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A Tyranny of Angels #2

Speak of the Devil

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“The course of true love never did run smooth.”

Stranded on the coast and with no more secrets between them, Michael and Bryony can finally get to know each other better. In fact, they’re both rather enjoying their mock honeymoon until Bryony finds out Michael has become a tourist attraction in exchange for their room and board. Outraged, she insists he return with her to her family’s Victorian farmhouse, where they’ll be able to live together in peace. It seems the perfect solution at first, but as Bryony has recently learned, things are seldom what they seem.

Two spirits—a notorious fallen angel and the demon king himself—lie in wait for the healing god’s return. Together they plan to tease the archangel Raphael’s sword away from her, by deception or by force if necessary. But they haven’t accounted for the possibility that Bryony no longer has the sword, nor can they begin to prepare for her uncanny ability to turn her enemies into allies.

349 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 14, 2024

1 person is currently reading
70 people want to read

About the author

Isobel Lynn

3 books16 followers
Isobel Lynn is the romance pen name of a lifelong fantasy novelist, poet, and essayist. She grew up in the Pacific Northwest, lived on a sailboat, and spent much of her time appreciating the local wildlife. She now resides in the Great Lakes region with her husband, one perfectly behaved kitten, and a dreadfully mutinous parrot.

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5 stars
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
Profile Image for Kristin O'donoghue.
154 reviews7 followers
January 21, 2024
If you read my 2023 book reviews, you would know that one of my most unexpected reads was Isobel Lynn's Godhunter, book 1 in her A Tyranny of Angels series. It was my dark horse read of the year and I mean that in the best way possible. I did not see it coming but I was absolutely floored by it and the book stayed with me for days after I finished it. Needless to say, I have been eagerly awaiting the next book in the series, Speak of the Devil, as one my most anticipated reads of 2024. Lynn does not disappoint with a sequel that is just as rich, entertaining, touching and beautifully crafted as her first novel.

***MINOR SPOILERS IF YOU HAVE NOT READ BOOK 1***

In Speak of the Devil, Lynn picks up right where book 1 ended with our main protagonists, Michael and Bryony, at the start of their journey to a home together, having battled and won for their relationship, despite the many odds against them. I appreciated that Lynn gave space for Michael and Bryony to explore in more depth and privacy their feelings for each other. Michael continues to be the cinnamon roll hero that we all need in our lives. Who cannot love a man who openly admits that his turn ons are kindness, marriage talk and hard candy??!!!! His complete trust and devotion to Bryony is simple, direct but powerful and I moved by how his unconditional love allows Bryony to shake off the insecurities and anxieties that she has from her past that was veiled in deception and loneliness. Bryony is delightfully protective of Michael and I adore the fierceness she displays in making sure that Michael's tender heart and tendency to see the good in all is not taken advantage of.

Michael and Bryony's path to a future filled with peace and love is anything but smooth as they face new challenges, both related to their own natures and the continued ripple effects of the generations' long battle between angels, demons and humans. They come to learn some frustrating consequences of Michael's paternal heritage and have to navigate the delicate balance between devotion, love and worship.

Soon enough, Michael and Bryony are forced apart when an alliance between the King of Demons and a fallen Angel called Azazel put the couple in the path of this dark duo as they seek the healing sword Bryony once wielded. One of the elements that I love about Lynn's writing is the complexity and nuances she brings to those characters that may categorized as 'villains'. She really makes her reader cognizant of the fact that good vs. bad is an over simplified dichotomy and that it is often by exploring those grayer areas that one can come to a truer understanding of someone's pain, joy and motivation. I really appreciated these new characters and how each brought Michael and Bryony a better understanding of themselves and forced them to question truths that may not actually be as simple as they once believed. Ash and Azza were such great counterpoints to the energy and personalities of the other characters in Lynn's book and I was also happy that Shakespeare was still in the mix as one of Bryony's fiercest allies.

Ultimately, Lynn brings the action and conflict to a climax as the threat and implications of summoning the strongest archangel hangs in the balance. While Bryony is confident in the choices she's making, Michael fights to stop a potential disaster. Will he be successful or will the consequences of Bryony's actions have unexpected and long ranging impact, not only for the couple but for all of humanity? You will just have to read to find out.

All in all, I absolutely love the world that Lynn has continued to build in this series. The lore that she brings to life is very unique and I found myself wanting to find out more about the history of the different groups of angels and how they have shaped the universe as humans know it now. Lynn's writing style is wonderfully direct while simultaneously being moody, haunting and atmospheric. I am so glad to know there will be a book 3 in this series as we follow the next step in Michael and Bryony's story as they face new, nearly insurmountable goals and unexpected familial interventions. I eagerly await Lynn's next book and wholeheartedly continue to recommend this series to anyone who loves a paranormal romance with an ethereal and cozy gothic feel!
Profile Image for Iva_hahah.
4 reviews
July 29, 2025
If you’ve read the first book and felt like you could stop there—because it had a satisfying ending, everything made sense in that moment, and you didn’t crave more—but now you’re here wondering if the second one is worth it… THIS IS YOUR SIGN.

I promise you, the universe of this story expands so much. So much is happening, and you even get to meet the literal stars of this trilogy. It’s like reading ACOTAR and stopping after the first book—do you see now what you’d be missing? (It doesn't have that kind of plot twist, but the feeling of missing out is the same.)

I’m constantly amazed by where Bryony gets her ideas. I like to think I’m smart, but then she pulls something out of—I don’t even know where—and I just sit there like, wow… I did not see that coming.

And Azza(our new star)??? That man… I just cannot. There were so many times I had to close the book just to sit there and process what he said or did. And I mean that in the best possible way.
Profile Image for Alice ♡.
133 reviews33 followers
February 13, 2024
- Second in a series
- Gods, angels, & demons
- Post-apocalyptic
- Librarian pirates
- Touch him and you ☠️
- Redemption
- Only one bed
- Haunted house
- Light 🌶️

I absolutely adore the world, characters, and lore in this series, and was so happy to see it continue to be expanded in Speak Of The Devil (Azza in particular was such a delight).

Speak Of The Devil picks up where Godhunter left off, with Bryony and Micheal trying to figure out what to, before deciding to return to Bryonys home. However, trouble seems to follow them, with Micheal soon being kidnapped by the demon king.

I just love the rich characters, the beautiful, witty prose, and the cosy atmosphere of this series and can’t wait for the next book!

Thank you so much to MTMC tours and the author for a copy of this book! 💗
Profile Image for jlreadstoperpetuity.
508 reviews19 followers
February 12, 2024
When I first read the prequel, Godhunter, I was immediately drawn to the MC Bryony because of how beautifully unhinged she was 😅 Her character profile really carried the story for me and it carried on here to this sequel. I am so happy though that I get to see more interactions between her and Michael. They are just darn too adorable together!

What works best on this sequel are the dialogues, it's much more polished and the banters are just hilarious. Though the plot took a more serious turn this time around, the overall experience is just balanced beautifully
Profile Image for Ubarna.
102 reviews2 followers
March 26, 2024
This book was SO good. I was hooked from the first chapter. The plot in this was genuinely so different from other fantasy books, and it was so entertaining. I had a hard time putting it down. I still adore Bryony and Michael; together and individually.

I can’t say much about this without spoiling book 1 as it continues the story from it. However, I would say that if you enjoyed book 1, you’re most likely going to enjoy this even more! The ending of book 1 had me sobbing and the ending of this wanted me wanting even more! I am so excited for whenever book 3 comes out because I already know it’s going to be excellent.

One thing I see in a LOT of fantasy books is the surprise pregnancy trope and I think it was refreshing to read one where I did not have to worry about it. Would HIGHLY recommend reading this!

(Have to edit this to a full 5 star review because I genuinely can’t stop thinking about it. The more I think about it, the more I love it. Easy one of my favourite reads of 2024 so far.)

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Mireille (readingwithmrleo).
533 reviews24 followers
February 11, 2024
I'm in love with this series. This book was so amazing. I really couldn't imagine this one being better than the first, and yet it was. There just was something to that story, the way it went, the writing, it was all MORE.

In this second installment, Bryony and Michael find their way back to Bryony's house where they meet with Loki, and the people who decided to stay after they learned the truth about Bryony. They settle in and start planning a life for themselves, but what they do not know is they are not alone. A kidnapping, an impersonation, and a few improbable friendships later, they are led into a dangerous mission for more than just them. They will find answers through it all and get to know themselves better, leaving us with a need for more of it all!

In this story, we dive more into the fascinating world and ways of the angels. I have no idea what's up with these angels but they put me on the verge of tears all the time (yes I am talking to you Azza). It is all about trust, friendships, redemption and it is beautiful. I enjoyed every second of this story, I love that even though it's in a post-apocalyptic world full of demons, beasts, where death is never far, it doesn't feel too dark. I love a dark story, but this one is the light in the dark and it's even better. The feelings it gets you through, the heartfelt moments, it's just something else. There is still lots of action, you are never sure what the characters will end up doing and it keeps you intrigued all along.

We cannot help fall more and more for Bryony as everybody else does too. We get to be in Michael's head and the compulsion to protect him at all cost has never been this intense. The sweet relationship between our MC gets even sweeter if that is possible and you even get spice my friends (is there something better than not knowing there is spice in a book and boom there it is? I don't think so). And you meet even more amazing characters and my heart is so full. I love them all. I love their personalities and let me tell you that Isobel Lynn writes them in such a perfect way. They say one thing and you are like: classic Loki. You know them as much as if you were a character in the book yourself and it feels incredible.

I love that these books have their own endings, you know the story is not over but they wrap up in a very satisfying way and make you look forward to the next installment.

All in all, this is a truly one of a kind story with such fantastic writing. It's a book I will re-read for sure and the easiest 5 stars I've given this year (I knew after one chapter). Don't sleep on this series my friends. Go read it now.

"I was an unlit candle. I swear, I wouldn't be happier unused and unloved. So set me on fire, Bryony Moss. It's what I was made for."

"They aren't little favors," he murmured. "They're enormous, important favors. You'll save the world with them one day."


Thanks to the author and MTMC tours for my copy. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Ashley.
445 reviews5 followers
January 25, 2024
Spoiler-free review.

My first 5 star read of 2024!

I do not dole out 5 stars very often. An amazing book with all the right things will still get 4 stars from me; I save 5 stars for books that hit every mark and transported me beyond sitting and reading. It has to be soul-moving, gut-wrenching, tear-inducing, and feel like I've been punched in the gut...and this book did all that!

No sophomore slump for author Isobel Lynn, whose first book in this series (A Tyranny of Angels), Godhunter, wowed me last year and that I gave a very enthusiastic 4 stars. Book 2, Speak of the Devil, is even better.

The story jumps right back in where we left off in book 1 with our accidental god Bryony and our cinnamon roll-of-a-man [giant] Michael, and introduces a whole new cast of characters and a new setting. While not overly-involved with world-building, SotD focuses more on defining the lore and mythology of the hierarchy of angels that our MCs live in. Quirks and other small nuances layer our casts' personalities, and Lynn successfully gives each one their own unique voice. Oftentimes in sequels, the introduction of new characters seems unnecessary or forced to use as a plot device, but not the case here. I daresay I love these new angels/demons more than any sidekick in book 1 (with the exception of Chuy, who makes a cameo and appears will have a larger role to play in book 3! <3)

With more romance, spice, and meddling immortals, SotD is masterfully paced with snappy dialogue and character development. Lynn skillfully maneuvers her reader from cozy- to terrifyingly epic fantasy, where you never know quite what she has planned, or who will - or won't - make it out alive. There are quiet, soulful moments adjacent to ocean-scale action. Lynn writes like a seasoned pro, with beautiful turns of phrase and a truly unique story. We the readers run the whole gauntlet of emotions, where love and worship are tempered by grief and pain, and how the courage of one woman to see a monster from another POV can make all the difference...in more than just one world.

I CANNOT WAIT for book 3!

Favorite quotes:
"'Amazing. I love you.' Sometimes it was the only thing he could think to say to her."

"The seraph demanded permanence - her love, her bones, her promise. The man demanded passion - her breath, her flesh, and every sound he drew from her lips."

"'Don't assume a beautiful creature can't fight ugly.'"

"Bryony was proud to be among people who could rip their hatred out at the roots when it became the right thing to do."

"Her fingernails dug into the teak like it was a grave she meant to rob."

"He murmured the words like a man who'd just tasted chocolate for the first time."

"Whether we realize it or not, we all crave after what is truly given, be it community or ritual, inspiration or prayer, absolution or hope."
Profile Image for Patricia.
46 reviews2 followers
October 27, 2024
Book Summary: Stranded on the coast and with no more secrets between them, Michael and Bryony can finally get to know each other better. In fact, they’re both rather enjoying their time together until they return to her family’s Victorian farmhouse/ Two spirits—a notorious fallen angel and the demon king himself—lie in wait for the healing god’s return. Together they plan to tease the archangel Raphael’s sword away from her, by deception or by force if necessary. But they haven’t accounted for the possibility that Bryony no longer has the sword, nor can they begin to prepare for her uncanny ability to turn her enemies into allies.

Book 2 of the Tyranny of Angels trilogy picks up right after the ending of Book 1. We see more of the growing relationship between Michael and Bryony. We encounter new “villains” that try to force apart our happy couple. The thing I enjoy about Lynn’s writing is that she provides depth to her villains. She presents them as nuanced characters with gray areas that provide motivation for their acts. Even Bryony and Michael must question the validity of some of their own truths.
After easily immersing myself in Godhunter, the first book of the series, I found myself struggling with this second book of the trilogy. However, I believe that it is because the second installment is a slower burn than I had expected. I still thoroughly enjoyed the book. The storyline is still different and exciting. I loved all the characters. Overall, this is a good second installment in the series, and I am eager for the third part of this unique trilogy.

Thanks to BookSirens, Isobel Lynn, and Attic Wall Books for providing a complimentary copy of this book in hopes that I will leave my unbiased review. I was not required to leave a review, positive or otherwise, and the above review is simply my opinion of the book.
Profile Image for Moonburst.
432 reviews7 followers
January 26, 2024
Speak of the Devil is the second book in A Tyranny of Angels series, and it starts off shortly after the conclusion of Godhunter. Michael and Bryony return to Bryony’s home and explore their relationship boundaries further, but their progress is halted when Michael is taken hostage by the demon king, Ashmedai to try to pressure Bryony to give the healing sword to a watcher angel named Azazel. But Shakespeare is unwilling to hand over the healing sword without the release of the archangel Raphael. But to do so requires the help of the mad archangel Michael or the deceptive angel of death, Samael. Can Bryony arrange for the release of Raphael without killing everyone or losing Michael forever?

Speak of the Devil is an excellent continuation of the series, exploring the themes of trust, doubt and forgiveness. The book explores further what it means to be some of the different types of angels, as well as how doubt fractured the hierarchy of the angels. The motivations and needs of the angels are fascinating and there is the implication that healing the world may be possible. We also get further exploration of Bryony and Michael’s relationship. The actual reality of loving a nephilim has a few more complications that the two have to explore and overcome.

An excellent read that builds on the previous book and leaves you aching for more.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
37 reviews
March 7, 2024
Absolutely loved this book! I didn't think it was possible, but I enjoyed this one even more than the first book.

Bryony and Michael are adorable together! Every interaction between the two of them gave me so many warm, fuzzy feelings. Even when they are not physically together in the story, I could feel the love and connection between them.

And don't even get me started on the cast of supporting characters. Every single side character is so complex, and they all feel so human despite being anything but.

I finished this book in one day and daydreaming about it for weeks has cured my depression. It is wild to me how a story that contains such heavy themes (grief, betrayal, kidnapping, etc.) can feel so light and cozy - truly a testament to the author's skill.

My favorite thing about this series, and this book in particular, is how there is not a single clearcut villain. I cannot hate a single character in this story no matter how "bad" their actions might be. Every character is lovable, which is so confusing to me because somehow it still worked. The conflict was believable and the stakes felt high. But I think because the story was mostly told from Bryony's perspective, and Bryony is such a compassionate and forgiving character, it was easier for me as the reader to forgive and empathize with the "villains."

Definitely would recommend if you are looking to read a cozy fantasy romance with a cinnamon roll MMC, a kind and quirky FMC, a sweet romance (with one mildly spicy scene), a fun and unhinged cast of supporting characters, and beautiful friendships and relationships all around.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Miriam.
48 reviews6 followers
January 30, 2024
received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

I give it 4.5 stars as I only give 5 to books dealing with heavier topics. The book, however, is very solid and incredibly enjoyable.

Similar to the previous book, it feels very YA, but that did not soot me from reading it voraciously. Just as a heads up :)

One of the quickest reads in a while as I could not put it down before learning what would happen next. The pace is just right, with enough action and slower parts for character development. Maybe I would have liked more of Michael wish Ash, but I understand that the reduced “screen time” fits the main events.

I loved the new characters (Azza was delightful) and the world and lore that has been building over the first two books.

If any of you have read “Dos velas para el diablo” by Laura Gallego you will really enjoy this trilogy. It is a more mature main character also discovering the world of angels and demons, and how, after all, it might be difficult to tell who are the good or bad guys, or if there is such extreme duality.

I am excited to get my hands on the last book, although it will sadly be the last. Hopefully we will get more of Isobel Lynn after this!!
Profile Image for Rachel Emily.
4,475 reviews382 followers
February 7, 2024
This book picks up right where book 1 ends, so you do need to read this in order!

With this series you’ll get a great slow burn, a great mix of biblical angels, gods, and Norse mythology mixed into a modern day post-apocalyptic setting, the sweetest and softest cinnamon roll giant MMC, a strong and determined FMC who is written so well, pirates who are librarians for banned books, just excellent world building, and so many characters you will fall in love with.

I adore Bryony and Michael. I especially love them in this second book, where we get to see them settle into a relationship.

The writing is just so immersive, witty, smart, and keeps you needing to read. I love all the character interactions and how Bryony can forge a friendship with just about anyone. And the setup for going into the third book!? OMG NEED.

I absolutely loved reading these and I cannot wait for the third book.

Review copies were provided by the author. My thoughts are my own.
Profile Image for Danielle Rivera.
149 reviews7 followers
March 6, 2024
Rating: 4 stars
Spice: Mild

Mini Review:


Thank you MTMC Tours and to the author for sending me the books in exchange for my review and for the tour!

Speak of the Devil starts where the Godhunter left off, so if you haven't read the first book, well, you should be reading it. But I'll try not to spoil you about this one; I warned you.
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I must say that I enjoyed this one more than the first one. This time, it focuses more on the Bryony and Michael story, and gosh, I really can't imagine how their relationship is going on, but it's really amazing! The plot and the story were complex-ly written; this had enough action to keep me on my toes for the events that happened here. I have so many emotions about this book, plus I didn't get to stop reading it! It's one of the books where I didn't really realize that I finished it in one sitting. Also, leaving that ending like that? Come on, I badly want Book 3 now.
31 reviews3 followers
February 10, 2024
I was so excited to read the sequel to Godhunter and I must say I was not disappointed in the least. Lynn’s writing is so distinctively enrapturing that I found myself flying through the pages of this book. Bryony and Michael’s relationship was so unique to begin with and all of the new characters we met in this book only added to their story. Azza and Loki were such strong characters in this book and their unique personalities added such an interesting dynamic to the story! Despite the seemingly high stakes in this novel, something about it just feels so cozy. I NEED more of this story and I’m eagerly anticipating future books!!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Danielle.
538 reviews10 followers
March 3, 2024
Even though I loved the first book in this series, Godhunter, I had a hard time getting started on Speak of the Devil, but I'm not sure why. Lynn picks up right where the first book leaves off and we get to see more of the sweet, blooming romance between Bryony and Michael. The book ended up being wonderful, so I'm really glad I kept coming back to it.

I love the world Lynn has created, and Bryony is one of my favorite characters ever. The plot is twisty and fast paced, and there is a lot to love in all the turns. The third book should be fabulous and I can't wait!! Sorry the review is a bit short and vague, but I don't want to give anything away!

Thank you BookSirens for the ARC, my thoughts are shared voluntarily!
Profile Image for Sarah Hoodlet.
Author 4 books27 followers
July 10, 2024
What a great continuation of this series! Seriously, I don't think there's anything about this book I didn't love.

Bryony and Michael's love continues to grow (in unexpected ways). New antagonists arrive, turning up the stakes and bringing about unique plot twists that kept my attention right up until the end. And then there's Azazel...

Oh gods, how do you not love Azazel? He might very well be my favorite part of this book. From his endearing way of speech to his beautiful affections, he's just a darling. The way he's described paints a vivid picture of beauty and grace that makes him hard not to fall in love with. I hope beyond hope that he is in the book(s) to come.

This is such a binge-worthy series for me. One I'll come back to again and again, I'm sure!
Profile Image for NrsKelley.
529 reviews15 followers
January 18, 2024
Book 2 in the Tyranny of Angels series continues where Godhunters left off. Byrony and Michael are on their own and you can never imagine what trouble they can get in to.

I throughly enjoyed the new characters brought into this book. Azza in particular. You can tell the author did a lot of research as I had to look up several of the demons/angels. And the way that it all sets up for the next book.

I honestly can’t wait to read Book 3!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Ingríð Älva.
261 reviews1 follower
February 9, 2024
Speak of the Devil deserves 5 stars for its complexity and geniality alone.
I have read only a few books on the topic of these beings (angels and demons), but this book encouraged me to start again.
🖤
I was honestly angry that our couple in love wouldn't get a chance to rest. However, the story was quickly gaining momentum and I couldn't tear myself away anyway.
🐍
The ending was truly wonderful. I put the book down with the feeling that I would like to erase my memories of reading it and start it all over again.
I got more than I expected.
Profile Image for Leighann Cline.
52 reviews6 followers
August 31, 2024
I found the first in this series interesting but incredibly lacking in any sort of depth. I pinky read the second because it was easy and fast and the story subject was interesting enough. Thankfully the second did delve a bit more, though I found a lot of the story still very shallow there was a little more meat on the bone.
2,787 reviews30 followers
February 11, 2024
This is the second book in a series and reading book one seems necessary to me. This book is a a dive into a fantasy world of romance, spice, and the supernatural. The witty dialogue and well-developed characters contribute to an edge of your seat story. A very enjoyable read.
Profile Image for Rebecca.
708 reviews
February 17, 2024
Loved this book so much! This is not a stand-alone book and will not make much sense if you don't read Godhunter first. You might be able to muddle through, but I wouldn't suggest it.

I am anxiously awaiting the third book, so sad that it isn't out already.



Explicit consent and slow burn 🔥
Profile Image for Dominique.
116 reviews15 followers
February 14, 2024
I am such a huge fan of fan of Isobel’s books. When I say I find both Godhunter and Speak of the Devil to be utterly delightful, I hope you take me at my word. Michael and Bryony’s relationship is further tested in this book but I can’t help but fall even more for these two. Their devotion and love is just beautiful.

Lynn created a deeply atmospheric and emotional read while still incorporating exciting action scenes. I was worried when I thought this was the last book but I’m so excited to know there will be a third! This series is an absolute favorite of mine and I highly recommend it to anyone who loves their fantasy with a twist of gothic and moody romance!
Profile Image for Jennifer.
97 reviews15 followers
April 3, 2024
I love the world, characters and the type of magic in it.
Speak of the devil is second in this series and pick up where Godhunter ended.
Bryony and Micheal is trying to figure out what to do since they left the Armada and decides to return to Bryonys home town where Micheal gets kidnapped by the demon king.
In this book we meet both new and old characters and experience even more adventures.
I’m really excited for their next book to see what comes next!
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