Demon Knight

Leah Ackerman #2

by A.B. Cohen, J.P. Rindfleisch IX

What if the magic you had…

…could be taken away?

How much would you sacrifice to prove yourself worthy?

Leah and the other Pawns of Black Hills are pushed to the limit when they join Maimonides Academy late. Tests, sparring, and trials bury them as they all try to catch up in this harsh school. If they want to make it through, they’ll have to work together.

But when Pawns start disappearing, Leah realizes quizzes weren’t the only thing she needs to worry about. The professors insist it’s part of the process, a means to weed out the weak, but Leah’s dreams tell otherwise.

Something lurks in the shadows.

Can Leah and her friends discover the truth before it is too late?

293 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 16, 2022

About the author

A.B. Cohen is an emerging author that loves to freak out his readers with his dark stories in the realms of Urban Fantasy, Thrillers and Horror. Originally from Caracas, Venezuela, today he lives in Berkeley, California. Along with his passion for writing, he also loves dancing, soccer, and traveling.

Reviews

[The Book · Rating 5 out of 5]

Although I did not originally review the first book, ‘Dark Pawn,’ I had the opportunity to read this in preparation of my review for Book 2, Demon Knight. I am so glad I did, as this has become one of my favourite series and is definitely one that I am adding to my own personal library collection.

I loved the world building and the characters introduced particularly the protagonist Leah Ackerman, a strong willed, feisty and resourceful female lead. The plot is both gripping and highly engaging, reminding me of a more adult and darker version of Harry Potter, and I certainly agree with my fellow reviewer that it is a fantastic read and well worth the 4.5 stars awarded… but for me, its sequel, Demon Knight surpasses it!

In Demon Knight, the story continues with Leah Ackerman facing the next stage of her training as the Black Pawns are transferred to the Maimonides Academy. Enduring more rigorous tests and having to assert themselves in an already established community, Leah and her friends must prove their worth and that they deserve their place in the Academy. However Leah has a lot more to lose as her new bond with her Uncle and Black Knight is threatened and comes under close scrutiny. Leah’s training and adjustment to a new regime is the least of her problems though. A darkness lingers at the Academy and makes its presence known and her friendships are soon challenged as students mysteriously disappear. Leah is once again pulled into the realm where demon’s walk as she tries to protect herself and those around her from a chilling fate.

The plot moves at a great pace, keeping readers engaged and easily tempted to read in one entire sitting! There is a great cast of characters introduced with fascinating personalities, strengths and abilities and plenty of conflict and drama. The reader can easily connect on an emotional level and will wholeheartedly enjoy the rollercoaster ride of tension and excitement elicited through the various scenes.

I highly recommend and I award 5 stars.

[Patrick · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an interesting development in the series because it gave us more understanding of the structure of the infinity board and how the main characters interact with that. I also like that we picked up on some of the action from the first book allowing for more plot development and character development. It will be interesting to see what happens with the next book. I would recommend the same one who likes fantasy action adventure mystery novels.

[Christina Luberts · Rating 5 out of 5]

We have adventure, suspence, action, challenges and more. Follow Leah and her freind are trying to catch up with school and now the Pawns disappearing. Can Leah and her friend figure it out? Can they survive? You will not want to put the book down.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Sabrina Nelson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the 2nd book of Leah Ackerman series. This book covers more of the academy, the fights that they have to do and more of what powers Leah has. This book for me seems even more detailed of what is happening with Leah and her friends, her uncle, and more mystery that is happening.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Carter Maldonado-Suarez · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’ll keep it short and simple, the twists and turns give you whiplash… and I don’t mean in a bad way. From the get-go you are off to the races. Will Leah move forward? Will she be able to get through the countless obstacles? Who do you trust? Who do you not? Only one way to find out. Buckle up and read!

[Shane Millar · Rating 5 out of 5]

Snark, served with a side of magical badassery

*I was lucky enough to receive an ARC from the authors, and this is my honest review*

It's been a while since a read a book I couldn't put down, but this is definitely one of those books.

The character voices are unique and well defined. The plot is fast paced and punchy. The magic system is genuinely one of the most well thought out I've read in a long time.

If you like YA academy fantasy that treads a darker line, then this is definitely one to add to the TBR.

I highly recommend Demon Knight... now I just have to wait for book 3.

[Emily · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved it.