In a dark and dangerous world, paranormals openly roam the streets, policed by a special office of Elite Paranormal Hunters. Gwen Taylor, is one of the best in the U.S.
Until she becomes embroiled in a case that changes her life, forcing a drastic shift in her allegiance. A case that pairs her with four sexy partners she can’t seem to resist, despite the dangers. A case that pits her once-human nature against the monstrous urges she has developed. The same urges of those she puts away for a living.
Can she fight the growing attraction for her teammates? Will Gwen be able to balance the good and evil warring within her mind? Or will she embrace the darkness and become one of the creatures she’s hunted?
Beth is a single mother of two, who has worked in a custom cabinet shop since she was young. She always has so many ideas flowing in her head, but never thought that writing was a reality until some other amazing authors pointed out that she could. She loves all things paranormal, and has a very unhealthy obsession with chocolate and doughnuts. She can usually be found chasing after her kids, typing like a mad woman or lost in a book.
Great start to a brand new series. We Meet Gwen a hunter who gets pulled into a case with a group of really hot guys. They start investigating when things start going wonky that changes Gwen's life forever. The case puts them all in danger before it is all said and done showcasing how kickbutt Gwen can be. Intriguing world building, awesome characters, steam, action, and more all combine to make it impossible to put the book down once you get started. If you like fantasy reverse harem romance novels then you have to read this book. I loved it so I give it 5/5 stars.
I saw a bunch of teasers for this on Facebook. It caught my interest pretty fast and I started reading immediately. I liked the story a lot. I think it was a good start, but it was just that a start. This was a quick read and although I liked it. I do wish that there was longer or that more happened. The biggest problem being the missing children. I feel was very rushed through and the bond between the FMC and her men was established so fast it was unrealistic and with no explanation other than the fact that they were all sexually attracted to each other. However I think this is a new author and I still loved the book and I’m hoping that in the next one we’ll see a little more character development
I gave this book 5 stars because it is a great book it has a strong bada** MC who definitely keeps you waiting to see what she will say next...4 sexy men a great plot that sucks you in ...the only thing that sucks is the cliffhanger but if you look on the positives it just means there will be another one and that's always good news...so if you love a funny, Strong kick*** MC and 4 sexy men that she gets to have and a captivating story about magic and supernaturals then this book is for you and if you decide you love the book as much as I do then you should follow the lovely Beth Hendrix on her Facebook page where she gives updates, plays games and gives out prizes....I know I have and will be stalking her for awhile...
It's hard to believe that this is the author's first book. It's written well and the storyline is intriguing. The heroine has some great humor and I love that she loves such mundane treats like donuts. Finally! After reading about so many mcs who are obsessed with cars or some super fancy dish it's nice to have the humor and everyday-ness that comes with the delicious donut. Anyways, this book was great. The characters were great. The story was great. Only faults? The mc has a bit of a personality change halfway through the book. Not major but it was enough to make me sigh. Also, some insta-love. Also, the book rushed a lot towards the end. But all these things were minor, especially since it's a first book. There was just so much more that I liked and loved that I had to give this book 5 stars. I cant wait for the next!
Ok so I’m pretty sure this Hendrix’s first book but you wouldn’t be able to tell that by reading it. That ending is worth the price admission in and of itself. OMG I’m still reeling from it. She has set herself up to have a major hit on her hands. Hope she’s adequately prepared!
Hoodwinked is a supernatural/paranormal, reverse harem story with some MF and MFM action. This book was another one that has been difficult for me to decide on a rating. If I were rating the book alone, I would give it a 3. But I listened to the audiobook version and the narrator did a great job of performing the book, so that's why I decided to increase my rating to a 4. It's also a little difficult for me to pinpoint exactly what didn't work for me in this book. But I think the main issue that I had was the majority of this book was in the first person POV of the female MC, Gwen. And it seemed to me that the majority of her POV was her internal monologue and random thoughts about everything that is occurring in the book. Even though there are several other characters present in the book, I felt like I never really got to know any of the other characters, especially the male MCs (Barrett, Ethane, Donovan, and Draven). Towards the end of the book, there are some brief sections where we get the POV of each of the guys, but I feel like that still wasn't sufficient to know who these guys really are. Even now, I'm sitting here trying to remember what kind of supernatural being each of the guys are and I can only say with certainty that I know what 2 of them are. There's also a lot more going on in this book than what the synopsis hints at and this book ended up going in a completely different direction than I thought it would. That's not always a bad thing, but I just had a lot of difficulty connecting with this book overall. I have no idea how many books will be in this series or when the next book will be released, but I do plan to read the next book to see how much Gwen has changed as a result of the final events in the book. I will probably reread this book as well before reading the second book to see if my opinion will improve with the reread.
4.5 Great debut! What a great paranormal reverse harem book. Beth Hendricks had a lot going on but it wasn’t overwhelming. Showing out of the gate she is a talented writer with much potential. The pacing was a bit fast. However, it worked for the story. There was definitely potential to slow the story and build the tension and anticipation that I hope to see happening going forward. Gwen was a fabulous FMC. She was funny (I literally laughed out loud so many times), witty, strong, sassy, and confident. I adore her. These men are not only hot and swoony but they all bring depth to the story. The chemistry is off the hot charts, really- wowzers!!! The story ended on a cliffy but not an omg I’m gonna scream obscenities at the author kinda way. There was at least resolution to the immediate with setting up for future and even larger bumps in the road to happily ever after. I’m impressed with this author and happy I’ve discovered her from the start. I gave a 4.5 because starting out there’s always room for growth but with the polish and experience, this already shown in this book I expect nothing less than 5 stars for the next book!
This is a wickedly enthralling storyline that had me on the edge of my seat the entire time. I couldn't wait to see what happened next! The wickedly twisted plot left me highly entertained as it allowed me to get to know all of the stunningly intriguing characters. All of the touched my heart in a very different way, and I was left with an intense feeling of completeness and family. I thoroughly loved the pace and creativity of the story that unfolded before my eyes, and I seriously can't wait to see what happens in the next book. This was one story I never expected to find, and one that I just couldn't let go of.
The narration was so perfect for this book. Sarah Puckett spoke life and love into this story which made it feel like heaven. The fabulous characters came to life as I experienced this story with a fantastically talented voice. What an extraordinary experience that I savored every second of!!
Congrats on Beth’s debut. Great writing, with amazing storyline and badass MC. Love how Gwen doesn’t sit back, she takes the initiatives. Love the interactions with the guys, with the twist and turns. Must read. 😍😍😍😍
I was surprised with how much I enjoyed this. I don't typically read RH books, but gave this one a try. I really liked the characters and the mystery element was great. It takes you on a crazy, addicting ride.
So my sister told me to read this. She had a signed copy from the author. Not usually my cup of tea, but I did enjoy it. Now I want to know what happens next!!
I can not wait to read more! This was a great start to what I can tell is going to be an awesome series. I love the characters and the chemistry between them all. I would love to learn more backstory on each of them. I'm sure that will come - for now, I am just in love. I was sad it ended so soon!
The narration was great. Sarah did a fantastic job of differentiating between all the characters. RH can be hard since there is just so many characters at play but I thought it was handled beautifully. The production was very clean, clear and enjoyable.
PNR is a genre I rarely read and with this being the authors debut novel I didn't know what to expect. I WAS PLEASANTLY SURPRISED!
Gwen had me laughing out loud in the first half of the book! This poor girl, her hormones, her inner conversations with her subconscious had me crackin up n scaring my animals!
The book is mainly told from Gwen's POV which for me was a great decision as you get more of feel for Gwen and her little inner struggles and thoughts...It isn't until near the end of Hoodwinked that you get an alternate POV from the guys. I would have liked an earlier glimpse into their thoughts and feel I would have connected with their characters better with a bit more insight. For me, there were a few areas toward the endish that were a little rushed but it didn't take away from the story. . I enjoyed this story! And I want more! Like ummm...hello! I need to know some stuff!
For this being a debut ...I am impressed and eagerly awaiting book 2! I will be reading more from this author and encourage others to as well!
Gwen is just your average hunter. She goes around eliminating the paranormal beings that are causing problems with the humans. That is until her help is requested for a situation in Florida where many children are turning up missing. Something happens while she’s investigating that will change her life forever. I really enjoyed this story very much. Gwen was super relatable. The story was amazing as well. However, the story wasn’t perfect. I really wish that the story was longer. I wish things had been prolonged a little bit more. Many scenes could have been enhanced. The other thing I had a slight issue with I’m kind of on the fence about. I normally don’t really get comfortable with the intense lust thing, but in this book it works. It’s hard to explain. But I feel like it’s part of the new her. The characters are pretty amazing. I loved them all. I wish that some of the secondary characters played bigger roles. I will admit I got a bit confused with the names here and there. Except Gwen. I really love the name Gwen. And she was awe inspiring! I feel like she would be up in my top favorite characters. Right up there with Zoey Redbird and Rose Hathaway! The narrator did a fantastic job with this one, but I really didn’t think she could do a bad job. This is not my first book that I’ve heard of Sarah Puckett. It won’t be the last either. I love her as a narrator. She just has this smooth voice I want to listen to for hours. I probably could to. Heck, I listened to this book in one sitting! If you haven’t heard anything by this narrator, you need to do so! I really enjoyed this book. My mother and sister both read the book last year and they LOVED it. It’s been on my pile of books to read for a long time. I’m glad I’ve finally read it. I stumbled across this author at a readers’ convention in July of last year and I am so glad I did. I can’t wait to read more books by her!
This was my first read/listen of Beth Hendrix's work and I very much enjoyed it and am super sad there arent more in the series after this one!! I know she had been trying to put out book 2 but I am not sure what happened. I really hope we see more from this author, especially this series, because the potential is there for an amazing story and amazing characters.
For the story, I thought the pace was good, I kinda liked the insta-attraction (not really the love part, but it kinda comes with the mates territory haha). I loved the concept and the ending was killer!! That's why I really hope Beth continues on with this story, it reeled me in and I didnt want it to end haha. I almost relistened to the audiobook was over. I think some of the events/interactions could have been fleshed out a bit more, some things were fantastic, but others could have used some more time/details. I thought the men were 🔥🔥🔥, the bad guys were just starting to be exceptionally bad, and the plot had great backbones. I would recommend this series as long as the reader/listener knows there might not be a 2nd book for awhile (hopefully not never).
I enjoy pretty much anything Sarah Puckett narrates and I think she did a good job bringing these characters to life. I think she could have made the male voices more distinct, because I was sometimes having an issue figuring out who was who, but it didnt happen a lot. Its the only thing I could really fault it, besides some weird inflections that I like too me out of the story for a quick sec.
Overall, solid 4-4.5 stars for both the story and narration. I will relisten for sure if book 2 is released!
Amazing Story & Audible Listen🎧 4.5 Diabolically🔥Hot🔥Stars!
Hoodwinked The Demon Exchange Series, Book 1 By: Beth Hendrix Narrated by: Sarah Puckett
This is a great and enjoyable well written story. It is fast paced and immediately grabs your attention. Beth Hendrix creates an imaginative world where supernatural beings live. The storylines and characters are interesting and well developed. The lead character, Gwen Taylor, an Elite Paranormal Hunter finds herself working on a case with a team of 4 hot males. They work together to solve a case and come across more than they bargained for. I loved the chemistry between Gwen and the team, Barrett, Donovan, Draven and Ethane. Also love how well they worked together and the trust they built in such a short time. This is an action-packed story, with drama, twist, mystery, suspense and some hot RH romance. I am looking forward to the next book, learn more about the characters and their abilities.
I listened to the audible edition, Sarah Puckett is an awesome narrator and storyteller. She performs all the voices and switches characters effortlessly with out missing a beat. She sets the perfect tone for the story and adds enough of a dramatic flair to entertain the listener and enhance an already great story to the next level. Thank you, for another awesome listen, it is always a pleasure to listen to your work.
This wasn't very long but I just couldn't bring myself to finish it. So this girl Gwen works for paranormal police agency as a hunter and allegedly is really good at it, but her hunt in the first chapter features her tripping over a bottle and immediately dropping her weapon...not so badass. But she is apparently so good that 4 agents from a different office specifically ask for her help with a case that has a bunch of missing kids. That's also the last time you hear about the kids for a long time, from here on out she just has sex with all of the guys. Like immediately, for seemingly no reason, absolutely no build up of any kind.
I like a story with sex...even a lot of sex, but there has to be a decent story too. Reasons for these characters to have sex, even if it's the casual kind. Everything was just so abrupt, I couldn't care less about what eventually happened...if they ever even got back around to looking for those kids.
Gwen Taylor is a top hunter for the ParaOffice and has a love for donuts. When four gorgeous agents request her assistance in a kidnapping case in Florida, she cannot resist the draw of the case. Nor her pull to the men. After she makes a deal with a demon, good and evil battle within her body and soul. There's a way to save the kids being kidnapped, but it might mean Gwen giving over to her dark side.
This is a fast-paced paranormal reverse harem romance. This is a great read for those readers who like it down and dirty, but there's nothing slow burning about this story. We have an intriguing world and a mysterious case. The layers are pulled back fast and hard, and Gwen barely has time to explore her newfound powers. There are some funny moments and steamy ones, and hopefully a lot more will be expanded upon in the next book.
The narration took made this 3 star story into a 4 star.
This was a good start to a new series and I think the idea behind it is really interesting; however, I feel like I would have enjoyed the story a lot more if the author would have given us more information about the men in the story and let us get to know them a little better. I think the author has a good start going here, and I'm still very interested in where she is going to take it. What little bits of interaction and chemistry between characters we do experience is great; just overall this first book is a bit too vague to really tell.
Sarah Puckett gives us a great performance, as usual. She does a good job differentiating between all of the characters and made this a quick easy listen.
The story starts with a death, moves right to oogling the males. The next thing we know she is a possessed by a demon and manages to get a good grasp on those powers within minutes. Oh but she gets kidnapped and ends up in some sort of hell area being forced to kill. The book ends with her almost dying, and grabbing the attention of the "king of hell". And mixed into all this is sex with almost all the guys.
Super fast moving. There are so many things that happen in such a short book it is overwhelming. There is no downtime at all in the story. It all happens within like a week.
I did give 3 stars because it is a really good book idea. I would love to see it fleshed out more. Some details. Some actual connection besides the "autolust" that is everywhere.
Absolutely loved this book!! It really has everything; all kinds of paranormals, humor, action, hot as hell sexy times AND it will get you in the feels! Gwen is such a relatable character, the perfect mix of snarky badassness (yes I made up that word) and vulnerability. I think she's going to do some serious ass kicking when she gets her full powers, so excited to find out what else she can do! Her guys are amazing too, I love that they are all different and each have their own set of skills and abilities (Draven is mine though, I licked him!). Even the side characters are interesting, I'm dying to find out more about Vita and Alyanna! It's really hard to believe that this is the authors first book! I can't wait to read what she writes next!!
Hoodwinked is the first book in The Demon Exchange Series. With a strong FMC and four sexy men who work together to survive trials that are thrust at them, when Gwen suddenly finds herself imbued with a demon essence. The relationship between the characters develops quickly over just a few days. Gwen’s life takes sudden and permanent life altering changes that she takes totally in stride.
This is a wonderful debut book that ends on a huge cliffhanger. Beth Hendrix has set up a developing world with intriguing characters that leaves room for many more adventures and growth. Definitely a must read. As a great debut book, it leaves readers eagerly wanting more. Can’t wait for book two to be released to continue Gwen’s adventures.
This was a feast to my ears and my mind, I loved it and I almost just shushed my husband when he wanted to talk to me 🤫 Exiting, steamy and a HFN is as close as it get to audio heaven. Excellent storyline and good characters descriptions. No unnecessary descriptions of surroundings and good dialogues.
Narrator: Sarah Puckett is doing a incredible job with the male voices in addition to the female ones. Clear pronunciation and read with feelings makes it a wonderful time-out from real life.
When is the next book coming, because I want it!!!
I recommend this for everyone that likes paranormal romance.
Audio review: Hoodwinked (The Demon Exchange Series Book 1) begins with a intriguing world building descriptions & settings. Magic & supernaturals entangled with mystery, suspense, loads of activity, a twisty narrative with a scorching reverse harem romance. Would love to see more character evolvement and learn more about their history & abilities. This ends with a happily forever now as the narrative continues in book two.
A flawless performance by narator Sarah Puckett. Each character both Male & female is distinctively differentiated with their own voice. Clean, clear, and concise voice performance.
Looking forward to listening to the next audio in this paranormal reverse harem romance.
So I've had this book in my library for longer than I care to admit... It looked good but I kept finding others that interested me more. Today I finally decided to read it and I COULD NOT PUT IT DOWN!!! This book is totally amazing!!! Like this book deserves at least 10 gold stars! It's been a while since I've gotten wrapped up in a book so easily but you get hooked after the first chapter and you're lost to it! I cannot wait till the next book comes out!!!! I will read it the day it's released!
Gwen is one kick ass female lead! I picked this up at a book party not sure what to expect, but let me tell you! Wow!! It was an amazing read!! I was hooked from the very first page by Gwen and the band of hot guys she is surrounded by. I could not put this book down! It was amazing! Hendrix did such an awesome job with world building and character development! I felt transported into another world completely. I did get the a book hangover....But I can let that slide since there will be more books in this series. I be impatiently waiting for the next one! Seriously worth the read!!!
Hoodwinked by Beth Hendrix is a fantastic story for a new series Demon Exchange. What makes it even better Sarah Puckett is narrator. Loved feisty Gwen Taylor a paranormal investigator. The case involves finding missing children and she is paired up with four men, who she finds attractive plus she is drawn to them all. I am not a big fan of cliffhangers p, but I will definitely be awaiting the next installment of this tantalizing series. I am reviewing this audible book for Audiobook Obsession for a fair and honest review.
Overall Rating ★★★★ Plot ★★★★ Humor ★★★★ Characters & Character Development ★★★ Narration ★★★★
Story: Gwen and the team, Barrett, Donovan, Draven, and Ethane. I enjoyed this story. Gwen was badass and didn't take any crap from people. I'd really like to know more about all the guys in this story. It was a little short so they didn't dig deep into anything. There was some instant love but it didn't bother me too much. It was weird how I felt like the whole child abduction thing didn't really get solved. I didn't feel like there was a conclusion with the case and then there was going to be another abduction but we didn't find out what happened with that. I can't wait to see what happens next in this story. I want to see how Gwen changes and how her powers change as well. There was somewhat of a cliffhanger in the end but I didn't feel like it was a major one.
Narration: Sarah Puckett - I like her narrations. Production was clear.
Great read. I really enjoyed the story line and how easy the progression was. Character development was impressive with how quickly the author was able to do it. It was funny while still being heartfelt. My only issue, which ended up affecting my rating of the “overall” was the performance of the narrator. It was rough listening to her attempt a southern accent, as well as just the weird inflections at the end of all of the sentences. I’ve listened to this narrator before and I need to just accept the fact that I can hardly stand any of her performances.
Hoodwinked is an awesome debut book. Gwen, the FMC is hysterical, witty and super sassy! She's fierce, sees herself for who she is and lives by her own rules. I was engrossed in the story from the first page. The steamy times are not to be read alone or without a b.o.b. haha. Beth Hendrix wrote the characters so well, it was hard to choose a favorite, so I didn't. I absolutely recommend Hookwinked and Beth Hendrix for an exciting story with outstanding characters