Princes of the Underworld

Demon Queen Saga #1

by Olivia Ash, Lila Jean

Four immortal demon princes. One strong-willed human. A bewitched amulet that makes her Queen of the Underworld—and binds the five of them together.

Sadie Blackwood knows 2 things: she's broke as hell and doesn't know how much longer she can keep her paramedic job. She's exhausted, stressed, and starting to wish for a way out of her lonely life in Seattle. But when her sister Blair arrives unannounced in the middle of the night, covered in blood and carrying a glowing medallion, Sadie has no idea her wish is about to come true in the most violent of ways.

All of hell is after the amulet’s vast power. And when Blair puts it around Sadie’s neck, all of hell is suddenly after her as well.

Separated from Blair and with hardly any information to go on, Sadie finds herself surrounded by four stunning men—the warring demon brothers of the Underworld. The princes hate each other with a passion, and yet they’re bound to her side, captivated and ensnared by her magic.

In an instant, the amulet gives Sadie everything she ever wanted—wealth, power, even a fortress with a mind of its own. But she also inherits the amulet’s enemies, and they’re about to kick down her door.

Sadie has no idea who she can trust—except for her men. As she spends time with each of the supernatural princes who won’t leave her the hell alone, she falls for them. Hard. Though they can’t stand each other, she can’t imagine ruling her new kingdom without them all.

But this is the Underworld, the land of monsters and warlocks, of angels and deadly treachery.

The shadows of the Underworld hold secrets, and as her enemies close in on her new life, Sadie has to make a choice—surrender her newfound power, or stand as Queen and fight for the last remaining ounce of integrity and justice left in the Underworld.

There are armies at the gate. Traitors in the fortress. Blood on the walls. Good thing Sadie is too damn stubborn to quit.

Princes of the Underworld is a full-length reverse harem novel. Get ready for a captivating story, immortal romance, lip-biting love scenes, earth-shatteringly powerful magic, one kickass heroine, four stunning demon princes, lots of toned muscles, fights to the death, and edge-of-your-seat action.

READ THE WHOLE SERIES
The Demon Queen Saga: a steamy reverse harem series
Book 1: Princes of the Underworld
Book 2: Wars of the Underworld (December 2018)
Book 3: Mistress of the Underworld (February 2019)

Note: if you love the series, tell the author! Currently, Olivia plans to continue the Demon Queen Saga for up to 18 books if readers chime in and say they love it!

Warning: the Demon Queen Saga is an adult urban fantasy series with explicit scenes and is meant for adult readers who enjoy steamy romance and lip-biting action.

Genres: Fantasy, Demons, Paranormal Romance, Magic, Paranormal, Romance

494 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 14, 2018

About the author

Badass heroines. Sexy leading men. Steamy romance. And, of course, heart-pounding adventure filled with magic, whimsey, humor, and justice.

Olivia Ash spends her time dreaming up the perfect men to challenge, love, and protect her strong heroines (who actually don’t need protecting at all).

Reviews are the best way to show Olivia that you care about her stories and want other people to discover them. If you enjoyed any of her novels, please consider leaving a review here on Amazon. Every review helps her and she appreciates the time you take to write them.

Reviews

[Dena · Rating 4 out of 5]

Plotting and mayhem

I absolutely really do like this. I was very impressed with Sadie because of her way that she adapts to everything. This was a great story especially with the plot. However towards the end she annoyed me with her being so head strong and stubborn. Honestly it's like she has no organization or planning. Unfortunately it looks like she will need all her resources to stay alive which might become hard.

[Kelsi · Rating 2 out of 5]

Told she is strong, acts weak

So, I liked this book. I set out to read a RH with a strong heroine and this started out like a good kick butt story with a smart main character who takes her new situation in stride and endeavors to be strong and learn and use her skills to her advantage. Very alluring and empowering. Then the dreaded “strong but look! Also soft for love” troupe. I love that our girl is kind but she has no back bone. She makes rules for her sanity and privacy- but doesn’t hold onto them.

Spoilers below-
One of the guys involuntarily takes her freedom and choice away for * love and her safety* by putting a tracker on her without her knowledge. This book never addresses it but I have a bad feeling she is going to just forgive him for this transgression. Relationships are about respect and they don’t respect her or trust her to take care of herself. Is she insisting on mandatory trackers on the men too? Parity should be the game here. They would definitely not want her to keep track of them at all times but it’s chill if she gives up her freedom of privacy for their piece of mind? Ugh boring. Tired. Frustrating.

One Time. Just one time! I want one story where the main character is actually strong and sticks to her guns on being treated as an equal. If she gets a tracker, they need a tracker. If she has to tell all her secrets- so do they. They are angry that she goes off by herself (in her own home!) but they were walking around free as birds talking to their spies without her even knowing.

It’s almost like authors nowadays are only writing strong women characters with conviction to show all us normal women that even the strong give in and let men walk all over them. The strong also give away freedom, conviction, and respect in the name of love! They are just like us. Why lay down rules to assert your privacy and boundaries if they mean nothing? Why do the men get to just trapeze into her room, uninvited, and access her whenever they seem fit on their terms? Why can’t they respect her terms? Why can’t their relationships be dictated by her terms and have her come to them whenever she fancies?

This also seems nit picky and overall I wanted to give this book 4 or 5 stars but I’m pretty fed up with these strong people letting things slide and not being equals. Sadie wouldn’t even imagine asking the guys to give up their autonomy for their own good and wellbeing- and that is a terrible morale of all these types of stories. Be strong but give in because this is how things are between men and women. You have to be guarded, even if you are strong because they can’t stand you getting hurt. Please, these women’s are supposed to be powerful queens, not mindless women who lose their smarts and wit when pecs are involved. Where are the questions? Teamwork between equals? Strategizing and contributing smart, plausible ideas? Why have a brainstorming session for a war if the woman is just going suggest an implausible, stupid idea and then back off and let the boys decide everything? Is this just to highlight that she can’t possibly know best? How about Holding people in her life accountable for things like secrets, breaches of privacy, or unknown supernatural lojacks!

We are told she is powerful and their equal. But they don’t treat her as such and she just goes with it. I need to be shown by action and thoughts that this is the case. Please please please, someone write a story where the relationship creates an amazing powerhouse of a partnership with mutual respect of abilities. Have them truly mesh and have them be creative, cunning, and dominate together. Stop having the women give so much to make it work with alpha men- they need to learn to meet our girls half way or gasp god forbid meet her on her terms. God knows we need it.

End rant.

[The Mysterious Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Olivia Ash is a new author for me, but based on her Princes of the Underworld (Demon Queen Saga Book 1), I’m promising myself that we will become well acquainted. The book blurb totally hooked me once I read the line “There are armies at the gate. Traitors in the fortress. Blood on the walls. Good thing Sadie is too damn stubborn to quit.” If you find that lime interesting - and like a good reverse harem urban fantasy romance adventure (as this is a great one) then grab this book ASAP. This novel truly is, quite simply, wonderful. This tale had just what I wanted and was well written and with a great plot that had a truly “genuine” feel to it. Sadie, the lead here, is perfectly crafted and her supporting cast (especially her yummy four immortal demon princes) is also superb. But for the fact that I’m literally dictating this review to my husband from my hospital bed I could go on and on with praises - the book definitely deserves it. Since I can’t do that I will simply note that the book is most definitely one to read, it is easy to highly recommend and I’m definitely looking forward to book 2.

[Morgan Waggoner · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another great series from Olivia Ash

I might be new to Olivia ash but I’m plowing through her books. The stories are always wonderful and Princes of the Underworld didn’t disappoint.

I really enjoyed this take on “Hell” and I definitely loved the main character Sadie. She was a wonderful feminist power house and it’s great to see more of those in the fantasy romance genre.

My only complaints are this:

1) At times grammatical issues pulled me out of the story. Nothing that made me consider not finishing because seriously this story is great but sometimes I found my self having to reread a sentence multiple times.

2) The story has some holes. Now, this might just be a personal preference so take it with a grain of salt but sometimes I felt like there times we just skipped over information and other times it felt like there were random filler events that didn’t make sense or add to the plot. I just found myself wanting more at some points. This should say a lot about Ash though that I’m dying for more of her story. She’s incredibly talented and creative just seems like there’s a little polishing needed is all.

[Donna · Rating 4 out of 5]

This first book in the Demon Queen Saga really kicks the series off in style, with plenty of action, of both the romantic and violent kinds. I loved the different characters that the four brothers had, and the way they riffed off each other (though their smugness at times made me want to punch them!), and the writing and overall characterisation is really good. But Sadie is annoyingly stupid, especially when it came to Mara fooling her (posing as her sister working every time? Really?!) and the situation with the last Demon Queen. Someone really needs to give her a good kick up the bum so she gets her head sorted and acts as a woman instead of a naive fool.
However, overall it was a good story, and I did enjoy it. I'm looking forward to seeing what happens in book 2, and would recommend this starter to anyone who likes supernatural/paranormal stories with fighting, family, fun, friendship and a twist of romance.
NB I received a complimentary copy of this book, but I always give an HONEST review based wholly on my own opinions

[Chelsey · Rating 3 out of 5]

Just blah

This book took me over a week to finish and I usually finish books this size in a matter of hours. I just kept putting it down and then not wanting to go back to it. It wasn't bad per say, so much as it was boring. I didn't connect with the fmc at all. It was really weird the way she just accepted that she was now the demon queen and started bossing people around. I'm mean seriously, one minute she's running for her life and the next she's queen and she's totally cool with it because it just "feels right."

The guys talk a lot about how she's fixing their relationship for them but we never actually see her doing anything that would bind them together. The whole book is basically just Sadie telling us what she's doing rather than actually doing it.

I can't really recommend this but I kind of feel like this author is new to writing so it's possible that her skills will improve and the next book will be better. Regardless though, I don't think I'll be continuing this series.

[dominique massie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Olivia Ash does it again

I'm not sure how Ms. Ash has all the space in her brain to store, imagine, and concoct so many awesome stories, but I can only be grateful. Her different series never cease to amuse and entertain, and I for one can't be more excited about this new one (new to me at least ) I've started to read. The Demon Queen Saga is well written, the plot eventful, and the characters each bring something different to the table. Sadie the heroine is a smart, resilient, bad ass with a big heart. Big enough to fit four hunky brothers 😉 Lucky girl....
I would definitely recommend this book, even with people who think they might not like this genre. It's not raunchy, ( though there is absolutely Nothing wrong with that) it's got heart, soul, and humor. Give it a try and you won't be disappointed. Enjoy!

[Babi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Had to read it in one sitting!

I was totally engrossed in the story. I loved the individuality of each of the princes. Each prince has his own compelling personality right down to their fighting and lovemaking styles! The heroine, Sadie, is tough and strong, yes, but in a believable way. Magic only reinforces talents and qualities she already has. Even as she discovers and develops new skills, she remains who she is in essence. I really hope the author chooses to continue this series! Please, please.......

[Lauren Basey · Rating 2 out of 5]

So much potential

I usually really enjoy Olivia's books. I tried to like this one. The premise was there. But the execution was lacking. The way the MC just accepted everything without any explanation killed it. It started off so promising but 2 chapters in the story started devolving. It reads more like a first draft just to get the main plot down but lacks the details and filler to make it a true story. Also the way she sets rules and the men just disregard them from the start kills it for me.

[Denise · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this story, though it took me a little while to get settled into it. The heroine sure fell into her new Queen role fast. She went from paramedic to badass babe in no time. The four brothers who showed up, each wanting her as an ally, were totally bad too. I can't wait to see what happens now that Sadie has made her choice. And don't think I am going to tell you what her choice was, lol!

I was given an advanced copy of this book by the author. My review is voluntary.

[K · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good start

It was a good start to a wonderful new series. I really liked the main character, and her guys are just: wow. The only issue I had was near the beginning, with how easily she accepts all the changes, but once I got past that, I saw an amazing world with a lot of potential...would I read the next books: Hell yes! And if there are 17 more books where this came from...I'll be in Heaven

[Eveie Hickman · Rating 5 out of 5]

When Sadie’s sister Blair broke into her apartment and thrust a gem into her hand little did she know how her life would change. This is a story of love , and hate good and evil of demons and alliances. And of 4 demon princes who are fighting to be the one Sadie chooses. A great start to the series.

[Tommi Crow · Rating 5 out of 5]

A sexy thrilling ride.

When Sadie's sister, Blaire, shows up at her apartment uninvited. Sadie is thrust into a rollercoaster ride set in the underworld. Sadie is courted by four demon princes who have her hot and bothered.


Read this emotional thriller of a reverse haram saga.

[Ms. Cyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Enjoyed

I overall enjoyed this story. My only issue with it is the beginning part where Sadie says she will only choose one of the brothers to stay. I understand why it was done and it makes some sense but it still irritates me.

[Sherri Morris · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very enjoyable great reading

I really enjoyed this book and loved the characters and how they came together. I am glad that the guys accepted her decision and that Sadie got rid of Mara.

[Patti · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good book

The characters are a bit hard to like ,especially the men but they work hard to show they are worthy. I do wish they had more commendable qualities and weren't so focused on competing.

[April · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read

This is a good start to a new series. I love the main characters and it has a really good plot. I can't wait to see what happens next.

[Ed Fairchild · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great reading

A book that holds you from the minute you start reading. Never knowing what's coming next. Keeps you hunting for more.

[Dharia Scarab · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not bad, I just prefer a different POV.

[Linda · Rating 4 out of 5]

3,5

[a]

DNF this book at 1/4
The heroine is not coherent at all.

[Toni ~married to a hunk~ · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a great book. I loved how fast paced it was and how bad A&& she is. I can't wait to get to the next one. I hope that Hecate isn't going to be a problem but since she is a ghost she shouldn't be. I hope that Zagan isn't to hard to defeat either.

[Elizabeth Curtin · Rating 2 out of 5]

I really thought I would enjoy the premise of this book: Sadie, a human woman, is unexpectedly forced into a world of demons and magic. Not just as some bystander to the action, but as Demon Queen alongside some very hunky demon princes. I really thought that I could get behind this reverse harem. In the end, I felt this book only skimmed the surface for me.

We start off meeting Sadie on the fateful night that her life changes forever. She’s just come off her shift from being a paramedic, and has found her sister in her apartment. Blair is bloody and disheveled, bringing along a lot more trouble than Sadie bargained for. It’s almost hard to believe how quickly Sadie seemed to believe in the existence of magic when encountering it for the first time, she’s not scared or confused, she literally just fights her way out of it with cool confidence. This is a continuing theme throughout the book as she encounters multiple scenarios where she remains calm and adjusts very quickly to new, rapid fire information.

It was fun and exciting to read about the world that Sadie had found herself thrust into. She’s teleported to a literal world of fire and finds it to be her domain. Her reaction to the revelation... is normalcy. She acts and feels as if her role as queen is natural, already barking off orders and taking to her position with a tremendous amount of ease. I found it really hard to relate to her character throughout the novel. She just adapted too well to each situation and never showed any real vulnerability, even when it came to her missing sister. Sure, there were moments when she grieved for a hot sec, but it was quickly forgotten and she quickly moved past it.

I also had a hard time with the demon princes. Although very different in terms of personality archetypes, they were all so one dimensional. In fact, most of the characters in this book were one dimensional.

I wish that Olivia Ash had gone deeper into the feelings Sadie was feeling when she was first introduced to the world around her. I know that she is supposed to have “survival mode” training from her paramedic work, but I can’t help but think that there are limits, especially when after the immediate threat has worn off, there needs to be release of emotion somehow. I wish she had struggled more in trying to fit into her new role as Demon Queen. I can only hope that some of these things are resolved for the next book, if I plan on reading more of this series.

Regardless, it was a harmless and fun read. I think if you’re looking for a new reverse harem series set in a fantastical world with a self-reliant female lead, then this is the book for you.