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The Veil #0.5
Wings of Hope
This is an alternate cover edition for ASIN B00NC2W6NW.
"I am his muse. But not for long..."
When Mammon, the Prince of Greed, 'acquires' a half-blood slave known as 'Muse' for three nights, and bespells her with tales of a world where people live like kings and queens among towers of steel and glass, the seed of hope takes root in Muse's soul. But hope, for a half-human half-demon creature like her, is a dangerous thing. Especially when that tentative hope springs from the honeyed words of a Prince of Hell. What is Mammon's price for freedom?
Meanwhile, Da'mean, her ruthless owner, would rather see her dead, than free. She belongs to him. She is his muse. And no beast will take her from him.
The world of the elemental demons is harsh and violent. Muse's kin are merciless, blood-hungry beasts, but little do they know, Muse has something far more dangerous coiled inside her, desperate for a taste of freedom.
Her humanity.
(Free via the author's mailing list at www.pippadacosta.com)
"I am his muse. But not for long..."
When Mammon, the Prince of Greed, 'acquires' a half-blood slave known as 'Muse' for three nights, and bespells her with tales of a world where people live like kings and queens among towers of steel and glass, the seed of hope takes root in Muse's soul. But hope, for a half-human half-demon creature like her, is a dangerous thing. Especially when that tentative hope springs from the honeyed words of a Prince of Hell. What is Mammon's price for freedom?
Meanwhile, Da'mean, her ruthless owner, would rather see her dead, than free. She belongs to him. She is his muse. And no beast will take her from him.
The world of the elemental demons is harsh and violent. Muse's kin are merciless, blood-hungry beasts, but little do they know, Muse has something far more dangerous coiled inside her, desperate for a taste of freedom.
Her humanity.
(Free via the author's mailing list at www.pippadacosta.com)
71 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 11, 2014
111 people are currently reading
1227 people want to read
About the author
Pippa DaCosta
79 books1,559 followersTwo-time DragonCon Finalist & Amazon Breakthrough Novel Award semi-finalist--- "Wait a second. Let's cut to the chase. I write kick-ass urban fantasy & sci-fi novels with conflicted characters, breathless action, and no-holds-barred dialogue. My books may not leave you feeling all fluffy and warm inside, but they will excite you. There will be plot-twists, angst, probably a few dead bodies, and very likely your favorite character will turn out to be the bad guy. Don't say I didn't warn you..."
www.pippadacosta.com
(I review on Goodreads as a reader, not a writer. Reviews here are my personal opinion, not a professional one).
www.pippadacosta.com
(I review on Goodreads as a reader, not a writer. Reviews here are my personal opinion, not a professional one).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 137 reviews
June 11, 2021
I enjoyed this novella more than I expected! I accidentally started the descendants series and read one chapter before learning that this series comes first.. glad I learned about it before it's too late, especially since it's on my tbr.
I am glad to report that my first experience with Pippa DaCosta was a successful one and now I'm looking forward to starting the series.
I am completely new to this world and I think it's good that I started with Wings of Hope because we witness Muse's hardships firsthand and learn of Akil's role in her life.
I will be editing this short review once I read the first to book to say for sure if it's better to start with this novella -but as a general rule, I always prefer following the events of a story in the chronological order, especially if we have the same H.
I am glad to report that my first experience with Pippa DaCosta was a successful one and now I'm looking forward to starting the series.
I am completely new to this world and I think it's good that I started with Wings of Hope because we witness Muse's hardships firsthand and learn of Akil's role in her life.
I will be editing this short review once I read the first to book to say for sure if it's better to start with this novella -but as a general rule, I always prefer following the events of a story in the chronological order, especially if we have the same H.
October 18, 2016
I had never heard of this series before Lanie recommended Wings of Hope. The blurb was definitely intriguing and the story sounded original so I decided to give it a try.
WOW! Just WOW!
This might be a novella but don’t let that fool you. The writing is amazing. Beautiful, dark, mesmerizing. I have never been a fan of demons but this is just… I don’t know, there are no words for it really. I LOVED it. The world-building is absolutely fantastic and incredibly rich. I don’t usually like descriptions much but Pippa DaCosta really excels here. The demon realm and the creatures that populate it really come alive. The story is heartbreaking, terrifying, uplifting, and emotionally draining.
I love Muse and her ambivalent personality. I love Da'mean, as evil as he may be. I love Mammon and his mysterious ulterior motives. They are some of the most complex characters I have ever come across and I can't wait to find out more about them.
Wings of Hope is pure, mind-blowing fantasy and I’m really intrigued about what the rest of the series might be like, with Muse living in the real world. Can't wait to get my hands on Beyond The Veil!
✎ Book 1: Beyond the Veil ★★★★★
✎ Book 2: Devil May Care ★★★★★
✎ Book 3: Darkest before Dawn ★★★★★
✎ Book 4 Drowning in the Dark ★★★★★
✎ Book 5 Ties that Bind ★★★★★
✎ Short story & bonus scenes: One For Sorrow ★★★★★
WOW! Just WOW!
This might be a novella but don’t let that fool you. The writing is amazing. Beautiful, dark, mesmerizing. I have never been a fan of demons but this is just… I don’t know, there are no words for it really. I LOVED it. The world-building is absolutely fantastic and incredibly rich. I don’t usually like descriptions much but Pippa DaCosta really excels here. The demon realm and the creatures that populate it really come alive. The story is heartbreaking, terrifying, uplifting, and emotionally draining.
I love Muse and her ambivalent personality. I love Da'mean, as evil as he may be. I love Mammon and his mysterious ulterior motives. They are some of the most complex characters I have ever come across and I can't wait to find out more about them.
Wings of Hope is pure, mind-blowing fantasy and I’m really intrigued about what the rest of the series might be like, with Muse living in the real world. Can't wait to get my hands on Beyond The Veil!
✎ Book 1: Beyond the Veil ★★★★★
✎ Book 2: Devil May Care ★★★★★
✎ Book 3: Darkest before Dawn ★★★★★
✎ Book 4 Drowning in the Dark ★★★★★
✎ Book 5 Ties that Bind ★★★★★
✎ Short story & bonus scenes: One For Sorrow ★★★★★
October 18, 2016
I loved the world created in this. The cruelty, the darkness, the slight glimmer of hope, all of it.
January 23, 2016
If you have already started reading the Veil series then discovering this prequel will surely delight my fellow lovers of urban fantasy. It's a short peek really at what Muse went through when she lived in the demonic world . Muse in this story is physically whole, capable of deception ( because to survive she has to become virtually invisible) and yet trapped. We learn how abused she was by her owner Da'mean and then the Prince of Greed, Mammon spies her and a strange bargain sees the battered Muse discovering hope but losing a vital part of herself. Muse may be half demon but she never loses her humanity.
This is hard to review as so much of the story is trying to immerse the reader in the tragedy that Muse's life was as a slave to Da'mean. It's a dark read , awful and heartbreaking and yet as a fan of the series I had to keep going. These characters are not that likeable, theirs is a complex world full of pain. If honest the name changes from the rest of the series just had me wondering why and added nothing. Read this book first and discover where Muse came from then get Beyond the Veil and marvel at just how far she has come. This truly offers insight into the messed up relationships that dog Muse and is well worth a read. As I type Beyond the Veil is free on kindle
I was gifted a copy in exchange for an honest review
This is hard to review as so much of the story is trying to immerse the reader in the tragedy that Muse's life was as a slave to Da'mean. It's a dark read , awful and heartbreaking and yet as a fan of the series I had to keep going. These characters are not that likeable, theirs is a complex world full of pain. If honest the name changes from the rest of the series just had me wondering why and added nothing. Read this book first and discover where Muse came from then get Beyond the Veil and marvel at just how far she has come. This truly offers insight into the messed up relationships that dog Muse and is well worth a read. As I type Beyond the Veil is free on kindle
I was gifted a copy in exchange for an honest review
August 30, 2017
When I read Beyond the Veil I fell in love with Muse. She's an incredible character and it's made clear that she's had a terrible life prior to escaping into the human world. Here I had the chance to see exactly how terrible her life had been as the property of the demon Damien. When she first met Akil/Mamon she is a beaten down, hopeless mute that dreams only of dying - her only means of escape from the abuse. Akil helps her in his own twisted way to find that inner strength that permitted her to survive all of it even if she never even imagined she possess it. The Price of Greed might have his own agenda and reasons behind helping that poor mistreated creature but I can see why she was so disinclined to believe he world actually hurt her in Beyond the Veil.
Meeting her demon self and seeing how that creature thinks and operates was fascinating. The demon world is incredible and brutally beautiful and the elementals (the term demons use to describe themselves in this universe) are cruel, fascinating little monsters. Akil in his true form is magnificent and his keen mind and manipulative nature clearly shown. It's a testament to Muse's cunning that she's managed to escape him and hide away for 5 years.
There's no attempt to humanise the demons and I love that. They are brutish and personify every sin and vice possible. Some of the cruelties done to Muse are only implied and that makes them even more horrifying. The storytelling is flawless and makes for full immersion into the netherworld. It's clear that this story is written after Beyond the Veil because the writing itself has improved. I would recommend reading Wings of Hope after the first book in the series because this way the reader will be able to appreciate it so much more.
P.S. Special thanks to Sarah for introducing me to this series.
Meeting her demon self and seeing how that creature thinks and operates was fascinating. The demon world is incredible and brutally beautiful and the elementals (the term demons use to describe themselves in this universe) are cruel, fascinating little monsters. Akil in his true form is magnificent and his keen mind and manipulative nature clearly shown. It's a testament to Muse's cunning that she's managed to escape him and hide away for 5 years.
There's no attempt to humanise the demons and I love that. They are brutish and personify every sin and vice possible. Some of the cruelties done to Muse are only implied and that makes them even more horrifying. The storytelling is flawless and makes for full immersion into the netherworld. It's clear that this story is written after Beyond the Veil because the writing itself has improved. I would recommend reading Wings of Hope after the first book in the series because this way the reader will be able to appreciate it so much more.
P.S. Special thanks to Sarah for introducing me to this series.
September 7, 2015
Wings of Hope is a short prequel to the Veil series and you can actually get a free copy by signing up for Pippa DaCosta's newsletter here. I've not read any of the other books in this series so can confirm that this definitely worked as an introduction to main character Muse and the world she lives in and it was more than enough to make me want to dive into the next book as soon as possible.
Muse is half-demon and half-human and has been raised in hell where she is a basically a slave. Her master Da'mean treats her like a possession and he is determined to break her will so life definitely hasn't been easy for her. She is used to being treated as nothing and considered lesser by the full demons that surround her and she knows that death is in the cards for her. Especially when the Prince of Greed Mannon takes a sudden interest. Da'mean does not like to share his toys but he's unable to refuse a prince and Muse knows she will be the one to suffer his wrath.
Although Wings of Hope is a relatively short story Pippa DaCosta does a fantastic job of introducing this world, she paints a vivid, if dark, picture of what life has been like for Muse and it isn't always easy reading. Muse herself is a fascinating character and I can't wait to get to know her better. She has always tried to keep her human side hidden because she considers it her weakness but Mannon makes her begin to hope for things that she never even thought of before. She longs for freedom but that isn't something that is going to come easily for her.
I don't really want to say much more in this review but I definitely think this is going to be an interesting series and I'm looking forward to finding out what happens to Muse next.
Muse is half-demon and half-human and has been raised in hell where she is a basically a slave. Her master Da'mean treats her like a possession and he is determined to break her will so life definitely hasn't been easy for her. She is used to being treated as nothing and considered lesser by the full demons that surround her and she knows that death is in the cards for her. Especially when the Prince of Greed Mannon takes a sudden interest. Da'mean does not like to share his toys but he's unable to refuse a prince and Muse knows she will be the one to suffer his wrath.
Although Wings of Hope is a relatively short story Pippa DaCosta does a fantastic job of introducing this world, she paints a vivid, if dark, picture of what life has been like for Muse and it isn't always easy reading. Muse herself is a fascinating character and I can't wait to get to know her better. She has always tried to keep her human side hidden because she considers it her weakness but Mannon makes her begin to hope for things that she never even thought of before. She longs for freedom but that isn't something that is going to come easily for her.
I don't really want to say much more in this review but I definitely think this is going to be an interesting series and I'm looking forward to finding out what happens to Muse next.
October 10, 2014
4.5 "Heart Torturing" Stars
When I found out Wings of Hope was coming out, I admit I went a little fan-girl crazy.
Ever since I read Beyond the Veil, I had been hoping Pippa DaCosta would write this book and it did not disappoint.
Muse is one of my favorite characters in paranormal/urban fantasy fiction. As a half-blood (half-human, half-demon), she is in a constant struggle with her duality. In books 1 & 2, her story is told from the perspective of her human half. The tone drastically shifts in this one, though, to give us the story of Muse’s tragic and heartrending past in the demon world, as told from her demon-half.
”You may wonder why I allowed these cruelties to happen, but you are outside the cage looking in. The view from inside is very different.”
Tortured and abused by her sadistic owner, Da'mean, slavery has taught her that she is the lowest of the low. She doesn't know the meaning of hope. The only escape from the hell that is her existence, death.
Until she meets Mammon, the Prince of Greed…
”The Prince of Greed had given me the gift of hope, but the gift was poison to a foolish mind like mine.”
I loved seeing the beginning of Muse’s metamorphosis into the character we meet in Beyond the Veil. There are also lots of world building and plot point nuggets that add to the richness of the series, which makes Wings of Hope essential reading. Pippa DaCosta packs one heck of a punch into this short story. If you've already read books 1 & 2, I highly recommend reading this one. If you haven’t read the Veil series, definitely start here.
*Thanks to the author for providing a promotional copy in exchange for a review.*
When I found out Wings of Hope was coming out, I admit I went a little fan-girl crazy.
Ever since I read Beyond the Veil, I had been hoping Pippa DaCosta would write this book and it did not disappoint.
Muse is one of my favorite characters in paranormal/urban fantasy fiction. As a half-blood (half-human, half-demon), she is in a constant struggle with her duality. In books 1 & 2, her story is told from the perspective of her human half. The tone drastically shifts in this one, though, to give us the story of Muse’s tragic and heartrending past in the demon world, as told from her demon-half.
”You may wonder why I allowed these cruelties to happen, but you are outside the cage looking in. The view from inside is very different.”
Tortured and abused by her sadistic owner, Da'mean, slavery has taught her that she is the lowest of the low. She doesn't know the meaning of hope. The only escape from the hell that is her existence, death.
Until she meets Mammon, the Prince of Greed…
”The Prince of Greed had given me the gift of hope, but the gift was poison to a foolish mind like mine.”
I loved seeing the beginning of Muse’s metamorphosis into the character we meet in Beyond the Veil. There are also lots of world building and plot point nuggets that add to the richness of the series, which makes Wings of Hope essential reading. Pippa DaCosta packs one heck of a punch into this short story. If you've already read books 1 & 2, I highly recommend reading this one. If you haven’t read the Veil series, definitely start here.
*Thanks to the author for providing a promotional copy in exchange for a review.*
February 14, 2015
Several friends told me I HAD to read this series. I was hesitant. Not because I thought it would suck, but because I was afraid it would live up to their hype and I'd be drawn into another series. That's exactly what happened. Pippa DaCosta creates a world that I want to spend time in, characters that interest me and a storyline that keeps me reading.
This is the prequel novella, a background story on Muse and how she came to be. She started off broken, a slave who saw no existence other than the one she lived. The Prince of Greed takes an interest in her. Why? Who knows. You don't learn the reason in this book. As I haven't yet read any of the others, I don't know if this is addressed.
Hmm, I think I should get on that. Find out if the reason is given.
This is the prequel novella, a background story on Muse and how she came to be. She started off broken, a slave who saw no existence other than the one she lived. The Prince of Greed takes an interest in her. Why? Who knows. You don't learn the reason in this book. As I haven't yet read any of the others, I don't know if this is addressed.
Hmm, I think I should get on that. Find out if the reason is given.
September 3, 2015
What a sensational read! We go back to when Muse was still in the netherworld, a very different being from who she was when we met her in the first book, Beyond The Veil and onward. For a mere 50 page (or so) book, this was a satisfyingly tempestuous story. The world building was even more phenomenal than I anticipated since I read the second book, Devil May Care. I can just see the netherworld right before my eyes as I read along. Now let me say something about the characters - wow, wow and wow! Muse is by far one of the most remarkably complex characters I've come across and after reading this book, I've appreciated her more than ever before. As for Da'mean/Damien, much as I hate him, he is still a fascinating character. Oh, don't let me get started on Akil/Ahkeel/Mammon. You'll beg me to stop.
Thank you so much Pippa for providing me a copy in exchange for a fair and honest review. I'm looking forward to reading the upcoming books in the series!
* * * * *
Thank you so much Pippa for providing me a copy in exchange for a fair and honest review. I'm looking forward to reading the upcoming books in the series!
* * * * *
October 6, 2014
I've been following this series from the beginning, and have read all of the "Beyond the Veil" books as they came out. I was totally unprepared for this novella. It's absolutely spectacular and so emotionally charged, I had to take it slow. Learning how Muse was shaped as a child/young woman gives you such deep insight into her character. You get to see the demon part of Muse in this story, not the crazy part as with the other books, but the real demon who runs the show. You get glimmers of how her human side emerges and how docile it is in comparison. It really is a dual-personality thing, you have the predator and the prey mashed into one body just trying to survive. You get a better look at Muse's master Da'mean, and of course you get Akil. Akil takes center stage in this story as it progresses and you get the impression he intends to be Muse's savior.
I'd definitely recommend this novella to fans of this series, lovers of paranormal romance, fantasy, demons and the human struggle. This is an adult book.
I received an eARC of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
I'd definitely recommend this novella to fans of this series, lovers of paranormal romance, fantasy, demons and the human struggle. This is an adult book.
I received an eARC of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
September 25, 2015
4 stars
January 29, 2016
Before Charlie Henderson became an independent human making her own way, she was Muse the tortured toy of Da'mean. This prequel exposes the horrors Muse experienced at the claws of repugnant demons idolized as the ideal. A peek into this world is more than enough as the reader watches Muse's constant degradation and violation.
Ms. Costa does a good job of creating an ominous environment filled with backstabbing and pain. Every perversion is lauded. The distorted view Muse holds for herself is interesting. When Mammon opens her eyes to something different, the story becomes interesting. This is the timid Muse, before she become a force to be reckon with. There are also nicely placed hints as to why Muse could be so very important. The relationship between Mammon and Muse is clearly shown here which explains why Mammon wants Muse so much. And why Muse is so attached to Mammon and wants to believe the best in him.
The way Ms. Costa sets the world and characters up is fantastic. It gives good insight for those who have not read the first book yet. This prequel contains it all. Hope, hate, desolation, rage and satisfaction. Recommended to urban fantasy readers who enjoy a dark tale with an explosive ending.
*provided by NetGalley
Ms. Costa does a good job of creating an ominous environment filled with backstabbing and pain. Every perversion is lauded. The distorted view Muse holds for herself is interesting. When Mammon opens her eyes to something different, the story becomes interesting. This is the timid Muse, before she become a force to be reckon with. There are also nicely placed hints as to why Muse could be so very important. The relationship between Mammon and Muse is clearly shown here which explains why Mammon wants Muse so much. And why Muse is so attached to Mammon and wants to believe the best in him.
The way Ms. Costa sets the world and characters up is fantastic. It gives good insight for those who have not read the first book yet. This prequel contains it all. Hope, hate, desolation, rage and satisfaction. Recommended to urban fantasy readers who enjoy a dark tale with an explosive ending.
*provided by NetGalley
September 8, 2015
A amazing introduction to this series and a whole new world. From the very first page I was held captive. Incredibly descriptive world building, a fresh concept and a kick ass heroine. An emotionally gripping ride in under 100 pages. Gimme more!
January 5, 2015
I've had this series on my radar for a while and decided to take a sneak peek by diving into this novella. What a great prequel! This is the back story for the main character Muse and how she came to live in the human realm.
Muse's character is one that immediately sucked me in because she is a survivor. A half human/half demon sold into a life of slavery as a child. She's endured a lifetime of abuse and humiliation. She has an inner strength and power that lies undiscovered. She sees her human half as a weakness but with the help of a demon prince, she realizes that being half human has its perks. I love that this series portrays being human as a strength instead of a weakness. Probably my favorite aspect of the series so far.
I don't want to say too much about the plot because this is only 50 pages or so... but, I will say that after reading it I am now very anxious and excited to dive into book one. I really want to see how Muse's character grows into her own now that she has found freedom in the human realm. I do love a strong female character!
I'm also very, very intrigued by the Demon Prince... yep... need more of this guy!
Definitely give this a read if you're curious about this series... I LOVED it... :))))
www.ktbookreviews.com
Muse's character is one that immediately sucked me in because she is a survivor. A half human/half demon sold into a life of slavery as a child. She's endured a lifetime of abuse and humiliation. She has an inner strength and power that lies undiscovered. She sees her human half as a weakness but with the help of a demon prince, she realizes that being half human has its perks. I love that this series portrays being human as a strength instead of a weakness. Probably my favorite aspect of the series so far.
I don't want to say too much about the plot because this is only 50 pages or so... but, I will say that after reading it I am now very anxious and excited to dive into book one. I really want to see how Muse's character grows into her own now that she has found freedom in the human realm. I do love a strong female character!
I'm also very, very intrigued by the Demon Prince... yep... need more of this guy!
Definitely give this a read if you're curious about this series... I LOVED it... :))))
www.ktbookreviews.com
October 6, 2014
Loved, loved, LOVED this novella. The writing was the best so far in this series. I got happily lost in the descriptions of the demon realm, the ramblings of Muse's broken mind, Mammon's murky machinations... This story packed a lot of in-depth character development on top of a satisfying vignette of Muse's past. Readers just being introduced to this series might be tempted to read this first, as it's first chronologically, but I'd strongly recommend reading these in the order they've been written, or at least wait until after book one. That way, irony is at its strongest.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
January 6, 2015
Stunning. Yup.
I suspect this book would have made a bigger impact if I read one of the full length novels in the Veil series first, but even as it was, this was breath-taking.
DaCosta has created a savage, gorgeous world of elemental demons, with savage, gorgreous prose to match.
I've never been much into the whole demons thing, but WOW, did this book change my mind. Muse is a slave; abused, defiled, spit upon her whole life. Then the Prince of Greed takes an interest, an interest that is bound to cost her life....
Not going to say anymore, just READ IT.
The sooner the better.
I suspect this book would have made a bigger impact if I read one of the full length novels in the Veil series first, but even as it was, this was breath-taking.
DaCosta has created a savage, gorgeous world of elemental demons, with savage, gorgreous prose to match.
I've never been much into the whole demons thing, but WOW, did this book change my mind. Muse is a slave; abused, defiled, spit upon her whole life. Then the Prince of Greed takes an interest, an interest that is bound to cost her life....
Not going to say anymore, just READ IT.
The sooner the better.
February 21, 2020
I understand this book was written after book 2, and meant to be a prequel like Star Wars- the story in this book happens first but shouldn't be read until later. Much like SW, I like to do things in the order they actually happened and started with the prequel first... And I don't regret it. This is a riveting novella and definitely whet my appetite for more. Book 1 is free on Prime and I snatched it up about 20 pages in. Very good urban fantasy. I disliked the format that made finding a pausing place difficult...but maybe that was the intention ;)
November 2, 2014
Full review up now at www.onceuponabookblog.com <3
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A small seemingly insignificant half-blood demon, a cruel and sadistic demon owner, a powerful Prince of Hell with an ulterior motive and a description of the netherworld so rich in detail, clear enough that you can see it in your mind, yet foreign enough that you can’t quite grasp the realities of surviving in such a place… It’s safe to say I was excited to sink my teeth into this novella. I’ve been loving this series and have mentioned on occasion how much I was dying to discover more about Muse’s past. Well luckily for me Pippa DaCosta has taken the time to write this beautifully descriptive piece and in doing so, has well and truly done justice to Muse’s story.
This story is set in the netherworld, this place is full of demons of all shapes, sizes and brutalities, this is a place where blood, pain and death are the norm and if you intend to venture out alone you better know how to protect yourself. Chaos and violence rule, domination is king and there is no room for emotions, wants or dreams. The Muse we meet here in not the human half of Muse that we are accustomed to… No, here we have been taken back to where Muse lived and thought like a demon. Muse can’t understand her seemingly weak and pathetic ‘pink’ human half, she cannot fathom the thoughts and strange feelings she has when she is in her skin, all that makes sense to Muse the demon, is that she is worthless and that someone will always own her to use her.
Here we also get to see more of her owner Da’mean and the atrocities he committed against her, but even more so, we get to see Akheel (Akil) through her eyes as they first meet. As we know, he turns out to be a pretty integral part of Muse’s future, but to see him here at the start, to see him as the Prince of Greed, in his world, in his castle, seemingly in his element but hankering for something else, really helps to not only flesh out his Mammon self a bit more, but also sets the tone of their relationship.
Now that I’ve delved into Muse’s past I can’t wait to get back into her current day self. Every single encounter in the netherworld has made Muse who she is today and armed with a more in-depth understanding of her and her world, owed to the fact that we were viewing everything through her demons eyes, I feel so much has ‘clicked’ into place. This darker toned novella is the perfect accompaniment to this series and in my opinion, it is a must read.
Received from author in return for an honest review
Find us on Facebook www.facebook.com/onceuponabookblog <3
A small seemingly insignificant half-blood demon, a cruel and sadistic demon owner, a powerful Prince of Hell with an ulterior motive and a description of the netherworld so rich in detail, clear enough that you can see it in your mind, yet foreign enough that you can’t quite grasp the realities of surviving in such a place… It’s safe to say I was excited to sink my teeth into this novella. I’ve been loving this series and have mentioned on occasion how much I was dying to discover more about Muse’s past. Well luckily for me Pippa DaCosta has taken the time to write this beautifully descriptive piece and in doing so, has well and truly done justice to Muse’s story.
This story is set in the netherworld, this place is full of demons of all shapes, sizes and brutalities, this is a place where blood, pain and death are the norm and if you intend to venture out alone you better know how to protect yourself. Chaos and violence rule, domination is king and there is no room for emotions, wants or dreams. The Muse we meet here in not the human half of Muse that we are accustomed to… No, here we have been taken back to where Muse lived and thought like a demon. Muse can’t understand her seemingly weak and pathetic ‘pink’ human half, she cannot fathom the thoughts and strange feelings she has when she is in her skin, all that makes sense to Muse the demon, is that she is worthless and that someone will always own her to use her.
Here we also get to see more of her owner Da’mean and the atrocities he committed against her, but even more so, we get to see Akheel (Akil) through her eyes as they first meet. As we know, he turns out to be a pretty integral part of Muse’s future, but to see him here at the start, to see him as the Prince of Greed, in his world, in his castle, seemingly in his element but hankering for something else, really helps to not only flesh out his Mammon self a bit more, but also sets the tone of their relationship.
Now that I’ve delved into Muse’s past I can’t wait to get back into her current day self. Every single encounter in the netherworld has made Muse who she is today and armed with a more in-depth understanding of her and her world, owed to the fact that we were viewing everything through her demons eyes, I feel so much has ‘clicked’ into place. This darker toned novella is the perfect accompaniment to this series and in my opinion, it is a must read.
Received from author in return for an honest review
October 17, 2014
From what I gather, Wings of Hope was written after books # 1 and 2 in the Veil series. Even though it is a prequel novella, and the author states it can be read at any point, I'm glad I waited until I had finished the first full length novel in the series. Wings of Hope is indeed an ironic name, considering that this story takes place at a time when Muse has no hope whatsoever; before she discovers her human half and escapes the the demonic netherworld with its cruel pecking order.
The Muse we meet here, is a broken plaything, tortured to the brink of death by her owner, Da'mean (Damien), only to be nursed back to health before the ordeal starts anew. That's what it means to be the muse of a demonic sociopath. he sees her as a bloodied piece of art, as does every other full blooded demon. At least until Ahkeel (Akil) also known as Mammon, the prince of greed, takes an interest in her. Instead of torturing her, he feeds her visions and dreams of another life, and demands that she stands proud in his presence. A first for a lowly half-blood.
The demonic netherworld is a fascinating and brutal place. Expect gore, deception and lots of graphic violence. This is not a story for lovers of cutesy demons. These guys are the quintessential monsters from our legends. Overall, I think it's a good read.
However, I noticed a few discrepancies in this story. For one, it's stated in the books that when Muse first came to Mammon, she didn't speak to him for days, in the novella it only takes hours. Furthermore, Mammon reveals the history of the demonic queen to Muse in this prequel, yet when Mammon recounts the same story, in greater detail, in the novel that takes place years later, this is all news to her. Not too impressed by the continuity errors, I must say.
I'm conflicted about the name changes as well. Here, Pippa has chosen to (slightly) rename her characters, giving them more demonic sounding names. Stick with the original name, once you've made your choice, I say. IMO it's too late to change your mind halfway into the story. (Even though I admit I liked these variations better than the original names...)
Had it not been for the continuity errors, I would probably rate this novella 4.5 stars. As it is, I've decided to give Wings of Hope 3.75 stars.
The Muse we meet here, is a broken plaything, tortured to the brink of death by her owner, Da'mean (Damien), only to be nursed back to health before the ordeal starts anew. That's what it means to be the muse of a demonic sociopath. he sees her as a bloodied piece of art, as does every other full blooded demon. At least until Ahkeel (Akil) also known as Mammon, the prince of greed, takes an interest in her. Instead of torturing her, he feeds her visions and dreams of another life, and demands that she stands proud in his presence. A first for a lowly half-blood.
The demonic netherworld is a fascinating and brutal place. Expect gore, deception and lots of graphic violence. This is not a story for lovers of cutesy demons. These guys are the quintessential monsters from our legends. Overall, I think it's a good read.
However, I noticed a few discrepancies in this story. For one, it's stated in the books that when Muse first came to Mammon, she didn't speak to him for days, in the novella it only takes hours. Furthermore, Mammon reveals the history of the demonic queen to Muse in this prequel, yet when Mammon recounts the same story, in greater detail, in the novel that takes place years later, this is all news to her. Not too impressed by the continuity errors, I must say.
I'm conflicted about the name changes as well. Here, Pippa has chosen to (slightly) rename her characters, giving them more demonic sounding names. Stick with the original name, once you've made your choice, I say. IMO it's too late to change your mind halfway into the story. (Even though I admit I liked these variations better than the original names...)
Had it not been for the continuity errors, I would probably rate this novella 4.5 stars. As it is, I've decided to give Wings of Hope 3.75 stars.
February 4, 2016
I read this prequel after the first instalment because I followed the order of publication. I think it can be read after or before book #1 as you wish ; somehow, there were informations in there that allowed me to understand better the dynamic between Muse and Akil.
This is a short story, but it sure packs a lot of efficiency. We finally get to take a closer look at where Muse came from - I admired her strong instincts of survival while having been raised in a demon dimension where everybody hates/despises her and uses her for a plaything.
I also loved seeing how Akil showed her a way out and appreciated the fact that she didn't blindly fall for him like it would have happened in a romance novel.
This story is dark and gritty, the heroin has a soft spot for chaos, so don't expect a fluffy read. Demons everywhere, people ! However, I gave those 58 pages 5 stars because the more I dived into this universe, the more I got hooked and the more I knew I just *had* to read more about it.
Definitely highly recommended !
Quotes :
"My expression stayed frozen. I'd perfected the mask of indifference long ago. Somewhere between boredom and acceptance, I wore my mask like an armor. My icy visage covered a lifetime's worth of degradation. I'd forgotten what it meant to care."
Quote from a demon discovering the restroom :
"In a tiny room, I frowned at a little white seat and its pool of water. Was I meant to drink from that ? How did I get the water out ?"
This is a short story, but it sure packs a lot of efficiency. We finally get to take a closer look at where Muse came from - I admired her strong instincts of survival while having been raised in a demon dimension where everybody hates/despises her and uses her for a plaything.
I also loved seeing how Akil showed her a way out and appreciated the fact that she didn't blindly fall for him like it would have happened in a romance novel.
This story is dark and gritty, the heroin has a soft spot for chaos, so don't expect a fluffy read. Demons everywhere, people ! However, I gave those 58 pages 5 stars because the more I dived into this universe, the more I got hooked and the more I knew I just *had* to read more about it.
Definitely highly recommended !
Quotes :
"My expression stayed frozen. I'd perfected the mask of indifference long ago. Somewhere between boredom and acceptance, I wore my mask like an armor. My icy visage covered a lifetime's worth of degradation. I'd forgotten what it meant to care."
Quote from a demon discovering the restroom :
"In a tiny room, I frowned at a little white seat and its pool of water. Was I meant to drink from that ? How did I get the water out ?"
September 4, 2016
This prequel novella was released after the Veil series was already in progress, so I waited to read it just in case it would affect how I viewed the characters or the storylines. It would have been ok for me to start here, but it is more powerful as a flashback.
We learn early on book 1 that our heroine Muse has a tortured history from which she escaped. This is the story of how she makes that getaway. It shows us her meeting with Akil, the demon who changed her life… who taught her she had worth and how to fight. What’s interesting about this story is the perspective it gave me on Muse’s unusual relationship with the Demon of Greed. Part of me wondered how she could have such a draw to him –how she could have stayed with him for so many years. This story makes it easy to understand.
Basically, this is the beginning of Muse’s life, how she made it to the human world. It’s hard to see her as a slave, but it helps to watch her break her chains. Worth reading for fans and new readers, alike.
Rating: B/B+
We learn early on book 1 that our heroine Muse has a tortured history from which she escaped. This is the story of how she makes that getaway. It shows us her meeting with Akil, the demon who changed her life… who taught her she had worth and how to fight. What’s interesting about this story is the perspective it gave me on Muse’s unusual relationship with the Demon of Greed. Part of me wondered how she could have such a draw to him –how she could have stayed with him for so many years. This story makes it easy to understand.
Basically, this is the beginning of Muse’s life, how she made it to the human world. It’s hard to see her as a slave, but it helps to watch her break her chains. Worth reading for fans and new readers, alike.
Rating: B/B+
January 9, 2017
This is the first time that I have read anything by this author and it will not be the last! In fact, I have already downloaded the sequel. Anyone that likes science fiction or fantasy would enjoy this as it involves demons. This would also be a good book for readers that like women overcoming their fears. This is a very short read of about 58 pages.
November 13, 2014
Originally posted at:
* An eARC was provided by the author in exchange of an honest review.
This prequel was very enlightening. It was a very interesting back story for Muse. It takes place before the first book in the series and it shows her and Akil in a whole new light.
At first it made Akil seem like the protector, but by the end it showed him in his true nature. As much as I wanted to like him, I still can't get over the fact that he's a manipulative bastard. The end result will ALWAYS benefit him. It doesn't matter who gets caught in the cross fire (which is almost always Muse).
It also shows a whole new Muse. This is before she had her thick "human" skin and before she had the courage to stand up to the King Of Greed in the human world. She was a slave in the demon community because she's a half-blood. It's been beaten into her (quite literally) that she's no better then dirt, so why should she be treated with respect?
Conclusion: I can't wait to read Book #3 in this series!
Favorite Quotes:
"One day you will have vengeance, little half blood. You will stand upon a wasteland littered with your dead kin and you will be free".
"This will end. All things end. Perhaps this time, it would end for eternity".
"My icy visage covered a lifetimes worth of degradation. I'd forgotten what it meant to care".
* An eARC was provided by the author in exchange of an honest review.
This prequel was very enlightening. It was a very interesting back story for Muse. It takes place before the first book in the series and it shows her and Akil in a whole new light.
At first it made Akil seem like the protector, but by the end it showed him in his true nature. As much as I wanted to like him, I still can't get over the fact that he's a manipulative bastard. The end result will ALWAYS benefit him. It doesn't matter who gets caught in the cross fire (which is almost always Muse).
It also shows a whole new Muse. This is before she had her thick "human" skin and before she had the courage to stand up to the King Of Greed in the human world. She was a slave in the demon community because she's a half-blood. It's been beaten into her (quite literally) that she's no better then dirt, so why should she be treated with respect?
Conclusion: I can't wait to read Book #3 in this series!
Favorite Quotes:
"One day you will have vengeance, little half blood. You will stand upon a wasteland littered with your dead kin and you will be free".
"This will end. All things end. Perhaps this time, it would end for eternity".
"My icy visage covered a lifetimes worth of degradation. I'd forgotten what it meant to care".
March 30, 2016
Wow this was SO cool and left me super excited to read this series.
June 6, 2016
An interesting introduction to the series. Well written, I might be tempted to read more about Muse.
November 1, 2018
4.5 Stars... I really enjoyed this novella to "The Veil Series"... It depicts the time that Muse is owned by Daemon and the extent of the abuse she suffers; It also tells the story of the initial meeting with Ahkeel and subsequent relationship that develops... Pippa DaCosta delves into the complex nature of that relationship and allows the reader to develop insight into the distortions that occur for Muse in the first book that impacts some of her decision making... I found it intriguing how Muse despises her human self in this novella in relation to how she views this half of herself in the first book... Very insightful and well written; I wish I would have read it before the first book, it would have given me much needed insight into the main character.:)
October 2, 2017
There is this thing that DaCosta does where the action is all confused, you think a character is standing behind someone then suddenly she writes that they are in front etc. Sometimes you have to read those scenes a couple of times.
The reason that it's so irritating is that her stories are pretty cool otherwise.
The reason that it's so irritating is that her stories are pretty cool otherwise.
January 20, 2019
The Veil: 0.5
This book is set fifteen years before the main series starts and was written between books two and three. This book is pretty much near unrelenting suffering and suicidal thoughts. Muse has lived a lifetime of abuse and has nothing to live for, really. It's a grim read and the only positive thing to say about it is at least it didn't have any explicit sexual abuse, thought it is implied. The author acknowledges that this novella has a different feel than the main, so take that with a grain of salt. Without that disclaimer, I'd be disinclined to continue with the series, but I'll give it a shot. It just puzzles me why the author didn't come up with something to entice future readers, considering this is a prequel.
This book is set fifteen years before the main series starts and was written between books two and three. This book is pretty much near unrelenting suffering and suicidal thoughts. Muse has lived a lifetime of abuse and has nothing to live for, really. It's a grim read and the only positive thing to say about it is at least it didn't have any explicit sexual abuse, thought it is implied. The author acknowledges that this novella has a different feel than the main, so take that with a grain of salt. Without that disclaimer, I'd be disinclined to continue with the series, but I'll give it a shot. It just puzzles me why the author didn't come up with something to entice future readers, considering this is a prequel.
May 6, 2017
*** I'll like to thank Netgalley, Victory Editing and the Author Pippa DaCosta for sending me this digital copy of Wings of Hope in exchange for an honest review ***
I really enjoyed reading Wings of Hope. I haven't read the series yet but I've seen the books around and I've been curious about them. Since I haven't read the other books, I didn't know what to expect and what this series was really about. Once I read that it was about demons, I was hooked. I saw that it was interesting and I was intrigued. I wanted to know who Muse was and what Mammon really was up to. I disliked Da'mean right away, he needed to go.
We learn that Muse is basically a slave. She is a half blood, half demon and half human, seen as a lesser being, she could be killed and no one would care, how sad :-( She feared disobeying her owner, knowing what he's capable of. Muse was scared but she was also strong, she didn't yell out in pain, she took the abuse until she couldn't any longer. There were moments when she wanted to give up, she didn't care about the pain, she knew she can make it through it. She hoped that it would just end, that one day she would be free.
Her owner is Da'mean , he is cruel, violent, very abusive. He enjoys hurting her, loves hearing her scream, pretty messed up. He calls her his. Says she belongs to him. In this world half bloods are owned and traded when the owners get bored with them. I didn't like Da'mean, he was very possessive and violent. He would hurt Muse for the mistakes of others. I really just wanted Muse to kick his ass, but he was stronger. He is an Elemental, I believe that's what they are called. He has the power to control air. He is also huge compared to Muse who looks small and fragile.
We meet Mammon/Ahkeel, the Prince of Greed. I wasn't sure at first who he was going to be, a good guy or a bad guy. The Seven Prince's are considered evil. So when Muse meets him she obeyed him and feared for her life. Muse spends time with him cus she was ordered to. He tells her stories of humans and of a different place. She didn't want to believe him but soon she starts hoping of a different life, of going to the human world. Mammon gave her hope, taught her to use her fire power, and inspired her to not give up.
I liked reading this novella :-) it was a small quick taste of what this series is about. It has been a while since I've read about demons, I always did like reading about them, so it's nice to get back into the demon world. I do want to see what happens to these characters. So I'll be checking out Beyond the Veil :-) :-)
I really enjoyed reading Wings of Hope. I haven't read the series yet but I've seen the books around and I've been curious about them. Since I haven't read the other books, I didn't know what to expect and what this series was really about. Once I read that it was about demons, I was hooked. I saw that it was interesting and I was intrigued. I wanted to know who Muse was and what Mammon really was up to. I disliked Da'mean right away, he needed to go.
We learn that Muse is basically a slave. She is a half blood, half demon and half human, seen as a lesser being, she could be killed and no one would care, how sad :-( She feared disobeying her owner, knowing what he's capable of. Muse was scared but she was also strong, she didn't yell out in pain, she took the abuse until she couldn't any longer. There were moments when she wanted to give up, she didn't care about the pain, she knew she can make it through it. She hoped that it would just end, that one day she would be free.
Her owner is Da'mean , he is cruel, violent, very abusive. He enjoys hurting her, loves hearing her scream, pretty messed up. He calls her his. Says she belongs to him. In this world half bloods are owned and traded when the owners get bored with them. I didn't like Da'mean, he was very possessive and violent. He would hurt Muse for the mistakes of others. I really just wanted Muse to kick his ass, but he was stronger. He is an Elemental, I believe that's what they are called. He has the power to control air. He is also huge compared to Muse who looks small and fragile.
We meet Mammon/Ahkeel, the Prince of Greed. I wasn't sure at first who he was going to be, a good guy or a bad guy. The Seven Prince's are considered evil. So when Muse meets him she obeyed him and feared for her life. Muse spends time with him cus she was ordered to. He tells her stories of humans and of a different place. She didn't want to believe him but soon she starts hoping of a different life, of going to the human world. Mammon gave her hope, taught her to use her fire power, and inspired her to not give up.
I liked reading this novella :-) it was a small quick taste of what this series is about. It has been a while since I've read about demons, I always did like reading about them, so it's nice to get back into the demon world. I do want to see what happens to these characters. So I'll be checking out Beyond the Veil :-) :-)
October 11, 2014
If you've read the first two books in The Veil series, and loved them as much as I did, you won't want to miss Wings of Hope, where we catch a glimpse into Muse's life as a half-demon beyond the veil. In the netherworld, Muse has been kept as a plaything for the ruthless demon, Da'mean. Hundreds of years have passed, where she never imagined a life outside her confines. But when she meets Mammon, everything changes.
Mammon, also known as the Prince of Greed, shows Muse another way of life. While her human side has always been a source of shame, Mammon seems fascinated with the soft, fragile being within. He introduces her to the concept of freedom -- something Muse has trouble wrapping her head around -- and tells her there is a world beyond the veil... the human world.
There are tests along the way, and obstacles she must overcome, most notably learning to control her own abilities. But she follows Mammon's lead, and begins to embrace the concept of hope and freedom. Knowing that Da'mean will never willingly let her go, she makes her own plans, and wonders if escaping Da'mean will ultimately propel her toward something much worse. She is right to be concerned. After all, Mammon has warned her about his own motives as the Prince of Greed. As dangerous as it might be, hope is all she has left.
In a world filled with chaos, Muse is but a glimmer of the human she will later become. But as her story unfolds, it is easy to see how her experiences help to shape her emotions as a human, and her perceptions of the demon realm she once called home. Wings of Hope offers meaningful context to the series. A gripping tale, full of excitement and prospect!
Note: This book was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Mammon, also known as the Prince of Greed, shows Muse another way of life. While her human side has always been a source of shame, Mammon seems fascinated with the soft, fragile being within. He introduces her to the concept of freedom -- something Muse has trouble wrapping her head around -- and tells her there is a world beyond the veil... the human world.
There are tests along the way, and obstacles she must overcome, most notably learning to control her own abilities. But she follows Mammon's lead, and begins to embrace the concept of hope and freedom. Knowing that Da'mean will never willingly let her go, she makes her own plans, and wonders if escaping Da'mean will ultimately propel her toward something much worse. She is right to be concerned. After all, Mammon has warned her about his own motives as the Prince of Greed. As dangerous as it might be, hope is all she has left.
In a world filled with chaos, Muse is but a glimmer of the human she will later become. But as her story unfolds, it is easy to see how her experiences help to shape her emotions as a human, and her perceptions of the demon realm she once called home. Wings of Hope offers meaningful context to the series. A gripping tale, full of excitement and prospect!
Note: This book was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
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