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The Guild Codex: Demonized #2
Slaying Monsters for the Feeble
I'm bound to a demon.
For my entire life, I avoided magic at all costs. Now, I'm responsible for a demon who wields magic more powerful than the toughest mage or sorcerer.
Demons are evil.
That's what my textbooks say. That's what I see. He's ruthless, he's temperamental, he's cold. But he protects me without fail. I wonder if he's hiding a heart behind his hostility.
My demon is a monster.
Whether he's heartless or not, my contract with him is illegal and beyond dangerous. Together, we must find a way to return him to his own world before anyone discovers our secret. If that wasn't bad enough, I've come to realize something else:
My demon isn't the only monster I should be worried about.
For my entire life, I avoided magic at all costs. Now, I'm responsible for a demon who wields magic more powerful than the toughest mage or sorcerer.
Demons are evil.
That's what my textbooks say. That's what I see. He's ruthless, he's temperamental, he's cold. But he protects me without fail. I wonder if he's hiding a heart behind his hostility.
My demon is a monster.
Whether he's heartless or not, my contract with him is illegal and beyond dangerous. Together, we must find a way to return him to his own world before anyone discovers our secret. If that wasn't bad enough, I've come to realize something else:
My demon isn't the only monster I should be worried about.
327 pages, Paperback
First published October 31, 2019
About the author
Annette Marie
79 books7,350 followersAnnette Marie is the best-selling author of over thirty books, including the expansive urban fantasy series The Guild Codex, epic urban fantasy series Steel & Stone, and romantic fantasy trilogy Red Winter.
A 2015 Goodreads Choice Awards Finalist in Fantasy and an Amazon Charts Bestseller, Annette has sold over 2 million books. Her books have been translated into French, German, Polish, Ukrainian, and Russian, with readers coming back again and again for her addictive blend of fast-paced adventure, tantalizing forbidden romance, and unforgettable characters.
Annette lives in the frozen winter wasteland of Alberta, Canada (okay, it’s not quite that bad) with her husband and their furry minions of darkness. When not writing, she can be found elbow-deep in her garden or an art project while blissfully ignoring all adult responsibilities.
To find out more about Annette and her books, visit www.annettemarie.ca
A 2015 Goodreads Choice Awards Finalist in Fantasy and an Amazon Charts Bestseller, Annette has sold over 2 million books. Her books have been translated into French, German, Polish, Ukrainian, and Russian, with readers coming back again and again for her addictive blend of fast-paced adventure, tantalizing forbidden romance, and unforgettable characters.
Annette lives in the frozen winter wasteland of Alberta, Canada (okay, it’s not quite that bad) with her husband and their furry minions of darkness. When not writing, she can be found elbow-deep in her garden or an art project while blissfully ignoring all adult responsibilities.
To find out more about Annette and her books, visit www.annettemarie.ca
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,095 reviews
July 24, 2023
All five stars are for Zylas ♡♡♡♡♡
Which is why this review is just going to be a list of reasons why I love Zylas:
♡ bilingual king
♡ short king
♡ literally an actual demon king
♡ morally gray king
♡ wins through smart, sneaky, underhanded maneuvers
♡ super touchy
♡ has zero grace and no personal boundaries
♡ will sniff your hair and pull you into his lap
♡ eats entire pies in one bite
♡ he's hot :)
♡ would kill for his adorable little human girlfriend
♡ has a cute tail that lashes when he's upset
Also.
Zylas's fighting strategy... and he's 100% right
Which is why this review is just going to be a list of reasons why I love Zylas:
♡ bilingual king
♡ short king
♡ literally an actual demon king
♡ morally gray king
♡ wins through smart, sneaky, underhanded maneuvers
♡ super touchy
♡ has zero grace and no personal boundaries
♡ will sniff your hair and pull you into his lap
♡ eats entire pies in one bite
♡ he's hot :)
♡ would kill for his adorable little human girlfriend
♡ has a cute tail that lashes when he's upset
Also.
Zylas's fighting strategy... and he's 100% right
February 21, 2020
3.5 stars
It's official, I definitely prefer this series featuring Robin over the 'original' series featuring Tori. I hear that the two series start to overlap even more in future books so I will need to keep reading both in order to not miss anything about Robin. Not that I dislike Tori's series, it's just that I find her as a heroine to be kind of annoying. Ezra is definitely my jam though, so I'll keep reading it for him.
Back to this series and this installment - I enjoyed the developments in the plot that carried over from the previous book. Though Uncle Jack got a personality transplant, that was kind of weird. But otherwise I am interested in seeing what happens next!
It's official, I definitely prefer this series featuring Robin over the 'original' series featuring Tori. I hear that the two series start to overlap even more in future books so I will need to keep reading both in order to not miss anything about Robin. Not that I dislike Tori's series, it's just that I find her as a heroine to be kind of annoying. Ezra is definitely my jam though, so I'll keep reading it for him.
Back to this series and this installment - I enjoyed the developments in the plot that carried over from the previous book. Though Uncle Jack got a personality transplant, that was kind of weird. But otherwise I am interested in seeing what happens next!
August 16, 2019
I've avoided writing a review for this book because it makes me sad. I liked it a lot and it makes me so SAD.
Slaying Monsters is lowkey compared to its sister series, but it's also so much more intense... at least it feels like that to me? Two books in and I'm so invested in Robin and Zylas' relationship--and not just in a romantic way, because I do ship them, but in every way.
Robin and Zylas are so complex. Both as a unit and as separate beings. Being in Robin's head means we see her in both dangerous and curious situations with her demon, and we can even see the change in her. She's still meek and, well, weak, and it did infuriate me a little, but Robin's strengths lie elsewhere and it shows so well! She's caring and compassionate and dedicated and maybe it's a quiet strength, but I find her so refreshing and wonderful.
Zylas, on the other hand, has my entire heart. I adore him. My favorite trope is when an otherworldly being is curious about basic human things. Annette Marie is giving me the CONTENT with him here, and I can't thank her enough. A real hero.
I love the take on the villains she did here! I know the synopsis doesn't say much and I don't want to give anything away, but... y'all. Vampires, okay? I love her take. It's so unique and it's so much fun! I love how it tied into the overall story, too. I'm even more eager to find out how the two series interconnect now because things are ROLLING, and it's stressing me out.
Overall, this book is a HIT. 4.5 stars! I'm so sad to have finished in a day because it means waiting so long for the third book. I need things to happen or else I might just die.
Slaying Monsters is lowkey compared to its sister series, but it's also so much more intense... at least it feels like that to me? Two books in and I'm so invested in Robin and Zylas' relationship--and not just in a romantic way, because I do ship them, but in every way.
Robin and Zylas are so complex. Both as a unit and as separate beings. Being in Robin's head means we see her in both dangerous and curious situations with her demon, and we can even see the change in her. She's still meek and, well, weak, and it did infuriate me a little, but Robin's strengths lie elsewhere and it shows so well! She's caring and compassionate and dedicated and maybe it's a quiet strength, but I find her so refreshing and wonderful.
Zylas, on the other hand, has my entire heart. I adore him. My favorite trope is when an otherworldly being is curious about basic human things. Annette Marie is giving me the CONTENT with him here, and I can't thank her enough. A real hero.
I love the take on the villains she did here! I know the synopsis doesn't say much and I don't want to give anything away, but... y'all. Vampires, okay? I love her take. It's so unique and it's so much fun! I love how it tied into the overall story, too. I'm even more eager to find out how the two series interconnect now because things are ROLLING, and it's stressing me out.
Overall, this book is a HIT. 4.5 stars! I'm so sad to have finished in a day because it means waiting so long for the third book. I need things to happen or else I might just die.
September 17, 2019
Star Rating: —> 5 [gleaming] STARS!!!
(Nov. 4th, 2019- ADDED MORE REVIEW BELOW! Take a look, if ya feel like lookin’ ☺️ thank youssss)
I’M FRICKIN FREAKING OUT RN!
[Here’s a blurb from my “review” of the next book in the series, Hunting Fiends for
the Ill-Equipped to kind of express what I’m feeling:
My God. After Demonized #2... my heart beats about 150 bpm thinking about this. Actually, I’m dead. Or maybe like undead, or you know, whatever. I will be reborn probably for Spellbound #6: Druid Vices & a Vodka (the sister series) and then die all over again.
Yes... these books are that incredible.
Kids, once again, this buttercup is BUCKLED UP (sitting impatiently with the intense need to damn unbuckle like a child on their way to Disney World. Are we there yettttttt??? 😉)
Annette Marie, take. my. money. Just all of it. You are an angel sent from heaven to write for all of us. I’m convinced.😂😂😂
💜💙💚]
So, yeah. Ummmm. I’m in love
Its offish!
(Nov. 4th, 2019): On to more about the book, instead of about me !
This installment truly rendered me speechless & my mind was straight up blown... I think I may have stared blankly at the wall for an indiscernible amount of time ? I needed a day or two after turning that last page to shake off that feeling you get when you read a novel that is so... just...
EVERYTHING❤️
; that feeling whenthe amazing high to the immediate low... post book depression at its finest, friends 🥺😩😭
This book, needless to say, was perfection.
Perfection! The character building was so rich in this novel, especially the many amazing moments between Robin & Zylas! Their developing dynamic & developing relationship is pure magic. Yeah. Those moments were by far my favorite part of this book! 😊😍💫 I also loved both learning about magic in even more detail, & learning more about Zylas. Something about Zylas is so... damn beautiful. I am enamored with him... and in LOVE with him & Robin! I SHIP THEM SO HARD. PLEASE GIMME GIMME GIMME MORE! :-)
The plot for this installment was completely unexpected; there was such an original & creative take on a common trope that normally can get so boring, but as it happens, is anything but, here! I LOVED this take on it!
Annette Marie is truly a master storyteller. Slaying Monsters for the Feeble brought answers to certain mysteries to light... providing such satisfaction!
...and then revealing even more INSANE secrets in the plot to be revealed eventually, and although there are hints that create fun speculation towards the answers we want to know, Marie knows how to push a reader’s buttons in the BEST way possible- making you crave the next book SO badly that it feels like you’re waiting for your food at your favorite restaurant while you’re hangry AF!
My goodness;
I recommend this book with ALL OF MY HEART.
You truly need to read the CodexVerse books- you will NOT regret it.
________________________________
Oct. 20, 2019
Okay my mouth cant form words. My brain is... i can barely type.
RTC
_________________________________
CAN. NOT. WAIT.
WHY MUST I WAIT? AHHHHH. I literally feel like when I was a kid, around Christmastime, i’d end up crossing right over excited and going straight to so-excited-that-you’re-anxious, territory haha.
(Sorry if you do not celebrate Christmas, but I’m sure anyone has something similar they may be able to relate to this with?). 😭😭😭
*Buttercup buckles up early because she’s so freakin’ excited/anxious she has to wait SOLONG*
(Yes, the beginning of November is WAY too far away, okay?! These books are THAT good!)
(Nov. 4th, 2019- ADDED MORE REVIEW BELOW! Take a look, if ya feel like lookin’ ☺️ thank youssss)
I’M FRICKIN FREAKING OUT RN!
[Here’s a blurb from my “review” of the next book in the series, Hunting Fiends for
the Ill-Equipped to kind of express what I’m feeling:
My God. After Demonized #2... my heart beats about 150 bpm thinking about this. Actually, I’m dead. Or maybe like undead, or you know, whatever. I will be reborn probably for Spellbound #6: Druid Vices & a Vodka (the sister series) and then die all over again.
Yes... these books are that incredible.
Kids, once again, this buttercup is BUCKLED UP (sitting impatiently with the intense need to damn unbuckle like a child on their way to Disney World. Are we there yettttttt??? 😉)
Annette Marie, take. my. money. Just all of it. You are an angel sent from heaven to write for all of us. I’m convinced.😂😂😂
💜💙💚]
So, yeah. Ummmm. I’m in love
Its offish!
(Nov. 4th, 2019): On to more about the book, instead of about me !
This installment truly rendered me speechless & my mind was straight up blown... I think I may have stared blankly at the wall for an indiscernible amount of time ? I needed a day or two after turning that last page to shake off that feeling you get when you read a novel that is so... just...
EVERYTHING❤️
; that feeling whenthe amazing high to the immediate low... post book depression at its finest, friends 🥺😩😭
This book, needless to say, was perfection.
Perfection! The character building was so rich in this novel, especially the many amazing moments between Robin & Zylas! Their developing dynamic & developing relationship is pure magic. Yeah. Those moments were by far my favorite part of this book! 😊😍💫 I also loved both learning about magic in even more detail, & learning more about Zylas. Something about Zylas is so... damn beautiful. I am enamored with him... and in LOVE with him & Robin! I SHIP THEM SO HARD. PLEASE GIMME GIMME GIMME MORE! :-)
The plot for this installment was completely unexpected; there was such an original & creative take on a common trope that normally can get so boring, but as it happens, is anything but, here! I LOVED this take on it!
Annette Marie is truly a master storyteller. Slaying Monsters for the Feeble brought answers to certain mysteries to light... providing such satisfaction!
...and then revealing even more INSANE secrets in the plot to be revealed eventually, and although there are hints that create fun speculation towards the answers we want to know, Marie knows how to push a reader’s buttons in the BEST way possible- making you crave the next book SO badly that it feels like you’re waiting for your food at your favorite restaurant while you’re hangry AF!
My goodness;
I recommend this book with ALL OF MY HEART.
You truly need to read the CodexVerse books- you will NOT regret it.
________________________________
Oct. 20, 2019
Okay my mouth cant form words. My brain is... i can barely type.
RTC
_________________________________
CAN. NOT. WAIT.
WHY MUST I WAIT? AHHHHH. I literally feel like when I was a kid, around Christmastime, i’d end up crossing right over excited and going straight to so-excited-that-you’re-anxious, territory haha.
(Sorry if you do not celebrate Christmas, but I’m sure anyone has something similar they may be able to relate to this with?). 😭😭😭
*Buttercup buckles up early because she’s so freakin’ excited/anxious she has to wait SOLONG*
(Yes, the beginning of November is WAY too far away, okay?! These books are THAT good!)
October 19, 2019
5 demony stars
This book...
Seriously though. I think I'm liking this series even more than The Guild Codex. I LOVE Robin, and her personality is so #relatable. But what I enjoy the most is the relationship between her and Zylas. They are both locked into the contract they made, and they are doing their best to make the most of it. Kind of like marriage.
Okay so this book starts off a few weeks after the end of the first book because Robin had the flu (if she had gotten her flu shot maybe she wouldn't have gotten the flu, but that's a post for another day). And what's awesome is that we get to see Robin's point of view of her first guild meeting. Tori gave us her side of things, but I like Robin's better. Reading her thoughts to Zylas is the best =)
One thing I really enjoy about Annette's writing is that she puts a unique spin on old and tired tropes. Annette's version of vampires are AWESOME. AND she pokes fun at the silly and cartoon-y names that are usually associated with this kind of trope. So it's a win-win for me!
I can't remember the last time I enjoyed a book series as much as I've been enjoying this whole world that Annette has created. Her stories are witty, funny, full of action and a dash of romance. They are not trope-y, the characters are all enjoyable, and I am always left surprised at the outcome of the book. For this veteran reader, that is the most enjoyable thing of all. So thank you, Annette, for sharing these stories =)
I'll end this with my favorite quote from the entire book:
—————
ARC WOOHOO!!
This book...
Seriously though. I think I'm liking this series even more than The Guild Codex. I LOVE Robin, and her personality is so #relatable. But what I enjoy the most is the relationship between her and Zylas. They are both locked into the contract they made, and they are doing their best to make the most of it. Kind of like marriage.
Okay so this book starts off a few weeks after the end of the first book because Robin had the flu (if she had gotten her flu shot maybe she wouldn't have gotten the flu, but that's a post for another day). And what's awesome is that we get to see Robin's point of view of her first guild meeting. Tori gave us her side of things, but I like Robin's better. Reading her thoughts to Zylas is the best =)
One thing I really enjoy about Annette's writing is that she puts a unique spin on old and tired tropes. Annette's version of vampires are AWESOME. AND she pokes fun at the silly and cartoon-y names that are usually associated with this kind of trope. So it's a win-win for me!
I can't remember the last time I enjoyed a book series as much as I've been enjoying this whole world that Annette has created. Her stories are witty, funny, full of action and a dash of romance. They are not trope-y, the characters are all enjoyable, and I am always left surprised at the outcome of the book. For this veteran reader, that is the most enjoyable thing of all. So thank you, Annette, for sharing these stories =)
I'll end this with my favorite quote from the entire book:
—————
ARC WOOHOO!!
February 17, 2020
Originally posted at:
This series is magical and I never want it to end! Please give me all the books pertaining to this series, I beg you! The world is so fascinating and well built. The characters are complex and some walk in a grey area that makes the story that much more interesting.
Robin has been withstanding everything that's been thrown at her up to this point and it's amazing she's still alive. I've never seen myself so much in a character like I do with Robin. She's a bookworm who normally likes to stick to the outskirts of groups of people. She wasn't taught any of the survival skills she needs to have in this magical world she's found herself in much to her mother's dismay. Though I still wish I had her cooking skills. It's a fascinating balance Annette Marie strikes with Robin and the world she put her in and I love it!
Zylas is amazingly intelligent while also being a jerk half the time. There are moments when he has me thinking that he actually cares and then that all goes out the window after he calls Robin stupid in his native tongue. It's an entertaining dynamic and I'm excited to see where it's heading. I've said this before and I'll say it again I can't help but want Zylas and Robin to become a couple as dysfunctional as that may turn out.
There were a lot of action-packed scenes that had me on the edge of my seat with my hands over my eyes. There were way too many close calls for comfort. The ending had a bad feeling churning in my gut and I don't know how it's all going to be ok again. At this point, I just need some assurances that everything and everyone will be ok again.
The Audio Book:
There were one or two scenes where I did get lost in dialogue because the voices were too similar. Other than that the narration was good!
This series is magical and I never want it to end! Please give me all the books pertaining to this series, I beg you! The world is so fascinating and well built. The characters are complex and some walk in a grey area that makes the story that much more interesting.
Robin has been withstanding everything that's been thrown at her up to this point and it's amazing she's still alive. I've never seen myself so much in a character like I do with Robin. She's a bookworm who normally likes to stick to the outskirts of groups of people. She wasn't taught any of the survival skills she needs to have in this magical world she's found herself in much to her mother's dismay. Though I still wish I had her cooking skills. It's a fascinating balance Annette Marie strikes with Robin and the world she put her in and I love it!
Zylas is amazingly intelligent while also being a jerk half the time. There are moments when he has me thinking that he actually cares and then that all goes out the window after he calls Robin stupid in his native tongue. It's an entertaining dynamic and I'm excited to see where it's heading. I've said this before and I'll say it again I can't help but want Zylas and Robin to become a couple as dysfunctional as that may turn out.
There were a lot of action-packed scenes that had me on the edge of my seat with my hands over my eyes. There were way too many close calls for comfort. The ending had a bad feeling churning in my gut and I don't know how it's all going to be ok again. At this point, I just need some assurances that everything and everyone will be ok again.
The Audio Book:
There were one or two scenes where I did get lost in dialogue because the voices were too similar. Other than that the narration was good!
May 7, 2020
I slammed through this second installment so fast and then moved straight on to the third that I can’t even write a coherent review!
All I can say is this series is sooooooo good and totally needs more press! It’s a hidden gem!
All I can say is this series is sooooooo good and totally needs more press! It’s a hidden gem!
October 29, 2019
05/18/2024: Reread. (Audiobook.)
12/23/2022: Reread. (Audiobook.)
06/20/2021: Reread. (Audiobook.)
09/26/2020: Reread. (Audiobook.)
08/11/2020: Reread! (Read to my son, Maddox.)
07/19/2020: Reread!
Disclaimer: I received an Advance Reader Copy at no cost from the publisher/author. All opinions in my review are my own.
This has been another ground-shaking installment of the Guild Codex world that has taken me farther than I ever could have imagined. And that is the best thing about reading a book by this author. No matter how many books Annette Marie releases, I am always completely captivated and awed by her storytelling.
The way that Annette Marie weaves both series from this world together is a bit of magic in itself. The Guild Codex world is complex and vibrant with so much lore and world-building infused into everything. The way that the author merges both series together to create something even more incredible is nothing short of brilliant. I get tingles just thinking about how much further she can take things and how much deeper this world can go. I have no doubts that whatever she has in store for us will blow our minds.
With Marie's storytelling you never quite know what to expect. I love that you never quite know where her stories will take you. The sky is honestly the limit where her stories are concerned and she takes her readers to extreme heights. Every time I stumble onto a plot twist, a big reveal, or a bit of foreshadowing I am left reeling. The twists and turns are real, ya'll. Prepare your heart now for the unpredictable.
Character development has always been another strong suit for this author. I never have to worry about connecting with characters when I read her books. I always do every single time. She is such a skilled craftswoman when it comes to developing her characters. Not only are the individual characters full of depth and distinct personalities but the relationships that the characters share are always meaningful and so well developed. Even the secondary characters shine. I am always so impressed with the characters that Marie bursts into existence.
Overall, Slaying Monsters for the Feeble is an astonishing new addition to the Guild Codex world. I love this world so much. I love these characters and the direction that the story is taking. I could gush about this author's superb storytelling all day long. Annette Marie is hands down my favorite author and I can only hope that she never runs out of stories to tell. Do yourself a favor and pick up one of her books today!
More reviews on my blog: Novel Nerd Faction
12/23/2022: Reread. (Audiobook.)
06/20/2021: Reread. (Audiobook.)
09/26/2020: Reread. (Audiobook.)
08/11/2020: Reread! (Read to my son, Maddox.)
07/19/2020: Reread!
Disclaimer: I received an Advance Reader Copy at no cost from the publisher/author. All opinions in my review are my own.
This has been another ground-shaking installment of the Guild Codex world that has taken me farther than I ever could have imagined. And that is the best thing about reading a book by this author. No matter how many books Annette Marie releases, I am always completely captivated and awed by her storytelling.
The way that Annette Marie weaves both series from this world together is a bit of magic in itself. The Guild Codex world is complex and vibrant with so much lore and world-building infused into everything. The way that the author merges both series together to create something even more incredible is nothing short of brilliant. I get tingles just thinking about how much further she can take things and how much deeper this world can go. I have no doubts that whatever she has in store for us will blow our minds.
With Marie's storytelling you never quite know what to expect. I love that you never quite know where her stories will take you. The sky is honestly the limit where her stories are concerned and she takes her readers to extreme heights. Every time I stumble onto a plot twist, a big reveal, or a bit of foreshadowing I am left reeling. The twists and turns are real, ya'll. Prepare your heart now for the unpredictable.
Character development has always been another strong suit for this author. I never have to worry about connecting with characters when I read her books. I always do every single time. She is such a skilled craftswoman when it comes to developing her characters. Not only are the individual characters full of depth and distinct personalities but the relationships that the characters share are always meaningful and so well developed. Even the secondary characters shine. I am always so impressed with the characters that Marie bursts into existence.
Overall, Slaying Monsters for the Feeble is an astonishing new addition to the Guild Codex world. I love this world so much. I love these characters and the direction that the story is taking. I could gush about this author's superb storytelling all day long. Annette Marie is hands down my favorite author and I can only hope that she never runs out of stories to tell. Do yourself a favor and pick up one of her books today!
More reviews on my blog: Novel Nerd Faction
November 7, 2019
Hate it.
*sneers*
Kick ass for me Zylas will you?
*sneers*
Kick ass for me Zylas will you?
![Profile Image for julia ☆ [owls reads].](https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/users/1636739475i/5520447._UX200_CR0,0,200,200_.jpg)
October 8, 2019
#1 Taming Demons for Beginners: ★★★★☆
*
2 stars.
*
Apparently there’s this thing that happens with me and Annette Marie novels where I love the first installment of a new series and then think the sequel just doesn’t live up to it. That’s what happened with Slaying Monsters for the Feeble. The pace was fast and the narrative was okay, but the plot seemed a bit disconnected from the previous novel in a way that made it seem like Marie was adding stuff to it so as to drag the series out.
The character development was also a bummer. Robin was the main POV character, as usual, but she was way more of a doormat/naive in this installment. She constantly found herself in danger and usually unable to save herself, having to rely on Zylas to rescue her, and then chastised him for being who he is aka a demon from Hell. There was a lot of back on forth regarding that and Robin feeling all angsty that Zylas didn’t have a human moral compass.
The plot, as mentioned above, introduced more mystery to the story while at the same time moving away from the core conflict of the previous novel: what happened to Robin’s parents and how to get Zylas home. There was still some pretty good and well written reveals regarding the first point, and it was great to get more information about Robin’s family, but the second point was totally sidelined and a point of friction between Robin and Zylas. And I was totally on Zylas’s side for that one.
I did like how the story focused more on action and mystery than the supposed romance, although I could have gone without the non-consensual touching from Zylas towards Robin. Sure, he’s a demon, but that was a boundary that was pushed several times, and to build a possible romantic relationship from that is a bit yicky. This feels like it’s going to be the slowest of burns, though, so there might be some development with that.
In the end, Slaying Monsters for the Feeble went in a direction that didn’t quite work for me, which seems to be the case with all Annette Marie series I read. I’m sure people will love the action and world-building and the way things are going, but I was not one of them. I’m unsure whether I’m going to give the next book a try, but we’ll see.
*
Series: #2 The Guild Codex: Demonized series.
POV: Told from Robin’s POV.
Content Warnings:
Instalove:
Steam: Nope!
Cliffhanger: Not really.
HEA:
Up Next: Hunting Fiends for the Ill-Equipped.
*
2 stars.
*
Apparently there’s this thing that happens with me and Annette Marie novels where I love the first installment of a new series and then think the sequel just doesn’t live up to it. That’s what happened with Slaying Monsters for the Feeble. The pace was fast and the narrative was okay, but the plot seemed a bit disconnected from the previous novel in a way that made it seem like Marie was adding stuff to it so as to drag the series out.
The character development was also a bummer. Robin was the main POV character, as usual, but she was way more of a doormat/naive in this installment. She constantly found herself in danger and usually unable to save herself, having to rely on Zylas to rescue her, and then chastised him for being who he is aka a demon from Hell. There was a lot of back on forth regarding that and Robin feeling all angsty that Zylas didn’t have a human moral compass.
The plot, as mentioned above, introduced more mystery to the story while at the same time moving away from the core conflict of the previous novel: what happened to Robin’s parents and how to get Zylas home. There was still some pretty good and well written reveals regarding the first point, and it was great to get more information about Robin’s family, but the second point was totally sidelined and a point of friction between Robin and Zylas. And I was totally on Zylas’s side for that one.
I did like how the story focused more on action and mystery than the supposed romance, although I could have gone without the non-consensual touching from Zylas towards Robin. Sure, he’s a demon, but that was a boundary that was pushed several times, and to build a possible romantic relationship from that is a bit yicky. This feels like it’s going to be the slowest of burns, though, so there might be some development with that.
In the end, Slaying Monsters for the Feeble went in a direction that didn’t quite work for me, which seems to be the case with all Annette Marie series I read. I’m sure people will love the action and world-building and the way things are going, but I was not one of them. I’m unsure whether I’m going to give the next book a try, but we’ll see.
*
Series: #2 The Guild Codex: Demonized series.
POV: Told from Robin’s POV.
Content Warnings:
Instalove:
Steam: Nope!
Cliffhanger: Not really.
HEA:
Up Next: Hunting Fiends for the Ill-Equipped.
June 19, 2026
✅ Characters
✅ Found family vibe (slowly, but surely)
✅ Quick read
✅ Pace
✅ Vampires
✅ Magic & action
✅(🆗) Is this going to be a romance?
✅(🆗) plot
❗️❗️Trigger warnings: car explosion, attempted murder
🔥 Spice level : 🌶️ / 5
3.5 stars
I am still keeping the review short because at the pace I am reading/listening to these books, I can’t keep up and write long, detailed reviews.
I loved seeing Zylas and Robin work together, but I admit that I didn’t particularly care about their quest to find Robin’s grimmoire and/or her uncle. When Robin finally has a chance to speak to her uncle, he ends up being kind of nice, and apparently feeling bad for what he did, which I didn’t buy because he was a major jerk in the first book. This seems like too drastic of a personality change to be believable. On the plus side, I liked seeing vampires in this book; it is a novelty in this universe, and I like how they were portrayed.
Zylas is sassy in the best way. He is a demon and struggles with human concepts such as empathy and kindness, yet we can see that he is developing a soft spot for Robin. It was funny to see her try to resonate with him, present hypothetical situations to him to see if he would show kindness, and to see him remain cold and calculating every time.
Robin remains a nerdy bookworm, but while she struggles a lot with confrontation and has some confidence issues, she is not a pushover. She is driven and determined, and she shows strength in a different way than the other guild members. It’s a good thing she has Zylas to save her, though, because combat is definitely not her forte.
I might be a minority here, but while I adore Robin and Zylas, I don’t want them to end up in a romantic relationship. Zylas is still trying to figure out how emotions work, and I don’t see how the author could make their relationship and feelings progress so much in only two books, without the romance feeling forced. I love romance in urban fantasy series, but I also believe that it is not a requirement. A series can be engaging and enjoyable without having romance in it.
There is a hint of found family, and I am eager to see it develop. Robin is slowly forming bonds with some guild members, and she is also becoming closer with her cousin. It is very fun to see more of other guild members in this series. I love Tori and her three mages, but it is nice to see other guild members, and it helps give them more depth, so they feel more relevant in the Spellbound series, too.
🍹0.1 Four Shifters and a Stranger ⭐⭐⭐⭐
🍹0.5 A Damsel and a Demigod ⭐⭐⭐.5
🍹1. Three Mages and a Margarita ⭐⭐⭐.5
👮1. Warping Minds & Other Misdemeanors ⭐⭐⭐
🍹2. Dark Arts and a Daiquiri ⭐⭐⭐.5
🍹3. Two Witches and a Whiskey ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
🍹4. Demon Magic and a Martini ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
😈1. Taming Demons for Beginners ⭐⭐⭐⭐
👮2. Hellbound Guilds & Other Misdirections ⭐⭐⭐⭐
🍹5. The Alchemist and an Amaretto ⭐⭐⭐⭐
👮2.5 A Little Warped ⭐⭐⭐.5
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✅ Found family vibe (slowly, but surely)
✅ Quick read
✅ Pace
✅ Vampires
✅ Magic & action
✅(🆗) Is this going to be a romance?
✅(🆗) plot
❗️❗️Trigger warnings: car explosion, attempted murder
🔥 Spice level : 🌶️ / 5
3.5 stars
I am still keeping the review short because at the pace I am reading/listening to these books, I can’t keep up and write long, detailed reviews.
I loved seeing Zylas and Robin work together, but I admit that I didn’t particularly care about their quest to find Robin’s grimmoire and/or her uncle. When Robin finally has a chance to speak to her uncle, he ends up being kind of nice, and apparently feeling bad for what he did, which I didn’t buy because he was a major jerk in the first book. This seems like too drastic of a personality change to be believable. On the plus side, I liked seeing vampires in this book; it is a novelty in this universe, and I like how they were portrayed.
Zylas is sassy in the best way. He is a demon and struggles with human concepts such as empathy and kindness, yet we can see that he is developing a soft spot for Robin. It was funny to see her try to resonate with him, present hypothetical situations to him to see if he would show kindness, and to see him remain cold and calculating every time.
Robin remains a nerdy bookworm, but while she struggles a lot with confrontation and has some confidence issues, she is not a pushover. She is driven and determined, and she shows strength in a different way than the other guild members. It’s a good thing she has Zylas to save her, though, because combat is definitely not her forte.
I might be a minority here, but while I adore Robin and Zylas, I don’t want them to end up in a romantic relationship. Zylas is still trying to figure out how emotions work, and I don’t see how the author could make their relationship and feelings progress so much in only two books, without the romance feeling forced. I love romance in urban fantasy series, but I also believe that it is not a requirement. A series can be engaging and enjoyable without having romance in it.
There is a hint of found family, and I am eager to see it develop. Robin is slowly forming bonds with some guild members, and she is also becoming closer with her cousin. It is very fun to see more of other guild members in this series. I love Tori and her three mages, but it is nice to see other guild members, and it helps give them more depth, so they feel more relevant in the Spellbound series, too.
🍹0.1 Four Shifters and a Stranger ⭐⭐⭐⭐
🍹0.5 A Damsel and a Demigod ⭐⭐⭐.5
🍹1. Three Mages and a Margarita ⭐⭐⭐.5
👮1. Warping Minds & Other Misdemeanors ⭐⭐⭐
🍹2. Dark Arts and a Daiquiri ⭐⭐⭐.5
🍹3. Two Witches and a Whiskey ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
🍹4. Demon Magic and a Martini ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
😈1. Taming Demons for Beginners ⭐⭐⭐⭐
👮2. Hellbound Guilds & Other Misdirections ⭐⭐⭐⭐
🍹5. The Alchemist and an Amaretto ⭐⭐⭐⭐
👮2.5 A Little Warped ⭐⭐⭐.5
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February 5, 2020
Slaying Monsters for the Feeble
Guild Codex: Demonized, Book 2
By: Annette Marie
Narrated by: Cris Dukehart
Awesome follow-up! Not disappointed! Lots of magic, paranormal creatures, and demons! Characters are terrific, wonderful world building, witty, great plot, and I can't wait for the next book!
We learn more about our gal's demon besides he's hot! The relationship between the two is growing.
Wonderful narration performance!
Guild Codex: Demonized, Book 2
By: Annette Marie
Narrated by: Cris Dukehart
Awesome follow-up! Not disappointed! Lots of magic, paranormal creatures, and demons! Characters are terrific, wonderful world building, witty, great plot, and I can't wait for the next book!
We learn more about our gal's demon besides he's hot! The relationship between the two is growing.
Wonderful narration performance!
February 25, 2020
This series is definitely closer to the McDonalds Drive-Thru end of the spectrum than a degustation experience that costs $500.
I love it. It's an entertaining romp that only occasionally missteps.
I love it. It's an entertaining romp that only occasionally missteps.
February 21, 2026
Dieser zweite Band der Demonized-Reihe spielt parallel zu "Alchemie und ein Amaretto", ich würde aber empfehlen, diese beiden Reihen als eine große zu betrachten und die Bücher nach Erscheinungstermin zu lesen/hören, das funktioniert sehr gut😃😃
Auch dieser Band war wieder super schnell, unterhaltsam und auch ein bisschen sexy, aber eher auf die unterschwellige, harmlose Art.
Ich freue mich schon auf den nächsten Teil, denn natürlich gab es hier wieder interessante Entwicklungen zwischen den Charakteren und auch einen Cliffhanger, wenn auch keinen besonders fiesen.
Auch dieser Band war wieder super schnell, unterhaltsam und auch ein bisschen sexy, aber eher auf die unterschwellige, harmlose Art.
Ich freue mich schon auf den nächsten Teil, denn natürlich gab es hier wieder interessante Entwicklungen zwischen den Charakteren und auch einen Cliffhanger, wenn auch keinen besonders fiesen.
November 5, 2019
To summarize: "Be smarter, drādah."
----
It must be me, but it's just so contradictory to be so self righteous and expect the same of others when you yourself recognize you have almost nothing to contribute but "kindness" and "moral self righteousness." I have been constantly trying to stop myself from rolling my eyes halfway through this, but my brows are starting to twitch from the stress.
I appreciate that her character is so weak as a characteristic (I guess..), and I appreciate that her demon is basically the reader's voice every time he calls her "stupid," but she's really bordering on outright annoying with me. Things are not so black and white girl. It's good she's "kind" but I never thought "niceness" was such an important trait anyways. She's arguing that she's nice for no reason and that's a normal thing. But that's not entirely true, niceness is a social transaction (shown in anthropological studies etc) and it can be a harmless one such as "I want this person to like me so.." or it can be more conniving "I want this person to trust me so I can trick them."
I am well aware that the author does provide that counterpoint with the demon's perspective/comments & I'm probably even supposed to be frustrated with the MC so good on her writing for being able to achieve that, but goddamn what's the utter point on making her this dumb. Obviously she's dumb with awareness so honestly not dumb but um still sigh.
Progress: Ch. 16
Wow she is really so dumb. Amalia is literally teaching her how trust and deals work. HOW BASIC DEALS WORK. Wow wow. Woooow. Just so many wowszas. I understand character development and "attributes" to make them "different" but to what extent do we have to suffer this stupidity? I don't know if I missed a section in the last book that said she didn't know how to socialize at all? Like she didn't ever have friends in school or any relationship that requires trust and social transactions? If so, my bad, I should have known better than to try with her.
The rolling eyeballs have gone just gone. I will not support any romance with her until she's not dumb. Why.
Progress: ch. 23
Ok I made it. I don't know how. She's good at apologizing, but who knows how much she's truly learning and growing. That I don't know. But that's it. I gave up the first series and I sadly have to give up on this one. I just think it's a lot of forced drama. I understand her confrontation issues and etc. but nah. If I could not even be okay with Tori by the end of the second book or what was happening in general, then I don't know why I expected different.
I just guess really liked the firrst book from Tori's series that I wanted to believe. But it's a lot of forced dumbness in my opinion from not only the MC but in this case especially. Nothing has changed.
I would have to say that the demon is the smartest person in this whole book. I don't care if that makes me a bad person, but it's fucking true. Lol.
----
It must be me, but it's just so contradictory to be so self righteous and expect the same of others when you yourself recognize you have almost nothing to contribute but "kindness" and "moral self righteousness." I have been constantly trying to stop myself from rolling my eyes halfway through this, but my brows are starting to twitch from the stress.
I appreciate that her character is so weak as a characteristic (I guess..), and I appreciate that her demon is basically the reader's voice every time he calls her "stupid," but she's really bordering on outright annoying with me. Things are not so black and white girl. It's good she's "kind" but I never thought "niceness" was such an important trait anyways. She's arguing that she's nice for no reason and that's a normal thing. But that's not entirely true, niceness is a social transaction (shown in anthropological studies etc) and it can be a harmless one such as "I want this person to like me so.." or it can be more conniving "I want this person to trust me so I can trick them."
I am well aware that the author does provide that counterpoint with the demon's perspective/comments & I'm probably even supposed to be frustrated with the MC so good on her writing for being able to achieve that, but goddamn what's the utter point on making her this dumb. Obviously she's dumb with awareness so honestly not dumb but um still sigh.
Progress: Ch. 16
Wow she is really so dumb. Amalia is literally teaching her how trust and deals work. HOW BASIC DEALS WORK. Wow wow. Woooow. Just so many wowszas. I understand character development and "attributes" to make them "different" but to what extent do we have to suffer this stupidity? I don't know if I missed a section in the last book that said she didn't know how to socialize at all? Like she didn't ever have friends in school or any relationship that requires trust and social transactions? If so, my bad, I should have known better than to try with her.
The rolling eyeballs have gone just gone. I will not support any romance with her until she's not dumb. Why.
Progress: ch. 23
Ok I made it. I don't know how. She's good at apologizing, but who knows how much she's truly learning and growing. That I don't know. But that's it. I gave up the first series and I sadly have to give up on this one. I just think it's a lot of forced drama. I understand her confrontation issues and etc. but nah. If I could not even be okay with Tori by the end of the second book or what was happening in general, then I don't know why I expected different.
I just guess really liked the firrst book from Tori's series that I wanted to believe. But it's a lot of forced dumbness in my opinion from not only the MC but in this case especially. Nothing has changed.
I would have to say that the demon is the smartest person in this whole book. I don't care if that makes me a bad person, but it's fucking true. Lol.
April 10, 2021
This was another great read, better than the first. I love reading books that show new ways to explain vampirization. These bloodsuckers wreak havoc in the story. There was so much going on between magic-wielding demons from another dimension to vampires, to Jeckle & Hyde summoners. Then there was the supply of unraveling backstory that helped to piece things together. Also, there were the developing relationships between characters, most importantly the relationship between Robin and her demon Zylas. What an exciting read, turning every page in anticipation, not wanting to stop until the end. Now that I'm at the end, I need to start the next book.
November 3, 2019
What a fun and cute series!
can't wait for the next one!
can't wait for the next one!
July 12, 2026
Time for the 2026 read-a-long over at Books of My Heart
One this I've enjoyed about reading all the books in this series in order it that now I see how all the different characters and plots seem to interconnect in subtle and not so subtle ways. Robin and Zylas are becoming one of my favorite duos as she tries to teach him empathy (yuck) and he tries to teach her how to be "smart prey".
Much to my chagrin there is no kissing...but I really want there to be. Sure you are probably thinking I shouldn't be rooting for a Human/Demon love story out of this, but I totally am. I just want to push their heads together and demand they kiss already.
This was a great expansion on the relationship between Robin and Zylas though as Robin starts to learn how his life has been so different from hers growing up in the demon realm and learning how to be great at being cunning and survive since his demon house is one of the less powerful. Robin is also small and bookish so she is going to need to learn some very important lessons from her demon. She also hasn't had a lot of experience with magic, which helps because if you don't know all the "supposed to's" you can figure out the "could be's " and those look like they are going to open up a lot of possibilities.
Amalia is still in search of her father and while I didn't think that I would be on the forgiving side for Robin's Uncle, it seems there might be a backstory there that could make me not completely despise him. But don't think it is enough to get him completely out of the dog house. Amalie is great though and a good friend to Robin as she gives her some insight to demons and what they value.
Overall another really fun story in this world. I love the tension between Robin and Zylas and the will they won't they aspect of the story. Zylas's complete disregard for personal space makes me think it is inevitable, but the when is the big question. Until they I'll happily watch as they learn and transform one another.
Read as part of the 2026 read-a-thon
Nov 7: Three Mages and a Margarita – Rolé @ Hooked by the Book
Dec 5: Warping Minds & Other Misdemeanors – Sophia
Jan 2: Dark Arts and a Daiquiri – Angela @ Angel’s Book Nook
Jan 30: Two Witches and a Whiskey – Jen @ That’s What I’m Talking About
Feb 27: Demon Magic and a Martini – Lisa @ Lisa Loves Literature
Mar 27: Taming Demons for Beginners – Rachel @ Waves of Fiction
Apr 24: Hellbound Guilds & Other Misdirections – Robin
May 29: The Alchemist and an Amaretto – Melissa @ That Library Girl
Jun 26: Slaying Monsters for the Feeble – Lenore @ Celebrity Readers
Jul 24: Druid Vices and a Vodka – Barb @ Booker T’s Farm
Aug 21: Hunting Fiends for the Ill-Equipped – Brandee @ Unconventional Bookworms
Sep 18: Lost Talismans and a Tequila – Kimberly @ Caffeinated Reviewer
Oct 16: Rogue Ghosts & Other Miscreants – KC
Nov13: Damned Souls and a Sangria – Berls @ Because Reading
Dec 11: Delivering Evil for Experts – Anne
One this I've enjoyed about reading all the books in this series in order it that now I see how all the different characters and plots seem to interconnect in subtle and not so subtle ways. Robin and Zylas are becoming one of my favorite duos as she tries to teach him empathy (yuck) and he tries to teach her how to be "smart prey".
“I will teach you how to be drǡdah ahktallis."
My breath locked inside my chest as I pressed back into my pillow. ”How to be what?"
He laughed, the sound low and husky. ”Smart prey.”
Much to my chagrin there is no kissing...but I really want there to be. Sure you are probably thinking I shouldn't be rooting for a Human/Demon love story out of this, but I totally am. I just want to push their heads together and demand they kiss already.
This was a great expansion on the relationship between Robin and Zylas though as Robin starts to learn how his life has been so different from hers growing up in the demon realm and learning how to be great at being cunning and survive since his demon house is one of the less powerful. Robin is also small and bookish so she is going to need to learn some very important lessons from her demon. She also hasn't had a lot of experience with magic, which helps because if you don't know all the "supposed to's" you can figure out the "could be's " and those look like they are going to open up a lot of possibilities.
Amalia is still in search of her father and while I didn't think that I would be on the forgiving side for Robin's Uncle, it seems there might be a backstory there that could make me not completely despise him. But don't think it is enough to get him completely out of the dog house. Amalie is great though and a good friend to Robin as she gives her some insight to demons and what they value.
Overall another really fun story in this world. I love the tension between Robin and Zylas and the will they won't they aspect of the story. Zylas's complete disregard for personal space makes me think it is inevitable, but the when is the big question. Until they I'll happily watch as they learn and transform one another.
Read as part of the 2026 read-a-thon
Dec 5: Warping Minds & Other Misdemeanors – Sophia
Jan 2: Dark Arts and a Daiquiri – Angela @ Angel’s Book Nook
Jan 30: Two Witches and a Whiskey – Jen @ That’s What I’m Talking About
Feb 27: Demon Magic and a Martini – Lisa @ Lisa Loves Literature
Mar 27: Taming Demons for Beginners – Rachel @ Waves of Fiction
Apr 24: Hellbound Guilds & Other Misdirections – Robin
May 29: The Alchemist and an Amaretto – Melissa @ That Library Girl
Jun 26: Slaying Monsters for the Feeble – Lenore @ Celebrity Readers
Jul 24: Druid Vices and a Vodka – Barb @ Booker T’s Farm
Aug 21: Hunting Fiends for the Ill-Equipped – Brandee @ Unconventional Bookworms
Sep 18: Lost Talismans and a Tequila – Kimberly @ Caffeinated Reviewer
Oct 16: Rogue Ghosts & Other Miscreants – KC
Nov13: Damned Souls and a Sangria – Berls @ Because Reading
Dec 11: Delivering Evil for Experts – Anne
September 5, 2019
What is it with these Guild Codex books? They make my heart go crazy! This world is addictive! Is it weird that I am shipping a demon and his petite contractor? I'm hanging on Robin and Zylas' every interaction, and I'm loving it! Just want to pop some popcorn and enjoy the ride again! The huge story arc that will span across three epic series is starting to come together, and the mystery surrounding Ezra Rowe is getting deeper. I cannot wait for the next book!
Read
August 15, 2019Buckle. Up.
September 1, 2023
This is the second book in the Guild Codex: Demonized series .. This book follows Robin and her demon Zylas as they navigate the tricky landscape of the demon/contractor relationship (A demon contractor is the person who made the “deal” with the demon and technically is supposed to be the one who controls the demon’s attributes In return the demon normally gets a soul, which on the contractor’s death allows the demon to return to his home). That isn’t exactly the relationship that Robin and Zylas have. Zylas is pledged to keep Robin safe and Robin bakes Zylas cookies (it’s a long story).
In this continuing story Robin is looking for her Uncle who has a important magical book left to her from her late parents and he has disappeared Also looking for him are vampires, and not just normal vampires, vampires on steroids Robin is also coming to terms with the fact that she and her cousin Amelia are sharing an apartment with a demon…..and a cat (who prefers Zylas over the other two….you had to be there). That is the setup for this book, and then throw in Zora and a couple of the Guild members from the Crow & Hammer who normally occupy the Guild Codex: Spellbound books and you have an interesting story with lots of unusual circumstances.
This is urban fantasy at it’s best, and you could do a lot worse then spend time with these characters.
The next book in the time-line series is Guild Codex: Spellbound #6. But, I'm curious what's going to happen with Robin and Zylas so I'm going to read their next book, Hunting Fiends For the Ill-Equipped instead. I know, reading out of sequence, how totally me.
link to Review of Book 1
In this continuing story Robin is looking for her Uncle who has a important magical book left to her from her late parents and he has disappeared Also looking for him are vampires, and not just normal vampires, vampires on steroids Robin is also coming to terms with the fact that she and her cousin Amelia are sharing an apartment with a demon…..and a cat (who prefers Zylas over the other two….you had to be there). That is the setup for this book, and then throw in Zora and a couple of the Guild members from the Crow & Hammer who normally occupy the Guild Codex: Spellbound books and you have an interesting story with lots of unusual circumstances.
This is urban fantasy at it’s best, and you could do a lot worse then spend time with these characters.
The next book in the time-line series is Guild Codex: Spellbound #6. But, I'm curious what's going to happen with Robin and Zylas so I'm going to read their next book, Hunting Fiends For the Ill-Equipped instead. I know, reading out of sequence, how totally me.
link to Review of Book 1
March 25, 2021
This second instalment in Annette Marie's fun Guild Codex: Demonized series was every bit as good as the first book in the series. This is UF with a slightly YA feel to it but both the story and the characters are super engaging and it offers a good mix of action, humour, magic, and slow burn romance.
This is a spin-off series from Annette Marie's Guild Codex: Spellbound series but I've not actually read that series and do not feel like that lack is hurting my ability to enjoy this series at all.
The story was just a continuation of what we got in the first book. Robin and her illegally contracted demon have to find a way to work together to help send the demon home before people discover he is not properly contracted and put both of them to death! As if that was not complicated enough people are still hunting Robin in an effort to extract her mothers spell book from her and some vamps pop up to cause trouble.
It ended up being a fun tale. Robin is not your typical UF action lead but she is super easy to like and root for and she showed some good developments in this book that show she is beginning to get to grips with the crazy happenings that come with being a demon summoner. The demon is also a great character. Human enough to be likeable but demonic enough to still act weird and retain a bit of danger to him. I do love fish out of water stories and the demon learning to deal with humans never stops being entertaining!
The story and the action are fun enough in this series but my favourite bits are usually the ones where Robin and the demon are interacting. I think Annette Marie has handled this aspect of the story very well as I'm still super invested in them as a duo and I think that is down to the authors pacing of things. Nothing is being rushed and the story is better for that!
All in all I enjoyed this one a lot and rate it as one of the more enjoyable UF series I've come across in a while. I'll definitely read the final two books in the series. I'll also read the other books set in this fantasy world at some point even if the blurb for those is not half so appealing as the one that hooked me on this series!
Rating: 4 stars.
Audio Note: Cris Dukehart does a good job with the narration for this series. Her general narration and voices are good. Her male voices are a bit weaker than the female ones but once I got used to them they were perfectly fine.
This is a spin-off series from Annette Marie's Guild Codex: Spellbound series but I've not actually read that series and do not feel like that lack is hurting my ability to enjoy this series at all.
The story was just a continuation of what we got in the first book. Robin and her illegally contracted demon have to find a way to work together to help send the demon home before people discover he is not properly contracted and put both of them to death! As if that was not complicated enough people are still hunting Robin in an effort to extract her mothers spell book from her and some vamps pop up to cause trouble.
It ended up being a fun tale. Robin is not your typical UF action lead but she is super easy to like and root for and she showed some good developments in this book that show she is beginning to get to grips with the crazy happenings that come with being a demon summoner. The demon is also a great character. Human enough to be likeable but demonic enough to still act weird and retain a bit of danger to him. I do love fish out of water stories and the demon learning to deal with humans never stops being entertaining!
The story and the action are fun enough in this series but my favourite bits are usually the ones where Robin and the demon are interacting. I think Annette Marie has handled this aspect of the story very well as I'm still super invested in them as a duo and I think that is down to the authors pacing of things. Nothing is being rushed and the story is better for that!
All in all I enjoyed this one a lot and rate it as one of the more enjoyable UF series I've come across in a while. I'll definitely read the final two books in the series. I'll also read the other books set in this fantasy world at some point even if the blurb for those is not half so appealing as the one that hooked me on this series!
Rating: 4 stars.
Audio Note: Cris Dukehart does a good job with the narration for this series. Her general narration and voices are good. Her male voices are a bit weaker than the female ones but once I got used to them they were perfectly fine.
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November 3, 2019
I'm very surprised to be saying this, but I found this book way more boring than I usually find Annette Marie's book. In fact, I - gasp -
skim read some of it.
I'm not actually sure what didn't work for me this time. By now, I'm accustomed to the fact that Robin is a bit of a doormat heroine; I'm also coming to grips with the fact that this will be the slowest burn romance in the HISTORY of slow-burn romances. But I don't know, I just found the action scenes not as gripping as they usually are. It also doesn't help that the twists and turns of the plot felt a bit more cliched than I'm used to from this author.
There was a pretty wicked cliffhanger, and the next book doesn't come out for nigh on six months, but... you know what? It isn't even killing me as much as I expected.
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I'm not actually sure what didn't work for me this time. By now, I'm accustomed to the fact that Robin is a bit of a doormat heroine; I'm also coming to grips with the fact that this will be the slowest burn romance in the HISTORY of slow-burn romances. But I don't know, I just found the action scenes not as gripping as they usually are. It also doesn't help that the twists and turns of the plot felt a bit more cliched than I'm used to from this author.
There was a pretty wicked cliffhanger, and the next book doesn't come out for nigh on six months, but... you know what? It isn't even killing me as much as I expected.
[Blog] - [Bookstagram]
October 25, 2019
OMG! This series has surpassed my adoration for Tori’s series, and I really love that one. Robin is growing in strength so much, and I love her interactions with Zylas. Is it wrong I think he’s hot, and she should become involved with him? Anyway, in this one, we find out more about Robin’s family, Zylas’ home/family, and we discover something new…which I can’t wait for the next book to see more about this new discovery! Oh, and I’m really wanting Robin and Tori to be friends; the end made me think it’s coming sooner rather than later. Intrigued? Read this one and find out what’s going on. If you love urban fantasy with action, intrigue, great characters, and a wonderful plot, you really need to give this series a try. I highly recommend this! I was provided a copy which I voluntarily reviewed.
November 7, 2019
Actual rating: 4.5 stars
My first thought after reading this was: "Wow, this was so much better than 'Taming Demons for Beginners'!"
One of the big reasons why I enjoyed "Slaying Monsters for the Feeble" more than the first book was because Robin was no longer frequently called stupid in an insulting way. Every time she was called stupid, she fought back. (Imagine me waving my pom-poms in a corner.) She had become tougher and more assertive. Of course I was happy to see the people around her finally showing her more respect!
The other big reason was Robin and Zylas's unlikely friendship. I loved the hilarious squabbles and reluctant alliance of these two underdogs so much! As a person who frequently gets underestimated and misunderstood, I find Robin and Zylas more relatable than the other Guild Codex characters. Even better, their relationship dynamics had more layers in this book; all the moral debates really made their interactions entertaining and thought-provoking at the same time. These two characters couldn't be more different from each other in terms of personality and moral values, so there was a lot of room for them to learn important lessons from each other. If you think that a friendship between a human and a demon would be toxic, well, wait until you meet Robin and Zylas. In this installment, they showed that they could help each other change for the better; their gradual transformations were delightful to watch.
I know I'm saying this too soon, but Guild Codex: Demonized is shaping up to be my favorite Annette Marie series.
Addendum after reading the series finale: I TOTALLY CALLED IT. Demonized is my current favorite Annette Marie series. It beat Spell Weaver!
My first thought after reading this was: "Wow, this was so much better than 'Taming Demons for Beginners'!"
One of the big reasons why I enjoyed "Slaying Monsters for the Feeble" more than the first book was because Robin was no longer frequently called stupid in an insulting way. Every time she was called stupid, she fought back. (Imagine me waving my pom-poms in a corner.) She had become tougher and more assertive. Of course I was happy to see the people around her finally showing her more respect!
The other big reason was Robin and Zylas's unlikely friendship. I loved the hilarious squabbles and reluctant alliance of these two underdogs so much! As a person who frequently gets underestimated and misunderstood, I find Robin and Zylas more relatable than the other Guild Codex characters. Even better, their relationship dynamics had more layers in this book; all the moral debates really made their interactions entertaining and thought-provoking at the same time. These two characters couldn't be more different from each other in terms of personality and moral values, so there was a lot of room for them to learn important lessons from each other. If you think that a friendship between a human and a demon would be toxic, well, wait until you meet Robin and Zylas. In this installment, they showed that they could help each other change for the better; their gradual transformations were delightful to watch.
I know I'm saying this too soon, but Guild Codex: Demonized is shaping up to be my favorite Annette Marie series.
Addendum after reading the series finale: I TOTALLY CALLED IT. Demonized is my current favorite Annette Marie series. It beat Spell Weaver!
December 25, 2019
3.5 Stars.
I wasn't quite sure how I wanted to rate this one. I found Robin to be entirely too annoying throughout most of the book. Then again I've always been prone to side with the monsters.
The ending was phenomenal, except for the Zora bit--that was eye rolling at best. I have a strong feeling I'll want to punch her in the next book. Repeatedly. In the throat.
So, basically what I enjoyed I really enjoyed and what I didn't like was incredibly annoying. So I settled on 3.5, rounding up because I have high hopes for the series.
I wasn't quite sure how I wanted to rate this one. I found Robin to be entirely too annoying throughout most of the book. Then again I've always been prone to side with the monsters.
The ending was phenomenal, except for the Zora bit--that was eye rolling at best. I have a strong feeling I'll want to punch her in the next book. Repeatedly. In the throat.
So, basically what I enjoyed I really enjoyed and what I didn't like was incredibly annoying. So I settled on 3.5, rounding up because I have high hopes for the series.
January 30, 2020
Intense, fascinating and kickass, I once again lost sleep listening as Robin and her demon hunted for her missing book. But others want the book too and they’ve got a hoard of supercharged vampires helping them. The tale that unfolds is intense as these two try to figure each other out set things to right.
While it isn’t necessary to have listened to the Spellbound books, I have a feeling going forward the storylines may intertwine a little more. Consider yourself warned. But hey, I’ve been telling you since the beginning how freakin’ awesome these audios are… so start them already! 🤣
Narrated by Cris Dukehart, this series and the Guild Codex: Spellbound are perfect for audio listening. Cris does a fantastic job with the voices, setting the tone and capturing the snark and interaction between friends and guild members. I cannot imagine not listening to this series.
Robin comes from a long family of demon summoners but she grew up knowing nothing about it, so we are learning right along with her and Zylas. It is quite the learning curve as their contract is unorthodox. I loved seeing their relationship unfold. It’s a mix of fear, humor and balancing trust. Both are learning.
The action is non-stop as they search for Robin’s Uncle, deal with a rise of vampires and try to keep their contract under wraps. I will admit to biting my nails more than a few times.
Amalia’s cousin aids them, and I liked her unique ability. She isn’t the easiest character to warm up to, but I like the friendship building between her and Robin. She even offered some sound advice.
The ending left me eager for the next installment. Fans of suspense, non-stop action, humor, magic and kickassary need to grab these audiobooks stat! This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
While it isn’t necessary to have listened to the Spellbound books, I have a feeling going forward the storylines may intertwine a little more. Consider yourself warned. But hey, I’ve been telling you since the beginning how freakin’ awesome these audios are… so start them already! 🤣
Narrated by Cris Dukehart, this series and the Guild Codex: Spellbound are perfect for audio listening. Cris does a fantastic job with the voices, setting the tone and capturing the snark and interaction between friends and guild members. I cannot imagine not listening to this series.
Robin comes from a long family of demon summoners but she grew up knowing nothing about it, so we are learning right along with her and Zylas. It is quite the learning curve as their contract is unorthodox. I loved seeing their relationship unfold. It’s a mix of fear, humor and balancing trust. Both are learning.
The action is non-stop as they search for Robin’s Uncle, deal with a rise of vampires and try to keep their contract under wraps. I will admit to biting my nails more than a few times.
Amalia’s cousin aids them, and I liked her unique ability. She isn’t the easiest character to warm up to, but I like the friendship building between her and Robin. She even offered some sound advice.
The ending left me eager for the next installment. Fans of suspense, non-stop action, humor, magic and kickassary need to grab these audiobooks stat! This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
November 3, 2019
Sigh, so good. I love both Robin and Zylas. I do wish the guild knew the truth already and was okay with it, that makes me nervous, and sadly no Darius - but we got a deepening of the mystery, a kitten, some fond, bonding, some irritations, some magic, and I love Zora in general although her ultimatum at the end was annoying - hopefully that doesnt' cramp enjoyment of the next book. Very sad to report the next book isn't coming out until April 2020 according to the back of this book.
March 29, 2020
I want to like this series...I really do, but Robin is a terrible heroine. She’s dumb. And impulsive. And dumb. This series has potential, but with such a terrible lead it’s just cringey and eye rolly. Girl needs a back bone like yesterday and ad someone who is a supposed book worm...she’s an idiot. She needs to stop blushing...she’s 20, not 12...even though she acts like it.
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