Gin Crawford has enough problems dealing with her empath abilities. Finding out she's the world's newest demon-slayer is the last thing she needs. Unfortunately, when she slips on a mysterious bracelet she is given no other choice. On the plus side, her new gig comes with Tall, Dark and Handsome, a mage who may or may not have her best interests at heart. Thrust into a power-play between good and evil, Gin must choose a side before she becomes the next victim in the ongoing battle.
The second book of this series recently released and the excerpts I read on the author's blog tour sounded intriguing. I realized I'd never read the first book and didn't know the backstory of what sounded like a whole new take on demon hunting... So I purchased book one to catch up and see what the deal was.
Oh. My. God.
I whipped through this book and had the urge to start over at the beginning and read it again more slowly just to make it last longer. And then I remembered book two is already available. Happy dance over to Amazon!
Back to my review of Book One.
Gin Champagne Crawford sounds a lot like your average twenty-something (her exact age isn't ever made clear) who works as an emergency room nurse. The twist is that she's also an empath, with a psychic connection to her twin brother, named Tonic, who's a ghost whisperer. Okay, not so average after all. And the names? Gin and Tonic, so named by their alcoholic parents? Hilarious.
In the very first chapter, Gin's life gets even more strange, if that's possible, when a coworker somehow gifts her a silver bracelet after being shot in the chest. The silver bracelet connects her with a whole new group that hunts demons and minions, protecting the Earth from evil for centuries. She finds out about all this in bits and pieces, after one of those said minions follows her home from the hospital and tries to kill her. Talk about a bad day at work.
The saving grace is her handler, or Guardian, who's a hot hunk of muscle named Aidan Smythe. The sizzle between the pair is instantaneous and ever present, but both of them are way deep in denial. Here's to hoping that relationship gets explored a lot more fully as the series continues! (Did I mention I already bought Book Two?)
Why did I love this so much? First person narration is never my favorite... Except, for some reason, when it comes to these types of paranormal adventures. I loved Gin's snarky narration and self-deprecation. Okay, so there were a lot of questions left unanswered as I reached the end of the story, but somehow they didn't leave me frustrated.
I have total faith that the story will unfold naturally over the course of the series, and all secrets will be revealed. The story was too fast paced to allow for a lot or backstory or wallowing in the past, which was probably why I was okay with it being unanswered. Well, that and I already have Book Two downloaded.
So yeah, I can totally Totally recommend this book as a fast paced nonstop paranormal romp that will leave you wanting more, but in a good way.
What an interesting book. I haven’t read anything with this kind of twist in the paranormal range and really liked it. The twist at the end keeps you wanting to know what will come next and I hope the next comes out soon. The narration in this book was good as well. You could tell easily which character was talking throughout the book with no issues.
Gin is an empath. Born with the ability to read peoples feelings and thoughts simply by touching them, she also shares a mental bond with her brother; T.
Even though she should be used to dealing with emergency situations in her line of work as an ER nurse, nothing could have prepared her for what happens when one of her co-workers is assaulted, and a strange silver bracelet with a mind of its own, appears in her pocket, urging her to put it on.
Suddenly, her life is turned upside-down. Not only is she introduced to a sexy guardian; Smythe and his dubious colleagues; she also learns that her bracelet, the Justitia, was created to slay demons, and she's now a demon hunter til the day that she dies... Of course, both demonic minions and certain guardians want to see her dead as soon as possible.. Smythe and Gin have got their work cut out for them.
Frankly, I was ready to write this book off as one of my less successful buys, but then along came the demon; Sargon, with his deviousness, love of peanut butter, very unlikely friendship and puppy dog eyes at the Justitia's (unexpected) anger.
Sargon alone made me want to continue this story. As far as I'm concerned, he is the sole reason why I I decided to give this book 3 stars. I just didn't connect with the other characters as much as I would have liked. I felt it lacked a certain depth, which in case made it hard for me to empathize when bad s... happened.
Still,I'm willing to give book #2 a shot, just to find out what Sargon is up to.
Fun story, fast paced, but the ending was a terrible cliffhanger, and it brought up tons of questions it never answered. Like, none of the questions were answered. At all. Which was quite disappointing. Perhaps worth reading if the second one is out, but before then I wouldn't recommend it.
I received this book for free. I am voluntarily leaving this review and all opinions expressed herein are my own.
This is the first book in the Demon Huntress series. I read a few of the other reviews for this book and noticed several complaining about a lack of character development or answers to every question brought up during the story. Well... this is a series and if the character had no possibility of change or to reveal further biographical information and all answers were provided - what would be left for the series? This is not a one-off book but it is a complete story [no cliffhanger ending], however, the ending does provide a twist which I am sure will be further explored in the next book.
Here, Gin and Tonic [so named by alcoholic parents] are twins. Both have special powers - Gin is an empath who can read thoughts/feelings by touching [skin to skin] and Tonic is a ghost whisperer [although he declines to use his powers]. Further the twins have such a deep connection that they can enter into each other's thoughts [telepathic] and can see through the other's eyes. Gin is an ER nurse and one night while on duty, a doctor is shot. Gin mysteriously finds a bracelet in her pocket, which calls to her to wear it. She cannot resist and once she puts on the bracelet, her world is completely turned upside down. She is contacted by Smythe [who ultimately becomes her mentor/trainer] to initally guide her and determine her connection to the bracelet.
I found this to be a fast-paced and action-filled story. I enjoyed Gin's snarky or sarcastic first person commentary and dialogue. I really liked the connection between the twins - which I hope will be further explored in future books. The background of the twins is a bit sketchy [and I am sure that more will be provided in future books] but it was more than enough to get you to understand why Gin and Tonic reacted to some of the situations as they did. There were some sparks between Gin and Smythe, which I am sure will be expanded upon during the series. I am looking forward to exploring the rest of the series.
I listened to this story -- the narrator, Joan Dukore, was very good, understandable and narrated at a good pace. I think she added to the enjoyment of the story.
Title: Demon Lore Series: Demon Huntress Book #1 Author: Karilyn Bentley Genre: Urban Fantasy, Paranormal Blurb: Gin Crawford has enough problems dealing with her empath abilities. Finding out she's the world's newest demon-slayer is the last thing she needs. Unfortunately, when she slips on a mysterious bracelet she is given no other choice. On the plus side, her new gig comes with Tall, Dark and Handsome, a mage who may or may not have her best interests at heart. Thrust into a power-play between good and evil, Gin must choose a side before she becomes the next victim in the ongoing battle. Thoughts: Demon Lore was a very interesting urban fantasy – the story itself was very original with likeable characters that made it a joy to read. The originality of the story really keeps you interested. The book doesn’t spend a lot of time focusing on a real romance, but I will continue to hope that one eventually develops. While I did find some things predictable in the storyline, there were others that keep you on your toes. The storyline is a continual one, and there were a lot of questions left unanswered that will leave you just needing to read the rest of this series. So, if you are one of those that hate lingering questions or that likes to wait to read all the books at once at the end of the series, this is something to be aware of. I enjoyed it myself, and have already hunted down book #2 – Demon Kissed! Rate: A Review by: Sarah http://www.thebookreadinggals.com
I love October and Halloween! So of course I had to read Demon Lore a book about magic, demons, evil, and weird. Demon Lore is funny, scary, crazy and snarky. Did I say I love snark? Well I do and Gin makes snark into an art form. In this story, Gin is an ER Nurse with empathic abilities. Her twin brother is Tonic who talks to ghosts. Who names their kids Gin and Tonic? Had a good giggle over that. After hearing unusual sounds, Gin shoves into a hospital room where her doctor friend has sustained life-threatening injuries. When she floats through his mind she sees a bracelet that he refuses to let go, though it may cost him his life. Then suddenly the bracelet is in her pocket as the doctor is rushed to surgery. Should she put the bracelet on? Her twin has something to say about that. Who was that stranger with the dead black eyes? What Agency and who is Detective Smythe? I could tell you, but I’d have to kill you, and that would be a shame because you wouldn’t get to read this page turning tale! Did I mention the fork, spiked-tongue demon she may have the hots for or the sexy guardian that may or may not be a good guy? Just a few questions you’ll find the answers to in Demon Lore. I loved A Demon’s Lore and look forward to reading the rest of the series.
Gin is an empath which means she has the ability to real people’s feelings and thoughts by touching them. She also shares a bond with her brother T. Gin is an E R nurse. Then one of Gin’s co-workers is assaulted. Then a strange silver bracelet with a mind of it’s own appears in Gin’s pocket urging her to put it on. Then things change and Gin is introduced to a sexy guardian named Smyhte and his colleague . Gin also learns her bracelet: the Justilia was created to slay demons and she is now a Demon Slayer. Also there are demonic minions and certain guardians that want to see Gin dead. People show up by a portal to kill Gin. Gin’s brother T encourages Gin to put on the bracelet so Gin does. Then Gin is kidnapped by a demon. I liked this story a lot. The plot was very good and I really enjoyed the story. This also kept my attention from the beginning to end. I loved the twists and turns. Even though Sargon was a demon it made me snicker with his love of peanut butter. I loved the bond between Gin and T. I loved the characters and the ins and outs of this story and I recommend.
I hate being Mr Negative, but I did not like the narrator. Dukore sounds just like a NPR host, slow, monotone, and no emotion. it was as if the narrator had never experienced emotions before in her life. I almost had to stop listening, but I found it tolerable if I increase the speed. I recommend some were between 1.25 and 1.75
Now that I got that out of the way, I have to say the story itself isn't bad. It's hard for me to give an honest review of the story without it being tainted by the narrator. So I am going to leave it here and just say it might be better just to read the book yourself.
This book was given to me for free at my request and I provided this voluntary review.
Overall: 4 Stars Performance: 5 Stars Story: 3 Stars My review is based on the audiobook. Demon Lore is a good start of series telling Gin's journey into becoming a Demon Huntress. My main negative is the lack of answers and character backgrounds. The pacing was decent and there is plenty of action and romance. The narrator was wonderful in bringing the story and characters to life with easy to understand and distince voices. In fact had I been reading this there are probably parts I would have skimmed but the narrator fully kept my attention. I would give book 2 a shot in hopes of learning some background and seeing where the story goes.
I...am not even sure how I finished this. Gin is the most annoying, stupid, weakest heroine ever. There was absolutely no growth of character. Just the same whiney girl. And dont get me started on her brother. He is the Most controlling person, he needs a good kick.
Well, I’ve got to find out if there is a book two to this. That’s how exciting this one is. (Just checked.) This is a 5 book series. I'm so happy! Second one is titled Demon Kissed. Demon Lore is written in first person, present tense, which I’m told, is not easy to do, nor is it suitable for every read. But I’m telling you, my heart is still trying to pick itself up off the floor. That is, if I still have a heart. Thank God, they keep on repairing me and Justitia is on my team. Oh, sorry. I forget. My name isn’t Gin, my twin brother isn’t T and I’m not a demon killer. Whew! But then I remember…
Except: …the spike of adrenaline explodes into my limbs too late to stop the backhand blow slamming across my jaw.
I superman it halfway across the living room. Land on the hardwood floor in a thud of pain-ridden limbs. My jaw morphs into a screaming ball of nerves. My head no sooner hits the floor than I hear the bracelet scream, a high-pitched wail quivering through my skin like vibrations from a tuning fork. The bracelet tightens around my wrist, cutting off the circulation, and then it loosens with a pop at the same time I hear the door click closed.
Ohgodohgodohgod, I’m going to die. I don’t want to die. No, no, no, no, no. Pain and terror hold me crumpled on the floor as my mind crawls backward in time.
******
Sorry, I just keep remembering — it’s that gripping. Look at the writing style. Gin is hilariously funny even at the worst of times. She’s got soul. She tangles with demons and the minions who serve the demons. She has the hots (she thinks) for a fork, spiked-tongue demon. Oh yeah, life sure is exciting for Gin and since it’s in first person, present tense, you are it. You are she. She is you. Her guardian is pretty sexy and somehow they’re connected just don’t know how. I can’t tell if he’s a good guy or works for the other side.
Gin, the gal I think I am, is a snarky, sassy nurse who is pulled into a picture much larger than she cares to be part of. Empath is bad enough. Growing up with unbelievable events, okay, but where will this take her? Will it affect her twin who has always been there for her, also an empath. This bracelet (Justitia) which Gin can’t take off, short of cutting her hand off, is it a friend or enemy? Who is behind trying to knock Gin off?
Magic, evil, weird converge into this crazily funny, snarky and scary story. I simply love it. Writing style is perfect for the read. I noted a reviewer’s remarks that the sentences aren’t complete. Intrigued, I read. It’s not they were just left hanging. The thought is there. The style works with the read. It’s a fast-paced, gripping tale, sure to keep you up all night. What better way to spend the haunting month of October? Outside the usual genre, I read, but it’s good to find new places to hang out. It has a cliff hanger, folks, so get both books at the same time and binge read!
I won this book in an event on FB from the author. My review is given freely with heartfelt sincerity.
It took me a little bit to warm up to DEMON LORE, but once I did I had a hard time putting it down and wanted to read book two before I was even done with it.
The characters is what made DEMON LORE so great for me so I want to talk about them. I thought Gin was a little bland at first, but she quickly became a character I could root for. She has a few flaws that I can't personally relate to, but I was defiantly able to connect with her struggles. Once she puts her mind to something she goes full force and I liked that she had no problem sticking up for herself—although it sometimes got her in trouble. Smythe was broody and mysterious. I thought he was pretty bad ass and I liked getting to know him. Speaking of Smythe, I wanted Gin and him to get it on SO SO BAD. I know, she is sort of involved with someone in DEMON LORE, but there was so much attraction and sexual tension that I just couldn't help but want them to do something about it *Fingers crossed*.
Gin's brother was way too overprotective most of the time, but he was always there for her. Gin's reactions and comments about his girlfriend kinda cracked me up. I can see her brother having a pretty big role in future books with his talents. Sargon remains a complete mystery to me. I can't figure him out and I actually liked him. I probably shouldn't seeing that he is an evil demon and all, but I can't help it. I am very interested in seeing where his storyline takes things in the future.
Not only were the characters enjoyable, but the world and plot were interesting as well. There was a lot of action and I enjoyed watching Gin and Smythe investigate the happenings in DEMON LORE as they got to know each other better. I still had a lot of questions about the people that Gin finds herself working for, but I have faith that more will be revealed in future books. DEMON LORE was a great start to the Demon Huntress series.
* This book was provided free of charge from the Author in exchange for an honest review.
I absolutely demolished this book and stayed up way past my bedtime to finish it. Gin, the heroine, is a perfect blend of snark, flaws and vulnerability. And she has some flaws! She's definitely not perfect, and has made some poor life choices in the past (and present) due to her empathic abilities. When she comes across her friend who's been shot, a mysterious bracelet ends up in her pocket. With the encouragement of her brother, T, and the ghosts he normally refuses to talk to, she puts the bracelet on and hilarity, drama, death and loss ensue. This book contains some beautiful highs, some sad lows, and a range of emotions in-between. I loved it.
I really liked Gin and understood her need for morning coffee. The scene where she fights to get some cracked me up. The author does a great job developing Gin's character flaws. She wove in some funny details to make Gin come alive off the page. The plot, pacing and supporting characters were very well defined and created and I found myself quickly absorbed in the story.
I don't normally like stories in present tense, but my awareness of the verb tense faded away as I delved into the book. Gin's brother, T, is fascinating and I found myself wanting to know more about him and the Tall, Dark and Handsome (TDH) that comes along with Gin's shiny new bracelet.
There were a few spots where I got pissed off at TDH and thought, "what the hell was he thinking?!?" but the reasons for his momentary stupidity makes sense. Without giving too much away, the group he belongs to is pretty insular. Gin wearing the bracelet definitely throws a curve ball into their perception of things. I suspect we'll discover more about this group in future books and why some things were and were not acted on in this book.
In summary, I thoroughly enjoyed this book, the characters and the plot. I can't wait to read the next installment.
*I was provided a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review*
Gin is just your average ER nurse, if you can call a telepathic empath normal. Then a tragedy happens and her life changes. A mysterious bracelet appears, and when she puts it on things go from bad to worse. People are trying to kill her and showing up in her apartment by portal. Finding out the bracelet makes her a demon slayer is almost to much to bear. When someone from the agency of demon slayer sets her up, she along with her sexy guardian Smythe, must find out what is going on and why. But when she is kidnapped by a demon, mistakes are made and she is in a world of trouble. Can Smythe save her from disaster or will she become the demons servant forever? Can she control her own personal demons and be the slayer she needs to be?
Enjoyed this book and ant wait to see what happens next!
For a first book in a series, the set up was quick. The author gets into the story rather quickly. The action is decent and frequent in the story. Two things bothered me. One is an accidental / unwanted bond. Its a frequent plot device in the genre but I never liked them. The second is no answers. The author raises a lot of interesting questions and resolves none of it. No hits, leads, or anything that actually moves things forward. The book really felt like it was spinning its tires for a good part of it.
Just about everything I love in a book, great, earthy, characters, superb twists and turns, witty with some romance and some sex...... Love her writing style!
I received this book from net galley for an honest review. Thank you!!
This novel was a good read. It contains lots of action and is written in first person point of view. The story in told by Gin Crawford, an ER nurse who has a twin brother and grew up with alcoholic parents. Her brother's name is Tonic, aka "T". He can see and speak with ghosts while Gin is an empath. One day at work, Gin's coworker Will is attacked and his bracelet is found in Gin's pocket. She puts on the bracelet and it does not come off. Then she starts getting attacked by minions. She is saved by Aidan Smythe, who has magical abilities and is her guardian. The Agency has been looking for that bracelet Gin now wears and several other people want her dead or captured for their own purposes. Smythe begins to train Gin to be a justitia, one who can kill minions. However, Gin has many demons from her past that affect her in different ways and cause her to close up. Things get bad when her FWB, Blake, disappears. Smythe and Gin go after him but get caught in a trap. Gin is captured by a demon named Zagan. Zagan tells Gin things that the Agency has not told Gin. Smythe comes to rescue Gin, but Zagan escapes, leaving Gin with more questions and Smythe told her Zagan lies, but her bracelet sensed Zagan's words had some truth. The story ends with Gin finding something and knows things are just beginning.....
This was a great book. I liked all the characters, and the story kept my attention. I will definitely read the rest of the series. I recommend it to all paranormal lovers... Who doesn't love demons and demon hunters!
In this story, we meet Gin, and her twin Tonic. Yeah, apparently their parents had a real sense of humor. Gin is a nurse in an ER in Texas. She is an Empath. Her brother is a person who can talk to ghosts, even though he flat our refuses to do so. Something happens one day at work with a doctor that Gin apparently feels is H.A.W.T. (my word, not hers). After finding the doctor in a life threatening emergency, she finds a bracelet in her pocket. She puts it on at the insistence of her brother. What happens when she puts that bracelet on? Who is Detective Smythe? What is the Agency? How does Gin's life change after she puts on the bracelet? What happens? This is definitely one heck of a read. When I woke up at 12:30, I had to pick it up and keep reading until just after 3:30. I could not put the book down. It rocked! I am looking forward to reading Demon Cursed now. This is one of those, "I don't think we're in Kansas anymore, Toto." moments. Enjoy the read!
RECEIVED THIS BOOK AS A GIFT FOR A FAIR/HONEST REVIEW and REVIEWER FOR Bloggin' With M. Brennan.
Demon lore by Karilyn Bentley. Gin Crawford has enough problems dealing with her empath abilities. Finding out she's the world's newest demon-slayer is the last thing she needs. Unfortunately, when she slips on a mysterious bracelet she is given no other choice. On the plus side, her new gig comes with Tall, Dark and Handsome, a mage who may or may not have her best interests at heart. Thrust into a power-play between good and evil, Gin must choose a side before she becomes the next victim in the ongoing battle. This was a good read with likeable characters. 4*.