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Angel Burn (Angel #1)

3.97 of 5 stars 3.97 · rating details · 14,182 ratings · 1,563 reviews

They're out for your soul.
And they don't have heaven in mind...

Willow knows she's different from other girls, and not just because she loves tinkering with cars. Willow has a gift. She can look into the future and know people's dreams and hopes, their sorrows and regrets, just by touching them. she has no idea where this power comes from. But the assassin, Alex, does. Gorg...more

Hardcover, 449 pages

Published May 24th 2011 by Candlewick (first published September 30th 2010)

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Feb 08, 2011 Vinaya rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: bleh, ya-fantasy, could-have-been-better

Bollywood has a special genre of movies called 'Masala movies'. Masala, in case you're wondering, is a powdered mixture of spices to add flavour to Indian cuisine. Masala movies, on the same note, are a mixture of dramatic elements designed to appeal to the senses.

STEP 1: Boy Meets Girl

Boy and girl bump into each other/ meet at a wedding/ are introduced by friends and there is an instant 'connection' which will, of course, soon lead to true lurrve.

STEP 2: Girl Plays Coy

The path of true lurr...more

258 likes · like · see review

Jun 03, 2011 Wendy Darling rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: favorite-ya, pn-angels, young-adult, read-2011, crush-worthy-boys, ebook-egalley, 2011-favorites, 2011-publication

Free for Kindle right now! Download from Amazon before the deal ends. (Review edited 6/3/11 to include this freebie.)

There's something a-brew in the heavens, because there has been a streak of great books centered around angels lately. After disappointments like Hush, Hush, Fallen, and various other novels, it's exciting to have books like Unearthly and Mercy ...and now Angel Burn, which is the first in a trilogy previously published in the U.K. under a slightly different title.

What's unusual ab...more

41 likes · like · see review

Mar 30, 2012 Emily May rated it 2 of 5 stars

Shelves: ya-na, paranormal-uf, angels, 2012, pnr

I realise it was probably a mistake to read another angel book so soon after finishing Angelfall, but it was amongst the gushing reviews and comments on the aforementioned that I read about these two books sharing a similar theme. This theme being that, rather than having pretty, sparkly, heaven-sent angels, the authors used the more traditional, violent creatures who have come to earth in order to take over. However, this is where the similarities between the two novels end.

Angel Burn has a much heavier focus on romance. In fact, the majority of the book is taken up by the development of the relationship between the male and female protagonists who are, of course, drawn to each other from the very beginning. I cannot help but be annoyed when the heroine pauses in life-threatening situtations to ogle this novel's piece of man candy. Is this normal behaviour? Surely myself and Penryn cannot be the only ones to prefer survival?

Naturally, they are already eternally, unconditionally in love by the novel's half-way marker. I also would guess that the equivalent of about sixty pages in total is given to Willow and Alex's kissing sessions. Way too much of this rather large book was about the romance. And what was the plot, exactly?

Like Article 5, like The Other Life, the bad guys are not actually that important. They are merely the tool needed to get the two lovebirds on the run together and allow for the road trip romancing to take place. Unlike Angelfall, the angel mythology is so underdeveloped. This could quite easily have been a book about vampires, werewolves, aliens - take your pick. You'd only have to change a few words and phrases here and there.

Perhaps it would not have been so bad if the romance hadn't been so damn corny as well. I'm not totally immune to the charms of a sexy guy in a leather jacket and the call of a touching romance, but this pulled some scenes that I'm pretty sure only Disney can get away with. You know what I mean, one of them is lying on the ground and no, please no, you can't be dead... I love you and then their eyes flicker open! Oh, please.

If you're a hardcore PNR fan or haven't already read way too much annoying paranormal novels then this could be for you. If you've read Angelfall recently, though, I recommend waiting a good while before reading this because, in my opinion, it pales in comparison.
(less)

30 likes · like · see review

Feb 13, 2011 Fani rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: arc-netgalley-to-review, young-adult, on-the-road, romance-pnr, enemies-to-lovers, assassin-merchenary-outlaw

Simply put, I think this is the best young adult paranormal book I've read (though admittedly my knowledge in the genre is rather limited). But whereas YA books usually bore me with the endless descriptions of everyday high school life, this one took a different approach, much more to my liking: that of a road-trip.

Willow has always been psychic and has the ability to see glimpses of the future. One day while reading a girl's thoughts she sees a real angel. Surprisingly though, the angel seems t...more Simply put, I think this is the best young adult paranormal book I've read (though admittedly my knowledge in the genre is rather limited). But whereas YA books usually bore me with the endless descriptions of everyday high school life, this one took a different approach, much more to my liking: that of a road-trip.

Willow has always been psychic and has the ability to see glimpses of the future. One day while reading a girl's thoughts she sees a real angel. Surprisingly though, the angel seems to be hurting her friend rather than helping her and Willow tries in vain to stop Heather from joining the newfound Church of the Angels. When Willow herself goes to the Church for a last attempt to stop Heather she sees more angels feeding off humans, leaving them drained and weak.
Unbeknownst to Willow, the angels have been notified of her existence and consider her a threat. For this reason, they send someone to kill her; someone who's in fact an Angel Killer. When Alex, who's the assassin, meets Willow, he realizes that something is very wrong with this mission and decides to watch her a while before actually killing her. So he follows her to the Church of the Angels only to see the Angels attacking her. And since 'my enemy's enemy is my friend' as the old adage goes, he decides to save Willow until he knows why the Angels want her dead. Thus, they both get into his car and their road trip begins.

For one, there is no way that this book is going to bore you. The action and suspense is non-stop till the very end, while the on-the-road element added much to my enjoyment. These two constantly meet new people, visit new places and in between they get closer to each other. Thus when they finally admit to their attraction, I could actually believe it, since they were not strangers at that point.

I liked the writing, simple and to the point but with some beautiful descriptions of the desert and later the mountains that made me feel as if I was actually there. I liked the characters too; both calm, composed Willow and lonely, decisive Alex. Although they were only 17 and 18 years old respectively, they both acted maturely like adults, which was very understandable and realistic considering their childhoods.

If -like me- you read only a couple of YA books per year, make this one of them. It's definitely worth your time.(less)

17 likes · like · see review

Mar 07, 2012 K. rated it 2 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: fantasy-sci-fi-dys, ok-fine-its-ya, ok-i-cheated, e-book, 21st-cent

So, my thoughts during and after reading Angel Burn:

Ahem...

- Weatherly is not a bad writer. Truly, she isn't. But I felt like this book lacked epicness and research. It was a small world trying to seem big. A small war trying to seem all-ending. I felt like she sat down and used up any standing information she had about angel lore and, somehow, managed to compose an entire novel. What she should've done was spend a little more time in the library (or the internet, don't be scared) to give us mor...more

20 likes · like · see review

Mar 19, 2011 Sandy rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: read-in-2011

My bar for ranking new angel books is admittedly low--I mean, look at the comps and see the lack of competition. Until Unearthly, I was beginning to think it may be impossible to write a decent angel book. Out of all paranormal creatures, angels have received the worse treatment in YA books BY FAR. I won't go into the examples--we all know what they are.

With Angel Burn, I was pleasantly surprised. The wearisome elements plaguing other angel books (TSTL heroines, creepy obsessive love interests,...more

11 likes · like · see review

Mar 14, 2011 ~Tina~ rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: own, angels, young-adult, read-2011, tbr-booker-challenge

TBR Reduce Challenge #15- 2011 (Stefanie)

I've read a lot of Angel books and sometimes I find ones that has a different take on the traditional lore. But, Angel is probably the most unique of them all, and while I'm not use to seeing angels as the bad guys, being hunted, I still think this was an excellent concept. Mix it with suspense, grip and forbidden love and how could I resist?

Fresh, smart and fantastic! Can't wait to read the next book; Angel Fire!

10 likes · like · see review

Jun 02, 2011 Kristi (The Story Siren) marked it as to-read

Shelves: books-i-own, own-arc, signed-books, bea-2011

I bought this book from the Book Depo, since it's been released in the UK for several months now, but I didn't actually read the story until I had a copy of the US galley in hand. I'm not sure why I waited so long, my fellow UK bloggers had all but demanded that I read this book! I am a fan of the US cover over the UK one though! Though they both are beautiful.

Angel Burn is unlike any angel themed story I've read. When I think of angels I think of goodness and white lights... healing touches, ya...more

8 likes · like · see review

Mar 03, 2012 Stephanie rated it 1 of 5 stars

Terrible. Simply terrible. The switching view points was the worst especially since one of them was annoying as heck. I probably would have finished it if it was just written in Alex's perspective. There needs to be more books from a guys perspective. All these girls POV's are getting on my nerves. They are all the same "we're sooo unique!" Then they turn around and do everything every other YA Main Character does. x_x

Worst of all, 30 pages in and there wasn't even a hint at a plot! I'd imagine...more

9 likes · like · see review

Jan 14, 2013 Maria rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: favorites, books-with-reviews, books-i-own, audiobook

14/01/2013 Proud owner of the audiobook as well!

I was waiting for this book months and the moment i grap it i have no idea what happend and i held back on reading it at least 2 weeks!I wish i wouldnt done it to be honest because simply i was thrilled with the book!

Yes you may heard right that the book is for an angel and it might sound to you similiar with some other book you might read recently!But i personally enjoy it and in fact i finished in 3 nights ending with red eyes without proper s...more 14/01/2013 Proud owner of the audiobook as well!

I was waiting for this book months and the moment i grap it i have no idea what happend and i held back on reading it at least 2 weeks!I wish i wouldnt done it to be honest because simply i was thrilled with the book!

Yes you may heard right that the book is for an angel and it might sound to you similiar with some other book you might read recently!But i personally enjoy it and in fact i finished in 3 nights ending with red eyes without proper sleep!

I have to say that Alex and Willow is a great couple.. and when i mean a great couple i really mean it!I like that that they started completely hating each other but slowly and slowly getting to know each other and to fall in love with other (not out of the blue like in some other books goes)

I pretty much like Willow the character how she become in love with Alex but the basic thing is i Loved how strong and confident she was when she had to do ... what she had to do anyway ;) even that she scared and all of these things!

Alex is/was lovely!I felt so sympathy with him how his past was how he had to deal with the situation with his family and all!And i gotta say i really like how He as well become in love with Willow at the same time she did as well!

Writing was good and you may comfuse a bit in the start because the POV of things switch back and forth from Willow and Alex and other characters too (''bad'' as well)but you get used of it eventually and i dare to say i even like it too!

The basic thing i was thrilled in a way with this book is because the romance and the action is switch on and off i mean one chapter there is the development between Alex and Willow and all then there is the action happening! I pretty much like how those 2 stuff was on and off without you getting bored and having all the suspense whats going on what is going to happend keep you continue reading it even that they actually start ruuning from the first chapters!

What i didnt like?Well i was very dissapointed how the dark/evil side of Angels describe...OK we know they are bad and they using humans and all BUT the describion was more like...I just wasnt able to picture it they way it did in the book! I felt more like a shapeshifter with wings was on rather than an Angel with bad purpose and all of this stuff!

Overall i like it and i am waiting for the second book!(less)

7 likes · like · see review

Apr 15, 2013 Nessa rated it 2 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: fiction, review

I was really excited to pick up Angel. I'd been craving a YA angel book, and Amazon had one of those rare psychic moments where it gives you the link to a book that's currently on sale, and doesn't sound too bad. Angel isn't a bad read, but it has some pretty glaring flaws here and there, but I ultimately didn't finish it because it just wasn't my cup of tea and I found myself incredibly bored by it.

My main problem was with the characterisation. Both Willow and Alex felt like stereotypes when we...more

5 likes · like · see review

Jul 23, 2011 Krystle rated it 2 of 5 stars

I think I prefer the UK cover to the US one but they both have their positives, I guess.

I’m a bit wary of angel books because they can either be exceptionally good, Unearthly, or absolutely terrible, Hush, Hush. Angel Burn falls somewhere in the middle; nothing offensive but doesn’t evolve past being anything more than pleasant.

There’s a lot of good things to say about this book though. Willow being savvy at fixing cars? Fantastic! And the whole angel mythology doesn’t revolve around heaven, Je...more I think I prefer the UK cover to the US one but they both have their positives, I guess.

I’m a bit wary of angel books because they can either be exceptionally good, Unearthly, or absolutely terrible, Hush, Hush. Angel Burn falls somewhere in the middle; nothing offensive but doesn’t evolve past being anything more than pleasant.

There’s a lot of good things to say about this book though. Willow being savvy at fixing cars? Fantastic! And the whole angel mythology doesn’t revolve around heaven, Jesus, and all that stuff? Great! (I don’t have a problem with this stuff, just to be clear) The angels here are more like incubi/succubi from another realm come to prey on humans. I thought this was a new and refreshing take on them versus the overdone fallen angel or angel on a mission angle.

This book is one of those fun chase, adventure, and escape book with a slight touch of saving the word thrown in there. So if you’re tired of the whole high school drama angst-fest than have no fear, this is not what’s going on in here. The romance wasn’t that bad either. The guy, Alex, is not a prick and there is no dreaded love triangle in here.

At first I was really a fan of the romance because they were both awkward and bumbling around each other. They were both insecure and tentative as they worked toward their gradual relationship. But then once they got together there were oh so sappy. It made me want to gag. It didn’t help that they spent chapters hiding out in a cabin in the woods so all they did was profess overly saccharine sentiments to each other and on and on.

The whole race across the US felt a bit, I don’t know, flat after a while. I got tired of them just stopping over at random places and changing cars. The scenery and pacing was the same so, yeah, I wanted something more fun. But it did keep the pace up, so while I didn’t like it, I’m quite sure a lot of other people would love this part.

The writing reminded me of an adventure book. Very plain and straight to the point without much frilly descriptions. The majority of the book consisted of pov changes between Alex and Willow, which were actually done pretty well. When they switched over, the transition was seamless and not jarring at all. The book ended on a high note and wrapped all the loose threads so well, I have no idea how the sequel will be.(less)

5 likes · like · see review

Mar 27, 2011 Crowinator rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: ya, arcs, booklist-review, paranormal, angels-and-gods, 2011-reads, romance-and-vicarious-smoochies

Actual rating: 3.5 stars.

This book gives a whole new meaning to the phrase “touched by an angel”.

Because as we learn in the book’s opening pages, angels? Will bad touch you to death. Angels aren’t guardians of humanity or messengers of God; they are inter-dimensional beings who feed on our life force, causing serious physical and mental illnesses in the people they’ve fed from. (Sort of like Glory in Buffy, Season Five.) It’s called “angel burn”, and though the people burned by angels get sick...more

4 likes · like · see review

Feb 24, 2011 Jynjanynja rated it 3 of 5 stars Recommends it for: 11 year olds

Recommended to Jynjanynja by: NetGalley.com

Shelves: mystery, paranormal, religious, romance, young-adult, back-shelf-ya

Received from: Candlewick Press (Publisher)
Received at: NetGalley.com
Cover Review: 5 stars!
What a cover! It's the most amazing cover I've seen in a long while.

And what a book, a plot, and a read!

In some ways, this was more thrilling than your average Young Adult Paranormal book, but it still doesn't garner more than a 2.75 stars for me.

Of course, one full star goes to (view spoiler)...more

3 likes · like · see review

Mar 16, 2012 Jess (Gone with the Words) rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: netgalley, multiple-narrators, ebook, angels, young-adult, read-2012

Read this review on my blog! --> Angel Burn by L.A. Weatherly

L.A. Weatherly has created an angel mythology completely new and exciting. Angel Burn is not like any other angel book I’ve read before.

We all imagine angels as these heavenly creatures that come to earth to protect humanity. The few lucky ones who have encountered the angels in Angel Burn will attest to this belief. Then there’s the truth. The truth is that angels only make you believe this, but in reality, they are feeding from hu...more Read this review on my blog! --> Angel Burn by L.A. Weatherly

L.A. Weatherly has created an angel mythology completely new and exciting. Angel Burn is not like any other angel book I’ve read before.

We all imagine angels as these heavenly creatures that come to earth to protect humanity. The few lucky ones who have encountered the angels in Angel Burn will attest to this belief. Then there’s the truth. The truth is that angels only make you believe this, but in reality, they are feeding from humans. They are stealing their life force, causing these humans to develop cancer, mental illness, and other sicknesses. Crazy! I know! But so original!!

Angels have always been the good guys! Well, no more. At least not in this story.

Luckily, there are people out there, Angel Killers, who know the truth and are trying hard to stop them. Alex is an AK. And Willow…well, Willow turns out to be something completely different than anything out there. For this reason, Alex has to basically keep Willow by his side and take her with him wherever he goes. Willow is not too keen on the idea, but she’s not stupid, she knows she has no other choice.

Alex and Willow are attracted to each other from the start, but they build great tension because they spend a lot of time trying to hate one another and stay at arms length. I like that kind of tension, because then the pay-off is so sweet and rewarding! Yes, I’m a romantic, ok! Their relationship had real depth, which I really appreciated.

I thought all of the characters in Angel Burn were so well fleshed out. It helped that we get to see a lot of the story from several perspectives, including the bad guys. The pacing was just perfect, too. Really the only lull was when Alex and Willow spend time hiding out in the mountains. I thought that could’ve probably been shorten.

By the end though, I was simply on the edge of my seat, biting my nails. I couldn’t put it down! I was expecting a different outcome but I liked the actual one even better. I will be reading Angel Fire very soon, because this is a story I want to jump back into soon.(less)

3 likes · like · see review

May 02, 2011 Amber rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: arc, ebooks, favorites

This brilliant, action packed page turner will have you on the edge of your seat craving for more!! This is a MUST READ for 2011!!!

This story is about a girl named Willow, who isn’t the typical high school student from Pawtucket, a sleepy little town crouched in the foothills of the Adirondack Mountains. Willow has always been able to read people by touching them and by doing so she can see into their future.

The story starts off with a classmate of Willow’s wanting a reading. Willow was feeling...more

9 likes · like · see review

Mar 12, 2011 Jessica Martinez rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: books-of-awesome, angels

i would have given the story a five star, but i felt like the characters fell in love to fast and the way it was written was awkward like out of nowhere they realize they are in love and not even at a special moment. but i would still recommend it. i loved the idea that angel's are bad, finally a different book about angels.

reviewed by Hicklebee's Book Club Member

PS i would have also loved more scenes where Willow fixed some cars since the author made such a big deal about it

3 likes · like · see review

Feb 28, 2011 Courtney rated it 3 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: ya-for-adults-challenge

One of my favorite story lines doesn’t come from a book. It comes from the 80s: the story of John Connor (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Connor). Well, I should say the idea comes from the 80s, but I prefer the more recent versions of John Connor. I like my John Connor to grow from adorable Thomas Dekker into a rugged Christian Bale.

Time travel is always really hard for me to grasp. I end up trying to overanalyze it, so I can’t get into the story. Not with John Connor (even though I can’t qui...more One of my favorite story lines doesn’t come from a book. It comes from the 80s: the story of John Connor (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Connor). Well, I should say the idea comes from the 80s, but I prefer the more recent versions of John Connor. I like my John Connor to grow from adorable Thomas Dekker into a rugged Christian Bale.

Time travel is always really hard for me to grasp. I end up trying to overanalyze it, so I can’t get into the story. Not with John Connor (even though I can’t quite understand how his dad is from the future and if he hadn’t been sent back to protect Sarah, then John wouldn’t have been born, but then his father dies in the past, so how is he in the future to be sent back if he is already dead?). The logistics don’t matter with John Connor’s story because the action is so gripping, I find myself sucked into the story completely and swallow everything no matter how far-fetched.

In John’s story, we see the world after the worst has happened. Humanity is almost obliterated by monstrous machines. But we still have hope. If John can only stay alive, he will eventually defeat the machines. Because he is the only hope for humanity, Connor’s character is infamous.

I have never come across another character quite like John Connor in literature. I’m not making that leap with Angel Burn, either, but it comes pretty close. Willow and Alex are unlikely allies in this sci-fi/fantasy thriller by L.A. Weatherly. Alex is a super-stealth hit-man for the CIA with heavy baggage from his past. Willow is a tomboy, psychic who has always taken care of the people she loves.

The two come together through a manipulation of the angels, the unseen enemies poised to destroy humanity. Alex and Willow must join forces to fight them, or all humanity will be lost to the insatiable hunger of thousands of angels. Although there is no time travel in the book, several characters can see the future. Thus, they have the ability to change possible outcomes.

I enjoyed most of the book. Alex and Willow are interesting, compelling characters on their own. The fast pace begins with action, mystery, gun fights and espionage, not to mention fast cars. Willow is set up as the John Connor of her world with Alex as her Arnold (a.k.a. the GOOD Terminator).

SPOILERS (Don’t read this until after you’ve read the book)

The book lost steam in the middle when Alex and Willow fall in love. We go from high-speed chases with danger everywhere to a cabin in the mountains where Alex and Willow stare at each other and make-out. I’m sure there is an audience for this romance, but it broke up the action at a crucial point in the story. Fortunately, as soon as the CIA arrives, the action gets back on track.

There were also a couple of plot points that bothered me, mostly involving wardrobe. Why didn't Willow change her appearance when she went on the run? If we've learned anything from action movies, it's that you dye your hair black if you're fair and bleach your hair if you're dark. Come on! It's "on-the-run" 101. When she was getting ready to go back to the Church of the Angels, I crossed my fingers that she would cut her hair. Nope, a bun was enough. She could have at least donned a pair of Clark Kent glasses. Then, Willow gets stuck wearing heels for the mega, take-out the angels plan. Really? The fate of the world is at stake and you’re going to wear heels? The major part of the plan hinges on being fast. You can't put a tomboy in heels and then tell her to run for her life.

All of these things are running through my head, so the end caught me by surprise. James Cameron would be proud. Willow may still save the world, but not yet. The angels may get their chance to devour most of the population while Willow and Alex flee to Mexico to start the rebellion. I look forward to following Alex and Willow on their next adventure to save the world.

(less)

4 likes · like · see review

Jul 05, 2011 Steph Sinclair rated it 3 of 5 stars Recommends it for: Those looking for another *decent* "Angel read"

Shelves: angels, 2011-reads, i-liked-it, totally-saw-that-coming, smart-heroine, alternating-povs, young-adult

Another decent angel book! Hell must be freezing over! Lol.

4 likes · like · see review

Apr 17, 2013 Ash Wednesday (Cupcake Ninja) rated it 2 of 5 stars

Shelves: angels, contemporary-romance, young-adult

2.5 STARS

Though truth be told, coming in, I did have some high expectations seeing as I've read the better angel books ahead of reading this.

Angel Burn has quite the interesting twist in the angels sub-genre in that instead of having the usual religious backstory, angels are featured as beautiful, alien-like beings who come from a dying world and has come to our own using humans as sort of energy sources much like parasites. Shades of The Matrix' mythology now that I think about it. The title...more

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Mar 27, 2012 Kay rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: quite-the-romantic, urban-fantasy, cerebral-candy, teens-tweens-and-ya, better-than-i-thought, angel-poop

A solid 3.5 stars. This was actually a pretty good book. At first glance, a lot of people would be turned off by what seems to be a cheesy, somewhat overdone plot line and a predictable romantic premise. But don't be fooled--underneath all of that is a gem of YA storytelling.

1. I admit I initially stereotyped the protagonists at first. The male lead is a badass, which set off alarms in my mind because usually the "bad boy" is so badly, one-dimensionally written that he quickly loses his appeal....more A solid 3.5 stars. This was actually a pretty good book. At first glance, a lot of people would be turned off by what seems to be a cheesy, somewhat overdone plot line and a predictable romantic premise. But don't be fooled--underneath all of that is a gem of YA storytelling.

1. I admit I initially stereotyped the protagonists at first. The male lead is a badass, which set off alarms in my mind because usually the "bad boy" is so badly, one-dimensionally written that he quickly loses his appeal. Not so here! The author breathes life and motivations into Alex, the male lead. Admittedly, Alex's motivations lie behind past tragedy, but the author does it so that we can sympathize with his desire to protect himself. Similarly, I liked reading about Willow. Full disclosure: (view spoiler) that I still liked Willow is a testament to how well she was characterized. The best thing about Willow was that she was sweet and genuinely caring without the slightest bit of arrogance. She wore her fear on her face, but despite it all, she fought.

2. Which brings me to the romance. Unlike some YA novels, romance doesn't take the most central role in the story. Or rather, romance is secondary to the threat of apocalypse. The threat that angels pose to mankind made me treasure Willow's and Alex's love more. The romance does get gooey, but I guess in order to love someone while fighting off a hoard of creepy, vampiric creatures, you have to show a lot of dedication.

3. Angels played the antagonists in the series. Surprising, as they weren't ever "fallen." Rather, it was interesting to think that angels would be driven by primal instincts like the rest of us non-celestial beings. I found it jarring yet intriguing, and I hope this gets further explained in the future.

4. This is the first YA book where most of the action takes place on the road. I found it refreshing and liberating, to be honest. In some ways, because the characters weren't grounded in one place, the road trip expanded the scope of the novel and heightened the feeling of urgency. The angels aren't just a problem in upper New York--no, they are a problem of national proportions.

Overall, I am impressed. This plot had many, many opportunities to turn sour or overly cheesy. As soon as I got through the first 50 pages, I seriously started to worry that the book would be a disappointment because the beginning was so strong. The ending was great, and I hope to read more of this trilogy.(less)

6 likes · like · see review

Aug 18, 2011 Becky rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: awful-protagonist, alternating-pov-of-doom, missing-parent-syndrome, special-snowflake-syndrome

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here. I had mixed emotions upon finishing this book, which is apparently the first in a trilogy. On the one hand, I purchased it from Amazon during their Kindle sale, and $2.99 for this book was worth it. On the other hand, I can't say I'd pay more than that.

The premise is unique and pretty clever, which is a relief in a genre saturated with wash-and-repeat story lines. Angels, rather than being the fluffy-winged sidekicks to God, are actually much closer to traditional demons. They seemingly come fro...more I had mixed emotions upon finishing this book, which is apparently the first in a trilogy. On the one hand, I purchased it from Amazon during their Kindle sale, and $2.99 for this book was worth it. On the other hand, I can't say I'd pay more than that.

The premise is unique and pretty clever, which is a relief in a genre saturated with wash-and-repeat story lines. Angels, rather than being the fluffy-winged sidekicks to God, are actually much closer to traditional demons. They seemingly come from some alternate dimension (though this is glossed over in the book, so we don't find out for sure) in order to prey on humans.

In addition to the premise, Willow, our protagonist, does step a bit outside the stereotypical teen girl protagonist mold. As far back as she can remember, Willow has had minor psychic abilities, and rather than angst about how this sets her apart from her peers, she's pretty accepting of it. She provides "readings" for her classmates (for a fee) and doesn't really worry too much about how the rest of her school sees her, which was a refreshing change. It isn't until later, when Willow learns that her psychic abilities stem from her status of being half-angel, that she really begins to struggle with accepting herself.

Though book DOES contain a love interest, it manages to avoid the dreaded love triangle, thankfully. Willow's love interest, Alex, is a so-called "Angel Killer", so most of the conflict stems from the knowledge that she is half-angel. Unfortunately, this is where the book weakens a bit.

The author clearly makes an attempt to build a relationship between the two characters (which is more than some authors can say) but, knowing that this series is intended to be a trilogy, I think the declarations of love could have been held off until the end of the novel, or even well into the second book. Alex and Willow's relationship is a good example of telling rather than showing: we are repeatedly informed by Willow that they have a lot in common, yet we are never told what it is that they supposedly bond over. They spend time playing cards and watching TV, but so do most friends. We have no idea what triggers the cross over from "enemy who hates me because I'm half angel" to "romantic interest". Because of this, I found it hard to suspend my disbelief during the second part of the novel, which focuses heavily on their relationship.

Lastly, the characters repeatedly make really strange leaps in logic. For example, while Alex the Angel Killer is on the phone with his "contact," he notices that the man has a British accent. Conveniently, the man who murdered Alex's father had a British accent, so they must be the same man! Likewise, Alex just happens to remember the name of Willow's mother (whom he has never directly met) while he is fighting for his life, and immediately realizes who Willow's mysterious father is. What?

While this book was by no means the worst book I've ever read, I find it difficult to imagine what could possibly make up two more novels, given that the angel story line starts to run out of steam about halfway through the novel. Though there is plenty of information on angels yet to be addressed, I would've much preferred to have more background on the angels, and less time with Alex and Willow hanging out in hotel rooms together (which, seeing as how this is targeted at young adults, is not nearly as steamy as it sounds).(less)

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Nov 08, 2011 Victoria rated it 5 of 5 stars Recommends it for: young adults who love a beautiful story with many action-adventures, angels, and romance.

Shelves: young-adult, angels, fantasy, paranormal, best-characters, best-endings, leaves-awesomeness-behind, books-that-i-love, made-me-laugh, action-adventure, heartfelt-and-inspirational, books-reviewed, treasure-keeps, heroines-i-love-and-respect, favorites, best-couples, 2011-favorites, series-dropped-bad

Angel Burn is one of the best books that I have ever read in 2011. The novel was so thrilling, wonderful, breathtakingly romantic, and has a lingering feeling that you want to keep reading until the very end of page 449. I really love it! I just devoured it. It was sweet and amazing. This books has many points of views that reflect the main character, Alex, and the evil guy or the antogonist. The action-adventure was completely dangerous and thrilling, and the romance makes you linger for more....more

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Mar 29, 2011 Damaris (GoodChoiceReading) rated it 4 of 5 stars

I have a lot of mixed emotions when it comes to Angel Burn. When I first saw the cover and read the synopsis for Angel Burn, I immediately thought to myself "I need a copy."
I finally got the chance thanks to NetGalley, and once I got it, I started it immediately. Now where do I begin? I honestly do not know how to feel about this book. Angel Burn to me, had me up and down. I found myself glued to the pages one minute, the next losing interest in the story. It was one of those books that, even th...more
I have a lot of mixed emotions when it comes to Angel Burn. When I first saw the cover and read the synopsis for Angel Burn, I immediately thought to myself "I need a copy."
I finally got the chance thanks to NetGalley, and once I got it, I started it immediately. Now where do I begin? I honestly do not know how to feel about this book. Angel Burn to me, had me up and down. I found myself glued to the pages one minute, the next losing interest in the story. It was one of those books that, even though some parts just made me want to give up reading it, for some reason I just had to finish it and find out what happens next.

Here are my top favorite moments in Angel Burn:

1. I found it very interesting the way L.A Weatherly twisted the whole world of Angels. In Angel Burn, the angels are not exactly who you want to make friends with.
2. I really enjoyed L.A. Weatherly's writing style. It was very easy to follow and everything was explained really well.
3. The characters are also very easy to relate too. Some of the things Willow experienced in her life, with family and friends, were very sad. She is a very smart and strong person.
4. I am in love with Alex! He is super sexy, romantic and a fighter. Since he was eleven he was trained to be a fighter.
5. Alex and Willow's relationship was very moving. The way they fall for each other, you can't help but go "Awe." I absolutely loved their relationship.
6. The action in this book was a definite ten and VERY easy to picture. It was like watching a movie play out.

Now what I did not like about Angel Burn is that one minute I am reading and at the edge of my seat, the next I find myself a little bored waiting for it to pick up again. It did take me a couple of chapters to have my complete attention. In my opinion, I feel Angel Burn is more of an introduction to the world L.A Weatherly has created, and to her characters.

Will I read the second part, Angel Fire? Yes. I need to know what Alex and Willow do next and with the way it ended, I have a feeling the second part will be a lot more action and little less explaining.

Do I recommend Angel Burn? Yes, I do.

Originally I gave Angel Burn 3.5 stars, but after writing this review I have to say it is a 4 star. A good read. (less)

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Sep 07, 2011 Erica (daydreamer) rated it 4 of 5 stars

Shelves: angels, i-own, 2011-reads, really-liked, would-love-if-it-were-a-movie, release-in-2011

I was intrigued with the premise of this book, and liked the plot as I read it. I liked the angels, that they're killers, and stunningly beautiful, inviting humans in with their ethereal nature, and then feeding off them, taking a bit of their soul. It was a bit slow at parts, but it didn’t bother me. What bothered me was the romance. I thought it contrived. Willow and Alex fell in love too fast, and then when they did, everything was about them and their love for each other. The story kind of c...more

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May 02, 2012 Wrathsqueen rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: favorites

This is without doubt my favourite book!

Cover: I love both the UK and US versions of this book. I think the girl on the cover of the UK is a perfect Willow and is how I imagined the character to look which makes a change from covers that look nothing like the character they are meant to be.

Plot: Alex kills angels. They're not as we know angels but killers that feed off of our life energy. His next assignment is to kill Willow Fields...but she's like nothing he's ever seen before- half angel, ha...more

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Feb 24, 2011 Ni_kii rated it 5 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: young-adult, angels

Review can be found at http://themidnightreaders.blogspot.com/

This book surprised me, I was completely expecting to hate it after 30 pages when the POV had shifted a million times but, surprisingly, I loved it. It reminded me a little of the Host and a little of the TV show supernatural.

Alex is an Angel Killer. Forced into a life of hunting Angels by his father after an Angel killed his mother (see the resemblances here...!) he finds himself isolated and alone after the CIA take over the operati...more Review can be found at http://themidnightreaders.blogspot.com/

This book surprised me, I was completely expecting to hate it after 30 pages when the POV had shifted a million times but, surprisingly, I loved it. It reminded me a little of the Host and a little of the TV show supernatural.

Alex is an Angel Killer. Forced into a life of hunting Angels by his father after an Angel killed his mother (see the resemblances here...!) he finds himself isolated and alone after the CIA take over the operation and force all the Angel Killers to work individually.You see, in this book, Angels are aliens from another dimension who feed on humans life-force, leaving them with "Angel-burn", which is the facination and adoration of these creepy etherial beings, plus the suseptibility to mental degeneration and a whole host of other diseases. His next assignment is Willow, a half-angel (who doesn't know it!) who he can't bring himself to kill. They go on the run together, managing to evade both the Angels and the Church of Angel (a host of creppy fantatics with Angel burn) until it becomes apparent that only Willow can stop the forthcoming invasion.

I adored this book. First thing that I should note about it is it is Young Adult. There is no swearing, no sex and the violence (although incredibly creepy) is not written in a graphic no-holds-barred kind of way. I wouldn't class it as Romance, but as Urban Fantasy as the main storyline consists of the Angels. The romance is sweet and I can see that it will build over the next three books. One of the main critisms that I have read about this book is that it never really reaches that whole next level but, between the main characters finally accepting their feelings and the end of the book, is a period of about a month...I feel it was appropriate for a Young Adult book that they never "get it on". The Angels and their parasitic relationship with the Humans takes up the majority of the plotline and it's creepy. I think if I hadn't have read the Nalini Singh Guildhunter books, and therefore already been introduced to this whole idea that Angels can be as evil as everything else, I would have been more shocked and possibly a little less receptive to what this book is about. It really is a break from the norm!

It takes Willow almost 3/4 of the book to come to terms with her Angel, infact Alex, who has seen most of his family die via Angels, accepts it quicker! The only experiences she has with Angels are bad and it comes as quite a shock to learn she is half this supposed monsterous race. I loved it when she finally accepted that evil is a personal choice, not a genetic one. This was a book filled with personal growth for the characters.

I have just added the next one to my want-to-read list. I can't give it any higher praise than that!
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Dec 24, 2012 Book Chick City rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

Shelves: angels, fantasy, young-adult

Reviewed by Jo for Book Chick City. 9/10 on the blog.

I really loved this tagline:

The only good Angel, is a dead Angel

Willow has always had the ability to see the future, and is psychic. When she sees an Angel one day, she is confused when she see it actually hurting her friend instead of what we all think Angels do. When Willow tries to stop her friend from joining a new Church, where Angels feed off humans, the Angels see Willow as a threat and send someone to kill her.

This person is Alex, who rather than killing her on sight decides to watch Willow for a while. After seeing the Angels attack Willow, Alex decides to find out why the Angels want her dead before killing her. So Willow and Alex go on a road trip.

The road trip aspect of this story at first made me pull a face. The type of face you pull after you see your Dad trying to dance 'the Robot'. It's weird and it's not normal. But, the road trip is really one of the best things about this book. The fact you don't see it often in paranormal YA is really great, because it's original and gives the characters opportunities to meet new people and visit new places. Also, it gives Willow and Alex a chance to get to know each other more and slowly realise their attraction to each other. I loved that they didn't see each other and immediately become 'soul mates'. It was believable and it made their relationship much more enjoyable to experience. There is a lot at stake though, their lives are in constant threat and so the fact that their relationship wasn't front and centre and the focus of the story was a great aspect for me.

The writing goes along at a steady pace, I was never bored and the two main characters may be young, but their attitudes and personalities were different to other books, which was a good thing. They acted mature, and in the situations they find themselves in, I believed they could handle it.

VERDICT:

One of the best YA books I have read all year, a very welcome addition to the genre. The sequel, 'Angel Fire' is not released until October of this year - too far away! Fantastic, enjoyable read. I know I will be re-reading this before the new release.
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Dec 01, 2011 Jacqueline rated it 4 of 5 stars · review of another edition

So I finished reading this a while back as an ARC! Hmm keep in mind for U.S. audiences that this book will be released under the name "Angel Burn"!

The story was very cute and gave a fairly different look on angels which I found fairly interesting. Along with that said, the author pitches the idea that the hearts of angels are located in their halo which I found fascinating and creative.

The book starts off a bit slow but picks up pace quickly. I do like a good romance, and yet I feel like the tw...more

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Sep 19, 2011 Michelle. Tsunami. rated it 5 of 5 stars

Shelves: gotta-love-those-guys, loved, want-to-own

Um. This was so fricking AWESOME!

I mean, it has everything a good book needs.
A hawt (and when I say hawt I mean with a capital H) guy, a beautiful lady, road trips, guns, physical contact, interesting back stories 'magical' abilities, new angel theories, killing, regrets and not to mention a hawt guy!!!

The plot of this book was just genius, the characters were amazing and went so well together, the setting that appeared just enhanced the greatness, the problem and solutions went appeared perfect...more

3 likes · like · see review

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♥Teen Romance♥: What did you think about Angel by L.A Weatherly????	12	39	Feb 25, 2013 12:53am
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About L.A. Weatherly

Lee Weatherly has been born in 1967 and grew up in Little Rock, Arkansas, USA. She lives with her husband in Hampshire, England, where she writes, goes on walks, collects frogs and has a cat named Bernard.

L.A. Weatherly is the pseudonym for Lee Weatherly. Another pen name she uses is Titania Woods.

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Quotes from Angel

“Willow, you know that you said you couldn't tell how I felt at the rest stop?"

I nodded, and he took my hand, laying it flat on his chest with his own resting over it. "Can you tell now?" he asked.

His heart beat firmly under my hand; my own pulse was pounding so hard that I could barely think straight. Closing my eyes, I took a deep, steadying breath, and then another as I tried to clear my mind, to feel what he was feeling. For a moment there was just the softness of our breathing--then all at once it washed over me in a great wave.

He was in love with me, too.

I opened my eyes. Alex was still holding my hand to his chest, watching me, his expression more serious than I'd ever seen it. Unable to speak, I slowly dropped my hand and wrapped my arms around him. His own arms came around me as he rested his head on my hair.

"I really do, you know," he said, his voice rough.

"I know," I whispered back. "I do, too.” — 134 people liked it

“You know that half the girls in school would have been after you."

He gave a soft laugh. "If they were into someone who was flunking out...I don't think I'd do too well with having to go to class when a bell rings or caring about homework..."

"A bad boy--even better. You'd have done well in Spanish class."

"If I ever went to it."

We lay in silence for a awhile; Alex's arms felt so warm and safe that I was starting to get sleepy. "Say something in Spanish," I mumbled.

He kissed my hair. "Te amo, Willow," he said quietly.

I came awake, smiling into the darkness. "What does that mean?" I whispered.

I could almost hear his own smile. "What do you think it means?"

I hugged him, kissing his collarbone and wondering if it was possible to actually die of happiness. "Te amo, Alex.” — 116 people liked it

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