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Daemons of San DeLain #2
Shadow's Embrace
Kage: Am I still a monster? Very much so. Am I loved? Absolutely. Will I burn it all down to protect my mate? You better believe it. Hunters have come to San DeLain once again, and they’re targeting humans and paranormals for their sick experiments. Many have gone missing. Some for many, many years. Then new information comes to light, and plans are made to raid their top-secret lab and bring home those taken.
But no one is safe, especially Austin.
In the midst of all this, an old flame returns, bringing chaos into their lives. But not all is as it appears to be.
Austin: Kage is still my monster, even if he’s no longer under my bed. I claimed him, and no flame from the past is going to take what’s mine. But the ex isn’t the only danger lurking in the shadows. The hunters have struck close to home, and something heartbreakingly evil is exposed, shocking the paranormal community.
Especially Kage.
What is real? And what is nothing more than a mimic of the real thing?
This is book 2 in the Daemons of San DeLain series which should be read in order.
But no one is safe, especially Austin.
In the midst of all this, an old flame returns, bringing chaos into their lives. But not all is as it appears to be.
Austin: Kage is still my monster, even if he’s no longer under my bed. I claimed him, and no flame from the past is going to take what’s mine. But the ex isn’t the only danger lurking in the shadows. The hunters have struck close to home, and something heartbreakingly evil is exposed, shocking the paranormal community.
Especially Kage.
What is real? And what is nothing more than a mimic of the real thing?
This is book 2 in the Daemons of San DeLain series which should be read in order.
302 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 13, 2023
126 people are currently reading
112 people want to read
About the author
M.A. Church
61 books679 followers M.A. Church is a true Southern belle who spent many years in the elementary education sector. Now she spends her days lost in fantasy worlds, arguing with hardheaded aliens on far-off planets, herding her numerous shifters, or trying to tempt her country boys away from their fishing poles. It’s a full time job, but hey, someone’s gotta do it!
When not writing, she’s on the back porch tending to the demanding wildlife around the pond in the backyard. The ducks are very outspoken. She’s married to her high school sweetheart, and they have two grown children.
Member of Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America
My Facebook: MA churh http://www.facebook.com/pages/MA-Chur...
When not writing, she’s on the back porch tending to the demanding wildlife around the pond in the backyard. The ducks are very outspoken. She’s married to her high school sweetheart, and they have two grown children.
Member of Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America
My Facebook: MA churh http://www.facebook.com/pages/MA-Chur...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
April 10, 2023
Shadow’s Embrace picks up right after book one and still follows Kage and Austin, so you definitely need to read this series in order!
I love how in this book we got to see so much more of this super cool paranormal world that MA Church has created! We get to see gargoyles, dragons, merpeople, werewolves, even arachnid type shifters, come together to help stop the growing faction of human hunters. We also get to learn more about Kate’s past. I won’t say much to give anything away, but the villain of this story is super creative and well done!
I also really appreciate the emotion and results of Austin’s near death experience and the anxiety that has set in after the events of the ending to the first book. It all felt so real. And I love how supportive and caring Kage was.
I looooove Kage and Austin together. Their chemistry and love for each other is so sweet and perfect.
I cannot wait to see how they all work together to take down the hunters! (And I need a story for Axel!!!)
I received an arc in exchange for an honest review.
I love how in this book we got to see so much more of this super cool paranormal world that MA Church has created! We get to see gargoyles, dragons, merpeople, werewolves, even arachnid type shifters, come together to help stop the growing faction of human hunters. We also get to learn more about Kate’s past. I won’t say much to give anything away, but the villain of this story is super creative and well done!
I also really appreciate the emotion and results of Austin’s near death experience and the anxiety that has set in after the events of the ending to the first book. It all felt so real. And I love how supportive and caring Kage was.
I looooove Kage and Austin together. Their chemistry and love for each other is so sweet and perfect.
I cannot wait to see how they all work together to take down the hunters! (And I need a story for Axel!!!)
I received an arc in exchange for an honest review.
January 20, 2023
So freaking good
Kage and Austin didn't get long to bask in being newly mated before the excrement hit the fan. This wasn't a cliffhanger, but there are so many unanswered questions, and I can't wait to see what havoc book three brings.
Kage and Austin didn't get long to bask in being newly mated before the excrement hit the fan. This wasn't a cliffhanger, but there are so many unanswered questions, and I can't wait to see what havoc book three brings.
May 18, 2023
Rating:4 stars
A great second book in the series. I do think the main baddy was a bit OP but other than that, I really enjoyed the story. I liked that the author introduced a type of paranormal rarely written about. Overall, a really good book.
A great second book in the series. I do think the main baddy was a bit OP but other than that, I really enjoyed the story. I liked that the author introduced a type of paranormal rarely written about. Overall, a really good book.
May 13, 2023
should be standalone books with a continuous background plot
I didn’t realize these book were all a part of a trilogy until I read the summary for this book and then I was wholeheartedly disappointed. I found both books 1 and 2 very repetitive, almost drilling in certain character traits or aspects of their past story over and over. Yes, for the millionth time, we know Austin grew up with money and he is a famous author so has his own money, however, from his expressions you would think he’s young, grew up poor and is new being exposed to luxury and being wined and dined. Speaking of, neither of these characters knows how to cook? Every meal is ordered.
The editor didn’t review this entire story as there were times the recalled information differentiated from the original.
Where is the sassy, strong, Independent, bad ass black belt author who was going to seedy bars trying to find info on his daemon??? Austin went from strong independent but stupid man (who tells people their real name when going to seedy places to talk) to being the weak human even after he gets Kages blood and has some of his extra sensory abilities. That kinda annoyed me in these books, I thought him being able to smell Kage’s scent before they were together was leading to something but nope, he still needs Kage’s help at every turn. It made me laugh how he was more perceptive when he didn’t have any extra senses. I also found it funny how he greeted everyone new in the world of paranormal like a kid in a candy store, but also the celebrity who admitted to being a fan of his books. His character didn’t come across as simply nice and positive, he came across as immature and inexperienced.
I wasn’t sure if these books were supposed to be more thrillers with the romance on the side or visé versa because I did NOT feel the connection between Kage and Austin, regardless of how many times the author told me they had a connection since Austin was 8. ( I still don’t know why his grandparents were so horrible other than the author repeatedly telling me that his grandparents were just as bad as his father).
Then the bringing in of Axel into the story as a mean and jilted ex lover with no back story beforehand and him being able to affect Kage...again with no back story, then all of a sudden there’s a story and drama...it felt like the author was looking for some extra angst to add to the story and that they added, but to the detriment of the actual romance. It did not make Kage relatable by making him, the big bad daemon that is feared, seem weak bc he had a bad relationship. Can I add the relationship was 100 years before. It makes no sense how it went from he’s all powerful and he’s strong to being the weak and vulnerable person in the relationship because 100 years ago he had a really bad relationship.
Kage is no bad ass, he doesn’t even fight, he just dumps people in other parts of the world using the shadows...what makes him an Elder, just age? Shouldn’t he be able to smell deception? Shouldn’t he have some superior ability and the fact that him, a daemon, even a dragon could be killed with a regular bullet makes me laugh even more.
I stopped reading when they got attacked outside the therapist office. These characters have paper and actual personalities. On paper they are bad asses who are powerful and leaders, independent and resilient, business men and or paranormal...in actual, they are toddlers, some bigger and meaner but all the same.
I didn’t realize these book were all a part of a trilogy until I read the summary for this book and then I was wholeheartedly disappointed. I found both books 1 and 2 very repetitive, almost drilling in certain character traits or aspects of their past story over and over. Yes, for the millionth time, we know Austin grew up with money and he is a famous author so has his own money, however, from his expressions you would think he’s young, grew up poor and is new being exposed to luxury and being wined and dined. Speaking of, neither of these characters knows how to cook? Every meal is ordered.
The editor didn’t review this entire story as there were times the recalled information differentiated from the original.
Where is the sassy, strong, Independent, bad ass black belt author who was going to seedy bars trying to find info on his daemon??? Austin went from strong independent but stupid man (who tells people their real name when going to seedy places to talk) to being the weak human even after he gets Kages blood and has some of his extra sensory abilities. That kinda annoyed me in these books, I thought him being able to smell Kage’s scent before they were together was leading to something but nope, he still needs Kage’s help at every turn. It made me laugh how he was more perceptive when he didn’t have any extra senses. I also found it funny how he greeted everyone new in the world of paranormal like a kid in a candy store, but also the celebrity who admitted to being a fan of his books. His character didn’t come across as simply nice and positive, he came across as immature and inexperienced.
I wasn’t sure if these books were supposed to be more thrillers with the romance on the side or visé versa because I did NOT feel the connection between Kage and Austin, regardless of how many times the author told me they had a connection since Austin was 8. ( I still don’t know why his grandparents were so horrible other than the author repeatedly telling me that his grandparents were just as bad as his father).
Then the bringing in of Axel into the story as a mean and jilted ex lover with no back story beforehand and him being able to affect Kage...again with no back story, then all of a sudden there’s a story and drama...it felt like the author was looking for some extra angst to add to the story and that they added, but to the detriment of the actual romance. It did not make Kage relatable by making him, the big bad daemon that is feared, seem weak bc he had a bad relationship. Can I add the relationship was 100 years before. It makes no sense how it went from he’s all powerful and he’s strong to being the weak and vulnerable person in the relationship because 100 years ago he had a really bad relationship.
Kage is no bad ass, he doesn’t even fight, he just dumps people in other parts of the world using the shadows...what makes him an Elder, just age? Shouldn’t he be able to smell deception? Shouldn’t he have some superior ability and the fact that him, a daemon, even a dragon could be killed with a regular bullet makes me laugh even more.
I stopped reading when they got attacked outside the therapist office. These characters have paper and actual personalities. On paper they are bad asses who are powerful and leaders, independent and resilient, business men and or paranormal...in actual, they are toddlers, some bigger and meaner but all the same.
February 3, 2023
“He put a ring on it, sweetie. You might have had compatibility, but I have a commitment.”
I loved this book! I was completely charmed and entranced by the first book, and so excited to read the second. Great world building and wonderful characters. Austin and Kage are so perfect together and their chemistry is *chef's kiss.* I loved seeing more of the different paranormal groups; I found them fascinating. This world is amazing and I'm so excited there will be several books to delve into it in. The storyline was an adventure- interesting, exciting, and I couldn't put it down. I can't wait until book three! 5 stars.
I loved this book! I was completely charmed and entranced by the first book, and so excited to read the second. Great world building and wonderful characters. Austin and Kage are so perfect together and their chemistry is *chef's kiss.* I loved seeing more of the different paranormal groups; I found them fascinating. This world is amazing and I'm so excited there will be several books to delve into it in. The storyline was an adventure- interesting, exciting, and I couldn't put it down. I can't wait until book three! 5 stars.
July 15, 2023
Embrace
This is a 5/5 for me. The second book is as good as the first one. The story of Kage who is a demon elder and his human partner Austin continues. Austin is dealing with attempt on their lives and trying to live his life with Kage. The hunters still pose a problem to paranormals. Kage is working on that problem. Kate’s ex from one hundred years ago shows up and is now the alpha of one the packs in town. Austin has to deal with the ex threatening him. But there is more, a new evil has surfaced and it so powerful that even Kage is worried. All of the paranormals will have to come together to defeat the hunters.
This is a 5/5 for me. The second book is as good as the first one. The story of Kage who is a demon elder and his human partner Austin continues. Austin is dealing with attempt on their lives and trying to live his life with Kage. The hunters still pose a problem to paranormals. Kage is working on that problem. Kate’s ex from one hundred years ago shows up and is now the alpha of one the packs in town. Austin has to deal with the ex threatening him. But there is more, a new evil has surfaced and it so powerful that even Kage is worried. All of the paranormals will have to come together to defeat the hunters.
January 14, 2023
Sooo Good.
#2 of an amazing series and one I was privileged with getting the chance to read as a ARC.
Omg. Yes.
Not only did it answer some burning questions if mine but the emotional roller coast was so delicious.
We finally get a peek at more diverse supernaturals that are way too intriguing to be legal and I have a need to get my hands on the goth vampire.
I’m really, really excited for number 3.
#2 of an amazing series and one I was privileged with getting the chance to read as a ARC.
Omg. Yes.
Not only did it answer some burning questions if mine but the emotional roller coast was so delicious.
We finally get a peek at more diverse supernaturals that are way too intriguing to be legal and I have a need to get my hands on the goth vampire.
I’m really, really excited for number 3.
January 15, 2023
Truly enjoyable
I have really enjoyed this story so far. The premise is interesting the plot is complex and the characters are a delight. Their relationship is progressing in a surprisingly natural way. They have conflict and communicate well to resolve issues. Its refreshing in a romance.
Honestly a joy to read and the very second the preorder drops for the next I'd hit that button. Can't reccomend this author or this series enough!
I have really enjoyed this story so far. The premise is interesting the plot is complex and the characters are a delight. Their relationship is progressing in a surprisingly natural way. They have conflict and communicate well to resolve issues. Its refreshing in a romance.
Honestly a joy to read and the very second the preorder drops for the next I'd hit that button. Can't reccomend this author or this series enough!
February 8, 2023
Shadow’s Embrace
Incredible! This book was even better than the first one, and I really liked the first book. M.A. Church has created a world that is as intense as it is beautiful. Her characters are outstanding, the action incredible and plot twists are very well thought out and believable. I’m certainly looking forward to reading the next book in the series! Highly Recommended
Incredible! This book was even better than the first one, and I really liked the first book. M.A. Church has created a world that is as intense as it is beautiful. Her characters are outstanding, the action incredible and plot twists are very well thought out and believable. I’m certainly looking forward to reading the next book in the series! Highly Recommended
January 14, 2024
A very weak 2. Partial Review copied from #3;
So dumb. Why take the car everywhere, or walk when you can portal? Let's get ambushed in the garage, let's have the tires slashed, let's have our driver attacked, let's be shot in the car, let's drive for 2,5 hours, let's make 8 other people have act as decoy cars, let's fly the car off a cliff etc etc. Ridiculous amateur writing in some parts, very uneven.
So dumb. Why take the car everywhere, or walk when you can portal? Let's get ambushed in the garage, let's have the tires slashed, let's have our driver attacked, let's be shot in the car, let's drive for 2,5 hours, let's make 8 other people have act as decoy cars, let's fly the car off a cliff etc etc. Ridiculous amateur writing in some parts, very uneven.
February 6, 2024
Loved it!
I am absolutely loving this series. Kage and Austin are mates and their bond just gets stronger. The Hunters are still a threat and they continue taking paranormals. There is a twist I didn’t see coming, but it ends up being good. I don’t want to give any spoilers, but know that any angst is from outside sources, not between Kage and Austin. I can’t wait to read book 3 and see how everything gets resolved.
I am absolutely loving this series. Kage and Austin are mates and their bond just gets stronger. The Hunters are still a threat and they continue taking paranormals. There is a twist I didn’t see coming, but it ends up being good. I don’t want to give any spoilers, but know that any angst is from outside sources, not between Kage and Austin. I can’t wait to read book 3 and see how everything gets resolved.
January 13, 2023
Yes yes yes! I have waited ever so impatiently for this second book in the Daemons of San DeLain series and wow was it ever worth it! This second book was even more amazing than the first and has a very much not expected twist that totally blew my mind. My favorite series in years with more to come!
January 16, 2023
Great series.
Wonderful world to escape into. Love how the various paranormals are fleshed out. They are kept "real" without being too over the top. I epically love the two main characters and how their relationship has evolved. There is a lot of room for further development and I truly am looking forward to more of the stories!
Wonderful world to escape into. Love how the various paranormals are fleshed out. They are kept "real" without being too over the top. I epically love the two main characters and how their relationship has evolved. There is a lot of room for further development and I truly am looking forward to more of the stories!
February 3, 2023
The action is really heating up in San DeLain. Austin is suffering from PTSD from the car attack. There's a plan to rescue the kidnapped paranormals. And Kade's murderous ex is in town. And he's stalking Austin.
Great dialog and interesting characters. This was a quick read with lots of action and sexy downtimes.
Great dialog and interesting characters. This was a quick read with lots of action and sexy downtimes.
June 22, 2023
Some twists and turns
Now that we are through the mating we step into the deep end of their problems, enhanced hunters. But there is something even bigger and more menacing lurking right in front of them and its after Austin. I'm getting ready to start book 3 now and see where this is headed.
Now that we are through the mating we step into the deep end of their problems, enhanced hunters. But there is something even bigger and more menacing lurking right in front of them and its after Austin. I'm getting ready to start book 3 now and see where this is headed.
January 18, 2023
Great 2nd book
I absolutely love Kage and Austin. I always have. I do feel like the story was rushed a bit and could have been expanded on but there was enough suspicion to keep you interested. I need to know what's going to happen next!
I absolutely love Kage and Austin. I always have. I do feel like the story was rushed a bit and could have been expanded on but there was enough suspicion to keep you interested. I need to know what's going to happen next!
February 1, 2023
Great Addition to Series
I enjoyed book 2. There were so many twists and turns within the storyline, and the plot kept me intrigued. I am invested in the MCs and the supporting characters. I hope to learn more about them in the next book.
I enjoyed book 2. There were so many twists and turns within the storyline, and the plot kept me intrigued. I am invested in the MCs and the supporting characters. I hope to learn more about them in the next book.
February 9, 2023
Great series!
This book is a continuation of the first book in the series and it follows that same two MCs. I’m really enjoying my time spent in this world. I can’t wait for the next one!
This book is a continuation of the first book in the series and it follows that same two MCs. I’m really enjoying my time spent in this world. I can’t wait for the next one!
February 16, 2023
I’m Ready
Book 3 me please, I’m so wrapped up in this story and for a lot of years I’ve despised any cliffhangers but the author is one who has done so perfectly. The storyline has a lot to offer and I can’t help but wonder what is next.
Book 3 me please, I’m so wrapped up in this story and for a lot of years I’ve despised any cliffhangers but the author is one who has done so perfectly. The storyline has a lot to offer and I can’t help but wonder what is next.
February 20, 2023
Muito muito bom!!!
Adorei o desfecho e o suspense. Os personagens continuam incríveis e a história cativante.
O problema é que o primeiro livro é dito como "livro único" e bem... não é! O segundo também não é o final e o terceiro nem lançado foi!
Preciso da continuação!
Adorei o desfecho e o suspense. Os personagens continuam incríveis e a história cativante.
O problema é que o primeiro livro é dito como "livro único" e bem... não é! O segundo também não é o final e o terceiro nem lançado foi!
Preciso da continuação!
March 8, 2023
Unbelievably fantastic
Please please read this series, it is a fantastic work that makes you want to read till the end without stop. Everything about is brilliant cannot wait for the next instalment. Highly recommend.
Please please read this series, it is a fantastic work that makes you want to read till the end without stop. Everything about is brilliant cannot wait for the next instalment. Highly recommend.
April 15, 2023
Definitely need to read this series in order to really appreciate the story. It is well written, full of action, romance and mystery. The characters are well developed and so easy to get involved with. Austin, Kage and all the others make the story what it is. Definitely recommend reading.
April 29, 2023
loved the first and the second did not disappoint
Loved reading about this couple and getting to know some new characters. Well written and enjoyable read. Off to see if there are any more in the series. Well worth a read if you enjoy paranormal
Loved reading about this couple and getting to know some new characters. Well written and enjoyable read. Off to see if there are any more in the series. Well worth a read if you enjoy paranormal
June 12, 2023
excellent
I’m glad I discovered this author work as it’s very enjoyable and grabs you. ( literally couldn’t stop reading) . This series is great and needs to be read in it entirety. Highly recommended paranormal stories
I’m glad I discovered this author work as it’s very enjoyable and grabs you. ( literally couldn’t stop reading) . This series is great and needs to be read in it entirety. Highly recommended paranormal stories
January 25, 2025
Action packed
Austin has adapted very well into the paranormal community. Then things get twisted for everyone. A lab, miles underground, is doing horrible things to shifters and humans. Can Kage and crew save the day? And why is Axel in the lab?
Austin has adapted very well into the paranormal community. Then things get twisted for everyone. A lab, miles underground, is doing horrible things to shifters and humans. Can Kage and crew save the day? And why is Axel in the lab?
January 16, 2023
Loved it!
It was interesting and exciting to get to know Austin and Kage. The story continues from the first book, and the mystery is intriguing.
It was interesting and exciting to get to know Austin and Kage. The story continues from the first book, and the mystery is intriguing.
January 17, 2023
I am really enjoying this series. I love Austin and Kage
January 20, 2023
4.5 stars
Great second book of this series, looking forward to the next one!
Great second book of this series, looking forward to the next one!
January 24, 2023
Loved it
I thoroughly enjoyed this second installment of the Daemons of San DeLain. It was a great continuation of Austin and Kate's story and I can't wait for the next one.
I thoroughly enjoyed this second installment of the Daemons of San DeLain. It was a great continuation of Austin and Kate's story and I can't wait for the next one.
January 29, 2023
Just live these two characters, so funny yet endearing...the plot is definitely getting more intense and I can't wait for the next instalment
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews