Book Review: Foretold (The Demon Trappers, Book 4) by Jana Oliver

Title: Foretold

Author: Jana Oliver

Series: The Demon Trappers #4

Pages: 352

My Rating: ❤❤❤❤

In FORETOLD, the fourth Demon Trappers novel by Jana Oliver, Riley faces the final battle for humanity and Beck's heart—and Hell is the least of her problems

Now that Riley’s managed to (just barely) fend off Armageddon, everything’s changed. Well . . . most things. After their passionate kiss before the big battle in the cemetery, Beck is back to treating her like a little girl, as if nothing ever happened. While she’d love to just tell him off and move on, Riley vowed to take care of Beck the way he’s taken care of her since her father’s death—but she’s about to get a whole lot more than she bargained for. When she’s commissioned to go with Beck to his hometown and help him care for his dying mother, they stumble too close to a dark and murderous secret, one that Beck fears will drive Riley away from him forever. As chaos breaks loose, Riley may be Beck's only hope for redemption . . . and survival.

Meanwhile, up in Atlanta, it’s quickly becoming clear that Heaven may have won a battle, but the war is far from over. Riley and Beck face a stormy future, as Lucifer's ex-right-hand-man, Sartael, proves himself to be more resilient than anyone thought. He has Atlanta in his grip and is about to begin a brutal war with the prince of Hell. As the seconds tick down toward a final confrontation, it's up to Riley and the man she loves to finally defeat their old enemy, or lose everything they've fought for.

Based upon the premise and what had happened in the series thus far, I had high expectations for Foretold. For the majority of the book, I was very happy with how the story progressed; however, there were some portions that I felt were kind of unnecessary or odd to me. I absolutely loved the entire plot about Beck and Riley back in his hometown. It was full of mystery, intrigue, and even had a little character depth development. This storyline had me instantly reeled in and made me want to keep reading. Once that was wrapped up I was ready for some more action! I'm happy to report, that there was some more action, I mean in a world filled with demons there had to be!

Usually I do not have a problem with reading YA, and I haven't really had a problem with this series until this book specifically. It may have something to do with how sometimes I forget Riley's age, since she has such major "end-of-the-world" stuff going on. Or it could have something to do with how it was written. I honestly have no idea, but this entire concept in the story just rubbed me the wrong way.

I don't know if this would be considered a major spoiler or anything, but if you don't want any spoilers, skip ahead! ** Okay, so the portion of the story that just seemed so out of place was the prom. It was sweet that Beck asked, but at the same time, him asking her on a nice date or setting up something special for her would have made me feel a bit better. I know Riley is still a teenager and thus, it's appropriate that she goes to prom, but still....it was all a bit weird to me. Additionally, the dress described was no way near what I would have pictured Riley in. It had little rosettes...on the neckline...rosettes!!**

Okay, now that I'm done with that little rant, I will sum up by saying that overall, I did really enjoy the Demon Trappers series as a whole thus far! I know that originally Foretold was to be the final book in this series, but I am happy to see that there are actually two additional books (besides novellas) that will enable us to see more of Riley and Beck's story. Although their story didn't pull me under and have me enthralled in the ups and downs, it truly was a sweet story. They were two people that have been through so much and were able to find comfort and support in one another. I'll have to check out the next two books to see what else is in store for them!

Book Review: Forgiven (The Demon Trappers, Book 3) by Jana Oliver

Title: Forgiven

Author: Jana Oliver

Series: The Demon Trappers #3

Pages: 354

My Rating: ❤❤❤❤

Riley has made a bargain with Heaven, and now they've come to collect.

Lucifer's finest are ruling the streets and it seems that Armageddon might be even closer than Riley imagined. But with her soul and her heart in play it's all she can do to keep herself alive, let alone save the world. Riley's not afraid of kicking some major demon butt, but when it comes to a battle between Heaven and Hell, she might need a little help...

If you're wanting a superficial bubblegum book where everything is hunky dory, this is definitely not the book...make that series, for you! Instead, if you want a book with an intriguing plot that is beautifully orchestrated and one where the characters are multi-layered, then this may be the series for you!

I have to say that I enjoyed this installment even more so than it's predecessor. Oliver was able to jam pack this book with plenty of action, mystery, some snarky humor, and moments that make you just go aww. I am not joking on that last one...not at all. There were times I, probably just like majority of the more secondary characters, was like, okay, we know exactly how you two feel...can you just let each other know already?! If you've read the previous books you definitely know which two I'm talking about too! The funny thing is, I'm not even mad about it either. Sometimes I want the love interests to just hurry up already and get it over with; however, I really am enjoying seeing Riley and Beck's dynamic. It's pretty stinkin' sweet and adorable. 

Additionally, another dynamic I am enjoying is that of the demon trappers and the hunters, and how they view their relationships with heaven and hell. I just really find the concept super interesting. The angels and Lucifer are definitely not what you would traditionally expect. Things are not always so black and white. 

As with the previous book, I am eagerly going to start the next one in the series. There are still so many questions that need to be answered! Furthermore, I just need to see more of my favorite characters!

Book Review: Soul Thief/Forbidden (Demon Trappers Book 2) by Jana Oliver

Title: Soul Thief (also known as Forbidden)

Author: Jana Oliver

Series: Demon Trappers

Pages: 339

My Rating: ❤❤❤❤

Riley Blackthorne is beginning to learn that there are worse things than death by demon. And love is just one of them...

Seventeen-year-old Riley has about had it up to here. After the devastating battle at the Tabernacle, trappers are dead and injured, her boyfriend Simon is gravely injured, and now her beloved late father's been illegally poached from his grave by a very powerful necromancer. As if that's not enough, there's Ori, one sizzling hot freelance demon hunter who's made himself Riley's unofficial body guard, and Beck, a super over-protective "friend" who acts more like a grouchy granddad. With all the hassles, Riley's almost ready to leave Atlanta altogether.

But as Atlanta's demon count increases, the Vatican finally sends its own Demon Hunters to take care of the city's "little" problem, and pandemonium breaks loose. Only Riley knows that she might be the center of Hell's attention: an extremely powerful Grade 5 demon is stalking her, and her luck can't last forever...

After reading the first installment of Oliver's Demon Trappers series, I knew that I absolutely loved the characters; however, I also wanted a little more depth, a little more emotion to them...just a little. And wow, I have to say that Oliver definitely delivered!

In Soul Thief we gain a bit more insight into Beck. Not a ton, but just enough to make you see that he is absolutely adorable and has so much to offer. I am by no means a crier when it comes to reading books, don't get me wrong, I'll get emotional, but tears don't typically fall. At one certain point in the book, a certain "revelation" involving Beck literally made me tear up. I couldn't help it! I just wanted to reach through the pages and give him a hug so bad. I mean come on, he has had some major struggles in his life and this particular moment just was the thing that made me feel for him even more, just because it is an issue that people still face, and something he is striving to overcome. I won't give away any spoilers, except just be ready for a very sweet, vulnerable Denver Beck. 

So, besides containing one of the most touching scenes, Soul Thief was also full of a little mystery. I really enjoyed getting to know one of the more friendly necromancers as Riley set out to find more information about who exactly reanimated her dad. It was interesting to dive a bit deeper into that world. 

Okay, so now onto Riley. As much as I love her, she makes some questionable decisions. Which, technically I can see why she makes the decisions that she does. She has just been through so much and I really just want to see her happy, which she actually is for a brief second in this book. On that note, I will say that Soul Thief is full of surprises, and not ones that I really saw coming. I was actually thrown for a loop a time or two! 

"The end is near!" The man shouted again
"Is there still time for hot chocolate?" Riley Asked.
The End Times guy blinked. "Ah, maybe; I don't know."
"Oh, good," she said. "I'd hate to take on Hell without fueling up."

Book Review: The Demon Trapper's Daughter/Forsaken (The Demon Trappers, Book 1) by Jana Oliver

Title: The Demon Trapper's Daughter

Author: Jana Oliver

Series: The Demon Trapper's Book #1

Pages: 340

My Rating: ❤❤❤❤

RILEY BLACKTHORNE JUST NEEDS A CHANCE TO PROVE HERSELF - AND THAT'S EXACTLY WHAT THE DEMONS ARE COUNTING ON . . . .

Seventeen-year-old Riley, the only daughter of legendary demon trapper Paul Blackthorne, has always dreamed of following in her father's footsteps. The good news is, with human society seriously disrupted by economic upheaval and Lucifer increasing the number of demons in all major cities, Atlanta’s local Trappers Guild needs all the help they can get – even from a girl. When she’s not keeping up with her homework or trying to manage her growing crush on fellow apprentice Simon, Riley’s out saving distressed citizens from foul-mouthed little devils – Grade One Hellspawn only, of course, per the strict rules of the Guild. Life’s about as normal as can be for the average demon-trapping teen.

But then a Grade Five Geo-Fiend crashes Riley’s routine assignment at a library, jeopardizing her life and her chosen livelihood. And, as if that wasn’t bad enough, sudden tragedy strikes the Trappers Guild, spinning Riley down a more dangerous path than she ever could have imagined. As her whole world crashes down around her, who can Riley trust with her heart – and her life?

I read The Demon Trapper's Daughter a few years ago, but don't remember ever finishing the series. I came across this book again and remembered that I did enjoy the book, so I thought I'd pick it up again and try finishing the whole series! I am really glad that I did too!

Each character was dimensional. They all had their own unique roles to play throughout the novel and I enjoyed seeing new truths revealed about them as the storyline unfolded. Riley has gone through so much in her life and is continuing to face obstacles currently. Although I hated that it seemed as if she never got a break, I loved seeing her overcome every obstacle that she was faced with. She is a very strong, kick-ass heroine and she fit perfectly in the world that Oliver created.

Additionally, the story was told between differing perspectives, which I absolutely love! Getting Beck's perspective greatly added to the story. It gave me more insight into his character and I cannot help but love him. It's obvious that contrary to Riley's beliefs, he does indeed have a heart.

There is so much more I NEED to know about these characters and what's in store with Atlanta's demon problem!

"That’s when she’d learned that male egos and fruit had a lot in common: Both bruised easily."

Book Review: Forged in Fire (The Vessel Trilogy Book 1) by Juliette Cross

Title: Forged in Fire
Author: Juliette Cross
Series: The Vessel Trilogy #1
Pages: 314
My Rating: ❤❤❤

Genevieve Drake has never been the helpless kind of girl, has never needed to be rescued. That is, not until her twentieth birthday when some dude nearly chokes her to death in an alley and a hot stranger splits the guy in half, rips a monster from inside, and incinerates it into ash.

The hot guy? Jude Delacroix—Dominus Daemonum, Master of Demons. Now her guardian, whether she likes it or not.

But she’s seriously beginning to like it.

The dude choking her? One of many demons from the underworld trying to abduct or kill Genevieve. As the prime target of the demon prince, Danté, she has no problem accepting Jude’s protection.

Why Genevieve? She’s a Vessel, one born to serve the Light but can be corrupted and used as a weapon for darkness. She had no idea this world even existed. Now, she just wants to survive it.

I found the world and characters created by Ms. Cross to be intriguing...so intriguing, that I wanted more. The characters created by Cross were fantastic, like Genevieve can be pretty snarky and bold and utterly fantastic, yet we as readers were privy to her vulnerabilities and insecurities. I appreciated how real of a character she was in a fantastical world. She has problems just like the rest of us...awkward dates, jerk professors, and all the expectations and ups and downs that come with living. She has experienced much in her twenty years and I know what she has been through would be extremely hard to overcome. One of my favorite parts of the book was where she talked about returning to school after her mother's death. Others at school were talking about her, saying that she would turn out crazy just like her mom did, however, she explained that she could let her words beat her down, or overcome them...and she did. She learned to be her confident snarky self and kick ass. There is so much more to her than being a girl attracted to this otherworldly guy. Seriously so much more. And thus, I'm left wanting more. I want to hear more about Genevieve's ability to overcome her obstacles and face the "monsters" that are waiting for her. I just want more!

Not only did I feel sort of let-down on seeing Genevieve's character fully develop, but I also felt a little lacking in the development of other characters as well. We all know that Jude has a long history and obviously has some dark seductive secrets, but being as I'm sure he's to remain a mystery until the appropriate time in the series, I'm not as upset about seeing more into his character. Instead, I do want to know more about Genevieve's dad and his other employee, Erik. There is a lot more to the two of them and I really feel a little left out not knowing their full stories. 

I see a lot of potential with this series, and I'm going to continue on and see if I can get everything I want in terms of character development. I just want to know so much more! The world Cross built and the story are super intriguing and I want to see how it all ultimately unfolds. I have high hopes for the rest of this series, and it's times like these I wish I had a rating scale with more options, but ultimately I'm going with a 3, in hopes that the rest of the series will blow this one out of the water!

"Steven grinned like an idiot, and I don't know why. It's not like one beer would suddenly make him attractive."

"Yeah," agreed my study partner Malcom, "just like Uncle Ben said, 'With great power comes great responsibility."

"I realized that we are the choices we make, not just what the world chooses to make us."

   

Book Review: Every Last Breath (The Dark Elements Book 3) by Jennifer L. Armentrout

Title: Every Last Breath
Author: Jennifer L. Armentrout
Series: The Dark Elements #3
Pages: 378
My Rating: ❤❤❤❤❤

Some loves will last ’til your dying breath

Every choice has consequences—but seventeen-year-old Layla faces tougher choices than most. Light or darkness. Wickedly sexy demon prince Roth, or Zayne, the gorgeous, protective Warden she never thought could be hers. Hardest of all, Layla has to decide which side of herself to trust.

Layla has a new problem, too. A Lilin—the deadliest of demons—has been unleashed, wreaking havoc on those around her…including her best friend. To keep Sam from a fate much, much worse than death, Layla must strike a deal with the enemy while saving her city—and her race—from destruction.

Torn between two worlds and two different boys, Layla has no certainties, least of all survival, especially when an old bargain comes back to haunt them all. But sometimes, when secrets are everywhere and the truth seems unknowable, you have to listen to your heart, pick a side—and then fight like hell…

Ms. Armentrout absolutely blew me away with the last installment of her Dark Elements series!! It was hilarious, beautiful, action-packed, and full of love!!! Seriously, I only thought the second book was my favorite...it's quickly been surpassed by Every Last Breath!

As always, I definitely do not want to give too much away. There is no way I want to ruin the magic for everyone else. I will say however, that this book has hands-down one of the most hilariously amazing scenes I have ever read...and believe me, I have read a ton! I will say that it involves someone partaking a bit too much and several empty beer cans. That's all I'm giving you in that department...you'll just have to find out the rest for yourself!

The story of Layla and crew had me sucked in from the very beginning. I laughed with them, cried with them, and threw my book down thinking "what are you doing?" Armentrout did not let me down as she wrapped up the story. I absolutely loved how everything played out. Yes, there are some things I wish would have happened differently, but if certain events did not happen, then our wonderful story would not have played out the way it did. We would not have been able to see some amazing character development happen, especially with my favorite demon! 

Every Last Breath was one crazy emotional ride and I enjoyed every minute of it! Also, I appreciated how the story delved into how sometimes the "purest" souls are capable of the most evil or that those we may deem "evil" can be capable of some really compassionate actions. Moral of the story, do not judge a book by it's cover! I cannot wait to get my hands on some more books by Ms. Armentrout! 

"You talk a lot," Roth growled, stepping forward. "And I mean a lot. Why is it that the bad guys always have to give disgustingly long and boring monologues? Let's just get to the killing part, all right?"

"When is there ever a right time to fully give your heart to another? There are always going to be obstacles. You just have to decide which ones are worth it."

"I was the corniest cornball in a cornfield of popcorn."

"There is nothing more useful than leather pants. They'll protect your ass while making it look fine."

Book Review: Stone Cold Touch (The Dark Elements Book 2) by Jennifer L. Armentrout

Title: Stone Cold Touch
Author: Jennifer L. Armentrout
Series: The Dark Elements #2
Pages: 447
My Rating: ❤❤❤❤❤

Every touch has its price

Layla Shaw is trying to pick up the pieces of her shattered life—no easy task for a seventeen-year-old who’s pretty sure things can’t get worse. Her impossibly gorgeous best friend, Zayne, is forever off-limits thanks to the mysterious powers of her soul-stealing kiss. The Warden clan that has always protected her is suddenly keeping dangerous secrets. And she can barely think about Roth, the wickedly hot demon prince who understood her in ways no one else could.

But sometimes rock bottom is only the beginning. Because suddenly Layla’s powers begin to evolve, and she’s offered a tantalizing taste of what has always been forbidden. Then, when she least expects it, Roth returns, bringing news that 

could change her world forever. She’s finally getting what she always wanted, but with hell literally breaking loose and the body count adding up, the price may be higher than Layla is willing to pay…

Although I really enjoyed reading White Hot Kiss, I was in no way prepared for the awesomeness that is Stone Cold Touch. I absolutely LOVED it!! Seriously, to me it was even better than the first, and how often is that actually true?! I thought the first book was good, but this one had me talking out loud, yelling at some of the characters, and giggling uncontrollably! It was fantastic and everything I didn't know I needed. At times I literally could not put the book down, and that, along with a thunderstorm, is how I found myself staying up until 4 am (yes 4am!) to finish this book!

In this installment, our characters are dealing with the same concepts that they have been, plus a few new ones; however, everything is ramped up even more! The way Armentrout had me feeling all the characters' feelings had me so emotionally invested in what was occurring. Usually, when there is a bit of a love triangle involved, I know exactly who I like best. But, with me feeling all of these feelings I found myself in the same predicament as Layla, not knowing who is the ultimate endgame. At times I'd find myself totally rooting for our resident wickedly terrific demon, while others I'd be swooning over the caring protective warden. Seriously, what's a girl to do?

Not only was I caught up in the little love triangle we had going on, but I was wrapped up in Layla's own conflict about who she is and what she is capable of. The problem is, Layla has no idea what she is capable of...no one really does. She feels so alone and like she doesn't belong anywhere, and it is truly heartbreaking. Her DNA doesn't make her evil, and I refuse to believe that she is evil. 

So, we had all this emotional conflict going on in addition to some craziness and mystery. Strange things were happening in D.C....like demonically strange. Literally, so much was happening, and I was all about it! There were twists, intrigue, and deception! I totally called one of the twists and was still shocked when it happened, it was that crazily good! Holy cow! I absolutely cannot wait to start the next one after all this amazing goodness!

"You think you're cute?" 

"Nah, I think I'm sexy." The smirk spread, but it didn't reach his cool ocher eyes. "And I also think I'm hilarious."

"I busied myself picking out a pen from my horde, settling on a purple one that looked as though it had taken a bath in glitter...or with Ke$ha."

"But how? Have you been wandering around kissing people? Because if so, I'm pretty pissed off that I wasn't included in that."

Book Review: White Hot Kiss (The Dark Elements Book 1) by Jennifer L. Armentrout

Title: White Hot Kiss
Author: Jennifer L. Armentrout
Series: The Dark Elements #1
Pages: 388
My Rating: ❤❤❤❤❤

Layla just wants to fit in at school and go on a date with Zayne, whom she's crushed on since forever. Trouble is, Zayne treats Layla like a sister—and Layla is a half demon, half gargoyle with abilities no one else possesses. And even though Zayne is a Warden, part of the race of gargoyles tasked with keeping humanity safe, Layla's kiss will kill anything with a soul—including him.

Then she meets Roth—a demon who claims to know her secrets. Though Layla knows she should stay away, it's tough when that whole no-kissing thing isn't an issue. Trusting Roth could ruin her chances with Zayne, but as Layla discovers she's the reason for a violent demon uprising, kissing the enemy suddenly pales in comparison to the looming end of the world.

Armentrout kicks off her Dark Elements series with a great start! I thoroughly enjoyed her fresh take on the demon and angel trope. She introduces us to a world where wardens, some crazy gargoyle-like creatures serve as the world's protectors, who have actually come out to the world. As with all things that are new, unknown, or different, the existence of wardens is very controversial. Some people love them, while others have banned them from their businesses. Layla, a seventeen year-old is under the guardianship of a clan of wardens. Due to her unique DNA, she doesn't feel as if she fully fits in with the people who have cared for her throughout her whole life. She's trying to figure out who she is and where she belongs. How can she protect others as a warden when part of her is the same as the very creatures wardens must protect people from? 

Now, this is where Roth comes in, the totally delectable demon. Seriously, just one look at him will have you swooning and wanting to move on over to the dark side. He is extremely arrogant and always entertaining. Once he pops up onto Layla's radar, her life will never be the same. He offers her more insight into her own demon side, the same side she's been trying to deny her entire life. One thing is for sure, he knows how to keep things interesting...

I loved seeing Layla become more relaxed when she started to grow and become just slightly more comfortable with herself. For far too long she has been trying to deny the demon side of her life and it makes her feel like she is unwanted and doesn't belong...anywhere. Seeing her being able to truly open up with someone was heartwarming. It's true Roth is totally arrogant and cocky, but he is super sweet and caring in his own way. He really means well. He's not just your average demon...

Also, I can't forget about Zayne, the one person that has always been there for her, who also happens to be a warden. The relationship between them is adorable; however, Layla might just want it to be more. But, can she truly be herself around the guy? 

Anyways, I cannot wait to dive into the second book to see what's in store next for Layla. The ending of this book kind of threw me for a loop, but I know Armentrout will come in clutch with some great twists and action in the next installment! I just really want to see Layla find where she belongs! She is a great snarky character and I can't help but want the best for her!

P.S. this book was full of amazing quotes that I couldn't help but love!!!! Also, there was a The Princess Bride shout-out, so of course I'm in love!

"I don't know what it was with demons and the Golden Arches, but man, they loved the place."

"Biting can be a lot of fun, but only when it's appropriate. And that wasn't appropriate."

"See, I was raised in Hell. You could say I'm socially awkward."

"Roth as in the retirement account?"......."Is that what you're named after?"

"People with the purest souls are capable of the greatest evils. No one is perfect, no matter what they are or what side they fight for."

Book Review: Saving Angel (Divisa Series Book 1) by J.L. Weil

Title: Saving Angel
Author: J. L. Weil
Series: Divisa Book 1
Pages: 324
My Rating: ❤❤❤❤

I wondered what my life would be like if we had never moved to the ho-dunk town of Spring Valley, Illinois. Sure the internet service was splotchy, there was nothing but miles of wheat fields, and I probably wouldn’t be faced with death at every corner.

My only neighbor in this god forsaken town was…well there really was only one to describe him, hot as hell. With his sinful dark looks, unusually silver eyes, and kissable lips, there was something about him that was more than meets the eye.

Of course I was determined to find out.

Chase Winters might be drool-worthy, but he was also insufferable, arrogant and…in short a d-bag. Our relationship was anything but love at first sight. Not even close. There was something weird about the family living next door.

What I hadn’t expected to find was an underworld of trouble.

Chase and his cousins Lexi and Travis are Divisa, half-demon, half-human. Getting them angry was hardly in my best interest, not if I wanted to live.

As it turned out, that might be the least of my problems. I’ve been tagged by hell.

Now every ugly, nasty being from hades was on my trail. I have suddenly became a magnet for demon disaster, and the only way I am getting out of this alive was by putting my life in the demon spawn’s hands.

One wrong decision and my butt was toast.

Okay, so my initial thought that this book would be similar to Obsidian by Jennifer L. Armentrout was even more right then I could have dreamed of. Saving Angel is extremely similar to Obsidian, but this wasn't necessarily a bad thing. I really enjoyed Obsidian, and also enjoyed Saving Angel.

I thought that it was pretty funny and ironic how a girl named Angel ended up living by a family of half-demons! I wasn't expecting her name to be Angel, I instead assumed that since demons were a major part of the book, that angels would be too. Anyways, just because her name is Angel does not mean that she acts all that angelic. She instantly forms a sort of love/hate relationship with Chase, the hot guy next door with the pierced brow. They literally cannot be around each other without having some big argument. Which, I don't mind, I find it pretty entertaining.

I did like Chase and Angel's characters, but I actually want to see more of Travis. He seems like a very funny easygoing guy, but underneath that, he is still wounded from the disappearance of his girlfriend. He still has a hard time coping with it all and loses it every once in a while. I would just like to see how he progresses throughout the books.

In regards to the rest of the books, I hope they don't all correlate to The Lux Series. I would like to see them move away from that and become their own thing. The world that Weil has created with half-demons and hellhounds is actually very interesting, and I don't want to see it get categorized as just a Lux want-a-be series.

"I still had travel hair, which meant it looked like I stuck my finger in a light socket."

"All country towns have one road in and out of town called Main. It was like law."

"I could use all the confidence I could get. If possible, I would steal some from the egotistical Chase. He had more than enough to spare."