Torture

Angels & Demons #2

by Megan Linski

Love can be hell.

I’m Faline Delamore. I’m the best demon hunter there is, but slaying monsters from the underworld for a living makes me feel trapped. My father trained me to be an assassin from birth, and he expects perfection. As a Nephilim, my life is consumed by battles and hellfire.

I’m headed off to college to get a break from all the slaying, until I run into a sexy guy that’s just as hot as he is dangerous. Thames Deacon is tall, dark, and full of secrets. Despite his warnings to stay away, I can’t keep my distance. Something about him is just… bad. And after a lifetime of being good, I want to see what it's like to play with fire.

But I have to keep my guard up, because there's a traitor hiding in the shadows. Students are being hunted by demons, and there are more supernatural beings on campus than I expected. What's more, I discover that I have a sister I've never known... and Thames is connected to her complicated past. Thames wants me to stay away from him, to keep myself safe, but I can't seem to leave his side. If I fall in love, I might end up dead...

Even if Thames ends up being my salvation.

Genres: Audiobook, Paranormal, Fantasy, Fiction

194 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 19, 2017

About the author

Megan Linski lives in Michigan. She is the author of more than fifty fantasy and paranormal novels which feature themes of friendship, community, and healthy romantic relationships. She has over fifteen years of experience writing books alongside working as a journalist and editor. She graduated from the University of Iowa, where she studied Creative Writing.

Her passions include ice skating and horseback riding. In her free time she enjoys dancing in the snow and drinking fancy coffee while at her natural habitat, the mall.

Megan advocates for the rights of the disabled, and is an activist for mental health awareness.

Megan co-writes the Hidden Legends Universe with Alicia Rades. She also writes under the pen name of Natalie Erin for the Creatures of the Lands series, co-authored by Krisen Lison.

Awards Megan has won include;

Best Fantasy Book of the Year 2019 by Once Upon a Book

Best Co-Authored Book of the Year 2022 by Once Upon a Book

Author of the Year 2022 by Once Upon a Book

Keynote Speaker at Once Upon a Book 2023

Best Book Friends (Ava and Kallie) 2023 by Once Upon a Book

Featured in the FOX Teen Choice Awards Gift Baskets

Two-time Reader's Favorite Five Star Read (Bronze Medal Finalist)

Winner of Amazon's Kindle Scout Competition

Reviews

[Cali Jewel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mystery, danger, intrigue, emotional struggle and heart pounding action what more could you ask for in a romantic adventure of epic proportions.

Faline Delamore is sassy, sweet and kicks butt I loved her as a new charter in this world I already love visiting. Thames is so sexy and sweet and it is awesome that he is the focus of this one. Loved the back and forth emotional tug of war and exciting twists and turns in this highly entertaining and emotionally gripping adventure.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I LOVE IT SOO MUCH!! ALL MY PRAISE AND LOVE FOR THIS MASTERPIECE!! SHE DID IT ONCE AGAIN!!
Faline is a nephilim, she is determined, brave, stubborn and speaks her mind, I LOVE HER!! BADASS, she longs to be free, her father Roman, an angel, is extremely protected of her for she can't be found out by the council, he won't let her leave their home only for demon slaying. she is going to college to enjoy freedom- at a freshmen part she is harassed by Cody, someone comes to her rescue : THAMES!!! He is back!!! They bond immediately and she feels save by him!!
Meets Cassia's friends emalee and Sydney who become her friends too. Her history professor is Athias!!! From the council!!
Thames and Lena (nickname) have a strong cemetery, he can finally be himself with her!! They go bike riding and she loves it and even drives herself!!
A demon attacked campus and Thames caught her fighting: secret is out, she is a nephilim and thames knows they can't be together for he is half demon
He keeps his distance but she doesn't take no for an answer, she goes after him: caught him drag racing with DEMONS!! she participates and wins, she confronts him of being a demon and he opens up to her
-many ROMANTIC AND SWEET SCENES!!! Dates!! But they haves confessed their feelings yet
-he tells about his banishment and she about her father - her father: he threatens to send her back home for her grades are failing. She rebels and goes to a party were Cody attempts to rape her!!! Thames saved her after she kicked him!! They share an emotional and sweet moment!!! He transports them to a romantic place and kisses her!!
-she meets Cairo and Cassia WHO IS HER SITER!!! thames knew their last name was the same) OMG THIS IS CRAZY!!
The girls bond and have much in common-pizza with P&J!!!
She helps Lena with Thames and tells her he will come around for he obliviously loves her, Cairo and cassia are as cute as ever!!! they go to Roman: cassia hadn't manifested and so she stayed with her human mother and Lena with her angel father.... SO SAD
Emalee IS KILLED!! and Sydney is kidnapped, Athias: he fought with the council for they betrayed him and joined a mysterious demon!! -CODY!!!
They find a nephilim WITHOUT WINGS!! they were ripped off and she died (she knew about cody)
the group goes to fight him and they all transform into thier true forms, (cassia black wings: you get those when something dark happens to you; Eric)
It's a hard fight and when all seems lost ROMAN arrives!! but SHAKES CODY'S HAND!! THEY ARE WORKING TOGETHER!!! - he wants to use Faline as leader for his army, he wants to create a 'perfect' world were they rule and demons and angels work together, the sin full and sick/poor and 'unfortunate 'humans will be killed by the demons!!! OMFG!!!
Of course she refuses but as punishment HE BROKE HER WINGS!!!! Thames is DEVASTATED!!! Cassia saves them by transportation: only one with a clear head
Back in the bunker Lena is healing and thames FINALLY declares his love for real!!! 'I promise you Always '
The group plan to fight back 'Thames will be my wings'

[Kelly Overholt · Rating 4 out of 5]

Note: I received an ARC copy of Song of Smoke and Fire in exchange for a 100% honest review.

Torture, the 2nd installation in the Angels and Demons series by Megan Linski, picks up shortly after Torrent only with a new main character, Faline Delamore. Faline is a demon huntress with an overprotective angel father and a yearning to live a normal life.

Having thoroughly enjoyed Torrent, I was one of the readers eagerly awaiting the continuation of this series. When it arrived in my inbox I was looking forward to reading it. This book is a quick, simple read and is enjoyable for someone like me that doesn’t have a huge interest in fantasy. It took the elements of everyday life and fused it with mythical elements, which is what I loved about the first book. Torrent was on par with Beautiful Creatures Twilight in terms of genre and material. I call it Tame Fantasy since it doesn’t require one to have knowledge of supernatural terms and creatures.

However, not everything I liked about the first book crossed over into the second in the series. For instance what kept me turning the pages in Torrent was the love triangle but this was non-existent in the 2nd book. For a majority of the book there wasn’t really a plot it was just about Faline and her slaying demons. About halfway through the book a plot begins to form when characters from the first book show up. One of those characters, Thames, was my favorite character from the previous book and I was thrilled to read about his return. I, however, did not care for the main character, Faline, as she lacked depth as a character. I found myself not caring what really happened to her in the end. She came off as immature for her age and trying a little too hard to be liked and fit in with everyone.

The other thing I didn’t like about the book is its predictability and there is a gaping (small but big enough to bug me) hole in the story.****SPOILERS AHEAD***** When Thames and Faline first meet, Thames calls her Lena but it is never revealed why. If it was, it went over my head or was easy to skip over. It really bugged me while reading as to why Faline would go by this name and why Thames would call her that to begin with. I also put together the fact that Faline and Cassia are related before being 10% into the book and that Faline’s father was the one pulling the strings. The only twist I didn’t see coming was Cody being part of the master plan. I just thought he was your average frat douchebag up until the reveal point.

Even though certain events were predictable I still found the cliffhangers at the end of each chapter to be enough to keep me reading. I did enjoy Torrent more than Torture but I’m still looking forward to learn the fate of these characters in book #3.

[Rachel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Note: I did receive an arc of this book in exchange for an honest review.

You guys it was so good and a little bit unexpected. I received an arc of the first book in this series, Torrent and I thought it was a good book (I loved the tagline), I like the story and the characters however there were some minor problems for me one being that I thought Cass choice the wrong guy, I liked Thames way better. I enjoyed the story but it didn't make me super excited, can't wait to read it type of feeling. Overall I enjoy the characters I mean Cass is a pretty strong person that has endured a lot but hasn't let it turn her bitter and who doesn't love a story about nephilim. So when I got an opportunity to read the second book in the series I grabbed it and I am so glad I did.

Torture is centered around a new character named Faline and she is a free spirit at heart and of course a nephilim. Faline then gets involved with Thames, yes my favorite brother is back and there might be hope for him yet. Faline and Thames came into each other lives at the right moment, they need each other and they make a super cute couple and I have to say I was wrong I think Cass choice who was right for her (but I still chose Thames). Not only is Thames back but there are several other characters from Torrent making appearances as well including Cairo and Cass

I loved how different Torture was from the first book. In this one a family's tragic past comes to light, shocking surprises happens, all manners of action, danger, mystery and romance comes into play. However everything isn't roses, there is an evil plot in the works and Cario, Cass, Faline and Thames are going have to band together in order to face an unimaginable evil. Torture was so good that I couldn't wait to pick it up again and with a shocking plot twist and a cliffhanger ending I am telling I can't wait to get the third book, I can't wait for Truth.

[Megan · Rating 5 out of 5]

There are no words!

At the beginning of this book, I wasn't sure if I was going to enjoy this book as much as Torrent. I loved Cassia and Cairo and, though I enjoyed Thames in that book, I wasn't sure I was ready for a book completely about him and some other girl. Oh was I wrong!

This book was so much more than the first one because, not only do we get Cairo amd Cassia, we get Thames and Faline! And yes, where I loved Cairo in Torrent, I found Thames much more appealing in his hotness in Torture.

The twists and turns (and oh, there are more than a few!) were perfect! They pulled you in and made you think everything was ok and then bam! You get hit in the face with this unexpected twist! I gasped a few times (everyone looking at me like I had lost it!)

Plot? Incredible. Characters? Loved the heroes, hated the villains. Cody was definitely a villain you love to hate. And the surprise villain...even better! Writing? Exactly what I have come to expect from Megan Linski's writing - it flows well and sucks you in so each twist is that much more shocking!

Final answer? 5 stars! I loved it! I can't wait to read the third book!

[Suzanne Favola]

I read the first book and was hooked. This book has a different set of heroine and hero. However it still closely follows on the heels of the first book.
Faline is demon asskicker extraordinaire. Thames -- demon extraordinarily sweet and broody. Faline falls for Thames. Finds out some disturbing news along the way and has a betrayel that could appear worse than death.
Lies. Intrigue. Mystery and of course a (semi) happily ever after.
Family. Can't live with them -- can't kill them (yet)
I listened to the audio book and the narrator was spot on for the voice of Faline. Sweet and innocent with a touch of edginess really brought the character out.

Can't wait for the next installment to find out what happens.

[Christinaraven · Rating 5 out of 5]

In book one I was introduced to Thames and in this book he gets his own story. The story is actually told from Faline's point of view. I have to say I loved her character. There is just something about a great demon huntress. I loved that Cairo and Cass return and are in the story, especially since Cairo and Thames are so close. I really liked the surprises in this one and the ending was not what I expected. The only bad part of the story is that it ended. I read it all in one sitting and thought it was funny and cannot wait for the next one to see what happens next. I received an arc copy and I just loved the story.

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

Whoa! I’m still reeling from this book. So much was discovered and the plot twist was crazy!! I didn’t see that coming. I love Thames so I was happy to see him come back and Lena she is such a strong character and stubborn. I caught myself beginning to yell at her during intense situations but that’s how good the book is! I loved seeing Cassia, Cairo, and some friends from high school too. I can’t wait to see what happens next.
The audiobook is narrated by Maria Posie. She did okay I just wished she would say some words with a tad bit more emotion. But other than that she narrated the story well.

[The Mysterious Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Megan Linski has really done it again with Torture, the superb sequel to Torrent. It’s hard to write a review if this story as I don’t want to spoil anything, but if you love the honest emotions and themes of that first book and want another taste of the world the author built, with its Heaven vs Hell, and Angels and Demons (and what the heck, add in monster hunters), you will adore this book. If your new to this then stop right here and go read Torrent. It’s addictively good and will make this wonderful book even better when you turn to it.

Highly recommended.

[Linda Hamonou · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received ARC copy of Torture by Megan Linski.
Torture is the second book in the Angels and Demons series.
I was a bit apprehensive about reading it because I actually didn't quite like the first book as much as I wanted in a very unexpected way.
I enjoyed the first 60% of Torrent, which is the first book, and then I got totally annoyed with a lot of crappy unrealistic details.
Fortunately, Torture is way better than Torrent in a lot of ways going from the main character building, to the characters interaction.
The plot was also better define, especially with the interaction with the antagonist. After "A stranger in the house" this was really an awesome read.

You can check out my video review here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XEpy-...

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful YA/UrbanFantasy/Romance. This story is the continuation of the Angels & Demons series and I must say this one is even better. The storyline is well written with an interesting and addictive plot and characters that come to life. I loved this book and am anxious to read Book 3. I thought it was great that Thames found his other half. Megan has given us an emotional read with plenty of intrigue, action, adventure, deception and betrayal. WOWZA! I voluntarily read an ARC and this is my honest review.

[Teri · Rating 4 out of 5]

Faline knows who she is and is proud of it. She basically follows the rules and is just trying to have some fun in college. Thames has his own issues but meeting Faline isn't one of them. As the two get closer it becomes apparent that they have a big fight ahead of them. The lies and deception they face may be their undoing but it doesn't matter with the revelations and fallout they must work together to have any chance at winning. This is not a standalone but a continuing saga and most definitely a read for all ages.

[Maria Vargas · Rating 3 out of 5]

I got scared for a moment because I wanted to know if Thames was going to remain alone or find someone who could love him the way he needs it! But the author wanted us to wait and watch, not everything has to be so fast for it to make sense.

🪽 Honestly? I wanted this to be an RH, but you know what when we get to meet Faline it makes sense why the author took this route.
🪽 Somehow Faline is the total opposite of Cassie but they have similar things, and it makes the story very interesting.
🪽 The way Faline tries to experience a normal teenager life was refreshing, she can't turn off her brain to stop hunting demons, but she tries while trying to enjoy college.
🪽 Thames really said let me show how sweet I can be while his whole show is the tough bad boy but he's kind of a teddy bear inside.
🪽 There seems to be a sort of war is brewing between the angels and demons, I'm interested how a bunch of teenagers will be able to win?
🪽 The reason why Nephilim wings are black made me gasp 😭!

[Rhonda Hensley · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very good read totally captivating angel and a demon romance. A fast paced action packed romantic story with a lot of thrills and chills to keep you reading. A demon protecting an angel and another angel and demon working together to take over the world. Will they succeed? you need to read this book to find out. This is the 2nd in the series and I'm hoping there will be a third. Definitely worth the read

[Ashley Martinez (ilovebooksandstuffblog) · Rating 4 out of 5]

An exciting sequel that focuses more on the sexy half demon that we all fell in love with from the first book.
I enjoyed how feisty and fierce Lena was. She was definitely Thames match and I look forward to seeing more of their characters as well as the others.
I liked how the story picked up in the end and I can’t wait to see what happens next.
I voluntarily reviewed an arc from the author.

[Christine Karmelreads2665 W. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Daddy Issues


This story was interesting mix in the angel and demon saga. Faline and Thames made an couple coming from different backgrounds.

The book was a good read. Definitely a young adult story but not extremely juvenile.

I received this book from the author and I have read and reviewed of my own choosing.

[Yarelis Martínez · Rating 5 out of 5]

OMG! I love it! It was a whole new set of adventure. And I'm sooooo happy for Thames!
Ok, so maybe things are not looking so well at the moment. And maybe I need to join them in their search and attack party. But hey, at least they are together. Things are heating up, and how quickly it will spread, depends on how fast I can get my hands on the next book! 😉 I'm so looking forward to it!!

[Phyllis Moore · Rating 4 out of 5]

A really, really good read. Angels, demons, forever love, betrayal, action all wrapped up in this well written story. I read this never realizing is was the second of a series. It is so well written, the reader doesn't pick up that. As a well written story should, the author writes it in the way that leaves the reader wanting more. And more. And more.

[book-faery · Rating 5 out of 5]

I liked both books in this series very much...I highly recommend these books to fans of Angel romance books where good conquers evil. I was glad that Thames met his soul mate in Torture as I was kinda on the fence with Cairo winning Cassia's affection in book 1. Faline definitely suits Thames to a T. Check out both books you won't be disappointed...

[Pam Hanson · Rating 4 out of 5]

I wasn't sure if this was a book for me, I found out within the first page and a half, I was hooked. I wish I had read the first book, but I will be taking care of that very soon. Also looking foreword to reading more of Megan Linski. Her ideas & characters are very refreshing....

I received this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Angela · Rating 4 out of 5]

Could be good

I like the story's concept. I did not like the audio person who will read the book with you. I felt like there was not enough character in the read. It felt blasé no intonation. Like she just read and read without pause at times. The story itself is decent. I'm going to read the next book but I believe I'll leave it at that.

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this story!
Angels, demons, deception, deceit, hate, love and so much more.
This story is more about Thames 1/2 human 1/2 demon, marking Faline 1/2 human 1/2 angel.
Shocking news for Cassie and Faline and heartache.
I would highly recommend this book and series.

[Kalli Kounavong · Rating 5 out of 5]

I started the series with this book because I was given an ARC and I wasn't really sure what was going on, so I had to go back and read Torrent first. I LOVED it. There isn't much I can say without giving away spoilers, but definitely read Torrent first. You're going to love this series!!

[Sheryl · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved book 1 but I think this book is even more exciting and dramatic with the plot and characters.

I am voluntarily leaving my honest review of this book. This is book 2 in the Angel and Demons series by the author.

[Kety · Rating 5 out of 5]

I like this book. It is well written, full of surprise, different and eclectic characters mixed together in a fantastic story,
You will love them.
I recommend this book to all that love fantasy and deep story.

[Jackie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is an awesome, can’t put down book. It continues from where the first book leaves off and is even better if possible than the first. Received an ARC.

[Sj · Rating 3 out of 5]

it started and ended good. BUT SOME PARTS WERE HELLA CRINGE

[Mercedes · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good drama, action

2nd in series Ya fantasy romance.
Good drama,action,twists,turns and romance.
Liked all the characters new and old.
Enjoyed reading.
looking forward to the next.
Voluntarily reviewed.

[Gea · Rating 5 out of 5]

I didn’t get the title till the very end, but what a ride it was!
Wow!
Almost makes me wish I was one of them.


I received an advanced reader copy and this is my honest and voluntary review.