Judge of Saints and Sinners

Lords of the Underworld #2

by Maggie White

The heir to hell.
A soul torn between good and evil.

Together they hold the scale of judgement in the Underworld, and each other’s last chance at love.

Nephesh was born into chaos. The first son of hell, the child of a powerful human witch, and a fallen angel. He waged wars beside his father, together carving out the world that became Hell’s domain. But no matter how strong he was, Nephesh still couldn’t save the human carrying his soul. He'd lost her along with any chance of saving the Underworld. It was then that Nephesh decided, the next time he found his soul, if he were ever so lucky, he would do everything he could to keep it safe, and take it back.

Justine has been cursed since the day she lost her parents. A shadow follows her, a darkness she can’t escape. And when she finds herself in danger, Justine strikes a deal with Nephesh. Ultimately inserting herself in a war hundreds of years in the making.

Can Justine really promise her soul to a demon in exchange for the life she thought she wanted, knowing that it would never have him in it?

Judge of Saints and Sinners is the second book in the Lords of the Underworld series. This story follows the first son of Lucifer, Nephesh’s journey to reclaim his realm. It contains mature language and themes.

Genres: Fantasy, Romantasy, Fantasy Romance

385 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 4, 2024

About the author

Maggie White is a paranormal and fantasy romance author from Kansas. Her books focus on myths and monsters and what happens when characters let love in. If she’s not writing you can find her with her family, cooking something delicious or dreaming up her next great love story.

Reviews

[Jessica Phelps · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was provided this book as an ARC in return for an honest review. I really enjoyed this book! The way the author was able to paint a picture of what the underworld looked like was awesome. Little details like that mean a lot to me. I loved the characters as well! I do feel like it needed to be longer. It made spots seem like the went to fast as well as developed too fast. Overall this is a 3.5 to 4 star review for me! Great addition to the first book and leaving me excited for the rest of the series

[Tay (Read With Tay) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was provided an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.

This was an amazing follow up to the first novel! I found Justine and Judge to be engaging, real, and raw characters that I connected to from the beginning. Justine was such a strong FMC and she paired so well with Judge. I love the premise of these books and I think they are so different from anything I have read before. This book was draw you in and make you feel all the emotions!

[Cerissa Nowell · Rating 4 out of 5]

I feel like this series has so much potential! It’s an interesting story and interesting characters but the amount of typos and grammatical errors are so bothersome. The typos just irritated me as I was reading but I do think this book is good!

[Demi · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book! It was an easy read, and I personally think that the writing is great. I was feeling the emotions of the characters, the action scenes were well written, and the imagery was there. There is spice, but it is not excessive. There is lore in the book that I think would be important if you want to read the upcoming books in the series.
There were some unusual dialogues/interactions that seemed out of place, but it wasn't a lot that it ruined the book for me.

This was given to me as an ARC and this review is my own honest thoughts and opinions of the book.

[SmuttyGhoul · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was provided this ARC for an honest review.

I did like this book a lot, there were a couple of parts that dragged on for me. Other than that the character development was great and I like how everything came together.

The ending left me wanting more.

[Brianna · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received an ARC of this book from the author. This review is my own independent and honest opinion.

3.75⭐️ - typically my ratings are based off how much I was drawn to the book. How much I was dying to sit down and read all day. This book did capture that need to read and find out the ending. However, there were points I found lacking or a little confusing. *spoiler* I don’t remember it being mentioned in the first book that Lucia (Araphel’s mate) had a little witch in her. I could’ve missed it but it felt thrown in during this storyline. I also felt like we didn’t really get to explore Justine’s powers or even have an inkling of them until it was revealed.

I did enjoy the growth of Nephesh and truly hope to see him in the future books. I am also curious to see where things end up with their mother.

There were some typos and grammatical errors in the book which is why my rating isn’t higher. That being said, I did enjoy this book and think Maggie has a wonderful writing career ahead of her and I look forward to reading the next installment in the series.

[Natalie Catalano · Rating 3 out of 5]

I've read both Soul of Light and Shadow and Judge of Saints and Sinners, which released yesterday around midnight for me. (I read them both through January 2-5.)

I gave both books a 3.5. I really like the characters and how the underworld is portrayed so far. I will say that I like this second book better than the first, as we got to know the main male character and his backstory a bit in the first book, which gave this one a bit of a launching pad and you didn't necessarily need to re-explain everything.

That being said, there are still typos and grammatical errors in this book at some points. Not nearly as bad as the first, but it is still apparent when I find them. And it's why this book didn't move up to a 4 star for me.

I really want to continue this series because I'm interested in the way everyone is characterized and how she builds relationships around these demons, humans, souls, and everything else being thrown at us. Everything is being slowly built upon, which I appreciate. Everyone is intertwined, and even if you leave one brothers book, that doesn't mean that you're never going to hear about them, the people important to them, or their partner ever again. Which is a huge selling point for me. I really like the callbacks to pass events in the current narrative and the previous book, and I hope that it continues in the third, fourth, and fifth. (I imagine that will be at least five books, considering there are five brothers.)

I'm ready for the third book to be available for pre-order on Amazon, so it, too, will automatically be delivered to my Kindle at midnight in October.

[Dixie · Rating 2 out of 5]

This story has SO MUCH potential. But the author failed miserably.

I really enjoyed the love story but not so much the rest of the plot. I saw another reviewer say something like “There are fantasy books with a bit of romance, and there are romance books with a bit of fantasy. This book is the latter.” There is nothing wrong with that except that the author neglected the rest of the plot and I often felt like I was dropped into the middle of a chapter rather than the beginning. I had to re-read pages many times to make sure I didn’t accidentally skip over something. Nope. It just wasn’t there.

And I’m sorry but if there was an editor for this book, they were utterly and completely horrible. Same for the first book of the series. The typos and grammatical mistakes were abundant and infuriating.

I really wish a better author had written this series because I would love it so much.

Last complaint: if you are an author trying to sell books and gain readers, WHY DON’T YOU RESPOND TO MULTIPLE CONTACT ATTEMPTS FROM A POTENTIAL READER? I contacted the author twice on social media, twice via email, and once via the contact form on her website and have never received a response. She had her 4th book listed to release in mid-March and it was nowhere to be found on Amazon. After much digging on instagram I finally found somewhere that she had to push back her release date, but I would expect an author to not only do a better job announcing the delay, but also responding to correspondence from readers.

I will not be reading the rest of the books in the series and I would encourage you not to waste your time either.

[Sophy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I got this book as an ARC from the Author and leaving an honest review.

I give this story a 3.5

I really love the overall plot of the story. It is very unique and has a lot to offer. I even love the characters Nephesh and Justine’s. There is great character development in this story. It has great bones to be a very good story.

This story does need a lot of editing, besides the handful of small errors or messing letters and things there are a lot of inconsistencies throw out the whole story. Information that is repeated like it was the first time even though it had already been stated before.

Information that never showed up before but talked about like it had happened.

-spoilers- For example when they were in the dream together they talked about how they were soul mates

“Does this mean… Does this mean I’m your Soul Mate?”


Nephesh’s eyes amber eyes flash red now, but I wasn't afraid. “ You are”

But then when they are captured she asks again like she doesn't already know and he answers like he isn't completely sure. She even asks why he didn't tell her when he already had.

There are a few inconsistencies like this that throw out the whole story. Definitely need to go back and do a few more edits to make the story flow better.

Overall I did really enjoy the story, and will be going back to read the first book as well as looking forward to reading the rest of the series.

[Kimberly · Rating 4 out of 5]

Judge of Saints and Sinners by Maggie White is book two in the Lords of the Underworld Series. After reading the first book I couldn’t wait to get my hands on this one, oh my what a read it was. I will mention to check your trigger/content warnings to be on the safe side. I really enjoyed this book, I finished it in a day. I couldn’t put it down. I was entranced as I do love a great paranormal romance. The best part for me is I really like reading slow burns and it is really well done in this book. The best parts for me were the characters and the amazing banter. I loved the banter, it was top tier for me. I just really enjoyed the aspect of a second chance to find your other half, the other piece of your soul. The characters are written phenomenally, you can really understand their personalities… they all have such a depth to them. The theme of learning to see the good, the worth in yourself was amazing to read. I can’t wait for book three in this incredible world. If you haven’t read anything by Maggie White, I highly recommend you give this author a read!

Final review:
4 out of 5 stars

[Bree Carmichiel · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5/5

*I was given this book as an arc in exchange for my honest review*

"Because even in the moments that I’d been confused by his presence or frustrated by his handsome smirking face, everything in me had always wanted to stay as close to him as possible."

Judge of Saints and Sinners is the second book in the Lord's of the Underworld series. Nephesh, the judge of souls, thought he'd lost the other other half of his own soul when he finds it in Justine, a morally grey woman. But, if he accepts her, will he turn into the monster he knows he truly is?

I fully intended to read a Soul of Light and Shadow first, but I just couldn't help myself from diving in the second I received this book. I am happy to report that I was able to follow the story despite not yet reading book 1.I really enjoyed the storyline, plot, character building, and banter. The spice was present but minimal enough that it didn't take away from the story.

Nephesh and Justine are the perfect balance to each other and mesh together well. I was pulled in right away and could not put this book down. Being an ARC, I expected there to be some edits needed, so I didn't focus too much on the flaws. Without giving away any spoilers, I will say that the ending felt a bit rushed. I would have liked more elaboration on how we got from point A to point B during the conflict resolution. Overall, it was a great read, and I would absolutely recommend it. I look forward to reading the rest of the series!

[Kelsi · Rating 4 out of 5]

An interesting new take on Demons and Mates!

Rating: 3.5 stars to 4 stars
Spice: 🌶️.5

If you love paranormal romances featuring fiery red headed female main characters, who handle being mated to a demon main male character like it’s just another day then this is absolutely the book for you! Especially if you love a bit of slow burn romance, hilarious banter, and an interesting plot.

I loved the characters in this book, Justine, was fiery and loving and so supportive and more of a slay her own dragons kinda girl making her hard not to love. On the other hand you had Nephesh our brooding, cautious, but protective alpha male demon who really only had a soft spot for Justine. And their romance was off the charts romantic!! I loved it!!

Now, my only dislike while reading this is that maybe it was formatting but somethings just felt a little choppy to me, as if I missed something between scene. That didn’t make it impossible for me to read but did occasionally take me out of the reading zone.

Overall this is a must read for paranormal romance lovers.

HAPPY READING 📖

[Taylor Elrod · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cuddly demon again; but this one is darker! 😈 Dare I say that I liked book 2 of this series better than book 1? Is that even possible? I’m not sure; BUT what I do know is that @maggiewhitewrites did it again & wrote pure perfection! This story had me engulfed after the first chapter. I did struggle getting through the first chapter but it was not the book or authors fault; my head was just elsewhere. Most series’ the 2nd; 3rd book etc are just the same story as the first but with a new couple as the main spotlight. But that’s not the case here; Maggie really did an incredible job making this second book a different story! The book is still set in the Underworld & you do get to see more of the couple from book 1! This book was beautifully written & I cannot wait for October when book 3 releases! I loved reading Nephesh & Justine’s story so much! Thank you Maggie for writing this captivating series! I’m obsessed!

[Joy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Judge of Saints and Sinners is the second book in the Lord's of the Underworld Series. I was looking forward to this release after immensely enjoying the first book. This book did not disappoint. The story centers around Nephesh, the first born son of Lucifer and is the Judge of all souls who enter the Underworld. When half of his soul is thought to be lost forever, he meets Justine, a morally grey thief who may be the key in finding his other half. I absolutely loved this book. The romance of a second chance of finding your lost soulmate again is beautiful. There is so much character depth and raw emotion in the story. From always judging others but not really trusting in yourself in others, and learning to see the good in yourself. Maggie, you did a phenomenal job writing this story. I highly recommend this book and series. I'm so excited to read the next book.

[Jay Perry · Rating 4 out of 5]

Overall Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5

Spice Level: 🌶️

A must read paranormal romance. As someone who primarily reads books full of smut, this was a nice break from the OVERWHELMING smut books. There was some spice, but it didn’t take away from the storyline as some books tend to do.

I had accidentally read this book first before reading the first book in the series. It didn’t feel like I was playing catch up, or missed too much information from not reading the first book though, which was really nice.

Justine was a strong, badass FMC and she wasn’t overshadowed by Nephesh, the MMC. This was an excellent book about the power of love and sacrifice and just an all around great book.

I will definitely be continuing the series and I can’t wait for the next book!

[Justine · Rating 4 out of 5]

I like it, even though the first one was better I think

A bit disappointed… it goes too fast not enough character and plot building, it finished too early like I was “I’ve just started the book and it’s already done”
It could be at least 100pages longer to add the plot and character building
+ under the impression we don’t have a lot more info on the bigger plot (with the drude etc) I would have loved a bit more infos but that’s just personal bc I want to know what happens 😅

Anyway I’ll still be reading the next one bc I like the idea and the world the author created —> she can definitely make bigger/longer books ahah 😉 + interesting plot and suspense

[Sonya · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good follow up from book 1. Nephesh and Justine were pretty much made for each other. In this installment we see Nephesh getting a second chance of finding his soul bound who happens to be his mate. He didn't feel worthy of having another chance after he wasn't able to save his 1st soul bond.

Justine is very similar to Nephesh in thinking that she is not deserving of love and happiness. There was a lot of growth for both characters, and it was an uphill battle for each of them to realize that they were enough, and they did deserve to be happy.

Now it's time for the next devil to find his mate and from the ending of this book we see he is already in hot pursuit.

[Ashley McNeal · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was provided to me as an arc, in exchange for an honest review. Well first of all I enjoyed this underworld setting in the beginning , I like how it changed just enough amount of times. The story itself was amazing, and super easy to get through! It has a very great flow between both points of view. Although there was some errors in the writing itself, I would still recommend this book! Can’t wait to continue the journey with these characters and see what the author has in store for us! Thank you again for the opportunity to read this outstanding book!

[Sebastian (bookish_millennial) · Rating 3 out of 5]

Rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice 🌶️🌶️

The second book in the Lords of the Underworld series & I have to say | liked book 2 better than book 1. I'm not sure if it was because of the characters, chemistry or the story, but I felt more connection in this book. We finally get to see the Drude & a few questions were answered but I did feel like the ending was rushed again. All the big conclusions happen at like 90% but still interested to see what happens in the rest of the series.

Fav quote:
“Morally gray was the color of the day. Again.”

[Kati Bennett · Rating 4 out of 5]

ok, I want to give this 5 stars because I love Maggie Whites storytelling. I have supported on Kickstart and will continue to be a fan.

However, I took a star away because the grammatical errors in this book drove me crazy. I wish she could get a better editor who would see these mistakes. Names are spelled wrong, extra words that don't belong, and misspelled words.

Maggie, I will forever support you, just hope you find a better editor. I will even proofread it :)

Can't wait to start the next book.

[Samantha · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC review.

While it’s a standalone, I LOVE how the stories are connected. Often I find myself bored with series about the same characters but learning about new ones each book while fighting the same battle is amazing. The details and plot are so beautifully done, I looked forward to the next characters while learning new things about their battle!

[Jenn Dickinson · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was provided an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.

I loved every minute of this book! It was engaging and Justine is very high spirited and I just love this character and the storyline! This was the second book in the series and I ended up reading both back to back, and I love them! Maggie did an awesome job and I can’t wait to see what she writes next!

[Donna Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an interesting new take on demons and their fiery red headed mates. I love a good paranormal romance and this book definitely didn’t disappoint. I was quickly sucked in the moment I dove into chapter one. It was so good that I literally couldn’t put it down and the ending left me craving more. I can’t wait to read more from this amazing author!

[Tiera McMillian · Rating 4 out of 5]

I can’t wait for more of these books to come out. They are just really cute. Sometimes I just want to get lost in a story without all the heart/gut wrenching a lot of fantasy novels are pulling me through nowadays. I love that each book is about a different couple in a continuation of the main plot. The one and done HEAs with a hint of more story is really a vibe I’m into these days.

[Amber Rea · Rating 4 out of 5]

This one I liked just like the first one but this was more informative story line which is still great. The only complaint o have is that there’s an entire part of the book you can tell is missing because it jumps scenes and references things that weren’t told so you have to piece together on your own.

[Kimber · Rating 4 out of 5]

Such a great read!

This story was an amazing read. It had me hooked from the beginning.

I absolutely loved how you see both characters grow so much from what they have gone through. They truly lift each other up and bring the best parts of each other out.

My only issue is with editing. There are misspellings, doubles of parts of sentences and misused words or missing words.

[Kristina · Rating 5 out of 5]

You won't want to put this one down. This is one intense read. You will be on the edge of your seat the whole way through. You can't help but fall in love with Nephesh.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[j a y • d e p r a v e d - .dammnitjay. · Rating 4 out of 5]

the author was able to paint vivid pictures in the mind of how to world looks and feels. I felt it had great pacing and was actually a switch from what I had been reading.

It definitely drew me in and has me wanting more!

[Savanna Rae Dolan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book had me on the edge of my seat the entire time. Something new to discover just in the next page. I loved it. Book one was sweat and kinda soft. Book two was sarcastic humorous and blunt! Loved the relationship between the characters. Loved this story. Throughly invested in this series.

[Mousie Lou · Rating 5 out of 5]

So good!

I loved when Cerberus blocked them off from kissing. I cackled so loud because my dog does the same thing. I can't wait to be able to get my hands on book 3 and the rest of the series!