Fiendish Delights

Thrill of the Hunt #2

by Helen Harper

Yeah, I’m a treasure hunter. No, I’m not rich. Or busy. Or successful. Not yet.

Daisy Carter is doing her best at making a living in her newfound career. She’s got magic, a pair of brownie side-kicks and bucket-loads of ambition. What she doesn’t have is any actual treasure to hunt.

But when a young girl asks Daisy for help, she finds herself embroiled in a deeply dangerous search for an ancient magical artefact. Unfortunately, she’s not the only one who wants to find it. Between fire-breathing dragons, vicious vampires and lethally powerful fiends, Daisy has her work cut out for her if she’s going to locate the treasure first.

At least this time she’s got help. Hugo Pemberville might be as provocative as ever but he has also attached himself to her side. Sure, the teeny tiny problem of her addiction to spider’s silk hasn’t gone away - but Daisy has that under control.

Most of the time.

Fiendish Delights is the second book in the urban fantasy series Thrill of the Hunt.

Expect dangerous magic, slow burn romance, hair-raising adventure and authentic humour.

Genres: Urban Fantasy, Fantasy, Paranormal, Romance, Magic, Fae, Audiobook

296 pages, Kindle Edition

First published March 22, 2024

Reviews

[Shelley · Rating 3 out of 5]

*Source* Kindle Unlimited
*Genre* Urban Fantasy
*Rating* 3.5

*Thoughts*

Fiendish Delights is the second installment in author Helen Harper's Thrill of the Hunt series. Daisy Carter, our protagonist, is an elf living in Edinburgh, Scotland. Daisy is doing her best to make a living in her newfound career as a treasure hunter. She’s got a pair of brownie sidekicks (Hester & Otis) and bucket-loads of ambition. What she doesn’t have is any actual treasure to hunt. She recently started carrying a sentient sword called Gladys.

*Full Review @ Gizmos Reviews*

https://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/20...

[Ami · Rating 4 out of 5]

First of all, thank YOU author, for including recap of book 1. That's very helpful

The second book of Thrill of the Hunt series, brings Daisy, Hugo, and the Primes in search for one of the The Thirteen Treasures of Britain (Welsh: Tri Thlws ar Ddeg Ynys Prydain) and trying to keep them away from nasty powerful fiends. It's another FUN adventure for sure. There is even a DRAGON in this book.

And since I've read two of Harper's series before, I sort of guess that the FMC (in this case, Daisy, of course) will be having something "different" about her. I assume that MAYBE, Daisy is a descendant of a high elf with a fiend. Probably her mother is Lady Rose - whom now mentioned in the blurb of book 3. Daisy and Hugo's relationship is developing as well. I look forward to reading Daisy living at Hugo's Pemberville Castle.

[ROMEOISNOTFUNNY · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.8 stars

Adventure, fun characters, strong FMC, trolls dragons brownies elves witches and other magical creatures, set in Scotland and written with interesting facts supernatural or mythcial facts about the lands as they hunt for the latest treasure.

It's a book full of unseens and twists. Romance is slow burn (not from MMC trying though). The backstory of our FMC, Daisy, is developing and I'm pretty sure she's way more powerful and dangerous than anyone expects. Still rooting for her, she has a good heart, even if the drugs are keeping it from getting the chocolate she really wants! 😏

[L.B. · Rating 4 out of 5]

A strong follow from book 1 with another quest-style treasure hunt for Daisy, her brownies, and Hugo with new and returning characters of various magical species--both good and bad. As with most Helen Harper books, it's a lighthearted and easy-to-read romp with some hints of romantic interest and lots of deadly action. A quick action-adventure tale to enjoy!

[TJ · Rating 3 out of 5]

I love the fun, humorous, yet action-packed stories of Helen Hunter! Add in a slow-burn romantic thread and it’s always pure reading delight. I just can’t wrap all that awesomeness around a junkie MC whose addiction is getting even worse in this book than the last. That isn’t enjoyable to read about, it’s sad and heart-breaking.

[Louise H's Book Thoughts · Rating 4 out of 5]

Well that book didn't go how I expected it to, but I thoroughly enjoyed every minute of it. It had me reading late into the night and I was always desperate to know what would happen next. There was great character growth and substantial plot development. Roll on book #3.

[Artemissia G · Rating 4 out of 5]

Un 2e tome dans la lignée du premier. L’humour est toujours présent avec une héroïne, Daisy, toujours aussi délicieuse qu’irrévérencieuse. Devenue Chasseuse de trésor, Daisy va se retrouver embarquée dans une nouvelle chasse dangereuse en compagnie de son ancien rival, le haut fae, Hugo de Pemberville et toute sa clique.

En plus d’aventures rocambolesques et hautes en couleur, la romance entre Daisy et Hugo avance doucement, même si pour le moment, c’est Daisy qui freine et à juste raison. En plus de chasser un artefact très dangereux, on rencontre de nouvelles créatures et le mystère entourant la magie de Daisy s’épaissit. Je n’avais pas vu venir le cliffhanger de fin et franchement, ça donne trop envie d’avoir la suite entre les mains pour savoir et mieux comprendre.

Avec ce tome 2, Helen Harper confirme son talent pour écrire des urban fantasy passionnantes, drôles, et non redondantes. J’aime vraiment beaucoup cette série, Daisy, Hugo et bien évidemment les deux brownies totalement trop mignons et les autres personnages secondaires qui font vivre l’histoire.

[Julie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another great read by Helen Harper. Fiendish Delights focuses less on a treasure hunt and more on a magical power struggle. As Otis observes, it's also the 'longest session of foreplay the world has ever seen.’ between Daisy & Hugo. However, the book ends on an interesting cliff hanger for Daisy and I'm keen to read what happens next.

[tattootheskywithstars · Rating 4 out of 5]

This one was fun. There is so much Action and the Plot is really exciting! Kind of some things are right in Front of your eyes, but it is still fun to read and i like the Twists and the characters a lot!
I‘m excited for the Next one.

[Lulu · Rating 2 out of 5]

This is like the first, but the problems are harder to excuse. If you liked the first one without reservation, you'll like this. If you were a little shaky about the first one, this review may be helpful.

An attempt to inject higher stakes left the premise and plot of this book being absolutely ridiculous and frustrating, in a way that not even Otis and Hester could distract me from.

I'm not marking this as a spoiler because we've all seen this movie before. Like so many times that it hurts. Also apologies in advance, I write these on my phone and suck at typing. If I sound flippint in this review, it's because that's how I feel, haha.

Daisy stumbles upon a ritual to make a map to find some super secret super powerful items that have been lost to history. A bad guy is waiting to steal the map, and Daisy destroys the map to keep it from them. The ritual took someone their literal entire life to prepare and can only be preformed ONE TIME. Sooooooo... the secret is safe, right? Apparently Daisy and Hugo don't think so.

Luckily (?) Daisy remembers the map so she and Hugo decide to go find these powerful items "to protect them from the bad guys" even though there's literally no way for the bad guys to find them. Uh. Kay. Not only are they the only people who will EVER see the now-destroyed map, they're also probably the only people with the skills to decode the clues and actually find them. Seems like it'd be better to leave them unfound, right? Nah, they specifically say they have to find them to keep them safe, but they never discuss how exactly they will keep them safe when the bad guys are so much more powerful. But ok.

Several super convenient abilities and plot devices and connections later, the bad guys basically just follow them to the item. All for us to STILL not really talk about why the item is safer now that it's in good guys' hands besides the museum is legit. I guess.

I disliked nearly every second reading this book between 10% and 90%. The first and last bits were ok. The "twist" at the end had been so painfully over-telegraphed that I find myself only relieved that Daisy is now going to be slightly less belligerent about avoiding it. (Dumb MCs not asking basic questions and avoiding obvious conclusions is one of my biggest pet peeves).

Also, Daisy and Hugo's actual romance progress is fine but the constant horniness combined with the childish way of not dealing/ acknowledging it is so annoying. This isn't slow burn, it's insta-love shrouded in denial.

It's 1.5 stars for me rather than 1 because there is a chance I'll continue the series someday. Rounded up because it's exactly what it says it is. There's much worse out there and sometimes it's just nice to know what you're getting into.

[A · Rating 3 out of 5]

Look, if this was a rating on how much I actually like the book it would be two stars. But that seems unfair because the reason I don’t love this book is, that’s very similar to her other books, which I like. So if you want more of the same, this series is for you. If you were looking for something different, maybe skip it.

[Melliane · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5/5

[Vannessa · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a great sequel in this series from another of my favourite authors. I haven't yet read anything of Helen's that I didn't love!

This one carries on pretty much where book 1, Tattered Huntress, finished off. Daisy Carter is now a treasure hunter, after experiencing the thrill of the hunt, but unfortunately she has not yet managed to land a big hunt.

What starts out as a very simple, almost meaningless, hunt for a stolen doll soon turns into a cross country trek, a fight for her life (actually several!) as well as the lives of Hester and Otis, her brownie friends. She also has the company of Lord Hugo Pemberville, who manages to involve himself into Daisy's hunt. His expression at the shared commission for the hunt was just hilarious! I love the interaction between these two and the slow burn romance is definitely starting to warm up now!

Hester and Otis are great secondary characters as well - their antics are just pure genius and made me constantly laugh out loud! I loved the trip across to Wales as well and the sighting of the last female dragon. I hope we get to see her and the others in the next book.

This was a fun, quick read that I found hard to put down and I cannot wait to read more. I still need to know more about Daisy's heritage - I know she cannot be just a low elf. She has too much power to be just that! And those fiends seem to know about her as well! Who is Daisy Carter really?! I can't wait to read the next book in this series and hopefully find out more!

Thank you to Helen for my ARC copy of this book. This review is my own, honest one though!

[K · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you enjoyed the first book in The Thrill of the Hunt series, you’re in for a real treat with the second installment! The story picks up right where we left off, and it’s packed with dragons, fiends, and all the excitement you could want.

This time, we see Daisy really start to settle in with the Primes. They're becoming more friendly toward her, and she's learning to control her magic and step up her weapon skills. Watching her grow as a character is honestly one of the best parts of this book. She’s strong, determined, and you can’t help but root for her every step of the way.

As for the romance, it’s still slow-burn and full of tension. It’s clear there’s something special between Daisy and Hugo, but it unfolds at a pace that feels natural. If you enjoy that gradual buildup to something deeper, you’re going to love how it’s handled here.

The plot itself takes some interesting turns. What starts as a small treasure hunt quickly grows into something much bigger, with unexpected twists that keep you on your toes. There are a lot of surprises and plenty of action to keep things exciting.

And then, of course, there’s the cliffhanger ending—let’s just say, you’ll be left wanting more and eagerly anticipating the next book in the series.

Overall, Fiendish Delights is an excellent follow-up that builds on everything we loved from the first book. If you’re into slow-burn romance, intriguing characters, and an unpredictable plot, this is definitely a book you’ll want to check out!

[Anca Antoci · Rating 5 out of 5]

After reading Tattered Huntress, the first book in The Thrill of The Hunt series last year, I was eager to continue the journey. Now, I’m catching up with the rest of the books, and Fiendish Delights did not disappoint. Magic, mystery, dragons, brownies, vampires, and more make this book a fantastic addition to the series.
First, I have to give praise to the author for including a recap of the previous book. As a binge-reader, I typically read series back to back, but this time I picked up book two nearly a year after reading book one. The recap was incredibly useful in refreshing my memory and setting the stage for this installment.
Fiendish Delights picks up right where Tattered Huntress left off. Daisy Carter is now a treasure hunter, chasing the thrill of the hunt, though she’s still waiting for her first big job. What starts as a seemingly simple hunt for a stolen doll quickly escalates into a cross-country trek, life-threatening encounters, and having to protect her beloved brownie friends, Hester and Otis. Along for the ride is Lord Hugo Pemberville, whose reluctant involvement in Daisy’s quest leads to some of the most entertaining moments in the book. His reaction to sharing the commission for the hunt? Absolutely priceless. Their interactions are packed with humor, snark, and growing romantic tension, making the slow burn between them even more compelling.
Read more at https://www.summonfantasy.com/reviews...

[Spinneretta · Rating 5 out of 5]

good

Book two of the Thrill of three Hunt series, picks up a couple of months after book one. It ends of a bit of a book-hook cliffhanger- not a true cliffhanger, but definitely one leaving you wanting more.

Her new job as a professional Treasure Hunter has Daisy accidentally running across a treasure in need of saving from some beings with rather nefarious intentions.
This time she teams up with Hugo Pemberville, as the two of them search for a mythological treasure.

Daisy learns some intriguing things in this book, even as her wild magic starts to become less predictable and her addiction places her in more danger. She also learns a few things about Hugo, learning that perhaps she too may have misjudged someone.
It makes for a thoroughly enjoyable read, with an intriguing cast of characters and a subplot that keeps you guessing. I’m looking forward to finding out just what the revelation at the end means, and seeing how Daisy and Hugo deal with it!
An enjoyable fantasy series, for both the contemporary and traditional fantasy lovers out there.

[Wayne Cozens · Rating 5 out of 5]

Daisy's wit, sass, and determination are back in full force as she takes on a new challenge: finding an ancient magical artefact. What I love about Daisy is that she's relatable, flawed, and genuinely human. Her struggles with her addiction to spider's silk are still a significant part of her journey, and I appreciate how Harper handles this sensitive topic with care and authenticity.

The story is a masterclass in pacing, with non-stop action, suspense, and humor. Harper's world-building is rich and immersive, with a diverse cast of magical creatures, from brownies to dragons, vampires, and fiends. The stakes are high, and Daisy finds herself in increasingly perilous situations, keeping me on the edge of my seat.

One of the highlights of the book is the slow-burning romance between Daisy and Hugo Pemberville. Their banter is deliciously snarky, and their chemistry is undeniable. I'm loving the way their relationship is unfolding, with a perfect balance of tension, trust, and affection.

[Sara Oxton · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is simply a delightful five-star read. This is number two in the Thrill of the Hunt series, and they just enhance each other, this one does follow on from the first, so do read them in order. Daisy, Daisy, Daisy what a complex character you are, you bring us joy, you bring us worry and most of all you bring us Treasure. There are some amazing characters in this story like Hugo and his Primes, Otis and Hester as well as someone who has a special place in my heart Duchess. There was also something extra special about this one, as it visits my chosen home of Wales, and we get to see a Dragon, and show people that the bad press they get isn’t always warranted. You will be taken on a thrilling ride with this story, it has everything you need. Now I am left wondering what will come next, as this story just keeps giving, I am so excited to see what thrilling hunt will come next.

[Susan1566 · Rating 4 out of 5]

Daisy has decided to be a full-time treasure hunter but so far she’s mainly finding lost items like rings.
When a neighbourhood child asks her to find her missing doll from a nearby cemetery, a trade has to be made. Daisy must get a troll toenail clipping and the only troll she knows is the Duchess, currently living at Hugo’s castle.
After making a deal with Hugo to split the reward 50/50 (little does he know it’s only 5 pounds), Daisy and Hugo go to make the trade.
Once the toenail is turned over, the story gets really interesting and exciting.
More treasures to hunt, danger, dragons, romantic attractions and humour. The brownies continue to amuse and the troll also contributes to the fun.
There is a fair amount of action leaving a lot of questions about the future and Daisy.
This was a fun, quick read.

[The Captain · Rating 3 out of 5]

Ahoy there mateys! In book two, Daisy is trying to make a living as a freelance treasure hunter.  Jobs are scarce.  A little girl asks her to find a missing doll.  There is no money in it but Daisy can't help but try to help.  She gets into trouble of course and into a hunt for treasure in Wales.  I did enjoy this one.

Hugo and Daisy agree to work together.  I am really not buying their relationship but its not a deal breaker.  The treasure hunt doesn't completely makes sense either.  This book has a dragon so that's awesome.  I liked the fighting with the fiends.  I love Gladys the sword.  The brownies, Otis and Hester, are cute but I wish they were more helpful instead of providing running commentary.  I feel like not a lot really happens in this novel and it is more of a set up.  Quick audiobook read. Arrr!

[Narelle Richards · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was lucky enough to get an ARC to read - once again it was well worth the time.
Daisy is working on her own career now as a treasure hunter, not an easy venture with no reputation in this world. Her brownies are there to help and it appears her nemesis and potential love interest Hugo also wants to aide her endeavours. It was nice to see lots of characters back for round two especially the troll, a highly entertaining aspect of the book.
We are getting more pieces of Daisy's origin story and there are certainly some darker moments beginning to emerge - some of which is revealed in the closing stages of this novel.
There is just something really enjoyable about Helen Harper's writing - her characters jump off the page and grab your attention.
Bring on book 3.

[Emily · Rating 5 out of 5]

Title: Fiendish Delights (Thrill of the hunt book two)
Author: Helen Harper

Rating: 5/5

Pages: 296

Available on Kindle unlimited. - who are still offering 2 months free trial. (Can be found with a quick google search)

Oh my goodness. Another binge worthy read. Dragons, magic, mythical creatures, cliff hangers, enemy to lovers romance. This series has everything.

I enjoyed the plot. New characters and revisits from old.

I found myself smiling throughout, and I didn't want to put it down at all.


The writing is like reading a letter from an old friend. I'm always caught up in these stories and I cannot wait for the June for the release of book 3.

Have you read this book or series?
Will you give it a go?
What's your favourite urban fantasy book at the moment?

[Danielle · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars!

Fiendish Delights is just as much fun as the first book! Daisy and her sidekicks are back, and as awesome as ever! I was glad we got to see more of Hugh in this one...the romance is slow burn, but I like that we're getting to know both parties.

The only slightly negative thing I can say is that it doesn't feel like a lot happens in this book. The pace was fast and fun, but looking back, there wasn't much meat to it. Also, while I'm all about romance, I wish there was more to the treasure hunting in this one. Compared to the first book, the quest was relatively simple and a little under whelming. I hope the next book has more adventure with the romance and personal discoveries!!

[Rick Boisclair · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am hooked like I’m on spider silk.

Daisy Carter is back and hunting new treasures. Of course it’s a doll for a little neighbor girl but treasure is in the eye of the beholder. She sets off to find the doll which leads to a witch, a fiend and surprises galore. While on the hunt she visits Hugo the Magnificent and they reluctantly agree to team up on her quest. This turns into a hunt for the ages with mystery upon mystery thrown in their path. The biggest is who or what is Daisy and how can she do some of the things she does even on spider silk. Book 3 can’t come fast enough!

[Maren · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love Helen Harper's stories. They always provide a great time. There's a solid mystery, there's thrilling action, there's a good dose of humour (which I enjoy heaps) and the romance is deliciously slow and teasing. It's going to rain sparkly unicorns when Daisy and Hugo finally get together!

Also, I'd like to mention that Harper really knows how to draw and build characters. Their personalities and their journeys are a delight to follow. Especially Daisy's. Far from being perfect, she still manages to be kick ass with a backbone of steel and a heart of gold.

This book deserves solid 5 stars. I am already looking forward to the next book in the series.

[Jo · Rating 5 out of 5]

Daisy is taking her first steps into her own treasure-hunting business. Starting out slow by hunting for her young neighbour’s toy. Hugo manages to manoeuvre himself into helping Daisy with her hunt, not realising it’s just for a toy. However, not everything is as it seems.

Everything starts to get high stakes and the story romps along at a nice pace. Though I have a lot of love for the main characters, there’s some super side characters like Buttercup and Hester.

And talk about leaving a hook for the next book - that last line!

[Andi · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this second installment of the Thrill of the Hunt series, with Daisy once again partnering with Hugo and brownie siblings Otis and Hester to seek a powerful magical artifact. They encounter a few known and new characters on the hunt, and have to use their wits and skill to get out of several scrapes.

There are still questions around Daisy’s heritage, but a few hints are revealed. My only complaint was with Hester’s over-the-top characterization—so annoying!

Regardless, I can’t wait for the next one!

[Anaïsu Anaïsu · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic read as usual. I really like this storyline and how Daisy has to work and interact with Hugo's Primes. Enjoy her new relationships with Miriam, Slim or Becky (I'm looking forward to more Gordon too). I tolerate Hester, Otis for the win! he is my favorite brownie of the two. Now, the best part as always is all the banter between Daisy and Hugo, so much chemistry between them. I love how Helen always infused her books (and heroines) with humour. Highly recommend and I can't wait to read more adventurous from Daisy and co.

[Ira · Rating 5 out of 5]

Daisy and her little sidekicks are absolutely special - oh, and rest of the gang as well. I just finished reading Fiendish Delights and love everything about it. Hugo and his Primes, a certain troll named Duchess, dragons and fiends - I've laughed, giggled and snorted so often while reading this book, it's perfect! Like the first book, it captivated me right from the start and kept me glued to my reader till the end.
I can't wait to get my hands on the third book to find out more about Daisy and Hugo and, of course, about the mystery of Daisy's birth. I may have some ideas there...

[Nicci · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book two in the Thrill of the Hunt series is as fast paced and interesting as the first book in the series! There's a new treasure to be found and unlike the basic treasure hunting theme of book one - aka money and glory - this treasure, this book, has major stakes attached to the hunt!

The need to find the treasure before evil, power-hungry, fiends do ups the ante and builds tension throughout the book.
Hugo and Daisy's relationship develops along the way and we get interesting hints about Daisy's actual parentage and heritage.

I'm excited for book three!