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The Devil's Assistant #4
Dark Contender
One final contender stands between Claire and claiming the Fallen Throne—but Faith isn’t giving up without a fight. Defeating Faith and taking her blood isn’t all Claire has to worry about. She must find the last few drops of her own original blood—before the big three usurp her realm and end any chance of her completing the prophecy.
Mace offers a strong shoulder, but as long as Claire aches for the missing Thanos, she can’t let herself lean on it.
Meanwhile, the Oracle has emerged from a 500-year hiatus to gleefully fling monkey wrenches into Claire’s timeline. Claire loses several hours to one of the hag’s schemes, resulting in Faith getting away with the Prince of Time. Which definitely isn’t part of the prophecy.
Putting the Time King back together again won’t be easy. Even if Claire manages to gather all the parts, nothing fits like it did before. The cracks expose the truth that will change everything…including who’ll be the last man standing by Claire’s side.
Mace offers a strong shoulder, but as long as Claire aches for the missing Thanos, she can’t let herself lean on it.
Meanwhile, the Oracle has emerged from a 500-year hiatus to gleefully fling monkey wrenches into Claire’s timeline. Claire loses several hours to one of the hag’s schemes, resulting in Faith getting away with the Prince of Time. Which definitely isn’t part of the prophecy.
Putting the Time King back together again won’t be easy. Even if Claire manages to gather all the parts, nothing fits like it did before. The cracks expose the truth that will change everything…including who’ll be the last man standing by Claire’s side.
248 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 31, 2017
22 people are currently reading
91 people want to read
About the author
H.D. Smith
14 books440 followersHD Smith is a software developer by day and an author of kick-ass Urban Fantasy at night. She grew up in South Carolina, but has called the Sunshine State home since 1997. She has a Masters degree in Computer Science, but her love of writing has really unleashed the creative siren in her soul. For more information, visit HD's website at http://www.hdsmithauthor.com/.
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
November 24, 2021
Dark Contender by H. D. Smith
Book 4 and final book in the Devil’s Assistant series. Must be read in order to avoid spoilers.
Claire is supposed to claim the Fallen Throne but there are still pieces off the puzzle to solve. Faith isn’t making things easy fo Claire and then the Oracle shows up.
So many twists and turns. And I don’t want to spoil it. But wow. So much to think about. I almost feel I need to restart the series over now that I know what I know and see if I can pick up the clues. I didn’t see it coming.
Extended world building from beginning to end.
My only issue really is that it took 4 books to get the resolution and you can’t skip parts.
Dark urban fantasy.
Book 4 and final book in the Devil’s Assistant series. Must be read in order to avoid spoilers.
Claire is supposed to claim the Fallen Throne but there are still pieces off the puzzle to solve. Faith isn’t making things easy fo Claire and then the Oracle shows up.
So many twists and turns. And I don’t want to spoil it. But wow. So much to think about. I almost feel I need to restart the series over now that I know what I know and see if I can pick up the clues. I didn’t see it coming.
Extended world building from beginning to end.
My only issue really is that it took 4 books to get the resolution and you can’t skip parts.
Dark urban fantasy.
August 23, 2020
I was happy with the ending of this series and I felt that all loose ends were addressed and tied up nicely. It was a lot. I feel like one day I will revisit this entire series and have all sorts of revelation now that I k ow the complete story. I look forward to that. Any series that can have me excited to revisit it is a spectacular one in my book!
February 13, 2017
Finally!! After a wild adventure we get to see how it all ends!! So many questions to finally have answered!! And we get every single one answered!!!
This series was unlike anything I've ever read!! Twists and turns on every page, deep characters that weave plots together like a beautiful tapestry, humor and intrigue, it has everything!!
Claire is the unlikely heroine who becomes the most powerful contender in all history, to watch her grow and fear, yet hope, for her future was enthralling! The character development in Claire alone was astounding but to have each character in the book go through a life changing journey along side her, made me realize that the domino effect of one is deeper than we realize. The world created was visionary and beyond the imagination!
I enjoyed the confusion as Claire sorted out each new puzzle, I wasn't lost in the confusion, I drank it up and enjoyed the ride. I have been reading for so long that I am usually able to guess what's going to happen but with this series I was never right and I loved it!! I wasn't just reading to see if I was right I was reading to see how wrong I was and I had to see what happens!
I highly recommend this series to EVERYONE!! There's something for everyone even if you didn't know it's what you needed!!
This series was unlike anything I've ever read!! Twists and turns on every page, deep characters that weave plots together like a beautiful tapestry, humor and intrigue, it has everything!!
Claire is the unlikely heroine who becomes the most powerful contender in all history, to watch her grow and fear, yet hope, for her future was enthralling! The character development in Claire alone was astounding but to have each character in the book go through a life changing journey along side her, made me realize that the domino effect of one is deeper than we realize. The world created was visionary and beyond the imagination!
I enjoyed the confusion as Claire sorted out each new puzzle, I wasn't lost in the confusion, I drank it up and enjoyed the ride. I have been reading for so long that I am usually able to guess what's going to happen but with this series I was never right and I loved it!! I wasn't just reading to see if I was right I was reading to see how wrong I was and I had to see what happens!
I highly recommend this series to EVERYONE!! There's something for everyone even if you didn't know it's what you needed!!
March 30, 2017
Dark Contender wraps up The Devil's Assistant series and was fairly good overall. All the loose ends were explained and taken care of giving the series good closure. I was a little unhappy with a part of the ending and would have liked a little more on the Mace situation, not just a short epilogue that felt a bit like an afterthought. Overall this was enjoyable and entertaining, and I hope we get to see more of this world in the future.
August 30, 2020
Dark Contender is the last book of the Devil's Assistant series and the conclusion of Claire's epic journey. And I do mean EPIC. I thought HD Smith did a wonderful job of fitting all the pieces together from the last books and tying everything together. These books have a lot going on, which can put some readers off, but I promise if you just go with the flow the end result is an exciting book with a lot of twists and turns.
February 7, 2017
I can't give enough accolades to this series. It is one of the best I have read in the last 15 years.
Unlikely and gutsy heroine, devious support characters, sub-plots within plots and magical machinations make this a not to be missed series.
Highly recommended.
Unlikely and gutsy heroine, devious support characters, sub-plots within plots and magical machinations make this a not to be missed series.
Highly recommended.
August 23, 2020
I absolutely loved this series. At first I was wasn't so sure as the story was confusing but as I read more and more of the story all the pieces to the puzzle started making since. This is one of those series that you could read over again and still learn something new that you didn't pick up on the first time.
June 30, 2025
It's the final book! This series definitely needs to be read in order. Claire is still trying to figure out all of the pieces to the puzzle. She is dealing with Faith, the Oracle and the Prince of Time. It's a lot to take in.
One mistake I made with this series was taking too much time between the books. I want to go back and reread the series from the beginning.
One mistake I made with this series was taking too much time between the books. I want to go back and reread the series from the beginning.
May 21, 2017
Our review, by LITERAL ADDICTION's Pack Alpha - Michelle:
~Edition: Audio book
In the riveting conclusion to H.D Smith's unparalleled Devil's Assistant series, Dark Contender brings everything together. It answers all of those little questions that popped up throughout the series, and takes you on yet another thrill-ride with the wonderfully constructed characters and arc that we've come to know and love through the last 3 books.
First, let me say that this series brings about some of the best worldbuilding I have ever encountered. These are not for speedy surface readers. There is too much depth and way too much going on for anything other than an involved pleasure read.
As an add-on to the worldbuilding, the mystery is incredible. The twists and turns keep you guessing, and I can guarantee, that nine times out of ten, you won't be right. I figured out part of the twist in this last installment, but even somewhat knowing what would be coming, H.D had me surprised.
It's almost impossible to write reviews for these books, as I found out with the last few. But in generalities, I can tell you that if you like paranormals with large-scale worldbuilding, characters that you will care about--both positively and negatively--mystery, suspense, action, and yes, even some smexy romance, you simply must check out these books! Leave your life behind for a bit and get lost in the in between, you won't be disappointed.
~Edition: Audio book
In the riveting conclusion to H.D Smith's unparalleled Devil's Assistant series, Dark Contender brings everything together. It answers all of those little questions that popped up throughout the series, and takes you on yet another thrill-ride with the wonderfully constructed characters and arc that we've come to know and love through the last 3 books.
First, let me say that this series brings about some of the best worldbuilding I have ever encountered. These are not for speedy surface readers. There is too much depth and way too much going on for anything other than an involved pleasure read.
As an add-on to the worldbuilding, the mystery is incredible. The twists and turns keep you guessing, and I can guarantee, that nine times out of ten, you won't be right. I figured out part of the twist in this last installment, but even somewhat knowing what would be coming, H.D had me surprised.
It's almost impossible to write reviews for these books, as I found out with the last few. But in generalities, I can tell you that if you like paranormals with large-scale worldbuilding, characters that you will care about--both positively and negatively--mystery, suspense, action, and yes, even some smexy romance, you simply must check out these books! Leave your life behind for a bit and get lost in the in between, you won't be disappointed.
July 26, 2017
Brilliant, a truly marvellous book & series, have loved all 4 books of this epic tale. Which I read in under 4 days, in a total reading binge.
A remarkable piece of work, with plots within plots and outcomes you would never guess, which at times leave you reeling. Such a clever, well thought out series.
An amazing heroine you root for, laugh and cry with. A host of complexed characters which draw you in. A thrilling ride, and an absolute recommended read.
A remarkable piece of work, with plots within plots and outcomes you would never guess, which at times leave you reeling. Such a clever, well thought out series.
An amazing heroine you root for, laugh and cry with. A host of complexed characters which draw you in. A thrilling ride, and an absolute recommended read.
Want to read
January 27, 2020🎁 The complete Devil's Assistant Series (4 book series) is FREE on Amazon today (1/27/2019)! 🎁
July 31, 2017
My original Dark Contender audiobook review and many others can be found at Audiobook Reviewer.
Dark Contender by H.D. Smith is the fourth novel in the Devil’s Assistant series. Claire, who started as a desk assistant for the Boss/the Devil, is now the unofficial Queen of the fourth (of four) realm, Fallen. Set on fulfilling prophesies and taking official control of her realm, Claire needs to track down the other contender for fulfilling the prophesies and gather all the logistical pieces of the ritual to take over her realm. But the Oracle has returned after hundreds of years and she brings with her a type of time-bending chaos that Claire hasn’t dealt with before and for some reason she seems very interested in Claire. Claire and her team must figure out a way to beat the remaining contender and take her realm without being brought down by the machinations of the Oracle and the other power players in the realms.
H.D. Smith delivers another fantastic novel in what appears to be the finale of this series, filled with an exciting story, a really cool world, and great well-developed characters. It’s a really complex world that only gets more complicated in this book with the addition of the time manipulating Oracle, but it’s masterfully done. The story is fast paced and exciting and definitely absorbs the attention of the listener. As with each of the other three novels in the series, there are so many twists and turns as Claire and her team try to figure out not only what is going on around them, but also what to do as they get new information. It’s been great watching Claire come into her powers and to see her ability to make decisions and lead grow. Similarly, the relationships that have changed as the story progressed have been really great to read. However, this is not a stand-alone novel – to understand what is happening it is necessary to have read the previous books in the series. Overall, this is a great wrap-up novel. Any hanging threads from the last three novels area tied off nicely. The new story of the Oracle and the continuing story of the different prophesies intersect nicely and end in a really satisfying way.
The narration by Lauren Fortgang is excellent as usual. She really brings the characters to life and gives them personality. The production quality of the novel is also great. I would recommend this novel and this series to anyone who enjoys complex fantasy novels that include twisting plots and coming of age stories. Also, I would recommend this novel to anyone who loves strong female characters in young adult fantasy novels.
Audiobook was provided for review by the author.
Dark Contender by H.D. Smith is the fourth novel in the Devil’s Assistant series. Claire, who started as a desk assistant for the Boss/the Devil, is now the unofficial Queen of the fourth (of four) realm, Fallen. Set on fulfilling prophesies and taking official control of her realm, Claire needs to track down the other contender for fulfilling the prophesies and gather all the logistical pieces of the ritual to take over her realm. But the Oracle has returned after hundreds of years and she brings with her a type of time-bending chaos that Claire hasn’t dealt with before and for some reason she seems very interested in Claire. Claire and her team must figure out a way to beat the remaining contender and take her realm without being brought down by the machinations of the Oracle and the other power players in the realms.
H.D. Smith delivers another fantastic novel in what appears to be the finale of this series, filled with an exciting story, a really cool world, and great well-developed characters. It’s a really complex world that only gets more complicated in this book with the addition of the time manipulating Oracle, but it’s masterfully done. The story is fast paced and exciting and definitely absorbs the attention of the listener. As with each of the other three novels in the series, there are so many twists and turns as Claire and her team try to figure out not only what is going on around them, but also what to do as they get new information. It’s been great watching Claire come into her powers and to see her ability to make decisions and lead grow. Similarly, the relationships that have changed as the story progressed have been really great to read. However, this is not a stand-alone novel – to understand what is happening it is necessary to have read the previous books in the series. Overall, this is a great wrap-up novel. Any hanging threads from the last three novels area tied off nicely. The new story of the Oracle and the continuing story of the different prophesies intersect nicely and end in a really satisfying way.
The narration by Lauren Fortgang is excellent as usual. She really brings the characters to life and gives them personality. The production quality of the novel is also great. I would recommend this novel and this series to anyone who enjoys complex fantasy novels that include twisting plots and coming of age stories. Also, I would recommend this novel to anyone who loves strong female characters in young adult fantasy novels.
Audiobook was provided for review by the author.
June 12, 2018
This book gets a 3.5.
The series gets a 4.
It's nothing like I thought it would be. I did not expect a legitimate series (not a random tale split into four to keep a page read count) with intense world building and character arcs. The woman from book four is not the same from book one. She becomes so strong and fierce and AAAAAAA!!!
It did have its faults. For instance, I thought one character's redemption arc was kind of lackluster. It was kind of 0 to 60 in .35 seconds. The characters were so focused on the plot and saving the world that I didn't get to appreciate a romance that has been building up for 4 books.
That being said, THIS IS ONE OF THE BEST INDIE SERIES I'VE EVER READ READ IT DO IT NOW.
Also,
The series gets a 4.
It's nothing like I thought it would be. I did not expect a legitimate series (not a random tale split into four to keep a page read count) with intense world building and character arcs. The woman from book four is not the same from book one. She becomes so strong and fierce and AAAAAAA!!!
It did have its faults. For instance, I thought one character's redemption arc was kind of lackluster. It was kind of 0 to 60 in .35 seconds. The characters were so focused on the plot and saving the world that I didn't get to appreciate a romance that has been building up for 4 books.
That being said, THIS IS ONE OF THE BEST INDIE SERIES I'VE EVER READ READ IT DO IT NOW.
Also,
August 13, 2024
Wow – what a wild ride The Devil’s Assistant series has been This fourth and final book does not disappoint. Clair, with the help of the quads, is pushing towards her battle with the final contender so she can take the Fall throne and complete the Time King prophecy. As with the rest of the series the puzzles and questions grow with each step Clair takes. Clair defeats one enemy and another takes its place. Throughout it all Clair remains strong and focuses on what she must do even if it costs her. The world H D Smith has created in this series is complex and interesting. The action is nonstop. This book is a fitting ending to the series. It wraps up the story in a very satisfying way. I highly recommend this series to anyone who likes well-crafted and complex urban fantasy.
I listened to the audiobook and enjoyed narrator Lauren Fortgang’s performance. I recommend this version.
I listened to the audiobook and enjoyed narrator Lauren Fortgang’s performance. I recommend this version.
September 16, 2023
This was quite a ride and completely worth the time! I have no idea how the author came up with all the twists and turns. There were so many loose ends when the book started that were deftly pulled together in a fantastic, heart-breaking finale. What a rollercoaster of emotions!
December 27, 2018
Can't say enough about this series.
Great characters with excellent main and sub-plots.
My recommendarion is 'Just buy the books'.
Great characters with excellent main and sub-plots.
My recommendarion is 'Just buy the books'.
December 21, 2021
I enjoyed this series but I have to say reading it and trying to understand the magic and the paradoxes that come with messing with time is a total mind trip.
February 11, 2017
Excellent
I liked how all of the characters were tied together with history, the book moved quickly along and was easy to understand given the many layered stories of each individual. It was fun to read and I hope to see more books like this with such rich fantasy and adventure.
I liked how all of the characters were tied together with history, the book moved quickly along and was easy to understand given the many layered stories of each individual. It was fun to read and I hope to see more books like this with such rich fantasy and adventure.
November 28, 2019
I thoroughly enjoyed this entire series. The story was so creative and exciting. Claire was a great character and I enjoyed seeing her transformation. Because of the events of previous books, there was more romance in this book than any of the others. For my taste, I would have preferred to keep the series non-romantic, but for those looking for it, I think you'll enjoy where the romance goes. The time travel/prophecy elements got a little confusing for me there at the end of the audiobook, so I'm not sure I got some of the nuanced details I would have gotten had I read the book. However, it wasn't enough to diminish my overall understanding so I'm just looking at it as a reason to be able to revisit this series in print sometime soon. Well worth checking out.
February 9, 2017
Amazing!!!
Love love love this series !!! Read all the books twice , great writing ,great story , the only downside is I don't know what I'm gonna read now! These books will be hard to match .
Love love love this series !!! Read all the books twice , great writing ,great story , the only downside is I don't know what I'm gonna read now! These books will be hard to match .
January 29, 2017
Wow
What a brilliant ending
Loved all the characters even mab lol...
Not going to ruin it but woop woop glad ingot to know who claires dad was and I'm happy Deffo right choice... Ronin loved he's humour and... Shame it's come to an end
What a brilliant ending
Loved all the characters even mab lol...
Not going to ruin it but woop woop glad ingot to know who claires dad was and I'm happy Deffo right choice... Ronin loved he's humour and... Shame it's come to an end
September 20, 2021
This series was different to anything I've read which has been refreshing but I felt some parts dragged on a bit and found it hard to follow (I was scratching my head most of the time). It was good, but not great IMHO.
March 30, 2017
Truly amazing!!!
This series has been one crazy rollercoaster of heartbreaks and joy! I'm so glad all the loose ends were tied up so well! We finally see more about the saved sacrificed child (I cried), and we got to see Claire kick hella A$$! Which, as you know, is always Great! I'm honestly heartbroken that this is the last book in the series. I want to read more of these characters lives!
I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS AWESOME SERIES! You will NOT be disappointed!
This series has been one crazy rollercoaster of heartbreaks and joy! I'm so glad all the loose ends were tied up so well! We finally see more about the saved sacrificed child (I cried), and we got to see Claire kick hella A$$! Which, as you know, is always Great! I'm honestly heartbroken that this is the last book in the series. I want to read more of these characters lives!
I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS AWESOME SERIES! You will NOT be disappointed!
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews