What do you think?
Rate this book
Ensouled Series #1
Choosing Evil
Cursing Evil
Serafina Murano is no stranger to the paranormal, nor to evil. All her life she's lived harmoniously alongside demons despite the rage living inside of her. Damon Serpe is a conflicted demon on the ultimate mission: infiltrate Serafina's world. When they collide into each other's lives, they're inexorably drawn to one another. But they're forbidden to be together.
Chasing Evil
Dark, deadly secrets, gut-wrenching betrayal, and elusive questions that have haunted Serafina since childhood resurface in a wicked wrath. Damon holds the key to her understanding it all, as well as to her existence. If she decides to trust him, he will help decipher her recurring nightmares and unravel the lifelong mysteries tormenting her. Only Damon is harboring secrets far darker than Serafina ever imagined.
Choosing Evil
Time is running out. Serafina is forced to make an impossible decision. To save humankind, she must sacrifice her soul, choosing to become the very evil she has raged against her entire life. Embracing her truth won't be easy. It's a fate that will change her, and perhaps the world, forever.
Serafina Murano is no stranger to the paranormal, nor to evil. All her life she's lived harmoniously alongside demons despite the rage living inside of her. Damon Serpe is a conflicted demon on the ultimate mission: infiltrate Serafina's world. When they collide into each other's lives, they're inexorably drawn to one another. But they're forbidden to be together.
Chasing Evil
Dark, deadly secrets, gut-wrenching betrayal, and elusive questions that have haunted Serafina since childhood resurface in a wicked wrath. Damon holds the key to her understanding it all, as well as to her existence. If she decides to trust him, he will help decipher her recurring nightmares and unravel the lifelong mysteries tormenting her. Only Damon is harboring secrets far darker than Serafina ever imagined.
Choosing Evil
Time is running out. Serafina is forced to make an impossible decision. To save humankind, she must sacrifice her soul, choosing to become the very evil she has raged against her entire life. Embracing her truth won't be easy. It's a fate that will change her, and perhaps the world, forever.
280 pages, Paperback
First published November 24, 2014
4 people are currently reading
1818 people want to read
About the author
Kristina Rienzi
13 books327 followersKristina Rienzi, M.A., C.P.C., is a bestselling author of both fiction and non-fiction who has dedicated her life through psychology, coaching, leadership, and writing to inspire and empower others. Her debut self-help book, 5 Happy Choices: The Simple Way to a Happier Life is an Amazon #1 New Release and Bestseller. Among Us, her latest novel was featured on Audible’s ACX University and an Audible Editor’s Select Pick. Kristina also holds an ELI-MP, SPHR, SHRM-SCP, and CiHS. She lives at the Jersey Shore with her husband and daughter. Visit her at https://kristinarienzi.com.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
December 28, 2014
This story is dark and gritty and intriguing. The main character has thought she was just a normal human living along side demons her whole life. Until she finds out that she's got demon blood in her and her world is flipped upside down. It's quite a mystery to read, though you actually get POVs from some of the demons and other characters. It gives you insight to what's actually happening.
Serafina felt different her whole life. She always had issues, I mean her mom committed suicide when she was 10 and she found her body. She been caring for her sick dad for a long time now, and then tragedy strikes him. Then she finds out she's been told lies, to protect her. She doesn't take this well, she also has a temper and definitely needs to learn to listen, because her rash temper tantrums got people killed. But hindsight and all that. I like that she's regretful when she learns her actions caused bad things, and that she wants to try to make up for it with the right thing. I also loved that she was willing to risk her life for those she loved, like her best friend Jenna. So when she learns the detective on the case is a demon and he's working for demons who want her either dead or in a powerful position, she's in a pickle. :) The whole story revolves around her. A part of me liked her, and another part of me wanted to slap her, cuz I just wanted her to realize that at almost 30, you should know better than to throw a tantrum when someone is trying to tell you something that will help you. Vera, Damon, even her dad. She was a little to self involved when people were around her, and then yet, she's selfless when she does things, like almost dying for her friend, and going up against big bad demons. :) So, I'm a little complicated with how I feel about her. LOL
Damon is awesome. He's sweet, and I like that he wanted to be better, not just the evil that a demon is. He uses his power to try to help humanity instead of just killing people for evil reasons. I liked that he was also willing to risk it all for Serafina. He seriously could have died a bunch of times. And her best friends, Jenna who I liked alot, and Alison, who is just weird. And crazy. And not the happy kind. Jenna's a great friend to Serafina, even when she didn't deserve it. And Lorenzo, well, I hope to learn more about him in the second book. Being the demon head honcho, I have a feeling he's going to have a lot of screen time in book two, more than in this book. He's an interesting character, regardless if he's not a good guy. :)
The writing is easy to follow, and the world building was easy. Because it's present time, normal days, without something special. Because the demons live in our world. There's nothing special about that, except that they have powers we don't, and it was interesting to see how the public reacted to their presence. The plot flowed well, and had me wanting to know what was going to happen. Overall it's an enjoyable story and I look forward to seeing what the future holds for Serafina and her friends. 4 DEMON PAWS.
Serafina felt different her whole life. She always had issues, I mean her mom committed suicide when she was 10 and she found her body. She been caring for her sick dad for a long time now, and then tragedy strikes him. Then she finds out she's been told lies, to protect her. She doesn't take this well, she also has a temper and definitely needs to learn to listen, because her rash temper tantrums got people killed. But hindsight and all that. I like that she's regretful when she learns her actions caused bad things, and that she wants to try to make up for it with the right thing. I also loved that she was willing to risk her life for those she loved, like her best friend Jenna. So when she learns the detective on the case is a demon and he's working for demons who want her either dead or in a powerful position, she's in a pickle. :) The whole story revolves around her. A part of me liked her, and another part of me wanted to slap her, cuz I just wanted her to realize that at almost 30, you should know better than to throw a tantrum when someone is trying to tell you something that will help you. Vera, Damon, even her dad. She was a little to self involved when people were around her, and then yet, she's selfless when she does things, like almost dying for her friend, and going up against big bad demons. :) So, I'm a little complicated with how I feel about her. LOL
Damon is awesome. He's sweet, and I like that he wanted to be better, not just the evil that a demon is. He uses his power to try to help humanity instead of just killing people for evil reasons. I liked that he was also willing to risk it all for Serafina. He seriously could have died a bunch of times. And her best friends, Jenna who I liked alot, and Alison, who is just weird. And crazy. And not the happy kind. Jenna's a great friend to Serafina, even when she didn't deserve it. And Lorenzo, well, I hope to learn more about him in the second book. Being the demon head honcho, I have a feeling he's going to have a lot of screen time in book two, more than in this book. He's an interesting character, regardless if he's not a good guy. :)
The writing is easy to follow, and the world building was easy. Because it's present time, normal days, without something special. Because the demons live in our world. There's nothing special about that, except that they have powers we don't, and it was interesting to see how the public reacted to their presence. The plot flowed well, and had me wanting to know what was going to happen. Overall it's an enjoyable story and I look forward to seeing what the future holds for Serafina and her friends. 4 DEMON PAWS.
December 11, 2014
***Disclaimer: I received a free copy in exchange for a review.***
What does evil mean to me?
That's the question Serafina constantly asks herself as she struggles with coming to terms with her literal inner demon. In a world where demons and humans live and work side by side this is also the central theme of the book and there's a lot of ground to cover with this surprisingly weighty premise. If you could choose to become something more than human yet purely evil, what would it take for you to embrace it? Alienation and disillusionment, certainly, but what could make you sacrifice your humanity, your immortal soul, knowing what fate ultimately awaited you?
Speaking with a true demon, Damon- who doubles as the token love interest- gives Serafina some thoughtful insight to the nature of Evil, but then you immediately wonder why she didn't canvass any of her other paranormal associates for answers.
But since the story is about Serafina's coming to terms with a decision she's already made, the worldbuilding suffers as other subjects are barely touched upon. Such as Lorenzo's true nature, which is never discussed and remains cloudy- how's he the leader of demons yet not a demon himself? How'd he become what he is? Who's in charge of Hell? And where does Heaven and its denizens fit into all of this? Wouldn't the very real existence of demons serve to strengthen the world's religions and philosophies? Hopefully this series won't devolve into stereotypical PNR/UF- all the benefits, none of the drawbacks- and there'll be answers as it develops.
Though the title gives away the story and it veers off into flights of MarySue Chosen One, more than a few cliches and a rather anti-climatic ending, it's an interesting and somewhat intriguing read that leaves you curious as to what's to come.
What does evil mean to me?
That's the question Serafina constantly asks herself as she struggles with coming to terms with her literal inner demon. In a world where demons and humans live and work side by side this is also the central theme of the book and there's a lot of ground to cover with this surprisingly weighty premise. If you could choose to become something more than human yet purely evil, what would it take for you to embrace it? Alienation and disillusionment, certainly, but what could make you sacrifice your humanity, your immortal soul, knowing what fate ultimately awaited you?
Speaking with a true demon, Damon- who doubles as the token love interest- gives Serafina some thoughtful insight to the nature of Evil, but then you immediately wonder why she didn't canvass any of her other paranormal associates for answers.
But since the story is about Serafina's coming to terms with a decision she's already made, the worldbuilding suffers as other subjects are barely touched upon. Such as Lorenzo's true nature, which is never discussed and remains cloudy- how's he the leader of demons yet not a demon himself? How'd he become what he is? Who's in charge of Hell? And where does Heaven and its denizens fit into all of this? Wouldn't the very real existence of demons serve to strengthen the world's religions and philosophies? Hopefully this series won't devolve into stereotypical PNR/UF- all the benefits, none of the drawbacks- and there'll be answers as it develops.
Though the title gives away the story and it veers off into flights of MarySue Chosen One, more than a few cliches and a rather anti-climatic ending, it's an interesting and somewhat intriguing read that leaves you curious as to what's to come.
December 12, 2014
Choosing Evil was pretty interesting. It had a different take on the potential for one to become a demon. In Choosing Evil, Demons live side by side with humans suppressing their more sinister and violent demonic traits. In this story, we follow Seraphina. She is a troubled young lady who is low on family but has some pretty loyal friends, mostly. Her 30th birthday is fast approaching and she finds out something a week before her birthday that could completely change her whole life, or at least her perception of her life.
Serafina is a woman with a hell of a struggle. It’s not just one struggle she’s dealing with, but several. She found her mother dead from suicide at age 10. She has to choose the right path and make a life changing decision with little to no help. Serafina also meets a guy. A hot guy. A hot demon guy.The title gives some insight into the story itself and Serafina's life choices.
Choosing Evil isn’t a bad book. It’s nicely written, the characters are interesting, the basic story line was cool. The reason I’m only giving it 3.5 stars is because, for me, it felt like it was just dragging along. To me, it was a very slow read. I’m not a slow read kind of person. I have to have fast paced and action.
I would recommend Choosing Evil who is looking for a slower paced book with unique ideas that focuses on demonic and human relations.
I received a review copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. The receipt of this book does not alter my opinion one way or another, nor does it guarantee a favorable review.
Serafina is a woman with a hell of a struggle. It’s not just one struggle she’s dealing with, but several. She found her mother dead from suicide at age 10. She has to choose the right path and make a life changing decision with little to no help. Serafina also meets a guy. A hot guy. A hot demon guy.The title gives some insight into the story itself and Serafina's life choices.
Choosing Evil isn’t a bad book. It’s nicely written, the characters are interesting, the basic story line was cool. The reason I’m only giving it 3.5 stars is because, for me, it felt like it was just dragging along. To me, it was a very slow read. I’m not a slow read kind of person. I have to have fast paced and action.
I would recommend Choosing Evil who is looking for a slower paced book with unique ideas that focuses on demonic and human relations.
I received a review copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. The receipt of this book does not alter my opinion one way or another, nor does it guarantee a favorable review.
December 9, 2014
Independent Reviewer for Paranormal Romance and Authors that Rock.
Serafina lives in a time where demons coexist with humans on earth. Her father is very ill and dying of cancer. She is not aware that he stopped his medication except for the pain meds. Her mother killed herself when she was a little girl and she found the body. Serafina's father ends up dying by accidently falling. Damon a demon is the detective on the case. She had meet Damon earlier that morning on her way to work. Damon is not there by chance though. Serafina is not aware that she is part human and part demon and that she needs to choose on her thirtieth birthday what she wants to be. Damon is there to persuade her to choose evil. There are others though that will stop at nothing to keep her from becoming a demon.
This was a pretty good book. I would have liked to see more of a relationship build between Damon and Serafina in this book but I suppose that will be in book two. I also would have liked to know what kind of powers the demons actually hold. Kristina Rienzi could have worked in more back round info into the story about the demons. I found the idea of the demons interesting but the story feel a little short on what kind of powers they have. I liked that there was a little bit of a mystery into who was causing the deaths. She kept the story moving along and the characters were good. I'm interested in reading the second book to see how the story unfolds.
I would recommend this book to someone who enjoys paranormal books.
Serafina lives in a time where demons coexist with humans on earth. Her father is very ill and dying of cancer. She is not aware that he stopped his medication except for the pain meds. Her mother killed herself when she was a little girl and she found the body. Serafina's father ends up dying by accidently falling. Damon a demon is the detective on the case. She had meet Damon earlier that morning on her way to work. Damon is not there by chance though. Serafina is not aware that she is part human and part demon and that she needs to choose on her thirtieth birthday what she wants to be. Damon is there to persuade her to choose evil. There are others though that will stop at nothing to keep her from becoming a demon.
This was a pretty good book. I would have liked to see more of a relationship build between Damon and Serafina in this book but I suppose that will be in book two. I also would have liked to know what kind of powers the demons actually hold. Kristina Rienzi could have worked in more back round info into the story about the demons. I found the idea of the demons interesting but the story feel a little short on what kind of powers they have. I liked that there was a little bit of a mystery into who was causing the deaths. She kept the story moving along and the characters were good. I'm interested in reading the second book to see how the story unfolds.
I would recommend this book to someone who enjoys paranormal books.
December 20, 2018
Actual Rating:
1.5/5 stars
DNF @ 68%
(known) Trigger/Content warnings for the novel*:
--- terminal illness/cancer
--- suicide
--- panic attacks
--- PTSD
--- anorexia “joke”
--- gore
--- ableism
(known) Representation in the novel*:
--- N/A
*(Since I DNF’d, I don’t really know all of the possible trigger/content warnings or representation)
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Serafino Murano’s world gets turned upside down after her father dies. However, it’s shook even more when she meets demon Damon Serpe and soon learns that her father isn’t really her father at all. In fact, her biological father was a demon himself, and she must choose whether or not she becomes a demon, too, before time runs out.
Before I begin, I do want to note: this review is NOT spoiler-free. Pretty much the entirety of this review has spoilers. Just so you all know.
Oh boy. This book. So, when I read the synopsis on Goodreads, I was pretty excited. Demons are always pretty cool to read about, even though I already know going in that the protagonist and the love interest were going to delve into insta-love territory. However, was able to ignore that in favor of seeing some cool kick-ass demons.
Well, guess what, I wasted my time.
As you can see above, I DNF’d Choosing Evil at 68% (I can’t get an exact page number because my app doesn’t like using actual page numbers for some reason; I use the app for Windows, if anyone is wondering). I was almost three quarters of the way through the novel, and I could barely stand it. “But Kaitlyn, what didn’t you like about this book?” Thank you for asking, random blip of dialogue. The answer? Pretty much everything.
Let’s start with the characters: they were bland as can be. Serafina had no personality outside of the little bit of grief she showed when her father died or the anger that was apparently “always” within her. So when her friends said she was “too nice and caring” to become a demon, I laughed out loud. I simply couldn’t believe that because the reader was never shown that side of her.
Going on to the non-human characters… I could not stand Alison. The reader understands: all she can think about is killing people and causing mayhem. They aren’t able to forge it when it’s all she thinks about whenever the novel is from her perspective. And this might have changed if I read through the whole book, but I felt liker her perspective wasn’t need in the novel at all? Or, at the very least, it could have been done differently. Having her perspective as she walked through sending the noose to Seraphina took away a lot of the potential mystery and thriller.
And Damon? I thought he was awkward, but not in a good way. He goes back and forth between being Mr. McAngst and the brooding love interest. There seems to be no in-between, really: he’s either “I hate myself, I hate being demon, blah” or “We’re murderous monsters who have no soul. Fear me.” He’s also the source of most (all? maybe) of the info dumps through the use of dialogue. It’s all in one huge paragraph, too. Also, this is just me being super petty, but can we talk about how his name is literally Demon with an “A”? I keep chuckling every time I think of it.
Now, on to the bigger issues I had with Choosing Evil. One: the use of the word “evil” and the descriptions of demons in general. Or, should I say, the overuse. To put it shortly, it was overkill. Damon was always talking about how “evil” all demons are, and how they don’t feel empathy or love or any of the “positive” emotions that humans do because that’s just how “evil” they are. Oh, and remember, all demons are selfish and out to get humans or are otherwise always fighting those urges because “that’s just the way they’re born” Yes, folks, we have biological essentialism to blame for the reason all demons are selfish douchebags. Sorry, I’m just not a fan of the “that’s just the way they are” argument. It really grinds my gears, even if it is about a supernatural creatures.
Another thing I wasn’t a big fan of: the destiny/fate trope being implemented. I’ll admit, this is a personal issue. I don’t like this particular trope most of the time, especially when there seems to be no reason for it. Serafina is told that becoming a demon is her destiny by her mother, Damon, and, eventually, herself. But the reader is never given a reason as to why it’s her destiny. Just for funsies, I suppose? It was another thing that was overdone, too: it was as if it was being repeated every other page at one point. Definitely not my cup of tea.
And probably the biggest thing that…didn’t exactly make me angry or annoyed, exactly, but more exasperated. And that’s the issue with Serafina’s biological father. So, the father who dies early in the novel isn’t Serafina’s biological father. Instead, he was a human, while her biological father was a demon. Which, ya know what, that’s fine. That’s cool, I like that. But, well. Lemme tell you, when I read that not only was her biological father the supreme demon overlord of all demons, but that he was also a ~special, extra strong~ demon, and that Serafina also had the potential to become a ~special, extra strong~ demon? I noped out of that Kindle app so fast. I also laughed because c’mon, why do we always have to have the extremes for everything? Her dad is the demon overlord? Cool, whatever, I can get behind that. He’s also a ~special~ demon that turned into a sort-of terrorist because the mother of his daughter wouldn’t let him see her? Nope, sorry, not for me.
If there was only on or two things from this list, I’d probably be able to finish it. But all of it? On top of the ableism regarding mental health/illness and psychiatrists? And the anorexia “joke”? #SorryNotSorry, but I’m not having it. Maybe it gets better in the 32% to the end, but I don’t want to slug through it all to see. This is a book I’m glad to DNF.
1.5/5 stars
DNF @ 68%
(known) Trigger/Content warnings for the novel*:
--- terminal illness/cancer
--- suicide
--- panic attacks
--- PTSD
--- anorexia “joke”
--- gore
--- ableism
(known) Representation in the novel*:
--- N/A
*(Since I DNF’d, I don’t really know all of the possible trigger/content warnings or representation)
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Serafino Murano’s world gets turned upside down after her father dies. However, it’s shook even more when she meets demon Damon Serpe and soon learns that her father isn’t really her father at all. In fact, her biological father was a demon himself, and she must choose whether or not she becomes a demon, too, before time runs out.
Before I begin, I do want to note: this review is NOT spoiler-free. Pretty much the entirety of this review has spoilers. Just so you all know.
Oh boy. This book. So, when I read the synopsis on Goodreads, I was pretty excited. Demons are always pretty cool to read about, even though I already know going in that the protagonist and the love interest were going to delve into insta-love territory. However, was able to ignore that in favor of seeing some cool kick-ass demons.
Well, guess what, I wasted my time.
As you can see above, I DNF’d Choosing Evil at 68% (I can’t get an exact page number because my app doesn’t like using actual page numbers for some reason; I use the app for Windows, if anyone is wondering). I was almost three quarters of the way through the novel, and I could barely stand it. “But Kaitlyn, what didn’t you like about this book?” Thank you for asking, random blip of dialogue. The answer? Pretty much everything.
Let’s start with the characters: they were bland as can be. Serafina had no personality outside of the little bit of grief she showed when her father died or the anger that was apparently “always” within her. So when her friends said she was “too nice and caring” to become a demon, I laughed out loud. I simply couldn’t believe that because the reader was never shown that side of her.
Going on to the non-human characters… I could not stand Alison. The reader understands: all she can think about is killing people and causing mayhem. They aren’t able to forge it when it’s all she thinks about whenever the novel is from her perspective. And this might have changed if I read through the whole book, but I felt liker her perspective wasn’t need in the novel at all? Or, at the very least, it could have been done differently. Having her perspective as she walked through sending the noose to Seraphina took away a lot of the potential mystery and thriller.
And Damon? I thought he was awkward, but not in a good way. He goes back and forth between being Mr. McAngst and the brooding love interest. There seems to be no in-between, really: he’s either “I hate myself, I hate being demon, blah” or “We’re murderous monsters who have no soul. Fear me.” He’s also the source of most (all? maybe) of the info dumps through the use of dialogue. It’s all in one huge paragraph, too. Also, this is just me being super petty, but can we talk about how his name is literally Demon with an “A”? I keep chuckling every time I think of it.
Now, on to the bigger issues I had with Choosing Evil. One: the use of the word “evil” and the descriptions of demons in general. Or, should I say, the overuse. To put it shortly, it was overkill. Damon was always talking about how “evil” all demons are, and how they don’t feel empathy or love or any of the “positive” emotions that humans do because that’s just how “evil” they are. Oh, and remember, all demons are selfish and out to get humans or are otherwise always fighting those urges because “that’s just the way they’re born” Yes, folks, we have biological essentialism to blame for the reason all demons are selfish douchebags. Sorry, I’m just not a fan of the “that’s just the way they are” argument. It really grinds my gears, even if it is about a supernatural creatures.
Another thing I wasn’t a big fan of: the destiny/fate trope being implemented. I’ll admit, this is a personal issue. I don’t like this particular trope most of the time, especially when there seems to be no reason for it. Serafina is told that becoming a demon is her destiny by her mother, Damon, and, eventually, herself. But the reader is never given a reason as to why it’s her destiny. Just for funsies, I suppose? It was another thing that was overdone, too: it was as if it was being repeated every other page at one point. Definitely not my cup of tea.
And probably the biggest thing that…didn’t exactly make me angry or annoyed, exactly, but more exasperated. And that’s the issue with Serafina’s biological father. So, the father who dies early in the novel isn’t Serafina’s biological father. Instead, he was a human, while her biological father was a demon. Which, ya know what, that’s fine. That’s cool, I like that. But, well. Lemme tell you, when I read that not only was her biological father the supreme demon overlord of all demons, but that he was also a ~special, extra strong~ demon, and that Serafina also had the potential to become a ~special, extra strong~ demon? I noped out of that Kindle app so fast. I also laughed because c’mon, why do we always have to have the extremes for everything? Her dad is the demon overlord? Cool, whatever, I can get behind that. He’s also a ~special~ demon that turned into a sort-of terrorist because the mother of his daughter wouldn’t let him see her? Nope, sorry, not for me.
If there was only on or two things from this list, I’d probably be able to finish it. But all of it? On top of the ableism regarding mental health/illness and psychiatrists? And the anorexia “joke”? #SorryNotSorry, but I’m not having it. Maybe it gets better in the 32% to the end, but I don’t want to slug through it all to see. This is a book I’m glad to DNF.
June 18, 2015
This book started off really slow for me. It wasn't until over 100 pages in that I felt it became interesting. Serafina is half demon and half human but she does not know the demon part. She finds out and gets to choose if she will remain human or become a full demon. I felt like she didn't think too long about the decision. I mean she is condemning herself and she was just 'that sounds cool.' So I had a few issues with how things played out but once I was over the slow beginning I was very interested in how the book would end.
November 29, 2014
I loved this book! Read it in just a few days. I also love trilogy's so very much looking forward to the next book in the series to come out. I highly recommend you download it to your kindle now. You will be glad you did!!
November 29, 2014
I absolutely LOVED this book! The author did a fantastic job of bringing the characters to life. I found all of the characters to be relatable - all of us knows someone in our lives like them. I can't wait for the next book to come out!
November 29, 2014
A great original story the likes of which have not been done before. A fun read from a first time author. It's quite an achievement. Original, enchanting, fun, and thrilling. I cannot wait for the sequel to come out!
December 13, 2014
Initial misgivings generated by the premise and title were quickly put to ease as the story unfolded. The author cleverly uses a controversial subject in a way that was interesting to the story line and respectfully handled.
Great read! Interesting characters, looking forward to book 2!!
Great read! Interesting characters, looking forward to book 2!!
November 26, 2014
Loved it!
December 11, 2014
Great book. Well paced, interesting story that keeps you page turning from front to back. Must read! Looking forward to books two and three of the series.
February 1, 2019
One word - SEDUCTIVE.
One of the best things I loved about ‘Choosing Evil’ was the tone. I loved how you could feel a dark cloud hanging over Seraphina, but just at the edge - the sun could break through the clouds at any moment. The imagery of hope for the future her decision would create left you wanting to read more just for her sake of knowing what happens to her. This book was full of mystery and a beautiful slow burn romance. When I read books I often connect them to film, so for me this felt like a Lifetime film but with demons. (Not a bad thing.) I rooted for Seraphina and I ached for the tragedies she had been dealt, but I loved her resilience in the face of it. Her strength and self-awareness was what gave her character such depth.
Rienzi’s use of language was so vivid and visceral to the world building and characters of this book. You could feel the tension between demons and humans and the environment created from living side by side in a modern setting with fear, distrust, and even hate. The fact that this distrust was based from Satan’s fall and the fallen angels made for a believable origin story and how these two factions govern themselves in this world together and apart.
What ‘Choosing Evil’ does a beautiful job of is drawing on the parallels between good and evil. A demon could love and a human could teeter on the edge of what would be considered true darkness. Though Serafina and Damon’s relationship wasn’t the sole focus of the book, you got to see who they were as individuals equal parts together and alone. Damon, though a demon had the most humanity choosing to channel his darkness into helping humans as a cop, getting rid of the bad guys in the world, and his want to be what is considered good made him all the more commendable and trustworthy. And his love for Seraphina – for a demon not capable of love he sure LOVED her.
It’s a slippery slope the temptation in this story whether to be really good or very bad. That’s what makes it so good. Seraphina’s aforementioned rage was a good supernatural device to this effect creating momentum and intrigue into the main mystery of the story and the following books. The ending definitely left me wanting for more and the outcome of Seraphina’s journey and her love story with Damon in a supernatural world. I recommend others go along for the ride as well.
One of the best things I loved about ‘Choosing Evil’ was the tone. I loved how you could feel a dark cloud hanging over Seraphina, but just at the edge - the sun could break through the clouds at any moment. The imagery of hope for the future her decision would create left you wanting to read more just for her sake of knowing what happens to her. This book was full of mystery and a beautiful slow burn romance. When I read books I often connect them to film, so for me this felt like a Lifetime film but with demons. (Not a bad thing.) I rooted for Seraphina and I ached for the tragedies she had been dealt, but I loved her resilience in the face of it. Her strength and self-awareness was what gave her character such depth.
Rienzi’s use of language was so vivid and visceral to the world building and characters of this book. You could feel the tension between demons and humans and the environment created from living side by side in a modern setting with fear, distrust, and even hate. The fact that this distrust was based from Satan’s fall and the fallen angels made for a believable origin story and how these two factions govern themselves in this world together and apart.
What ‘Choosing Evil’ does a beautiful job of is drawing on the parallels between good and evil. A demon could love and a human could teeter on the edge of what would be considered true darkness. Though Serafina and Damon’s relationship wasn’t the sole focus of the book, you got to see who they were as individuals equal parts together and alone. Damon, though a demon had the most humanity choosing to channel his darkness into helping humans as a cop, getting rid of the bad guys in the world, and his want to be what is considered good made him all the more commendable and trustworthy. And his love for Seraphina – for a demon not capable of love he sure LOVED her.
It’s a slippery slope the temptation in this story whether to be really good or very bad. That’s what makes it so good. Seraphina’s aforementioned rage was a good supernatural device to this effect creating momentum and intrigue into the main mystery of the story and the following books. The ending definitely left me wanting for more and the outcome of Seraphina’s journey and her love story with Damon in a supernatural world. I recommend others go along for the ride as well.
February 15, 2021
I received a copy of this book for a fair and honest review. While I was setting up this review I found out this was her debut novel that is amazing. Once I started to read this book I could not put it down. It was a world that I seemed to fall right into and became lost in the best way possible. The characters jumped right off the page and pulled you along on their journey in the the dark and twisted world that they seemed to be fighting against. Serafina fought against the darkness inside for so long and she makes several discoveries in that regards along the way. She meets Damon and they are more then forbidden, but that does not see to slow her down to much. This made my heart rate go up as I read the words there on the page. It was definitely worth the read. I enjoyed that the characters were put at the edge of their comfort zone and pushed the limits.
October 5, 2017
CHOOSING EVIL BY KRISTINA RIENZI Was a great read. Face paced. A definite page turner. Damon and Serafina absolutely great characters. Reading this book took me back to earlier days of relaxing with an Anne Rice book except with demons.
June 14, 2017
I loved it! I honestly don't know what to say other than the fact that I had difficulty putting it down, it was such a great read.
August 25, 2017
I loved this book! I didn't want to put it down! Highly recommend 😊
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews