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."