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Charm City Darkness #1
Stoned in Charm City
"No Good Deed Goes Undamned"
Forty dollars. Two crisp twenties. All that stands between Assumpta Mary Margaret O’Connor and homelessness.
For the price of forty dollars, she helps archeologist Greg LaSpina find something he’s lost–and causes all Hell to break loose.
Literally.
With demons tormenting their every step, Assumpta and Greg become both hunted and hunter in their search for a way to send the demons back to Hell. One careless mistake could cost them their lives.
Wrestling with her faith, Assumpta considers an offer made by one very sexy demon: sleep with him, and learn how to rid the world of the escaped evil.
But the offer comes with a steep price: her immortal soul.
Forty dollars. Two crisp twenties. All that stands between Assumpta Mary Margaret O’Connor and homelessness.
For the price of forty dollars, she helps archeologist Greg LaSpina find something he’s lost–and causes all Hell to break loose.
Literally.
With demons tormenting their every step, Assumpta and Greg become both hunted and hunter in their search for a way to send the demons back to Hell. One careless mistake could cost them their lives.
Wrestling with her faith, Assumpta considers an offer made by one very sexy demon: sleep with him, and learn how to rid the world of the escaped evil.
But the offer comes with a steep price: her immortal soul.
- GenresUrban FantasyParanormal
294 pages, Paperback
First published May 1, 2014
4 people are currently reading
311 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
October 2, 2014
I recieved this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I've never read something that I could describe as Christian horror-erotica, but this book is exactly that.
Assumpta is a young woman who's out on her luck; she's a woman of deep, Catholic faith, but one with special magical abilities. Assumpta is literally paying her father back for everything he bought her from her birth (the hospital bill) through to her eighteenth birthday when she moves out. This is, quite simply, absurd characterization and not an organic plot point at all. Money problems? Sure, but there are more believable ways to give a character financial problems. That's roughly the extent of Assumpta's character: broken, magical, and religious. She gets mixed up with Greg, a man who's cursed with a demon by an ancient artifact. Unfortunately, Greg and Assumpta have no chemistry. This is a problem with the character's throughout the novel. The closest a relationship in this novel gets to a real relationship is the one between Father Tony and Assumpta.
The stone demons start out as a creepy mystery; they scuttle up and down Assumpta's body, and blessed items burn her. When Assumpta starts to turn to stone, I felt like I should've been invested in her, but by then, the demon plot went in a strange direction--and not good strange. There are numerous long scenes of demonic sexual assault, and erotica just isn't my thing. It's not that I'm a prude, it's just that the scenes are neither titilating nor horrific.
The final nail for me was the major plot point where Assumpta becomes more desirable to the demons because she's been baptized. She spends a lot of time wringing her hands about Greg not being baptized, and like the shallow characters, the argument against atheism is equally paltry. To read this book, you do honestly have to believe in heaven and hell, or Assumpta's worry about Greg going to hell isn't going to mean much to you. I'm not opposed to characters who are Christian's, but this book isn't clever or thoughtful enough to pull off nuanced theological discussions.
I've never read something that I could describe as Christian horror-erotica, but this book is exactly that.
Assumpta is a young woman who's out on her luck; she's a woman of deep, Catholic faith, but one with special magical abilities. Assumpta is literally paying her father back for everything he bought her from her birth (the hospital bill) through to her eighteenth birthday when she moves out. This is, quite simply, absurd characterization and not an organic plot point at all. Money problems? Sure, but there are more believable ways to give a character financial problems. That's roughly the extent of Assumpta's character: broken, magical, and religious. She gets mixed up with Greg, a man who's cursed with a demon by an ancient artifact. Unfortunately, Greg and Assumpta have no chemistry. This is a problem with the character's throughout the novel. The closest a relationship in this novel gets to a real relationship is the one between Father Tony and Assumpta.
The stone demons start out as a creepy mystery; they scuttle up and down Assumpta's body, and blessed items burn her. When Assumpta starts to turn to stone, I felt like I should've been invested in her, but by then, the demon plot went in a strange direction--and not good strange. There are numerous long scenes of demonic sexual assault, and erotica just isn't my thing. It's not that I'm a prude, it's just that the scenes are neither titilating nor horrific.
The final nail for me was the major plot point where Assumpta becomes more desirable to the demons because she's been baptized. She spends a lot of time wringing her hands about Greg not being baptized, and like the shallow characters, the argument against atheism is equally paltry. To read this book, you do honestly have to believe in heaven and hell, or Assumpta's worry about Greg going to hell isn't going to mean much to you. I'm not opposed to characters who are Christian's, but this book isn't clever or thoughtful enough to pull off nuanced theological discussions.
November 8, 2014
When all hell literally breaks loose, Assumpta considers sleeping with one very sexy demon to learn how to rid the world of the escaped evil, but the offer comes with a steep price…her immortal soul in this riveting urban fantasy.
This steady to fast paced plot keeps readers shivering in anticipation with lots of suspense and excitement. The author paints the story with well written scenes and details that inspire vivid images and capture the imagination while the well orchestrated suspense and excitement draw the reader deeper into the story and along with the strong compelling characters ensure that the reader can’t stop reading.
There are some overtures of romance in the story and there are some very hot and heavy sexual situations as well as a very steamy sex scene but the story of course focuses more on Assumpta and Greg fighting with the demons and trying to figure out how to stop them than romance. The reader can’t help but get caught up in their story as the danger escalates not only physically but also to their soul. The story has lot of religious overtones and beliefs in the conflict, of course that makes sense since they are dealing with demons and Assumpta is Catholic and her using her beliefs and faith is definitely needed.
The author has created a fascinating dark world by bringing demons into everyday life in a way that is possible and believable with lots of chills and thrills and some surprises along the way. I was completely caught up in the story and even though there were a couple of things I would have liked a little more clarification on, the story was intriguing and entertaining and I will certainly have to keep this series on my TBR list.
This steady to fast paced plot keeps readers shivering in anticipation with lots of suspense and excitement. The author paints the story with well written scenes and details that inspire vivid images and capture the imagination while the well orchestrated suspense and excitement draw the reader deeper into the story and along with the strong compelling characters ensure that the reader can’t stop reading.
There are some overtures of romance in the story and there are some very hot and heavy sexual situations as well as a very steamy sex scene but the story of course focuses more on Assumpta and Greg fighting with the demons and trying to figure out how to stop them than romance. The reader can’t help but get caught up in their story as the danger escalates not only physically but also to their soul. The story has lot of religious overtones and beliefs in the conflict, of course that makes sense since they are dealing with demons and Assumpta is Catholic and her using her beliefs and faith is definitely needed.
The author has created a fascinating dark world by bringing demons into everyday life in a way that is possible and believable with lots of chills and thrills and some surprises along the way. I was completely caught up in the story and even though there were a couple of things I would have liked a little more clarification on, the story was intriguing and entertaining and I will certainly have to keep this series on my TBR list.
June 17, 2014
I received a copy of this story in exchange for a honest review. This story started with a financially struggling young woman who has special abilities. A rich male seeks her talents after he is cursed with an evil entity. The story goes into details about how they get rid of the "demons". Along the way the main character falls in love and gets marked for the devil. Fun and sexy read with a lot of religious subtext.
December 30, 2014
3 1/2 stars
Assumpta is looking for work to pay rent and her father. She breaks a promise to her mother when a man sent by her ex-best friend instants to pay her to read his numbers for his fortune. Assumpta doesn't like what she sees in the results. Greg needs Assumpta to help him by using her specialty of finding things. The item he's lost, or more what was in it, is Pandora's urn he was taking care of from a dig he was on. Greg's touch brings Assumpta head long into his search for the presence that was in Pandora's urn.
Assumpta is in debt - college bills which she didn't get to complete, rent, and her greedy father who's charging her for everything since birth (including birth). Greg is cursed by an ancient jar that housed Pandora's sins. But contacting Assumpta for help, Greg has cursed the Religious strong woman.
This story has a religious tone to it. There isn't a witch craft here or something paranormal. The magic here is based on Religious belief. Assumpta's strong Catholic belief almost gives it a feel of magic of it's own. That belief and the church is what Assumpta uses to save herself and Greg. Now I'm not a big religious person, but with the way it reads in this book it's like any other magic I've read in Urban Fantasy or Fantasy reads. Assumpta has a strong belief and the "magic" works from that belief.
I liked Assumpta when I first met her. Then she started talking to Greg about needing to believe and baptism and such. Seeing Greg as one that's not a believer was a nice balance, and even in the end you see the scales tip in opposite directions. But this first talk with Greg and Assumpta is one that is very common, and hit home a bit with me. Once I got past my initial feelings I realized the Catholic belief Assumpta has is like any magical strong belief for witches or any other Urban Fantasy, that I wasn't being preached too. And on I went with the book, easy enough. Her belief was working to save her and Greg from the "demons" attached to them.
There were a few things that felt vague to me. The beginning was shaky for me - in connections and believably areas. Like I wasn't sure how a demon came to be attached to Assumpta, or why. It's said, yes, but I still felt as something was missing. There was also Assumpta's unknown helper. I didn't realize he was different from her "Rider" minion at first.
I like the ending of the book with Assumpta. This is the first book of the series, setting the stage for the world and the characters. I'm curious to see where the author goes as Assumpta seems different in the end, and one I'm curious to follow and watch grow. And curious about Jak, and see more of him.
Assumpta is looking for work to pay rent and her father. She breaks a promise to her mother when a man sent by her ex-best friend instants to pay her to read his numbers for his fortune. Assumpta doesn't like what she sees in the results. Greg needs Assumpta to help him by using her specialty of finding things. The item he's lost, or more what was in it, is Pandora's urn he was taking care of from a dig he was on. Greg's touch brings Assumpta head long into his search for the presence that was in Pandora's urn.
Assumpta is in debt - college bills which she didn't get to complete, rent, and her greedy father who's charging her for everything since birth (including birth). Greg is cursed by an ancient jar that housed Pandora's sins. But contacting Assumpta for help, Greg has cursed the Religious strong woman.
This story has a religious tone to it. There isn't a witch craft here or something paranormal. The magic here is based on Religious belief. Assumpta's strong Catholic belief almost gives it a feel of magic of it's own. That belief and the church is what Assumpta uses to save herself and Greg. Now I'm not a big religious person, but with the way it reads in this book it's like any other magic I've read in Urban Fantasy or Fantasy reads. Assumpta has a strong belief and the "magic" works from that belief.
I liked Assumpta when I first met her. Then she started talking to Greg about needing to believe and baptism and such. Seeing Greg as one that's not a believer was a nice balance, and even in the end you see the scales tip in opposite directions. But this first talk with Greg and Assumpta is one that is very common, and hit home a bit with me. Once I got past my initial feelings I realized the Catholic belief Assumpta has is like any magical strong belief for witches or any other Urban Fantasy, that I wasn't being preached too. And on I went with the book, easy enough. Her belief was working to save her and Greg from the "demons" attached to them.
There were a few things that felt vague to me. The beginning was shaky for me - in connections and believably areas. Like I wasn't sure how a demon came to be attached to Assumpta, or why. It's said, yes, but I still felt as something was missing. There was also Assumpta's unknown helper. I didn't realize he was different from her "Rider" minion at first.
I like the ending of the book with Assumpta. This is the first book of the series, setting the stage for the world and the characters. I'm curious to see where the author goes as Assumpta seems different in the end, and one I'm curious to follow and watch grow. And curious about Jak, and see more of him.
September 5, 2014
What a rolicking good time this book ended up being. It wasn't a classic romance, more along the lines of an urban fantasy, though there were definitely erotica moments (mmm, Jak) and a potential romance (Greg) for heroine Assumpta (love the name)..
There was much to enjoy about this book. I loved the "minions" as Assumpta comes to call the demons that attach themselves to Greg and her. There was a great hunt for not just one, but two holy relics in and around the church she attends. I really liked the fact that Assumpta wasn't just a Catholic by her name/parentage, but in how she thought and processed the world. It wasn't an add-on for the character, she lived and breathed her beliefs. Yes, she has issues with the Church (most Catholics do) and that's what made her such an incredibly believable character for me.
Greg was fun too, though we never really get inside his head. It was interesting to watch him move from atheistic skeptic scientist to a believer in God (in general). The battle to get Greg baptized was fantastic with the demons trying their best to stop the process.
Lest the above threaten to drive you off, this is 'not' a preachy book. Yes, there is religion woven in and you can't take that out without losing some of the best aspects of this book. This IS a battle against the devil and his minions, good vs. evil. Ms. Harmon never shies away from that fact or tries to play down the angel/demon/good/bad aspects.
So to recap - love the book. It's got great action and true mortal consequences. I liked the ending and how it leads into the next book (which I will eagerly devour when it becomes available). Greg, Assumpta, Father Tom, and Jak were all great characters. Definitely worth your time if you like paranormal stories. 5 gargoyles all the way!
I received this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
There was much to enjoy about this book. I loved the "minions" as Assumpta comes to call the demons that attach themselves to Greg and her. There was a great hunt for not just one, but two holy relics in and around the church she attends. I really liked the fact that Assumpta wasn't just a Catholic by her name/parentage, but in how she thought and processed the world. It wasn't an add-on for the character, she lived and breathed her beliefs. Yes, she has issues with the Church (most Catholics do) and that's what made her such an incredibly believable character for me.
Greg was fun too, though we never really get inside his head. It was interesting to watch him move from atheistic skeptic scientist to a believer in God (in general). The battle to get Greg baptized was fantastic with the demons trying their best to stop the process.
Lest the above threaten to drive you off, this is 'not' a preachy book. Yes, there is religion woven in and you can't take that out without losing some of the best aspects of this book. This IS a battle against the devil and his minions, good vs. evil. Ms. Harmon never shies away from that fact or tries to play down the angel/demon/good/bad aspects.
So to recap - love the book. It's got great action and true mortal consequences. I liked the ending and how it leads into the next book (which I will eagerly devour when it becomes available). Greg, Assumpta, Father Tom, and Jak were all great characters. Definitely worth your time if you like paranormal stories. 5 gargoyles all the way!
I received this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
June 28, 2014
I had the opportunity recently to meet Ms. Harmon at an online launch party for a different book (if you haven't seen these on Facebook, an author wants to make a splash about a new book they have out, and often times will invite other authors to talk about their books), and as a "thank you for coming to the party, I'm going to give away a copy of my book to one lucky person...." yeah, I was that person. And I do feel lucky.
I really enjoyed the book. It's set in Baltimore, near where I'm living, so there's the little thrills of "oh, yeah, I know where that is! It has the feeling of Baltimore--a little gritty, a little rough around the edges, a little blue collar, and quite a bit charming.
There is a strong religious overtone to this book, which isn't surprising, since we have a (mostly) good Catholic girl going up against one of Hell's Demons and his minions. This isn't a 'Save the World" story, which is prevalent in a lot of UF--this is more personal, saving the souls of two (maybe even three) people. Assumpta is Catholic, and although she struggles with some of the tenents of her faith, her Catholicism forms the core of who she is. I think this has been lacking in a lot of books that have dealt with demons lately--either the demons are really just powerful beings who live on a different plane of existence (kind of like Dungeons and Dragons), or the religious implications have been swept aside. So, it's kind of nice reading a book with a Demon from Hell who wants Your Soul--now what are you going to do about it?
But, don't worry--this isn't a preachy book, or a religious tract wrapped up in a UF wrapper. It's a fun story....I can't wait for Book Two!
I really enjoyed the book. It's set in Baltimore, near where I'm living, so there's the little thrills of "oh, yeah, I know where that is! It has the feeling of Baltimore--a little gritty, a little rough around the edges, a little blue collar, and quite a bit charming.
There is a strong religious overtone to this book, which isn't surprising, since we have a (mostly) good Catholic girl going up against one of Hell's Demons and his minions. This isn't a 'Save the World" story, which is prevalent in a lot of UF--this is more personal, saving the souls of two (maybe even three) people. Assumpta is Catholic, and although she struggles with some of the tenents of her faith, her Catholicism forms the core of who she is. I think this has been lacking in a lot of books that have dealt with demons lately--either the demons are really just powerful beings who live on a different plane of existence (kind of like Dungeons and Dragons), or the religious implications have been swept aside. So, it's kind of nice reading a book with a Demon from Hell who wants Your Soul--now what are you going to do about it?
But, don't worry--this isn't a preachy book, or a religious tract wrapped up in a UF wrapper. It's a fun story....I can't wait for Book Two!
July 28, 2016
**This book was provided by the author/publisher to Nerd Girl in exchange for an honest review**
Love this book! The author articulates a world so many can relate to. With me personally struggling with my own religion/spirituality it is difficult for me to read books with a religious byline and stay interested. This is not the case with this book. Kelly has beautifully written a good vs evil storyline. She touches base with the religious faith, but does not push the envelope with it. Meaning even if you are of a different faith you would still love this book. You wouldn't feel as if it were pushed on you or offended in any way. I absolutely love how she executed this whole storyline.
In the first installment to this series we follow Assumpta (love the name btw) and Greg. Assumpta is a woman of faith and independence. Greg is a wealthy man cursed by an ancient artifact to have a demon attached to him. In this story we follow these two on a roller coaster ride. The battle between good and evil. The fight to cleanse the soul and fight the demons. Literally going after the devil and his "minions" Between the captivating story and the sexy love scenes... This book is most certainly and exciting read!
I loved the simplicity and realism of this book. The plot itself was a unique and exhilarating tale. The characters are well written and easy to relate to. You will find yourself hanging on to each page. I would certainly recommend this book and I can not wait to read the next installment in the series.
Love this book! The author articulates a world so many can relate to. With me personally struggling with my own religion/spirituality it is difficult for me to read books with a religious byline and stay interested. This is not the case with this book. Kelly has beautifully written a good vs evil storyline. She touches base with the religious faith, but does not push the envelope with it. Meaning even if you are of a different faith you would still love this book. You wouldn't feel as if it were pushed on you or offended in any way. I absolutely love how she executed this whole storyline.
In the first installment to this series we follow Assumpta (love the name btw) and Greg. Assumpta is a woman of faith and independence. Greg is a wealthy man cursed by an ancient artifact to have a demon attached to him. In this story we follow these two on a roller coaster ride. The battle between good and evil. The fight to cleanse the soul and fight the demons. Literally going after the devil and his "minions" Between the captivating story and the sexy love scenes... This book is most certainly and exciting read!
I loved the simplicity and realism of this book. The plot itself was a unique and exhilarating tale. The characters are well written and easy to relate to. You will find yourself hanging on to each page. I would certainly recommend this book and I can not wait to read the next installment in the series.
July 15, 2016
Kelly Harmon is an amazing author. This story covers good and evil in a way I haven't read before. She covers the Catholic Faith to the fullest and it isn't overbearing at all. You don't feel like you are at Mass. You feel like you are a part of the Church. Very, very well done!
Assumpta has special gifts and Greg is hoping her gifts can help him rid his hitchhiker. Because of touching Greg. Assumpta has one too. What are they??? Assumpta turns to her spiritual mentor, Father Tony for help. Demons?? Are they demons??? Assumpta has to figure that out and figure out how to get rid of it. This will involve the Catholic Church and Baptism or will it involve old relics??? Either way Assumpta has a mystery on her hands.
I found myself very involved with the story. I felt like a part of it and like I was there to help in some way. I found myself yelling in my head what Father Tony was saying to Greg and Assumpta during the creature infested Baptism. As Father Tony talked louder, so did I in my head. I found myself saying Amen when needed and it wasn't written in the book. I found myself hating Assumpta's Father for the bastard he was and wondered how her Mother stayed with him? I was so. oh so sucked in to this story.
I couldn't put the book down. It was exciting, hot and heavy sex and a mystery to boot. I loved the story and can't wait to read more of Kelly's work.
Assumpta has special gifts and Greg is hoping her gifts can help him rid his hitchhiker. Because of touching Greg. Assumpta has one too. What are they??? Assumpta turns to her spiritual mentor, Father Tony for help. Demons?? Are they demons??? Assumpta has to figure that out and figure out how to get rid of it. This will involve the Catholic Church and Baptism or will it involve old relics??? Either way Assumpta has a mystery on her hands.
I found myself very involved with the story. I felt like a part of it and like I was there to help in some way. I found myself yelling in my head what Father Tony was saying to Greg and Assumpta during the creature infested Baptism. As Father Tony talked louder, so did I in my head. I found myself saying Amen when needed and it wasn't written in the book. I found myself hating Assumpta's Father for the bastard he was and wondered how her Mother stayed with him? I was so. oh so sucked in to this story.
I couldn't put the book down. It was exciting, hot and heavy sex and a mystery to boot. I loved the story and can't wait to read more of Kelly's work.
November 22, 2015
I loved this story and I will definitely be reading book two! When hell comes out, literally it breaks loose, Assumpta considers sleeping with another demon to rid the world of all those escaped. But you see, this price is not just sex, it would be her soul at risk for the saving. I won't lie, that demon is something sexy. LOL The story is fast paced and definitely kept me glued to the pages trying to figure out how to fix things. Lots of suspense and anticipation. Most of the story is Greg and Assumpta fighting the demons, and though there's a kinda romance here, it's complicated to explain without ruining some big plot things. Assumpta needs to get those demons back where they belong. There's an intense feeling of danger and anticipation throughout most of the book. I loved that because I couldn't put this one down. Assumpta uses her Catholic faith to help her deal with the demons. The author created a fantasy world that is dark and gritty with the demons coming into everyone's lives. I seriously can't wait for book two, especially after the ending that had my head spinning. GIMME!! 5 PAWS!!
July 13, 2016
By far one of the best Urban Fantasy books I have read. Each chapter had me on the edge of my seat, waiting with anticipation for what would come next. Assumpta isn't your average girl and proves to be no damsel in distress when Hell breaks loose and tries to kill her. She not only kicks evil ass but gets to ummm.. lets just say play... with a very sexy demon.. or spirit or what ever he is lol. Needless to say, Stoned in Charmed City is, hands down, AMAZING! And I am beyond excited that this is a series because this is one character who you will grow to love and want more of.
July 29, 2016
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Stoned in Charm City by Kelly A Harmon is a wonderful story about a young woman who finds herself and her faith imperiled by evil minions.
Assumpta is a good Catholic good, who also has the gift of finding lost items. When her on-again off-again friend sends Greg to her for help, he unwittingly passes his demon curse to her.
This story moves quickly, and the characters are likable and relatable. This is only the first in the Charm City Series, and I cannot wait for more!
Solid 5-stars.
Stoned in Charm City by Kelly A Harmon is a wonderful story about a young woman who finds herself and her faith imperiled by evil minions.
Assumpta is a good Catholic good, who also has the gift of finding lost items. When her on-again off-again friend sends Greg to her for help, he unwittingly passes his demon curse to her.
This story moves quickly, and the characters are likable and relatable. This is only the first in the Charm City Series, and I cannot wait for more!
Solid 5-stars.
September 17, 2016
An interesting read. A good vs. evil story; demons, angels and through it all, the faith (Catholicism in this story) to make the right decisions.
So questions:
Jak. Which side?
Was Father Tony possessed or did I miss something?
Demon marked?
What happened to the relics?
Will Assumpta and Greg get together or will they just be friends?
I don't get the "clay" part of the story. What, why and how?
The story kept my interest and I enjoyed the catholic elements in the story. I will have to continue the story to find out how it is all going to play out.
So questions:
Jak. Which side?
Was Father Tony possessed or did I miss something?
Demon marked?
What happened to the relics?
Will Assumpta and Greg get together or will they just be friends?
I don't get the "clay" part of the story. What, why and how?
The story kept my interest and I enjoyed the catholic elements in the story. I will have to continue the story to find out how it is all going to play out.
June 9, 2014
2 1/2 stars. Main character was a little bit to self righteous for my liking.
October 11, 2014
Entirely too religious.
Provided by Netgalley for an honest review.
Provided by Netgalley for an honest review.
November 26, 2014
Exciting scenes. Interesting plot. "Charming" heroine.
May 17, 2016
Enjoyable, quick read. Going to have to get the follow-on books.
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews