Former fallen angel, current smokin’ hot enforcer, and all-around demon most likely to get the girl, Stefan of the Syx knows women better than they know themselves. He should, because once upon a time, one of them caused his brutal damnation.
All these millennia later, however, Stefan still can’t resist a pretty smile. So when he learns his chance at redemption entails pairing up with a gorgeous redheaded spitfire, he’s ready to rock—until the other pitchfork drops. Because the bold, impulsive Cressida Frain’s not only a woman, she’s a witch. And a hookup between witches and demons is one of the few hard stops in Stefan’s book of Go.
Unfortunately, this is one offer Stefan can’t refuse. To keep her new position as high priestess for her coven, Cressida must lead her people in an ultimate showdown against evil. To help her succeed, Stefan must allow Cressida to take him, break him and bind him to her—body and soul. But neither of them are prepared for what happens next…
It’s out of the cauldron and into the fire when you’re a Demon Bewitched.
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.
Stefan is the next member of the Syx up for redemption and, as the title Demon Bewitched might suggest, we find Stefan having to pose as the consort for the high priestess of the Scepter Coven who is gathering her power in order to defeat the age-old demon Ahriman as is foretold in their grimoire.
For as long as she can remember Cressida has been told she’s special, powerful. That she will lead the coven against Ahriman. But when she takes Stefan as one of her consorts in order to expand her power, she begins to question everything she’s ever been told.
Stefan finds himself drawn to the young witch who has been put in such a place of authority. Cressida reminds him of the reason why he became a demon in the first place and therefore he tries to keep his distance, get the job done, and earn his redemption. Which proves to be easier said than done.
Stefan has earned the place as my favorite member of the Syx—at least thus far. We didn’t really know much about the Syx, aside from Warrick, before this series began and I’ve enjoyed meeting and learning about each of them, but Stefan immediately just got my attention. He’s snarky and bold. He just has this pop of personality that jumps off the page and commands attention. Plus, he brings a much-needed reality check to Cressida, who kind of seems oblivious.
I’d say the thing that irked me the most was the off-feeling I got in regards to the coven. I mean from the very first page, as much as Stefan stood out, the coven also stood out for the fact that things just didn’t add up right. I felt like these were things right in front of Cressida’s face yet there’s little to no acknowledgement that something is wrong. It’s an interesting idea and I think that feeling of wrongness is intentional, but I just felt like, in the end, it still didn’t piece together well with how things wrap up. Almost like Cressida stumbles upon answers haphazardly as opposed to figuring things out on her own regardless of how much they might change her perception of the coven.
I liked the way that this book builds upon the varying ideas of what it means to be redeemed and how it has differed for each member of the Syx. I wish I could talk about Stefan’s exact case without giving any spoilers because it’s an interesting idea about belief and faith and accountability.
I enjoyed the application of the marriage of convenience trope in demon form in Demon Bewitched. I always love when I can spot a good trope and see how it can be used across genres. Stefan and Cressida’s early interactions are quite comical as they each make assumptions about one another that are off the mark. Stefan in taking Cressida’s youth as inexperience, and Cressida seeing Stefan’s demon self as horrendous. What brings them together is, at first, their common goal and from there they learn that assumptions are usually wrong.
I continue to enjoy this series apart from the Sara Wilde stories. With three more books to go, I’m even more interested in learning about the other members of the Syx and seeing where their redemption takes them in the end.
How is a person supposed to reconcile loving and hating a sappy love story? By reading one like this, I guess. I have always hated sappy love stories. Always. But when you give me one with such an exciting storyline, how can I help but love it?
Stefan is one of the more amusing of the Syx and definitely one of the most fun to read. Put him together with a straight-laced, full of herself head priestess of the first coven and that's a road map to some of the goofiest snark! Who would open themselves to snark as readily as someone who just takes herself altogether too seriously like Cressida does? And who better to deliver the snark than a Demon Enforcer who doesn't take anything seriously until it's almost too late.
Add in her Captain of the Guard and best friend, Dahlia, who is just as wrapped up in herself and Jim Granger, an exorcist supreme who catches her eye against her better judgment and you have more than enough fodder for snarky comments that give a giggle even when serious business is going on.
This was an extremely entertaining addition to the Demon Enforcers series, and once again shows me how well Jenn Stark puts together a storyline while building characters that you're either going to grudgingly love or love to hate. For me, Demon Enforcers is a fun and entertaining series to keep me occupied while I'm waiting for her next Wilde Justice book.
You're still one of my very favorite authors, Jenn Stark! And will be as long as you keep giving me books like this to read. Very Very Well Done, Jenn, Very Very Well done indeed!
This book was given as an ARC with the hope of an honest and unsolicited review. I write this in my own words and of my own volition.
4.8 Stars actually. This book as usual sucks you in and you have a really hard time putting it down, but for me it took a bit of time to get into it before that happened. When it did, I stayed up most of a night to finish it. Can I say this..I really hated Marcus and I know Jenn wrote him that way, but I really, really, hated him. I'm not too keen on the arch-angel Micheal either lately. The action is packed and as usual non-stop. Very different from the other two Syx books which was nice. Can't wait to see what the next ones bring. Cressida had me cheering for her and being wary of everyone around her, but Stefan. I loved that Sara Wilde shows up with her snarkiness, but would have loved to have had more of her in it. Just a bit more where she comes in and you will see what I mean when you get to that part. Hey what's not to like? Witches, demons, magic and love all wrapped up in a wonderfully told package! Others have told you the story in their review. I won't you can read what it's about from the editor. I'm just telling you that this is a well told book that will carry you along to an ending that you might have seen coming, but so not the way it wad written. Enjoy this lastest Syx installment while we wait for Sara Wilde's next installment. * *Copy provided in exchange for an honest review
"Demon Bewitched" is the third installment in the Demon Enforcers series dedicated to the Syx, a sextet of demons that first appear in "Born to Be Wild" the four novel (including the prequel) of the "Immortal Vegas" Series.
The story centers on Stefan, which background we enjoy through his adventure as an unexpected, but more than willing consort to Cressida the Hight Priestess of the Scepter Coven.
There is in fact a lot at stake, for Cressida and her coven an ultimate battle against Ahriman, for Stefan a chance to redemption after millennia of damnation... the rest is pure enjoyment.
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 good doses servings of innuendo. The Demon Enforcer Series (particularly this book) is a more mature reading, but nevertheless nicely paced.
After Warrick ("Demon Unbound") and Finn ("Demon Forsaken") and now Stefan ("Demon Bewitched") I cannot wait to learn the stories behind Gregori, Ram and Hugh, the remaining three Syx.
Jenn Stark Urban Fantasy Verse comprises three Series: the original "Immortal Vegas", the Spin-On/Sequel "Wilde Justice" and the Spin-Off "Demon Enforcers". I recommend all three to every lover of intelligent and good crafted urban fantasy.
Another great book by one of my favourite authors. This time we focus on Stefan (one of the Syx) and Cressida (a witch). Cressida is trying to get her coven ready for the upcoming battle against a demon who is killing off witches and those with magical powers, but to do so she must reinforce her power and that is where Stefan comes in. Stefan is one of the Syx who has been damned for something that he did early on in life. Now he must work for the Archangel Michael to redeem himself, even though it seems like he wants to stomp his feet most of the time. Stefan is made to work with Cressida in bringing down the monsters as her consort and to say that this story is action packed is an understatement. This is another fast=paced book with quite a few characters to follow in it. You may need a little bit of the back story about the Syx and what the represent but the book is pretty easy to follow as are the lives of Stefan and Cressida. the action, sniping and budding relationship between the two characters will make you laugh, smile and say ooh. Another great read by Ms. stark, I can't wait to see what happens next.
Demon Bewitched is the third installment in the Demon Enforcers series. This series follows the Syx, fallen angels who work together to banish demons and save "God's Children" aka Humans.
Demon Bewitched follows the path of Stefan, sexy and sassy, on his path toward redemption as he works with Cressida, the leader of a powerful witch coven.
What I liked about this book - what's not to like? I loved Stefan from the get go when the Syx appeared with Sarah Wilde in Immortal Vegas. His character is sassy, savy and sarcastic. This book really fleshes him out. I liked the twists and turns the story takes. I like the head witch, Cressida and the way she grows in the story.
I thought part of the plot was a tiny bit predictable, but nothing that I'd downgrade my review over. Even though I'd "called it", the way the plot plays out was exceptionally good. I started this book and couldn't put it down.
I did receive an early copy in exchange for a review that was unbiased. If you like the Immortal Vegas series, or any of the prior books on the Demon Enforcers, you will love this one!
I think this is my favorite in the series. Stefan is so much fun and delights in teasing Cressida. There is so much to smile about in their interactions.
She has focused everything on being a leader to her coven and has sacrificed her own life in the process. Inviting demons into her life really changes everything.
Witches are not a group that has really been the focus of the previous series or this one until now. It was interesting to see how they view the other members of the magical community.
There are some twists that the reader might expect but really throw Cressida for a loop. I always love having Sara from the previous series pay a visit. She is such a fun character.
It's no secret that I adore the Syx (and, frankly, all of Ms Stark's books) and this is a wonderful addition to the series.
I loved learning more about Stefan, our funny and tortured hero, and Cressida, our young and untried heroine. It really is a fun match, and I think they are perfectly suited. I also really loved the supporting cast - our baddie (come on, surely you saw that coming?) - and our regular Archangel a$$hat, Michael, and most of all, Cressida's loyal captain, Dahlia. And who can resist an appearance from everyone's favourite Justice, our very own Sara, pop in for a quick consult.
My favourite quote of the book comes from Stefan: It was hell having a costume with no pockets.
Another intriguing story from Jenn in the Demon Enforcers series. Stefan bursts into the pages with a massive ego and lots of cocky banter. As with the other Syx, he is offered a single chance at redemption, which means he has to dig past his ego and deal with the situation in Cressida's coven. Cressida herself is supposed to be the coven leader, but is really naive. As she grows in understanding and prepares to face her biggest challenge, Stefan is by her side. Needless to say there are bad guys all around, and they're not only demons! It's a fun story with plenty of action, as well as soul searching for both Stefan and Cressida. I'm already looking forward to the next story!
The enforcers series keep getting better and better! Stefan, a Syx enforcer, gets a call from an unknown for help. Now let’s get off the right foot as the call is from a witch who thinks she can control Stefan. Boy she is in for a wake up call. Now let’s add in the archangel Michael who tells Stefan that this is his chance for redemption! The plot thickens because as you read you will find in the plot twists that there are a few hidden surprises and Cressida will find she has been betrayed. You have an excellent mystery with lots of action, intrigue, romance and Stefan with humor which adds to the story! I highly recommend this book and the series!
The call to the Syx from a nightclub brings 2 of the enforcers to help one of God's children that has asked for aid. Stephan will realize his redemption at the hands of the covens high priestess. Betrayal, magic, demons and a little cameo from Sara Wilde. Dramatic storyline with much soul searching and lots of action. I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.
Stefan and Cressida are a couple that makes me smile. Their story makes you cheer for them. Stefan of the Styx is assigned I will call it bodyguard duty. Cressida is the head of he witch coven. Cressida may be the head of her coven but she still has a lot to learn. There is trouble on its way for her. But it’s a good thing she has a bodyguard. Will I re-read? Yes. Do I recommend? Yes
Talk about good vs. Evil! Or in this case, High priestess vs. Demon, or demons. The syx is not your ordinary demon though, and her urges go more towards a less adversarial relationship with him.
My favorite of the series so far! You may know where it’s going, but not how you’re getting there! Love, loyalty, betrayal, redemption, heat… serious heat.. and spells! Didn’t want this one to end! Received an ARC for an honest review.
Well built characters. Very good plot. A great storyline with an excellent finish. So far I think I've read all of her work in this Arena liked them all. And on to the next one
Stefan and Cressida's story is full of pride, doubt, self assurance, naivety, drama, comedy, lust, and virtue. This is an amazing installment to the series! Onto the next book...
Totally loving this series. Hooked me from the first page. Characters are very good and the main characters gelled really well and a really great book.
emon Enforcers are spread pretty thin in this world built by Jenn Stark. They have to keep the demons in line or destroy them. The Demon Enforcers are those that agree to become an enforcer for a chance to be redeemed. The redemption is held in Archangel Michael’s hands and he makes them work thousands of years to get it.
The heroine in this story was stupid. Okay, she gets a break because she’s young and has no experience, but she was played, man. Stefan is ordered to deal with Cressida’s situation and he does his best. The plot was fairly obvious right out of the chute, but the plot wasn’t supposed to be secret from us readers, it was supposed to be secret to the female heroine protagonist. She fell hook, line and sinker.
There was one brief cameo from the world famous Sara Wilde, which made me all giddy. How Stefan and Cressida made it through to the end, I have no idea. It was all pretty touch and go. Demons with big plans, witches with big plans and Michael with the biggest plan of them all.
This is the 3rd in the Demon Enforcers series and by far the hottest yet! He's my favourite character of the books so far, just enough on the cocky side. The chemistry between the lead characters is sizzling. I liked that this isn't a typical romance novel. There is betrayal and enough twists and turns to keep you guessing, I ended up reading the book in one sitting. You start to get a real feel for the underlying story line in the series in this book. I received this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review. I'm always happy to review Jenn's books as she is an excellent author.
Jenn Stark's Syx-pack of vengeful demons comes together in the middle of a coven's calling to do what they do best: bust up some demons.
These demons move at the behest of the Archangel - yes, THAT Archangel. They are enforcers, riding herd over demons who pop up from time to time. They're currently taking out the trash that has lately infested Earth after a magical blowup of sorts. Among these enforcers is a Syx, Stefan, who finds himself as one of two understaffed enforcers in the midst of a whirlwind rave. Somehow, in the process of sorting that out, Stefan is made aware that he's become a little bit betrothed. To the newest high priestess of the Scepter Coven. He shares that honor with four others: two groveling demons, an exorcist and a maddening little sorcerer.
Stefan, though, does not share his toys. He'll play along because the Archangel has sort of indicated that this might be helpful on that long, long road to redemption. But also because Cressida is kinda cute.
Stark's book weaves all sorts of themes of awakening through this book. Cressida, a priestess ill-educated but awakening to her role, and the demon laboring under the harshest punishment one can bear, awakening to Cressida. And, yes, they spark in something that must be like scorpions dancing; the demon and the witch. None of this happens the way the ancient tomes say it should as the coven plods toward its grave and potentially terminal challenge with chaos.