A Devious Awakening: Book Two of the Devious Duet

by A.A. Powers

WHAT WOULD YOU SACRIFICE TO SAVE EVERYTHING YOU LOVE?

FRANKIE’s magic is new and unpredictable, bound to emotions she can’t control. The more she suppresses her darkness, the harder it becomes to summon her light. As balance slips further from reach, she relies on Zarreth to teach her that control isn’t about holding back but letting go. She must face every part of herself, even the ones she’s afraid to claim.

ZARRETH has finally returned to his horde and the home he gave everything to protect. But now the realms are faltering as Dante draws power from something that was never meant to be used. To save them, Zarreth must leave his home again and travel to the light realm with Frankie, where her power could either mend what’s broken or shatter it completely.

TOGETHER, they risk everything to stop the destruction, even if it means sacrificing the one thing they can’t live without.

A DEVIOUS AWAKENING is a dark romantasy full of magic, loyalty, and sacrifice where love is power, balance is survival, and nothing comes without a cost.

328 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 30, 2026

About the author

A.A. Powers is the author of the Devious Bonds series - a dark, spicy paranormal romance featuring demons, fated mates, and dangerous worlds where love survives the darkness. She was a finalist in the Indie Author Network (IAN) book of the year awards.

She began writing to show her kids what it looks like to choose something that matters, even when it feels a little scary.

She lives in Minnesota with her husband (her favorite person to flirt with), kids (who definitely think their mom is cool), and a revolving cast of animals who all seem to believe they are the main character.

When she isn’t writing, she’s usually lost in big what-ifs, letting the dogs in and out, and keeping the house just clean enough to find the remote.

Reviews

[NicolBackBooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review coming. In the meantime… add this duet to your TBR. 😭😭😭 so good.

**ARC** A Devious Awakening: Book Two of the Devious Duet
A.A. Powers
I'd like to first thank A.A. for the opportunity to ARC both of these books. This is a duet that will stay with me for a long time to come and has made itself one of my favorite reads.

A Devious Awakening, the second book in A.A. Powers’ Devious Duet, is a paranormal dark romantasy that picks up right where A Devious Descent left off. Frankie and Zarreth—fated mates bound by magic, loyalty, and an all‑consuming love—are thrust into a journey that tests not only their bond but the fate of every realm.

Premise & Worldbuilding
This installment expands the world dramatically, taking readers into the Light Realm as Frankie confronts her destiny: restoring balance before the realms collapse. Her magic is still new, volatile, and deeply tied to her emotions. The more she tries to suppress her darkness, the harder it becomes to summon her light—an internal struggle that mirrors the external stakes.
Zarreth, now reunited with his horde, is forced to leave home again as Dante draws power from forces never meant to be touched. Together, Frankie and Zarreth must face a threat capable of shattering the universe itself. The tension is high, the danger is real, and the cost of failure is devastating.

Character Dynamics
Frankie is the heart of this story. She’s kind, selfless, and fiercely devoted to Zarreth—even when his overprotectiveness borders on infuriating. What makes her compelling is her growth: she’s learning to blend her light and dark magic, but she’s also maturing emotionally as a mate, a friend, and a woman carrying the weight of cosmic responsibility.
Zarreth is everything a dark‑romance MMC should be: lethal, loyal, and absolutely unhinged when it comes to protecting his mate. He will hunt down anyone who even looks at Frankie wrong, and yet his tenderness with her is what makes him unforgettable.
Their bond is the epitome of fated mates—intense, magnetic, and unwavering.

Themes
• Balance vs. Chaos: Frankie’s internal magic struggle mirrors the instability of the realms.
• Sacrifice: The story repeatedly asks what one would give up to save everything they love.
• Identity & Power: Frankie must face every part of herself, even the ones she fears.
• Love as Strength: Their relationship isn’t a distraction from the plot—it is part of the power that drives it.

Pacing, Writing, and Spice
The pacing is fast and addictive—I inhaled this book in 24 hours. The writing blends high‑stakes fantasy with emotional intimacy, and the spice? Absolutely on point. A.A. Powers doesn’t fade to black; she writes intimacy that’s visceral, meaningful, and deeply tied to character development.
If you love fae romance with heat, magic, and a protective MMC who would burn worlds for his mate, this book delivers.

Final Thoughts
A Devious Awakening is a powerful, emotional, and deliciously spicy continuation of Frankie and Zarreth’s story. It raises the stakes, deepens the romance, and pushes both characters to their limits. Fans of dark romantasy, fated mates, and magic‑heavy worldbuilding will devour this book just as quickly as I did.

[Danny Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ohhh Mrs.Powers you’ve done it again! I’m simply obsessed.

The character development from book 1 to this was absolutely beautiful. You can perfectly see how Frankie transformed from the unsure girl in the first book to who she was by the end of the second. Zarreths character development was small (as in he was already perfect and didn’t need to change much, in my opinion haha) but you can still see it in who he is.

I loved the shift into the other realms. The world building/structuring for future books was chefs kiss!

Quick recap shall we? :)
•Good character development? ✅
•Amazing world building? ✅
•Good plot? ✅
•Spice was spicing? ✅
•Side characters to die for? ✅
•MAIN characters to die for? ✅
•Beautifully written? ✅
•Kept me reading late into the night? ✅

I loved EVERY second of this book! I am excited to see the plot continue in the next book. (I have an ideaaaa of who our main characters will beeee) Even though I’m beyond sad that Zarreth and Frankie won’t be our main characters any more😭

Quotes that hit just right✨
“What lies within you, your love, your compassion, that’s who you are.”

“You think the light will save you? You burn with it, but it’s the dark that listens when you scream.”

Thank you A.A Powers for the ARC! I am eternally grateful! I had such a fun time reading this book and can’t wait to see what you write next!🩷

[Jen W · Rating 5 out of 5]

Frankie and Zarreth are perfect together. In the first book, it was an insta-love situation. In this book, Zarreth really steps in as her partner to help her regulate her emotions. Frankie is learning more about who she is and her powers. She can become very overwhelmed which leads to some emotional outbursts. Zarreth is her calming presence.

Frankie gets to go into his realm and meet his and Ronin's family and friends. Of course, her being a half-demon proves to be an issue for some.

Dante is still out there stirring up trouble in the most hurtful way for Frankie.

I can't wait to see what the next book has in store for us. Each book ends with a juicy detail that you know will shape the next book.

I received an advance review copy for free from BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Jennifer Hines · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC reader for this series. Fantastic story telling and imagery. Writer makes you feel all of the emotions of the characters. I highly recommend reading this book! a definite must read that is for sure!!! I would give more than 5 stars if I could. Great series but a great writer who is an amazing human.

[Stefanie Verhelst · Rating 5 out of 5]

In this 2nd book, you dive right into the story, that continues where the first book ended.

It’s clear that Frankie and Zarreth will have to face a big challenge and will have to make a very difficult decision.

A thrilling romantasy with a dark edge!

Beautifully written, I loved it from beginning to the end!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Lyha Thompson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am hooked on this series! It is a must read! Powers words are just that, powerful. Can't wait to read what she comes up with next!

[Sharayah Nicholson · Rating 4 out of 5]

First I’d like to thank A.A. Powers for letting me continue to be an ARC reader for the devious bonds series. If you enjoy fantasy, spice, sci-fi, and have a sense of humor as well then this is the series for you. I really enjoyed continuing the story of Zarreth and Frankie and love the friendship Frankie and Jess have. We went on a whole adventure again and I can’t wait to see where the story continues next time.

[Aida Rivero · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Devious Awakening
By A. A. Powers
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Tropes
* Fated Mates
* Enemies to Lovers
* He Falls First
* Hidden Power/Prophecy
* Found Family
* "Who Did This To You?"
* Dark Magic & Corruption
A. A. Powers has delivered a breathtaking conclusion to the Devious Bonds duet that far exceeded my expectations. A Devious Awakening takes everything that worked in the first book—the witty banter, the intense chemistry, and the high-stakes world-building—and dials it up to eleven. Watching Frankie grapple with her unpredictable new magic while Zarreth battles his own loyalties back in the Dark Realm kept me on the edge of my seat until the very last page.
The emotional growth in this sequel is profound. Frankie’s journey from suppressing her darkness to finally embracing her power is handled with such raw, visceral honesty. Her relationship with Zarreth remains the soul of the story; their "fated mates" bond is tested in ways that feel both earned and heart-wrenching. The transition into the Light Realm added a beautiful but dangerous new dimension to the setting, making the risks of their sacrifice feel even more tangible.
If you love dark romantasy with a perfect balance of "spice" and substance, this is a must-read. Powers masterfully ties together the prophecy, the personal stakes, and the romance into a finale that is as satisfying as it is emotional. Just be sure to check the content warnings, as the author doesn’t shy away from the darker aspects of this supernatural world.

10/10 Would recommend this book to all family and friends.

[Natasha M · Rating 5 out of 5]

5Stars!

Let me start this review by saying that AA depicted grief so beautifully in the beginning of this book.
This book took longer to read than it should have, because my life took an unexpected turn. I suffered multiple close losses to me, and reading this book. I got 2-3 pages at a time and would have to stop and have a good cry.
Because, to capture love and grief so elegantly is often times hard, but she has done it.

I adore the couples in this story, and I am so proud to know AA.
I received this as an ARC, and AA also reached out to me to personally send me the physical copy of this book when she realized that I had suffered loss and was experiencing a hard time. You cannot compete with friends within this community.

Frankie and Zarreth are incomparable love. Their love transcends time and space; yet it holds no faults and is ever patient.
This story picks up immediately where book one ended, and I am so delighted to see their *HeA*.
I feel like they will still be in future books to see how the rest of their stories play out, but it makes sense to pass the torch to Jess for the next FMC.

The banter in this book is amazing.
I love the side characters just as much as the main characters.
The other realms are very ingenious. (I do wish there would be a tizzle- just a TIZZLE more description on the main differences between what the realms look like).
I love the relationships and character development within the relational aspects.
I sincerely hope someone knocks Sable on her ass.

Well done, this is a fun read and it’s really amazing.

[Hayley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I would like to request my heart back! Please!
Crying was not a part of the deal... even if it was 🥺 It is so freaking good!!

Frankie and Zarreth deserve all the good in the world, as do the others! I mean, obviously, minus jerkie Dante, no good for him 😒 He sucks.
The intimacy and love between Frankie and Zarreth is intense, and the longing and need that they feel for each other is so amazing and so freaking addictive - I would like this, please! (maybe a little less overprotectivness, cause the real world isn't as bad 🤣).
The love, loyalty, and friendship that is so strong and built so amazingly between each and every character is aspiring, creating so much support and the fear of losing that. It is scary! They are family, not just friends. The more the merrier, right? Also, I have to love a bit of drama, keeping it interesting. Keep the characters all on their toes around each other and others 🤣 even if it causes all the trouble for them along the way.

The rollercoaster that I went through during this story is crazy. So much is happening, and yet, there is breathing space to enjoy each moment, every interaction, and got to become so immersed and drawn into it that I become a part of it.
The emotions that I felt reading this was like a damn pendulum, and I didn't know how I should be feeling from one moment to the next. Kept me on my toes while lulling me into security and plotting the next move to boot me to the curb and find my new way back 😆

Thank you for letting me be a part of this ARC read 🥰

[Danette Badger · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Devious Awakening is everything you hope a second book in a series will be—and more. Where A Devious Descent pulled me in with its dark intrigue and unforgettable characters, this installment tightens the tension, deepens the emotional stakes, and proves that A. A. Powers is only getting stronger as a storyteller.

From the very first page, the atmosphere is charged. The plot is layered, intentional, and relentlessly gripping, with twists that feel earned rather than forced.

The characters evolve in ways that feel raw, human, and sometimes painfully honest. Their struggles, growth, and inner conflicts linger long after you close the book, making it impossible not to become emotionally invested.

The pacing is excellent—fast enough to keep you turning pages late into the night, yet balanced with moments that allow the story to breathe and the emotions to land. The world expands naturally, adding depth without overwhelming the reader, and the stakes feel higher at every turn.

As an ARC reader, I can confidently say that A Devious Awakening solidifies this series. It’s dark, compelling, emotionally charged, and expertly crafted. If you loved A Devious Descent, this book will exceed your expectations—and if you’re new to the series, start at the beginning and prepare to be hooked.

I cannot wait to see where A. A. Powers takes us next!

[Fae&Lattes (Chelle) · Rating 3 out of 5]

A Devious Awakening is the second installment in The Devious Bonds series, and it raises the stakes in both scale and intensity. The politics deepen, the realms widen, and the danger feels more immediate. The transition into the demon realm and later the Light Realm added layers to the overarching conflict, and the power struggles unfolding behind the scenes were compelling. Frankie continues to grow into her power, and I appreciated seeing her face increasingly complex decisions with consequences that stretch far beyond herself. Zarreth remains a strong presence and the dynamic between him and Frankie is intense and highly physical, and readers who enjoy lots of spice will not be disappointed. The chemistry is undeniable, and the possessive, morally gray energy is consistent with the tone established in book one. For me personally, I would have enjoyed a bit more emotional slow burn between Frankie and Zarreth. While it wasn’t instant love, the progression felt somewhat accelerated, and I found myself wanting more tension building moments and deeper emotional development to balance the physical intensity. That said, readers who enjoy dark fantasy romance with strong spice, fast pacing, and escalating stakes will likely find this installment satisfying. The tone remains dark, the action moves quickly, and the series continues to build toward something larger.

[Mandy Britt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dark, Divine, and Utterly Addictive.
A. A. Powers delivers a breathtaking conclusion to the Devious Bonds duet with A Devious Awakening, a sequel that amplifies the witty banter and intense chemistry of the first book. Picking up immediately where the cliffhanger left off, the story dials up the tension as Zarreth battles his loyalties to the Dark Realm while Frankie grapples with her unpredictable new magic. I was particularly impressed by Frankie’s profound emotional growth; her journey from suppressing her darkness to finally embracing her power is handled with raw, visceral honesty.
​The "fated mates" bond remains the soul of the story, tested in ways that feel both heart-wrenching and earned. By shifting the setting away from the human realm and into the Light Realm, Powers offers deeper world-building and higher stakes that kept me on the edge of my seat. With the addition of fantastic new side characters and a perfect balance of spice and substance, this is a satisfying, high-stakes finale that I finished in a single day. It is a must-read for any fan of dark romantasy, though I recommend checking the content warnings as the author doesn’t shy away from the darker aspects of this supernatural world.

[Brooke · Rating 5 out of 5]

As an ARC reader I am posting this honestly and of my own free will! I want to first say thank you A.A. Powers for allowing me to be an ARC reader for you.
5 Star Read!!
This is everything that you would want from a sequel, the first book A Devious Decent had me hooked from the beginning and I didn't think that it could get better but it did with A Devious Awakening.
This book had so much banter, and world building and character development that we really did need to see. I love the way the author describes the world around you because it is almost like you are really in there. This book follows Frankie and Zarreth navigating the world after where the last one left off. This book does have some trigger warnings and is very spicy so make sure you read the trigger warnings before diving in. I don't want to give too much away in my review. But I can honestly say I adore how Zarreth helps Frankie control her emotions and learn to regulate her magic to become the person she wants to be, even if she doesn't really like to give that control up. I enjoyed the fact this book was more out of the mortal realm and more into the demon and the light realm. It helped give a whole new perspective. I am excited to see where this series goes and I will always love Zarreth and Frankie <3

[Haylee Alexsis · Rating 4 out of 5]

As an ARC reader I am posting this honestly and of my own free will! ❤️🥰
I don’t really know how to write reviews without fully spoiling the books…. I try my best but I’m never good at it. Here is my review as honest as I can make it!
Ahhhhhh!!!!!!
Zarreth and Frankie go together like clockwork, I love itttt!!!!
The first book was passionate love, and instantaneous! As her mate in this novel, Zarreth actually helps her CONTROL her emotions. Zarreths patients with Frankie this book makes my heart skip some beats! Frankie's knowledge of her identity and abilities is definitely growing, and quite shocking (not really though, kind of saw it coming) (hehe). She often experiences intense overwhelming feelings which usually results in emotional outbursts, but Zarreth is always there to soothe her and bring her back! 🥰 Frankie has the opportunity to enter his domain and interact with Ronin's and his family. Naturally, some people find her being a semi-demon problematic. Dante always seems to be a problem 🙄 in Frankie's life in the most irritating ways possible, but all the same I'm eager to find out what the upcoming storyline will contain!!!

[Angela Zambito · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thanks for the arc and a chance to read the second instalment early!
Frankie and Zarreth continue their journey to help the realms and the portals that have been breaking down and causing havoc, as well as continuing their love story and working through Frankie's understanding of her magic and healing her trauma from the previous book. We also get to see more of Jess and some other characters and meet some new ones!
Honestly some of the sex scenes were a bit bdsm for me but it got better and more understanding through the book. I loved seeing a new realm through Frankie’s eyes and I do think the author has gained more confidence and skill with this book. It still felt a bit fast paced but not as rushed as the first. The ending leaves some unanswered questions for some characters but the author has alluded to further books within the 'world' but separate to Frankie and Zarreth which is really cool, similar to Melissa Roehrich's series around her Chaosverse. I really enjoyed being a part of Frankie’s growth and coming to terms with her two powers. I loved the new characters and think the story blended well. Thanks again!

[nightlyreadingheather · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you have read A Devious Descent, then you will definitely understand the need for this book! Please read the first one before diving into this one, or you will be lost.

Upon entering this one, I was so nervous for Frankie and did not know what to expect. She has a lot of ups and downs; I laughed and cried a few times while reading. She finds out more about who she is and how to harness her power.

I loved Zareth so much more in this book than in the first. He wanted so badly to protect Frankie, but had to put his feelings aside and let her work it out on her own, which we know had to be very difficult for him. We get to see Zareth's homeland and meet his Mom! I loved getting to see a different side of him.

Frankie has a little jealousy streak going on in this book and I really enjoyed how bad a$$ she becomes to prove that Zareth is her man.

My favorite character is and always will be Frankie's BFF, Jess. Jess is humorous and I love the sisterly bond the two have. (I need a book with Jess as the FMC!)

I believe that Frankie and Zareth's story is over and I am intrigued to see whose story is up next!

[Virginie · Rating 5 out of 5]

📖 A Devious Awakening – A.A. Powers
⭐⭐⭐⭐✨ (4.5)

EN
I absolutely loved this sequel. Frankie is still just as badass, and Zarreth is perfectly protective and broody exactly my kind of MMC. The story is fast-paced and deliciously spicy, making it hard to put down.

While the first book leaned more toward insta-love, this second installment really shines in terms of relationship growth. Zarreth learns how to truly step up as a partner and become what Frankie actually needs, and I loved seeing that evolution.

An addictive, intense continuation that delivered on everything I was hoping for. Huge thanks to the author for the ARC copy.

FR
J’ai adoré cette suite. Frankie est toujours aussi badass et Zarreth est protecteur et broody à souhait, exactement ce que j’aime. Le rythme est rapide, le spice est bien dosé, et c’est difficile de décrocher.

Dans le premier tome, on était davantage dans l’« insta-love ». Ici, on voit une vraie évolution : Zarreth apprend à step up en tant que partenaire et à devenir ce dont Frankie a réellement besoin. J’ai beaucoup aimé cette progression dans leur relation.

Une suite intense, addictive et très réussie. Merci à l’auteure pour la copie ARC.

[Sarah Callison · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was absolutely amazing. A. A. Powers has delivered an amazing book to finish the Devious Bonds Duet. Although the full story will continue with more books this and A Devious Descent include Frankie and Zarreth.

Tropes:
Enemies to lovers
He falls first
Hidden power/prophecy
Found family

This amazing second book to the Duet includes all the witty banter and intense chemistry between the two mates and increased it. all the things we fell in love with in book 1 is magnified in this book.

There is alot of emotional growth with Frankie and her journey. Frankie and Zarreth's relationship as "fated mates" is the main focus of the plot with everything going on around them. While Frankie has the struggles of understanding her powers Zarreth has to figure out his loyalties to the dark realm. The whole story keeps you on edge from the moment you start reading.

This is an amazing dark romantasy that has the perfect amount of spice in the story. There is significant character and world building. I absolutely recommend this series!

[Nicole Pierce · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! I absolutely fell in love with A Devious Descent but A Devious Awakening really just took my heart. Book 2 has such amazing world and Character building. Its not Just Frankie and Zarreth you fall in love with but every character is brought to life and you cannot help but completely fall in love with them. The well written side of Mental health had a perfect balance. I laughed I cried I gasped. In a world filled with Dark Frankie must reach for the light. A.A. Powers really did an amazing job keeping us readers locked in. She was able to build a world and bring Characters to life that you the reader can grab onto and love!
The Spice is Spicy and well placed. The humor fit perfectly into each situation. The emotional pull will tug at your heart and dont be surprised if you find your eyes wet! 10 out of 10 recommend picking up this book. But grab Book 1 sit down read it and then buckle up because Book 2 will absolutely blow your mind!

[Morgie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was full of action just like the first and I could not put it down!! I finished it in one day!! Immediately picked this one up after book 1 and I liked this one even more. It picked up immediately where book 1 left off. I loved all of the new side characters that came into the story and was so happy to see more of Jess because I love her character. I also enjoyed that this book spent less time set in the human realm allowing for more worldbuilding and a look into the other realms. Frankie showed so much growth throughout the story and it was interesting to experience this journey with her. Plus more of Frankie and Zarreth!! Always a yes in my book! This book definitely delivers on the spice. Be sure to check trigger warnings. Another great read for dark fantasy and dark romance readers!

[Lauren Head · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the very first page to the last, this book had me completely hooked. Watching Frankie grow from the unsure girl she was in book one into the strong, fully realized woman she becomes by the end of book two was breathtaking, while Zarreth’s quieter, more subtle development still revealed itself beautifully through the depth of his character. The expansion into the other realms elevated the story even further, with world-building so intentional and immersive it felt like a tantalizing promise of what’s to come. Between the gripping plot, flawless pacing, perfectly timed spice, unforgettable side and main characters, and prose so captivating it kept me up far too late, I can honestly say I loved every second. While I’m excited to see where the story goes next, I’m also deeply sad to say goodbye to Frankie and Zarreth as our main characters, because they were truly unforgettable.

[Deborah Richards · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Devious Awakening is the second book in a series!
This is a book about self control, discovering one’s self, prophecies and friendship, and fated mates!
FMC is Frankie Hart. Half Demon. She has the power of both light and dark! She needs to learn how to control both, because her blood is tied to a prophecy!

MMC is Zarreth who is a demon from the dark realm. He was supposed to un-alive Frankie to stop the prophecy, but the are fated mates.
Dante also a demon, is trying to take Frankie’s power by using power from something hat was never meant to be used!
If you like spice, fated mates, found family, demons, friendship and lots of witty banter, then this book is for you.
Please check trigger warnings!

@aapowers.author

[Lindsey · Rating 5 out of 5]

A. A. Powers has delivered an incredible conclusion to the Devious Bonds Duet.
This book was absolutely amazing, with lots of spice, great banter, intense chemistry, and emotional depth.
Frankie and Zarreth's relationship takes center stage, and their struggles with loyalty, power, and love will keep you on edge. Working to save the realms and saving their friends/ family in the process. The world-building is phenomenal, and the character development is impressive. If you're looking for a dark romance fantasy with the perfect amount of spice, look no further.
I think I even enjoyed this more than the first book. Although both are 5 stars! It was a fast paced read and I couldn’t put it down!
I’m hoping Jess and Graven are the next ones to get a book!

[Faith · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Devious Awakening delivers a dark, emotional start with strong fated-mates energy and an intense, moody atmosphere. The connection between the characters feels inevitable and consuming, pulling you into their dynamic quickly.

The story leans toward a slow burn, focusing heavily on emotion and relationship development rather than fast-paced action. While the plot moves steadily, some moments are more about tension and buildup than payoff—but that works well for readers who enjoy vibes and depth.

Overall, this is a strong start that sets the tone for what’s to come. A great pick for fans of dark romance, fate-driven bonds, and morally gray undertones.

[Jessica Gomez · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this book as an advanced ARC copy and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

This book was FANTASTIC!! Devious Awakening is about fated-mates Frankie and Zarreth whose connection keeps you wanting more. Zarreth’s patience with helping Frankie through some difficult emotions and figuring out who she really is, not only strengthens their bond, it builds their trust. The story builds up revealing some surprising information leaving you asking questions and wanting more. I highly recommend reading books 1 &2 . I really can’t wait to see how the author further develops the story. I give it 5⭐️.

[Dawna Shaw · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an ARC review. I love the twists and turns in this dark fantasy series and how you continue to follow Zarreth and Frankie. I love how even though this series continues on, it doesn't really leave a cliffhanger at the end of the books. It's only when you read the epilogues that you know there is an opening for the next installment and I can't wait until she writes and comes out with the third book. Her description of the lands they travel to is fantastic. This book is spicy and does have trigger warnings just like the first so make sure you can handle it before you dive deeper into this thrilling dark romance series.

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

"A Devious Awakening" is book two of the Devious Duet by the amazing A.A. Powers. This a paranormal dark romantasy that picks up right where book one in the series, "A Devious Descent," left off. Frankie and Zarreth are fated mates who are bound by magic, loyalty, and an all‑consuming love. They are propelled into a journey that tests their bond as well as the fate of every realm.

Powers masterfully ties together the prophecy, the personal stakes, and the romance into a finale that is as satisfying as it is emotional. 

If you love a dark romantasy story that is the combination of perfect balance of spice and substance, this is definitely a must-read.

[Aurora Livvy · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Devious Awakening is full of magic, love, and danger. Frances—Frankie—stands at the center, her power wild and tied to her feelings. She struggles to control it, but her journey shows that real strength comes from accepting herself, even the messy parts.

Zarreth is her balance. Fierce, loyal, and torn between duty and love, he brings both comfort and challenge. Their relationship is full of tension—sometimes soft, sometimes stormy—but always gripping. You can’t help but root for them as they fight for each other.

Around them, the world is breaking apart, Dante’s forbidden power pulling everything toward ruin. Against this dark backdrop, Frankie and Zarreth’s bond shines brighter. This book is more than romance—it’s about survival, trust, and finding hope in shadows.

A.A. Powers has written a story that is haunting, heartfelt, and hard to put down.

[Alexis Phillips · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ok first off can I just say I absolutely love Jess!!! She is one of my favorite characters, I loved her in book one and even more so in book 2. I absolutely cant wait till the next one. This series has its serious moments where you are on the verge of crying and then laughing so hard.
Frankie and Zarreth’s journey continue as they find a way to defeat Dante while he continues to get stronger. You meet new people along the way. Who helps Frankie accept who she is and help her embrace her powers.