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Avery Tywella #1
Darkened
It was life as usual for half-Demon Avery Tywella when she chases a Demon convicted of murder into a local club. As an agent of the Human’s Rights Task Force, it is her duty to execute any "Other" proven to harm or cause harm to Humans. But her actions in Halo attract the attention of Jared Damascus, the lead singer of local rock band sensation Darkened, and a night of clubbing with her friend leaves her with unwanted attentions from, not only a Fallen Angel, but a psychotic murderer.
Now, with a Fallen bodyguard at her side she has to find and eliminate her perp before he kills again. The only problem is convincing her Fallen admirer to let her do her job instead of protecting her. Because she is going to need the help of him and his band of vigilante crimefighters to take out this crazy Angel so she can get back to her life before she does something she regrets with a certain hot rock star.
This is Book One of the Avery Tywella Series. You can find the complete Avery Tywella Series box set here.
For information on S. L. Gavyn's books visit or check her out on Facebook at
Now, with a Fallen bodyguard at her side she has to find and eliminate her perp before he kills again. The only problem is convincing her Fallen admirer to let her do her job instead of protecting her. Because she is going to need the help of him and his band of vigilante crimefighters to take out this crazy Angel so she can get back to her life before she does something she regrets with a certain hot rock star.
This is Book One of the Avery Tywella Series. You can find the complete Avery Tywella Series box set here.
For information on S. L. Gavyn's books visit or check her out on Facebook at
240 pages, ebook
First published November 25, 2013
68 people are currently reading
233 people want to read
About the author
S.L. Gavyn
24 books50 followersS.L. Gavyn lives in Mobile, Alabama with her husband, three children, and two black labs. She tries to write fantasy novels that are funny, interesting and adventurous with just the right amount of romance worked in. You can find her writing about her books and various other things at slgavyn.com or like her on Facebook at facebook.com/slgavyn or you can follow her on Twitter at twitter.com/slgavyn.
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
July 1, 2014
Holy WOW!!!!!!
Usually when I see something is about Angels and Demons I get all ramped up to read something that while may be unique still follows the same premise. I was in for one heck of a shock this time! It was NOTHING like I expected it to be; in fact it was MUCH better! Right up there with some of my favorite authors! This one will definitely be added to my “Must read over and over again” file! And I have GOT to get my lil hands on the other two in this trilogy!!!
It’s a great mix of good cop/bad situation that kept me riveted to the book; the action, the pace of the book, even the interaction of all of the characters make me extremely reluctant to put it down. Although I have to say the ending … yeah… I sniffled over it. I’m not ashamed to admit it! I’m not going to go into the details of the book but if you like reading fast, great books then I HIGHLY suggest this one!
Usually when I see something is about Angels and Demons I get all ramped up to read something that while may be unique still follows the same premise. I was in for one heck of a shock this time! It was NOTHING like I expected it to be; in fact it was MUCH better! Right up there with some of my favorite authors! This one will definitely be added to my “Must read over and over again” file! And I have GOT to get my lil hands on the other two in this trilogy!!!
It’s a great mix of good cop/bad situation that kept me riveted to the book; the action, the pace of the book, even the interaction of all of the characters make me extremely reluctant to put it down. Although I have to say the ending … yeah… I sniffled over it. I’m not ashamed to admit it! I’m not going to go into the details of the book but if you like reading fast, great books then I HIGHLY suggest this one!
September 20, 2014
Thanks for a great read !!!
Darkened kept me in suspense to see what would happen next ...I look forward to book two ...the characters are great.
Darkened kept me in suspense to see what would happen next ...I look forward to book two ...the characters are great.
October 15, 2014
Darkened
darkened is a great read with a lot of freckyness in it but a great paranormal read just loved it
darkened is a great read with a lot of freckyness in it but a great paranormal read just loved it
January 21, 2015
DNF Boring, unoriginal. A cop who doesn't ask many questions and is too stupid to live.
Writing 2.5
editing 3
characters 2
creativity 1
Writing 2.5
editing 3
characters 2
creativity 1
January 3, 2026
{Urban Fantasy Romance;
M/F;
Other Man;
Mostly single POV;
Open Door Scene}
He falls first
Slow burn
First in a series
I was so discouraged by seeing the same rehashed plots and tropes that I decided to pull out an older title from my TBR (to be read). 2013? It feels like ancient history, but it’s still quite enjoyable now.
In 2013 I remember every story seemed to revolve around detectives or witches...who were detectives. Fads weren’t concocted yesterday. Shockingly enough, sex was also part of the story. For some reason I just assumed most novels back then were much more discrete about this. At the time I was reading urban fantasy for the plot and action, and I thought romance was a gift card with hearts on it. Sue me.
The plot is probably about 50%, with Romance the other 50%. Avery banishes demon miscreants from the human realm for a living. While chasing one down, she follows him into a dance club and gets noticed by the lead singer of the band. It’s an insta-fated-mate attraction, it seems. He definitely falls first because Avery barely notices him as she tries to capture her fugitive.
Not discouraged, Jared manipulates her boss into making her take a partner (him), because a known angel murderer has targeted her to get back at him. Avery hates his clingy nature and refuses to stop meeting a certain vampire just because Jared tells her not to. Yes, it’s part soap-opera, but I loved it.
The writing style is unadorned, leading to a quick read over a couple of days.
Example:
“He asked about you when he came to talk to me last night then invited me to the party, and told me to bring you. You can take the night off. I mean, the person is obviously dead or you wouldn’t be assigned to the case. They’re going to be just as dead if you take the night off.”
“That’s nice, Temmy. I’ll be sure to use that next time I’m talking to the next of kin.”
M/F;
Other Man;
Mostly single POV;
Open Door Scene}
He falls first
Slow burn
First in a series
I was so discouraged by seeing the same rehashed plots and tropes that I decided to pull out an older title from my TBR (to be read). 2013? It feels like ancient history, but it’s still quite enjoyable now.
In 2013 I remember every story seemed to revolve around detectives or witches...who were detectives. Fads weren’t concocted yesterday. Shockingly enough, sex was also part of the story. For some reason I just assumed most novels back then were much more discrete about this. At the time I was reading urban fantasy for the plot and action, and I thought romance was a gift card with hearts on it. Sue me.
The plot is probably about 50%, with Romance the other 50%. Avery banishes demon miscreants from the human realm for a living. While chasing one down, she follows him into a dance club and gets noticed by the lead singer of the band. It’s an insta-fated-mate attraction, it seems. He definitely falls first because Avery barely notices him as she tries to capture her fugitive.
Not discouraged, Jared manipulates her boss into making her take a partner (him), because a known angel murderer has targeted her to get back at him. Avery hates his clingy nature and refuses to stop meeting a certain vampire just because Jared tells her not to. Yes, it’s part soap-opera, but I loved it.
The writing style is unadorned, leading to a quick read over a couple of days.
Example:
“He asked about you when he came to talk to me last night then invited me to the party, and told me to bring you. You can take the night off. I mean, the person is obviously dead or you wouldn’t be assigned to the case. They’re going to be just as dead if you take the night off.”
“That’s nice, Temmy. I’ll be sure to use that next time I’m talking to the next of kin.”
February 9, 2018
Story is not bad. But badly written.
The grammar and sentence need a review. The story is interesting but let down with the writing, shame really. I liked the characters and would have liked a deeper description and more insight it would have made a difference to look forward to read more in this series, but I don't think it will change in the next books. Sorry!
The grammar and sentence need a review. The story is interesting but let down with the writing, shame really. I liked the characters and would have liked a deeper description and more insight it would have made a difference to look forward to read more in this series, but I don't think it will change in the next books. Sorry!
April 27, 2024
Decent first book
Just needs a good editor. The irregular sentences kind of made it harder to read through. Cute and unexpected story. Outside typical template romances. Enjoyed the story.
Just needs a good editor. The irregular sentences kind of made it harder to read through. Cute and unexpected story. Outside typical template romances. Enjoyed the story.
October 26, 2017
Great series
Book one of this series was fabulous! The book is fast passed and well written with tons of action. I can't wait for book two.
Book one of this series was fabulous! The book is fast passed and well written with tons of action. I can't wait for book two.
September 10, 2018
This is a new author for me and I’m glad to have found her. I enjoy her writing style and the plot is interesting. Avery and Jared are intriguing in their relationship back-and-forths. A definite recommend. I will definitely read the next book in the series.
February 18, 2019
was good
July 8, 2014
Again I am amazed at the beautiful work of S.L. Gavyn! This story follows Avery Tywella, who is half demon and half white witch. She is employed for the Human Rights task force. She is a kick butt woman who does what she wants and says whatever comes to mind! But lately things have been even more bizarre. Dead humans have been showing up with no clue as to who killed them other than the fact that an Other did it. And Avery plans of finding out who did it and put a stop to them! But with only a few clues to go on, she is led to a band that plays at the local club. Enter Jared and the band Darkened.
"He leaned forward slightly and kissed me. One thing I noticed is that he is about two inches taller than me. At least in three inch heels. The kiss deepened and before I know it I was pressed against my door and I was still pulling him closer. He was slowly grinding himself against me and I moaned. He moved from my mouth to my neck. Then he pulled back enough to takw the key from my hand."
There is just something about Jared that draws Avery to him. She would like nothing more than to let him have his way with her. But he is Fallen. Everyone knows that Fallen are kicked out of the kingdom for killing a human. And that goes against everything Avery believes in. She does all she can to stay away from Jared, but when more bodies are found Jared makes it his duty to protect Avery from this murderer, especially since it looks like the next victim could very well be Avery. She will not put up with his possessive BS though.
"'What am I supposed to do for the next three hours?' He smiled. 'Fantasize about me?' 'Trust me. Any fantasies about you always end the same way. With me standing over your dead body.' He put his hand to his heart. 'You wound me, Caru.' 'You piss me off, Jared.' He scooted in the booth next to me. 'I've heard that hate is just love in disguise.' 'Whoever said that is an imbecile.' 'Really?' He leaned closer. 'I think you are more angry with yourself for having feelings for a Fallen than you are with me.'"
Working together is a must. But will they be able to catch this bad guy in time? And when the truth comes out about who Avery really is, will Jared's feeling for her overcome her heritage? Loved. Loved this book!!! I most definitely have to find out what happens next! This is a must read book!!
July 1, 2014
This story was such a good surprise to me. I loved how strong a character Avery Tywella was. She had a job as a member of the Human Rights Task Force to find and execute demons. Don’t you love fantasy stories? What application can you fill out for that job? Anyway, she is just doing her job and kills a demon in front of lead singer, Jared Damascus of the group Darkened. That was enough to grab his attention. I like this romance between the two. It was part of the story but didn’t override the main part. There was still enough mystery and crazy characters like demons, angels, a murderer and vampires to keep the story moving. Avery has a murderer for a stalker and she must find and kill him before he can do more damage. When some secrets come out, Jared and Avery have their relationship tested. Will they be able to work it out? Will Avery find the murderer in time? You have to read the book!
February 18, 2015
The dialogue is among the best I have ever read. Avery Tywella is witty sarcastic humorous and aware of her faults which makes her such a great character to hang out with. So what that she is the daughter of a white witch who died in childbirth, and that her rapist father was a demon. She gets on with her life tracking down "Others" - the non human criminals, sending demons back to Hell and having fun in between. Her friends are amusing and have properly developed characters. It will be interesting to see how her relationship with Jared Damascus plays out and what is the mystery over the necklace and the identity of her father.
I enjoyed how this alternate world is set up. I loved being a fly on the wall with Avery so much that I just bought the next 3 in the series. This one was a free kindle read, so do go and meet Avery for yourself.
I enjoyed how this alternate world is set up. I loved being a fly on the wall with Avery so much that I just bought the next 3 in the series. This one was a free kindle read, so do go and meet Avery for yourself.
December 15, 2015
Quite happy with it! I'm surprised it's free actually. The writing is well done and the characters are all kinds and the ones we get to know are really interesting. I can't wait to find out what Avery is/ who her father is. The dialogue is witty and funny. One sex scene that probably could have gone into detail but that was still good. I do wonder about that vampire... I bet he has an interesting story.
Mostly though, the author did a good job of being coy about her characters; I want to read more so I can't learn more about them.
Read it, it's free AND it's good
Mostly though, the author did a good job of being coy about her characters; I want to read more so I can't learn more about them.
Read it, it's free AND it's good
August 2, 2014
This is a good beginning to a series about demons, fallen angels and assorted paranormal called Others. It does have an ending except for the ongoing romance between Avery and Jared.
At times, Avery comes across as immature, but not so much it can't be overlooked.
I enjoyed the first book because it was free. However, I would consider the book NA and with so many book series available, I would not go so far as to buy more.
At times, Avery comes across as immature, but not so much it can't be overlooked.
I enjoyed the first book because it was free. However, I would consider the book NA and with so many book series available, I would not go so far as to buy more.
April 9, 2015
Confusing and a bit childish
I'm all for strong female characters but this is insane. It was a whole lot of tit for tat and I'm just not into that. I found myself skipping pages just to get over the stupid stuff.
I'm all for strong female characters but this is insane. It was a whole lot of tit for tat and I'm just not into that. I found myself skipping pages just to get over the stupid stuff.
May 27, 2015
Angels
Well, I have brooded over this , but honestly by the end I had more questions than answers. I was very well written though. If you don't mind cliffhangers (which I hate) you will like this book.
Well, I have brooded over this , but honestly by the end I had more questions than answers. I was very well written though. If you don't mind cliffhangers (which I hate) you will like this book.
September 17, 2019
Great Series
Im reading this for the fifth time I love this series! It immerses you in Avery's World and keeps you wanting more.
Im reading this for the fifth time I love this series! It immerses you in Avery's World and keeps you wanting more.
March 27, 2015
Good plot, needs editor
The author gives us good characters, descriptions, and plot. The book suffers from the need for a good grammarian and speller.
The author gives us good characters, descriptions, and plot. The book suffers from the need for a good grammarian and speller.
April 23, 2015
I really didn't think I'd like this story but I really enjoyed the main character a lot. Will read the next in this series just to see how outrageous this woman can get.
May 1, 2017
Finally a good strong female lead that doesn't just fall in love in a heartbeat! Can't wait to read the next one!
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews