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Ravyn's Fall
Falling in love shouldn’t be dangerous…
Sixteen year old Ravyn Creed has always known she was different. But even she doesn’t know the secrets of her birth… secrets that should have remained hidden. Secrets that could kill her.
On a night meant for fun—for music and dancing and boys—darkness enters her world and nothing will be the same again. With both Heaven and Hell after her, will the mysterious Zeke Lancaster be the one to save her? Or will she find the strength to save herself…
Zeke Lancaster. Demon. Head of his clan. And the only one who can right a wrong done to his family, a wrong that tears at him night and day. Chance brings him to the small town of Kings Crossing but will it be fate that let's him leave? As the one person at the center of a firestorm fights to survive, he'll have to decide which side of the fence he will sit. Will he do as he must or do as he wants...
Sixteen year old Ravyn Creed has always known she was different. But even she doesn’t know the secrets of her birth… secrets that should have remained hidden. Secrets that could kill her.
On a night meant for fun—for music and dancing and boys—darkness enters her world and nothing will be the same again. With both Heaven and Hell after her, will the mysterious Zeke Lancaster be the one to save her? Or will she find the strength to save herself…
Zeke Lancaster. Demon. Head of his clan. And the only one who can right a wrong done to his family, a wrong that tears at him night and day. Chance brings him to the small town of Kings Crossing but will it be fate that let's him leave? As the one person at the center of a firestorm fights to survive, he'll have to decide which side of the fence he will sit. Will he do as he must or do as he wants...
- GenresYoung Adult
200 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 10, 2012
122 people want to read
About the author
Julie Blackstone
2 books10 followersI am a writer of Young adult novels. There might be some smooching in them….
I also live somewhere in Canada with my family, a dog and a cat. I have an unhealthy obsession with Damon from The Vampire Diaries and I love chocolate. So there.
When I’m not writing or reading or cleaning up after the people I live with, I hang with the best girlfriends in the world and listen to music way too loud.
Also, The Walking Dead rocks in so many ways, I can’t even list them.
As Juliana Stone I write adult fiction as well, paranormal romance and contemporary romance.
I also live somewhere in Canada with my family, a dog and a cat. I have an unhealthy obsession with Damon from The Vampire Diaries and I love chocolate. So there.
When I’m not writing or reading or cleaning up after the people I live with, I hang with the best girlfriends in the world and listen to music way too loud.
Also, The Walking Dead rocks in so many ways, I can’t even list them.
As Juliana Stone I write adult fiction as well, paranormal romance and contemporary romance.
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Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews
July 11, 2012
Ravyn's Fall is one of those stories where it's a bit predictable, and nothing quite WOW about it, but will keep you so glued to the pages you won't be able to put it down.
The minute I began reading Ravyn’s Fall it was like Boom! Boom! Boom! One thing after another and the story does not slow down once. I loved this! Even though I sort of knew where the story was going, and how things would play out, I found myself very entertained and did not want to stop reading. Julie Blackstone had my full attention until the very end.
My biggest issue with this book though, was that I could not seem to connect with Zeke and Ravyn’s relationship. I did not feel any type of connection between the two and when I did it was very short lived. I would have liked a lot more emotion and development between the two. Also, I am not a big fan of the main female character putting herself in danger just about every chapter. Other than this, Blackstone has put together a good story. I hope there is a sequel because I would like to read it and continue following the characters, and the world Ravyn has gotten sucked into.
I enjoyed reading this book.
3.5 out of 5 Stars!
The minute I began reading Ravyn’s Fall it was like Boom! Boom! Boom! One thing after another and the story does not slow down once. I loved this! Even though I sort of knew where the story was going, and how things would play out, I found myself very entertained and did not want to stop reading. Julie Blackstone had my full attention until the very end.
My biggest issue with this book though, was that I could not seem to connect with Zeke and Ravyn’s relationship. I did not feel any type of connection between the two and when I did it was very short lived. I would have liked a lot more emotion and development between the two. Also, I am not a big fan of the main female character putting herself in danger just about every chapter. Other than this, Blackstone has put together a good story. I hope there is a sequel because I would like to read it and continue following the characters, and the world Ravyn has gotten sucked into.
I enjoyed reading this book.
3.5 out of 5 Stars!
September 26, 2012
Review courtesy of Dark Faerie Tales
Quick & Dirty: Set in a world where demons are good and angels are evil in this dark tale where loyalties are tested and a girl tries to learn her destiny in this action-packed, fast-pace read.
Opening Sentence: The child had been swept into the small town of Kings Crossing on the heels of a fantastic thunderstorm, one that had drenched the entire area in torrents of rain, hail, and lightning.
The Review:
Ravyn Creed has lived a protected life. Her guardian Hank has enforced to her just how dangerous the world can be but Ravyn never took it seriously. Ravyn knows she is different from everyone else by the auras that she sees. Then one night of partying and meeting a boy with a red aura (something she had never seen before) leads Ravyn towards a dangerous life on the run with her loyal friend Kimmy and an awesome hellhound. Rayvn is a bit impulsive but since she doesn’t know who or what to trust she must find the answers herself.
Zeke Lancaster is demon on a mission. His mission happens to include Ravyn. He wants to protect her and keep her alive while discovering what her possible powers could be. Zeke is joined by his brother and a couple other demons while they battle Nephilim and Cherubim. Zeke is a handsome teenage boy whom is hot and cold towards Ravyn often fighting his feelings towards her.
Ravyn’s Fall is filled with curious characters that are set in a topsy-turvy world where angels appear to be the bad guys and demons just may help save the girl. I especially enjoyed how the Nephilim are the basis for the vampire legend and a big, bad hellhound is a loyal puppy to Ravyn. The hellhound even helps add some comic relief to the story.
This novel is action-packed from beginning to end when Ravyn meets Zeke to a revelatory conversation where Ravyn learns about her past. Ravyn’s Fall is written in the first person from Ravyn’s perspective and at times it comes off a little harsh and clunky. This is my only real complaint about the novel but the action and intrigue make Ravyn’s Fall a quick read.
In the end Ravyn’s Fall is about the dark journey that Ravyn undergoes to learn her place in the world. Although more questions are actually raised then answered, I absolutely wished this novel would have been longer. The mythology and world can only be expanded further. Julie Blackstone has created an intriguing world where the lines of good and evil are blurred. Ravyn can only grow as her journey continues in Ravyn’s Grace.
Notable Scene:
His hand is on my chin, and I flinch, but his touch is gentle. I relax a bit, and when he forces my head up, I can’t do anything but look into his eyes. We stare at each other for a long time, it seems, and the Crimson glow that is so unique to him encircles his body in a cloud of fire that takes my breath away. It takes a bit, but I’m able to dial it down, and I exhale as his color recedes.
His other hand reaches for me, and his fingers run across my cheek. They come away wet with blood. “You’re hurt.” His voice is rough and I think maybe a little scared.
“It’s nothing,” I say, “a little scratch.” Zeke makes me nervous when he’s this close, and I shudder violently, wishing I could just be normal around him.
Except I can’t help it. Because he is close. And intense. And dark in a way that sings to me.
He stares down at the blood on his hand, and for a second, I wish his fingers were still on me. I wish he would hold me close and make the craziness go away.
“We’re no different, you and I.” He doesn’t look at me, and for a moment, I get the feeling like he’s trying to convince himself. “We all bleed, Ravyn.”
Heaven and Hell:
1. Ravyn’s Fall
2. Ravyn’s Grace
3. Ravyn’s Creed
FTC Advisory: Julie Blackstone provided me with a copy of Ravyn’s Fall. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.
Quick & Dirty: Set in a world where demons are good and angels are evil in this dark tale where loyalties are tested and a girl tries to learn her destiny in this action-packed, fast-pace read.
Opening Sentence: The child had been swept into the small town of Kings Crossing on the heels of a fantastic thunderstorm, one that had drenched the entire area in torrents of rain, hail, and lightning.
The Review:
Ravyn Creed has lived a protected life. Her guardian Hank has enforced to her just how dangerous the world can be but Ravyn never took it seriously. Ravyn knows she is different from everyone else by the auras that she sees. Then one night of partying and meeting a boy with a red aura (something she had never seen before) leads Ravyn towards a dangerous life on the run with her loyal friend Kimmy and an awesome hellhound. Rayvn is a bit impulsive but since she doesn’t know who or what to trust she must find the answers herself.
Zeke Lancaster is demon on a mission. His mission happens to include Ravyn. He wants to protect her and keep her alive while discovering what her possible powers could be. Zeke is joined by his brother and a couple other demons while they battle Nephilim and Cherubim. Zeke is a handsome teenage boy whom is hot and cold towards Ravyn often fighting his feelings towards her.
Ravyn’s Fall is filled with curious characters that are set in a topsy-turvy world where angels appear to be the bad guys and demons just may help save the girl. I especially enjoyed how the Nephilim are the basis for the vampire legend and a big, bad hellhound is a loyal puppy to Ravyn. The hellhound even helps add some comic relief to the story.
This novel is action-packed from beginning to end when Ravyn meets Zeke to a revelatory conversation where Ravyn learns about her past. Ravyn’s Fall is written in the first person from Ravyn’s perspective and at times it comes off a little harsh and clunky. This is my only real complaint about the novel but the action and intrigue make Ravyn’s Fall a quick read.
In the end Ravyn’s Fall is about the dark journey that Ravyn undergoes to learn her place in the world. Although more questions are actually raised then answered, I absolutely wished this novel would have been longer. The mythology and world can only be expanded further. Julie Blackstone has created an intriguing world where the lines of good and evil are blurred. Ravyn can only grow as her journey continues in Ravyn’s Grace.
Notable Scene:
His hand is on my chin, and I flinch, but his touch is gentle. I relax a bit, and when he forces my head up, I can’t do anything but look into his eyes. We stare at each other for a long time, it seems, and the Crimson glow that is so unique to him encircles his body in a cloud of fire that takes my breath away. It takes a bit, but I’m able to dial it down, and I exhale as his color recedes.
His other hand reaches for me, and his fingers run across my cheek. They come away wet with blood. “You’re hurt.” His voice is rough and I think maybe a little scared.
“It’s nothing,” I say, “a little scratch.” Zeke makes me nervous when he’s this close, and I shudder violently, wishing I could just be normal around him.
Except I can’t help it. Because he is close. And intense. And dark in a way that sings to me.
He stares down at the blood on his hand, and for a second, I wish his fingers were still on me. I wish he would hold me close and make the craziness go away.
“We’re no different, you and I.” He doesn’t look at me, and for a moment, I get the feeling like he’s trying to convince himself. “We all bleed, Ravyn.”
Heaven and Hell:
1. Ravyn’s Fall
2. Ravyn’s Grace
3. Ravyn’s Creed
FTC Advisory: Julie Blackstone provided me with a copy of Ravyn’s Fall. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.
August 10, 2012
This book was also reviewed on The Book Hookup
**I received this book from the author but that did not influence the review**
**4.5 stars!** Angels and demons = my favorite. I read the synopsis and the first chapter and said, “I have to have this book!!” I read the whole novel and need the next book ASAP. This is a very polished and well thought out story, although just a little short! However, don’t let that make you stray. This book is action, action, action. No dull moments.
The Story: Ravyn Creed, who can see auras, is out with a friend at an all ages club when she sees the most gorgeous guy ever. But his aura is crimson, and she has never, ever seen crimson before. I know right? I was sucked in. The rest of the story played out and was built up nicely. I never felt like I had to go back and read to figure out what was going on. The author is talented enough to make it come off simply and seamlessly. Ms. Blackstone has a way of writing that makes you love the characters and I felt like I couldn’t get enough.
“Falling in love shouldn’t be dangerous…”
The Main Characters and Their Romance: Ravyn is a great heroine who wishes she were normal. She tries to make the best decisions she can, but doesn’t always make the right ones. Ravyn does go off alone a few times, which is a bit foolish, but in her defense I don’t think she knew exactly how serious her situation was. I think by the next book she might (hopefully) realize that. All in all I really liked her.
Can’t have a romance without a smokin hot dude! Zeke Lancaster is gorgeous, broody, muscular, cocky….yeah, all that and then some. The sexual tension is more than palpable. Definitely hot stuff…..but, Ravyn and Zeke can’t really be together for a few reasons. Right now timing (there are so many people after Ravyn), and trust (she doesn’t know which side Zeke is really on) are the main two reasons the romance might have to go to the back burner. Yes, sexual tension here!
Secondary characters:
♥ The best friend: Kimmy. I could live without her. I don’t think she added any value to the book. She was the typical BFF that seems standard in any YA book. She didn’t take away from the book, I just had no feelings on her.
♥ Let’s move onto Dragon. Oh yes, the very, very, very bad boy. Sexy and dangerous. We don’t get his real name and that makes him even more appealing. Does he get a spin off novel or is there an extra deleted bonus scene for us? RAWR!
♥ Cherry: the gorgeous bitchy girl. I think I actually might want to give her a chance. Interesting twist there with her.
♥Hank: I like him. I feel for him and his internal struggle. He tried to do the best he could.
♥ Joe = I LOVE!!
♥ Caim, Zeke’s brother: I like him but would have loved more info. Hopefully in the next book ;)
The ending: The story is definitely not over but the reader got more answers as to who Ravyn is and why she is hunted. We also found out which side Zeke was on, and that was quite interesting! This was a great, quick read and I cannot wait to read Ravyn’s Grace where I have a feeling Ravyn will come into her own.
**I received this book from the author but that did not influence the review**
**4.5 stars!** Angels and demons = my favorite. I read the synopsis and the first chapter and said, “I have to have this book!!” I read the whole novel and need the next book ASAP. This is a very polished and well thought out story, although just a little short! However, don’t let that make you stray. This book is action, action, action. No dull moments.
The Story: Ravyn Creed, who can see auras, is out with a friend at an all ages club when she sees the most gorgeous guy ever. But his aura is crimson, and she has never, ever seen crimson before. I know right? I was sucked in. The rest of the story played out and was built up nicely. I never felt like I had to go back and read to figure out what was going on. The author is talented enough to make it come off simply and seamlessly. Ms. Blackstone has a way of writing that makes you love the characters and I felt like I couldn’t get enough.
“Falling in love shouldn’t be dangerous…”
The Main Characters and Their Romance: Ravyn is a great heroine who wishes she were normal. She tries to make the best decisions she can, but doesn’t always make the right ones. Ravyn does go off alone a few times, which is a bit foolish, but in her defense I don’t think she knew exactly how serious her situation was. I think by the next book she might (hopefully) realize that. All in all I really liked her.
Can’t have a romance without a smokin hot dude! Zeke Lancaster is gorgeous, broody, muscular, cocky….yeah, all that and then some. The sexual tension is more than palpable. Definitely hot stuff…..but, Ravyn and Zeke can’t really be together for a few reasons. Right now timing (there are so many people after Ravyn), and trust (she doesn’t know which side Zeke is really on) are the main two reasons the romance might have to go to the back burner. Yes, sexual tension here!
Secondary characters:
♥ The best friend: Kimmy. I could live without her. I don’t think she added any value to the book. She was the typical BFF that seems standard in any YA book. She didn’t take away from the book, I just had no feelings on her.
♥ Let’s move onto Dragon. Oh yes, the very, very, very bad boy. Sexy and dangerous. We don’t get his real name and that makes him even more appealing. Does he get a spin off novel or is there an extra deleted bonus scene for us? RAWR!
♥ Cherry: the gorgeous bitchy girl. I think I actually might want to give her a chance. Interesting twist there with her.
♥Hank: I like him. I feel for him and his internal struggle. He tried to do the best he could.
♥ Joe = I LOVE!!
♥ Caim, Zeke’s brother: I like him but would have loved more info. Hopefully in the next book ;)
The ending: The story is definitely not over but the reader got more answers as to who Ravyn is and why she is hunted. We also found out which side Zeke was on, and that was quite interesting! This was a great, quick read and I cannot wait to read Ravyn’s Grace where I have a feeling Ravyn will come into her own.
August 10, 2012
This book was also reviewed on The Book Hookup
**Celeste received this book from the author but that did not influence the review**
Celeste’s review: **4.5 stars!** Angels and demons = my favorite. I read the synopsis and the first chapter and said, “I have to have this book!!” I read the whole novel and need the next book ASAP. This is a very polished and well thought out story, although just a little short! However, don’t let that make you stray. This book is action, action, action. No dull moments.
The Story: Ravyn Creed, who can see auras, is out with a friend at an all ages club when she sees the most gorgeous guy ever. But his aura is crimson, and she has never, ever seen crimson before. I know right? I was sucked in. The rest of the story played out and was built up nicely. I never felt like I had to go back and read to figure out what was going on. The author is talented enough to make it come off simply and seamlessly. Ms. Blackstone has a way of writing that makes you love the characters and I felt like I couldn’t get enough.
“Falling in love shouldn’t be dangerous…”
The Main Characters and Their Romance: Ravyn is a great heroine who wishes she were normal. She tries to make the best decisions she can, but doesn’t always make the right ones. Ravyn does go off alone a few times, which is a bit foolish, but in her defense I don’t think she knew exactly how serious her situation was. I think by the next book she might (hopefully) realize that. All in all I really liked her.
Can’t have a romance without a smokin hot dude! Zeke Lancaster is gorgeous, broody, muscular, cocky….yeah, all that and then some. The sexual tension is more than palpable. Definitely hot stuff…..but, Ravyn and Zeke can’t really be together for a few reasons. Right now timing (there are so many people after Ravyn), and trust (she doesn’t know which side Zeke is really on) are the main two reasons the romance might have to go to the back burner. Yes, sexual tension here!
Secondary characters:
♥ The best friend: Kimmy. I could live without her. I don’t think she added any value to the book. She was the typical BFF that seems standard in any YA book. She didn’t take away from the book, I just had no feelings on her.
♥ Let’s move onto Dragon. Oh yes, the very, very, very bad boy. Sexy and dangerous. We don’t get his real name and that makes him even more appealing. Does he get a spin off novel or is there an extra deleted bonus scene for us? RAWR!
♥ Cherry: the gorgeous bitchy girl. I think I actually might want to give her a chance. Interesting twist there with her.
♥Hank: I like him. I feel for him and his internal struggle. He tried to do the best he could.
♥ Joe = I LOVE!!
♥ Caim, Zeke’s brother: I like him but would have loved more info. Hopefully in the next book ;)
The ending: The story is definitely not over but the reader got more answers as to who Ravyn is and why she is hunted. We also found out which side Zeke was on, and that was quite interesting! This was a great, quick read and I cannot wait to read Ravyn’s Grace where I have a feeling Ravyn will come into her own.
**Celeste received this book from the author but that did not influence the review**
Celeste’s review: **4.5 stars!** Angels and demons = my favorite. I read the synopsis and the first chapter and said, “I have to have this book!!” I read the whole novel and need the next book ASAP. This is a very polished and well thought out story, although just a little short! However, don’t let that make you stray. This book is action, action, action. No dull moments.
The Story: Ravyn Creed, who can see auras, is out with a friend at an all ages club when she sees the most gorgeous guy ever. But his aura is crimson, and she has never, ever seen crimson before. I know right? I was sucked in. The rest of the story played out and was built up nicely. I never felt like I had to go back and read to figure out what was going on. The author is talented enough to make it come off simply and seamlessly. Ms. Blackstone has a way of writing that makes you love the characters and I felt like I couldn’t get enough.
“Falling in love shouldn’t be dangerous…”
The Main Characters and Their Romance: Ravyn is a great heroine who wishes she were normal. She tries to make the best decisions she can, but doesn’t always make the right ones. Ravyn does go off alone a few times, which is a bit foolish, but in her defense I don’t think she knew exactly how serious her situation was. I think by the next book she might (hopefully) realize that. All in all I really liked her.
Can’t have a romance without a smokin hot dude! Zeke Lancaster is gorgeous, broody, muscular, cocky….yeah, all that and then some. The sexual tension is more than palpable. Definitely hot stuff…..but, Ravyn and Zeke can’t really be together for a few reasons. Right now timing (there are so many people after Ravyn), and trust (she doesn’t know which side Zeke is really on) are the main two reasons the romance might have to go to the back burner. Yes, sexual tension here!
Secondary characters:
♥ The best friend: Kimmy. I could live without her. I don’t think she added any value to the book. She was the typical BFF that seems standard in any YA book. She didn’t take away from the book, I just had no feelings on her.
♥ Let’s move onto Dragon. Oh yes, the very, very, very bad boy. Sexy and dangerous. We don’t get his real name and that makes him even more appealing. Does he get a spin off novel or is there an extra deleted bonus scene for us? RAWR!
♥ Cherry: the gorgeous bitchy girl. I think I actually might want to give her a chance. Interesting twist there with her.
♥Hank: I like him. I feel for him and his internal struggle. He tried to do the best he could.
♥ Joe = I LOVE!!
♥ Caim, Zeke’s brother: I like him but would have loved more info. Hopefully in the next book ;)
The ending: The story is definitely not over but the reader got more answers as to who Ravyn is and why she is hunted. We also found out which side Zeke was on, and that was quite interesting! This was a great, quick read and I cannot wait to read Ravyn’s Grace where I have a feeling Ravyn will come into her own.
August 14, 2012
Ravyn’s Fall
Series: Heaven and Hell
Julie Stone
YA Paranormal Romance
Rating: PG
Coffee Beans: 3.5/5
Spoilers: Nope
Favorite Line: I feel like the other shoe jus dropped. And I can’t wait to find it. (pg 18, ebook)
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review
Twitter is an amazing thing. You can follow big wigs or celebrities as easily as you can your friends, you get news and gossip first had as it happens, and free books are constantly being given away…if you know where to look. Pam threw a tweet my way that one of her authors had branched out and written a YA PR and was looking for reviewer. So, I jumped on the opportunity and emailed the author, requesting a copy. Thus, this review was born. See? Twitter’s great. Fun, info, and free books.
Even though this is Julie’s first YA book, she has several of her normal PR books under her belt which give her the experience and skill to write a good YA book. The push and pull of the relationships, the fast plot pace, and quick character development all make Ravyn’s Fall a quick read (the fact that it comes in at under 200 pages helps, too).
Zeke comes into her life, it only confuses her more, and not just because his aura is scarlet—so different from the usual gray and blacks that surround Ravyn. Even stranger than the Goldens that terrify her. It also has to do with her unexplainable raw to him. In the span of one night, an entire world is opened to her. A world of angels and demons. Of Nephilim and hell hounds. A world she belongs to and can’t turn away from. A world where everyone wants her, but not everyone wants her to live. Ravyn must navigate this new world with limited knowledge—no one seems to know the truth about her—or they’re not willing to say it. She must decide between not who’s good or evil, but between what’s right and wrong. And maybe find herself and love along the way.
Like vampires, there are MANY angel and demon books out on the market. It’s hard for an author to twist their story enough to make it stand out. But Julie did that. What stuck out for me the most was her take on the “good vs. evil” aspect. One of her characters, Zeke, put it best when he said, “[Angels & demons are] the same, we just live in different zip codes”. Just because someone’s an angel, doesn’t mean they’re good and just because they’re a demon doesn’t mean they’re bad. And it’s interesting how Julie still creates a distinct difference between the two sides.
The book is a fun, quick read (I read it in one day while camping). I was rooting for Ravyn the entire way, wanting her to find love and herself. She’s a strong female lead with a snarky best friend/sidekick. I’m eager for Ravyn’s Grace (book two in the series) to come out so I can see what happens next.
Series: Heaven and Hell
Julie Stone
YA Paranormal Romance
Rating: PG
Coffee Beans: 3.5/5
Spoilers: Nope
Favorite Line: I feel like the other shoe jus dropped. And I can’t wait to find it. (pg 18, ebook)
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest review
Twitter is an amazing thing. You can follow big wigs or celebrities as easily as you can your friends, you get news and gossip first had as it happens, and free books are constantly being given away…if you know where to look. Pam threw a tweet my way that one of her authors had branched out and written a YA PR and was looking for reviewer. So, I jumped on the opportunity and emailed the author, requesting a copy. Thus, this review was born. See? Twitter’s great. Fun, info, and free books.
Even though this is Julie’s first YA book, she has several of her normal PR books under her belt which give her the experience and skill to write a good YA book. The push and pull of the relationships, the fast plot pace, and quick character development all make Ravyn’s Fall a quick read (the fact that it comes in at under 200 pages helps, too).
Zeke comes into her life, it only confuses her more, and not just because his aura is scarlet—so different from the usual gray and blacks that surround Ravyn. Even stranger than the Goldens that terrify her. It also has to do with her unexplainable raw to him. In the span of one night, an entire world is opened to her. A world of angels and demons. Of Nephilim and hell hounds. A world she belongs to and can’t turn away from. A world where everyone wants her, but not everyone wants her to live. Ravyn must navigate this new world with limited knowledge—no one seems to know the truth about her—or they’re not willing to say it. She must decide between not who’s good or evil, but between what’s right and wrong. And maybe find herself and love along the way.
Like vampires, there are MANY angel and demon books out on the market. It’s hard for an author to twist their story enough to make it stand out. But Julie did that. What stuck out for me the most was her take on the “good vs. evil” aspect. One of her characters, Zeke, put it best when he said, “[Angels & demons are] the same, we just live in different zip codes”. Just because someone’s an angel, doesn’t mean they’re good and just because they’re a demon doesn’t mean they’re bad. And it’s interesting how Julie still creates a distinct difference between the two sides.
The book is a fun, quick read (I read it in one day while camping). I was rooting for Ravyn the entire way, wanting her to find love and herself. She’s a strong female lead with a snarky best friend/sidekick. I’m eager for Ravyn’s Grace (book two in the series) to come out so I can see what happens next.
November 22, 2012
RAVYN’S FALL (Heaven and Hell #1) by Julie Blackstone
RAVYN’S FALL is the first novel in Julie Blackstone’s new Young Adult series Heaven and Hell. Focusing on the battle between Angel and Demons: Nephilim, Cherubim and Seraphim- Ravyn’s Fall follows Ravyn Creed as she tries to navigate between good and evil, knowing that both want to end her life. And to complicate matters she is falling in love with the demon that made a deal with the devil. Ravyn lived for 16 years with her guardian Hank. But on this night, she would learn what it meant to truly be alone.
Ravyn is a 16 year old girl with a gift and this gift has made her a target in the world of the supernatural. The demons from hell want to protect Ravyn; the Cherubim want her destroyed; and the Nephilum want her blood. Could anything else possibly go wrong? At this point everyone will need a spreadsheet to keep track of the various types of angels and demons, on the hunt for a crossbreed child.
Enter Ezekiel (Zeke) Lancaster. Zeke is unlike anyone that Ravyn has met. And when Zeke reveals a little of the history behind the recent attacks, Ravyn is sure that she quite possibly has gone insane. As Ravyn approaches her 17th birthday a series of attacks will force Ravyn to search alone for answers, but she will unwittingly expose those closest to her to danger.
Ravyn and Zeke’s relationship is intense from the start. But unbeknownst to Ravyn, Zeke’s intentions have not always been admirable or pure. Zeke has made a deal and Ravyn is the price. But the ultimate betrayal will come from the family she never knew existed and their connection to the young man with whom she is falling in love.
We meet several of Zeke’s extended family and friends and, each will play a significant role in Ravyn’s new life. Ravyn’s guardian must answer to a few questions and Kimmy-Ravyn’s BFF is the only human who is completely aware of the angel and demons existence.
RAVYN’S FALL is a well-written, fast paced Young Adult storyline without the usual teen angst and whoa-be-gone self-pity that many young heroines endure. Julie Blackstone weaves a tale of warrior angels, loving demons and a vampire existence connected to both Heaven and Hell. The heroine is thrown head first into a world that wants her dead, and she comes out fighting for her life with her heart and soul. Ravyn’s Fall is a fascinating look at Heaven and Hell. I am looking forward to RAVYN’S GRACE later in 2012.
Copy supplied by author.
see all of my reviews at : thereadingcafe.com
RAVYN’S FALL is the first novel in Julie Blackstone’s new Young Adult series Heaven and Hell. Focusing on the battle between Angel and Demons: Nephilim, Cherubim and Seraphim- Ravyn’s Fall follows Ravyn Creed as she tries to navigate between good and evil, knowing that both want to end her life. And to complicate matters she is falling in love with the demon that made a deal with the devil. Ravyn lived for 16 years with her guardian Hank. But on this night, she would learn what it meant to truly be alone.
Ravyn is a 16 year old girl with a gift and this gift has made her a target in the world of the supernatural. The demons from hell want to protect Ravyn; the Cherubim want her destroyed; and the Nephilum want her blood. Could anything else possibly go wrong? At this point everyone will need a spreadsheet to keep track of the various types of angels and demons, on the hunt for a crossbreed child.
Enter Ezekiel (Zeke) Lancaster. Zeke is unlike anyone that Ravyn has met. And when Zeke reveals a little of the history behind the recent attacks, Ravyn is sure that she quite possibly has gone insane. As Ravyn approaches her 17th birthday a series of attacks will force Ravyn to search alone for answers, but she will unwittingly expose those closest to her to danger.
Ravyn and Zeke’s relationship is intense from the start. But unbeknownst to Ravyn, Zeke’s intentions have not always been admirable or pure. Zeke has made a deal and Ravyn is the price. But the ultimate betrayal will come from the family she never knew existed and their connection to the young man with whom she is falling in love.
We meet several of Zeke’s extended family and friends and, each will play a significant role in Ravyn’s new life. Ravyn’s guardian must answer to a few questions and Kimmy-Ravyn’s BFF is the only human who is completely aware of the angel and demons existence.
RAVYN’S FALL is a well-written, fast paced Young Adult storyline without the usual teen angst and whoa-be-gone self-pity that many young heroines endure. Julie Blackstone weaves a tale of warrior angels, loving demons and a vampire existence connected to both Heaven and Hell. The heroine is thrown head first into a world that wants her dead, and she comes out fighting for her life with her heart and soul. Ravyn’s Fall is a fascinating look at Heaven and Hell. I am looking forward to RAVYN’S GRACE later in 2012.
Copy supplied by author.
see all of my reviews at : thereadingcafe.com
January 18, 2017
Originally published at Dark Faerie Tales: http://darkfaerietales.com/review-rav...
Quick & Dirty: Set in a world where demons are good and angels are evil in this dark tale where loyalties are tested and a girl tries to learn her destiny in this action-packed, fast-pace read.
The Review:
Ravyn Creed has lived a protected life. Her guardian Hank has enforced to her just how dangerous the world can be but Ravyn never took it seriously. Ravyn knows she is different from everyone else by the auras that she sees. Then one night of partying and meeting a boy with a red aura (something she had never seen before) leads Ravyn towards a dangerous life on the run with her loyal friend Kimmy and an awesome hellhound. Rayvn is a bit impulsive but since she doesn’t know who or what to trust she must find the answers herself.
Zeke Lancaster is demon on a mission. His mission happens to include Ravyn. He wants to protect her and keep her alive while discovering what her possible powers could be. Zeke is joined by his brother and a couple other demons while they battle Nephilim and Cherubim. Zeke is a handsome teenage boy whom is hot and cold towards Ravyn often fighting his feelings towards her.
Ravyn’s Fall is filled with curious characters that are set in a topsy-turvy world where angels appear to be the bad guys and demons just may help save the girl. I especially enjoyed how the Nephilim are the basis for the vampire legend and a big, bad hellhound is a loyal puppy to Ravyn. The hellhound even helps add some comic relief to the story.
This novel is action-packed from beginning to end when Ravyn meets Zeke to a revelatory conversation where Ravyn learns about her past. Ravyn’s Fall is written in the first person from Ravyn’s perspective and at times it comes off a little harsh and clunky. This is my only real complaint about the novel but the action and intrigue make Ravyn’s Fall a quick read.
In the end Ravyn’s Fall is about the dark journey that Ravyn undergoes to learn her place in the world. Although more questions are actually raised then answered, I absolutely wished this novel would have been longer. The mythology and world can only be expanded further. Julie Blackstone has created an intriguing world where the lines of good and evil are blurred. Ravyn can only grow as her journey continues in Ravyn’s Grace.
Quick & Dirty: Set in a world where demons are good and angels are evil in this dark tale where loyalties are tested and a girl tries to learn her destiny in this action-packed, fast-pace read.
The Review:
Ravyn Creed has lived a protected life. Her guardian Hank has enforced to her just how dangerous the world can be but Ravyn never took it seriously. Ravyn knows she is different from everyone else by the auras that she sees. Then one night of partying and meeting a boy with a red aura (something she had never seen before) leads Ravyn towards a dangerous life on the run with her loyal friend Kimmy and an awesome hellhound. Rayvn is a bit impulsive but since she doesn’t know who or what to trust she must find the answers herself.
Zeke Lancaster is demon on a mission. His mission happens to include Ravyn. He wants to protect her and keep her alive while discovering what her possible powers could be. Zeke is joined by his brother and a couple other demons while they battle Nephilim and Cherubim. Zeke is a handsome teenage boy whom is hot and cold towards Ravyn often fighting his feelings towards her.
Ravyn’s Fall is filled with curious characters that are set in a topsy-turvy world where angels appear to be the bad guys and demons just may help save the girl. I especially enjoyed how the Nephilim are the basis for the vampire legend and a big, bad hellhound is a loyal puppy to Ravyn. The hellhound even helps add some comic relief to the story.
This novel is action-packed from beginning to end when Ravyn meets Zeke to a revelatory conversation where Ravyn learns about her past. Ravyn’s Fall is written in the first person from Ravyn’s perspective and at times it comes off a little harsh and clunky. This is my only real complaint about the novel but the action and intrigue make Ravyn’s Fall a quick read.
In the end Ravyn’s Fall is about the dark journey that Ravyn undergoes to learn her place in the world. Although more questions are actually raised then answered, I absolutely wished this novel would have been longer. The mythology and world can only be expanded further. Julie Blackstone has created an intriguing world where the lines of good and evil are blurred. Ravyn can only grow as her journey continues in Ravyn’s Grace.
November 23, 2014
I read this a couple of weeks ago and I already can't really remember anything about the story or the characters. This problem is twofold, partially my fault because I have been reading a lot of supernatural young adult fiction of late often different versions of very similar core stories. In addition to my just reading too many books that are similar to this and the time that has lapsed since my reading it, the parts I do remember really weren't very engaging for me. The characters were not particularly memorable and while I would consider continuing the series simply to sate my own curiosity, I didn't fall in love with this novel the way I wanted to.
Read
May 22, 2013This is book #1 in a YA series. It was a little too much YA romance and not enough story for me. Probably won't continue one with the series.
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