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Making mistakes is part of life. But sometimes, a mistake can cost you everything. When her world is invaded by an influx of demons, slayer Krista Lennox calls upon something even worse to help her defeat them. Too bad he's more inclined to cause her trouble than to fix her problems. And too bad he thinks she's...interesting. As the city begins to lose hope and Krista's situation becomes dire, she knows two things for sure. Magic is not enough. And time is running out. *Reverse harem series* If you like snark and humor with your emotion and darkness, kickass female protagonists and dangerous, protective men, you need to read this series! -- "This is so good!! Seriously, Laken's ability to develop character personalities in a couple of paragraphs is amazing. I just gave up on a book last night (which is rare for me) because I couldn’t connect with the characters. I’m already invested in Krista’s story. Love it!" ~Taryn Rich Chancellor ★★★★★

279 pages, Kindle Edition

First published May 10, 2019

363 people are currently reading
246 people want to read

About the author

Laken Cane

44 books468 followers
Laken was first published in 2008. After a few exciting years with her publishers, she struck out on her own to write the now complete Rune Alexander series, and never looked back.

She shares her Ohio home with three spoiled dogs, two fish, and a tenacious African Violet. She drinks too much coffee and continues burning up the keys of her trusty laptop, getting the stories out of her head and into her readers' hands.

You can connect with Laken through her website at www.lakencane.com or her Facebook author page at www.facebook.com/authorlakencane

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5 stars
231 (47%)
4 stars
138 (28%)
3 stars
87 (17%)
2 stars
21 (4%)
1 star
13 (2%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews
Profile Image for Andrea.
2,143 reviews1 follower
July 18, 2020
“If he wanted me dead, I’d be dead. I’ll go to bed with a nightmare to protect my daughter. I will do whatever I have to do. I will face whatever I have to face.” She eyed each of them. “You can help me. But you absolutely cannot stop me.”


Um, yeah, Krista was an absolute freaking bad ass. Thank you-and goodbye.
Profile Image for Charlotte.
2,121 reviews80 followers
May 16, 2019
This story was okay. I was all sorts of interested in the beginning. Then about half way through, I got bored, it was the same thing happening over and over again, just worded differently. The different demon slayer powers are interesting, but this story is to repetitive for me.
394 reviews
October 18, 2019
Different

Different take here. Rather enjoyable. Little hest yo this one, not near enough for my tastes. Plot was good, but didnt leave you on a cliffhanger. There were actually alot of problems in this one book, but everything got tied up well. You could stop here and be satisfied without a sequel.
37 reviews3 followers
May 18, 2019
Just when I thought I had seen it all, I was surprised again. Laken never fails to create some of the most insanely incredible strong female characters I’ve ever read. This is definitely a MUST READ. And this is a series that’s definitely on my must-watch list.
105 reviews
November 18, 2019
Amazing!

Laken Cane always, always delivers!! She takes you with her into new worlds, full odd action & adventure! She has a way of pulling you in and making you FEEL exactly what the character(s) are feeling. I promise, you will never go wrong with a Laken Cane story!
Profile Image for Heather Gilbert.
1,775 reviews85 followers
May 25, 2019
Dark but good

This one plays with your mind, and your emotions. Set to high octane action in a reality twisting world, the characters in this new universe are well versed in bloodshed, magic and demons. Some are born with powers to stop it, while others merely try to survive in a time that is literally trying to kill them. It’s messed up, macabre and just a touch delicious.

Pros:
- New world is dark, demon riddled and completely engrossing.
- Cast is Characters entrap and compel, for better or for worse. Even a demon lord.
- There are some you hate to love, and others you one to hate... or loath..... looking at you Micheal.

Cons:
- Takes a bit to really fall into.
- Some is the action is confusing, with little explanation.
Profile Image for Michelle Page.
50 reviews2 followers
October 10, 2019
Can I give more than 5 stars?

I read the book description and thought this book sounded like a book I'd enjoy. Man was I mistaken. I didn't just enjoy it, it was one of the best books I have read in a very long time. The story is well thought out, the characters have depth and grit. Kris's fight for her daughter and the human lives she fights to save is what has always driven her. Now she has to deal with her jack hole of a 'husband' as well as fight for her own life. But her friends step up to help and she draws strength from two men who both want to protect and help her. Now throw in the Deamon Lord... it is a rollercoaster of a ride. You will laugh, cry, and be so hyped you can't put the book down. I can not wait to read more of this series!!!
46 reviews2 followers
May 27, 2019
Another Awesome read

Great storyline and character development, Slayers against demons. Fantastic start to a new series but does stand on it's own. Laken Cane has manged to give us a new world that I like as much as Rune's.
371 reviews2 followers
October 7, 2019
Unique!

Great characters. Story was something different. I can’t wait to see this series develop. Krista is one kick ass hero and for once she’s not a 17 year old kid, from a bad home.
Profile Image for Sierra Cobble.
103 reviews
June 1, 2019
Loved!

Didn’t want the book to end! Loved it more than I thought I would! Can’t wait for more in the series!
Profile Image for Felicia Wood.
364 reviews2 followers
May 19, 2019
I adore reading newbies from this author; now, after reading a few, I can really tell what's important, why I love them so. People, relationships, interactions. Building these hated, loved, adorable, and deplorable characters into PEOPLE is a unique skill that this author possesses and executes spectacularly. Creating people that you can see and appreciate, people living life in their own fantastical world; but something about their development makes them totally relevant in the real world.

Although her books are dark, and some would consider they fit into the "horror" box, they never got to me until now. The demon aspect mixed with the current climate of the world scared the begezus out of me. When my reading of this book drifted into the night, I found myself reaching for the bedside lamp.

Love, love Maggie!! The child is overly mature, but in the best ways possible. Krista and Maggie's relationship is confusing at first, then it just clicks, and it works. There's no helpless kid and doting mother; there's two young women taking care of each other in equal measure. I would 100% read a book where Mags (as I like to endearingly call her) is the main protagonist.

I enjoyed how this terrifying "reality" unfolds organically, rather than reading like a boring outline. And like always with this author, time isn't wasted, they're no unnecessary fillers.

You find yourself loving and sympathizing with the characters that you thought you hated, and becoming obsessed with the ones you admired from the beginning.

I'm so eager, but also a bit frightened to see what happens next.
Profile Image for Chrissy.
1,390 reviews62 followers
May 13, 2019
Well Worth a Read

I’m not usually a fan of demon slaying books. I think it comes from reading too many books where demons are really the bad guys everyone thinks they are. However, as a big fan of this author I knew I would have to give the book a go. The first section of the book was filled with establishing characters and world building which is to be expected but it felt a little slower than I was expecting. It wasn’t until the middle and final sections of the book that I started to feel connected to the characters as their motivations and personalities started to become established.

I particularly liked Krista’s, the main character’s, relationship with her 13 year old daughter, Maggie. Krista had her daughter very young and their relationship seems to be less parent/child and more partners in crime, despite the presence of Maggie’s father in their lives.

I also like that the character is a grown woman with experience of her powers, who has a strong support network in place. As much as I like books about young women coming into their powers there is a definite limit to how often I can read about them without wanting to bang my head against something and shout “grow up”. This book is a nice break from those kind of books.

Though this book is written to be a standalone, it is definitely the beginning of the series and I anticipate the next book in the series will be even better now the world has been built and the characters established. There are several secondary characters that I want to know much more about, so I’m keen to read more.
Profile Image for Missy Brown.
1,750 reviews30 followers
May 14, 2019
Krista Lennox is a slayer of demons. She is very good at her job. But she also has a secret to hide. She will do anything to protect her daughter, even if that means making a deal with a demon. But what happens when you make a deal with the devil, you are bound to get burned.

Okay so this is going to be another freaking awesome series by Laken. If you thought her Rune Alexander series was great, I think this one is going to be even better. The action is fast right off the bat. The characters are all well written and you find yourself invested in them pretty quickly.
Our female lead Krista is strong, intelligent, knows what she wants, brutal, fierce, loyal, and a great mom. She will do anything to save her daughter, which I wont tell you why, you will have to read it, and yeah she knows she may have to pay the ultimate price. Add in the dangers of her job, slayer, a hot co worker who hints he would like to be more, she may just open up to more sexual adventures. Let's not forget to add in the demon who she seeks help from. He lets it known that he is very interested in her.

There are a lot of twists and turn, sexual tension, lots of action, sweet moments between daughter and mom, awesome friends, a hot co worker, a demon that sets her afire, and you have one hell of a good start to a must have series.
Profile Image for 4foxsake.
892 reviews14 followers
May 22, 2019
All the stars!!!

What a fantastic book! My review won’t be able to do it justice. I loved Krista. I wasn’t sure I would at first, but she has a will of steel, a heart full of love for her daughter and those that deserve it, and enough vulnerability to make her (mostly) human.

Demons, divorce and long buried feelings are the forefront of the story, and the author paints a brutal picture of an apocalyptic city taken over by demons. Demon slayers from all around team up to close the veil and save the humans from possession, chaos and death. Only one of their own gets up close and personal with a demon. Which is forbidden obviously. And punishable by death. If the demons don’t bring he’ll to their door first.

As is found in many of the authors books, there is dry as a desert humor, snark, super steamy interludes and if you are like me, tears, when the demon goo hits the fan. I can recommend this author, or this book enough. Definitely will be one clicking that preorder when it comes out.
Profile Image for Chelsea .
343 reviews5 followers
September 23, 2024
This wasn't bad, but I think it could have been a little better written. 

I liked the characters & the aspect of their friendship / family they created. I also thought the premise in general was unique & liked the idea of the demon slayers & how that worked.

My main issue was that the fantasy aspects felt underdeveloped. I wish there was more backstory or history on the lore. I felt like we were just kind of thrown into things & made to figure things out on our own. There were several times when characters would just blatantly say how something was or worked, but we never got the why.

I also felt like the two main issues in the story ended up being resolved really easily & it didn't feel like all the lead up to that was worth it.

The love triangle (?) was also kind of weird & I couldn't keep track of what was going on with it most of the time. Then towards the end there's a new character who apparently has some kind of strange connection to the FMC which made it more confusing.
9 reviews
May 30, 2019
What an amazing read!

Just when you think Laken Cane can't get any better she proves you wrong - which is what this novel does. So far everything I have read of Laken Cane's has been amazing but this is even better. Her writing allows you to become invested in the characters and you are right there loving and cheering for them. I can't put my finger on why but this novel is different, in a good way, from other novels about demons. I got sick of reading novels that centre on demons and had put them aside the only reason I picked up this novel was because it was written by Laken Cane and I am so glad I did. The story is kick-ass, fun, fast paced and engrossing - I can't wait to read the next book in the series. If you like the author's other series you will love , love this one. Buy, read and enjoy, you won't be able to help yourself!
Profile Image for Ashley.
8 reviews1 follower
May 13, 2019
Laken Cane has done it again. This book was amazing. I finished it in a couple hours... I couldn't put it down!

Krista is an exorcist, a tough job. Her life is split between demon-slaying and her family. Unfortunately her job takes more time away from the things that matter, her husband and daughter. Then Krista's world is turned upside down and she has to figure out how to juggle her crumbling family, saving her town, and not losing herself in the process.

This book has so many elements to it. I could feel my heart break, I felt overwhelming joy, and I fell so in love with all the characters in this book. I honestly wish I could give this book more than just five stars. I know Marked just released but I have one more thing left to say: when is the second coming out?!
Profile Image for Lianne Takach.
23 reviews2 followers
May 12, 2019
Her Wickedness is taking us on a new adventure!

Kris is a mom. And, like most mothers these days she's a working mom. But she's not an ordinary working mom, though, she's am exorcist! And the Veil has a gaping hole in it. And her child has a looming issue. And her husband (we'll leave that alone for now). And, she summons a demon lord... on... purpose...

What's a girl to do?

Laken has really outdone herself. If you've read her other series this world is familiar & now we have a new badass to cheer! I look forward to seeing how Kris moves on with the decisions she's made so far & the consequences of her actions. I hope Laken is enjoying a big cup of coffee & a well deserved slice of cake!
2 reviews
July 6, 2019
This book was amazing. I am an avid reader and I particularly love urban fantasy/ paranormal books. Lately, it seems like many of the books I have been reading are the same exact storyline, just some written better than others. With this book, Marked, I did not have any high expectations, so, of course, I was utterly shocked and amazed with how exciting and different the storyline was and I loved that the romance came slowly and did not overtake the entire plot. I wasn't even sure who all her "men" will be in the end, and I love that fact because it gives the author more time to develop these relationships in book 2. I can't wait for it to come out. Please Laken finish Book 2 soon and release it!
Profile Image for PepperP0t .
5,108 reviews86 followers
March 18, 2023
The day was like any other for powerful slayer Krista Lennox, until it wasn’t. After finding her husband with his girlfriend, not finding the elusive white demon which could cure her teen daughter, things got curiously interesting when Gareth the demon decided to stay around a while. That led to executioner, Asa and fellow slayer Luke getting busy with the soothing support.

As if the city didn’t already have too many demons, a nearby busted portal frees a flood of them overwhelming the slayers, executioners and exorcists in the tri-state are. Determined he likes what Krista is, has and represents, the demon lord, as if Krista’s life has room for any more males, demons or problems!
Rating: 3.5stars
52 reviews
May 12, 2019
Please, book 2... Now.

Only Laken Came could write a book that would make you like the bad guys, Really like them. Even a body snatcher.
Krista is a dynamic characters that begs you not to walk away before the book is finished. Oh, and the hot guys of this author's imagination, umm. Can I get a glass of water... It's hot in here. Well written, with just enough dark to keep you on the edge of your seat. Fast paced because the plot is enough to roll through you. I loved it and would absolutely recommend that you read it.
Profile Image for Fleur.
3,719 reviews29 followers
May 15, 2019
This was a great read, I really liked all the characters especially as there was a lot of depth to them and they had flaws whether they be small or not and you really connect with them. You get why Krista pushes herself so far, there is so much riding on what she does but things get worse and you get just as frustrated as she does with everything going on. Be ready for plenty of action, Demons and other nasties, hot guys, conflicts, attraction(s) and some twists you don't see coming that leave you going "whaaat just happened"!!
Profile Image for Jennifer Mccormick eding.
110 reviews1 follower
May 30, 2019
Oh. My. God.

The only reason I'm giving five stars is bc I can't give more than that!!! Krista is amazing and as strong of a main character as I've ever seen. Wow. Just wow!! Like I really think she does give Rune a run for her money!! Or they are sisters from another mister!! I don't know how Laken Cane can come up with the diverse characters for these series but everything she writes is GOLD! Amazing, lovable, characters. Crazy plots. Mind blowing situations. She has everything!! Just fabulous!!! anything this lady writes, YOU WILL LOVE. NO QUESTIONS!!!!
328 reviews3 followers
May 13, 2019
Oooh This was so vgood!


Once again Laken Cane hits it out of the ballpark!!
I absolutely loved this book, and couldn't put it down once I started.
If you like dark, complicated characters, and villains who blur the lines, as well as multiple romantic partners, then this is the book is for you! 
I'm really hoping for more books with these characters, but this does not end on a cliffhanger, it was a complete novel in itself. But definitely leaves the door open for more. 
901 reviews10 followers
May 14, 2019
LOVED!!!!!

Not damn I loved this book and cannot wait for the second book to come out!!!!! Our main , was amazing and her men where hot, hot, hot!!!! I wonder though if she will add more demons and not just Trig to her harem?!!? Hint: Maybe some other demon lords of sata n himself also I think she's ready for another baby!! Plus considering she was possessed for a while does that mean her powers will expand or maybe she will get a new power??!!
Profile Image for Melissa.
238 reviews3 followers
May 19, 2019
I’m a huge fan of Laken’s books but this one was a little repetitive for me. The beginning was awesome and I love books about demons and slayers. I love how she made each slayer different ie: blood slayer, moon sayer etc. The story line was really good abut also, and I liked how Krista was constantly trying to find the demon with white smoke to cure her daughter Maggie. I’m interested to see what happens in the next book.
966 reviews11 followers
May 25, 2019
If you loved Rune Alexander, the Edgefield Slayers will knock your socks off!

This is a return to form for Laken Cane. I stayed up until 5 reading on a Friday night and I shed a few tears. Cane's character depth, non stop action, pathos and tugging on the heartstrings - it's all here! If you want an excellent slow burn romantic UF read (on Kindle Unlimited as well) - what are you waiting for? 4.5 stars - Dont miss it!!
56 reviews2 followers
July 4, 2019
Another great series! 5 star read!!!!

Wow! Laken Cane does it again. I feel like Laken Cane is a severely underrated author and she needs so much more recognition for the stories she turns out! I loved her Shiv Crew series, and was sad to see it end. But this series just made me so happy to have another kick ass heroine to read about! Her storylines are always so unique and i love that! Awesome job Ms. Cane! Keep up the good work!!!
382 reviews4 followers
January 30, 2020
Loved this series

Second time around reading this series and I still enjoy the hell out of it.. It has everything I love,strong men that have the strong female leads back ....completely. Plus we have a bad boy( demon lord) that is just a little good and gets better for the f.lead. Killing demons, dealing with a prick soon to be ex cheating husband and learning to love her harem of men .... What a ride ! Now go get a bite of cake 🎂😈😈😉
Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews

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