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Pitch & Sickle #2
The Verderer
Silas Mercer is a dead man walking.
And the mysterious Order of the Golden Dawn have big plans for their newest ankou and his deathly bandalore.
Life as a servant of death has its challenges.
But the biggest one of all is Silas's daemonic guardian, Pitch.
He may look like heaven, but he's making Silas's life all kinds of hell.
The daemon is arrogant, egotistical and his appetite for violence and tea cakes is fast outgrowing the small village where they have been recuperating since their run-in with Black Annis.
Now, the increasingly unstable Blight is causing new havoc, and fresh monstrosities are emerging.
Pitch and Sickle are back in the saddle, and on their way to the haunted Forest of Dean.
But can Silas rely on his guardian's protection?
Or will Pitch prove to be the most dangerous encounter of all?
And the mysterious Order of the Golden Dawn have big plans for their newest ankou and his deathly bandalore.
Life as a servant of death has its challenges.
But the biggest one of all is Silas's daemonic guardian, Pitch.
He may look like heaven, but he's making Silas's life all kinds of hell.
The daemon is arrogant, egotistical and his appetite for violence and tea cakes is fast outgrowing the small village where they have been recuperating since their run-in with Black Annis.
Now, the increasingly unstable Blight is causing new havoc, and fresh monstrosities are emerging.
Pitch and Sickle are back in the saddle, and on their way to the haunted Forest of Dean.
But can Silas rely on his guardian's protection?
Or will Pitch prove to be the most dangerous encounter of all?
253 pages, Paperback
First published June 30, 2021
37 people are currently reading
83 people want to read
About the author
D.K. Girl
13 books13 followersDanielle K Girl is an Aussie who lives in stunning Tasmania with her three furkids, cats Luffy, Sweetie and Ren, and feathered fowl; hens, Calliope and Hyacinth.
Located at the very bottom of the world, Tassie, with its ancient forests and sea battered coasts, is the perfect location for writing fantasy with a darker edge.
When she's not listening to Kpop, D K Girl is dreaming of travelling to the UK and exploring all the haunted castles she can find.
Come say Hello on the socials!
instagram - daniellekgirl
facebook - DKGirlbooks
Located at the very bottom of the world, Tassie, with its ancient forests and sea battered coasts, is the perfect location for writing fantasy with a darker edge.
When she's not listening to Kpop, D K Girl is dreaming of travelling to the UK and exploring all the haunted castles she can find.
Come say Hello on the socials!
instagram - daniellekgirl
facebook - DKGirlbooks
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
January 14, 2023
3.5 Stars
The second installment pretty much picks up where the first book ended. Silas, our reluctant hero, a newly arisen Ankou, who can see troubled spirits and lay them to rest, is slowly healing from his most recent battle. His relationship with his guardian, daemon Tobias is still quite fragile, often with Silas being the whipping boy for Tobias’s foul mood.
Overall, I enjoyed this second installment as some questions were answered, mainly dealing with Tobias’s mysterious past and why he’s been banished to the human realm, but also in the works is a greater conspiracy that involves evil causing trouble in the unlikeliest of places. Just know that everything about this series is S-L-O-W. The reveals, the character development, the romance (still just anxious lusty feelings that one tries to deny while the other tries to aggressively incite). Silas is very much tentative in his role of fighting evil spirits, but he’s sticking up for himself a bit more despite being stymied often with the mysteries of his unknown former life and his irrational fears. Tobias continues to be an absolute unapologetic profligate, but one can see that his sharp, often antagonistic caustic personality is just his protective mechanism, and it will be quite interesting to see how his walls crumble.
This is labeled as gaslamp fantasy, but it’s literally historic paranormal horror intermixed with all sorts of creatures who have villainous hidden agendas who treat humanity as their playthings, while the still mysterious Order of the Dawn tries to mitigate this sinister manipulation. Mix that with the slowest of all slow burns and you’ve got a solid, rich AU with plenty of flawed characters who fight the good fight and who hopefully will find redemption and happiness along the way!
Thank you to the author for a copy in exchange for an honest review
The second installment pretty much picks up where the first book ended. Silas, our reluctant hero, a newly arisen Ankou, who can see troubled spirits and lay them to rest, is slowly healing from his most recent battle. His relationship with his guardian, daemon Tobias is still quite fragile, often with Silas being the whipping boy for Tobias’s foul mood.
Overall, I enjoyed this second installment as some questions were answered, mainly dealing with Tobias’s mysterious past and why he’s been banished to the human realm, but also in the works is a greater conspiracy that involves evil causing trouble in the unlikeliest of places. Just know that everything about this series is S-L-O-W. The reveals, the character development, the romance (still just anxious lusty feelings that one tries to deny while the other tries to aggressively incite). Silas is very much tentative in his role of fighting evil spirits, but he’s sticking up for himself a bit more despite being stymied often with the mysteries of his unknown former life and his irrational fears. Tobias continues to be an absolute unapologetic profligate, but one can see that his sharp, often antagonistic caustic personality is just his protective mechanism, and it will be quite interesting to see how his walls crumble.
This is labeled as gaslamp fantasy, but it’s literally historic paranormal horror intermixed with all sorts of creatures who have villainous hidden agendas who treat humanity as their playthings, while the still mysterious Order of the Dawn tries to mitigate this sinister manipulation. Mix that with the slowest of all slow burns and you’ve got a solid, rich AU with plenty of flawed characters who fight the good fight and who hopefully will find redemption and happiness along the way!
Thank you to the author for a copy in exchange for an honest review
April 15, 2022
Silas was a bit TSTL at some points, but I still had a good time :)
September 25, 2021
The plots takes up immediately from the end of book 1 whereby our resurrected 'hero' Silas is adjusting to his new role as the rider of the 'pale horse' Lalassu, delivering 'death/finality' to malevolent supernatural monsters, dispatched with his bandalore-weapon. And whilst Silas is still fairly clueless about his role and place in the larger scheme of things throughout a large part of the book - he manages to overcome his torments/fears/phobias to tackle extreme danger head-on where needed; I find I'm liking his innate sense of loyalty and bravery. Tobias, on the other hand, continues being a mixed-bag of a character, capably combining his daemonic 'protector' role with an endless stream of annoying snarky natter and continuous sexual come-ons and innuendo. The actual encounter with said Verderer comes quite late in the day but as with the previous volume, the battle sequences are well done and well worth the wait.
I'm not sure why the author left so much 'backstory' info to Tobias' past, the daemonic/angelic realms and the significant power beings in play, until the last two chapters ... it seemed rather out of place Those wanting M-M romance between the MCs are definitely in for the long haul ... we're barely getting to 'first base' by the end of the second book folks! 3 stars overall.
I'm not sure why the author left so much 'backstory' info to Tobias' past, the daemonic/angelic realms and the significant power beings in play, until the last two chapters ... it seemed rather out of place Those wanting M-M romance between the MCs are definitely in for the long haul ... we're barely getting to 'first base' by the end of the second book folks! 3 stars overall.
September 29, 2022
*I received this novel for free in exchange for an honest review*
After their trials against Black Annis, Pitch and Silas barely have enough time to recover before they are on the road again. This time to find the blight stricken Verderer. Yet within the Forest of Dean, they face a foe far worse than they imagined. Together they must overcome the teratism but forging a true partnership may be the toughest challenge of all.
I thoroughly enjoyed the second book in the series and had so much trouble putting it down. We start off where book 1 left us. Joining our heroes on the road are Lady Satine’s horses Lalassu and Sanu, who are not quite what they seem.
In The Verderer, we start to learn more hints about Pitch’s past and why he has been sent to the human realm. It is clear that he is in great pain, but he tries to hide this behind his destructive and often cruel behaviour. Silas is learning more how to deal with the erratic daemon and there are moments between them that pave the way for the relationship that is slowly developing. Silas is still of the mind that Pitch is toying with his feelings, that are causing him great conflict. Yet the two of them do seem more comfortable with each other than they were in book 1.
The pacing suits the novel. Time is taken for every aspect, and this sets up the final battle in which The Verderer is revealed. The action scenes are incredibly well-written and again I was turning each page in anticipation of what will happen next.
I am really enjoying the series and cannot wait to read book 3.
After their trials against Black Annis, Pitch and Silas barely have enough time to recover before they are on the road again. This time to find the blight stricken Verderer. Yet within the Forest of Dean, they face a foe far worse than they imagined. Together they must overcome the teratism but forging a true partnership may be the toughest challenge of all.
I thoroughly enjoyed the second book in the series and had so much trouble putting it down. We start off where book 1 left us. Joining our heroes on the road are Lady Satine’s horses Lalassu and Sanu, who are not quite what they seem.
In The Verderer, we start to learn more hints about Pitch’s past and why he has been sent to the human realm. It is clear that he is in great pain, but he tries to hide this behind his destructive and often cruel behaviour. Silas is learning more how to deal with the erratic daemon and there are moments between them that pave the way for the relationship that is slowly developing. Silas is still of the mind that Pitch is toying with his feelings, that are causing him great conflict. Yet the two of them do seem more comfortable with each other than they were in book 1.
The pacing suits the novel. Time is taken for every aspect, and this sets up the final battle in which The Verderer is revealed. The action scenes are incredibly well-written and again I was turning each page in anticipation of what will happen next.
I am really enjoying the series and cannot wait to read book 3.
January 7, 2022
A Joyfully Jay review.
5 stars
The Verderer is D.K. Girl’s second installment in her Pitch & Sickle series. It picks up pretty much immediately where the first book ends–with our two MCs basically convalescing after battling a teratism. The pacing of the action; the interaction between the calm, measured Silas and the irascible, audacious Pitch; and the tantalizing puzzle pieces of both MCs’ pasts had me whipping through pages. This last element was definitely the biggest excitement for me. In book one, all the smolder comes from Pitch’s end of things, but it’s clearly fraught with teasing (sometimes in good fun, sometimes to be cruel). Only at the very end was there a flash of something potentially more. All that is shifted to the back burner by the start of this book, firmly putting the two characters back into their roles as unlikely partners fulfilling a magical calling (sending the corrupted dead on their way).
Read Camille’s review in its entirety here.
5 stars
The Verderer is D.K. Girl’s second installment in her Pitch & Sickle series. It picks up pretty much immediately where the first book ends–with our two MCs basically convalescing after battling a teratism. The pacing of the action; the interaction between the calm, measured Silas and the irascible, audacious Pitch; and the tantalizing puzzle pieces of both MCs’ pasts had me whipping through pages. This last element was definitely the biggest excitement for me. In book one, all the smolder comes from Pitch’s end of things, but it’s clearly fraught with teasing (sometimes in good fun, sometimes to be cruel). Only at the very end was there a flash of something potentially more. All that is shifted to the back burner by the start of this book, firmly putting the two characters back into their roles as unlikely partners fulfilling a magical calling (sending the corrupted dead on their way).
Read Camille’s review in its entirety here.
September 4, 2021
Fantastic read, picking right up from book 1. I've really enjoyed getting to know Pitch and Silas, especially as each of them has a background mystery that is slowly being revealed. I'm looking forward to seeing where this takes us in book 3. In the Verderer, I loved the meandering pace at the beginning, as it gave me time to enjoy the developing relationship between Pitch and Silas. These two bristling characters, who annoy the heck out of one another, but also now care enough to have each others back. It's been a fun ride. The world building has also been incredible and the description of the forest, caves and castle was brilliant. This part of the book was non-stop action, and I was on the edge of my seat. The Verderer was an enthralling read, and has left with me with so many questions about the quest that Pitch and Silas are on. Not everything is as it seems, so I can't wait for book 3.
August 16, 2021
I liked this one better than the first one. Silas is finally starting to get a clue and we see bit of Pitch's past. This is going to be a very slow burn which I'm a big fan of. Really looking forward to the next book.
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April 8, 2024I don’t know how I feel about this series tbh
August 11, 2022
I rarely give 5/5. But this book deserved it. I was shocked how good this was, as it is the second book in the series and so often those fall short of the first.
Silas (Sickle) and Tobias (Pitch) are off again on another hunt to take down an errant soul touched by the ominous Blight. This search takes them deep into the heart of the Forest, searching for the the Verderer, a guardian of the Forest, gone rogue. Silas is starting to come into his own here. There are peeks of heroism and courage spliced between the terror and uncertainty he feels. Tobias, so very deliciously unlikable in book one, is seen in a vulnerable light when he is captured by the Faeries and offers himself as a sacrifice to help Silas escape. The slow burn continues, as their attraction comes ever so close to full ignition, but alas, is interrupted.
The writing is so good I literally ache waiting to see when (if?) these two ever get together. The supporting characters are also very fleshed out and engaging. Excellent world building.
Silas (Sickle) and Tobias (Pitch) are off again on another hunt to take down an errant soul touched by the ominous Blight. This search takes them deep into the heart of the Forest, searching for the the Verderer, a guardian of the Forest, gone rogue. Silas is starting to come into his own here. There are peeks of heroism and courage spliced between the terror and uncertainty he feels. Tobias, so very deliciously unlikable in book one, is seen in a vulnerable light when he is captured by the Faeries and offers himself as a sacrifice to help Silas escape. The slow burn continues, as their attraction comes ever so close to full ignition, but alas, is interrupted.
The writing is so good I literally ache waiting to see when (if?) these two ever get together. The supporting characters are also very fleshed out and engaging. Excellent world building.
October 3, 2023
THE VERDERER is the second book in the Pitch & Sickle series and follows on from book one, which you will absolutely have to read to understand what's going on here.
As with the first book, this has a slow and meandering pace, giving the reader time to learn about both Silas and Pitch, as they themselves learn about each other and just what is expected from them.
There are still big parts of the story that aren't yet explained, leaving me definitely wanting more. Silas is still standing strong with his loyalty. He still has a lot to learn and is still naïve about the new world he inhabits. Pitch is still cantankerous and full of innuendoes. I really wish he would dial it back a bit!
Towards the end of the book, there is a lot of action that has been building throughout. And when I say action, I mean fight scenes. There is still nothing between Pitch and Silas apart from a near-kiss.
A great follow-up to book one and I can't wait for book 3! Definitely recommended by me.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Sep 26, 2022
As with the first book, this has a slow and meandering pace, giving the reader time to learn about both Silas and Pitch, as they themselves learn about each other and just what is expected from them.
There are still big parts of the story that aren't yet explained, leaving me definitely wanting more. Silas is still standing strong with his loyalty. He still has a lot to learn and is still naïve about the new world he inhabits. Pitch is still cantankerous and full of innuendoes. I really wish he would dial it back a bit!
Towards the end of the book, there is a lot of action that has been building throughout. And when I say action, I mean fight scenes. There is still nothing between Pitch and Silas apart from a near-kiss.
A great follow-up to book one and I can't wait for book 3! Definitely recommended by me.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Sep 26, 2022
July 29, 2021
This is an ok follow up to Bandalore.
This was a good book, but not a great book.
The main character, Sickle, is just too clueless. This was ok in book 1 but not all the way through book 2. Pitch, the other main character, is all about sugary foods, mischief and sex. That’s it. The one opportunity we see that there may be something else to him , the narrator glosses over it. There’s very little action as one lead is bumbling around in the dark and the other is consumed by dirty thoughts.
This could have been an amazing book, but it’s to much like book 1. Lots and lots of words, but very little action.
I will buy the next book but I hope it’s an amazing book. Really hoping.
This was a good book, but not a great book.
The main character, Sickle, is just too clueless. This was ok in book 1 but not all the way through book 2. Pitch, the other main character, is all about sugary foods, mischief and sex. That’s it. The one opportunity we see that there may be something else to him , the narrator glosses over it. There’s very little action as one lead is bumbling around in the dark and the other is consumed by dirty thoughts.
This could have been an amazing book, but it’s to much like book 1. Lots and lots of words, but very little action.
I will buy the next book but I hope it’s an amazing book. Really hoping.
July 19, 2021
A great read once again - vivid universe, gripping adventures and an overarching story line which is gradually unfolding. My slight disappointment is that there was little development in the protagonists' relationship.
June 25, 2023
It’s official this series has me in a chokehold and I MUST binge read the rest.
With book two we continue with Silas’s mission as Lady Satine’s horseman (he must eradicate the darkness from lost souls, helping them cross over) or something like that. This with the help of his bodyguard Pitch, a mouthy demon with a taste for cakes and fucking while sometimes losing control of his unstoppable fiery temper. Also the CHEMISTRY and TENSION between these two is *chefs kiss*.
“He did not much enjoy the sideways glance Pitch sent his way, with his lashes lowered demurely and his bowed lips parted. Even with the shadows upon him, his profile was disturbingly pleasing. ‘We shall see,’ Pitch said.”
I need them to realise their feelings for each other pronto while also not wanting that because again the tension and denial is always the best part of a slow burn romance. Plus I like watching them become closer as the story progresses.
In terms of world building and plot. I am HOOKED. The fantasy element is so well written and I cannot wait to discover more about this world and what exactly is going on. Both Pitch and Silas has mysterious pasts with Silas not remembering an iota about his own and Pitch cursed to never speak a word of his- colour me very INTRIGUED.
Things really reached a crescendo with the end of this book with some very exciting information being revealed. I am looking forward to seeing that explored in the next book. Furthermore I love the addition of memorable side characters I have a feeling we will see both Sybilla and Oettlie again!
With book two we continue with Silas’s mission as Lady Satine’s horseman (he must eradicate the darkness from lost souls, helping them cross over) or something like that. This with the help of his bodyguard Pitch, a mouthy demon with a taste for cakes and fucking while sometimes losing control of his unstoppable fiery temper. Also the CHEMISTRY and TENSION between these two is *chefs kiss*.
“He did not much enjoy the sideways glance Pitch sent his way, with his lashes lowered demurely and his bowed lips parted. Even with the shadows upon him, his profile was disturbingly pleasing. ‘We shall see,’ Pitch said.”
I need them to realise their feelings for each other pronto while also not wanting that because again the tension and denial is always the best part of a slow burn romance. Plus I like watching them become closer as the story progresses.
In terms of world building and plot. I am HOOKED. The fantasy element is so well written and I cannot wait to discover more about this world and what exactly is going on. Both Pitch and Silas has mysterious pasts with Silas not remembering an iota about his own and Pitch cursed to never speak a word of his- colour me very INTRIGUED.
Things really reached a crescendo with the end of this book with some very exciting information being revealed. I am looking forward to seeing that explored in the next book. Furthermore I love the addition of memorable side characters I have a feeling we will see both Sybilla and Oettlie again!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 6, 2023
Gah! What a great second book in this series!
Silas continues to be a melancholy, but still very lovable, MC and our guide through this beautifully built world. He’s come to terms with his role as an ankou and is eager to get started on his mission. He’s joined again by Pitch, who I just cannot help but adore (I just want to Pat his head and feed him sweets…though I’d likely get a hand bit off 😅), his mystical mare Lalassu, and Pitch’s steed Sanu, who is exactly the horse Pitch should have. They’re an unlikely bunch but it works and when they finally get on the road Silas is ready for it, or so he thinks.
This book starts to unpick Silas’ mysterious past as he gains some memories and is forced to address some fears. Silas is just as confused and clueless at times when the world is so much bigger than he ever knew, but he’s gained a bit more confidence and a healthy bit of sass to handle it all. 💁🏼♀️
And gosh does that sass serve him well with all the time he spends with Pitch. Pitch who is angry at the world and the role he’s been forced to play. Pitch who allows himself to be beaten down just to feel alive. Pitch who we are just beginning to crack the surface of and seeing how deep he goes. Ah! I just love this character!
Anywho, I don’t want to spoil this book but all I can say is that I’m thrilled that I have the third book ready to start because I just can’t get out of this world yet and I am SO excited for what’s to come!!
Silas continues to be a melancholy, but still very lovable, MC and our guide through this beautifully built world. He’s come to terms with his role as an ankou and is eager to get started on his mission. He’s joined again by Pitch, who I just cannot help but adore (I just want to Pat his head and feed him sweets…though I’d likely get a hand bit off 😅), his mystical mare Lalassu, and Pitch’s steed Sanu, who is exactly the horse Pitch should have. They’re an unlikely bunch but it works and when they finally get on the road Silas is ready for it, or so he thinks.
This book starts to unpick Silas’ mysterious past as he gains some memories and is forced to address some fears. Silas is just as confused and clueless at times when the world is so much bigger than he ever knew, but he’s gained a bit more confidence and a healthy bit of sass to handle it all. 💁🏼♀️
And gosh does that sass serve him well with all the time he spends with Pitch. Pitch who is angry at the world and the role he’s been forced to play. Pitch who allows himself to be beaten down just to feel alive. Pitch who we are just beginning to crack the surface of and seeing how deep he goes. Ah! I just love this character!
Anywho, I don’t want to spoil this book but all I can say is that I’m thrilled that I have the third book ready to start because I just can’t get out of this world yet and I am SO excited for what’s to come!!
April 30, 2025
The Verderer, the second installment in The Diabolus Chronicles, shows signs of growth over book one, but still falls short in key areas—particularly pacing and character engagement.
This book continues the story of Silas "Sickle" Mercer and Tobias "Pitch" Astaroth's otherworldly journey immediately following the events of the first book. This time, the focus shifts to Sickle’s past lives and emotional layers. This premise is compelling, but its execution is underwhelming. Told entirely from Sickle’s point of view, the narrative feels as emotionally closed-off as the character himself. Even Pitch, at one point, calls him boring—a moment that unintentionally reflects the book’s overall tone.
As someone who reads a lot of Danmei, I don't require overt intimacy to stay invested in a romance. Still, this entry lacks the emotional tension or chemistry that could have carried the slower moments. A dual POV might have helped—Pitch’s vibrant presence could have balanced Sickle’s more subdued voice and added emotional contrast. There are bright spots: the last act, which explores the pair’s past incarnations, finally brings momentum and intrigue. It’s just unfortunate that it arrives so late in the book.
For now, I’m stepping away from the series and may revisit it later with fresh eyes. There is potential in this world and in these characters. I just hope future installments find a stronger rhythm and a more engaging balance of perspectives.
This book continues the story of Silas "Sickle" Mercer and Tobias "Pitch" Astaroth's otherworldly journey immediately following the events of the first book. This time, the focus shifts to Sickle’s past lives and emotional layers. This premise is compelling, but its execution is underwhelming. Told entirely from Sickle’s point of view, the narrative feels as emotionally closed-off as the character himself. Even Pitch, at one point, calls him boring—a moment that unintentionally reflects the book’s overall tone.
As someone who reads a lot of Danmei, I don't require overt intimacy to stay invested in a romance. Still, this entry lacks the emotional tension or chemistry that could have carried the slower moments. A dual POV might have helped—Pitch’s vibrant presence could have balanced Sickle’s more subdued voice and added emotional contrast. There are bright spots: the last act, which explores the pair’s past incarnations, finally brings momentum and intrigue. It’s just unfortunate that it arrives so late in the book.
For now, I’m stepping away from the series and may revisit it later with fresh eyes. There is potential in this world and in these characters. I just hope future installments find a stronger rhythm and a more engaging balance of perspectives.
October 29, 2023
The more I read of this series the more I love Pitch and Sickle, and I am only on book 2 of 8, so loads more slow burn angst between these two men and still many secrets to be uncovered, though I have an inkling who Pitch is, though not what happened to him as yet. Can't wait to find out, nor how Silas will play a part, which I have no doubt he will.
In Book Two Silas is off to save The Verderer, the spirit of the forest, with his reluctant guardian in tow. We learn a little more about both men, and Silas learns a surprising amount from the normally reticent Pitch which reveals an ever growing mythical world and a few crack's in Pitch's guard. It seems Silas is finding a way to tame his wayard daemon, for a little while at least, as he slowly grows into his role as an Ankou, or a pale horseman. The number of names or titles these characters have keeps growing, which can get a bit confusing at times, but Pitch/Tobias/Daemon and Sickle/Silas/Ankou are no doubt just the start.
I love the relationship these guys have with their horses. Lalassu is so lovely and it's nice to see Pitch doesn't always get things his way, even if he scoffs all the shortcake, Sanu has his number.
Another beautifully written tale, with plenty of emotion, action and missed opportunities. On to book three, The Skriker.
In Book Two Silas is off to save The Verderer, the spirit of the forest, with his reluctant guardian in tow. We learn a little more about both men, and Silas learns a surprising amount from the normally reticent Pitch which reveals an ever growing mythical world and a few crack's in Pitch's guard. It seems Silas is finding a way to tame his wayard daemon, for a little while at least, as he slowly grows into his role as an Ankou, or a pale horseman. The number of names or titles these characters have keeps growing, which can get a bit confusing at times, but Pitch/Tobias/Daemon and Sickle/Silas/Ankou are no doubt just the start.
I love the relationship these guys have with their horses. Lalassu is so lovely and it's nice to see Pitch doesn't always get things his way, even if he scoffs all the shortcake, Sanu has his number.
Another beautifully written tale, with plenty of emotion, action and missed opportunities. On to book three, The Skriker.
September 21, 2022
Verderer:a judicial officer of a royal forest
Tobias/Pitch and Silas/Sickle (sometimes called Ankou: death personified as a skeleton with a scythe or spear) are settling into their respective afterlife situations. If Silas can survive his riding lessons on Lalassu, him and Tobias will be off on another adventure.
This book was slightly more confusing than the first book (Bandalore). Pitch and Silas are still doing their dance around each other but I think Pitch is slightly ahead.
The myths, which seem to be getting larger, are all tangled up in each other, creating a new mythology I’m liking.
Pitch is still fairly unlikeable. Silas is still almost childlike and not really seeming to be 100% alive yet. I think both characters are so far not living up to their potential. But I’m looking forward to their further journeys. I’m also glad I was right about Lalassu being so important.
Review Copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads.
Tobias/Pitch and Silas/Sickle (sometimes called Ankou: death personified as a skeleton with a scythe or spear) are settling into their respective afterlife situations. If Silas can survive his riding lessons on Lalassu, him and Tobias will be off on another adventure.
This book was slightly more confusing than the first book (Bandalore). Pitch and Silas are still doing their dance around each other but I think Pitch is slightly ahead.
The myths, which seem to be getting larger, are all tangled up in each other, creating a new mythology I’m liking.
Pitch is still fairly unlikeable. Silas is still almost childlike and not really seeming to be 100% alive yet. I think both characters are so far not living up to their potential. But I’m looking forward to their further journeys. I’m also glad I was right about Lalassu being so important.
Review Copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads.
April 4, 2023
Silas Mercer and his Daemonic guardian, Tobias Pitch, are back in the saddle, traveling to the Forest of Dean. They travel to fight the Blight which has taken hold in the Forest. Silas, an ankou, does not mind the travel. But Pitch has become increasingly unreliable as his desire for sweets and violence has become a problem. Even so, the two set off together to try and solve the Blight in the Forest of Dean.
This series, Pitch and Sickle, is amazing. It is filled with legend and lore that adds so much veracity to the story. Silas continues to be a bit of a prude, with some failures, while Pitch remains his arrogant, complaining self. Their mission turns out to be quite dangerous and will keep you glued to the pages as you can never be sure what will happen next. One thing is for sure, this series will captivate and intrigue you. I can’t wait for the next one.
This series, Pitch and Sickle, is amazing. It is filled with legend and lore that adds so much veracity to the story. Silas continues to be a bit of a prude, with some failures, while Pitch remains his arrogant, complaining self. Their mission turns out to be quite dangerous and will keep you glued to the pages as you can never be sure what will happen next. One thing is for sure, this series will captivate and intrigue you. I can’t wait for the next one.
May 13, 2022
In book 1 Silas was clueless and it's understandable but in book 2 he shouldn't be so slow to put the clues together. I'd like him to do some researches to understand his condition and the world he's living now. Because he's bordering on being stupid now...
I understand the writer wanted to create a mysterious story spread into several books but she shouldn't have done that by dumbing down her characters and saving the plot development for the last 2 chapters. It's cheap, lazy and repetitive.
I think that's the first time I don't want the MCs to end up together. I like Tobias/Pitch unapolagetic cruel side but he's not a good love interest for Silas soft and honest personality. I don't think that relationship could work and I don't see it being healthy.
I understand the writer wanted to create a mysterious story spread into several books but she shouldn't have done that by dumbing down her characters and saving the plot development for the last 2 chapters. It's cheap, lazy and repetitive.
I think that's the first time I don't want the MCs to end up together. I like Tobias/Pitch unapolagetic cruel side but he's not a good love interest for Silas soft and honest personality. I don't think that relationship could work and I don't see it being healthy.
April 3, 2023
Hmm. What to say about Verderer? Well, it's better than the first book, but still moving more slowly (and more confusing) than I like. I do find the world- and mythology-building intriguing and interesting, but please pick up the pace. I see that this is a planned six-volume series, but I hope it doesn't take until the last book before things start coming together. I'm not sure I'm that patient. As to the MCs, Pitch remains unlikable and Sickle is mostly still clueless. I am still waiting for heroes (or anti-heroes) that I can care about and really root for. Still the writing is good, so this is a 3.5 star (rounded to 4) for me. I'm in for at least one more book.
I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving this honest review.
I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving this honest review.
June 20, 2022
UST in the UK
Still don’t really see how a amnesiac winds up losing every personal memory, but remains repressed. I’m sure it’s a feature of the times, but considering Silas has been surrounded by people who do not care about sexuality or same sex attraction since he awoke with no memory, why, then is he denying his own attraction (apart from the author’s needs of a slow burn romance)?
Suspect romance aside, world building is progressing, building a mythology where the names may be familiar, but the reality is nowhere near the legends. Seems to blend Celtic and Abrahamic traditions, so far, but with room for many more world traditions than just Merry Ol England.
Still don’t really see how a amnesiac winds up losing every personal memory, but remains repressed. I’m sure it’s a feature of the times, but considering Silas has been surrounded by people who do not care about sexuality or same sex attraction since he awoke with no memory, why, then is he denying his own attraction (apart from the author’s needs of a slow burn romance)?
Suspect romance aside, world building is progressing, building a mythology where the names may be familiar, but the reality is nowhere near the legends. Seems to blend Celtic and Abrahamic traditions, so far, but with room for many more world traditions than just Merry Ol England.
February 24, 2022
We reunite with our mismatched pair of Death (who seems to think he's still human) and the Devil (an incubus expelled from the Hellfields) in the second volume which once again races us away on another adventure into the unknown. DKG masterfully tells the story, referencing characters and places, and mythology of the Victorian era to awaken the realness of such an otherworldly tale. Our duo is given a set of magic horses and are sent off to find the missing Verderer of the Forest of Dean. There is a graphic sex scene in the book, but not between our two heroes who continue to dance around each other warily. Yes, there is a slow burn romance happening beneath the mystery and fantastical beasts, but keep in mind it's between between two characters who are nigh polar opposites. It's a fantastic book and series, which has me racing off to read the next book.
September 15, 2022
Book 2 takes up directly where Book 1 finishes.
The world-building is excellent and the use of English myths is fun.
As Silas adapts to the situation he's in, slightly more of his backstory is revealed. The relationship between Silas and Pitch is developing too, although if you're reading this for the romance is going to be an extreme slow burn. At this point Pitch's flirting has lost that cruel edge, and they seem to genuinely care for each other when the chips are down, even while they bicker and antagonise.
Can't wait to see where the story goes because I still don't trust the PTB.
The world-building is excellent and the use of English myths is fun.
As Silas adapts to the situation he's in, slightly more of his backstory is revealed. The relationship between Silas and Pitch is developing too, although if you're reading this for the romance is going to be an extreme slow burn. At this point Pitch's flirting has lost that cruel edge, and they seem to genuinely care for each other when the chips are down, even while they bicker and antagonise.
Can't wait to see where the story goes because I still don't trust the PTB.
March 27, 2023
In this second installment we do start where we left off in book one. I will say upfront that this series is wonderful for anyone who enjoys tons of world building and character growth. The world is descriptive and magical. I really like Pitch. So far though this is really not a romance. I was hoping for more of a romantic chemistry in this one. It looks like it will be a super slow burn to get there so for me personally it is not keeping my interest. But as I said if you enjoy fantasy and adventure this is looking to be a magical series.
April 5, 2023
I’m really confused by this series. This book literally says in the blurb HEA for the couple ongoing story. There is no HEA and there is no couple. Are Pitch and Sickle even the couple being referenced??? There’s limited to none romantic interaction between them and Pitch is still a manwhore with literally EVERY other person he runs into. The only thing saving the book for me is the underlying storyline but I’m not sure how much longer that will be enough for. Are these two mc actually going to be a couple?
October 5, 2022
The Verderer is the second book in The Diabolus Chronicles. This one starts right after the first in the series. Silas and Tobias are recuperating, but new havoc is running amok. We are slowly learning more of their background. The pacing in this one is similar to the first, somewhat slow but it helps with the world building and kept me engaged. Overall, a fantastic addition to the series. Well written, highly recommend.
January 1, 2023
I read books 1, 2, and 3 one right after another and am just getting around to reviewing. Skimming to remember book 2 specifically, I remember liking the growth of Silas as he's learning to function in the world again. The dance of him and Pitch around each other is also fun to read. I like that the story is slow and the world gets to build instead of advancing weeks or months every few chapters. I appreciate a series where I get to really get to know characters.
April 7, 2023
pitch and sickle is an amazing series
The more I read D,K. Girl’s Pitch and Sickle series, the more I’m invested in their action-packed , heroic adventures laced with horror and supernatural beings and mythology. I can’t put this book, the Verderer, down. I had to gobble it up until I was done. But still I want more of these two - one straight-laced, naive, typical of the Victorian times gentlemen. The other a cantankerous, sarcastic, but witty and beautiful incubus.
The more I read D,K. Girl’s Pitch and Sickle series, the more I’m invested in their action-packed , heroic adventures laced with horror and supernatural beings and mythology. I can’t put this book, the Verderer, down. I had to gobble it up until I was done. But still I want more of these two - one straight-laced, naive, typical of the Victorian times gentlemen. The other a cantankerous, sarcastic, but witty and beautiful incubus.
June 6, 2023
the second book to a intriguing series! The tale continues with Silas(Sickle) and Tobias(Pitch) training on the farmstead from the last novel, with the pair soon called to search for the 'Verder' the guardian of a forest. I was delighted the fae made an appearance in this novel, specifically those associated with miners. we see the pair grow a bit closer, revealing more secrets as the story concludes. I look forward to the next novel!
August 28, 2023
An interesting mystery
I enjoyed this even more than the first book, the mystery was interesting, we got some fascinating worldbuilding and we got to see Pitch and Silas's relationship evolve from openly antagonistic to genuine care. They're slowly earning each other's trust, in different ways because they each have different reasons for being untrusting. I'm on to the next book in the series!
I enjoyed this even more than the first book, the mystery was interesting, we got some fascinating worldbuilding and we got to see Pitch and Silas's relationship evolve from openly antagonistic to genuine care. They're slowly earning each other's trust, in different ways because they each have different reasons for being untrusting. I'm on to the next book in the series!
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