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The Sanheim Chronicles #2
Band of Demons
The highly anticipated sequel to the Kindle bestseller A Soul to Steal
The past is always at your heels…
Quinn O’Brion and Kate Tassel, two community journalists, tapped into a dark power last Halloween in order to stop a vicious serial killer. But they are still grappling with their new abilities—and wondering if what they unleashed may soon consume them.
While they confront what they have become, a new threat is hunting them—a force that could destroy their whole town.
Band of Demons continues the epic story of The Sanheim Chronicles, a trilogy that blends mystery, suspense and urban fantasy.
The past is always at your heels…
Quinn O’Brion and Kate Tassel, two community journalists, tapped into a dark power last Halloween in order to stop a vicious serial killer. But they are still grappling with their new abilities—and wondering if what they unleashed may soon consume them.
While they confront what they have become, a new threat is hunting them—a force that could destroy their whole town.
Band of Demons continues the epic story of The Sanheim Chronicles, a trilogy that blends mystery, suspense and urban fantasy.
- GenresHorrorParanormalFantasy
358 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2012
29 people are currently reading
127 people want to read
About the author
Rob Blackwell
15 books114 followersRob is an award-winning journalist with 17 years' experience, and the author of The Sanheim Chronicles and The Soren Chase novels, two series that combine urban fantasy, mystery and suspense.
His first novel, A Soul to Steal, was featured on USA Today and praised by book bloggers and readers alike for its great plot and "fantastic ending." Many of his other books have been Kindle bestsellers.
As a journalist, Rob has won several Virginia Press Association awards and has been the co-winner of two Jesse H. Neal awards for business journalism. In 2017, he was awarded the prestigious Tim White Award for Editorial Integrity, which recognizes a journalist “whose work demonstrates extraordinary courage, integrity and passion.”
He has appeared several times on various media outlets, including NPR, BBC, Fox Business, CNBC and C-Span.
Rob lives in Virginia with his wife and two children.
His first novel, A Soul to Steal, was featured on USA Today and praised by book bloggers and readers alike for its great plot and "fantastic ending." Many of his other books have been Kindle bestsellers.
As a journalist, Rob has won several Virginia Press Association awards and has been the co-winner of two Jesse H. Neal awards for business journalism. In 2017, he was awarded the prestigious Tim White Award for Editorial Integrity, which recognizes a journalist “whose work demonstrates extraordinary courage, integrity and passion.”
He has appeared several times on various media outlets, including NPR, BBC, Fox Business, CNBC and C-Span.
Rob lives in Virginia with his wife and two children.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
October 7, 2012
Okay...I really liked this. Now, I could say it's because I kind of know the area where it takes place. I could say it's because I got such a kick out of knowing one of the characters (and her background) and was just tickled to see her in the book! But take those things away and I still really enjoyed the book on it's own. The ending...Man! It'll kill me to have to wait too long for book 3!!!
October 8, 2012
As I finished A Soul to Steal last year I wondered about if the Prince of Sanheim would have any long term effects on Quinn and Kate. , Was just a one-time occurrence or perhaps a situational incident? That question was answered almost immediately. Kate and Quinn are still trying to understand all of what happened to them last Halloween. They also have to defend their work as journalists while constantly being questioned about the details of what really happened to Lord Halloween. The allegations about the events soon turn into minor problems compared to the newest threat to arrive in Loudoun County. If they can take on a supernatural power it stands to reason that others can too.
The new threat allowed for Kate and Quinn to discover so much more about the Prince of Sanheim. As reporters they have overly inquisitive minds, but it is difficult to research something that is supposed to be legend. The more they learn about their abilities the more they have to use them. They have a formidable foe this time that is not trying to hide their actions. The fight scenes are intense, and the destruction is brutal.
My favorite type of character in any book is the one you never know what team they are really on. Kieran was a wonderful addition to this story. I constantly wondered if he was batting for team evil, or was he really trying to help the good guys, at some point I wondered if he was just focused solely on himself and motivated completely for selfish reasons. In the end my conclusion is I hope he knows what the hell he is talking about. I still have no clue where his allegiance truly stands. I loved his character!
The ending… Oh my god! I theorized many things coming. I never saw that happening. My anticipation for the next book is way beyond high. Book three of the Sanheim Chronicles cannot get into my hands soon enough! Band of Demons was a thrill ride. The mix of suspense, mythology, legends, urban folklore, ghosts and hauntings, good versus evil are woven into this incredible tale.
The new threat allowed for Kate and Quinn to discover so much more about the Prince of Sanheim. As reporters they have overly inquisitive minds, but it is difficult to research something that is supposed to be legend. The more they learn about their abilities the more they have to use them. They have a formidable foe this time that is not trying to hide their actions. The fight scenes are intense, and the destruction is brutal.
My favorite type of character in any book is the one you never know what team they are really on. Kieran was a wonderful addition to this story. I constantly wondered if he was batting for team evil, or was he really trying to help the good guys, at some point I wondered if he was just focused solely on himself and motivated completely for selfish reasons. In the end my conclusion is I hope he knows what the hell he is talking about. I still have no clue where his allegiance truly stands. I loved his character!
The ending… Oh my god! I theorized many things coming. I never saw that happening. My anticipation for the next book is way beyond high. Book three of the Sanheim Chronicles cannot get into my hands soon enough! Band of Demons was a thrill ride. The mix of suspense, mythology, legends, urban folklore, ghosts and hauntings, good versus evil are woven into this incredible tale.
November 5, 2012
Rob Blackwell blew me away last year with his first novel in the Sanheim Chronicles series, A soul to Steal. I can remember reading A Soul to Steal late at night getting totally creeped out by every little noise I heard, but I just could not stop reading because I had to know how it was going to end. Then when I finished I knew I had to continue this series.
I was so excited when Rob contacted me about Band of Demons! As it got closer to the time I was going to start reading it I got the *oh know, what if it’s not as good as book one woes.* Does anyone else do that? Anyway I soon found out that I had no reason to worry.
What I loved:
OK, so for many of us who read all the time by about half way through the book you are reading you have a good idea of what is going to happen. Band of Demons kept me guessing! Especially in the case of the character, Kieran. Kieran drove me insane! (but in a good way) I could not decide if he was good or bad, and he really kept the story line going. I also loved the continuing growth of Kate and Quinn. These two are doing all they can to learn what is happening to them and how to use their new abilities, but they have the obstacle of not many ways to research.
Oh, have I mentioned how intense this was! Rob does an amazing job of building the story. I looked up at one point after I started reading and realized I was half done. Between the action and the (crap, what is going to happen next) suspense, I could not put it down.
This is the perfect Halloween read!!!
What I didn’t like:
The ending! No, I’m not saying the ending sucked. The ending was a little on the epic side, but HOW am I supposed to wait another year to see what happens next???
Happy Reading Everyone,
Rebecca
www.bendingthespine.blogspot.com
I was so excited when Rob contacted me about Band of Demons! As it got closer to the time I was going to start reading it I got the *oh know, what if it’s not as good as book one woes.* Does anyone else do that? Anyway I soon found out that I had no reason to worry.
What I loved:
OK, so for many of us who read all the time by about half way through the book you are reading you have a good idea of what is going to happen. Band of Demons kept me guessing! Especially in the case of the character, Kieran. Kieran drove me insane! (but in a good way) I could not decide if he was good or bad, and he really kept the story line going. I also loved the continuing growth of Kate and Quinn. These two are doing all they can to learn what is happening to them and how to use their new abilities, but they have the obstacle of not many ways to research.
Oh, have I mentioned how intense this was! Rob does an amazing job of building the story. I looked up at one point after I started reading and realized I was half done. Between the action and the (crap, what is going to happen next) suspense, I could not put it down.
This is the perfect Halloween read!!!
What I didn’t like:
The ending! No, I’m not saying the ending sucked. The ending was a little on the epic side, but HOW am I supposed to wait another year to see what happens next???
Happy Reading Everyone,
Rebecca
www.bendingthespine.blogspot.com
October 12, 2012
I thoroughly enjoyed A Soul to Steal and could not wait for the sequel - I was not disappointed! What a wild ride with levels of mythology that are so ingrained throughout Kate and Quinn's ongoing quest to fight the evil in Loudoun County while figuring out what they have become. I really liked the addition of Kieran and every time I thought I had things "figured out" I was happily wrong and blown away! The ending - holy crap - never expected it and now my ONLY complaint is having to wait for #3. You will not regret picking up this series - just be careful of reading it late at night - very creepy:)
January 8, 2013
I greatly enjoyed the fact that the author wrote this story with only the story in mind. That is, he didn't pander to the whims of the reader. When I got to the end I was PISSED!!! After I calmed down I was able to appreciate the unique style. All too often I read a book and get the impression that the author only did plot point X or Y to satisfy the readers. Mr. Blackwell's approach, while annoying, is refreshingly unique. It's going to be a long wait to see how this series concludes.
November 5, 2012
Wonderful book! Even better than Soul to Steal--which was amazing. Check this one out!
December 16, 2012
4.25/5
It has been a slow start for me with this second novel in the series by Rob Blackwell, and I don't really approve of the change in the covers - they are just too messy, but one third of the book in when all the action started I got really hooked again, and got carried away on an amazing and gripping journey.
The mythology is pretty unique and I love how it expanded in this book, the horror element is also very very strong and Rob is not afraid to kill off some of the characters we had time to fall for for the sake of better and more consistent plot.
Kate and Quinn became the Prince of Sanheim in book #1 and this time they have to face the second part of their quest - to defeat the previous Prince of Sanheim. Perhaps what I like most is that none of the characters are one dimensional, there are no token villains, but characters who are trapped by their need for revenge or betrayal or desire for redemption. Nothing is simple and everything has a heavy price. So you end up not condemning the villains but understanding their motives.
The drawback is that the villains are not in a rush to strike when they find out the identities of Quinn and Kate. I don't see why would they wait? Surely it's better to deal with them quickly and before Halloween? It bothered me that Kate and Quinn had time to recuperate between battles.
The book ends just as mysteriously as A Soul To Steal, and I have a feeling that if Rob stops feeling anxious about what we would think, stops pulling the punches metaphorically speaking and lose himself in a story, let it be as vicious and as merciless as it's promised to become (and also invest in more professional covers - and I don't intend to be malicious, but we do judge the book by its cover) this series will do exceptionally well.
Highly recommended.
It has been a slow start for me with this second novel in the series by Rob Blackwell, and I don't really approve of the change in the covers - they are just too messy, but one third of the book in when all the action started I got really hooked again, and got carried away on an amazing and gripping journey.
The mythology is pretty unique and I love how it expanded in this book, the horror element is also very very strong and Rob is not afraid to kill off some of the characters we had time to fall for for the sake of better and more consistent plot.
Kate and Quinn became the Prince of Sanheim in book #1 and this time they have to face the second part of their quest - to defeat the previous Prince of Sanheim. Perhaps what I like most is that none of the characters are one dimensional, there are no token villains, but characters who are trapped by their need for revenge or betrayal or desire for redemption. Nothing is simple and everything has a heavy price. So you end up not condemning the villains but understanding their motives.
The drawback is that the villains are not in a rush to strike when they find out the identities of Quinn and Kate. I don't see why would they wait? Surely it's better to deal with them quickly and before Halloween? It bothered me that Kate and Quinn had time to recuperate between battles.
The book ends just as mysteriously as A Soul To Steal, and I have a feeling that if Rob stops feeling anxious about what we would think, stops pulling the punches metaphorically speaking and lose himself in a story, let it be as vicious and as merciless as it's promised to become (and also invest in more professional covers - and I don't intend to be malicious, but we do judge the book by its cover) this series will do exceptionally well.
Highly recommended.
July 12, 2013
I finished reading a Soul to Steal about a week or so ago and so I had to move onto the 2nd book in this series because the first was just so well done and suspenseful.
I have to say book 2 didn't disappoint. Although at first when they started out at the psyche ward I was a bit confused but as I kept reading it made more and more sense. This book added a lot of great details and twists that one didn't see coming. After all, generally when you have the "heroes" in a story you expect them to overcome all the evil in the end and that they always stay on the "right" path of decency, moral highroad, all of that but this book twists that a bit and shows you how having the powers that Kate & Quinn have can possibly corrupt even the most noble of people.
The way the author brings you only a little bit at a time of information is also wonderful; it keeps you intrigued to keep reading and not wanting to put the book down because you keep having more questions as you get more answers and that's always a brilliant way of writing that is often overlooked by giving the reader all the information in one fell swoop in either the beginning, middle or ending of a book.
In this case the author kept you asking questions throughout the entire book and the ending, which I will NOT spoil for anyone who hasn't read this book yet is also something special that you don't see done very often; especially when the book is one of a series being written. I can really and truthfully state that I cannot wait for book 3 in this series.
I have to say book 2 didn't disappoint. Although at first when they started out at the psyche ward I was a bit confused but as I kept reading it made more and more sense. This book added a lot of great details and twists that one didn't see coming. After all, generally when you have the "heroes" in a story you expect them to overcome all the evil in the end and that they always stay on the "right" path of decency, moral highroad, all of that but this book twists that a bit and shows you how having the powers that Kate & Quinn have can possibly corrupt even the most noble of people.
The way the author brings you only a little bit at a time of information is also wonderful; it keeps you intrigued to keep reading and not wanting to put the book down because you keep having more questions as you get more answers and that's always a brilliant way of writing that is often overlooked by giving the reader all the information in one fell swoop in either the beginning, middle or ending of a book.
In this case the author kept you asking questions throughout the entire book and the ending, which I will NOT spoil for anyone who hasn't read this book yet is also something special that you don't see done very often; especially when the book is one of a series being written. I can really and truthfully state that I cannot wait for book 3 in this series.
July 25, 2013
The second book in the series was even better than the first book. Thanks Donna for your recommendation. I really enjoyed how the relationships with the main characters was strengthened by their experiences as well as their need to "band" together to fight the new foes and to find out who they really were. Their journey of discovery was amazing to watch unfold.
Spoiler Alert - If you have not read this book - do not read any further
As Mr. Blackwell indicated, when he killed off one of the main characters (not going to mention names because I know some of you who have not yet read the book are still reading this review); it was very sad and depressing as it had such an incredible impact on the survivor. However, when I read the acknowledgements at the end; I agreed that this was a necessary step in order to further the story. I also figured out CK early on and was pleased that I was right for a change.
Overall, this is a must-read for fans of his first book, A Soul to Steal, and it makes me want to read the third book even more. If only I could convince my bookclub group to read this book, but alas they prefer their comfort zone of current fiction and historical fiction. I like to push the envelope but I know I can only push so much.
Spoiler Alert - If you have not read this book - do not read any further
As Mr. Blackwell indicated, when he killed off one of the main characters (not going to mention names because I know some of you who have not yet read the book are still reading this review); it was very sad and depressing as it had such an incredible impact on the survivor. However, when I read the acknowledgements at the end; I agreed that this was a necessary step in order to further the story. I also figured out CK early on and was pleased that I was right for a change.
Overall, this is a must-read for fans of his first book, A Soul to Steal, and it makes me want to read the third book even more. If only I could convince my bookclub group to read this book, but alas they prefer their comfort zone of current fiction and historical fiction. I like to push the envelope but I know I can only push so much.
November 15, 2013
I just finished reading Book 2 of The Sanheim Chronicles. I enjoyed reading this book as much a I did the first. I was sad and cried at the end, poor Kate, I felt her pain of her loss. I hope Kate can find Quinn and save him. I really hope Mr. Blackwell lets Kate find her love and that they be together again. I am HOOKED so I am off to buy Book 3. I hope you readers enjoy these book as much as I did. Happy Reading :)
November 3, 2013
***SPOILER***
Your killing me here MR Rob Blackwell!!! First Janus now Quinn !!!! How could you! Like I'm just so blown away right now! So many twist ! Is it a dream or reality? You just had to keep guessing ! And the end! OMG! I'm just so anxious to read the next one!!!
Comment | Permalink
Your killing me here MR Rob Blackwell!!! First Janus now Quinn !!!! How could you! Like I'm just so blown away right now! So many twist ! Is it a dream or reality? You just had to keep guessing ! And the end! OMG! I'm just so anxious to read the next one!!!
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October 8, 2012
My review can be found here: http://beautybrite.com/2012/10/band-o...
November 13, 2012
Just finished reading Band of Demons.......omg what a book....lots of intrigue,romance,mystery,murder,and love. When is them3rd book coming out. Pore Kate......grieving .........
August 11, 2013
Want to read the 3rd. They have to join each other somehow again. I'm thinking they can cross the death issue
October 7, 2014
Fantastic read (listen). Well done Rob. Looking forward to third one on Audible. Any idea when this might be?
May 10, 2019
This Series of Books are an AWESOME READ!!
The Sanheim Chronicles are books, you hate to put down, even for a moment!
Epic series, encompassing time from centuries through to modern day.
Book 2 will follow thru to Kate and Quinn, who are not very sure who they can trust. Where epic battles and searching for the truth, of how and what it's all about.
With an epic love story between Kate and Quinn, but will they survive it all?
Guess you'll have to read to find out!!
Me?? I'm off to read book 3!!
The Sanheim Chronicles are books, you hate to put down, even for a moment!
Epic series, encompassing time from centuries through to modern day.
Book 2 will follow thru to Kate and Quinn, who are not very sure who they can trust. Where epic battles and searching for the truth, of how and what it's all about.
With an epic love story between Kate and Quinn, but will they survive it all?
Guess you'll have to read to find out!!
Me?? I'm off to read book 3!!
November 3, 2019
Good read
These books are creative and engaging. I was pleasantly surprised by the first one and found the second just as entertaining. A big plus, in my opinion, is the restraint the author shows in not filling the story with pointless sex scenes and profanity. When he does, it is to move the plot forward and add to the tension.
These books are creative and engaging. I was pleasantly surprised by the first one and found the second just as entertaining. A big plus, in my opinion, is the restraint the author shows in not filling the story with pointless sex scenes and profanity. When he does, it is to move the plot forward and add to the tension.
August 3, 2020
Good fast read
Enjoyed the elements of fantasy employed by author. Characters were rather stiff at first but as the book progressed it became easier to enjoy them and their adventures. This one has a very surprise twist at finish.
Enjoyed the elements of fantasy employed by author. Characters were rather stiff at first but as the book progressed it became easier to enjoy them and their adventures. This one has a very surprise twist at finish.
August 16, 2017
I liked pt.1 better. Felt this volume had way too many dialogs and lenghty parts. Still I'm delving right into pt. 3. Trilogies are trilogies.
September 24, 2016
This is book 2 in a series where two people have found themselves brought together by supernatural powers that could be used for good or bad. They think they have faced the worse, but there is much more horror out there they need to defeat.
I can’t say much more about the plot or there will be spoilers.
This is a paranormal mystery that keeps you guessing. Unlike the first book that had you wondering who the murderer was, this book has you wondering why they are making specific moves. We know who the bad guys are, but we don’t know all the whys. The author keeps you wondering which makes you keep reading.
The characters are wonderful. I have to admit that I kind of liked one of the bad guys. The author gives the characters much depth.
I really love this book. Can’t wait to get jump onto book three and see how death can be...never mind.
Note: This book was purchased with my own funds with no expectation of a positive review.
I can’t say much more about the plot or there will be spoilers.
This is a paranormal mystery that keeps you guessing. Unlike the first book that had you wondering who the murderer was, this book has you wondering why they are making specific moves. We know who the bad guys are, but we don’t know all the whys. The author keeps you wondering which makes you keep reading.
The characters are wonderful. I have to admit that I kind of liked one of the bad guys. The author gives the characters much depth.
I really love this book. Can’t wait to get jump onto book three and see how death can be...never mind.
Note: This book was purchased with my own funds with no expectation of a positive review.
August 8, 2014
The first book was excellent the mystery within kept me turning the pages for more and could not stop thinking about it trying to figure out the mystery. Unfortunately I could not say the same for this one. I felt as if it was over kill like the Halloween movies or rocky movies...like ugg again? really? For the first time in my life I actually stopped reading a book. I always felt that even a bad story is a good read. Now I understand what is meant by "It was a waist of my time."
I understand for some that this will not necessarily be true for them. All I can say is how I personally felt.
I understand for some that this will not necessarily be true for them. All I can say is how I personally felt.
May 13, 2015
Excellent
Again Rob Blackwell had me reading nonstop, don't want to put it, have to see what happens next. This story of Quinn and Kate is brilliant. It's a keep you on edge and shouting "no" I can't believe that just happen and your husband laughing at you. I can't wait to continue to the next book. Thank you Rob for this fantastic series
Again Rob Blackwell had me reading nonstop, don't want to put it, have to see what happens next. This story of Quinn and Kate is brilliant. It's a keep you on edge and shouting "no" I can't believe that just happen and your husband laughing at you. I can't wait to continue to the next book. Thank you Rob for this fantastic series
July 16, 2015
Better and better
This series let's getting better. It was intense and you did not know what was going to happen next, who was going to be loyal and who would betray. There were answer to questions from the previous book and then more questions which hopefully will be answered in the next book. I am really looking forward to the conclusion to see what happens and who wins.
This series let's getting better. It was intense and you did not know what was going to happen next, who was going to be loyal and who would betray. There were answer to questions from the previous book and then more questions which hopefully will be answered in the next book. I am really looking forward to the conclusion to see what happens and who wins.
December 27, 2013
This was a great Halloween thriller. I didn't realize that it was the second in a series until after I had gotten quite far into the book. It's most definitely a fantasy and kept me guessing. I liked it and may read more in the series.
June 18, 2016
Excellent
Better than the first, both books are well worth the read. What you love, fear, hate defines you. Great words in this book and the writers development of each character. I'm going to read the next.
Better than the first, both books are well worth the read. What you love, fear, hate defines you. Great words in this book and the writers development of each character. I'm going to read the next.
October 17, 2013
Picks up about six months after the end of the first book. Not as many surprising twists and turns, but still interesting and exciting.
March 2, 2016
Better than the first book! 4.5 stars.
August 8, 2014
Enjoyed the story; definite improvement over book 1. Wish the 3rd book was available on audible, though!
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews