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Demonosity
An ancient myth + a mean girl + a reluctant warrior = a lively take on good vs. evil
The Black Rose--a powerful ancient force--has been let loose and has taken up residence in Celeste Gibson, popular girl at Cassidy Carter-Lewis' high school. Thomas Delacroix is the spirit of a fourteenth-century knight who is devoted to protecting the Black Rose, but he needs a contemporary living being to take on the challenge. That's where Cassidy comes in. She's a quirky high school junior who just wants to dress in her vintage clothes, hang out with her best friend, and take care of her father, who is recovering from surgery. She's the last person who would ever volunteer for such a task, but no one actually asked her. Now, like it or not, she finds herself training before dawn and battling demons at parties, the mall, and even at school. But hey, no one ever said high school was going to be easy. . .
The Black Rose--a powerful ancient force--has been let loose and has taken up residence in Celeste Gibson, popular girl at Cassidy Carter-Lewis' high school. Thomas Delacroix is the spirit of a fourteenth-century knight who is devoted to protecting the Black Rose, but he needs a contemporary living being to take on the challenge. That's where Cassidy comes in. She's a quirky high school junior who just wants to dress in her vintage clothes, hang out with her best friend, and take care of her father, who is recovering from surgery. She's the last person who would ever volunteer for such a task, but no one actually asked her. Now, like it or not, she finds herself training before dawn and battling demons at parties, the mall, and even at school. But hey, no one ever said high school was going to be easy. . .
341 pages, Paperback
First published August 15, 2013
9 people are currently reading
2022 people want to read
About the author
Amanda Ashby
31 books435 followersAmanda Ashby was born in Australia but now lives in New Zealand where she writes romance, young adult and middle grade books. She also works in a library, owns far too many vintage tablecloths and likes to delight her family by constantly rearranging the furniture.
She has a degree in English and Journalism from the University of Queensland and is married with two children. Her debut book was nominated for a Romantic Times Reviewers Choice award, and her first young adult book was listed by the New York Public Libraryʼs Stuff for the Teen Age. Because she’s mysterious she also writes middle grade books under the name, Catherine Holt and hopes that all this writing won’t interfere with her Netflix schedule.
She also runs writing workshops and loves to speak to people about Buffy (er, she means writing). See her Website for more information.
She has a degree in English and Journalism from the University of Queensland and is married with two children. Her debut book was nominated for a Romantic Times Reviewers Choice award, and her first young adult book was listed by the New York Public Libraryʼs Stuff for the Teen Age. Because she’s mysterious she also writes middle grade books under the name, Catherine Holt and hopes that all this writing won’t interfere with her Netflix schedule.
She also runs writing workshops and loves to speak to people about Buffy (er, she means writing). See her Website for more information.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
August 18, 2013
Believe it or not, Demonosity isn't my first Amanda Ashby book (that dubious distinction would go to Zombie Queen of Newbury High), so I'm a bit familiar with the usual adjectives that are thrown around when it comes to her books - humorous, light, quick, fun. Normally I'd agree, Ashby has a way of subverting the usual young adult paranormal tropes in a way that's good for a few laughs, but this time around? - I really didn't think Demonosity was all that funny. Tired, maybe, but not funny.
I guess my problem is that, unlike with her previous books, Demonosity isn't all that different than your average young adult paranormal. (Ok, arguably Zombie Queen wasn't either, but I thought that book at least did a better job of subverting the zombie genre than this did paranormal.) Sure, Ashby tries to inject her usual amount of quirkiness here - the best friend, Nash, is surprise, not a love interest, but asexual - but she doesn't really make the characters work. Reluctant demon slayer in training Cassidy for example is supposed to be 'a quirky high school junior who just wants to dress in her vintage clothes, hang out with her best friend, and take care of her father, who is recovering from surgery' - but from what I read she gets maybe one quirky line in with a bored shopkeeper, the vintage clothing angle never goes anywhere, and while her relationship with her father is far better written than the absent parent syndrome that plagues young adult, it didn't really help make her any less of a flat character. The rest of the time, Cassidy just behaved pretty much the same way as I'd expect a typical paranormal heroine to behave, so rather than seeming quirky, a lot of her decisions that could have been intended to be amusing simply fell flat, like when she destroys a priceless ancient grimoire with a pair of scissors as part of her initial rejection of her role... eh not really funny, just ill thought out.
The plot itself was pretty much typical for the paranormal genre too. If Cassidy's supposed to be a reluctant character, it wasn't played for laughs. Otherwise, the one twist that was supposed to separate Demonosity from every other paranormal ever, mean girl Celeste Gibson being the super special one and Cassidy having to protect her, really didn't work - the concept sounds nice in theory, but there wasn't nearly enough story or development here for me to say it subverted the genre so much as say it was just something that happened. Awkwardly. Maybe. For half a page at most. And don't get me started on the romance and the triangle - if Ashby were to subvert anything, she should have subverted that, but she didn't, so a lot of the book came across reading like the same tired cliche with the heroine having to choose between the good guy with a secret and the bad guy who may not be totally irredeemable that occurs in every single other paranormal with a triangle ever. (If I were to actually list them I could pretty much fill up this entire review with just book titles.) I don't have a lot of expectations, certainly not from an Amanda Ashby book, but the one thing I do expect is that the story, while not necessarily unique, would at least put a unique spin on things, and I'm sorry, but this didn't.
Without parodying the paranormal genre, Demonosity is just too serious for its own good - what's supposed to be light fun just feels too shallow to be enjoyable. I wanted to like this, but I was just bored.
I guess my problem is that, unlike with her previous books, Demonosity isn't all that different than your average young adult paranormal. (Ok, arguably Zombie Queen wasn't either, but I thought that book at least did a better job of subverting the zombie genre than this did paranormal.) Sure, Ashby tries to inject her usual amount of quirkiness here - the best friend, Nash, is surprise, not a love interest, but asexual - but she doesn't really make the characters work. Reluctant demon slayer in training Cassidy for example is supposed to be 'a quirky high school junior who just wants to dress in her vintage clothes, hang out with her best friend, and take care of her father, who is recovering from surgery' - but from what I read she gets maybe one quirky line in with a bored shopkeeper, the vintage clothing angle never goes anywhere, and while her relationship with her father is far better written than the absent parent syndrome that plagues young adult, it didn't really help make her any less of a flat character. The rest of the time, Cassidy just behaved pretty much the same way as I'd expect a typical paranormal heroine to behave, so rather than seeming quirky, a lot of her decisions that could have been intended to be amusing simply fell flat, like when she destroys a priceless ancient grimoire with a pair of scissors as part of her initial rejection of her role... eh not really funny, just ill thought out.
The plot itself was pretty much typical for the paranormal genre too. If Cassidy's supposed to be a reluctant character, it wasn't played for laughs. Otherwise, the one twist that was supposed to separate Demonosity from every other paranormal ever, mean girl Celeste Gibson being the super special one and Cassidy having to protect her, really didn't work - the concept sounds nice in theory, but there wasn't nearly enough story or development here for me to say it subverted the genre so much as say it was just something that happened. Awkwardly. Maybe. For half a page at most. And don't get me started on the romance and the triangle - if Ashby were to subvert anything, she should have subverted that, but she didn't, so a lot of the book came across reading like the same tired cliche with the heroine having to choose between the good guy with a secret and the bad guy who may not be totally irredeemable that occurs in every single other paranormal with a triangle ever. (If I were to actually list them I could pretty much fill up this entire review with just book titles.) I don't have a lot of expectations, certainly not from an Amanda Ashby book, but the one thing I do expect is that the story, while not necessarily unique, would at least put a unique spin on things, and I'm sorry, but this didn't.
Without parodying the paranormal genre, Demonosity is just too serious for its own good - what's supposed to be light fun just feels too shallow to be enjoyable. I wanted to like this, but I was just bored.
June 11, 2013
Fun, fun, fun! It was a pleasure to have a female heroine who is not also the damsel in distress, but the kick ass guardian instead. Add to the mix, an asexual male best friend who is a nerd but also a hottie! Kudos to Amanda Ashley for bending gender expectations and stereotypes. Don't get me wrong, there are definitely male hotties who are hormonally driven, but it's nice to have a lead character who is not constantly distracted by puberty. Cassidy (the heroine) is tasked with a seemingly impossible task which involves wielding hefty weapons. However, the more important part of this task involves sifting through the unspoken to see what is real and to see what is really important. Despite almost making a selfish mistake, Cassidy sees through to the bigger picture that trumps all individual desires. My only complaint is when Cassidy remorselessly destroys a priceless artifact and then later when she bemoans not having a choice when she clearly made a selfish choice (then lectures a demon in the next chapter about how he needs to take responsibility for his choices -- Helloooo...pot...kettle...). Her actions at the end, however, absolve her of her little hissy fit. There's also a nice "reward" for one character who never asked of anything for himself.
December 17, 2013
ACTUAL RATING: 4.5
This is my first book by Amanda Ashby and it was really good. I noticed her other books on Goodreads and thought they were interesting. So when I found this book at the library I was excited to read it. The plot was really good with its suspenful chapters, twists and turns, and etc. I thought the characters were great too. I loved Thomas. He. Ishtar have been a little harsh with Cassidy at the beginning, but he meant well. I didn't like Travis because he seemed to sketchy and I got a bad vibe from reading about him. I was so glad for the ending when she made the right choice and everything turned out well. The action and the love was just so good. Amanda Ashby made a great novel that just made you want to keep reading all the way until the end. She made it just so interesting that you couldn't put it down. It was light, funny, and easy to read. The characters were quirky and good to each other. Like Nash and how much he helped Cassidy. He was a true friend, and plus he was smart too. So that was a plus. But all in all, this was a fantastic novel and I can't wait to read more books by her. I'll keep my eyes out. So for now, enjoy this book!!!!
This is my first book by Amanda Ashby and it was really good. I noticed her other books on Goodreads and thought they were interesting. So when I found this book at the library I was excited to read it. The plot was really good with its suspenful chapters, twists and turns, and etc. I thought the characters were great too. I loved Thomas. He. Ishtar have been a little harsh with Cassidy at the beginning, but he meant well. I didn't like Travis because he seemed to sketchy and I got a bad vibe from reading about him. I was so glad for the ending when she made the right choice and everything turned out well. The action and the love was just so good. Amanda Ashby made a great novel that just made you want to keep reading all the way until the end. She made it just so interesting that you couldn't put it down. It was light, funny, and easy to read. The characters were quirky and good to each other. Like Nash and how much he helped Cassidy. He was a true friend, and plus he was smart too. So that was a plus. But all in all, this was a fantastic novel and I can't wait to read more books by her. I'll keep my eyes out. So for now, enjoy this book!!!!
January 30, 2014
This had the potential to be a cute novel.
That was what I was expecting it to be.
But for some reason, to me it just fell short.
I just couldn't get into the story. It felt way too rushed and the characters weren't developed enough to create attachments with. Because a good story makes you relate to the characters within it, but this one just wasn't doing it for me.
The backstory and the plotline had so much potential. The whole "the Black Rose has been interwoven throughout time again and again" shpeal had so much going for it, but it just wasn't executed properly.
And the love triangle was just weak.
I think this was just one of those books that I didn't realize I had expectations with going in.
Also, was I the only one hoping there was going to be some underlying tension between Nash and Cassidy. There was potential plot development there (and possibly a way better love triangle) and I kept waiting for something to happen but got nada instead.
This was a novel with too many 'what if' possibilities and not enough 'well done' scenarios.
That was what I was expecting it to be.
But for some reason, to me it just fell short.
I just couldn't get into the story. It felt way too rushed and the characters weren't developed enough to create attachments with. Because a good story makes you relate to the characters within it, but this one just wasn't doing it for me.
The backstory and the plotline had so much potential. The whole "the Black Rose has been interwoven throughout time again and again" shpeal had so much going for it, but it just wasn't executed properly.
And the love triangle was just weak.
I think this was just one of those books that I didn't realize I had expectations with going in.
Also, was I the only one hoping there was going to be some underlying tension between Nash and Cassidy. There was potential plot development there (and possibly a way better love triangle) and I kept waiting for something to happen but got nada instead.
This was a novel with too many 'what if' possibilities and not enough 'well done' scenarios.
March 15, 2014
2.5 stars. I wanted to like this book, and it was an enjoyable read, but there weren't any fresh ideas.
One thing that I loved was that Nash, the perfect guy, was NOT a love interest. However, that being the case, I didn't understand why it was necessary to describe his clothing every time he entered a scene. It was also entirely too convenient to have him be a genius (and if he was a genius, why didn't he skip high school? That's not a very smart choice, especially since he has social skills as well as brains).
The main character was good, but the over protectiveness of her dad seemed unrealistic. I mean, "being the only thing standing in the way of demons destroying the earth" vs "making sure my competent and intelligent father doesn't strain himself making lunch". Seriously? That's even up for debate?
Finally, the ending was too neat (slight spoilers ahead). Neat endings bother me in general, and even more so when there is a prophecy saying the character has to choose one of TWO options. Not three. TWO. And the fact that this third option leaves everybody so well off is confusing and annoying. Near the end there were a lot of conversations about duty and sacrifice, so I was hoping that Cassidy would have to make a difficult choice for the greater good. Unfortunately, as stated previously, she picked option three.
Overall, despite all my criticisms, this book isn't bad. It's entertaining. But it's also very weak in some areas and highly predictable. If the synopsis sounds interesting to you then by all means give it a shot, just don't expect a lot.
One thing that I loved was that Nash, the perfect guy, was NOT a love interest. However, that being the case, I didn't understand why it was necessary to describe his clothing every time he entered a scene. It was also entirely too convenient to have him be a genius (and if he was a genius, why didn't he skip high school? That's not a very smart choice, especially since he has social skills as well as brains).
The main character was good, but the over protectiveness of her dad seemed unrealistic. I mean, "being the only thing standing in the way of demons destroying the earth" vs "making sure my competent and intelligent father doesn't strain himself making lunch". Seriously? That's even up for debate?
Finally, the ending was too neat (slight spoilers ahead). Neat endings bother me in general, and even more so when there is a prophecy saying the character has to choose one of TWO options. Not three. TWO. And the fact that this third option leaves everybody so well off is confusing and annoying. Near the end there were a lot of conversations about duty and sacrifice, so I was hoping that Cassidy would have to make a difficult choice for the greater good. Unfortunately, as stated previously, she picked option three.
Overall, despite all my criticisms, this book isn't bad. It's entertaining. But it's also very weak in some areas and highly predictable. If the synopsis sounds interesting to you then by all means give it a shot, just don't expect a lot.
November 1, 2014
I chose to start reading this book because it was recommendation that Goodreads gave me.Something that impressed me in this book is how the author, portrays the character. "'Cass, stop smiling. There is nothing pretty about my having to wear a pink hospital gown,' her dad grumbled an hour later, but Cassidy couldn't help it"(Ashby __) This shows that she's happy that her father is alright.If you red further on you'd understand. I think that a trait I can describe Cassidy is; caring. She cares for her father's well-being.Another thing that impressed me in this book is that based on a female hero who fighting demons (no offense boys). "She used both hands to lift the sword vertically and thrust it under the creature's ribs,..." (Ashby 111). This book was significant in my life because it's a good book to read. Very captivating.
February 6, 2017
3 1/2 stars. Cassidy is just a regular, vintage-wearing high school student when she is suddenly involved in a drama of epic proportions. Now she must protect "the Black Rose" which has been temporarily stored in, Yikes, Celeste Gibson, the meanest of the mean girls at school. And by protect I mean kill demons with the aid of a ghostly 14th century knight.
This book was fun. I really liked this book. I enjoyed the characters, even Celeste who is really not as mean as she seems. Cassidy's BFF Nash is as cute as he is loyal and I would love to find out more about all these characters. While being a fun adventure, Cass also has to cope with family problems and misunderstandings as well as make a decision that no 16 year old should have to face. I think tweens and teens would like this paranormal adventure.
This book was fun. I really liked this book. I enjoyed the characters, even Celeste who is really not as mean as she seems. Cassidy's BFF Nash is as cute as he is loyal and I would love to find out more about all these characters. While being a fun adventure, Cass also has to cope with family problems and misunderstandings as well as make a decision that no 16 year old should have to face. I think tweens and teens would like this paranormal adventure.
October 9, 2015
I loved this book. It was a fun mix of teenage life and epic quest. Cass was a sweet, cool girl and I loved reading about her. Nash was my fave ever he was great.
In terms of how asexuality was portrayed in this book I was more or less pleasently surprised. I was worried at first that Nash would be your stereotypical genius asexual thinks other people are inferior but nope! Nash was really likable and real. He was definitely a real person, not a (tired and unfair) trope. My one complaint was that the writing seemed to imply that asexuality and aromanticism were the same thing, which obviously they are not.
This was an awesome book I would definitely recommend it to aces and to everyone else!
In terms of how asexuality was portrayed in this book I was more or less pleasently surprised. I was worried at first that Nash would be your stereotypical genius asexual thinks other people are inferior but nope! Nash was really likable and real. He was definitely a real person, not a (tired and unfair) trope. My one complaint was that the writing seemed to imply that asexuality and aromanticism were the same thing, which obviously they are not.
This was an awesome book I would definitely recommend it to aces and to everyone else!
December 22, 2014
I read this book because it showed up on a list of books with asexual characters. Plotwise it was...acceptable. Character-wise...only a few of the characters seemed fleshed out. It seemed like it had more potential than what was realized.
Nash, as an asexual character, was all right? He didn't ring true to me but I can't put my finger on any reason why.
Nash, as an asexual character, was all right? He didn't ring true to me but I can't put my finger on any reason why.
June 5, 2017
The book was awesome!!!!!! I knew she was going to end up with Thomas the minute I started reading!! They are such an amazing couple!!!! Ahhhhh! I'm so happy right now I with there was a second book of like a short story because I understand why there's not a second book since the black rose was set free but still I want more of Thomas and Cassidy!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 12, 2017
It was an entertaining read. I enjoyed the story. One issue I had is it seemed to assume asexual also means aromantic. But other than that the ace representation was good.
April 26, 2019
Demonosity by Amanda Ashby was a really good book! I read it in a day, and it was easy to read. Cassidy, the main character, was relatable and easy to empathize with. I liked her best friend, Nash, and Celeste, who was the unknowing vessel of the Black Rose. As for Travis and Thomas, well, I liked how it worked out, and there were twists I didn't see coming. I liked the undercurrent of tension Cassidy's dad's injury and subsequent problems with that added to the book. It brought in an element of real world problems, outside of the fantasy elements. Oh, and it was so fun to watch Cassidy learn to fight demons, and then actually do it! It was badass. Overall, I just really enjoyed this book. It was exciting, a bit romantic, relatable, surprising, and fun. 4.5 stars!
January 16, 2018
I got to know this author because of my daughter. I needed an eady reading book and she recommended her book.
Well, i must day i am not disappointed.
Amanda's writing captivates my attention. Its difficult to put down the book. If not for the fact that i have to work in the day, i would have finished it within a day.
Ancient brotherhood, spells, swords, demons and a vessel!
All these happening during our time now.
Cassidy having to choose between twin brothers.
And most importantly "Black Rose".
All turn out well at the end and Cassidy got the guy that her heart was yearning for.
Well, i must day i am not disappointed.
Amanda's writing captivates my attention. Its difficult to put down the book. If not for the fact that i have to work in the day, i would have finished it within a day.
Ancient brotherhood, spells, swords, demons and a vessel!
All these happening during our time now.
Cassidy having to choose between twin brothers.
And most importantly "Black Rose".
All turn out well at the end and Cassidy got the guy that her heart was yearning for.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 10, 2023
The lore is a tad bit complication to understand but once you keep reading, it pieces together eventually. I enjoyed the action elements with the protagonist fighting demons and the surprise subplot of romance at the end. A nostalgic read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 19, 2020
I wanted so badly to like this but I got bored reading it. This felt cliche, drawn out and unoriginal. The characters needed to be more fleshed out. Not for me.
August 7, 2021
Enjoyable light paranormal/fantasy.
January 30, 2024
I was looking for something light and this was quick, fast paced and fun to read. I appreciate that it wasn’t full of swear words or teen sex and was well written
March 24, 2017
3.5/5
It was much more interesting then I was hoping it to be!
It was much more interesting then I was hoping it to be!
October 1, 2014
Amanda Ashby's Demonosity is an action novel featuring demons, sword fights, time travel, and immortality. Although including interesting plot twists and a suspenseful storyline, Demonosity resembles almost every other fast-paced book before it, only lacking a satisfying conclusion to the character's part within the story.
The book follows Thomas, a young knight from 1310 France, and Cassidy Carter-Lewis, a sixteen-year-old in present day California. When the Black Rose, the essence that grants immortality, is lost in time, Thomas appears to Cassidy as an apparition to try to teach her how to fight to protect the Black Rose from the demons that want it for themselves. Her training seemed like the usual opening to a hero’s journey; she could care less until the fantasy world threatens her and her family. Between her father having surgery, her friend, Nash, being in danger during the battles, her crush on Travis, a classmate who isn't who he says he is, Cassidy has to find and protect the vessel of the Black Rose.
Demonosity's plot was a lot like every other present-day fantasy novel that I've read, only lacking memorable characters and an ending that ties up all the loose ends. Elements of the story made the plot seem overused, such as the characters. The story also had gaps in it. Some chapters were literally from a week to a few months apart, and were described in less than a sentence. It was confusing to read and poorly done.
The characters were annoying to read about after a certain point. I am not a fan of female characters who obsess over guys all day - the "boy crazy" ones - and Cassidy was one near the end of the book. It took away from the main point. Her friend, Nash, describes himself as "asexual", and I didn’t like that it was phrased that way. "Uninterested in dating" or "single" sound less strange to me. Cassidy's ex-boyfriend, Reuben, was a pointless character. He was constantly trying to get back together with her and was clearly unable to tell that she hates him. The book would have been fine, if not, better, without him, because he was completely unnecessary. As mentioned before, there is one character that is the vessel of the Black Rose, a senior at Cassidy's high school named Celeste. I hated this character, especially because she works at a nursing home after school and is embarrassed by it. Her community service doesn't sound like a terrible thing at all. The fact that Celeste couldn’t see that was aggravating.
My final complaint is the biggest; the ending made no sense. Up until the part where Travis reveals who he really is, Cassidy likes him. She doesn't get along with Thomas because he is strict and irritable. Throughout the entire book, it seems like Cassidy is going to end up with Travis, because despite the fact that he's on the wrong side, she'd forgive him. During the final battle of Demonosity, some magic flips the boys, bringing Thomas to the present and sending Travis back in time. After this, Cassidy starts dating Thomas. Since when does she like Thomas? Does she only like him because the other guy got zapped to the past? This is unanswered, and so are the endings of both Reuben and Celeste, characters which already seemed like a waste of time to me.
I think that Demonosity is too much like other books and movies that I've read and seen. Hero-training can be a fascinating part of a story, but for a book like this with so little fighting scenes it just isn't necessary. At least Harry Potter, Percy Jackson, Tris Prior, and Eragon have more than 341 pages to make up for this time that was lost to the story! Not only do these characters have more than one book to star in, but they also are memorable and unique in their own way. Cassidy seems like a new version of Brenda Song in Disney Channel's Wendy Wu: Homecoming Warrior, to be honest. In conclusion, Demonosity lacked the lovable characters, finished ideas, and fresh storyline of other novels before it.
The book follows Thomas, a young knight from 1310 France, and Cassidy Carter-Lewis, a sixteen-year-old in present day California. When the Black Rose, the essence that grants immortality, is lost in time, Thomas appears to Cassidy as an apparition to try to teach her how to fight to protect the Black Rose from the demons that want it for themselves. Her training seemed like the usual opening to a hero’s journey; she could care less until the fantasy world threatens her and her family. Between her father having surgery, her friend, Nash, being in danger during the battles, her crush on Travis, a classmate who isn't who he says he is, Cassidy has to find and protect the vessel of the Black Rose.
Demonosity's plot was a lot like every other present-day fantasy novel that I've read, only lacking memorable characters and an ending that ties up all the loose ends. Elements of the story made the plot seem overused, such as the characters. The story also had gaps in it. Some chapters were literally from a week to a few months apart, and were described in less than a sentence. It was confusing to read and poorly done.
The characters were annoying to read about after a certain point. I am not a fan of female characters who obsess over guys all day - the "boy crazy" ones - and Cassidy was one near the end of the book. It took away from the main point. Her friend, Nash, describes himself as "asexual", and I didn’t like that it was phrased that way. "Uninterested in dating" or "single" sound less strange to me. Cassidy's ex-boyfriend, Reuben, was a pointless character. He was constantly trying to get back together with her and was clearly unable to tell that she hates him. The book would have been fine, if not, better, without him, because he was completely unnecessary. As mentioned before, there is one character that is the vessel of the Black Rose, a senior at Cassidy's high school named Celeste. I hated this character, especially because she works at a nursing home after school and is embarrassed by it. Her community service doesn't sound like a terrible thing at all. The fact that Celeste couldn’t see that was aggravating.
My final complaint is the biggest; the ending made no sense. Up until the part where Travis reveals who he really is, Cassidy likes him. She doesn't get along with Thomas because he is strict and irritable. Throughout the entire book, it seems like Cassidy is going to end up with Travis, because despite the fact that he's on the wrong side, she'd forgive him. During the final battle of Demonosity, some magic flips the boys, bringing Thomas to the present and sending Travis back in time. After this, Cassidy starts dating Thomas. Since when does she like Thomas? Does she only like him because the other guy got zapped to the past? This is unanswered, and so are the endings of both Reuben and Celeste, characters which already seemed like a waste of time to me.
I think that Demonosity is too much like other books and movies that I've read and seen. Hero-training can be a fascinating part of a story, but for a book like this with so little fighting scenes it just isn't necessary. At least Harry Potter, Percy Jackson, Tris Prior, and Eragon have more than 341 pages to make up for this time that was lost to the story! Not only do these characters have more than one book to star in, but they also are memorable and unique in their own way. Cassidy seems like a new version of Brenda Song in Disney Channel's Wendy Wu: Homecoming Warrior, to be honest. In conclusion, Demonosity lacked the lovable characters, finished ideas, and fresh storyline of other novels before it.
September 29, 2013
3.5 Stars!
*Big spoilers in the spoiler links so don't click if you don't want to know what happens!
When debating whether or not to give it 3 or 4 stars, I was leaning more towards 3 because I sort of dropped off reading the book near the middle for a day and wasn't excited about starting where I left off. Though I'm glad that I got back into after a chapter or 2, I still felt a 3 was appropriate. I enjoyed reading it, but (as one has mentioned already) it does has its flaws.
Characters
For the most part, I liked and hated all the characters you were supposed to like and hate. Cassidy, our lead girl, is a likable character, though she tends to be very indecisive a lot and apologize for saying things she shouldn't have said. Nash, the best friend, is an authentic, smart hipster who's funny and, sadly, asexual. Then you have Thomas, the ghost, who's angry like 85% of the time in the book (and that's only when he's present) and Travis, the new guy, who's charming and seems like he doesn't play a big role, but he does. Celeste, the one who must be protected, is your typical mean girl, but she has her secrets that open up another perspective on her. I think Amanda Ashby did a great job giving each character their own personality/voice. However, I wish Thomas was more present in the novel. I know that he can't since it requires a lot of power/magic, but couldn't you have found a way around it?):
Romance
It was okay. If I don't read in between the lines too much, it seems like a good romance.
Overall, I liked the story (very close to really liked it!). I think I would've gave the story a 4 if I enjoyed the romance more, but it fell a bit flat for me at the end. I recommend this book for those who enjoy Paranormal YA novels with some romance and quirky humor. It wasn't the most amazing story out there, but if you want a book to pass the time or like, this book is for you.
*Big spoilers in the spoiler links so don't click if you don't want to know what happens!
When debating whether or not to give it 3 or 4 stars, I was leaning more towards 3 because I sort of dropped off reading the book near the middle for a day and wasn't excited about starting where I left off. Though I'm glad that I got back into after a chapter or 2, I still felt a 3 was appropriate. I enjoyed reading it, but (as one has mentioned already) it does has its flaws.
Characters
For the most part, I liked and hated all the characters you were supposed to like and hate. Cassidy, our lead girl, is a likable character, though she tends to be very indecisive a lot and apologize for saying things she shouldn't have said. Nash, the best friend, is an authentic, smart hipster who's funny and, sadly, asexual. Then you have Thomas, the ghost, who's angry like 85% of the time in the book (and that's only when he's present) and Travis, the new guy, who's charming and seems like he doesn't play a big role, but he does. Celeste, the one who must be protected, is your typical mean girl, but she has her secrets that open up another perspective on her. I think Amanda Ashby did a great job giving each character their own personality/voice. However, I wish Thomas was more present in the novel. I know that he can't since it requires a lot of power/magic, but couldn't you have found a way around it?):
Romance
It was okay. If I don't read in between the lines too much, it seems like a good romance.
Overall, I liked the story (very close to really liked it!). I think I would've gave the story a 4 if I enjoyed the romance more, but it fell a bit flat for me at the end. I recommend this book for those who enjoy Paranormal YA novels with some romance and quirky humor. It wasn't the most amazing story out there, but if you want a book to pass the time or like, this book is for you.
May 11, 2016
Reviewed on Lili Lost in a Book
So I’ve read and loved two other books by this author ( Zombie Queen of Newbury High and Fairy Bad Day ) so I was super excited to read Demonosity and had very high expectations for it. Unfortunately, it didn’t meet all those high expectations. But it was still enjoyable, nonetheless.
The story itself was... just okay. I did love that they had to protect Celeste, the most popular girl in school who isn’t very nice. What a chore, but oh-so hilarious! I also loved all the diverse characters--Cassidy was great, and I really loved Nash who reminded me a lot of Dr. Reid from Criminal Minds (whom I love!)
And then there are Thomas and Travis who I didn’t really care for. To me, I felt like there was something off with Travis right from the start, but Cassidy was just too infatuated to notice. And Thomas just seemed very cold and distant most of the time.
As for the plot twist there at the end, it wasn’t very surprising to me, which you know I hate when that happens. However...
Demonosity was pretty action-filled and so very humorous! Overall, I really liked it, especially Nash! He was so adorable! I highly recommend you at least check it out!
So I’ve read and loved two other books by this author ( Zombie Queen of Newbury High and Fairy Bad Day ) so I was super excited to read Demonosity and had very high expectations for it. Unfortunately, it didn’t meet all those high expectations. But it was still enjoyable, nonetheless.
The story itself was... just okay. I did love that they had to protect Celeste, the most popular girl in school who isn’t very nice. What a chore, but oh-so hilarious! I also loved all the diverse characters--Cassidy was great, and I really loved Nash who reminded me a lot of Dr. Reid from Criminal Minds (whom I love!)
And then there are Thomas and Travis who I didn’t really care for. To me, I felt like there was something off with Travis right from the start, but Cassidy was just too infatuated to notice. And Thomas just seemed very cold and distant most of the time.
As for the plot twist there at the end, it wasn’t very surprising to me, which you know I hate when that happens. However...
Demonosity was pretty action-filled and so very humorous! Overall, I really liked it, especially Nash! He was so adorable! I highly recommend you at least check it out!
July 15, 2016
I first stumbled upon this author when I read her book, Fairy Bad Day, and instantly fell in love. She writes fantasy stories set in the real world, so even if the "always constantly in mortal danger" parts of her books aren't relatable, the normal high school drama is. This book was cute with an interesting, original story and many twists and turns. Cassidy is relatable, and can be frustrating at times, but is a good character and person. She desperately loves her father and best friend, while holding a grudge against her mother for leaving for 5 years because of work and coming back into her life out of the blue. I also love Nash, her asexual best friend. It shouldn't be a big deal that he's asexual, and Ashby doesn't make it one, besides Cassidy always having to tell off girls that get a little too obsessed with her bestie. I love how Ashby made it normal for Nash, but at the same time showed how people just don't understand. It's a very small part of the plot, but to me, it was an important part. Cassidy's growth over the book was nice, along with the development of all of her supporting characters.
Overall, I would give it 3.5 stars.
Overall, I would give it 3.5 stars.
September 28, 2013
Original review at Whatever You Can Still Betray.
It's 2.5 actually.
I want to like you. I do. It was going well, dearie. It was. But then the last third part of the book happened and it became hurried... Well, not really hurried but the way things fell through confused and bugged the hell out of me since how come she suddenly had this thing for Thomas when she (and he) didn't give so much an indication that she liked him other than her fascination for his scar and wanting to touch. She didn't even like him while she was salivating all over Travis. And he in turn didn't give so much as a twitch other than staring at her intensely while training her. I know he was described as taciturn but just, what the hell happened?
What's more, it was too simple. Here we have, most possibly, one of the most dangerous things in the world, which could be used to bring peace and love and rainbows to the world as well as the second coming of the Black Plague plus World War III and demon knights and a secret brotherhood but then, whelp, it was like everything that was happening was like changing your car's flat tires. It was too easy.
I guess I expected something big. Something awesome. It was at first - a girl suddenly being a protector of an ancient essence that was a contemporary for the Holy Grail, swords, knights, time travel, blood magic and the lot - but it just went "huh, that's it?"
It's 2.5 actually.
I want to like you. I do. It was going well, dearie. It was. But then the last third part of the book happened and it became hurried... Well, not really hurried but the way things fell through confused and bugged the hell out of me since how come she suddenly had this thing for Thomas when she (and he) didn't give so much an indication that she liked him other than her fascination for his scar and wanting to touch. She didn't even like him while she was salivating all over Travis. And he in turn didn't give so much as a twitch other than staring at her intensely while training her. I know he was described as taciturn but just, what the hell happened?
What's more, it was too simple. Here we have, most possibly, one of the most dangerous things in the world, which could be used to bring peace and love and rainbows to the world as well as the second coming of the Black Plague plus World War III and demon knights and a secret brotherhood but then, whelp, it was like everything that was happening was like changing your car's flat tires. It was too easy.
I guess I expected something big. Something awesome. It was at first - a girl suddenly being a protector of an ancient essence that was a contemporary for the Holy Grail, swords, knights, time travel, blood magic and the lot - but it just went "huh, that's it?"
May 30, 2017
With a heroine that’s a little exasperating, what with her indecisiveness and her tendency to get mushy-headed when a handsome boy starts paying attention to her, Cassidy Carter-Lewis is not one of the more appealing characters. Her best friend is also asexual (by his definition) and a lover of the Renaissance. How convenient that he specializes in ancient books and astronomy! This makes him rather unbelievable, although very useful when needed.
Cassidy rises to the occasion when she’s called upon to do so. But the very improbability of her situations, coupled with an extremely unlikely best friend, made it hard for me to become invested in her plight. She’s expected to befriend a nasty girl (one of those rich creatures with shiny hair always surrounded with a coterie of like-minded shopping mall brats), fend off an irritating ex-boyfriend, take up swordplay, get in touch with her estranged mother and worry about her father even though he’s suffering from nothing worse than knee problems. (The way she fussed, you’d think she learned he had cancer.)
Her problems pile up so rapidly, it’s almost impossible to take them seriously and makes for an exasperating read. So the denouement of the book comes as a mild surprise but also a bit of a relief. I was happy to finish this book. Too bad it couldn’t have lightened up a bit on the melodrama.
Cassidy rises to the occasion when she’s called upon to do so. But the very improbability of her situations, coupled with an extremely unlikely best friend, made it hard for me to become invested in her plight. She’s expected to befriend a nasty girl (one of those rich creatures with shiny hair always surrounded with a coterie of like-minded shopping mall brats), fend off an irritating ex-boyfriend, take up swordplay, get in touch with her estranged mother and worry about her father even though he’s suffering from nothing worse than knee problems. (The way she fussed, you’d think she learned he had cancer.)
Her problems pile up so rapidly, it’s almost impossible to take them seriously and makes for an exasperating read. So the denouement of the book comes as a mild surprise but also a bit of a relief. I was happy to finish this book. Too bad it couldn’t have lightened up a bit on the melodrama.
October 8, 2016
Cassidy is an ordinary teen who with the help of her best friend, Nash, ends up fighting demons and protecting a virgin, meantime two guys with questionable motives connected to the demon situation – and bitter enemies of one another – each try to sway Cassidy over to his side.
Though never Buffy level, the author did a decent job of sprinkling some humor into the action and mythology.
I wasn’t feeling much of a pull towards either love interest, maybe they needed more scenes with Cassidy, or more scenes with each other to really establish their characters, I don’t know, I just felt like neither I nor Cassidy knew them well enough. It was just tough to really buy into the romance though I did think there was a strong degree of cuteness in the final scene, more of that lightheartedness and awkwardness throughout the book might have added to the entertainment.
When not battling demons, Kira’s adjusting to her mom being back in her life and coping with her beloved father’s medical issues, while it didn’t really make sense to me why they’d hide the reason for her mother’s absence allowing Kira to believe the worst about her mom, the moments with her parents, with everyday normal life stuff, ultimately stood out for me the most.
Though never Buffy level, the author did a decent job of sprinkling some humor into the action and mythology.
I wasn’t feeling much of a pull towards either love interest, maybe they needed more scenes with Cassidy, or more scenes with each other to really establish their characters, I don’t know, I just felt like neither I nor Cassidy knew them well enough. It was just tough to really buy into the romance though I did think there was a strong degree of cuteness in the final scene, more of that lightheartedness and awkwardness throughout the book might have added to the entertainment.
When not battling demons, Kira’s adjusting to her mom being back in her life and coping with her beloved father’s medical issues, while it didn’t really make sense to me why they’d hide the reason for her mother’s absence allowing Kira to believe the worst about her mom, the moments with her parents, with everyday normal life stuff, ultimately stood out for me the most.
January 15, 2016
This was pretty interesting. If I'm being honest, I didn't really read the blurb before going into this one, so I wasn't quite sure where this was going. Cassidy is a great character and despite her indecisiveness, she actually is pretty good at making decisions.
Great characters in this book too. Nash was delightful and Thomas and Travis... Well... I always preferred Thomas, there was just something about him. While Travis was lovely as well, there is just something about him that was too good to be true and I know we needed the anti-Rueben (Rueben was just a nuisance) but Travis and Cassidy fighting together was just a bit Buffy/Angel for me.
I am really glad that Cassidy had a guy friend (Nash) rather than a girl friend. It just would not have worked as well as it did.
Looking forward to see what you do next Ms. Ashby.
Great characters in this book too. Nash was delightful and Thomas and Travis... Well... I always preferred Thomas, there was just something about him. While Travis was lovely as well, there is just something about him that was too good to be true and I know we needed the anti-Rueben (Rueben was just a nuisance) but Travis and Cassidy fighting together was just a bit Buffy/Angel for me.
I am really glad that Cassidy had a guy friend (Nash) rather than a girl friend. It just would not have worked as well as it did.
Looking forward to see what you do next Ms. Ashby.
December 7, 2013
Rating Demonosity was challenging. It was between 3 stars and 4. The overall idea is fresh and unique. It's a good concept.
But the execution was lacking. First, I almost abandoned it. I set it aside for a while to read another book that interested me a lot more. That's usually not a good sign.
But as I picked it up again and continued reading, the story pulled me in. The story line could have been refined, in my opinion. Characters and side plot lines were introduced very late. And I'm not sure why some characters were introduced or their side stories were even in the book. I think the author tried to create side conflicts that distracted from the main conflict. I think a few characters could have been eliminated or at least minimized.
With some changes, Demonosity could be an intense and rich story. Instead, it's a little erratic.
But the execution was lacking. First, I almost abandoned it. I set it aside for a while to read another book that interested me a lot more. That's usually not a good sign.
But as I picked it up again and continued reading, the story pulled me in. The story line could have been refined, in my opinion. Characters and side plot lines were introduced very late. And I'm not sure why some characters were introduced or their side stories were even in the book. I think the author tried to create side conflicts that distracted from the main conflict. I think a few characters could have been eliminated or at least minimized.
With some changes, Demonosity could be an intense and rich story. Instead, it's a little erratic.
September 10, 2013
Demons, magic, knight warriors, ancient book, "a powerful ancient force", good vs evil, and a teenager, Cassidy, in the middle of it. With the help of his best friend Nash, a asexual (interesting trait), geek hottie and Thomas, a knight warrior, Cass will learn to kill demons and protect the black rose (the powerful force/essence), which turn out to be more complicated then she thought. Demonisity is a fast-paced paranormal adventure with a hint of sweet romance. The plot is fun. The characters believable. It keep me interested and entertained to the very end. Ahh, the end, I wasn't expecting the development on the choice Cass had to make about the black rose, and what happen after, made me love it more.
R.L Stine fans will love this book. 4 stars
R.L Stine fans will love this book. 4 stars
September 14, 2015
2.5
I really wanted to like this book, and it had the potential to be a good one, but I felt it was too predictable. The first chapter was really good but from there on I felt rather bored, until the last 50 pages exploded with a little too much information in a rather short span of time.
I didn't really connect with many characters; to be honest, I was more interested in Cassidy's dad's health and Nash's character rather than everything else that was going on.
Also, am I the only one who hadn't realised that either Cassidy or Thomas had feelings for eachother? Or the only one who was hoping there would be some tension between Nash and Cassidy?
It's sad to say I was let down, but this book had so much more potential to be ten times better than it actually was.
I really wanted to like this book, and it had the potential to be a good one, but I felt it was too predictable. The first chapter was really good but from there on I felt rather bored, until the last 50 pages exploded with a little too much information in a rather short span of time.
I didn't really connect with many characters; to be honest, I was more interested in Cassidy's dad's health and Nash's character rather than everything else that was going on.
Also, am I the only one who hadn't realised that either Cassidy or Thomas had feelings for eachother? Or the only one who was hoping there would be some tension between Nash and Cassidy?
It's sad to say I was let down, but this book had so much more potential to be ten times better than it actually was.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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