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The Seven Circles of Hell #2
Stalking the Demon
Six months ago, the disgraced wizard, Alloran, sacrificed his hand and risked his life and soul to rescue the woman he loves from his traitorous friend. Despite saving the city from a demon, his reputation remains ruined, and the council of wizards has punished him severely for practicing banned magic.
Now he learns his desperate attempt to banish the demon was a mistake that threatens to send the whole world to hell. To unravel the damage he has done, Alloran is compelled to break the rules and venture into forbidden places against the order of the council.
Alloran must choose between saving himself and everything he holds dear.
Now he learns his desperate attempt to banish the demon was a mistake that threatens to send the whole world to hell. To unravel the damage he has done, Alloran is compelled to break the rules and venture into forbidden places against the order of the council.
Alloran must choose between saving himself and everything he holds dear.
211 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 31, 2014
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16 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
July 5, 2015
ORIGINALLY POSTED TO DJ'S BOOK CORNER
Stalking the Demon was a well written, detailed fantasy about wizards and the seven circles of hell. I will admit that I found myself often confused with the waterfall of information I had to consume. It was because this was book two and I hadn't read book one first. I definitely could have benefitted from reading book one first, but I made it through and that's all that matters.
The writing was SUPERB in this book, let me just say that up front. It was a short book so the author didn't waste a word on things that didn't pertain to the plot of this particular book. That's always appreciated. And I really enjoyed the plot of this book. As a Supernatural fan girl, anything with demons in it is sure to interest me and this book was no exception. Though the wizards and not the demons were the focal point of this book, just the idea of them intrigued me and I liked the idea of the seven circles of hell. The author really worked out what kinds of demons were from which circle of hell and that was important. Though I felt overwhelmed at times it was nice to know that the author had it all worked out so well that there was really no need for me to.
There is a romance that drives this story between Alloran and Gisayne, but it does not take over the story and that was nice. I think reading the first book would give me more insight into their relationship because I don't completely understand it as of now. That didn't take away from my reading experience too much but I'd still like to know more of their history before continuing on in the series.
One thing I don't think I got to see enough of was the magic. Since pretty much all of the characters in this book/series are wizards I would think there would have been magic flowing on every page. Magic was talked about more than it was practiced and when it was used it was for the purposes of trying to solve the problem that was started in book one. That's okay, I guess. I just expected more that's all. I still appreciated the magic that was used because when it was it was pretty cool.
Overall, I think this is a book worth recommending. Like I said, I still need to book one but I have no doubt it's just as well written and thought out as this one. So if you're looking for a fantasy book with wizards and magic that's more for adults than young people, then I can definitely recommend this book. I'm looking forward to book three which looks like it will be a very exciting addition to the series!
Stalking the Demon was a well written, detailed fantasy about wizards and the seven circles of hell. I will admit that I found myself often confused with the waterfall of information I had to consume. It was because this was book two and I hadn't read book one first. I definitely could have benefitted from reading book one first, but I made it through and that's all that matters.
The writing was SUPERB in this book, let me just say that up front. It was a short book so the author didn't waste a word on things that didn't pertain to the plot of this particular book. That's always appreciated. And I really enjoyed the plot of this book. As a Supernatural fan girl, anything with demons in it is sure to interest me and this book was no exception. Though the wizards and not the demons were the focal point of this book, just the idea of them intrigued me and I liked the idea of the seven circles of hell. The author really worked out what kinds of demons were from which circle of hell and that was important. Though I felt overwhelmed at times it was nice to know that the author had it all worked out so well that there was really no need for me to.
There is a romance that drives this story between Alloran and Gisayne, but it does not take over the story and that was nice. I think reading the first book would give me more insight into their relationship because I don't completely understand it as of now. That didn't take away from my reading experience too much but I'd still like to know more of their history before continuing on in the series.
One thing I don't think I got to see enough of was the magic. Since pretty much all of the characters in this book/series are wizards I would think there would have been magic flowing on every page. Magic was talked about more than it was practiced and when it was used it was for the purposes of trying to solve the problem that was started in book one. That's okay, I guess. I just expected more that's all. I still appreciated the magic that was used because when it was it was pretty cool.
Overall, I think this is a book worth recommending. Like I said, I still need to book one but I have no doubt it's just as well written and thought out as this one. So if you're looking for a fantasy book with wizards and magic that's more for adults than young people, then I can definitely recommend this book. I'm looking forward to book three which looks like it will be a very exciting addition to the series!
January 25, 2016
[Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book on NetGalley in return for a review]
Another short book. Or am I just reading really fast all of a sudden?
It's also another book I requested to review pretty much based on the cover, but there you go.
I enjoyed this book, but it does have a fairly big flaw I feel - the events of the book take place 6 months after some other fairly big events, and is a continuation of them in a way. Of course, if like me you jumped in at book 2 then you're going to have a problem as the first book is referenced pretty much every page. Naturally, in a series it probably helps to have read the previous book, but for whatever reason with this one I felt like it was bashing me over the head with the fact I hadn't read the first book. Although, as I write this review it occurs to me the last time I jumped into something mid series was when I bought Demon Lord of Karanda from the discard pile at my local library, only to find not only was I mid series, but the second series at that. And that was more years ago than I care to remember. To cut this digression short (lest the entire review be a digression!), it would probably help if you read the book one first.
Even though it's a short book, it really could have done with a chapter setting the scene (sorry I keep focusing on this). You are plunged into this world knowing nothing about it and expected to know all these characters and the events that have previously transpired. No introduction to the ensemble or little incidentals such as the key facts of there being 7 planes of hell, 7 of ... not hell, and the normal world in-between, like Constantine, but multi-plane).
With that long winded rant out the way, it's actually a pretty good book. Isn't a run of the mill sword and magic type of affair, rather than having purely "good" and "evil", magic users belong to schools where colour has an impact, although this isn't really explored. Wizards/sorceresses also wield swords which makes you wonder why they are mages in the first place.
I thought Ciara did a good job of expressing the thoughts and motivations of the characters and the conflicts arising from them. It was also interesting reading how the physical world interacts with magic via artefacts and devices (no crystal balls in sight!). The demon's might have been interesting too, but again you were expected to know up front what they were (and evidently there's more types in book one than in book two... argh). What I read whetted the appetite for more, and it was a little frustrating that things were only hinted at and never expanded upon - there might be some demons, there might be some magic (but no-one is casting much), and so on.
It kept my attention to the end, and I enjoyed how it played out. And, I didn't guess the ending. So, all good things despite how my review is reading when I look at it.
I'll definitely pick up book 1, and then re-read book 2 with the benefit of book one's knowledge. I'm also looking forward to subsequent books!
Another short book. Or am I just reading really fast all of a sudden?
It's also another book I requested to review pretty much based on the cover, but there you go.
I enjoyed this book, but it does have a fairly big flaw I feel - the events of the book take place 6 months after some other fairly big events, and is a continuation of them in a way. Of course, if like me you jumped in at book 2 then you're going to have a problem as the first book is referenced pretty much every page. Naturally, in a series it probably helps to have read the previous book, but for whatever reason with this one I felt like it was bashing me over the head with the fact I hadn't read the first book. Although, as I write this review it occurs to me the last time I jumped into something mid series was when I bought Demon Lord of Karanda from the discard pile at my local library, only to find not only was I mid series, but the second series at that. And that was more years ago than I care to remember. To cut this digression short (lest the entire review be a digression!), it would probably help if you read the book one first.
Even though it's a short book, it really could have done with a chapter setting the scene (sorry I keep focusing on this). You are plunged into this world knowing nothing about it and expected to know all these characters and the events that have previously transpired. No introduction to the ensemble or little incidentals such as the key facts of there being 7 planes of hell, 7 of ... not hell, and the normal world in-between, like Constantine, but multi-plane).
With that long winded rant out the way, it's actually a pretty good book. Isn't a run of the mill sword and magic type of affair, rather than having purely "good" and "evil", magic users belong to schools where colour has an impact, although this isn't really explored. Wizards/sorceresses also wield swords which makes you wonder why they are mages in the first place.
I thought Ciara did a good job of expressing the thoughts and motivations of the characters and the conflicts arising from them. It was also interesting reading how the physical world interacts with magic via artefacts and devices (no crystal balls in sight!). The demon's might have been interesting too, but again you were expected to know up front what they were (and evidently there's more types in book one than in book two... argh). What I read whetted the appetite for more, and it was a little frustrating that things were only hinted at and never expanded upon - there might be some demons, there might be some magic (but no-one is casting much), and so on.
It kept my attention to the end, and I enjoyed how it played out. And, I didn't guess the ending. So, all good things despite how my review is reading when I look at it.
I'll definitely pick up book 1, and then re-read book 2 with the benefit of book one's knowledge. I'm also looking forward to subsequent books!
November 9, 2014
Stalking the Demon is a solid sequel to the debut Confronting the Demon. Both books are on the shorter side, two novellas with complete story arcs, and both have intriguing plots and thoroughly fleshed-out worlds.
One of the only complaints I had about the first book was that I wanted to know even more about the world that the characters live in. Specifically, I wanted to know about the magic system and the political landscape in Alloran's world, and this book delivers both, along with a big dose of nail-biting tension on several fronts.
Alloran is faced with the difficult task of healing his lover, Gisayne, from the dark spell that connects her to the evil Ladanyon, now in one of the hell realms. But Alloran is opposed by a powerful man on the ruling council of wizards, who wants nothing more than to see him to be stripped of his magical ability. As Alloran secretly researches the spell--against the council's wishes--he discovers that reality itself is collapsing. To save Gisayne, he must leave the council chambers and chase Ladanyon into hell.
I really liked the first book, and this sequel is a great follow-up. The descent into the hell realm is exciting, better even than the climax of the first book, when hell makes an appearance in Alloran's world. I love the tentacled first-realm demons, very kraken meets Lovecraftian Old Ones. My only complaint was that I would have wanted to see the political intrigue portion shortened and the action lengthened. The demons are the best part, and, after all, they are in the titles--I want more of them.
If you like fantasy, I would recommend picking up both these books. Ms. Ballintyne's writing is only getting stronger, and I look forward to her future works.
Also posted on my blog, Magic & Mayhem Book Reviews.
One of the only complaints I had about the first book was that I wanted to know even more about the world that the characters live in. Specifically, I wanted to know about the magic system and the political landscape in Alloran's world, and this book delivers both, along with a big dose of nail-biting tension on several fronts.
Alloran is faced with the difficult task of healing his lover, Gisayne, from the dark spell that connects her to the evil Ladanyon, now in one of the hell realms. But Alloran is opposed by a powerful man on the ruling council of wizards, who wants nothing more than to see him to be stripped of his magical ability. As Alloran secretly researches the spell--against the council's wishes--he discovers that reality itself is collapsing. To save Gisayne, he must leave the council chambers and chase Ladanyon into hell.
I really liked the first book, and this sequel is a great follow-up. The descent into the hell realm is exciting, better even than the climax of the first book, when hell makes an appearance in Alloran's world. I love the tentacled first-realm demons, very kraken meets Lovecraftian Old Ones. My only complaint was that I would have wanted to see the political intrigue portion shortened and the action lengthened. The demons are the best part, and, after all, they are in the titles--I want more of them.
If you like fantasy, I would recommend picking up both these books. Ms. Ballintyne's writing is only getting stronger, and I look forward to her future works.
Also posted on my blog, Magic & Mayhem Book Reviews.
October 29, 2014
We meet again! "Stalking The Demon" by Ciara Ballintyne
First of all if you didn't read the first book "Confronting The Demon" do it! I was lucky enough to receive a Arc of the next book(which I was waiting for after reading the first) I was not disappointed! This author writes sci-fi like no other, kick butt action and suspense all the way through both books. Alloran is known as the destroyer of worlds, does he deserve this title? The council and other residents blame him and his renegade so-called friend(Laydon)for the demons that plagued the city and killed loved ones. Gisayne keeps collapsing and they can't figure out why, it has been happening more and more ever since chasing Laydon to the seven Hells. Alloran needs to figure out what's wrong before she dies. He can't trust anyone in the citadel to help him even his assistants in the lab, he thinks their spy's sent from the counsel to keep a eye on him. The city of Ehsua is still falling apart, walls come and go, could there be a link between this and Gisayne? Will Alloran find a way to redeem himself in time to save Gisayne? Is there anyone he can trust? I found myself wanting to kick butt myself at times. Gisayne and Alloran have my respect, as does the author for her awesome writing skills. Can't wait for the next book to be released! Read about demons, wizards, hellcats, sorceress all in this series.
First of all if you didn't read the first book "Confronting The Demon" do it! I was lucky enough to receive a Arc of the next book(which I was waiting for after reading the first) I was not disappointed! This author writes sci-fi like no other, kick butt action and suspense all the way through both books. Alloran is known as the destroyer of worlds, does he deserve this title? The council and other residents blame him and his renegade so-called friend(Laydon)for the demons that plagued the city and killed loved ones. Gisayne keeps collapsing and they can't figure out why, it has been happening more and more ever since chasing Laydon to the seven Hells. Alloran needs to figure out what's wrong before she dies. He can't trust anyone in the citadel to help him even his assistants in the lab, he thinks their spy's sent from the counsel to keep a eye on him. The city of Ehsua is still falling apart, walls come and go, could there be a link between this and Gisayne? Will Alloran find a way to redeem himself in time to save Gisayne? Is there anyone he can trust? I found myself wanting to kick butt myself at times. Gisayne and Alloran have my respect, as does the author for her awesome writing skills. Can't wait for the next book to be released! Read about demons, wizards, hellcats, sorceress all in this series.
January 11, 2016
Stalking the Demon is a great fantasy novel but second in the series. Unfortunately, this is one that is confusing to jump right into without reading the first one. I would like to have a bit of a summary of the first book to start so it would not have taken so long to get into the book. This is the only fault I find in the book. If the reader had that summary, it would make more sense throughout the book. READ BOOK ONE FIRST. This is a great book but do read them in order. This book has a great plot, well developed characters, lots of action, magic, mystery, demons, surprises, a great imagination, and I enjoyed it. It is about a wizard that is set up and will be executed or have his magic removed if proven guilty. At the same time, he is battling demons, trying to save his girlfriend, the world, find the open hell gate, and find the traitor. I would have enjoyed it better with a summary so I find this to be the only downfall. I read the reviews to read the other one first and thought I could read it and catch up, no, there is too much left unsaid. This book is certainly worth reading, just do it in order. I am going to find the first one and see what I missed, it is that good. I received this book for a honest review from NetGalley and it in no way effected my rating or content of my review.
February 1, 2015
I waited for this sequel, as did my teenager. We have now both finished it, ooh’ed and aah’ed over it and I have come up with a very short review.
WHEN WILL THE NEXT BOOK BE OUT?!
We met Alloran, Dek, and Gisayne in “Confronting the Demon.” In “Stalking the Demon,” we learn how romance blossoms and politics play a role when facing the end of the world.
I don’t want to present any spoilers here in the review, suffice it to say that I was captivated by setting, love, betrayal, the worry Alloran faces, loss, and a huge new battle that will be coming soon.
If you have read the first in the series, go buy “Stalking the Demon,” immediately! If you have not started this series as of yet, what are you waiting for?
WHEN WILL THE NEXT BOOK BE OUT?!
We met Alloran, Dek, and Gisayne in “Confronting the Demon.” In “Stalking the Demon,” we learn how romance blossoms and politics play a role when facing the end of the world.
I don’t want to present any spoilers here in the review, suffice it to say that I was captivated by setting, love, betrayal, the worry Alloran faces, loss, and a huge new battle that will be coming soon.
If you have read the first in the series, go buy “Stalking the Demon,” immediately! If you have not started this series as of yet, what are you waiting for?
October 8, 2015
This was a fascinating sequel, and ends with the bad guy at large, so there must be at least one more book (I certainly hope so)! The wizard Alloran is in deep hot water now, with his love Gisayne suffering from a life-threatening illness that no physician can heal, the fabric of reality starting to unravel, a vindictive wizard on the council trying to silence or execute him, and a traitor in the midst, this action-packed story keeps you on the edge of your seat as you wonder HOW is Alloran going to get out of this mess? As with the first story, it's a little too close to horror for my tastes, but the author does a good job of toning down the horrific parts so they won't give the reader nightmares. 4.5 for a solid sequel!
October 28, 2014
Recently I was lucky enough to be selected to read an eARC of Stalking the Demon. You should all be jealous.
Without giving anything away, I need to say Stalking the Demon was quick and intricate, but slow and methodical at the same time. I found myself constantly trying to figure out what would happen next, and was usually wrong. There was a great amount of action and suspense that really grabbed me and kept me reading until the end.
A great job and good read (Forgive the pun!) for Sci-Fi fans.
Without giving anything away, I need to say Stalking the Demon was quick and intricate, but slow and methodical at the same time. I found myself constantly trying to figure out what would happen next, and was usually wrong. There was a great amount of action and suspense that really grabbed me and kept me reading until the end.
A great job and good read (Forgive the pun!) for Sci-Fi fans.
November 29, 2015
A spectacular read. Vivid, imaginative, action-packed, though this is a compact novel, there is a lot of story here. Interesting magic and world building too. Another great fantasy novel by this author.
March 18, 2015
It was a good read. It had a little bit of anything: love, loss, and betrayal. Great plot and characters too. Overall a great read for anyone interested.
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews