What do you think?
Rate this book
Cerberus Cards #2
Demon Card Enforcer 2
One family down, four to go.
Ethan Wolfe, once the top enforcer for the Grimm Family Mob, has eliminated the Cobras, an infamous street gang, and taken the second card of the Gate to the Underworld set.
Unfortunately, Wolfe’s old boss, Big Man Grimm, was slain during the fighting. Damian Grimm is still around, though, and he’s got a bone to pick. He wants Wolfe’s cards, and he’ll do anything to get them.
So, Wolfe faked his own death and moved to the nearby town of Joliet, along with his girlfriend, Shel. He thought he could leave the Dark Noimoire underworld behind…
Now, nine months later, events threaten to pull Wolfe back into the fray and let Damian know he’s still alive. Wolfe is roped into a case of human trafficking when he saves twenty victims of the dark practice. But that puts him on multiple people’s radar, from Lieutenant Rhett Walker, a righteous police officer, to his old associates in the Noimoire underworld.
Now Wolfe is navigating a fine line between multiple factions, trying to stay out of jail and the morgue as he deals with newfound enemies.
At least they have some great cards.
With over half a million views on Royal Road, this definitive version is perfect for fans of Goblin Summoner, Card Mage, and All the Skills.
Ethan Wolfe, once the top enforcer for the Grimm Family Mob, has eliminated the Cobras, an infamous street gang, and taken the second card of the Gate to the Underworld set.
Unfortunately, Wolfe’s old boss, Big Man Grimm, was slain during the fighting. Damian Grimm is still around, though, and he’s got a bone to pick. He wants Wolfe’s cards, and he’ll do anything to get them.
So, Wolfe faked his own death and moved to the nearby town of Joliet, along with his girlfriend, Shel. He thought he could leave the Dark Noimoire underworld behind…
Now, nine months later, events threaten to pull Wolfe back into the fray and let Damian know he’s still alive. Wolfe is roped into a case of human trafficking when he saves twenty victims of the dark practice. But that puts him on multiple people’s radar, from Lieutenant Rhett Walker, a righteous police officer, to his old associates in the Noimoire underworld.
Now Wolfe is navigating a fine line between multiple factions, trying to stay out of jail and the morgue as he deals with newfound enemies.
At least they have some great cards.
With over half a million views on Royal Road, this definitive version is perfect for fans of Goblin Summoner, Card Mage, and All the Skills.
404 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 26, 2024
78 people are currently reading
23 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
December 14, 2024
Thrilling, Dark, and Unforgettable: A Masterpiece of Modern Fantasy
Demon Card Enforcer 2" by John Stovall is an exhilarating ride that captivates from the first page to the very last. The sequel surpasses all expectations, delivering a masterful blend of dark fantasy, intricate world-building, and compelling character development.
Stovall’s storytelling prowess shines through as he deftly navigates the complex layers of his plot, keeping readers on the edge of their seats. The protagonist, a skilled enforcer, battles not just demonic forces, but also the deeper, more personal demons that haunt him. This internal and external conflict adds a profound depth to the narrative, making it much more than a simple fantasy novel.
The author’s vivid descriptions paint a hauntingly beautiful picture of the world where every scene is immersive and rich with detail. The action sequences are breathtaking and expertly choreographed, providing an adrenaline rush that keeps the pages turning. Stovall’s ability to balance intense action with moments of introspection and emotional resonance sets this book apart from others in the genre.
Fans of dark fantasy will find "Demon Card Enforcer 2" an absolute must-read. It's a testament to Stovall’s talent that he can craft such an engaging and thought-provoking story that stays with readers long after they’ve finished the last chapter. I eagerly await the next installment in this phenomenal series.
Demon Card Enforcer 2" by John Stovall is an exhilarating ride that captivates from the first page to the very last. The sequel surpasses all expectations, delivering a masterful blend of dark fantasy, intricate world-building, and compelling character development.
Stovall’s storytelling prowess shines through as he deftly navigates the complex layers of his plot, keeping readers on the edge of their seats. The protagonist, a skilled enforcer, battles not just demonic forces, but also the deeper, more personal demons that haunt him. This internal and external conflict adds a profound depth to the narrative, making it much more than a simple fantasy novel.
The author’s vivid descriptions paint a hauntingly beautiful picture of the world where every scene is immersive and rich with detail. The action sequences are breathtaking and expertly choreographed, providing an adrenaline rush that keeps the pages turning. Stovall’s ability to balance intense action with moments of introspection and emotional resonance sets this book apart from others in the genre.
Fans of dark fantasy will find "Demon Card Enforcer 2" an absolute must-read. It's a testament to Stovall’s talent that he can craft such an engaging and thought-provoking story that stays with readers long after they’ve finished the last chapter. I eagerly await the next installment in this phenomenal series.
December 1, 2024
Ohhhh wow, that was absodamnlutely AwesomeSauce! I loved this edge-of-your-seat pedal-to-the-metal deck-building book soooooooo much! Wolfe has his work cut out for him if he's gonna walk on the straight side. As he's gotta get his P.I. credentials, starting with a new identity, William. But Shel has his back no matter what name he go's by, and between her angelic deck and his infernal deck of pups, little will get past 'em... and yeah they obviously still hafta level and get more cards. To get even stronger.
And Soundbooth Theater Productions with Justin Thomas James, Tiana Camacho and Jeff Hays voice performance adding that spark of life to all the characters! You just can't go wrong when you grab the audio version, then sit back and enjoy. 'Cause you're about to have your soxs blown away!!!
Here's a quote that I found amusing:
The two dogs were cavapoos—a mix between Cavalier King Charles Spaniels and poodles. They were hyper-friendly, hypoallergenic, and cuddlier than the teddy bear from the detergent commercials.
And Soundbooth Theater Productions with Justin Thomas James, Tiana Camacho and Jeff Hays voice performance adding that spark of life to all the characters! You just can't go wrong when you grab the audio version, then sit back and enjoy. 'Cause you're about to have your soxs blown away!!!
Here's a quote that I found amusing:
The two dogs were cavapoos—a mix between Cavalier King Charles Spaniels and poodles. They were hyper-friendly, hypoallergenic, and cuddlier than the teddy bear from the detergent commercials.
November 29, 2024
The second installment in this series was just as enjoyable as the first.
Seeing Wolfe making the change from Mob enforcer, to more of a vigilante/anti-hero persona was interesting and engaging. Additionally, seeing him open up to others and watching his world change and expand because of it was excellent.
The pacing was excellent, and I devoured this book in a single day.
I also thought the inclusion of Rhett, as a "good" version of wolfe, was well done. It highlighted the changes Wolfe has made, and made him seem more human.
We as readers were given a number of teasers of larger plots and things moving behind the scenes. I can't wait to see where this series goes, how Wolfe continues to develop both emotionally and with his deck, and what will happen if Wolfe or Shel complete their sets.
Seeing Wolfe making the change from Mob enforcer, to more of a vigilante/anti-hero persona was interesting and engaging. Additionally, seeing him open up to others and watching his world change and expand because of it was excellent.
The pacing was excellent, and I devoured this book in a single day.
I also thought the inclusion of Rhett, as a "good" version of wolfe, was well done. It highlighted the changes Wolfe has made, and made him seem more human.
We as readers were given a number of teasers of larger plots and things moving behind the scenes. I can't wait to see where this series goes, how Wolfe continues to develop both emotionally and with his deck, and what will happen if Wolfe or Shel complete their sets.
December 10, 2024
I would give this one a 4.5 but rounded up because I really like the premise. I really liked seeing more deck combat in this one and the hints at older and more varied decks makes me want to see more of the arena combat. Stoval has a knack for creating a unique system that makes me want to go play a card game myself. Not to be that guy but the gun stuff was starting to get to me a little bit in this book. Shell and Rhett seemingly flip flop randomly between a Glock 17 and a Glock 19 sometimes seemingly in the same scene and they continuously refer to them as clips instead of mags or magazines. It's super stupid and minor to even point this out but the card combat is so good this type of thing really irks me when it comes up because I feel like it pulls me out of the action a bit. It's also kinda bizarre how randomly effective guns are but thats besides the point.
November 28, 2024
Another Masterpiece!
Another great entry, in one of my favorite series, by one of my favorite authors. I was delighted to return to the dark and gritty underworld that Wolfe lives in. Deck Builders being a particular favorite in this genre for me, it was a great read. I can't wait to continue this epic tale. The increased variety of cards was exciting and I really like the direction the story is going. I look forward to seeing where the Orphan type cards end up in the future. Another well written story penned by a Master Craftsman. The card battles were marvelous. I really enjoyed the P.I. angle, it's one of my favorite tropes. If you like deck-builders I highly recommend you check this out.
Another great entry, in one of my favorite series, by one of my favorite authors. I was delighted to return to the dark and gritty underworld that Wolfe lives in. Deck Builders being a particular favorite in this genre for me, it was a great read. I can't wait to continue this epic tale. The increased variety of cards was exciting and I really like the direction the story is going. I look forward to seeing where the Orphan type cards end up in the future. Another well written story penned by a Master Craftsman. The card battles were marvelous. I really enjoyed the P.I. angle, it's one of my favorite tropes. If you like deck-builders I highly recommend you check this out.
December 7, 2024
Awesome addition
MC is as awesome as always, and I love how the dynamic between Rhett and the mcc. It added further meaning to the story, as well as the little things like the two kids he took care of and the cop barbecue the MC went to. The story was humorous and serious at the same time. I seriously hope we get some world development in the next book as the MC moves to the world stage, and we discover where the cards came from and what their purpose is. Thanks for the book, I loved it!
MC is as awesome as always, and I love how the dynamic between Rhett and the mcc. It added further meaning to the story, as well as the little things like the two kids he took care of and the cop barbecue the MC went to. The story was humorous and serious at the same time. I seriously hope we get some world development in the next book as the MC moves to the world stage, and we discover where the cards came from and what their purpose is. Thanks for the book, I loved it!
November 27, 2024
great second book
I was waiting for this book when it got postponed I almost cried. It lived up to my hope and was fun and entertaining. I have never read any deck building books before these 2 but I may try now because of this one. Both he and his wife are turning into some of my favorite authors. I even got some of my family members kindle unlimited for the month to read his and his wife’s books because I liked them so much.
I was waiting for this book when it got postponed I almost cried. It lived up to my hope and was fun and entertaining. I have never read any deck building books before these 2 but I may try now because of this one. Both he and his wife are turning into some of my favorite authors. I even got some of my family members kindle unlimited for the month to read his and his wife’s books because I liked them so much.
December 12, 2024
Book two is almost better than book one. While the conclusion of the first book makes it seem like it's going to go one way. The small time skip and new job really change up the story. Did Wolfe kill more Deck Bearers in this book? Not sure, it's about equal but we did get to see more deck variety. Does Wolfe still kick ass. Yes. Even with more morals and having to keep a certain profile he is still a strong, reliable, and smart character.
December 3, 2024
Fascinating world
I am loving this series so far. It’s so interesting to see how different Wolfe’s life has become, now that he’s no longer connected to the Grim family. And yet, he is only becoming more dangerous and deadly to his enemies.
What games are the Infernal and Divine playing at? And is Cerberus a part of them, or is he working against them to balance things out?
I am loving this series so far. It’s so interesting to see how different Wolfe’s life has become, now that he’s no longer connected to the Grim family. And yet, he is only becoming more dangerous and deadly to his enemies.
What games are the Infernal and Divine playing at? And is Cerberus a part of them, or is he working against them to balance things out?
January 3, 2025
This sin city/yugioh fever dream delievers in what you’d expect from a ya litrpg. I like watching wolf hunt the criminal underworld with a back of loyal hellhound dogos.
The story is fun and with clever moments sprinkled in that makes you feel like “yeah that’s not total plot armor!” The repetitive stat reading can be a little confusing and annoying but honestly that’s my only real gripe
The story is fun and with clever moments sprinkled in that makes you feel like “yeah that’s not total plot armor!” The repetitive stat reading can be a little confusing and annoying but honestly that’s my only real gripe
November 28, 2024
Been looking forward to this
I've been waiting for this and it was worth it. I'm not sure I'm understanding the card slots but the story still tracks well. Epilogue was pretty good as well though I'm unsure how long we plan to vacation
I've been waiting for this and it was worth it. I'm not sure I'm understanding the card slots but the story still tracks well. Epilogue was pretty good as well though I'm unsure how long we plan to vacation
November 29, 2024
Another good entry. The MC is really cool and I like the direction that things are going, especially with the way it ended. I have a hard time following the card mechanics especially when they are battling. The story was cool in this book though.
December 2, 2024
Loved it!
I never thought I would be into a deck building book but here I am and I've already finished the second and can't wait for more. I really love Shel and Ethan. They are perfect. I really enjoy seeing them grow stronger and the battles they fight. I can't wait for 3!
I never thought I would be into a deck building book but here I am and I've already finished the second and can't wait for more. I really love Shel and Ethan. They are perfect. I really enjoy seeing them grow stronger and the battles they fight. I can't wait for 3!
December 7, 2024
Book two
This is a pretty good card battle series.
Granted it can be over the top at times, I still think it is one of the best ones out there.
Give it a try. It is also being written on Royalroad.
9/10
This is a pretty good card battle series.
Granted it can be over the top at times, I still think it is one of the best ones out there.
Give it a try. It is also being written on Royalroad.
9/10
March 21, 2025
Lost 2 stars for NOT writing a Recap.
I think every reader needs to start doing this to force authors to write a quick Recap chapter, which readers can skip if they remember, and those who don't won't stop reading the series.
I think every reader needs to start doing this to force authors to write a quick Recap chapter, which readers can skip if they remember, and those who don't won't stop reading the series.
May 2, 2025
This was a good continuation of the series
I hope he got the Vitaliy Of The Wild card it'll be perfect for him since his mantle makes him register as canine/Beast, and it'd be a good way to heal himself during a fight
I hope he got the Vitaliy Of The Wild card it'll be perfect for him since his mantle makes him register as canine/Beast, and it'd be a good way to heal himself during a fight
December 3, 2024
Such a great read, hope more and more keep on coming!
December 6, 2024
This is a solid continuation of the series, giving us some closure with the events of the first book and setting a path for the next. I'm looking forward to it.
December 9, 2024
John Stovall is really hitting his stride with Wolfe and Shel, and I'm looking forward to seeing what comes next.
February 28, 2025
True 4.5 stars
June 21, 2025
fantastic
A very good second book can’t wait to read the next installment. Highly recommend to read this need more words for a review.
A very good second book can’t wait to read the next installment. Highly recommend to read this need more words for a review.
December 31, 2024
I’m sad it’s over and now I have to wait. This storyline is so good and I wanna see both Wolfe and Shel level up hardcore, maybe explore more. I like that even though they try to move past the mafia stuff it always comes back to haunt them. And now they have backup in the most odd people.
I hope to have something soon (even though this just came out End Nov). Audiobook narrator nailed it as per usual!! (Book 3 is Feb!!)
I hope to have something soon (even though this just came out End Nov). Audiobook narrator nailed it as per usual!! (Book 3 is Feb!!)
August 24, 2025
I read books 1-3 in six-hour binge session, so I decided to review them all at one time. I can only hope that John will find it in his heart to forgive me
Jeremiah may have been a bullfrog and a good friend of yours, but Ethan Wolfe is neither of those things. "Who is Ethan Wolfe?", you might ask, to which I might reply, "I always understood every word he said, and he never had any wine, mighty fine or otherwise, around for me to drink."
The only important thing you need to know about these books is that he kissed a girl and he liked it and not because of some dumb cherry chapstick. Seriously, why would that have any bearing on why someone would, or would not, like kissing a girl? It's almost like it's an irrelevant detail thrown in because the chorus needed some extra words to have a flow that was pleasing to the ear.
But I digress, now where was I? A well cooked frogs leg is quite delicious...oh right the books. Fine, I'll try to stay on topic and not mention that there are currently three goons standing around me threatening to crush my Pearson's Nut Roll if I don't write something relevant about this book. It's a real-life "Not the gumdrop buttons" moment. 😞
Boring Relevant Details:
Fast paced storiy, but not so fast paced that it feels rushed.
All the bad guys really have it coming!
Logical well-thought out structure for the card game. (I may be a big enough nerd that I started taking notes and maybe I threw together a quick database and a front end interface to track things during combat sequences. I also might not be that big of a nerd.*)
Great character depth and growth
Note: this same review will appear on all three books, because I read them all in one sitting.
*I am that big of a nerd.
Jeremiah may have been a bullfrog and a good friend of yours, but Ethan Wolfe is neither of those things. "Who is Ethan Wolfe?", you might ask, to which I might reply, "I always understood every word he said, and he never had any wine, mighty fine or otherwise, around for me to drink."
The only important thing you need to know about these books is that he kissed a girl and he liked it and not because of some dumb cherry chapstick. Seriously, why would that have any bearing on why someone would, or would not, like kissing a girl? It's almost like it's an irrelevant detail thrown in because the chorus needed some extra words to have a flow that was pleasing to the ear.
But I digress, now where was I? A well cooked frogs leg is quite delicious...oh right the books. Fine, I'll try to stay on topic and not mention that there are currently three goons standing around me threatening to crush my Pearson's Nut Roll if I don't write something relevant about this book. It's a real-life "Not the gumdrop buttons" moment. 😞
Boring Relevant Details:
Fast paced storiy, but not so fast paced that it feels rushed.
All the bad guys really have it coming!
Logical well-thought out structure for the card game. (I may be a big enough nerd that I started taking notes and maybe I threw together a quick database and a front end interface to track things during combat sequences. I also might not be that big of a nerd.*)
Great character depth and growth
Note: this same review will appear on all three books, because I read them all in one sitting.
*I am that big of a nerd.
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews