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The Celestial Assignment
After a sudden death, Will, a misguided angel, is tasked with protecting a baby girl. Watching over her as she grows up and navigates the world appears a harsh punishment for his past failings. Can he redeem himself, or will he fall further from grace?
- GenresShort Stories
Kindle Edition
First published February 14, 2020
About the author
Theresa Braun
26 books232 followersHmmm. What's this? Looks like Ms. Braun left her computer on and her Goodreads bio open.
This should be fun.
What can we say about Theresa? I mean other than the fact that she's weirdly obsessed with smiley faces :-). Like, seriously obsessed >:-*. It's kinda scary :-O.
I think she thinks she's from Renaissance England or Venice or something. I never could figure out which one it was. (She's really bad at doing accents.)
She likes romance novels and crime TV, which are pretty much the same thing when you think about it. Ha! Am I right?
She has a hell of a singing voice. Seriously. It's, like, seventh circle of hell bad.
She likes editing. A lot. Just wait till she get's aload a this.
Cats. Shoes. Chips and salsa. In that order.
Yeah, that last part didn't make sense to me either.
This should be fun.
What can we say about Theresa? I mean other than the fact that she's weirdly obsessed with smiley faces :-). Like, seriously obsessed >:-*. It's kinda scary :-O.
I think she thinks she's from Renaissance England or Venice or something. I never could figure out which one it was. (She's really bad at doing accents.)
She likes romance novels and crime TV, which are pretty much the same thing when you think about it. Ha! Am I right?
She has a hell of a singing voice. Seriously. It's, like, seventh circle of hell bad.
She likes editing. A lot. Just wait till she get's aload a this.
Cats. Shoes. Chips and salsa. In that order.
Yeah, that last part didn't make sense to me either.
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
February 10, 2020
Book Reviewed on www.whisperingstories.com
The Celestial Assignment is a novella of just 28 pages by the queen of short stories author Theresa Braun. We first meet bad boy Will, who has become a guardian angel as he is given an assignment to watch over newly born Celeste.
Will doesn’t quite understand why he has been given the role seen as he isn’t religious, nor ever stepped foot in a church but the powers that be have chosen him and he has no way of getting out of it.
Will watches and protects Celeste as she grows older and into a teenage girl having her first boy crush. He doesn’t particularly like the guy that she has chosen but little did he know that this guy would be in and out of her life for many years to come.
It takes him a long time but Will starts to understand why he has been given this assignment as he can see himself in the boy and his behaviour towards women.
The story took me just thirty minutes to read and was really enjoyable. I can’t say that I am one of those people that finds books philosophical so for me, this was just an interesting, touching story but I can see some readers having a more in-depth though analysis about The Celestial Assignment.
If you are looking for a quick read that is different, intriguing and just might make you analyse your life then this is the book for you.
The Celestial Assignment is a novella of just 28 pages by the queen of short stories author Theresa Braun. We first meet bad boy Will, who has become a guardian angel as he is given an assignment to watch over newly born Celeste.
Will doesn’t quite understand why he has been given the role seen as he isn’t religious, nor ever stepped foot in a church but the powers that be have chosen him and he has no way of getting out of it.
Will watches and protects Celeste as she grows older and into a teenage girl having her first boy crush. He doesn’t particularly like the guy that she has chosen but little did he know that this guy would be in and out of her life for many years to come.
It takes him a long time but Will starts to understand why he has been given this assignment as he can see himself in the boy and his behaviour towards women.
The story took me just thirty minutes to read and was really enjoyable. I can’t say that I am one of those people that finds books philosophical so for me, this was just an interesting, touching story but I can see some readers having a more in-depth though analysis about The Celestial Assignment.
If you are looking for a quick read that is different, intriguing and just might make you analyse your life then this is the book for you.
February 21, 2020
This short story was flipping fantastic. I loved the sarcastic banter and wit. It had me laughing out loud and forget that I don’t usually swear. So, when I was asked what I was reading, I answered: “I’m reading this f…… amazing short story - ooops”, laughter just pouring out now! Well, it may not roll of my tongue easily, but in context, I don’t mind reading it.
So, Will finds himself yanked out of his life, in cold surroundings, a sterile room and has no clue what is going on or that he actually died. Here, in this place, he is given an “assignment”, to watch over a human being out in this world, for years to come. Then he finds himself in this hospital room and a baby girl was just born named “Celeste”, if that wasn’t ironic, just wait, it gets better.
"With a jolt, my feet landed on slick linoleum, the burning odor of disinfectant and stale medicine in the air. A woman screamed in a hospital bed, her legs pried open with a sheet over them. Ugh. I’d never liked babies and had zero fatherly instincts. As the infant cried and was handed to the mother, the dad busy snapping Polaroids, I heard a whisper: “She’s your responsibility now.”
As my questions flooded in, that damned manual appeared in my hand. Annoyed the heavenly head honchos hadn’t downloaded the content into my brain, I held onto it, lest I be struck by lightning.
“Hello, Celeste,” the mother cooed to the baby.
I tapped my foot.
The irony of the name irked the shit out of me."
The story quickly proceeds through Celeste’s baby, toddler and childhood years, but Will couldn’t be more bored. He is having nothing of it and prefers to stay out of it, grumbling in his sarcasm and not seeing the point in this at all.
"As a reluctant guardian angel, I figured my job involved keeping this pipsqueak’s hand off the hot stove, and her mouth away from poisons in the cabinets. Most of the time, I yawned in the periphery, especially since I was trapped in this fucking hick town somewhere in the middle of Wisconsin. Countless Crayon doodles and finger paintings were the extent of my excitement. "
Then comes "that" time, Celestial is a teen, - oh the awkwardness of it all. If Will could only be seen by her, he’d give her so much advice…but no, she stumbles from one boy calamity into the next and it is hard to watch.
But then come some changes along the way, and the entirety of the short story shifts. What is happening to Celeste? Will something jolt Will of his reluctance to see a point in all of this?
***
This was awesome. A quick 30-40 minute read, perfect for a lunchtime break read or a palate cleanser in between books. I can’t say enough good things about the whirlwind of a story this is. It turned up the heat so fast, simmered a moment and came through with a good moral of all things! Yes, you read that right!
Flipping fantastic. I can only recommend it.
I received a digital copy of this short story for review from the author. All opinions are my own. Thank you.
More of my reviews here:
Through Novel Time & Distance
So, Will finds himself yanked out of his life, in cold surroundings, a sterile room and has no clue what is going on or that he actually died. Here, in this place, he is given an “assignment”, to watch over a human being out in this world, for years to come. Then he finds himself in this hospital room and a baby girl was just born named “Celeste”, if that wasn’t ironic, just wait, it gets better.
"With a jolt, my feet landed on slick linoleum, the burning odor of disinfectant and stale medicine in the air. A woman screamed in a hospital bed, her legs pried open with a sheet over them. Ugh. I’d never liked babies and had zero fatherly instincts. As the infant cried and was handed to the mother, the dad busy snapping Polaroids, I heard a whisper: “She’s your responsibility now.”
As my questions flooded in, that damned manual appeared in my hand. Annoyed the heavenly head honchos hadn’t downloaded the content into my brain, I held onto it, lest I be struck by lightning.
“Hello, Celeste,” the mother cooed to the baby.
I tapped my foot.
The irony of the name irked the shit out of me."
The story quickly proceeds through Celeste’s baby, toddler and childhood years, but Will couldn’t be more bored. He is having nothing of it and prefers to stay out of it, grumbling in his sarcasm and not seeing the point in this at all.
"As a reluctant guardian angel, I figured my job involved keeping this pipsqueak’s hand off the hot stove, and her mouth away from poisons in the cabinets. Most of the time, I yawned in the periphery, especially since I was trapped in this fucking hick town somewhere in the middle of Wisconsin. Countless Crayon doodles and finger paintings were the extent of my excitement. "
Then comes "that" time, Celestial is a teen, - oh the awkwardness of it all. If Will could only be seen by her, he’d give her so much advice…but no, she stumbles from one boy calamity into the next and it is hard to watch.
But then come some changes along the way, and the entirety of the short story shifts. What is happening to Celeste? Will something jolt Will of his reluctance to see a point in all of this?
***
This was awesome. A quick 30-40 minute read, perfect for a lunchtime break read or a palate cleanser in between books. I can’t say enough good things about the whirlwind of a story this is. It turned up the heat so fast, simmered a moment and came through with a good moral of all things! Yes, you read that right!
Flipping fantastic. I can only recommend it.
I received a digital copy of this short story for review from the author. All opinions are my own. Thank you.
More of my reviews here:
Through Novel Time & Distance
January 25, 2020
Loved this short story!! And Will, my my... He was awesome! I loved being in his head and reading his witty and funny attitude! Braun’s writing is always so well done with the best freaking dialogue you could ask for! It was a fun plot and cool concept! Can’t wait to read more short stories from the author!
February 6, 2020
Some authors just excel in the short story department! THE CELESTIAL ASSIGNMENT by Theresa Braun puts her right at the top of the reading pile in my book.
A misguided angel? A chance at redemption or proof he isn’t quite the angelic type? Hang on for a complete tale, filled with humor, wit and attitude as Will takes to his task with less than an angelic countenance. Will he learn something along the way?
A great read, a quick, and yet, satisfying escape from an author whose love of her craft shows!
I received a complimentary ARC edition from Theresa Braun! This is my honest and voluntary review.
Publication Date: February 14, 2020
Publisher: Theresa Braun
Genre: Short Story Paranormal Romance
Print Length: 28 pages
Available from: Amazon
For Reviews, Giveaways, Fabulous Book News, follow: http://tometender.blogspot.com
A misguided angel? A chance at redemption or proof he isn’t quite the angelic type? Hang on for a complete tale, filled with humor, wit and attitude as Will takes to his task with less than an angelic countenance. Will he learn something along the way?
A great read, a quick, and yet, satisfying escape from an author whose love of her craft shows!
I received a complimentary ARC edition from Theresa Braun! This is my honest and voluntary review.
Publication Date: February 14, 2020
Publisher: Theresa Braun
Genre: Short Story Paranormal Romance
Print Length: 28 pages
Available from: Amazon
For Reviews, Giveaways, Fabulous Book News, follow: http://tometender.blogspot.com
February 8, 2022
The Celestial Assignment by Theresa Braun is a very quick read at 28 pages. It’s hard to review a short story without giving anything away, but, here we go.
Will is assigned to baby girl, Celeste, for his angel training. He is not exactly the angel you may want watching over your child, but, hey, God is a forgiving god, right? Giving us opportunities to redeem ourselves?
I love characters like Will. He had no idea what the future had in store for him and I loved watching him learn, grow, and…
I didn’t see the end coming. I smiled at the twist.
I voluntarily reviewed a free copy of The Celestial Assignment by Theresa Braun.
See more at fundinmental
Will is assigned to baby girl, Celeste, for his angel training. He is not exactly the angel you may want watching over your child, but, hey, God is a forgiving god, right? Giving us opportunities to redeem ourselves?
I love characters like Will. He had no idea what the future had in store for him and I loved watching him learn, grow, and…
I didn’t see the end coming. I smiled at the twist.
I voluntarily reviewed a free copy of The Celestial Assignment by Theresa Braun.
See more at fundinmental
February 21, 2020
Original Review at Jaunts & Haunts
3.5/5
I gave this short story three and a half celestial stars!
As this is a short story I won't focus too much on the details of the plot. The blurb pretty much says it all. An angel is tasked with an assignment to a baby girl after he suffers a terrible death.
At first glance, he treats this assignment as a boring obligation, but it grows into much more than that. Can he achieve redemption and better his former ways, or is he destined to the same fate all over again?
This story had a lot of good elements.
For starters, I like anything to do with supernatural creatures, be they angels, demons, ghosts, or any spirit in between. Our main character is an angel, and a very unlikely one. He's constantly got sex on the brain, only seems to think about himself, and is very very snarky.
I liked this character because I feel like so many people are this way, plus I like characters with attitude. He had some good progression throughout the story while sticking to his basic personality, which was good. I didn't want him to suddenly turn into a goody two shoes because that would've ruined it for me.
The concept and plot were good too. Angels are assigned to humans and protect them in dire circumstances. Though it leaves them with much time in between life-threatening events, Braun doesn't bore us with mundane details. Through time, Will begins to soften just a bit, learning as his charge Celeste does through life and making him a better person as an effect. It's very subtle and gradual, and I liked that.
If I had to pick at anything, I would maybe say that this story didn't stick with me. Yes, the writing style was good, and I was entertained, but it didn't necessarily wow me. Afterwards I moved on to other readings and didn't seem to give the story too much further thought. Which is fine, truly.
Short stories are a very brief departure into fiction. I guess I just kind of wanted more of a lasting effect.
But overall, I did have a good time reading this short story. If you like the concept of angels, definitely give it a try!
3.5/5
I gave this short story three and a half celestial stars!
As this is a short story I won't focus too much on the details of the plot. The blurb pretty much says it all. An angel is tasked with an assignment to a baby girl after he suffers a terrible death.
At first glance, he treats this assignment as a boring obligation, but it grows into much more than that. Can he achieve redemption and better his former ways, or is he destined to the same fate all over again?
This story had a lot of good elements.
For starters, I like anything to do with supernatural creatures, be they angels, demons, ghosts, or any spirit in between. Our main character is an angel, and a very unlikely one. He's constantly got sex on the brain, only seems to think about himself, and is very very snarky.
I liked this character because I feel like so many people are this way, plus I like characters with attitude. He had some good progression throughout the story while sticking to his basic personality, which was good. I didn't want him to suddenly turn into a goody two shoes because that would've ruined it for me.
The concept and plot were good too. Angels are assigned to humans and protect them in dire circumstances. Though it leaves them with much time in between life-threatening events, Braun doesn't bore us with mundane details. Through time, Will begins to soften just a bit, learning as his charge Celeste does through life and making him a better person as an effect. It's very subtle and gradual, and I liked that.
If I had to pick at anything, I would maybe say that this story didn't stick with me. Yes, the writing style was good, and I was entertained, but it didn't necessarily wow me. Afterwards I moved on to other readings and didn't seem to give the story too much further thought. Which is fine, truly.
Short stories are a very brief departure into fiction. I guess I just kind of wanted more of a lasting effect.
But overall, I did have a good time reading this short story. If you like the concept of angels, definitely give it a try!
February 27, 2020
Cool post-life growth story. Fun character voice, too.
January 28, 2020
If you’re not reading Theresa Braun, it’s time to change that. In The Celestial Assignment, you’ll find a fully fleshed out world. In just 7500 words, it still feels palpable and the characters within are ones you’ll care about and want to know what happens.
What happens when we die? Braun tackles this complex idea with abandon and creates a figure that we both loathe and grow to love. This short – but spectacular – read made me stop and think about my legacy and just who might be looking over me in my life.
I devoured this phenomenal sorrow-filled piece in one sitting, but Braun left me with so many questions I had to think about. She creates a world that’s vivid, lush and visceral, while setting the reader up for heartbreak and despair. Amazing read, can’t recommend The Celestial Assignment enough.
Outstanding work by a stunning talent.
What happens when we die? Braun tackles this complex idea with abandon and creates a figure that we both loathe and grow to love. This short – but spectacular – read made me stop and think about my legacy and just who might be looking over me in my life.
I devoured this phenomenal sorrow-filled piece in one sitting, but Braun left me with so many questions I had to think about. She creates a world that’s vivid, lush and visceral, while setting the reader up for heartbreak and despair. Amazing read, can’t recommend The Celestial Assignment enough.
Outstanding work by a stunning talent.
June 21, 2021
I absolutely loved this story! Highly recommend.
February 14, 2020
Theresa Braun’s short stories are always a treat! She’s really got a knack for character development, and plot mastery in a very limited time and space. I’ve never read stories this little that are so very well fleshed out, and that says a lot coming from an author who also writes short stories. I feel like I have a lot to learn from this woman!
Will is assigned the job of a guardian angel to a little girl on earth. He clearly isn’t too happy about it, especially as the girl is a baby and growing up. You see, as a human himself he was the ultimate womanizer, he’s selfish and reckless and has absolutely no desire to tag along and play a part in the girls innocent little life. But as she grows, his perspective on every opinion he’s ever really had about women, sex, love, and relationships(ish) is put to the test. Can Will redeem himself of his heartless ways? Or will he sink even deeper into his vicious outlook?
Read the story yourself to find out! I’m in aww of Theresa’s well thought out and shocking plot. My ONLY complaint is that I wish it were (even just a little) longer.
Will is assigned the job of a guardian angel to a little girl on earth. He clearly isn’t too happy about it, especially as the girl is a baby and growing up. You see, as a human himself he was the ultimate womanizer, he’s selfish and reckless and has absolutely no desire to tag along and play a part in the girls innocent little life. But as she grows, his perspective on every opinion he’s ever really had about women, sex, love, and relationships(ish) is put to the test. Can Will redeem himself of his heartless ways? Or will he sink even deeper into his vicious outlook?
Read the story yourself to find out! I’m in aww of Theresa’s well thought out and shocking plot. My ONLY complaint is that I wish it were (even just a little) longer.
February 24, 2020
Short stories typically aren't my thing but I loved seeing Will grow through his task as Celestial's guardian angel. As a man who didn't live his life to the greatest potential, he as able to see how his actions while he was on Earth affected the people around him as he came to know and get protective of his ward.
A super cute lesson learned with humor and humanity. Everyone should get a chance to earn their wings.
Thank you Theresa for this copy.
A super cute lesson learned with humor and humanity. Everyone should get a chance to earn their wings.
Thank you Theresa for this copy.
February 22, 2020
You can read all my review on Blog - Books Teacup and Reviews
The Celestial Assignment was a supernatural fantasy short, only 28 pages story. It was about understanding what true love is, respecting the love you find in life, not treating it selfishly but mainly it was about redemption.
Writing great, enjoyable and was filled with humor. Story was written from Will’s perspective. His voice was witty and refreshing. Book started with Will was given assignment to watch over Celeste as a guardian angel. If he read and followed manual, learned what true love is from this assignment, he would be promoted to be an angel. At first he didn’t care about any of it, not manual nor Celeste and even less love. I was curious to know how watching over Celeste throughout her life can change his perspective towards love and women.
Will was selfish worthless person, not someone I would like to watch over me. He cared nothing in life he lived or any of his incarnated life and not even after his death as a guardian angel. He didn’t even had a clue why he was given the assignment not until Celeste tasted betrayal and when he met fellow guardian angel. Dawn of realization was fantastic part in the book. I loved how he gradually developed throughout the book, the way he understood to respect love and women and what he lost by being selfish and running away from commitments. At the end yes, I rooted for him. He was not perfect but definitely interesting and entertaining angel.
I even enjoyed reading Celeste’s life through his eyes. It made me wonder if there’s my own guardian angel or if I could get the message he/she said that helped me in life. (I hope there is! I can hold that guardian angel accountable for things going wrong.)
Loved the message of redemption. End was great. I wouldn’t want to do anything wrong in this life and then was assigned to any such crazy assignments.
Overall, it was quick, interesting and intriguing short story.
*** Note: I received this book from the author, in exchange for an honest review. Many thanks to Theresa Braun. ***
The Celestial Assignment was a supernatural fantasy short, only 28 pages story. It was about understanding what true love is, respecting the love you find in life, not treating it selfishly but mainly it was about redemption.
Writing great, enjoyable and was filled with humor. Story was written from Will’s perspective. His voice was witty and refreshing. Book started with Will was given assignment to watch over Celeste as a guardian angel. If he read and followed manual, learned what true love is from this assignment, he would be promoted to be an angel. At first he didn’t care about any of it, not manual nor Celeste and even less love. I was curious to know how watching over Celeste throughout her life can change his perspective towards love and women.
Will was selfish worthless person, not someone I would like to watch over me. He cared nothing in life he lived or any of his incarnated life and not even after his death as a guardian angel. He didn’t even had a clue why he was given the assignment not until Celeste tasted betrayal and when he met fellow guardian angel. Dawn of realization was fantastic part in the book. I loved how he gradually developed throughout the book, the way he understood to respect love and women and what he lost by being selfish and running away from commitments. At the end yes, I rooted for him. He was not perfect but definitely interesting and entertaining angel.
I even enjoyed reading Celeste’s life through his eyes. It made me wonder if there’s my own guardian angel or if I could get the message he/she said that helped me in life. (I hope there is! I can hold that guardian angel accountable for things going wrong.)
Loved the message of redemption. End was great. I wouldn’t want to do anything wrong in this life and then was assigned to any such crazy assignments.
Overall, it was quick, interesting and intriguing short story.
*** Note: I received this book from the author, in exchange for an honest review. Many thanks to Theresa Braun. ***
February 21, 2020
3.5 stars. They really need to allow for half stars.
I received this for a blog tour.
I thought that this was an excellent premise for a story, it was the main reason that I wanted to read it. Short stories aren’t usually the kind of thing that I read. It isn’t that they are bad but usually I find that I want more and there isn’t more so it’s a tad disappointing. That’s certainly a factor here. I enjoyed the story, the main character was interesting enough that I wanted to know more about him, however it’s just not enough meat to it.
It’s a well written, engaging story to be sure. It has a lot of potential to be a fleshed out book or even a part of anthology series of stories. I wanted more and was left a little sad that there just wasn’t more.
The world that she created is an interesting one, there is a lot of layers that we just didn’t get to learn about in this story. The way angels work, the assignments and the overall idea of the story is so good. Truly and I would love to see more stories from this world, even from different peoples perspectives just to get more of it all.
The downside, for me, is that everything has to be paced so quickly that I had a hard time hoping for the main character to learn his lesson or to figure out his purpose and then suddenly he had, which was great, then it was over. I wanted to like this more, I really did. But, if you like short stories, this is a good read. It isn’t a bad story at all, and I look forward to reading more from Theresa because she’s quite the talented author!
I received this for a blog tour.
I thought that this was an excellent premise for a story, it was the main reason that I wanted to read it. Short stories aren’t usually the kind of thing that I read. It isn’t that they are bad but usually I find that I want more and there isn’t more so it’s a tad disappointing. That’s certainly a factor here. I enjoyed the story, the main character was interesting enough that I wanted to know more about him, however it’s just not enough meat to it.
It’s a well written, engaging story to be sure. It has a lot of potential to be a fleshed out book or even a part of anthology series of stories. I wanted more and was left a little sad that there just wasn’t more.
The world that she created is an interesting one, there is a lot of layers that we just didn’t get to learn about in this story. The way angels work, the assignments and the overall idea of the story is so good. Truly and I would love to see more stories from this world, even from different peoples perspectives just to get more of it all.
The downside, for me, is that everything has to be paced so quickly that I had a hard time hoping for the main character to learn his lesson or to figure out his purpose and then suddenly he had, which was great, then it was over. I wanted to like this more, I really did. But, if you like short stories, this is a good read. It isn’t a bad story at all, and I look forward to reading more from Theresa because she’s quite the talented author!
March 22, 2020
I have read books by Theresa Braun before and I absolutely love her writing style. No different here, in The Celestial Assignment. This short story captured me and blew me away.
I love the comedic aspects of this story. Will is an awesome character with witty thoughts and I enjoyed being in his head. Not only is this story funny, but also poignant, and makes you think about the meaning of life.
I am a big fan of short stories when done right. I’m in awe of Theresa Braun‘s ability to craft such an in depth story in such a short amount of words. Bravo!
Rating:
5/5☆
*I received a free copy of this book from R&R Book Tours in exchange for an honest review on the blog tour. All opinions are my own and unbiased.*
I love the comedic aspects of this story. Will is an awesome character with witty thoughts and I enjoyed being in his head. Not only is this story funny, but also poignant, and makes you think about the meaning of life.
I am a big fan of short stories when done right. I’m in awe of Theresa Braun‘s ability to craft such an in depth story in such a short amount of words. Bravo!
Rating:
5/5☆
*I received a free copy of this book from R&R Book Tours in exchange for an honest review on the blog tour. All opinions are my own and unbiased.*
February 11, 2020
THE CELESTIAL ASSIGNMENT is a story about Will, a dead-man just turned angel, who becomes a little girl's guardian angel. Years and years pass and Will witnesses how the little girl turns into a woman. A woman who isn't the best when it comes to choosing who to fall for. Which irritates Will to no end, but he is her guardian angel and can only hope she'll choose the right person. Loved the whole story!
Funny, witty, and endearing, THE CELESTIAL ASSIGNMENT is a well-written, excellent short story.
Funny, witty, and endearing, THE CELESTIAL ASSIGNMENT is a well-written, excellent short story.
February 16, 2020
Heavenly Fun
This is a difficult one, as it’s quite short, to give the plot without giving spoilers.
So, the cocky, sexy narrator finds himself lumped with a “guardian angel” gig, and he’s not too great at it to start with.
However, as his first assignment progresses, he finds himself changing, growing.
The time of voice is funny, snarky, wise and at times, kind of dumb.
But pretty much likeable.
He doesn’t seem to realise how much he’s changing, but as we watch him, we’re along for the ride and rooting for him.
This is a difficult one, as it’s quite short, to give the plot without giving spoilers.
So, the cocky, sexy narrator finds himself lumped with a “guardian angel” gig, and he’s not too great at it to start with.
However, as his first assignment progresses, he finds himself changing, growing.
The time of voice is funny, snarky, wise and at times, kind of dumb.
But pretty much likeable.
He doesn’t seem to realise how much he’s changing, but as we watch him, we’re along for the ride and rooting for him.
December 26, 2022
I love Braun’s short stories. They’re packed full of goodness, not overwhelmingly but just right, so that you are satisfied and wanting to read another!
February 12, 2020
A fast-paced fallen angel story for our current post-internet, post-facebook, post-twitter world. Both witty and poignant, The Celestial Assignment asks many questions about the meaning of life and the value of empathy in an always entertaining way. As with any great story, gives you something to ponder long after you read the last word!
February 17, 2020
Loved this short story! I read it in one sitting, completely taken by Will and his sarcasm. Gotta love a bad angel! His journey was sweet, but what was even more intoxicating were the little nuggets of wisdom thrown from beginning to end. Ms Braun calls it like it is, from bad romance to shitty life choices, and it was a pleasure to read something so refreshing!
March 26, 2020
I have to admit, a story about guardian angels didn’t exactly have me salivating when I first heard about it; I prefer my angels fallen and rebelling. But knowing this was a Theresa Braun story I knew it wasn’t going to be all white wings and heavenly harps.
And was I right! This story is great. You see, the guardian angel in question here, Will, is a dude who spent most of his life as an alive human womanising like a pro. His life was cut short and his reward/punishment (delete as appropriate) is to watch over a baby girl born into his previous world.
It’s a great concept, one that I’ve never read about before; angels are actually dead folks? Great stuff.
Will watches Celeste grow up and does his best to do right by her. This short tale flies by but never feels rushed. Celeste has a pretty crappy time with the men in her life. One particular guy – her first love – cheats on her like a real bastard, making her feel totally worthless. As the story progresses the two meet up again. Is it fate? Well, it seems this guy will never change.
Will wonders whether he is falling in love with the woman he should be guarding. He sees himself and his past life in this cheating bastard and now his afterlife seems to have a purpose. He will do whatever it takes to make things right. Whatever it takes.
The humour in this story really gave it an edge. Instead of a wise guardian angel, an omniscient presence watching over Celeste at all times, we have a dude still holding on to his human dry wit that is plastered throughout this tale. It is genuinely funny and had me chuckling all the way through.
And I haven’t even mentioned the meetings between the angels where they discuss their individual assignments. Giving these celestial beings ‘human’ personalities really made this tale seem real, if you know what I mean. There’s some great banter between these guys.
It’s too short a story for me to say anything more, as that would be reeking of spoiler-ification, so I won’t. But this is another corker from Theresa Braun and one that you don’t want to miss out on.
And was I right! This story is great. You see, the guardian angel in question here, Will, is a dude who spent most of his life as an alive human womanising like a pro. His life was cut short and his reward/punishment (delete as appropriate) is to watch over a baby girl born into his previous world.
It’s a great concept, one that I’ve never read about before; angels are actually dead folks? Great stuff.
Will watches Celeste grow up and does his best to do right by her. This short tale flies by but never feels rushed. Celeste has a pretty crappy time with the men in her life. One particular guy – her first love – cheats on her like a real bastard, making her feel totally worthless. As the story progresses the two meet up again. Is it fate? Well, it seems this guy will never change.
Will wonders whether he is falling in love with the woman he should be guarding. He sees himself and his past life in this cheating bastard and now his afterlife seems to have a purpose. He will do whatever it takes to make things right. Whatever it takes.
The humour in this story really gave it an edge. Instead of a wise guardian angel, an omniscient presence watching over Celeste at all times, we have a dude still holding on to his human dry wit that is plastered throughout this tale. It is genuinely funny and had me chuckling all the way through.
And I haven’t even mentioned the meetings between the angels where they discuss their individual assignments. Giving these celestial beings ‘human’ personalities really made this tale seem real, if you know what I mean. There’s some great banter between these guys.
It’s too short a story for me to say anything more, as that would be reeking of spoiler-ification, so I won’t. But this is another corker from Theresa Braun and one that you don’t want to miss out on.
February 19, 2020
I often forget how enjoyable short stories can be to read. The one downside is that are bloody hard to review without giving away the entire plot.
It seems unlikely that a book of 28 pages can have the same depth of emotion and drama that a full length novel can. Yet Theresa Braun doesn’t shortcut on either character or plot development in this fantastic short story.
A lot of angel stories can be sickeningly cliche, and reading the blurb on the back I did wonder if The Celestial Assignment would be too. Fortunately it wasn’t, and instead it managed to be both poignant and amusing.
Will was a delight of a character, at first it was hard to like him, he came across as a complete self-obsessed eejit! His journey though of being a guardian angel and of watching over a baby though leads to some very witty yet thoughtful insights.
One small negative point I’d like to make is that I really didn’t like the cover. I didn’t feel that it was a good fit with the story. It looked more like the cover for a horror story and that being the case wasn’t something I would usually read.
All in all though this was a great short read that managed to be thought provoking as well as amusing.
~~~
Disclaimer: R & R Book Tours invited me on to the blog tour for The Celestial Assignment by Theresa Braun and provided a paperback copy to read. I received this product for free in return for providing my honest and unbiased review. I received no other compensation. All opinions expressed are truthful and 100% my own. I would like to thank Shannon for the opportunity to read and review this book.
It seems unlikely that a book of 28 pages can have the same depth of emotion and drama that a full length novel can. Yet Theresa Braun doesn’t shortcut on either character or plot development in this fantastic short story.
A lot of angel stories can be sickeningly cliche, and reading the blurb on the back I did wonder if The Celestial Assignment would be too. Fortunately it wasn’t, and instead it managed to be both poignant and amusing.
Will was a delight of a character, at first it was hard to like him, he came across as a complete self-obsessed eejit! His journey though of being a guardian angel and of watching over a baby though leads to some very witty yet thoughtful insights.
One small negative point I’d like to make is that I really didn’t like the cover. I didn’t feel that it was a good fit with the story. It looked more like the cover for a horror story and that being the case wasn’t something I would usually read.
All in all though this was a great short read that managed to be thought provoking as well as amusing.
~~~
Disclaimer: R & R Book Tours invited me on to the blog tour for The Celestial Assignment by Theresa Braun and provided a paperback copy to read. I received this product for free in return for providing my honest and unbiased review. I received no other compensation. All opinions expressed are truthful and 100% my own. I would like to thank Shannon for the opportunity to read and review this book.
February 5, 2020
Theresa is a really interesting writer with great range, she is able to write really scary spooky stories such as her debut novel, Fountain Dead (Unnerving) as well as tender touching stories as The Celestial Assignment.
Will, is our very unlikely hero. At the beginning of the story I couldn't stand him but grew to really like him over the course of the story. Theresa does a great job of really bringing him to life with such great humour!
This is a really cool take on guardian angels and where they come from. I love the idea in this tale that there is someone looking out for us even when we feel really alone.
After his death, Will is sent back down from heaven to watch over the life of a young girl, Celeste. Present since her birth he's there to witness all her poignant moments whilst searching for her soul-mate. This tale really makes you realise the need to be kind because our actions can have really for reaching consequences.
Of course life is never simple or easy and despite himself Will learns a lot about true love and also himself. Fortunately for him in The Celestial Assignment, people can have a second chance.
Will, is our very unlikely hero. At the beginning of the story I couldn't stand him but grew to really like him over the course of the story. Theresa does a great job of really bringing him to life with such great humour!
This is a really cool take on guardian angels and where they come from. I love the idea in this tale that there is someone looking out for us even when we feel really alone.
After his death, Will is sent back down from heaven to watch over the life of a young girl, Celeste. Present since her birth he's there to witness all her poignant moments whilst searching for her soul-mate. This tale really makes you realise the need to be kind because our actions can have really for reaching consequences.
Of course life is never simple or easy and despite himself Will learns a lot about true love and also himself. Fortunately for him in The Celestial Assignment, people can have a second chance.
February 20, 2020
I received this book in exchange for an honest review. I have given The Celestial Assignment by Theresa Braun five out of five stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Some authors are really good when it comes to writing short stories. They're able to engage the reader in a short amount of time (or pages) to leave them wanting more or to feel fulfilled with the story that they've read. This is exactly what happened with The Celestial Assignment.
I really enjoyed this story and devoured it in one sitting. I found myself absolutely captivated by Braun's writing and loved reading about the journey of a guardian angel.
We follow Will who has recently become a guardian angel and has been given an assignment to watch over a new baby girl called Celeste. Will must watch and protect Celeste throughout her life. There are some parts in this novella where you see Will becoming very over protective in certain parts and begins to re-evaluate and realise that certain actions, which he may have been guilty of doing from when he was alive, have consequences.
Will is a very interesting character who I really enjoyed reading about and found it intriguing to learn about what goes on inside his head. His witty and funny attitude had me smiling through the pages and I just wanted to read more from Will's POV.
This was a great fast-paced, humorous story which I thoroughly enjoyed and believe everyone should read too. I look forward to reading more short stories by this author in the future.
February 2, 2020
The Celestial Assignment was a thoughtful, quick read. I enjoyed Will's narrative voice; right from the start we got a good sense of him as a character. I also had fun following his journey of self-discovery as he grappled with his new assignment. There were plenty of words of wisdom along the way, and overall I thought this was a well-written little fantasy tale. I do think the cover for this book is problematic though. When the author approached me to review and I saw this cover, my first thought was to decline because I thought it was a horror story. Of course, upon reading the blurb and gathering more information, I realised it wasn't, but that was the first impression the cover gave me, with the red on black and general forbidding aspect of the image. So, don't be put off this book by seeing the cover; it doesn't accurately represent the genre and style of this story.
I received this book as a free ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I received this book as a free ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
March 25, 2020
(review request submitted by the author for an honest critique)
While alive, Will was a horny devil. He thought with his d!ck, treated women like sh!t, and was an a$$hole. Even his ex-guardian angel proclaimed him an a$$hole. You’d think he’d end up in hell, but nope, he got angelic wings instead.
Sometimes the best punishment is to watch your sins unfold, see the pain it causes, and keep reliving them until you feel empathy, pain and/or regret.
BTW: If you haven’t listened to “A$$hole” by Denis Leary, check it out. It’s the first thing that popped into my mind as I watched Will navigate through his assignment.
🎶
I’m an a$$hole (He’s an asshole, what an a$$hole)
I’m an a$$hole (He’s the world’s biggest a$$hole)
A-S-S-H-O-L-E Everybody! A-S-S-H-O-L-E
Arf Arf Arf Arf Arf Arf Arf
Fung achng tum a fung tum a fling chum
Oooh Oooh
I’m an a$$hole and proud of it!
🎶
(Find more reviews/ratings at www.superkambrook.com)
While alive, Will was a horny devil. He thought with his d!ck, treated women like sh!t, and was an a$$hole. Even his ex-guardian angel proclaimed him an a$$hole. You’d think he’d end up in hell, but nope, he got angelic wings instead.
Sometimes the best punishment is to watch your sins unfold, see the pain it causes, and keep reliving them until you feel empathy, pain and/or regret.
BTW: If you haven’t listened to “A$$hole” by Denis Leary, check it out. It’s the first thing that popped into my mind as I watched Will navigate through his assignment.
🎶
I’m an a$$hole (He’s an asshole, what an a$$hole)
I’m an a$$hole (He’s the world’s biggest a$$hole)
A-S-S-H-O-L-E Everybody! A-S-S-H-O-L-E
Arf Arf Arf Arf Arf Arf Arf
Fung achng tum a fung tum a fling chum
Oooh Oooh
I’m an a$$hole and proud of it!
🎶
(Find more reviews/ratings at www.superkambrook.com)
April 17, 2020
The Celestial Assignment by Theresa Braun is about a young man assigned to watch over a young girl from birth as a guardian angel. It is certainly an unusual storyline but in the hands of Ms Braun, a definite masterpiece! What on earth could he have done in his own life to deserve such a difficult and taxing job? This is where we must all be careful. Who knows what may happen to us when we die?
Will, as the angel, is a complicated character, funny, sometimes witty but accepting of his job lot as the girl, Celeste, grows up, giving him more than just a handful of problems. The author has done well, combining an original story with an unbelievable talent for interesting dialogue. Short stories are notoriously difficult to write as everything you'd expect in a novel, such as well rounded characterisation, must be packed into so few words. However, Ms Braun has truly nailed it with this offering which will delight and amuse her many fans. Brilliant!
Will, as the angel, is a complicated character, funny, sometimes witty but accepting of his job lot as the girl, Celeste, grows up, giving him more than just a handful of problems. The author has done well, combining an original story with an unbelievable talent for interesting dialogue. Short stories are notoriously difficult to write as everything you'd expect in a novel, such as well rounded characterisation, must be packed into so few words. However, Ms Braun has truly nailed it with this offering which will delight and amuse her many fans. Brilliant!
February 21, 2020
The Celestial Assignment falls within a literary genre of paranormal and fantasy that is not my normal one to turn to, although I am fascinated by the thoughts of others on the life after death question. Theresa Braun uses humour (and numerous expletives) to move through the idea of some humans becoming angels after death and watching over the lives of those on earth. It is an interesting notion of promoting self-reflection through an angel school.
Will is assigned as guardian angel to watch over and protect newly born Celeste, and after time begins to understand his own shortcomings in his human life, not that he can do anything about that, but he tries to steer her as best he can. The period of self-revelation is intriguing and perhaps demonstrates that it is never too late to learn and even to change.
Despite being a short story there was a good amount of detail in the plot, and the twist at the end made me smile. That said I was disappointed that the characters, and Will in particular, weren’t developed further or with more depth. I felt that there were missed opportunities for Will to comment on or consider some of his own actions whilst undertaking his role as a guardian. Nevertheless, The Celestial Assignment is an engaging story that makes you think!
Will is assigned as guardian angel to watch over and protect newly born Celeste, and after time begins to understand his own shortcomings in his human life, not that he can do anything about that, but he tries to steer her as best he can. The period of self-revelation is intriguing and perhaps demonstrates that it is never too late to learn and even to change.
Despite being a short story there was a good amount of detail in the plot, and the twist at the end made me smile. That said I was disappointed that the characters, and Will in particular, weren’t developed further or with more depth. I felt that there were missed opportunities for Will to comment on or consider some of his own actions whilst undertaking his role as a guardian. Nevertheless, The Celestial Assignment is an engaging story that makes you think!
February 21, 2020
Theresa Braun gives us a fabulously quick read in My Celestial Assignment. I fell in love with Will immediately. He is perfectly imperfect, and he sends a thrill right into my bad boy loving heart.
The problem? His complete imperfection is why he is in this spot with Celeste. He is to be redeeming himself for his past wrongs. However, he refuses to follow directions and breaks all the rules. Until one day, he breaks the most significant rule of all, and it turns out to be his most redeeming moment.
I think my fascination with Will is that he reminds me of someone I admire in my own life. A fallen angel of the highest caliber. A bad boy who loves animals and has a genuinely great heart inside.
Thank you, Theresa, for this beautiful story. I can’t wait to read more from you. I am happy to award My Celestial Assignment a full 5 out of 5 stars.
The problem? His complete imperfection is why he is in this spot with Celeste. He is to be redeeming himself for his past wrongs. However, he refuses to follow directions and breaks all the rules. Until one day, he breaks the most significant rule of all, and it turns out to be his most redeeming moment.
I think my fascination with Will is that he reminds me of someone I admire in my own life. A fallen angel of the highest caliber. A bad boy who loves animals and has a genuinely great heart inside.
Thank you, Theresa, for this beautiful story. I can’t wait to read more from you. I am happy to award My Celestial Assignment a full 5 out of 5 stars.
February 24, 2020
The Celestial Assignment by Theresa Braun is unlike any book I've ever read. It's a fast-paced supernatural tale of a reluctant guardian angel assigned to protect an artistic female.
It's not a romance, horror or spirituality book. Told from the POV of the male angel, Will, readers observe the angel as he observes his human. By the end, you're left with a smile as you see the story come full circle.
An enjoyable, quick read for anyone interested in the supernatural, life after death, or questioning our purpose on earth.
"There’d been a missing fleck of paint on that painting of me over the couch. She’d patched the cobalt, her way of leaving things better than she’d found them, which included me. That detail would’ve been lost on the asshole I used to be. This time I paid attention."
It's not a romance, horror or spirituality book. Told from the POV of the male angel, Will, readers observe the angel as he observes his human. By the end, you're left with a smile as you see the story come full circle.
An enjoyable, quick read for anyone interested in the supernatural, life after death, or questioning our purpose on earth.
"There’d been a missing fleck of paint on that painting of me over the couch. She’d patched the cobalt, her way of leaving things better than she’d found them, which included me. That detail would’ve been lost on the asshole I used to be. This time I paid attention."
February 8, 2020
I jumped into this short story not knowing anything about it, since I never read the summary. I loved it! It focuses on self-reflection and learning from mistakes. I appreciated that the character evolved and I felt the ending was tight and appropriate. The content went a bit fast at times, but it is a short story, so it is what it is.
I have been a bit burnt out on angel stories, but this rendition kept my interest and was one of the more enjoyable angelic twisty tales that I have read in a long time.
Looking for a lunch time read? Or just a quick nighttime snack? Check out this paranormal short-story by Braun, who is growing on me more and more every time I read something new by her.
I have been a bit burnt out on angel stories, but this rendition kept my interest and was one of the more enjoyable angelic twisty tales that I have read in a long time.
Looking for a lunch time read? Or just a quick nighttime snack? Check out this paranormal short-story by Braun, who is growing on me more and more every time I read something new by her.
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