Archangel of Mercy
4 HEARTS
From Goodreads
Between an angel and a desperate woman comes salvation and a raw passion that challenges them at every turn…
When Aurora Robinson attempts to open a rift between dimensions to embrace her true heritage, an arrogant Archangel is the only one who can save her from the jaws of hell. And while she owes Gabriel her life, she's determined not to fall at his feet-despite the desire she feels whenever they're together.
After his wings were brutally destroyed millennia ago, Gabriel has no compassion for humans like those who ruined him and betrayed the ones he loved. But when he inexplicably finds himself defying ancient protocols to rescue a woman from a fate worse than death, he is shocked by the searing attraction he feels for a mortal.
As the ancient forces that seek to punish Aurora for her actions close in, Gabriel offers the tempting woman protection at his private sanctuary. But as they both succumb to their desires, they discover an even deeper connection-one that threatens to consume them.
This is a difficult review for me to write. I really liked this book but there were a ton of things that were wrong with it. I want you to understand however that I found Archangel of Mercy thoroughly engaging despite its many flaws and I think you should try it.
Let's start with Gabe. He is an extremely unlikable hero. He's a complete elitist who looks down on everybody around him. He treats our heroine Aurora like crap for a good part of the book and expects her to be thrilled with his obnoxious behavior. In spite of all these defects though I found Gabe enjoyable once we got to know the real man. I'm just sorry it took so long to reveal the gem that he truly is.
Another thing that can be considered a flaw in this book was the world-building. Talk about intricate and multilayered! I had a difficult time keeping up with all the info that this book contained. I mean, I understand needing to spend a good portion of the first book in a series on the world-building but I think that this was a bit too much. I can see readers getting lost. Nonetheless the world was fascinating and amazing. I applaud Ashcroft's creativity and imagination. She managed to combine fantasy, paranormal and sci-fi. She even managed to talk about Archangels and demons while totally sidestepping any religious complications. Very impressive.
Something else that I found off about this book was despite all detail there was practically no info about Aurora's mother's home world. That didn't makes to me. Why put so much effort into creating one world while not even bothering to name another?
While I can forgive a lot of the screw-ups in this book there is one major omission in the story that I can't forget about. It's slightly spoilerish but it needs to be said. How the hell does Gabe have his beloved's necklace? There is just no logic in that. I simply can't comprehend how he would have it with the circumstances that the author created.
There are a couple of other bothersome things about this book, including a scene where Gabe somewhat forces himself on Aurora but I think I highlighted the major ones.
One thing that I can't find fault with in this book was the sexual tension between the protagonists. Holy hotness did they throw off sparks! Their passion was exhilarating and the scenes were absolutely delicious. Be prepared from some serious sexing!
Now I know that I've just given you a bunch of things that was messed up about this book but I honestly mean it when I say that I that I really enjoyed this novel. From the very moment Gabe fell into Aurora's lap I was riveted and engrossed in the story.
This is the first novel by Christina Ashcroft that I've read but I can guarantee that it won't be the last. If you're into dark heroes with tortured pasts and intense sexual desires that will have the pages sizzling in your hands, then I suggest you read Archangel of Mercy.
*Book was provided by the publisher via NetGalley for an honest review.
Hotness Rating
4 out of 5
I do have this book on my shelves, a gift from someone disappointed with it. Reading your review does not make me want to read it anytime soon.
ReplyDeleteSee, that's what was hard about this review. I really liked the book but I felt I needed to be honest and point out the issues that I found with it. I totally plan on continuing with the series.
Delete