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Ascent #1
Iniquity
Athena Harrow is about to turn twenty-one, but there will be no celebration. What is there to celebrate when the world is ruled by demons?
She hates the darkness the demons brought with them and longs for the light to return to the world—a world she only vaguely remembers. The people in her forest village blindly accept the life the demons forced upon them, even tolerating the yearly ascension ceremony where all the girls who have turned twenty-one are either sent away to serve the Master Demon or left in the village and forced to procreate.
But Paymon, the assigned village demon, selects a different role for Athena, a role that pits her against the village. While she adapts to her new life, Erebus, a younger, more powerful demon, arrives, and Athena must play a dangerous game with his emotions in return for information about the demon’s reign of darkness.
As Athena’s dreams of restoring the light begin to fade, her life with Erebus takes an unexpected turn, and this time it’s her life being put to the test.
Set in the forest around Buttercrambe in North Yorkshire, England, INIQUITY explores the frightening, darker side of romance and the uncontrolled emotions it can unleash.
She hates the darkness the demons brought with them and longs for the light to return to the world—a world she only vaguely remembers. The people in her forest village blindly accept the life the demons forced upon them, even tolerating the yearly ascension ceremony where all the girls who have turned twenty-one are either sent away to serve the Master Demon or left in the village and forced to procreate.
But Paymon, the assigned village demon, selects a different role for Athena, a role that pits her against the village. While she adapts to her new life, Erebus, a younger, more powerful demon, arrives, and Athena must play a dangerous game with his emotions in return for information about the demon’s reign of darkness.
As Athena’s dreams of restoring the light begin to fade, her life with Erebus takes an unexpected turn, and this time it’s her life being put to the test.
Set in the forest around Buttercrambe in North Yorkshire, England, INIQUITY explores the frightening, darker side of romance and the uncontrolled emotions it can unleash.
392 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 20, 2016
10 people are currently reading
560 people want to read
About the author
Melody Winter
20 books115 followersMelody grew up in North Yorkshire, England. She's a North Yorkshire lass through and through, although she does have a tendency to holiday in Spain. She has dreams of moving to the warmer climate to sip on Sangria as the sun sets over the roof tops of surrounding buildings. But, for the moment, she still lives in North Yorkshire with her husband and two sons.
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Or on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/Melody-Winte...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
August 30, 2020
First read: 06/2017 - 5 stars
Second read: 08/2020 - 4 stars
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I'm not quite as madly in love with this any more as I was the first time around three years ago.
I found Athena's whininess and her several TSTL moments kind of annoying, and the writing and pacing weren't as flawless as I remembered them to be, but this was still a very imaginative and compelling story. And I still adored Paymon. What an amazing character.
I'm glad I re-read this before picking up the sequel, otherwise I'd have had no clue as to what was going on.
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2017 review:
Oh my oh my oh my. I could kick myself for not reading this book a lot earlier. What a waste of time!
Iniquity was a gritty distopian novel full of magic, darkness and angst; a cruel and dreary world ruled by power-hungry demons and infested with blood-thirsty monsters. The few people who survived The Ascent 13 years ago now live in small villages scattered all over the world, oppressed by Valafar, the Master, and his fellow demons who feed from their victims' emotions.
The story follows Athena, who, on her 21st birthday, is faced with the decision to either be sent to the Master's in order to become his new wife, bear his child and quite possibly die in the process, or marry Paymon, the cruel and feared village demon who killed her grandmother when she was still a teenager. Her decision will change her hopeless yet familiar life forever and send her on a journey where she's confronted with new dangers, revelations, unexpected kindness and, eventually, even love.
Melody Winter has got one hell of a knack for creating unique and unforgettable characters, something I've already noticed when I read her The Mine series one and a half years back. While I love her strong yet compassionate heroines and couldn't wish for a more pleasant voice, it always seems to be her villains that totally steal the show.
Just like Orontes from The Mine, Paymon and Erebus were such intriguing, complex and inscrutable characters, and I couldn't get enough of any of them. The thing about Winter's male characters is that every villain has the potential to be an awesome love interest, and every love interest has the potential to be a villain. It's amazing and fascinating, and it'll keep you on the edge of your seat throughout the entire book.
Add to that the original and gloomy world building, lovely writing and a multi-layered storyline with countless surprising twists and turns, and you'll have one emotional rollercoaster ride.
This was such a phenomenal and memorable read, and I can't wait to get my hands on the sequel.
Free copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
June 16, 2017
***** 4 Stars *****
Get ready for an adventure! Iniquity is a unique fantasy mixed with romance and some action. I couldn't put it down.
This dystopia is so creative. Electricity and machines are just old memories. Demons control the humans, and sunlight is always covered by powerful magic.
I loved reading about Athena, Paymon, and Erebus. My heart was all over the place. As a sucker for romance, I was not disappointed in that department.
I can't wait for the next book!!!!!!!!!!!!
Get ready for an adventure! Iniquity is a unique fantasy mixed with romance and some action. I couldn't put it down.
This dystopia is so creative. Electricity and machines are just old memories. Demons control the humans, and sunlight is always covered by powerful magic.
I loved reading about Athena, Paymon, and Erebus. My heart was all over the place. As a sucker for romance, I was not disappointed in that department.
I can't wait for the next book!!!!!!!!!!!!
September 10, 2019
Earth has been taken over by demons and the sun is now hidden by darkness. No electricity, no luxuries and no choices. The world is hard. The demon of each village decides your fate. The only way to survive is to hope you get a good deal.
Athena lives with her gran. She tries to stay under the radar but one cruel night she loses her last family member. She has a strong spirit and when the demon discovers her fate is sealed.
I enjoyed this dystopian world. Understanding people’s motives become key to survival. This is a continuous story which is complete but I enjoyed the adventure so far.
Paperback/Kindle Unlimited read.
Athena lives with her gran. She tries to stay under the radar but one cruel night she loses her last family member. She has a strong spirit and when the demon discovers her fate is sealed.
I enjoyed this dystopian world. Understanding people’s motives become key to survival. This is a continuous story which is complete but I enjoyed the adventure so far.
Paperback/Kindle Unlimited read.
Want to read
March 2, 2020🎁 FREE on Amazon today (3/2/2020)! 🎁
November 3, 2016
I received an e-ARC in exchnage for an honest review. Review can be found on *Milky Way of Books*
An interesting dystopian series which takes place in England and it has to do a lot with the demons! Athena lives in a world where there is no light and each area is ruled by demons and their army. She and her people struggle to live until the day Paymon, the Master of the village, asks too much from Athena.
The story from there flows smoothly and gives lots of space to character development. I liked Athena, she is strong not hesitant to use everything she has in order to learn and when Erebus arrives, their dialogues are quite an easy and almost fun part to read.
I have high expectations of this series, since it kind of ended in a cliffhanger and I wish to read more soon!
An interesting dystopian series which takes place in England and it has to do a lot with the demons! Athena lives in a world where there is no light and each area is ruled by demons and their army. She and her people struggle to live until the day Paymon, the Master of the village, asks too much from Athena.
The story from there flows smoothly and gives lots of space to character development. I liked Athena, she is strong not hesitant to use everything she has in order to learn and when Erebus arrives, their dialogues are quite an easy and almost fun part to read.
I have high expectations of this series, since it kind of ended in a cliffhanger and I wish to read more soon!
November 6, 2016
Review to come closer to release date!
Update 11/5/16:
See more reviews on my blog Novels and Necklaces
Actual rating: 4.5 stars
I am so blown away by this new book by Melody Winter! This book has it all, and is a must-read for any fantasy lover. With impressive world-building, suspense, and a unique twist on fantasy romance...I devoured this book in one sitting and I can't wait for the sequel! You definitely need to check this book out as soon as you can.
Every aspect of this book was perfect, and I was incredibly impressed for a start to a series. This novel sets up everything so well, and I never wanted to stop reading. The characters, the world, and the fantasy elements were all so well done, I can't even begin to do the book justice. The world-building is phenomenal and is so fascinating that I am looking forward to learning more in the subsequent novels. I feel as if we have only scratched the surface in this book, and I can't wait to see what Ms. Winter comes up with next. However, for this novel, every element of the world is laid out very well, and you are never confused. The one thing I appreciated was the fact that there was never just an info-dump (which is always something I hate). Sure we don't know everything at the start, but we do know the basic facts to get us by until we (and the main character, Athena, can learn more). I loved the way the world was revealed to the us, and Ms. Winter did it expertly.
The fantasy/supernatural element to the story is also incredibly unique and something I didn't expect. I thought this was going to be your run-of-the-mill demons, but boy was I wrong! I loved the twist she put on the demon mythology, and it made the entire story so refreshing to read. In some ways I felt like this was reminiscent of Beauty and the Beast but with demons...and doesn't that just sound amazing?! Who can resist that?? The entire story is extremely creative, and I loved every single second of it!
Athena, our main character, is very relatable and intriguing. When we first meet her, I could already tell that she was going to be a strong female lead that had courage and heart. Plus, she was going to be tough as nails, which got her into some trouble, but made her even more lovable. I also loved the two demons in her life, Paymon and Erebus. Ms. Winter definitely threw in a major twist with these two...one I didn't see coming (I was expecting a love triangle, but slight spoiler...that is definitely not what we got). Even though I didn't like Erebus at first, by about the halfway point I was in love with him and suffice to say, he's definitely a new book boyfriend. I like Ms. Winter didn't drag things out since this would have taken the book in an entirely different direction and probably wouldn't have gotten such a high rating. I loved that she explored the different sides of the characters, especially Erebus, and throughout the course of the story, we witness some major twists in regards to their background that set up the next story perfectly and will send our characters on new, exciting adventures.
I highly recommend checking out this book as soon as it comes out!! I can't even tell you how great this book is, and it starts the series off perfectly. I am eagerly anticipating the next in the series, and I know for a fact that I will be reading more from Melody Winters in the future! Don't miss out on this new fantasy that's sure to be a hit!
Happy reading :)
Update 11/5/16:
See more reviews on my blog Novels and Necklaces
Actual rating: 4.5 stars
I am so blown away by this new book by Melody Winter! This book has it all, and is a must-read for any fantasy lover. With impressive world-building, suspense, and a unique twist on fantasy romance...I devoured this book in one sitting and I can't wait for the sequel! You definitely need to check this book out as soon as you can.
Every aspect of this book was perfect, and I was incredibly impressed for a start to a series. This novel sets up everything so well, and I never wanted to stop reading. The characters, the world, and the fantasy elements were all so well done, I can't even begin to do the book justice. The world-building is phenomenal and is so fascinating that I am looking forward to learning more in the subsequent novels. I feel as if we have only scratched the surface in this book, and I can't wait to see what Ms. Winter comes up with next. However, for this novel, every element of the world is laid out very well, and you are never confused. The one thing I appreciated was the fact that there was never just an info-dump (which is always something I hate). Sure we don't know everything at the start, but we do know the basic facts to get us by until we (and the main character, Athena, can learn more). I loved the way the world was revealed to the us, and Ms. Winter did it expertly.
The fantasy/supernatural element to the story is also incredibly unique and something I didn't expect. I thought this was going to be your run-of-the-mill demons, but boy was I wrong! I loved the twist she put on the demon mythology, and it made the entire story so refreshing to read. In some ways I felt like this was reminiscent of Beauty and the Beast but with demons...and doesn't that just sound amazing?! Who can resist that?? The entire story is extremely creative, and I loved every single second of it!
Athena, our main character, is very relatable and intriguing. When we first meet her, I could already tell that she was going to be a strong female lead that had courage and heart. Plus, she was going to be tough as nails, which got her into some trouble, but made her even more lovable. I also loved the two demons in her life, Paymon and Erebus. Ms. Winter definitely threw in a major twist with these two...one I didn't see coming (I was expecting a love triangle, but slight spoiler...that is definitely not what we got). Even though I didn't like Erebus at first, by about the halfway point I was in love with him and suffice to say, he's definitely a new book boyfriend. I like Ms. Winter didn't drag things out since this would have taken the book in an entirely different direction and probably wouldn't have gotten such a high rating. I loved that she explored the different sides of the characters, especially Erebus, and throughout the course of the story, we witness some major twists in regards to their background that set up the next story perfectly and will send our characters on new, exciting adventures.
I highly recommend checking out this book as soon as it comes out!! I can't even tell you how great this book is, and it starts the series off perfectly. I am eagerly anticipating the next in the series, and I know for a fact that I will be reading more from Melody Winters in the future! Don't miss out on this new fantasy that's sure to be a hit!
Happy reading :)
July 22, 2017
This book was so good that I read it all in one sitting. Paymon is a demon in this newly dystopian world that the humans are forced to live in now that the demons have ascended. Athena is just a simple village girl. At first, Paymon rules Athena's village. An untimely situation arises in which Paymon is no longer in power and a new demon strength arises--that of Erebus. He's stronger than any other demon around, Paymon included. Forced into a situation she can't escape from, Athena finds herself in the center of Erebus's world--a world she always thought she'd hate until she realizes that there's more to Erebus than she originally thought. It's very difficult to review this book without giving away spoilers. I highly suggest you stop reading this review right now and just read the book! It is seriously one of the best books I've read in a long time (and I read a few books a week).
Stylish, fast-paced, and filled with a deliciously torturous chemistry between characters, this book will feed your own inner demon while leaving you thirsty for more! The entire world that Ms. Winter has created is breathtaking and astounding. If I could give more stars for this book, I would. I seriously need the sequel. Like yesterday! The author has really outdone herself. If you love dystopian romances with intense stories and characters that make your blood boil and your heart race, this book has it. And then some.
Read this book! Seriously. You can thank me later.
Stylish, fast-paced, and filled with a deliciously torturous chemistry between characters, this book will feed your own inner demon while leaving you thirsty for more! The entire world that Ms. Winter has created is breathtaking and astounding. If I could give more stars for this book, I would. I seriously need the sequel. Like yesterday! The author has really outdone herself. If you love dystopian romances with intense stories and characters that make your blood boil and your heart race, this book has it. And then some.
Read this book! Seriously. You can thank me later.
October 8, 2016
Wow, I am so impressed by this book! The world building was done so well, and you could really tell the author knew what she was doing when she plotted the storyline. It was suspenseful, exciting, and so full of emotion that I think I ran the gamut in the day it took me to read Iniquity.
The year is 2056. It has been 13 years since the demons ascended, and since that time, every land has been covered in darkness, with nary a sunbeam to be found. Athena has known little else but her small village in England. She has awaited her 21st birthday with dread, knowing that it is when she will be told if she must go to work in the Master demon's home. However, the day before her ceremony, she is called upon by the village demon with a proposition. If she accepts, she will have to leave behind the love of a man and join hands with a demon, making her a pariah in the community. If she doesn't accept, however, it could mean certain disaster for both her and the village. Athena's decision takes her on a journey where love knows no bounds and sudden loss leads to an even greater gain.
Athena was a relatable, intriguing character from the beginning. She had such courage and strength, but at the same time, her youth created a headstrong manner that got her into trouble often. I knew pretty quickly where the story was headed, but it threw me for a loop with the two main demons, Paymon and Erebus. Both pissed me off heartily in the beginning, and Erebus' behavior almost prompted me to put the book down. However, I am so glad I stuck with it, because both characters got better over time. And I was pleasantly surprised by the hidden aspects of their personalities that surfaced when they were most vulnerable. It makes you realize that what someone presents on the outside is not always who they truly are on the inside.
The book does end on a cliffhanger, so unfortunately, I have to wait for the next book to arrive to find out what happens next. Oh, the torture! But I know it will be wonderful. Melody Winter is a superb writer, with a talent rivaling Sarah Maas in her world building and romance. If you read Sarah's books, you'll love this!
**I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.**
The year is 2056. It has been 13 years since the demons ascended, and since that time, every land has been covered in darkness, with nary a sunbeam to be found. Athena has known little else but her small village in England. She has awaited her 21st birthday with dread, knowing that it is when she will be told if she must go to work in the Master demon's home. However, the day before her ceremony, she is called upon by the village demon with a proposition. If she accepts, she will have to leave behind the love of a man and join hands with a demon, making her a pariah in the community. If she doesn't accept, however, it could mean certain disaster for both her and the village. Athena's decision takes her on a journey where love knows no bounds and sudden loss leads to an even greater gain.
Athena was a relatable, intriguing character from the beginning. She had such courage and strength, but at the same time, her youth created a headstrong manner that got her into trouble often. I knew pretty quickly where the story was headed, but it threw me for a loop with the two main demons, Paymon and Erebus. Both pissed me off heartily in the beginning, and Erebus' behavior almost prompted me to put the book down. However, I am so glad I stuck with it, because both characters got better over time. And I was pleasantly surprised by the hidden aspects of their personalities that surfaced when they were most vulnerable. It makes you realize that what someone presents on the outside is not always who they truly are on the inside.
The book does end on a cliffhanger, so unfortunately, I have to wait for the next book to arrive to find out what happens next. Oh, the torture! But I know it will be wonderful. Melody Winter is a superb writer, with a talent rivaling Sarah Maas in her world building and romance. If you read Sarah's books, you'll love this!
**I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.**
November 7, 2016
I received a copy of this book for a tour through Xpresso Book Tours in exchange for my honest review. Thanks Melody Winter and Xpresso!
The days are getting shorter and the nights are getting colder. I think you know what that means. Now is the perfect time to curl up under a warm blanket with a good book. Iniquity should be that book. It's dark and yet full of warmth.
In a world ruled by demons and with the sunlight hidden Athena is living a miserable life, and then she turns 21 and everything changes. Once women in her village turn 21 they must meet with the village demon to see what their role in the village or elsewhere will be. Athena gets news she never expected.
Athena is a very tough young woman. She was a pleasure to meet and I thoroughly enjoyed following her story. She is one of several interesting characters in Iniquity. I refuse to give away any spoilers, but I will say that the romance wasn't my favorite at first. Then it grew on me so much that I became enamored myself. We get to spend a lot of time with her and the other deamons, but I was hoping even more time with some of the unique villagers and the other dark and twisty creatures that now prowl the earth.
The setting comes to life with Melody Winter's writing. From the forest, the lack of light, the depressing huts of the villagers to the exquisite house of the village demon, are all wonderfully described. As for the plot, although relatively tame considering the nature of the story, it had its wonderfully dark moments. It was nicely paced and entertaining. The ending had my nerves frayed. I can't wait for book two. Give me!
The days are getting shorter and the nights are getting colder. I think you know what that means. Now is the perfect time to curl up under a warm blanket with a good book. Iniquity should be that book. It's dark and yet full of warmth.
In a world ruled by demons and with the sunlight hidden Athena is living a miserable life, and then she turns 21 and everything changes. Once women in her village turn 21 they must meet with the village demon to see what their role in the village or elsewhere will be. Athena gets news she never expected.
Athena is a very tough young woman. She was a pleasure to meet and I thoroughly enjoyed following her story. She is one of several interesting characters in Iniquity. I refuse to give away any spoilers, but I will say that the romance wasn't my favorite at first. Then it grew on me so much that I became enamored myself. We get to spend a lot of time with her and the other deamons, but I was hoping even more time with some of the unique villagers and the other dark and twisty creatures that now prowl the earth.
The setting comes to life with Melody Winter's writing. From the forest, the lack of light, the depressing huts of the villagers to the exquisite house of the village demon, are all wonderfully described. As for the plot, although relatively tame considering the nature of the story, it had its wonderfully dark moments. It was nicely paced and entertaining. The ending had my nerves frayed. I can't wait for book two. Give me!
September 27, 2016
A fascinating world with great characters, Iniquity will satisfy people who love a bit of romance thrown in with their dark fantasy...or a bit of dark mixed with their romance? Yeah...that. Not a romance lover myself, I love the overall story. The sunlight stolen by the Master demon, Athena searches for the how to restore the light, and hopes to fulfill her greatest wish, to save the world from the demons. Well...maybe not all of them. *cough*Erebus*cough* Though filled with dark, this book holds hope, maybe humanity can defeat the dark.
The fantasy/horror elements made my heart go pitter patter...dangerous creatures, vampires, and demons. Oh my! The Miscreants are my favorite. SO COOL!
And all hail ODIN!
The fantasy/horror elements made my heart go pitter patter...dangerous creatures, vampires, and demons. Oh my! The Miscreants are my favorite. SO COOL!
And all hail ODIN!
August 9, 2017
This book is a very emotional, and dark book. It is one of those books that shows you just how dark and depressing life can be, but also the fact that underneath all that depression there is still hope, and in the end hope can make life so much better. Hope is the one thing that shows everyone light at the end of the tunnel and keeps everyone taking everyday one more step at at time.
While this book did get off to a depressing and slow start I found out it was for a very good reason. In order to understand just how strong the main character was, and just how strong hope can be we needed all of these extra details. This world that Athena lives in is not exactly a kind one; with the earth overrun by demons, vampires, and hardly any sunlight at all it is hard to fight back, and food is scarce. Despite it being hard to fight back against the demon that runs her village and ultimately the master demon Athena doesn't give up hope and continues to try to find the root of what might make things better starting with getting rid of the darkness and bringing back the sun. In the process of this fight Athena is forced to marry a demon twice in a row, but doesn't expect what love may come when marrying the second demon.
This book is not only about fighting to make life better, but also being able to accept that not all demons are bad, and that maybe love may be on the agenda. As loves sparks more secrets are revealed and it seems that having hope was exactly what was needed, because in not letting that small hope go Athena might have found a way to make life better for 100's of people. Maybe just maybe they might be able to bring back the sun which would at least help with the vampires. But in the end it could be an all out battle.
I would not recommend this book to young readers. It does have violence and some sensual scenes not suitable for young readers.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader's copy of this book.
While this book did get off to a depressing and slow start I found out it was for a very good reason. In order to understand just how strong the main character was, and just how strong hope can be we needed all of these extra details. This world that Athena lives in is not exactly a kind one; with the earth overrun by demons, vampires, and hardly any sunlight at all it is hard to fight back, and food is scarce. Despite it being hard to fight back against the demon that runs her village and ultimately the master demon Athena doesn't give up hope and continues to try to find the root of what might make things better starting with getting rid of the darkness and bringing back the sun. In the process of this fight Athena is forced to marry a demon twice in a row, but doesn't expect what love may come when marrying the second demon.
This book is not only about fighting to make life better, but also being able to accept that not all demons are bad, and that maybe love may be on the agenda. As loves sparks more secrets are revealed and it seems that having hope was exactly what was needed, because in not letting that small hope go Athena might have found a way to make life better for 100's of people. Maybe just maybe they might be able to bring back the sun which would at least help with the vampires. But in the end it could be an all out battle.
I would not recommend this book to young readers. It does have violence and some sensual scenes not suitable for young readers.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader's copy of this book.
July 8, 2017
This was such an amazing read and I don't really know where to start! I have been struggling to find a romance that I could get into for ages and I think I was after something completely different and I finally found it in Iniquity. I'm a huge fan of dystopian story lines and I was pulled in from the start where a world impacted by natural disasters allowed a demon uprising to overpower the stricken humans, leaving them in a world where TV's and Smartphones are consigned to legend. Human villages are overseen by demons and females face a life of horror under the master demon when they turn 21. For Athena, a pact made when she was a child pulls her on a very different path and when a new demon lord of the manor appears her world is thrown into chaos! This is a slow burn in the terms of the romance but OMG when it get there the tension that's been built into the story is explosive, I was willing stuff to happen for chapters and I'm glad that it was that way because it fitted the story so well. The story itself is rich and compelling, even without the romance I would have loved it, Bia is spine chilling along with Livia and the miscreants. There is so much going on with the story that it will have you constantly page turning and begging to finish in one sitting!
January 3, 2018
Ever since reading Winter’s first mentions of INIQUITY on Twitter, I eagerly awaited my chance to meet Athena, our heroine who comes into adulthood during the demons’ dark reign on earth. Yet as we learn from demons Paymon and Erebus, we shouldn’t be too quick to write them off as monsters, regardless what they try to make us believe along the way.
I had the privilege to read an early draft of Winter’s story as well as an ARC, and INIQUITY has developed into a solid, masterful work. Set in the not-so-distant future, mankind has been forced back into the dark ages - literally and figuratively. Upon the demons’ rise to power, humanity has fled the demolished cities to form tiny farming villages under the protection of overseer demons. Winter has carefully crafted each detail, from the demonic and terrifying creatures that roam the night to the makeshift societies humanity has scraped together as they attempt to survive in a world overrun by darkness.
The characters and their actions are believable, even as tentative alliances turn into deeper, more complicated relationships as the story progresses. I personally grew fond of Paymon, the demon overseer who develops a unique interest in Athena. As the first demon you meet in the book, I’d find myself constantly questioning his intentions. At times cruel with his words, but never using violence against Athena, other times genuinely interested in the culture humanity had to leave behind, and his growing fondness for Athena: how much of the demon persona was merely a front, and was just simply masking the loneliness of a supernatural man?
There is so much more to love in this book, and while I don’t want to spoil anything further, I do want to address the romantic element in the story. I’m not a big fan of romance, but…that shouldn’t discourage you from reading this if romance is also not your main reason for reading. What I appreciated in INIQUITY was the slow burn of the romantic relationship - it grew on you slowly, and I felt it didn’t detract from the main storyline. As I said before, tentative alliances grew into complicated relationships, and they are all part of Athena’s story in this deliciously dark fantasy.
In short, I do hope you’ll consider this book for your collection. I’m looking forward to adding the rest of the Ascent Series on my shelf some day. Happy reading!
I had the privilege to read an early draft of Winter’s story as well as an ARC, and INIQUITY has developed into a solid, masterful work. Set in the not-so-distant future, mankind has been forced back into the dark ages - literally and figuratively. Upon the demons’ rise to power, humanity has fled the demolished cities to form tiny farming villages under the protection of overseer demons. Winter has carefully crafted each detail, from the demonic and terrifying creatures that roam the night to the makeshift societies humanity has scraped together as they attempt to survive in a world overrun by darkness.
The characters and their actions are believable, even as tentative alliances turn into deeper, more complicated relationships as the story progresses. I personally grew fond of Paymon, the demon overseer who develops a unique interest in Athena. As the first demon you meet in the book, I’d find myself constantly questioning his intentions. At times cruel with his words, but never using violence against Athena, other times genuinely interested in the culture humanity had to leave behind, and his growing fondness for Athena: how much of the demon persona was merely a front, and was just simply masking the loneliness of a supernatural man?
There is so much more to love in this book, and while I don’t want to spoil anything further, I do want to address the romantic element in the story. I’m not a big fan of romance, but…that shouldn’t discourage you from reading this if romance is also not your main reason for reading. What I appreciated in INIQUITY was the slow burn of the romantic relationship - it grew on you slowly, and I felt it didn’t detract from the main storyline. As I said before, tentative alliances grew into complicated relationships, and they are all part of Athena’s story in this deliciously dark fantasy.
In short, I do hope you’ll consider this book for your collection. I’m looking forward to adding the rest of the Ascent Series on my shelf some day. Happy reading!
August 17, 2017
Iniquity is about the bad decisions women so often make for love (and lust).
While watching The Handmaid’s Tale I had a profound and painful revelation – we are constantly betrayed by small kindnesses. Iniquity is full of these small kindnesses that make the heroine, Athena, forgive and indeed love two monsters.
Iniquity would be best described as paranormal romance. The heat level is mild to medium, with one sex scene in the book that warms the blood. It’s set in the near future after demons have ascended to Earth, plummeting human life back to the Middle Ages and serfdom.
At each woman’s 21st birthday her status and future (for 10 years, if she survives that long) is decided by the demon who is Lord of that particular village. Thanks to a bargain struck by her grandmother, Athena is married at twenty-one to Paymon, the demon in charge of her village.
Paymon, while a demon who keeps the village poor and the villagers terrified, introduces Athena to a life of privilege and relative wealth. In exchange, she feeds him with her emotions.
The mystery of who kills Paymon isn’t solved in this book, but a new demon, Erebus, takes over as village Lord and as Athena’s husband. Their relationship is abusive. There are times when Erebus tells Athena that it’s her fault he has to torture her friends from the village because she is too weak to feed him. There are times when he is violent towards her – mentally more often than physically. The “romance” reminds me of Wuthering Heights & Beauty and the Beast with demons. In spite of this, slowly but surely, as he hurts her less she falls in love with him more. It’s pretty disturbing, but at the same time intensely human. We can fall in love with demons if we think we can make them good men. The question of whether Athena makes Erebus as good a man as she believes is open to interpretation.
There are twists I will not spoil that make the reader want to discover more about this world and its people. Melody Winter tells an engaging tale and Athena is for the most part a sympathetic and likeable character. It’s left very open at the end, but it is only the first book in a planned series. Care has been taken with editing and the language used to make this an easy and modern read. If you enjoy “bad boy” abusive romances and/or paranormal romance this one is pretty good.
While watching The Handmaid’s Tale I had a profound and painful revelation – we are constantly betrayed by small kindnesses. Iniquity is full of these small kindnesses that make the heroine, Athena, forgive and indeed love two monsters.
Iniquity would be best described as paranormal romance. The heat level is mild to medium, with one sex scene in the book that warms the blood. It’s set in the near future after demons have ascended to Earth, plummeting human life back to the Middle Ages and serfdom.
At each woman’s 21st birthday her status and future (for 10 years, if she survives that long) is decided by the demon who is Lord of that particular village. Thanks to a bargain struck by her grandmother, Athena is married at twenty-one to Paymon, the demon in charge of her village.
Paymon, while a demon who keeps the village poor and the villagers terrified, introduces Athena to a life of privilege and relative wealth. In exchange, she feeds him with her emotions.
The mystery of who kills Paymon isn’t solved in this book, but a new demon, Erebus, takes over as village Lord and as Athena’s husband. Their relationship is abusive. There are times when Erebus tells Athena that it’s her fault he has to torture her friends from the village because she is too weak to feed him. There are times when he is violent towards her – mentally more often than physically. The “romance” reminds me of Wuthering Heights & Beauty and the Beast with demons. In spite of this, slowly but surely, as he hurts her less she falls in love with him more. It’s pretty disturbing, but at the same time intensely human. We can fall in love with demons if we think we can make them good men. The question of whether Athena makes Erebus as good a man as she believes is open to interpretation.
There are twists I will not spoil that make the reader want to discover more about this world and its people. Melody Winter tells an engaging tale and Athena is for the most part a sympathetic and likeable character. It’s left very open at the end, but it is only the first book in a planned series. Care has been taken with editing and the language used to make this an easy and modern read. If you enjoy “bad boy” abusive romances and/or paranormal romance this one is pretty good.
February 16, 2017
4.5 stars!
This book took me on a wild ride that I honestly wasn't expecting. I thought they the synopsis was interesting enough, but feared that it would be the same plot of new adult in a different setting. I'm very pleased to say that I was wrong in my assumption. This book was more in depth than most of the books I've read lately. The author sincerely took their time in developing unique characters and a dystopian-like society. For a while, I didn't know how the circumstances of the synopsis were going to come about, but once they did, this book really blew me away with wit and deep interest in the characters/plot. This was a great read if you're not afraid of some serious shit going down and a page-turner. LOVE it.
*I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review, and I promise that my review has not been altered to reflect it. THANK YOU! :)
This book took me on a wild ride that I honestly wasn't expecting. I thought they the synopsis was interesting enough, but feared that it would be the same plot of new adult in a different setting. I'm very pleased to say that I was wrong in my assumption. This book was more in depth than most of the books I've read lately. The author sincerely took their time in developing unique characters and a dystopian-like society. For a while, I didn't know how the circumstances of the synopsis were going to come about, but once they did, this book really blew me away with wit and deep interest in the characters/plot. This was a great read if you're not afraid of some serious shit going down and a page-turner. LOVE it.
*I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review, and I promise that my review has not been altered to reflect it. THANK YOU! :)
November 19, 2016
***** 5 Cranky Stars *****
In the not too distant future, humans have become complacent with their comforts and their world.
Demons had been plotting for thousands of years to ascend to the land from the bowels of the earth and this time they succeed. The Master with the help of powerful demon magic shrouds the landmasses of the world in perpetual darkness. The humans who survive flock out of the dangerous cities into villages where they pay fidelity to the village demon who treats them as slaves.
On their 21st birthday girls are categorized by the village demon (in this case Peymon) to"ascend " into the Mater's service. Athena is categorized as a wife for the Master but Peymon offers her marriage to him instead to protect her from the Master' cruelty. Then Peymon dies and the village is given to Erebos..... young, vibrant, ruggedly handsome........but still a demon..........
To me this story has a very loose take on Beauty and the beast, but it is sooooo much more.
Battles with demons, infernals, miscreant vampires and demonized animals, this book is a dystopian fantasy romance and I can barely wait for book 2 to come.
I award a solid 5 stars to this captivating book.
November 9, 2016
A wonderful start to an unmissable series. Set in the near future where Demons have come up to live on the surface. To accomplish this the world suffered erupting Volcanoes, less land mass etc. The worst side effect was the darkness across the world. We meet Athena properly just before her 21st birthday dreading the ascension ceremony where all women over 21 are usually sent away to serve the Master Demon. In Athena case the Local demon in charge of the village decides to marry Athena himself.
I was hooked I even grew to like both Paymon and Erebus seeing them through her eyes. Athena is very naïve with what might have happened with a different demon or an ordinary man. Especially with her behaviour after her marriages. Great world building, and could quite put myself in the dark and cold.
I loved this book the adventure, the great world building so you were in the dark with Athena aching for some sunlight, so pleased when she found the Rose Bush with its tiny slither of light. As with all first books, it left me wanting more. I’m ready for book two, and I’ll hopefully one of the first to read it when it’s published. I received a copy of this book for an honest review.
I was hooked I even grew to like both Paymon and Erebus seeing them through her eyes. Athena is very naïve with what might have happened with a different demon or an ordinary man. Especially with her behaviour after her marriages. Great world building, and could quite put myself in the dark and cold.
I loved this book the adventure, the great world building so you were in the dark with Athena aching for some sunlight, so pleased when she found the Rose Bush with its tiny slither of light. As with all first books, it left me wanting more. I’m ready for book two, and I’ll hopefully one of the first to read it when it’s published. I received a copy of this book for an honest review.
June 16, 2017
This book is amazing! Really I mean truly extremely amazing.
This is a paranormal romance and not an ordinary one. The
premise is truly unique. She has set this at the worlds end
when hell has risen and now is a part of our world. And when
you find out how it happened you may just sit there and
wonder. Could this really actually be happening in our world.
It’s all the little signs. I’d list them but that would give too
much away. I will warn you there were times I was as angry
as Athena at the demons. And then there was this nice one
And as we got to know him. Maybe even like him, or at least
she cared about him and his pet Raven. Odian is a wonderful
bird. And a friend to Athena. he is her true friend in all of this.
and when the nice demon died I literally cried over it. he was such a sweet guy he even grew roses for her. I actually am
misty eyed now as I write this. Just as you get used to the
Paymon and how he is. Then there is Erebus. The demon
is such an ass but as things progresses he is actually not as
bad as he seems. Even Athena seems to be falling for him.
She keeps fighting it. But when things take a bad turn she
finally see that what she feels is real and not the demons
controlling her. But now she just hopes he can save her in time. This book has a secret book that leads to something
Very enlightning. And when you find out you will
understand a lot of things. I am so ready for book two.
Bring it on Melody, I will be waiting.
Now before I ruin this for you I will leave off here. I hope you
enjoy this book as much as I did. If you do like this book,
please consider leaving a review. The Authors really like it
when you do; they value your opinions too.
This is a paranormal romance and not an ordinary one. The
premise is truly unique. She has set this at the worlds end
when hell has risen and now is a part of our world. And when
you find out how it happened you may just sit there and
wonder. Could this really actually be happening in our world.
It’s all the little signs. I’d list them but that would give too
much away. I will warn you there were times I was as angry
as Athena at the demons. And then there was this nice one
And as we got to know him. Maybe even like him, or at least
she cared about him and his pet Raven. Odian is a wonderful
bird. And a friend to Athena. he is her true friend in all of this.
and when the nice demon died I literally cried over it. he was such a sweet guy he even grew roses for her. I actually am
misty eyed now as I write this. Just as you get used to the
Paymon and how he is. Then there is Erebus. The demon
is such an ass but as things progresses he is actually not as
bad as he seems. Even Athena seems to be falling for him.
She keeps fighting it. But when things take a bad turn she
finally see that what she feels is real and not the demons
controlling her. But now she just hopes he can save her in time. This book has a secret book that leads to something
Very enlightning. And when you find out you will
understand a lot of things. I am so ready for book two.
Bring it on Melody, I will be waiting.
Now before I ruin this for you I will leave off here. I hope you
enjoy this book as much as I did. If you do like this book,
please consider leaving a review. The Authors really like it
when you do; they value your opinions too.
July 17, 2017
::..Reviewed for Red's Midnight Readers..::
I was kindly provided with an ARC in exchange for an honest review. I absolutely freaking loved it!!! 5 stars from me baby.
I should have read this book sooner, it's amazing!! Well thought out, gripping and totally different to anything I have read previously. It was not what I expected at all. I thought I was going to get a run of the mill, old worldy fantasy but what Melody Winter gave us was a unique, gritty dystopian fantasy set way into the future where Demons rule the world under the cover of constant darkness.
It was so exciting, fraught with danger and drama, I couldn't put it down. Melody Winter skillfully created a whole new world that felt so real. With her words she has crafted a highly addictive, fast paced read that gripped both my imagination and my heart!
Iniquity is a highly imaginative story that will hook you and pull you in, refusing to let you go. If you haven't read this story, what on earth are you waiting for? You are seriously missing out.
I was kindly provided with an ARC in exchange for an honest review. I absolutely freaking loved it!!! 5 stars from me baby.
I should have read this book sooner, it's amazing!! Well thought out, gripping and totally different to anything I have read previously. It was not what I expected at all. I thought I was going to get a run of the mill, old worldy fantasy but what Melody Winter gave us was a unique, gritty dystopian fantasy set way into the future where Demons rule the world under the cover of constant darkness.
It was so exciting, fraught with danger and drama, I couldn't put it down. Melody Winter skillfully created a whole new world that felt so real. With her words she has crafted a highly addictive, fast paced read that gripped both my imagination and my heart!
Iniquity is a highly imaginative story that will hook you and pull you in, refusing to let you go. If you haven't read this story, what on earth are you waiting for? You are seriously missing out.
July 25, 2017
I am usually a romance reader but every now and then I like to break out of my shell and read another genre and I am so glad I did. I absolutely loved this book. It gripped me from the moment I started and I literally could not put it down.
I loved Athena and thought her feisty attitude and strong character had a lot of likeability. From the moment we met her I connected with her character. This book is certainly a whirlwind. With a great range of characters from Payman to the sexy Erebus and not forgetting Odin (Who was defiantly my favourite even though it’s a bird)
This book is full Twists and turns and a complete emotional rollercoaster. The story is unique and I would urge anyone who enjoys paranormal and fantasy to read this!
This is my first read by this Author and I cannot wait to read the Sequel. I need it now!
I loved Athena and thought her feisty attitude and strong character had a lot of likeability. From the moment we met her I connected with her character. This book is certainly a whirlwind. With a great range of characters from Payman to the sexy Erebus and not forgetting Odin (Who was defiantly my favourite even though it’s a bird)
This book is full Twists and turns and a complete emotional rollercoaster. The story is unique and I would urge anyone who enjoys paranormal and fantasy to read this!
This is my first read by this Author and I cannot wait to read the Sequel. I need it now!
February 24, 2017
Melody created a fascinating world - rich with the despair following an apocalyptic event and a pre-industrialized lifestyle. I thought the story line (and the surprises) played out well and Athena, Paymon, and Erebus kept me entertained. Iniquity was a fun read that left me wanting to continue straight to the next book in series.
March 15, 2020
Good!
This is the first book I've read by this author, but it certainly won't be the last. I love PNR, but demons aren't usually my go to trope. However, this book hooked me in from the get go. The story was amazing. The editing was fabulous. The characters had me in a trance, because I wanted to know everything about them. I look forward to book 2. A definite one click book.
This is the first book I've read by this author, but it certainly won't be the last. I love PNR, but demons aren't usually my go to trope. However, this book hooked me in from the get go. The story was amazing. The editing was fabulous. The characters had me in a trance, because I wanted to know everything about them. I look forward to book 2. A definite one click book.
July 17, 2017
This had me hooked from start to finish.
Kept me guessing at times, but also had 'gasp' moments.
I read this in a week, I just didn't want to put it down.
Look forward to the next instalment.
Absolutely love this Author.
Kept me guessing at times, but also had 'gasp' moments.
I read this in a week, I just didn't want to put it down.
Look forward to the next instalment.
Absolutely love this Author.
October 7, 2016
I received an ARC of this book from the author.
Winter creates a vivid world, where it's perpetually dark and demons rule over humanity. Humans are huddled in primitive villages, without any modern technology, and farm to survive. Each year the girls go to the village demon on their 21st birthday to find out their categorization. Most are sent to the Master Demon, to serve as feeders, servants, or, on rare occasions, as one of his wives. After several years with the Master some of these women will be returned to the village to breed so that there is always a supply of humans for the Master.
Athena lives in a village near what was York, England. Her greatest ambition is to find a way to return the light of the sun to the Earth. It was hidden by the Master Demon after the demons ascended to the Earth when Athena was 8. On her 21st birthday the village demon, Payman, tells her that he has categorized her as a wife. Then he makes her an offer. He will marry her himself and she will stay with him rather than going to the Master. Her emotions are strong and by being around her, he can feed from them and grow strong again. Athena's alternatives are to attempt to escape the village with Thomas, the young man she believes she loves or to go to the Master. Escape is impossible - even if they managed to survive the dangers of the forest, the Master's Miscreants would track her down and Thomas would be killed. Going to the Master, where she will die in childbirth trying to bear a human-demon hybrid child, is equally unacceptable. Athena reluctantly agrees to marry Payman and stay with him. She hopes she can learn more about how the Master Demon has blocked out the sun and how it might be restored.
Payman's sudden death throws everything in Athena's life into chaos. A new village demon, Erebus, arrives and claims everything which was Payman's, including Athena. He is alternately cruel and kind, leaving Athena confused. He's also attractive, and despite his cruelties Athena is drawn to him. He seems drawn to her as well, but she doesn't know if she can trust this. But it turns out that there are more dangers to face than loving a demon, as Athena learns when Erebus's siblings arrive.
This is the first in a series and readers will be eager for the next.
Winter creates a vivid world, where it's perpetually dark and demons rule over humanity. Humans are huddled in primitive villages, without any modern technology, and farm to survive. Each year the girls go to the village demon on their 21st birthday to find out their categorization. Most are sent to the Master Demon, to serve as feeders, servants, or, on rare occasions, as one of his wives. After several years with the Master some of these women will be returned to the village to breed so that there is always a supply of humans for the Master.
Athena lives in a village near what was York, England. Her greatest ambition is to find a way to return the light of the sun to the Earth. It was hidden by the Master Demon after the demons ascended to the Earth when Athena was 8. On her 21st birthday the village demon, Payman, tells her that he has categorized her as a wife. Then he makes her an offer. He will marry her himself and she will stay with him rather than going to the Master. Her emotions are strong and by being around her, he can feed from them and grow strong again. Athena's alternatives are to attempt to escape the village with Thomas, the young man she believes she loves or to go to the Master. Escape is impossible - even if they managed to survive the dangers of the forest, the Master's Miscreants would track her down and Thomas would be killed. Going to the Master, where she will die in childbirth trying to bear a human-demon hybrid child, is equally unacceptable. Athena reluctantly agrees to marry Payman and stay with him. She hopes she can learn more about how the Master Demon has blocked out the sun and how it might be restored.
Payman's sudden death throws everything in Athena's life into chaos. A new village demon, Erebus, arrives and claims everything which was Payman's, including Athena. He is alternately cruel and kind, leaving Athena confused. He's also attractive, and despite his cruelties Athena is drawn to him. He seems drawn to her as well, but she doesn't know if she can trust this. But it turns out that there are more dangers to face than loving a demon, as Athena learns when Erebus's siblings arrive.
This is the first in a series and readers will be eager for the next.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 12, 2017
What a refreshing read, this book is a little different to what I normally read and I wasn't disappointed.
Athena is an extremely strong character, she is stubborn, doesn't like to be forced in to things, knows her own mind, and I like that in a character. She strives for knowledge on how to rid the world of darkness.
This is a book that you will not want to put down, you will have the need to carrying on reading right until the end. I cannot wait to read the next in the series.
***I voluntary reviewed this book***
Athena is an extremely strong character, she is stubborn, doesn't like to be forced in to things, knows her own mind, and I like that in a character. She strives for knowledge on how to rid the world of darkness.
This is a book that you will not want to put down, you will have the need to carrying on reading right until the end. I cannot wait to read the next in the series.
***I voluntary reviewed this book***
March 2, 2017
Brilliant! I was gifted this book to review and it did not disappoint. Set in England, taken over by demons, a darkness has been placed over the world by the Master. Athena lives in a village ruled by a demon where upon reaching their 21st birthday the females get selected to either serve the Master or stay in the village to breed the future generation of females. However on her 21st birthday Athena's future takes a different path as she is given a choice: be sent to the Master as his wife or stay with demon of her village and become his wife.
This book is exciting and full of suspense. Athena's future will hopefully lead her, with Erebus' help, to removing the darkness the Master has created and bring back the sunlight that she has so desperately wanted to see since she was younger.
Everything about this unstoppable read was good, from the world building, the characters, the pace and the plot. I definitely want to continue reading the series and hope the next book is just as good as this one.
This book is exciting and full of suspense. Athena's future will hopefully lead her, with Erebus' help, to removing the darkness the Master has created and bring back the sunlight that she has so desperately wanted to see since she was younger.
Everything about this unstoppable read was good, from the world building, the characters, the pace and the plot. I definitely want to continue reading the series and hope the next book is just as good as this one.
November 17, 2016
I only made eight highlights in this book in total. They started from chapter 2 and stopped at chapter 8. So either I was really entranced by this book that I forgot to highlight when I read a quote I liked or something I wanted to note for potential future references, or there was nothing highlight-able.
3.5 stars
Thirteen years ago, demons ascended to Earth and drove the humans from their cities and into villages, taking away from them their current lifestyles, electricity, freedom and the light. Now, each village holds a yearly ascension ceremony where all the girls who have turned twenty-one are either sent away to serve the Master or remain in the village and forced to procreate. However, on Athena’s twenty-first birthday, she is given a different role by Paymon, the village demon, that makes the village turn their back on her. Just as she was adapting to her new life, tragedy befalls and with it comes the arrival of Erebus, a younger, stronger demon.
This book focuses mainly on establishing the relationship between Athena and Erebus. As like 65% of this book is set on the grounds of the house Paymon, and subsequently, Erebus, lives in, it may feel draggy due to the lack of action. I didn’t mind it much though as we got to see how she got over her prejudices of Erebus being a demon and finally loved him for who he is, despite what he is. Though her constant denial of her feelings was annoying at times. Understandable, but annoying.
Athena is a lovable character due to her tough and rebellious nature. She constantly fights against the way she is treated while at the house, especially the compelment as it symbolises the loss of whatever little freedom she has left. Also, just like the Greek goddess who bears the same name as her, she is very clever (though albeit sly). Ever since the demons ascended to Earth, her one goal was to restore the light. Her belief was that if the light came back, it would be able to drive the demons back to wherever they came from. Soon after she left the village to live with Paymon, she saw it as an opportunity to learn more about the demons and find a way to bring back the light. She was basically, a woman on a mission, employing various tactics to draw the answers out of both Paymon and Erebus. However, I found her luck to be pretty unrealistic. The fact that both the demons she had to live with treated her pretty well in comparison to how other demons treated humans was a ship that sailed too smoothly. The kiss and *ahem* sex scenes were well-placed though.
I loved how the cast of characters included animals as well, especially the raven, Odin. Odin was originally a companion of Paymon’s but he quickly took a liking to Athena and there is certainly something special about the bond between them as it requires no words to convey yet they understand each other.
Overall, an enjoyable read despite the lack of action. The romance in this one also worked out for me, which is definitely a plus considering the huge focus on it.
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3.5 stars
Thirteen years ago, demons ascended to Earth and drove the humans from their cities and into villages, taking away from them their current lifestyles, electricity, freedom and the light. Now, each village holds a yearly ascension ceremony where all the girls who have turned twenty-one are either sent away to serve the Master or remain in the village and forced to procreate. However, on Athena’s twenty-first birthday, she is given a different role by Paymon, the village demon, that makes the village turn their back on her. Just as she was adapting to her new life, tragedy befalls and with it comes the arrival of Erebus, a younger, stronger demon.
This book focuses mainly on establishing the relationship between Athena and Erebus. As like 65% of this book is set on the grounds of the house Paymon, and subsequently, Erebus, lives in, it may feel draggy due to the lack of action. I didn’t mind it much though as we got to see how she got over her prejudices of Erebus being a demon and finally loved him for who he is, despite what he is. Though her constant denial of her feelings was annoying at times. Understandable, but annoying.
I lifted my gaze and narrowed my eyes. Accept what he was?
Never.
He didn’t belong here, none of them did. This was our world, not theirs.
Athena is a lovable character due to her tough and rebellious nature. She constantly fights against the way she is treated while at the house, especially the compelment as it symbolises the loss of whatever little freedom she has left. Also, just like the Greek goddess who bears the same name as her, she is very clever (though albeit sly). Ever since the demons ascended to Earth, her one goal was to restore the light. Her belief was that if the light came back, it would be able to drive the demons back to wherever they came from. Soon after she left the village to live with Paymon, she saw it as an opportunity to learn more about the demons and find a way to bring back the light. She was basically, a woman on a mission, employing various tactics to draw the answers out of both Paymon and Erebus. However, I found her luck to be pretty unrealistic. The fact that both the demons she had to live with treated her pretty well in comparison to how other demons treated humans was a ship that sailed too smoothly. The kiss and *ahem* sex scenes were well-placed though.
I loved how the cast of characters included animals as well, especially the raven, Odin. Odin was originally a companion of Paymon’s but he quickly took a liking to Athena and there is certainly something special about the bond between them as it requires no words to convey yet they understand each other.
Overall, an enjoyable read despite the lack of action. The romance in this one also worked out for me, which is definitely a plus considering the huge focus on it.
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November 18, 2016
This book was so much better than I’d expected. When I read about it, I thought it seemed interesting and different, and thought ‘why not’? But when I started reading it, it was both what I expected it to be, and not at all.
Let’s start with Athena.
I really liked Athena. She was a great character, and I enjoyed reading about her. Demons have taken over her world and made it dark, and most people have lost hope in the dark times. Not Athena. She hates the dark with a passion, but what’s different to everyone else is that she’s willing to do something about it. She wants the demons gone, and she wants the light back, and she’s ready to try to make it happen, even if it kills her in the end.
She was like a fresh gust of wind a hot summer day. People have lost all hope, but Athena keeps on hoping and believing in a world without the demons. In the world that she lives in, holding on to hope like that is impressive. Most people think she’s crazy and stupid, that she should just accept the way things are, but this is what made me love her so much. She didn’t give up.
The love-story was very different.
It is exactly what it promised to be, it “explores the frightening, darker side of romance”. At first, I was a little hesitant about the romance, but I warmed up to it. Without saying too much, things changed a lot between Athena and Erebus, and by the end of it, I couldn’t help but root for them.
I love Erebus! I’ll admit, I was a bit hesitant to him at first, but when the plot progressed and his and Athena’s relationship, too, I started liking him more and more, and by the end of it, I loved him just as much as Athena, and I can’t wait to see what will happen to them in the future books!
The only bad thing about it was that most of the focus was on the romance, so the plot was pretty slow. I’d have wanted a bit more focus on the plot, and better balance between romance and plot.
That ending, though. It was a cliff-hanger (and you know how much I hate those), and it made me want to cry, because now I have to wait a really long time before I read the next book.
This book was all I wished it to be and more. It was interesting, original, had great characters that I absolutely love, and great writing. I’d definitely recommend it to fans of Fantasy, because it felt new and wasa little bit addictive.
Let’s start with Athena.
I really liked Athena. She was a great character, and I enjoyed reading about her. Demons have taken over her world and made it dark, and most people have lost hope in the dark times. Not Athena. She hates the dark with a passion, but what’s different to everyone else is that she’s willing to do something about it. She wants the demons gone, and she wants the light back, and she’s ready to try to make it happen, even if it kills her in the end.
She was like a fresh gust of wind a hot summer day. People have lost all hope, but Athena keeps on hoping and believing in a world without the demons. In the world that she lives in, holding on to hope like that is impressive. Most people think she’s crazy and stupid, that she should just accept the way things are, but this is what made me love her so much. She didn’t give up.
The love-story was very different.
It is exactly what it promised to be, it “explores the frightening, darker side of romance”. At first, I was a little hesitant about the romance, but I warmed up to it. Without saying too much, things changed a lot between Athena and Erebus, and by the end of it, I couldn’t help but root for them.
I love Erebus! I’ll admit, I was a bit hesitant to him at first, but when the plot progressed and his and Athena’s relationship, too, I started liking him more and more, and by the end of it, I loved him just as much as Athena, and I can’t wait to see what will happen to them in the future books!
The only bad thing about it was that most of the focus was on the romance, so the plot was pretty slow. I’d have wanted a bit more focus on the plot, and better balance between romance and plot.
That ending, though. It was a cliff-hanger (and you know how much I hate those), and it made me want to cry, because now I have to wait a really long time before I read the next book.
This book was all I wished it to be and more. It was interesting, original, had great characters that I absolutely love, and great writing. I’d definitely recommend it to fans of Fantasy, because it felt new and was
June 24, 2017
An amazing fantasy story with highly original characters and perfect writing. This book has now definitely got me hooked on this authors writing. An absolutely fabulous job
November 21, 2016
This was a new author for me, so was looking forward to reading this, and what a read it was!!
Set in 2056, demons ascended from below 13 years ago and the world is covered in darkness, life as we know it has returned to the Stoneage! When Athena turns 21, like all the girls in the village, she is judged by the demon ruling over her village as to her 'job' in life going forward, but the demon, Paymon, comes up with a proposition, her choice will decide the fate of herself and her village going forward.
This is a fantastic world that Melody has created, so well put together and so believable, and so very different to many of the stories out there. I loved the characters and their interactions, both Paymon and Erebus playing demons to a tee, before you realise there is actually more to them than meets the eye, or that you expect. Thoroughly enthralling, the story really pulled me in and I had real difficulty putting the book down. A great read, I would highly recommend it, and can't wait for the next one in this series.
Set in 2056, demons ascended from below 13 years ago and the world is covered in darkness, life as we know it has returned to the Stoneage! When Athena turns 21, like all the girls in the village, she is judged by the demon ruling over her village as to her 'job' in life going forward, but the demon, Paymon, comes up with a proposition, her choice will decide the fate of herself and her village going forward.
This is a fantastic world that Melody has created, so well put together and so believable, and so very different to many of the stories out there. I loved the characters and their interactions, both Paymon and Erebus playing demons to a tee, before you realise there is actually more to them than meets the eye, or that you expect. Thoroughly enthralling, the story really pulled me in and I had real difficulty putting the book down. A great read, I would highly recommend it, and can't wait for the next one in this series.
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