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Demon Enforcers #5
Demon Betrayed
Katana Midland can’t catch a break. She finally sells her first big graphic novel—complete with the scorching hot guardian angel who’s been haunting her dreams—only to have her apocalyptic tale come to life.
Now there are magic bombs dropping on New York, demons running through the streets, and a deadly cabal of sorcerers gunning for her and her angel. Has she finally met the perfect hero only to lose him?
Hugh of the Syx, the most devious demon of an elite squad of brutal enforcers, has a problem. His one shot at redemption is to convince a human female that he’s—wait for it—an angel, because she’s more psychic than a box of Magic 8 Balls and the Syx’s only chance at fixing a world gone mad.
From the moment Hugh jumps off the page and into Kat’s life, she triggers emotions he didn’t know he could feel—and desires he wants more than anything to be real. But every step they get closer to the end of Katana’s twisted tale is one step closer to their story ending, forever.
The truth will never set you free when you’re a Demon Betrayed.
Now there are magic bombs dropping on New York, demons running through the streets, and a deadly cabal of sorcerers gunning for her and her angel. Has she finally met the perfect hero only to lose him?
Hugh of the Syx, the most devious demon of an elite squad of brutal enforcers, has a problem. His one shot at redemption is to convince a human female that he’s—wait for it—an angel, because she’s more psychic than a box of Magic 8 Balls and the Syx’s only chance at fixing a world gone mad.
From the moment Hugh jumps off the page and into Kat’s life, she triggers emotions he didn’t know he could feel—and desires he wants more than anything to be real. But every step they get closer to the end of Katana’s twisted tale is one step closer to their story ending, forever.
The truth will never set you free when you’re a Demon Betrayed.
291 pages, ebook
First published September 29, 2022
10 people are currently reading
85 people want to read
About the author
Jenn Stark
34 books439 followersMost recent release:
Working on: The Lost Queen, Dec. 2018
Jenn Stark is a Golden Heart award-winning author of paranormal romance and urban fantasy. She lives and writes in Ohio. . . and she definitely loves to write. :) In addition to her urban fantasy Immortal Vegas and Wilde Justice series and her paranormal romance Demon Enforcers series, she is also author Jennifer McGowan, whose Maids of Honor series of Young Adult Elizabethan spy romances are published by Simon & Schuster, and author Jennifer Chance, whose Rule Breakers series of New Adult contemporary romances are published by Random House/LoveSwept and whose modern royals series, Gowns & Crowns, is now available.
This author also goes by Jennifer McGowan. See that Goodreads author page
here .
Working on: The Lost Queen, Dec. 2018
Jenn Stark is a Golden Heart award-winning author of paranormal romance and urban fantasy. She lives and writes in Ohio. . . and she definitely loves to write. :) In addition to her urban fantasy Immortal Vegas and Wilde Justice series and her paranormal romance Demon Enforcers series, she is also author Jennifer McGowan, whose Maids of Honor series of Young Adult Elizabethan spy romances are published by Simon & Schuster, and author Jennifer Chance, whose Rule Breakers series of New Adult contemporary romances are published by Random House/LoveSwept and whose modern royals series, Gowns & Crowns, is now available.
This author also goes by Jennifer McGowan. See that Goodreads author page
here .
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
September 25, 2022
Jenn Stark always manages to surprise me with her incredible imagination. And this book in the Demon Enforcers series is a cut above her usual! Good heavens! What a mind!
We get Hugh's story in Demon Betrayed, which I know we've all been waiting for. And Jenn took a crazy turn when she put Hugh's story down on paper (so to speak). It is Hugh's turn to work at redemption, and he truly believes he'll never be able to do it since his sin was deceit, and lying is his best talent. It comes so naturally to Hugh that he's certain he won't be able to keep from lying to the woman he has been called upon to help. His entire job begins with a lie, so how can he avoid it?
Katana Midland writes graphic novels... backward. She draws the story first, then the words come. Slowly. Now that she's finally been accepted by a publisher, she believes she has finally made it. Only her novel, Dead End, appears to be causing chaos everywhere she looks. Only, how? It's fiction. She wrote it, so she knows. Now the craziness inside seems to be matching the craziness outside. And when Kat meets Hugh the Destroyer, whom she believes to be her personal guardian angel, she is certain she's losing her already fragile mind.
But is she? Hugh has a pretty good idea what is going on, but can he convince Kat that he's right?
Demon Betrayed is singularly the most inventive book in the series yet. So totally unexpected a storyline, you will find yourself completely engrossed in the strange goings-on (and all this right after The Shattered Tower, where we lost most of the Arcana Council), with the Syx left almost completely on their own to do what they can to fix things.
With cameos from people like Michael, Death, and the rest of the Syx team, this storyline ties quite a bit together yet leaves us with plenty of questions for the next book. More than anything, I love the way Jenn's mind works. The twists and turns her imagination takes make it so her books are never boring. And Demon Betrayed is not only no exception, it's also ten steps sideways from the other four members of the Syx who have completed their tasks.
Once again, I am impressed with how Jenn Stark makes sure her series are never predictable and always exciting. Excellent work, Jenn Stark! Excellent work, indeed! You never disappoint! I can't recommend this book enough!
I received this book as an advanced copy. My review is in my own words and written of my own volition.
We get Hugh's story in Demon Betrayed, which I know we've all been waiting for. And Jenn took a crazy turn when she put Hugh's story down on paper (so to speak). It is Hugh's turn to work at redemption, and he truly believes he'll never be able to do it since his sin was deceit, and lying is his best talent. It comes so naturally to Hugh that he's certain he won't be able to keep from lying to the woman he has been called upon to help. His entire job begins with a lie, so how can he avoid it?
Katana Midland writes graphic novels... backward. She draws the story first, then the words come. Slowly. Now that she's finally been accepted by a publisher, she believes she has finally made it. Only her novel, Dead End, appears to be causing chaos everywhere she looks. Only, how? It's fiction. She wrote it, so she knows. Now the craziness inside seems to be matching the craziness outside. And when Kat meets Hugh the Destroyer, whom she believes to be her personal guardian angel, she is certain she's losing her already fragile mind.
But is she? Hugh has a pretty good idea what is going on, but can he convince Kat that he's right?
Demon Betrayed is singularly the most inventive book in the series yet. So totally unexpected a storyline, you will find yourself completely engrossed in the strange goings-on (and all this right after The Shattered Tower, where we lost most of the Arcana Council), with the Syx left almost completely on their own to do what they can to fix things.
With cameos from people like Michael, Death, and the rest of the Syx team, this storyline ties quite a bit together yet leaves us with plenty of questions for the next book. More than anything, I love the way Jenn's mind works. The twists and turns her imagination takes make it so her books are never boring. And Demon Betrayed is not only no exception, it's also ten steps sideways from the other four members of the Syx who have completed their tasks.
Once again, I am impressed with how Jenn Stark makes sure her series are never predictable and always exciting. Excellent work, Jenn Stark! Excellent work, indeed! You never disappoint! I can't recommend this book enough!
I received this book as an advanced copy. My review is in my own words and written of my own volition.
September 29, 2022
“Demon Betrayed” is the fifth book in the “Demon Enforcers Series”, by Jenn Stark, which focusses on the Syx, a group of demons once brought into the narrative by Sara Wilde in one of her former adventures in the “Immortal Vegas Series”.
The Syx are former Angels, who after their Fall were turn into Demons and became the Enforcers, an elite group which, under the oversight of Michael the Archangel, polices the actions of demons this side of the Veil. Each of the books is dedicated to one of the members of the Syx, and now finally is time for Hugh to find redemption. The story is a rich canopy of events, interweaving adventure and romance, with a quest for redemption and the eternal question about the possibility of walking the line between good and evil, hoping to remain unscathed. Hugh has been my favorite Styx from the very beginning thus I came into the story with huge expectation, and even so…. the plot met them with ease and then some more. This is the best book in the series, I could be biased 😉 as Hugh is my favorite Styx, but…. no…. this is the best book in the series nevertheless 😊. Witnessing Hugh going to the motions, and hoping against hope that his quest leads to salvation is not only entertaining but also equally heartbreaking and heart-warming, and… I’ve already said enough… let us stop right here, before I inadvertedly spoil the tale 😉
As always Jenn Stark takes us for a ride in a perfectly crafted world with a spotless prose and the exact needed garnish of wit with generous servings of innuendo. The Demon Enforcer Series is a more mature reading than the original “Immortal Vegas” , but nevertheless nicely packed and elegantly carried out. I keep repeating myself… gladly! Stark is one the best Urban Fantasy authors ever, she possesses the rare ability to weave very serious and realistic themes in fantasy frame that feels oddly familiar.
Jenn Stark Urban Fantasy Verse encompasses three Series: the original "Immortal Vegas", the Spin-On/Sequel "Wilde Justice" and the Spin-Off "Demon Enforcers". Every one of the three is a clear recommendation to every lover of intelligent and good crafted urban fantasy.
The Syx are former Angels, who after their Fall were turn into Demons and became the Enforcers, an elite group which, under the oversight of Michael the Archangel, polices the actions of demons this side of the Veil. Each of the books is dedicated to one of the members of the Syx, and now finally is time for Hugh to find redemption. The story is a rich canopy of events, interweaving adventure and romance, with a quest for redemption and the eternal question about the possibility of walking the line between good and evil, hoping to remain unscathed. Hugh has been my favorite Styx from the very beginning thus I came into the story with huge expectation, and even so…. the plot met them with ease and then some more. This is the best book in the series, I could be biased 😉 as Hugh is my favorite Styx, but…. no…. this is the best book in the series nevertheless 😊. Witnessing Hugh going to the motions, and hoping against hope that his quest leads to salvation is not only entertaining but also equally heartbreaking and heart-warming, and… I’ve already said enough… let us stop right here, before I inadvertedly spoil the tale 😉
As always Jenn Stark takes us for a ride in a perfectly crafted world with a spotless prose and the exact needed garnish of wit with generous servings of innuendo. The Demon Enforcer Series is a more mature reading than the original “Immortal Vegas” , but nevertheless nicely packed and elegantly carried out. I keep repeating myself… gladly! Stark is one the best Urban Fantasy authors ever, she possesses the rare ability to weave very serious and realistic themes in fantasy frame that feels oddly familiar.
Jenn Stark Urban Fantasy Verse encompasses three Series: the original "Immortal Vegas", the Spin-On/Sequel "Wilde Justice" and the Spin-Off "Demon Enforcers". Every one of the three is a clear recommendation to every lover of intelligent and good crafted urban fantasy.
September 29, 2022
Demon Betrayed is Hugh of the Syx’s story and it is action packed! Kat is eking out a living as a graphic designer while working on her own graphic novels. She’s at an in-store meet and greet when magical bombs begin dropping on New York and her novel seems to be coming to life. Enter Hugh, who looks like a character from her novel and the funny part is, he’s a character she killed off. Soon Kat and Hugh are working together to defeat the evil sorcerers who unleashed demons and green smoke on the world and Kat’s unsure if she’s writing the story or if she’s living the story she wrote.
I really enjoyed Kat, she was well written, and I liked how her Connected-ness manifested. She’s different from any other characters that we’ve met and her skill has amazing potential. Hugh is what we expect from the Syx, he’s strong, loyal, and protective of those important to him. I liked Death’s role in the novel, and I hope we see more of her in the next book. I also am looking forward to understanding more of Michael’s actions as well. This is another great book in the series, it’s fast paced with lots of action and I loved how Kat handled all the curve balls she was thrown. I definitely enjoyed it and highly recommend it!
I really enjoyed Kat, she was well written, and I liked how her Connected-ness manifested. She’s different from any other characters that we’ve met and her skill has amazing potential. Hugh is what we expect from the Syx, he’s strong, loyal, and protective of those important to him. I liked Death’s role in the novel, and I hope we see more of her in the next book. I also am looking forward to understanding more of Michael’s actions as well. This is another great book in the series, it’s fast paced with lots of action and I loved how Kat handled all the curve balls she was thrown. I definitely enjoyed it and highly recommend it!
September 29, 2022
The latest installment in the tale of redemption for the Syx starts with the introduction of Katana, an aspiring graphic novel illustrator. Hugh comes into the story later in the aftermath of latest attack from the Shadow Court. Both Katana and Hugh are set to deceive each other; of course for the others protection. Trust for these two is not easily given or accepted having been burnt by trust in the past.
Both come to understand there is more to see than meets the eye. Strange events are changing the world forever and the pair must work to find and stop the Shadow Courts nefariousness plans. The only problem is Katana doesn’t know her stories are more than panels she has drawn, the reality of her art is much greater and Hugh doesn’t trust humanity. What could go wrong?
A wonderful setup for an intriguing tale of hope and redemption. As always a pleasure to read even with the dark nature of the world. Free will is what damns us and free will is what can save us. Looking forward to the next and last(?) in the series where all of the Syx will have had their shot at redemption. Read on with relish!
Both come to understand there is more to see than meets the eye. Strange events are changing the world forever and the pair must work to find and stop the Shadow Courts nefariousness plans. The only problem is Katana doesn’t know her stories are more than panels she has drawn, the reality of her art is much greater and Hugh doesn’t trust humanity. What could go wrong?
A wonderful setup for an intriguing tale of hope and redemption. As always a pleasure to read even with the dark nature of the world. Free will is what damns us and free will is what can save us. Looking forward to the next and last(?) in the series where all of the Syx will have had their shot at redemption. Read on with relish!
October 1, 2022
Demon Betrayed is the redemption story we didn’t realize we were waiting for
Katana, a graphic artist/oracle, is a fresh and dynamic character. She has such an amazing ability, yet has been taught to doubt herself. But when the world falls apart she leaps into action, in a very uncharacteristic manner, both to set things on the right path and to save her “Guardian Angel.”
Enter Hugh, an Angel charged to protect humanity. Millenia ago he wanted humans to be a little more self-reliant and told them a lie to boost their confidence. Of course they humans took it too far, causing Hugh to be cast out. But now in order for Katana to help save the world, more lies of comfort and encouragement, and of his true identity, must be told.
This is a fast-paced book filled with a lot of exciting twists. To me, it’s much more than a book in a spin-off series that the other wonderful Demon Enforcers books have been. It is a roadmap to where the whole world built with the foundation of the Immortal Vegas & Wilde Justice series are ready to go. And the roads are wide open for adventure.
Katana, a graphic artist/oracle, is a fresh and dynamic character. She has such an amazing ability, yet has been taught to doubt herself. But when the world falls apart she leaps into action, in a very uncharacteristic manner, both to set things on the right path and to save her “Guardian Angel.”
Enter Hugh, an Angel charged to protect humanity. Millenia ago he wanted humans to be a little more self-reliant and told them a lie to boost their confidence. Of course they humans took it too far, causing Hugh to be cast out. But now in order for Katana to help save the world, more lies of comfort and encouragement, and of his true identity, must be told.
This is a fast-paced book filled with a lot of exciting twists. To me, it’s much more than a book in a spin-off series that the other wonderful Demon Enforcers books have been. It is a roadmap to where the whole world built with the foundation of the Immortal Vegas & Wilde Justice series are ready to go. And the roads are wide open for adventure.
September 25, 2022
What a great story with richly nuanced characters, non-stop action and an elaborately described world in chaos. The Demon Betrayed is Hugh of the Syx, and the action takes place after the events of The Shattered Tower in Jenn Stark's Wilde Justice series. It can be read as a stand alone, but is so much more interesting if you have read the earlier books in both series.
This tale sees comic book creator Katana try to save the world by reenacting the actions of the heroine of her as yet unreleased book, which weirdly seems to be coming true. She is supported by Hugh as she works her way through the strangeness, learning to live with her peculiar power as she goes along.
As with all of Jenn Stark's books, this is a must-read and a welcome return to her complex world and the company of the Syx. I couldn't put it down!
This tale sees comic book creator Katana try to save the world by reenacting the actions of the heroine of her as yet unreleased book, which weirdly seems to be coming true. She is supported by Hugh as she works her way through the strangeness, learning to live with her peculiar power as she goes along.
As with all of Jenn Stark's books, this is a must-read and a welcome return to her complex world and the company of the Syx. I couldn't put it down!
September 30, 2022
The worlds Jenn Stark creates are always so vivid and enjoyable, This one, like all the others, is fast paced and action packed; it tells the story of Hugh of the Syx and Katana.
Her powers were unknown to her but they turned out to be world changing and pretty cool. Hugh, after thinking her as just another human, realizes there is nothing more fundamental to him than protecting her no matter what. The plot moves quickly and thrillingly, and moves the story on from the last Wilde Justice (that book was sooo good!). The side plot of the two Arcana Council members is unexpected and I can't wait to learn more about their story.
If you haven't dived into Jenn Stark's imagination yet, stop waiting!
Her powers were unknown to her but they turned out to be world changing and pretty cool. Hugh, after thinking her as just another human, realizes there is nothing more fundamental to him than protecting her no matter what. The plot moves quickly and thrillingly, and moves the story on from the last Wilde Justice (that book was sooo good!). The side plot of the two Arcana Council members is unexpected and I can't wait to learn more about their story.
If you haven't dived into Jenn Stark's imagination yet, stop waiting!
October 2, 2022
Hugh of the Syx and Kat of the "I'm so Confused!!" was a great read, as usually from this author. I loved the info on how graphic novels come to be and I really enjoyed Kat and her confusion as to what she is and capable of. Hugh was interesting but I kinda felt there should have been a little bit more depth (?) to him. Overall the story was great with the different twists and turns and I can't wait for the next installment of the Syx, especially looking forward to the outcome of Michael. Highly recommend and read all Ms. Stark's books.
October 16, 2022
I've read this book twice already. The first time I was just home from surgery and I was only able to read a little at a time. This book is so full of twist and turns this just didn't do the book justice. I loved how Jen gave Kat such an amazing talent yet Kat still wasn't sure she was worthy. Her Angel in disguise, Hugh was of course just what she needed both mentally and physically. It is fast paced and full of new and old characters. I cannot wait to read the final Enforcers book as each has been a great read.
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September 29, 2022Wow.... just WOW! This is an enthralling, action-packed, blockbuster of a book! Hugh, the demon and a member of the Syx, crosses 'comic'-al paths with Sorcia Steele... and then it all becomes real when he meets Katana! A fantastical original storyline that is immediately gripping and never lets go! I love Jenn Starks' writing and originality. This book is one of her best works and is VERY highly recommended! I can't wait for her next book!
October 2, 2022
Once again Jenn takes us back to those sexy demons. This time it is Hugh's story and oh my goodness yiu will not be disappointed, I know I wasn't. If you haven't read any of the Stryx books please please do yourself a favor and get going. You will love them just like all of Jenns other books. I wasmunsure if I could love other characters as much as I love Sarah but oh my these demons are just the right kind of aught but nice
October 2, 2022
The Syx are still working towards redemption but the chaos has perhaps exacted too high of a price. Hugh needs to step up and work his magic with the graphic novel author to help her in her journey with her newly found magic.
The continuation of the Arcana Council’s struggle in this novel is wonderfully seamless and reminds you of the connection of the Syx to everyone in this universe. A very fast but complex read.
The continuation of the Arcana Council’s struggle in this novel is wonderfully seamless and reminds you of the connection of the Syx to everyone in this universe. A very fast but complex read.
October 6, 2022
I am a big fan of Jenn Stark's work, but Hugh was always the demon enforcer I liked the less, a bit too easy on the jokes and funny stuff... but he has surprising depth. Jenn Stark is able to make us like even people that we thought we wouldn't be able to relate to. I adored Katana, and I think Hugh and her are another imperfectly perfect for each other couple. I couldn't put it down until I was done once I started. I recommend her to all my friends!
September 24, 2022
The pace unrelenting, Hugh and Katana head for the Shadow City after a devastating shadow strike. This unique storyline builds, and when you realize what is happening, it gives you chills at the implications. The world in chaos, and humans cannot see it. Such a good thriller. Could be read as a standalone, but your experience will be so much richer if you read the other story's of the Syx.
September 29, 2022
So hard to write without spoiling the fun. If you have been on the Arcana journey, you will know my joy of a new Demon story! I loved everything about this book! The twists and turns and the fun easter eggs along the way! I was so excited I pre-ordered before I even got my ARC! Grab it, grab it now!
This is a joyous review of my ARC, and a happy pre-ordered one click!
This is a joyous review of my ARC, and a happy pre-ordered one click!
September 29, 2022
Demon Betrayed picks up after the battle between the Arcana Council and Shadow Court. A massive surprise at the beginning makes the chance of redemption for the Syx questionable for the final two. This is the chance for Hugh to follow his path and help Katana, a graphic artist/author finish her story.
This book was a fantastic edition and a pleasure to read.
This book was a fantastic edition and a pleasure to read.
September 30, 2022
Huge fan of Jenn Stark but this was my first book in this series. How have I missed them?
An excellent read that keeps you on your toes. The start of the book is a little chaotic but as Kat begins to make sense of her purpose, both the story and the storyline come together beautifully. Loved seeing more of Hugh and can’t wait to go back and see the other Syx in action in their stories.
An excellent read that keeps you on your toes. The start of the book is a little chaotic but as Kat begins to make sense of her purpose, both the story and the storyline come together beautifully. Loved seeing more of Hugh and can’t wait to go back and see the other Syx in action in their stories.
October 5, 2022
Wow. What a very very clever, well written book. Blew my mind as I read it about how Kats powers manifest. (No spoilers).
Definitely a fantastic read, I feel it works better with the other books in this Syx series and Sara Wilde series (plural) as background, but it can be read without. But why would you, it's so brilliant!?!
Definitely a fantastic read, I feel it works better with the other books in this Syx series and Sara Wilde series (plural) as background, but it can be read without. But why would you, it's so brilliant!?!
October 6, 2022
This is the next book in the series about the Syx, but comes after the Shattered Tower. Such a great series if you are looking for your next box set. I love the way each of these books gives more information about the world Jenn Stark has created with breadcrumbs for following books. This book really starts with a bang, lots of action, interesting sexy characters – definitely a recommended read.
October 7, 2022
Fantastic page turner that keeps you guessing and I could not put this down. A wonderful return to the world of the Syx and I liked the continuity from The Shattered Tower. A wonderful blend of old characters with new and the storyline is brilliant and intriguing. Can’t wait for the next one but now going to reread this one and the others in the series.
October 7, 2022
I loved the cross over with the Arcana Council series, and the way that it was set just after the end of that last book. The context was very original (although I struggled to wrap my head round it at times). This series can definitely be read independently of each other and I totally recommend them to anyone who enjoys fantastical romantic fiction.
September 30, 2022
Demon Betrayed is another awesome addition to this series and a credit to the writing of Jenn Stark. The imagination, character creation, and action-filled storyline are everything and more that one would expect from Ms. Stark as she never disappoints in developing such incredible stories.
October 1, 2022
The latest in a line of killer books written by a talented author. Never fails to keep me reading from beginning to end, all too often in one sitting and into the wee hours of the morning. This one is no different, Magic and Angel's and Demon Enforcers, oh my!
October 4, 2022
I loved the prologue. This book is amazing like all of Jenn's book. Hugh and Kat have a great chemistry as they try to find the path to the remainder of the shadow court after what happen with the arcana council thru a comic book novel.
October 28, 2022
Such an interesting book! Katana has such an unusual gift for a connected. She has envisioned Hugh since she was a child and the future has many outcomes. To say too much would spoil the story but it is so amazing! Learn about possible outcomes of the future and Michael part in the future.
November 6, 2022
Fabulous installment! Hugh and Katana's story is fast paced. It's a story of deception, hard hitting truths, betrayals, redemptions, hard hitting magic, and slow smoldering passion. I cannot wait for the final book...
December 5, 2022
Jenn Stark continues to write amazing books! Demon Betrayed is fast paced, intriguing, and well written. The book contains both new characters as well as some that we are already familiar with. If you have never read anything written by Jenn Stark, you are missing out!
December 9, 2022
My new favorite of the Demon Enforcer series! I enjoyed the complexity of the story (no spoilers) and Katana and Hugh's relationship. The integration of the graphic novel aspect was unique and masterfully done. I also really appreciated the vulnerable of Hugh's character.
February 11, 2023
Each and every book in this series is better than the last, but creeps closer to the end of the series! Katana and Hugh are a wonderful couple, and the story is gripping til the last page! You'll love it!
September 30, 2022
Loved the characters and suspense of the storyline and the action between the characters. Can't wait for the next one
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews