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Falce e penna
La Capitale dell’Alleanza delle Nazioni Unite scintilla come gioielli. Gli accordi in Senato sono spietati quanto quelli stretti nel ventre criminale della città e nessuno lo sa meglio del vampiro Demetrius Raske, che si batte per una proposta di legge equa per umani e vampiri. Molti sono contrari, soprattutto dopo che un corpo dissanguato dopo l’altro appare in tutta la città. Solo il “Diavolo” può catturare il responsabile e stringono un accordo per catturare l’assassino prima che la proposta fallisca, spingendo l’Alleanza sull’orlo della guerra civile.
Ma queste mosse calcolate non passano inosservate e attirano l’attenzione di Gabriella, una giornalista che finisce sulla strada dell’omicida.
L’unica soluzione è stringere un nuovo patto con il Diavolo, ma il malvagio alleato sta facendo il proprio gioco.
E presto si scoprirà come si è guadagnato quel nome.
Ma queste mosse calcolate non passano inosservate e attirano l’attenzione di Gabriella, una giornalista che finisce sulla strada dell’omicida.
L’unica soluzione è stringere un nuovo patto con il Diavolo, ma il malvagio alleato sta facendo il proprio gioco.
E presto si scoprirà come si è guadagnato quel nome.
500 pages, Paperback
Published March 30, 2025
57 people are currently reading
5932 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 102 reviews
May 17, 2024
Fantasy readers listen up!
Welcome to your next gritty and addictive grimdark fantasy read.
In a city full of crime and political upheaval we find a scheming gangster with a dangerous agenda, a tender hearted vampire with much to lose and a reporter who might have just lost it all. The 1920's "peaky blinders" vibes are immaculate. Hobbs' writing is succinct and lyrical even amongst the grime, as she paints a scene worth sticking around for. I was shoved into a dark world full of corruption and danger and I have no intention of leaving any time soon. The MYSTERY, the TWISTS, the TURNS...all had me carving out the time to read more.
The characters are incredibly well built. This is a multi POV story with short snappy chapters that had me TURNING PAGES. Hades is an untouchable but yet touchable character. A man who comes off as someone who has all the control but it might be slowly leaking from his grasp. Demetrius is soft and tender hearted vamp but still a powerhouse in his own right and Gabriella's character growth is off the charts as she deals with catastrophe.
This is for those who are epic fantasy readers at heart and don't mind a smaller slow burn romance aspect. What is there is THERE, and I adored in certain scenes within the story that I could vividly picture within my mind. BUT the rest of the story? Hobbs gives you just enough to keep going but still leaves SO much left to be examined, and I cannot wait to see where this story takes us next.
I am dying to get my hands on a sequel. DYING. Definitely one of those books that blew me away and that would be EASY to recommend to the right audience. If you like a gritty vibes, complicated and truly morally grey characters with mysterious ties to one another set amongst a historical and political backdrop...then Scythe and Pen is for you.
**Content: moderate strong language, urban fantasy violence, murder, brothels, horror aspects, low on sexual content but sexual/lewd references are made.
Welcome to your next gritty and addictive grimdark fantasy read.
In a city full of crime and political upheaval we find a scheming gangster with a dangerous agenda, a tender hearted vampire with much to lose and a reporter who might have just lost it all. The 1920's "peaky blinders" vibes are immaculate. Hobbs' writing is succinct and lyrical even amongst the grime, as she paints a scene worth sticking around for. I was shoved into a dark world full of corruption and danger and I have no intention of leaving any time soon. The MYSTERY, the TWISTS, the TURNS...all had me carving out the time to read more.
The characters are incredibly well built. This is a multi POV story with short snappy chapters that had me TURNING PAGES. Hades is an untouchable but yet touchable character. A man who comes off as someone who has all the control but it might be slowly leaking from his grasp. Demetrius is soft and tender hearted vamp but still a powerhouse in his own right and Gabriella's character growth is off the charts as she deals with catastrophe.
This is for those who are epic fantasy readers at heart and don't mind a smaller slow burn romance aspect. What is there is THERE, and I adored in certain scenes within the story that I could vividly picture within my mind. BUT the rest of the story? Hobbs gives you just enough to keep going but still leaves SO much left to be examined, and I cannot wait to see where this story takes us next.
I am dying to get my hands on a sequel. DYING. Definitely one of those books that blew me away and that would be EASY to recommend to the right audience. If you like a gritty vibes, complicated and truly morally grey characters with mysterious ties to one another set amongst a historical and political backdrop...then Scythe and Pen is for you.
**Content: moderate strong language, urban fantasy violence, murder, brothels, horror aspects, low on sexual content but sexual/lewd references are made.
November 29, 2024
Questo libro è bellissimo!
Un perfetto mix di dark fantasy, mistery e thriller.
Fin dall'inizio non c'è un attimo di respiro, non si sa mai di chi fidarsi, si è sempre sul filo del rasoio e, grazie a questo, pensavo sempre alla storia durante la giornata. Non vedevo l'ora di mettermi a leggere.
Demetrius è un vampiro, NON luccica e allo stesso tempo non è la classica figura del vampiro bad boy, anzi. Ha paura degli spazi chiusi, non ama il dramma, è un bonaccione, leale, giusto e che cerca sempre la verità.
Ho adorato Alice e Harriet, due donne forti e pragmatiche di cui vorrei avere più capitoli. In particolare, Harriet è un mistero eppure è caratterizzata molto bene.
Gabriella forse è il personaggio che mi deve convincere appieno, anche se ho apprezzato tantissimo i suoi pov nella seconda metà del libro. Realistici, tristi, arrabbiati, ansiosi... insomma, è quella che per gusto personale mi è piaciuto meno, ma comunque è un bel personaggio e secondo me avrà molto più da dare nella sua evoluzione nei seguiti.
Hades palese mio personaggio preferito, voglio sapere TUTTA la sua storia.
Ho adorato l'ambientazione anni 20 in una specie di mondo parallelo al nostro, dove esiste una lega unita delle nazioni e i vampiri cercano di ottenere gli stessi diritti degli umani.
E a me di norma i vampiri non piacciono granché, ma qui ho trovato un racconto fresco e dark allo stesso tempo, senza snaturare la natura vampiresca ma senza inciampare in stereotipi.
HO BISOGNO DEL 2
Un perfetto mix di dark fantasy, mistery e thriller.
Fin dall'inizio non c'è un attimo di respiro, non si sa mai di chi fidarsi, si è sempre sul filo del rasoio e, grazie a questo, pensavo sempre alla storia durante la giornata. Non vedevo l'ora di mettermi a leggere.
Demetrius è un vampiro, NON luccica e allo stesso tempo non è la classica figura del vampiro bad boy, anzi. Ha paura degli spazi chiusi, non ama il dramma, è un bonaccione, leale, giusto e che cerca sempre la verità.
Ho adorato Alice e Harriet, due donne forti e pragmatiche di cui vorrei avere più capitoli. In particolare, Harriet è un mistero eppure è caratterizzata molto bene.
Gabriella forse è il personaggio che mi deve convincere appieno, anche se ho apprezzato tantissimo i suoi pov nella seconda metà del libro. Realistici, tristi, arrabbiati, ansiosi... insomma, è quella che per gusto personale mi è piaciuto meno, ma comunque è un bel personaggio e secondo me avrà molto più da dare nella sua evoluzione nei seguiti.
Hades palese mio personaggio preferito, voglio sapere TUTTA la sua storia.
Ho adorato l'ambientazione anni 20 in una specie di mondo parallelo al nostro, dove esiste una lega unita delle nazioni e i vampiri cercano di ottenere gli stessi diritti degli umani.
E a me di norma i vampiri non piacciono granché, ma qui ho trovato un racconto fresco e dark allo stesso tempo, senza snaturare la natura vampiresca ma senza inciampare in stereotipi.
HO BISOGNO DEL 2
May 2, 2024
Easiest 5⭐️ I have given recently. This was so good. Alternate London set in 1924/1925 with Vampires. The vibes are immaculate. The worldbuilding, top notch. Murder mystery, political intrigue, found family, war, an established romance, a slowwwwburn 👀, etc. The writing was so immersive. A whole movie played out in my head. I constantly wanted to read to see what happened next. I need book 2!! I need to see how this all plays out! I’m going to try and collect my thoughts a little more so I can give this a glowing review like it deserves!!
November 24, 2025
Honestly, I just couldn't care less. 😭😭😭
June 30, 2024
I FOUND IT.
BLOG || INSTAGRAM
It is historically known I am not a lover of vampire books. BUT I have found a second book that gets all the stars from me AND has vampires!! This is an absolute must read. I loooved the dark and dramatic atmosphere. It’s gritty and full of mettlesome people trying to accomplish what they think is best. I loved the politicking and secrets and conversations in the dark waiting to see what next big thing was going to happen.
This has short chapters and this beautifully engaging writing. From the moment I picked it up I was enthralled. The magnetic story pulls you in and makes you want to know what happens next. I loved that it was multiple POV. There’s a mix of characters that you get views from that all build out this world and keep that sense of mystery.
And while it is in no way a romance book, there are two subtle ones that you get to see small aspects of throughout. I am in a chokehold over one of them and gosh dang I can’t wait to see that continue to grow in this series.
I loved it all. This is a hidden gem, you definitely need this book, kind of read.
Overall audience notes:
- Historical Fantasy
- Language: moderate
- Romance: kisses
- Violence: high
BLOG || INSTAGRAM
It is historically known I am not a lover of vampire books. BUT I have found a second book that gets all the stars from me AND has vampires!! This is an absolute must read. I loooved the dark and dramatic atmosphere. It’s gritty and full of mettlesome people trying to accomplish what they think is best. I loved the politicking and secrets and conversations in the dark waiting to see what next big thing was going to happen.
This has short chapters and this beautifully engaging writing. From the moment I picked it up I was enthralled. The magnetic story pulls you in and makes you want to know what happens next. I loved that it was multiple POV. There’s a mix of characters that you get views from that all build out this world and keep that sense of mystery.
And while it is in no way a romance book, there are two subtle ones that you get to see small aspects of throughout. I am in a chokehold over one of them and gosh dang I can’t wait to see that continue to grow in this series.
I loved it all. This is a hidden gem, you definitely need this book, kind of read.
Overall audience notes:
- Historical Fantasy
- Language: moderate
- Romance: kisses
- Violence: high
June 22, 2024
TEN STARS
Really, really good, I can’t wait for the next book!!
This is the more polished, grown-up, dark and gripping version of The Diviners meets Six of Crows meets Serpent and the Wings of Night we were all (or at least I was) waiting for, what a debut!
Ruthless gang lords in an alternate 1920’s London with death magic, dark vampire kingdoms and royalty, assassin girls and a journalist. Intrigue over (political) intrigue, murder, blood, gore, grit and champagne galore - as well as the slowest of slowburns alongside established relationships.
The writing caught me from the very beginning, I loved the omniscient narrator allowing us to jump from one person’s mind to the next within the span of sentences, the casual world building and breathless pace.
I am really impressed this is a debut, looking forward to what’s coming next!
Really, really good, I can’t wait for the next book!!
This is the more polished, grown-up, dark and gripping version of The Diviners meets Six of Crows meets Serpent and the Wings of Night we were all (or at least I was) waiting for, what a debut!
Ruthless gang lords in an alternate 1920’s London with death magic, dark vampire kingdoms and royalty, assassin girls and a journalist. Intrigue over (political) intrigue, murder, blood, gore, grit and champagne galore - as well as the slowest of slowburns alongside established relationships.
The writing caught me from the very beginning, I loved the omniscient narrator allowing us to jump from one person’s mind to the next within the span of sentences, the casual world building and breathless pace.
I am really impressed this is a debut, looking forward to what’s coming next!
April 5, 2025
Ringrazio Digital Vintage Edizioni per avermi dato la possibilità di leggere la ARC di questo libro in cambio di una recensione onesta
For the review in English please scroll down.
Questo romanzo è ambientato in un'Europa alternativa con creature soprannaturali, disordini politici e crimine che fanno da sfondo. La storia si svolge in una città simile a una Londra degli anni '20 e segue le vicende di un cast di personaggi diverso: Demetrius, un avvocato vampiro che lavora all'Alleanza delle Nazioni Unite; Hades Cronus, un gangster ma anche un essere soprannaturale sul cui conto sappiamo poco, ma che sembra essere il diavolo in persona; Gabriella, una giornalista; Alice, una ragazza dal passato difficile. La storia inizia quando il Senato è in procinto di approvare una legge sulla parità tra umani e vampiri e Demetrius si ritrova a dover indagare su un omicidio, convinto che i due eventi siano collegati.
Questo libro mi ha preso dalla prima pagina, grazie a una posta in gioco sempre molto alta, a un ritmo incalzante e ai personaggi ai quali è impossibile non affezionarsi. I capitoli sono molto brevi (siano lodati i capitoli brevi!) e finiscono sul più bello, invogliandomi ad andare continuamente avanti. La trama non dà un attimo di tregua e i colpi di scena si susseguono uno dopo l'altro. La storia parte come un murder mystery, ma evolve molto presto in una serie di intrighi politici e interessi personali dei personaggi. Questo ritmo è reso ancora più incalzante dal multi-POV, che ci permette di cambiare prospettiva ogni capitolo, dando così tanta dinamicità alla narrazione.
I personaggi mi sono entrati nel cuore. Li ho trovati ben delineati, ognuno con una voce distinta, e vorrei sapere TUTTO su di loro, anche se non posso negare di avere un debole per Hades e Demetrius. Nella prima parte ci sono più capitoli dal punto di vista di Demetrius, mentre nella seconda parte trovano più spazio i personaggi femminili come Gabriella e Alice. Se Hades è un personaggio misterioso con una sua agenda, Demetrius non è il tipico vampiro alfa, bensì una creatura sensibile e tenera. Molto interessante è stato anche lo sviluppo di Gabriella, con i suoi capitoli ricchi di dubbi e ansie.
Quando ho girato l'ultima pagina, il libro mi ha lasciato con un sacco di domande in testa che spero trovino una spiegazione nel prossimo libro. Avrei però preferito che l'autrice si soffermasse un po' di più su alcuni punti dell'arco narrativo di questo libro, approfondendo l'antagonista e le sue motivazioni.
Ho apprezzato molto lo stile vivido ed efficace, a tratti grafico. L'ambientazione è molto curata nei minimi dettagli, come l'abbigliamento, l'arredamento, la musica e le macchine, e l'autrice è riuscita a farmi piacere anche un'era che non è tra le mie preferite.
Questo esordio si è rivelato solido e un ottimo mix di elementi presi da diversi generi, come l'urban fantasy, il thriller e elementi dark, che ha funzionato molto bene. L'ho adorato, mi ha dato quello che cercavo da un urban fantasy e ora non vedo l'ora di leggere il seguito! Consigliato a chi cerca atmosfere gotiche, intrighi politici e ama domandarsi continuamente di chi potersi fidare mentre legge.
4.25 stelle.
Disponibile su Amazon
Huge thanks to Digital Vintage Editions for allowing me to read an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This novel is set in an alternate Europe where supernatural creatures, political turmoil and crime are the background. Set in a city that resembles 1920s London, the story follows a diverse cast of characters: Demetrius, a vampire lawyer working for the United Nations Alliance; Hades Cronus, a gangster but also a supernatural being about whom we know little but who seems to be the devil himself; Gabriella, a journalist; Alice, a girl with a troubled past. The story begins when the Senate is about to pass a law on the equality of humans and vampires, and Demetrius finds himself investigating a murder, convinced that the two events are connected.
This book grabbed me from the first page, thanks to consistently high stakes, a fast pace and characters you can't help but root for. The chapters are very short (praise the short chapters!) and end on a high note, keeping me wanting to read more. The plot never slows down and the twists and turns keep coming. The story begins as a murder mystery, but very soon becomes a series of political intrigues and personal interests of the characters. This pace becomes even more engaging by the multi-POV, which allows us to change perspectives.
The characters stole my heart. I found them well-drawn, each with a distinct voice, and I wanted to know EVERYTHING about them, although I cannot deny that I have a soft spot for Hades and Demetrius. In the first part there are more chapters from Demetrius' point of view, while in the second part there is more space for female characters like Gabriella and Alice. If Hades is a mysterious character with his own agenda, Demetrius is not the typical alpha vampire, but a sensitive and kind being. Also very interesting was the development of Gabriella, with her chapters full of doubts and fears.
When I turned the last page, the book left me with a lot of questions, which hopefully will find an explanation in the next book. However, I would have liked the author to elaborate a bit more on certain parts of the narrative arc of this book and to explore the antagonist and her motivations more deeply.
I really appreciated the vivid and effective, sometimes graphic, style. The setting is very detailed, such as the clothes, the furniture, the music and the cars, and the author managed to make me like an era that is not one of my favourites.
This debut turned out to be solid and a great mix of elements from different genres, such as urban fantasy, thriller and dark elements, which worked very well. I loved it, it gave me what I was looking for in an urban fantasy and now I can't wait to read the sequel! Recommended for those who like gothic atmospheres, political intrigue and want to keep wondering who they can trust.
Available on Amazon UK
For the review in English please scroll down.
Questo romanzo è ambientato in un'Europa alternativa con creature soprannaturali, disordini politici e crimine che fanno da sfondo. La storia si svolge in una città simile a una Londra degli anni '20 e segue le vicende di un cast di personaggi diverso: Demetrius, un avvocato vampiro che lavora all'Alleanza delle Nazioni Unite; Hades Cronus, un gangster ma anche un essere soprannaturale sul cui conto sappiamo poco, ma che sembra essere il diavolo in persona; Gabriella, una giornalista; Alice, una ragazza dal passato difficile. La storia inizia quando il Senato è in procinto di approvare una legge sulla parità tra umani e vampiri e Demetrius si ritrova a dover indagare su un omicidio, convinto che i due eventi siano collegati.
Questo libro mi ha preso dalla prima pagina, grazie a una posta in gioco sempre molto alta, a un ritmo incalzante e ai personaggi ai quali è impossibile non affezionarsi. I capitoli sono molto brevi (siano lodati i capitoli brevi!) e finiscono sul più bello, invogliandomi ad andare continuamente avanti. La trama non dà un attimo di tregua e i colpi di scena si susseguono uno dopo l'altro. La storia parte come un murder mystery, ma evolve molto presto in una serie di intrighi politici e interessi personali dei personaggi. Questo ritmo è reso ancora più incalzante dal multi-POV, che ci permette di cambiare prospettiva ogni capitolo, dando così tanta dinamicità alla narrazione.
I personaggi mi sono entrati nel cuore. Li ho trovati ben delineati, ognuno con una voce distinta, e vorrei sapere TUTTO su di loro, anche se non posso negare di avere un debole per Hades e Demetrius. Nella prima parte ci sono più capitoli dal punto di vista di Demetrius, mentre nella seconda parte trovano più spazio i personaggi femminili come Gabriella e Alice. Se Hades è un personaggio misterioso con una sua agenda, Demetrius non è il tipico vampiro alfa, bensì una creatura sensibile e tenera. Molto interessante è stato anche lo sviluppo di Gabriella, con i suoi capitoli ricchi di dubbi e ansie.
Quando ho girato l'ultima pagina, il libro mi ha lasciato con un sacco di domande in testa che spero trovino una spiegazione nel prossimo libro. Avrei però preferito che l'autrice si soffermasse un po' di più su alcuni punti dell'arco narrativo di questo libro, approfondendo l'antagonista e le sue motivazioni.
Ho apprezzato molto lo stile vivido ed efficace, a tratti grafico. L'ambientazione è molto curata nei minimi dettagli, come l'abbigliamento, l'arredamento, la musica e le macchine, e l'autrice è riuscita a farmi piacere anche un'era che non è tra le mie preferite.
Questo esordio si è rivelato solido e un ottimo mix di elementi presi da diversi generi, come l'urban fantasy, il thriller e elementi dark, che ha funzionato molto bene. L'ho adorato, mi ha dato quello che cercavo da un urban fantasy e ora non vedo l'ora di leggere il seguito! Consigliato a chi cerca atmosfere gotiche, intrighi politici e ama domandarsi continuamente di chi potersi fidare mentre legge.
4.25 stelle.
Disponibile su Amazon
Huge thanks to Digital Vintage Editions for allowing me to read an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This novel is set in an alternate Europe where supernatural creatures, political turmoil and crime are the background. Set in a city that resembles 1920s London, the story follows a diverse cast of characters: Demetrius, a vampire lawyer working for the United Nations Alliance; Hades Cronus, a gangster but also a supernatural being about whom we know little but who seems to be the devil himself; Gabriella, a journalist; Alice, a girl with a troubled past. The story begins when the Senate is about to pass a law on the equality of humans and vampires, and Demetrius finds himself investigating a murder, convinced that the two events are connected.
This book grabbed me from the first page, thanks to consistently high stakes, a fast pace and characters you can't help but root for. The chapters are very short (praise the short chapters!) and end on a high note, keeping me wanting to read more. The plot never slows down and the twists and turns keep coming. The story begins as a murder mystery, but very soon becomes a series of political intrigues and personal interests of the characters. This pace becomes even more engaging by the multi-POV, which allows us to change perspectives.
The characters stole my heart. I found them well-drawn, each with a distinct voice, and I wanted to know EVERYTHING about them, although I cannot deny that I have a soft spot for Hades and Demetrius. In the first part there are more chapters from Demetrius' point of view, while in the second part there is more space for female characters like Gabriella and Alice. If Hades is a mysterious character with his own agenda, Demetrius is not the typical alpha vampire, but a sensitive and kind being. Also very interesting was the development of Gabriella, with her chapters full of doubts and fears.
When I turned the last page, the book left me with a lot of questions, which hopefully will find an explanation in the next book. However, I would have liked the author to elaborate a bit more on certain parts of the narrative arc of this book and to explore the antagonist and her motivations more deeply.
I really appreciated the vivid and effective, sometimes graphic, style. The setting is very detailed, such as the clothes, the furniture, the music and the cars, and the author managed to make me like an era that is not one of my favourites.
This debut turned out to be solid and a great mix of elements from different genres, such as urban fantasy, thriller and dark elements, which worked very well. I loved it, it gave me what I was looking for in an urban fantasy and now I can't wait to read the sequel! Recommended for those who like gothic atmospheres, political intrigue and want to keep wondering who they can trust.
Available on Amazon UK
October 22, 2024
I'm OBSESSED. Cannot recommend this enough. This has been compared to some of my absolute favorite books, including: Tempest of Tea, Six of Crows, The Night Circus, The Gilded Wolves, Dance of Thieves, and the BBC series Peaky Blinders. This story is an ambitious ensemble story with a rich setting and a cast of complex characters. If you're into intricate world-building and complex relationships, this one delivers handily.
This is a gaslamp fantasy that blends political intrigue, vampires, and a gritty underworld. After a former bloody (pun intended) conflict, vampires are pushing for civil rights. When a dangerous murderer begins to stalk the streets, it threatens the bill that would provide them additional rights since the victims are left with presumed vampire bites. Demetrius Raske, a vampire lawyer and the son of a politician is at the center of it all, navigating both the city’s cutthroat Senate and its criminal underbelly.
The stakes feel real, especially with the looming threat of violence if Senator Raske's bill for vampire equality fails. Then you add in the mysterious Hades—a gangster with secrets plenty and a mysterious dark power—and things start to get even more interesting. The alliances, betrayals, and shaky deals struck along the way had me questioning everyone's motives.
The chemistry between the characters is so good. There are two romantic threads: Gabriella, the socialite journalist, finds herself drawn into a deadly dance with the morally dark gangster, while Demetrius is entangled with a human assassin who holds his heart. The Hades and Persephone vibe between Gabriella and Hades had me hooked. I loved how the romance wasn't just shoehorned in, but carefully woven into the plot, making it feel natural and vital to the story's emotional core.
The world-building, while dense at first, was incredibly rewarding once I got into the groove of it. Hobbs immerses you in a city teetering on the edge of chaos, with its gangsters, vampires, and politicians all angling for power. The depth of the political machinations and the intertwining fates of the characters created a truly gripping story.
Overall, Scythe and Pen is a dark, atmospheric fantasy with a perfect balance of romance, intrigue, and action. It’s the kind of book that pulls you into its world and leaves you wanting more of its complex characters and their relationships. If you’re a fan of gaslamp fantasy or enjoy stories that make you question every character’s true intentions, you’ll love this. I sure did.
Thanks SO much to BOMM and the author for the complimentary copy and the opportunity to read and review. This review is voluntary and all opinions are my own.
This is a gaslamp fantasy that blends political intrigue, vampires, and a gritty underworld. After a former bloody (pun intended) conflict, vampires are pushing for civil rights. When a dangerous murderer begins to stalk the streets, it threatens the bill that would provide them additional rights since the victims are left with presumed vampire bites. Demetrius Raske, a vampire lawyer and the son of a politician is at the center of it all, navigating both the city’s cutthroat Senate and its criminal underbelly.
The stakes feel real, especially with the looming threat of violence if Senator Raske's bill for vampire equality fails. Then you add in the mysterious Hades—a gangster with secrets plenty and a mysterious dark power—and things start to get even more interesting. The alliances, betrayals, and shaky deals struck along the way had me questioning everyone's motives.
The chemistry between the characters is so good. There are two romantic threads: Gabriella, the socialite journalist, finds herself drawn into a deadly dance with the morally dark gangster, while Demetrius is entangled with a human assassin who holds his heart. The Hades and Persephone vibe between Gabriella and Hades had me hooked. I loved how the romance wasn't just shoehorned in, but carefully woven into the plot, making it feel natural and vital to the story's emotional core.
The world-building, while dense at first, was incredibly rewarding once I got into the groove of it. Hobbs immerses you in a city teetering on the edge of chaos, with its gangsters, vampires, and politicians all angling for power. The depth of the political machinations and the intertwining fates of the characters created a truly gripping story.
Overall, Scythe and Pen is a dark, atmospheric fantasy with a perfect balance of romance, intrigue, and action. It’s the kind of book that pulls you into its world and leaves you wanting more of its complex characters and their relationships. If you’re a fan of gaslamp fantasy or enjoy stories that make you question every character’s true intentions, you’ll love this. I sure did.
Thanks SO much to BOMM and the author for the complimentary copy and the opportunity to read and review. This review is voluntary and all opinions are my own.
May 30, 2024
dnf @ 67%
the author is a zionist and trump supporter. her twitter likes... yikes. the direction the author was taking with the characters and the story was not personally appealing to me anyway!
the author is a zionist and trump supporter. her twitter likes... yikes. the direction the author was taking with the characters and the story was not personally appealing to me anyway!
March 19, 2025
3,5/4 stelline luminose per questa storia un po’ fantasy un po’ hard-boiled che è persino riuscita a farmi superare il mio fastidio verso i retelling con Ade.
Inizio interessante per una serie che promette molto bene, personaggi ben delineati e ritmi intensi.
Inizio interessante per una serie che promette molto bene, personaggi ben delineati e ritmi intensi.
November 6, 2024
4 stars, 7.00 on CAWPILE
Not my usual flavor of fantasy but definitely a solid one. Can definitely feel and appreciate those peaky blinders feels. I am enjoy this refreshing take on vampires too! Grimdark, gritty, mobster vibes!
Not my usual flavor of fantasy but definitely a solid one. Can definitely feel and appreciate those peaky blinders feels. I am enjoy this refreshing take on vampires too! Grimdark, gritty, mobster vibes!
May 9, 2024
This is the diamond that no one is talking about. I'm calling all readers who love adult fantasy, Dracula vibes, gangster nostalgia, gritty atmosphere and violence, dry humor, political intrigue, and some magic to READ IT! you're welcome.
April 22, 2024
THIS. FREAKING. BOOK.
This book was brilliant & from page one it had me HOOKED! All the Hades & persephone lore is there but with such a wonderful twist I lives for all the bits n pieces Hobbs weaved into her dark n gritty world but I also loved all the vampire lore as well!
This was such an original, deeply researched but also super fun? debut that had me SWOONING for the villain! (Very typical of me🫠)
Each chapter held new twists & mic drops that sometimes had my hands SHAKING with anticipation! I couldn’t stop thinking about this book day n night & I don’t think I’ll be able to stop thinking about it for a while!
If you enjoy dark, gritty books with paranormal twists, crime ridden cities and slow burn romances? HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
This book was brilliant & from page one it had me HOOKED! All the Hades & persephone lore is there but with such a wonderful twist I lives for all the bits n pieces Hobbs weaved into her dark n gritty world but I also loved all the vampire lore as well!
This was such an original, deeply researched but also super fun? debut that had me SWOONING for the villain! (Very typical of me🫠)
Each chapter held new twists & mic drops that sometimes had my hands SHAKING with anticipation! I couldn’t stop thinking about this book day n night & I don’t think I’ll be able to stop thinking about it for a while!
If you enjoy dark, gritty books with paranormal twists, crime ridden cities and slow burn romances? HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
March 19, 2024
We love a character driven gangster fantasy novel written by a local Greenville author!
A really impressive debut novel by author AC Hobbes. The strength of this story is in the main cast of characters. I wanted more time with all of them. I would love for book 2 to give us a bit more history of the world and explanation of the magic/fantasy elements but I trust all will be revealed as the story continues. Overall, I had a great time with this book and would recommend it to anyone with an affinity for mobsters and monsters
A really impressive debut novel by author AC Hobbes. The strength of this story is in the main cast of characters. I wanted more time with all of them. I would love for book 2 to give us a bit more history of the world and explanation of the magic/fantasy elements but I trust all will be revealed as the story continues. Overall, I had a great time with this book and would recommend it to anyone with an affinity for mobsters and monsters
March 18, 2025
This book is an absolutely incredible start to a series I can't wait to get more of! It's very unique and not like any other fantasy I've ever read. If you love vampires and dark gritty stories then this is for you!
The plot is twisty and materializes at a great pace. You spend the opening scenes getting to know these charatcers, and even after many chapters you're still left in suspense, wondering at their motives. The political intrigue is also done very well and feels believable to the real world while still written for a fantasy setting.
Content warnings: this book contains foul language, graphic depictions of violence, and mature content. No sexually explicit scenes but there is innuendo peppered throughout. This definitely an adult book.
The plot is twisty and materializes at a great pace. You spend the opening scenes getting to know these charatcers, and even after many chapters you're still left in suspense, wondering at their motives. The political intrigue is also done very well and feels believable to the real world while still written for a fantasy setting.
Content warnings: this book contains foul language, graphic depictions of violence, and mature content. No sexually explicit scenes but there is innuendo peppered throughout. This definitely an adult book.
August 4, 2025
I found this book as I was crawling my way out of a months-long reading slump, and it turned out to be exactly what I needed! Hobbs excels at writing descriptions that paint a vivid atmosphere and ambience, allowing for a wonderfully immersive reading experience.
Hades and Demetrius are both compelling male characters, while the female characters are strong and hold their own. There is grit and gore in the book, but nothing ever feels gratuitous. The dialogue is also crafted in a way that feels cinematic. I have so many highlights and tabbed pages in my copy!
There were a few parts where the political/logistical discourse lost my attention a bit—particularly in the middle of the book—but it always pulled me back because every scene with Hades is a page-turner.
Overall a brilliant, fresh story, and I can’t wait to read more books by this author!
Hades and Demetrius are both compelling male characters, while the female characters are strong and hold their own. There is grit and gore in the book, but nothing ever feels gratuitous. The dialogue is also crafted in a way that feels cinematic. I have so many highlights and tabbed pages in my copy!
There were a few parts where the political/logistical discourse lost my attention a bit—particularly in the middle of the book—but it always pulled me back because every scene with Hades is a page-turner.
Overall a brilliant, fresh story, and I can’t wait to read more books by this author!
September 12, 2024
Scythe and Pen by A.C. Hobbs
Gritty 1920s with gangsters AND vampires.
From the glittering halls of politicians to the slums so dark even law enforcement doesn’t visit, we see it all.
Political upheaval is in full force with a new bill being introduced protecting vampires. A full cast of characters propels this story forward. They each have something to gain and some might lose it all. Their storylines are woven together so beautifully. It’s truly a work of art.
The mystery, the intrigue, the WRITING.
Content: violence, death(including that of a child), brothels, definitely darker than my usual recommendation
Gritty 1920s with gangsters AND vampires.
From the glittering halls of politicians to the slums so dark even law enforcement doesn’t visit, we see it all.
Political upheaval is in full force with a new bill being introduced protecting vampires. A full cast of characters propels this story forward. They each have something to gain and some might lose it all. Their storylines are woven together so beautifully. It’s truly a work of art.
The mystery, the intrigue, the WRITING.
Content: violence, death(including that of a child), brothels, definitely darker than my usual recommendation
October 31, 2024
4-4.5?
The plot was fantastic, the way Hobbs brings the city to life with descriptive writing was captivating. It took me a while to figure out and keep straight all the characters names and boroughs of the city. The final 40% of the book was crazy, plot thickening and priming the reader for the next book.
Content: frequent strong language, murder/kidnapping of children, on page death, fade to black,
The plot was fantastic, the way Hobbs brings the city to life with descriptive writing was captivating. It took me a while to figure out and keep straight all the characters names and boroughs of the city. The final 40% of the book was crazy, plot thickening and priming the reader for the next book.
Content: frequent strong language, murder/kidnapping of children, on page death, fade to black,
Read
July 13, 2024This book is like Peaky Blinders in book form but with vampires and someone that’s much more. The writing is exquisite, and has made me want to become a better writer.
The plot was so twisty I actually had a bit of trouble following it but ultimately by the end I was excited for the next book!
Congrats A.C.! What an achievement.
The plot was so twisty I actually had a bit of trouble following it but ultimately by the end I was excited for the next book!
Congrats A.C.! What an achievement.
November 22, 2024
Holy freaking moly, y’all. This book does not quit. It has all gangster vibes of Goodfellas within a murder mystery in a world set in the 1920s that has vampires and magic. The writing is beautiful. The plot has you on the edge of your seat at all times - what happens next? Who did it? What insane twist is going to make me gasp again?? I seriously enjoyed all the twists and turns.
The story takes place in the Capital of the United League of Nations. Demetrius Raske, a vampire, fights with his senator father for equality for vampires. A string of murders (where the bodies are drained of all blood) forces Demetrius to hunt for the culprit. He can’t let the bill fail. He works with a not-so-savory character named Hades. Hades works in the Black Tower with the highest security clearance. Not many people know what his job is or what he’s capable of. His eyes are red. He’s clearly a gangster. Gabriella Rose, the daughter of the senator that backs the vampire rights bill, is a journalist. She falls into the murderers path and stirs up controversy in the Senate with a very inflammatory column in the local news. But who is responsible for the murders? Can anyone be trusted?
The full cast of characters is complex and nuanced. Hades is one of my absolute favorite characters this year. Is he good? Is he an absolute villain? Is he tragic - forced to play the villain? You have to read it to find out.
AND THAT ENDING!! Seriously, if you trust any of my recommendations, trust this one.
Thank you Books of Matches Media and A. C. Hobbs for the review copy. All opinions are my own.
The story takes place in the Capital of the United League of Nations. Demetrius Raske, a vampire, fights with his senator father for equality for vampires. A string of murders (where the bodies are drained of all blood) forces Demetrius to hunt for the culprit. He can’t let the bill fail. He works with a not-so-savory character named Hades. Hades works in the Black Tower with the highest security clearance. Not many people know what his job is or what he’s capable of. His eyes are red. He’s clearly a gangster. Gabriella Rose, the daughter of the senator that backs the vampire rights bill, is a journalist. She falls into the murderers path and stirs up controversy in the Senate with a very inflammatory column in the local news. But who is responsible for the murders? Can anyone be trusted?
The full cast of characters is complex and nuanced. Hades is one of my absolute favorite characters this year. Is he good? Is he an absolute villain? Is he tragic - forced to play the villain? You have to read it to find out.
AND THAT ENDING!! Seriously, if you trust any of my recommendations, trust this one.
Thank you Books of Matches Media and A. C. Hobbs for the review copy. All opinions are my own.
November 14, 2024
“𝒯𝒽𝒶𝓉 𝒾𝓉 𝓌𝒶𝓈 𝓁𝑒𝒹 𝒷𝓎 𝒶 𝓂𝒶𝓃 𝓈𝑜 𝑒𝓋𝒾𝓁 𝐻𝑒𝓁𝓁 𝒾𝓉𝓈𝑒𝓁𝒻 𝒽𝒶𝒹 𝒹𝑒𝓃𝒾𝑒𝒹 𝒽𝒾𝓂 𝑒𝓃𝓉𝓇𝒶𝓃𝒸𝑒. 𝒯𝒽𝒶𝓉, 𝒸𝑜𝓃𝓋𝑒𝓇𝓈𝑒𝓁𝓎, 𝒾𝓉 𝓌𝒶𝓈 𝓁𝑒𝒹 𝒷𝓎 𝓉𝒽𝑒 𝒟𝑒𝓋𝒾𝓁 𝒽𝒾𝓂𝓈𝑒𝓁𝒻.”
✨⭐️✨
This dark fantasy is inspired by Peaky Blinders— mixing British gangsters and vampires in a thrilling mystery set in the Gatsby jazz age. It has multi POV, gothic atmosphere, vampires, werewolf, assassins, gangsters, monsters, magic, politics, heists, life-debt, gore and murder.
Demetrius is a vampire prince with golden retriever vibes, a noble cause and a secret assassin lover, the Gun—Alice.
He’s partnered up with Hades— a mob lord version of the greek god, with swag and a secret.
They have a enemies to brothers dynamic and their hands full with solving this mystery. Then the nosey journalist, Gabriella, gets involved, makes things more complicated and brings a glimmer of some possible romance on the horizon.
I dove into this book not knowing what to expect and was so surprised at how much I loved it. This world makes me want to sip whiskey in a leather chair in a moody low lit room awaiting a handsomely dressed gangster to join me. Can’t wait for more!
“𝐸𝓋𝑒𝓃 𝒷𝒶𝒹 𝓂𝑒𝓃 𝒻𝒾𝑔𝒽𝓉 𝓂𝑜𝓃𝓈𝓉𝑒𝓇𝓈.”
✨⭐️✨
This dark fantasy is inspired by Peaky Blinders— mixing British gangsters and vampires in a thrilling mystery set in the Gatsby jazz age. It has multi POV, gothic atmosphere, vampires, werewolf, assassins, gangsters, monsters, magic, politics, heists, life-debt, gore and murder.
Demetrius is a vampire prince with golden retriever vibes, a noble cause and a secret assassin lover, the Gun—Alice.
He’s partnered up with Hades— a mob lord version of the greek god, with swag and a secret.
They have a enemies to brothers dynamic and their hands full with solving this mystery. Then the nosey journalist, Gabriella, gets involved, makes things more complicated and brings a glimmer of some possible romance on the horizon.
I dove into this book not knowing what to expect and was so surprised at how much I loved it. This world makes me want to sip whiskey in a leather chair in a moody low lit room awaiting a handsomely dressed gangster to join me. Can’t wait for more!
“𝐸𝓋𝑒𝓃 𝒷𝒶𝒹 𝓂𝑒𝓃 𝒻𝒾𝑔𝒽𝓉 𝓂𝑜𝓃𝓈𝓉𝑒𝓇𝓈.”
February 18, 2024
I haven't read anything in this genre in a long time so I wasn't sure if it would interest me. I'm so glad I gave it a shot! Scythe and Pen is the perfect blend of Peaky Blinders meets The Blacklist for me.
The book description is right: This is a twisted, dark story. The language from the characters is sometimes coarse, but it wasn't too much for me as it always fit the situation or personality of the character speaking.
A.C.Hobbs has the ability to suck you into the tale and keep you there. While reading Scythe and Pen, I would find myself losing track of time. The short chapters encouraged me to read "just one more." When I couldn't read it, I was thinking about what would happen next.
As the story progressed, the characters became more complex and fascinating.
I think I wanted to be like every single one of the female characters at some point! Small and deadly like Alice, elegant and intelligent like Gabrielle, or confident and organized like Harriet?
I still can't decide who to trust. Hades seems to have some moral code he lives by, which makes him intriguing. Xavier may be telling the truth, but comes across as pure evil. Can Demetrius actually trust his gut? So many questions...I'm hooked!
Overall, I highly recommend Scythe and Pen! When is book 2?!
P.S. I'd love a safe house in rural Scotland. Putting that on my Christmas list 😆
The book description is right: This is a twisted, dark story. The language from the characters is sometimes coarse, but it wasn't too much for me as it always fit the situation or personality of the character speaking.
A.C.Hobbs has the ability to suck you into the tale and keep you there. While reading Scythe and Pen, I would find myself losing track of time. The short chapters encouraged me to read "just one more." When I couldn't read it, I was thinking about what would happen next.
As the story progressed, the characters became more complex and fascinating.
I think I wanted to be like every single one of the female characters at some point! Small and deadly like Alice, elegant and intelligent like Gabrielle, or confident and organized like Harriet?
I still can't decide who to trust. Hades seems to have some moral code he lives by, which makes him intriguing. Xavier may be telling the truth, but comes across as pure evil. Can Demetrius actually trust his gut? So many questions...I'm hooked!
Overall, I highly recommend Scythe and Pen! When is book 2?!
P.S. I'd love a safe house in rural Scotland. Putting that on my Christmas list 😆
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 30, 2024
This dark fantasy with a cat and mouse chase with a vampire killer had me in a chokehold. The gothic noir atmosphere was delectable. The prose was mysterious and revealed details in an artful manner that completely captivated me. The twists and turns were thrilling and kept me guessing at everyone’s motives.
Hades is morally grey with mafia boss vibes but with a heart of gold deep inside. I absolutely loved his character and his dedication to his friendship to Demetrius. His mysterious origins and methods kept me flipping the pages. Demetrius as the son of the vampire senator is trying his best to stay afloat while things keep crumbling around him. Him and Alice were such an unexpected but pleasant surprise! I adored her.
But Gabriella has biggest character arc and I loved seeing her becoming a fierce survivor who won’t be deterred on her path to vengeance. I am so excited to see more of her journey and her relationship with Hades evolve. I loved his fierce protectiveness of her.
This gothic vampire fantasy with a focus on political intrigue and the criminal underbelly was a riveting read. And there were just enough hints of romance to keep me satisfied.
Thanks to the author for the review copy. Thoughts are my own.
Hades is morally grey with mafia boss vibes but with a heart of gold deep inside. I absolutely loved his character and his dedication to his friendship to Demetrius. His mysterious origins and methods kept me flipping the pages. Demetrius as the son of the vampire senator is trying his best to stay afloat while things keep crumbling around him. Him and Alice were such an unexpected but pleasant surprise! I adored her.
But Gabriella has biggest character arc and I loved seeing her becoming a fierce survivor who won’t be deterred on her path to vengeance. I am so excited to see more of her journey and her relationship with Hades evolve. I loved his fierce protectiveness of her.
This gothic vampire fantasy with a focus on political intrigue and the criminal underbelly was a riveting read. And there were just enough hints of romance to keep me satisfied.
Thanks to the author for the review copy. Thoughts are my own.
June 11, 2024
A historical fantasy set in the 1920’s? Sign me up! Throw in a nod to Hades and Persephone, vampires with a werewolf sighting, and some unknown magic, and what you get is the best kind of mash up.
This is a dark, gritty fantasy. While there is some of the glamour we associate with the roaring 20’s, it focuses more on the seedy, underbelly of the society. There’s a mystery that had me turning the pages, and characters that I wanted to learn more about. The chapters are short. There’s plenty of action, and the pacing was brisk.
There is a bit of romance. It’s quite brief, and I can see even more coming. I loved what I got, but I won’t be sad if the next book has more. I’ve got some couple goals. I need to see if they work out.
I was left with more questions than answers and a huge need for the next book.
This book contains strong profanity and implied intimacy.
This is a dark, gritty fantasy. While there is some of the glamour we associate with the roaring 20’s, it focuses more on the seedy, underbelly of the society. There’s a mystery that had me turning the pages, and characters that I wanted to learn more about. The chapters are short. There’s plenty of action, and the pacing was brisk.
There is a bit of romance. It’s quite brief, and I can see even more coming. I loved what I got, but I won’t be sad if the next book has more. I’ve got some couple goals. I need to see if they work out.
I was left with more questions than answers and a huge need for the next book.
This book contains strong profanity and implied intimacy.
February 19, 2025
In a fictional city in the 1920s, a mysterious mob boss and his well connected but reluctant protege attempt to solve a string of murders that are either exactly what they seem or something much worse. Political scheming, really cool magic, and monsters, OH MY. This is a high stakes, rip roaring, dramatic vampire gangster mystery that lit up my frontal cortex like Christmas.
May 7, 2024
I loved the world crafted here! Cover is gorgeous! Really unique anti-hero! Intriguing political setting!
My only complaints were the "head-hopping" of POVs and that it was a bit slow to start. It took me til the 2nd half to really get into the story.
My only complaints were the "head-hopping" of POVs and that it was a bit slow to start. It took me til the 2nd half to really get into the story.
October 22, 2024
Vampires are not typically my thing, but this was totally my thing! This read like a gritty historical fiction with a fantasy/magical flare. Hades is a fantastically layered, morally grey MC and I can’t wait to see where this series goes.
April 20, 2024
I loved how fast paced this book was. Not my usual genre, but I thoroughly enjoyed the plot and the promise of a sequel. The characters are well thought out and always left me wanting more. I loved that there was an existing, grounded couple and the hint at a slow burn future couple. As a SAHM who gets easily distracted, I appreciated the short chapters that packed a wallop. Hobbs is a fantastic writer and I can’t wait to read her future masterpieces!
January 20, 2024
This book was a change from my usual reads and different than what I was expecting but I enjoyed it! I’m hopeful this becomes a part of a series or there is at least a sequel!
If you like crime, mystery, supernatural, and historical vibes this is a read for you!
If you like crime, mystery, supernatural, and historical vibes this is a read for you!
January 9, 2024
Scythe & Pen is breathtaking. It is darling and fierce with a dark, twisted core. I loved the violence and messiness of the story and how it also incorporated a crisp, funny element. The characters captured me with their diverse relationships and personalities. The romance was unexpected but beautiful. I loved how gritty the world and characters were and how it incorporated gangsters, romance, intrigue, monsters, and Greek mythology references. The vibes matched those of Six of Crows and The Gilded Wolves. I need the sequel NOW. This Hades X Persephone retelling with Jazz Age glamour is not to be missed!
Tropes:
• Slow burn romance
• Intrigue
• Enemies-to-lovers
• Magical Weapons
• Greek mythology retelling
• Heists
• Gangsters and assassins
Romance level: ❤️❤️/5
Tropes:
• Slow burn romance
• Intrigue
• Enemies-to-lovers
• Magical Weapons
• Greek mythology retelling
• Heists
• Gangsters and assassins
Romance level: ❤️❤️/5
Displaying 1 - 30 of 102 reviews