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New Protectorate #4
Devotion's Covenant
She’s got nothing to lose.
Petra Zaskodna knows the search for justice is a deadly game she’s bound to lose. As a covenless witch who manipulated her way into power, she’s used to living with a target on her back. Her position only grows more precarious with her mentor’s mysterious death. Desperate to uncover the truth, she'll stoop to bargain with a man more dangerous than the enemies lurking in the Shade.
He’s got everything to gain.
Silas Cuttcombe craves the taste of power. A demon with an unusual ability to wield magic, he’s spent decades spreading his reputation into every blighted corner of the continent and amassing incomprehensible wealth under the pseudonym Shade. He’s content with his life in the shadows, wreaking havoc when it suits him… until a pretty priestess comes begging for help and offering herself as payment. Exploiting their devil’s bargain at every opportunity, he finds a delicious sort of irony in bending the little golden goddess to his will.
Even gods fear what darkness devours.
It’s a sensual dance between predator and prey until the day danger catches up to Petra. Silas doesn’t care about the innocent lives hanging by a thread, nor the justice his witch seeks. She is his to play with, to protect, to break and put back together, piece by piece. Her enemies will learn there’s nothing more dangerous than a demon’s devotion — or his wrath.
Petra Zaskodna knows the search for justice is a deadly game she’s bound to lose. As a covenless witch who manipulated her way into power, she’s used to living with a target on her back. Her position only grows more precarious with her mentor’s mysterious death. Desperate to uncover the truth, she'll stoop to bargain with a man more dangerous than the enemies lurking in the Shade.
He’s got everything to gain.
Silas Cuttcombe craves the taste of power. A demon with an unusual ability to wield magic, he’s spent decades spreading his reputation into every blighted corner of the continent and amassing incomprehensible wealth under the pseudonym Shade. He’s content with his life in the shadows, wreaking havoc when it suits him… until a pretty priestess comes begging for help and offering herself as payment. Exploiting their devil’s bargain at every opportunity, he finds a delicious sort of irony in bending the little golden goddess to his will.
Even gods fear what darkness devours.
It’s a sensual dance between predator and prey until the day danger catches up to Petra. Silas doesn’t care about the innocent lives hanging by a thread, nor the justice his witch seeks. She is his to play with, to protect, to break and put back together, piece by piece. Her enemies will learn there’s nothing more dangerous than a demon’s devotion — or his wrath.
588 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 3, 2024
47 people are currently reading
333 people want to read
About the author
Abigail Kelly
11 books243 followersAbigail Kelly is a writer of alternate histories, love stories, and women with drive. Her work is heavily influenced by both her modest family roots and her passion for history. A former illustrator, she is now a bookseller at an independent bookshop where she gets to badly influence impressionable young minds and put her favorite books in eager hands. She is also the host of the Kingdom of Thirst podcast, a show all about romance novels and why they matter.
Her favorite authors are Shirley Jackson, V. E. Schwab, Ursula K. Le Guin, Kresley Cole, Nalini Singh, and just about anyone who writes about the weird and wonderful. She lives in San Francisco with her dog, Babs, who remains stubbornly illiterate.
Her favorite authors are Shirley Jackson, V. E. Schwab, Ursula K. Le Guin, Kresley Cole, Nalini Singh, and just about anyone who writes about the weird and wonderful. She lives in San Francisco with her dog, Babs, who remains stubbornly illiterate.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
December 22, 2024
This is the best of the series so far and that’s saying something since I’ve loved several books in this universe. Each book does standalone, but the author has a note that reading certain books prior to this one do give better context and I agree. I’d read most of them but I did skip a couple books in the world and wasn’t lost when those were briefly referenced. As always, there’s a list of triggers and glossary at the end of the book.
The book opens with Petra (h), who’s a witch High Priestess, hiring Silas (H), who’s a demon criminal, to get information on a certain high profile target. Petra’s over a barrel and has a very personal mission. Silas has his own personal motivations and Petra was on his radar before she even hired him. Their first interaction is unexpectedly intense and sets the groundwork for how things will not go quite as Petra expected. Silas's brain works differently, even for a demon, and his moral compass was just his own creation. He'd also happily burn the world down if necessary, esp for Petra as their relationship builds. He's a lil feral and a lot dominating (there are slight themes of power exchange as Silas likes dominating but only because Petra likes submitting). Petra was the type of h who would have been happy with a quiet life, but also did the right thing when the right thing was needed. She was resilient, powerful, soft and strong, I adored her.
Written in third person, dual POV. No ow drama (H has a couple throwaway thoughts about how he'd spent past ruts but nothing that truly bothered me and he's obsessed with the h when this book begins), some om drama because h is being pressured to bond with someone else, and both are experienced.
This strikes an excellent balance between plot and relationship development. Both characters have to lay themselves bare and there are some beautifully intimate scenes between them as they delve into their complicated backgrounds. Petra was such a generous soul who came from awful circumstances. As Silas learned more about her, I loved how his perspective shifted. He was definitely a dynamic character in general with how he didn’t believe he was capable of certain feelings and didn’t always understand why he’d be getting squirmy inside. He understood “mine” perfectly well though. Petra getting more insight into him and then being able to appreciate him for all his strengths was also wonderful. As usual for this author’s books, there’s fantastic steam too. Silas brings along shadows and a rut too!
Most of the story spotlights Petra and Silas with friction, banter, and melting into softness, but a couple of the side characters still have their moments on page. If you’ve read some of the prior books, a few characters from those are also on page or mentioned. I'm desperate for at least 4 side characters stories now too...
Devotion’s Covenant is a hefty book and though there are some complex machinations and moving parts happening that could affect the greater world, it didn't feel draggy to me. The magic that Petra and Silas use, along with a couple of side characters, was also really cool. Then what Petra is trying to do, and also trying to avoid, become far more complicated than either she or Silas expected. The culmination of the major plot points was especially tense in the right way.
This does have a HEA ending with not a super far jump ahead, but there was no other way for them to be except happy together because Silas wouldn't allow it. The events that occur in the climax will also have some ripple effects in the series I’m sure. One specific detail mentioned involves a side character whose story I’ve wanted since the very first book and I’m feeling some concern for them. I have no idea what story’s up next, but I do recommend if you love this author too, follow her on Instagram because she has so much world-building extras and she’s so active on there. Not to mention that she does all her own art and it’s just beautiful.
The book opens with Petra (h), who’s a witch High Priestess, hiring Silas (H), who’s a demon criminal, to get information on a certain high profile target. Petra’s over a barrel and has a very personal mission. Silas has his own personal motivations and Petra was on his radar before she even hired him. Their first interaction is unexpectedly intense and sets the groundwork for how things will not go quite as Petra expected. Silas's brain works differently, even for a demon, and his moral compass was just his own creation. He'd also happily burn the world down if necessary, esp for Petra as their relationship builds. He's a lil feral and a lot dominating (there are slight themes of power exchange as Silas likes dominating but only because Petra likes submitting). Petra was the type of h who would have been happy with a quiet life, but also did the right thing when the right thing was needed. She was resilient, powerful, soft and strong, I adored her.
Written in third person, dual POV. No ow drama (H has a couple throwaway thoughts about how he'd spent past ruts but nothing that truly bothered me and he's obsessed with the h when this book begins), some om drama because h is being pressured to bond with someone else, and both are experienced.
This strikes an excellent balance between plot and relationship development. Both characters have to lay themselves bare and there are some beautifully intimate scenes between them as they delve into their complicated backgrounds. Petra was such a generous soul who came from awful circumstances. As Silas learned more about her, I loved how his perspective shifted. He was definitely a dynamic character in general with how he didn’t believe he was capable of certain feelings and didn’t always understand why he’d be getting squirmy inside. He understood “mine” perfectly well though. Petra getting more insight into him and then being able to appreciate him for all his strengths was also wonderful. As usual for this author’s books, there’s fantastic steam too. Silas brings along shadows and a rut too!
Most of the story spotlights Petra and Silas with friction, banter, and melting into softness, but a couple of the side characters still have their moments on page. If you’ve read some of the prior books, a few characters from those are also on page or mentioned. I'm desperate for at least 4 side characters stories now too...
Devotion’s Covenant is a hefty book and though there are some complex machinations and moving parts happening that could affect the greater world, it didn't feel draggy to me. The magic that Petra and Silas use, along with a couple of side characters, was also really cool. Then what Petra is trying to do, and also trying to avoid, become far more complicated than either she or Silas expected. The culmination of the major plot points was especially tense in the right way.
This does have a HEA ending with not a super far jump ahead, but there was no other way for them to be except happy together because Silas wouldn't allow it. The events that occur in the climax will also have some ripple effects in the series I’m sure. One specific detail mentioned involves a side character whose story I’ve wanted since the very first book and I’m feeling some concern for them. I have no idea what story’s up next, but I do recommend if you love this author too, follow her on Instagram because she has so much world-building extras and she’s so active on there. Not to mention that she does all her own art and it’s just beautiful.
December 26, 2024
I enjoyed it a lot. Hate that it ended on a little bit of a cliffhanger but the relationship was wrapped up.
Silas isn't my personal favorite kind of hero unless paired with a strong heroine. He's gone for her but I hate that she's happy with being dominated.
Silas isn't my personal favorite kind of hero unless paired with a strong heroine. He's gone for her but I hate that she's happy with being dominated.
December 4, 2024
Thank you Abigail Kelly for the ARC!
Trigger warnings or content warnings? Yes, included at the end of the book.
Details?
FMC’s name is Petra. She is 80-90 years old. MMC’s name is Silas. He is 100 years old.
Neither are virgins. Both are on a form of birth control.
Petra has been celibate since starting at the temple she is at now (four years). Unclear on Silas, but his situationships have been purely physical. There are details of his past with these OW, and explicit details are thought in a reflecting manner.
Slight OM drama- Petra is being courted by a powerful man. She neither confirms nor denies his advances and his proposition because of the unbalanced dynamic between the two. She does not have the choice to say no. OM’s plans are derailed, and she does not have to marry him.
My thoughts?
I started this book impressed, thinking something along the lines of “dang, that’s a long book”. Yet when I finished..I was left wanting more. The storyline had been tied up for Silas and Petra, but I was the one wanting more of their mundane.
Petra caught my attention from the moment she showed up in Consort’s Glory. Regal, protective, and yet manipulative. She was this cold persona when dealing with Theodore (the MMC from the first book) and yet when alone with Margot (the FMC of the first book) she was extremely protective of her. Ready to throw herself in the midst of whatever was going on if it was against Margot’s wishes. This edge was also witnessed when she bartered with The Sovereign (Theodore) to get the head priestess position at the temple. In Devotions Covenant- Petra was a dream to read about, even with her life being more often a nightmare. Her family died when she was young, leaving her on the street to fend for herself. Then she thrown into a group home, where no one truly cared for her. Tidbits were shared about her time in the group homes, she doesn’t like the dark because she was locked in cupboards when she didn’t make her bed. She didn’t trust easily because the other kids in the group homes were quick to blame another to avoid punishment. She gets a break though, at Glory’s Temple. She immerses herself in the there, helping the community and investing in her life. Cut to the current time in the book- she’s the head Priestess of the temple. People come to services to listen to what she has to say. The people she works with admire her. The beginners at the temple look up to her, and trust her to take care of them. Everyone loves her, and yet she is incredibly humble. Her wardrobe is small, her wants for expensive or shiny things is non-existent. She puts the money that they make back into the church, even though her room could have used the renovation many years ago. Accepting Silas as her mate opened up another world. An even better one, where her wants and needs are prioritized. Where she can be true friends with Margot. Enjoy her life without being consumed by the possibilities of what is wrong, or what could go wrong. She is powerful, she is adored, she is by no means perfect, and she was refreshing to read about.
In comes Silas (who is also known as Shade, the crème de la crème of the underworld of crime). Confident in his abilities to ward anything, he is a demon in high demand. When you want something done right- you go to him. Well..if you have enough to pay him. He’s a high end, expensive investment with his talents. Was he an edgy-neurodivergent demon? Yes. Yes he was. Silas’ unofficial diagnosis is antisocial-personality-disorder. This showed up at a young age as he struggled with socializing with his cousins, and found it difficult to understand other people. His moral compass has always been skewed, but the loyalty to his clan is rock solid. It really does make sense why the Gods would have blessed him with the ability to talk to the dark. Everyone needs a friend. I wasn’t particularly filled with the warm and fuzzies at first. Granted, I never did warm to the way he would occasionally think about past women. It wasn’t constant, but I found it came up in the most random of times. I understood that it was never emotional for him, and that it was purely physical. I did not enjoy to know that he was more likely to know what their cunt tastes like than what their mouths do. It was such a brutal line that it took me out of the book for a second, my nose wrinkled and everything.
It was a line that forgotten soon, and I was back into the thick of their story. You know why? Even before Silas properly knew that Petra is his mate, he had dedicated himself to her. No other woman caught his eye, and when Petra wore glamours he ached to see her true face. The change from the beginning of the book to the end was drastic. I found that it was heavily based around Silas trusting himself with Petra’s care. His clan fiercely loves him, and they make sure to include him in all of the regular clan duties when he comes home. One thing he heard a lot though, was the disbelief that someone would ever be his mate. Almost as if they pitied the being who “got stuck with him”. He would have heard that for a century. Is he blunt? Incredibly so. Is he emotionally oblivious? With almost all of the emotions-yes. Yet he became disgruntled when Petra would cry. He didn’t know how to get her to stop (‘cause commanding her to stop wasn’t working, who would have thought?). He still wanted to get her to stop crying though. When he knew her triggers, he did anything to help her rest easier. When she was recovering he took her care instructions seriously, and was thorough and careful when nursing her back to health. He was the no-nonsense one that was responsible even with his rut breathing down his neck. He was constantly aroused around her, and yet he ignored it. Even when Petra tried instigating something physical with him, he was the one who told her no. **He is a good mate.** Silas is the protector that Petra has needed her entire life, and at the end of their book I was left with the peace that she will know happiness for the rest of her time. Silas is her brick wall of protection, he is the one who will put her first, to make sure her well-being is perfect. Yet behind that wall he puts up for everyone else- she nurtures his mate instincts and self-trust. It’s not like they didn’t butt heads, they both have incredibly strong personalities. They fit together in other ways- her submissiveness to his dominance, and/or her empathy to his apathy.
Also, he wasn’t “cured” by the end of the book. His apathy was alive and thriving when it comes to other people. Yet Petra opened up a part of him that was only meant for her. Combining Silas’ sarcasm and his apathy was a hilarious perspective to have. As Petra pointed out at one point in the book, he basically lives for confrontation. This power couple are complex characters.
Lastly- if you were to put a hand to my heart, you would know I tell you the absolute truth that I love this book.
Trigger warnings or content warnings? Yes, included at the end of the book.
Details?
FMC’s name is Petra. She is 80-90 years old. MMC’s name is Silas. He is 100 years old.
Neither are virgins. Both are on a form of birth control.
Petra has been celibate since starting at the temple she is at now (four years). Unclear on Silas, but his situationships have been purely physical. There are details of his past with these OW, and explicit details are thought in a reflecting manner.
Slight OM drama- Petra is being courted by a powerful man. She neither confirms nor denies his advances and his proposition because of the unbalanced dynamic between the two. She does not have the choice to say no. OM’s plans are derailed, and she does not have to marry him.
My thoughts?
I started this book impressed, thinking something along the lines of “dang, that’s a long book”. Yet when I finished..I was left wanting more. The storyline had been tied up for Silas and Petra, but I was the one wanting more of their mundane.
Petra caught my attention from the moment she showed up in Consort’s Glory. Regal, protective, and yet manipulative. She was this cold persona when dealing with Theodore (the MMC from the first book) and yet when alone with Margot (the FMC of the first book) she was extremely protective of her. Ready to throw herself in the midst of whatever was going on if it was against Margot’s wishes. This edge was also witnessed when she bartered with The Sovereign (Theodore) to get the head priestess position at the temple. In Devotions Covenant- Petra was a dream to read about, even with her life being more often a nightmare. Her family died when she was young, leaving her on the street to fend for herself. Then she thrown into a group home, where no one truly cared for her. Tidbits were shared about her time in the group homes, she doesn’t like the dark because she was locked in cupboards when she didn’t make her bed. She didn’t trust easily because the other kids in the group homes were quick to blame another to avoid punishment. She gets a break though, at Glory’s Temple. She immerses herself in the there, helping the community and investing in her life. Cut to the current time in the book- she’s the head Priestess of the temple. People come to services to listen to what she has to say. The people she works with admire her. The beginners at the temple look up to her, and trust her to take care of them. Everyone loves her, and yet she is incredibly humble. Her wardrobe is small, her wants for expensive or shiny things is non-existent. She puts the money that they make back into the church, even though her room could have used the renovation many years ago. Accepting Silas as her mate opened up another world. An even better one, where her wants and needs are prioritized. Where she can be true friends with Margot. Enjoy her life without being consumed by the possibilities of what is wrong, or what could go wrong. She is powerful, she is adored, she is by no means perfect, and she was refreshing to read about.
In comes Silas (who is also known as Shade, the crème de la crème of the underworld of crime). Confident in his abilities to ward anything, he is a demon in high demand. When you want something done right- you go to him. Well..if you have enough to pay him. He’s a high end, expensive investment with his talents. Was he an edgy-neurodivergent demon? Yes. Yes he was. Silas’ unofficial diagnosis is antisocial-personality-disorder. This showed up at a young age as he struggled with socializing with his cousins, and found it difficult to understand other people. His moral compass has always been skewed, but the loyalty to his clan is rock solid. It really does make sense why the Gods would have blessed him with the ability to talk to the dark. Everyone needs a friend. I wasn’t particularly filled with the warm and fuzzies at first. Granted, I never did warm to the way he would occasionally think about past women. It wasn’t constant, but I found it came up in the most random of times. I understood that it was never emotional for him, and that it was purely physical. I did not enjoy to know that he was more likely to know what their cunt tastes like than what their mouths do. It was such a brutal line that it took me out of the book for a second, my nose wrinkled and everything.
It was a line that forgotten soon, and I was back into the thick of their story. You know why? Even before Silas properly knew that Petra is his mate, he had dedicated himself to her. No other woman caught his eye, and when Petra wore glamours he ached to see her true face. The change from the beginning of the book to the end was drastic. I found that it was heavily based around Silas trusting himself with Petra’s care. His clan fiercely loves him, and they make sure to include him in all of the regular clan duties when he comes home. One thing he heard a lot though, was the disbelief that someone would ever be his mate. Almost as if they pitied the being who “got stuck with him”. He would have heard that for a century. Is he blunt? Incredibly so. Is he emotionally oblivious? With almost all of the emotions-yes. Yet he became disgruntled when Petra would cry. He didn’t know how to get her to stop (‘cause commanding her to stop wasn’t working, who would have thought?). He still wanted to get her to stop crying though. When he knew her triggers, he did anything to help her rest easier. When she was recovering he took her care instructions seriously, and was thorough and careful when nursing her back to health. He was the no-nonsense one that was responsible even with his rut breathing down his neck. He was constantly aroused around her, and yet he ignored it. Even when Petra tried instigating something physical with him, he was the one who told her no. **He is a good mate.** Silas is the protector that Petra has needed her entire life, and at the end of their book I was left with the peace that she will know happiness for the rest of her time. Silas is her brick wall of protection, he is the one who will put her first, to make sure her well-being is perfect. Yet behind that wall he puts up for everyone else- she nurtures his mate instincts and self-trust. It’s not like they didn’t butt heads, they both have incredibly strong personalities. They fit together in other ways- her submissiveness to his dominance, and/or her empathy to his apathy.
Also, he wasn’t “cured” by the end of the book. His apathy was alive and thriving when it comes to other people. Yet Petra opened up a part of him that was only meant for her. Combining Silas’ sarcasm and his apathy was a hilarious perspective to have. As Petra pointed out at one point in the book, he basically lives for confrontation. This power couple are complex characters.
Lastly- if you were to put a hand to my heart, you would know I tell you the absolute truth that I love this book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 18, 2024
It took me so long to finish this because I didn’t want it to end, which is a STARK contrast to the book I finished yesterday.
Silas and Petra are another round of amazing characters with deep stories and personalities that I fell in love with. The tension and stakes were much higher in this book and I was so wrapped up in the overall story.
The amount of thought that Abigail puts into this universe is insane and I don’t know how she tracks it all because I binge read the books in like 3 seconds and can’t always remember who was where and what lol.
Thanks for making me grow as a reader and enjoy 3rd person so much I can barely stand to read first person anymore hahah
Silas and Petra are another round of amazing characters with deep stories and personalities that I fell in love with. The tension and stakes were much higher in this book and I was so wrapped up in the overall story.
The amount of thought that Abigail puts into this universe is insane and I don’t know how she tracks it all because I binge read the books in like 3 seconds and can’t always remember who was where and what lol.
Thanks for making me grow as a reader and enjoy 3rd person so much I can barely stand to read first person anymore hahah
December 2, 2024
Wow. The twists and turns in the last 30% of this book had me sounding like a detective trying to solve a cold case murder. Also, if this book had a theme song it would be Like a Prayer by Madonna 😉. Silas is a perfect murdery cinnamon roll in denial that he does, in fact, have feelings. This book is hefty, clocking in at almost 600 pages, but there's excitement and spice throughout. I can't believe that ending and I need the next book now!
December 3, 2025
3.5 stars
I really liked these characters and the mystery in this book, my only complaint is it was a little more sexy than what I felt like it needed. The story stands on its own, so the spice kinda took me out.
Also I did basically live tweet my reading experience because I was actually lol’ing - I love smart funny.
I really liked these characters and the mystery in this book, my only complaint is it was a little more sexy than what I felt like it needed. The story stands on its own, so the spice kinda took me out.
Also I did basically live tweet my reading experience because I was actually lol’ing - I love smart funny.
December 19, 2024
Morally gray the Abigail way! If you thought High Priestess Petra was a known entity going into this book, I fear you may be mistaken. She is a woman of so many, many layers and we're about to peel that onion.
I loved getting to watch Silas stumble his way through all these big, new-to-him emotions. I just kept imagining him like the Grinch in the classic cartoon version, watching his heart grow a little bit each time. And his disgust over each time it happened was just a riot to me.
Petra and Silas really are perfectly paired for each other, and in classic Abigail style, the peril is perilous. And while their peril is resolved just in the nick of time, the UTA peril is at an all time high! She's such a lil' scamp!
As always I'm waiting with baited breath for the next anything!!
I loved getting to watch Silas stumble his way through all these big, new-to-him emotions. I just kept imagining him like the Grinch in the classic cartoon version, watching his heart grow a little bit each time. And his disgust over each time it happened was just a riot to me.
Petra and Silas really are perfectly paired for each other, and in classic Abigail style, the peril is perilous. And while their peril is resolved just in the nick of time, the UTA peril is at an all time high! She's such a lil' scamp!
As always I'm waiting with baited breath for the next anything!!
December 24, 2025
My favorite book in the saga—5 stars!
The characters, their chemistry, the plot… everything was amazing. I genuinely couldn’t put this book down.
The story follows Petra, a witch, who enters into a deal with a demon named Silas. She agrees to mate with him—giving him power—in exchange for information about someone who committed a murder.
It’s been a long time since a character truly puzzled me, and let me tell you… I was just as clueless about Petra as Silas was, and that made the story even more intriguing. Unraveling her was such a compelling part of the book.
I have the weakest spot for demons, so I already knew this book would be right up my alley—but I did not expect it to become such an obsession. Silas was intensely possessive and became so obsessed with our fierce FMC. He was also incredibly protective, which just made it better.
I loved their dynamic: two characters slowly learning how to trust and how to love. The whole book gave off strong “I hate everyone but you” vibes, and I absolutely adored that.
It’s a slow burn, and the chemistry between them is completely off the charts.
One thing I will say, though, is that the book felt like it could have ended around the 80% mark. I didn’t care as much about the final conflict compared to everything else that came before it.
What to expect
No OW/OM drama (neither are virgins). The MMC mentions having been with others—specifically hiring partners during his rut—but he never cared for them, didn’t learn their names, never repeated anyone, and never brought anyone home or slept beside them. The FMC has also been with others, though it’s never specified how many or who.
Possessive and protective demon MMC
Witch of light FMC
Slow burn
Really good spicy scenes! 2/5 spice level
“I hate everyone but you” MMC
Learning how to love together
HEA
The characters, their chemistry, the plot… everything was amazing. I genuinely couldn’t put this book down.
The story follows Petra, a witch, who enters into a deal with a demon named Silas. She agrees to mate with him—giving him power—in exchange for information about someone who committed a murder.
It’s been a long time since a character truly puzzled me, and let me tell you… I was just as clueless about Petra as Silas was, and that made the story even more intriguing. Unraveling her was such a compelling part of the book.
I have the weakest spot for demons, so I already knew this book would be right up my alley—but I did not expect it to become such an obsession. Silas was intensely possessive and became so obsessed with our fierce FMC. He was also incredibly protective, which just made it better.
I loved their dynamic: two characters slowly learning how to trust and how to love. The whole book gave off strong “I hate everyone but you” vibes, and I absolutely adored that.
It’s a slow burn, and the chemistry between them is completely off the charts.
One thing I will say, though, is that the book felt like it could have ended around the 80% mark. I didn’t care as much about the final conflict compared to everything else that came before it.
What to expect
No OW/OM drama (neither are virgins). The MMC mentions having been with others—specifically hiring partners during his rut—but he never cared for them, didn’t learn their names, never repeated anyone, and never brought anyone home or slept beside them. The FMC has also been with others, though it’s never specified how many or who.
Possessive and protective demon MMC
Witch of light FMC
Slow burn
Really good spicy scenes! 2/5 spice level
“I hate everyone but you” MMC
Learning how to love together
HEA
December 5, 2024
Excellent paranormal romantic adventure
There is definitely graphic violence, as well as graphic sex. The worldbuilding in this series is amazing, and the characters are fascinating and believable. Silas isn't a good being; he is definitely a true monster and is damaged by knowing his problems. And I love this monster more than I thought I would. Petra has so many secrets and an equal number of issues, but she is likeable and far from fragile. The surprise in supporting characters is Robert, who gained a permanent place in my heart and made me happy. Bad things happen, but evil doesn't totally prevail. This series has been consistently phenomenal with a unique, albeit sometimes grim, look at paranormal beings. I look forward to book 5.
There is definitely graphic violence, as well as graphic sex. The worldbuilding in this series is amazing, and the characters are fascinating and believable. Silas isn't a good being; he is definitely a true monster and is damaged by knowing his problems. And I love this monster more than I thought I would. Petra has so many secrets and an equal number of issues, but she is likeable and far from fragile. The surprise in supporting characters is Robert, who gained a permanent place in my heart and made me happy. Bad things happen, but evil doesn't totally prevail. This series has been consistently phenomenal with a unique, albeit sometimes grim, look at paranormal beings. I look forward to book 5.
December 16, 2024
4 stars⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
this is a really hard one for me to rate bc the writing was fantastic & i LOVE the characters (silas especially is my latest book boyfriend / fictional crush) & the romance was truly perfect (tension + banter galore), but it felt like it should’ve ended / was a complete book at like the 50% mark? like it hit the peak of its tension / climax around there & then just completely dragged after that. everything after that pivotal scene just felt like an extended epilogue imo
ultimately only docked 1 star tho bc great writing + great characters + great romance makes up for the slight pacing issue for me atm. I will be checking out more books in this amazing universe that abigail kelly has created!!
this is a really hard one for me to rate bc the writing was fantastic & i LOVE the characters (silas especially is my latest book boyfriend / fictional crush) & the romance was truly perfect (tension + banter galore), but it felt like it should’ve ended / was a complete book at like the 50% mark? like it hit the peak of its tension / climax around there & then just completely dragged after that. everything after that pivotal scene just felt like an extended epilogue imo
ultimately only docked 1 star tho bc great writing + great characters + great romance makes up for the slight pacing issue for me atm. I will be checking out more books in this amazing universe that abigail kelly has created!!
December 17, 2025
Really enjoyed this one! Unhinged MMCs are a blast. Everything came together really well for me, including the couple dynamic, which threw me off in book 3. I still think these are too long but I’m okay with it. Interesting to continue to see how the stories overlap with the overarching plot points.
August 29, 2025
3.25
This started off pretty solid, intriguing, loved the imagery and descriptions. Silas came off as quite mysterious and dangerous, but the way the plot paced I kinda grew bored and wished there was a more solid layout of conflict. Once the initial conflict was resolved, it kinda dragged and although Silas and Petra are sweet, I prefer more chaos and conflict between my couples. It was almost too sweet for me.
Petra was intriguing at the start, she seemed courageous, but she grew a little boring mid way.
I was also not expecting Silas to be this type of character, but I did enjoy my time reading this, I just didn’t finish the last 15% as I felt like it was all telling for plot points I did not care about.
This started off pretty solid, intriguing, loved the imagery and descriptions. Silas came off as quite mysterious and dangerous, but the way the plot paced I kinda grew bored and wished there was a more solid layout of conflict. Once the initial conflict was resolved, it kinda dragged and although Silas and Petra are sweet, I prefer more chaos and conflict between my couples. It was almost too sweet for me.
Petra was intriguing at the start, she seemed courageous, but she grew a little boring mid way.
I was also not expecting Silas to be this type of character, but I did enjoy my time reading this, I just didn’t finish the last 15% as I felt like it was all telling for plot points I did not care about.
July 16, 2025
Reread Julio 2025: Aún 4 estrellas!! Releyendo porque últimamente ningún libro capta mi interés ☹ Me gusta mucho, la personalidad de Silas en cierta manera me recuerda un poco a Rhun de “to seduce a witch’s heart” así que puede que haya encontrado a mi tipo de hombre, jajajaja.
Dic 2024:
Ah, como me gusta encontrar libros que me dan justo lo que necesito en el momento adecuado. Este libro fue largo, muy largo, pero me entretuvo mucho, me encariñé con los personajes (Silas era divertidísimo, estaba enamoradisimo también, Petra tenía propósito, era fuerte pero muy linda), hubo momentos domésticos que me sorprendieron y gustaron, obvio.
En realidad me recordó al principio a From blood and ash, tal vez el aspecto de una protagonista perteneciente a algo “sagrado” y así, pero de la mejor manera, lo prometo.
Dic 2024:
Ah, como me gusta encontrar libros que me dan justo lo que necesito en el momento adecuado. Este libro fue largo, muy largo, pero me entretuvo mucho, me encariñé con los personajes (Silas era divertidísimo, estaba enamoradisimo también, Petra tenía propósito, era fuerte pero muy linda), hubo momentos domésticos que me sorprendieron y gustaron, obvio.
En realidad me recordó al principio a From blood and ash, tal vez el aspecto de una protagonista perteneciente a algo “sagrado” y así, pero de la mejor manera, lo prometo.
November 14, 2024
ANS DNDNDNSNDNFBSJSBBSJSNANSBDBFHSNSNDDJSJ
This was my brain while reading this book. I love everything else this author has written in the series and I went into this book expecting more of the same. Truthfully, I was probably a little less excited for this book because we hadn't gotten many teasers about these characters in recent books so I was expecting to love the writing but I wasn't super invested in the characters yet, yknow? I could NOT have been more wrong. First of all, this book ups the stakes in every possible way. Every book in this serious is so well fleshed out and the world building is always amazing but WOW there was so much going on in the best way. I normally don't go for the morally gray, possibly a sociopath, MCs because they usually seem like they were written by a high schooler who thinks being snarky is badass but Silas was perfect without being cringy. Don't even get me started on the sex scenes, this is probably my favorite written by Kelly so far and that's saying A LOT. And finally, even once the romantic aspect of the book was wrapped up I was still riveted because like I said, SO MUCH happens in this book!! I always finish these books desperate to hear the story of some tertiary character that we've gotten details about but now I'm also anxious to find out what happens next!!! This book blew my mind and I'm mildly depressed that I don't know when the next book will come out now but that's ok because I'm gonna go reread the other books in the series.
Also, this books is technically standalone and the author does a good job giving you relevant details since a lot happens plot wise BUT I definitely think you should do yourself a favor and read all the books/novellas in the series beforehand so it all makes more sense.
I got a free ARC in exchange for my honest review of this book.
This was my brain while reading this book. I love everything else this author has written in the series and I went into this book expecting more of the same. Truthfully, I was probably a little less excited for this book because we hadn't gotten many teasers about these characters in recent books so I was expecting to love the writing but I wasn't super invested in the characters yet, yknow? I could NOT have been more wrong. First of all, this book ups the stakes in every possible way. Every book in this serious is so well fleshed out and the world building is always amazing but WOW there was so much going on in the best way. I normally don't go for the morally gray, possibly a sociopath, MCs because they usually seem like they were written by a high schooler who thinks being snarky is badass but Silas was perfect without being cringy. Don't even get me started on the sex scenes, this is probably my favorite written by Kelly so far and that's saying A LOT. And finally, even once the romantic aspect of the book was wrapped up I was still riveted because like I said, SO MUCH happens in this book!! I always finish these books desperate to hear the story of some tertiary character that we've gotten details about but now I'm also anxious to find out what happens next!!! This book blew my mind and I'm mildly depressed that I don't know when the next book will come out now but that's ok because I'm gonna go reread the other books in the series.
Also, this books is technically standalone and the author does a good job giving you relevant details since a lot happens plot wise BUT I definitely think you should do yourself a favor and read all the books/novellas in the series beforehand so it all makes more sense.
I got a free ARC in exchange for my honest review of this book.
December 17, 2024
Complicated protagonists who are either damaged, unlikeable or both is a common formula, and as with all of her New Protectorate novels, Abigail Kelly puts her own skilled, intriguing spin on it.
Lots of romances feature scary, borderline sociopathic dudes who we are supposed to believe love transforms into decent partners. It’s a problematic trope but there are a lot of reasons it has staying power. Kelly leans into the stereotype with Silas, but gives his disturbing behavior interesting and nuanced context.
Petra was an early side character in the series who has a surprisingly layered backstory. Her motivation and strategies emerge gradually and it took me a second read to really appreciate how complicated a character she is.
The sexual chemistry of this pair is not my favorite among Kelly’s books, but one of her talents as an author is making the sex between the characters unique and also consistent with the atmosphere and dynamics of the story. Some authors, even good authors, pretty much write the same steamy scenes in every book. Silas and Petra are prickly weirdos and their sexual relationship reflects that.
The New Protectorate books all have different literary structures: there’s political soap opera, road trip/high stakes caper, and light holiday meet cute. This is more like a political thriller. There is a broad storyline across multiple books involving multiple layers of world building and plot. Devotion’s Covenant raises the global tension significantly in several areas, but you can enjoy this story without having read all of the prior novels.
There’s also funny moments, Easter eggs for committed fans, and interesting side characters. I look forward to reading the next book.
Lots of romances feature scary, borderline sociopathic dudes who we are supposed to believe love transforms into decent partners. It’s a problematic trope but there are a lot of reasons it has staying power. Kelly leans into the stereotype with Silas, but gives his disturbing behavior interesting and nuanced context.
Petra was an early side character in the series who has a surprisingly layered backstory. Her motivation and strategies emerge gradually and it took me a second read to really appreciate how complicated a character she is.
The sexual chemistry of this pair is not my favorite among Kelly’s books, but one of her talents as an author is making the sex between the characters unique and also consistent with the atmosphere and dynamics of the story. Some authors, even good authors, pretty much write the same steamy scenes in every book. Silas and Petra are prickly weirdos and their sexual relationship reflects that.
The New Protectorate books all have different literary structures: there’s political soap opera, road trip/high stakes caper, and light holiday meet cute. This is more like a political thriller. There is a broad storyline across multiple books involving multiple layers of world building and plot. Devotion’s Covenant raises the global tension significantly in several areas, but you can enjoy this story without having read all of the prior novels.
There’s also funny moments, Easter eggs for committed fans, and interesting side characters. I look forward to reading the next book.
November 21, 2024
Do I love the New Protectorate universe? Yes.
Do I love Abigail Kelly’s writing? Also, yes.
I’m not sure that I have the words to describe how much I loved this book.
Abigail Kelly’s writing is poetic and masterful. She is also an artist and it comes out in her descriptive text, particularly her use of colour.
This is the story of Petra, witch and High Priestess of San Francisco, and Silas, master hacker and sigil worker, demon for hire and dirty talker.
They are both powerful in their own right and they are so good together. I love the power play between them. The banter is top notch and the steam is hot, sweet and just everything. Silas is so smitten and sweet and clingy - and who wouldn’t want a clingy demon!
They are both a little broken in their own ways but together they lift each other up and care for each other.
This book is for you. But if you love action and adventure, clingy, dirty talking demons, powerful witches and political intrigue it is even more for you.
Thank you Abigail Kelly for sending this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
Do I love Abigail Kelly’s writing? Also, yes.
I’m not sure that I have the words to describe how much I loved this book.
Abigail Kelly’s writing is poetic and masterful. She is also an artist and it comes out in her descriptive text, particularly her use of colour.
This is the story of Petra, witch and High Priestess of San Francisco, and Silas, master hacker and sigil worker, demon for hire and dirty talker.
They are both powerful in their own right and they are so good together. I love the power play between them. The banter is top notch and the steam is hot, sweet and just everything. Silas is so smitten and sweet and clingy - and who wouldn’t want a clingy demon!
They are both a little broken in their own ways but together they lift each other up and care for each other.
This book is for you. But if you love action and adventure, clingy, dirty talking demons, powerful witches and political intrigue it is even more for you.
Thank you Abigail Kelly for sending this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
December 4, 2024
You ever start a series and just wait with bated breath for the reveals that you can totally see are coming but have no way of knowing what they are?
That's the experience of reading Devotion's Covenant by Abigail Kelly. The tenth book in the New Protectorate Universe, which is out next week!
SO MANY THINGS GO ON. And it just never stops. Even in the epilogue. THE TWO EPILOGUES.
This was one of my favorites of the world so far and Silas is one of my fave book husbands of all times. A criminal a scamp and totally head over heels for Petra, though he has no idea what to do with a mate.
I could quote the entire book but this line early on just floored me because Silas was having feelings! Oh no! And then ALL THE FEELINGS.
"Suddenly, he was the panicked one. The animal part of him balked at the sight of her unshed tears and the way she frantically gathered her things, as if she feared he’d snatch them from her at any moment. It disturbed the logical part of him, too, because something about seeing the perfect, regal witch unravel over a packet of candy was… wrong"
An absolute must read!
Petra is just as feral but slightly more put together about it all (and his morality anchor, well to the extent that she has to be) and we all know I love a feral x feral couple. There's not nearly enough of it in PNR.
New characters, new reveals, new locations, it's a great time. And there's explosions! What's not to love.
That's the experience of reading Devotion's Covenant by Abigail Kelly. The tenth book in the New Protectorate Universe, which is out next week!
SO MANY THINGS GO ON. And it just never stops. Even in the epilogue. THE TWO EPILOGUES.
This was one of my favorites of the world so far and Silas is one of my fave book husbands of all times. A criminal a scamp and totally head over heels for Petra, though he has no idea what to do with a mate.
I could quote the entire book but this line early on just floored me because Silas was having feelings! Oh no! And then ALL THE FEELINGS.
"Suddenly, he was the panicked one. The animal part of him balked at the sight of her unshed tears and the way she frantically gathered her things, as if she feared he’d snatch them from her at any moment. It disturbed the logical part of him, too, because something about seeing the perfect, regal witch unravel over a packet of candy was… wrong"
An absolute must read!
Petra is just as feral but slightly more put together about it all (and his morality anchor, well to the extent that she has to be) and we all know I love a feral x feral couple. There's not nearly enough of it in PNR.
New characters, new reveals, new locations, it's a great time. And there's explosions! What's not to love.
December 10, 2024
Devotion’s Covenant by Abigail Kelly is a futuristic urban fantasy romance that is number four in her New Protectorate series. Kelly brings us back to the alternate US called the United Territories and Allies (UTA) in the near future where humans coexist with fey, demons, elves, witches, and more.
Petra Zaskodna is a witch and the High Priestess of Glory in San Francisco and needs information. There’s only one person who can get it for her and he is only known to her as Shade. Silas Cuttcombe, more commonly known as Shade, is a half-demon half witch and he has been fascinated by Petra since he first saw her. When he finds out she’s looking for him, Silas becomes even more intrigued. What does a High Priestess need with a person like him? He decides to make a deal and ask for her witch bond. Petra doesn’t think she’ll survive the next few days so she agrees easily. They never anticipated how much bigger and serious things would get. There are some dark themes to this book, so make sure to read the content warnings.
This was such a fun read! It was nice to revisit Petra’s character, especially after reading about her in the first book of the series, Consort’s Glory. It was surprising to see Petra paired with a character like Silas, but Abigail Kelly did an amazing job showing how well they fit together. Silas is such a dark character, which is very different from her other heroes, but still fun to read. I loved seeing how both Petra and Silas had to change to be together because they were used to being on their own. I also really enjoyed the plot that Petra and Silas were trying to solve. I also loved Tal’s character and hope to see him in future books!
If you love paranormal or fantasy romances, opposites attract, obsessive heroes, and powerful heroines, then this book is for you!
Huge thanks to Abigail Kelly for sending me an ARC to review!
Petra Zaskodna is a witch and the High Priestess of Glory in San Francisco and needs information. There’s only one person who can get it for her and he is only known to her as Shade. Silas Cuttcombe, more commonly known as Shade, is a half-demon half witch and he has been fascinated by Petra since he first saw her. When he finds out she’s looking for him, Silas becomes even more intrigued. What does a High Priestess need with a person like him? He decides to make a deal and ask for her witch bond. Petra doesn’t think she’ll survive the next few days so she agrees easily. They never anticipated how much bigger and serious things would get. There are some dark themes to this book, so make sure to read the content warnings.
This was such a fun read! It was nice to revisit Petra’s character, especially after reading about her in the first book of the series, Consort’s Glory. It was surprising to see Petra paired with a character like Silas, but Abigail Kelly did an amazing job showing how well they fit together. Silas is such a dark character, which is very different from her other heroes, but still fun to read. I loved seeing how both Petra and Silas had to change to be together because they were used to being on their own. I also really enjoyed the plot that Petra and Silas were trying to solve. I also loved Tal’s character and hope to see him in future books!
If you love paranormal or fantasy romances, opposites attract, obsessive heroes, and powerful heroines, then this book is for you!
Huge thanks to Abigail Kelly for sending me an ARC to review!
November 30, 2024
I've gushed about the New Protectorate Universe series and this book is another *great* addition.
Silas is the demon all the bad guys (and sometimes good guys) go to when they need to get something done. An undiagnosed sociopath (the author has stated) he absolutely cannot handle or understand emotions but when he finds someone he cares about he's all in.
Petra is a high priestess of Glory, the most popular god in the NPU pantheon and has very powerful light magic. She's trying to solve the death of someone important to her and has asked Silas to hack into the files of the leadership of the Gloriae and discovers it's a more dangerous job than she was expecting even though she was prepared to be killed as a result of her investigation. And because it's the NPU there's plenty of peril and right toward the end a bigger piece of the puzzle gets added that makes you want to continue the series.
These two are an absolute mess together but it works. He's an amoral monster who does whatever he wants and just barely stays out of the law, she's a broken woman with a tragic backstory who's found joy and comfort in faith and service. He's obsessed with her strength and she's able to lean on him for support as she seeks justice. We get to watch them accept each other and understand that together they are able to better each other.
mild to Medium 🌶️
Silas is the demon all the bad guys (and sometimes good guys) go to when they need to get something done. An undiagnosed sociopath (the author has stated) he absolutely cannot handle or understand emotions but when he finds someone he cares about he's all in.
Petra is a high priestess of Glory, the most popular god in the NPU pantheon and has very powerful light magic. She's trying to solve the death of someone important to her and has asked Silas to hack into the files of the leadership of the Gloriae and discovers it's a more dangerous job than she was expecting even though she was prepared to be killed as a result of her investigation. And because it's the NPU there's plenty of peril and right toward the end a bigger piece of the puzzle gets added that makes you want to continue the series.
These two are an absolute mess together but it works. He's an amoral monster who does whatever he wants and just barely stays out of the law, she's a broken woman with a tragic backstory who's found joy and comfort in faith and service. He's obsessed with her strength and she's able to lean on him for support as she seeks justice. We get to watch them accept each other and understand that together they are able to better each other.
mild to Medium 🌶️
December 10, 2024
Petra, High Priestess of Glory’s local temple, finds herself thrown into the middle of a murder mystery. Who does she turn to help unravel the dark details? Someone who is all too familiar with the darkness - genius, sociopath demon Silas.
I went into this book with having only read a few of Abigail’s novellas and WOW! Silas was such a fun character - Southern, charming, unhinged, true to himself, intelligent. He was so over the top, but still so believable. The star of the book for me, for sure. Though Petra did not shine in quite the same way for me (a little ironic given her magical abilities), I cared about her and Silas both from start to finish. For all their talk of being liars and criminals, the pair were surprisingly pure and altruistic in their own ways.
Our heroes had to wade through political intrigue, murder plots, mate expectations, social and religious reputations, personal baggage, a cast of characters with questionable pasts - all of this made this story super compelling and kept me engaged throughout the book. Did it feel a little long a some points? Yeah, but then Silas would throw out a sassy one-liner and I was back in it.
I really, really liked this. Abigail gave us an excellent, well-rounded, fantasy romance that makes me what to dive into her other books!
I went into this book with having only read a few of Abigail’s novellas and WOW! Silas was such a fun character - Southern, charming, unhinged, true to himself, intelligent. He was so over the top, but still so believable. The star of the book for me, for sure. Though Petra did not shine in quite the same way for me (a little ironic given her magical abilities), I cared about her and Silas both from start to finish. For all their talk of being liars and criminals, the pair were surprisingly pure and altruistic in their own ways.
Our heroes had to wade through political intrigue, murder plots, mate expectations, social and religious reputations, personal baggage, a cast of characters with questionable pasts - all of this made this story super compelling and kept me engaged throughout the book. Did it feel a little long a some points? Yeah, but then Silas would throw out a sassy one-liner and I was back in it.
I really, really liked this. Abigail gave us an excellent, well-rounded, fantasy romance that makes me what to dive into her other books!
November 15, 2024
Like all of Abigail Kelly’s books, it’s so hard for me to try to express how much I love this series and this world, but I’m going to try my best because I LOVED THIS BOOK SO MUCH!!
Petra and Silas’s book holds such a different tone compared to the rest of the series but it suits them so well. This book is anxiety inducing, vicious, vulnerable and so incredibly sweet. These two balance each other so well while challenging the other the perfect amount. I love Petra so much but Silas 🫦🫦 This demon with an accent and curly hair who is a CONSENT KING and finally understands feelings after meeting his little goddess? Yup man is a WHOLE HUSBAND TO ME
This book is truly different compared to the others. I do wish we had more character crossovers just because I love my babies and the crossovers we had so much but the plot crossovers from the other books and the novellas WERE CRAZY!! The entire book had me on edge and gasping but the last 30% definitely had me sitting up on my bed speed reading to get to the end.
I cannot wait to see what the author has planned for the next one and I will be foaming at the mouth waiting as patiently as I can. Thank you so much to the author for letting me have an early copy and here I go rereading this immediately
Petra and Silas’s book holds such a different tone compared to the rest of the series but it suits them so well. This book is anxiety inducing, vicious, vulnerable and so incredibly sweet. These two balance each other so well while challenging the other the perfect amount. I love Petra so much but Silas 🫦🫦 This demon with an accent and curly hair who is a CONSENT KING and finally understands feelings after meeting his little goddess? Yup man is a WHOLE HUSBAND TO ME
This book is truly different compared to the others. I do wish we had more character crossovers just because I love my babies and the crossovers we had so much but the plot crossovers from the other books and the novellas WERE CRAZY!! The entire book had me on edge and gasping but the last 30% definitely had me sitting up on my bed speed reading to get to the end.
I cannot wait to see what the author has planned for the next one and I will be foaming at the mouth waiting as patiently as I can. Thank you so much to the author for letting me have an early copy and here I go rereading this immediately
December 6, 2024
“You don’t get a hold of me and you don’t do the work. That’s my job. Don’t worry, little goddess, I’ll find you.”
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This book emotionally destroyed me.
(And some rambling)
If you’ve read Consort’s glory then you have met Petra. Our The High Priestess has an agenda and desire to solve the murder mystery and in order to get all the answers and find the justice she is ready to make a deal with the most dangerous and powerful demon. Silas is a unique character, he has some struggles with emotions and understanding why people and others feel the way they feel, but he is unhealthy obsessed or fixated on Petra. She is power, she is a liar, she is a curious anomaly in his world and he is oh so ready to solve her and drag all her hidden secrets to the surface.
And what a ride we’ve got in this story. Full of dangers, secrets, flirting and man who will destroy anyone bothering his girl. And Petra became his girl the moment he saw her, even if he needed some time to accept and voice it. Flirting between them?!? OMG. So hot and fun.
While reading i had this strange feeling that this book could have been easily split into two, but! The final plot twists tied both parts and made a unique mix. Cause first part was dedicated to solve the case Petra brought, and once it was done, i thought that second part will be focused on emotional side, path to find yourself and find a way to become best partner, but i was pleasantly surprised and couldn’t put book down. Because emotions, sparks and secrets were oh so captivating.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This book emotionally destroyed me.
(And some rambling)
If you’ve read Consort’s glory then you have met Petra. Our The High Priestess has an agenda and desire to solve the murder mystery and in order to get all the answers and find the justice she is ready to make a deal with the most dangerous and powerful demon. Silas is a unique character, he has some struggles with emotions and understanding why people and others feel the way they feel, but he is unhealthy obsessed or fixated on Petra. She is power, she is a liar, she is a curious anomaly in his world and he is oh so ready to solve her and drag all her hidden secrets to the surface.
And what a ride we’ve got in this story. Full of dangers, secrets, flirting and man who will destroy anyone bothering his girl. And Petra became his girl the moment he saw her, even if he needed some time to accept and voice it. Flirting between them?!? OMG. So hot and fun.
While reading i had this strange feeling that this book could have been easily split into two, but! The final plot twists tied both parts and made a unique mix. Cause first part was dedicated to solve the case Petra brought, and once it was done, i thought that second part will be focused on emotional side, path to find yourself and find a way to become best partner, but i was pleasantly surprised and couldn’t put book down. Because emotions, sparks and secrets were oh so captivating.
August 24, 2025
I really liked these two characters together. I just wish they didn't get together and solve all of their issues so soon, since the last bit of the book is just them uncovering the coup.
Plot:
- h is the high priestess of sf, which she got by marrying the mcs of the first book (aka the sovereign)
- she seeks out H to help her break into and steal info from a dangerous man
- H is drawn to her, and though he agrees to help, he does it his way. In exchange for his help, she will bond with him
- The dangerous man is the protector, and is also the leader of a secret army the temple has
- The two get closer and H learns that h's uncle was the previous priest, and she only wanted to get to this position to find out who did it
- H figures out that the Protector actually wants to bond with h and make an heir.
- When h is supposed to get dinner with the Protector during his visit, H tries to trap her, but she escapes. At the dinner, he reveals how he killed her uncle, and h realizes she can't go through this facade. H arrives to help her kill him
- h is severely injured, and H takes her back to his family home since his dad is a healer. Surprisingly, he comes from a very wholesome family
- they realize that the coup is still happening and they go back to save the sovereigns
Plot:
- h is the high priestess of sf, which she got by marrying the mcs of the first book (aka the sovereign)
- she seeks out H to help her break into and steal info from a dangerous man
- H is drawn to her, and though he agrees to help, he does it his way. In exchange for his help, she will bond with him
- The dangerous man is the protector, and is also the leader of a secret army the temple has
- The two get closer and H learns that h's uncle was the previous priest, and she only wanted to get to this position to find out who did it
- H figures out that the Protector actually wants to bond with h and make an heir.
- When h is supposed to get dinner with the Protector during his visit, H tries to trap her, but she escapes. At the dinner, he reveals how he killed her uncle, and h realizes she can't go through this facade. H arrives to help her kill him
- h is severely injured, and H takes her back to his family home since his dad is a healer. Surprisingly, he comes from a very wholesome family
- they realize that the coup is still happening and they go back to save the sovereigns
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 4, 2024
Ahhhh this was sooo good!!! The lore … THE LORE and world building in this book were incredible. The world Kelly has created is so rich and I am excited with each new release to see what she has added. The plot was incredible. I thought I was buckled in and ready for this rollercoaster but it was so much more. It had me giggling, gasping, swooning, and on the edge of my seat through out. Also holy hot pockets that ending!!! I am so pumped to see what is to come next.
If Abigail Kelly writes a character I will love them. Getting to know Petra and Silas was wonderful. They had been on the periphery in other books, so I was excited to get know them both more. Watching that precious murder bean unravel for his priestess and she for him was a fantastic time. They were two oddly shaped puzzle pieces that fit perfectly together. Also always love me the cameos of past characters. And Tal whata gem! I hope we will get to see more of him in the future!
As always with the New Protectorate series I loved this book and I look forward to what’s next!
If Abigail Kelly writes a character I will love them. Getting to know Petra and Silas was wonderful. They had been on the periphery in other books, so I was excited to get know them both more. Watching that precious murder bean unravel for his priestess and she for him was a fantastic time. They were two oddly shaped puzzle pieces that fit perfectly together. Also always love me the cameos of past characters. And Tal whata gem! I hope we will get to see more of him in the future!
As always with the New Protectorate series I loved this book and I look forward to what’s next!
December 2, 2024
I wish I could read and experience this story again for the first time. Abigail always writes such wonderful stories, but this one is probably my favourite from her series. I’m strictly a romance reader, so I love reading/witnessing how relationships progress, I’m ok if there is very little plot and a lot of spice 😏😏. However, Abigail is able to balance the plot/romance/spice so well in Petra and Silas’ story. The spicy scenes were placed well, I think it added to the story and their relationship without overdoing it, but they were also very well written (Silas is 🥵🥵). I adored watching the MC’s relationship blossom, and I equally loved going on an adventure with our MC’s and figuring out wtf is happening.
If you’re looking for a story that will keep you enthralled the entire time, that has plot/adventure, and a beautiful romance, I highly recommend this book.
Thank you Abigail for the advanced copy! All thoughts and opinions are my own! 💖🖤☀️
If you’re looking for a story that will keep you enthralled the entire time, that has plot/adventure, and a beautiful romance, I highly recommend this book.
Thank you Abigail for the advanced copy! All thoughts and opinions are my own! 💖🖤☀️
December 30, 2024
wonderful
This author does a fabulous job of writing complex characters who we learn more about over the course of the book so they don’t overwhelm with their complexities at the start.
Both Petra and Silas are wonderfully written but I loved Silas and his intense support and obsession with Petra. He’s the definition of morally grey or anti hero….but it works so well for him! Ms. Kelly truly is a master storyteller and character developer.
The book is long but worth it. Many long books fill the pages with overly descriptive passages or repeating sentiments from the main characters that are repetitive and boring….not this book. The author also does a wonderful job of weaving in elements of an overarching series storyline without it being all about that. In fact, that really only gets sprinkled in here or there and a bit more at the end. It would be great to have read previous books but completely unnecessary to understand this book.
This author does a fabulous job of writing complex characters who we learn more about over the course of the book so they don’t overwhelm with their complexities at the start.
Both Petra and Silas are wonderfully written but I loved Silas and his intense support and obsession with Petra. He’s the definition of morally grey or anti hero….but it works so well for him! Ms. Kelly truly is a master storyteller and character developer.
The book is long but worth it. Many long books fill the pages with overly descriptive passages or repeating sentiments from the main characters that are repetitive and boring….not this book. The author also does a wonderful job of weaving in elements of an overarching series storyline without it being all about that. In fact, that really only gets sprinkled in here or there and a bit more at the end. It would be great to have read previous books but completely unnecessary to understand this book.
December 3, 2024
Ok ok ok....this one might be my new favorite book in this series, which feels like a tall order after Burdens Bonds but Silas and Petra really pulled it off for me.
The world built in this series is so rich and each book just adds and expands to what is already a beautiful foundation. We follow the more religious side of this world in this book which has only been touched upon before and we really get to the dark seedy underbelly of what is truly happening between power struggles, internal politics and how everything will pan out. Also a fabulous romance between a priestess and a demon.
Honestly this series is just so good, there is so much to love here and I highly highly recommend reading it.
I received an advanced copy of this novel but all opinions are my own.
The world built in this series is so rich and each book just adds and expands to what is already a beautiful foundation. We follow the more religious side of this world in this book which has only been touched upon before and we really get to the dark seedy underbelly of what is truly happening between power struggles, internal politics and how everything will pan out. Also a fabulous romance between a priestess and a demon.
Honestly this series is just so good, there is so much to love here and I highly highly recommend reading it.
I received an advanced copy of this novel but all opinions are my own.
December 27, 2024
Devotion's Covenant by Abigail Kelly
⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
I absolutely love the New Protectorate series, and was so excited to read this book! It is an excellent addition to the world, and I loved the exploration of a relationship between someone super high up in a religious order with a person who is considered by many to be the perfect foil to a priestess: a demon with a psychopathic/sociopath personality disorder.
I thought the exploration of a romantic relationship with someone with a personality disorder to be the most interesting part of this novel. I liked how Silas was very aware of how he was different and how he was aware that he was very lucky to have a strong and supportive family unit that accepted him as different and included him as an important part of the family.
My biggest criticism of this book is the length. There were certain parts of the story that could have been cut or (in my opinion) super reduced in how much page time they received. There were a few moments that were just too long and took away from my enjoyment of the story. This ended being what knocked this book down to 4 stars for me.
I love this series, and I hope you are able to enjoy it someday soon! Please check your trigger warnings before starting this particular book.
December 3, 2024
Abigail Kelly is a marvellous writer. Devotion's Covenant is a stunning and heart-stopping addition to the New Protectorate Universe. If you love a possessive, over the top, redder than red flags demon romance, look no further. As amazing (terrifying) as Silas is, Petra, with her secrets and retribution and gloriana status, will literally burn you up throughout these pages ❤️🔥
There are so many pieces of the NPU storylines Abigail Kelly wove into DC that I screamed quite a lot in her DMs; I also begged a few times. No breakups, only peril!
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Full review to come but WOWWWWWWWWW. Abigail really said "morality chain" and Silas is just...WHEW. Morals? We don't know them.
There are so many pieces of the NPU storylines Abigail Kelly wove into DC that I screamed quite a lot in her DMs; I also begged a few times. No breakups, only peril!
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Full review to come but WOWWWWWWWWW. Abigail really said "morality chain" and Silas is just...WHEW. Morals? We don't know them.
December 4, 2024
Spicy, male female, paranormal (demons and witches!), contemporary romance. This is the fourth book in The New Protectorate series, but thankfully can be read as a standalone. I haven't read the others (yet) as this is my first read by this author. I'm so glad I had the opportunity to read this! A longer book but a perfect length read. A morally gray, dirty talking, surprisingly cute male main character and a fantastic, strong female main character with a tragic background. Engaging story with great banter and twists. I'm really looking forward to reading this series from the beginning and recommend this book!
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