Absolution

The Awakening #1

by Ashley Lucero

For 17 year old Alex Constance, high school has had its hardships. With her parents’ divorce, her brother leaving for the Marines, and not fitting in with the popular crowd at school, Alex thought her life couldn’t get any more difficult than it already was. That is, until her entire world is turned upside down when she sees a man in black and no one else does. A whole new world of weird has been added to her life. Nathaniel, a dangerous man with many secrets, may be her only hope to save her life.

Caught in the middle of an on-going war between fallen angels and angels, Alex begins to learn the truth about herself and her unique family; but will it be enough to save her life or will she become her biggest fear yet? One thing is certain. Alex will not be given a choice, and she may still end up in a psychiatric ward or a body bag.

Genres: Young Adult

220 pages, Paperback

Published January 12, 2016

About the author

Ashley Lucero,
Is a lover of fiction novels with a passion for genres such as the paranormal, romance and young adult. She currently lives in Littleton, Colorado where she holds an Associates in Art with a Business designation. Although she is a successful business owner/entrepreneur, she has always returned to her love of writing. Ashley’s current book series is inspired by a series of events that occurred during her childhood. Her big loves include: her family, riding her motorcycle, late night sushi, binge-watching her favorite TV shows, and anywhere she can enjoy a ‘toes in the sand’ type of pedicure.

Reviews

[Ashley Lucero · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reviewed by Cheryl E. Rodriguez for Readers' Favorite:

Ashley Lucero pens a gripping tale of good versus evil in Absolution. The characterization pairs well with the plot. The heroine is strong, smart, vibrant and enthusiastic; her character matures in a dynamic and rare way as the plot unfolds. Each of the main characters awakens through the action. Lucero writes short chapters which quicken the pace; she articulates the thoughts and mannerisms of the characters as she builds the suspense. She captures reality and catapults it into the supernatural realm with ease. Absolution is a fast-paced, goose-bump inducing, thrilling read. Ashley Lucero hits one way out of the park. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series.

[Rosie · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the very first page, Ashley Lucero had me hooked on this masterful series. The war between archangels and fallen angels is ages old, but this particular twist on the tale gave it a whole new edge. Nicely paced and beautifully written, ‘Absolution’ had me catapulting between excitement, horror and intrigue, wondering whose side Nathaniel is truly on. His angry outbursts had me on edge at times, fearing for Alex, while other times I found myself giggling at their interactions. I recommend this book to readers over the age of 15 years, who enjoy suspense, action, adventure, and romance with a supernatural flavor.

- Rosie Malezer for Readers' Favorite

[Ashley · Rating 2 out of 5]

This was an okay read for me. I felt that it could have used more editing especially because at times the plot was either super rushed or dragged on. Also, the characters could have used more development. It might have been just me but I didn't feel a lot of chemistry between the main characters and some of the ways that everyone reacted to certain situations were very unrealistic. Also, I usually don't mind overprotective fathers but the way Alex's father kept threatening Nathaniel was getting pretty weird. I also feel like some things were randomly added to the plot only to never be mentioned again. With all that being said, by the end of the book I actually got really into the story and I am excited to read the next one and see where everything goes. If it's more developed and better edited than this story I look forward to reading the rest of this series!

[Dawn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Every once in awhile, you come across a book that you can't put down. I've seemed to have had a run on these types of books (yay) and Absolution is no exception.

The story drew me in right from the prologue. After reading the sample in the look inside I was intrigued enough to buy it since I liked the premise of the story.

I'm so glad I took the chance because I was glued to my kindle while reading. There was just enough suspense, action, and romance. I need a certain level of romance in my stories, and the author delivered this perfectly. I enjoyed the chemistry between the characters as much as I enjoyed the actual story plot.

I'm so glad there is a sequel coming because I can't wait to see where the author takes the story. I highly recommend this read.

[Gwen · Rating 4 out of 5]

I wavered about giving this book only three stars as the first 2/3 of the book is pretty mundane and the overuse of the word "smirk" for just about anything Nathaniel (the male protagonist) said was grating. However, the final chapters in the book finally gave the story some "umph", set up the premise for the next book and dispensed almost entirely with the word "smirk" (and then it was another character with whom it was used). Alex (the female protagonist) really showed some spunk , especially later in the book. I still would have given the book only 3 1/2 stars had that been available to me, but the book is worth a read if you wish to kill a little time.

I received this book free from Goodreads First Reads.

[Book Ranger · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lucero has developed well defined characters that leap off the page. Especially Alex, a super cool girl who is totally likable. She finds herself faced with supernatural intrigue and romance that has you begging for more after the intense and satisfying ending.

[Ross · Rating 3 out of 5]

Well written, not my thing. 3/5