to read.
If you want a good angel read, I'd recommend Unearthly by Cynthia Hand. Pass this one up, for sure...unless you like pseudo-love relationships without any basis.
Minus 1.5 stars - CONTENT - Alright, I read this for a good clean read. This read was too edgy for my taste, and not something I'd let my daughter under 17 read. Though probably very realistic, there are liberal references to Zoe's sexual conquests, lusty desires, and "hunting" for boys. Add to that the drunken parties where everyone, aka the cool kids, are "hooking up" (having casual sex), her druggie brother, attempted rape, and licentious demons circling kids at parties and I was a little more than surprised a book called "Heavenly" could be so un-heavenly.
Minus 1 star - YEA-RIGHT! RELATIONSHIP between the two main characters - Zoe is not a "good" girl. Oh, but she has a good heart...Matthias is an angel. Pure, but with a past? He tells her only the good or innocent can see angels. She is neither pure nor innocent, but she can see him? (The underlying message being that she really is good even though she has lived a wild lifestyle. I don't like that message being subtly propagated.) Leading to the question of why an angel would like her...There seems to be no build up or foundation to Matthias's feelings. **SPOILER ALERT** (But all of a sudden he's declaring his love for Zoe.) Yea, right!
Minus 1/2 star - UNDERLYING MESSAGES not really very good - Some might argue I missed the point of the book. That Zoe changes when the angel enters her life and brings her thoughts upward. Maybe, but I don't like so many small and subtle ways these characters and their actions lead to messages I would not want my kids to receive. Will they encounter some of these situations(peer pressure, drug use, drinking, sexual promiscuity), probably yes. Is this book instructive in good vs bad ways to respond to these situations? Not really. Though it does show some of the consequences of poor choices...It just felt a little voyeuristic at times. There are enough amazing reads out there that I feel confident someone could find something better to read.
If you want a good angel read, I'd recommend Unearthly by Cynthia Hand. Pass this one up, for sure...unless you like pseudo-love relationships without any basis.
July 2, 2011
Original review at http://inkscratchers.blogspot.com/
I really was a bit dubious about this book as I was really worried that it would just be another book about a human falling in love with an immortal, full of angst about how they can never be together, with another whiny heroine crying over a guy she met two days before.
Okay, so Zoe is a bit whiny but in all fairness she has every right to be, her sister is autistic, her brother is addicted to drugs and Zoe feels like she's got to deal with everything. I'd be whiny in her position as well. Aside from that, I actually loved the character of Zoe, I didn't agree with her decisions, as at some points she does dangerous and stupid stuff, but rather than this just being a plot device to have the hero come and save her the author actually builds it up so we can understand why Zoe does these things.
The story was great. While it does carry the concepts of a lot of immortal/mortal love stories it's also original and isn't all about Zoe and Matthias, there is a lot of background story. I loved the way Zoe's character developed from partying hard and getting drunk to being this great responsible sister. I also loved the way that Zoe's brother Luke developed, this book has some amazing morals without being preachy. Can I just say; The ending! Oh my days, I have to get the sequel now!
I loved the romance as well; what I love about angel books is that, while I do like reading a bit of hot, steamy romance I also love a cute and sweet romance which is pretty hard to come across these days. The author is amazing at creating a beautiful and sweet romance without having the characters shoving their tongues down each other's throats every two pages and that's really why I loved this book. Despite the fact that Zoe is very... experienced... the romance was so sweet and not steamy at all. Pure, sweet, celibate romance!
The only problem I had was how easily Zoe accepted what Matthias was, I think it was a little too fast and didn't seem very obvious.
The ending is not what what I expected but I actually was glad it ended that way, that's all I say for fears of spoilers!
All in all, a pure and sweet love story with some fantastic underlying morals. A story of a broken family coming together.
Overall rating: A
I really was a bit dubious about this book as I was really worried that it would just be another book about a human falling in love with an immortal, full of angst about how they can never be together, with another whiny heroine crying over a guy she met two days before.
Okay, so Zoe is a bit whiny but in all fairness she has every right to be, her sister is autistic, her brother is addicted to drugs and Zoe feels like she's got to deal with everything. I'd be whiny in her position as well. Aside from that, I actually loved the character of Zoe, I didn't agree with her decisions, as at some points she does dangerous and stupid stuff, but rather than this just being a plot device to have the hero come and save her the author actually builds it up so we can understand why Zoe does these things.
The story was great. While it does carry the concepts of a lot of immortal/mortal love stories it's also original and isn't all about Zoe and Matthias, there is a lot of background story. I loved the way Zoe's character developed from partying hard and getting drunk to being this great responsible sister. I also loved the way that Zoe's brother Luke developed, this book has some amazing morals without being preachy. Can I just say; The ending! Oh my days, I have to get the sequel now!
I loved the romance as well; what I love about angel books is that, while I do like reading a bit of hot, steamy romance I also love a cute and sweet romance which is pretty hard to come across these days. The author is amazing at creating a beautiful and sweet romance without having the characters shoving their tongues down each other's throats every two pages and that's really why I loved this book. Despite the fact that Zoe is very... experienced... the romance was so sweet and not steamy at all. Pure, sweet, celibate romance!
The only problem I had was how easily Zoe accepted what Matthias was, I think it was a little too fast and didn't seem very obvious.
The ending is not what what I expected but I actually was glad it ended that way, that's all I say for fears of spoilers!
All in all, a pure and sweet love story with some fantastic underlying morals. A story of a broken family coming together.
Overall rating: A
May 17, 2012
Well, while I cant say I loved it like i wish I could I still really enjoyed it! It did also make me tear up at the end...ach maybe I did love it...
But anyway I had been looking for this book for AGES and could not wait to read it! So naturally when i first opened it I was giddy..yes giddy with excitement.
This book is about 18 year old Zoe who, really, has a lot to deal with. Due to her autistic little sister Zoe and her little brother hate home life and at first seem to want to do anything to get away from it all. Plus seeing how fucked up their lives and their parents life have become compared to what it was....well its obvious how it all hurts.
At first Zoe came across as, well, a slut and really someone who just gave a Fuck all at everything in life. Lucus, Zoe's 16 year old brother, was someone who seemed ignorant and quote cowardly but I liked reading about him. I really did love watching how they changed as people and learnt to deal with life in the right way.
Abria is Zoes autistic little sister and i found her amazing. Normally young kids can really piss me off but I just kinda felt Sorry for her and just admired her especially from what Matthias tells.
Oh Matthias, you beautiful, B-E-A- UTIFUL boy!! man, was he adorable...
And then there is the romance which l LOVED! But then im a complete sucker for all romances! Haa!
I think the flaws lies really in the pacing and how some things would jump from here and there. I also didnt really like Britt either...Zoes best friend.
However Jennifer laurens has some real talent, you could just tell. I swear there's something abput Jennifers LOL. Anyway, this book honestly was so down to earth Brings out things like addiction and autism which I no little about and is pretty genuine. I'm now gonna condradict myself and say that there were sone aspects which were really unrealistic I felt but still. It was different. No rebellious fallen angels. Just pure goodness. Which normally ain't my type but hey...I still loved it. Plus I felt somewhat and really quite eerily relaxed and peaceful when I read this...which really helped since I'm smack damn middle in my exams..which reminds me.....
But honestly it was a really good read and i will be reading the rest of the trilogy too.
But anyway I had been looking for this book for AGES and could not wait to read it! So naturally when i first opened it I was giddy..yes giddy with excitement.
This book is about 18 year old Zoe who, really, has a lot to deal with. Due to her autistic little sister Zoe and her little brother hate home life and at first seem to want to do anything to get away from it all. Plus seeing how fucked up their lives and their parents life have become compared to what it was....well its obvious how it all hurts.
At first Zoe came across as, well, a slut and really someone who just gave a Fuck all at everything in life. Lucus, Zoe's 16 year old brother, was someone who seemed ignorant and quote cowardly but I liked reading about him. I really did love watching how they changed as people and learnt to deal with life in the right way.
Abria is Zoes autistic little sister and i found her amazing. Normally young kids can really piss me off but I just kinda felt Sorry for her and just admired her especially from what Matthias tells.
Oh Matthias, you beautiful, B-E-A- UTIFUL boy!! man, was he adorable...
And then there is the romance which l LOVED! But then im a complete sucker for all romances! Haa!
I think the flaws lies really in the pacing and how some things would jump from here and there. I also didnt really like Britt either...Zoes best friend.
However Jennifer laurens has some real talent, you could just tell. I swear there's something abput Jennifers LOL. Anyway, this book honestly was so down to earth Brings out things like addiction and autism which I no little about and is pretty genuine. I'm now gonna condradict myself and say that there were sone aspects which were really unrealistic I felt but still. It was different. No rebellious fallen angels. Just pure goodness. Which normally ain't my type but hey...I still loved it. Plus I felt somewhat and really quite eerily relaxed and peaceful when I read this...which really helped since I'm smack damn middle in my exams..which reminds me.....
But honestly it was a really good read and i will be reading the rest of the trilogy too.
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