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Lily Harper #2
The Underground City
Abandon Hope, All Ye Who Enter Here…
Lily Harper narrowly survived her first mission as a Soul Retriever in the first level of the Underground City. After that harrowing trip, she wants nothing more than some down-time, but as with most things involving the afterlife, nothing ever quite works out the way Lily wants it to.
Her newest mission will see her traveling to the sewer aqueduct of the Underground City and later, the prison. But, luckily for Lily, she’s got the hunky yet antisocial bladesmith, Tallis Black, by her side. And quite possibly unluckily for her, she’s also got her guardian angel, Bill, who’s up to his old, foul-mouthed antics.
Between learning how to wield her sword, personal training with a hot-headed demon, traveling to the Underground City not one but two times and discovering that the leader of the Underground City harbors a curious fascination with her, Lily’s hope was abandoned a long time ago.
Lily Harper narrowly survived her first mission as a Soul Retriever in the first level of the Underground City. After that harrowing trip, she wants nothing more than some down-time, but as with most things involving the afterlife, nothing ever quite works out the way Lily wants it to.
Her newest mission will see her traveling to the sewer aqueduct of the Underground City and later, the prison. But, luckily for Lily, she’s got the hunky yet antisocial bladesmith, Tallis Black, by her side. And quite possibly unluckily for her, she’s also got her guardian angel, Bill, who’s up to his old, foul-mouthed antics.
Between learning how to wield her sword, personal training with a hot-headed demon, traveling to the Underground City not one but two times and discovering that the leader of the Underground City harbors a curious fascination with her, Lily’s hope was abandoned a long time ago.
Nook
First published February 13, 2014
175 people are currently reading
633 people want to read
About the author
H.P. Mallory
363 books2,803 followersI’m a huge fan of anything paranormal and I always have been. I get super excited whenever they have those Twilight Zone Marathon days and anything ghost or vampire related will always attract my attention.
My interests are varied but aside from writing, I’m most excited about traveling. I’m extremely fortunate to have been able to live in England and Scotland, both places really having a profound effect on my books.
Thanks for checking out my books and I hope you enjoy them! Happy Haunting!
H.P.
My interests are varied but aside from writing, I’m most excited about traveling. I’m extremely fortunate to have been able to live in England and Scotland, both places really having a profound effect on my books.
Thanks for checking out my books and I hope you enjoy them! Happy Haunting!
H.P.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 99 reviews
February 18, 2014
Let me make some things perfectly clear right in the beginning. First, prior to this book, I have read 12 novels by H.P. Mallory, including the entire Jolie Wilkins and Dulcie O’Neil series as well as the first Lily Harper book – and loved them all. Secondly, even though I am past middle age, I am neither a prude nor a self-righteous censor of thought, word or action. And thirdly, I am an avid reader of mysteries and thrillers, whether gritty or cozy, contemporary or historical, normal or paranormal.
Thus, profanity, explicit sexual situations and far worse are part and parcel of my average daily reading experience. But in this novel, the quantity and crassness of the profanity and sexual connotations went beyond the pale. For five and one-half chapters, 30% of my Kindle book, Mallory bombarded the reader with constant profanity, constant references to body parts and bodily functions, and continual gangsta/hood syntax. The vast majority of this onslaught comes from the character of Bill, Lily’s guardian angel. And since he must be with Lily at all times, the reader cannot get away from his characterized stupidity or his verbally profane overload. On top of that, the non-Bill passages are peppered with a vocabulary that make it seem as if Mallory was given a Word-of-the-Day calendar for Christmas with no instruction on how to use the new words properly in context.
So for one-third of the book, there was barely a discernable storyline. We do find out that it has been less than two weeks since the events that concluded the first novel in the series. We do get a recap of how Lily got into the position of Soul Retriever. And we do get one action scene in real time. The remainder of that section is a verbal summary of the theory behind Lily’s current training with Tallis.
Then Lily gets her next assignment, and the soul they must retrieve is located within – Wait for it! – the sewer system of the Underground City. So now, Mallory writes in a scenario that allows for a whole new conga line of obscene references and visuals as Lily, Tallis and Bill are crawling nose to tail through sludge. When Lily and her team reach the main sewage pit of souls, they are commanded to meet with Alaire, the Keeper of the Underground City.
And at this point, Mallory just seems to flip a switch. The Word-a-Day vocabulary inserts disappear. The obscenities and profanities are dialed back to the level of Mallory’s previous books. The sexually related scenarios are now appropriately placed and realistic. The action scenes and Lily’s internal monologues are balanced. There is significant character growth and independence for Lily. And a pair of betrayals sets the hook for the next novel.
Even though the book eventually returned to the caliber that I would expect from Mallory, that return did not happen soon enough. Were I a less jaded personality and were I less pragmatic fiscally, I would have probably deleted the book from my e-reader by the end of the 3rd chapter and gone to wash out my mind with soap.
Thus, profanity, explicit sexual situations and far worse are part and parcel of my average daily reading experience. But in this novel, the quantity and crassness of the profanity and sexual connotations went beyond the pale. For five and one-half chapters, 30% of my Kindle book, Mallory bombarded the reader with constant profanity, constant references to body parts and bodily functions, and continual gangsta/hood syntax. The vast majority of this onslaught comes from the character of Bill, Lily’s guardian angel. And since he must be with Lily at all times, the reader cannot get away from his characterized stupidity or his verbally profane overload. On top of that, the non-Bill passages are peppered with a vocabulary that make it seem as if Mallory was given a Word-of-the-Day calendar for Christmas with no instruction on how to use the new words properly in context.
So for one-third of the book, there was barely a discernable storyline. We do find out that it has been less than two weeks since the events that concluded the first novel in the series. We do get a recap of how Lily got into the position of Soul Retriever. And we do get one action scene in real time. The remainder of that section is a verbal summary of the theory behind Lily’s current training with Tallis.
Then Lily gets her next assignment, and the soul they must retrieve is located within – Wait for it! – the sewer system of the Underground City. So now, Mallory writes in a scenario that allows for a whole new conga line of obscene references and visuals as Lily, Tallis and Bill are crawling nose to tail through sludge. When Lily and her team reach the main sewage pit of souls, they are commanded to meet with Alaire, the Keeper of the Underground City.
And at this point, Mallory just seems to flip a switch. The Word-a-Day vocabulary inserts disappear. The obscenities and profanities are dialed back to the level of Mallory’s previous books. The sexually related scenarios are now appropriately placed and realistic. The action scenes and Lily’s internal monologues are balanced. There is significant character growth and independence for Lily. And a pair of betrayals sets the hook for the next novel.
Even though the book eventually returned to the caliber that I would expect from Mallory, that return did not happen soon enough. Were I a less jaded personality and were I less pragmatic fiscally, I would have probably deleted the book from my e-reader by the end of the 3rd chapter and gone to wash out my mind with soap.
February 15, 2014
I give four stars only because it seemed to end abruptly. Seemed a short read. But maybe that's because I love me some
Lily and Tallis. Can't wait to find out more about Tallis and his past. More Tallis. More. More. More.
We get to visit the Underground again. We meet a few new characters. Tallis gets hot! Hotter! Then, Oh no, where is he?
Lily and Tallis. Can't wait to find out more about Tallis and his past. More Tallis. More. More. More.
We get to visit the Underground again. We meet a few new characters. Tallis gets hot! Hotter! Then, Oh no, where is he?
February 16, 2014
I am a huge HP fan. Of all her series, this one intrigues me the most. Dante's Divine Comedies are some of my favorite classic works and her interpretation of it is great. For me it's the characters that fall a little short. Bill is not my favorite and I find him a distraction to the story and wouldn't be someone the other characters would put up with. For me there isn't anything he adds to the group. I really like Tallis and in this installment Lily is finally standing up for herself, which makes her more interesting. Also the ending is abrupt. You don't feel it coming. You hit the last page and there it is, The End.
May 12, 2014
WTH!!!!!!!!How can you end a book like that.... now i have to wait for the next one..... darn it.
February 15, 2014
I really enjoyed it. I laughed like a maniac when Bill said "beardo". Seriously, so funny. Can't wait for the next installment!
November 7, 2019
Lily Harper has barely begun her training when she is sent her next mission. She must retrieve another soul from the Underground City. The first time was bad enough. Lily cannot imagine returning there again. Thank God she has her trusty sidekick, angel Bill, by her side, not to mention the mysterious Druid, Tallis.
Just when things start looking up, Lily finds out her assignment will require her entering the sewers. Yuck! Could things get any worse? Well, yes, as it turns out, as Lily soon finds herself under close watch by the leader of the Underground City. Will she make it out unscathed again?
THE UNDERGROUND CITY continues directly after book one in the Lily Harper series, BETTER OFF DEAD. Lily has been assigned her second mission. In THE UNDERGROUND CITY, Lily starts to grow more as a person. We also see a completely different side of Tallis. And of course Bill is wittier than ever. What a thrill ride from start to finish. THE UNDERGROUND CITY gets a 3.5 star rating from me.
Just when things start looking up, Lily finds out her assignment will require her entering the sewers. Yuck! Could things get any worse? Well, yes, as it turns out, as Lily soon finds herself under close watch by the leader of the Underground City. Will she make it out unscathed again?
THE UNDERGROUND CITY continues directly after book one in the Lily Harper series, BETTER OFF DEAD. Lily has been assigned her second mission. In THE UNDERGROUND CITY, Lily starts to grow more as a person. We also see a completely different side of Tallis. And of course Bill is wittier than ever. What a thrill ride from start to finish. THE UNDERGROUND CITY gets a 3.5 star rating from me.
July 14, 2024
A nice 2nd instalment in the series where Lily makes trips 2 and 3 down to Underground, meets Alaire aka the Devil and spies on Tallis buck nekkid. Who knew she’d be catnip not to one but two powerful men?
I keep loving angel Bill’s Jack Black routine and antics (when pointed out you go - ofc!). The bladesmith needs to sort himself out and explain things to Lily properly, but I get it, 2k years of atoning and poor social skills…tsk-tsk…we have what we have. Lily’s sudden spunk when meeting dangerous strangers was surprising because no way does she feel confident in her demon-fighting abilities after 3days of training with Tallis. Might have been nervous attack instincts. I was glad the sizzle scene did not pan out, especially after the bladesmith’s revelations, but hope things evolve in future books after bot MCs sort through their inner hangups.
Recommended for lovers of NA action-adventure, angels in hell rescues and paranormal ancient druid romance.
I keep loving angel Bill’s Jack Black routine and antics (when pointed out you go - ofc!). The bladesmith needs to sort himself out and explain things to Lily properly, but I get it, 2k years of atoning and poor social skills…tsk-tsk…we have what we have. Lily’s sudden spunk when meeting dangerous strangers was surprising because no way does she feel confident in her demon-fighting abilities after 3days of training with Tallis. Might have been nervous attack instincts. I was glad the sizzle scene did not pan out, especially after the bladesmith’s revelations, but hope things evolve in future books after bot MCs sort through their inner hangups.
Recommended for lovers of NA action-adventure, angels in hell rescues and paranormal ancient druid romance.
March 5, 2019
After reading the newest book in the Lily Harper series, I must say that I am still very impressed with the series. Lily is growing into her role and Bill is as funny as ever. H.P. presents more mysteries that makes me want to know the answer to and leaves us a cliff hanger--I will not put in what it is as to not spoil it for others. You learn more about my one of my favorite characters, Tallis Black, and you are beginning to understand him a little better. Reading his Scottish accent just makes me melt, that is my favorite accent and could listen to it all day long--reading it is almost the same. This story is a must read for anyone who like adventure and mystery because it is full of both.
Read
September 8, 2020Wow book two is absolutely more interesting and intriguing that book 1. Lilly Harper meets as she calls him "the devil". Really he isn't. He's just Altaire the keeper of the Underground City. Tallis the blade maker took Lilly to get another Soul and they are summoned to meet Altaire. After the meeting Tallas disappears and Lilly is so upset. Tallas has feelings for Lilly, Altaire has feelings for Lilly Lilly is too busy for both of them .Boy what a triangle. On top of all that , Lilly meets Delilah, and she finally gets the truth from Angel Bill. More complications. Please read on. I'm on to book # 3 myself.
May 20, 2021
Insanely comedic, genuine belly laughter courtesy of the character Bill often at Lily's expense due to her newfound 'life'. It's not the easiest skillset to get a reader to literally LOL, HP Mallory makes it child's play. This initial installment in the series easily hooked me into the adventures, weaving history & biblical accounts. Fear NOT, the balance keeps the reader engaged!! I vibe with Bill's language and rather logical assessments; how the Caucasian author managed creating Bill sooo aptly to my culture alone is noteworthy... Kudos!!
March 28, 2024
OK this book flowed a little bit better but still the writing leaves a lot to be desired. There’s too much I don’t know slow parts. Lily is a great character and of course Bill and Tallis well very unpredictable in his running off when Lily turned him down, that’s just being a baby, and how could I warrior like him have redemption in the old ways yes, he should’ve gone to wherever but not in the premise of this book. I swear this book better be better going to take a break now and read something else and come back.
February 9, 2018
3.5
This one picked up a bit and it was a bit faster paced. I really wish that she did not revamp the whole story overview in each book. I guess it would be good for someone reading them several months or yrs apart but when reading them back to back, it was just a lot of skimming the first 2 chapters.
Tallis... Yumm ;)
This one picked up a bit and it was a bit faster paced. I really wish that she did not revamp the whole story overview in each book. I guess it would be good for someone reading them several months or yrs apart but when reading them back to back, it was just a lot of skimming the first 2 chapters.
Tallis... Yumm ;)
April 17, 2022
Great read!
Quick read, couldn't put it down! I am obsessed with the Underground city books. I love how lily is evolving into a strong woman and the different relationships she has in her new life. Can't wait to see how her relationship with Tallis evolves. Perfect supernatural romance book with comedy relief
Quick read, couldn't put it down! I am obsessed with the Underground city books. I love how lily is evolving into a strong woman and the different relationships she has in her new life. Can't wait to see how her relationship with Tallis evolves. Perfect supernatural romance book with comedy relief
October 1, 2024
Though I enjoyed the story line of this book, I cannot stand Bill! Not only us he obnoxious, but his comments are totally Stupid. I wish the writer would tone him down by 1/2 or just get rid of him. I want to continue this Series, but arguing with myself because I don't want to listen to Bill anymore. Narrator does a good job with the various characters voices and the entire storyline.
August 30, 2025
A trip to hell
Lily must train before her next retrieval and Tallis will be sure she’s prepared. Feelings are beginning to form and the danger level increases. Follow Lily,Bill and Tallis into the Underground City and let the adventure begin. I love the characters and can’t wait to see where this goes.
Lily must train before her next retrieval and Tallis will be sure she’s prepared. Feelings are beginning to form and the danger level increases. Follow Lily,Bill and Tallis into the Underground City and let the adventure begin. I love the characters and can’t wait to see where this goes.
October 29, 2018
Oh Bill...
How is Bill an angel? How did he get a halo?? Bill is just one of a kind!
Lily comes so close to Tallis, then they part ways...
I enjoy reading this series! It's a great read!!
How is Bill an angel? How did he get a halo?? Bill is just one of a kind!
Lily comes so close to Tallis, then they part ways...
I enjoy reading this series! It's a great read!!
November 19, 2019
Lily, Bill and Tallis continues on their mission to retrieve souls. This mission takes them through the sewers of the Underground City. Dante wrote about this level of Hell with great detail and I was disgusted that they had to traverse through this but they did so with grace.
April 9, 2022
Underground
I'm not really sure how I feel about this one. It was really cool to read and I enjoyed it but it kind of went off kilter a little. However, I'm off to read the next one.
I'm not really sure how I feel about this one. It was really cool to read and I enjoyed it but it kind of went off kilter a little. However, I'm off to read the next one.
October 1, 2019
So Fun
The adventures continue. The characters in these books are so fun to follow I find myself reading for hours. On to the next one!
The adventures continue. The characters in these books are so fun to follow I find myself reading for hours. On to the next one!
December 7, 2019
Much like the first book in the series it was fun but the characters are not fully developed.
August 8, 2022
A new beau
It seems that Lily has caught the attention of the devil. He wants a dinner date. Tall is has left them to fend on their own. What will happen next?
It seems that Lily has caught the attention of the devil. He wants a dinner date. Tall is has left them to fend on their own. What will happen next?
June 5, 2024
I love Bill
The story is well written and the characters are top notch. However, Bill rocks! He has made me laugh out loud.
The story is well written and the characters are top notch. However, Bill rocks! He has made me laugh out loud.
May 7, 2014
HP Mallory is back and better than ever with book 2 of The Lily Harper series, The Underground City.
This was the greatest Valentines gift from one of my all-time favorite authors. A big box of dangerous adventures, wrapped in humor, tied with a ribbon of non-stop action and topped off with a big bow of sexually charged romance –why can’t all my Valentine’s Day gifts be this awesome?!
Lily has died (accidentally), been born again (purposefully) and is now a Soul Retriever (reluctantly). Yet, nothing has prepared her for what she faces next when she revisits The Underground City.
Her main goal is try to survive her next mission to the Underground City aka hell.
Luckily, she has the ever-sexy, anti-social, yet built like a beast bladesmith as he guardian. With the help of both Talis and her demon trainer, she works on getting tough…both mentally and physically. She also has her ever-funny potty-mouth of a guardian angel Bill to help lighten any situation. Together they face their next mission, but what they find brings more trouble than even the fearsome threesome has to offer.
The leader of the Underground City has his eyes set on Lily and the devil is really good at getting what he wants.
Things are heating up and just when Lily thinks it couldn’t get any worse…it does.
With creatures ready to devour her at every turn, an angel that cannot kill a fly, and a guardian who is facing his own demons, Lily must learn to stand on her own…or die trying.
This book is amazing! A thrill ride that had me laughing, scared out of my seat and loudly cheering for Lily as we see her transform into a warrior in her own rite.
The chemistry between the fearsome threesome is undeniable. Tallis and Lily are electric. The sexual tension builds and I think all fans of Tily (Team Talis/Lily) will no doubt be happy with some of their…ahem...“exchanges.”
Bill and Lily also share some laugh-inducing moments. But, what was really special to me was the bond that has formed. They crossed the line from putting up with each other to becoming the closest of friends. One scene in particular is guaranteed to warm your heart.
We also meet some new characters that I am completely smitten with. We have Saxon and Delilah. Two Soul retrievers that I hope we will see a lot more of! Saxon is a cutie with a big smile that he is aiming right at Lily. Here’s to more of this guy who had me at hello!
Delilah, like Lily, is a new Soul Retriever who unfortunately does not have a scary bladesmith or guardian by her side. She is sweet as pie with a booty to match ;) I’m hoping we see more of her in the next installment.
Then there is Alaire – the leader of the Underworld. He is hot, he is dangerous….heck, he is practically the devil himself! His attention is set on Lily and, as I said before, he always gets what he wants.
All in all, this is a must-read for all urban fantasy fans!
Here is a snippet of one of my favorite scenes:
Tallis continued to stand there, silently watching me, his sword still precariously aimed on my neck. His eyes were completely engulfed by the strange blackness. They no longer resembled the eyes of a human...
“Tallis,” I whispered. “You’re scaring me.”
My comment seemed to thrill him because his lips parted into a smile. But he still didn’t say anything.
Instead, he continued staring right through me with enigmatic eyes that revealed nothing. He continued to smile as he studied me, though, appearing amused by the fact that he had me where he wanted me, amused that I was his captive. And that was when I realized he intended to kill me.
Yes, that did happen! To find out Talis’s response, check out The Underground City. It is guaranteed to come with a whole heap of surprises, like the one in this scene.
This was the greatest Valentines gift from one of my all-time favorite authors. A big box of dangerous adventures, wrapped in humor, tied with a ribbon of non-stop action and topped off with a big bow of sexually charged romance –why can’t all my Valentine’s Day gifts be this awesome?!
Lily has died (accidentally), been born again (purposefully) and is now a Soul Retriever (reluctantly). Yet, nothing has prepared her for what she faces next when she revisits The Underground City.
Her main goal is try to survive her next mission to the Underground City aka hell.
Luckily, she has the ever-sexy, anti-social, yet built like a beast bladesmith as he guardian. With the help of both Talis and her demon trainer, she works on getting tough…both mentally and physically. She also has her ever-funny potty-mouth of a guardian angel Bill to help lighten any situation. Together they face their next mission, but what they find brings more trouble than even the fearsome threesome has to offer.
The leader of the Underground City has his eyes set on Lily and the devil is really good at getting what he wants.
Things are heating up and just when Lily thinks it couldn’t get any worse…it does.
With creatures ready to devour her at every turn, an angel that cannot kill a fly, and a guardian who is facing his own demons, Lily must learn to stand on her own…or die trying.
This book is amazing! A thrill ride that had me laughing, scared out of my seat and loudly cheering for Lily as we see her transform into a warrior in her own rite.
The chemistry between the fearsome threesome is undeniable. Tallis and Lily are electric. The sexual tension builds and I think all fans of Tily (Team Talis/Lily) will no doubt be happy with some of their…ahem...“exchanges.”
Bill and Lily also share some laugh-inducing moments. But, what was really special to me was the bond that has formed. They crossed the line from putting up with each other to becoming the closest of friends. One scene in particular is guaranteed to warm your heart.
We also meet some new characters that I am completely smitten with. We have Saxon and Delilah. Two Soul retrievers that I hope we will see a lot more of! Saxon is a cutie with a big smile that he is aiming right at Lily. Here’s to more of this guy who had me at hello!
Delilah, like Lily, is a new Soul Retriever who unfortunately does not have a scary bladesmith or guardian by her side. She is sweet as pie with a booty to match ;) I’m hoping we see more of her in the next installment.
Then there is Alaire – the leader of the Underworld. He is hot, he is dangerous….heck, he is practically the devil himself! His attention is set on Lily and, as I said before, he always gets what he wants.
All in all, this is a must-read for all urban fantasy fans!
Here is a snippet of one of my favorite scenes:
Tallis continued to stand there, silently watching me, his sword still precariously aimed on my neck. His eyes were completely engulfed by the strange blackness. They no longer resembled the eyes of a human...
“Tallis,” I whispered. “You’re scaring me.”
My comment seemed to thrill him because his lips parted into a smile. But he still didn’t say anything.
Instead, he continued staring right through me with enigmatic eyes that revealed nothing. He continued to smile as he studied me, though, appearing amused by the fact that he had me where he wanted me, amused that I was his captive. And that was when I realized he intended to kill me.
Yes, that did happen! To find out Talis’s response, check out The Underground City. It is guaranteed to come with a whole heap of surprises, like the one in this scene.
June 15, 2015
In the second book in this series it takes up right where the first one left off. I mean, exactly! The same exact scene. Bill and Lily are back at their apartment from their first mission to the Underground City. Tallis has shown up and wants to continue Lily's training with her sword. She isn't long into her training when she receives her next mission. This one will take Lily to the Sewers, which is another "circle of hell". Tallis knows another shortcut which takes the group through pipes containing poo water. They retrieve their soul most easily, but find themselves summoned by Alaire.
Alaire is leader of The Underground City and bad news all the way around. He has some sort of fascination with Lily and meeting Lily only cements this weird interest. On the way back through the Dark Wood, Tallis takes Lily and Bill to a pub/inn type place and proceeds to get “blootered”. Lily and Bill wake up to find themselves abandoned in the Dark Wood. Lily’s next mission takes her to the “prison” level of the underground city, but she must do this alone as Tallis has not shown his face yet. Overall, her first trip alone (well, Angel Bill is there, but he’s not much help) is actually pretty successful, however, Lily will finds there are far reaching consequences to some of her actions in the Underground City.
Overall, I loved this book. I started the third book right away and had to keep going back to separate the second and third books in my head for this review. We get to know both Lily and Bill better. Bill is a character that grows on you the more you are around him. He is quite protective of Lily and that is endearing. Little by little we learn more about Tallis. Not all of it is good, but one can certainly understand the attraction that Lily feels towards him. One thing that keeps coming up with him though is that he obviously has a lot of self-loathing and whenever he is around Lily he pushes her away and talks about how bad he is. The discrepancy with Tallis is that whenever he is around Alaire he defends himself and doesn’t think he is the same caliber of evil as Alaire. Once Tallis is out of Alaire’s presence though Tallis is back to talking about how evil he is himself. You can’t have it both ways Tallis!
To read more reviews or get book suggestions visit my blog at: http://bibliobibulireviews.blogspot.com/
Alaire is leader of The Underground City and bad news all the way around. He has some sort of fascination with Lily and meeting Lily only cements this weird interest. On the way back through the Dark Wood, Tallis takes Lily and Bill to a pub/inn type place and proceeds to get “blootered”. Lily and Bill wake up to find themselves abandoned in the Dark Wood. Lily’s next mission takes her to the “prison” level of the underground city, but she must do this alone as Tallis has not shown his face yet. Overall, her first trip alone (well, Angel Bill is there, but he’s not much help) is actually pretty successful, however, Lily will finds there are far reaching consequences to some of her actions in the Underground City.
Overall, I loved this book. I started the third book right away and had to keep going back to separate the second and third books in my head for this review. We get to know both Lily and Bill better. Bill is a character that grows on you the more you are around him. He is quite protective of Lily and that is endearing. Little by little we learn more about Tallis. Not all of it is good, but one can certainly understand the attraction that Lily feels towards him. One thing that keeps coming up with him though is that he obviously has a lot of self-loathing and whenever he is around Lily he pushes her away and talks about how bad he is. The discrepancy with Tallis is that whenever he is around Alaire he defends himself and doesn’t think he is the same caliber of evil as Alaire. Once Tallis is out of Alaire’s presence though Tallis is back to talking about how evil he is himself. You can’t have it both ways Tallis!
To read more reviews or get book suggestions visit my blog at: http://bibliobibulireviews.blogspot.com/
April 30, 2014
The Underground City takes up where Better off Dead left us. Tallis has come to see Lily and not for the reasons Bill assumes. Tallis has come to continue training her and has a surprise in an additional trainer. Tallis will train Lily in the sword and her other trainer will turn her body into a lean fighting weapon. Lily can handle the first part its the second part that has her bulking. That is until she receives her next assignment. Lily is being made to go back to The Underground City to retrieve another soul. Only this one is located in the second level. Unsure of how to get back in since her previous trip burned a bridge or two, Tallis uses his indepth knowledge to get them to that level but it requires some really dirty work. Once they are there they come across a minion of the Leader of The Underground City. Lily is being summoned to meet the mysterious leader. For Lily dealing with the enigmatic leader is all in a days work. She does after all have to deal with a malcontented, sexy, yet so frustrating, Tallis and the never helpful, always pain in the ass, guardian Angel Bill. All Lily is sure of is that it’s not going to be easy retrieving all of souls to get herself out her contract.
I love these characters. H.P Mallory has such a way of creating characters that will excite and frustrate you. I adore Tallis but I can’t wait until we start really discovering who he is. Bill as always is entertaining. His use/misuse of the English language is always hilarious and most of the time quite funny and confusing. This second book in this series did a fantastic job in propelling the story onto the next level. It introduced new characters and developed the existing ones to keep the story interesting. Lily’s adventures in soul retrieving is so fun and entertaining. I have to say that my favorite part of this series is the use of Dante’s Inferno and his circles of hell. It definitely makes it unique read and great series that H.P Mallory has yet again created. Overall, a great story and wonderful series. If you’ve never read any of H.P Mallory’s books you are definitely missing out on a fun and exciting read.
I love these characters. H.P Mallory has such a way of creating characters that will excite and frustrate you. I adore Tallis but I can’t wait until we start really discovering who he is. Bill as always is entertaining. His use/misuse of the English language is always hilarious and most of the time quite funny and confusing. This second book in this series did a fantastic job in propelling the story onto the next level. It introduced new characters and developed the existing ones to keep the story interesting. Lily’s adventures in soul retrieving is so fun and entertaining. I have to say that my favorite part of this series is the use of Dante’s Inferno and his circles of hell. It definitely makes it unique read and great series that H.P Mallory has yet again created. Overall, a great story and wonderful series. If you’ve never read any of H.P Mallory’s books you are definitely missing out on a fun and exciting read.
March 29, 2014
This book picks up where the last book left off. It's been about two weeks since Lily's last mission. Since she's been having nightmares about the demon clowns from the first circle of hell. She's asked her Guardian Angel Bill to move into her apartment with her. Where the book begins, they have finally found furniture for Lily's apartment and are unpacking what has been delivered. When they get a knock on the door from Tallis. Apparently Lily has forgotten about their training agreement. Where she gets about 4 days of training in before her next mission.
The next mission is in the second circle of hell which is apparently the sewage system of hell. I would have to say this section of the book was a little too gross at times. Though I suppose hell isn't supposed to be a wonderful place. During this mission she finally meets Alaire, the Keeper of the Underground, where it seems like he has an interest in her as well. Being the Keeper of Hell can't be a good thing, right? As to the sexual tension between Tallis and Lily will they ever get together? Also is Lily ever going to finish her training so she can go on missions by herself?
I thought this book was a little too short. The first quarter of the book seemed more like a recap. Which didn't leave a lot of story in the rest of this short book. But, Lily finally becomes the hero she needs to be. She's learned to keep herself calm and handle her battles a bit more rationally. I was a little disappointed in how her relationship with Tallis plays out. A little nervous at the introduction of Alaire. I'm not sure if there is a possible love triangle in the future. Or if Mallory is setting up a possible rescue by Tallis down the road. Whatever the case I will definitely buy the next book when it comes out to find out what is in store for Lily Harper.
The next mission is in the second circle of hell which is apparently the sewage system of hell. I would have to say this section of the book was a little too gross at times. Though I suppose hell isn't supposed to be a wonderful place. During this mission she finally meets Alaire, the Keeper of the Underground, where it seems like he has an interest in her as well. Being the Keeper of Hell can't be a good thing, right? As to the sexual tension between Tallis and Lily will they ever get together? Also is Lily ever going to finish her training so she can go on missions by herself?
I thought this book was a little too short. The first quarter of the book seemed more like a recap. Which didn't leave a lot of story in the rest of this short book. But, Lily finally becomes the hero she needs to be. She's learned to keep herself calm and handle her battles a bit more rationally. I was a little disappointed in how her relationship with Tallis plays out. A little nervous at the introduction of Alaire. I'm not sure if there is a possible love triangle in the future. Or if Mallory is setting up a possible rescue by Tallis down the road. Whatever the case I will definitely buy the next book when it comes out to find out what is in store for Lily Harper.
December 20, 2014
This second book gave me a chance to get to know a little more about the characters like what they have been through and where they may be headed. It also introduced a few more characters who may be seen as the series progresses. The use of Dante's Inferno as a guide is kind of inspired and makes it feel more real because this is a book that has been read by a large number of people. The Underworld is shaping up to be a very interesting place.
Lily is given her second assignment to go after a soul in the Underground City but has not had a chance to train like she should. Tallis decided that since there is not any hurry he can start her sword training again and also squeeze in more physical training for her. She and Bill go to Tallis's cottage once again.
Tallis is in a strange mood and wanting things from Lily that she is not ready to give, not that she wouldn't want to. He is coming to some realizations abut his life and is falling farther and farther into a dark place that he is going to have to come out of on his own. He is not there for Lily when she needs him.
I really like the character of Lily because I can see her growing and becoming a very independent and self sufficient person. While she may always need Bill and Tallis to help her in certain situation she seems to be able to take care of herself. Bill is still that crazy angel who is the life of the party and most sarcastic and horn-dog as they come. Then our gorgeous Tallis has a darkness in him that he has tried to rid himself of, but that they will not let him forget.
This is just a fun series with great characters and a great premise that can only get better.
Lily is given her second assignment to go after a soul in the Underground City but has not had a chance to train like she should. Tallis decided that since there is not any hurry he can start her sword training again and also squeeze in more physical training for her. She and Bill go to Tallis's cottage once again.
Tallis is in a strange mood and wanting things from Lily that she is not ready to give, not that she wouldn't want to. He is coming to some realizations abut his life and is falling farther and farther into a dark place that he is going to have to come out of on his own. He is not there for Lily when she needs him.
I really like the character of Lily because I can see her growing and becoming a very independent and self sufficient person. While she may always need Bill and Tallis to help her in certain situation she seems to be able to take care of herself. Bill is still that crazy angel who is the life of the party and most sarcastic and horn-dog as they come. Then our gorgeous Tallis has a darkness in him that he has tried to rid himself of, but that they will not let him forget.
This is just a fun series with great characters and a great premise that can only get better.
April 3, 2014
After loving all things Dulcie and Jolie, I enjoyed the first Lily Harper book (reviewed here ) and could not wait to read the newest installment.
Lily is back, still reeling after discovering her new job and trying to get the hang of this whole EverAfter Enterprises gig. I was excited to see Tallis back as well and we get teased with the chemistry between them again. I am soooo hoping things get to moving on that front, and without spoiling, I can say I got what I wanted and I didn't. I want MORE. Yep - I'll keep reading for sure to see what happens next with these 2.
While I totally liked this book - I did want it to be longer and give me more story. Who doesn't with most series they like, right? I just felt like this one was more of a few chapters in a longer story - kind of the same issue I had with the first book. If the next book in the series was already out there, it probably wouldn't bother me at all, but I hate the wait and so want to get more invested in Lily and her life right now!
My final confession, I did not love Bill in this book. I know, he was one of my highlights in the last book but he just rubbed me the wrong way in this one, a little TOO crude. He bordered on obscene at times and I liked the scenes without him more than with him. Don't know - maybe just the mood I was in when I read it?
Still can't wait for the next one! I am hoping that Lily joins Dulcie and Jolie on my "favorite kick ass heroine" list!
My Rating: B/B-
Review copy provided by the author in exchange or an honest review.
Lily is back, still reeling after discovering her new job and trying to get the hang of this whole EverAfter Enterprises gig. I was excited to see Tallis back as well and we get teased with the chemistry between them again. I am soooo hoping things get to moving on that front, and without spoiling, I can say I got what I wanted and I didn't. I want MORE. Yep - I'll keep reading for sure to see what happens next with these 2.
While I totally liked this book - I did want it to be longer and give me more story. Who doesn't with most series they like, right? I just felt like this one was more of a few chapters in a longer story - kind of the same issue I had with the first book. If the next book in the series was already out there, it probably wouldn't bother me at all, but I hate the wait and so want to get more invested in Lily and her life right now!
My final confession, I did not love Bill in this book. I know, he was one of my highlights in the last book but he just rubbed me the wrong way in this one, a little TOO crude. He bordered on obscene at times and I liked the scenes without him more than with him. Don't know - maybe just the mood I was in when I read it?
Still can't wait for the next one! I am hoping that Lily joins Dulcie and Jolie on my "favorite kick ass heroine" list!
My Rating: B/B-
Review copy provided by the author in exchange or an honest review.
April 6, 2014
After loving all things Dulcie and Jolie, I enjoyed the first Lily Harper book and could not wait to read the newest installment.
Lily is back, still reeling after discovering her new job and trying to get the hang of this whole EverAfter Enterprises gig. I was excited to see Tallis back as well and we get teased with the chemistry between them again. I am soooo hoping things get to moving on that front, and without spoiling, I can say I got what I wanted and I didn't. I want MORE. Yep - I'll keep reading for sure to see what happens next with these 2.
While I totally liked this book - I did want it to be longer and give me more story. Who doesn't with most series they like, right? I just felt like this one was more of a few chapters in a longer story - kind of the same issue I had with the first book. If the next book in the series was already out there, it probably wouldn't bother me at all, but I hate the wait and so want to get more invested in Lily and her life right now!
My final confession, I did not love Bill in this book. I know, he was one of my highlights in the last book but he just rubbed me the wrong way in this one, a little TOO crude. He bordered on obscene at times and I liked the scenes without him more than with him. Don't know - maybe just the mood I was in when I read it?
Still can't wait for the next one! I am hoping that Lily joins Dulcie and Jolie on my "favorite kick ass heroine" list!
My Rating: B/B-
Review copy provided by the author in exchange or an honest review.
Lily is back, still reeling after discovering her new job and trying to get the hang of this whole EverAfter Enterprises gig. I was excited to see Tallis back as well and we get teased with the chemistry between them again. I am soooo hoping things get to moving on that front, and without spoiling, I can say I got what I wanted and I didn't. I want MORE. Yep - I'll keep reading for sure to see what happens next with these 2.
While I totally liked this book - I did want it to be longer and give me more story. Who doesn't with most series they like, right? I just felt like this one was more of a few chapters in a longer story - kind of the same issue I had with the first book. If the next book in the series was already out there, it probably wouldn't bother me at all, but I hate the wait and so want to get more invested in Lily and her life right now!
My final confession, I did not love Bill in this book. I know, he was one of my highlights in the last book but he just rubbed me the wrong way in this one, a little TOO crude. He bordered on obscene at times and I liked the scenes without him more than with him. Don't know - maybe just the mood I was in when I read it?
Still can't wait for the next one! I am hoping that Lily joins Dulcie and Jolie on my "favorite kick ass heroine" list!
My Rating: B/B-
Review copy provided by the author in exchange or an honest review.
August 27, 2016
Three Stars and only because the characters are likeable and the story is fast paced.
However…. It’s WAY TOO SHORT. These are not novels, more like short novellas, something you will probably finish in an afternoon, before the kids get home…
I read the first one and was disappointed when the story was ended, thinking Man, that was a fast read!
Then I took a look at the bookmark and noticed I was only 85% or so through the book. So I flipped a page or two to see what was going on, discovering that the last 15% or so of this eBook is a self-promotion for a different series the author has. Disappointed, but hey, it was free…
So, I thought, Okay, I'll give the next one a chance and see how it goes.
Well, this one also is complete at about the same point, leaving the last 15% or so for the promotion of a different series.
The two books combined would have been a GREAT First book to a new series, but this approach is a lot more like reading Kindle Serials, which, for me at least, just doesn't work.
However…. It’s WAY TOO SHORT. These are not novels, more like short novellas, something you will probably finish in an afternoon, before the kids get home…
I read the first one and was disappointed when the story was ended, thinking Man, that was a fast read!
Then I took a look at the bookmark and noticed I was only 85% or so through the book. So I flipped a page or two to see what was going on, discovering that the last 15% or so of this eBook is a self-promotion for a different series the author has. Disappointed, but hey, it was free…
So, I thought, Okay, I'll give the next one a chance and see how it goes.
Well, this one also is complete at about the same point, leaving the last 15% or so for the promotion of a different series.
The two books combined would have been a GREAT First book to a new series, but this approach is a lot more like reading Kindle Serials, which, for me at least, just doesn't work.
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