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Hell Bent #5
Beauty and the Demon
Win a free print copy of this book!
6 days and 15:32:35
5 copies available
U.S. only
New York Times bestselling author Aurora Ascher's hilarious and hot blend of spicy demon romance and cozy fantasy featuring a half-mad demon with questionable morals, a goth witch who kicks ass and takes names, and a magical library in a castle in Hell. Perfect for fans of Hannah Nicole Maehrer, Brynne Weaver, Jenna Levine, and Kimberly Lemming.
DELUXE LIMITED EDITION featuring stenciled edges, designed chapter headers and inside covers, series spine design and bonus content! Only available for a limited time and while supplies last.
A villain always has a plan . . . but she’s a complication he never saw coming.
Murmur, the nefarious Necromancer, is losing his mind. His army of souls screams in his head, and his dreams are filled with bone-chilling visions of his approaching death. To save himself, he will unleash a torrent of destruction unlike anything Hell has seen before . . . But for his plot to succeed, he requires one final ingredient: the blood of a certain headstrong witch.
This witch can rescue herself . . .
Suyin, leader of the Montreal coven, hides her dread beneath a tough exterior. Unusual abilities she can’t explain are taking over her life, and she’s haunted by ominous dreams. Her fears are realized when she’s captured by a demon with bloodshot eyes. Murmur plans to leave her in his dungeon, but Suyin has no intention of making this easy for him. Bargaining with demons is dangerous business, but she’ll do anything to survive.
Enemies may become lovers, but fate has other plans.
Forced into close proximity, things begin to shift between Suyin and her captor. But as the Necromancer’s machinations reach a pinnacle, he is faced with an impossible choice: achieve his master plan, or free the woman who resurrected his dormant soul.
DELUXE LIMITED EDITION featuring stenciled edges, designed chapter headers and inside covers, series spine design and bonus content! Only available for a limited time and while supplies last.
A villain always has a plan . . . but she’s a complication he never saw coming.
Murmur, the nefarious Necromancer, is losing his mind. His army of souls screams in his head, and his dreams are filled with bone-chilling visions of his approaching death. To save himself, he will unleash a torrent of destruction unlike anything Hell has seen before . . . But for his plot to succeed, he requires one final ingredient: the blood of a certain headstrong witch.
This witch can rescue herself . . .
Suyin, leader of the Montreal coven, hides her dread beneath a tough exterior. Unusual abilities she can’t explain are taking over her life, and she’s haunted by ominous dreams. Her fears are realized when she’s captured by a demon with bloodshot eyes. Murmur plans to leave her in his dungeon, but Suyin has no intention of making this easy for him. Bargaining with demons is dangerous business, but she’ll do anything to survive.
Enemies may become lovers, but fate has other plans.
Forced into close proximity, things begin to shift between Suyin and her captor. But as the Necromancer’s machinations reach a pinnacle, he is faced with an impossible choice: achieve his master plan, or free the woman who resurrected his dormant soul.
480 pages, Paperback
First published June 6, 2023
306 people are currently reading
24839 people want to read
About the author
Aurora Ascher
8 books1,827 followersAurora Ascher is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling fantasy & paranormal romance author. She loves misunderstood monsters, redeemable anti-heroes, and epic happily-ever-afters. A woman of many creative pursuits, Aurora is also a professional musician and visual artist. She currently resides in Montreal with her trusty espresso machine and her endlessly patient husband, whom she sometimes doesn’t see for hours until she emerges from her writing cave like a bear in springtime.
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March 6, 2026The only saving grace of this book was Murmur.
[Mini review for my quarterly roundup coming soon.]
[Mini review for my quarterly roundup coming soon.]
May 25, 2023
4.75 Call me Witchling Anytime Stars!
Since the day I found romance there has always been one type of hero that just does it for me. Call him what you may but I call him...
From the moment I met this mysterious villain, I knew I needed his story and I'm so glad Aurora gave it to us. Murmur is a complex and captivating necromancer with secrets and motivations buried so deep that each moment a new layer is peeled back, the more I fell in love with him.
Murmur knew better than most that the power and choices he's made in his very long life have cost him many things. He has never needed anyone but himself to shoulder the burden of what he knows shall come to pass but kidnapping Suyin sets a path in motion he is ill prepared for. His self preservation and desperation to see his plans come to fruition are now tested because Suyin isn't merely just an ingredient to his plan.
I was fascinated and intrigued by Murmur's road to redemption. Aurora took a character that most probably loved to hate and made him vulnerable and relatable. I found Murmur to be such a magnetic character and my heart hurt for him for many reasons but I adored the way he slowly changed and grew emotionally.
While Murmur definitely found his way into my heart, Suyin was also a force to be reckoned with. She saw behind the sarcasm and snark to Murmur's soul and accepted him just the way he was despite their rocky beginning. Suyin was tenacious and vibrant and didn't back down. I loved her boldness and femininity. I especially loved that she was dominant everywhere but the bedroom. She relinquished control to Murmur and it was a decadent pairing.
Murmur and Suyin had a wonderful enemies-to-lovers tension and the slow burn to their hellfire intimacy was super well done. Aurora did a great job at building a solid foundation for the two of them before letting them leap off the pages with their chemistry and I really appreciated that. Their banter was top notch brilliance and was comedic relief to heavier moments. Their love was believable and their turmoil and passion tangible. I loved everything about their fall into one another - tail and ghostly hands included.
While I was completely engrossed in all things Murmur and Suyin, I can't forget to talk about the action packed plot and the explosive moment that everything changes for Hell and our demons and their better halves. Bel's future is now steam rolling forward to his inevitable destiny and I am salivating to get my hands on his story. I'll add if you're a sucker for a good grovel...look no further. Murmur excels at this particular action and you'll be sure to find yourself swooning.
The world that Aurora has built is fresh in so many ways with no plot holes and every character has defining characteristics that are uniquely them and not recycled. I love that Aurora puts her heroes and heroines through the ringer before they rise from the ashes but I especially like that she never faults or diminishes the path they've walked to get to where they currently reside physically or mentally.
Beauty and the Demon was a wonderful installment to this series and I find myself getting sad knowing that we are nearing the end of this world. However, I look forward to reading all things Bel and how he gets his HEA. If you haven't read this series yet, make no mistake...you'll regret not diving headfirst into this passionate and a little depraved world.
Side note: Can we talk about how beautiful this cover is?!
Since the day I found romance there has always been one type of hero that just does it for me. Call him what you may but I call him...
Murmur
From the moment I met this mysterious villain, I knew I needed his story and I'm so glad Aurora gave it to us. Murmur is a complex and captivating necromancer with secrets and motivations buried so deep that each moment a new layer is peeled back, the more I fell in love with him.
"Power always comes at a cost."
Murmur knew better than most that the power and choices he's made in his very long life have cost him many things. He has never needed anyone but himself to shoulder the burden of what he knows shall come to pass but kidnapping Suyin sets a path in motion he is ill prepared for. His self preservation and desperation to see his plans come to fruition are now tested because Suyin isn't merely just an ingredient to his plan.
"Funny things, emotions. Invisible and intangible, they cut deeper than any blade, and they left wounds one might never recover from."
I was fascinated and intrigued by Murmur's road to redemption. Aurora took a character that most probably loved to hate and made him vulnerable and relatable. I found Murmur to be such a magnetic character and my heart hurt for him for many reasons but I adored the way he slowly changed and grew emotionally.
"I'd gotten so good at sealing parts of myself away, I didn't even realize what I was doing anymore..."
While Murmur definitely found his way into my heart, Suyin was also a force to be reckoned with. She saw behind the sarcasm and snark to Murmur's soul and accepted him just the way he was despite their rocky beginning. Suyin was tenacious and vibrant and didn't back down. I loved her boldness and femininity. I especially loved that she was dominant everywhere but the bedroom. She relinquished control to Murmur and it was a decadent pairing.
"You're so good, bent over my desk, begging to be fucked. I'd kill anyone you asked me to. I'd start another fucking war to reward you."
Murmur and Suyin had a wonderful enemies-to-lovers tension and the slow burn to their hellfire intimacy was super well done. Aurora did a great job at building a solid foundation for the two of them before letting them leap off the pages with their chemistry and I really appreciated that. Their banter was top notch brilliance and was comedic relief to heavier moments. Their love was believable and their turmoil and passion tangible. I loved everything about their fall into one another - tail and ghostly hands included.
While I was completely engrossed in all things Murmur and Suyin, I can't forget to talk about the action packed plot and the explosive moment that everything changes for Hell and our demons and their better halves. Bel's future is now steam rolling forward to his inevitable destiny and I am salivating to get my hands on his story. I'll add if you're a sucker for a good grovel...look no further. Murmur excels at this particular action and you'll be sure to find yourself swooning.
The world that Aurora has built is fresh in so many ways with no plot holes and every character has defining characteristics that are uniquely them and not recycled. I love that Aurora puts her heroes and heroines through the ringer before they rise from the ashes but I especially like that she never faults or diminishes the path they've walked to get to where they currently reside physically or mentally.
"Mortal or immortal, we are all the sum of our experiences--on Earth or in Hell."
Beauty and the Demon was a wonderful installment to this series and I find myself getting sad knowing that we are nearing the end of this world. However, I look forward to reading all things Bel and how he gets his HEA. If you haven't read this series yet, make no mistake...you'll regret not diving headfirst into this passionate and a little depraved world.
Side note: Can we talk about how beautiful this cover is?!
June 10, 2023
Wow, what a book it was!
Dear Murmy, when you were first introduced in Lily’s book I wasn’t even sure if you were evil or on good side but I hoped you will be on our side and I’m so glad it FINALLY happened.
A grumpy, surly, cunning Demon who only bends his rule for her, who overcome his centuries old trauma for her, who only shows his vulnerabilities to her and compromises with her- I introduce you, Murmur, King of loopholes!
First of all, characterisation was bomb 💣! I loved how every character retained their core. Everyone was unique and stayed true to their nature and together they were a hoot. These bunch definitely have a piece of my heart.
Suyin was such a strong witch. I loved how her and Murmur’s relationship progressed from indifference to enemies to lovers.
Their every interaction was fascinating to read.
My heart broke for Bel in this book. I can’t wait to read his book. And please Aurora, don’t end this series anytime soon.
Writing as usual was flawless and I flew through the chapters. Only this author can make me laugh wildly at inappropriate moments.
I can’t recommend this series enough (it just get better and better) and the first book is currently free.
Included in KU, safe, kinky and extraordinary.
P.s did I mention that I love Murmur?
-Demon x witch
- morally grey hero.
-grumpy x grumpy
- enemies to lovers.
Dear Murmy, when you were first introduced in Lily’s book I wasn’t even sure if you were evil or on good side but I hoped you will be on our side and I’m so glad it FINALLY happened.
A grumpy, surly, cunning Demon who only bends his rule for her, who overcome his centuries old trauma for her, who only shows his vulnerabilities to her and compromises with her- I introduce you, Murmur, King of loopholes!
First of all, characterisation was bomb 💣! I loved how every character retained their core. Everyone was unique and stayed true to their nature and together they were a hoot. These bunch definitely have a piece of my heart.
Suyin was such a strong witch. I loved how her and Murmur’s relationship progressed from indifference to enemies to lovers.
Their every interaction was fascinating to read.
My heart broke for Bel in this book. I can’t wait to read his book. And please Aurora, don’t end this series anytime soon.
Writing as usual was flawless and I flew through the chapters. Only this author can make me laugh wildly at inappropriate moments.
I can’t recommend this series enough (it just get better and better) and the first book is currently free.
Included in KU, safe, kinky and extraordinary.
P.s did I mention that I love Murmur?
-Demon x witch
- morally grey hero.
-grumpy x grumpy
- enemies to lovers.
April 1, 2026
3,75⭐
If you’ve been following the Hell Bent series, Beauty and the Demon feels like running into familiar faces again… except one of them is a hot goth demon who might kidnap you for a spell. Normal stuff. I really enjoyed being back in this world. One of my favorite things about this series is how the bigger story keeps unfolding with each book, even when the romance follows a familiar structure, the worldbuilding keeps expanding and pulling me in. I was especially curious about Murmur and I loved seeing more layers of him. He’s complicated, a little tragic and surprisingly bookish (the library energy was not on my bingo card, but I loved it). Suyin holds her own really well too: strong, stubborn and definitely not the type to just accept her situation quietly. Their enemies to lovers tension works because it’s fueled by irritation, curiosity and two people who secretly just want to be understood.
I’ll be honest though: I didn’t connect with this one quite as strongly as some of the earlier books, but I’m pretty sure that had more to do with my reading mood than the book itself. I had just finished an amazing read before this and was probably in that weird mini-slump where my brain is still somewhere else. Even so, the story kept me entertained the whole time (and the spice definitely helped, ngl). I also loved the little glimpses we keep getting of the bigger plot and other characters… especially the Belial crumbs, because at this point I think we’re all collectively waiting for his book. Overall not my favorite in the series, but still a really enjoyable read that kept me hooked in this chaotic demon world.
If you’ve been following the Hell Bent series, Beauty and the Demon feels like running into familiar faces again… except one of them is a hot goth demon who might kidnap you for a spell. Normal stuff. I really enjoyed being back in this world. One of my favorite things about this series is how the bigger story keeps unfolding with each book, even when the romance follows a familiar structure, the worldbuilding keeps expanding and pulling me in. I was especially curious about Murmur and I loved seeing more layers of him. He’s complicated, a little tragic and surprisingly bookish (the library energy was not on my bingo card, but I loved it). Suyin holds her own really well too: strong, stubborn and definitely not the type to just accept her situation quietly. Their enemies to lovers tension works because it’s fueled by irritation, curiosity and two people who secretly just want to be understood.
I’ll be honest though: I didn’t connect with this one quite as strongly as some of the earlier books, but I’m pretty sure that had more to do with my reading mood than the book itself. I had just finished an amazing read before this and was probably in that weird mini-slump where my brain is still somewhere else. Even so, the story kept me entertained the whole time (and the spice definitely helped, ngl). I also loved the little glimpses we keep getting of the bigger plot and other characters… especially the Belial crumbs, because at this point I think we’re all collectively waiting for his book. Overall not my favorite in the series, but still a really enjoyable read that kept me hooked in this chaotic demon world.
April 7, 2026
• book 5 • m/f • demon/human romance •
This series about a bunch of demons trying to escape hell and assimilate on Earth is just an easy peasy read and a lot of mindless fun.
This one features coven leader Suyin and Murmur, the backstabbing double-crossing necromancer, with his army of souls whose endless screams have driven him half mad over the centuries 😅
As with the other books our FMC develops suspicions about her friend’s love interests but she has no idea about the existence of demons. Until one day she is abducted and held hostage in hell. Talk about meet cute 😅
Again, this was an entertaining story with fun characters, and an overarching plot that’s held my interest. Lucifer is plotting against Belial. We’ve seen Belial try to suppress his explosive fiery rage the entire series, so I cannot wait to see how this all pans out once the next book is published 🤭 (date please?)
4⭐️
3 🌶️ the necromancer has a tail… 😏
This series about a bunch of demons trying to escape hell and assimilate on Earth is just an easy peasy read and a lot of mindless fun.
This one features coven leader Suyin and Murmur, the backstabbing double-crossing necromancer, with his army of souls whose endless screams have driven him half mad over the centuries 😅
As with the other books our FMC develops suspicions about her friend’s love interests but she has no idea about the existence of demons. Until one day she is abducted and held hostage in hell. Talk about meet cute 😅
Again, this was an entertaining story with fun characters, and an overarching plot that’s held my interest. Lucifer is plotting against Belial. We’ve seen Belial try to suppress his explosive fiery rage the entire series, so I cannot wait to see how this all pans out once the next book is published 🤭 (date please?)
4⭐️
3 🌶️ the necromancer has a tail… 😏
February 25, 2026
my least favorite so far in the series
June 6, 2023
Who knew death could look so good?
“He was stupidly gorgeous. He looked like an angel. He was almost too pretty, and she squinted, trying to find at least one flaw”
I was intrigued by Murmur since he first graced our pages in all of his villainous glory and this book didn’t disappoint.
Murmur:
He is every bit the villain we expect him. He has no remorse, isn’t empathetic and is totally selfish. Yes, I agree- all the best features to make up a yummy MMC.
Suyin:
She is tough, independent and powerful. She isn’t going to go down easy and despite being only five foot something, she’s a big big character.
Why did I love this book?
“Murmur caught the ingredient as she slumped in his arms, unconscious.”
I read a lot of enemies to lovers, I admit and was a little worried about how the relationship was ever going to develop from purely mean and tolerant to steamy and soft. However, if there is one thing you can trust, that’s Aurora’s skills as a writer.
“She had never met anyone who could match her will. Man, woman, or otherwise. Not until now.”
The relationship doesn’t develop overnight, and is all the better for it. Murmy definitely isn’t aware of the fact that he’s falling and falling hard and almost makes a massive mistake due to his emotional constipation but thankfully remembers he’s got a brain last minute. It makes him all the more endearing. As for Suyin, she’s one of the most emotionally intelligent FMCs I’ve read in a while. She doesn’t make rash decisions and is sensible and it was so refreshing.
Once the two overcome their hatred and dislike, the fireworks fly and honestly, their first time together is memorable (perhaps for all the wrong, funny reasons!)
“Frowning, she crawled up beside his large naked form to peer at his face. A laugh burst out of her. “You’re kidding me,” she muttered. The fuc**r had passed out cold.”
Not only that, the cameos, the overarching plot and how it hints at Belial’s story and the friendship dynamics were amazing.
What I like about this series is that it never makes the characters appear as something they are not. From Suyin’s perspective, Iris has been an awful friend and I love that all of these characters are multi dimensional. They’re not perfect and that’s what’s makes them such wonderful, memorable characters.
So…if you’re looking for some of the following tropes, look no further:
🔥 Grump/Grump
🔥 Enemies to lovers
🔥 Womannapping
🔥 Tail play
🔥 Phantom hands
🔥 Grovel
Another wonderful addition to the Hell Bent family. I can’t wait for Belial’s story. I’m team Naiamah 🥳
“He was stupidly gorgeous. He looked like an angel. He was almost too pretty, and she squinted, trying to find at least one flaw”
I was intrigued by Murmur since he first graced our pages in all of his villainous glory and this book didn’t disappoint.
Murmur:
He is every bit the villain we expect him. He has no remorse, isn’t empathetic and is totally selfish. Yes, I agree- all the best features to make up a yummy MMC.
Suyin:
She is tough, independent and powerful. She isn’t going to go down easy and despite being only five foot something, she’s a big big character.
Why did I love this book?
“Murmur caught the ingredient as she slumped in his arms, unconscious.”
I read a lot of enemies to lovers, I admit and was a little worried about how the relationship was ever going to develop from purely mean and tolerant to steamy and soft. However, if there is one thing you can trust, that’s Aurora’s skills as a writer.
“She had never met anyone who could match her will. Man, woman, or otherwise. Not until now.”
The relationship doesn’t develop overnight, and is all the better for it. Murmy definitely isn’t aware of the fact that he’s falling and falling hard and almost makes a massive mistake due to his emotional constipation but thankfully remembers he’s got a brain last minute. It makes him all the more endearing. As for Suyin, she’s one of the most emotionally intelligent FMCs I’ve read in a while. She doesn’t make rash decisions and is sensible and it was so refreshing.
Once the two overcome their hatred and dislike, the fireworks fly and honestly, their first time together is memorable (perhaps for all the wrong, funny reasons!)
“Frowning, she crawled up beside his large naked form to peer at his face. A laugh burst out of her. “You’re kidding me,” she muttered. The fuc**r had passed out cold.”
Not only that, the cameos, the overarching plot and how it hints at Belial’s story and the friendship dynamics were amazing.
What I like about this series is that it never makes the characters appear as something they are not. From Suyin’s perspective, Iris has been an awful friend and I love that all of these characters are multi dimensional. They’re not perfect and that’s what’s makes them such wonderful, memorable characters.
So…if you’re looking for some of the following tropes, look no further:
🔥 Grump/Grump
🔥 Enemies to lovers
🔥 Womannapping
🔥 Tail play
🔥 Phantom hands
🔥 Grovel
Another wonderful addition to the Hell Bent family. I can’t wait for Belial’s story. I’m team Naiamah 🥳
May 26, 2023
A million stars and my whole heart.
Since key smashing and screeching isn't an appropriate review, here goes nothing.
I loved this book beyond my capabilities as a review writer. It was beautiful and heart wrenching and hilarious and filthy. The characters are all so fully realized and uniquely themselves. The plot is rock solid and interesting as fuck. I want to scream from the rooftops about how amazing this book is and how talented of a writer Aurora Ascher is.
She gives us a romance novel actually filled with romance. With two very flawed people actually getting to know each other and falling in love. Okay. First, there's a lot of hate (it is enemies to lovers, after all) and fighting and indifference (like the mmc calling the fmc an "ingredient") but when we get to the love, hooooooo boy, it's good shit.
Murmur, our 7 foot tall demon who desperately needs a nap, has a PLAN. It's an important plan to stir some shit up in Hell. We've gotten snippets of him in previous books and he was so enigmatic. He's evil and very much looking out only for himself. But is that all that's to him? Definitely not. The growth he goes through in this book is so perfectly done. It's believable. It's realistic. It's perfect.
Suyin is my favorite kind of fmc. She's believably bad ass and excels at pushing people away. She thinks she's protecting herself and the people around her but soon learns that letting people get close is worth the risk of the heartache that can come with it.
There's something truly special about this series and Aurora Ascher is at the top of my Drop Everything Now list of authors.
ARC provided and read in exchange for an honest review.
Since key smashing and screeching isn't an appropriate review, here goes nothing.
I loved this book beyond my capabilities as a review writer. It was beautiful and heart wrenching and hilarious and filthy. The characters are all so fully realized and uniquely themselves. The plot is rock solid and interesting as fuck. I want to scream from the rooftops about how amazing this book is and how talented of a writer Aurora Ascher is.
She gives us a romance novel actually filled with romance. With two very flawed people actually getting to know each other and falling in love. Okay. First, there's a lot of hate (it is enemies to lovers, after all) and fighting and indifference (like the mmc calling the fmc an "ingredient") but when we get to the love, hooooooo boy, it's good shit.
Murmur, our 7 foot tall demon who desperately needs a nap, has a PLAN. It's an important plan to stir some shit up in Hell. We've gotten snippets of him in previous books and he was so enigmatic. He's evil and very much looking out only for himself. But is that all that's to him? Definitely not. The growth he goes through in this book is so perfectly done. It's believable. It's realistic. It's perfect.
Suyin is my favorite kind of fmc. She's believably bad ass and excels at pushing people away. She thinks she's protecting herself and the people around her but soon learns that letting people get close is worth the risk of the heartache that can come with it.
There's something truly special about this series and Aurora Ascher is at the top of my Drop Everything Now list of authors.
ARC provided and read in exchange for an honest review.
June 4, 2023
"He's creepy as hell. He looks like a vampire. He's like a giant, undead goth elf, with that white hair and those freaky eyes, and - Okay, never mind. I totally get why you're attracted to him. But still!"
Suyin shrugged. "it wasn't planned, trust me." ...
"I'm having a hard time picturing it. I've only seen him once, but all I remember is him decapitating a shitload of gargoyles, being totally covered in blood and wielding a sword, acting like a complete lunatic, and making a bargain with Mist that he wouldn't come after us - which he promptly ignored."
"You're only making him sound hotter to me."
"You're fucked in the head." But Iris laughed.
"So are you."
(4.5 ⭐)
I'll admit, I went into this book not knowing if I would be capable of vibing with Murmur. Did I find him entertaining or intriguing as a villain/antagonist in the earlier books? Yeah, but I wasn't totally sold on him.
I am absolutely sold on him now.
Thus is the power of Aurora Ascher.
Beauty and the Demon is not at all what I had anticipated going into it. I expected the homage paid to Beauty and the Beast, and I expected enemies-to-lovers goodness... but Aurora really managed to subvert damn near all of my other expectations, especially once all of Murmur's secrets were revealed. Dude has been out here playing 5D chess for centuries while our favorite demon bros are out breaking rules and falling in love. Needless to say, I'm so very excited for all of the implications that will now come because of the events in this book, and the fact that its all leading to Bel?
MY BODY IS READY.
Since our FMC, Suyin, is a very powerful witch, and our demon MMC of the evening, Murmur, is known as the Necromancer, we get a lot of demystification when it comes to Sheolic magic and necromancy in particular, and I found their discussions on the topic endlessly fascinating. I also just love the way Aurora takes something that for several millenia has been so black and white, and she has you questioning the nature of what makes evil truly evil, or good, good - and how critical free will is in making the distinction between the two. I love it when authors have me reexamining principles or beliefs I grew up with, forcing me to expand the way I look at the world and humanity and even the nature of souls. It makes my inner philosophy nerd geek out hard.
"Lily once told me, when I was first getting to know Meph and his brothers, that I shouldn't make the mistake of ascribing too many human attributes to them. It sounds bad, but when you're an immortal being who's survived what they have, shit just takes on a different meaning... death and violence mean something different for demons than they do for us. On top of that, you and I were born with souls, and we had parent who taught us right and wrong. But guys like Murmur were created to be soulless forces of evil. For longer than we can imagine, they've just been existing as harbingers of darkness, and then suddenly, they start developing a conscience and emotions, and they have no idea what they mean or how they're supposed to act. No one ever showed them what it means to be good..."
The fact that this book basically has all of the spicy goodness, banter, sexual tension, and demons having souls and consciences and redemptive qualities? Love. Love. LOVE.
This isn't my favorite book in the series, but its still absolutely solid. I have such an appreciation for Murmur now (which has me wanting to go back to reread the earlier books); his character arc, as well as Suyin's, was excellent. I am a sucker for enemies-to-lovers, yes, but grumpy and grumpier? I need more of that, please. That whole emotionally constipated "what are these feelings? You made me feel, damn you!" never gets old. Just pour that good shit directly into my veins.
Speaking of Suyin, I loved getting to explore her character more, and I'm especially glad we got to see more of her relationship with Iris. I love their friendship.
But the best part of the book for me? We got so much Belial in this installment, I am so happy, I could weep. That 7+ foot tall demon with legendary rage issues has been my fave since book 1, and the way Aurora has been basically edging us for years now by holding out on his book ... I am so ready for Fallen Demon. I needed it in my hands yesterday.
I am also 1000% on board for everything Aurora has been setting up in regards to Bel's story. The deeper insights into his character, the implications of Murmur's actions and what that means for Bel and his brothers and the residents of Hell in general... I am so freaking STOKED, LET'S GOOOOO.
And, as always, the banter and antics between the demon bros is like a shot of pure dopamine. I love this found family goodness. It just makes me so happy.
All in all, Beauty and the Demon is a solid entry in the Hell Bent series... but let's be real, y'all. I'm ready for Bel. I've been ready - more so than ever after this book. BRING ON OUR FAVORITE KING OF HELL!
Tropes & Things:
- Enemies to Lovers
- Beauty and the Beast references for days (complete with a library and everything)
- Grumpy/Grumpier
- Emotionally constipated couple that has to come to terms with the whole "feelings" thing
- MMC is villainous, brilliant, and certifiably insane
- Shadow play... or is it ghost play?
- Light bondage
- Orgasmic scorpion sting (IYKYK)
- Found family
... and lots of Bel, seriously, I can't wait for his book. I need it, Aurora. I NEED IT ASAP.
January 4, 2024
Title: Beauty and the Demon
Series: Hell Bent
# in series: 5
Author: Aurora Ascher
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Tropes/Keywords: Beauty and the Beast, Demon Romance, Monster Romance, Demon Contract, Enemies to Lovers, Kidnapped, Witches, Wings, Powers, Captor/Captive, Ghosts, Groveling, Horns, Powers, Protective Hero, Sex Friends, Work Relations
Rep: Chinese Canadian FMC
Pages: 463
Steam: Open Door
Spice: 🌶🌶/5
Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Review:
We finally have the story for our favorite madman Murmur and the goth-ballerina Suyin. I am weak for a Beauty and the Beast retelling, so when I learned that was what Aurora was giving us, I was unwell. I feel this was a fantastic BatB story (with the proper ending style of them staying beastly), and the use of the library *chefs kiss*. Overall, I think they worked together well as a couple, they are both grumpy and don’t really have much interest in interacting with others. Of course, we had Murmur fighting his feelings *eww feelings* because that has been pretty standard for our Hell Bent demon boys, but once he finally gave in, he was in sooo much trouble. For her part, Suyin was pretty stubborn herself when it came to feeling, but she was surprisingly go-with-the-flow when it came to being a prisoner/willing spell ingredient. For the continued series plot, we have known for a while that Murmur has been working in the background putting all of his desired pieces into place, but we finally got the full scale and WOW he has been a busy boy. I cannot wait to do another series reread to connect all of the dots.
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CW/TW: Blood. Gore. Kidnapping. Manipulation. Lying. Dismemberment. Sacrificial Suicide.
**ARC provided by the author. All thoughts are my own**
Series: Hell Bent
# in series: 5
Author: Aurora Ascher
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Tropes/Keywords: Beauty and the Beast, Demon Romance, Monster Romance, Demon Contract, Enemies to Lovers, Kidnapped, Witches, Wings, Powers, Captor/Captive, Ghosts, Groveling, Horns, Powers, Protective Hero, Sex Friends, Work Relations
Rep: Chinese Canadian FMC
Pages: 463
Steam: Open Door
Spice: 🌶🌶/5
Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Review:
We finally have the story for our favorite madman Murmur and the goth-ballerina Suyin. I am weak for a Beauty and the Beast retelling, so when I learned that was what Aurora was giving us, I was unwell. I feel this was a fantastic BatB story (with the proper ending style of them staying beastly), and the use of the library *chefs kiss*. Overall, I think they worked together well as a couple, they are both grumpy and don’t really have much interest in interacting with others. Of course, we had Murmur fighting his feelings *eww feelings* because that has been pretty standard for our Hell Bent demon boys, but once he finally gave in, he was in sooo much trouble. For her part, Suyin was pretty stubborn herself when it came to feeling, but she was surprisingly go-with-the-flow when it came to being a prisoner/willing spell ingredient. For the continued series plot, we have known for a while that Murmur has been working in the background putting all of his desired pieces into place, but we finally got the full scale and WOW he has been a busy boy. I cannot wait to do another series reread to connect all of the dots.
.
.
.
.
.
.
CW/TW: Blood. Gore. Kidnapping. Manipulation. Lying. Dismemberment. Sacrificial Suicide.
**ARC provided by the author. All thoughts are my own**
June 5, 2023
As someone who adores anything remotely related to Beauty and the Beast, I knew this was going to be right up my alley! I also was so excited to finally see Murmur get his HEA - I do love a good redemption arc, and he had so many layers to him that you could see from the start. There was definitely a lot of dark emotions in this book, and I would say this may be the darkest book in the series with some of the themes included throughout the story. The enemies-to-lovers factor is taken very seriously, so if you're someone who likes to quibble over the use of the word "enemies" in that trope, fear not. This is truly a story where enemies grow to love each other. I'll include some triggers at the end of the review, so be sure to check those before reading. I would highly recommend reading the first four books before diving in this one, as it switches from the main couple to another character's POV frequently, and if you haven't read previous books, you'll get lost.
Murmur can't wait much longer to complete his plan, or else he will die and suffer a fate that is unimaginable. To finish what he has started, he must have the blood of a very specific witch - Suyin, leader of the Montreal coven. Suyin has been worried for a while about the creepy stalker outside her apartment building. So it's not much of a surprise when she is suddenly abducted and kept in a dark dungeon, one lorded over by a white-haired demon with a scorpion tail and a penchant for blood. Convincing him to allow her some freedom around his home is the easy part. The hard part is keeping herself from falling for this demon they call the Necromancer, who loves to torment her but also shows a soft side when it comes to his library and teaching her more about magic. Things get more complicated when Murmur realizes that he needs more than just Suyin's blood to realize his long-held dream...and it may be too late to accomplish without losing the person who means more to him than she should.
The angst was strong in this book, so if you love angst, dive in. Murmur and Suyin hate each other, for good reason, but they also can't help but be drawn to each other as each day they spend together passes. I loved how bookish Murmur ended up being, hating Suyin's invasion of his space at first but then becoming so engrossed in telling her all about the books she was reading. Against his will, he became more and more attached to Suyin, and she to him as well. Suyin was a fighter and had been for a long time. She was older than she looked, and she never knew why. Her thirst for knowledge of not just magic but her own past drove her into Murmur's arms more than anything. He was someone in her life who she could be her whole self with, and she accepted him for who he was as well. Their chemistry was amazing, and even though things started out a bit rough (Murmur choked Suyin a few times before they got past the enemies stage), it was so obvious that they walked the very thin line between lust and hate. After they came together, things were great...until Suyin gave him her trust and Murmur didn't know what to do with it. Betrayal, grief, the decision between holding a grudge and helping the man who hurt you...those are the things Suyin faced towards the end of the book. She didn't let Murmur get off easily, and he had to accept that and work for her trust again. It was definitely a love worth fighting for.
Now for some specific triggers that may be a no-go for you...animal sacrifice (off-page, mentioned on-page), blood magic involving skin carving, traumatic amputation of fingers. You know...the usual in a demon romance.
**I received a free copy from the author and this is my honest review.**
Murmur can't wait much longer to complete his plan, or else he will die and suffer a fate that is unimaginable. To finish what he has started, he must have the blood of a very specific witch - Suyin, leader of the Montreal coven. Suyin has been worried for a while about the creepy stalker outside her apartment building. So it's not much of a surprise when she is suddenly abducted and kept in a dark dungeon, one lorded over by a white-haired demon with a scorpion tail and a penchant for blood. Convincing him to allow her some freedom around his home is the easy part. The hard part is keeping herself from falling for this demon they call the Necromancer, who loves to torment her but also shows a soft side when it comes to his library and teaching her more about magic. Things get more complicated when Murmur realizes that he needs more than just Suyin's blood to realize his long-held dream...and it may be too late to accomplish without losing the person who means more to him than she should.
The angst was strong in this book, so if you love angst, dive in. Murmur and Suyin hate each other, for good reason, but they also can't help but be drawn to each other as each day they spend together passes. I loved how bookish Murmur ended up being, hating Suyin's invasion of his space at first but then becoming so engrossed in telling her all about the books she was reading. Against his will, he became more and more attached to Suyin, and she to him as well. Suyin was a fighter and had been for a long time. She was older than she looked, and she never knew why. Her thirst for knowledge of not just magic but her own past drove her into Murmur's arms more than anything. He was someone in her life who she could be her whole self with, and she accepted him for who he was as well. Their chemistry was amazing, and even though things started out a bit rough (Murmur choked Suyin a few times before they got past the enemies stage), it was so obvious that they walked the very thin line between lust and hate. After they came together, things were great...until Suyin gave him her trust and Murmur didn't know what to do with it. Betrayal, grief, the decision between holding a grudge and helping the man who hurt you...those are the things Suyin faced towards the end of the book. She didn't let Murmur get off easily, and he had to accept that and work for her trust again. It was definitely a love worth fighting for.
Now for some specific triggers that may be a no-go for you...animal sacrifice (off-page, mentioned on-page), blood magic involving skin carving, traumatic amputation of fingers. You know...the usual in a demon romance.
**I received a free copy from the author and this is my honest review.**
May 29, 2023
I absolutely loved reading Murmurs and Suyin’s love story. I wasn’t sure about Murmur after reading the other books in the series but he quickly grew on me and stole my heart. As thick as the story was I didn’t want it to end, I am so happy I am signed up to Aurora’s Patron so I get some more behind the scenes stories. I am so excited for Fallen Demon and Bell’s story next although it will be bittersweet to say goodbye to these characters. Definitely recommend giving this story and series a try 10/10💜💙
May 24, 2023
Did I just read an arc in less than a day? You bet your ass I couldn't stop!
This one is a Beauty and the Beast retelling.
Only the beast is a necromancer Duke of hell with an army of souls driving him insane and Belle is a take no shit from anyone goth witch. Also the library is in Hell and filled with dark magic grimoires.
We have enemies to lovers (or a new trope grumpy/grumpy lol)
It took Murmur a while but when he finally accepted his love for Suyin, it was beautiful.
What a ride this one is. The over arching plot is coming along in preparation for the final book and I'm glad I finally understand more about the world this author created.
Also Belial is next and I can't wait. Like literally it will be torture worse than what souls endure in Hell.
This one is a Beauty and the Beast retelling.
Only the beast is a necromancer Duke of hell with an army of souls driving him insane and Belle is a take no shit from anyone goth witch. Also the library is in Hell and filled with dark magic grimoires.
We have enemies to lovers (or a new trope grumpy/grumpy lol)
It took Murmur a while but when he finally accepted his love for Suyin, it was beautiful.
What a ride this one is. The over arching plot is coming along in preparation for the final book and I'm glad I finally understand more about the world this author created.
Also Belial is next and I can't wait. Like literally it will be torture worse than what souls endure in Hell.
February 25, 2026
While I was originally frustrated that this still wasn't Bel's book after waiting what feels like EONS (but not actually, I'm just dramatic), I understand why these originally unimportant characters now have their own book in the series. Do I wish Bel's came first? Absolutely! Do I have a feeling his is (finally) next? Yes, yes I do.
I had a good time with Beauty and the Demon. I came in not liking our MFC much, and I still don't like her much, but I do like and empathize with our MMC. He's a troubled, tortured soul and deserves cookies, therapy, and a warm blanket.
I had a good time with Beauty and the Demon. I came in not liking our MFC much, and I still don't like her much, but I do like and empathize with our MMC. He's a troubled, tortured soul and deserves cookies, therapy, and a warm blanket.
May 26, 2023
Excellent paranormal/demon romance!! I absolutely loved it.. Definitely a surprise... right? But when a demon finds love, he might possibly be adorable.. Dark, dangerous, witty, and delicious..
March 2, 2026
3.75 ⭐️
I love Murmur. I really do. But I can’t ignore the little “haven’t we been here before?” feeling creeping in. These demons all seem to have suspiciously similar meet-cutes with their future soulmates, and I was kind of hoping this one would zig where the others zagged.
That said… I’m still locked in. I adore this delightfully dysfunctional little demon circle and will continue to eat it up. They’ve got that sharp banter, unholy devotion, and “I’d burn the world for you” energy that keeps me hooked.
But once again, I am on my knees (dramatically, of course) begging for Belalil’s story. Aurora, how much longer must we suffer? How many breadcrumbs must I collect? I have theories. I have emotional preparedness. I am READY. If this man is not getting the most devastating, earth-shattering, soul-crushing romance of the series, I will be writing a strongly worded letter.
Still fun. Still invested. Still spiraling politely while I wait. 😈
I love Murmur. I really do. But I can’t ignore the little “haven’t we been here before?” feeling creeping in. These demons all seem to have suspiciously similar meet-cutes with their future soulmates, and I was kind of hoping this one would zig where the others zagged.
That said… I’m still locked in. I adore this delightfully dysfunctional little demon circle and will continue to eat it up. They’ve got that sharp banter, unholy devotion, and “I’d burn the world for you” energy that keeps me hooked.
But once again, I am on my knees (dramatically, of course) begging for Belalil’s story. Aurora, how much longer must we suffer? How many breadcrumbs must I collect? I have theories. I have emotional preparedness. I am READY. If this man is not getting the most devastating, earth-shattering, soul-crushing romance of the series, I will be writing a strongly worded letter.
Still fun. Still invested. Still spiraling politely while I wait. 😈
May 30, 2023
I received an ARC Copy of this book, this review is from my own thought 😍
This book was freaking AWESOME !!! I loved everything about it ! Murmur's personality was a major surprise and I loved it, he’s so complex, psycho, definitely crazy but he has a goal and will do anything or reach it. It’s another level of craziness, and Suyin just accepts him as he is, recognising his genius and she’s impressed about all he can accomplish with the mess his head is !
We dive right into the plot, everything Murmur have done in the previous was for a reason… Now he has the last ingredient for his spell and he’s ready to accomplish his life’s goal. Suyin has been abducted without understanding why, his captor needs her but she has no idea how special she is and why she’s part of his plan. She knows that she has to survive and come back, and for this, she is ready to bargain with her captor and learn anything she can about Sheoul magic !!
I am truly amazed at how Aurora Ascher wrote this book, because many elements could lead to a retail of the Beauty and the Beast, but it’s not how I felt about this book. It’s so much darker and more complex, so yes she was kidnapped and he has a freaking huge library but that’s all 🤣 Murmur is sooo much more, he’s the Necromancer of and has developed an impressive knowledge of Sheoul magic, he’s manipulative, he likes to find loopholes in his pacts and he still has an impact on Suyin as much as she has one on him. Suyin is a blood-born witch who doesn’t really understand herself, she feels like an outsider among her own kind.
This series is sooooo worth it, I just need to read them all over again and I just cannot wait to read Belial’s book. He always was my favourite and he has his own tribulations coming.
This book was freaking AWESOME !!! I loved everything about it ! Murmur's personality was a major surprise and I loved it, he’s so complex, psycho, definitely crazy but he has a goal and will do anything or reach it. It’s another level of craziness, and Suyin just accepts him as he is, recognising his genius and she’s impressed about all he can accomplish with the mess his head is !
We dive right into the plot, everything Murmur have done in the previous was for a reason… Now he has the last ingredient for his spell and he’s ready to accomplish his life’s goal. Suyin has been abducted without understanding why, his captor needs her but she has no idea how special she is and why she’s part of his plan. She knows that she has to survive and come back, and for this, she is ready to bargain with her captor and learn anything she can about Sheoul magic !!
I am truly amazed at how Aurora Ascher wrote this book, because many elements could lead to a retail of the Beauty and the Beast, but it’s not how I felt about this book. It’s so much darker and more complex, so yes she was kidnapped and he has a freaking huge library but that’s all 🤣 Murmur is sooo much more, he’s the Necromancer of and has developed an impressive knowledge of Sheoul magic, he’s manipulative, he likes to find loopholes in his pacts and he still has an impact on Suyin as much as she has one on him. Suyin is a blood-born witch who doesn’t really understand herself, she feels like an outsider among her own kind.
This series is sooooo worth it, I just need to read them all over again and I just cannot wait to read Belial’s book. He always was my favourite and he has his own tribulations coming.
March 6, 2026
Beauty, the Demon, & My Boredom
2.5 ⭐️ 3 🌶️
I wanted to love Beauty and the Demon. Truly. I love a good Beauty and the Beast retelling so much that I literally had a Beauty and the Beast inspired wedding. This should have been my moment. Instead, I found myself checking how many pages were left and wondering when the intrigue would kick in.
This book drops some big lore about Hell and sets up the finale, but the pacing dragged for me. I was bored more often than I expected, which is wild considering this series usually has me hooked. Murmur, the infamous necromancer demon, ended up feeling surprisingly basic for a morally grey character. For someone who commands souls and lives in literal Hell, he lacked the complexity and danger I was hoping for.
Suyin did not help matters. Her central conflict is essentially “oh no, I am not aging,” which is not exactly groundbreaking witch drama. Her friendships with Iris and Lily also felt strange and oddly distant. Honestly, I have stronger emotional connections with inanimate objects than she seems to have with those two.
The romance leans hard into enemies to lovers with plenty of spice, but nothing about it felt particularly new for the demon world this series built. It was fine. Just predictable. I kept waiting for a twist that never really came. Ironically, the moments I enjoyed most were the cameos from Bel and Mist, which mostly reminded me how much I missed them. Murmur just did not have the same spark.
Overall, the book answers some questions and clearly positions the series for its finale, but this one simply did not hit for me the way the others did. I wanted more intrigue, more danger, and a demon who actually made me nervous.
2.5 ⭐️ 3 🌶️
I wanted to love Beauty and the Demon. Truly. I love a good Beauty and the Beast retelling so much that I literally had a Beauty and the Beast inspired wedding. This should have been my moment. Instead, I found myself checking how many pages were left and wondering when the intrigue would kick in.
This book drops some big lore about Hell and sets up the finale, but the pacing dragged for me. I was bored more often than I expected, which is wild considering this series usually has me hooked. Murmur, the infamous necromancer demon, ended up feeling surprisingly basic for a morally grey character. For someone who commands souls and lives in literal Hell, he lacked the complexity and danger I was hoping for.
Suyin did not help matters. Her central conflict is essentially “oh no, I am not aging,” which is not exactly groundbreaking witch drama. Her friendships with Iris and Lily also felt strange and oddly distant. Honestly, I have stronger emotional connections with inanimate objects than she seems to have with those two.
The romance leans hard into enemies to lovers with plenty of spice, but nothing about it felt particularly new for the demon world this series built. It was fine. Just predictable. I kept waiting for a twist that never really came. Ironically, the moments I enjoyed most were the cameos from Bel and Mist, which mostly reminded me how much I missed them. Murmur just did not have the same spark.
Overall, the book answers some questions and clearly positions the series for its finale, but this one simply did not hit for me the way the others did. I wanted more intrigue, more danger, and a demon who actually made me nervous.
April 3, 2026
Very good! I will say that while it is a standalone it would’ve definitely been better if I read the others first. Overall I could still follow and it was so good!
March 23, 2026
Murmur and Suyin gave me total Beauty and the Beast vibes—and I absolutely loved it.
After Murmur was introduced in Lily’s book, I honestly wasn’t sure where he stood, which made diving into this story even more exciting. I’m so glad we finally get clarity on which side he’s been on all along—it made his character so much more compelling. The dynamic between him and Suyin had that perfect mix of tension and tenderness that I eat up every time.
I also loved that we got to spend more time in Hell—it added such a cool, immersive layer to the story. And that reveal about Suyin? I did not see it coming. It completely caught me off guard in the best way.
My heart absolutely broke for Bel, and now I’m just counting down the days until his book. This series keeps getting better with every installment, and I genuinely can’t recommend it enough.
After Murmur was introduced in Lily’s book, I honestly wasn’t sure where he stood, which made diving into this story even more exciting. I’m so glad we finally get clarity on which side he’s been on all along—it made his character so much more compelling. The dynamic between him and Suyin had that perfect mix of tension and tenderness that I eat up every time.
I also loved that we got to spend more time in Hell—it added such a cool, immersive layer to the story. And that reveal about Suyin? I did not see it coming. It completely caught me off guard in the best way.
My heart absolutely broke for Bel, and now I’m just counting down the days until his book. This series keeps getting better with every installment, and I genuinely can’t recommend it enough.
March 29, 2026
4.5 ⭐️ bonus points for all of the Bel POV I will be going absolutely feral for his book.
This was the book I was most apprehensive going into because I wasn’t all that interested in Suyin and I wasn’t sure if I would like it as much not seeing as much of the found family that we have been. But this was a really interesting story and getting to know more about both murmur and Suyin and how they operate made me fall in love with both them and their love story. The Belial POV’s were such a nice bonus and honestly my favourite part of the book because I love him so much. It was also great to see what was going on back home while Suyin and Murmur were locked away in hell.
I’m so excited for the final book in this series but I’m going to be so heartbroken saying goodbye.
This was the book I was most apprehensive going into because I wasn’t all that interested in Suyin and I wasn’t sure if I would like it as much not seeing as much of the found family that we have been. But this was a really interesting story and getting to know more about both murmur and Suyin and how they operate made me fall in love with both them and their love story. The Belial POV’s were such a nice bonus and honestly my favourite part of the book because I love him so much. It was also great to see what was going on back home while Suyin and Murmur were locked away in hell.
I’m so excited for the final book in this series but I’m going to be so heartbroken saying goodbye.
September 20, 2023
Oh my, Murmy! You ARE loveable!!
*full review to come*
*full review to come*
April 22, 2026
4.5 for me
I think this was a great continuation of the series and I loved the grumpy/grumpy MCsas well as the huge library filled with grimoires. I wasn't sure about this MC Murmur bc in previous books he wasn't the most trustworthy guy, but you could tell something was going on so you didn't write him off immediately. I enjoyed his book so much and while he didn't necessarily need "redemption" in my eyes bc as the book points out at one point these MCs are all demons who yes have souls, but they are still demons and that's where they evolved from so we can't treat them like humans. But I appreciated is in this book we got a deeper look at him and his motivations and honestly this guy is smart, crafty and has a lot more layers than you would think. I enjoyed his relationship with Suyin which had a rocky start to say the least with him stalking and kidnapping Suyin and Suyin obviously hating demons.
But that was only the start of their "trials". I enjoyed the vibes of the demon not knowing how to care for a human properly as well as Suyin's craftiness to negotiate her way into getting what she needed and wanted. Along with their mutual craftiness and grumpiness they were able to really bond over their love and desire for knowledge that sometimes Murmur would neglect his mission all to talk about the books Suyin was reading with her and help her to understand them. This of course led to them starting to develop feelings for one another and angst as well because of who they are and their circumstances. I think the two MCs had some great chemistry with one another in the library as well as outside of it if you know what I mean.
Overall, I loved the characters, and I liked the way the plot unfolded with the big reveal of Murmurers plans and what that means for our group of demons. It makes me really excited to the last book with I was already excited for bc of who the MC would be but now I am really interested in see how the plot works things out.
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This book is about Murmur the infamous Necromancer, and he is losing his grip on reality. His army of souls screaming in his mind try to distract him from his plans. But he refuses to be distracted especially when he only needs one thing to complete his deadly plan: the blood of Suyin, a witch who refuses to be anyone’s victim. Now Suyin has problems of her own, like the fact that she is not aging, ominous dreams that maybe be giving her clues about her future and a stalker who turns out to be a demon. How does she know well she ends up being kidnapped by him just like her dreams showed her. But it doesn't matter what plans he has for her now that he has her because she won’t make Murmur’s plan easy. But something ignites between this demon and witch as they are forced together as Murmur’s apocalyptic scheme nears completion. Now he will have to choose between the destruction he’s built his life upon or the woman who awakens the last fragments of his soul.
I think this was a great continuation of the series and I loved the grumpy/grumpy MCsas well as the huge library filled with grimoires. I wasn't sure about this MC Murmur bc in previous books he wasn't the most trustworthy guy, but you could tell something was going on so you didn't write him off immediately. I enjoyed his book so much and while he didn't necessarily need "redemption" in my eyes bc as the book points out at one point these MCs are all demons who yes have souls, but they are still demons and that's where they evolved from so we can't treat them like humans. But I appreciated is in this book we got a deeper look at him and his motivations and honestly this guy is smart, crafty and has a lot more layers than you would think. I enjoyed his relationship with Suyin which had a rocky start to say the least with him stalking and kidnapping Suyin and Suyin obviously hating demons.
But that was only the start of their "trials". I enjoyed the vibes of the demon not knowing how to care for a human properly as well as Suyin's craftiness to negotiate her way into getting what she needed and wanted. Along with their mutual craftiness and grumpiness they were able to really bond over their love and desire for knowledge that sometimes Murmur would neglect his mission all to talk about the books Suyin was reading with her and help her to understand them. This of course led to them starting to develop feelings for one another and angst as well because of who they are and their circumstances. I think the two MCs had some great chemistry with one another in the library as well as outside of it if you know what I mean.
Overall, I loved the characters, and I liked the way the plot unfolded with the big reveal of Murmurers plans and what that means for our group of demons. It makes me really excited to the last book with I was already excited for bc of who the MC would be but now I am really interested in see how the plot works things out.
----
This book is about Murmur the infamous Necromancer, and he is losing his grip on reality. His army of souls screaming in his mind try to distract him from his plans. But he refuses to be distracted especially when he only needs one thing to complete his deadly plan: the blood of Suyin, a witch who refuses to be anyone’s victim. Now Suyin has problems of her own, like the fact that she is not aging, ominous dreams that maybe be giving her clues about her future and a stalker who turns out to be a demon. How does she know well she ends up being kidnapped by him just like her dreams showed her. But it doesn't matter what plans he has for her now that he has her because she won’t make Murmur’s plan easy. But something ignites between this demon and witch as they are forced together as Murmur’s apocalyptic scheme nears completion. Now he will have to choose between the destruction he’s built his life upon or the woman who awakens the last fragments of his soul.
June 3, 2023
Beauty and the Demon by Aurora Ascher was another fun, pleasant ride through the Hell Bent series. It’s filled with funny moments, tons of spice, and the kind of hot tension you might expect from a demon and his witch. This might have ended up being my favourite couple yet, much to my own surprise.
Suyin is a witch with powers even she doesn’t understand, and someone who has a hard time letting people fully in. She is Iris’ friend, a character who has appeared in a previous book in the Hell Bent series, but even Iris doesn’t get all the details about Suyin and her life. I really liked Suyin, she’s a strong, independent witch who really seems like she doesn’t need anyone, which is both admirable and also sad, and her biggest flaw. I found her very relatable though, which is why I enjoyed reading from her perspective so much.
Suyin is kidnapped by a demon, in this case Murmur, who has made previous appearances in the series as one of the main villains the brotherhood of demons has faced. This was why I was so surprised to end up enjoying this book and this pairing so much. I never thought I would end up liking Murmur as much as I ended up doing so, so I went into this book expecting to enjoy it less. But alas, here I am, eternally drawn to the villainous characters it seems. Murmur is very similar to Suyin in certain ways, he lets no one in and much prefers to be left on his own. He’s very focused on his studies and completing whatever project he’s most focused on at the time, and it’s one of these projects that brings him to kidnap Suyin.
Something that pleasantly surprised me about this book was that there was actually more than just two point of views the story was told from. Of course there was the main two, or the couple to be, but there were also chapters from Bel’s point of view which I really enjoyed. It was nice to have another story being told, especially because it kept the reader connected with this brothers and their partners, otherwise known as the characters from the previous books in this series. Considering Murmur and Suyin only really had a passing connection to this group, it was great having that chance to see what was going on in their lives. Not least because Bel is left struggling so hard with his anger issues and trying to fit into the human world and the reader gets to experience this with him.
All in all this was a very enjoyable read, as with previous entries in the Hell Bent series. I’m very much looking forward to Bel’s story next, especially after getting a look inside his head in various chapters throughout this book. Fans of this series are going to love this latest entry!
Suyin is a witch with powers even she doesn’t understand, and someone who has a hard time letting people fully in. She is Iris’ friend, a character who has appeared in a previous book in the Hell Bent series, but even Iris doesn’t get all the details about Suyin and her life. I really liked Suyin, she’s a strong, independent witch who really seems like she doesn’t need anyone, which is both admirable and also sad, and her biggest flaw. I found her very relatable though, which is why I enjoyed reading from her perspective so much.
Suyin is kidnapped by a demon, in this case Murmur, who has made previous appearances in the series as one of the main villains the brotherhood of demons has faced. This was why I was so surprised to end up enjoying this book and this pairing so much. I never thought I would end up liking Murmur as much as I ended up doing so, so I went into this book expecting to enjoy it less. But alas, here I am, eternally drawn to the villainous characters it seems. Murmur is very similar to Suyin in certain ways, he lets no one in and much prefers to be left on his own. He’s very focused on his studies and completing whatever project he’s most focused on at the time, and it’s one of these projects that brings him to kidnap Suyin.
Something that pleasantly surprised me about this book was that there was actually more than just two point of views the story was told from. Of course there was the main two, or the couple to be, but there were also chapters from Bel’s point of view which I really enjoyed. It was nice to have another story being told, especially because it kept the reader connected with this brothers and their partners, otherwise known as the characters from the previous books in this series. Considering Murmur and Suyin only really had a passing connection to this group, it was great having that chance to see what was going on in their lives. Not least because Bel is left struggling so hard with his anger issues and trying to fit into the human world and the reader gets to experience this with him.
All in all this was a very enjoyable read, as with previous entries in the Hell Bent series. I’m very much looking forward to Bel’s story next, especially after getting a look inside his head in various chapters throughout this book. Fans of this series are going to love this latest entry!
February 26, 2026
Aurora Ascher gives us Murmur, a half-mad necromancer drowning in the screams of the souls he commands, and Suyin, a fierce coven leader whose strength and stubbornness make her impossible to control. Their collision is explosive from the start, built on captivity, sharp banter, and a tension that simmers long before it softens into something more vulnerable. If you have read any of Asher’s books you will know her writing only gets better with each book, I keep falling in love with each demon and she blows me away with all of the emotions i feel in her books! The fact she took a villain
from the last book and turned him into the romantic interest blew my mind.
One of my favorite aspects was how Suyin refuses to be a passive heroine. She bargains, fights, and challenges Murmur at every turn, which makes the forced-proximity arc feel earned rather than predictable. She is seriously such a hard core bad ass femme fatale. Meanwhile, Murmur’s descent into madness paired with glimpses of his hidden loneliness adds surprising depth to a character who could have easily been just another dark demon archetype. His character was so much deepertham I ever could of imagined Intruly enjoyed peeling back his layers. Watching his cold, calculated plans unravel because of genuine emotion was incredibly satisfying.
The atmosphere is peak gothic romantasy: a magical library in a castle in Hell, haunting dreams, and a slow unraveling of fate versus free will. Ascher balances spice with emotional stakes, letting the romance evolve from hostility to reluctant trust and finally into something that feels almost redemptive. If you love morally gray demon heroes, powerful witch heroines, and stories where the villain might actually deserve the girl, this one absolutely delivers. Dark, seductive, and unexpectedly heartfelt, Beauty and the Demon is a standout for readers who crave romance wrapped in shadows. Thank you so much Aurora Asher and Kensington Books for the ARC of Beauty and the Demon
from the last book and turned him into the romantic interest blew my mind.
One of my favorite aspects was how Suyin refuses to be a passive heroine. She bargains, fights, and challenges Murmur at every turn, which makes the forced-proximity arc feel earned rather than predictable. She is seriously such a hard core bad ass femme fatale. Meanwhile, Murmur’s descent into madness paired with glimpses of his hidden loneliness adds surprising depth to a character who could have easily been just another dark demon archetype. His character was so much deepertham I ever could of imagined Intruly enjoyed peeling back his layers. Watching his cold, calculated plans unravel because of genuine emotion was incredibly satisfying.
The atmosphere is peak gothic romantasy: a magical library in a castle in Hell, haunting dreams, and a slow unraveling of fate versus free will. Ascher balances spice with emotional stakes, letting the romance evolve from hostility to reluctant trust and finally into something that feels almost redemptive. If you love morally gray demon heroes, powerful witch heroines, and stories where the villain might actually deserve the girl, this one absolutely delivers. Dark, seductive, and unexpectedly heartfelt, Beauty and the Demon is a standout for readers who crave romance wrapped in shadows. Thank you so much Aurora Asher and Kensington Books for the ARC of Beauty and the Demon
June 7, 2023
Finally!!!! Finally... I get my hands on my beloved Murmur. From the first moment he was introduced into this series, I have been dying to get more information about him... Since this nefarious necromancer came into the picture with his long silver hair, pale skin, horns, tail, and let's not forget the soul "shadows" withering around his feet, I was a goner. While everyone cheered for one of the demon brothers, I was waiting for additional bits and pieces of Murmur to trickle into the stories. I finally got my dose of Murmur, and it did not disappoint 🙌 👏.
This is the 5th book in the Hell Bent series, and it makes me very sad that we are nearing the end of these delicious demons. This book features (obviously) Murmur and the snarky, badass of a witch, Suyin.
To me, Murmur just stole the show. He was everything I ever wanted in a Hero/Villain. He had this diabolical genius plan, and gosh, it was just amazing how the pieces of what he has been doing in the other books just come together. There were so many times I had to pause and say, "No way" in awe as the plan puzzled itself together. He is such a villain on the outside, but on the inside, he actually has a heart. I seriously think this book represents his metamorphosis and how Suyin brings it out of him.
Suyin is one of the witches that has had magic for a long time. She is also represented as the most powerful one in that small Coven. Well, we find out she is a lot more than that, and getting to her story was shocking. I actually didn't see it coming, but now that I think about it, it totally makes sense 🤔. She was a good fit for Murmur. The way she saw beyond his shell and saw the genius underneath. She gave him a chance, and we were able to experience Murmur because of it. I really enjoyed her character even if she has my Murmur.
If you haven't read the Hell Bent series. I highly recommend getting it. It is totally worth it, and these demons are just deliciously amazing. I am hooked!!! I can't wait for the next book and finally get Bel's story. Now I just need to patiently wait....
This is the 5th book in the Hell Bent series, and it makes me very sad that we are nearing the end of these delicious demons. This book features (obviously) Murmur and the snarky, badass of a witch, Suyin.
To me, Murmur just stole the show. He was everything I ever wanted in a Hero/Villain. He had this diabolical genius plan, and gosh, it was just amazing how the pieces of what he has been doing in the other books just come together. There were so many times I had to pause and say, "No way" in awe as the plan puzzled itself together. He is such a villain on the outside, but on the inside, he actually has a heart. I seriously think this book represents his metamorphosis and how Suyin brings it out of him.
Suyin is one of the witches that has had magic for a long time. She is also represented as the most powerful one in that small Coven. Well, we find out she is a lot more than that, and getting to her story was shocking. I actually didn't see it coming, but now that I think about it, it totally makes sense 🤔. She was a good fit for Murmur. The way she saw beyond his shell and saw the genius underneath. She gave him a chance, and we were able to experience Murmur because of it. I really enjoyed her character even if she has my Murmur.
If you haven't read the Hell Bent series. I highly recommend getting it. It is totally worth it, and these demons are just deliciously amazing. I am hooked!!! I can't wait for the next book and finally get Bel's story. Now I just need to patiently wait....
March 13, 2026
beauty and the beast? but make it witch and the demon😭😭 in loveeeeeee.
HE GAVE HER HIS LIBRARY GAHHHH
yeah. I was unsure of this book at first because I felt like we were being whisked away from the found family that I LOVE SO MUCH. but oh the little pause was well worth it because this was hot, sweet, cute, passionate. 🤌🏽🤌🏽
plus after everything I don’t know I feel likeeeeeee maybe necromancer might be brought into the fam in fallen demon 👀 maybe not. I can’t quit tell right now but that’s keeping me on my toes so 🤭
this was peak Stockholm syndrome btw 😂 like real bad. but I mean so is beauty and the beast so I get it. in a weird way it’s hot. I might just also be psychotic.
Suyin &’ Murmur literally stood no chance at fighting the attraction for each other because it was built off of hate and built up tension and both of them needing a release, and I don’t even mean sexually. but mentally needed to be seen, understood, safe.
something felt lacking. I don’t know what it was, I assume just being away from the OG 5 characters, so I give this a 4.25 ⭐️ because regardless of whatever I felt was missing I could not put it down! … like every book in this series 😂
HE GAVE HER HIS LIBRARY GAHHHH
yeah. I was unsure of this book at first because I felt like we were being whisked away from the found family that I LOVE SO MUCH. but oh the little pause was well worth it because this was hot, sweet, cute, passionate. 🤌🏽🤌🏽
plus after everything I don’t know I feel likeeeeeee maybe necromancer might be brought into the fam in fallen demon 👀 maybe not. I can’t quit tell right now but that’s keeping me on my toes so 🤭
this was peak Stockholm syndrome btw 😂 like real bad. but I mean so is beauty and the beast so I get it. in a weird way it’s hot. I might just also be psychotic.
Suyin &’ Murmur literally stood no chance at fighting the attraction for each other because it was built off of hate and built up tension and both of them needing a release, and I don’t even mean sexually. but mentally needed to be seen, understood, safe.
something felt lacking. I don’t know what it was, I assume just being away from the OG 5 characters, so I give this a 4.25 ⭐️ because regardless of whatever I felt was missing I could not put it down! … like every book in this series 😂
June 6, 2023
Demons.
Bloodthirsty soulless Demons that can form a soul, become empathetic & even fall in love! YEEES!
I cannot stress enough how much I love this whole series. This was definitely my fav story far. Meph is still my favorite man but this book was the best. Aurora can really write a book. Such a great plot.
When Aurora announced she was writing a book for Murmur I was skeptical. He wasn’t my fav & a completely terrible demon. Wow, just wow, my mind was changed. The character development in this book is exceptional. Suyin is such a badass & I loved how this book ended. I have been in such a book rut for a couple months. This was just what I needed. Now I’m worried nothing will compare! 🖤
Oh and the lead up to Bels story! Ahhhhhh I can’t friggin wait for the next book.
Bloodthirsty soulless Demons that can form a soul, become empathetic & even fall in love! YEEES!
I cannot stress enough how much I love this whole series. This was definitely my fav story far. Meph is still my favorite man but this book was the best. Aurora can really write a book. Such a great plot.
When Aurora announced she was writing a book for Murmur I was skeptical. He wasn’t my fav & a completely terrible demon. Wow, just wow, my mind was changed. The character development in this book is exceptional. Suyin is such a badass & I loved how this book ended. I have been in such a book rut for a couple months. This was just what I needed. Now I’m worried nothing will compare! 🖤
Oh and the lead up to Bels story! Ahhhhhh I can’t friggin wait for the next book.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
4.5 ⭐
• I was really excited to read this book after Guardian Demon because who wouldn't love a witch who's kidnapped by a demon who plans to keep her in a dungeon so he could use her blood in his "nefarious" plans?? Oh oh. Murmur was the constant villain in the entire series so from the perspective of other characters he seemed irredeemable and with no morals ( I wouldn't have cared) but oh boyy...the pandora box this demon opened after Kidnapping Suyin was hilarious 😂
• I loved the chemistry between them, it was as usual 🔥 and how the relationship slowly development..? Oh yes!!! I loved every single moment of it. And Murmur being soo clueless about his feelings and Suyin being even dumber than him- it tugged on my heartstring 😂
• It didn't help the fact that Murmur was a demon who's only interested in his research, wholes up in his library being a man scientist and.... he's equipped with wings, horns and a scorpion-ish tail the kind that's filled with the venom...like yesss!!
• And Suyin-? She's a blood witch, strong, calm badass and rides a motorcycle-? There isn't much I could resist 😂
✨My favourite moments✨
• When Suyin takes out Murmur on her bike and also plans to teach him how to ride it but our demon is not having it, he can't ride that death trap 😂
• When Suyin's friend find out she was galvanating with Murmur, the Murmur and they were like gurlll~ are you okay? What do you see in him..? He's like a zombie abliet an otherworldly one?
• When Murmur spends the entire night searching for books for Suyin from his library because she was so excited about it and he totally forgot about his big ol plans..
💌 Overall, I really really loved this book, totally recommend the experience is 💯 worth it!
💖 Thanks NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for the ARC, all opinions are my own!
• I was really excited to read this book after Guardian Demon because who wouldn't love a witch who's kidnapped by a demon who plans to keep her in a dungeon so he could use her blood in his "nefarious" plans?? Oh oh. Murmur was the constant villain in the entire series so from the perspective of other characters he seemed irredeemable and with no morals ( I wouldn't have cared) but oh boyy...the pandora box this demon opened after Kidnapping Suyin was hilarious 😂
• I loved the chemistry between them, it was as usual 🔥 and how the relationship slowly development..? Oh yes!!! I loved every single moment of it. And Murmur being soo clueless about his feelings and Suyin being even dumber than him- it tugged on my heartstring 😂
• It didn't help the fact that Murmur was a demon who's only interested in his research, wholes up in his library being a man scientist and.... he's equipped with wings, horns and a scorpion-ish tail the kind that's filled with the venom...like yesss!!
• And Suyin-? She's a blood witch, strong, calm badass and rides a motorcycle-? There isn't much I could resist 😂
✨My favourite moments✨
• When Suyin takes out Murmur on her bike and also plans to teach him how to ride it but our demon is not having it, he can't ride that death trap 😂
• When Suyin's friend find out she was galvanating with Murmur, the Murmur and they were like gurlll~ are you okay? What do you see in him..? He's like a zombie abliet an otherworldly one?
• When Murmur spends the entire night searching for books for Suyin from his library because she was so excited about it and he totally forgot about his big ol plans..
💌 Overall, I really really loved this book, totally recommend the experience is 💯 worth it!
💖 Thanks NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for the ARC, all opinions are my own!
February 26, 2026
"I would rather chop off all my limbs and then decapitate myself than harm a single hair on your head."
I hope every reader finds a series that just clicks with them as much the Hell Bent series has hit for me. the books have been an absolute joy and does this one continue the trend.
This time the story centers around Mumur and Suyin. These are very different characters from our core cast. Neither is your typical character in romance. Both acutally show quite a distain for love. Each character is driven by goals and a sense of isolation from people. Suyin in particular has a arc about keeping people at arms length never truly letting anyone in. And in this we see how their paths force each other to question the way they been living life in general.
finished it in about two days and I cannot wait for the final book in the series.
I hope every reader finds a series that just clicks with them as much the Hell Bent series has hit for me. the books have been an absolute joy and does this one continue the trend.
This time the story centers around Mumur and Suyin. These are very different characters from our core cast. Neither is your typical character in romance. Both acutally show quite a distain for love. Each character is driven by goals and a sense of isolation from people. Suyin in particular has a arc about keeping people at arms length never truly letting anyone in. And in this we see how their paths force each other to question the way they been living life in general.
finished it in about two days and I cannot wait for the final book in the series.
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