When Demons threaten Regency London, only a Lady can stop them.Lillian Dellacourt is beautiful, refined and absolutely lethal. She’s also the most feared and merciless demon hunter in The Company. She’s come a long way from the penniless seamstress’s daughter sold to the highest bidder, and it wasn’t by trusting a man, let alone an exiled Marquis with more on his mind than slaying the hellspawn . . .
For Dorian Lambert, Marquis de Montalembert, being sent to keep track of Lillian is no mean task. He’s wanted the fiery vixen since he first heard of her five years ago. But wooing the lady while fighting the demon uprising is no easy feat, especially when the lady’s tongue is as sharp as the Japanese sai blades she favors for eviscerating the spawn of hell.
These two will have to learn to trust each other fast, because the demon master is back, and he’s planning to turn Edinburgh into a living hell…
A.S. Fenichel (Andie Fenichel) gave up a successful IT career in New York City to pursue her lifelong dream of being a professional writer. She's never looked back.
Andrea adores writing stories filled with love, passion, desire, magic and maybe a little mayhem tossed in for good measure. Books have always been her perfect escape and she still relishes diving into one and staying up all night to finish a good story.
She is currently writing Regency romance for Kensington Publishing and you can learn more about Andrea's books at http://asfenichel.com or visit her on her Facebook page, where she spends entirely too much time. https://www.facebook.com/A.S.Fenichel.
Originally from New York, she grew up in New Jersey, and now lives in Missouri with her real life hero, her wonderful husband and a fussy cat . When not reading or writing she enjoys cooking, travel, history, and puttering in her garden.
The most lethal and merciless demon hunter, Lillian Dellacourt is about to face her biggest challenge of all, because all hell is about to break loose and she just might be the only thing standing between us and them.
Dorian Lambert was sent to keep his eye on Lillian but quickly finds himself neck deep in demons.
The attraction is electrifying, the action is non-stop and the suspense will have you biting your nails. Fenichel perfectly combines just the right amount of historical, romance and paranormal making for a marvelously enchanting but also a dark and demon infested read.
I received this ARC copy of Deception from Kensington Books - Lyrical Press in exchange for a honest review. This book is set for publication July 7, 2015.
I am really loving this series. I have had book one, Ascension, on my TBR list and when I saw this one up for review on NetGalley I grabbed it and read them both back to back. I love the Regency setting in a fantasy/paranormal type story; like a Regency Urban Fantasy. It was done well not flawlessly but I liked how Fenichel worked it. Ascension was a great first book a great introduction. Deception was really good as well Lillian is absolutely awesome. When I get around to making my Steampunk costume I am making it with a skirt like hers.
Lillian Dellacourt is the best demon hunter The Company has and with the Demon Master closer than ever to entering our world. With a new partner in tow Lilly must find a way to stop it from happening and find the leak somewhere in their organization. Dorian Lambert has always acted as the right hand man to Drake Cullum, the man in charge of The Company, and now he finds himself partnered up with the woman he has been in love with since she became a hunter.
Lillian is out to find what dark secrets hide behind the Earl of Shafton and Dorian was sent to keep an eye on her. Together they unravel the bumpy history of the Company and find out where the Demon Master is trying to come through next all while trying not to fall into each others arms. Lillian keeps pushing Dorian away because his French title, one he refuses to use; and Dorian keeps trying to tell her it doesn't matter he would love her no matter what.
Overall, while I do love the books the one thing that bugged me is that it is the same as the first, the bare bones of the book are the same. Boy and Girl are in love, girl pushes boy away, boy finds out girl's secret, they make love, and a family member kidnapped. Yeah a lot of books have the same trope and other similar things but in a series with them so close it's noticeable. Other than that I look forward to more in the series.
Another great regency romp by Fenichel. Hot and steamy with loads of nail biting action, just the way I like it! Loved the interplay between the two MCs and watching Lillian give in to her true heart's desire was such fun.
Urban fantasy and historical romance are not two genres that can be easily combined. Unfortunately, in this case this match didn't work out as well as it could have been. I feel that this book would have been great if it was set in 2015 and not some time in the past. Honestly, I like my historical romance a little (or a lot) more history. I wouldn't have accepted the invitation to read and review this book if I knew that it had demons in it.
I started this book to get my HR fix and now I feel more desperate than ever. I had a feeling that things were happening in a more modern era and I would have forgotten the whole It's supposed to be historical, but my brain kept screaming where is a little sense of modesty, a chaperone or something forbidden. The final nail in the coffin came when Lillian says that she slept with Reece (not much sleeping was included) to ease the tension between them. Later in the book some of her background is revealed, but I still cannot get over it.
Mixing and matching genres is a tricky business and A.S. Fenichel did so like a pro in her novel Deception! The second book in her Demon Hunters series Regency England / Scotland meets the paranormal and are joined together by sizzling romance. Ms. Fenichel finds a way to put the actions of a modern woman in a period piece and carry it off! A great hero and interesting secondary cast complete this work. This was an enjoyable, fast moving adventure that kept me glued to my seat and the story! *I received this ARC via Netgalley* *While part of a series this book can be read as a stand alone.*
“Deception” is the second one in the Demon Hunters series and focuses on Lillian and Dorian.
The story starts a bit slower than the previous book because initially, it focuses only on Dorian and Lillian spending time together. However, I felt the story picked up once Mrs. Higginbotham, the witch, came into the picture. I found her fascinating and wanted to know how she would create an impact.
Similar to the previous novel, the author writes the romance between the leads very nicely. I enjoyed the moments when Dorian and Lillian are in the pond, and she reveals her past to him about her mother. Some of the moments are also very steamy. It was also lovely seeing some of the characters appear from the previous story, like Brice and Belinda.
But it’s not just romance. The author also balanced the story with an intriguing plot about the demons overtaking. There are parts where Dorian and Lillian talk only about how to find the gate to the master’s lair. It was also interesting to see their dynamic once Drake came into the picture and worked with Lillian. The author adds a few action moments, like when Dorian fights the hostage. However, one of my favorite moments was when Lillian received information from Jacinda and made the story thrilling. The author ends the story with an exciting and satisfying climax.
However, I feel like Lillian’s personality changed from the previous novel. In the first book, she comes across as a no-nonsense, tough woman. While she still shows all those traits, I felt the author made her too vulnerable and changed her personality to a more romantic tone.
Nevertheless, “Deception” is a lovely continuation of “Ascension,” and I look forward to reading the next book.
Deception The Demmon Hunters #2 A.S. Fenichel ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Lillian Dellacourt is beautiful, refined, and not the type of person one would dare mess with. She is the most feared and unforgiving demon hunter in The Company. She has come so far since the day her Mother quite litterly sold her to the highest bidder. She didn't get this far by trusting men, let alone an exiled Marquis that had more on his mind then slaying beasts from the underworld.
For Dorian Lambert the Marquis de Montalembert getting tasked with keeping track of the angry Lillian is not a bother at all. He's been wanting the fiery demon hunter since he first heard of her from his brother five years ago. But wooing this tough lady while fighting the demon uprising is no easy feat. Lillian has a way with words that makes her tounge as lethal as her sharp Japanese sai blades that she favors. Now they must learn to trust each other in record time, because the master is back, and he has plans to turn Edinburgh into a living hell.
Will Lillian and Dorian be able to trust each other enough to vanquish the master? Or will they just become casualties of a war that people don't even know exists?
A.S. Fenichel is incredible. The Demon hunter books just keep getting better and better. I was succked into the book from the get go and didn't breath until it was done. There was non stop action and you just never knew what could happen next. This is Lilly's story and it didn't disapoint. Lillian is one tough cookie and does not shy away from any fight no matter how dangerous it is. She has Japanese sai swords and she uses them as if they were an extention of herself. She carries many weapons however her swords are her favorite weapon of choice. Dorian is feircely loyal to the company and to those he loves. He is strong and doesn't shy away from a fight even though he didn't normally do the actual hunting of the demons. He sets out to show her that social classes mean nothing to him and that he loves her for who she is. This was an amazing book and I can't wait to dive into the last book in the series. Ms. Fenichel you have outdone yourself and this is one heck of a read.
I really like Lilly and Dorian. Lilly is so strong and can take care of herself. No one has been there for her for most of her life except the Company. Dorian is supposed to keep an eye on her, but that is easier said than done. Dorian has been half in love with Lilly since he first heard about her. But being in her company and hunting demons with her has only cemented the fact that he is falling in love with her. He isn't sure she will ever feel the same for him. Life is short and he wants to spend what time he has with her. She is afraid to trust anyone, but there is something about Dorian. Can she learn to trust him?
If my husband had read this before me he would've said, "This book is right up your alley, babe. It's got everything you love in action movies: ass-kicking, guts flying, death. You'll love it!"
Lillian is an amazing hunter. Fearless, loyal, deadly. She wields her blades with devastation and shows why is to be feared by those she hunts. But she also tends to just jump into situations instead of thinking them through. Not a bad thing, I think, as she seems to do her best thinking under pressure. But that kind of thinking doesn't work for Dorian. He prefers to think things through before acting, such as his pursuit of Lillian.
To be honest, I wasn't sure if he was a good match for Lillian. Part of that was uncertainty was their differences in battle approach (a minor thing that was easy to put aside), another was Lillian's reluctance to see herself as he saw her. He didn't see the lovers she'd had before him, didn't see the past that left her wary of trusting men. He saw her as his equal, a woman he'd give his life for, a woman he trusted to protect his life just as he would hers. Despite the kick-ass pace of the story, there was this deliciously slow pace for love to grow from the attraction simmering between them.
It isn't often I read historical romances with a paranormal twist. I think the last one I read was a few years ago that involved a Lycan and an unsuspecting governess. And just like it did that book, the paranormal aspect enhanced what I love about historical romances and allowed some freedom from the era's austerity.
Why I haven't read anything before by Ms. Fenichel I don't know, but this won't be the last book I read by her. Great characters, terrific descriptions, and action. For me, that makes for one hell of an author to follow.
4.5* (Received from NetGalley via Tasty Book Tours for an honest review)
I received this book free from Net Galley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
This is an interesting book because it is the mixture of two genres: paranormal and Regency Historical. Since I am usually not a paranormal lover ( I only read a few authors) and I have just started reading historicals, I had some qualms about this book.
However, when I met Lillian Dellacourt I knew this book was going to be good. Lillian seems very modern in her ways even though this books is a Regency. Even though I saw a lot of complaints about this from many reviewers, I liked this. One of the reasons I quit reading hostoricals was because the women where dependent on their men and had no mind of their own. Truthfully, I put her forwardness and feisty character down to the fact that she was poor and needed to work her way out of that life.
Lillian is considered the most feared demon hunter.. Dorian Lambert, Marquis de Montalembert, is sent to keep an eye on her. As it turns out, he has always wanted Lillian, but she has a very wicked mouth. However the two have to fight the demon uprising including the demon master who has horrible plans for Edinburgh.
Once I started this book, I had a hard time putting it down. It is fast moving as the two attempt to take care of this problem. And, of course, there is an HEA.
I recommend this book to anyone because it falls into so many categories that it will appeal to many people. Also, this is the second of three books, but I had not read the first one, and I had no problem reading it. This book seems to be about different characters than the first, although there are some characters that appear in both books.
Lillian Dellacourt lives in a time where a "lady" can't even show an ankle without people questioning ones reputation. She doesn't care much for that. She has been dependent on herself most of her life and likes it like that. Lillian has proven herself over and over as one of the best demon hunters in her area maybe even the world, she can take care of herself. When the situation throws her with an unlikely partner in Dorian Lambert she doesn't quite understand whats happening. She is attracted to him because while he is quite handsome he can also take care of himself, he can fight the demons with her and hold his own. Dorian is instantly smitten...he has been in love with her since before they even met. Lillian not so much, she figures a quick romp will rid herself of these pesky feelings and she can go on with her life. Dorian wants more, so he waits...and waits....As the demons come into his town and so many innocents are hurt Dorian and Lillian find some comfort in each other. This is a very well written book, I wanted it to continue on. I love the characters and the author did a great job moving the story along. I definitely recommend this book, however there is a bit of adult situations in the form of wonderful sex scenes. This book smoothly transitions from slaying demons to the bedroom and back again. I give this 5 out of 5 fangs. ***Reviewer for Paranormal Romance and Authors That Rock.
Mystery, demons, betrayal, romance, battle to save all mankind...what more can you ask for?
The story was fast-paced and there was never a dull moment. I love the way the author blended battle with intellectual research and elements of the paranormal. Nothing seemed too far-fetched to me and everything was described in great detail. I could literally smell, hear, feel the same thing that the hunters did. You feel that you are seeing the world through their eyes instead of your normal everyday human ones...
The characters were all very well-written and the dialog was though-provoking. Lilly and Dorian are a perfect match for each other. I love Lilly's gadgets and the way her weapons are described. And yet, she is just as much at home searching through ancient texts as she is fighting on the battle field. She's like the female Indiana Jones of history LOL And Dorian, I absolutely LOVE that he takes the time to think about what's best in each situation, even if it makes him take a backseat to Lilly and her prowess. Not many heroes are prone to think that way and it's very refreshing.
I do have to admit that Fletcher was my favorite character though. As you read through the story you will see why.
This book is for anyone who enjoys a good, action-filled read with some paranormal and romance thrown in.
A unique concept that pairs a historical romance with a paranormal twist. When I first started reading this story I was unsure if I would like it, I was pleasantly surprised to find out that it was really quite good. I really liked that there was no distinction for the demon hunters, they recruited everyone,it did not mater if you were a woman, nobility or lower class. Lilly was a scarey lady, she could switch from lady to bad ass in a blink of an eye. I am fascinated with her clothing, I keep trying to figure out how her skirt works when she tucks it up to fight. I was not sure that Dorian was going to be a good match for her as he did not seem to be as skilled a warrior. However, he surprised me with some of his actions showing he did actually have a warrior heart. Beside the developing love interests there really was quite a mystery to the storyline. Even with the information divulged in this book, I still feel that there were several things that did not add up. I am hoping these things will be explained in further tales of this series. This was a well thought out well ,written storyline with colorful characters and a captivating storyline. The easy banter, exciting battles and interesting characters kept your attention and made the story flow easily.
Read this because I like the paranormal but this is really rather a silly story. I found the relationship between the hero and heroine quite unbelievable.
For some reason, I had no record of having read this previously and I find my opinion upon a second read was even worse than before. Ans because I had no record of having read it already, I went and purchased the other 2 volumes and what a waste of $2 that was.
What the discerning reader needs to know is that each of these stories is the exact same story, only the names have been changed. There is no character development, there is no plot development and on top of it, as far as I can tell, none of the three have been edited. I didn't make note of every error but the vary from bad grammar to use of the incorrect word. In one instance, the author failed to keep the characters straight and referred to "Reece" when it was "Dorian"in the scene.
Disourous is not a word and why make one up when "desirable" is a perfectly good word. What is even worse is that clearly the only editing was a spellcheck which cannot distinguish between homonyms such as pale vs pail, you're/your. your/you're, duel/dual.
Deception (The Demon Hunters, #2) by A.S. Fenichel This is the second book in the series and it was great reading. This is Lillian Dellacourt (demon hunter) and Dorian Lambert, Marquis de Montalembert's story. They join together and to fight demons and "the master" after her partner is injured. This book has all the feels angst, horror, evil, violence, some laughter, tears, hard loss, deception of a trusted ally, some old and new friends and plenty of steam to get us to a very HEA. I can't wait for the final book in the series Betrayal (The Demon Hunters Book 3). Reasons I enjoyed this book: Haunting Tragic Entertaining Unpredictable Great world building Romantic Wonderful characters Witty Action-packed Page-turner Easy-to-read Steamy Happily Ever After Tear-jerker Scary Twisted
First, I absolutely loved Lillian. I love her non-nonsense attitude and the spark she has inside her. Dorian was an interesting character, and I liked him a bit more than I did Gabriel in book one. The pacing was a bit more fluid in this one, and although the romance part of the plot was a bit similar to book one, I think Fenichel carried it off more smoothly. Overall I really enjoyed reading this, and I'm hoping book three only gets better as we learn more about The Company and their fight against the demons.
I enjoyed this well-written book. Lillian is independent and doesn't easily trust men. Dorian is sent to keep track of Lillian and needs to earn her trust if they are going to succeed in fighting the demons who have invaded. The story was fast-paced, held my interest and I didn't want to put it down. This book can be read as a standalone story, though it is #2 in the Demon Hunters series. This was an entertaining book and I look forward to reading the next book in this series.
Lilian and Dorian make for an interesting pairing - both from opposite ends of the social spectrum. I liked the appearances of characters from the previous book and I thought the world building was great. The heroine is feisty, with some unusual talents, especially for a woman of her time. I also enjoyed the novelty of a historical book set in Edinburgh, given that London is the usual choice. The narration was faultless and having dual narration made it even better.
So I normally don't read this type of book.. but... was glad I did, the complete series for that matter! It's very unique! characters that you can love, hate and question! A story plot... well, this is one of those you have to read to understand!
I enjoy historical romance. I also like paranormal romance. When I can read one book and experience both genres, it's a good day! Deception by A.S. Fenichel is such a book.
Demons exist among humans in Scotland and England in the early 19th century. Unknown to most of the population, they live to worship their master and to bring him into this dimension. Luckily there are a few humans that bravely battle demons and work to ensure humanity stays safe. The Company was formed to protect humans from demons.
After the demon master tried to pass into earth's dimension using her friend (see Ascension, The Demon Hunters, #1), Lillian Dellacourt is on a mission. As one of the Company's most lethal kick-ass hunters, she will do anything necessary to stop the master.
Dorian Lambert, the exiled Marquis de Montalembert, has admired Lillian since she first joined the company. Now he is working with her to find the demon's gate. While Dorian courts Lillian, they both fight demons and track down the answers needed to solve the demon problem once and for all.
Usually, I like a slow burning romance. Deception is an exception. In this case, the relationship between Dorian and Lillian actually began before the events of this story. They were acquainted with each other and there was already attraction. Well, on Dorian's part, it might have been more than attraction. He wants a long-term relationship but Lillian only wants to scratch an itch. I like that there was the attraction punctuated with Dorian's enthusiastic courting words and Lillian smart comments. They make a fun, sexy couple.
Lillian's non-virginal status is no problem for Dorian, an unusual attitude for a noble. But perhaps not so unusual in the Company, where all employees are treated as equals, regardless of gender or societal rank. I wish that Lillian's attitude toward sex would have reflected this equality. She had no problem with taking lovers and she had no concerns about Dorian's prior sex life, but Lillian worried that Dorian would think she was a whore. This self-image issue didn't feel right for Lillian.
Deception has a few interesting secondary characters. Angus Fletcher, thief/businessman, is an honorable thug. Mrs. Abigail Higginbotham is a witch that is employed by the Company from time to time. The Company trainer of hunters, Blake Lambert, is the brother of Dorian. And Drake Cullum is the undisputed head of the Company who proves he can battle demons with the best of the hunters. Of the four, I think I like Drake best. I'd really like to know more about how he came to the Company. If there are future books in the Demon Hunters series, perhaps one or more of these characters will be featured.
In Deception, the origins of the Company are revealed. I was looking for this type of background in book 1, so I was please to see it explained. The Company had a questionable beginning, and a shaky past, which makes certain characters all that more interesting. But the past may also contain a clue that will help the hunters deal with the demons.
If you have not read book 1 in The Demon Hunters series, no problem. Deception can be enjoyed as standalone. If you enjoy historical and paranormal romance – in the same book – you would do well to check out Deception.
Reviewed for Ramblings From This Chic **ARC copy provided by Publisher**
* Rating: 4.5 Stars * Originally published on book blog Will Read For Feels * I received this book for free from Tasty Book Tours in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
When I picked up book 1 in A.S. Fenichel’s Demon Hunters series, Ascension, I didn’t know what to expect, and I was blown away by the kickassery to be had in that one single novel. Which was why I was determined to get my hands on a copy of book 2, Deception.
When I started reading Deception, I was prepared for the action flick pacing of the story and, yes, the swoon-worthy characters. What I wasn’t prepared for was the sweetness of the story that unfolded between Lilly and Dorian, and the fact that in this novel, the author has definitely kicked the steam factor up a couple of notches. And I found myself plunged into fandom yet again.
This is not to say that fans of the first novel will miss out in the sword swinging, the demon-slaying, and so forth, but knowing Lillyan Dellacourt (she had a supporting role in Ascension, in which she also kicked major demon butt), this was going to be a given. Lilly, after all, is a no-holds-barred alpha female, one if the most fearsome warriors in The Company, a secret organization whose mission is to defeat and destroy the demons who wish to overrun the earth.
Dorian Lambert, on the other hand, is a perfect partner for Lilly. The erstwhile Marquis de Montalembert shares Lilly’s keen sense of responsibility to their fellow humans, but while she tends to hurtle headlong into every challenge that presents itself, Dorian is more of a strategist. He’s also better able to see the big picture as well as voice other angles that Lilly can’t or won’t consider, thanks to her easily inflamed temper and the rather huge chip on her shoulder when it comes to noblemen. She, on the other hand, spurs him to action when he would deliberate, and she continually challenges and surprises him with her caring nature and decidedly deadly way with sai blades. The push and pull and give and take between the characters is just so much fun, and really very satisfying to see.
I was also really drawn in by the mystery surrounding the demons and the origins of The Company, which I’ve been curious about since Book 1, and I enjoyed how the book kept me guessing as to the secret the Earl of Shafton seemed so desperate to protect and the ways the demons could be defeated. I was rather smug in that I guessed who the mole was about midway through the book.
The Demon Hunters series makes yet another paranormal series on my to-watch list (sometimes I fear my TBR pile will just swallow me whole one day, but I keep adding auto-TBR series to it nevertheless). It’s fun, fast-paced, and full of great characters. I’m definitely looking forward to learning more about Reece, Abigail, Brice, and the other characters who’ve played supporting roles in this novel.
I think I need to start off with the cover of Deception, because I love it. I love the night setting and castle in the background, very beautiful and romantic. Yes, I wanted to read this story, because of the cover. When decided to read this I didn't realize it was a two in a series. Even though it has it on the cover, I was enthrall with rest of the cover that I didn't even notice. However, I persevere and tackled the story. Granted I was a little lost at the beginning and it might have helped a little to read the first book. So, the first couple of chapters I was playing catchup, but once Dorian and Lillian ventured off to Edinburgh. That's when the story started to get interesting.
Now Dorian has had the hots for Lillian, but the more time he spends with her he's like "she's the one." However, Lillian has no desire to marry after all she's a demon hunter and there is so much uncertainty that it isn't worth getting involved with a man and all it entails. She's open for flings and becoming friends afterwards. Yet, Dorian wants to be more than a fling, so he decides to take it somewhat slowly but sleep with her. Plus, she views herself as a nobody. She's a person, but she just never viewed herself becoming more than some mans mistress, after all she comes from lowly birth. Dorian sees that she's more than that and is willing to do anything to prove that she's worth more than what she has deem herself worth. I really like Dorian, because he's just persistent. I also like Lillian stubbornness. Normally that would grate on my nerves, but I could see where she's coming from. I admire that she didn't cave to Dorian, because it would have been so easy to say yes. She did truly care for him and worry about what would happen if they became one.
Overall, Deception was an interesting read. You have these two people who come from different backgrounds come together, but they are fighting for the same cause. I didn't talk much about the demon issues. Yes, it's pretty bad and they are trying to clean up the mess that was made. Not only that they have traitor. Never easy thing to deal with. Yes, you have the romance during difficult time. However, it is what draws Dorian and Lillian closer. I have to say that it is definitely a unique read that has me kind of curious on to see what happens next. They are just touching the tip of the demon problem.
I really enjoyed the first book in this series so I was really excited to get a hold of the second book. While I enjoyed the first one more I did enjoy this one. We first met Lillian in book one and she is one serious kick ass character. She is pretty awesome and uses these Sai blades to take down demons.
It starts off a little after the ending of the first one and Lilly is fired up about some things Lord Shafton has said. She doesn't trust him and wants to find out what he is hiding. Drake sends Dorian after her because he knows what she is doing and just wants her to have someone with her.
There is some tension between the two of them at first, she doesn't think she needs anyone to help her and not sure she trust Dorian. He is Drakes assistant so she thinks he is pretty much there to spy on her and let his employer know what she is doing. Soon they get into some hairy situations with demons making them think that there is more going on here than they know.
Lillian is use to taking care of herself, she is not of noble blood and so she has had a pretty hard life, being a demon hunter is just what she does. It is what she is good at and no man will ever change that. She has spunk, drive and doesn't let men tell her what to do, unless it's an assignment.
Dorian, has secretly been in love with Lillian since hearing about her from his brother Brice. Brice was her teacher and he often wrote about the spunky lady who was a great fighter. Now Dorian has got to spend time with her and he is determined to win her heart. He admires her drive and fighting skills.
My only complaint with this novel isn't really a huge one and most that read romances probably won't mind it at all and don't get my wrong I don't mind sex in my novels. It was just that I felt like for the type of novel it seemed after they break through the barrier it's all they did. I mean, hello, demons are about to take over the world. If you can keep your hands off each other long enough you might kill some demons. Just felt like a bit much, but like I said it's not a huge complaint but probably why I didn't enjoy this one as much as the first one.
Overall, I enjoyed it and there was lots of good demon killing action and I can't wait for the next book as it's about Reese and I can't wait to know more about him. He was Lillian's fighting partner in the first book. :) If you are into paranormal romances then you need to try this series but you must start with book one, Ascension.
Deception is another exciting installment to this unique series! I didn't like it quite as much as the first book, but I still really enjoyed it. Belinda's friend Lillian is off on an information gathering mission. Dorian was tasked with following her and making sure anything important that she learns gets back to The Company. Of course, Lillian doesn't appreciate having tabs kept on her, but Dorian agrees to help with her mission. The two learn much more than they anticipated, and they come face to face with the demon master.
Deception was a lot of fun. Lillian is a no nonsense kind of lady (although she doesn't like being called a lady) and she really knows how to handle her blades. She is no damsel in distress and does not want a man dictating her life, so it's hard for her to open up to her feelings for Dorian. Dorian on the other hand, wears his heart on his sleeve and tells Lillian just how it is, even when she refuses him. There's so much tension between them at the beginning! Then there's a lot of sex! It was a bit repetitive which is part of what kept me from loving it, but it was still a steamy read.
As for the plot, Deception was still exciting. The demon master is gaining power and is trying to enter our world again. Lillian and Dorian's studies have led them to some very interesting information regarding how the demons even got to London in the first place. There's a traitor in their midst! So all is not as it seems within The Company.
In the end, I liked Deception. I'm still loving this combination of Historical Romance and Urban Fantasy. The demon hunters are one step closer to stopping the demons from taking over for good and I can't wait to see what comes next!
I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review
Regency paranormals are relatively new to me... I think I've read one or two others and I have to say- I really enjoy the genre. Regency London and paranormal just seem to mesh so well. Deception had a nice mix of an intriguing plot with enjoyable characters in a fast-paced read.
I loved Lillian. Plain and simple- she rocked. She was comfortable in her own skin, in her choices. Sure she was one tough cookie when it came to fighting demons, but she also had a softer side she was not afraid to display. Her kindness to people of all walks of life was refreshing. Lillian knew she was tough and didn't feel the need to prove it constantly.
It was rather hard not to fall for Dorian. He always seemed to say just the right thing at just the right time- sometimes to the point of being too good to be true. Sweet, strong, intelligent, and kind- he encompassed them all. The way he worshiped Lillian was rather adorable.
The plot was fast-paced and interesting. I always like being included in the research as well as the fighting and action sequences, so I enjoyed following along with the characters as they investigated. I never quite felt the romance between Lillian and Dorian. It was apparent in their words and actions, but the banter and the dance got old quicker than I'd have liked. It was strange- I mean I really liked the characters as individuals but together they ended up annoying me sometimes. This story had an ending of sorts. The author wrapped up the current story line while leaving room open for more to come.
You may notice that Deception is a book two in a series. I didn't read book one first, and I don't think it affected my enjoyment. Of course, I'm going to read book one now because Gabriel and Belinda seem like interesting characters.
*Disclaimer - I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Deception by A.S. Fenichel was an excellent novel. It was packed full of action, steamy romance, and of course, demons! I loved the characters every bit as much as I loved the plot. (This is the second of the series; however, it can be read as a standalone, which is how I read it.) I’m a sucker for a strong female character, and Lillian is a badass woman. The kind you definitely want to have with you if you’re in a fight with demons. I adored her from the very beginning, but I loved watching her grow even more. Dorian was a fantastic character as well. He’s secure enough in himself that he supports Lillian’s independence and her non-ladylike (for the time period) behavior. He’s the kind of man who’s happy to have a woman at his side that can kick demon butt with him, and he’s also a sweet man who cares deeply about those he loves. The other characters in the book were just as much fun to read as Lillian and Dorian. There was a lot of demon killing and plenty of suspense and action to keep me riveted. The mix of fantasy, romance, and history is a winning combination, and I highly recommend reading this book.
I was thrilled to learn that the second book in Fenichel's series was based on Lillian Dellacourt. This is the story of her evolution from a kickass demon hunter to being a woman in love and on a mission to save her man, and the rest of Scotland. Dorian Lambert has known forever that Lilly was the woman for him. He just hasn't been able to convince her of his intent. As the danger to them increases, so does the attraction and the love between them. Dorian isn't the partner she wanted, but he is the one she falls in love with, despite the vast differences in their backgrounds.
I love the cast of characters assembled to combat the demons and the world created to tell the story. The tension and chemistry between Lilly and Dorian is satisfying, and the mystery behind who might be the mole in The Company intrigued and kept me turning the pages long into the night.
I really enjoyed this story and recommend it to anyone who reads romance of any genre. You don't have to love Historical or Paranormal to enjoy this story.