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The Guild Codex: Demonized #3
Hunting Fiends for the Ill-Equipped
I thought I understood power.
My parents taught me that magic attracts equal danger, and everything I've seen since becoming a demon contractor confirms it. I've witnessed how power twists and corrupts--and I've tasted power no human should wield.
I thought I knew greed.
Ambition and avarice drove my family into hiding. My parents died for someone else's greed. I've never hunted anything in my life, but now I'm hunting their killer--with my demon's help.
I thought I'd seen evil.
But with each step closer to my parents' murderer, I'm uncovering a different sort of evil, piece by hidden piece. I've stumbled into an insidious web that silently, secretly ensnares everything it touches. My demon and I came as the hunters...
...but I think we might be the prey.
--
Author's Note: The Guild Codex includes two series, Demonized and Spellbound, which can be read and enjoyed all on their own; however, this book contains spoilers for Demon Magic and a Martini (Spellbound #4). If you were thinking about giving Spellbound a try, I recommend reading it first.
--
THE GUILD CODEX
Demonized Series:
Taming Demons for Beginners (#1)
Slaying Monsters for the Feeble (#2)
Hunting Fiends for the Ill-Equipped (#3)
Spellbound Series:
Three Mages and a Margarita (#1)
Dark Arts and a Daiquiri (#2)
Two Witches and a Whiskey (#3)
Demon Magic and a Martini (#4)
The Alchemist and an Amaretto (#5)
Druid Vices and a Vodka (#6)
My parents taught me that magic attracts equal danger, and everything I've seen since becoming a demon contractor confirms it. I've witnessed how power twists and corrupts--and I've tasted power no human should wield.
I thought I knew greed.
Ambition and avarice drove my family into hiding. My parents died for someone else's greed. I've never hunted anything in my life, but now I'm hunting their killer--with my demon's help.
I thought I'd seen evil.
But with each step closer to my parents' murderer, I'm uncovering a different sort of evil, piece by hidden piece. I've stumbled into an insidious web that silently, secretly ensnares everything it touches. My demon and I came as the hunters...
...but I think we might be the prey.
--
Author's Note: The Guild Codex includes two series, Demonized and Spellbound, which can be read and enjoyed all on their own; however, this book contains spoilers for Demon Magic and a Martini (Spellbound #4). If you were thinking about giving Spellbound a try, I recommend reading it first.
--
THE GUILD CODEX
Demonized Series:
Taming Demons for Beginners (#1)
Slaying Monsters for the Feeble (#2)
Hunting Fiends for the Ill-Equipped (#3)
Spellbound Series:
Three Mages and a Margarita (#1)
Dark Arts and a Daiquiri (#2)
Two Witches and a Whiskey (#3)
Demon Magic and a Martini (#4)
The Alchemist and an Amaretto (#5)
Druid Vices and a Vodka (#6)
Audible Audio
First published April 3, 2020
About the author
Annette Marie
84 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 1,124 reviews
October 20, 2019
Star Rating: —> no finite number could ever possibly be adequate...
My hands are still shaking like 45 minutes after finishing this!
HOLY SH*T!
THIS BOOK. THISBOOK, you guys! IT IS THE VERY BEST GUILD CODEX BOOK TO DATE! I’M IN SHOCK! I’M IN LOVE!
NO... I’M...
I’M SCREAMING;
I’M CRYING;
MY HEART IS GOING ABSOLUTELY F*CKING BONKERS;
MY MIND IS BLOWN TO SMITHEREENS!
HOLY MOLY- the degree of intensity of the events that just went down was just off the charts!
Starting out, I didn’t know if this would even come close to the insanity that was Druid Vices and A Vodka (The Guild Codex: Spellbound #6)... but I had some lofty expectations; I knew it would FOR SURE pack a punch, and that I was in for a ride. Little did I know (yes, please put this on the official record), I’D BE GOING ON THE BEST ROLLERCOASTER RIDE OF THE GUILD CODEX UNIVERSE THUS FAR!
Plus... Zylas & Robin are just... a force. I am so very in love with both of them and seeing their relationship constantly shift & take on new shapes is so much fun- and this book delivers! There is a lot that is revealed that finally really fed my curiosity regarding the communication barrier between demon and human/mythic. These two really... learn and come to truly understand much about one other in this third installment... and it is just.... Vh’renith! Zylas, you wonderful mystery! Full of surprises.
OH MY LORD. THIS WAS EVERYTHING. Sun, moon, stars. All of it.
I honestly don’t want to give ANYTHING away. This just needs to be READ! One of my absolute favorite reads of 2020. Possibly currently holding #1 spot!
Also, I think my soul was re-born? Annette Marie is one of the absolute greatest storytellers of our time. She truly knows how to make you feel. The vast & vivid array of emotions that I experienced while reading Hunting Fiends was truly something special. I have to say that reading this book truly is an experience, one that I will treasure for a very long time (hence my protectiveness regarding spoilery 😉).
♥️Vh’renith vē Thāit♥️
_________________
November 2nd, 2019
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. 😂😂😂
💜💙💚
______________
DYING. CAN’T WAIT!
My hands are still shaking like 45 minutes after finishing this!
HOLY SH*T!
THIS BOOK. THISBOOK, you guys! IT IS THE VERY BEST GUILD CODEX BOOK TO DATE! I’M IN SHOCK! I’M IN LOVE!
NO... I’M...
I’M SCREAMING;
I’M CRYING;
MY HEART IS GOING ABSOLUTELY F*CKING BONKERS;
MY MIND IS BLOWN TO SMITHEREENS!
HOLY MOLY- the degree of intensity of the events that just went down was just off the charts!
Starting out, I didn’t know if this would even come close to the insanity that was Druid Vices and A Vodka (The Guild Codex: Spellbound #6)... but I had some lofty expectations; I knew it would FOR SURE pack a punch, and that I was in for a ride. Little did I know (yes, please put this on the official record), I’D BE GOING ON THE BEST ROLLERCOASTER RIDE OF THE GUILD CODEX UNIVERSE THUS FAR!
Plus... Zylas & Robin are just... a force. I am so very in love with both of them and seeing their relationship constantly shift & take on new shapes is so much fun- and this book delivers! There is a lot that is revealed that finally really fed my curiosity regarding the communication barrier between demon and human/mythic. These two really... learn and come to truly understand much about one other in this third installment... and it is just.... Vh’renith! Zylas, you wonderful mystery! Full of surprises.
OH MY LORD. THIS WAS EVERYTHING. Sun, moon, stars. All of it.
I honestly don’t want to give ANYTHING away. This just needs to be READ! One of my absolute favorite reads of 2020. Possibly currently holding #1 spot!
Also, I think my soul was re-born? Annette Marie is one of the absolute greatest storytellers of our time. She truly knows how to make you feel. The vast & vivid array of emotions that I experienced while reading Hunting Fiends was truly something special. I have to say that reading this book truly is an experience, one that I will treasure for a very long time (hence my protectiveness regarding spoilery 😉).
♥️Vh’renith vē Thāit♥️
_________________
November 2nd, 2019
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. 😂😂😂
💜💙💚
______________
DYING. CAN’T WAIT!
November 2, 2019
I am conditioned to scream every time I think about this book.
This was just. Everything I hoped it would be since the beginning of this series. EVERYTHING. I am like. In this very satisfied bubble, almost living my best life.
I say almost because I’m suddenly not sure how to take the fact that there’s one book left for the Demonized books? Help.
Anyway, before I continue: spoiler warning! This is book 3 in the GC Demonized series! If you haven’t read the other two, just be aware, spoilers may or may not appear.
I LOVE ZYLAS. Have I made that clear yet? I just adore him. He’s changed so much since the start and he is just everything I wanted from a demon. He’s complex, and Marie does a wonderful job, as always, in building his character. We see a different side to him with each book and I love learning more about his life, his world. Zylas also adds a lot of fun to the series and his remarks are 100% gold. Hands down, he is easily one of my all time favourite characters.
Next we have my girl Robin. Oooh, honey, are you in trouble. I’ve always rooted for Robin because it’s refreshing to see a more awkward, scholarly type of lead than someone who rushes in headfirst without a plan. I admire her quiet strength and her ability to be vulnerable—also something you don’t see often. I’ve always wondered how she handles the grief of losing her parents and we get a little bit of that in this book and it’s at once intense yet wholesome. Her growth is present and noticeable in slight ways and I loved it!
I think my favourite aspect of Hunting Fiends is how entwined the two sister series become. This book’s timeline intersects with book 6 of Tori’s Spellbound series. I always wished I was one of those careful readers that pick up hints and Easter eggs and such because I feel like there are so MANY within these books! We see some familiar characters here and it leads to a rather interesting direction and I’m so anxious to see where Marie is going with it!
Now y’all KNOW I have been vocal about my ship here. You KNOW. And my guy. Chefs kiss. What a scene. THIS is the content I’ve been waiting so long for and it is GLORIOUS. I’ve reread it no less than five times already.
Okay dassit. Please read these books. Scream at—or with—me about Zylas and Robin. An easy 5 stars and let it be known: I am not ready for the last book but I want it very much.
This was just. Everything I hoped it would be since the beginning of this series. EVERYTHING. I am like. In this very satisfied bubble, almost living my best life.
I say almost because I’m suddenly not sure how to take the fact that there’s one book left for the Demonized books? Help.
Anyway, before I continue: spoiler warning! This is book 3 in the GC Demonized series! If you haven’t read the other two, just be aware, spoilers may or may not appear.
I LOVE ZYLAS. Have I made that clear yet? I just adore him. He’s changed so much since the start and he is just everything I wanted from a demon. He’s complex, and Marie does a wonderful job, as always, in building his character. We see a different side to him with each book and I love learning more about his life, his world. Zylas also adds a lot of fun to the series and his remarks are 100% gold. Hands down, he is easily one of my all time favourite characters.
Next we have my girl Robin. Oooh, honey, are you in trouble. I’ve always rooted for Robin because it’s refreshing to see a more awkward, scholarly type of lead than someone who rushes in headfirst without a plan. I admire her quiet strength and her ability to be vulnerable—also something you don’t see often. I’ve always wondered how she handles the grief of losing her parents and we get a little bit of that in this book and it’s at once intense yet wholesome. Her growth is present and noticeable in slight ways and I loved it!
I think my favourite aspect of Hunting Fiends is how entwined the two sister series become. This book’s timeline intersects with book 6 of Tori’s Spellbound series. I always wished I was one of those careful readers that pick up hints and Easter eggs and such because I feel like there are so MANY within these books! We see some familiar characters here and it leads to a rather interesting direction and I’m so anxious to see where Marie is going with it!
Now y’all KNOW I have been vocal about my ship here. You KNOW. And my guy. Chefs kiss. What a scene. THIS is the content I’ve been waiting so long for and it is GLORIOUS. I’ve reread it no less than five times already.
Okay dassit. Please read these books. Scream at—or with—me about Zylas and Robin. An easy 5 stars and let it be known: I am not ready for the last book but I want it very much.
July 28, 2023
Wow wow wow wow Zylas is the greatest character on this planet wow
March 28, 2020
5 stars
OH
MY
DEMON
I was glued to my Kindle with every single chapter. My husband thought I was having a stroke on multiple occasions. This book DELIVERS.
Zylas and Robin are a force to be reckoned with. Their relationship is SO MUCH FUN to read! I love their banter, and I love watching them slowly learn to really trust each other and truly become allies.
Also, one of my favorite things about this series is getting two points of view...Tori's from Guild Codex, and Robin's. How Tori views Robin, and her interactions with Robin, are not the entire story. Robin has her own mind and viewpoints, and it gives the shared scenes a whole new feel.
Zylas…..I never in my life imagined I would fangirl over a demon character, but here we are. Zylas reminds me a lot of Shiro from Annette's Red Winter series. They have similar snarky and mysterious personalities, are fiercely loyal, and I fell in love with both before the first book was over. Zylas is a deep character. I want to know more, and I get frustrated with Robin when she doesn't dig for information. BUT we get answers in this book (finally!), along with a zillion more questions that will have to be put on hold for a few more months. How will I cope?
So if anyone has good book hangover coping skills, send them my way. I'm not going anywhere (thank you COVID-19).
-------
THE ARC IS HERE THE ARC IS HERE THE ARC IS HERE
OH
MY
DEMON
I was glued to my Kindle with every single chapter. My husband thought I was having a stroke on multiple occasions. This book DELIVERS.
Zylas and Robin are a force to be reckoned with. Their relationship is SO MUCH FUN to read! I love their banter, and I love watching them slowly learn to really trust each other and truly become allies.
Also, one of my favorite things about this series is getting two points of view...Tori's from Guild Codex, and Robin's. How Tori views Robin, and her interactions with Robin, are not the entire story. Robin has her own mind and viewpoints, and it gives the shared scenes a whole new feel.
Zylas…..I never in my life imagined I would fangirl over a demon character, but here we are. Zylas reminds me a lot of Shiro from Annette's Red Winter series. They have similar snarky and mysterious personalities, are fiercely loyal, and I fell in love with both before the first book was over. Zylas is a deep character. I want to know more, and I get frustrated with Robin when she doesn't dig for information. BUT we get answers in this book (finally!), along with a zillion more questions that will have to be put on hold for a few more months. How will I cope?
So if anyone has good book hangover coping skills, send them my way. I'm not going anywhere (thank you COVID-19).
-------
THE ARC IS HERE THE ARC IS HERE THE ARC IS HERE
May 11, 2020
4 stars for all three installments in this series so far! Wonderfully paced, action packed, slooooow burn forbidden love interest, not a romance subplot but still a bit steamy, entertaining banter and very relatable MC!!
What more could I ask for in a NA Urban Fantasy?!! This is near perfection!
What more could I ask for in a NA Urban Fantasy?!! This is near perfection!
August 3, 2020
Originally posted at:
I really, really, really enjoyed this book! Everything is falling apart but I have faith that the author knows what she's doing. This author sure knows how to weave a story and make it stick to you like glue.
Robin is sweet but at the same time kick*ss. The relationship she maintains with Zylas is incredible and complex. I like how she blushes even when the wind blows too hard. She's adorable and Zylas has become her rock to a degree in these past few books.
Zylas is awesome! He's been slowly learning human customs and it's finally showing. He has a very calculating side to him and I love how he's using it to help Robin. Also, let's rejoice at THOSE scenes! I didn't expect it to happen but it did and I'm not crying, you are!
The one thing I disliked about this book was how the author had to backtrack and replay events from Robin and Zylas's point of view for quite a bit of the novel. It was still exciting but I wanted to story to move long even farther not be stuck catching up to the latest Guild Codex: Spellbound book.
I loved how the depth of Robin and Zylas's relationship evolved, especially at the end! I can't wait for the last book in this series. It'll definitely be one of those books where I'm sad to say goodbye.
The Audio Book:
The narration was fantastic! There were no strange noises in the background and all the character's were discernable from each other.
I really, really, really enjoyed this book! Everything is falling apart but I have faith that the author knows what she's doing. This author sure knows how to weave a story and make it stick to you like glue.
Robin is sweet but at the same time kick*ss. The relationship she maintains with Zylas is incredible and complex. I like how she blushes even when the wind blows too hard. She's adorable and Zylas has become her rock to a degree in these past few books.
Zylas is awesome! He's been slowly learning human customs and it's finally showing. He has a very calculating side to him and I love how he's using it to help Robin. Also, let's rejoice at THOSE scenes! I didn't expect it to happen but it did and I'm not crying, you are!
The one thing I disliked about this book was how the author had to backtrack and replay events from Robin and Zylas's point of view for quite a bit of the novel. It was still exciting but I wanted to story to move long even farther not be stuck catching up to the latest Guild Codex: Spellbound book.
I loved how the depth of Robin and Zylas's relationship evolved, especially at the end! I can't wait for the last book in this series. It'll definitely be one of those books where I'm sad to say goodbye.
The Audio Book:
The narration was fantastic! There were no strange noises in the background and all the character's were discernable from each other.
November 1, 2019
Finished the second book today
Literally
Can... Not... Wait... For... This... Book!!!
OMG! Please please please can this series never end!
Took me a day to finish this book, and considering the difficult time we are in it was a needed break from reality. I absolutely love these books and love this story.
I wish I could read it all over again.
Literally
Can... Not... Wait... For... This... Book!!!
OMG! Please please please can this series never end!
Took me a day to finish this book, and considering the difficult time we are in it was a needed break from reality. I absolutely love these books and love this story.
I wish I could read it all over again.
April 5, 2020
Does it get any better than this?
I ship Robin and Zylas so much that that ship is around the size a cruise liner.
I think my head exploded at the cuteness if these two.
This is my gif for this book
This world is so amazing its no surprise there's another spin off coming. We meet those characters for the first time here. They sound cute but.. they ain't got nothing on Robin and her demon.
They are the cute winners.
“How are muscles perfect?”
“Just ignore what Tori said.”
“But your face changed color when she said it.”
“Are my abs better than a hh’ainun?”
“I don’t know.”
“Do you want to put clothes on me?”
“No.”
“Why is your face changing color again?”
The whole book was perfect. Action, romance ....Ezra too ... and demon learning human stuff galore!
I'm making it sound all fluff, but its not. There's loads of running for your life and almost dying and Zylas saving everyone etc. All the good stuff, I just can't comprehend how anyone could be disappointed with this 3rd book in the series. Its the best yet. But its just this side of relationship heavy to be perfect for me. Its still upper YA/NA but there is a little darkness in this one which was surprising but nothing to take it into adult territory.
I got nothing else people.
If you are staying at home with nothing to do, this series will make so smile so big you might hurt yoself. I would recommend reading Toris story first in Three Mages and a Margarita but its absolutely not a requirement.
I should add also if you’re a fan of this series already and don’t know about the amazing artwork of Zylas and Robin, you have to go and check out Annette Marie’s instagram account!
I ship Robin and Zylas so much that that ship is around the size a cruise liner.
I think my head exploded at the cuteness if these two.
This is my gif for this book
This world is so amazing its no surprise there's another spin off coming. We meet those characters for the first time here. They sound cute but.. they ain't got nothing on Robin and her demon.
They are the cute winners.
“How are muscles perfect?”
“Just ignore what Tori said.”
“But your face changed color when she said it.”
“Are my abs better than a hh’ainun?”
“I don’t know.”
“Do you want to put clothes on me?”
“No.”
“Why is your face changing color again?”
The whole book was perfect. Action, romance ....Ezra too ... and demon learning human stuff galore!
I'm making it sound all fluff, but its not. There's loads of running for your life and almost dying and Zylas saving everyone etc. All the good stuff, I just can't comprehend how anyone could be disappointed with this 3rd book in the series. Its the best yet. But its just this side of relationship heavy to be perfect for me. Its still upper YA/NA but there is a little darkness in this one which was surprising but nothing to take it into adult territory.
I got nothing else people.
If you are staying at home with nothing to do, this series will make so smile so big you might hurt yoself. I would recommend reading Toris story first in Three Mages and a Margarita but its absolutely not a requirement.
I should add also if you’re a fan of this series already and don’t know about the amazing artwork of Zylas and Robin, you have to go and check out Annette Marie’s instagram account!
March 29, 2020
05/18/2024: Reread. (Audiobook.)
12/23/2022: Reread. (Audiobook.)
06/21/2021: Reread. (Audiobook.)
10/05/2020: Reread. (Audiobook.)
08/13/2020: Reread! (Read to my son, Maddox.)
07/20/2020: Reread!
Disclaimer: I received an Advance Reader Copy at no cost from the publisher/author. All opinions in my review are my own.
This book really worked its magic on me. I am in so deep with the Guild Codex books that I will never make it up again for air. These books are now my oxygen and I can conclude with certainty that the fire in my soul needs them to keep on burning.
One of the most compelling things about Annette Marie's writing is the incredible amount of detail that she crams into her books. Not in a tedious way or in the way that some authors can tell things instead of showing them, but in an organic and natural way that flows into every facet of the story. Another great thing is the slow-burn nature of her storytelling. I have always loved the incredible build-up she creates in her stories. With every book in this series and the Spellbound series, pieces of the puzzle have been falling into place and now that we are nearing the end of the line so much is starting to happen. All of the foreshadowing from previous books is starting to show itself and I can't tell you how excited it makes me. Marie has such innate talent for connecting all the dots in her stories.
We get a lot more character development for Robin and Zylas in this one. We even get quite a bit of time with Ezra, which surprised me and made me happy. The characters in Marie's books are always well-developed with character growth that shows throughout the story. I am always very impressed with her characters. I always identify and connect with her characters and I do it every single time. It's like I can feel a little piece of her characters inside of me. The secondary characters are always incredible as well. I love all of the relationships that Marie builds in her stories.
Marie has perfected her craft beautifully and each book that she writes feels a little more perfect than the last. I don't know how she does it. Her writing talent is simply magical and I am just so grateful that she decided to share her stories with the world. If you are looking for a thrilling series to sink your teeth into then pick up the Guild Codex books! With beautiful storytelling, complex characters, and compelling plots you seriously can't go wrong. I will be championing this author for the rest of my days.
More reviews on my blog: Novel Nerd Faction
12/23/2022: Reread. (Audiobook.)
06/21/2021: Reread. (Audiobook.)
10/05/2020: Reread. (Audiobook.)
08/13/2020: Reread! (Read to my son, Maddox.)
07/20/2020: Reread!
Disclaimer: I received an Advance Reader Copy at no cost from the publisher/author. All opinions in my review are my own.
This book really worked its magic on me. I am in so deep with the Guild Codex books that I will never make it up again for air. These books are now my oxygen and I can conclude with certainty that the fire in my soul needs them to keep on burning.
One of the most compelling things about Annette Marie's writing is the incredible amount of detail that she crams into her books. Not in a tedious way or in the way that some authors can tell things instead of showing them, but in an organic and natural way that flows into every facet of the story. Another great thing is the slow-burn nature of her storytelling. I have always loved the incredible build-up she creates in her stories. With every book in this series and the Spellbound series, pieces of the puzzle have been falling into place and now that we are nearing the end of the line so much is starting to happen. All of the foreshadowing from previous books is starting to show itself and I can't tell you how excited it makes me. Marie has such innate talent for connecting all the dots in her stories.
We get a lot more character development for Robin and Zylas in this one. We even get quite a bit of time with Ezra, which surprised me and made me happy. The characters in Marie's books are always well-developed with character growth that shows throughout the story. I am always very impressed with her characters. I always identify and connect with her characters and I do it every single time. It's like I can feel a little piece of her characters inside of me. The secondary characters are always incredible as well. I love all of the relationships that Marie builds in her stories.
Marie has perfected her craft beautifully and each book that she writes feels a little more perfect than the last. I don't know how she does it. Her writing talent is simply magical and I am just so grateful that she decided to share her stories with the world. If you are looking for a thrilling series to sink your teeth into then pick up the Guild Codex books! With beautiful storytelling, complex characters, and compelling plots you seriously can't go wrong. I will be championing this author for the rest of my days.
More reviews on my blog: Novel Nerd Faction
November 19, 2020
How to be a pathetically useless human, part 3.
And Robin has STILL not learned anything, still not tried to improve herself, and is still as useless and stupid as ever. I've never read a series with such a frustrating MC.
She doesn't train. She can't fight, can't speak, can't think, can't defend herself physically or verbally. There just isn't anything there. What is she supposed to be good at? Being "nice"? She's not even very nice, just awkward. Just as stupid as her equally useless mother. And "the nice girl" is the most archaic trope, anyway. She's a bit pervy, but acts like a clueless virgin from the 1800's rather than a modern, independent woman in her 20's. There's not a single redeeming feature. How did the author come up with such a useless character. Her character development is so slow it's almost non-existent. I guess she'll find out she has demon blood in her ancestry and suddenly turn into a Mary Sue in the last book or something.
And when her friend is lying on the floor, slowly bleeding out, does she try to do anything like stop the bleeding? No, she behaves like a deer caught in headlights like usual. She really disgusts me. She's so inferior to Zylas I don't even approve of the "romance".
Will continue because of Zylas. Don't read this series if you, like me, hate weak female leads with no character development. *groan*
And Robin has STILL not learned anything, still not tried to improve herself, and is still as useless and stupid as ever. I've never read a series with such a frustrating MC.
She doesn't train. She can't fight, can't speak, can't think, can't defend herself physically or verbally. There just isn't anything there. What is she supposed to be good at? Being "nice"? She's not even very nice, just awkward. Just as stupid as her equally useless mother. And "the nice girl" is the most archaic trope, anyway. She's a bit pervy, but acts like a clueless virgin from the 1800's rather than a modern, independent woman in her 20's. There's not a single redeeming feature. How did the author come up with such a useless character. Her character development is so slow it's almost non-existent. I guess she'll find out she has demon blood in her ancestry and suddenly turn into a Mary Sue in the last book or something.
And when her friend is lying on the floor, slowly bleeding out, does she try to do anything like stop the bleeding? No, she behaves like a deer caught in headlights like usual. She really disgusts me. She's so inferior to Zylas I don't even approve of the "romance".
Will continue because of Zylas. Don't read this series if you, like me, hate weak female leads with no character development. *groan*
![Profile Image for Namera [The Literary Invertebrate].](https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/users/1773790297i/31792110._UX200_CR0,33,200,200_.jpg)
April 3, 2020
FINALLY. Finally we get to see a proper vocalisation of the romance that's been brewing for the last (has it only been three?!) books. Not a consummation, which BETTER happen in the next book, but this book has a definite declaration of intent. It might be one of the slowest-burn things I've ever read, but it was SO WORTH IT.
The actual plot was decent too. This is by far my favourite of Marie's three Guild Codex series. Admittedly the third one isn't out yet, but we see the protagonists in this one and I'm not massively keen on them.
After a slightly lacklustre experience with the second book, I'm pleased to announce that I'm massively looking forward to the fourth and final book.
[Blog] - [Bookstagram]
The actual plot was decent too. This is by far my favourite of Marie's three Guild Codex series. Admittedly the third one isn't out yet, but we see the protagonists in this one and I'm not massively keen on them.
After a slightly lacklustre experience with the second book, I'm pleased to announce that I'm massively looking forward to the fourth and final book.
[Blog] - [Bookstagram]
July 11, 2020
Hunting Fiends for the Ill-Equipped
Guild Codex: Demonized, Book 3
By: Annette Marie
Narrated by: Cris Dukehart
Love this series! Robin and her hot demon get closer still. She also learns more about him and her ancestor's past. She also has to make a deal that she may later regret. Lots of action, suspense, some romance, and giggles sprinkled in there too.
Great narration!
Guild Codex: Demonized, Book 3
By: Annette Marie
Narrated by: Cris Dukehart
Love this series! Robin and her hot demon get closer still. She also learns more about him and her ancestor's past. She also has to make a deal that she may later regret. Lots of action, suspense, some romance, and giggles sprinkled in there too.
Great narration!
August 3, 2020
I adore this series and all of it's spin-offs, they really are fabulous and just keep getting better and better and more intense (in all ways possible!) as they go.
This newest addition really was a treat and it was so much fun seeing more of Kit! I can't wait to pick up his book as well in a few days.
It will be so sad when this series and the original is over. I will not be ready to say good bye but I am absolutely dying to see where Robin and Zylas go from here. I couldn't be happier with how everything is coming together and develpping.
This newest addition really was a treat and it was so much fun seeing more of Kit! I can't wait to pick up his book as well in a few days.
It will be so sad when this series and the original is over. I will not be ready to say good bye but I am absolutely dying to see where Robin and Zylas go from here. I couldn't be happier with how everything is coming together and develpping.
March 8, 2020
Annette delivered in SPADES.
More complete RTC.
More complete RTC.
April 4, 2020
Oh man.
There's something about this series and these characters that just make my feelings go all squishy.
Along with plot progress-I was also happy we finally got a little more romance for our two main leads! Plus--side note: I'm really interested in whats going on with Ezra, and whats up with the Fae angle? (I think I'll have to go and catch up on Tori's series to find out what going on there.)
But I will say this....
We get it. Robin blushes, a lot.
I don't know why, but in this book I was just kind of over reading in every other paragraph about her heated face-the flushing, blushing, hot skin, red cheeks and pink face. Or how she was burning with embarrassment, or that her "cheeks threatened to combust from the buildup of heat" every other page.
I get it okay? Thank you. She's a wee tomato.
But I will read on to the next book for sure because I am seriously invested in this couple and what is going on with the Big Bad in this series!
There's something about this series and these characters that just make my feelings go all squishy.
Along with plot progress-I was also happy we finally got a little more romance for our two main leads! Plus--side note: I'm really interested in whats going on with Ezra, and whats up with the Fae angle? (I think I'll have to go and catch up on Tori's series to find out what going on there.)
But I will say this....
We get it. Robin blushes, a lot.
I don't know why, but in this book I was just kind of over reading in every other paragraph about her heated face-the flushing, blushing, hot skin, red cheeks and pink face. Or how she was burning with embarrassment, or that her "cheeks threatened to combust from the buildup of heat" every other page.
I get it okay? Thank you. She's a wee tomato.
But I will read on to the next book for sure because I am seriously invested in this couple and what is going on with the Big Bad in this series!
April 2, 2021
This third instalment of Annette Marie's fun Guild Codex: Demonized series was just as enjoyable as the first couple of books in the series. This is a surprisingly good and engaging UF tale that mixes action, drama, humour, and a hint of romance to great effect!
I've not much to say about this third book in the series but that is mostly because I feel like I've said all the stuff I wanted to say about this series in my reviews for the earlier books in the series. It is hard for me to view this series as separate books at this point as they are fairly short and I'm just jumping straight from one book to the next. I've been totally sucked into the binge! That fact alone proves what a fun series this is as it fully holds my attention and I have not said that about too many UF series over the years.
The story in this third book was just a continuation of the story arcs from the previous books. It is very readable! As always the characters and the relationship between Robin and her demon are the best bits.
All in all a good third book in a good UF series. I'll be jumping straight to the final book in the series for sure. After that I'll be sure to check out a few more of the books set in this same fantasy world.
Rating: 4 stars.
Audio Note: Cris Dukehart does a good job with the narration for this series.
I've not much to say about this third book in the series but that is mostly because I feel like I've said all the stuff I wanted to say about this series in my reviews for the earlier books in the series. It is hard for me to view this series as separate books at this point as they are fairly short and I'm just jumping straight from one book to the next. I've been totally sucked into the binge! That fact alone proves what a fun series this is as it fully holds my attention and I have not said that about too many UF series over the years.
The story in this third book was just a continuation of the story arcs from the previous books. It is very readable! As always the characters and the relationship between Robin and her demon are the best bits.
All in all a good third book in a good UF series. I'll be jumping straight to the final book in the series for sure. After that I'll be sure to check out a few more of the books set in this same fantasy world.
Rating: 4 stars.
Audio Note: Cris Dukehart does a good job with the narration for this series.
June 27, 2026
✅ Characters
✅ Ezra working with Robin and Zylas
✅ The different series feel more and more connected
✅ Pace & Plot
✅ Magic & action
✅ Forbidden attraction & Zylas asking Robin 2673 times why her face was becoming red
✅(🆗) Romance
❗️❗️Trigger warnings: blood, injuries while fighting, mentions of serial killer and rape (off-page, unknown secondary characters, not graphic)
🔥 Spice level : 🌶️ / 5
❗️❗️This book partly happens during the events of Druid Vices and a Vodka (Spellbound series), and I recommend reading Druid Vices first, because there are mild spoilers in this book.
It took me a while to complete this one, but it’s because I have both boys at home since Daycare is closed for a few weeks, so it means significantly less time to read. It might have been a 4.5-star read if I’d had the time to really get into it, instead of reading a few pages here and there…
The romance is progressing, and I am a minority here, but I think I liked it better when they were just partners. I don’t dislike the romance budding between Robin and Zylas, but I still think that, considering the lack of empathy Zylas showed just in the previous book, and how he still struggles with emotions in general, it would have been nice to have them be strong allies, confident even, instead of developing a romance that feels a little rushed.
That being said, Robin and Zylas are still incredibly cute together. They are a strong team, and I love how they are slowly learning to trust and rely on each other, and how Robin wants Zylas to be able to enjoy human pleasures such as food and travel before she finds a way to send him back to his homeland. They are adorable. I was just not on board for the romance to happen so quickly, but I do realise that there is only one book left in this series, so things need to move forward.
I liked seeing Ezra work with Robin and Zylas, and it made me quite curious about Tori and her mysterious trip. I am eager to go back to her series and see what she’s been up to while Ezra has been chasing rogue mythics with Robin. We also see Kit and Leanna for two scenes in the second half of this book, and I like how the different series in this universe feel more and more connected.
🍹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
😈2. Slaying Monsters for the Feeble ⭐⭐⭐.5
🍹6. Druid Vices and a Vodka ⭐⭐⭐⭐
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✅ Ezra working with Robin and Zylas
✅ The different series feel more and more connected
✅ Pace & Plot
✅ Magic & action
✅ Forbidden attraction & Zylas asking Robin 2673 times why her face was becoming red
✅(🆗) Romance
❗️❗️Trigger warnings: blood, injuries while fighting, mentions of serial killer and rape (off-page, unknown secondary characters, not graphic)
🔥 Spice level : 🌶️ / 5
❗️❗️This book partly happens during the events of Druid Vices and a Vodka (Spellbound series), and I recommend reading Druid Vices first, because there are mild spoilers in this book.
It took me a while to complete this one, but it’s because I have both boys at home since Daycare is closed for a few weeks, so it means significantly less time to read. It might have been a 4.5-star read if I’d had the time to really get into it, instead of reading a few pages here and there…
The romance is progressing, and I am a minority here, but I think I liked it better when they were just partners. I don’t dislike the romance budding between Robin and Zylas, but I still think that, considering the lack of empathy Zylas showed just in the previous book, and how he still struggles with emotions in general, it would have been nice to have them be strong allies, confident even, instead of developing a romance that feels a little rushed.
That being said, Robin and Zylas are still incredibly cute together. They are a strong team, and I love how they are slowly learning to trust and rely on each other, and how Robin wants Zylas to be able to enjoy human pleasures such as food and travel before she finds a way to send him back to his homeland. They are adorable. I was just not on board for the romance to happen so quickly, but I do realise that there is only one book left in this series, so things need to move forward.
I liked seeing Ezra work with Robin and Zylas, and it made me quite curious about Tori and her mysterious trip. I am eager to go back to her series and see what she’s been up to while Ezra has been chasing rogue mythics with Robin. We also see Kit and Leanna for two scenes in the second half of this book, and I like how the different series in this universe feel more and more connected.
🍹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
😈2. Slaying Monsters for the Feeble ⭐⭐⭐.5
🍹6. Druid Vices and a Vodka ⭐⭐⭐⭐
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April 7, 2020
Penultimate Demonized
This book was everything that I could've asked for. If there was ever any question as to how the nature of Robin and Zylas' relationship will develope, this book is your answer. Frankly, these two lead characters are both absolutely priceless, and their evolution is really something to behold.
Another emotional rollercoaster in this read. Once again, I was hanging on every interaction between the hero and heroine. A certain thing that's revealed changes the context of these interactions on re-reads and was brilliant! The story is moving fast. So many questions were answered, yet more were posed. This is addictive storytelling at it's finest.
This book was everything that I could've asked for. If there was ever any question as to how the nature of Robin and Zylas' relationship will develope, this book is your answer. Frankly, these two lead characters are both absolutely priceless, and their evolution is really something to behold.
Another emotional rollercoaster in this read. Once again, I was hanging on every interaction between the hero and heroine. A certain thing that's revealed changes the context of these interactions on re-reads and was brilliant! The story is moving fast. So many questions were answered, yet more were posed. This is addictive storytelling at it's finest.
September 21, 2020
Finally some secrets are revealed and we start to get a clearer picture of what's going on. I know there are some spoilers in this book for the other series (which I haven't read yet), but I was okay with that. In fact, now that I'm having to wait for the final book of this arc to be released I'm going to play catch up. Zylas is still hands down my favorite part of this series, Robin is still a hindrance (she is actually starting to try a little more, but it's still kind of hard to read her scenes and not think of how she's basically a tstl character), and I've decided I really want to see Amalia get some more book time. Maybe her own spin-off perhaps? She definitely seems more together than Robin. Even though our h Robin is a pretty meh character, our H Zylas is not. He makes the series, and I'm 100% invested in his story!
September 14, 2023
4 1/2 Stars
This is the third book in the Guild Codex Demonized series and it finds Robin and her contract demon Zylas on the trail of her family’s Grimoire (a ancient book of spells). This normally light-hearted series develops a serious edge with this continued story.
A Little Background Information
The Guild refers to a collection of Mythic people who come together for social and financial gain. Different Guilds have different specialties. The characters in this Series Amalia and Robin and the characters in the Spellbound series, Tori, Ezra, Kai and Aaron all belong to the Crow & Hammer Guild. Different mythic classes have different abilities.
Demons come from one of 12 houses. Their power is typically indicated by their house number. House #1 is very powerful and looks like some kind of flying Godzilla creature, Zylas is from house 12 and looks human except for the tail. He is also very fast, fit and muscular (think adult romance book cover). He can also perform demon magic.
Zylas is bound to Robin through a “contract” they agreed upon when they first met in book #1 (Zylas keeps Robin “safe” in return Robin bakes him cookies…yes really that is the contract).
What is this book about??
Robin has promised to help Zylas return to his home once they are able to find the lost spell pages. The spell pages were taken by the same individual who was responsible for the death of Robin’s parents. This individual (Claude) has a killer demon contracted to him (house #1…not very nice). Claude is also in league with 3 very powerful sorcerers who have a side occupation as brutal serial killers of young women. Young women who look very much like Robin and they have their eye on her. Throw in Ezra (from the Spellbound books) who has an active interest in demons and wants to help find the serial killers and you have a pretty active and convoluted plot.
Is there a moral dilemma?
Yes, It has been revealed that when demons are summoned from their world by their house name into our world, the oldest (ie the leader) is the one that comes. There are so many demons being summoned that all of the leadership from all of the demon houses are gone and consequently their home land is being run by the equivalent of teens. This is destroying the fabric of their society. What can be done?
Anything Else?
“ I keep thinking things …” Things like his amazing body of hard muscle—dips and planes and smooth skin that I wanted to touch. Things like the feel of those powerful arms around me, and how his strength both daunted and thrilled me. Things like the way his husky voice could caress me”
Robin must finally come to terms with how she truly feels about Zylas. There is insight into how Zylas feels about Robin and their contract. The Reader also finds out why the ancient grimoire says to “Never Summon A Demon From the 12th House”
These are fun books to read. The pacing is excellent, never boring but also not so fast that you feel the action is rushed or campy. The mystical fight scenes are very well thought out. You believe the characters actually care about each other so that when someone is in danger you want them to live because the character wants them to live and you feel it. This book became a 5/5 on my empathy scale. Easily the best of the books in this series I have read so far, I was surprised by my level of engagement and I can’t wait to see what happens next.
If you want to read my review of book #2, Click Here
This is the third book in the Guild Codex Demonized series and it finds Robin and her contract demon Zylas on the trail of her family’s Grimoire (a ancient book of spells). This normally light-hearted series develops a serious edge with this continued story.
A Little Background Information
The Guild refers to a collection of Mythic people who come together for social and financial gain. Different Guilds have different specialties. The characters in this Series Amalia and Robin and the characters in the Spellbound series, Tori, Ezra, Kai and Aaron all belong to the Crow & Hammer Guild. Different mythic classes have different abilities.
Demons come from one of 12 houses. Their power is typically indicated by their house number. House #1 is very powerful and looks like some kind of flying Godzilla creature, Zylas is from house 12 and looks human except for the tail. He is also very fast, fit and muscular (think adult romance book cover). He can also perform demon magic.
Zylas is bound to Robin through a “contract” they agreed upon when they first met in book #1 (Zylas keeps Robin “safe” in return Robin bakes him cookies…yes really that is the contract).
What is this book about??
Robin has promised to help Zylas return to his home once they are able to find the lost spell pages. The spell pages were taken by the same individual who was responsible for the death of Robin’s parents. This individual (Claude) has a killer demon contracted to him (house #1…not very nice). Claude is also in league with 3 very powerful sorcerers who have a side occupation as brutal serial killers of young women. Young women who look very much like Robin and they have their eye on her. Throw in Ezra (from the Spellbound books) who has an active interest in demons and wants to help find the serial killers and you have a pretty active and convoluted plot.
Is there a moral dilemma?
Yes, It has been revealed that when demons are summoned from their world by their house name into our world, the oldest (ie the leader) is the one that comes. There are so many demons being summoned that all of the leadership from all of the demon houses are gone and consequently their home land is being run by the equivalent of teens. This is destroying the fabric of their society. What can be done?
Anything Else?
“ I keep thinking things …” Things like his amazing body of hard muscle—dips and planes and smooth skin that I wanted to touch. Things like the feel of those powerful arms around me, and how his strength both daunted and thrilled me. Things like the way his husky voice could caress me”
Robin must finally come to terms with how she truly feels about Zylas. There is insight into how Zylas feels about Robin and their contract. The Reader also finds out why the ancient grimoire says to “Never Summon A Demon From the 12th House”
These are fun books to read. The pacing is excellent, never boring but also not so fast that you feel the action is rushed or campy. The mystical fight scenes are very well thought out. You believe the characters actually care about each other so that when someone is in danger you want them to live because the character wants them to live and you feel it. This book became a 5/5 on my empathy scale. Easily the best of the books in this series I have read so far, I was surprised by my level of engagement and I can’t wait to see what happens next.
If you want to read my review of book #2, Click Here
August 16, 2026
I liked that Robin and Zylas are opening up and trusting each other more, and the fact that Robin is becoming more confident and powerful in her own right. Amelia is also growing as a character and was very helpful in this installment.
The villain(s) they faced were magically powerful and I was on the edge, worried for them! I will say I was annoyed with Robin for taking a chance, searching on her own when she knew the danger.
Happy that Ezra is now in the know and hopefully that means Tori’s whole crew, Robin and Zylas will be working together going forward. They definitely need to team up to work out their shared problems!
These stories get more addictive with every installment! I highly recommend if you enjoy action-packed fantasy urban fantasy with mystery and female characters to root for!
The villain(s) they faced were magically powerful and I was on the edge, worried for them! I will say I was annoyed with Robin for taking a chance, searching on her own when she knew the danger.
Happy that Ezra is now in the know and hopefully that means Tori’s whole crew, Robin and Zylas will be working together going forward. They definitely need to team up to work out their shared problems!
These stories get more addictive with every installment! I highly recommend if you enjoy action-packed fantasy urban fantasy with mystery and female characters to root for!
March 31, 2020
I just finished this book, and I don’t even know where to begin so I think I’ll just go with my thoughts. The first thing that struck me is how well this author interweaves both series, The Guild Codex: Demonized and The Guild Codex: Spellbound, together to make two separate series running concurrently but still each be a separate piece of a huge puzzle; how does she do that?!? We are introduced to two new characters, and the only thing I can think is “we need another series!!” *sigh* Why and how can the author create such great characters I want to see so much more of?!? Oh, Robin and Zylas are thisclose to taking the next step and, boy, is it hot even though...well, you’ll see!! And the mystery is unfolding so fast yet we keep getting thrown curve balls for more intrigue, and I just love the fast-paced, great action-filled greatness of this book…Oh, just read this darn book NOW! This is my favorite book by far and I really, really don’t want this universe to end; it’s just so darn entertaining in every aspect I can think of!! Very highly recommend!! I was provided a complimentary copy which I voluntarily reviewed.
April 5, 2020
Aaaaaaaahhhhh! Don't do this to me! I can't wait 6 months after THAT ending!
P.S.
Why, oh why, could the companion series not be this good?! Why did the author make Tori so unlikable and Robin so freaking awesome?!
P.S.
Why, oh why, could the companion series not be this good?! Why did the author make Tori so unlikable and Robin so freaking awesome?!
September 5, 2026
Time for the 2026 read-a-long over at Books of My Heart
I started this series once and enjoyed Robin and Zylas's beginnings so much that I didn't realize until later it was tied into some other series set in this world. It has taken a little time but reading them in order world wise is really the way to go!
Robin wasn't going to be involved with the magical community. Sheltered by her parents her entire life she was just going to live a normal if not research filled life. Always reading about magic, but never practicing. Well that has all been thrown out the window. She is neck deep in magic now, tied to a demon, member of a fighting guild and searching for the man who killed her parents. And if her feelings toward the demon are confusing...well that is to expected. Right?
Every book dives deeper into the mystery of why Robin's parents were killed and who murdered them. With Zylas's help she will get to the bottom of mystery. Thing is she may need some help form the guild as well. The issue with that is no one trusts her, but Zylas's nose has found a secret that Ezra is hiding, that will be the in needed to finally get some help and go after the next piece of the puzzle.
Things I liked about this story:
The only thing I struggled with in the story was Robin's distrust of wanting to open up to Zylas that seemed to take forever. She was so concerned with him seeing her thoughts, especially since some are tied to her growing attraction to him that the draw out was somewhat frustrating. That said the pay out was exactly what I wanted it to be so it was well worth the wait.
This ended with a quick cameo from a Magipole duo we like and Kit is hilarious as always. It was a great top off to end this book. There are only a few left in the series and I can't wait to see how all the stories wrap up.
Read as part of the 2026 read-a-thon - See below for order.
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
I started this series once and enjoyed Robin and Zylas's beginnings so much that I didn't realize until later it was tied into some other series set in this world. It has taken a little time but reading them in order world wise is really the way to go!
Robin wasn't going to be involved with the magical community. Sheltered by her parents her entire life she was just going to live a normal if not research filled life. Always reading about magic, but never practicing. Well that has all been thrown out the window. She is neck deep in magic now, tied to a demon, member of a fighting guild and searching for the man who killed her parents. And if her feelings toward the demon are confusing...well that is to expected. Right?
“How are muscles perfect?”
“Just ignore what Tori said.”
“But your face changed color when she said it.”
“Are my abs better than a hh’ainun?”
“I don’t know.”
“Do you want to put clothes on me?”
“No.”
“Why is your face changing color again?”
Every book dives deeper into the mystery of why Robin's parents were killed and who murdered them. With Zylas's help she will get to the bottom of mystery. Thing is she may need some help form the guild as well. The issue with that is no one trusts her, but Zylas's nose has found a secret that Ezra is hiding, that will be the in needed to finally get some help and go after the next piece of the puzzle.
Things I liked about this story:
- Robin and Zylas exploring why she blushes. It was adorably cute and I just wanted to push their faces together to kiss
- How sneaky Zylas is. He may be 12th house and the lowest in the demon realm. But, he is a great strategist and is a patient hunter picking his moments to make huge differences.
- The nicknames. Finally finding out what his nickname for Robin truly meant...OMG so perfect
- All the cute banter between Zylas and Robin as they 'flirt' sure let's call it flirting and the slow build of their relationship.
- The tag in of Ezra and Ettarin to go after the serial killers and help Robin and Zylas for a price that will be tied to the talisman we think might help separate them. This is also the beginning of Ezra starting to care about a future that we didn't get to see in Druid Vices and a Vodka.
- The romantic moments!!! Finally we get some movement on that front and I was here for it.
The only thing I struggled with in the story was Robin's distrust of wanting to open up to Zylas that seemed to take forever. She was so concerned with him seeing her thoughts, especially since some are tied to her growing attraction to him that the draw out was somewhat frustrating. That said the pay out was exactly what I wanted it to be so it was well worth the wait.
This ended with a quick cameo from a Magipole duo we like and Kit is hilarious as always. It was a great top off to end this book. There are only a few left in the series and I can't wait to see how all the stories wrap up.
Read as part of the 2026 read-a-thon - See below for order.
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
May 27, 2025
Pocałowali się... 😱🥹❤️
March 29, 2020
*I received an ARC of this book for an honest review*
Seriously??????????? Can I give this book a gazillion stars?? I can't begin to tell you how good this was. I have read it yesterday in one go because I couldn't bring myself to stop reading. Never mind my husband and my child, they had to fend for themselves.
The feels, OMG, the feels. So much happens in this book. We learn so much about Zylas.
If I wasn't already over the top in love with him I would be now for sure.
But I've got to tell you, I went though all the emotions, and I almost died a couple of times. From a heart attack. Ms. Marie knows how to bring forth every emotion known to man.
I vowed I wouldn't say anything spoilery, but for the hard core fans of this series I will say this: YES the thing that everyone has been waiting for finally happens. And it's SUBLIME. And it's everything you would have wanted and more. AND I nearly died again of the feels. And I will stop here, although I am having a hard time not raving like a lunatic.
P.S. Last night after I finished the book my husband was a very very happy man :)))))))))))))
Seriously??????????? Can I give this book a gazillion stars?? I can't begin to tell you how good this was. I have read it yesterday in one go because I couldn't bring myself to stop reading. Never mind my husband and my child, they had to fend for themselves.
The feels, OMG, the feels. So much happens in this book. We learn so much about Zylas.
If I wasn't already over the top in love with him I would be now for sure.
But I've got to tell you, I went though all the emotions, and I almost died a couple of times. From a heart attack. Ms. Marie knows how to bring forth every emotion known to man.
I vowed I wouldn't say anything spoilery, but for the hard core fans of this series I will say this: YES the thing that everyone has been waiting for finally happens. And it's SUBLIME. And it's everything you would have wanted and more. AND I nearly died again of the feels. And I will stop here, although I am having a hard time not raving like a lunatic.
P.S. Last night after I finished the book my husband was a very very happy man :)))))))))))))
November 2, 2020
If Robin was described as blushing ONE MORE TIME...
How in the world can we root for a romantic relationship between two people when one of them is described like a blushing fool every other page whenever she even thinks about how he is attractive? Maybe for a YA story that would fly, but this is supposed to be new-adult. Ezra's surprising appearance in this book is the only thing that kept me interested. I did read this in just a single day, so it wasn't terrible or anything, but I am still annoyed by all the blushing.
Oh and also I was annoyed how much of this book's plot and timeline directly overlaps with Tori's book. For a moment I thought I somehow accidentally already read this book and just forgot to rate it - that's how much the overlap was almost identical. Who wants to re-read the same scenes only from a different character POV?
How in the world can we root for a romantic relationship between two people when one of them is described like a blushing fool every other page whenever she even thinks about how he is attractive? Maybe for a YA story that would fly, but this is supposed to be new-adult. Ezra's surprising appearance in this book is the only thing that kept me interested. I did read this in just a single day, so it wasn't terrible or anything, but I am still annoyed by all the blushing.
Oh and also I was annoyed how much of this book's plot and timeline directly overlaps with Tori's book. For a moment I thought I somehow accidentally already read this book and just forgot to rate it - that's how much the overlap was almost identical. Who wants to re-read the same scenes only from a different character POV?
April 5, 2020
Actual rating: 4.5 stars
Being the mischievous and relentless demon that he is, Zylas surpassed my expectations and got even more awesome in "Hunting Fiends for the Ill-Equipped". Considering how much I loved him in Slaying Monsters for the Feeble", that's saying A LOT. I don't even feel shame when I say that this savage demon with trust issues was the most relatable character in this book for me. His character development was an absolute joy to watch!
As for Robin, although there were times that she scared me to the point of making my cold ice queen heart stop beating, I still think she's a really brave and wonderful heroine who represents introverted booklovers and quiet fighters out there including yours truly.
There was another delightful surprise in terms of character development. Ezra was a badass sweetheart in this sequel. How strange is it that I liked him more in this book than in the Spellbound series? He seemed more determined here—someone who took charge and refused to give up. I wish to see more of that Ezra in the next Spellbound books.
Thr plot twists were well-done! Annette Marie's doing an amazing job interweaving the storylines of Spellbound and Demonized, a writing skill which was more obvious in this installment. Now she's adding a THIRD series, Warped, which I will definitely read because I was intrigued by Kit and Lienna in their cameo appearances!
Lastly, I seldom like cliffhanger endings, but this one's an exception. Annoying cliffhangers make me want to throw things; this one made me look forward to the next book!
Being the mischievous and relentless demon that he is, Zylas surpassed my expectations and got even more awesome in "Hunting Fiends for the Ill-Equipped". Considering how much I loved him in Slaying Monsters for the Feeble", that's saying A LOT. I don't even feel shame when I say that this savage demon with trust issues was the most relatable character in this book for me. His character development was an absolute joy to watch!
As for Robin, although there were times that she scared me to the point of making my cold ice queen heart stop beating, I still think she's a really brave and wonderful heroine who represents introverted booklovers and quiet fighters out there including yours truly.
There was another delightful surprise in terms of character development. Ezra was a badass sweetheart in this sequel. How strange is it that I liked him more in this book than in the Spellbound series? He seemed more determined here—someone who took charge and refused to give up. I wish to see more of that Ezra in the next Spellbound books.
Thr plot twists were well-done! Annette Marie's doing an amazing job interweaving the storylines of Spellbound and Demonized, a writing skill which was more obvious in this installment. Now she's adding a THIRD series, Warped, which I will definitely read because I was intrigued by Kit and Lienna in their cameo appearances!
Lastly, I seldom like cliffhanger endings, but this one's an exception. Annoying cliffhangers make me want to throw things; this one made me look forward to the next book!
April 4, 2020
I literally just read this in five hours.
That. Was. Brilliant.
I swear, Annette's novels just get better and better as she writes.
A tangled plot. Non-stop action. Touching, heartfelt scenes. Questions and answers that span not one, but two different sets of books. I can't wait for Delivering Evil for Experts. September can't come soon enough.
Update: I don't even know how many times I've read this. It just gets better every single time 😂
That. Was. Brilliant.
I swear, Annette's novels just get better and better as she writes.
A tangled plot. Non-stop action. Touching, heartfelt scenes. Questions and answers that span not one, but two different sets of books. I can't wait for Delivering Evil for Experts. September can't come soon enough.
Update: I don't even know how many times I've read this. It just gets better every single time 😂
April 4, 2020
Still waiting...
When are Zylas and Robin going to actually hook up? Been waiting for them to do something and what happened in this book is not nearly enough. Ugh! Hurry up you people! There's just a book left. 3.5 stars
When are Zylas and Robin going to actually hook up? Been waiting for them to do something and what happened in this book is not nearly enough. Ugh! Hurry up you people! There's just a book left. 3.5 stars
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