What do you think?
Rate this book
Angels of the Arch #1
Angels of the Arch: The Unwanted Gift
Feeling and monitoring the Earth's movements, observing and controlling the seasons, protecting and preserving the ozone layer and guarding the gates to the creation of these are all things that defy what we--the Unnoticed--have learned are possible. But in our world, hidden within our society, these abilities do exist, instilled in and bestowed upon individuals, forming what is known as the Theon Empire.
15-year-old Gabrielle Crowe is one of the unaware of the fact that our Earth's natural elements are manipulated and controlled. Unbeknownst to her, though, she is an Archangel, a governing being tasked with protecting the world from the kind of calamity that may cause severe destruction to our planet.
Faced with huge responsibility and sacrifice, Gabrielle has a choice to make. But will her hesitation be her downfall and put the lives of the people she loves at risk? Torn between the life she knows and a life of uncertainty, will Gabrielle stop the deaths of those around her and become the Archangel she is destined to be?
15-year-old Gabrielle Crowe is one of the unaware of the fact that our Earth's natural elements are manipulated and controlled. Unbeknownst to her, though, she is an Archangel, a governing being tasked with protecting the world from the kind of calamity that may cause severe destruction to our planet.
Faced with huge responsibility and sacrifice, Gabrielle has a choice to make. But will her hesitation be her downfall and put the lives of the people she loves at risk? Torn between the life she knows and a life of uncertainty, will Gabrielle stop the deaths of those around her and become the Archangel she is destined to be?
454 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 18, 2018
12 people are currently reading
48 people want to read
About the author
Lion Key
1 book18 followersYou can follow Lion Key on his social medias below:
Instagram: @letztalkbooks
Twitter: @authorlionkey
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authorlionkey
Lion Key grew up in Auckland, New Zealand, a country tucked away in the corner of the world where sheep are plentiful, and the Hobbits of The Shire roam the lands. His passion for writing is greatly influenced by many well-known authors such as J K Rowling, Patrick Rothfuss, Brandon Sanderson and Stephen King to name a few. He was 23 when he realized he wanted to pursue a career in writing. He would like to say a dream is what sparked his idea for his novel, but it all began in his awake mind, and soon the world building seed was planted.
Lion Key was not named after an animal and a piece of metal. Lionel Kake is his true name, but he decided to change it so people don’t confuse his surname with a dessert. So, he made it Key; the sound of the last syllable of his surname. His neighbour used to say to him, “Where’s the keys, Kake?” And that’s how it came to be. Lion, on the other hand, is something he associates with himself—strong, determined, hungry and ready to attack. Though, his sigil is the Hufflepuff badger (which he detested at first), but he just chucks on a mane and he’s ready to go.
At a young age, picking up a book was enjoyable, but it wasn’t as enticing until the moment he began reading his sister’s Harry Potter books. And then it was him waiting for the next installation in the series to arrive, and his sister’s collection no longer belonged to her.
Instagram: @letztalkbooks
Twitter: @authorlionkey
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authorlionkey
Lion Key grew up in Auckland, New Zealand, a country tucked away in the corner of the world where sheep are plentiful, and the Hobbits of The Shire roam the lands. His passion for writing is greatly influenced by many well-known authors such as J K Rowling, Patrick Rothfuss, Brandon Sanderson and Stephen King to name a few. He was 23 when he realized he wanted to pursue a career in writing. He would like to say a dream is what sparked his idea for his novel, but it all began in his awake mind, and soon the world building seed was planted.
Lion Key was not named after an animal and a piece of metal. Lionel Kake is his true name, but he decided to change it so people don’t confuse his surname with a dessert. So, he made it Key; the sound of the last syllable of his surname. His neighbour used to say to him, “Where’s the keys, Kake?” And that’s how it came to be. Lion, on the other hand, is something he associates with himself—strong, determined, hungry and ready to attack. Though, his sigil is the Hufflepuff badger (which he detested at first), but he just chucks on a mane and he’s ready to go.
At a young age, picking up a book was enjoyable, but it wasn’t as enticing until the moment he began reading his sister’s Harry Potter books. And then it was him waiting for the next installation in the series to arrive, and his sister’s collection no longer belonged to her.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
September 16, 2018
It took the first couple of chapters before I found my groove and really got into this book. I thought the author did a very good job of making this book relatable to all ages. While, the characters may be teens, they did not act like whiny teenagers. The fact that the main lead, Gabrielle is a female is awesome. Strong female leads rock.
I never would have guessed that Leo was from another dimension. Although, to be fair, he only re-appeared for a brief moment before he reappeared to safe Gabrielle. It is in Orix, where Gabrielle learns that she is an Archangel. Yet, not any Archangel but the Archangel of Water. Luckily, for Gabrielle she is mentored by Porgorikan and meets the other Archangels like Uriel, Archangel of Earth.
If you are in the mood to read a really awesome book, then, you need to pick up a copy of this book. You won't regret it. This book has a good storyline with interesting characters. A strong showing for the first book in this series. Which, I am sure is guaranteed to bring more action in the next book. I look forward to seeing Gabrielle grow stronger with her powers as well as getting to know the other Archangels better.
I never would have guessed that Leo was from another dimension. Although, to be fair, he only re-appeared for a brief moment before he reappeared to safe Gabrielle. It is in Orix, where Gabrielle learns that she is an Archangel. Yet, not any Archangel but the Archangel of Water. Luckily, for Gabrielle she is mentored by Porgorikan and meets the other Archangels like Uriel, Archangel of Earth.
If you are in the mood to read a really awesome book, then, you need to pick up a copy of this book. You won't regret it. This book has a good storyline with interesting characters. A strong showing for the first book in this series. Which, I am sure is guaranteed to bring more action in the next book. I look forward to seeing Gabrielle grow stronger with her powers as well as getting to know the other Archangels better.
April 22, 2018
Decent paranormal YA
Read through Kindle Unlimited.
Girl in a rural town in Alaska gets involved in supernatural weirdness after a mysterious transfer student spends his first day staring at her... Sound familiar? Fortunately, the story here is more the protagonist coming to grips with a growing ability/curse. The protagonist isn't a completely sympathetic character (no Mary Sue here), reminding me somewhat of another KU book Callie's Secret about a girl growing into a double edged power.
Here, the overarching conflict is a secret ecological war with shades of Captain Planet, as opposed to vampires or a cabal of oracles.
Rating four, as it's better edited and plotted than many KU books, but not a five as I felt it could have differentiated itself more.
Read through Kindle Unlimited.
Girl in a rural town in Alaska gets involved in supernatural weirdness after a mysterious transfer student spends his first day staring at her... Sound familiar? Fortunately, the story here is more the protagonist coming to grips with a growing ability/curse. The protagonist isn't a completely sympathetic character (no Mary Sue here), reminding me somewhat of another KU book Callie's Secret about a girl growing into a double edged power.
Here, the overarching conflict is a secret ecological war with shades of Captain Planet, as opposed to vampires or a cabal of oracles.
Rating four, as it's better edited and plotted than many KU books, but not a five as I felt it could have differentiated itself more.
August 28, 2018
I'M HOOKED!!
I found this to be a fantastic read, the characters and storyline made it difficult for me to put down.
I believe that the story has loads of potential and would make a great movie or tv show.
Truelly sparks the imagination and I look forward to the release of the next book.
Rated 5 stars as it had everything I look for in a Fantasy book.
I found this to be a fantastic read, the characters and storyline made it difficult for me to put down.
I believe that the story has loads of potential and would make a great movie or tv show.
Truelly sparks the imagination and I look forward to the release of the next book.
Rated 5 stars as it had everything I look for in a Fantasy book.
April 27, 2019
Not your typical angel story. The ones I’ve read in the past were mostly about fallen angels or angels from the Bible. This one was neither. You can say that the author created his own lore about angels for this story. As a debut novel, I thought it was rather well-written with an original storyline. I felt for the MC who had to deal with having a role and responsibility thrust upon her that she neither wanted nor asked for. I could understand her reluctance, and was devastated by the consequences of her rebellion. As for the writing style, the author is creative with his words and had some colorful and clever turns of phrases. There were just a few that didn’t quite work. My main critique is that I thought the chapters following the catastrophic tidal wave were a bit anti-climactic. And while the pacing was good, I wonder if the story could have been streamlined a bit? Still, it’s a promising start to a series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 15, 2019
Gabrielle is an ordinary teenager living with her slightly grumpy grandmother until suddenly strange things start to happen around her. For one, she's having a weird reaction to the rain and what's up with the school's plumbing?
Angels of the Arch reads as a fantasy exploration of acceptance; of ourselves, who we truly are and the past, and the dire consequences of refusing.
I found the beginning a little slow, principally because it's written in first person and therefore limits what the reader can be told. It picked up with the arrival of the mysterious Leo and Gabrielle's discovery of her identity, and rattled into exciting set pieces that would work well for film. The reveal of the final few chapters I found unnecessary and could probably have waited for a sequel; however, all in all, a fun story well told.
Angels of the Arch reads as a fantasy exploration of acceptance; of ourselves, who we truly are and the past, and the dire consequences of refusing.
I found the beginning a little slow, principally because it's written in first person and therefore limits what the reader can be told. It picked up with the arrival of the mysterious Leo and Gabrielle's discovery of her identity, and rattled into exciting set pieces that would work well for film. The reveal of the final few chapters I found unnecessary and could probably have waited for a sequel; however, all in all, a fun story well told.
April 22, 2018
Angels of The Arch by Lion Key is an entertaining page-turner full of elemental fantasy, a variety of characters, and an intriguing mystery. This first book in the series has much potential and I cannot wait to see where this promising author takes us in his unique world and writing style.
September 15, 2018
Fantastic Book!
I absolutely loved this book!
It was very unique and unlike anything I've read before. The fantasy book industry seems to be full of books about vampires, wizards, witches, but this totally set itself apart.
I enjoyed the magical realism that was intertwined within our own world. It reminded me of Avatar the Last Airbender but it was alot more intriguing and I could relate with it alot more.
I really liked Pandora. I thought her abilities were mind blowing. I don't think I've read anything like this book and how nature is turned into magic!
I'm excited for book two and I cannot wait for it to come out!
I absolutely loved this book!
It was very unique and unlike anything I've read before. The fantasy book industry seems to be full of books about vampires, wizards, witches, but this totally set itself apart.
I enjoyed the magical realism that was intertwined within our own world. It reminded me of Avatar the Last Airbender but it was alot more intriguing and I could relate with it alot more.
I really liked Pandora. I thought her abilities were mind blowing. I don't think I've read anything like this book and how nature is turned into magic!
I'm excited for book two and I cannot wait for it to come out!
September 12, 2018
Excellent Read!
After being in a slight reading slump and most books taking me ages to complete, this one had me page turning till stupid o clock in the morning. Much to my ene norgy's dismay. I was steered to this book by a friend of mine and I thank her dearly. This had a great storyline, addictive beings and just overall a fantastic book.
I am looking forward to having this and the future series (I hope!) on my bookshelf. It has great potential and I cannot wait where it will lead me....
After being in a slight reading slump and most books taking me ages to complete, this one had me page turning till stupid o clock in the morning. Much to my ene norgy's dismay. I was steered to this book by a friend of mine and I thank her dearly. This had a great storyline, addictive beings and just overall a fantastic book.
I am looking forward to having this and the future series (I hope!) on my bookshelf. It has great potential and I cannot wait where it will lead me....
April 20, 2019
A different kind of Angel
A real page turner for me. I found the premise of the storyline quite fascinating. Gabrielle's teenage angst and feelings about her life, friends and family are believable. I could identify with her throughout the story. Looking forward to the next book!
A real page turner for me. I found the premise of the storyline quite fascinating. Gabrielle's teenage angst and feelings about her life, friends and family are believable. I could identify with her throughout the story. Looking forward to the next book!
April 22, 2018
Omg i got my life!! Love the magical concept on nature, it gave me Captain Planet on another level. Haven't read something that focuses on nature in such a unique way. I cant wait to read book 2 and I'm excited to find out what other characters we will see.
October 4, 2018
An interesting new voice in the YA world! If you like strong female characters with imperfect personalities but who still grab your attention and keep you guessing, try AOTA. The start reads like the teenage years everyone knows, centred around school, friends, and boys. But when the action kicks in, suddenly the world is filled with magical twists and turns.
*minor spoilers ahead*
I love the powers in this, that they're connected to nature's elements and even how the seasons work (brilliant!). The otherworldiness that Key has created is really fascinating and I want to know more about how the powers work, the intricacies of it all. Hopefully we will see more of that in book 2 :D
Overall, a great concept with strong characters and the beginnings of an amazing magical world to explore.
*minor spoilers ahead*
I love the powers in this, that they're connected to nature's elements and even how the seasons work (brilliant!). The otherworldiness that Key has created is really fascinating and I want to know more about how the powers work, the intricacies of it all. Hopefully we will see more of that in book 2 :D
Overall, a great concept with strong characters and the beginnings of an amazing magical world to explore.
September 24, 2018
I have not finished a whole book for years. Until now.
I can honestly say that this book grabbed me from the get go. I usually hate reading virtually and prefer a paper book but this was so worth it.
The characters are relatable and the author does a good job of capturing the main characters anguish over her new destiny. The plot is full of twists and turns and each dramatic twist is described well for the reader to be able to imagine the images in their mind easily.
This book is well worth the read and I would easily spend my money to buy the next books. I can’t wait for the whole series to be released!
I even cried.
I can honestly say that this book grabbed me from the get go. I usually hate reading virtually and prefer a paper book but this was so worth it.
The characters are relatable and the author does a good job of capturing the main characters anguish over her new destiny. The plot is full of twists and turns and each dramatic twist is described well for the reader to be able to imagine the images in their mind easily.
This book is well worth the read and I would easily spend my money to buy the next books. I can’t wait for the whole series to be released!
I even cried.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 28, 2018
I was one of the first to Beta-Read this back in... Februaryof this year, I believe? I absolutely loved it, and I cannot wait for the rest of the series!
Angels of The Arch by Lion Key is an entertaining page-turner full of elemental fantasy, a variety of characters, and an intriguing mystery. This first book in the series has much potential and I cannot wait to see where this promising author takes us in his unique world and writing style. -Me, Annie, The Guardian, a fancier and more serious review lol.
Angels of The Arch by Lion Key is an entertaining page-turner full of elemental fantasy, a variety of characters, and an intriguing mystery. This first book in the series has much potential and I cannot wait to see where this promising author takes us in his unique world and writing style. -Me, Annie, The Guardian, a fancier and more serious review lol.
March 31, 2018
Omg i got my life!! Love the magical concept on nature, it gave me Captain Planet on another level. Haven't read something that focuses on nature in such a unique way. I cant wait to read book 2 and I'm excited to find out what other characters we will see.
April 21, 2019
I'm fascinated by the way the earth functions, like a living creature and this story brings that to life. The descriptions took me right into the action and I could picture every scene with clarity, making the read heart-wrenching at times. I'm looking forward to reading the next book.
June 28, 2019
I really enjoyed this book. I don't want to give anything away, but am definitely looking forward to the next book. The world is fascinating, the lead character is strong and I really liked the sensory description. Great work, Mr. Key
June 13, 2019
Fun read, I liked how the different plot elements blended together. The concept was cool, but typical of a young adult novel.
I’d read more of the author’s work.
I’d read more of the author’s work.
April 22, 2018
Just because 😆😄
December 29, 2019
Gabrielle Crowe, an ordinary 15 year-old girl who lives with her grandmother, comes to realise strange things occur around her connected to water. When she befriends Leo, a friendly yet mysterious student in her school, she discovers her destiny lies far beyond the normal world in which she thought she lived. As the first book in this series, I found Angels of the Arch: The Unwanted Gift a clever, promising and nicely paced read. Key writes his characters as believable, likeable teenagers which is refreshing. Woven through the story are the supernatural beings manipulating and controlling the Earth’s elements. With just a taster of their abilities and functions revealed, I look forward to learning more as the series progresses. The action takes a while to build as we get to know the characters, with most excitement taking place in the second half of the book, however I found the ending created a nice balance of plot resolution alongside wonder of what is to come with the sequel. This is a different kind of fantasy read with Archangels as the main players and clever world building creating a fascinating backdrop. A really promising start to the series!
December 3, 2018
Rough. Really rough. I kept wondering why an Alaskan teenager would be using British English (snog, windscreen, high marks, skiving, etc.) and then realized that the author was from New Zealand, which begged two questions: Why didn't he set it in New Zealand, especially as the climate he described didn't sound too much like an Alaskan winter, where I imagine people don't eat outside let alone sunbathe? And, if he insisted on setting it in American, why not get an American editor who could have corrected the problems? Or, an editor in general, who could have fixed the many subject-verb agreement problems and rampant comma neglect (also a trait of British English)? World building could also use a bit more work, perhaps talk less about how many tunnels there are and more about how they obtain power through the Ether.
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews