What do you think?
Rate this book
Angelborn Cycle #1
Angelborn
He gave up eternity for love… and lost. Will she be his second chance?
Maia sees dead people. Since she can't distinguish them from the living, she ignores everyone in order to appear sane. But the ghost haunting her roommate breaks through her hardened shell. Not only does he claim to not be dead, he makes her feel things she never has before—dangerous feelings for a man who can never be hers.
For an angelborn like Caleb, dying without a soul sentenced him to eternity in the Wasteland. Now he's escaped, but the only way to stay free is by convincing his true love to share her soul with him. You only get one soulmate and his is not the broken, scarred young woman he can't stay away from. With dangerous angels hunting him, Maia is a distraction he can't afford.
After inadvertently leading a threat to Caleb's door, Maia is willing to risk anything to keep him safe. Even if that means losing him forever.
Maia sees dead people. Since she can't distinguish them from the living, she ignores everyone in order to appear sane. But the ghost haunting her roommate breaks through her hardened shell. Not only does he claim to not be dead, he makes her feel things she never has before—dangerous feelings for a man who can never be hers.
For an angelborn like Caleb, dying without a soul sentenced him to eternity in the Wasteland. Now he's escaped, but the only way to stay free is by convincing his true love to share her soul with him. You only get one soulmate and his is not the broken, scarred young woman he can't stay away from. With dangerous angels hunting him, Maia is a distraction he can't afford.
After inadvertently leading a threat to Caleb's door, Maia is willing to risk anything to keep him safe. Even if that means losing him forever.
ebook
First published April 28, 2015
About the author
L. Penelope
31 books973 followersL. Penelope (also writing as Leslye Penelope) has been writing since she could hold a pen and loves getting lost in the worlds in her head. She is an award-winning author of fantasy and paranormal romance.
She was born in the Bronx, just after the birth of hip hop, but left before she could acquire an accent. Equally left and right-brained, she studied Film at Howard University and minored in Computer Science. This led to a graduate degree in Multimedia and a career in website development. She's also an award-winning independent filmmaker, co-founded a literary magazine, and sometimes dreams in HTML.
Leslye lives in Maryland with her husband and their furry dependents. Sign up for new release information and giveaways on her website: http://www.lpenelope.com.
She was born in the Bronx, just after the birth of hip hop, but left before she could acquire an accent. Equally left and right-brained, she studied Film at Howard University and minored in Computer Science. This led to a graduate degree in Multimedia and a career in website development. She's also an award-winning independent filmmaker, co-founded a literary magazine, and sometimes dreams in HTML.
Leslye lives in Maryland with her husband and their furry dependents. Sign up for new release information and giveaways on her website: http://www.lpenelope.com.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
June 22, 2015
So first thing's first.
Jesse Williams as Caleb..PERFECT!
I must say there are very few stories I've ever read that I immediately enjoyed. Firstly, I'm a fan of angels, fallen angels, Nephilim, and the like so I was enthralled by the concept of Nephilim children who are not born of a union between male angels and female humans but female angels and male humans (Angelborn).
I love the fact that this is a paranormal romance that does not rely on the faux bad boy cliché, which those of us who have read enough paranormal romance can attest to (though his escape from the Wasteland and fugitive status can be dubbed "bad boy" to an extent).
I found Caleb and Maia both to be very likable characters, though their cluelessness was a bit frustrating at times they're both very solid and well rounded characters. I found Genna to be annoying and kind of shallow, she means well but is a bit ditzy.
The language of the book is very sophisticated and written almost poetically. I was hypnotized by the author's style of writing alone.
The only bad merit I'd give this book is that it ended...
It kept me on a rollercoaster the entire way.
I'm really not displeased by the fact that it's a standalone or that it was a novella because it felt like a fully packed novel. This actually stands out very far from other angel novels I've read.
Very well done, this will NOT be the last time I read this author.
PS Chapter 13; HOT!!!
Jesse Williams as Caleb..PERFECT!
I must say there are very few stories I've ever read that I immediately enjoyed. Firstly, I'm a fan of angels, fallen angels, Nephilim, and the like so I was enthralled by the concept of Nephilim children who are not born of a union between male angels and female humans but female angels and male humans (Angelborn).
I love the fact that this is a paranormal romance that does not rely on the faux bad boy cliché, which those of us who have read enough paranormal romance can attest to (though his escape from the Wasteland and fugitive status can be dubbed "bad boy" to an extent).
I found Caleb and Maia both to be very likable characters, though their cluelessness was a bit frustrating at times they're both very solid and well rounded characters. I found Genna to be annoying and kind of shallow, she means well but is a bit ditzy.
The language of the book is very sophisticated and written almost poetically. I was hypnotized by the author's style of writing alone.
The only bad merit I'd give this book is that it ended...
It kept me on a rollercoaster the entire way.
I'm really not displeased by the fact that it's a standalone or that it was a novella because it felt like a fully packed novel. This actually stands out very far from other angel novels I've read.
Very well done, this will NOT be the last time I read this author.
PS Chapter 13; HOT!!!
November 20, 2018
(3.25-3.5 Stars)
Maia, the heroine, has had a difficult life because of her abilities and has understandably grown quite withdrawn. She's an interesting, imperfect, and sympathetic character. You feel for her and root for her because of everything she's been through.
I did like this book and I especially enjoyed the last 10%, though the very end felt somewhat abrupt. However, I think I would've liked it more as an Urban Fantasy, or more likely a Supernatural Suspense with the focus being on Maia and maybe her growing as a character, but not so much the love story aspect. And as someone who ♥'s the Romance genre, I can't believe I'm saying that!
This book does handle the duties of angels and their guilds in a very cool way. The hero, Caleb, who's half human/half angel is sweet and good, if not a bit confused about love. His wishy-washiness and uncertainty brought a love triangle situation into play and I'll admit, I'm not here for that. :/ I actually found myself more intrigued by an angel character I was definitely (probably) not supposed to be drawn to, lol. To date I don't believe any subsequent books in this series feature him, but he's a character I'd like to get to know better.
A few other things that took me out of the story were the 1st person, present tense POV (not sure if both characters' voices were strong enough for it) and the significant flashback scenes to both of the MC's early lives. Also, this had a firm NA feel to it with the characters being in college, which was only compounded by Maia's repeated use of the term "boys" for men... To be fair I know women in their late 30's who use this term, but it grates my nerves something fierce and I'm not used to seeing it in adult PNRs.
Again, Maia was great even though the rest didn't click with me as much as I was hoping. But it was absolutely a story that held my interest and made me want to know how it was resolved. ☺
Maia, the heroine, has had a difficult life because of her abilities and has understandably grown quite withdrawn. She's an interesting, imperfect, and sympathetic character. You feel for her and root for her because of everything she's been through.
I did like this book and I especially enjoyed the last 10%, though the very end felt somewhat abrupt. However, I think I would've liked it more as an Urban Fantasy, or more likely a Supernatural Suspense with the focus being on Maia and maybe her growing as a character, but not so much the love story aspect. And as someone who ♥'s the Romance genre, I can't believe I'm saying that!
This book does handle the duties of angels and their guilds in a very cool way. The hero, Caleb, who's half human/half angel is sweet and good, if not a bit confused about love. His wishy-washiness and uncertainty brought a love triangle situation into play and I'll admit, I'm not here for that. :/ I actually found myself more intrigued by an angel character I was definitely (probably) not supposed to be drawn to, lol. To date I don't believe any subsequent books in this series feature him, but he's a character I'd like to get to know better.
A few other things that took me out of the story were the 1st person, present tense POV (not sure if both characters' voices were strong enough for it) and the significant flashback scenes to both of the MC's early lives. Also, this had a firm NA feel to it with the characters being in college, which was only compounded by Maia's repeated use of the term "boys" for men... To be fair I know women in their late 30's who use this term, but it grates my nerves something fierce and I'm not used to seeing it in adult PNRs.
Again, Maia was great even though the rest didn't click with me as much as I was hoping. But it was absolutely a story that held my interest and made me want to know how it was resolved. ☺
February 12, 2016
Simply Beautiful
A wonderful story. I enjoyed it immensely - the characters, main and supporting, the narrative, the emotions, the fantastical elements and descriptions. Well written and conceptualized, simply beautiful storytelling in a sweet, short novella.
A wonderful story. I enjoyed it immensely - the characters, main and supporting, the narrative, the emotions, the fantastical elements and descriptions. Well written and conceptualized, simply beautiful storytelling in a sweet, short novella.
May 24, 2015
What a beautifully written novella! What happens when a halfling angel falls in love with a human but is unable to bind with her soul? In Caleb's case, it lands him in the Wasteland, a dark place where those with no soul wait for the rare chance to get a new soul. But Caleb escapes and goes in search of the soul of the woman he loves--a soul that's been reincarnated in the body of Genna, a college student whose modern sensibilities confuse Caleb.
And then there is Maia, Genna's roommate, who is haunted--literally. She sees ghosts and is haunted by one whose anger sometimes physically manifests itself in violent ways. When Caleb and Maia meet, an undeniable connection is formed that leaves them both questioning what they want and why they want it. It makes them question the very nature of love. Maia and Caleb's story was captivating from page one. One of my favourite aspects about Angelborn is how L. Penelope writes about angels *without* adding biblical overtones. Her portrayal of angels is more reminiscent of deities from mythology, which allows a secular person like me to be able to enjoy a story without getting a lesson from the Bible.
With finely etched characters and a compelling plot, Angelborn will leave you wanting to know more of Caleb and Maia's story. This was my first time reading L. Penelope and I am sure it won't be the last time.
And then there is Maia, Genna's roommate, who is haunted--literally. She sees ghosts and is haunted by one whose anger sometimes physically manifests itself in violent ways. When Caleb and Maia meet, an undeniable connection is formed that leaves them both questioning what they want and why they want it. It makes them question the very nature of love. Maia and Caleb's story was captivating from page one. One of my favourite aspects about Angelborn is how L. Penelope writes about angels *without* adding biblical overtones. Her portrayal of angels is more reminiscent of deities from mythology, which allows a secular person like me to be able to enjoy a story without getting a lesson from the Bible.
With finely etched characters and a compelling plot, Angelborn will leave you wanting to know more of Caleb and Maia's story. This was my first time reading L. Penelope and I am sure it won't be the last time.
August 24, 2016
Astounding.
Angelborn is the kind of book that you just can't seem to forget about. The cover, the world building and the characters are all so uniquely and artistically crafted, it's a masterpiece on their own.
I've read a lot of angel/demons related books, from the infamous Hush Hush series to the Fallen series, while I love how those authors portrayed angels as kickass heroes, Caleb was on a whole different level. I fell in love from the start!
It's fantastic that I get to read about a black heroine for once, and the fact that Maia was such an alluring character just sealed the deal, making Angelborn my "Top 5 favourite book of this year". From forbidden romance to fast paced action scenes, I finished the book in less than 2 hours (I was flipping through the pages like a maniac!) While I love the plot, I have to say that the world building was probably my favourite part of the book. Purgatory is a place that is rarely explored and a world that fascinates me the most, it's wonderful that I get to read about that in Angelborn.
This is the first book from L.Penelope that I have read, but I'm definitely going to hunt down her books in the future! Thanks Netgalley for introducing me to such an artist!
Angelborn is the kind of book that you just can't seem to forget about. The cover, the world building and the characters are all so uniquely and artistically crafted, it's a masterpiece on their own.
I've read a lot of angel/demons related books, from the infamous Hush Hush series to the Fallen series, while I love how those authors portrayed angels as kickass heroes, Caleb was on a whole different level. I fell in love from the start!
It's fantastic that I get to read about a black heroine for once, and the fact that Maia was such an alluring character just sealed the deal, making Angelborn my "Top 5 favourite book of this year". From forbidden romance to fast paced action scenes, I finished the book in less than 2 hours (I was flipping through the pages like a maniac!) While I love the plot, I have to say that the world building was probably my favourite part of the book. Purgatory is a place that is rarely explored and a world that fascinates me the most, it's wonderful that I get to read about that in Angelborn.
This is the first book from L.Penelope that I have read, but I'm definitely going to hunt down her books in the future! Thanks Netgalley for introducing me to such an artist!
July 25, 2021
I can't believe I waited so long to read this! I also wish there were more stories in this series. I could not put this book down! I'm hoping L. Penelope will write more set in this world, or maybe publish this in paperback so I can add it to my shelf!
April 7, 2016
I rated it 2 stars because it was okay. I didn't hate it because there were too many things that didn't work for me. The first being, I don't like romance that's based entirely on a person's physical attributes and that's what I felt Caleb and Maia's relationship was. I know it's a short book but we never get the idea that the two like each other for their thoughts.
The writing left a lot to be desired. Because it's told from first person between Caleb and Maia, the writing did a lot of telling rather than showing.
By that I mean, the writing would just have Maia and Caleb tell us their feelings about each other but never really showed us exactly why they felt that way. Now you could argue that it's because of the "true love" storyline; being someone's true love or being "the one" has this romantic view of a relationship being based on it simply being part of one's destiny, that these two individuals automatically connect because the universe wants them to be together.
But I personally don't like that type of writing. Again, I understand that it's a short book but I like relationships to take some time. Caleb and Maia don't really have too many conversations beyond Caleb's situation and Maia being able to see ghosts (and her past).
The main thing I can't get over is how it took the Vultures weeks to find Caleb. If the Vultures went to the Recordkeepers, they would've known what Caleb's human form looked like (since he's been in that form in the past and the Recordkeepers would know what he looked like) and they would've known where he'd gone to. The main reason Caleb was in the Wasteland was because he fell in love with a human. Logic dictates that would be the first person he would go to.
I'm just saying, if a prisoner broke out of a jail, the first places you look are places where the prisoner has personal connection to, which would be Vivian/Genna.
The writing left a lot to be desired. Because it's told from first person between Caleb and Maia, the writing did a lot of telling rather than showing.
By that I mean, the writing would just have Maia and Caleb tell us their feelings about each other but never really showed us exactly why they felt that way. Now you could argue that it's because of the "true love" storyline; being someone's true love or being "the one" has this romantic view of a relationship being based on it simply being part of one's destiny, that these two individuals automatically connect because the universe wants them to be together.
But I personally don't like that type of writing. Again, I understand that it's a short book but I like relationships to take some time. Caleb and Maia don't really have too many conversations beyond Caleb's situation and Maia being able to see ghosts (and her past).
The main thing I can't get over is how it took the Vultures weeks to find Caleb. If the Vultures went to the Recordkeepers, they would've known what Caleb's human form looked like (since he's been in that form in the past and the Recordkeepers would know what he looked like) and they would've known where he'd gone to. The main reason Caleb was in the Wasteland was because he fell in love with a human. Logic dictates that would be the first person he would go to.
I'm just saying, if a prisoner broke out of a jail, the first places you look are places where the prisoner has personal connection to, which would be Vivian/Genna.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 10, 2015
A good read. I wish it could be a little longer. I haven't read a good angel paranormal in a long time. This is the first book I have read by the author I will read more. She did a good job. Read this book won't be disappointed.
Happy Reading!!
Happy Reading!!
October 29, 2015
Such a great story. Characters Maia and Caleb were so well done and fleshed out. The writing was immaculate. I was so sad when it ended. I hope the author releases a sequel soon.
February 10, 2016
http://bookreviewsandknittycreations....
Caution I do spoil the book in my review :)
Caution I do spoil the book in my review :)
February 10, 2018
Started reading the blurb on storybundle, and before day's end I finished the book. This is a delightful twist on the usual boy meets girl. I will not spoil it for you, but the story building sucks you in and things do not go as planned. Which always makes the best stories...right? Try this author, you will not be disappointed.
August 1, 2021
This has a super YA feel to me, but I’m going to be honest, fated mates type stuff always (emotionally) gives me YA vibes. Enjoyable if not particularly memorable.
For once my readers advisory note will be a TV recommendation, readers who liked this may enjoy Oh My Ghostess! A K drama with a similar conceit for a heroine
For once my readers advisory note will be a TV recommendation, readers who liked this may enjoy Oh My Ghostess! A K drama with a similar conceit for a heroine
May 30, 2022
Angelborn was our choice for Episode 2 of Season 2 - a novella that somehow packs in epic world-building with angels and ghosts, as well as an emotional romance. To hear more and access the podcast episode via your preferred podcast platform, click on the link below:
E2S2
E2S2
March 7, 2019
I really loved this book, it was refreshing in every way. The author is an excellent story teller. It literally had me on the edge of my seat all the way to the end. So for those of you who loves fantasy books this is the one for you.
November 29, 2022
My Angel to love💞
I have admired Genna, Maia, and Caleb's love tryst. They stole my heart, and soul! (Almost) Ive enjoyed this story about a half long finding his true love, and I believe you will too💞 Please check her books out.💞
I have admired Genna, Maia, and Caleb's love tryst. They stole my heart, and soul! (Almost) Ive enjoyed this story about a half long finding his true love, and I believe you will too💞 Please check her books out.💞
March 11, 2018
3.5 stars... I liked this more than I thought I would!
March 9, 2019
I liked this sweet fantasy romance.
Here is the link to my booktrailer:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zuBKg...
Here is the link to my booktrailer:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zuBKg...
May 26, 2019
Really good
Loved the story, the characters & the twist at the end.
Can't wait to read book 2! I definitely recommend.
Loved the story, the characters & the twist at the end.
Can't wait to read book 2! I definitely recommend.
July 2, 2020
Read in one day
Short easy read. Need more sex lol. But I totally enjoyed. I read it in one day it felt like a novella
Short easy read. Need more sex lol. But I totally enjoyed. I read it in one day it felt like a novella
July 20, 2021
Really cool premise with how angels interact with humans, also thought the characters felt very real. A short read but a strong one.
CWs for self harm, gaslighting, child abuse off page.
CWs for self harm, gaslighting, child abuse off page.
October 17, 2015
3.5 stars (rounded to 4 stars)
Altered from review posted on Romancing the Social Sciences
I'm mourning the fact that Angelborn was a novella and not a full-length novel - the format left me feeling like I accidentally got an appetizer instead of a main meal. I'm still hungry and that's a testament to Angelborn, really. It was SO GOOD, but it all got wrapped up too quickly and I never really got to know the hero as much as I'd like and the epilogue was too short and now I want to cry.
Angelborn was a fresh combination of New Adult and Paranormal. Half-angel, half-human Caleb found his soulmate once, but she died before he could ensure they would be reborn together, and he was banished to the nether realm of the Wasteland. Now, by some miracle, he's escaped back to the human plane and to his reincarnated soulmate, Genna.
Being able to see and interact with the dead has defined Maia's whole life. She's managed to keep a relatively low profile at college, but then Caleb starts hanging around her roommate; sometimes Genna can see him, and sometimes he's invisible to everyone but Maia. Caleb's running out of time, and Maia's running from everything, including the boy who is clearly not meant for her.
Frankly, I found another character, the angel Helix, to have much more personality than Caleb, but I understand that he is an inherently amorphous character, having had his experience as a human constructed around his soul mate and then being stuck in limbo for 70 years. I loved Maia though; she was witty and tough, and yet all too vulnerable.
The world Penelope built for Angelborn was distinct, and I respected that it did not rely on a Judeo-Christian framework. The idea that angels harvest human souls because they act as power sources for their realm of Euphoria was neat, and, like many aspects, I wished there had been more detail.
Partly because Penelope's worldbuilding was so absorbing, my list of unanswered questions is massive. How did Caleb's angel dam meet his father? Why did Maia have the ability to see the dead? How did Wren, who brought Caleb back to the human realm, know how to escape the Wasteland? I get that a lot of these things are meant to be ambiguous and that the character themselves don't understand, but there are so many interesting titbits I want to know! Hopefully, Penelope chooses to expand this world, but even if she doesn't, she's a wonderful storyteller and I look forward to reading some longer works of hers.
Altered from review posted on Romancing the Social Sciences
I'm mourning the fact that Angelborn was a novella and not a full-length novel - the format left me feeling like I accidentally got an appetizer instead of a main meal. I'm still hungry and that's a testament to Angelborn, really. It was SO GOOD, but it all got wrapped up too quickly and I never really got to know the hero as much as I'd like and the epilogue was too short and now I want to cry.
Angelborn was a fresh combination of New Adult and Paranormal. Half-angel, half-human Caleb found his soulmate once, but she died before he could ensure they would be reborn together, and he was banished to the nether realm of the Wasteland. Now, by some miracle, he's escaped back to the human plane and to his reincarnated soulmate, Genna.
Being able to see and interact with the dead has defined Maia's whole life. She's managed to keep a relatively low profile at college, but then Caleb starts hanging around her roommate; sometimes Genna can see him, and sometimes he's invisible to everyone but Maia. Caleb's running out of time, and Maia's running from everything, including the boy who is clearly not meant for her.
Frankly, I found another character, the angel Helix, to have much more personality than Caleb, but I understand that he is an inherently amorphous character, having had his experience as a human constructed around his soul mate and then being stuck in limbo for 70 years. I loved Maia though; she was witty and tough, and yet all too vulnerable.
The world Penelope built for Angelborn was distinct, and I respected that it did not rely on a Judeo-Christian framework. The idea that angels harvest human souls because they act as power sources for their realm of Euphoria was neat, and, like many aspects, I wished there had been more detail.
Partly because Penelope's worldbuilding was so absorbing, my list of unanswered questions is massive. How did Caleb's angel dam meet his father? Why did Maia have the ability to see the dead? How did Wren, who brought Caleb back to the human realm, know how to escape the Wasteland? I get that a lot of these things are meant to be ambiguous and that the character themselves don't understand, but there are so many interesting titbits I want to know! Hopefully, Penelope chooses to expand this world, but even if she doesn't, she's a wonderful storyteller and I look forward to reading some longer works of hers.
February 27, 2016
Reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf
Angelborn will take you into a world of wonder, of halfling angels, soul mates, and a young woman who really does see dead people.. all the time.
Caleb is a halfling angel – his father was human. As a halfling he had no soul, until he could find his soul mate and she would share her soul with him making him complete. But Caleb’s soul mate died before she could share with him and now Caleb has been sent to the Wastelands to stay or to wait for the chance to return and search out his love in her reincarnated body. When he escapes and finds his love – he also finds another young woman with a tormented life, a young woman who he cannot help but feel something for but he will not be turned away from his desire to reunite with his soul mate.
Maia has seen ghosts for as long as she can remember. Waking, sleeping she can never escape them. She’s learned to tune them out somewhat and tries to live a normal life… but that’s not easy. When she sees what she believes is a ghost near her roommate – this feels different. As Caleb explains what has happened to him and his soul mate, Maia is already starting to fall for him. And when he becomes her champion she is certain that he is the man she could love forever. But he is destined for another or is he?
I enjoyed my time in the world of Angelborn. The world building has a mystical feel to it, and the characters are a fascinating mix. The plot will twist and take you places you never expected.
I gave it a 3 star rating for a couple reasons. Good story = 3 stars. While I enjoyed the story, I simply never connected with the characters. I didn’t fall into the story, but I did enjoy the experience. And that’s what a good story should do, give me a satisfying experience while visiting the author’s world.
*I received an e-ARC of Angelborn from the publisher and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. That does not change what I think of this novel.*
Angelborn will take you into a world of wonder, of halfling angels, soul mates, and a young woman who really does see dead people.. all the time.
Caleb is a halfling angel – his father was human. As a halfling he had no soul, until he could find his soul mate and she would share her soul with him making him complete. But Caleb’s soul mate died before she could share with him and now Caleb has been sent to the Wastelands to stay or to wait for the chance to return and search out his love in her reincarnated body. When he escapes and finds his love – he also finds another young woman with a tormented life, a young woman who he cannot help but feel something for but he will not be turned away from his desire to reunite with his soul mate.
Maia has seen ghosts for as long as she can remember. Waking, sleeping she can never escape them. She’s learned to tune them out somewhat and tries to live a normal life… but that’s not easy. When she sees what she believes is a ghost near her roommate – this feels different. As Caleb explains what has happened to him and his soul mate, Maia is already starting to fall for him. And when he becomes her champion she is certain that he is the man she could love forever. But he is destined for another or is he?
I enjoyed my time in the world of Angelborn. The world building has a mystical feel to it, and the characters are a fascinating mix. The plot will twist and take you places you never expected.
I gave it a 3 star rating for a couple reasons. Good story = 3 stars. While I enjoyed the story, I simply never connected with the characters. I didn’t fall into the story, but I did enjoy the experience. And that’s what a good story should do, give me a satisfying experience while visiting the author’s world.
*I received an e-ARC of Angelborn from the publisher and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. That does not change what I think of this novel.*
March 29, 2016
Woohoo! This book was great - I loved it!I love a good paranormal book, especially one that's original and fun. This one had all that and a slight touch of evil to it, just to make it even more fun.
There was excellent character development! I loved Maia! Absolutely loved her. And of course one thing I loved about Maia was her snarky attitude! You know I love a character with snark. I wasn't too sure about Caleb, but did end up liking him too. And then there is another scary character thrown in there - Helix - there's a whole twist with him I can't tell you about! But I even liked him - he added a kind of bad boy/scary element to the story! The book wouldn't have been complete with out him.
I really liked this new-to-me author's writing. She kept it exciting, original but also fun. There were quite a few laugh out loud moments.
Here are a couple quotes from the book I liked -
"This world has changed a great deal since I was here last. There is so much to take in. People walk by, speaking into small glowing boxes. The automobiles on the clogged street are quiet and sleek. Two men kiss openly on the sidewalk, and no one seems to bat an eye.
"When are we, and where?" I say. A woman at a cafe' table, typing on what appears to be a tiny typewriter with illuminated paper, looks up at me and frowns."
"Yeah, I see dead people," I whisper. His blank face doesn't register the pop culture reference. "I guess you died before that movie came out." - Haha love it!
I am very much looking forward to the next book - Angelfall. I already have it - it's just waiting for me to read it! I will prob read and review it in the month of April, so keep your eye out for it.
A huge thanks to the author - L. Penelope for giving me this book for my honest review!
There was excellent character development! I loved Maia! Absolutely loved her. And of course one thing I loved about Maia was her snarky attitude! You know I love a character with snark. I wasn't too sure about Caleb, but did end up liking him too. And then there is another scary character thrown in there - Helix - there's a whole twist with him I can't tell you about! But I even liked him - he added a kind of bad boy/scary element to the story! The book wouldn't have been complete with out him.
I really liked this new-to-me author's writing. She kept it exciting, original but also fun. There were quite a few laugh out loud moments.
Here are a couple quotes from the book I liked -
"This world has changed a great deal since I was here last. There is so much to take in. People walk by, speaking into small glowing boxes. The automobiles on the clogged street are quiet and sleek. Two men kiss openly on the sidewalk, and no one seems to bat an eye.
"When are we, and where?" I say. A woman at a cafe' table, typing on what appears to be a tiny typewriter with illuminated paper, looks up at me and frowns."
"Yeah, I see dead people," I whisper. His blank face doesn't register the pop culture reference. "I guess you died before that movie came out." - Haha love it!
I am very much looking forward to the next book - Angelfall. I already have it - it's just waiting for me to read it! I will prob read and review it in the month of April, so keep your eye out for it.
A huge thanks to the author - L. Penelope for giving me this book for my honest review!
February 19, 2016
Novellas are always difficult. They either rush the romance, or leave me wanting more. I felt like this novella had a bit of both. I would have liked the novella to be longer so I could have connected with the characters more. I didn't dislike any of the characters, but they didn't really stand out either. They were all a little bland. I definitely would have enjoyed seeing more development of all the characters.
I thought the plot of this book was very interesting. The paranormal aspect really added an exciting aspect to this book. I would like to learn even more about it. I think L. Penelope did a good job at creating a unique paranormal world.
The romance was not what I was expecting. I don't want to spoil anything about the romance, but I will say that I didn't like the romance as much as I was hoping I would. My main issue with the romance was that it felt like it was based mainly on looks. I didn't feel the emotional connection. I really didn't feel like there was one? There were some good romantic moments, but I didn't really feel it as a whole.
The changing of the POVs in this book was a little confusing. I would not know what POV I was reading, and I would always get confused. I wish the changing POVs would have been a little bit clearer.
I wouldn't say this was a bad novella by any means, and I have nothing against this author! I just think that this novella wasn't for me.
2 / 5 Fangs
*This ebook was given to me in exchange for a honest review. *
MrsLeif's Two Fangs About It
Facebook
Twitter
I thought the plot of this book was very interesting. The paranormal aspect really added an exciting aspect to this book. I would like to learn even more about it. I think L. Penelope did a good job at creating a unique paranormal world.
The romance was not what I was expecting. I don't want to spoil anything about the romance, but I will say that I didn't like the romance as much as I was hoping I would. My main issue with the romance was that it felt like it was based mainly on looks. I didn't feel the emotional connection. I really didn't feel like there was one? There were some good romantic moments, but I didn't really feel it as a whole.
The changing of the POVs in this book was a little confusing. I would not know what POV I was reading, and I would always get confused. I wish the changing POVs would have been a little bit clearer.
I wouldn't say this was a bad novella by any means, and I have nothing against this author! I just think that this novella wasn't for me.
2 / 5 Fangs
*This ebook was given to me in exchange for a honest review. *
MrsLeif's Two Fangs About It
September 5, 2016
Angelborn isn't a very long book, but what it lacks in length it makes up for in storytelling and creativity. I haven't mentioned covers in awhile, but it was the beauty of this cover that first captured my attention, followed by the many positive reviews. Typically, wealth of positive reviews isn't always a selling point for me, but in this case, Angelborn met the hype head on and survived!
The story offers a unique twist on angels and centers around two people - Caleb who is a half angel, and Maia a college age woman who is haunted by visions of dead people. It captures your interest right out of the gate, with events that leave Caleb trapped after a failed attempt to garner the trust of the human woman that he loves, and with whom he needs to share a soul. He escapes his wasteland prison to find the latest incarnation of his love, yet he finds himself drawn to her roommate Maia instead.
I don't want to tell too much about this story, because it is really such a good read. The characters are well developed and as a reader I felt their emotions were honest and believable. The storytelling was descriptive and the author's voice unique. Although I do wish it were longer, it is a story that I highly recommend. I'm giving Angelborn 4 out of 5 stars.
The story offers a unique twist on angels and centers around two people - Caleb who is a half angel, and Maia a college age woman who is haunted by visions of dead people. It captures your interest right out of the gate, with events that leave Caleb trapped after a failed attempt to garner the trust of the human woman that he loves, and with whom he needs to share a soul. He escapes his wasteland prison to find the latest incarnation of his love, yet he finds himself drawn to her roommate Maia instead.
I don't want to tell too much about this story, because it is really such a good read. The characters are well developed and as a reader I felt their emotions were honest and believable. The storytelling was descriptive and the author's voice unique. Although I do wish it were longer, it is a story that I highly recommend. I'm giving Angelborn 4 out of 5 stars.
February 11, 2016
When I first read the blurb for 'Angelborn' by L. Penelope I was not sure whether to read it or not. Previous reading experiences with books about Angels were a bit hit and miss, but seeing as this is only a short novel I decided to go for it. I have to say, I was pleasantly surprised and even would have liked the book to be longer!
Maia is girl who keeps to herself. Everywhere she turns, she can see the ghosts of dead people who never moved on and it is often not easy to distinguish between the living and the dead. All she wants is, to make it through university, but her roommate is being haunted by a ghost who seems different.
Caleb is Angelborn, which means his mother is an angel and his dad was human. It also means that he had no soul. When gets a second chance on earth, he is determined not to waste the opportunity and goes in search of the only person who can safe him...his soulmate.
The characters are lovely and likeable and the theme of angels and soul mates well thought out. There really is not much I can fault and I enjoyed reading the book. I shall be getting myself the second book soon, to find out what happened to Caleb's friend Wren!
Maia is girl who keeps to herself. Everywhere she turns, she can see the ghosts of dead people who never moved on and it is often not easy to distinguish between the living and the dead. All she wants is, to make it through university, but her roommate is being haunted by a ghost who seems different.
Caleb is Angelborn, which means his mother is an angel and his dad was human. It also means that he had no soul. When gets a second chance on earth, he is determined not to waste the opportunity and goes in search of the only person who can safe him...his soulmate.
The characters are lovely and likeable and the theme of angels and soul mates well thought out. There really is not much I can fault and I enjoyed reading the book. I shall be getting myself the second book soon, to find out what happened to Caleb's friend Wren!
May 29, 2015
This book is Everythang! Full of interesting characters that are fresh and unique, a story that is unlike any that I have read, and fun. I couldn't put this book down and really rooted for the antagonists to win.
The good:
Maia. Such an amazing heroine full of complexities that draw you to her like a moth to a flame. She feels genuine, I felt her pain and wanted her to get a win.
Well developed plot with the right amount of emotion and action.
Caleb. Despite myself I liked him. he is good and honest, yet still an alpha male
Helix. I want to date him. is that weird?
The bad:
I want more!!!!
Overall: This is one of those books that I wait for, a pearl amongst coal; I literally go through 20+ books a month hoping to find something like this that is full of well written complex characters that make me laugh and cry. This book was everything!
The good:
Maia. Such an amazing heroine full of complexities that draw you to her like a moth to a flame. She feels genuine, I felt her pain and wanted her to get a win.
Well developed plot with the right amount of emotion and action.
Caleb. Despite myself I liked him. he is good and honest, yet still an alpha male
Helix. I want to date him. is that weird?
The bad:
I want more!!!!
Overall: This is one of those books that I wait for, a pearl amongst coal; I literally go through 20+ books a month hoping to find something like this that is full of well written complex characters that make me laugh and cry. This book was everything!
February 4, 2016
I got to say when I first started reading Angelborn, I didn't know if I was going to get along with the story but when I got some more insight on what was going on I thoroughly enjoyed it.
In Angelborn you get to read about the past and present, within doing so you get to learn so much more about the characters. The character's are well established and very likeable.
Maia is hunted, everywhere she looks she's greeted by lost souls or ghosts if you will. Maia is socially awkward, she keeps herself hidden or tries to at least. Until Caleb enters the scene.
Caleb is an angelborn (half human, half angel.) hoping to bind with his soul mate. After years of being banished to the wasteland, will he get his second chance?
The only thing that I was disappointed with was how short it was. I wanted more. I'm looking forward reading more from this author
In Angelborn you get to read about the past and present, within doing so you get to learn so much more about the characters. The character's are well established and very likeable.
Maia is hunted, everywhere she looks she's greeted by lost souls or ghosts if you will. Maia is socially awkward, she keeps herself hidden or tries to at least. Until Caleb enters the scene.
Caleb is an angelborn (half human, half angel.) hoping to bind with his soul mate. After years of being banished to the wasteland, will he get his second chance?
The only thing that I was disappointed with was how short it was. I wanted more. I'm looking forward reading more from this author
December 22, 2015
Surprisingly enjoyable. I wasn't sure what to expect as PNR has been letting me down lately, but this was refreshing and different and I really liked it! I'll avoid spoilers, but I have to say the take on angels and soul mates is something you likely haven't seen before and I really appreciated the author not going for the easy old tropes and instead bringing something new and interesting to the table. I love a bad boy, so Helix was my man, but Caleb stole my heart, too. Maia was a heroine I would root for and her powers were done just right. In fact, all the characters were done well. A great story and a quick read. Recommend!
December 23, 2015
As soon as I finished this book I bought book two of the series, Angelfall. I couldn’t believe how good it was. I love a great paranormal and I definitely got one. The romance between Maia and Caleb was amazing, subtle until it wasn’t anymore. I enjoyed the growth and complexity of Maia and how she learned to deal with her gift and gave so selfishly of herself. Oh the power of love.
Although Maia has a dark personality because of what she’s gone through in life, she brings quite a bit of humor to the story.
I’m so happy I found a new author to love.
I purchased this book from All Romance eBooks.
Although Maia has a dark personality because of what she’s gone through in life, she brings quite a bit of humor to the story.
I’m so happy I found a new author to love.
I purchased this book from All Romance eBooks.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews