Dark Awakened

The Devil's Assistant #2

by H.D. Smith

Last spring Claire’s seemingly normal—if not totally screwed up—life was tossed on its head. For five years she’d been one of the damned—a human that knows the truth about the otherworldly among us. She’d worked for The Boss—the Demon King himself—as his administrative assistant, handling everything from early retirements, to Maintenance’s incessant requests for dental.

No one gets dental.

Then she walked into Purgatory—totally not her fault—went back in time, and awakened powers she never knew existed. Now Claire has a prophecy hanging over her head, a diamond ring hidden in her sock drawer, and the blood of a long dead royal running through her veins.

And it’s only going to get worse.

Her vow to live free or die takes a serious hit when she’s forced back under The Boss’s protection. Of course, there’s no protection from fate, or the Bounty Hunter sent to deliver her to Purgatory. And as if being “the girl” in the prophecy wasn’t enough, Claire soon discovers there are three other contenders for her role—two of whom want her dead.

Follow more of Claire’s adventures in Dark Awakened, the second installment of the Devil’s Assistant Series, to find out if she’s lucky enough to escape with her life, or if she’s just the first notch on the next contender’s belt.

Genres: Urban Fantasy, Fantasy, Paranormal, Demons, Magic, Paranormal Romance, Dark

294 pages, Kindle Edition

First published December 1, 2014

About the author

HD Smith is a software developer by day and an author of kick-ass Urban Fantasy at night. She grew up in South Carolina, but has called the Sunshine State home since 1997. She has a Masters degree in Computer Science, but her love of writing has really unleashed the creative siren in her soul. For more information, visit HD's website at http://www.hdsmithauthor.com/.

Reviews

[Madison Warner Fairbanks · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dark Awakened by H D Smith
2nd book in the The Devil’s Assistant series. Dark Urban fantasy. Best read as part of the series.
Claire used to work for The Demon King. Now she’s in purgatory fighting to figure out a prophecy and experimenting with her new time travel powers.

Lots of twists, turns and unexpected magic. A quest challenge that Claire hopes to survive.
She is determined but undermined by several.
Dark and compelling. Will she live? Will she escape? If she escapes, will her life be easier?

I liked this book better than the first.

[Ethan Gregory · Rating 5 out of 5]

Full review and more at: http://oneguysguidetogoodreads.blogsp...


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My thoughts:

As some of you may remember, a few months ago I reviewed the first novel in this series, Dark Hope. While I thoroughly enjoyed Dark Hope, I was left with so many questions. I really did not know what direction this series was going to take and didn't exactly know what to think about it. I knew I liked it, but with so many lasting questions, I just didn't know. Of course I jumped at Dark Awakening as soon as HD let me know it was coming, but I was still cautious. I had no idea what to expect. Let me just throw this out there on the table right now: each and every issue I may have had with Dark Hope was COMPLETELY rectified in Dark Awakened. Seriously. I absolutely loved ever second of it.

As I type this I just finished the novel. I don't even know where to begin with these thoughts. HD Smith is a literary genius and has really struck gold with her second installment in her The Devil's Assistant series. This sophomore outing gave me everything I wanted and then some: action, suspense, mystery, and more feels that you can catch with a bucket.

The Characters. If anyone read Dark Hope I have great news for you, there aren't that many new characters. Unfortunately if you have not read Dark Hope you are going to be real confused because the cast of characters is HUGE. Seriously. I'd day there are a good 25 characters between these two novels and they are all extremely important to the plot line. HD Smith doesn't do background characters! If you don't serve a purpose, you aren't there! Claire, as always, is awesome. In Dark Awakened we begin to see a whole new side of her. A year ago Claire served as the Devil's secretary who hated her life and was treated like a dog, now Claire is helping to save the world, literally by protecting hellspawn, taking down Horsemen, dominating a realm, and trying to avoid the craziness of the big Three by all means! Seriously Claire may have become one of my favorite book girlfriends just with this novel. She's incredible strong (both physically and mentally), intelligent, and sarcastic as can be. You can't lose with that equation. String off from Claire we have so many amazing characters. Dark Awakened again features some of my favorite characters such as The Boss and The Quads in the story line. New characters like Thanos and Ronin really helped to add some emotion to this read and I loved it. Seriously, I think this series has some amazing potential because these characters are great! I'd love to see a spin-off or a novella featuring more of the Quads *hint hint HD Smith* LOL

The Plot. What could possibly go awry when the Pagan Queen, the Demon King, and the Druid King are at odds in stopping one of the most powerful beings in history? Everything. That's what. For over 300 pages this story was non stop. Action here, mystery there, exciting here: everything about this one was awesome. I remember commenting that book one was a little slow at times, but this one never slowed down! Seriously anyone who picks this one up and really gets into it like I did will not be able to set it down. And the ending? Definitely not a cliff hanger, but after reading it I know that HD Smith has a clear direction for this series and I cannot wait to see what happens! Also, who are "the candidates"?! Ahh! I must know! Does anyone know when book three comes out!?

The Paranormal Element. From Druids to Demons and all in between, HD Smith really grants us an awesome gift with this series. Magic abound, spells, curses, and dark marks: this novel had paranormal oozing from its' pores. Talking dragons and time time travel? Oh yeah, it has that too. Seriously, I think this novel will appeal to anyone who loves paranormal as much as I do. Also did I mention that Death is a huge character? And he is kind of awesome. You never know who, or what, to expect from this series!

The Feels. HD Smith hit us pretty hard with feels in Dark Hope. Claire's love life takes a drastic turn for the worse and then she gets bombshell after bombshell dropped on her about her true lineage. You can't help but feel bad for her. In Dark Awakened, Claire does a one eighty and really does the Phoenix thing and rises from the ashes! She takes all of her emotions and learns to control them in the most awesome way: with some freaking awesome powers. Channeling all of her feels, Claire becomes a near unstoppable force. But can she control the power within her or with the Harbinger of Doom fall prey to her own strength? On top of all of this Claire gets a love interest! And honestly I think it may have been one of the coolest relationships in the entire book. I cannot wait to see how that particular story line plays out!

I could type all night about how awesome this second installment in The Devil's Assistant series was, but I think rather than spoil anything for you guys, I will leave it at that. What should you take away from this? How about that Dark Awakened is HD Smith's best work yet and a real treat for all paranormal fans! I am granting Dark Awakened a well-deserved near-perfect 5-star review! I don't know of anything I would have liked to have seen done differently. HD Smith really came into her own with her sophomore outing in this series. I cannot wait to see what she has in store for us next in the crazy life of Claire Cooper! Check it out people, seriously: it's that good!
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[Crystal P · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read Book 1 in this series about a year ago as part of a reading challenge. I remembered the basics and this book did a pretty good job of refreshing my memory as I took this book on as part of this year’s reading challenge. This book was a little more straightforward and quest-centered. Though, I don’t think you can really refer to a book that jumps between different realms and times ‘straightforward’ haha. I consider it so because I had a sense of the end goal the entire time. The book has a big cast that adds layers to the story. Claire, however is mostly on her own. I read in one review (maybe several) where Claire wasn’t much liked. I still have a lot of questions about her and would like to know her on a deeper level, but I really like her. Claire is badass, clever and fearless. I really feel like her tombstone should read “Fuck me”.

Also, the narrator is fantastic. I didn’t listen to the first book and thus had built up my own sense of Claire and the narrator’s take on Claire aligns with mine.

[Tiffany Ehrob · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book in the Devil Assistant series. Claire continues exactly where we left off in the first book as the story continued I had more question then answer but by the end of the story almost all your questions get answered. Claire is back and better then every. Claire has started to gain control of her powers and has also gained some new ones along the way. I couldn't stop reading Dark Awakening as it is even better then the first book Dark Hope. I can't wait to see what is in store for us in the next book.

[Amber Todd · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book two of the Devil's Assistant series picks up where Claire left off in book one and the wild ride continues. I like that Claire seemed more confident and less willing to just let the Boss and the siblings determine her fate. There is a lot going on and tons to try to figure out. I suggest reading all four books back to back so that you can keep it all straight.

[Carolyn Short · Rating 5 out of 5]

Even better than the first

A smooth continuation of Dark Hope with just as much action and humor. I can hardly wait to see what Claire does next. If staging a public book burning (LOL) would get more people to read this series, I would give it my best shot!

[Tammy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow - I don't know where to begin with this review. So much goes on that my head is still spinning a bit. I read book 1 last year and was afraid I would not remember enough to be able to follow the story in this book. I remembered the characters fairly well and the author did a great job integrating needed information from the previous book without resorting to an info dump.

This story takes Claire to many different places and more characters are introduced. At many points, this story felt more like high fantasy than urban fantasy to me. I am amazed at the author's ability to come up with such unique scenarios and characters, and to keep them straight in her mind! I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys intricate, well-crafted urban fantasy.

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

A paranormal series that will challenge your mind to work overtime..

I pulled Thanos in for a kiss, surprising him. I wasn’t sure if it was our bond or the fear this might be my last kiss, but I didn’t hold anything back. I let him in. He took full advantage, plundering my mouth as if I were the last woman on Earth, which could have been a result of him being trapped in a desolate wasteland for the last five hundred years—but I decided not to over think it.

Dark Awakened is the second marvelous installment in H.D. Smith’s fascinating The Devil’s Assistant dark urban fantasy series. It picks up right from where Dark Hope, the series’ debut left off. Clare, the series namesake, continues to kick-ass and take names. She’s intelligent with an uber- quick mind, physically and mentally strong, saucy and her sense of humor is, more often than not, a quirky breath of fresh air. I’ve seen it written that this series does not have supporting characters. Indeed, every one of the rather large cast has an important part to play. They are not background; They are each integral to the story.

First of all, let me be clear. This is not a series to read out-of-order. If you attempt to do so, you will be disappointed. Do yourself a favor, start with the first book and enjoy the series as it evolves. You won’t be sorry! Luckily for new readers, the four books which comprise Clare’s arc in the series are all available. Go for it!

Following please find a few of my favorite quotes from Dark Awakened:

“The blue of winter, the brown of spring, the red of summer, and the fall of green. I seek the place of treasures past. I seek the truth of sand and glass. I call to the wind of seasons past. I bring with me the best of summer. I am the one with whom you bask. Deliver me and complete your task.”
---
“I must complete my quest or I will die.”
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“She shoved me against the wall, pulling a knife from her belt and pressing it against my throat. “Who are you?” she hissed.
I winced as the blade drew a line of blood on my flesh. I considered my options. Queen of the Fallen, no. Enemy to your children, no. “I’m Claire, the Devil’s assistant,” I answered, deciding on the simplest choice.”

As she did with the previous book, Lauren Fortgang does a fantastic job with the narration. The voices she selected for the characters sound true and they remain consistent throughout. The emotions and tones she conveys are well done. The end production quality is polished. With the first book, because of the huge amount of new characters, I found it necessary to listen to some parts multiple times just to get it straight in my mind who is who and what was going on when. It would have been handy to have a print copy to refer to with the first book. I did not have that same issue with this installment because much of the previous cast returned, and there are very few new introductions. I’m very glad I elected to listen to this series as Lauren’s performance is a definite plus.

This is a paranormal series that will challenge your mind to work overtime. There’s a bit of romance this go-around, magic, spells, curses, dark marks, dragons, time travel and more. Incredibly, I enjoyed Dark Awakened even more than Dark Hope. The world the author created was just as incredible. The story was just as complex, fast-paced and action-packed, but with many of the characters from Dark Hope returning, there weren’t very many new characters to process this time around. The bottomline is that H.D. Smith is a literary genius. I loved every second of this listen and can’t wait to jump into Dark Forsaken, the next book in this brilliant series!

My full review is published at Reading Between the Wines Book Club. Please check it out there: http://www.readingbetweenthewinesbook...

[AudioBookReviewer · Rating 5 out of 5]

ABR's full Dark Awakened audiobook review and many others can be found at Audiobook Reviewer.

Dark Awakened by HD Smith is the urban fantasy sequel to Dark Hope, part of the Devil’s Assistant series. What an amazing follow up to the first novel! The main character, Claire, was the Devil’s personal assistant in the first novel and somehow escaped from that responsibility, but she constantly tries to maintain her freedom. But fate has other plans for her. With a prophecy and with newly discovered non-human powers, she finds out that somehow she has a role to fill in the future of the realms. But of course, she has to do this while politically battling for her freedom and against the machinations of those more powerful than her. Once again, to save her life she sets out on an impossible quest, while a myriad of obstacles try to stop her.

I enjoyed the first book a lot, and the sequel was also fantastic. As before, HD Smith masterfully released bits and pieces of information that constantly kept me thinking and trying to figure out what was happening. In this novel, Claire’s sarcastic, rebellious attitude is combined with experience which allows her to make smarter choices and it is clear that she is working to get onto equal footing with the big three rulers of the realms, the Devil, Mab, and Harry. All of the characters have so much depth and there are a lot of characters and mostly all seem to be important and have a purpose, which makes the whole novel richer.

The sequel introduced more information in the way of the overall storyline and of course introduced more questions that will easily transition into the next novel. One of the pet peeves that I have with sequels, especially with one as complex as this, is when it is impossible to follow what is happening from one book to the next, but luckily within the first 20-30min, most of the information needed to know what was happening and be invested in the novel was revealed.

As before, Lauren Fortgang did a fantastic job with the narration. All of the characters’ voices were true to their characters and the changes to tone of voice for different situations were well done. The production quality was great. The one issue that I had with the logistics of listening to this novel was that certain details/clues that were constantly referred to throughout the book, were sometimes difficult to remember and it would have been useful to have a hard copy to refer to. It resulted in a little bit of confusion. I recommend this book to anyone who likes urban fantasy with strong central female characters and I’m looking forward to continuing to read this series.

Audiobook provided for for review by the author.

[Melanie Marsh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dark Awakened is the 2nd book in HD Smith’s The Devils Assistant series. I really enjoyed the first book in the series, Dark Hope, and Dark Awakened didn’t disappoint.

In Dark Awakened, we continue to follow Claire along in her crazy life where every time she turns around someone is trying to kill her or manipulate her into doing something for them. There are these crazy prophecies and unfortunately for Claire, they center on her and what she is supposed to do. The majority of the book consists of her doing things for other people just so she can live long enough to fulfill the prophecy! It’s a little convoluted, but not confusingly so.

I really enjoy this author’s writing style. I love the creativity in her worlds and how her characters interact with one another. There are plenty of bad guys (and girls), there are surprisingly few good guys other than Claire, which is frustrating, and Claire never knows exactly who she can trust. The bad guys are all so full of their own agendas that they really couldn’t care less if Claire lives or dies, as long as she takes care of the things they can’t or won’t.

For me, the beginning of the book went a little bit slow, but once I got past the first few chapters, it was like the snowball effect. By the end of the book, I was so involved in the story, I didn’t want to stop reading, and I wanted more! I’m definitely looking forward to the next book in the series and I hope HD Smith is quick with it! I want to know what the deal is with Ronin and what will happen with Thanos. He almost broke my heart just reading about him!

Not that this matters, but I met HD Smith at a book event the same weekend my son was born, actually I met her the day before he arrived! At the time, I had not picked a name for him. I actually picked on the way to the hospital. HD and I never discussed names while we were chatting. I was super excited to get part way into Dark Awakened and discover that one of her characters has the same name as my son, Ronin. Especially considering it’s not a name you hear every day.

I would recommend this whole series to anyone who likes an epic adventure type of story with characters in which the reader can really invest. HD Smith gives us characters that we want to see survive, be happy, or just die already. I know I looked forward to seeing Claire kick some serious ass and after everything she has been through, she deserves a happy ever after!

[Naturalbri (Bri Wignall) · Rating 5 out of 5]

What I Thought:


How could you not love this book, especially if you are a fan of anything with the underworld, paranormal or just a fantasy lover. This book has all of it wrapped up together with a little bow on top, albeit that bow is made of flames, but still.

I loved that this book portrays exactly what I would imagine a real-life (or death) underworld being like. Poor Claire was once just a human, selected to be the assistant to The Boss. She's been used as a dog's body, treated rough, but taken care of. Then she falls into Purgatory and a lot changes. She's not longer little human Claire and she's part of a bigger picture, a prophecy. However, the three don't know she has powers, nor do they know just how many powers she wields. So, everyone, including her new lover and ex-lover, the Devil, play her down as little human Claire still. All the while, she's learning to hold her own, she's making her own plans and carving her own path in the worlds.

Claire finds herself in a mix of messes and eye-opening situations, most mean bad and a few give her a bit of good. She's still getting used as a pawn and treated rubbish, by most, but what could you expect from the three and the underworld? I wouldn't expect ANY less!

I loved Claire's character. Yes, she made some poor decisions - who hasn't - but she is a smart character. She plays her cards close and is excellent at biding her time, to make the most of what she's got. She may seem as though she is lost, but she is a problem-solver and a tough girl. The perfect strong female lead. Yet, she still has her human side, making her real and easy to relate to.

I loved the pace of the story. It did start out slower, but the pace picked up swiftly and carried on into a whirlwind of adventure and excitement. I found the characters to be deep and full of the emotion expected of them, especially the three.

Overall, after Dark Hope and Dark Awakened, I am hooked on this series. I cannot wait to read the third book...is it out yet? This series is very well written and has a great outlook on a paranormal, otherworldly (or other dimensionally) life. I LOVE it!

[Jennifer (BTH Reviews) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.

Review Courtesy of: Books That Hook

four-half-stars


Dark Awakened picks up exactly where Dark Hope left off, yet it gives the reader enough information to jump into the series even if the reader hasn’t read Dark Hope.

This book answered some questions for me that I still had after reading the first book. It also cleared up my confusion about the realms, by clearly stating that the Underworld is not one of the realms. However, it didn’t answer all of the questions I had from the first book. I guess this is intentional to keep the reader hooked, so the reader will have to read the third book. I’m willing to hang on for a while, but if questions aren’t answered by the third book or so, I’ll probably lose interest in the series.

Some people might perceive Claire’s relationship with one of the characters as being incestuous. It’s really a matter of perspective. I don’t want to say much more about this because I don’t want to give away anything.

I was confused by the last sentence of the book, not knowing what it referred to. I don’t like it when I close a book with a scowl on my face.

Despite this, I thought Dark Awakened was a great urban fantasy story. The world and characters are easy to picture and believe. I think that the author did an excellent job of getting the reader to suspend disbelief, especially considering all the weird, fantastical stuff in this series. I never doubted any of it. It seemed very real to me. I know some people are more skeptical than I am, but I think most readers of this genre will enjoy how imaginative this writer is.

I thought this book was easier to follow than the first book. Both books, though, are well-written with good character and setting descriptions. Neither book had many errors.

I definitely recommend the Devil’s Assistant series to urban fantasy fans, especially if they are looking for a book with no sex scenes and lots of otherworldly action.

[Dusti Dasilva · Rating 4 out of 5]

First off let me say READ Dark Hope first. If you don't you will be beyond confused with this book, as there are so many characters. You need to have the back ground on them from the first one. Now Claire is the main focus of this book. She moved from being a "lap dog" a push over really to this strong, willful woman who no longer takes shit from people. Claire, in Dark Hope, had a lot of bomb shells dropped on her. And when I saw a lot I do mean a lot. Not only did she find out her mother wasn't dead, she learned there is something different about her blood, she learned that any of the Big 3 can be her parent (scary thought there) and that the man she loved was really a demon paid to be with her. Yeap so you can see why book 2 starts with her down in the dumps and hooking it up with Death. I mean come on. Death really Claire? Oh and don't forget about Death even though throughout the book we don't see much of him, he will play a big role at the end,.. DUN DUN DUN

Now Claire has been through the ringer but she comes back fighting. Not only for her life but those counting on her. She falls in love again, yes you read that right. I wont spoil it with who though. Youll have to wait and see. Also people seem to just keep coming back from the dead. Ah. The spins and twists to this series is AMAZING!

Now I do have some questions. A lot a lot of questions. In Dark Hope Claire is pregnant come on we all remember that. So what ever happened to the baby. One minute it was there the next gone? And that never crossed Claire's mind again through this book, sure she had a lot of stuff going on but come one!!

All in all I enjoyed this book! I am sitting on pins and needles for the next one!

[Lindy Lu Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

So the story goes on for Claire she was free, finally, only to be stuck again. She ends up having to saved the world again and roll with all the punches. Now she finds out she is a pawn in a game set forth thousands of years ago and to be the winner she must wield power she has no clue how to control. Oh but Claire has never heard of the word no only bring it on! Demons, Pagans, and Bounty Hunters oh my! She ends up in the Underworld again a place she said she would never go, but it wasn't her fault of course people just have a knack for getting her into trouble.

Claire is back and I didn't think she could be any more awesome than she was in the first book, but she is with Augusto! H.D. Smith is awesome with how she portrays her characters it's like she knows how to connect you with the spirit of the book and you never want to stop reading. With this book I got the audio version it helps because I am so busy sometimes I just don't have the time to sit down to read. I clean my house listening to books, hey it's awesome. The speaker for the audio was perfect and she fit Claire perfectly so it was that much more exciting.

When I think of Claire to me she is like one of those punchy clowns you have as a kid, you knock it down but it comes right back. You cannot knock Claire down she ALWAYS gets up and she is never negative about situations she just shrugs and moves on to the next obstacle. I love this story and can't wait for the next one to come out!

[Missp · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this series. This is the second book in the Devil's Assistant series. You must read the first book to understand the evolving storyline. There are only a few additional characters introduced in the second book.

The story line begins where the first novel ends. The author quickly moves us a few months into the future through Claire's diary. She's recovering from the tragedy at the end if the first book / beginning of the second book. Pay close attention to her dreams. They set up the plot lines for the remainder of this book and the future books in the series.

Claire reluctantly takes on the role of contender, but quickly begins to assert herself in the role. The plot moved quick with several twists along the way. Including a hot love interest. Quite a few of the hanging plot lines from the first book are furthered. There are several unresolved plot lines introduced with the prophecies. I enjoyed trying to guess what they mean.

Looking forward to the next installment so I can find out more about the Wanderer, the Time Queen, the Time Prince, Death, Jayne, and Claire!

[Katie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is such a great book. I can't wait for more. Actually, things are so involved and fast paced in this series that I'll need to reread them just to catch things I'm sure I missed. I love the different realms and the characters. Poor Claire is just a pawn but she is definitely resourceful and that makes things interesting.
Smith could put in some sex scenes but alas, she glosses over them. No worries, it doesn't distract from the book. There's cussing and plenty of spunk and sarcasm.
The scenes change quickly so you have to keep up. I like that about this book... nothing is really drawn out. On the flip side, things seem to coalesce rapidly which once or twice made me think Claire got off easy but like I said, it just brings us into the next scene even quicker. So basically, a ton of things happen in just one book.
It's great, I love the writing and the different realms. It's something new and interesting which is hard for an avid fantasy reader like myself to find.
Highly recommend this series so far

[Robyn.caseygmail.com · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had hoped that this was the conclusion to Dark Hope; but the end of the book made it quite clear that there's more story here. On one hand it was done well; not screaming "MIDDLE BOOK" like some trilogy books can't help but do-- and not having the novelty aspect of a first book where the world view is introduced didn't hurt it as much as I thought it might. The action keeps coming; when I thought it was going to slow down it just grabbed on.
The point of view-- where the story is told as recalling a memory-- gives you the clue that she survives to tell the tale, but I still haven't gotten any clue as to where this is going-- whether she just survives or thrives-- and the fact that I don't Care as long as I get to ride along-- forces me to admit that H.D. Smith is a darn good tale-spinner. I don't know when the next one is coming out and whether it will be the conclusion or not- but darnit she'd better hurry up with it. :-)

[Sue Brooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

OK - this is only my 2nd book to read written by HD Smith and OMG it is soooooooooooooo good!!! I will say that you really need to read Dark Hope - the first book of this series before reading Dark Awakened. If not, you will not understand what is happening and why on some things. This book literally starts where Dark Hope stopped.

Claire is like a pawn in this book - but she definitely is resourceful in what she has to do and how she learns to do them. There seems to never be a dull moment in the book. Claire keeps going from place to place and learning to use her magical powers as she goes. I don't write spoilers -- but OMG this book is so good and the author keeps you trying to keep up with exactly what is going on. Definitely one of those -- I CAN'T PUT THIS BOOK DOWN -- type of books!!!

I was given a copy of this book for an honest review.

[Michele · Rating 4 out of 5]

Claire's fate is still controlled by the Top Three and their hell spawn. After recovering from her heartbreak and disillusionment, she realizes that she must face her fears in order to gain freedom. After leaving Death's dubious protection and returning to the devil, Claire is promptly abducted and dragged off by a bounty hunter. She is delivered to a strange, sickly town and ordered to help her enemies (Cinnamon et al) escape from Mab's confinement. Since no good deed goes unpunished, a simple rescue mission quickly morphs into an apocalyptic situation.

Claire uses obstacle to learn and grow her powers. Each challenge trains her to defeat her ultimate foes and decide the fate of the entire world. She still can't trust anyone, but at least is learning to stand on her own.

[Jennifer Leal · Rating 4 out of 5]

So I thought Book 1 was great! The 2nd book is even better!!! I think I enjoyed it more just because Claire has grown stronger and isn't flailing about lost now as she was in Dark Hope. Who she really is, is still a mystery. Every time I think I've got something figured out there's a little twist thrown in.
H. D. smith has woven a beautiful fantastical story that reels the reader in and captivates them with the magic, wonderment and adventure of Claire's new life. I CAN'T WAIT for book #3. To find out what happens next.
H.D. Smith is fast becoming my new favorite author. And this is definitely my new favorite series.

[Ryan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this second book in Devil's Assistant series. Really loved it! Claire is a great character, a strong protagonist and just a cool chick! Reading the first book Dark Hope is recommended to be familiar with the core characters and the general world order that HD Smith has created. This second book is very well written and exciting to read. I'm not a huge fan of series/trilogies, but this book was refreshing in that it is fairly self-contained plot wise without huge cliffhanger and not boring as some middle books can be within a series. I really enjoyed Dark Awakened and can't wait for the next book!

[Ryan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this second book in Devil's Assistant series. Really loved it! Claire is a great character, a strong protagonist and just a cool chick! Reading the first book Dark Hope is recommended to be familiar with the core characters and the general world order that HD Smith has created. This second book is very well written and exciting to read. I'm not a huge fan of series/trilogies, but this book was refreshing in that it is fairly self-contained plot wise without huge cliffhanger and not boring as some middle books can be within a series. I really enjoyed Dark Awakened and can't wait for the next book!

[Kelly Linzey · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really wasn't sure If I was going to like this series or not but I couldn't put it down. Some part of me wanted to thrash the other characters as the went along and abused Claire. I found her to be a little clueless but as her character develops she stops taking shit from others and starts to give back what she's been given. This second book is better than the first and I have High hopes for the next in the series.

[Sweetpea · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a free copy of this book from the GoodReads First Reads giveaway in exchange for an honest review. Not having read the first book in the series, it was a little confusing at the beginning trying to figure out all of the characters. Once I had everyone straight, I thoroughly enjoyed the book.

[Annastew1144hotmail.com · Rating 5 out of 5]

My second book in the series and so far very impressed. There is everything I expect from an urban fantasy novel with an intriguing plot and brilliant characters. I can see the series going from strength to strength and would love to see it turned into a TV series. I think it would work really well.

[Rachael · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a great book!! I was worried about where this series would go after book one but every question I had from the first book was answered and any issues I had were fixed! There are some new character and we get to see old faces. Because if the story line, there is always something going on. There isn't a cliffhanger BUT there will be a book three!! I cannot wait!!

[Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Holy..WOW!

This book was so amazing! I absolutely adore Claire, the big 3, and even the quads!! The story is so interesting and different than what I expected when I first read the first book! I never thought I would love this series s much as I do!
I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THESE BOOKS! You WILL NOT regret it! ;)

[Linzi Day · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was brilliant, fab book excellent audio - review to follow.
I'm delaying because I gave book 1 the 5 stars it deserved ... now I'm not sure what to do - cos this was at least 2 stars better. I need book 3 .... NOW! *pouts*

[Rita Stradling · Rating 4 out of 5]

VERY entertaining. I like every aspect about these books but the romance (plenty of tension, just not that much genuine relationship development), hopefully that will come in the next book.

[Diane · Rating 5 out of 5]

My second book by HD Smith and I continue to enjoy the series. Love the characters and think it's one of the most original series I have read in recent years. This is what urban fantasy is all about!