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The Road to Hell #1
Good Intentions
River:
It has been thirteen years since the war started, the bombs were dropped, and the central states became a thing of the past. When the war ended, a wall was erected to divide the surviving states from those destroyed. I never expected to go beyond the wall but unlike all the others who volunteered to go, I wasn’t given a choice.
With a dim knowledge of what I could do, the soldiers came for me. They took me beyond the wall where I learned that the truth is far more terrifying than I’d ever dreamed. Alone, with humans and demons seeking to learn what it is I can do, I find myself irresistibly drawn to the one man I should be avoiding most. One who intrigues and infuriates me. One who is not even a man, not really.
Kobal:
My entire life, I’ve had only one mission, reclaim my throne from Lucifer and put right everything that was torn apart when he was cast from Heaven. It’s a mission I haven’t wavered from, not even when the humans tore open the gates and unleashed Hell on earth.
Now, I’ve never been closer to obtaining my goal yet I find myself risking it all because I cannot stay away from her, a human who may be the key to it all.
***There will be at least four books in this series. Not all things will be resolved in this book. Due to graphic language, violence and sexual content this book is recommended for readers 18+ years of age.***
It has been thirteen years since the war started, the bombs were dropped, and the central states became a thing of the past. When the war ended, a wall was erected to divide the surviving states from those destroyed. I never expected to go beyond the wall but unlike all the others who volunteered to go, I wasn’t given a choice.
With a dim knowledge of what I could do, the soldiers came for me. They took me beyond the wall where I learned that the truth is far more terrifying than I’d ever dreamed. Alone, with humans and demons seeking to learn what it is I can do, I find myself irresistibly drawn to the one man I should be avoiding most. One who intrigues and infuriates me. One who is not even a man, not really.
Kobal:
My entire life, I’ve had only one mission, reclaim my throne from Lucifer and put right everything that was torn apart when he was cast from Heaven. It’s a mission I haven’t wavered from, not even when the humans tore open the gates and unleashed Hell on earth.
Now, I’ve never been closer to obtaining my goal yet I find myself risking it all because I cannot stay away from her, a human who may be the key to it all.
***There will be at least four books in this series. Not all things will be resolved in this book. Due to graphic language, violence and sexual content this book is recommended for readers 18+ years of age.***
ebook
First published July 9, 2016
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About the author
Brenda K. Davies
98 books2,295 followersBrenda K. Davies is the USA Today Bestselling author of the Vampire Awakening Series, Alliance Series, Road to Hell Series, Hell on Earth Series, and historical romantic fiction. She also writes under the pen name, Erica Stevens. When not out with friends and family, she can be found at home with her husband, son, dogs, cat, and horse.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 633 reviews
August 31, 2017
I managed to finish this book in two weeks and I feel like I deserve a medal or something!
Now don't get me wrong, it's not that bad. Actually, it was even interesting, even if confusing, at first. I almost shed a tear when the heroine was separated from her brothers, but then... Kobal part began.
First, let me tell you I didn't like him at all. He was supposed to be this centuries old demon, yet he sounded like a juvenile. With some kind of deficiency problem.
He was always: I'm the biggest, I'm the strongest. I lived longest than any my predecessors. My tent is the biggest.... well, you get the picture. If it's not compensating for something, I don't know what this is; because just like in any romance novel, the hero is not lacking in that department.
Suffice it to say - I didn't like him, and I didn't like her with him.
Their interactions read like a bad FAQ. All the questions, little answers, and no emotions behind it.
She asks something, feels something because of the topic, yet without exploring any of it, the next moment there is another question. And so it goes.
It's usually more fun reading Wikipedia.
A lot of the scenes were simply redundant, and I couldn't connect with the characters. The main reason why: I hate reading two different POVs in first person.
If the book is written in third person, I have no problem switching between POVs, but with the first person... I seem to be able to connect with only one character, and if the switch happens, it messes everything up.
Another issue I had with this book, is that nothing gets solved. Now I understand that it's part of the series, but still, a book should have the beginning, the middle and the end. This one barely had the middle. No end. It reads like a veeery long introduction chapter.
And don't get me started on romance - there was none. They lusted for each other, true, but there was no relationship growth, no nothing. I just couldn't understand what she saw in him. Apart from his muscles, of course.
So, after finishing this one, I can honestly say that I wont be reading more from this author. And I simply cant recommend this book to anyone.
Now don't get me wrong, it's not that bad. Actually, it was even interesting, even if confusing, at first. I almost shed a tear when the heroine was separated from her brothers, but then... Kobal part began.
First, let me tell you I didn't like him at all. He was supposed to be this centuries old demon, yet he sounded like a juvenile. With some kind of deficiency problem.
He was always: I'm the biggest, I'm the strongest. I lived longest than any my predecessors. My tent is the biggest.... well, you get the picture. If it's not compensating for something, I don't know what this is; because just like in any romance novel, the hero is not lacking in that department.
Suffice it to say - I didn't like him, and I didn't like her with him.
Their interactions read like a bad FAQ. All the questions, little answers, and no emotions behind it.
She asks something, feels something because of the topic, yet without exploring any of it, the next moment there is another question. And so it goes.
It's usually more fun reading Wikipedia.
A lot of the scenes were simply redundant, and I couldn't connect with the characters. The main reason why: I hate reading two different POVs in first person.
If the book is written in third person, I have no problem switching between POVs, but with the first person... I seem to be able to connect with only one character, and if the switch happens, it messes everything up.
Another issue I had with this book, is that nothing gets solved. Now I understand that it's part of the series, but still, a book should have the beginning, the middle and the end. This one barely had the middle. No end. It reads like a veeery long introduction chapter.
And don't get me started on romance - there was none. They lusted for each other, true, but there was no relationship growth, no nothing. I just couldn't understand what she saw in him. Apart from his muscles, of course.
So, after finishing this one, I can honestly say that I wont be reading more from this author. And I simply cant recommend this book to anyone.
March 10, 2020
4.5 Wonderful stars!!
Kobal
Kobal is leading a group into battle. The last thing he needs is the complication of a human woman. But River has hijacked his heart and he is consumed with thoughts of her.
River
River has always known she was different. Her eyes are lavender, and she can see things before they happen. She also has a few other talents she keeps hidden. Her family keeps her secret and all is good until flyers start circulating. The flyers ask that anyone with special powers or talents come forth and join the war.
River's life is about to change, and she's about to learn that her mother was actually telling the truth when she called her the Devil's spawn.
This was a great introduction to the series. I love the characters, the dystopian world, and the sexy demons. I can't wait to read the rest of this series!
Kobal
Kobal is leading a group into battle. The last thing he needs is the complication of a human woman. But River has hijacked his heart and he is consumed with thoughts of her.
River
River has always known she was different. Her eyes are lavender, and she can see things before they happen. She also has a few other talents she keeps hidden. Her family keeps her secret and all is good until flyers start circulating. The flyers ask that anyone with special powers or talents come forth and join the war.
River's life is about to change, and she's about to learn that her mother was actually telling the truth when she called her the Devil's spawn.
This was a great introduction to the series. I love the characters, the dystopian world, and the sexy demons. I can't wait to read the rest of this series!
July 3, 2021
3,5. This wasn’t what I was looking for … but the story was okay and intriguing!
August 8, 2017
3.75 Stars!
Darn it!
The author successfully ruined this story in the last two chapters for me 😤
It will resolve in the book #2 though but stil..
Thank you Karen for recommended this series !:)
Darn it!
The author successfully ruined this story in the last two chapters for me 😤
It will resolve in the book #2 though but stil..
Thank you Karen for recommended this series !:)
October 14, 2019
3.5 well-intending ★★★✬✩
⤐ Overall.
Hm. To be honest, I am a bit unsure about how to rate this. It was definitely good. I was eager to get down to read every time I had the chance to. And I have the significant feeling that this book is only the introduction into a really intense book series. (In case it turns out bad, I will take off a star or two.)
River has just one thing on her mind: getting her brothers through the day. She ends up leaving them behind, in order to see them protected and has to put up with a bunch of demons and human soldiers, who brace for a fight against a great evil. She is determined to only invest as much of herself into that mission as needed. Then she meets Kobal, who, despite better knowledge, she slowly falls for.
Kobal is an arrogant ass - full of himself. On the outside, at least. He wants to end the war that is going on in order to bring back order to his realm - hell. And for that, he needs someone with a very special talent - someone who can stand his/her ground against Lucifer and destroy him. Instead of professionally preparing River for that task, however, his intentions get more emotional with every moment they spend together, every single touch.
Handling a demon is not an easy task, especially not when the world continually erupts in chaos. It is a solid read that makes you want for more. Let's hope these are not empty promises.
This book is for you if… a crossover between a paranormal romance and an apocalyptic setting sound like something that could satisfy your desires. You might be bothered or even triggered by the sexist/misogynist behaviour.
⤐ Overall.
Hm. To be honest, I am a bit unsure about how to rate this. It was definitely good. I was eager to get down to read every time I had the chance to. And I have the significant feeling that this book is only the introduction into a really intense book series. (In case it turns out bad, I will take off a star or two.)
River has just one thing on her mind: getting her brothers through the day. She ends up leaving them behind, in order to see them protected and has to put up with a bunch of demons and human soldiers, who brace for a fight against a great evil. She is determined to only invest as much of herself into that mission as needed. Then she meets Kobal, who, despite better knowledge, she slowly falls for.
Kobal is an arrogant ass - full of himself. On the outside, at least. He wants to end the war that is going on in order to bring back order to his realm - hell. And for that, he needs someone with a very special talent - someone who can stand his/her ground against Lucifer and destroy him. Instead of professionally preparing River for that task, however, his intentions get more emotional with every moment they spend together, every single touch.
Handling a demon is not an easy task, especially not when the world continually erupts in chaos. It is a solid read that makes you want for more. Let's hope these are not empty promises.
October 18, 2019
The first book in the Road to Hell series by Brenda K. Davies didn’t win me over.
And it definitely should have had a “warning YA” neon sign.
It started out really good.
We had a strong, independent and perceptive main female character, that intrigued me.
But not even half way through, the book lost its spark.
Suddenly I found myself in a strange writing style. Instead of continuing like the author started, the day to day events were skipped and simply summarised and addressed in two sentences.
While time almost froze and dragged when they met up in his tent for story telling, as i called it.
That is not how you write a good book.
For her not to fight harder to get back to her siblings after arriving at the camp, when it was the main focus for the first quarter of the book and forgetting them, actually was irritating.
I felt irritated in how easily she took everything she was confronted with.
If someone told me all that, you need to process. This was also skipped by the author, and only picked up when necessary for the plot. Not a good writing style.
While we all knew what he felt for her, she didn’t and yet how she reacted towards him with seemingly no control over herself was again irritating.
It was lust but certainly no romance or love.
The first book was mainly about preparing and training for the upcoming fight and confrontation.
For all the training she did, for all the intelligence and sharp perception she showed at the beginning, I would have expected her to develop into an Amazonian, yet it wasn’t impressive what i was reading. With the focus more and more on their not so romantic and increasing gravity towards each other, it got boring quickly.
Then more and more inconsistencies showed up.
The characters acted more and more juvenile.
Plot threads like with the Revenir didn’t make much sense and were so simplified to fit the plot. I didn’t like it one bit.
The stereotypical view of the group of soldiers in the camp was also irritating. While I don’t doubt that a big part would react exactly like that to something unknown and frightening, I doubt that all would react like that and turn away.
And this was not the only time the author chose the easy way out, sticking to stereotypical behaviour and not really grappling with it.
The character of the main male character was a good one, I didn’t like him much but I guess that was the point, he is a demon after all.
And not a fluffy romantic hero.
He did treat her right in his own way.
The female character on the other hand. Not my taste, not for the 21st century.
For all the good she showed at the beginning, she lost her way quickly and it wasn’t a mature or rational one.
I don’t like ancient views of women being hysterical and drama ridden. I don’t like seeing her being constantly rescued and not getting on her own two feet. For all the talk she gave of being her own, she didn’t deliver.
You fall in love with a demon and then are surprised he acts like one. Not my cup of tea.
The purpose seemed more likely to keep the book going than it was actually necessary, especially when one can deal with it in a more mature way.
The first book was free and it didn’t convince me to start buying the following books.
And it definitely should have had a “warning YA” neon sign.
It started out really good.
We had a strong, independent and perceptive main female character, that intrigued me.
But not even half way through, the book lost its spark.
Suddenly I found myself in a strange writing style. Instead of continuing like the author started, the day to day events were skipped and simply summarised and addressed in two sentences.
While time almost froze and dragged when they met up in his tent for story telling, as i called it.
That is not how you write a good book.
For her not to fight harder to get back to her siblings after arriving at the camp, when it was the main focus for the first quarter of the book and forgetting them, actually was irritating.
I felt irritated in how easily she took everything she was confronted with.
If someone told me all that, you need to process. This was also skipped by the author, and only picked up when necessary for the plot. Not a good writing style.
While we all knew what he felt for her, she didn’t and yet how she reacted towards him with seemingly no control over herself was again irritating.
It was lust but certainly no romance or love.
The first book was mainly about preparing and training for the upcoming fight and confrontation.
For all the training she did, for all the intelligence and sharp perception she showed at the beginning, I would have expected her to develop into an Amazonian, yet it wasn’t impressive what i was reading. With the focus more and more on their not so romantic and increasing gravity towards each other, it got boring quickly.
Then more and more inconsistencies showed up.
The characters acted more and more juvenile.
Plot threads like with the Revenir didn’t make much sense and were so simplified to fit the plot. I didn’t like it one bit.
The stereotypical view of the group of soldiers in the camp was also irritating. While I don’t doubt that a big part would react exactly like that to something unknown and frightening, I doubt that all would react like that and turn away.
And this was not the only time the author chose the easy way out, sticking to stereotypical behaviour and not really grappling with it.
The character of the main male character was a good one, I didn’t like him much but I guess that was the point, he is a demon after all.
And not a fluffy romantic hero.
He did treat her right in his own way.
The female character on the other hand. Not my taste, not for the 21st century.
For all the good she showed at the beginning, she lost her way quickly and it wasn’t a mature or rational one.
I don’t like ancient views of women being hysterical and drama ridden. I don’t like seeing her being constantly rescued and not getting on her own two feet. For all the talk she gave of being her own, she didn’t deliver.
You fall in love with a demon and then are surprised he acts like one. Not my cup of tea.
The purpose seemed more likely to keep the book going than it was actually necessary, especially when one can deal with it in a more mature way.
The first book was free and it didn’t convince me to start buying the following books.
June 28, 2021
4.5 stars
Good Intentions is book 1 in The Road to Hell series and my first book by this author. Although I found the first 30% of the book slow and a massive information dump once River arrives at the Wall and meets Kobal I was addicted. I just love when a h is powerful but she has no idea what she is but everyone around her knows she's different. River is definitely that female and I can't wait to see how many powers she develops. Kobal is super yummy and exactly what I want in my H's in a PNR. He's old, powerful, and super possessive when it comes to his female. As for the ending I wanted to strangle River over her decisions and she is staying strong to them so far in book 2. Overall I was very pleased with this book.
Good Intentions is book 1 in The Road to Hell series and my first book by this author. Although I found the first 30% of the book slow and a massive information dump once River arrives at the Wall and meets Kobal I was addicted. I just love when a h is powerful but she has no idea what she is but everyone around her knows she's different. River is definitely that female and I can't wait to see how many powers she develops. Kobal is super yummy and exactly what I want in my H's in a PNR. He's old, powerful, and super possessive when it comes to his female. As for the ending I wanted to strangle River over her decisions and she is staying strong to them so far in book 2. Overall I was very pleased with this book.
July 20, 2019
Well, the beginning of the book was great, it had potential, the story was weird and different, everything I liked. Unfortunately, there were too many explanations here, pages and pages and pages of questions and answers and more questions and more answers, I wish it were imbedded into the story somehow instead of just her asking and him answering.
Still, even with all this, I liked, and planned on reading the rest. Then came the second half of the book...
I'll give you an example.
Remember how they filmed three Hobbit movies when in reality, it all could've fit into one? I felt the same thing here. The book ended, not on a cliffie really, but with the beginning of their journey. Basically, nothing really happens here (nothing important), and I'm left with three more books where I'm guessing nothing much will happen considering they reach their goal at book 4. And they start the journey at book 2.
I'm sorry, that's just too slow for me XD
I'll maybe continue with this when I sufficiently forget the first book.
Still, even with all this, I liked, and planned on reading the rest. Then came the second half of the book...
I'll give you an example.
Remember how they filmed three Hobbit movies when in reality, it all could've fit into one? I felt the same thing here. The book ended, not on a cliffie really, but with the beginning of their journey. Basically, nothing really happens here (nothing important), and I'm left with three more books where I'm guessing nothing much will happen considering they reach their goal at book 4. And they start the journey at book 2.
I'm sorry, that's just too slow for me XD
I'll maybe continue with this when I sufficiently forget the first book.
March 12, 2019
Find the full review here
River is a human girl in some real denial about how absolutely precious she is.
When she lit the curtains with her fingers? A fluke.
The sparks that light up her fingertips? Static electricity.
And doesn't everyone feel the pulse of life when they touch trees?
Thirteen years ago, after a nuclear strike, the midwest was devastated, millions were killed, and a huge wall was erected to protect the survivors. Protect them from what? No one knows. The only way to find out would be to go to the wall and River has no interest in doing so. She's got two little brothers to take care of because her mother is a waste of space. Living a meek life, fitting in, and feeding her family are her only goals. So what happens when the search for someone 'special' leads right to her door?
Torn from those she loves and the only life she's ever known, herded along with the rest of the volunteers to protect the wall, River soon finds out that she is not what she seems. She is only part human because she is a direct descendant of Lucifer. Yup, that Lucifer. But don't call him Lucifer. He hates that. At the wall, she meets Kobal (the to die for hero of this tale) and his fellow demons, who are going to teach them what it is to fight the evil that is trying to escape the very depths of hell.
Kobal is a demon. He's actually the rightful King of Hell. He absolutely hates Lucifer and has every intention of killing him and taking his place on the throne. But he's got to close the gates of Hell first. And hopefully with River's powers, he can. He never imagined the connection he'd feel to the key, but he can't deny his reasons for wanting to protect her at all costs go beyond the mission. He wants to touch her, to feel her, to own her, to claim her. And damned if he won't.
This story had such a slow start that I was worried that I wouldn't like it. I was getting bored. I'm so glad I stuck with it though because when it really got started, I couldn't put it down. I loved the story building, the characters, the setting, and the plot. I'm fully aware that I'm still in the dark about many things, including the full extent of both Kobal and River's powers, but I can't wait to continue this story to find out exactly how they will strike their enemy down and find their happy ending.
River is a human girl in some real denial about how absolutely precious she is.
When she lit the curtains with her fingers? A fluke.
The sparks that light up her fingertips? Static electricity.
And doesn't everyone feel the pulse of life when they touch trees?
Thirteen years ago, after a nuclear strike, the midwest was devastated, millions were killed, and a huge wall was erected to protect the survivors. Protect them from what? No one knows. The only way to find out would be to go to the wall and River has no interest in doing so. She's got two little brothers to take care of because her mother is a waste of space. Living a meek life, fitting in, and feeding her family are her only goals. So what happens when the search for someone 'special' leads right to her door?
Torn from those she loves and the only life she's ever known, herded along with the rest of the volunteers to protect the wall, River soon finds out that she is not what she seems. She is only part human because she is a direct descendant of Lucifer. Yup, that Lucifer. But don't call him Lucifer. He hates that. At the wall, she meets Kobal (the to die for hero of this tale) and his fellow demons, who are going to teach them what it is to fight the evil that is trying to escape the very depths of hell.
Kobal is a demon. He's actually the rightful King of Hell. He absolutely hates Lucifer and has every intention of killing him and taking his place on the throne. But he's got to close the gates of Hell first. And hopefully with River's powers, he can. He never imagined the connection he'd feel to the key, but he can't deny his reasons for wanting to protect her at all costs go beyond the mission. He wants to touch her, to feel her, to own her, to claim her. And damned if he won't.
My entire existence had been about regaining the throne I’d never even sat upon, but I would lay down my life and let the next varcolac rise before I let something happen to her.
This story had such a slow start that I was worried that I wouldn't like it. I was getting bored. I'm so glad I stuck with it though because when it really got started, I couldn't put it down. I loved the story building, the characters, the setting, and the plot. I'm fully aware that I'm still in the dark about many things, including the full extent of both Kobal and River's powers, but I can't wait to continue this story to find out exactly how they will strike their enemy down and find their happy ending.
November 17, 2019
3,75 “She could be my undoing and I’d welcome every second of it.”⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Ok... sooo, I had this in my tbr for a while now and because I m in a “90% demon books” phase I decided why not?!
This was a solid read for me , despise the looooog beginning (first 150 pages) which felt like an endless introduction chapter with hundreds questions/answers dialogues that mostly felt like an interview in a magazine 🙄🙄😐. I felt a bit bored and meh .. but I decided to go on.
The middle of the book got me hooked on the storyline and I felt like it was actually getting somewhere . I really like the hero Kobal , I mean he has everything I crave in a book boyfriend: possessive , alpha, strong , obviously hot body but also gentle and caring towards the heroine.
Now... the heroine , River, she is independent and strong and powerful suree 🙄, but God can she be annoying as f**k ??
And then came the last 3 chapters, and I was disappointed and a bit frustrated with how stubborn River can be , she just proved to be an insecure little girl that has no idea what the f**k she wants.
Anyway, I know the author will make it better (3 more books in this series) so I m gonna jump into the next book to find out .
🙏🤗
Ok... sooo, I had this in my tbr for a while now and because I m in a “90% demon books” phase I decided why not?!
This was a solid read for me , despise the looooog beginning (first 150 pages) which felt like an endless introduction chapter with hundreds questions/answers dialogues that mostly felt like an interview in a magazine 🙄🙄😐. I felt a bit bored and meh .. but I decided to go on.
The middle of the book got me hooked on the storyline and I felt like it was actually getting somewhere . I really like the hero Kobal , I mean he has everything I crave in a book boyfriend: possessive , alpha, strong , obviously hot body but also gentle and caring towards the heroine.
Now... the heroine , River, she is independent and strong and powerful suree 🙄, but God can she be annoying as f**k ??
And then came the last 3 chapters, and I was disappointed and a bit frustrated with how stubborn River can be , she just proved to be an insecure little girl that has no idea what the f**k she wants.
Anyway, I know the author will make it better (3 more books in this series) so I m gonna jump into the next book to find out .
🙏🤗
Want to read
February 20, 2025💝 FREE on Amazon today (3/14/2018)!💝
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July 17, 2016Now available!
November 19, 2021
Excellent post-apocalyptic romance! Can’t wait to see where this story goes.
October 11, 2021
Kindle Freebie 8/21/18 - Like this author's vampire series so will give this one a try too!
After Reading:
Well, apparently, I downloaded this over 3 years ago. I'm a bit mad I waited to read this one because I really loved it! Love me a protective and possessive hero. Like, tear the head off of someone because they hurt his woman, kind of protective. (Heroine was big time mad. I get it but still, protective.)
The world building is great in this book and the overall storyline is quite creative. Humans basically tear open the veil to Hell and aren't prepared for what they unleash so they make up a story about being bombed by other countries. A wall is put up to block off the "war-ravaged" area but in fact was put up to keep out the dangerous beings from Hell that escaped.
The hero is basically the true King of Hell (not Lucifer - and not our beloved Lucifer Morningstar, alas, but a true evil being). He has sent out the army to find those with special abilities and our heroine just happens to have some. Turns out she is a descendant of Lucifer's but that doesn't stop our hero for completely falling for her. Not to mention she is his Chosen.
I do love those types of stories and Davies has good substance to this story. She's built quite a world and an intriguing story. I look forward to continuing on this series.
Kobal is a very protective hero and as I said, one of my favorite types of heroes. He is drawn to River from the moment she is brought back to the wall camp. When he finally gives into his desire for her, we get a very hot and sexy scene. Basically a hero who doesn't know how he'll survive without the woman he loves. SIGN ME UP FOR THESE STORIES!
The book ends on a cliffhanger and our H and h are at odds (over that pesky head-ripping off thing, but hey, the chick tried to kill his woman and well, he has a bit of a temper).
Random Thoughts:
☠ Her mother is a horrible person and deserves a slow and torturous death.
💔 When her little brother is reaching out his arms for her as she is driven away in the truck, my heart just broke.
💜 Kobal had just met her and already didn't like that her own mother turned her in and her little brother was broken-hearted as she drove away.
💜 Man knew she was his already.
💜 We like.
💜 River was drawn to Kobal too.
💜 Kobal legit willing to let her see her brothers again, even though anyone who comes to the wall doesn't get to leave.
💜 The male was whipped right then.
💜 Kobal is so soft with her.
💖As her pulse quickened, I cradled her cheek with my palm, looking to comfort her in some way, though I had no idea how to do so or why I wanted to do it.
💜 My fave.
💜 He is constantly doing stuff like that to her.
💜 Again, we like.
💖 Before I could stop myself, I placed my hand around her nape and pulled her close to kiss her forehead. Her natural fresh rain and earthy scent assailed me, but I didn’t become aroused by it this time. Instead, I found it pacifying the anguish I felt for her. I’d never been one to comfort someone before, yet the gesture felt natural with her.
💜 See? So soft with her.
💜 Yet will rip the head off any person who hurts her.
💜 Again I shrug. LOL
💜 He thinks of her as his or MINE.
💜 Not gonna lie, doesn't bother me because, you know, fiction.
💖 Mine! This time there was no brushing off the thought, no denying the strength with which it rocked me. My gaze fell to her shoulder, the one I’d often sank my fangs into in our shared dreams. I’d never marked a woman in such a way, never had the compulsion before, but I would mark her. I would claim her because she was mine, and now something was after her.
💜 The man would lay down his life for her.
💜 I can't even.
💜 Demons don't kiss but he sure loves to kiss River.
💜 He marks her with his fangs, she marks him.
💜 Possessive.
💜 Told you.
💜 Love me a man who snarls or growls over his woman.
💜 Ready to run and read the next in the series.
Quotes & Faves:
💖 Mine. I had no idea where the possessive instinct came from, but the certainty behind it made me realize it was right. This woman, with her raven hair, violet eyes, and proud features was mine, and I couldn’t have her.
💖 His arms tightened around me. “My Chosen. I should have known it when all other women failed to entice me once meeting you, should have known it when you walked into my dreams, but I was too consumed with my desire for you to look past it to what was driving it. And truth be told, I never believed I would find my Chosen. Only two varcolacs before me have, and it took them far longer than it has taken me.
💖 “You are mine, Mah Kush-la.”
My head tilted at his odd words. They sounded so old and beautiful. “What does that mean?”
“It means my heart in my language.”
💖 She was everything I had ever needed or wanted in the world. She was my heart and I would not let her go.
After Reading:
Well, apparently, I downloaded this over 3 years ago. I'm a bit mad I waited to read this one because I really loved it! Love me a protective and possessive hero. Like, tear the head off of someone because they hurt his woman, kind of protective. (Heroine was big time mad. I get it but still, protective.)
The world building is great in this book and the overall storyline is quite creative. Humans basically tear open the veil to Hell and aren't prepared for what they unleash so they make up a story about being bombed by other countries. A wall is put up to block off the "war-ravaged" area but in fact was put up to keep out the dangerous beings from Hell that escaped.
The hero is basically the true King of Hell (not Lucifer - and not our beloved Lucifer Morningstar, alas, but a true evil being). He has sent out the army to find those with special abilities and our heroine just happens to have some. Turns out she is a descendant of Lucifer's but that doesn't stop our hero for completely falling for her. Not to mention she is his Chosen.
I do love those types of stories and Davies has good substance to this story. She's built quite a world and an intriguing story. I look forward to continuing on this series.
Kobal is a very protective hero and as I said, one of my favorite types of heroes. He is drawn to River from the moment she is brought back to the wall camp. When he finally gives into his desire for her, we get a very hot and sexy scene. Basically a hero who doesn't know how he'll survive without the woman he loves. SIGN ME UP FOR THESE STORIES!
The book ends on a cliffhanger and our H and h are at odds (over that pesky head-ripping off thing, but hey, the chick tried to kill his woman and well, he has a bit of a temper).
Random Thoughts:
☠ Her mother is a horrible person and deserves a slow and torturous death.
💔 When her little brother is reaching out his arms for her as she is driven away in the truck, my heart just broke.
💜 Kobal had just met her and already didn't like that her own mother turned her in and her little brother was broken-hearted as she drove away.
💜 Man knew she was his already.
💜 We like.
💜 River was drawn to Kobal too.
💜 Kobal legit willing to let her see her brothers again, even though anyone who comes to the wall doesn't get to leave.
💜 The male was whipped right then.
💜 Kobal is so soft with her.
💖As her pulse quickened, I cradled her cheek with my palm, looking to comfort her in some way, though I had no idea how to do so or why I wanted to do it.
💜 My fave.
💜 He is constantly doing stuff like that to her.
💜 Again, we like.
💖 Before I could stop myself, I placed my hand around her nape and pulled her close to kiss her forehead. Her natural fresh rain and earthy scent assailed me, but I didn’t become aroused by it this time. Instead, I found it pacifying the anguish I felt for her. I’d never been one to comfort someone before, yet the gesture felt natural with her.
💜 See? So soft with her.
💜 Yet will rip the head off any person who hurts her.
💜 Again I shrug. LOL
💜 He thinks of her as his or MINE.
💜 Not gonna lie, doesn't bother me because, you know, fiction.
💖 Mine! This time there was no brushing off the thought, no denying the strength with which it rocked me. My gaze fell to her shoulder, the one I’d often sank my fangs into in our shared dreams. I’d never marked a woman in such a way, never had the compulsion before, but I would mark her. I would claim her because she was mine, and now something was after her.
💜 The man would lay down his life for her.
💜 I can't even.
💜 Demons don't kiss but he sure loves to kiss River.
💜 He marks her with his fangs, she marks him.
💜 Possessive.
💜 Told you.
💜 Love me a man who snarls or growls over his woman.
💜 Ready to run and read the next in the series.
Quotes & Faves:
💖 Mine. I had no idea where the possessive instinct came from, but the certainty behind it made me realize it was right. This woman, with her raven hair, violet eyes, and proud features was mine, and I couldn’t have her.
💖 His arms tightened around me. “My Chosen. I should have known it when all other women failed to entice me once meeting you, should have known it when you walked into my dreams, but I was too consumed with my desire for you to look past it to what was driving it. And truth be told, I never believed I would find my Chosen. Only two varcolacs before me have, and it took them far longer than it has taken me.
💖 “You are mine, Mah Kush-la.”
My head tilted at his odd words. They sounded so old and beautiful. “What does that mean?”
“It means my heart in my language.”
💖 She was everything I had ever needed or wanted in the world. She was my heart and I would not let her go.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 4, 2016
An Awesome Fantasy Fresh from the Cape
I had no doubts a Brenda K. Davies book would draw me in, but I had no idea what to expect until I started reading and found myself thoroughly invested in River and Kobal’s story.
The first 22 years of River’s life are divided from before the first fighter planes flew over when she was nine and the last 13 years after life as everyone knew it ended. Her life consists of caring for her little brothers, providing for them, and attempting to hide the fact that she’s different. What she doesn’t realize is that those differences are going to divide her life once again -- only this time she will be irrevocably changed as well.
Kobal’s sole mission in his long life has been to reclaim his rightful place as King of Hell and take back the throne from the interloper, Lucifer. With the weight of the lives of his followers, as well as the entire human race, resting on his shoulders, he’s focused on finding the one person capable of aiding him in his ultimate goal.
Brenda knows how to write characters we can connect with, and the resulting chemistry when she brings two together is palpable *whew* *fans self*, The information about the history of what happened 13 years ago is well-explained in the right places, and the backstory of the demons is clearly understood. Understanding River’s life prior to being taken to the wall truly makes you feel invested in the motivation behind her choices. She’s fiercely loyal and determined to protect those she loves.
Her visual descriptions of the various demons is absolutely intriguing, and I feel as though they are well-formed mental images with personalities and individually unique traits that make them jump off the page isn't my imagination.
Despite having read stories in the past involving demons and angels, I can honestly say this book was uniquely written and truly enjoyable. The mix of the relationships between the characters as well as watching as River evolves from the young woman who just tries to blend in, to learning to embrace who and what she is, makes for a hard to put down story!
I’m very much looking forward to seeing where the series goes because, knowing Brenda, the journey is going to be an exciting ride!
I had no doubts a Brenda K. Davies book would draw me in, but I had no idea what to expect until I started reading and found myself thoroughly invested in River and Kobal’s story.
The first 22 years of River’s life are divided from before the first fighter planes flew over when she was nine and the last 13 years after life as everyone knew it ended. Her life consists of caring for her little brothers, providing for them, and attempting to hide the fact that she’s different. What she doesn’t realize is that those differences are going to divide her life once again -- only this time she will be irrevocably changed as well.
Kobal’s sole mission in his long life has been to reclaim his rightful place as King of Hell and take back the throne from the interloper, Lucifer. With the weight of the lives of his followers, as well as the entire human race, resting on his shoulders, he’s focused on finding the one person capable of aiding him in his ultimate goal.
Brenda knows how to write characters we can connect with, and the resulting chemistry when she brings two together is palpable *whew* *fans self*, The information about the history of what happened 13 years ago is well-explained in the right places, and the backstory of the demons is clearly understood. Understanding River’s life prior to being taken to the wall truly makes you feel invested in the motivation behind her choices. She’s fiercely loyal and determined to protect those she loves.
Her visual descriptions of the various demons is absolutely intriguing, and I feel as though they are well-formed mental images with personalities and individually unique traits that make them jump off the page isn't my imagination.
Despite having read stories in the past involving demons and angels, I can honestly say this book was uniquely written and truly enjoyable. The mix of the relationships between the characters as well as watching as River evolves from the young woman who just tries to blend in, to learning to embrace who and what she is, makes for a hard to put down story!
I’m very much looking forward to seeing where the series goes because, knowing Brenda, the journey is going to be an exciting ride!
Read
July 17, 2016Now available!
May 25, 2024
Spoilers ahead
River lives with her brothers and a mother who despises her in a fishing town in the after....after "bombs" were dropped and life as they know it changed. Now once a year military personnel come to town to gather volunteers in this new war the country is facing. River has never volunteered as she's needed to support her younger brothers until they came looking for someone with special abilities and her mother ratted her out. Forced to leave her home and brothers behind River is exposed to creatures she never could've imagined and finds out some shocking truths about her own heritage
Kobal is the rightful ruler of hell but Lucifer has taken over, now the humans have opened a gate to hell and demons come through in hordes. He's spent years on Earth looking for the one person who's able to close the gate and help him defeat Lucifer....he never expected to find that person is also his Chosen.
********
I've come to realise that I'm a hypocrite, in a contemporary romance anything pass a 10 year age gap I often struggle with yet a 1500 year old demon and a twenty three year old woman is A OK with me 😂
Kobal is my idea of a bbf well without his demonwhoring but I'll allow it because I mean 👿. He's strong, protective and loyal (ISH) and very much not afraid to unalive anyone who threatens or harms his woman!
I liked River a lot before she found out about her heritage, she was absolutely lovely with her brothers and I legit cried when she was forced to leave them behind. Even discovering her new reality didn't phase her, she was stubborn and tough and determined....she kinda pissed me off a little in the end when she decides to play martyr and believe Lucifer's stories 🙄 but all in all I liked her
Interesting read, great world building and an interesting take on demons and angels.
As usual with trilogies I rarely feel the need for so many books, River's training took up a lot of page space stretching this story out unnecessarily but I'm intrigued enough to immediately move on to the next
Demonwhore H
Virgin h
No cheating though he thought of going to other women when he was fighting the pull towards River thankfully he didn't go through it, one scene almost gave me a heart attack but thankfully it wasn't what I thought it was
Tons of OW drama as Kobal had slept with human women and one of them just wouldn't let that shit go
Violence
**I really could've done without all the reminders of Kobal's whoring 😭
River lives with her brothers and a mother who despises her in a fishing town in the after....after "bombs" were dropped and life as they know it changed. Now once a year military personnel come to town to gather volunteers in this new war the country is facing. River has never volunteered as she's needed to support her younger brothers until they came looking for someone with special abilities and her mother ratted her out. Forced to leave her home and brothers behind River is exposed to creatures she never could've imagined and finds out some shocking truths about her own heritage
Kobal is the rightful ruler of hell but Lucifer has taken over, now the humans have opened a gate to hell and demons come through in hordes. He's spent years on Earth looking for the one person who's able to close the gate and help him defeat Lucifer....he never expected to find that person is also his Chosen.
********
I've come to realise that I'm a hypocrite, in a contemporary romance anything pass a 10 year age gap I often struggle with yet a 1500 year old demon and a twenty three year old woman is A OK with me 😂
Kobal is my idea of a bbf well without his demonwhoring but I'll allow it because I mean 👿. He's strong, protective and loyal (ISH) and very much not afraid to unalive anyone who threatens or harms his woman!
I liked River a lot before she found out about her heritage, she was absolutely lovely with her brothers and I legit cried when she was forced to leave them behind. Even discovering her new reality didn't phase her, she was stubborn and tough and determined....she kinda pissed me off a little in the end when she decides to play martyr and believe Lucifer's stories 🙄 but all in all I liked her
Interesting read, great world building and an interesting take on demons and angels.
As usual with trilogies I rarely feel the need for so many books, River's training took up a lot of page space stretching this story out unnecessarily but I'm intrigued enough to immediately move on to the next
Demonwhore H
Virgin h
No cheating though he thought of going to other women when he was fighting the pull towards River thankfully he didn't go through it, one scene almost gave me a heart attack but thankfully it wasn't what I thought it was
Tons of OW drama as Kobal had slept with human women and one of them just wouldn't let that shit go
Violence
**I really could've done without all the reminders of Kobal's whoring 😭
July 23, 2021
River had a hard life growing up. She had a nasty abusive mother who thought that River held the devil inside her because of her violet eye color. Well when River was just a child war broke out in the United States and cause a huge wall to be erected closing off the middle states of the country from everyone else. Food was rationed, electric was as well. People had to go back to living off the land like the ancestors did.
Well, each year, for the past thirteen years, there's a volunteer day held in River's town where 16 year-olds can volunteer to go help guard the wall. Except for the past four year there's been flyers around each town that they're searching for people with 'abilities'. And what do you know? River has those abilities. Her crap of a mother gives her up for more food and whatnot each month because she's a crappy mother and thus you have your story where River finds out what's really going on behind that wall and she meets the leader of it all, Kobal.
I must say that the beginning of this book dragged. Like seriously dragged. I found myself skipping entire pages if there wasn't any dialogue on them. I just felt it took waaaay too long to get to the nitty gritty of what the book was actually about. But I did like the book enough to go onto the second one. :)
Well, each year, for the past thirteen years, there's a volunteer day held in River's town where 16 year-olds can volunteer to go help guard the wall. Except for the past four year there's been flyers around each town that they're searching for people with 'abilities'. And what do you know? River has those abilities. Her crap of a mother gives her up for more food and whatnot each month because she's a crappy mother and thus you have your story where River finds out what's really going on behind that wall and she meets the leader of it all, Kobal.
I must say that the beginning of this book dragged. Like seriously dragged. I found myself skipping entire pages if there wasn't any dialogue on them. I just felt it took waaaay too long to get to the nitty gritty of what the book was actually about. But I did like the book enough to go onto the second one. :)
November 27, 2016
A nice find! An original take on the 'end of the world' that read like a fantasy with a smutty love story layered on top. Sounds like a recipe for disaster, but it was actually really good. Kudos to the author for pulling it off. Of course it wasn't perfect; Kobal was too much of an ass sometimes and the world-building was a bit over-involved at times, but overall there's more to recommend this book than not. I especially liked River and the way her character grew (or regressed as the case may be). It felt natural and well-thought out. I'll definitely read the sequel.
July 28, 2019
Post apocalyptic world where demons and humans are trying to survive the damage to the world. The book is told through River and Kobal's dual POV's. A good story, but there are many redundant topics (I don't need to be told over and over what is the mission, and what are the responsibilities of the "Chosen" one.
June 30, 2022
2.5
Well dang this sucks because I liked how the book started off in this post apocalyptic world with our h trying to eek out her existence taking care of and feeding her two little brothers- while doing what she can to avoid her abusive mom and stop the random flashes of...power that she keeps having.
Interesting start, but where it falls apart is the romance and what happens when she goes beyond the wall. Turns out River is just another super special- key to everything heroine that falls in insta-love with an older than sin bad boy who is only nice to the heroine because 'mates' aka chosen, while every other girl he's dicked down before her meant "less than nothing."
le sigh.
Yeah just not my jam. But what really bothered me was this other 'nothing girl' he hooked up with before
....i get they are violent demons, but...really?
And then they are the constant conversations of people trying to convince the h that she really really needs to be with him-because reasons.. Also liked the Angles/Demon storyline, but the interpersonal drama wasn't doing it for me.
Don't see myself reading on.
Well dang this sucks because I liked how the book started off in this post apocalyptic world with our h trying to eek out her existence taking care of and feeding her two little brothers- while doing what she can to avoid her abusive mom and stop the random flashes of...power that she keeps having.
Interesting start, but where it falls apart is the romance and what happens when she goes beyond the wall. Turns out River is just another super special- key to everything heroine that falls in insta-love with an older than sin bad boy who is only nice to the heroine because 'mates' aka chosen, while every other girl he's dicked down before her meant "less than nothing."
le sigh.
Yeah just not my jam. But what really bothered me was this other 'nothing girl' he hooked up with before
....i get they are violent demons, but...really?
And then they are the constant conversations of people trying to convince the h that she really really needs to be with him-because reasons.. Also liked the Angles/Demon storyline, but the interpersonal drama wasn't doing it for me.
Don't see myself reading on.
September 10, 2017
I just didn't think this was all that great. It had an interesting start with a lot of intrigue about what might be out there beyond the wall but then after I found out I just got bored.
I didn't like the whole demon aspect with the chosen one trope with the fangs and the marking and the I can't live without you crap. I mean it would be nice if the two MC's actually fell in love but it was more like insta-lust and obsession which just doesn't have enough depth for me.
I didn't understand why the humans were even in this. There wasn't any relationships between River and any of them outside of the ones between her and her brothers and best friend and that was just very brief at the beginning of the book. There was little to no interaction between her and any of the humans at the encampment at the wall at all with the exception of the one with bitchy jealous Eileen and that was so stupid and such a you stole my man you slut type cliche that I found it irksome.
Not really interested in the rest of the series.
I didn't like the whole demon aspect with the chosen one trope with the fangs and the marking and the I can't live without you crap. I mean it would be nice if the two MC's actually fell in love but it was more like insta-lust and obsession which just doesn't have enough depth for me.
I didn't understand why the humans were even in this. There wasn't any relationships between River and any of them outside of the ones between her and her brothers and best friend and that was just very brief at the beginning of the book. There was little to no interaction between her and any of the humans at the encampment at the wall at all with the exception of the one with bitchy jealous Eileen and that was so stupid and such a you stole my man you slut type cliche that I found it irksome.
Not really interested in the rest of the series.
August 15, 2025
HOLYYYY CRAP! Dystopian meets PNR in this story that is just absolutely AMAZING!!!
I was a little hesitant to read this story because I wasn’t quite sure how I thought the whole world being destroyed and demons battling it out over who is the ruler over Hell would work, but I’m so damn happy I did!! This book has everything I want out of the start of a PNR! Brenda does an amazing job of setting the scene to what is going on in the story, and how the world as we know it has come to be where demons and humans are working together to save both of their species. What really sets the table for the rest of this series is Kobal and River!! From the moment River is taken from her life and everyone she loves and thrust into a situation where she comes face to face with Kobal, sparks and flames blaze off of the pages!! Those two together are white HOT!
With the way those two have come together and the journey they are about to take, this series is promising to be pretty damn incredible!!
I was a little hesitant to read this story because I wasn’t quite sure how I thought the whole world being destroyed and demons battling it out over who is the ruler over Hell would work, but I’m so damn happy I did!! This book has everything I want out of the start of a PNR! Brenda does an amazing job of setting the scene to what is going on in the story, and how the world as we know it has come to be where demons and humans are working together to save both of their species. What really sets the table for the rest of this series is Kobal and River!! From the moment River is taken from her life and everyone she loves and thrust into a situation where she comes face to face with Kobal, sparks and flames blaze off of the pages!! Those two together are white HOT!
With the way those two have come together and the journey they are about to take, this series is promising to be pretty damn incredible!!
January 26, 2017
Damn! I got suckered into another serial book without an ending. The plot was odd enough that it kept me reading, but there was no payoff for my investment in the time i spent on it. On top of that, the book turned out to be a fantasy of sorts which i have no use for. I don't want to have to learn other creatures' culture, language, habits, etc.. Just tell me the story. And furthermore, the majority of the book is spent with the two main characters smoldering lustfully at each other with all kinds of angst about whether or not they should give in. It was Twilight all over again. I hated it and am angry with myself for wasting my time on this trash.
October 22, 2023
Kobal & River: Phenomenal! I need more! 5 stars!
There is something that can be said for books recommended by your favorite authors! I came upon this book recommendation from R. Sullins, who happens to be one of my favorite writers of demon romance (LOVELY DARKNESS & HUNTER'S BLOOD). So, I quickly added this goodie to my TBR pile for after I finished her series. Man oh, man... BEST DECISION EVER!!!
GOOD INTENTIONS starts out with the end of the world as we know it. (*smile*) We met River, a pre-teen with violet eyes and caretaker for her younger brother as her mother is "present but absent" when the "event" happened. The event being nuclear missiles attacking the US.
Fast-forward to years later and River is in her early 20s and now finds herself snatched away from her brothers by the government to "volunteer" in a special program for people with special "abilities", a secret that River has tried to keep hidden. She is taken to this camp where she learns the truth behind the event, and the mysterious "leader" named Kobal, the man who is in charge of the project. River soon earns she shares a connection to the event and the man in charge of it, Kobal.
This book was absolutely phenomenal. There was no part of this book where it dragged, and I was annoyed. It was good from start to finish and I cannot wait to see what happens next. This the first in the series so yes, there is a cliffy. But after reading it, you will have no problem moving on to the next. This book was awesome and worthy of the five stars.
Happy reading!
There is something that can be said for books recommended by your favorite authors! I came upon this book recommendation from R. Sullins, who happens to be one of my favorite writers of demon romance (LOVELY DARKNESS & HUNTER'S BLOOD). So, I quickly added this goodie to my TBR pile for after I finished her series. Man oh, man... BEST DECISION EVER!!!
GOOD INTENTIONS starts out with the end of the world as we know it. (*smile*) We met River, a pre-teen with violet eyes and caretaker for her younger brother as her mother is "present but absent" when the "event" happened. The event being nuclear missiles attacking the US.
Fast-forward to years later and River is in her early 20s and now finds herself snatched away from her brothers by the government to "volunteer" in a special program for people with special "abilities", a secret that River has tried to keep hidden. She is taken to this camp where she learns the truth behind the event, and the mysterious "leader" named Kobal, the man who is in charge of the project. River soon earns she shares a connection to the event and the man in charge of it, Kobal.
This book was absolutely phenomenal. There was no part of this book where it dragged, and I was annoyed. It was good from start to finish and I cannot wait to see what happens next. This the first in the series so yes, there is a cliffy. But after reading it, you will have no problem moving on to the next. This book was awesome and worthy of the five stars.
Happy reading!
February 11, 2021
A enticing and amazing demon romance 🥰
While it took some time to get to the good parts, it’s well worth hanging on. It’s a slow burn, emphasis on SLOW. While that’s fine I would have wished that the chemistry between the main characters had been explored more.
I love the ever present difference between the humans and the demons. Even if said demons act more like domesticated dogs, than immortal beings from hell.
The character development is showed in great ways, even if I don’t necessarily like how the FMC acts like she’s holier than thou!
While it took some time to get to the good parts, it’s well worth hanging on. It’s a slow burn, emphasis on SLOW. While that’s fine I would have wished that the chemistry between the main characters had been explored more.
I love the ever present difference between the humans and the demons. Even if said demons act more like domesticated dogs, than immortal beings from hell.
The character development is showed in great ways, even if I don’t necessarily like how the FMC acts like she’s holier than thou!
Read
June 10, 2020
DNF
This year, I'm not lucky in the paranormal romance department 😏
This year, I'm not lucky in the paranormal romance department 😏
July 5, 2024
A really good start until 30%, than it’s a lot of Q&A between fmc and mmc, followed by some really good spicy and some questionable moments from both of them. I really hate when the fmc starts the book a badass and suddenly after meeting her man, she’s all so innocent 😆 it was still a good read. I’m not gonna follow up the story right now, but I intend to in the future.
It’s a 3,5 ✨ for me
It’s a 3,5 ✨ for me
November 25, 2025
Thirteen years have passed since the war began, the bombs fell and the Central States were wiped off the map. When the fighting stopped, a massive wall was built to separate the surviving states from the devastated ones, altering life as humanity knew it forever. River lives in a small fishing town, and for the past thirteen years she has been responsible for raising and providing for her younger brothers. Their mother neglects them and despises River in particular, constantly calling her evil and different. River is different, but she does her best to hide it from everyone — even her own family.
Once a year, military personnel visit her town to gather volunteers for the war that still rages beyond the wall. Although military service offers certain benefits for family members, River has never volunteered; she’s needed at home, and the last thing she wants is to leave her brothers in the care of their abusive and uncaring mother. But this year, the military is looking specifically for recruits with special abilities — and her mother immediately turns her in. Forced to leave everything behind, River is conscripted to serve on the wall, unaware of what truly awaits her. Rumors circulate, but the truth is far more terrifying than anything she could have imagined.
The beginning is slow, but the world-building is strong, and I appreciated how gradually the setting unfolded. However, once River arrives at the wall (around page 100), the story shifts into heavy info-dumping. Instead of blending exposition naturally, many scenes read like repetitive Q&A sessions or interviews. The conversations often felt stiff and inorganic, which was disappointing — especially given how fascinating Kobal’s and the demons’ backstories could have been.
Midway through the book, entire days and weeks are suddenly summarized in a few sentences before another round of Q&A begins, which felt odd and unsatisfying. I also struggled with Kobal’s character arc: his shift from being reserved and distant to suddenly overly affectionate toward River felt unconvincing, lacking emotional depth and coming across as rushed — driven too much by lust rather than genuine development. I’m hoping book two will offer more nuance.
As for the supporting cast, there’s potential, but we learn very little about the other demons or about Mac. We’re given brief glimpses, but not enough to make them feel fleshed out, which left me wanting more.
While I appreciated the absence of a dramatic cliffhanger, I couldn’t fully understand River’s thoughts and behavior at the end of the first book. I sympathize with her anger, doubts, and desire to escape her circumstances, but the hurtful back-and-forth felt childish and unnecessary. It came across as drama for the sake of drama. I would have preferred more emotional maturity from her — though to be fair, the book has a strong YA tone overall.
However, I still enjoyed the book and plan to continue the series. I’m intrigued by the direction of the plot and curious to see how the characters develop. And despite its flaws, the story had some standout moments that genuinely surprised me. I especially liked the post-apocalyptic setting and the freshness of the premise — it felt unlike anything I’ve read so far.
Story: 3 ⭐️
Spice: 2 🌶️
Once a year, military personnel visit her town to gather volunteers for the war that still rages beyond the wall. Although military service offers certain benefits for family members, River has never volunteered; she’s needed at home, and the last thing she wants is to leave her brothers in the care of their abusive and uncaring mother. But this year, the military is looking specifically for recruits with special abilities — and her mother immediately turns her in. Forced to leave everything behind, River is conscripted to serve on the wall, unaware of what truly awaits her. Rumors circulate, but the truth is far more terrifying than anything she could have imagined.
The beginning is slow, but the world-building is strong, and I appreciated how gradually the setting unfolded. However, once River arrives at the wall (around page 100), the story shifts into heavy info-dumping. Instead of blending exposition naturally, many scenes read like repetitive Q&A sessions or interviews. The conversations often felt stiff and inorganic, which was disappointing — especially given how fascinating Kobal’s and the demons’ backstories could have been.
Midway through the book, entire days and weeks are suddenly summarized in a few sentences before another round of Q&A begins, which felt odd and unsatisfying. I also struggled with Kobal’s character arc: his shift from being reserved and distant to suddenly overly affectionate toward River felt unconvincing, lacking emotional depth and coming across as rushed — driven too much by lust rather than genuine development. I’m hoping book two will offer more nuance.
As for the supporting cast, there’s potential, but we learn very little about the other demons or about Mac. We’re given brief glimpses, but not enough to make them feel fleshed out, which left me wanting more.
While I appreciated the absence of a dramatic cliffhanger, I couldn’t fully understand River’s thoughts and behavior at the end of the first book. I sympathize with her anger, doubts, and desire to escape her circumstances, but the hurtful back-and-forth felt childish and unnecessary. It came across as drama for the sake of drama. I would have preferred more emotional maturity from her — though to be fair, the book has a strong YA tone overall.
However, I still enjoyed the book and plan to continue the series. I’m intrigued by the direction of the plot and curious to see how the characters develop. And despite its flaws, the story had some standout moments that genuinely surprised me. I especially liked the post-apocalyptic setting and the freshness of the premise — it felt unlike anything I’ve read so far.
Story: 3 ⭐️
Spice: 2 🌶️
June 17, 2024
This is a unique twist on demon style fantasy that I found myself really enjoying. A good amount of romance is mixed into the plot without taking away from the story. If you're looking for some spice but nothing too smut heavy this is a good one.
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