Angelfire (Angelfire Series #1)

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Angelfire (Angelfire Series #1) Pub. Date: 1/17/2012 Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers
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Angelfire (Angelfire Series #1) Pub. Date: 2/15/2011 Publisher: HarperCollins Children's Books

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Overview

First there are nightmares. Then come the memories. Now she must hunt.

Ellie can’t shake the terrifying dreams about monstrous creatures that are hunting her, killing her. Then she meets Will and feels on the verge of remembering something just beyond her grasp. His attention is intense and romantic, and Ellie feels like her soul has known him for centuries. When they meet on a dark street at midnight, Will awakens Ellie’s power, and she knows that she can fight the creatures that stalk her in the grim darkness. Will holds the key to Ellie’s memories, whole lifetimes of them, and she can no longer pretend anything was just a dream.

Her role is to hunt and kill the reapers that prey on human souls. In order to survive, she must also hunt for the secrets of her past lives, the dangerous and ancient battle of the angels and the Fallen, and truths that may be too frightening to remember.

Angelfire is achingly romantic, terrifying, and filled with blistering action.

Editorial Reviews

Publishers Weekly

Although the angel subgenre isn't languishing, reworking traditional Judeo-Christian beliefs to suit one's plot still takes chutzpah, and first-time author Moulton has no qualms about amping up her fight scenes with the risk of damnation. Not for her 17-year-old kick-butt heroine, Ellie Monroe, who is eternally reincarnated, but for those she fails to protect, who are dragged to Hell. Ellie doesn't know she's the powerful "Preliator" at first, and is more concerned with her lousy grades, her parents' fighting, and the car she's getting for her birthday. When Will, a handsome stranger, approaches her, she thinks it's flirtation until a monster attacks. Will awakens Ellie's latent power, most importantly her ability to wield angelfire to destroy demonic "reapers." Moulton attempts to work in and revise so much angelic lore that the nature of the reality Ellie has awakened to is a bit garbled. The Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon clarity of the fight scenes, however, is unimpeachable. Ellie can be maddeningly slow on the uptake, but this is one heroine who's happy to take matters (and angelic swords) into her own hands. Ages 14–up. (Mar.)

VOYA

Ellie's nightmares are growing increasingly worse. No amount of therapy or medication can stop her nightly descent into a world of deadly battles with demonic reapers. Any hopes of remaining a normal teenager screech abruptly to a halt on her seventeenth birthday, when the mysterious and handsome stranger, Will, awakens her power and she sees the reapers are, indeed, very real and determined to destroy her. She is the Preliator, an ancient warrior whose body and soul are repeatedly reincarnated. It is her heaven-sent duty use the angelfire of her ancient weapons to kill the demons that are devouring innocent human souls and sending them to Hell to build Lucifer's army in preparation for the Apocalypse. With Will as her Guardian, Ellie must combat pure evil while hiding her true identity. This is the first in a trilogy of the preparations for the ultimate war between good and evil. The author has introduced a dark and compelling world of action and intrigue, albeit with enough "normal" drama and humor sprinkled throughout to lighten it. Ellie is quite relatable as a teenage girl reluctantly thrust into a role of unimaginable importance, and her relationship with Will has substance along with romantic overtones. Several fascinating characters and storylines are introduced, with the unspoken expectation that their importance will be revealed as the series progresses. Older junior and senior high school readers will find themselves engrossed in the story until its powerful conclusion—then anxiously awaiting the second installment. Reviewer: Julie Watkins

More Reviews (4) Fewer Reviews

Children's Literature

In an epic battle of good versus evil, Ellie will quickly be forced into understanding and must use her powers to defeat the reapers. Her journey begins with terrifying nightmares of horrific monsters who are hunting her and trying to kill her. These nightmares become a nightly occurrence and then Ellie begins having scary memories. The action-packed and suspenseful plot will have the reader intrigued and when Will enters the storyline, he brings intense romance that will balance the book perfectly. When Will comes into Ellie's life she immediately feels a deep connection of their souls. It is Will who will awaken Ellie's powers on her seventeenth birthday, when she must finally face her true destiny. The reapers prey on human souls and Ellie's purpose is to hunt and kill them. The only challenge is she must first reveal the secrets of her past lives and the many truths that are too terrifying to remember. Reviewer: Lisette Baez

School Library Journal

Gr 10 Up—How can a normal 17-year-old suddenly deal with an awakened power, learn to wield magical blades properly, save the world, and fall in love with her 500-year-old Guardian? These questions are answered as angels, horrible beasts, and superpowers meet in the Detroit suburbs where Ellie attends high school. Her nightmares start to make sense when she is introduced to the dark world in which reapers are intent on destroying her as well as the rest of humanity. Handsome and mysterious Will helps awaken her powers and guides her as she discovers who she really is. Fans of the supernatural genre will recognize echoes of recycled plot devices such as the returned savior who needs training, dark and swirly tattoo markings, and an ancient book that gives details on fighting demons (to name a few). Though the writing is rushed and loose, offering plenty of clichés, the story does have a fair dose of action, clothes, shopping, drama, and romance. First in a planned trilogy, with a media blitz and flashy author website to bolster sales, this is likely to be requested where supernatural romance adventures are a hot item.—Angela J. Reynolds, Annapolis Valley Regional Library, Bridgetown, NS, Canada

Kirkus Reviews

Spoiled rich girl discovers she has a destiny to kill demons and maybe prevent Armageddon. Ellie is the Preliator, a reincarnated fighter with angelic connections, destined to kill Reapers before they kill people and send their souls to Hell. Her guide is Will, who has watched her back for 500 years and has really intense green eyes. Despite magical flaming blades, a convoluted but interesting angel angle and forbidden romance, this first-in-a-series ultimately fails because Ellie is so intensely unlikable. On her 17th birthday she receives an Audi, which is quickly destroyed, and seems more upset at the car's demise than the death of her favorite teacher. Too much time is devoted to minutiae (dress shopping, who likes who, drinking) at the expense of the paranormal plot, which is all exposition and action scenes. Ellie's habit of turning her back on deadly enemies mid-fight to run to check on Will and the inability of anyone to ever kill anyone else get old pretty quickly, and the late-breaking random appearance of a sexy bad-boy reaper is just pandering to the love triangle trope. The most amazing thing about this book might be the fact that it manages to avoid any references to Buffy the Vampire Slayer despite obvious parallels and a final line that sounds like it could've come straight from the show. Yes, the teen appetite for the formulaic appears bottomless and angels are the new vampire, but this one never rises above mediocre. (Paranormal romance. YA)

Kirkus Reviews

Product Details

ISBN-13: 9780062002358
Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers
Publication date: 1/17/2012
Pages: 453
Sales rank: 67,999
Age range: 14 years
Series: Angelfire Series , #1
Product dimensions: 5.46 (w) x 8.22 (h) x 1.25 (d)

Meet the Author

Courtney Allison Moulton

Courtney Allison Moulton lives in Michigan, where she is a photographer and spends all her free time riding and showing horses. She is the author of Angelfire and Wings of the Wicked, and she is hard at work on her next novel.

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ParaBooks

Posted December 31, 2010

Just simply AWESOME!

Angelfire was one of those books that I just couldn't put down. I fell in love with the characters right away. Ellie is a wonderfully crafted, strong YA female character. It was so refreshing to read about a girl who actually knows how to apply eyeliner (likes it) and is not ashamed to admit she likes to party with her friends and dance with guys. But in the next moment she's dropping monsters and slashing her swords through the air, taking on her role as protector with humility, strength, and grace (no whining). I am impressed with the relationship she has with her best friend, Kate. They portrayed a true friendship and cared for one another, even though Ellie couldn't divulge her secret, she still kept her close and made time for her and her other friends. Will is fast becoming one of my favorite male leads in YA fiction. Not only is he drop dead gorgeous (I Love tats) but he is fierce and protective without being possessive or cocky (not too cocky). He accepts that Ellie still needs to keep a semblance of her life as a teenage girl, while guiding her into becoming the warrior she needs to be. The way he loves her so selflessly, tugs at my heart strings and causes a little ache deep inside my chest. The writing is near flawless. Written in first person, it's paced perfectly and with clarity. The voice of the novel is really what impressed me the most. At no time did I feel that I was reading from a younger or older perspective, it was spot on for a seven-teen-year-old girl. Nor did I question the mythology Ms. Moulton created. I felt as if I was right beside Ellie, experiencing everything first hand, and desperately not wanting it to end. It's been a long time since I found a character that I loved as much as Buffy Summers and I'm ecstatic that I get to read more of Ellie's story! With its heart-stopping action, breath-taking romance, and beautifully descriptive scenes, I give Angelfire 5 flames!From my blog at YA Bound

15 out of 16 people found this review helpful.
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danibookworm91

Posted February 14, 2011

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Butt Kicking Debut

I was intrigued by Angelfire's premise and was not let down. In this stunning debut, Courtney Allison Moulton a butt kicking novel.

Angelfire was something new and intriguing. Once I started it, I could not put it down. From the first chapter to the last page I was drawn in. What made this book was truly the characters and there interactions with each other. Ellie was a kick ass heroine. Even as she was discovering who she was and what she was Ellie still had a certain spark to her. And Will was a hot bundle of mystery. And there is Cadan who did not have a huge role, but was definitely a bigger mystery then Will and I have a feeling will be seeing a bunch more of him later.

This book had tons of butt kicking, action packed scenes. Ellie and Will get there share of kicking reapers butts. And let me say, I loved these action scenes, they were awesome. While reading them, I felt like I could picture exactly what was going on as if I was watching an action movie. I literally could not get enough of them.

I loved how Courtney Allison Moulton was able to make this story completely unique and her own. Angelfire was truly a story I've never read before. The plot was fresh and kept me on the edge of my seat, and the twist at the end, BRILLANT! Angelfire is a must read and I will definitely be waiting on the edge of my seat for its sequel.

9 out of 9 people found this review helpful.
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BooksWithBite

Posted November 23, 2010

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A must read!

One thing I love about books is the idea of them. I love to read books where it present a unique idea or theme. Angelfire is a unique book. With the idea of reapers, angels, and reincarnations, Ms. Moulton certainly gave the literature world a great adventure.The minute I started this book, it one was that I knew I could not put down.

Elli's nightmares are getting worse. No matter what she does, they get more realistic and more tiring each and every night. A young man by the name of Will, appears in her life, spawning a lifetime of secrets that she never knew before. She's has had hundreds of lives in which she fought reapers who steal the souls of humans. Now that her power has awakened once more, she must fight to save the lives of those she loves.

The adventure and the fighting in this book was phenomenal! I really enjoyed Elli kicking butt and remembering her past lives. Each times she fought another reaper, she got better and better, wielding herself into the warrior that she is. She began to find herself and her destiny.

I also enjoyed the romance in this book. Not only did it play out well, but it gave the notion that there was something more between Ellie and Will. I love the mysteriousness of it. It gave me something to look forward to while reading. The whole relationship was quite a surprise. I hope that it can work out for them in the end.

Ms. Moulton did a great job capturing the voice of a teenage girl combined with the whole reaper made for an excellent recipe I could enjoy. Elli was strong, beautiful, and smart. I also like how she incorporated her own love for horses in the book. It nice to see the author put something about themselves in their writing.

This is one debut author that has left me begging for more. Much more!

7 out of 8 people found this review helpful.
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Jessie153

Posted March 2, 2011

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A MUST READ!!!

At first I thought this book was going to be a bit boring BUT... I was WRONG this book is GREAT!! I love the relationship that Will and Ellie have together and I like the whole figthing with Lucifer's monster. It was an excellent book. I will recommend this book to all my friends people should read this book ASAP!!

6 out of 6 people found this review helpful.
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LLL_Reviews

Posted November 26, 2010

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Angelfire is indeed filled with Blistering Action...

Angelfire is indeed filled with Blistering Action all the while maintaining a sweet and gradual romance. ***************** Ellie is a mix between being a normal teen and a lethal weapon for the good side. I enjoyed the complexity with trying to be a normal teen of going to the movies, attending parties and naming her first car Marshmellow then learning that she has powers which has her protecting mankind. ***************** The best part is the action. The fighting scenes are written with excitement. Especially, after seeing the cover it is amazing to actually read about Ellie wielding her Khopesh swords. Then there is her Guardian, Will, who moves like liquid- swift and quick. Moulton does not spare the fighters. They are put through the ringer. When Ellie's nightmares become reality and see can see into the grim and the reapers that hide there she is immediately engulfed into this world she can't seem to remember from past lives. ***************** Ellie's Mother is also a treat. Mostly, parents seem to be non-existent in YA novels but her Mother was around. Granted maybe not as well since she could sneak out nightly. However, I think she was written perfectly to offset the father. I found Ellie's mom's solutions fair although as a mom myself I would do a few things differently. ***************** The downside is I feel a bit confused or left hanging. Ellie's father and his aggression is mentioned often. I was hoping to get down to the nit and grit of why that is. We are told that he was a loving father at one time but then something change. How come? Does it have something to do with who Ellie really is and her purpose on Earth or is it a martial/mid0life crisis thing. Another confusion comes towards the ending when Ellie learns who she really is. I don't think I can fully explain without giving away a key element to the mystery. It's not a big deal but I am hoping to eventually discuss this with someone else when they read it as well. ***************** All in all, Angelfire is a great read. I would recommend this novel to anyone who loves YA paranormal romance. The intended audience will love this one and adults who enjoy YA will too.

4 out of 4 people found this review helpful.
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The_Ending_Unplanned

Posted October 14, 2010

Great Debut

This is Ms. Moulton's debut, a novel written for 2008's NaNoWriMo. As a writer myself, the fact that she crafted this intricate story in only thirty days is something I madly respect.

ANGELFIRE weaves together tales of mythology, biblical creatures, past lives, romance, suspense and danger. Seventeen-year-old Ellie finds herself thrust in the middle of an epic battle between Heaven and Hell and the war over human souls. Believing herself to be an average teenage girl, she questions why her horrific nightmares are becoming more frequent and vivid, and why a mysterious-and hot-older guy begins following her around.

The mysterious guy turns out to be Will, Ellie's Guardian, who has been waiting sixty years for her reincarnation so they can begin again the battle against the reapers-demonic creatures obsessed with devouring human souls for Satan's army. After awakening Ellie, Will helps her regain her past lives knowledge and instructs her in how to fight the demons with the one weapon only she can wield-angelfire.

Despite these revelations, in Ellie's heart she's just a normal teenage girl attempting to balance school, Daddy issues, friends, unwanted male advances and forbidden love. For those looking for romance, you get plenty of it here. We have Landon, the hot best friend who wants to be more. Will, the guitar-playing Guardian protector who keeps his distance. And Caden, the sexy bad boy on the wrong side of the battle but with obvious hidden depths yet to explore.

There is a lot to praise in this debut offering, and only a few minor criticisms. Some of the flashback scenes of Ellie's past lives dragged down the pacing and a few I found a little boring and unnecessary, but these are minor issues. It did take me a little while to get into the plot of the story, but once I did, I thoroughly enjoyed the ride. I was pleasantly surprised throughout the novel by little plot points and moments that were unexpected. The author kept me guessing for half the book on the exact relationship between Ellie and Will, as well as her relationship with her father and her best friend Landon. And I can say that I did not expect the revelation in regards to Ellie's true identity.

ANGELFIRE is the first in the trilogy, with WINGS OF THE WICKED expected in 2012 and HYMN TO THE FALLEN in 2013.

This installment ends with a hint of the adventure to come, and plenty of questions unanswered. Can Will and Ellie stop the apocalypse? Will their enemies unleash the weapon that can destroy Ellie's soul forever? Will they ever kiss again?

I know I will be looking forward to the next in this series to find out!

4 out of 4 people found this review helpful.
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stampymom

Posted March 7, 2011

Angelfire Reviewed

It's great to see a real kick-ass heroine in a young adult novel, although she doesn't quite start out that way. Ellie is reluctant in the beginning to accept that she is indeed a kick-ass girl that can defeat monsters that seem hell bent on killing her. Once El accepts her fate and starts really fighting is when I really started liking her. I loved Will and his seemingly uptight ways. Though he is much younger Will often times reminds me of Giles from Buffy. Sometimes I felt like I was predicting what was going to happen in the story a little to easily and then I would get thrown for a surprise a little later. I loved having those little twists and turns thrown at me. The secondary characters were great as well though this book really focuses mostly on Will, El, and of course the evil that they are up against. With so much action and great characters this was a super fast read. I truly enjoyed reading this outstanding new book from upcoming author Courtney Allison Moulton and can't wait to read book 2!! Jump up and add this to your shopping cart if you haven't already you won't be disappointed.

3 out of 3 people found this review helpful.
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ACoverLover

Posted February 25, 2011

Awesome Debut! Recommended

Angelfire was a really good, fun read for me. It was very well-rounded in the fact that it included a well written romance, beautiful character development, and some pretty kick ass action! At first, I wasn't sure if I was really going to love this book. However, the introduction of Will's character along with Ellie's first dream 'scene', had me hooked from that point forward. Moulton's debut was a stellar one, that's for sure. This book had me on the edge of my seat, wincing with the blood-filled action and wanting to yell 'Just kiss her ALREADY'! I absolutely love the author's writing style. She made it easy for me to connect with the characters and the emotions she was going through. The transitions from action scenes back to Ellie's everyday life where as smooth as a baby's bottom. If you are looking for a read that will have you holding your breath and staying up all night just to finish, this 2011 YA debut is for you! I definitely recommend it.

3 out of 3 people found this review helpful.
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minieminimoe

Posted February 19, 2011

Fantastic!

The book lured me in within the first few pages. I feel in love with it, especially with Will! I can not wait for the 2nd book! This book I would say has to be a must read! It is a mix of romance and action. The main character I do like which I must say is good because I most of the time I don't like teenage girls because of the way people portray them. The action was full on, the author did very well writing this book. This book keeps you reading, it couldn't make me stop putting it down. I highly recommend this book, especially if you are into angels!

3 out of 3 people found this review helpful.
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JonesyAZ

Posted February 17, 2011

Angelfire Takes a Kick-Ass Page From the Buffy Handbook

"I held both of my arms out and willed weapons into my open palms. The twin Khopesh swords appeared out of nothing in a flash of shimmering light. The curving silver blades glinted brightly. I glanced over at Will. I could now see intricate black tattoos twisting out from beneath his right arm to his knuckles. I remembered the beautiful symbols woven into the spiraling design, because I'd seen them before with different eyes, in another time. My thoughts were calm and unnervingly clear. The blades exploded into white flames at my command. The swords felt right in my grasp, like hugging an old friend." (~from Ch. 3)

Awakened on her seventeenth birthday, Ellie Monroe discovers she has ultimate powers as the Preliator - the only mortal able to hunt and kill the reapers, creatures who stalk their prey in the Grim and battle for the souls of the Fallen. Even though she has been reincarnated over the centuries, she has been watched over by her Guardian, the handsome and rugged Will. As she struggles to remember who/what she is with her desire to stay a "normal" teen, she realizes her duty to serve the greater good is one she can't ignore.

The Review:
I'll admit it..this is my first book about angels. There I said it - please don't shoot me! I've been a fan of the vamps, the werewolves, and the faeries but I can see the angels making their way to the top of the "In" list now. And honestly, that's okay with me. Angelfire was the perfect book to expose me to this group of paranormal protectors. I have always seen angels as dainty and pure, but this story is full of butt-kicking action. Moulton's ability to tell a story and reveal the plot piece by piece is fantastic; this book was a total page-turner for me and I literally couldn't put it down..I stayed up until 2:00 in the morning reading!

Here's what I found exciting about this book:
1) a female character who isn't whiny and waiting to be saved
2) a paranormal world that has a folklore all it's own - and Moulton does a great job of putting it out there in bits, not giving us chapters of history that can be cumbersome to read at once
3) a complexity in the plot that kept me engaged in the story and wanting to know what was going to happen next..enough foreshadowing to not be confused, but not too much cliché to be bored with what was happening
4) swords and weapons that appear at will, tattoos written in ancient languages, a sarcophagus that needs to be destroyed, and just the right amount of pop culture jokes about all of them to make me laugh aloud,
and most importantly..
5) a romance with a guy who constantly says "As you wish." and "I'd follow you anywhere." (Really, who doesn't want that?!?!)

I can't help but compare this to Buffy, the Vampire Slayer - which happens to be one of favorite shows ever. Watching Ellie struggle with her responsibility to fight for the greater good and her desire to stay "normal" and have a teenage life is one that Buffy famously brought to our attention when we wander into the paranormal realm. The story stands on it's own, but I'm glad that there will be more to come so I can see Ellie blossom and reach her full potential. The ending gives you a glimpse into her true identity and capability to bring down all the creepy, crazy, and crafty creatures that haunt and threaten her. Trust me, you'll want to read more.

Rating: 4
(Awesome, kick-butt action & a hot guy with wings! You can't go wrong.)

3 out of 4 people found this review helpful.
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Nikkayme

Posted February 15, 2011

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Action Packed With Strong Characters and Witty Dialogue

Ellie used to be normal, with a normal family and normal friends, but with her 17th birthday quickly approaching, strange nightmares beat at the back of her mind. Then on the night she turns 17, Will, a boy who strikes déjà vu in her mind, turns up outside her house and literally opens her eyes to the world around her. Ellie has been reincarnated time and again as the Preliator, the one who stands against the demonic reapers of the world and with Will as her Guardian, the two must face down the evil that is eager to tear out her soul.

Courtney Allison Moulton has just made me fall in love.with an angel story. This is a rare feat, as I do not generally go for angel stories, but this one blew my socks off, stuck them in the dryer, and made them all toasty warm for me. Just the way I like em'! If that made no sense to you, it just means the book was awesome.

Angelfire offers something for everyone: action, romance, incredible world-building, and plenty of snarky dialogue. Ellie is badass, but not cold. Her human nature and emotional vulnerability make her easy to relate to and easy to like. Also, the fact that she names her oh so pretty Audi, Marshmallow, helps. Then there's Will. Oh Will. If you follow me on Twitter you would have seen my readiness to throw down and fight over Will because he is so worth it. And, Ellie jokingly calls him Batman - who just so happens to be my favorite superhero - so Will is full of win. He's also gorgeous and tough and willing to fight to the death, you know, to protect a girl (and the world). He's exactly the right amount of tortured emo boy, but fun at the same time.

Courtney Allison Moulton surprised me with Angelfire. I wasn't expecting to enjoy it as much as I did and I think her writing contributes a great deal to my love for the book. The snarky banter between Ellie and Will never gets old and the dialogue in general flows so well. Ellie is hilarious at times, but breaks down as well. She feels very, very real. I'm more than eager to see where the story goes, what happens with the bad guy, and how Ellie further deals with her mess of a life.

Opening line: I stared out the classroom window and longed for freedom, wanting to be anywhere in the world other than gaping up at my economics teacher like the rest of my classmates. ~ pg. 11

Favorite lines: This is why I love Will: "Ellie, you need to understand," he said softly. "I exist only to serve you and fight by your side. Whether that fighting is to preserve your life or to make sure you smile, that is what I am built to do. You're all I have, and I will watch over you forever." ~ pg. 136

And I love this line:

"So no, love doesn't make you blind. It paralyzes you until you can't breathe or run away from it." ~ pg. 145

*This is the e-ARC version and lines, pages, cover art may be subject to change before official publication

3 out of 3 people found this review helpful.
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Stacey_C

Posted February 15, 2011

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I Also Recommend:

Great Girl Power Action Packed Debut!

This is a great debut! Angelfire is full of action, heart and humor and also Ellie totally kicks butt! When we first meet Ellie, her biggest concern in life is if she'll get a car for her 17th birthday. But the night she turns 17 she meets a strange boy, Will, and her life takes a dramatic left turn.

On her 17th birthday, Ellie learns that she possesses an amazing power, the ability wield angelfire. And with this power, she is tasked to make the difference in the war to save souls. Ellie is an ancient warrior whose soul is reincarnated and she is a reaper slayer, and Will is her ever loyal wing man. Together their job is to slay reapers, the warriors of Satin sent to obtain souls for his arm for the final battle. Only one hitch, this reincarnation doesn't seem to be progressing like the others have over the last 500+ years. Ellie is slow to get her memory back and the reapers seem to be on a larger mission than just obtaining souls for Lucifer. The story progresses and Ellie finds out more of her past and why the reapers are acting so strangely; this action filled plot leads the reader to an ending that will have you begging for book 2, Wings of the Wicked (due out in 2012).

I loved that Ellie was the girl with the power and that Will was her "side kick" (not that you could EVER call Will that to his face). Ellie is it, she's the girl with the devein calling, the one on the mission, and that's super cool! I love that Courtney found a balance for Ellie between the desires of a normal girl and that of a girl with sacred mission.

Will has become one of my favorite fictional male characters of all time. He shows a love a devotion to this girl who is ever changing. Ellie and Will are connected in a very profound way, yes he's given an oath to protect her and have her back while in battle, but over the centuries it has grown to something more deep and everlasting. For as much action as this book has, it also has amazing heart. Some of the best moments are when Will and Ellie are just talking and doing normal things while in the middle of these so not normal situations (i.e. while trying to figure out how to explain what happened to poor Marshmallow , Ellie's new car - may he rest in peace).

Courtney has also done a wonderful job of creating a supporting cast of characters. Ellie's human friends give some comic relief and show how important it is that Ellie does her job. Will's friend Nathaniel and their other associates add to the rich back story and drive the plot forward. Then there's Cadan and the other reapers. These bad guys have a depth to them. They are working to their own ends beyond the reaping of souls. Courtney has built supporting characters with depth that make you wonder about them, they aren't just there to prop up Ellie, they have a life of their own that adds to the richness of the world.

3 out of 3 people found this review helpful.
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ReadingAngel002

Posted February 15, 2011

Exciting

Angelfire was a unique story that was gripping and suspenseful, yet sweet and romantic as well. It was well rounded and kept my attention throughout. I really liked the storyline of a young girl being brought into her powers to fight these creatures, finding out she is someone who is helping in the ultimate battle of good verses evil.

Ellie was an interesting character. She was very vulnerable and flawed, yet she could turn into this amazing fighting machine with a single minded purpose that kicks major butt. There were times that she was slightly annoying, but those moments were definitely outweighed by the moments she was amazing me. Will was swoon-worthy and definitely made my heart skip a few beats. He was so loyal and strong and hot! YUM! I need a Will that is all my own!

The only thing I didn't love about the book was that I would have liked a little closure before the end of the book. I love series, and don't mind cliffhangers, but I still like at least part of a story, or some threads of the story, to be brought to a close each book. This one didn't really have an ending to any of the threads, it's just all kind of left in the open for future books in the series. That being said, I simply can't wait to find out where this series will go with book 2 and how the characters, relationships, and battle will develop.

3 out of 3 people found this review helpful.
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EllzReadz

Posted February 1, 2011

An exciting start

My thoughts...Angelfire is the first book in the trilogy and it did a great job of setting up the world that Ellie is living in. One day, it is normal. Ellie is a very wealthy, yet fairly normal girl who suffers from extreme nightmares. The next day, she finds herself in a strange world filled with foul creatures who want to kill her and a new identity of the Preliator. Not to mention this unusual boy, who oozes mystery. There are some suspicious characters that may be hiding some secrets, I am sure more will be revealed in future books.

There is quite a bit of action in Angelfire, some of it gruesome. Ellie struggles to remember her strength and role as protector. She fights some pretty scary creatures and takes a few good hits. There is the beginning a relationship developing, but I think more of that will develop in future books.

Overall, I liked Angelfire. It is a solid start to a new series, one that I will continue to read!

3 out of 3 people found this review helpful.
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shmy

Posted January 22, 2011

more from this reviewer

Almost okay.

My main problem I didn't like the characters. I didn't like Ellie. I tried. I swear I did. In fact, had this book just been about Preliator Ellie, I'd probably would have rated it higher. Ellie's problems in her human life are those of a rich girl problems, as Chris, one of the characters would say. Ellie has a rocky relationship with her father, which either is poor writing or Ellie's father has been taken over by some reaper (that's my theory not a spoiler). Ellie thinks that no teenager should feel the way she feels. when her parents fight. Granted it's probably true, it just doesn't seem like what a teenager would think, it seems like what the author wants the reader to feel about Ellie. Last, she tries to be humble by saying how she understands other teenagers don't get cars on their birthdays, but since she has to deal with her parents fighting it's almost a trade off. Girl. How can you even compare the two? Also there are kids who do not get cars and still have their parents fighting. Think about that. Ellie doesn't want to put her friends in danger when she knows the reapers will attack her. So you'd think she would try to go home, prepare to fight or something along those lines, except she doesn't she goes to parties, and after parties never even trying to protect her friends while dragging Will with she can. Ellie knows there are reapers out there trying to kill, yet she thinks getting drunk is a good idea. It wasn't the underage drinking that bothered me, I'd be a hypocrite if it was, it was her poor decision making that bothered me.

Going back to her rich girl problems, and this may be a pet peeve that didn't influence my rating of this book, the name dropping is obnoxious. My Audi, my mom's Mercedes, Kate's BMW, my Badgley Mishka dress that I bought for my party and goes along with my Marc Jacobs shoes. Can teenagers really relate to this? I don't know about the US, but if this book ever gets translated and sold in other countries the answer is a big fat no. Now there's Kate, Ellie's friend whose only dialogue during the book is to offer alcohol and ask Ellie if she's dating Will. She had at least three conversations with this same topic. I liked Will, he was moody, but his whole "I'm your soldier," attitude pleased me. All men should be like that. Kidding!

Okay now that I discussed why I didn't like it, let's talk about what I did like. Moulton is very good at creating her own world, and it was this what kept me reading. The description and history of the reapers is very well done, I even wanted to to google the Grigori's (a fallen angel family) after I was done reading. The pacing of the book is very well done too, with unexpected action here and there. I also liked the idea that Will is Ellie's solider, and how she is supposed to be stronger than him. Well that's new in YA! There are hints of a romance between Ellie and Will, but they are very subtle and it is definitely not the focus of the book.

Will I read the next one in the series? My heart will not bleed if I don't.

3 out of 8 people found this review helpful.
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Jen_the_Bibliophile

Posted December 23, 2010

Amazing Story and Sizzling Characters!

Yum! This book was amazingly delicious in every sense of the word. Now, I want to tell you that I was very skeptical about it at first. I've had some not so good experiences recently with angel books (angel related?) so I was a bit....deterred. But, I'm always about a heroin who kicks some a$$ and doesn't always have to rely on someone else -*clears throat*namely strong protective/co-dependent boyfriend - , and Ellie was my girl there (most of the time anyway). Plus, she was funny in an offbeat sort of way - she had definitely honed in on her sarcasm.

I was a little slow to start into it, but eventually I was so hooked I couldn't put it down. It was just so action packed and crazy eventful that I couldn't help myself. Or maybe it was the characters. I liked Ellie, she was fun and lovely and didn't take crap. Although, I really did feel for her concerning her father (what is it with crappy fathers?). But I think she took all the crap that came her way in stride. She may have had a bit too much angst, but what 17 year old isn't angsty?!

But, really it came down to her love interest...Will! Could I just tell you all I have another fictional boyfriend I'm adding to the tally! I mean, come on, the guy was smokin', shove against the wall, sex on a stick hot! I loved his tattoos. Not that I could actually see him (as he is my fictional boyfriend), but I could completely and totally imagine it. He was like the guy that could be bad, but acted good. You know exactly what I'm talking about here, I know you do.... *prrrr, lick, lick*

I liked some of the other secondary characters, namely Nathaniel, Will's friend, and I did like Ellie's mom, but most of the other characters I didn't really care for. They were just kind of passe and forgettable. But in the end it didn't really matter because the story isn't about them, it's about Ellie and her fight against the dark forces. *mwah ha ha*

It's about her finding what she is made of and fighting the evil that wants to take the souls of humans to Hell. She is the only one who can call the Angelfire. She is the warrior who fights the good fight, the good fight with her wickedly scorching hot guardian, Will, by her side. He who has been with her for 500 years. He has secrets, but then again, she does too. It's quite a scintillating plot now that I'm thinking about it.

Overall, I really did like this book. And even though I thought the beginning might have been a bit slow, I liked everything else about it. I can't get it out of my head. Because, with some sweet flaming swords, sexy tats, reapers, the Phantom of the Opera, secrets galore and some touching that may make you sweat, you just won't want to put it down.

3 out of 4 people found this review helpful.
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MsGlam

Posted December 6, 2010

Highly Recommended!!

I really liked this book it had an original storyline and it was very explanatory in the mythology behind the story. At no point was I confused as to how the Angelfire world worked thus I was heavily engrossed in this book from the beginning up to the very end. Action within the book..Phenomenal! I loved the fighting scenes such detail. There's romance of that Romeo and Juliet nature which to me beats love triangle any day. I will admit that I do have questions but as this is the first of the series that is to be expected even though this book ended at a happy medium for me.

As for the characters while Ellie is my favorite the book being from her point of view I heart Ellie's BFF Kate. Kate had me cracking up. The friendship aspect of the book was well developed, it felt very natural. Will as the hot male lead covers all the basics (perfect yet flawed) so all in all he is yummy. I am looking forward to joining these characters again in the next installment

This book was skillfully written pulling me into the Angelfire world from the very first page with believable characters, well developed plot with a steady pace and refreshing creativity. I thoroughly enjoyed this book. 4/5 stars. I can't wait to read the next book in this series.

3 out of 4 people found this review helpful.
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CountryGirl55

Posted April 10, 2011

more from this reviewer

This is one great book!

Ok. I read a lot, and I was in B&N YESTERDAY, saw this book, and thought it would be OK. I took it home, and it I finished it just now. This is an awesome book! There is much discription, Will is perfect, (although he doesn't think so!) and Ellie is trying her best to take care of her problems.
Ellie is just a normal girl who has normal problems, well, she does before she meets Will, not accounting her terrible nightmares. She also can't remember anything from her past (and many) lives. She has to remember because Will wont tell her anything, and she is not as powerful as she once was.
She struggles with many problems, and it is a truly amazing book!
I highly reccomend to those of which like suspense, love stories, action, mythology, and books that make you think you are there!

2 out of 2 people found this review helpful.
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Astrid_Atehortua

Posted March 29, 2011

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Just beautiful!

A new YA Author has arrived!

'Angelfire' is one of my favorite books of 2010.

The story, the plot, the love, the commitment. I totally loved this book!

Don't you love a nicely, innocent boy, who will give his life just to save and protect you?
I had read angel's books lately; this one had a strong history, very developed, with the right and perfect love story behind it.

Ellie was a character who I immediately liked; this is always the first step for me when I have to decide if the book is worthy or not.

On the other hand, I fell in love with Will. I yelled 'AAAAHHHH!!' when I found that he had ALWAYS be in her side, protecting her, loving her. His innocent character makes my heart melt for him instantly.

I would definitely read the rest of the trilogy, hurra for Courtney Allison Moulton!

2 out of 2 people found this review helpful.
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kittydanza

Posted February 13, 2011

Pretty good

ANGELFIRE, by Courtney Allison Moulton, is full of action, romance, and suspense. Moulton conceived a world where human's greatest nightmares lie in wait right outside their vision.

I am partial to books that focus on angels and the like, so I was very excited to read this one. Ellie started off being a normal teenage girl wanting to hang out with friends and party. But Ellie is anything but normal. Moulton started the action right in the beginning with the introduction of Will and soon after, a reaper.

The reapers and other creatures that lived right beyond our world were terrifying. The visualization of the reapers and their characterizations really flautned Moulton's creative mind. I enjoyed the fight and training scenes betwen Ellie and Will. While reading I felt I was there it the fight with them. And Ellie's swords with angelfire were definitely impressive and added a little extra oomph to the fighting.

As much as I liked the book, I found myself getting bored with Ellie. It is understandable that in the beginning it would be a total shocker to discover that you are a reincarnated reaper-killing machine, but I think her resistance to the idea took way too long to get over. I would think her dead-beat dad and party-hardy friends couldn't compete with being a badass fighter. But in a way, my frustrations with her connected me more to the story so that I would (hopefully) see her accept her fate.

I am not one for spoilers, but I have some questions that will hopefully be answered in the next book. Overall, this was a great start to the series and I anxiously await number two!

Side note, how awesome is the cover? I love getting a look at her sword!!

2 out of 3 people found this review helpful.
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