Rating: 9 out of 10
Spice Level: 2 out of 5
Cover Grade: A++
Audiobook Narrator: N/A
Synopsis
In The Damned, the third book in the Coven of Bones series, a young witch finds herself in a verboten entanglement with Beelzebub, the Lord of Gluttony, who risked himself to save her life. Bound by the magical effects of her song, he becomes devoted to her—yet she despises taking anyone’s free will, she must keep her distance to release him from her spell. Her touch is intoxicating and lustful, and will only make the connection last longer. Despite this complication, she must rely on him as her only ally in navigating the treacherous Nine Circles of Hell to return to Crystal Hollow. Together, they face significant sacrifices and test the boundaries of their unusual connection.
Strengths: From the gripping plot to the authentic voice, this story captivates throughout. The chemistry between all characters feels natural, while the story remains easy to follow. A strong sense of place anchors the fantastical, imaginative setting in hell. The expected yet unexpected twist ending culminates in a cliffhanger that leaves you eagerly anticipating the next book.
Weakness: While the chemistry between characters feels natural, the connection growth between Margot and Beelzebub was not as strong as it was between Willow and Gray. They have a gentler growth, which is lovely, and on point for Margot, but I wanted to feel her side of the growth, believe her a little more. I can see the next book being that!
Verdict
Love this universe! Love these characters and can’t wait for the next book after that ending! Make sure to read your trigger warnings! (9/10)
Thank you, Harper L. Woods, Bramble, & NetGalley. I received an advance review copy for free and am leaving this review voluntarily. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Pre-Order Your Copy
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From the Publisher:
Publisher: Bramble / Macmillan
Hardcover (Deluxe Edition)
ISBN: 9781250365231
336 pages
Fiction / Romance / Fantasy
Fiction / Romance / Paranormal / Vampires
Fiction / Romance / Paranormal / Demons
Description:
Trapped.
He fell through the gate to Hell to save my life.
Beelzebub, the Lord of Gluttony, is no longer his own. He’s been mine ever since he caught me singing to myself, falling prey to the magic of my song. If I can keep my distance, we can both move on.
But now, he is caught under my spell, which makes him forbidden to touch. And yet, he is the only one I can trust to get me back to Crystal Hollow.
We’ll have to make it through the Nine Circles of Hell first.
No matter what we lose along the way.
Author Bio:
Harper L. Woods is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling fantasy romance alter ego for Adelaide Forrest. Raised in small-town Vermont, her passion for reading was born during long winters spent with her face buried between the pages of a book. She began to pass the time by writing short stories that quickly turned into full-length fiction. Since that time, she has published over 15 books and has plans for many more. When she isn't writing, Harper can be found spending time with her two young kids, curled up with her dog, dreaming about travel to distant lands, or designing book covers she'll never have enough time to use.
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