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Dark Angel Chronicles #1
Starfire Angels
They've been coming here for thousands of years, using Earth as a sanctuary to escape threats from their own kind. Mankind knows them as angels, and one of them left a child upon her death to be raised as a human.
Raea is now a high school senior, and her life as a human is about to end. The crystal shard she bears is not a pretty pendant; it's a collective of powerful entities who chose her as their Keeper, a protector of one of the four shards that power a machine capable of destroying whole worlds. Those who desire the Starfire's power have sent an agent to find her, but she's too busy evading a nosy reporter ready to exploit her secret and dating a hot new foreign student to notice. Nevermind learning what she really is.
Only one person on Earth can help her, the last person she ever expected. But he's not from Earth. Life as a human would be so much easier.
Raea is now a high school senior, and her life as a human is about to end. The crystal shard she bears is not a pretty pendant; it's a collective of powerful entities who chose her as their Keeper, a protector of one of the four shards that power a machine capable of destroying whole worlds. Those who desire the Starfire's power have sent an agent to find her, but she's too busy evading a nosy reporter ready to exploit her secret and dating a hot new foreign student to notice. Nevermind learning what she really is.
Only one person on Earth can help her, the last person she ever expected. But he's not from Earth. Life as a human would be so much easier.
179 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2009
456 people are currently reading
6490 people want to read
About the author
Melanie Nilles
38 books241 followersMelanie Nilles (aka M. A. Nilles) is an avid animal lover and resides with her husband, kids, and a clowder of cats who take advantage of their human slaves for food and warm laps. An equestrian of forty years, Melanie has trained and ridden all disciplines from race horses to cow horses and western show and speed events to jumping and dressage.
At the same time, Melanie (Mel to those who know her) has always had a fascination with science fiction and fantasy. Under her full name, her published works include the Starfire Angels: Dark Angel Chronicles series and other YA/New Adult works. As M. A. Nilles, she writes adult SF&F, including the Legend of the White Dragon epic, Demon Age, and Starfire Angels: Forgotten Worlds series.
Melanie has a unique perspective that she notes isn't for every reader. In general, her stories don't follow formulas or fit into any specific category but will offer something different for those who are looking for something meaningful but fun in science fiction and fantasy. For updates, visit her website at www.melanienilles.com or her blog at http://manilles.blogspot.com/ .
At the same time, Melanie (Mel to those who know her) has always had a fascination with science fiction and fantasy. Under her full name, her published works include the Starfire Angels: Dark Angel Chronicles series and other YA/New Adult works. As M. A. Nilles, she writes adult SF&F, including the Legend of the White Dragon epic, Demon Age, and Starfire Angels: Forgotten Worlds series.
Melanie has a unique perspective that she notes isn't for every reader. In general, her stories don't follow formulas or fit into any specific category but will offer something different for those who are looking for something meaningful but fun in science fiction and fantasy. For updates, visit her website at www.melanienilles.com or her blog at http://manilles.blogspot.com/ .
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 244 reviews
October 8, 2011
Okay, so this book absolutely sucked. The only reason why I finished it is because I absolutely have to finish things I start. One thing summarizes my feelings: This book reads ill-used cliche all over it.
Where do I begin with how it sucks?
1. Character development sucks.
It's been a day since I finished it and I don't remember who's in it anymore.
Does that say something?
All I remember is that the story is cliched, the girl is so ear gratingly annoying in how stupid, immature, and naive she is (does this girl know anything?!?!), and who she ended up with was so obvious that it wasn't even funny. And we don't even get a hint at anything cool about the characters' backgrounds at all, other than a glimpse of their "angel" background. And THAT wasn't even explained fully, if at all, ever. All we know is that there's a group of good guys with a select few of privileged powerful people and a group of bad guys and that's it. Gee, so original.
2. No real engaging plot.
Seriously, everything was so obvious that it wasn't worth reading. She finds out about her identity, is torn between two guys (of which one is socially outcast and the other amazingly gaga gorgeous *GAG* but we all know who she ends up with) and the phrase "beauty is only skin deep" is taken to literally here that the meaning was ridiculous.
In my opinion, the best bad guys are the ones who aren't outwardly bad. Like, they don't do common criminal junk. A real bad guy has an intricate plan, and will actually succeed in some parts and change the protagonist(s) in ways that are good and bad. If it's a complete one sided win, then what was the point of the challenge? Why was it important? I felt that this important aspect was missing in this novel, and it really, really made my respect for this book plummet.
I do NOT recommend this book. I'm too mean to say it, so I won't... but seriously, this book is not worth your time.
Where do I begin with how it sucks?
1. Character development sucks.
It's been a day since I finished it and I don't remember who's in it anymore.
Does that say something?
All I remember is that the story is cliched, the girl is so ear gratingly annoying in how stupid, immature, and naive she is (does this girl know anything?!?!), and who she ended up with was so obvious that it wasn't even funny. And we don't even get a hint at anything cool about the characters' backgrounds at all, other than a glimpse of their "angel" background. And THAT wasn't even explained fully, if at all, ever. All we know is that there's a group of good guys with a select few of privileged powerful people and a group of bad guys and that's it. Gee, so original.
2. No real engaging plot.
Seriously, everything was so obvious that it wasn't worth reading. She finds out about her identity, is torn between two guys (of which one is socially outcast and the other amazingly gaga gorgeous *GAG* but we all know who she ends up with) and the phrase "beauty is only skin deep" is taken to literally here that the meaning was ridiculous.
In my opinion, the best bad guys are the ones who aren't outwardly bad. Like, they don't do common criminal junk. A real bad guy has an intricate plan, and will actually succeed in some parts and change the protagonist(s) in ways that are good and bad. If it's a complete one sided win, then what was the point of the challenge? Why was it important? I felt that this important aspect was missing in this novel, and it really, really made my respect for this book plummet.
I do NOT recommend this book. I'm too mean to say it, so I won't... but seriously, this book is not worth your time.
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April 1, 2023rtc
March 16, 2011
For me, this book wasn't great. Even though the main character, Raea was nice and likeable, the characters did not seem fully developed. Pretty much, I felt like I was reading one of those beginning chapter books all over again. You know, the ones where it tells you the main story but not much character info, and is also very predictable? Yep. Well, that basically sums up Starfire Angels for you. The story had a nice, cute ending that was very predictable, but I really found it annoying how the main character acted. Every time something happened, she'd stutter while repeating what had happened. This book normally WOULD be good for a younger age, around 10-12 or so, except for the fact that Melanie Nilles tried to incorporate an older theme closer to the end. Either way, I think that is was ok, and that Melanie Nilles should definitely keep writing. Maybe this just isn't the type of book I need to read when I've had a bad day, and I'm looking for something deep.
dnf
March 13, 2020I can’t believe I am DNFing another book. While I could probably have been able to read the story, seeing as it was an interesting plot line, however the writing sucks and sounds a lot like my writing back in high school.
Not going to try and push my way through a book I know I will two or lower star the book at the end at 7%.
Not going to try and push my way through a book I know I will two or lower star the book at the end at 7%.
July 30, 2014
Oh, Raea, you are a horrible person. In fact, a more hateful protagonist I never have met.
It's disappointing. Truly. Because the whole Inari concept is pretty intriguing and I can tell serious thought was put into the theory behind it. But the cast of characters through which the story is told falls atrociously short on all levels.
Starfire Angels begins with Raea in school. She's cursing her misfortune at being cornered by her best friend, Josh, and subjected to his geek out over the 'Dark Angel'. Such a hardship, giving time to her best friend's interests. I mean, a mysterious winged hero at work in a small town, how supremely dull!
Then an ill-timed vision overcomes her, she falls and is caught by the creepy outcast guy (who is strangely attractive...). This guy keeps to himself and hasn't ever done a damned thing against her but everyone mocks him, so she does too. That's fine, right?
And, so, there she is, touched by the weirdo in view of the whole class -oh crap, no. Worst day EVER! They're all gonna think he's her boyfriend and she's teased enough as it is.
Yeah, she gets bullied. Apparently because of the weird coloured splotches on her hands. I'd argue its surely more to do with her being a whiny-ass mare.
More woe-is-me strikes when wings shoot from her back, disturbing her slumber. Ok, sure, I'll concede: A freak out here is understandable. But is her focus on 'what the hell's with these wings? What could they mean?'...Nope. She's fretting about going to school with them and people thinking she's even more of a freak. A few deep breaths though, and phew, sleep returns. Yup, the growth of huge feathery wings is totally not worth losing sleep over.
Eighteen and of supposedly high intellect...erm, yeah, not buying it. The girl's development suggests 14y at most. Even then she makes for a particularly shallow and stupid example.
Her treatment for those who care for her is disgraceful, her obsession with the 'hot' Pallin is ridiculous (how blatantly dodgy can someone be???) and her reactions to the big revelations make her deserving of a huge high five to her face. She's all about the 'why me? Life is so unfair' and her reasoning for the over indulgent self pity is utterly skewed.
I didn't get much at all from her supporting cast, either. Nina, especially, is just plain absurd.
As for writing style, it's mind-numbingly repetitive and frequently nonsensical. The plot progression: Pure insanity.
If there was ever any doubt in my tenacity, the act of seeing this book through to its end eradicated that.
It's disappointing. Truly. Because the whole Inari concept is pretty intriguing and I can tell serious thought was put into the theory behind it. But the cast of characters through which the story is told falls atrociously short on all levels.
Starfire Angels begins with Raea in school. She's cursing her misfortune at being cornered by her best friend, Josh, and subjected to his geek out over the 'Dark Angel'. Such a hardship, giving time to her best friend's interests. I mean, a mysterious winged hero at work in a small town, how supremely dull!
Then an ill-timed vision overcomes her, she falls and is caught by the creepy outcast guy (who is strangely attractive...). This guy keeps to himself and hasn't ever done a damned thing against her but everyone mocks him, so she does too. That's fine, right?
And, so, there she is, touched by the weirdo in view of the whole class -oh crap, no. Worst day EVER! They're all gonna think he's her boyfriend and she's teased enough as it is.
Yeah, she gets bullied. Apparently because of the weird coloured splotches on her hands. I'd argue its surely more to do with her being a whiny-ass mare.
More woe-is-me strikes when wings shoot from her back, disturbing her slumber. Ok, sure, I'll concede: A freak out here is understandable. But is her focus on 'what the hell's with these wings? What could they mean?'...Nope. She's fretting about going to school with them and people thinking she's even more of a freak. A few deep breaths though, and phew, sleep returns. Yup, the growth of huge feathery wings is totally not worth losing sleep over.
Eighteen and of supposedly high intellect...erm, yeah, not buying it. The girl's development suggests 14y at most. Even then she makes for a particularly shallow and stupid example.
Her treatment for those who care for her is disgraceful, her obsession with the 'hot' Pallin is ridiculous (how blatantly dodgy can someone be???) and her reactions to the big revelations make her deserving of a huge high five to her face. She's all about the 'why me? Life is so unfair' and her reasoning for the over indulgent self pity is utterly skewed.
I didn't get much at all from her supporting cast, either. Nina, especially, is just plain absurd.
As for writing style, it's mind-numbingly repetitive and frequently nonsensical. The plot progression: Pure insanity.
If there was ever any doubt in my tenacity, the act of seeing this book through to its end eradicated that.
August 8, 2009
Raea Dahlrich spent her entire life as a regular, ordinary teenager. Then senior year hits and her entire world changes. She wakes up one morning with wings. It turns out she's an alien from another planet. As if that isn't bad enough, her aunt (who is her guardian) brings her neighbor, Elis, over to help her adjust to her newfound identity.
The problem is Elis is also a creepy senior who keeps to himself, and now he's the one who has to help her adjust to being an alien. But there is a bright side to all of this. Pallin, the new good looking foreign exchange student, is actually paying attention to her. Then again, there is that pesky reporter who is snooping around and wanting to know about Raea's strange marks on her hands. Will the reporter find out Raea's secret? Will Raea end up with Pallin? Is Elis so creepy after all?
Those are the prevailing questions in this book. I really enjoyed this one. The perk (for me) was the humor. Now, this isn't a comedy. In fact there are some serious moments, but the way Raea thinks and her interaction with her friends provides some great light-hearted moments. I liked the reporter's quick thinking. This woman knew her job and did it well. I was constantly amazed at how her mind worked.
In my opinion, this book could be enjoyed by adult women. I know it says YA, and this book will definitely appeal to teens. I mean, who hasn't dealt with the pressures of high school or wondering if the guy likes you or not? So teens can definitely relate to the things Raea goes through. But adults can enjoy the more mature sub-plots. (I think there are some things adults will get that teens won't.) Melanie Nilles has woven in an entertaining, fun, romantic, and sometimes serious science fiction story about a teenage alien girl who just wants to be normal again.
The problem is Elis is also a creepy senior who keeps to himself, and now he's the one who has to help her adjust to being an alien. But there is a bright side to all of this. Pallin, the new good looking foreign exchange student, is actually paying attention to her. Then again, there is that pesky reporter who is snooping around and wanting to know about Raea's strange marks on her hands. Will the reporter find out Raea's secret? Will Raea end up with Pallin? Is Elis so creepy after all?
Those are the prevailing questions in this book. I really enjoyed this one. The perk (for me) was the humor. Now, this isn't a comedy. In fact there are some serious moments, but the way Raea thinks and her interaction with her friends provides some great light-hearted moments. I liked the reporter's quick thinking. This woman knew her job and did it well. I was constantly amazed at how her mind worked.
In my opinion, this book could be enjoyed by adult women. I know it says YA, and this book will definitely appeal to teens. I mean, who hasn't dealt with the pressures of high school or wondering if the guy likes you or not? So teens can definitely relate to the things Raea goes through. But adults can enjoy the more mature sub-plots. (I think there are some things adults will get that teens won't.) Melanie Nilles has woven in an entertaining, fun, romantic, and sometimes serious science fiction story about a teenage alien girl who just wants to be normal again.
September 6, 2009
All of Raea’s life, she knew she was different. She would have these weird dreams about her parents and a strange world. It was like the events were really but that couldn’t be possible as Raea has never been to this place. Raea’s Aunt Debbie and her Uncle Mike can’t offer any insight to why Raea keeps having these dreams. Besides these dreams, Raea has another secret…she has a pair of angel wings. Her Aunt, Uncle and friends don’t even know about her wings.
As if having wings wasn’t bad enough, Raea lives in McClarron, North Dakota, a town with a small population. Raea just wants to be a normal girl but it is hard. McClarron, North Dakota seems to be a place of interest lately. Raea’s friend Josh is obsessed with strange happenings of a mysterious being known as Dark Angel. No one really knows much about this Dark Angel. A television reporter from Xplorer Channel wants to do a special on the Dark Angel. This could spell trouble for Raea, as this reporter could expose her secrets. Also what is up with the new guy at school, Pallin Montran?
Author Melanie Nilles is a new author for me. I thought she did bring a refreshing look between the genres of sci-fi and paranormal. Starfire Angels wasn’t too out there that it wasn’t believable but at the same time may a paranormal fan like me think this was a pretty good book. The only reason I say this book is pretty good is because, while I did find Raea interesting and the storyline intriguing, the rest of the characters didn’t draw me in and make me interested in knowing them. So a little bit of my interest did slip while reading this book. Starfire Angels did have me flying away in a good way.
As if having wings wasn’t bad enough, Raea lives in McClarron, North Dakota, a town with a small population. Raea just wants to be a normal girl but it is hard. McClarron, North Dakota seems to be a place of interest lately. Raea’s friend Josh is obsessed with strange happenings of a mysterious being known as Dark Angel. No one really knows much about this Dark Angel. A television reporter from Xplorer Channel wants to do a special on the Dark Angel. This could spell trouble for Raea, as this reporter could expose her secrets. Also what is up with the new guy at school, Pallin Montran?
Author Melanie Nilles is a new author for me. I thought she did bring a refreshing look between the genres of sci-fi and paranormal. Starfire Angels wasn’t too out there that it wasn’t believable but at the same time may a paranormal fan like me think this was a pretty good book. The only reason I say this book is pretty good is because, while I did find Raea interesting and the storyline intriguing, the rest of the characters didn’t draw me in and make me interested in knowing them. So a little bit of my interest did slip while reading this book. Starfire Angels did have me flying away in a good way.
August 1, 2011
Well, you get what you pay for. While the story had promise and potential, everything was rushed and poorly executed. I was extremely intrigued to find out where the Angels were truly from, however, I was disappointed to see it so underdeveloped. This was a free Kindle download and so I can’t complain to much, especially as it was so short.
There were several typos, the dialog was hurried and and some points confusing, and the plot, while promising, became absolutely absurd! The story begins with Raea failing instantaneously for Pallin, the foreign exchange student to which I felt no attachment. Immediately, the creepy and nerdy Ellis enters the story to which I also feel no connection.
Raea quickly learns that everyone in her life has lied to her, her deceased mother and step father, her adopted Aunt and Uncle, and even the little old lady from church that lives next door. Raea wakes one night from a painful nightmare with wings protruding from her back and the adventure begins as Raea slowly discovers her true
origin.
Sort of ridiculous that they can shrink and grow their wings. If it was part of who they are, an appendage then why would they need to grow and shrink it, particularly if it is so painful? It would be like me shrinking away my legs when they aren’t in use. Then, there is the reporter that is constantly harassing Raea, a child. How is it plausible that a reporter would be allowed to stalk and harass a teenager like she is the paparazzi?
Overall, disappointing read but at least it didn’t consume a lot of my time. It took me days upon days to get through this because it was so boring. I’m sure it was meant to be just an afternoon read.
There were several typos, the dialog was hurried and and some points confusing, and the plot, while promising, became absolutely absurd! The story begins with Raea failing instantaneously for Pallin, the foreign exchange student to which I felt no attachment. Immediately, the creepy and nerdy Ellis enters the story to which I also feel no connection.
Raea quickly learns that everyone in her life has lied to her, her deceased mother and step father, her adopted Aunt and Uncle, and even the little old lady from church that lives next door. Raea wakes one night from a painful nightmare with wings protruding from her back and the adventure begins as Raea slowly discovers her true
origin.
Sort of ridiculous that they can shrink and grow their wings. If it was part of who they are, an appendage then why would they need to grow and shrink it, particularly if it is so painful? It would be like me shrinking away my legs when they aren’t in use. Then, there is the reporter that is constantly harassing Raea, a child. How is it plausible that a reporter would be allowed to stalk and harass a teenager like she is the paparazzi?
Overall, disappointing read but at least it didn’t consume a lot of my time. It took me days upon days to get through this because it was so boring. I’m sure it was meant to be just an afternoon read.
July 24, 2012
Alien angels. Well alright then!
Raea was a horrible character. Very self absorbed, selfish, conceited, shallow, and rude. I didn't like anything about her. There were a lot of contradictions in this book. Raea was having conflicting thoughts about Elis because he wasn't popular...nice. And one of her excuses was that she barely knew him....yet that wasn't a reason to not like Pallin. Eh.
Raea was very childish for a supposed 18 year old. She was a horrible friend to all of her friends. Especially to poor Josh. She didn't deserve his loyalty. She made a terrible girlfriend even to Pallin. She was awfully clingy for having known the guy for only a few days. She didn't deserve Elis, nor being a protector of anything in my opinion. I am having an issue with all these books having an inept, spoiled, and shallow main character. It really is boring.
I hated Nina, but I didn't think killing her off was necessary.
The action was boring. And was it really necessary to have Raea be raped? It just seemed like filler to me. I suppose it was used to rile Elis up for blood, but that was stupid. And it was taken so lightly. Elis pushed and pushed Raea and refused to respect her wishes on that. Which is something very private. I felt it did not fit in to his character.
Anyone else notice that Raea couldn't think for herself at all? She followed everyone else's lead. And she is supposed to be a Keeper? I can't possibly see how she would be successful.
Raea was a horrible character. Very self absorbed, selfish, conceited, shallow, and rude. I didn't like anything about her. There were a lot of contradictions in this book. Raea was having conflicting thoughts about Elis because he wasn't popular...nice. And one of her excuses was that she barely knew him....yet that wasn't a reason to not like Pallin. Eh.
Raea was very childish for a supposed 18 year old. She was a horrible friend to all of her friends. Especially to poor Josh. She didn't deserve his loyalty. She made a terrible girlfriend even to Pallin. She was awfully clingy for having known the guy for only a few days. She didn't deserve Elis, nor being a protector of anything in my opinion. I am having an issue with all these books having an inept, spoiled, and shallow main character. It really is boring.
I hated Nina, but I didn't think killing her off was necessary.
The action was boring. And was it really necessary to have Raea be raped? It just seemed like filler to me. I suppose it was used to rile Elis up for blood, but that was stupid. And it was taken so lightly. Elis pushed and pushed Raea and refused to respect her wishes on that. Which is something very private. I felt it did not fit in to his character.
Anyone else notice that Raea couldn't think for herself at all? She followed everyone else's lead. And she is supposed to be a Keeper? I can't possibly see how she would be successful.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 23, 2010
Let me start off by saying this, if you liked Hush, Hush then I think you would like this one. If you hated Hush, Hush I think you would LOVE this one. I didn't hate Hush, Hush but I had mixed feelings about it. This one gave me no mixed feelings. I completely and totally adored it!
I'm not even sure about how to describe it. You think it's paranormal at first but it's more of a sci-fi story. I'll say this much though...I adored it. Melanie's writing style is excellent and she draws you in with her fast-paced story development.
The characters are great and a very "real" bunch of teenagers. There are surprises at every turn and the storyline was unique. I really recommend this one to YA and "fallen angel" fans as I think you'll find something totally different and intriquing in this book.
I'm not even sure about how to describe it. You think it's paranormal at first but it's more of a sci-fi story. I'll say this much though...I adored it. Melanie's writing style is excellent and she draws you in with her fast-paced story development.
The characters are great and a very "real" bunch of teenagers. There are surprises at every turn and the storyline was unique. I really recommend this one to YA and "fallen angel" fans as I think you'll find something totally different and intriquing in this book.
May 29, 2014
It is safe to say that I am uninterested in anymore books of this series. The characters lack depth and development, the plot lacks excitement and is inconsistently unrealistic. Not unrealistic in a sci-fi way but in a 'bad alibi' way. The author writes as if the reader is illiterate. The entire book just feels like a draft, like it's still in production and has yet to be critiqued and edited.
May 22, 2022
Raea, though she doesn’t know it, is actually an alien. She was sent to earth to protect a precious shard, and to prevent it falling into the wrong hands. She lives with her aunt - who actually knows there’s something going on - but nothing has been said.
At the same time as a mysterious new student appears in school, Raea starts to realise that she is hearing things. Bizarrely, it’s only when she’s around Ellis, a boy from school who never really speaks, that these memories appear.
For a large amount of time nothing happens, but we know there’s some mystery and these key characters will be involved. For a girl who finds out she’s an angel, Raea is pretty relaxed. She takes to her training well, but of course there has to be a reason for this new boy appearing.
The shift to action picked up once we draw near the end, yet nothing about it felt particularly credible. I’m also wondering how such major incidents are not seen as slightly suspicious by the humans around those involved.
This definitely had potential as a concept, and it’s a shame that the pacing and characterisation of Pallin in particular made it less entertaining than I’d hoped. I don’t think I’ll be reading any more of this series.
At the same time as a mysterious new student appears in school, Raea starts to realise that she is hearing things. Bizarrely, it’s only when she’s around Ellis, a boy from school who never really speaks, that these memories appear.
For a large amount of time nothing happens, but we know there’s some mystery and these key characters will be involved. For a girl who finds out she’s an angel, Raea is pretty relaxed. She takes to her training well, but of course there has to be a reason for this new boy appearing.
The shift to action picked up once we draw near the end, yet nothing about it felt particularly credible. I’m also wondering how such major incidents are not seen as slightly suspicious by the humans around those involved.
This definitely had potential as a concept, and it’s a shame that the pacing and characterisation of Pallin in particular made it less entertaining than I’d hoped. I don’t think I’ll be reading any more of this series.
February 13, 2019
This book started out slow for me. I actually thought about putting it down at 50% but I continued pushing my way thru it. It did improve but it was a bit late in the book and not enough. I think my issues were with the characters. They needed much more development for the reader to care. Plus, I didn't like Raea much. She was too weak. I like stronger heroines who fight for what they want or need. She was more willing to stand back and let the boys fight for her. I doubt I will read more of this series.
September 18, 2022
There's an interesting concept at the heart of this book, but it suffers from otherwise consisting of a boatload of clichés and a deeply unlikable, selfish, whiny, annoying protagonist whom I just wanted to strangle the whole time.
May 23, 2011
I'm going to preface this review with a trigger warning for drugging and rape. It's something that needs to be said before someone reads this book and my review and have it bring up horrible memories.
Honestly I wanted to like this book more, but where the author took this book is just... wrong. If you think this book is about Raea, you'd be wrong and that is where most of the fault lies.
Nilles builds Raea up to be a strong character and about 70% into the book.. yeah. So much for that.
Another thing is that these angel people are supposed to be SOOOO technologically advanced, yet they fall into the standard gender dichotomies. Nilles writes "he needed the touch of a female," (dehumanizing language) "just as any man did." That wasn't written from the character's perspective either. Also, some of the "any man" out there that I know of prefer the touch of a another man. So these scifi angel people haven't seemed to advance that far yet either.
Overall the book wasn't written badly, however where the book decided to take itself was into territory that it would have been better off just not going there. It could have easily ended that same way without the things happening at the end that seemed to steer the car off the road into "Don't-Go-Thereville"
Honestly I wanted to like this book more, but where the author took this book is just... wrong. If you think this book is about Raea, you'd be wrong and that is where most of the fault lies.
Nilles builds Raea up to be a strong character and about 70% into the book.. yeah. So much for that.
Another thing is that these angel people are supposed to be SOOOO technologically advanced, yet they fall into the standard gender dichotomies. Nilles writes "he needed the touch of a female," (dehumanizing language) "just as any man did." That wasn't written from the character's perspective either. Also, some of the "any man" out there that I know of prefer the touch of a another man. So these scifi angel people haven't seemed to advance that far yet either.
Overall the book wasn't written badly, however where the book decided to take itself was into territory that it would have been better off just not going there. It could have easily ended that same way without the things happening at the end that seemed to steer the car off the road into "Don't-Go-Thereville"
June 10, 2012
Raea is a small town girl, reaching the end of her school years and life hasn't been too kind along the way. Her parents are dead, she lives with her aunt's family, including the obligatory whelp of a younger cousin and an uncle who would prefer her to be elsewhere.
Life is about to get harder as Raea learns she isn't quite what she thought and her sudden popularity isn't to do with her sparkling personality, but more to do with her mother's necklace, her inherited abilities, and the politics of a land very, very far away.....
The stoy line of this and the next two books is interesting and well worth the read. But, for me, Raea is a selfish, immature young woman and I really haven't any liking for the character at all, much prefering the others who share her adverntures.
Considering everything she goes through, I was hoping Raea would learn to think "outside the box", the box being her total absorption in herself. Elis is lovely, her male friend Josh is great and her aunt is a heroine of the first order, as is the elderly, lonely woman who lives next door.
Perhaps at some point during the series, Raea will learn compassion and the desire to ease other people's hurt rather than wallowing in her own. the author does dwell on Raea's woes to the extent that I would like to slap the girl. She avoids the pain of other's, appearing to resent their distress distracting from her own until I really didn't care how she felt and became indignant that she couldn't offer a shoulder for someone else to cry on when things became tough.
I've met many young people who have experienced life at its worst, and some shine with their triumph over what has been thrown at them to become far better people than many who have had it easy. Perhaps as this series progresses, Raea may learn some lessons too.
Nevertheless, an enjoyable and engrossing read, and I am pleased to have found it.
May 28, 2012
More of my reviews @ Reading 24x7
3.5 STARS
Sigh There was just so much potential in this story! The idea that angels might be some other creatures from another planet, in short "aliens", was something new to read for me and really innovative. The Shirukans(the bad guys) fighting with Inaris (Angels) for Starfire (as it would give them power) seemed believable.
If only the characters were just as amazing as the concept...
I get that Raea didn't want to think of herself as an angel and how pressurized she must be feeling when all of a sudden, such a big responsibility was loaded on her. But her whining about it most of the time was not at all fun to read. And the stupid decisions she made, made her look like a spoilt 9 year old craving for some attention.
It was the typical, girl chooses bad guy over the good guy, the good guy tries to warn her and in return she slaps him and then when everything goes haywire (BECAUSE OF HER STUPIDITY) she runs back to the good guy and realizes her mistake and blah blah blah.
"None of this would have happened if she hadn't gone to see Pallin. She should have never let him charm her. "It's all my fault."
And this was my reaction when I read that->
Aside from Raea, I liked all the other characters in this book. Each of them had a different personality and were very realistic.
Overall, I wish there was a little more action, and a little less whining. I'm still contemplating whether to read the next book in the series or not. :/
3.5 STARS
Sigh There was just so much potential in this story! The idea that angels might be some other creatures from another planet, in short "aliens", was something new to read for me and really innovative. The Shirukans(the bad guys) fighting with Inaris (Angels) for Starfire (as it would give them power) seemed believable.
If only the characters were just as amazing as the concept...
I get that Raea didn't want to think of herself as an angel and how pressurized she must be feeling when all of a sudden, such a big responsibility was loaded on her. But her whining about it most of the time was not at all fun to read. And the stupid decisions she made, made her look like a spoilt 9 year old craving for some attention.
It was the typical, girl chooses bad guy over the good guy, the good guy tries to warn her and in return she slaps him and then when everything goes haywire (BECAUSE OF HER STUPIDITY) she runs back to the good guy and realizes her mistake and blah blah blah.
"None of this would have happened if she hadn't gone to see Pallin. She should have never let him charm her. "It's all my fault."
And this was my reaction when I read that->
Aside from Raea, I liked all the other characters in this book. Each of them had a different personality and were very realistic.
Overall, I wish there was a little more action, and a little less whining. I'm still contemplating whether to read the next book in the series or not. :/
August 16, 2012
Starfire Angels is about a girl who fins out she isn't human, she is what humans call angels. She bears a pendant which is actually one of four crystal shards that have the power to destroy the world. Raea is the Keeper of one of the shards.
Raea is confused at first and furious at her aunt for not telling her the truth. She must learn about her family, her past and how to protect the shard.
Meanwhile, a new guy starts at school who is actually an agent sent by those who want to steal the shard. He starts to date Raea to get close to her so he can steal the shard.
At the same time, a reporter comes to town looking for angels and does everything she can to exploit Raea's secret.
Reae finds at unexpected friend in Elis a fellow student though a bit of an outcast. Turns out he is an angel too sent to Earth to teach about who she is.
This book has an interesting concept which a lot of potential. However, I found it to be predictable. There were no twists and turns. For example, it is obvious who the antagonists are right away, even if the author was trying to conceal it.
I enjoyed reading about Raea and Elis' developing relationship and I do plan to read the rest of the series to find out what happens between them. Their relationship starts out rocky as he is an outcast at her school and she just wants to be popular. She wants to worry about being a normal high school human girl. Slowly, she learns to accept and like who she is.
The book was an easy read and I do plan to read the rest of the series. I hope that we get a glimpse into Raea's world and her family.
Raea is confused at first and furious at her aunt for not telling her the truth. She must learn about her family, her past and how to protect the shard.
Meanwhile, a new guy starts at school who is actually an agent sent by those who want to steal the shard. He starts to date Raea to get close to her so he can steal the shard.
At the same time, a reporter comes to town looking for angels and does everything she can to exploit Raea's secret.
Reae finds at unexpected friend in Elis a fellow student though a bit of an outcast. Turns out he is an angel too sent to Earth to teach about who she is.
This book has an interesting concept which a lot of potential. However, I found it to be predictable. There were no twists and turns. For example, it is obvious who the antagonists are right away, even if the author was trying to conceal it.
I enjoyed reading about Raea and Elis' developing relationship and I do plan to read the rest of the series to find out what happens between them. Their relationship starts out rocky as he is an outcast at her school and she just wants to be popular. She wants to worry about being a normal high school human girl. Slowly, she learns to accept and like who she is.
The book was an easy read and I do plan to read the rest of the series. I hope that we get a glimpse into Raea's world and her family.
June 22, 2012
A nice blend of sci-fi and paranormal, June 3, 2012
Amazon Verified Purchase(What's this?)
This review is from: Starfire Angels (Starfire Angels: Dark Angel Chronicles Book 1) (Kindle Edition)
Teenager Raea is different. She doesn't feel like she fits in. So far so good (or bad, for her). Maybe it's the wings. Or that she's an alien. Or the problems that crop up after she discovers her wings. Or that she's an alien.
Did I mention she's an alien?
I read this a while back, but there are parts of the story that have stuck with me, perhaps because the author spoke to me in so many ways, to my years as an awkward teenager years ago. While I never want to go back to those years, I'm grateful for the chance to revisit them through Raea.
The writing is very good. Not perfect. There are certainly weaknesses. But all in all the story is well-plotted and the twists and conflicts and solutions reasonable, if sometimes a bit predictable. Some of the secondary characters felt a bit shallow. But all that is forgiveable for what Nilles offers in terms of Raea's world and her innermost thoughts.
A very good book, well worth the read. A solid 4 stars.
Amazon Verified Purchase(What's this?)
This review is from: Starfire Angels (Starfire Angels: Dark Angel Chronicles Book 1) (Kindle Edition)
Teenager Raea is different. She doesn't feel like she fits in. So far so good (or bad, for her). Maybe it's the wings. Or that she's an alien. Or the problems that crop up after she discovers her wings. Or that she's an alien.
Did I mention she's an alien?
I read this a while back, but there are parts of the story that have stuck with me, perhaps because the author spoke to me in so many ways, to my years as an awkward teenager years ago. While I never want to go back to those years, I'm grateful for the chance to revisit them through Raea.
The writing is very good. Not perfect. There are certainly weaknesses. But all in all the story is well-plotted and the twists and conflicts and solutions reasonable, if sometimes a bit predictable. Some of the secondary characters felt a bit shallow. But all that is forgiveable for what Nilles offers in terms of Raea's world and her innermost thoughts.
A very good book, well worth the read. A solid 4 stars.
June 8, 2011
When I entered to win this book, I thought it would be a good book. Another book about angels, but with a new twist....they aren't really angels, they're aliens. I couldn't have been more wrong. It was a GREAT book. I enjoyed this book from start to finish, and can't wait to read the rest of the series. Melanie Nilles did a fabulous job in creating another world and civilization. Raea is a very likeable and realistic character, it reminded me of being that age and feeling all the same insecurities. Elis and Pallin, the two romantic interests, couldn't have been more different from each other. And then there is Raea's aunt Debbie and her friends Josh, Linds, and Jess, where would our main character be without these wonderful people to lean on. Let's not forget to mention Nina, although there's nothing nice we can say about her. Overall, this was an excellent book, and I would readily recommend it to everyone. Thank You Melanie for giving me the opportunity to have partaken in Raea's story!
August 29, 2011
I liked it, it was a good story despite a few spelling and grammar mistakes, I'm starting to realise that most free books on kindle have that, though and the characters made up for it.
December 31, 2014
We all know I'm a sucker for a read that's of little to no cost. So, along comes Starfire Angels, book one of the Dark Angel Chronicles, and my willingness to throw myself into the fray for free. I'd like to start off by saying Starfire Angels wasn't all that bad, but it did rub me the wrong way—right from the get-go.
First and foremost of my gripes: the location. North Dakota. Original, sure (whatever). Promising, however—not by a long shot. North Dakota is pretty much the perfect setting to guarantee that I should not, and would be remiss to, expect any kind of diversity from the characters and, likely, their belief system as well. (I've known only one person in my entire life from North Dakota and they were unashamed to admit to the lack of variety from their home state. Hate to generalize, but not really.) I had other bones to pick, too, though.
High school. No YA author has managed to get it right yet, and Niles is no exception. Raea Dahlrich is—seriously—bullied by the abecedarian singsong X and Y sittin' in a tree. I think I'll let that speak for itself. Also, some girls are mentioned as dressing scantily in order to gain the attention of certain teachers. And, sure, that may work in life, but it's not the kind of attention they would want, I can pretty much guarantee. Even the laxest of dress codes warrant trips to the principal's office for showy attire.
And Josh. Poor friendzoned Josh. My biggest issue with him was enveloped in my fear that he would be the third leg of the dreaded love triangle (or, even, love square?) that seemed imminent to form. I'm so relieved that wasn't the case in Starfire Angles, I could kiss Niles! Thank you for sparing me the certain agony, ma'am!
Speaking of "ma'am"—that brings me to another point of contention I had (within the first chapter). New student, Pallin, introduces himself to the class and addresses a lady as "ma'am." Raea immediately draws the conclusion that he must have had some kind of militaristic unbringing or involvement of some sort. That rubbed me the wrong way 1) because I am in the military and 2) where I come from, "ma'am" and "sir" are just plain ol' good manners, and you'd better have 'em or else you'd be wishin' you had later. Maybe that's just me, or maybe they just don't make 'em like they used to, but "manners = military" came across as terrible characterization/foreshadow on Niles' part.
As did the purple eyes and fingerless gloves of dear Elis.
Pretty much pictured Elis just like that. Plus fingerless gloves.
Let's talk Elis. He is Inari, same as Raea; a Crystal Keeper of the Starfire Crystal which contains intelligent, sentient beings that hold the power to destroy, create and protect whole worlds. He's a solid guy, reliable, good through and through. Really. So it only makes sense that he's ostracized as a freaky creeper, right? Not! It pained me to watch a sweet, helpful kid like Elis weather petty immature teasing daily for Raea, especially after discovering his reason for being there in the first place. I mean, come on. Don't gotta make martyrs of everyone!
And along the lines of martyrdom—Raea is a damned fool. She is receiving all these bad sings from the hot new student, Pallin, so she decides—of all things—to go visit him at his hotel room. She knows that Elis has suspicions of Pallin's being a Shirukan, enemy of their kind, and yet she decides to go pay him a friendly visit after school. Yeah, that's smart.
But all of that, every juicy morsel of crap mentioned above, doesn't come as close to BAD as Niles' writing. Allow me to justify with examples.
Just a small taste of the lackluster, underwhelming narrative I had to deal with to trudge through this mess. The spareness of details made for a difficult time sorting out the world beyond the human front in Raea's life. Without details, and expansion, everything from the past, from that other life, seemed so intangible, so unimportant, even though that couldn't be further from the truth.
And, at 90.5%, the chapter was called FINAL ULTIMATUM. I just... I have no words for that.
Not to mention the cowardly tendency to hint at sex (with a thumbing of a belt or the vague remembrance being made into a promise, etc.), which I found to be tactless and frankly a huge cop-out. Pallin's express sexuality was a something I sense remained a huge grey area for the duration of each manuscript. It should've either been emphasized or extracted from Starfire Angels, not just thrown in as cheaply as it was.
There was almost nothing holding this thing together. Even the pacing sucked. The horrible attention to minutiae lent to a sluggish flow, too, except in the second-to-last chapter, where things went from 0 to 60 in a matter of seconds... and then slowed again, all the way until the end.
But...! I see promise.
In spite of all that, I dare say I'm ready for more. The sequel, Broken Wings, and the prequel, When Angels Cry, are ones I'm on the lookout for. I don't know if I'll stick to this series the whole times, but I'm willing to give it another go. As for this one—
✩✩✩ 3 stars. I liked it.
I shouldn't have! And I'm prolly gonna regret this! (Hope I don't.) But I did like it. Mostly because of the alien world of Inar'Ahben. I'm hoping to learn more about it. And Elis. He's a sweetheart, what can I say? I have a soft spot for angels that just chases trouble down.
Here's to wishful thinking.
ALSO POSTED AT MY BLOG.
First and foremost of my gripes: the location. North Dakota. Original, sure (whatever). Promising, however—not by a long shot. North Dakota is pretty much the perfect setting to guarantee that I should not, and would be remiss to, expect any kind of diversity from the characters and, likely, their belief system as well. (I've known only one person in my entire life from North Dakota and they were unashamed to admit to the lack of variety from their home state. Hate to generalize, but not really.) I had other bones to pick, too, though.
High school. No YA author has managed to get it right yet, and Niles is no exception. Raea Dahlrich is—seriously—bullied by the abecedarian singsong X and Y sittin' in a tree. I think I'll let that speak for itself. Also, some girls are mentioned as dressing scantily in order to gain the attention of certain teachers. And, sure, that may work in life, but it's not the kind of attention they would want, I can pretty much guarantee. Even the laxest of dress codes warrant trips to the principal's office for showy attire.
And Josh. Poor friendzoned Josh. My biggest issue with him was enveloped in my fear that he would be the third leg of the dreaded love triangle (or, even, love square?) that seemed imminent to form. I'm so relieved that wasn't the case in Starfire Angles, I could kiss Niles! Thank you for sparing me the certain agony, ma'am!
Speaking of "ma'am"—that brings me to another point of contention I had (within the first chapter). New student, Pallin, introduces himself to the class and addresses a lady as "ma'am." Raea immediately draws the conclusion that he must have had some kind of militaristic unbringing or involvement of some sort. That rubbed me the wrong way 1) because I am in the military and 2) where I come from, "ma'am" and "sir" are just plain ol' good manners, and you'd better have 'em or else you'd be wishin' you had later. Maybe that's just me, or maybe they just don't make 'em like they used to, but "manners = military" came across as terrible characterization/foreshadow on Niles' part.
As did the purple eyes and fingerless gloves of dear Elis.
Pretty much pictured Elis just like that. Plus fingerless gloves.
Let's talk Elis. He is Inari, same as Raea; a Crystal Keeper of the Starfire Crystal which contains intelligent, sentient beings that hold the power to destroy, create and protect whole worlds. He's a solid guy, reliable, good through and through. Really. So it only makes sense that he's ostracized as a freaky creeper, right? Not! It pained me to watch a sweet, helpful kid like Elis weather petty immature teasing daily for Raea, especially after discovering his reason for being there in the first place. I mean, come on. Don't gotta make martyrs of everyone!
And along the lines of martyrdom—Raea is a damned fool. She is receiving all these bad sings from the hot new student, Pallin, so she decides—of all things—to go visit him at his hotel room. She knows that Elis has suspicions of Pallin's being a Shirukan, enemy of their kind, and yet she decides to go pay him a friendly visit after school. Yeah, that's smart.
But all of that, every juicy morsel of crap mentioned above, doesn't come as close to BAD as Niles' writing. Allow me to justify with examples.
Elis started down the stairs.
A black-clad figure stepped into sight and put an arm around Raea. Golden yellow wings opened for a moment. Pallin. He was Shirukan. And he held the rod-like weapon of his kind in one gloves hand, ready for use.
The resonance warmed through him, ready at his call.
["You're kind don't kill."]
["How would you know?"] Elis hesitated...
["It's forbidden by the Keeper code and your precious Starfire."]
Elis wanted too. For all the pain that ripped through him, Elis wanted to end it.
He end this now, guaranteeing Pallin would be no more threat to them.
She laid on the bed in Elis's room.?
Just a small taste of the lackluster, underwhelming narrative I had to deal with to trudge through this mess. The spareness of details made for a difficult time sorting out the world beyond the human front in Raea's life. Without details, and expansion, everything from the past, from that other life, seemed so intangible, so unimportant, even though that couldn't be further from the truth.
And, at 90.5%, the chapter was called FINAL ULTIMATUM. I just... I have no words for that.
Not to mention the cowardly tendency to hint at sex (with a thumbing of a belt or the vague remembrance being made into a promise, etc.), which I found to be tactless and frankly a huge cop-out. Pallin's express sexuality was a something I sense remained a huge grey area for the duration of each manuscript. It should've either been emphasized or extracted from Starfire Angels, not just thrown in as cheaply as it was.
There was almost nothing holding this thing together. Even the pacing sucked. The horrible attention to minutiae lent to a sluggish flow, too, except in the second-to-last chapter, where things went from 0 to 60 in a matter of seconds... and then slowed again, all the way until the end.
But...! I see promise.
In spite of all that, I dare say I'm ready for more. The sequel, Broken Wings, and the prequel, When Angels Cry, are ones I'm on the lookout for. I don't know if I'll stick to this series the whole times, but I'm willing to give it another go. As for this one—
✩✩✩ 3 stars. I liked it.
I shouldn't have! And I'm prolly gonna regret this! (Hope I don't.) But I did like it. Mostly because of the alien world of Inar'Ahben. I'm hoping to learn more about it. And Elis. He's a sweetheart, what can I say? I have a soft spot for angels that just chases trouble down.
Here's to wishful thinking.
ALSO POSTED AT MY BLOG.
July 21, 2018
I tried so much to like this book but (one chapter will be epic, the other one horrible, the next one interesting and so on... Up down, up down)
Raea is a high school student (she knows she comes from another world) she knows nothing about her heritage except for visions about her mom and dad
One morning, something unusual happens and her aunt seeks the help of her classmates (the weird one in school) who happens to come from the same world as Raea, an obsession with the new guy in class, Pallin, a noisy reporter, she has to learn about her heritage and adapt to this new life
this book was boring to me, I slept off and woke up to continue. I just wanted to finish it and see what happens at the end.
You might like it
Raea is a high school student (she knows she comes from another world) she knows nothing about her heritage except for visions about her mom and dad
One morning, something unusual happens and her aunt seeks the help of her classmates (the weird one in school) who happens to come from the same world as Raea, an obsession with the new guy in class, Pallin, a noisy reporter, she has to learn about her heritage and adapt to this new life
this book was boring to me, I slept off and woke up to continue. I just wanted to finish it and see what happens at the end.
You might like it
January 25, 2021
You know how I get, I have a vision of a kind of book in my mind, and I just don't feel right until I read it. Luckily, it was pretty easy for me to find an angel book in my library, and this one was so interesting I was easily able to dive right into it. A different take on the usual kind of archangel books I've read, this one contained a new species of aliens I've never read before, ones that look exactly like humans and are able to hide their huge angel wings to blend in. I really enjoyed reading it.
Check out my full review here!
https://radioactivebookreviews.wordpr...
Check out my full review here!
https://radioactivebookreviews.wordpr...
October 6, 2021
This book was quite good, yeah, at times it went slightly weirded but it was ok. This girl sees this new guy, falls in love, turns out to be an alien/angel, starts fancying her protector, then goes to break up with the guy she fancied first and finds out he actually is some evil alien/angel in the process. Then there is a rushed section where she is rescued by her protector (the one she loves) and then all of a sudden they are out again killing the guy! A bit of a midsummer nights dream, but enjoyable!
September 11, 2022
Good Start to a Series
This is the first book I have read by Author, Melanie Nilles and the first book in her Starfire Angels: Dark Angel Chronicles series. This book is a clean, YA story with likeable characters, adventure, action and some romantic feelings. It entails a coming of age type feel with a very special twist. I look forward to reading the next book in the series in the future.
This is the first book I have read by Author, Melanie Nilles and the first book in her Starfire Angels: Dark Angel Chronicles series. This book is a clean, YA story with likeable characters, adventure, action and some romantic feelings. It entails a coming of age type feel with a very special twist. I look forward to reading the next book in the series in the future.
July 1, 2020
I feel like the potential of this story was wasted. there was a lot of promise and uniqueness, but In the end it didn't fully deliver. I still thought it was a good read, but I wish there had been more depth and character development. everything just kind of seemed very 2 dimensional to me.
March 6, 2021
Fantasy listening
Due to eye issues Alexa reads to me. A will written romantic fantasy Sci-Fi thriller novel with interesting will developed characters. The story line is complicated and fast moving as a young girl grows up. The ending is violent. Enjoy reading 🔰2021 😉
Due to eye issues Alexa reads to me. A will written romantic fantasy Sci-Fi thriller novel with interesting will developed characters. The story line is complicated and fast moving as a young girl grows up. The ending is violent. Enjoy reading 🔰2021 😉
February 10, 2018
Did not enjoy this one as much as I wanted too.
May 19, 2018
Fast
This story I fast paced and kept me flipping the pages. The characters are relatable, the plot quick and intense.
This story I fast paced and kept me flipping the pages. The characters are relatable, the plot quick and intense.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 244 reviews