I first met Griffin in Griffin Rising, the story of a young angel in training, fighting his way through very human issues and emotions. In that book, his character stole the show. I liked him a lot, and he continued to haunt me even after I stopped reading the book. Which was why I eagerly grabbed at the chance to read an early copy of Griffin’s Fire.
Griffin’s Fire is even better than Griffin Rising. The voice is stronger, the style more at ease, and the plot has thickened well. This is precisely how I like to see a series progress.
You just can’t help but feel for Griffin, who tries to hold his head up high despite life repeatedly kicking him around. One of the things I liked about him in this book, though, was his lack of perfection. He got angry. He hurt the people around him. He made mistakes. It all made him more genuine.
This series is not over, and I look forward to continuing Griffin’s adventure. My big hope, as the series continues, is that Griffin’s girlfriend, Katie, can step out from behind Griffin and become more herself. I’d like to know more about her, and judging from the uncertain nature of a romantic relationship between a short-lived human and a long-lived angel, she very much needs to find herself.
But mostly, I recommend this to mid-grade or young adult readers who like a strong central character that tears at your heart. Griffin surely will!
Rating: 4/5
Title: Griffin’s Fire
Author: Darby Karchut
ISBN: 1606192124
Publication Date: April 2012