Phenomenon: Trust and Betrayal - Retribution

by Jonathan Spain-Collins

Gordon Stone, a full time rideshare driver from Boston, Massachusetts. Asmodeus, a demon cast out from Hell. Gordon ends up finding the banished Asmodeus disguised as a cat and took her home after he broke up with his fiance Sophia Reyes and survived an attempted murder on him by his ex. Even after finding out the truth about Asmodeus, Gordon allowed her to stay with him. The two eventually became a couple and moved on with their lives as they lived together in their apartment. As matters looked up for the couple, Gordon found himself in a dream. The dream ended up being a memory of his previous life as the famed demon sorcerer Hadad. Will Gordon accept his past and face the truth of who he really is or will he throw it away? What was it that made Sophia try to kill Gordon in the first place? Find out in this tale of Trust and Betrayal.

28 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 18, 2025

Reviews

[Lucy Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the most striking things about Trust and Betrayal – Retribution is how fearlessly it tackles human pain before plunging into mythological fantasy. Many fantasy novels rush into battles, magic, and spectacle, but here, the story begins with something much more intimate: betrayal. Gordon’s false accusation and heartbreak felt raw and realistic, grounding the story in a way that made the supernatural elements even more powerful when they appeared. By starting with such emotional honesty, the author ensures that we are not just invested in the battles, but in the person fighting them. Gordon’s journey is not one of instant heroism. He stumbles, doubts, and resists. And yet, slowly, he begins to embrace his truth, not just as Gordon Stone, but as Hadad, the demon sorcerer. This duality makes him an especially compelling protagonist because he embodies both vulnerability and unimaginable strength. The training sequences with Zeus highlight this growth beautifully. They are equal parts rigorous, humorous, and enlightening, showing that Gordon’s transformation is hard-earned, not given. Asmodeus is another highlight. Her arc is layered and surprising, moving from dangerous succubus to loyal partner. Their relationship is unusual, even uncomfortable at first, but as the story progresses it becomes one of the most moving aspects of the book. It demonstrates the idea that redemption and love can come from unexpected places, and that sometimes the people (or beings) we least expect are the ones who stand by us.
The climactic battles, especially with Leviathan, are vividly written. The imagery of air clashing against water, lightning coursing through waves, and the immense scale of their duel makes for breathtaking reading. But what truly elevates it is the emotional context: Leviathan is not just a monster; she is tied to Gordon’s past love, Sophia. That connection adds layers of betrayal, manipulation, and personal history, making the battle more than just physical, it becomes symbolic of Gordon facing his past and choosing his future. By the end, what lingers is not just the spectacle, but the themes: resilience in the face of betrayal, truth in the face of lies, and the courage to define one’s own destiny. It’s a story that entertains but also makes you reflect on the choices we all face in life.

[Samuel Roland · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reading Trust and Betrayal – Retribution felt like stepping into a carefully woven tapestry where human pain, mythological grandeur, and supernatural drama coexist seamlessly. The book begins with a very real-world conflict, betrayal, false accusations, and heartbreak. These are experiences many people can relate to, and the way the author writes them makes Gordon’s struggle hit hard. It immediately establishes the emotional foundation for everything that follows.
The supernatural layers are introduced gradually but powerfully. Asmodeus, initially a predator cast out of Hell, becomes a central figure in Gordon’s healing and transformation. Her companionship, whether as a cat or in her human form, represents both temptation and redemption. Watching her evolve into a genuine partner, someone capable of loyalty and love, was one of the most rewarding arcs of the story. Their bond is unconventional, but it is written with such sincerity that it becomes both believable and moving., What I found especially impressive was the mythology. The inclusion of Zeus alongside Satan and the Seven Deadly Sins created a world that felt expansive, layered, and full of possibility. The training on Mount Olympus was a delight, showing both Gordon’s growth and the humor that can be found even in moments of tension. The mura stone was another creative addition, not just a tool for battle, but a symbol of Gordon’s worthiness and the choices he makes.
The fight with Leviathan is the novel’s crown jewel. It is written with cinematic precision, but it’s more than just spectacle. Leviathan’s connection to Sophia adds an emotional depth that makes the battle unforgettable. It’s not just about winning a crown or a title; it’s about Gordon confronting betrayal, manipulation, and the ghosts of his past. His refusal to kill Leviathan at the end was a powerful reminder of his integrity, a decision that showed true strength of character.
By closing the book on this chapter, the author leaves us with both satisfaction and anticipation. Gordon’s journey has only begun, and the themes of trust, betrayal, and redemption promise much more to come. This is a book that lingers in your mind long after you’ve finished it.

[Elizabeth Juanita · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reading Trust and Betrayal – Retribution was an experience that felt equal parts epic fantasy, supernatural thriller, and emotional character study. Jonathan Spain-Collins does not simply tell a story about demons and gods; he tells a story about people flawed, conflicted, and desperate to find meaning in a world full of betrayal. Gordon Stone is one of the most compelling protagonists I’ve read recently. He begins as a man torn down by false accusations and heartbreak, only to be thrust into a destiny he never asked for. His discovery that he is the vessel of Hadad, the demon sorcerer of envy, could have been played as a simple twist, but instead it becomes a layered exploration of identity, acceptance, and the power of choice. The novel thrives on contrasts: love and hatred, loyalty and betrayal, humanity and monstrosity. Asmodeus, once a ruthless seducer of souls, becomes Gordon’s unlikely ally, confidante, and eventually, his love. Their relationship is written with surprising tenderness and humanity, reminding readers that even beings labeled as “demons” can grow, change, and choose love over destruction. On the other side, Leviathan is a villain who is both terrifying and tragic her motivations rooted in jealousy and her role as one of the Seven Deadly Sins. The climactic battles between her and Gordon are some of the most intense I’ve read in recent fantasy. Spain-Collins also impresses with his worldbuilding. The depictions of Hell, the Bloody Palace, Mount Olympus, and even the quiet streets of Boston are vivid and immersive. The inclusion of Zeus as both a mentor and friend added depth and even humor, preventing the story from becoming too heavy. Yet at its core, this is a book about truth, the painful, liberating, and often devastating truths that come with self-discovery. By the time Gordon embraces his role not as a servant of Satan but as a demon hunter, the novel delivers a satisfying sense of resolution while also promising that his story is only just beginning. This is a book that blends imagination, emotion, and meaning in a way that few dark fantasies manage to achieve.

[Mitzi Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jonathan Spain-Collins has crafted a truly original work with Trust and Betrayal – Retribution. From the first pages, I was pulled in by the hauntingly imaginative premise: a fallen succubus banished to Earth and a man whose life is shattered by lies and betrayal, only for their fates to intertwine in extraordinary ways. The author’s ability to weave mythological figures like Zeus and Leviathan into a modern dark fantasy gives the novel a scope and creativity that is rare.
What I appreciated most was the way the book constantly challenged my expectations. Gordon’s relationship with Sophia is set up as a tragic love story, but the revelation of Leviathan’s possession adds layers of horror and complexity. Likewise, Gordon’s discovery that he is connected to Hadad, a demon sorcerer, is both a blessing and a curse, pushing him into a destiny that is larger than himself. The mentorship with Zeus provides not only training and spectacle but also surprising humor and warmth that lightens the darker edges of the story.
The writing shines in the detail, the vivid imagery of Hell, the ferocity of the battles, and the raw emotion of betrayal. But beyond the spectacle, the book asks deeper questions: Can someone with a demonic identity choose to fight for good? Can love and loyalty redeem those who have done terrible things? And what does it mean to truly accept yourself, even when that truth is frightening? These questions give the story resonance beyond its fantasy trappings.
By the end, I felt satisfied yet eager for more. The novel closes with Gordon and Asmodeus ready to take their place as protectors, which hints at even greater adventures ahead. This is the kind of book that stays with you, not only for its action but for its heart.

[Perla Sullivan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Trust and Betrayal – Retribution is a book that surprised me at every turn. At first, it feels like the story of Gordon Stone, an ordinary man with heartbreak and false accusations tearing his life apart, but then Jonathan Spain-Collins pulls the reader into an expansive supernatural world where demons, gods, and ancient rivalries come alive. The character of Asmodeus is fascinating, a demon once crowned as lust by Satan herself, banished from Hell, and left to reinvent her place in the world. Her unlikely bond with Gordon is one of the most unique pairings I’ve ever read in dark fantasy. What makes this book stand out is its balance of high-stakes action and emotional depth. The battle scenes, especially Gordon’s confrontation with Leviathan, are cinematic and intense. Yet the heart of the story lies in themes of redemption, trust, and the struggle of identity. Gordon’s journey from broken man to the embodiment of Hadad, the sorcerer of envy, is both tragic and inspiring. His choice to fight not for power but for self-worth and truth gives the narrative an emotional weight that lingers. This is not a story that plays it safe it tackles betrayal, loss, spiritual corruption, and the blurry lines between good and evil with courage. By the end, Gordon and Asmodeus’ decision to take on the role of demon hunters feels like a powerful new beginning. I came away feeling that this was not just a supernatural adventure, but also a reflection on resilience, acceptance, and the search for meaning in chaos.

[Thomas Christopher · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the strongest aspects of this novel is how it blends the everyday with the extraordinary. The early Boston setting is familiar and relatable, but from there the story expands into a universe of demons, gods, and ancient conflicts. The transition feels seamless, which is a testament to the author’s storytelling. Gordon’s relationship with Asmodeus is central to the novel, and it’s handled beautifully. She begins as a mysterious and dangerous figure, but slowly transforms into a symbol of redemption and love. Their interactions are some of the most engaging parts of the book. The way Zeus is introduced also added a surprising twist, it’s rare to see Greek mythology and biblical demonology combined, and yet here it works wonderfully. The battles are described in such vivid detail that you feel like you’re there in the coliseum or standing on the shore during Gordon’s confrontation with Leviathan. But what stayed with me after finishing was not just the action, but the message: that resilience, identity, and love can shape even the darkest of destinies.

[Patrick Edward · Rating 5 out of 5]

What I admire most about this book is its fearlessness. The author doesn’t shy away from exploring uncomfortable truths, whether it’s betrayal, false accusations, or the pain of broken trust. Yet, these heavy themes are balanced with a sense of hope, resilience, and love. Gordon’s refusal to let his darkest experiences define him makes him a hero worth following. Asmodeus’ development adds another layer, showing that even those born of darkness can choose a new path. The battles are written with vivid energy, but it’s the emotional stakes behind them that give the story its heart. I found the revelations about Leviathan and her connection to Sophia particularly powerful, it raised questions of identity, deception, and manipulation in ways that felt fresh and thought-provoking. The conclusion leaves the door wide open for more adventures, and I, for one, cannot wait to see where this saga goes next. It’s a story that entertains while also leaving you with themes to reflect on long after you’ve closed the book.

[Calista Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

What I appreciated most was the way the book constantly challenged my expectations. Gordon’s relationship with Sophia is set up as a tragic love story, but the revelation of Leviathan’s possession adds layers of horror and complexity. Likewise, Gordon’s discovery that he is connected to Hadad, a demon sorcerer, is both a blessing and a curse, pushing him into a destiny that is larger than himself. The mentorship with Zeus provides not only training and spectacle but also surprising humor and warmth that lightens the darker edges of the story.
The writing shines in the detail, the vivid imagery of Hell, the ferocity of the battles, and the raw emotion of betrayal. But beyond the spectacle, the book asks deeper questions: Can someone with a demonic identity choose to fight for good? Can love and loyalty redeem those who have done terrible things? And what does it mean to truly accept yourself, even when that truth is frightening? These questions give the story resonance beyond its fantasy trappings.

[Tina Florence · Rating 5 out of 5]

This novel is not just a story of good versus evil, it’s about betrayal, survival, and finding strength when everything seems lost. What drew me in was how real Gordon’s pain and emotions felt. His heartbreak and frustration in the beginning are grounded in human experiences we all can relate to. But then, the author layers in demons, gods, and the Seven Deadly Sins, creating a world where myth and reality collide. The battles are vivid and cinematic, you can almost hear the clash of elemental forces when Gordon fights Leviathan. Yet, it’s not just about action. The quieter moments between Gordon and Asmodeus provide balance and depth, showing how even a demon can seek redemption and companionship. I especially loved the creativity in how mythological figures like Zeus were incorporated into the plot, giving the book an unexpected but welcome mythic flavor. It’s a bold, imaginative read that entertains while making you think about loyalty, trust, and the power of identity.

[Steven Andrew · Rating 5 out of 5]

What impressed me most about Trust and Betrayal – Retribution was the complexity of its themes. This is not a typical good vs. evil story. Instead, it challenges readers to consider how betrayal shapes us, how trust can be rebuilt, and how one’s true nature cannot be hidden forever. Gordon’s transformation from a broken man into a figure of power and purpose is inspiring, yet it never feels rushed. The author takes the time to show his struggles, doubts, and moments of despair. Asmodeus’ arc is equally intriguing her journey from a soulless seductress to a loyal partner gives the book an emotional depth that sets it apart from others in the genre. The mythology is rich and layered; the integration of Greek gods alongside demonic lore makes for a unique and refreshing take on the supernatural. By the time the book reaches its climactic battles, the stakes feel real because you care about the characters. This is a story with heart, action, and imagination in equal measure.

[Mary Becky · Rating 5 out of 5]

Few fantasy novels manage to blend action, myth, and emotional storytelling as seamlessly as this one. Every element from the shocking twists to the grand battles, serves the larger story of truth and betrayal. Leviathan is a formidable antagonist, yet even she is given depth and tragedy. Gordon’s bond with Zeus was another highlight for me, showcasing not just mentorship but true friendship. Altogether, Trust and Betrayal – Retribution is a powerful and imaginative read that lingers long after the last page.

[Rose Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

This novel is brimming with creativity. The idea of blending biblical demons, Greek mythology, and a modern setting could have felt chaotic, but here it’s executed with care and imagination. Zeus’ role as both mentor and comic relief was a delightful surprise, and the battles with Leviathan were breathtakingly intense. It’s a rare book that manages to balance spectacle and character-driven storytelling, but Jonathan Spain-Collins does it with confidence.

[Michellecraig · Rating 5 out of 5]

The emotional stakes in this book are as high as the supernatural ones. Sophia’s betrayal, and the later revelation of Leviathan’s possession, added so much complexity to the story. It’s not just about good versus evil, it’s about love, trust, and the ways those bonds can be broken and rebuilt. I found Gordon’s ability to forgive and move forward inspiring, especially when paired with his determination to fight for a better future.