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Darkness and Deceit
Power always comes at a price—and I’m done paying it alone.I thought surviving my first semester at Obsidian Academy would be the hard part.
But now, everything I thought I understood is falling apart.
An ancient threat is rising, unraveling the Balance and the whispers say it’s tied to someone like me. As one of the only known Duals—a rare kind of Protector who can summon both Predator and Prey Shadows—my magic is unpredictable, unstable, and dangerously coveted.
The Keepers are watching. The Rogues are hunting. And I’m caught in the middle of a war that no one fully understands.
Worse? I’m not sure I can trust anyone.
Not Simon, whose protective instincts may mask deeper secrets.
Not Kai, haunted and volatile, keeping truths behind locked eyes.
Not Vaughn, the arrogant menace who makes my pulse spike for all the wrong reasons.
And definitely not Augustus, the Keeper sent to observe me, who sees too much and says too little.
Secrets are unraveling. Lines are blurring. And I’m starting to wonder if I’m meant to protect the Balance… or destroy it.
Welcome back to Obsidian Academy—where magic is deadly, desire is dangerous, and deceit could cost you everything.
But now, everything I thought I understood is falling apart.
An ancient threat is rising, unraveling the Balance and the whispers say it’s tied to someone like me. As one of the only known Duals—a rare kind of Protector who can summon both Predator and Prey Shadows—my magic is unpredictable, unstable, and dangerously coveted.
The Keepers are watching. The Rogues are hunting. And I’m caught in the middle of a war that no one fully understands.
Worse? I’m not sure I can trust anyone.
Not Simon, whose protective instincts may mask deeper secrets.
Not Kai, haunted and volatile, keeping truths behind locked eyes.
Not Vaughn, the arrogant menace who makes my pulse spike for all the wrong reasons.
And definitely not Augustus, the Keeper sent to observe me, who sees too much and says too little.
Secrets are unraveling. Lines are blurring. And I’m starting to wonder if I’m meant to protect the Balance… or destroy it.
Welcome back to Obsidian Academy—where magic is deadly, desire is dangerous, and deceit could cost you everything.
- GenresParanormalFantasyRomance
247 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 17, 2025
20 people are currently reading
28 people want to read
About the author
Demi Warrik
14 books153 followersDemi Warrik is an emerging romance author dedicated to giving you stories you can ditch reality with.
She loves animals of all kinds, the smell of books and coffee, which she prefers. In her free time, she enjoys writing romantic shenanigans that you’ll be laughing about for days.
Most of the time you can find her with her nose shoved in a book or plotting someone’s demise. In a story, of course!
Join Demi on her journey to write down the plethora of characters swirling around in her brain, demanding to have their stories told. She’d love it if you would.
Connect with Demi via her Newsletter, Facebook Reader Group, or on Instagram.
She loves animals of all kinds, the smell of books and coffee, which she prefers. In her free time, she enjoys writing romantic shenanigans that you’ll be laughing about for days.
Most of the time you can find her with her nose shoved in a book or plotting someone’s demise. In a story, of course!
Join Demi on her journey to write down the plethora of characters swirling around in her brain, demanding to have their stories told. She’d love it if you would.
Connect with Demi via her Newsletter, Facebook Reader Group, or on Instagram.
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
July 24, 2025
Wowza, what an ending! The story picks up where we leave off in book one and the action does not stop! The Keepers have a bigger role in this story and I have to say that they were not my favorite, so I can’t wait to see how Augustus’ storyline maps out with walking the line of being a Keeper, while having feelings for Lilith. The relationship building between the main characters was delicious! I can’t wait to read what happens next!
July 21, 2025
meh
It’s definetly not as good as the first book. It didn’t grab at me, lingering at the back of my mind when i was doing my daily tasks, work, making and eating meals etc.
I found this book, had to much excitement (fighting off the darkness in many many chapters) without any kind of down time or any positives to offset the negativity that was happening.
A new character was introduced, Augustus who is a young keeper. We got to read his point of views along with Kai, Simon and Vaughn. Honestly, I almost didn’t finish the book, my anxiety crept increasing to a point that it was affecting me. I even started reading a new book to see if I could stop my anxiety but not knowing how it would all turn out made me come back and finish the book. Demi is usually amazing at drawing her readers in, but this book had no balance toward happy moments or bad moments… I’m disappointed, but at least I finished it.
It’s definetly not as good as the first book. It didn’t grab at me, lingering at the back of my mind when i was doing my daily tasks, work, making and eating meals etc.
I found this book, had to much excitement (fighting off the darkness in many many chapters) without any kind of down time or any positives to offset the negativity that was happening.
A new character was introduced, Augustus who is a young keeper. We got to read his point of views along with Kai, Simon and Vaughn. Honestly, I almost didn’t finish the book, my anxiety crept increasing to a point that it was affecting me. I even started reading a new book to see if I could stop my anxiety but not knowing how it would all turn out made me come back and finish the book. Demi is usually amazing at drawing her readers in, but this book had no balance toward happy moments or bad moments… I’m disappointed, but at least I finished it.
July 25, 2025
This series demands your attention—and it definitely rewards it!
Darkness and Deceit is the emotionally charged second installment in the Obsidian Academy series, so if you haven’t already, go back and read Book One, Secrets and Shadows, before diving into this gem!
——
The first few chapters sort of slow roll you back into this darkly enchanting & beautifully brutal world.
-We meet a new character, whom I love immediately because he’s so kind & innocent & refuses to use contractions 🥹. *Poor guy has no idea what lies ahead 🤭*
-We are reintroduced to Simon, Vaughn, and Kai. *hi! MissedYouBoysSoMuch 😘*
>AND THEN<
The party starts 😈
——
We essentially pick up where Book One left off—after the incident in the woods. Now the Academy is overrun by Keepers. BUT… are they there to investigate and protect the Balance?
OR are they there to contain and control the narrative?…
The lore of the Keepers and the haunting mystery surrounding Obsidian Academy add an eerie depth to an already enticing and complex setting. At this point, it’s not just a school.. it’s a pressure cooker filled with secrets, power plays, & ticking clocks!
Loyalties begin to fray as secrets begin to unravel. And just when you think you’ve caught your breath, Warrik twists the knife again!
——
Ultimately—Darkness and Deceit lives up to its name! The way the tension builds, page by page, delivering a plot that simmers with mistrust and quiet betrayals… basically where Book One laid the groundwork, Book Two tears it all down 😈. The twists will reframe everything you thought you knew about the Obsidian Academy world. And I can’t wait to find out what happens next!
Darkness and Deceit is the emotionally charged second installment in the Obsidian Academy series, so if you haven’t already, go back and read Book One, Secrets and Shadows, before diving into this gem!
——
The first few chapters sort of slow roll you back into this darkly enchanting & beautifully brutal world.
-We meet a new character, whom I love immediately because he’s so kind & innocent & refuses to use contractions 🥹. *Poor guy has no idea what lies ahead 🤭*
-We are reintroduced to Simon, Vaughn, and Kai. *hi! MissedYouBoysSoMuch 😘*
>AND THEN<
The party starts 😈
——
We essentially pick up where Book One left off—after the incident in the woods. Now the Academy is overrun by Keepers. BUT… are they there to investigate and protect the Balance?
OR are they there to contain and control the narrative?…
The lore of the Keepers and the haunting mystery surrounding Obsidian Academy add an eerie depth to an already enticing and complex setting. At this point, it’s not just a school.. it’s a pressure cooker filled with secrets, power plays, & ticking clocks!
Loyalties begin to fray as secrets begin to unravel. And just when you think you’ve caught your breath, Warrik twists the knife again!
——
Ultimately—Darkness and Deceit lives up to its name! The way the tension builds, page by page, delivering a plot that simmers with mistrust and quiet betrayals… basically where Book One laid the groundwork, Book Two tears it all down 😈. The twists will reframe everything you thought you knew about the Obsidian Academy world. And I can’t wait to find out what happens next!
July 13, 2025
Paranormal RH Romance
4.5⭐️ This is the 2nd book in the series and I could not put it down! Well written and engaging, keeping me on my toes the whole book.
It’s a quick read action packed with great plot, sprinkled with a bit of spice.
There’s one MMC starting to question everything he’s been taught his whole to believe (mostly quietly) not quite know where he stands. The FMC, not knowing who to put her trust in, questioning the Keepers of Balance and the Headmistress.
New bonds form, not all bonds form the same way some take time to develop which I really liked!
And so many secrets!!!!!! More questions……right to the bitter end……which left on a cliffhanger!! Looking forward to the next book in this series!
4.5⭐️ This is the 2nd book in the series and I could not put it down! Well written and engaging, keeping me on my toes the whole book.
It’s a quick read action packed with great plot, sprinkled with a bit of spice.
There’s one MMC starting to question everything he’s been taught his whole to believe (mostly quietly) not quite know where he stands. The FMC, not knowing who to put her trust in, questioning the Keepers of Balance and the Headmistress.
New bonds form, not all bonds form the same way some take time to develop which I really liked!
And so many secrets!!!!!! More questions……right to the bitter end……which left on a cliffhanger!! Looking forward to the next book in this series!
July 14, 2025
I’ll admit, this series wasn’t instalove for me, but where the first book had to grow on me this second book was an instant hit. I absolutely loved how the story flowed in here, and how questions and mysteries just kept on piling up with Lilith at the center of them all. This second book had a hold on me, and I had a hard time putting it down.
My favorite stories are those where I have no clue who’s good or bad, who’s right or wrong and who’s a danger and who’s the salvation. Obsidian Academy has twisted these things around so many times, I have no clues left and I’m totally dependent on the third book to find out the answers to so many questions. I honestly can’t wait now, and I’m so happy I stuck with this series! Let’s hope book three isn’t too far out.
My favorite stories are those where I have no clue who’s good or bad, who’s right or wrong and who’s a danger and who’s the salvation. Obsidian Academy has twisted these things around so many times, I have no clues left and I’m totally dependent on the third book to find out the answers to so many questions. I honestly can’t wait now, and I’m so happy I stuck with this series! Let’s hope book three isn’t too far out.
July 17, 2025
Darkness and Deceit by Demi Warrik is book two in the Obsidian Academy series. This one picks up right where book one ends. I could not put this book down. It was action-packed, fast-paced, and had bouts of spice. This is a why choose romance, which means the FMC doesn't have to pick between her men. I really enjoyed that not all bonds form in the same way or in the same time period. It makes the story more interesting because you don't know who all is going to be bonded to Lilith. I also lived how she is finally starting to come into her true power, and I can't wait to see how she continues to grow. There are still soooo many secrets and questions that need to be answered after this book. It does end on a cliffhanger that will leave you needing more immediately.
July 24, 2025
This book was a delicious read!
This book was spicy sweet hot drool worthy and heartbreaking and more! I couldn't put this down until I finished the whole thing! I loved the twists and turns and the forbidden romance that's sparking, the relationship growth and the mate bond and everything was just so jaw dropping! The way the backstory is evolving and unfolding about the event thats hinted at! The world building in this is so detailed and enjoyable to read is just so good! That ending left me gasping and crying. I literally don't know how to feel this was such an emotional read my emotional support hot chocolate doesn't help much now.
This book was spicy sweet hot drool worthy and heartbreaking and more! I couldn't put this down until I finished the whole thing! I loved the twists and turns and the forbidden romance that's sparking, the relationship growth and the mate bond and everything was just so jaw dropping! The way the backstory is evolving and unfolding about the event thats hinted at! The world building in this is so detailed and enjoyable to read is just so good! That ending left me gasping and crying. I literally don't know how to feel this was such an emotional read my emotional support hot chocolate doesn't help much now.
July 25, 2025
Darkness and Deceit is Book Two in the Obsidian Academy Series. I could not put down book one and needless to say I could not book this book down either. A lot of questions were answered from the first book, but as growth happens, I have a ton of follow up questions. There’s a ton of action and everything was fast paced with some spice. I won’t lie I didn’t hate that the mc’s didn’t have a ton of “down time” because I tend to lose interest if there’s too much. I will say the way the backstory is unfolding has me biting at the bit for more. Which per usual this is a cliffhanger 😅
I need more and can’t wait for the next book!
I need more and can’t wait for the next book!
July 17, 2025
I’m loving this world Demi’s created. Questions got answered in this book, but somehow I’m left with even more questions! Not to mention the cliffhanger too😲 It’s left me incredibly excited for the next book! I really liked how not all bonds form the same way, it really gives that element of unknown to what will happen. I felt we delved deeper into the history of this world in this book, which I really enjoyed as well. Great plot, brilliant characters, set in a magical world, with some banter and spice mixed in - what’s not to love!!
July 18, 2025
Captivated all the way through!! Wow!!
While some of our questions are answered, new ones arise.
This book was filled with suspense, possibly betrayal, suspense, action, and spice.
Lilith is only growing stronger and becoming more confident.
We get to see the relationships between Lilith and the guys change. Some of them grow closer, some solidify, and new ones develop.
Overall, I think this was a fantastic continuation! I definitely have a few suspicions, but I still have lots of questions.
I cannot wait for book 3!!
While some of our questions are answered, new ones arise.
This book was filled with suspense, possibly betrayal, suspense, action, and spice.
Lilith is only growing stronger and becoming more confident.
We get to see the relationships between Lilith and the guys change. Some of them grow closer, some solidify, and new ones develop.
Overall, I think this was a fantastic continuation! I definitely have a few suspicions, but I still have lots of questions.
I cannot wait for book 3!!
July 26, 2025
I enjoyed reading Darkness and Deceit! I love the characters and the world building. I enjoyed seeing the story evolve, and I love Kai. I think it's interesting seeing more on the keepers that you learn about in book 1. This is a series you will want to read in order otherwise it won't make a whole lot of sense. I can't wait to read book 3.
This book is more for 18+ readers as there may be some content that isn't suitable for some readers.
Highly recommend reading Darkness and Deceit, dive into a story that will keep you hooked from start to finish!
This book is more for 18+ readers as there may be some content that isn't suitable for some readers.
Highly recommend reading Darkness and Deceit, dive into a story that will keep you hooked from start to finish!
July 22, 2025
This was an excellent continuation of this series. The FMC is full of contradictions in a way that makes her unpredictable and entertaining. Her relationships grow in ways that feel authentic, especially as we get to know everyone on a deeper level.
The plot gets even trickier with new characters, new information, and new secrets coming to light. The spice level goes up from book one and adds to the tension quite nicely! This does end on a cliffhanger and I need book three asap 🙏🏻
The plot gets even trickier with new characters, new information, and new secrets coming to light. The spice level goes up from book one and adds to the tension quite nicely! This does end on a cliffhanger and I need book three asap 🙏🏻
July 24, 2025
This book picks up right where book 1 left off. The evolution of Lillith, not just herself, but in her bonds with the guys is epic. Demi has a way of writing that pulls you in and won't let go.
We got to see more of the Keepers in book 2, and there are definitely more questions than answers. I can honestly say though, the Keepers are not my favorite so far.
I can't wait to see how her bonds continue to evolve and solidify. Im absolutely looking forward to book 3.
We got to see more of the Keepers in book 2, and there are definitely more questions than answers. I can honestly say though, the Keepers are not my favorite so far.
I can't wait to see how her bonds continue to evolve and solidify. Im absolutely looking forward to book 3.
July 27, 2025
Nonstop Action!
From start to finish there was nothing but action! Lilith is fighting battles on every front, and her mates are the only people she can trust. The twists and turns in this one just multiply and you are left questioning everything you thought you knew. The spice kicks up in this one and we have some new characters to love and hate. I can’t wait for the next one cause this one ended to soon and I need all the answers!
From start to finish there was nothing but action! Lilith is fighting battles on every front, and her mates are the only people she can trust. The twists and turns in this one just multiply and you are left questioning everything you thought you knew. The spice kicks up in this one and we have some new characters to love and hate. I can’t wait for the next one cause this one ended to soon and I need all the answers!
July 27, 2025
I love a good book that I can't put down; this here does that. It was like non-stop action with mystery, tension, and plot twists all in the mixed. There is one thing I do have to say, and you do have to read book one before jumping into this one gem. For me, it was an enjoyable, immersible, and page-turning read. The characters were well written, and I loved them. To say that I was left speechless and eager are a couple of emotions I am left feeling. It's definitely a must-read!
August 22, 2025
Guess who’s back, back again, Lilith’s back! This is a great sequel that shows Lilith’s growth in magic and confidence. I enjoy seeing her relationships with the guys and watching how their bonds mature. I liked the addition of Augustus too! I wasn’t expecting him and he added a more serious note to the story, seeing it from the Keepers side. The ending was brutal and honestly I have no idea what’s going on, so I’m just gonna sit back and let the third book take me for a ride!
July 24, 2025
Spoiler free ✨✨
This is the second installment of the Obsidian Academy series. This book was so good and I couldn’t put it down. It answered questions I had but also created the suspense for the next book 😭 Demi is one of my favorite authors and once again she has written a book that I fell in love with. This series is so good! 5/5 stars from me
This is the second installment of the Obsidian Academy series. This book was so good and I couldn’t put it down. It answered questions I had but also created the suspense for the next book 😭 Demi is one of my favorite authors and once again she has written a book that I fell in love with. This series is so good! 5/5 stars from me
July 15, 2025
Demi Warrik likes to keep us on our toes and this book is the prime example of it. We are here along with the FMC trying to figure out who to trust and who to be weary of. Love the fantasy elements of this series.
July 24, 2025
So freaking good!! The story is amazing. It's exciting and keeps you guessing the whole time. The spice is quite nice too ;) I literally could not put this book down. READ THIS SERIES!! You will not regret it.
August 3, 2025
What great follow-up from book one love the connection between the main characters story plot was enjoyable and I thrilled to see how the story would continue great read
August 19, 2025
This book picks up right where book 1 left off and it's just as good. I love the evolution of Lillith and her bonds. I can't wait for the next book. This book is definitely a must read!!
July 24, 2025
Amazing
This is the second book in Obsidian Academy and its just as amazing as the first. Once again is was hooked start to finish and completely absorbed in the story. Demi Warrior does a great job wth this world and the characters. I love Liking and her men. There is mystery and suspense throughout and wow that cliffhanger. I need book three ASAP!
This is the second book in Obsidian Academy and its just as amazing as the first. Once again is was hooked start to finish and completely absorbed in the story. Demi Warrior does a great job wth this world and the characters. I love Liking and her men. There is mystery and suspense throughout and wow that cliffhanger. I need book three ASAP!
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews