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Malus Domestica #3
The Hellion
For fans of Chilling Adventures of Sabrina and Stranger Things: S. A. Hunt’s The Hellion, third installment of their horror-tinged action-adventure series about a punk YouTuber on a mission to hunt down the supernatural, one vid at a time
Robin Martine has destroyed witches all across the country, but since her confrontation with the demon Andras, Robin has had to deal with her toughest adversary yet: herself. While coming to grips with new abilities, she and her boyfriend Kenway make their way to the deserts of rural Texas, where new opportunities await.
Something lurks in this isolated town of Keystone Hills: a dangerous gang ruled by a husband who wields an iron fist over his wife and daughter. Robin vows to protect these Latina women from harm, but may be underestimating how powerful Santiago Valenzuela is... and how his shapeshifting powers may pose a threat to everyone Robin holds dear.
The Malus Domestica series
#1: Burn the Dark
#2: I Come with Knives
#3: The Hellion
Robin Martine has destroyed witches all across the country, but since her confrontation with the demon Andras, Robin has had to deal with her toughest adversary yet: herself. While coming to grips with new abilities, she and her boyfriend Kenway make their way to the deserts of rural Texas, where new opportunities await.
Something lurks in this isolated town of Keystone Hills: a dangerous gang ruled by a husband who wields an iron fist over his wife and daughter. Robin vows to protect these Latina women from harm, but may be underestimating how powerful Santiago Valenzuela is... and how his shapeshifting powers may pose a threat to everyone Robin holds dear.
The Malus Domestica series
#1: Burn the Dark
#2: I Come with Knives
#3: The Hellion
400 pages, Paperback
First published September 15, 2020
8 people are currently reading
213 people want to read
About the author
S.A. Hunt
22 books296 followersSamara Abigail Hunt is the Georgia-born author of the Amazon Top 10 Horror Malus Domestica series, and the Outlaw King fantasy series, winner of Reddit.com's /r/Fantasy "Independent Novel of the Year" 2014 Stabby Award. She is also a "Mentor of Poetry, Prose, & Performance" with the National Creative Society.
In 2005 she joined the Army and after an ill-advised stint in the military police (ACAB), she went back to school to be a transportation coordinator in order to deploy to Afghanistan.
Stationed in Camp Arena, Herat, Samara was promoted to Specialist and placed in a Lieutenant position in a joint Italian-Spanish command room, where she coordinated and recorded hundreds of convoys and outreach missions into far-flung parts of RC West, the western quadrant of the Afghanistan theater. She was awarded a Joint Services Achievement Medal for her efforts.
She currently lives in Petoskey, Michigan.
In 2005 she joined the Army and after an ill-advised stint in the military police (ACAB), she went back to school to be a transportation coordinator in order to deploy to Afghanistan.
Stationed in Camp Arena, Herat, Samara was promoted to Specialist and placed in a Lieutenant position in a joint Italian-Spanish command room, where she coordinated and recorded hundreds of convoys and outreach missions into far-flung parts of RC West, the western quadrant of the Afghanistan theater. She was awarded a Joint Services Achievement Medal for her efforts.
She currently lives in Petoskey, Michigan.
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
October 14, 2020
While books 1 & 2 in the Malus Domestica series follow a complete plot arc, The Hellion is off on very different adventures and I was curious to see the direction it took. Witch-hunting YouTuber Robin Martine is now traveling the country with her vet boyfriend in an RV, getting unintentionally caught up in a dangerous situation.
Much like previous books this features dark humor, gritty and gruesome horror, as well as some interesting underlying themes. This one is definitely a step back from book 2 in terms of level and amount of gruesome scenes, but there is still plenty to go around. We continue to get expanded world-building and information on how exactly magic/witchcraft/demons etc. work, which is interesting.
Thematically, I liked what this book was trying to do, although I had mixed feelings about the execution. The big bad in this book is a possessed, shapeshifting Latinx man who is abusive toward his wife and daughter. (Note that there is a VERY intense scene of domestic violence early in the book that is difficult to read) Robin ends up enmeshed in the situation, trying to save the women from Santiago and his gang of bikers. On the one hand, I like the idea of addressing domestic violence through horror because it is very much a reality and a horrific one. On the other hand, I didn't love some of the choices made with the plot arc of the victims, and the characters set in more heroic or villainous roles felt racially imbalanced in a way earlier books in the series didn't. It's not necessarily a deal breaker, and I continue to love the fact that we've got a disabled and badass love interest, but several things in this felt less thoughtfully handled than I would have liked. That said, I think this series in an interesting entry in paranormal horror and offers a cast of characters with diversity that is often lacking. I received a copy of this book for review. All opinions are my own.
Content warnings include but are not limited to: violence, gore, death, rituals, possession, loss of a parent, scenes of domestic violence, violence toward animals, cannibalism
Much like previous books this features dark humor, gritty and gruesome horror, as well as some interesting underlying themes. This one is definitely a step back from book 2 in terms of level and amount of gruesome scenes, but there is still plenty to go around. We continue to get expanded world-building and information on how exactly magic/witchcraft/demons etc. work, which is interesting.
Thematically, I liked what this book was trying to do, although I had mixed feelings about the execution. The big bad in this book is a possessed, shapeshifting Latinx man who is abusive toward his wife and daughter. (Note that there is a VERY intense scene of domestic violence early in the book that is difficult to read) Robin ends up enmeshed in the situation, trying to save the women from Santiago and his gang of bikers. On the one hand, I like the idea of addressing domestic violence through horror because it is very much a reality and a horrific one. On the other hand, I didn't love some of the choices made with the plot arc of the victims, and the characters set in more heroic or villainous roles felt racially imbalanced in a way earlier books in the series didn't. It's not necessarily a deal breaker, and I continue to love the fact that we've got a disabled and badass love interest, but several things in this felt less thoughtfully handled than I would have liked. That said, I think this series in an interesting entry in paranormal horror and offers a cast of characters with diversity that is often lacking. I received a copy of this book for review. All opinions are my own.
Content warnings include but are not limited to: violence, gore, death, rituals, possession, loss of a parent, scenes of domestic violence, violence toward animals, cannibalism
September 22, 2020
This high-octane thrill ride features constant action with few chances to catch your breath and relax. If you have read this far in the series you know that The Hellion will be hyper-violent and gruesome. It’s often brutal and sometimes so over-the-top that it doesn’t feel real but more like an action movie than real life. The characters even punctuate the fights with pithy one-liners just like your favourite action heroes, but they do call themselves out for this vanity. The violence is bloody and grisly and there is a stomach churning level of body horror. If this sounds horrible to you and like a book you would never want to read I would generally agree but there is something about these characters that gives this series real heart and tempers all the shooting and maiming. I wouldn’t say that it is soft in any way but there is an underlying emotional complexity to Robin and the other characters that keeps drawing me back.
Robin is a kick-ass warrior queen and, sometimes crude, sometimes frightening but I always feel her humanity even when she is not entirely human. I appreciate that although she is certainly sexual she is never sexualized. She isn’t always easy to like but she tries so hard that you can’t help but feel for her. I have to say I was livid at Robin at the end but I will absolutely pick up any further books and hopefully she comes to her senses. She’s stubborn and likes to be a martyr but she’s also smart enough to know that a hero needs their Scooby gang.
Thankfully, after the feline apocalypse of the last book this one involves significantly fewer cats in general so animal lovers like me can be a bit less traumatized. However there is one very sad dog death and unless you are completely heartless it will bring tears to your eyes. It is vicious and graphic but you can skip over it and not miss anything vital. I do find that the treatment of animals in this series takes away from my enjoyment but I am especially sensitive to this so your experience may be different.
I’ve enjoyed my time with Robin and her motley crew and I suppose this series could continue indefinitely as there are always witches to burn and evil to fight. I wonder if there is an end point to this epic war and if Robin will finally get to retire and live in peace. Until then I’ll just enjoy the journey!
Thank you Macmillan-Tor/Forge for providing an Electronic Advance Reader Copy via NetGalley for review.
Robin is a kick-ass warrior queen and, sometimes crude, sometimes frightening but I always feel her humanity even when she is not entirely human. I appreciate that although she is certainly sexual she is never sexualized. She isn’t always easy to like but she tries so hard that you can’t help but feel for her. I have to say I was livid at Robin at the end but I will absolutely pick up any further books and hopefully she comes to her senses. She’s stubborn and likes to be a martyr but she’s also smart enough to know that a hero needs their Scooby gang.
Thankfully, after the feline apocalypse of the last book this one involves significantly fewer cats in general so animal lovers like me can be a bit less traumatized. However there is one very sad dog death and unless you are completely heartless it will bring tears to your eyes. It is vicious and graphic but you can skip over it and not miss anything vital. I do find that the treatment of animals in this series takes away from my enjoyment but I am especially sensitive to this so your experience may be different.
I’ve enjoyed my time with Robin and her motley crew and I suppose this series could continue indefinitely as there are always witches to burn and evil to fight. I wonder if there is an end point to this epic war and if Robin will finally get to retire and live in peace. Until then I’ll just enjoy the journey!
Thank you Macmillan-Tor/Forge for providing an Electronic Advance Reader Copy via NetGalley for review.
September 21, 2020
Thank you so much Macmillan-Tor/Forge and Tor books for the chance to read the third book of Malus Domestica!
TW: violence, domestic violence, gore, cannibalism, murder, self-harm
After confronting her demon father Andras, Robin is dealing with the new truths about herself, her abilities and her nightmares, while travelling with her boyfriend Kenway. But in the city of Keystone hills Robin has to deal with another danger, when two women, a mother and her daughter, hide in her camper, running away from the violent Santiago Valenzuela, the leader of a dangerous biker group and the women's husband and father. Robin vowed to protect women from harm, but Santiago appears to be a very dangerous opponent, with crazy shapeshifting abilities and a pack of werewolves ready to hurt and kill them all.
In a whirlwind of action, new abilities, deaths, murders and gore, Robin and her friends face danger after danger, both outside and inside herself.
The Hellion is an intense and captivating third book, full of plot twists, dangers, gore, magic, shapeshifter, teratomas, witches' powers and amazing and complex characters. It was, like always, a pleasure read about Robin, Kenway, Gendreau (and learning more about his past and his magic), Rook, Navathe, their relics and magic.
Robin is dealing with the aftermath of her confrontation with her demon father Andras, worried about her new power and scared to hurt the people she loves. The book swings between past and present, showing a younger Robin training with Heinrich and the present time when she throws grenades and battles werewolves to protect two women from their abusive relative.
It was really creepy and eerie reading about the shapeshifting biker group, the violence in their action, the entitlement Santiago felt towards his own family, ready to do anything to get them back with him, using violence.
Like always Robin (and we get to know more about her vigilante past, too) is more than ready to fight for those who can't defend themselves or want to change their lives and be free from violence, but in this book it seems like the danger is too big, even for a cambion, an half demon.
Between shapeshifting, other dimensions, deaths, almost deaths, powers, magic and justice, The Hellion stole my breath in more than one occasion, with plot twists, revelations and an open ending that left me wanting for more and more adventures with Robin and, hopefully, her friends.
TW: violence, domestic violence, gore, cannibalism, murder, self-harm
After confronting her demon father Andras, Robin is dealing with the new truths about herself, her abilities and her nightmares, while travelling with her boyfriend Kenway. But in the city of Keystone hills Robin has to deal with another danger, when two women, a mother and her daughter, hide in her camper, running away from the violent Santiago Valenzuela, the leader of a dangerous biker group and the women's husband and father. Robin vowed to protect women from harm, but Santiago appears to be a very dangerous opponent, with crazy shapeshifting abilities and a pack of werewolves ready to hurt and kill them all.
In a whirlwind of action, new abilities, deaths, murders and gore, Robin and her friends face danger after danger, both outside and inside herself.
The Hellion is an intense and captivating third book, full of plot twists, dangers, gore, magic, shapeshifter, teratomas, witches' powers and amazing and complex characters. It was, like always, a pleasure read about Robin, Kenway, Gendreau (and learning more about his past and his magic), Rook, Navathe, their relics and magic.
Robin is dealing with the aftermath of her confrontation with her demon father Andras, worried about her new power and scared to hurt the people she loves. The book swings between past and present, showing a younger Robin training with Heinrich and the present time when she throws grenades and battles werewolves to protect two women from their abusive relative.
It was really creepy and eerie reading about the shapeshifting biker group, the violence in their action, the entitlement Santiago felt towards his own family, ready to do anything to get them back with him, using violence.
Like always Robin (and we get to know more about her vigilante past, too) is more than ready to fight for those who can't defend themselves or want to change their lives and be free from violence, but in this book it seems like the danger is too big, even for a cambion, an half demon.
Between shapeshifting, other dimensions, deaths, almost deaths, powers, magic and justice, The Hellion stole my breath in more than one occasion, with plot twists, revelations and an open ending that left me wanting for more and more adventures with Robin and, hopefully, her friends.
May 1, 2022
Bei diesem Buch handelt es sich um den 3. und letzten Teil der Reihe rund um die Hexenjägerin Robin Martine. Nachdem Robin im 2. Teil mehr über ihre Vergangenheit, insbes0ndere über ihren Vater, erfahren hat, verschlägt es sie und ihr Freund Kenway nach Texas. Hier treibt eine Bikergang ihr Unwesen. Die Mitglieder verwandeln sich teilweise in gefährliche Raubtiere und Robin heftet sich an ihre Versen.
Am Anfang fand ich es etwas seltsam, dass Robin nach den letzten Ereignissen einfach so weiter macht wie bisher. Später geht die Autorin dann aber noch einmal auf die Besonderheit von Robin ein, gerade im letzten Drittel. Die Geschichte ist gewohnt recht blutig und auch brutal und die Autorin hat mich auf jeden Fall noch einmal überrascht, gerade was Robin angeht.
Das Ende ist mir fast schon etwas zu offen, aber damit müssen wir als Leser jetzt wohl leben. Auch wenn ich am Anfang ein paar Startschwierigkeiten hatte, konnte mich die Autorin letztendlich wieder überzeugen. Auch der 3. Teil kann mit den anderen beiden Teilen mithalten und bekommt die volle Punktzahl.
Am Anfang fand ich es etwas seltsam, dass Robin nach den letzten Ereignissen einfach so weiter macht wie bisher. Später geht die Autorin dann aber noch einmal auf die Besonderheit von Robin ein, gerade im letzten Drittel. Die Geschichte ist gewohnt recht blutig und auch brutal und die Autorin hat mich auf jeden Fall noch einmal überrascht, gerade was Robin angeht.
Das Ende ist mir fast schon etwas zu offen, aber damit müssen wir als Leser jetzt wohl leben. Auch wenn ich am Anfang ein paar Startschwierigkeiten hatte, konnte mich die Autorin letztendlich wieder überzeugen. Auch der 3. Teil kann mit den anderen beiden Teilen mithalten und bekommt die volle Punktzahl.
August 3, 2022
Der dritte und schwächste Teil der Hexenjäger Reihe. Robin reist durch das Land und trifft auf ein verzweifeltes Mutter Tochter Gespann, welche von dem fast wahnsinnigen Ehemann verfolgt werden. Dieser kann sich samt der ganzen Bikergang in ein Rudel Werwölfe verwandeln und so kommt es zu spannenden und rasanten Kampszenen.
Bis auf die Actionszenen hat dieser Teil aber leider nicht viel zu bieten. Die Geschichte um Robin wird nicht weitergesponnen und lediglich am Ende geht es überhaupt um ihr eigenes Leben. Der Horror den S.A. Hunt so fantastisch in den anderen Büchern hervorgerufen hat kommt hier einfach nicht auf.
Leider eine Enttäuschung, trotz dem nach wie vor phenomenalem Schreibstil.
Bis auf die Actionszenen hat dieser Teil aber leider nicht viel zu bieten. Die Geschichte um Robin wird nicht weitergesponnen und lediglich am Ende geht es überhaupt um ihr eigenes Leben. Der Horror den S.A. Hunt so fantastisch in den anderen Büchern hervorgerufen hat kommt hier einfach nicht auf.
Leider eine Enttäuschung, trotz dem nach wie vor phenomenalem Schreibstil.
June 16, 2022
Review to come!
September 6, 2020
Read a NetGalley eARC from the publisher
Content and trigger warnings: domestic violence, dismemberment, gore, emetophobia, self-harm, misogyny
The Hellion picks up a few months after the end of I Come With Knives. Robin and her boo Kenway are on a road trip through Texas. On their way, a mother and daughter hide in their RV, away from an abusive father who may or may not be a shapeshifter. High octane violence ensues, and the witch hunter must harness new powers and protect friends new and old.
How Hunt keeps pulling off this pacing is truly outstanding. The book is split into an A side and a B side, like a cassette tape with a series of tracks. The first half definitely focuses on more human problems, while the second half goes full supernatural. The energy, however, does not let up at any step of the way. The denouement works so well because there is a hint of what's coming next, but with enough breathing room for the characters to process the entire book that just happened
What I also greatly appreciated was that Robin was finally allowed to have some girl friends. The friendships here are spiky, but powerful. There is a lot of love, whether the characters want to admit it to themselves. The way Robin fights for those around her also strikes me as inspiring. Turns out this badass does have a soft interior, even if sometimes it is covered by a demonic exoskeleton (that's all I'll say about that.
On 9/15/2020, prepare for fans of Mad Max: Fury Road with shifters and even more found family feels and queer representation.
Content and trigger warnings: domestic violence, dismemberment, gore, emetophobia, self-harm, misogyny
The Hellion picks up a few months after the end of I Come With Knives. Robin and her boo Kenway are on a road trip through Texas. On their way, a mother and daughter hide in their RV, away from an abusive father who may or may not be a shapeshifter. High octane violence ensues, and the witch hunter must harness new powers and protect friends new and old.
How Hunt keeps pulling off this pacing is truly outstanding. The book is split into an A side and a B side, like a cassette tape with a series of tracks. The first half definitely focuses on more human problems, while the second half goes full supernatural. The energy, however, does not let up at any step of the way. The denouement works so well because there is a hint of what's coming next, but with enough breathing room for the characters to process the entire book that just happened
What I also greatly appreciated was that Robin was finally allowed to have some girl friends. The friendships here are spiky, but powerful. There is a lot of love, whether the characters want to admit it to themselves. The way Robin fights for those around her also strikes me as inspiring. Turns out this badass does have a soft interior, even if sometimes it is covered by a demonic exoskeleton (that's all I'll say about that.
On 9/15/2020, prepare for fans of Mad Max: Fury Road with shifters and even more found family feels and queer representation.
September 13, 2020
The third installment of the Malus Domestica series by SA Hunt, The Hellion, continues to follow the journey of Robin Martine as she navigates new facets of her identity and her continuing obligations as a witch hunter.
Once I picked this book up, I didn’t put it down until I was finished with it. The action sequences (including a memorable one choreographed to “Bohemian Rhapsody”) are as grueling and gripping as they have been in the past two books, and I loved that we got to see very real world concerns interspersed with new supernatural elements that speak to Hunt’s worldbuilding skills. Getting to see some of Robin’s past interspersed with her present was deftly handled, and the ending leaves a multitude of potential stories to be told. Plus, The Hellion got even more queer than the previous two books, which is always a delight to me.
As usual a multitude of content warnings apply; the most relevant of said content warnings have been included at the beginning of the novel. But I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: if you’re a fan of horror and fantasy and HAVEN’T read this series, you’re missing out. With October right around the corner and bringing with it spooky season, I’d highly recommend giving this series a try if you’re ready for a story jam-packed with thrills and scares.
Thank you to Tor Books and NetGalley for an advance copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Once I picked this book up, I didn’t put it down until I was finished with it. The action sequences (including a memorable one choreographed to “Bohemian Rhapsody”) are as grueling and gripping as they have been in the past two books, and I loved that we got to see very real world concerns interspersed with new supernatural elements that speak to Hunt’s worldbuilding skills. Getting to see some of Robin’s past interspersed with her present was deftly handled, and the ending leaves a multitude of potential stories to be told. Plus, The Hellion got even more queer than the previous two books, which is always a delight to me.
As usual a multitude of content warnings apply; the most relevant of said content warnings have been included at the beginning of the novel. But I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: if you’re a fan of horror and fantasy and HAVEN’T read this series, you’re missing out. With October right around the corner and bringing with it spooky season, I’d highly recommend giving this series a try if you’re ready for a story jam-packed with thrills and scares.
Thank you to Tor Books and NetGalley for an advance copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
October 28, 2021
I do feel bad that S.A. Hunt's series seems to have stalled out due to the bugbears of low sales and difficulties in her life (she'll occasionally vent about those on Twitter), and even more so that it took me this long to finally read her third novel. That said, though, I did get the feeling that this one may have been affected by the troubles in Hunt's personal life, coming off a little wheel-spinny with an aimless narrative overall. But Hunt is still as dangerously gifted as ever with the thrills and chills, and around Halloween is the perfect time to have read this one. I do hope, though, that the publishers don't give up on her just yet. A fourth Malus Domestica book would be just what the doctor ordered, truly.
do-not-read
August 10, 2021Do not read!
I am putting this placeholder here to remind myself that I was meh on book 1 and book 2 was awful. DO NOT let my ridiculous obsession with finishing series allow me to pick-up this book.
I am putting this placeholder here to remind myself that I was meh on book 1 and book 2 was awful. DO NOT let my ridiculous obsession with finishing series allow me to pick-up this book.
December 31, 2020
The last few chapters of this one might be enough for me to bump this up to a four-star rating, so I reserve the right to do so (he says to himself).
In any case, I thought this installment of the Malus Domestica was good, not great, as I would classify the two before it. Those "in the know" about this series are already aware, but for anyone who isn't, this series was originally one (very good) self-published book. Hunt was approached by Tor who wished to publish her story traditionally as a trilogy. And so what you have is that original story split into the first two books, and this story, The Hellion as the next piece of the puzzle, continuing on from where the original story left off.
All that being the case, I thought that this book lacked the cohesive nature that the first two possessed. It felt like a glorified side-quest, in a way, which it was. Journey before destination and all that, I'm not saying I didn't enjoy the ride. But I found myself missing absent characters from the first two books. I also wanted to continue to explore certain elements in this story right away that took almost the entire length of the book to finally rear their head (or should I say horns?) In addition, I felt like the tone was off--almost like Hunt couldn't nail down how she wanted the book (and the characters within it) to feel at times. So ultimately, I think I was witnessing a lack of polish due to this being an add-on story to a nicely packaged original.
Now, that aside I did enjoy the book. And as I mentioned above, the last several chapters or so were really fun. The weird cosmic-horror worldbuilding was on full display, as Hunt began to open up certain aspects of the story in ways that have me itching to see what happens next. And that's important to note. My earlier criticisms not withstanding, I definitely want to continue the series. So I hope she's writing more.
Anyone reading this review has likely read the two books before this one, so it probably doesn't need repeating but the Malus Domestica is just pure fun. A fantasy/horror romp with quirky characters with attitude. Half-demons, shapeshifters, ancient daggers, goddesses of the underworld. If you're looking for something fun and quick--and you don't shy away from a dose of twisted darkness--it's worth your time.
In any case, I thought this installment of the Malus Domestica was good, not great, as I would classify the two before it. Those "in the know" about this series are already aware, but for anyone who isn't, this series was originally one (very good) self-published book. Hunt was approached by Tor who wished to publish her story traditionally as a trilogy. And so what you have is that original story split into the first two books, and this story, The Hellion as the next piece of the puzzle, continuing on from where the original story left off.
All that being the case, I thought that this book lacked the cohesive nature that the first two possessed. It felt like a glorified side-quest, in a way, which it was. Journey before destination and all that, I'm not saying I didn't enjoy the ride. But I found myself missing absent characters from the first two books. I also wanted to continue to explore certain elements in this story right away that took almost the entire length of the book to finally rear their head (or should I say horns?) In addition, I felt like the tone was off--almost like Hunt couldn't nail down how she wanted the book (and the characters within it) to feel at times. So ultimately, I think I was witnessing a lack of polish due to this being an add-on story to a nicely packaged original.
Now, that aside I did enjoy the book. And as I mentioned above, the last several chapters or so were really fun. The weird cosmic-horror worldbuilding was on full display, as Hunt began to open up certain aspects of the story in ways that have me itching to see what happens next. And that's important to note. My earlier criticisms not withstanding, I definitely want to continue the series. So I hope she's writing more.
Anyone reading this review has likely read the two books before this one, so it probably doesn't need repeating but the Malus Domestica is just pure fun. A fantasy/horror romp with quirky characters with attitude. Half-demons, shapeshifters, ancient daggers, goddesses of the underworld. If you're looking for something fun and quick--and you don't shy away from a dose of twisted darkness--it's worth your time.
November 4, 2020
I still really enjoyed Robin as a main character. Even after everything shes been through she doesnt dwell on it or pity herself. Shes more the type to grit her teeth and headbutt fate in the face. Robin is sassy and has a wonderfully dark sense of humor. Despite her rough around the edges attitude shes always trying to help others no matter the danger to herself. I liked how she filmed her witch hunts and posted them on YouTube. I wasnt a big fan of Robins flashbacks when she first started training with her former mentor. A lot of them didnt really add to the plot and whatever insight we got on her mentor seemed pointless.
Kenway and Robin's romance was really cute, but I dont think Robin was fair to him at the end. He's a grown man who can make his own decisions and she took that away from him. I also liked the magician Gendreau and his protectivemess towards Robin. We get some disability representation with Kenway having an amputated leg and trans rep with Gendreau. The perspective seemed to be head hopping at times but I didnt mind it since the transition was pretty seamless and it allowed the reader to get insight on a bunch of different characters. I did miss Joel and hope she shows up in some future books.
The plot of this book focused mostly on trying to get Carli and her mother away from her abusive father. This would be easily done compared to the witches Robin has had to deal with but she quickly realizes the father and his biker gang might not be as human as she believed. This was full of action with one major showdown after another. Theres a major gun fight during an intense car chase and an all out knife fight in a burning building. I read most of the book in two days which is really fast for me lately. My main issue was how the deaths that happened weren't really permanent. The lack of consequences not only made it feel unrealistic but it also affected the level of danger.
The grotesque descriptions of the monsters and the cannibalism gave this an awesome horror vibe. I liked the creepy middle of nowhere abandoned hotel setting. We get to see more about the magicians and their artifacts. We even get a glimpse of the afterlife and learn a bit about how it all works. I do wish we got to know more about demons and how Robin's powers work but I think that might be the focus of the next book. I was surprised to find out this wasnt a trilogy like I expected. I was kind of hoping everything would Wrap up in this novel but I'm also happy I'll get to see more of Robin's adventures. The audiobooks are super addictive and I definitely recommend them.
Kenway and Robin's romance was really cute, but I dont think Robin was fair to him at the end. He's a grown man who can make his own decisions and she took that away from him. I also liked the magician Gendreau and his protectivemess towards Robin. We get some disability representation with Kenway having an amputated leg and trans rep with Gendreau. The perspective seemed to be head hopping at times but I didnt mind it since the transition was pretty seamless and it allowed the reader to get insight on a bunch of different characters. I did miss Joel and hope she shows up in some future books.
The plot of this book focused mostly on trying to get Carli and her mother away from her abusive father. This would be easily done compared to the witches Robin has had to deal with but she quickly realizes the father and his biker gang might not be as human as she believed. This was full of action with one major showdown after another. Theres a major gun fight during an intense car chase and an all out knife fight in a burning building. I read most of the book in two days which is really fast for me lately. My main issue was how the deaths that happened weren't really permanent. The lack of consequences not only made it feel unrealistic but it also affected the level of danger.
The grotesque descriptions of the monsters and the cannibalism gave this an awesome horror vibe. I liked the creepy middle of nowhere abandoned hotel setting. We get to see more about the magicians and their artifacts. We even get a glimpse of the afterlife and learn a bit about how it all works. I do wish we got to know more about demons and how Robin's powers work but I think that might be the focus of the next book. I was surprised to find out this wasnt a trilogy like I expected. I was kind of hoping everything would Wrap up in this novel but I'm also happy I'll get to see more of Robin's adventures. The audiobooks are super addictive and I definitely recommend them.
November 11, 2020
After the conclusion of the second book in this series, i was fascinated to see where things would go. I have to admit to being a little disappointed at first, as the joy of witch hunting was swapped out for some new creatures, but it ultimately upped the stakes and went all in on the horror and demonic supernatural madness.
It was a slightly odd end to a trilogy as it kind of combines new stories with older ones, leading to a feeling that we should be setting off on a new series of books instead of closing out the original story which was basically tied up previously.
Once the bloody battles begin, you'll forget any difficulties you're having with the story though, as this one takes our YouTube posting, witch hunting, half demon badass heroine straight into the wolf's mouth. If the previous novels were a bucket of blood, this one would be a pool. It's outrageous and exactly what I was looking for.
Sure I missed the witchy battles from before, but these new villains bring a level of danger that is needed to boost the stakes.
It was a slightly odd end to a trilogy as it kind of combines new stories with older ones, leading to a feeling that we should be setting off on a new series of books instead of closing out the original story which was basically tied up previously.
Once the bloody battles begin, you'll forget any difficulties you're having with the story though, as this one takes our YouTube posting, witch hunting, half demon badass heroine straight into the wolf's mouth. If the previous novels were a bucket of blood, this one would be a pool. It's outrageous and exactly what I was looking for.
Sure I missed the witchy battles from before, but these new villains bring a level of danger that is needed to boost the stakes.
June 23, 2022
Abschluss mit offenem Ende
Hat mich Band eins noch überzeugen können und gepackt, so ist meine Begeisterung jetzt endgültig dahin. Es dauert alles zu lange und die Ereignisse nehmen ungeahnte Ausmaße an. Leider sehr übertrieben und gar nicht mehr mein Fall.
Ich bin sehr enttäuscht worden von dieser Reihe und finde es mehr als Schade. Dem Ende nach zu urteilen, wird es hier noch vielleicht noch weitergehen, diesmal aber ohne mich.
Dass Kenway außerdem einfach so abgespeist wurde, finde ich auch unterste Schublade, dabei war er endlich ein Charakter, der mir gefallen hat und auch sympathisch war.
Wirklich sehr schade, dass ich hier meine kostbare Lesezeit verschenkt habe.
Hat mich Band eins noch überzeugen können und gepackt, so ist meine Begeisterung jetzt endgültig dahin. Es dauert alles zu lange und die Ereignisse nehmen ungeahnte Ausmaße an. Leider sehr übertrieben und gar nicht mehr mein Fall.
Ich bin sehr enttäuscht worden von dieser Reihe und finde es mehr als Schade. Dem Ende nach zu urteilen, wird es hier noch vielleicht noch weitergehen, diesmal aber ohne mich.
Dass Kenway außerdem einfach so abgespeist wurde, finde ich auch unterste Schublade, dabei war er endlich ein Charakter, der mir gefallen hat und auch sympathisch war.
Wirklich sehr schade, dass ich hier meine kostbare Lesezeit verschenkt habe.
November 8, 2020
Horror fans take note. If you haven’t discovered SA Hunt, where the fuck have you been? This is a rare series in which each book actually gets better. Typically in a trilogy the first book sets the tone, second is a bridge- necessary but typically weaker- and the third makes or breaks the series. The Malus Domestica series just keeps ramping up to a crescendo. And there had BETTER be another coming along.
November 6, 2020
I was mistakenly expecting this to be the end of a trilogy but it is clearly an ongoing series. Not quite as epic for me as the combo story of the first two books, but the writing is still great and we get to see deeper into Robin and a few of the other characters.
November 2, 2024
This was a great end to an amazing series. The story came to an epic conclusion, and the main characters got their epic endings. The ending did leave off on a cliff hanger, but it was a conclusion that still was epic.
October 30, 2020
This series is fantastic!
October 24, 2022
Wieder besser als Band 2.
Das Ende war aus meiner Sicht sehr offen - Kommt da noch ein weiterer Band?
Das Ende war aus meiner Sicht sehr offen - Kommt da noch ein weiterer Band?
January 19, 2026
The Hellion Review
5/5 stars
Before I get started, this is the third book in a series. So if you haven’t read the other books in the series, I’ve got reviews of both of those I’ll link down below.
SPOILER FOR THE WHOLE BOOK PLUS THE WHOLE SERIES
YOU CANNOT SAY YOU WEREN’T WARNED
BECAUSE YOU WERE WARNED
Ok moving on...
I think each of the three books in this series have a different kind of horror. Book 1 was very paranormal. Book 2 was filled with tons of violence. And this one felt more like psychological horror.
At first, you want to believe the main bad guy isn’t as bad as he says he is, and really he’s not all that bad himself. But then things start happening rapid fire, and you slowly realize that there is no way he could be redeemed.
Honestly, the first half of this book where it spent time analyzing the bad guy and his motives was really freaky to me. Out of the three of these, this was the one that hit closest to home. I’ve just seen enough horrible parents to know how it feels.
I think this book definitely felt like one long battle with little breaks where the characters try to recuperate. Some of the breaks had chapters from the past, which was so cool. Some of the most emotional moments were from seeing the past. And the funniest moment, at least it was the funniest to me.
Let. Robin. Do. Hilarious. Things. With. Guns. To. Annoy. Heinrich.
Thank you for coming to my Ted Talk.
I am still loving this series, just as I was when I started it. Although I think Robin needs to work through her issues instead of ignoring them. She’s really bad at that.
I loved how Kenway got more screen time. He’s such a lovable guy, and his personality really shone through in this one.
It was honestly a bit odd to not have witches in the plot, instead focusing on how magical artifacts work. But it was obvious that it’s plot important, and it was very well done. I just miss the witches. They may be horrible, but they’re fun villains.
The ending was...ROBIN STOP BEING AN IDIOT. I am honestly not mad. I think it’ll all work out, and she’ll get some needed self evaluation. Plus, now we get some more angst. Do I love it when books torture me? YES I DO. Shhhhhhhhh don’t tell people. YES TELL THEM. Shhhhh.........
Overall, I think it was really amazing. I was so hooked, I read it in one sitting. Just me staying up late reading. Nothing to see here.
If you didn’t read my other reviews of book 1 and 2, they’re down at the bottom.
5/5 stars
Before I get started, this is the third book in a series. So if you haven’t read the other books in the series, I’ve got reviews of both of those I’ll link down below.
SPOILER FOR THE WHOLE BOOK PLUS THE WHOLE SERIES
YOU CANNOT SAY YOU WEREN’T WARNED
BECAUSE YOU WERE WARNED
Ok moving on...
I think each of the three books in this series have a different kind of horror. Book 1 was very paranormal. Book 2 was filled with tons of violence. And this one felt more like psychological horror.
At first, you want to believe the main bad guy isn’t as bad as he says he is, and really he’s not all that bad himself. But then things start happening rapid fire, and you slowly realize that there is no way he could be redeemed.
Honestly, the first half of this book where it spent time analyzing the bad guy and his motives was really freaky to me. Out of the three of these, this was the one that hit closest to home. I’ve just seen enough horrible parents to know how it feels.
I think this book definitely felt like one long battle with little breaks where the characters try to recuperate. Some of the breaks had chapters from the past, which was so cool. Some of the most emotional moments were from seeing the past. And the funniest moment, at least it was the funniest to me.
Let. Robin. Do. Hilarious. Things. With. Guns. To. Annoy. Heinrich.
Thank you for coming to my Ted Talk.
I am still loving this series, just as I was when I started it. Although I think Robin needs to work through her issues instead of ignoring them. She’s really bad at that.
I loved how Kenway got more screen time. He’s such a lovable guy, and his personality really shone through in this one.
It was honestly a bit odd to not have witches in the plot, instead focusing on how magical artifacts work. But it was obvious that it’s plot important, and it was very well done. I just miss the witches. They may be horrible, but they’re fun villains.
The ending was...ROBIN STOP BEING AN IDIOT. I am honestly not mad. I think it’ll all work out, and she’ll get some needed self evaluation. Plus, now we get some more angst. Do I love it when books torture me? YES I DO. Shhhhhhhhh don’t tell people. YES TELL THEM. Shhhhh.........
Overall, I think it was really amazing. I was so hooked, I read it in one sitting. Just me staying up late reading. Nothing to see here.
If you didn’t read my other reviews of book 1 and 2, they’re down at the bottom.
May 3, 2022
Mit dem dritten Band bin ich in die Reihe eingestiegen und hab es ein weig bereuht. Nicht weil die Buchreihe schlecht wäre, nein, weil ich die Protagonistin gerne schon etwas früher kennengelernt hätte. Sie erscheint es mir Wert, das zu tun. Aber nichts desto trotz habe ich diesen Buch echt genossen. Diese Leichtigkeit mit der die Geschichte erzählt wird, sucht man in den meisten Büchern echt vergebens und auch der Humor kommt hier nicht zu kurz. Aber mal von Anfang an, um was es hier überhaupt geht.
Robin ist eine sogenannte Hexenjägerin und hat gerade mit ihrer Ausbildung begonnen. Ich musste echt schmunzeln wie diese von statten ging und wie Robin sich dem allen gefügt hat. Allerdings wird auch sehr schnell klar, das sie auch gar keine andere Wahl hat, denn die Hexen mit denen sie es zu tun bekommt, sind alles andere als leicht zu besiegen. Das sie dann auch noch die Tochter und die Frau eines Bikerchefs beschützen muss, ist dann auch die eher die abschliessende Prüfung für sie. Es wird jedenfalls alles andere als einfach.
In diesem Buch gibt es schon einige düstere und auch sehr blutige Szenen die für die zartbesaiteten unter uns vielleicht nicht ganz so gut geeignet sind. Da hilft auch der leicht leserliche Schreibstil, der ab und zu auch ein wenig Humor reinbringt, nur wenig. Also wer das nicht so abkann, hat hier vielleicht so seine Probleme. Ich für meinen Teil konnte alles gut weglesen und fühlte mich auch insgesamt gut unterhalten. Mir war nur die Hauptfigur, Robin nicht so wirklich sypathisch. Kann sein weil ich sie erst so spät kennenlernte, aber ich wurde mit ihr nicht so wirklich warm.
Ansonsten war die Geschichte um Robin jedoch sehr gut und vorallem spannend und blutig erzählt, das konnte mir den Lesespaß zumindest die ganzen Buchseiten hinweg erhalten.
Ja, auch wenn ein wenig Kritik von meiner Seite aus gekommen ist, so was die Hexenjägerin trotzdem ein unterhaltsames und interessantes Buch, das mir den Tag versüßen konnte. Jeder der auf eine etwas ungewöhniche, freche Heldin steht, es düster und blutig mag, kann hier beherzt zugreifen. Auch wenn ich empfehlen würde, die Bände zuvor zu lesen, kann man sich aber auch so einen guten Überblick verschaffen.
Robin ist eine sogenannte Hexenjägerin und hat gerade mit ihrer Ausbildung begonnen. Ich musste echt schmunzeln wie diese von statten ging und wie Robin sich dem allen gefügt hat. Allerdings wird auch sehr schnell klar, das sie auch gar keine andere Wahl hat, denn die Hexen mit denen sie es zu tun bekommt, sind alles andere als leicht zu besiegen. Das sie dann auch noch die Tochter und die Frau eines Bikerchefs beschützen muss, ist dann auch die eher die abschliessende Prüfung für sie. Es wird jedenfalls alles andere als einfach.
In diesem Buch gibt es schon einige düstere und auch sehr blutige Szenen die für die zartbesaiteten unter uns vielleicht nicht ganz so gut geeignet sind. Da hilft auch der leicht leserliche Schreibstil, der ab und zu auch ein wenig Humor reinbringt, nur wenig. Also wer das nicht so abkann, hat hier vielleicht so seine Probleme. Ich für meinen Teil konnte alles gut weglesen und fühlte mich auch insgesamt gut unterhalten. Mir war nur die Hauptfigur, Robin nicht so wirklich sypathisch. Kann sein weil ich sie erst so spät kennenlernte, aber ich wurde mit ihr nicht so wirklich warm.
Ansonsten war die Geschichte um Robin jedoch sehr gut und vorallem spannend und blutig erzählt, das konnte mir den Lesespaß zumindest die ganzen Buchseiten hinweg erhalten.
Ja, auch wenn ein wenig Kritik von meiner Seite aus gekommen ist, so was die Hexenjägerin trotzdem ein unterhaltsames und interessantes Buch, das mir den Tag versüßen konnte. Jeder der auf eine etwas ungewöhniche, freche Heldin steht, es düster und blutig mag, kann hier beherzt zugreifen. Auch wenn ich empfehlen würde, die Bände zuvor zu lesen, kann man sich aber auch so einen guten Überblick verschaffen.
March 26, 2024
"God never did much for me, but books, they can save you in ways religion can't. They can give you strength, teach you, give you a place to go when the world is too much."
In true Hunt style, we are blessed again with a fantastic horror story filled with race and gender inclusive charcters, pop culture and cultural myths.
In this story we get less witches, but are blessed with Chupacabras, Wherefolves, a mention of La Llorona. I loved that the Latin culture was brought into this story. Though I did miss our past witch fighting, it was nice to add something new to the mix.
This time around Robin not only fights the bad guys around her, but also within her as she continues to figure out who she is and how her new powers work. The transformation is otherworldly and we get glimpses of past horrors and heartaches that guide her on her way to self discovery.
As Robin's story continues, we get to know some of the characters better from the second book and meet new characters who become like a part of her own found family. But what happens when you start to care about people, you become scared to loose them, leading Robin on yet another new journey.
I will say, I didn't love this book as much as the past two, but it was still a very solid read. Can't wait to see what happens next! (if there is a next)
Thank you to Netgalley and Macmillan-Tor/Forge for a copy of this title in exchange for an honest review
In true Hunt style, we are blessed again with a fantastic horror story filled with race and gender inclusive charcters, pop culture and cultural myths.
In this story we get less witches, but are blessed with Chupacabras, Wherefolves, a mention of La Llorona. I loved that the Latin culture was brought into this story. Though I did miss our past witch fighting, it was nice to add something new to the mix.
This time around Robin not only fights the bad guys around her, but also within her as she continues to figure out who she is and how her new powers work. The transformation is otherworldly and we get glimpses of past horrors and heartaches that guide her on her way to self discovery.
As Robin's story continues, we get to know some of the characters better from the second book and meet new characters who become like a part of her own found family. But what happens when you start to care about people, you become scared to loose them, leading Robin on yet another new journey.
I will say, I didn't love this book as much as the past two, but it was still a very solid read. Can't wait to see what happens next! (if there is a next)
Thank you to Netgalley and Macmillan-Tor/Forge for a copy of this title in exchange for an honest review
December 1, 2020
Loved reading this book, in a different setting and mystery than the first two. Great read, so many twists, and I hope the series continues, given where the characters end up!
December 16, 2023
I thought the 3rd book to be a bit of a disappointment but still if you've read the first two you have to finish things up. Good book, the story just goes off track a bit.
Read
September 2, 2024
Trigger & Content Warnings
Domestic violence
Self-harm
Cannibalism
Dismemberment
Emesis
Death of a parent
Murder
Domestic violence
Self-harm
Cannibalism
Dismemberment
Emesis
Death of a parent
Murder
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews