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Legion #1
Blood and Bones
alternate cover editions can be found here and here
Artemus Steele is many things. The world's foremost yet least celebrated expert on all things ancient and arcane. A metalsmith with unusual skills. The owner of an antique shop and a switchblade that is more than just a knife. What he doesn’t want to be is a hero. When the monster he first met on the night he turned six appears on his doorstep, Artemus suspects his life is about to go from strange to hell in a handbasket. And he isn’t too happy about that.
Callie Stone arrives in Chicago with one purpose in mind: to sell one of her dead husband’s prized possessions. When the auction house gets attacked by fiendish creatures and the relic goes missing, Callie realizes that the life she has known is a lie and the world is full of frightening things straight out of her worst nightmares.
Moments after snatching a priceless artifact from one of the most securely guarded private functions in the country, Drake Hunter is confronted by enemies he thought he’d left in his past. Brought face to face with the mysterious organization after the relic, Drake knows he is dealing with something evil. Because the devil inside him is stirring once more.
With no option but to join forces with a pair of ruthless mercenaries, the reluctant associates are cast into a race to uncover the organization’s dark intentions and the true nature of the artifact. To survive, they will need more than brute strength and wit. They will have to figure out what twisted Fate links them. And they will have to embrace powers they never knew they possessed.
From the author of bestselling supernatural thriller series Seventeen comes a spin-off series like no other. Get the spellbinding book fans have been waiting for and enter a world you won’t want to leave!
322 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 23, 2019
2801 people are currently reading
1893 people want to read
About the author
A.D. Starrling
42 books512 followersA.D. Starrling is a bestselling author renowned for her pulse-pounding fusion of urban fantasy, action, adventure, and supernatural suspense. With a passion for history and a gift for intricate plotting, she crafts captivating narratives that transport readers across time and continents. Her Seventeen series, featuring immortal warriors with extraordinary abilities, has garnered critical acclaim and a dedicated global following. Her authentic research and skillful character development keep readers hooked, while her love for action movies infuses her work with electrifying combat sequences and story lines.
When she’s not busy writing, A.D. can be found eating Thai food, being tortured by her back therapists, working part-time as a doctor on a Neonatal Intensive Care unit somewhere in the UK, reading manga, and watching anime. She has occasionally been accused of committing art with a charcoal stick and some drawing paper.
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When she’s not busy writing, A.D. can be found eating Thai food, being tortured by her back therapists, working part-time as a doctor on a Neonatal Intensive Care unit somewhere in the UK, reading manga, and watching anime. She has occasionally been accused of committing art with a charcoal stick and some drawing paper.
Click FOLLOW to be notified of new releases.
Sign-up to her mailing list for a FREE BOXSET, exclusive giveaways, and special promotional offers:
➤ https://www.adstarrling.com/e0kp
Join her Facebook Reader Group for exclusive sneak peeks at her upcoming books:
➤ https://www.adstarrling.com/thesevent...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 156 reviews
January 1, 2023
I saw this book in a Facebook ad picking it up solely from the picture of a black dog (Rottweiler) and something about liking bunnies. Oh and the blurb seemed OK, if not a little scattered.
But, what I didn't know was that it would be a absolute pedal-to-the-metal thrill ride from beginning to the end. And yes there's sorta a big black dog and bunny in it. So what, if they were one and the same, I wasn't disappointed at all. The book had some unexpected twists and turns in it, giving the read another layer of detail.
I say pick-up the story but expect to be up most of the night.
“Nope,” Callie reported after a pause. “All it does is dream about humping, apparently.”
“For a guy with white wings and golden armor, you sure ask stupid questions.”
But, what I didn't know was that it would be a absolute pedal-to-the-metal thrill ride from beginning to the end. And yes there's sorta a big black dog and bunny in it. So what, if they were one and the same, I wasn't disappointed at all. The book had some unexpected twists and turns in it, giving the read another layer of detail.
I say pick-up the story but expect to be up most of the night.
“Nope,” Callie reported after a pause. “All it does is dream about humping, apparently.”
“For a guy with white wings and golden armor, you sure ask stupid questions.”
April 3, 2019
If you know me, you know that I am a huge fan of the Seventeen series, and A.D. Starrling in general. So I was super excited to learn that the Seventeen series was getting a spinoff. Shockingly, I didn't really realize that this was the actual spinoff until I was pretty far into the book. Starrling is introducing a whole host of new characters at once, and I didn't immediately connect anything to the prior series.
One thing this book did have in common with all of Starrling's other books was the nearly non-stop action and plot development. While this book didn't have a clear cut hero, Artemus Steele seems to be taking the lead in the story. Artemus was an interesting cat, and the more we learn about him, the more intriguing I find him. His powers promise to be super cool, and the origins even better. There were also some hints about a potential romantic interest in the future - and you know how I like those.
Artemus teams up with others who, like him, don't seem to be totally human. This was a diverse cast of characters that all add their own special something to the story. Callie and Drake were my particular favorites... Callie for her unique transformations and Drake for his dark vulnerability. I hope one or both of them will take center stage in some of the future books.
I did have a little bit of difficulty with this book, in that we changed POVs quite a bit and it was sometimes jarring to switch from person to person. I also wanted more backstory on all of our characters, and its hard to get that in when you are introducing so many people at once. However, as we get towards the end of the story, lots of fascinating details are introduced and I was captivated. This is where we start learning the mythological themes for the series, and how it may tie in strongly to the Seventeen series. So now I can't wait for the future books.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance copy of this book that I received from the author.
One thing this book did have in common with all of Starrling's other books was the nearly non-stop action and plot development. While this book didn't have a clear cut hero, Artemus Steele seems to be taking the lead in the story. Artemus was an interesting cat, and the more we learn about him, the more intriguing I find him. His powers promise to be super cool, and the origins even better. There were also some hints about a potential romantic interest in the future - and you know how I like those.
Artemus teams up with others who, like him, don't seem to be totally human. This was a diverse cast of characters that all add their own special something to the story. Callie and Drake were my particular favorites... Callie for her unique transformations and Drake for his dark vulnerability. I hope one or both of them will take center stage in some of the future books.
I did have a little bit of difficulty with this book, in that we changed POVs quite a bit and it was sometimes jarring to switch from person to person. I also wanted more backstory on all of our characters, and its hard to get that in when you are introducing so many people at once. However, as we get towards the end of the story, lots of fascinating details are introduced and I was captivated. This is where we start learning the mythological themes for the series, and how it may tie in strongly to the Seventeen series. So now I can't wait for the future books.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advance copy of this book that I received from the author.
March 15, 2019
What another fantastic read by this outstanding writer. Artemus is many things, but a hero is definitely something he doesn’t want to be. I couldn’t stop reading.
Want to read
May 21, 2021🎁 FREE on Amazon today (5/21/2021)! 🎁
October 20, 2022
I super duper wanted to like this book. I really really did. So much so that I kept reading until I was almost halfway through when usually I only give books three chapters/an hour of reading to hook me. Because the story and character are all pretty good! It's the writing style that rubbed me the wrong way, and finally had me adding it to the DNF pile. :(
The story is just too scattered and disjointed to keep me engrossed. I know what the author was going for - cliff-hanger chapter endings to keep the reader reading, but make 'em wait to see what happens because now we're gonna get you caught up with this completely different character facing a completely different situation! Unfortunately, in this case, the opposite happened due to a complete lack of transition between chapters, even when it stays with the same character. This lack of cohesion jarred me out of an otherwise promising story, leaving me irritated and disinclined to continue reading.
I have actually read loads of books with a similar cliffhanger-ending-next-chacter-up! writing method, so I know it can and does work amazingly well... when it is done correctly. Starrling just hasn't quite figured it out yet.
The story is just too scattered and disjointed to keep me engrossed. I know what the author was going for - cliff-hanger chapter endings to keep the reader reading, but make 'em wait to see what happens because now we're gonna get you caught up with this completely different character facing a completely different situation! Unfortunately, in this case, the opposite happened due to a complete lack of transition between chapters, even when it stays with the same character. This lack of cohesion jarred me out of an otherwise promising story, leaving me irritated and disinclined to continue reading.
I have actually read loads of books with a similar cliffhanger-ending-next-chacter-up! writing method, so I know it can and does work amazingly well... when it is done correctly. Starrling just hasn't quite figured it out yet.
June 15, 2020
Mashup supernatural-fantasy with horror & mythological elements.
I wanted a quick-read and a change of pace from crime fiction, so I chose a new-to-me-author. If you’re a Harry Dresden fan, walk away. This is book #1 of a horror-infused fantasy series, which is weighted with Western mythology, including religious imagery & iconography. The plot is thin and repetitive, the characters need work, and the world-building seems non-existant.
After the first two action sequences with the same “super” heroes, the subsequent action scenes are boring—no matter the city, setting or the shifting numbers, sizes, powers of the enemy demons. IMHO, less is better than a Smörgåsbord of supernatural powers and body-morphing—especially when there are eight “super” heroes, plus a large cast of secondary characters.
I enjoyed the Rex Rabbit character for its uniqueness, although its ultimate “real self” was predictable. I’d read another book if the Rex’s role increased, a lot.
Warning: much blood, beheadings, gore, torture, BDSM, and a sex house tour
I wanted a quick-read and a change of pace from crime fiction, so I chose a new-to-me-author. If you’re a Harry Dresden fan, walk away. This is book #1 of a horror-infused fantasy series, which is weighted with Western mythology, including religious imagery & iconography. The plot is thin and repetitive, the characters need work, and the world-building seems non-existant.
After the first two action sequences with the same “super” heroes, the subsequent action scenes are boring—no matter the city, setting or the shifting numbers, sizes, powers of the enemy demons. IMHO, less is better than a Smörgåsbord of supernatural powers and body-morphing—especially when there are eight “super” heroes, plus a large cast of secondary characters.
I enjoyed the Rex Rabbit character for its uniqueness, although its ultimate “real self” was predictable. I’d read another book if the Rex’s role increased, a lot.
Warning: much blood, beheadings, gore, torture, BDSM, and a sex house tour
March 27, 2019
I am thrilled that the first book in the spin-off series from Seventeen is finally with us. The story / characters are very different from those in Seventeen, but we are presented once more with AD Starrling’s great talent of giving the reader a fast paced thrill ride from the first page to the last. There are a few things that will be familiar to those who have read Seventeen. Although it isn’t entirely necessary to read that series first, I do recommend it so you get a complete picture of the world that AD Starrling has built within our own. There is a lot stuffed in to the pages of this book; we get introduced to a larger group of main protagonists who have a very diverse range of talents. This is a very different feel to the previous series which introduced us to just a few new characters with each new book, and because there is so much happening in this first book in the Legion series I’d say not to read it if your tired, and try and read it in good chunks at a time; not a problem because once you start you really need to know what happens next! There is a great balance of tension and humour in this exciting story and some awesome characters (I have a new appreciation for not so fluffy bunnies). I really can’t wait for the next in the series to see how the story progresses
June 18, 2023
Hooked from the first page. Fast paced and action packed with awesome characters you’ll love or hate. Drake is my favorite and I can’t wait to see the relationship between him and Artemis now that they found out they are brothers!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 23, 2022
The book is quite good, I think it's a superbook, very good reading and spelling, I think it's a good book, highly recommended..
April 12, 2025
Now this was a decent read. Not great, but well worth reading.
March 27, 2019
Blood & Bones.. Author, Lady AD Starling.
Book Review by Simon Fletcher aka Fluffy..
Hello folks, This is my first Book Review. I was Educated only by achieving British Army Ranks, up to Senior Non-Commissioned Officer. This review, absolutely will have mistakes in grammar & punctuation. I sincerely intend that any mistakes, will not detract from the Honest assessment or enthusiastic opinion on the Joy & Pleasure, achieved in reading this Amazing Book.
I have been a prolific reader since around 5yrs of age. (Thanks Mum x). I desired to read this book by Lady AD Starling, due to having already completed reading All the ‘Seventeen’ series, by the same Author & being Absolutely delighted in All aspects of that.
Blood & Bones, certainly does not disappoint. Reading the first of a ‘New Series’ by Lady Starling, was Absolutely the most fun I’ve had with my clothes On, for.. well, for a very long time.
The New Theme, within the book, is almost immediately introduced very mysteriously & in a mystical way.
The Plot, Characters, Environment, Adventure, Excitement & furious pace throughout the whole Amazing Story. I have No doubt, that the following books in this New Series will also follow on with the same levels of Excellence & Thrilling Adventure.
There is only one way to tell if your missing out? Hey! Pay Attention..
If your Not reading AD Starling... You ARE Missing Out!
Read EVERYTHING by this Amazing Author.. NOW!
Honour & Respect, Simon, A Northern Viking..
Book Review by Simon Fletcher aka Fluffy..
Hello folks, This is my first Book Review. I was Educated only by achieving British Army Ranks, up to Senior Non-Commissioned Officer. This review, absolutely will have mistakes in grammar & punctuation. I sincerely intend that any mistakes, will not detract from the Honest assessment or enthusiastic opinion on the Joy & Pleasure, achieved in reading this Amazing Book.
I have been a prolific reader since around 5yrs of age. (Thanks Mum x). I desired to read this book by Lady AD Starling, due to having already completed reading All the ‘Seventeen’ series, by the same Author & being Absolutely delighted in All aspects of that.
Blood & Bones, certainly does not disappoint. Reading the first of a ‘New Series’ by Lady Starling, was Absolutely the most fun I’ve had with my clothes On, for.. well, for a very long time.
The New Theme, within the book, is almost immediately introduced very mysteriously & in a mystical way.
The Plot, Characters, Environment, Adventure, Excitement & furious pace throughout the whole Amazing Story. I have No doubt, that the following books in this New Series will also follow on with the same levels of Excellence & Thrilling Adventure.
There is only one way to tell if your missing out? Hey! Pay Attention..
If your Not reading AD Starling... You ARE Missing Out!
Read EVERYTHING by this Amazing Author.. NOW!
Honour & Respect, Simon, A Northern Viking..
April 6, 2023
I’m so glad I bought this book!
I confess, it is rare that I purchase a book in my recommended list unless it is one of my favorite authors or a series I am collecting, which are many. Haha.
This book is profound! I immediately found myself drawn into the story and becoming immersed into the world building and clinging to the story of the emerging cast of characters and now, I am completely hooked. I will absolutely be reading more of this series and of this author which sadly this was my first endeavor into the worlds of AD Starrling but not my last.
The characters are incredible and the situations are unfolding in a way that have you grounded in them and show certain beings in a new light that I truly appreciated.
A completely new trope for me!
Now for the part of my review that will either make you laugh or smirk and I don’t mind either way;
Family friendly ..sure, a bit of language but not enough to be scandalous and the rest is G rated. Don’t let that scare you off, this is an excellent read with plenty of eye opening action and gasp worthy events! I hope you enjoy it as much as I did!
I confess, it is rare that I purchase a book in my recommended list unless it is one of my favorite authors or a series I am collecting, which are many. Haha.
This book is profound! I immediately found myself drawn into the story and becoming immersed into the world building and clinging to the story of the emerging cast of characters and now, I am completely hooked. I will absolutely be reading more of this series and of this author which sadly this was my first endeavor into the worlds of AD Starrling but not my last.
The characters are incredible and the situations are unfolding in a way that have you grounded in them and show certain beings in a new light that I truly appreciated.
A completely new trope for me!
Now for the part of my review that will either make you laugh or smirk and I don’t mind either way;
Family friendly ..sure, a bit of language but not enough to be scandalous and the rest is G rated. Don’t let that scare you off, this is an excellent read with plenty of eye opening action and gasp worthy events! I hope you enjoy it as much as I did!
January 7, 2023
Not my normal read.
Honestly, it took 2 tries. I originally tried to read this back last year and stopped 14 pages in. I honestly thought it was my mind frame at the time. But I forgot about this. Well, had to try again and I did finish it, and still it was just not for me. I felt like every time the story would start making ground the scene would stop and change and it was so much, I still feel like I am missing parts of the story or I couldn't keep up. Like I stated previously this is not my normal read but anything with sweet darkly creatures has my heart. Smokey was the saving grace that kept me reading. I think those who love adventure, little mystery, and fast changing stories would love this. Very action packed and I could see this story going places, I know someone else will love this story like I wish I could.
Honestly, it took 2 tries. I originally tried to read this back last year and stopped 14 pages in. I honestly thought it was my mind frame at the time. But I forgot about this. Well, had to try again and I did finish it, and still it was just not for me. I felt like every time the story would start making ground the scene would stop and change and it was so much, I still feel like I am missing parts of the story or I couldn't keep up. Like I stated previously this is not my normal read but anything with sweet darkly creatures has my heart. Smokey was the saving grace that kept me reading. I think those who love adventure, little mystery, and fast changing stories would love this. Very action packed and I could see this story going places, I know someone else will love this story like I wish I could.
December 14, 2024
Glad I found this series.
I swear I'm going to get some serious reading done before getting more books. Sadly FB didn't pay any attention to my plan. I keep seeing and reading about intriguing books. This is an example. I am drawn to books with animals and this one fits the bill. Well, not always regular animals, regular critters, yes, but other worldly ones as well. Goes for human characters characters as well. Include a hellhound and I'm all in. Seven so far and this is just the first. Lots of great plot twists and turns coming down the pike. Looking forward to many more enjoyable hours. Highly recommend!
I swear I'm going to get some serious reading done before getting more books. Sadly FB didn't pay any attention to my plan. I keep seeing and reading about intriguing books. This is an example. I am drawn to books with animals and this one fits the bill. Well, not always regular animals, regular critters, yes, but other worldly ones as well. Goes for human characters characters as well. Include a hellhound and I'm all in. Seven so far and this is just the first. Lots of great plot twists and turns coming down the pike. Looking forward to many more enjoyable hours. Highly recommend!
August 30, 2020
I've got to say this was a major disappointment. If you remove action scenes which all look the same then the book condenses to about 5-10 pages. The first few chapters without any of the action were definitely the best, and introduced what felt like an interesting mystery, but sadly everything digressed into "And then they went to another room and had another 30 pages of fighting". Fast forwarding through all the action scenes, the book was finishes in about 40 minutes, yet the plot hasn't moved since 10% of the book.
February 21, 2021
What the hell.
I picked this up because a reviews said it was like Jim Butcher's Dresden Files. NOPE.
This book was seriously rushed. The world needed to be fleshed out. There are too
many characters throw into the mix with little explanation.
We meet Steele when someone delivers a "bunny" to his shop and then the author throws in Demons, a secret Vatican Cabal, super soldiers and a dead prophet. We learn about Steele, Callie and Drake. It is too much too fast. There is a good book in there somewhere....this isn't it.
I picked this up because a reviews said it was like Jim Butcher's Dresden Files. NOPE.
This book was seriously rushed. The world needed to be fleshed out. There are too
many characters throw into the mix with little explanation.
We meet Steele when someone delivers a "bunny" to his shop and then the author throws in Demons, a secret Vatican Cabal, super soldiers and a dead prophet. We learn about Steele, Callie and Drake. It is too much too fast. There is a good book in there somewhere....this isn't it.
February 19, 2023
Meh. All around meh.
What a boring, meh book. I quit about halfway through, unable to finish what has been done many times before by much better writers. The author has no way of communicating depth of character for any of her four main characters and instead relies on poorly described sex and fantasy violence to keep the reader's attention. The whole affair reads like a college freshman's first creative writing project after a long weekend of Fifty Shades and one of the lesser Dresden books. Utterly meh.
What a boring, meh book. I quit about halfway through, unable to finish what has been done many times before by much better writers. The author has no way of communicating depth of character for any of her four main characters and instead relies on poorly described sex and fantasy violence to keep the reader's attention. The whole affair reads like a college freshman's first creative writing project after a long weekend of Fifty Shades and one of the lesser Dresden books. Utterly meh.
March 13, 2025
One of the most hilarious urban Fantasy I have ever read!
I am not sure how I stumbled upon Blood and Bones, book one of A.D Starrling's series Legion, but I am so glad I did. I can't believe with all the fantasy I have read over the years, I didn't even know who A.D. Starrling was before I decided to read Blood and Bones! This book is fabulous! I fell in love with the characters from the first page and was completely immersed in A.D. Starrling's creative world-building before I finished the first chapter. There is no doubt that I will be reading all seven books of this series and most likely all the other universes she imagines.
The main character Artemus Steele, is a mess of a hero, definitely not your Super hero type. But A.D. Starrlings portrayal of all the trouble the poor unfortunate soul is forced to deal with while adjusting to the idea that he is meant to be one of the saviors of the world, made it impossible to not fall in love with this adorable dufus. The rest of the characters are as confused and bumbling as Artemus, and along with the "rabbit from Hell" that literally turns out to be a hellhound with a propensity for eating the furniture, A.D. Starrling created the most ridiculous gang of heroes. I could not get enough of these hillarious company. The dialogue is snarky, witty and full of playfull ribbing. Somewhere along the way I became so enthralled with the team I began to speak to them as though I was there participating as one of the gang. Of course, with my yelling, "Watch out!" and laughing out loud, my husband was ready to have me committed!
Included in this uproarious romp are all sorts of supernatural creatures and mythical beings, most of which act nothing like they do in other fantasy novels! Blood and Bones is an rip-roaring, laugh a minute urban fantasy that is well-worth your time and money to read! I have never had as much fun reading a book! If the end of the world looks anything like the way A.D. Starrling imagines it in her series the Legion, all I can say is ---
BRING IT ON!
I am not sure how I stumbled upon Blood and Bones, book one of A.D Starrling's series Legion, but I am so glad I did. I can't believe with all the fantasy I have read over the years, I didn't even know who A.D. Starrling was before I decided to read Blood and Bones! This book is fabulous! I fell in love with the characters from the first page and was completely immersed in A.D. Starrling's creative world-building before I finished the first chapter. There is no doubt that I will be reading all seven books of this series and most likely all the other universes she imagines.
The main character Artemus Steele, is a mess of a hero, definitely not your Super hero type. But A.D. Starrlings portrayal of all the trouble the poor unfortunate soul is forced to deal with while adjusting to the idea that he is meant to be one of the saviors of the world, made it impossible to not fall in love with this adorable dufus. The rest of the characters are as confused and bumbling as Artemus, and along with the "rabbit from Hell" that literally turns out to be a hellhound with a propensity for eating the furniture, A.D. Starrling created the most ridiculous gang of heroes. I could not get enough of these hillarious company. The dialogue is snarky, witty and full of playfull ribbing. Somewhere along the way I became so enthralled with the team I began to speak to them as though I was there participating as one of the gang. Of course, with my yelling, "Watch out!" and laughing out loud, my husband was ready to have me committed!
Included in this uproarious romp are all sorts of supernatural creatures and mythical beings, most of which act nothing like they do in other fantasy novels! Blood and Bones is an rip-roaring, laugh a minute urban fantasy that is well-worth your time and money to read! I have never had as much fun reading a book! If the end of the world looks anything like the way A.D. Starrling imagines it in her series the Legion, all I can say is ---
BRING IT ON!
August 20, 2023
This was an extremely entertaining book to read. It has dry, dead pan humor spaced throughout the book. I loved all the main characters, the banter back and forth between them was fun. I love sarcastic humor. The story itself is fascinating, I love reading about all things supernatural, and the fact that the characters were pulled from mythology intrigued me. The fight scenes in the book are laid out so that you can see the action in your head as you are reading the book. A. D. Starrling has a good balance of being descriptive with his words without being overly so, which I like. I have read many authors where they micromanage the details, and it gets tedious, Starrling did not do that. He lets you give reign to your own imagination, so you can fill in the blanks on the details yourself, which is good. It took me 2 nights to read the book and even then I wanted to binge read the entire book, but I had to sleep sometime. After finishing Blood and Bones, I immediately went and found Fire and Earth and began reading it the next night. I am still working my way through that one. There is a lot going on in the books, yet it is an easy read, as he makes everything easy to understand and keep up with. If you are a fan of all things supernatural and mythological, I definitely recommend this book, you will not be disappointed.
September 9, 2023
My Thoughts:
The story runs with the heaven and hell war theme with a twist, which is interesting!...
The question is, why is Smokey letting Artemus put a leash on him? And where did he came from? Who left him on Artemus's bureau? And who or what is he? I could have a go at guessing the answers to these questions. But I don't want to guess. I want answers!
This book was kinda hard to get into. It took some perseverance on my part to continue reading it. I attribute it to the book starting kind of in the middle of the story. Then the book starts explaining away the whys of it as the story unfolds. That made it difficult to get into for the first half of the book... Despite that, I still want to know what happens next to our group of heroes! So, the next book got bought.
The plot is kinda weak. Not very believable. The plot depended on a character acting with just a hint of "stupid" so that the plot can have drama. Smokey is supposed to be a bad-ass demon but he lets the bad guys get pass him?... Weak plot.
Quantitative Evaluation:
Story telling quality = 3
Character development = 4
Story itself = 4
Writing Style = 4.5
Ending = 4
World building = 4.5
Cover art = 3.5
Pace = 2.5
Plot = 2
Overall Rating: 3.5 out of 5
The story runs with the heaven and hell war theme with a twist, which is interesting!...
The question is, why is Smokey letting Artemus put a leash on him? And where did he came from? Who left him on Artemus's bureau? And who or what is he? I could have a go at guessing the answers to these questions. But I don't want to guess. I want answers!
This book was kinda hard to get into. It took some perseverance on my part to continue reading it. I attribute it to the book starting kind of in the middle of the story. Then the book starts explaining away the whys of it as the story unfolds. That made it difficult to get into for the first half of the book... Despite that, I still want to know what happens next to our group of heroes! So, the next book got bought.
The plot is kinda weak. Not very believable. The plot depended on a character acting with just a hint of "stupid" so that the plot can have drama. Smokey is supposed to be a bad-ass demon but he lets the bad guys get pass him?... Weak plot.
Quantitative Evaluation:
Story telling quality = 3
Character development = 4
Story itself = 4
Writing Style = 4.5
Ending = 4
World building = 4.5
Cover art = 3.5
Pace = 2.5
Plot = 2
Overall Rating: 3.5 out of 5
March 6, 2025
I did not think you’d need to read the previous series to understand this book. But you do. I have so many questions.
What’s an immortal in this context? Where do they come from?
Why is there prejudice against super soldiers? They are bred without choice and are still obviously people. Also, Why did Serena act like she was going to punch Isabelle over Greenland? Why would Isabelle hold the soldiers responsible for Greenland when it was their creator who did the bad thing? And why do the super soldiers consider themselves more monstrous than the demons? That’s preposterous. Demons massacre and eat innocent people. The soldiers are soldiers. Totally different.
How did someone contain a nuclear explosion? What does that mean? I have no clue!
It was a nonstop ride but the number of unanswered questions makes me stop here. If you’ve read the previous series then you’ll love this, I’m guessing.
What’s an immortal in this context? Where do they come from?
Why is there prejudice against super soldiers? They are bred without choice and are still obviously people. Also, Why did Serena act like she was going to punch Isabelle over Greenland? Why would Isabelle hold the soldiers responsible for Greenland when it was their creator who did the bad thing? And why do the super soldiers consider themselves more monstrous than the demons? That’s preposterous. Demons massacre and eat innocent people. The soldiers are soldiers. Totally different.
How did someone contain a nuclear explosion? What does that mean? I have no clue!
It was a nonstop ride but the number of unanswered questions makes me stop here. If you’ve read the previous series then you’ll love this, I’m guessing.
June 17, 2025
I read the nonsense recommended by Booktok so you don’t have to, but I gave up at the 50% mark. The story is written mainly from Artemus Steele’s point of view, but it’s narrated so we only know what they are doing and saying; we lack the immediacy of what people are thinking and feeling, The “tell me what happened twenty years ago” backstory development trope and constant battles made the story telling feel clunky, I was willing to stay with it because who doesn’t love a demonic bunny, something akin to the Killer Rabbit of Caerbannog from Monty Python and the Holy Grail. Id be cool with it being a hellhound in disguise… but it was named Cerberus? Nah, I am out. If you use specific mythological creature(s) or characters from other books with their own well-established lore you have to remain faithful to most, if not all, of the canon. It’d be like having a medieval tale and introducing the baker, Merlin, or the village blacksmith Agamemnon. It’s not cricket.
October 14, 2025
maybe this would've been easier to follow if I had read some of the author's other works. while this is the first in its series, I had not realized the series is part of a larger universe. personally, I'll stick with the Dresden files. this felt like it was trying to be that series but more so. for example, it doesn't just have a hell hound but one that is apparently part Pokemon as it shifts between three forms, only achieving its ultimate form during the climactic battle. characters are thrown in left and right with little preamble so that it can be hard to keep track. also, the narrative was a bit jerky, suddenly jumping the main characters from talking about a person to suddenly acting on it in a completely different milieu. one chapter's close they're in Chicago and suddenly they are in Philadelphia. same when they go to NYC; that was the biggest disconnect for me. the humor was good but less than the blurb led me to believe.
February 9, 2023
My first book by this author. I was looking for authors I hadn't read before to give them a chance as I am tending to stick to the same half dozen or so at the moment.
This book popped up on my Facebook feed and I thought, sounds okay, give it a go. I am so glad I did. I really enjoyed it and have already have the second book in the series lined up on my Kindle.
The book is well written, has good strong characters and a great plot, quite different to what I have been reading but just as gripping. I hope the others in the series live up to this one as I am planning on working my way right through them.
No spoilers here, I want to read the next one first to see where it takes me and how the characters develop. There are already at least 4 that I like a lot and hope they remain in the plots.
This book popped up on my Facebook feed and I thought, sounds okay, give it a go. I am so glad I did. I really enjoyed it and have already have the second book in the series lined up on my Kindle.
The book is well written, has good strong characters and a great plot, quite different to what I have been reading but just as gripping. I hope the others in the series live up to this one as I am planning on working my way right through them.
No spoilers here, I want to read the next one first to see where it takes me and how the characters develop. There are already at least 4 that I like a lot and hope they remain in the plots.
March 13, 2019
WOW
Unbelievably fantastic
If you have ever read The Seventeen Series by this author, you are going to love this spin off series. Set approximately two decades after Destiny, we meet Drake, Artemus and Callie all bought together at an auction house, to auction of a widows priceless cane, oh and we can’t forget the bunny rabbit Artemus has on a leash and takes everywhere. They all have something in common and share a bond that’s almost instantaneous, the why we will find out.
Hell wants to come to Earth.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and would recommend it to any Fantasy, Sci fi, Supernatural and Action packed fans. You could probably read this without having read the seventeen series, but I would recommend reading that. And you probably will once you have read this amazing story.
Unbelievably fantastic
If you have ever read The Seventeen Series by this author, you are going to love this spin off series. Set approximately two decades after Destiny, we meet Drake, Artemus and Callie all bought together at an auction house, to auction of a widows priceless cane, oh and we can’t forget the bunny rabbit Artemus has on a leash and takes everywhere. They all have something in common and share a bond that’s almost instantaneous, the why we will find out.
Hell wants to come to Earth.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and would recommend it to any Fantasy, Sci fi, Supernatural and Action packed fans. You could probably read this without having read the seventeen series, but I would recommend reading that. And you probably will once you have read this amazing story.
May 5, 2023
Well, hello there, beautiful series!
I came into this with zero expectations; I don't know the author, the blurb is interesting but not awesome, and well. I just found it randomly on my Kindle.
I'm soo, so glad I chose this one for my next read after a not-so-pleasant one!
I love it, it's so full of action, I couldn't put it down! I love the characters, and I absolutely adore the writing style (I'm definitely looking for this author again).
It's a series that's really engaging and fun, it has everything I want from a UF book. The plot, the characters, the writing, the strong personalities, and amazing friendships, and well, yes, some blood and gore, but it's the good kind, I promise!
Definitely worth reading!
I came into this with zero expectations; I don't know the author, the blurb is interesting but not awesome, and well. I just found it randomly on my Kindle.
I'm soo, so glad I chose this one for my next read after a not-so-pleasant one!
I love it, it's so full of action, I couldn't put it down! I love the characters, and I absolutely adore the writing style (I'm definitely looking for this author again).
It's a series that's really engaging and fun, it has everything I want from a UF book. The plot, the characters, the writing, the strong personalities, and amazing friendships, and well, yes, some blood and gore, but it's the good kind, I promise!
Definitely worth reading!
August 19, 2023
Artemis Steel is an expert on the ancient and arcane, he owns an antique shop and is a metalsmith.
He is happy with being on the down low but all that changes when a monster he met as a child lands in his life.
Callie Stone is also a newbie in his life when her husband dies she is tasked with auctioning his possessions but the auction house is attained by demons intent on getting hold of a priceless relic.
Enter Drake Hunter, who has to confront a mysterious organisation from his past also after the relic.
All join forces to try and survive and find out why this artefact is so highly prized.
But the truth is darker than they feared.
This was a great start to the series and looking forward to the next book.
He is happy with being on the down low but all that changes when a monster he met as a child lands in his life.
Callie Stone is also a newbie in his life when her husband dies she is tasked with auctioning his possessions but the auction house is attained by demons intent on getting hold of a priceless relic.
Enter Drake Hunter, who has to confront a mysterious organisation from his past also after the relic.
All join forces to try and survive and find out why this artefact is so highly prized.
But the truth is darker than they feared.
This was a great start to the series and looking forward to the next book.
December 15, 2025
This was a book I stumbled upon, and honestly, the idea of an animated, personified dog as a main character is what made me download it in the first place. Any book with a dog as a main character I am immediately buying. This was my first A.D. Starrling book, and I was immediately hooked. Any audiobook that can make me laugh out loud or snort is a winner for me, and Michael Bower absolutely delivers. His narration brings the characters to life and perfectly captures the sarcasm and wit of each one.
I never reach put to author but after I listened to books 1 and 2 in the series I reached out and asked when book 3 was dropping. Thats how much I enjoyed the first two books in the Legion series. So friggin' good
I never reach put to author but after I listened to books 1 and 2 in the series I reached out and asked when book 3 was dropping. Thats how much I enjoyed the first two books in the Legion series. So friggin' good
February 24, 2023
I’m not sure….
I’ve found I have a weakness for hellhounds. I know go figure. Anyway this has been constantly popping up on my FB feed usually accompanied by a pic of a cute little hellhound. What can I say I’m weak and obviously advertising works.
There’s a lot going on here and I do mean a lot. I’m not sure it completely works but it worked enough for me to move onto the next book.
I had issues with the writing as well. I’ve had the same issue with this author before. But this didn’t seem as bad I have to say.
So I’m moving onto the second book, wish me luck.
So that’s it I’m even going to try and summarise it.
April 29, 2024
3.5 Stars.
Honestly took me a while to read. Picked it up several times, just to put down to read something else. The story feels like it starts off in the middle, so you are left confused and lost as all the backstory is revealed. But after it comes to light what is going on, it begins to make more sense. There is some stuff that people may not like. Demon sex club, though the descriptions are pretty mild. Lots of violence and gore.
Love Smokey the something more than rabbit (no spoilers on what it truly is, though you could probably guess). Overall a decent start to a series, and I do plan on reading more of the series.
Honestly took me a while to read. Picked it up several times, just to put down to read something else. The story feels like it starts off in the middle, so you are left confused and lost as all the backstory is revealed. But after it comes to light what is going on, it begins to make more sense. There is some stuff that people may not like. Demon sex club, though the descriptions are pretty mild. Lots of violence and gore.
Love Smokey the something more than rabbit (no spoilers on what it truly is, though you could probably guess). Overall a decent start to a series, and I do plan on reading more of the series.
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