What do you think?
Rate this book
The Zodiac #1
Bitter Aries
All demons have magic.
Except one.
And that's just the beginning of his troubles.
No job, no hope, and not a lick of magic, Ezekial Sunstone has little going for him.
Lucifer's Council changes his fortunes when they select him for a special mission.
The problem? They're sending him to Seattle to find a runaway who also happens to be one of the oldest and most powerful demonic magic users.
This could be Ezekial's shot at redemption, but it could also be the most humiliating event in a life full of them.
A young demon without magic versus the one of the oldest of their kind with immeasurable power.
Hell hath no fury like like a demon without a chance.
No magic, no problem, right?
The Zodiac series is what you get when you mix Jim Butcher and Christopher Moore. A series fans of Terry Mancour and Lindsay Buroker might enjoy.
Bitter Aries is the first book in The Zodiac series. The second book, The Horn of Taurus, will be released in August 2020. Book three, The Gemini Paradox, will be released in September 2020.
Except one.
And that's just the beginning of his troubles.
No job, no hope, and not a lick of magic, Ezekial Sunstone has little going for him.
Lucifer's Council changes his fortunes when they select him for a special mission.
The problem? They're sending him to Seattle to find a runaway who also happens to be one of the oldest and most powerful demonic magic users.
This could be Ezekial's shot at redemption, but it could also be the most humiliating event in a life full of them.
A young demon without magic versus the one of the oldest of their kind with immeasurable power.
Hell hath no fury like like a demon without a chance.
No magic, no problem, right?
The Zodiac series is what you get when you mix Jim Butcher and Christopher Moore. A series fans of Terry Mancour and Lindsay Buroker might enjoy.
Bitter Aries is the first book in The Zodiac series. The second book, The Horn of Taurus, will be released in August 2020. Book three, The Gemini Paradox, will be released in September 2020.
230 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 20, 2020
170 people are currently reading
215 people want to read
About the author
Paul Sating
42 books72 followersJoin Paul's newsletter and get three free stories: https://www.paulsating.com/free-books
Paul Sating is a fantasy author and podcaster who spends most of his time traveling the Pacific Northwest in search of elusive monsters everyone claims aren't real.
The creator of the Audio Fiction podcast, Paul began adapting many of those scripts to novel form and published his first three books in 2018. He is now fooling around with his first love--dark fantasy. He writes epic, urban, and even litrpg (a trust jack of all trades and master of none).
He stays grounded by rooting for bad soccer teams, traveling around his beautiful corner of the world, and spending every moment he can with the three people who don't let him think too highly of himself--his wife and daughters.
Paul Sating is a fantasy author and podcaster who spends most of his time traveling the Pacific Northwest in search of elusive monsters everyone claims aren't real.
The creator of the Audio Fiction podcast, Paul began adapting many of those scripts to novel form and published his first three books in 2018. He is now fooling around with his first love--dark fantasy. He writes epic, urban, and even litrpg (a trust jack of all trades and master of none).
He stays grounded by rooting for bad soccer teams, traveling around his beautiful corner of the world, and spending every moment he can with the three people who don't let him think too highly of himself--his wife and daughters.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews
October 27, 2021
Ezekial Sunstone is a demon who can't use magic. For some strange reason he's chosen to track down one of the oldest and most powerful demons - Arias, and drag him back to hell with the help of his best (and only) friend Bilba and the guy he can't stand Ralrek.
Zeke is reluctant to go, even though everyone's telling him what a great honour it is to be chosen to go to the Overworld. He'd rather stay in the not-so-bad-somewhat-comfortable 5th Circle of Hell and sulk. But there's a legitimate reason why he's the only one who can complete this mission, read the book to find out what it is.
This was a fast paced book from start to finish. It was both action packed and full of humour which is a winning combination for me. I did notice some spelling mistakes but the writing is great overall.
The storyline was very fun, Zeke's commentary made it even better. He's both young and mature at the same time and I'd say he's each of those at the RIGHT time.
I liked the little things, from the swears to the two added council members and the descriptions of the Underworld.
The last two chapters had me on edge. I thought I knew how it would end but it could go either way. The ending was still nice, if a bit sad.
I don't think there's a single thing I disliked (except Ralrek but that's normal, he's meant to be punchable).
I'm really looking forward to continuing this series and I'm hoping it'll get as far as my sign (Scorpio) if not all the way (but all signs would be preferable of course).
*Thank you to BookSirens for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
Zeke is reluctant to go, even though everyone's telling him what a great honour it is to be chosen to go to the Overworld. He'd rather stay in the not-so-bad-somewhat-comfortable 5th Circle of Hell and sulk. But there's a legitimate reason why he's the only one who can complete this mission, read the book to find out what it is.
This was a fast paced book from start to finish. It was both action packed and full of humour which is a winning combination for me. I did notice some spelling mistakes but the writing is great overall.
The storyline was very fun, Zeke's commentary made it even better. He's both young and mature at the same time and I'd say he's each of those at the RIGHT time.
I liked the little things, from the swears to the two added council members and the descriptions of the Underworld.
The last two chapters had me on edge. I thought I knew how it would end but it could go either way. The ending was still nice, if a bit sad.
I don't think there's a single thing I disliked (except Ralrek but that's normal, he's meant to be punchable).
I'm really looking forward to continuing this series and I'm hoping it'll get as far as my sign (Scorpio) if not all the way (but all signs would be preferable of course).
*Thank you to BookSirens for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review*
January 6, 2021
A unique world was created in the story. The hero is an immortal demon and the underworld is the place where the story occurs. Zeke comes across as a really witty and snarky character as the story is shown from his point of view. The dialogues of the place added flavour to it. Enjoyed it.
June 12, 2020
A Demonic Bildungsroman!
When I saw that the author was a fan of Christopher Moore and wanted to write a book in the vein of Jim Butcher’s Harry Dresden series, I knew this was the book for me. Bitter Aries reminded me of Dresden, a bit of Elliott James’s John Charming, with a dash of the TV series Supernatural, but with its own unique world and hero in Ezekiel Sunstone.
There’s great worldbuilding, an interesting story, and witty dialog, but it is Ezekiel (I don’t know him well enough to call him Zeke) who drives this chimera-drawn carriage. Early on, he seems a bit bumbling, lacking in self-esteem, and full of self-pity. Due to his status in the Fifth Circle, this behavior is really no surprise. We quickly see that he is skeptical of just about everything around him (demon after my own heart), and that questioning personality demonstrates how much he was hiding his true nature. He really comes into his own as he goes through his hero’s (anti-hero’s?) journey.
The pacing of the story was great, and it was one of those books where I felt the need to slow down reading it so I wouldn’t finish it too quickly. Bitter Aries was fun and completely entertaining and I really look forward to book two, The Horn of Taurus.
Thank you to BookSirens and the author for the opportunity to review this book.
When I saw that the author was a fan of Christopher Moore and wanted to write a book in the vein of Jim Butcher’s Harry Dresden series, I knew this was the book for me. Bitter Aries reminded me of Dresden, a bit of Elliott James’s John Charming, with a dash of the TV series Supernatural, but with its own unique world and hero in Ezekiel Sunstone.
There’s great worldbuilding, an interesting story, and witty dialog, but it is Ezekiel (I don’t know him well enough to call him Zeke) who drives this chimera-drawn carriage. Early on, he seems a bit bumbling, lacking in self-esteem, and full of self-pity. Due to his status in the Fifth Circle, this behavior is really no surprise. We quickly see that he is skeptical of just about everything around him (demon after my own heart), and that questioning personality demonstrates how much he was hiding his true nature. He really comes into his own as he goes through his hero’s (anti-hero’s?) journey.
The pacing of the story was great, and it was one of those books where I felt the need to slow down reading it so I wouldn’t finish it too quickly. Bitter Aries was fun and completely entertaining and I really look forward to book two, The Horn of Taurus.
Thank you to BookSirens and the author for the opportunity to review this book.
August 20, 2020
I received an ebook copy from the author and/or publisher in return for an honest review.
Zeke, a young demon living in the Underworld, has lived is entire life with no magical powers. Lucifer's council believes his lack of magic to finally be an advantage. They send Zeke and two fellow demons on a quest to the Overworld to find a founder demon, Aries. The three of them must bring Aries back to the Underworld to restore the balance between Heaven and Hell.
I enjoyed Sating's writing style, which is written in the POV of Zeke, the demon with no powers. He talks and thinks like any miserable teenage would so the breaks between dialogue are not dry. He rounds out his characters well and describes them just enough to give the reader a visual to imagine. His building of the Underworld is satirically not what one usually expects and is my favorite part of this book. Zeke gives random references and comparisons throughout the story to Hell and Earth, as well as angels' behavior, and I find myself smiling at some of the descriptions.
What I was most disappointed in was Aries. Unfortunately, there isn't a lot to the myth of Aries to go off of as he was actually a golden sheep. I imagined maybe a few characters from the myth would show up during Zeke's attempt at meeting Aries, but there was really no reference to the ancient story except Aries himself. However, Aries personality traits are described how they should be, with an Aries personality. Although there were no mentions of the old myths, Sating used the zodiac personality trait to perfection.
I am excited for the second book to the Zodiac series, the Horn of Taurus, as this is my zodiac sign. The third book is about Gemini. I recommend this book to those that like spinoffs of tales we've learned growing up, like the details of Heaven and Hell, and also for anyone that likes a fun, easy Sci-fi/Fantasy read.
Zeke, a young demon living in the Underworld, has lived is entire life with no magical powers. Lucifer's council believes his lack of magic to finally be an advantage. They send Zeke and two fellow demons on a quest to the Overworld to find a founder demon, Aries. The three of them must bring Aries back to the Underworld to restore the balance between Heaven and Hell.
I enjoyed Sating's writing style, which is written in the POV of Zeke, the demon with no powers. He talks and thinks like any miserable teenage would so the breaks between dialogue are not dry. He rounds out his characters well and describes them just enough to give the reader a visual to imagine. His building of the Underworld is satirically not what one usually expects and is my favorite part of this book. Zeke gives random references and comparisons throughout the story to Hell and Earth, as well as angels' behavior, and I find myself smiling at some of the descriptions.
What I was most disappointed in was Aries. Unfortunately, there isn't a lot to the myth of Aries to go off of as he was actually a golden sheep. I imagined maybe a few characters from the myth would show up during Zeke's attempt at meeting Aries, but there was really no reference to the ancient story except Aries himself. However, Aries personality traits are described how they should be, with an Aries personality. Although there were no mentions of the old myths, Sating used the zodiac personality trait to perfection.
I am excited for the second book to the Zodiac series, the Horn of Taurus, as this is my zodiac sign. The third book is about Gemini. I recommend this book to those that like spinoffs of tales we've learned growing up, like the details of Heaven and Hell, and also for anyone that likes a fun, easy Sci-fi/Fantasy read.
June 29, 2020
Zeke is unique among demons - but not in a good way, being the only one of his kind without a shred of magical ability. And yet, he's been chosen for a very special mission: To go to the Overworld and bring home Aries, one of the oldest and most powerful demons of all. What could go wrong?
This felt a little more YA than anticipated - which I don't mind, I just didn't quite expect it. For all that they've apparently got a few millenia under their belts, protagonist Zeke and his companions definitely come across as the demon equivalent of a bunch of teenagers. I'm looking forward to seeing their characters grow, though. I really enjoyed the worldbuilding, it's well developed and immersive, containing clever tidbids like "heaven" being the swearword of choice in the Underworld in place of "hell" (which makes perfect sense, but isn't something every author would have thought to include).
If you like your Urban Fantasy fastpaced, with lots of action and flavoured with a good dose of humour, give this series a try - if the opening volume is anything to go by, entertainment is pretty much guaranteed.
*** I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review. ***
This felt a little more YA than anticipated - which I don't mind, I just didn't quite expect it. For all that they've apparently got a few millenia under their belts, protagonist Zeke and his companions definitely come across as the demon equivalent of a bunch of teenagers. I'm looking forward to seeing their characters grow, though. I really enjoyed the worldbuilding, it's well developed and immersive, containing clever tidbids like "heaven" being the swearword of choice in the Underworld in place of "hell" (which makes perfect sense, but isn't something every author would have thought to include).
If you like your Urban Fantasy fastpaced, with lots of action and flavoured with a good dose of humour, give this series a try - if the opening volume is anything to go by, entertainment is pretty much guaranteed.
*** I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review. ***
January 6, 2021
This is one of the ebooks I've had in my library for quite some time and have finally read. I wish I had done so sooner--it was really good! The main character is an immortal demon and is very old, but he's equivalent to a mortal teenager. He's a funny, skeptical character. The Underworld (Hell) in this series is not the complete opposite of Heaven. It's interesting that two of the Underworld's council members are ex-angels because they exchanged places with two demons who went up to Heaven's council, I suppose to ensure there are differing points of view on both sides. Instead of expressions like 'God damn it', characters use 'Lucifer bless it', which I thought gave the conversations a unique flavour. And that halberd on the cover is just awesome. Looking forward to the rest of the series.
October 1, 2020
I was actually really excited about this book. I haven't read many books with demons, and this one seemed so promising. I love urban fantasy and YA always keeps the action up enough for me, so it had the makings of a great book for me!
I don't know all the places this book fell short but for me it just Didn't Do It.
I didn't like how the entire book just felt like a high school boy testosterone fest. Even the Council didn't feel that different to the boys. To the author's credit, there was a joke about how that is who the characters are in there somewhere. But that's just not the type of characters I enjoy reading. Were there any women that weren't the mom in the entire book? Can only men be demons? Why do demons who have lived hundreds and even thousands of years seem so childish?
I found myself day dreaming about other things while reading this book so many times that I just felt like I had to press forward otherwise I'd never actually get through it. Which isn't a great sign for me, but that truly may just be me.
I really do think a big part of me disliking the book was personal, in that it just wasn't the type of book I enjoy. I really did think I would enjoy it, though. I think this book might just be Not For Me.
There was definitely an interesting story there, and I'm sure it could definitely do it for other audiences... Just not me.
*I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I don't know all the places this book fell short but for me it just Didn't Do It.
I didn't like how the entire book just felt like a high school boy testosterone fest. Even the Council didn't feel that different to the boys. To the author's credit, there was a joke about how that is who the characters are in there somewhere. But that's just not the type of characters I enjoy reading. Were there any women that weren't the mom in the entire book? Can only men be demons? Why do demons who have lived hundreds and even thousands of years seem so childish?
I found myself day dreaming about other things while reading this book so many times that I just felt like I had to press forward otherwise I'd never actually get through it. Which isn't a great sign for me, but that truly may just be me.
I really do think a big part of me disliking the book was personal, in that it just wasn't the type of book I enjoy. I really did think I would enjoy it, though. I think this book might just be Not For Me.
There was definitely an interesting story there, and I'm sure it could definitely do it for other audiences... Just not me.
*I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 21, 2024
Received as a review copy, this is an honest review. Zeke Sunstone is a demon with no real magical abilities among those living in the Underworld. While it has left him shunned, mostly friendless and no hope of any real good future. But his fate may have a silver lining as Lucifer's Council decides Zeke is the one to go and find Aries- a very powerful demon that doesn't want to be found. How hard can that be? Zeke and his two companions are about to find their job is one with dire consequences if they fail. A funny, witty demon chase. Highly recommended.
March 14, 2022
DNF 5%
I've read just about every novel written that features immortals. I'm fascinated by the different ways authors portray the psychological changes brought about by ages of experience. Thus I hope you'll understand why I'm overly sensitive to the flaw in this book...
I can not forgive the fact that the six-thousand-year-old protagonist has the vocabulary, behavior, and social situation of a teenage boy. I won't expand this any further. You either get it, or you don't.
I've read just about every novel written that features immortals. I'm fascinated by the different ways authors portray the psychological changes brought about by ages of experience. Thus I hope you'll understand why I'm overly sensitive to the flaw in this book...
I can not forgive the fact that the six-thousand-year-old protagonist has the vocabulary, behavior, and social situation of a teenage boy. I won't expand this any further. You either get it, or you don't.
July 7, 2020
This is book one of The Zodiac series and the main character is a demon called Zeke Sunstone, or Ezekial to those he is not friends with. He is completely different to all his fellow demons in the Fifth Circle of the Underworld, as he has no abilities and cannot use any magic at all. He has been made fun of his whole life, ever since this was discovered during his early education and even his parents were punished for his lack of ability. He has only one friend, Bilba, who uses his deception magic on him, which is normally huge snakes, to practise using his ability. Bilba’s other friend is Ralrek, who thinks of himself as better than anyone else and also a chick magnet, who riles up Zeke every time they meet. Zeke can’t stand him, but has to put up with him when Bilba brings him about.
Zeke has been named as the Segregate, a name to isolate him from all other demons and poke fun at him. But that is all about to change a he is called into Lucifer’s Council and told they want him to travel to the Overworld, to find and locate one of the Founders of the demon world, Aries the First. A powerful demon, the first of his name and as old if not older than most of those on the demon council. They say that his lack of abilities is the perfect requirement to get close to Aries without being detected and to bring him back to the Underworld. This could be his chance to redeem himself and bring prestige to his parents. To make them proud of him at last!
The council know that Aries is located somewhere in Seattle and likes to play music, especially guitar and other stringed instruments. They will send him to a safehouse with one of his friends as a protector, but that ends up as two protectors and the hated Ralrek along for the ride. They could all be killed by Aries, thought to be one of the most powerful demonic magic users in history. Zeke could also be completely humiliated, accompanied by two basic magic users, with little hope of success. A basic repeat of the rest of his life so far! Before this happened, he had already been questioning the role of the council and their leaders. Politics having such a huge role in what happens in the Underworld.
When he meets Aries for the first time and manages to talk to him, one to one, he realises that Aries has no intention of returning to the Underworld and it seems his presence there is all down to politics and one particular council members own need for vengeance against Aries for a slight he suffered thousands of years ago. Zeke and his companions are just pawns for the council and the true reason for Aries return is hidden amongst the council power struggle. Zeke has no chance of achieving what he has been sent to do, nor any real sense of redemption once he starts to question what he is meant to do.
This story is told in a really fun manner, very tongue in cheek and Zeke makes fun of himself all the way through. Lots of fun poked at the different environments the characters end up in and I loved the descriptions of the human world, that demons took from their education classes, but also from films brought back from the Overworld as they call it. The thought that they might float up into the blue sky and be lost forever, and that the rest of the human world was only black and white with a bit of grey. Making fun of what humans have made of Hell or the Underworld, as demons refer to it, as well as demons themselves adds to the fun being poked at all aspects of the storytelling. I really enjoyed this book and I can’t wait to see what happens to Zeke and others in the next book. I would recommend this to all who want a really amusing read, with added aspects of the supernatural. I received an ARC copy of this book from BookSprout and I have freely given my own opinion of the book above.
Zeke has been named as the Segregate, a name to isolate him from all other demons and poke fun at him. But that is all about to change a he is called into Lucifer’s Council and told they want him to travel to the Overworld, to find and locate one of the Founders of the demon world, Aries the First. A powerful demon, the first of his name and as old if not older than most of those on the demon council. They say that his lack of abilities is the perfect requirement to get close to Aries without being detected and to bring him back to the Underworld. This could be his chance to redeem himself and bring prestige to his parents. To make them proud of him at last!
The council know that Aries is located somewhere in Seattle and likes to play music, especially guitar and other stringed instruments. They will send him to a safehouse with one of his friends as a protector, but that ends up as two protectors and the hated Ralrek along for the ride. They could all be killed by Aries, thought to be one of the most powerful demonic magic users in history. Zeke could also be completely humiliated, accompanied by two basic magic users, with little hope of success. A basic repeat of the rest of his life so far! Before this happened, he had already been questioning the role of the council and their leaders. Politics having such a huge role in what happens in the Underworld.
When he meets Aries for the first time and manages to talk to him, one to one, he realises that Aries has no intention of returning to the Underworld and it seems his presence there is all down to politics and one particular council members own need for vengeance against Aries for a slight he suffered thousands of years ago. Zeke and his companions are just pawns for the council and the true reason for Aries return is hidden amongst the council power struggle. Zeke has no chance of achieving what he has been sent to do, nor any real sense of redemption once he starts to question what he is meant to do.
This story is told in a really fun manner, very tongue in cheek and Zeke makes fun of himself all the way through. Lots of fun poked at the different environments the characters end up in and I loved the descriptions of the human world, that demons took from their education classes, but also from films brought back from the Overworld as they call it. The thought that they might float up into the blue sky and be lost forever, and that the rest of the human world was only black and white with a bit of grey. Making fun of what humans have made of Hell or the Underworld, as demons refer to it, as well as demons themselves adds to the fun being poked at all aspects of the storytelling. I really enjoyed this book and I can’t wait to see what happens to Zeke and others in the next book. I would recommend this to all who want a really amusing read, with added aspects of the supernatural. I received an ARC copy of this book from BookSprout and I have freely given my own opinion of the book above.
July 1, 2020
Paul Sating’s newest novel, “Bitter Aries,” tells the story of Ezekial, a demon with no magical powers. Things are about to change for Ezekial when the Council selects him for a mission in the Overworld: to catch the powerful Aries, the first of his name. Accompanied by his friend Bilba and the unsympathetic Ralrek, Ezekial crosses over to the Overworld, a place known to him only through movies. Will Ezekial succeed in capturing Aries, or will he fail?
While reading the book, I couldn’t help rooting for Ezekial (Zeke) to be successful in his mission. Furthermore, I liked Zeke and Aries as they were two very intriguing demons who questioned authority.
With Bitter Arries, Paul managed to create a funny and compelling story populated with demons while taking the readers to Hell and up to Seattle. It got me curious about what will happen in the next books and what other missions will wait for Ezekial and his Creed. I hope other people will enjoy reading this book as much as I did.
P.S. Seattle’s hot chicken wings are so good even demons devour them:)).
[I received a free copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving this review.]
While reading the book, I couldn’t help rooting for Ezekial (Zeke) to be successful in his mission. Furthermore, I liked Zeke and Aries as they were two very intriguing demons who questioned authority.
With Bitter Arries, Paul managed to create a funny and compelling story populated with demons while taking the readers to Hell and up to Seattle. It got me curious about what will happen in the next books and what other missions will wait for Ezekial and his Creed. I hope other people will enjoy reading this book as much as I did.
P.S. Seattle’s hot chicken wings are so good even demons devour them:)).
[I received a free copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving this review.]
July 6, 2020
A demon with heart
Sly humor, exuberant young lead characters, mythology come to life - an interesting start to a series that I look forward to continuing! Three demons are sent to Earth for a mission, and learn critical thinking skills and independence along the way. (The lead character does, anyway, and his best friend. The jury's out on the frenemy that travels with them).
The Overworld and Underworld are very different, as described here:
"Yes, we have ice makers in the Underworld, but you have to go through a lot to get it and keep it and, honestly, only the Floaters living in their mansions can afford them, which makes enjoying a mixed drink an utter nightmare of angelic proportions. If for no other reason, the availability of ice was a great justification to stay in the Overworld, even if the rest of this domain smelled like a toilet and was the one place where we could be killed."
Ice, man. Who knew how precious it could be?
I received a copy of this book for review purposes.
Sly humor, exuberant young lead characters, mythology come to life - an interesting start to a series that I look forward to continuing! Three demons are sent to Earth for a mission, and learn critical thinking skills and independence along the way. (The lead character does, anyway, and his best friend. The jury's out on the frenemy that travels with them).
The Overworld and Underworld are very different, as described here:
"Yes, we have ice makers in the Underworld, but you have to go through a lot to get it and keep it and, honestly, only the Floaters living in their mansions can afford them, which makes enjoying a mixed drink an utter nightmare of angelic proportions. If for no other reason, the availability of ice was a great justification to stay in the Overworld, even if the rest of this domain smelled like a toilet and was the one place where we could be killed."
Ice, man. Who knew how precious it could be?
I received a copy of this book for review purposes.
October 9, 2020
I received this book from Book Sirens for an honest review. This book was a refreshing twist on Demons and Hell. Demons - they're just like you and I. They go about their lives and grow up, go to school, get jobs. The only difference is they all have ABILITIES. Well that is all except for 1. Ezekial - Zeke to his best bud Bilba, was born with out any powers at all. It makes him different and the target of other demons taunts. It has also brought shame on his parents. That is until Zeke is summoned by the Third Council for a mission. A mission to go to the realm of mortals to retrieve Aries, first of his name. How can he fail? Zeke goes with topside with his best friend Bilba and his best enemy Ralrek. Things don't go as planned. This book was super fun and I enjoyed seeing the twist in the demons. They view Heaven as a bad place to be but it's more of a power struggle between Heaven and Hell. But so much fun! Looking forward to the next one!
September 1, 2020
4 Stars
Thank you to BookSirens and the publisher for providing me with an e-arc of this book in exchange for an honest review.
“Maybe nature herself demands a distinct lack of curiosity and maybe that’s where we find the courageous, be thy mortal, immortal, or somewhere in between”.
Ezekiel Sunstone, Zeke (don’t tell him I called him that), has been an outcast all his six thousand years in the fifth circle of the Underworld. The price one pays being the only demon with non-magic abilities. But will that come to an advantage when Lucifer’s Council sends him on a mission? Zeke, his best friend Bilba, and his frenemy Ralrek must go to the Overworld in search of Aries the first. Three minor demons vs. one of the powerful First. They didn’t say it was going to be easy. Will Zeke be able to restore honor for his family or burn everything down in the process?
“The imps and implings playing in front yards under the watchful eyes of their parents; the chimaera-drawn carriages transporting those who could afford them… the annoying fairies, sylphs, and pixies that flitted around in the air, antagonizing each other and the Underworld’s wingless residents. This Circle was my home...”.
The novel’s world building was really well done being under 300 pages. I got a sense of Sating’s story version of Hell/the Underworld and really enjoyed the comical shade thrown at the human’s misinterpretation of it. The storyline and atmosphere gave me the image of Percy Jackson if he was a powerless demon. Although being short, I didn't feel bombarded with too much information or action. The pace felt well tuned and refined.
“A fate written by only me. To write one’s own fate is to truly be free”.
Off the bat, I love Zeke’s personality! He’s sarcastic, blunt, constantly questioning things and still has a kind heart after everything that is thrown his way. Sating had me laughing at multiple points through Zeke’s wit and inner monologues. Constantly breaking the fourth wall to communicate.
“I took a deep breath and stepped into the void… with my eyes closed, but, please that’s our secret, okay?”.
Dislikes:
-.25 stars off for grammar.
Not sure if things got skewed when going from manuscript to electronic format. There were a couple spelling and grammatical errors. Below are all the ones I came across.
“...the open sky here reminded me just vulnerable to other forces I was” (CH9/P11/L7).
“...I required. Bilba took a longer. In fact...” (CH12/P4/L3).
“...the humans. ‘We’ve got to get out here’” (CH13/P3/L3).
“...lend itself to keeping humans insdie. I didn’t... ” (CH14/P54/L4).
“...searching for Kelly. It least this didn’t...” (CH16/P60/L5).
“His ” (CH20/P118/L1).
-.75 for other
Aspects of this story coincide with some of my interests especially with personifying the Zodiac. As much as I enjoyed the components of this story, I don't think this series is for me. I felt like I needed more to grasp onto. There was something missing that I couldn’t put my finger on it. My curiosity is stirring though.
I would recommend this more to a younger audience, an Urban Fantasy dosed in comedy for Pre-Teen to max Young Adult.
Thank you to BookSirens and the publisher for providing me with an e-arc of this book in exchange for an honest review.
“Maybe nature herself demands a distinct lack of curiosity and maybe that’s where we find the courageous, be thy mortal, immortal, or somewhere in between”.
Ezekiel Sunstone, Zeke (don’t tell him I called him that), has been an outcast all his six thousand years in the fifth circle of the Underworld. The price one pays being the only demon with non-magic abilities. But will that come to an advantage when Lucifer’s Council sends him on a mission? Zeke, his best friend Bilba, and his frenemy Ralrek must go to the Overworld in search of Aries the first. Three minor demons vs. one of the powerful First. They didn’t say it was going to be easy. Will Zeke be able to restore honor for his family or burn everything down in the process?
“The imps and implings playing in front yards under the watchful eyes of their parents; the chimaera-drawn carriages transporting those who could afford them… the annoying fairies, sylphs, and pixies that flitted around in the air, antagonizing each other and the Underworld’s wingless residents. This Circle was my home...”.
The novel’s world building was really well done being under 300 pages. I got a sense of Sating’s story version of Hell/the Underworld and really enjoyed the comical shade thrown at the human’s misinterpretation of it. The storyline and atmosphere gave me the image of Percy Jackson if he was a powerless demon. Although being short, I didn't feel bombarded with too much information or action. The pace felt well tuned and refined.
“A fate written by only me. To write one’s own fate is to truly be free”.
Off the bat, I love Zeke’s personality! He’s sarcastic, blunt, constantly questioning things and still has a kind heart after everything that is thrown his way. Sating had me laughing at multiple points through Zeke’s wit and inner monologues. Constantly breaking the fourth wall to communicate.
“I took a deep breath and stepped into the void… with my eyes closed, but, please that’s our secret, okay?”.
Dislikes:
-.25 stars off for grammar.
Not sure if things got skewed when going from manuscript to electronic format. There were a couple spelling and grammatical errors. Below are all the ones I came across.
“...the open sky here reminded me just vulnerable to other forces I was” (CH9/P11/L7).
“...I required. Bilba took a longer. In fact...” (CH12/P4/L3).
“...the humans. ‘We’ve got to get out here’” (CH13/P3/L3).
“...lend itself to keeping humans insdie. I didn’t... ” (CH14/P54/L4).
“...searching for Kelly. It least this didn’t...” (CH16/P60/L5).
“His ” (CH20/P118/L1).
-.75 for other
Aspects of this story coincide with some of my interests especially with personifying the Zodiac. As much as I enjoyed the components of this story, I don't think this series is for me. I felt like I needed more to grasp onto. There was something missing that I couldn’t put my finger on it. My curiosity is stirring though.
I would recommend this more to a younger audience, an Urban Fantasy dosed in comedy for Pre-Teen to max Young Adult.
July 3, 2020
*Received as an advance copy.
Our hero, Ezekial is the only demon in the history of hellfire to not have any magical abilities. Shunned by all but one of his kind for the last few millennia, he now finds himself the focus of everyone's attention, and hopefully the savior of the ‘Balance’ between good and evil.
This story is a fun little jaunt to Hell and back, (or rather Earth and back). A slow start, that can be forgiven by the wonderful flowing pace of a story that I just couldn’t put down, and left me wanting more.
Looking forward to the next installment!
Our hero, Ezekial is the only demon in the history of hellfire to not have any magical abilities. Shunned by all but one of his kind for the last few millennia, he now finds himself the focus of everyone's attention, and hopefully the savior of the ‘Balance’ between good and evil.
This story is a fun little jaunt to Hell and back, (or rather Earth and back). A slow start, that can be forgiven by the wonderful flowing pace of a story that I just couldn’t put down, and left me wanting more.
Looking forward to the next installment!
September 12, 2020
I enjoyed this book and can’t wait to read the next ones. I wonder if things will change between the three demons in the fallowing books and what the Council has in store for them next. I really like zeke when you grow up with having to overcome a difference between you and everyone else you can’t help but think a little different than them as well. I like the idea that demons have a good moral compass and angles might be the bad guys.
I did receive an arc of this book
I did receive an arc of this book
October 9, 2020
Maybe it's because as a reader we have our own narrative voice in our head, but try as I might I could not get on with the narrator for this book. It's read well enough, just the accent I suppose. Only got upto chapter 3, I will download the book and review it, to be fair to the author.
August 24, 2020
An honest review after getting a free copy. I have not enjoyed a book as much as I enjoyed this book in a long time. A great storyline and characters I already love and can’t wait to get more of.
I was drawn in from the get go. It captured my imagination which Is something I’m always looking for in a book. It has enough detail but dose not drag on, it gets you to the point right when you want it to. It’s different and interesting and I can’t wait to get my hands on the next one.
Already recommended to a few people and will be up in the top recommendations for YA fantasy books in the future.
The only thing that could have made it better was some terminology being explained in the opening chapter. I think this could have been easily added and Would have saved me stopping to find out what the words meant. Especially as they were used frequently in the book.
I was drawn in from the get go. It captured my imagination which Is something I’m always looking for in a book. It has enough detail but dose not drag on, it gets you to the point right when you want it to. It’s different and interesting and I can’t wait to get my hands on the next one.
Already recommended to a few people and will be up in the top recommendations for YA fantasy books in the future.
The only thing that could have made it better was some terminology being explained in the opening chapter. I think this could have been easily added and Would have saved me stopping to find out what the words meant. Especially as they were used frequently in the book.
September 7, 2020
I loved this story so muchhhh!!! this is the first book I read from this autor and let me tell you that I loved it! Such a good book, very well writen with great characters that keeps you obsessed with every page since the first one. I just couldn't put it down. I had so much fun! Can´t wait for book 2! Amazing job! definitely a must
read!
read!
August 20, 2020
Bitter Aries is a quick, enjoyable read with characters interesting enough that I immediately picked up the second book in The Zodiac Series. I found it amusing that the three main demons are treated like teenagers by other immortals (and act like kids) even though they have lived in the Underworld for millenia. This first adventure brings them to the Overworld; readers familiar with Seattle will get a kick out of the demons' descriptions of the downtown area and sights.
Author Paul Sating does a solid job creating this universe and populating it with three-dimensional characters who interact believeably. HIs plotting and action scenes are good, and he obviously has fun playing with language in the Underworld (e.g. being chided for saying "For Lucifer's Sake!"). My only quibble is with the editing of this book, because I noticed at least a dozen typos.
I received an advance review copy for free from BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Author Paul Sating does a solid job creating this universe and populating it with three-dimensional characters who interact believeably. HIs plotting and action scenes are good, and he obviously has fun playing with language in the Underworld (e.g. being chided for saying "For Lucifer's Sake!"). My only quibble is with the editing of this book, because I noticed at least a dozen typos.
I received an advance review copy for free from BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 22, 2020
I loved this book! Demons as the good guys with a code of ethics, at least one anyway. I have never read a book like this one and I enjoyed it immensely. The characters were well written and the author as the narrator was wonderful. The story flowed well and the wording was funny because where most would use a swear word their swear words had to do with heaven and cherubs. I am eagerly awaiting the next book to see what kind of mischief Ezekiel will get into next. And one final thing, the council down there is as corrupt and self-serving as any council anywhere.
I received a free copy of this audiobook from StoryOrigin for an honest review
I received a free copy of this audiobook from StoryOrigin for an honest review
June 29, 2020
I am really glad that this is just book one because as soon as I finished I was ready for more Ezekiel. He was such a fun character and I enjoyed going on his journey with him and seeing him grow more confident in himself. The well-written storyline and top-notch world building made for a highly entertaining read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 14, 2021
Here we go. Paul Sating's new The Zodiac series. I opened the first page (figuratively speaking as I was reading it on my kindle) and a fell into a new, parallel world to today. Zeke is not your typical, hansom hero, but I adore him.
August 27, 2020
I liked the book. I was curious the whole way through with our characters and the mission they were on. I think it’s a good first book in a series.
I liked Zeke as our POV and his short comings turned into strengths.
I wish there was more world and character building.
I received a free copy for an honest review.
I liked Zeke as our POV and his short comings turned into strengths.
I wish there was more world and character building.
I received a free copy for an honest review.
August 16, 2020
Ezekial is a demon who has no magical abilities. He is the only demon in history with no magic. He is shunned and bullied by all except his one friend Bilba. Zeke is singled out by the Council to be the demon to bring back the 1st Aries. The 1st of any of the demons names mean that they are super powerful. Zeke, Bilba and Ralrek(a total jerk) are sent overground to Seattle to bring Aries back. This is a different kind of magical story. It shines a light on the heirarchy of the different levels of hell. There is deceit, rivalry, compassion and tragedy in this story. I liked this story. I was given a free copy of this book at my request and this is my honest review.
July 11, 2020
I listened to the audiobook format. Its certainly gotten my attention. The premise is fairly novel. I enjoyed the humor. Overall I would say I enjoyed it. I would definitely give the next book a listen.
It flowed well in my opinion, though I felt there were some times when the MC showed inconsistency in his thinking and reflexes. Also, I felt he could've had a bit more spine at times, given what we saw about his nature. I was also a bit dissatisfied with the ending, BUT because it's a series I feel the next book will probably show us the reason for that ending. I am one who prefers longer form content/ series, so I'm not going to ding the rating for the minor disappointment at the ending of the first book. I suspect that ending will be important later in the story. Cause and effect are complicated at times and all that.
It flowed well in my opinion, though I felt there were some times when the MC showed inconsistency in his thinking and reflexes. Also, I felt he could've had a bit more spine at times, given what we saw about his nature. I was also a bit dissatisfied with the ending, BUT because it's a series I feel the next book will probably show us the reason for that ending. I am one who prefers longer form content/ series, so I'm not going to ding the rating for the minor disappointment at the ending of the first book. I suspect that ending will be important later in the story. Cause and effect are complicated at times and all that.
September 8, 2020
the story it self was interesting it held me up was the narration but it did grow on me.
August 22, 2020
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I enjoyed this much more than I expected to. The main character, Zeke or Ezekiel, had the misfortune of being the only demon in history to know have some sort of magic power. I was waiting for the usual trope of the underdog becoming the great hero. Maybe his magic would be triggered by something and poof he's the top demon. It didn't happen
The world building was so good. Hell wasn't all that bad for the demons. Zeke's family lived in the fifth circle of Hell. This of course is from Dante's Inferno. The only issue I had with this was I had to look up with the fifth circle of Hell was and I was wondering if it played a role in the story. It's where the where the wrathful and sullen are punished for their sins. If it did play a role, I didn't understand it.
The supporting characters were wonderful. We had Zeke's family. His mother was portrayed as a bumbler. She couldn't cook and she demurred to her husband. His father came across as a bitter old man whose life didn't go the way he wanted. His son has no magic. He is bullied just as much as Zeke. His mother becomes his biggest supporter at the end of the book. She promised Zeke to bring his dad around. I have faith in her.
Then we have Zeke's best friend Bilba. I was thinking his name was pretty close to Bilbo Baggins so I was almost expecting a real quest instead of the two of them and an incubus named Ralrek wondering around the human world. Ralrek and Zeke didn't like each other. I was wondering why Ralrek was chosen but it really didn't matter in the end.
These three were sent to the Overworld, also known as Seattle, to hunt down one of the most powerful demons, Aries. Aries had escaped from Hell six months before the story began. The mission was bound to fail from the beginning. Zeke was the only who realized this. Bilba and Ralrek were too busy being good little imps and following the rules to realize what was going on.
They were sent by the Council, the governing body of the demons. They wanted Aries brought back because no one escapes from Hell without Lucifer's permission. Any major demon activity in the Overworld could lead to a war with Heaven and Armageddon.
The reader gets a pretty good view of Seattle. The three interact at one point with a homeless man who seems to know who Aries is. This leads to a discussion later on between Zeke and Aries about how there are homeless in both Heaven and Hell. This really made me think. Why are there homeless in Heaven when it's supposed to be paradise?
The three of them along with the council member Beelzebub, who is the catalyst behind this whole messed up mission, face Aries. Zeke, without any magic, is unable to really do anything except for attacking one of Aries's human guards who went after Bilba. Aries dies and they all go back to Hell.
Aries had given Zeke a weapon named Creed. He said it was the most powerful weapon in the underworld. Only someone without magic, like Zeke, could use it. I was really glad of this. Zeke would be able to show Hell what kind of demon he truly was. He was compassionate having been bullied all of his life. He was inquisitive because he questioned the Council at every turn. He wasn't one to toe the party line just because he was told to do so unlike nearly every other demon. He was independent and with Creed in his pocket, he could assert that independence. Of course that would upset the Council, but in Zeke's mind, that was just a bonus.
I'm looking forward to the other two books in the series. I want to see how Zeke develops with his new found powers and possible freedom.
I enjoyed this much more than I expected to. The main character, Zeke or Ezekiel, had the misfortune of being the only demon in history to know have some sort of magic power. I was waiting for the usual trope of the underdog becoming the great hero. Maybe his magic would be triggered by something and poof he's the top demon. It didn't happen
The world building was so good. Hell wasn't all that bad for the demons. Zeke's family lived in the fifth circle of Hell. This of course is from Dante's Inferno. The only issue I had with this was I had to look up with the fifth circle of Hell was and I was wondering if it played a role in the story. It's where the where the wrathful and sullen are punished for their sins. If it did play a role, I didn't understand it.
The supporting characters were wonderful. We had Zeke's family. His mother was portrayed as a bumbler. She couldn't cook and she demurred to her husband. His father came across as a bitter old man whose life didn't go the way he wanted. His son has no magic. He is bullied just as much as Zeke. His mother becomes his biggest supporter at the end of the book. She promised Zeke to bring his dad around. I have faith in her.
Then we have Zeke's best friend Bilba. I was thinking his name was pretty close to Bilbo Baggins so I was almost expecting a real quest instead of the two of them and an incubus named Ralrek wondering around the human world. Ralrek and Zeke didn't like each other. I was wondering why Ralrek was chosen but it really didn't matter in the end.
These three were sent to the Overworld, also known as Seattle, to hunt down one of the most powerful demons, Aries. Aries had escaped from Hell six months before the story began. The mission was bound to fail from the beginning. Zeke was the only who realized this. Bilba and Ralrek were too busy being good little imps and following the rules to realize what was going on.
They were sent by the Council, the governing body of the demons. They wanted Aries brought back because no one escapes from Hell without Lucifer's permission. Any major demon activity in the Overworld could lead to a war with Heaven and Armageddon.
The reader gets a pretty good view of Seattle. The three interact at one point with a homeless man who seems to know who Aries is. This leads to a discussion later on between Zeke and Aries about how there are homeless in both Heaven and Hell. This really made me think. Why are there homeless in Heaven when it's supposed to be paradise?
The three of them along with the council member Beelzebub, who is the catalyst behind this whole messed up mission, face Aries. Zeke, without any magic, is unable to really do anything except for attacking one of Aries's human guards who went after Bilba. Aries dies and they all go back to Hell.
Aries had given Zeke a weapon named Creed. He said it was the most powerful weapon in the underworld. Only someone without magic, like Zeke, could use it. I was really glad of this. Zeke would be able to show Hell what kind of demon he truly was. He was compassionate having been bullied all of his life. He was inquisitive because he questioned the Council at every turn. He wasn't one to toe the party line just because he was told to do so unlike nearly every other demon. He was independent and with Creed in his pocket, he could assert that independence. Of course that would upset the Council, but in Zeke's mind, that was just a bonus.
I'm looking forward to the other two books in the series. I want to see how Zeke develops with his new found powers and possible freedom.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 11, 2020
This is an entertaining novel take on demons and the Underworld, operating much like the games we humans play! Zeke is a very likable demon, his friends are like most adolescent boys, although time to demons is not like our time. Aries is a very sympathetic character. This was an easy quick read, and appeals to those who like to mix supernatural with an earth based storyline.
August 3, 2020
(Review in return for free copy from
StoryOrigin
)
I am confused but not horribly so, since that reflects the situation of the protagonist. I liked the book enough to proceed to the second one, so that's good.
Honestly, this is more of a light snack of a book than a weighty meal, which is nice because that's what I needed. There's just enough world-building that I could keep track of who was who, but not so much that it gets in the way: there's some apparently-familiar names in not-so-familiar contexts, so I'm looking forward to later books explaining more of what is happening under the bonnet.
I am confused but not horribly so, since that reflects the situation of the protagonist. I liked the book enough to proceed to the second one, so that's good.
Honestly, this is more of a light snack of a book than a weighty meal, which is nice because that's what I needed. There's just enough world-building that I could keep track of who was who, but not so much that it gets in the way: there's some apparently-familiar names in not-so-familiar contexts, so I'm looking forward to later books explaining more of what is happening under the bonnet.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews