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Lords of the Underworld #15.5
The Darkest Destiny
From New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Gena Showalter comes a new story in her Lords of the Underworld series…
Forsaken. Deathless. A monster in every way. Mostly, Brochan is determined. He craves what fate promised him—the woman who will help him conquer a heavenly kingdom. He will stop at nothing to win her.
Viola, Keeper of the demon of Narcissism, lives for a single purpose—treating herself and her pet to the best life possible. But a crazed warrior is now appearing everywhere she ventures, ruining her fun…. tempting her beyond reason and keeping her at a razor-edge of desire.
Though legions of males have attempted to win her, all have failed. Somehow, this rampaging beast is tearing down her walls, one by one, claiming he owns her heart and her very destiny. To be with him, however, she must defeat the only force strong enough to destroy her—love.
Forsaken. Deathless. A monster in every way. Mostly, Brochan is determined. He craves what fate promised him—the woman who will help him conquer a heavenly kingdom. He will stop at nothing to win her.
Viola, Keeper of the demon of Narcissism, lives for a single purpose—treating herself and her pet to the best life possible. But a crazed warrior is now appearing everywhere she ventures, ruining her fun…. tempting her beyond reason and keeping her at a razor-edge of desire.
Though legions of males have attempted to win her, all have failed. Somehow, this rampaging beast is tearing down her walls, one by one, claiming he owns her heart and her very destiny. To be with him, however, she must defeat the only force strong enough to destroy her—love.
204 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 7, 2021
171 people are currently reading
5133 people want to read
About the author
Gena Showalter
263 books27.8k followersGena Showalter is the New York Times and USA TODAY bestselling author of over seventy books, including the acclaimed Lords of the Underworld series, the Gods of War series, the White Rabbit Chronicles, and the Forest of Good and Evil series. She writes sizzling paranormal romance, heartwarming contemporary romance, and unputdownable young adult novels, and lives in Oklahoma City with her family and menagerie of dogs and cats.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 151 reviews
January 31, 2023
3.5 Stars
February 10, 2022
OH MY GOD!This was so good! I had been waiting for this novella to get released ever since i finished Lords of the Underworld-series two years ago and how excited i was that Gena Showalter decided to really pair off Viola the Keeper of the demon Narcissism (who every former character found really annoying) with the Fallen One Angel who vowed to seek revenge on her, the forsaken Brochan whose brother got heartbroken by Viola.I remember her seeing him first in The Darkest Promise and wow how intense the sparks was between them! This novella definitely did not disappoint despite being so short.Viola has a lots of emotional baggage on her shoulders and does everything for survival. She also can`t help but be drawn to her stalker who claims to hate her, but instead protects her and gives her smoldering glances all the time-Love how Brochan hated to want her.He couldn`t resist her even if he wanted to.Lets talk about their first SMOLDERING KISS! I was literally fanning my face all the time,lol! But all of Gena Showalter`s heroes are like that...once they meet their fated female...they are done! Yeah, i just love romance!
April 8, 2022
Wish I could give this novella more then 5 stars!! Viola is without a doubt one of my fave ladies from the Lords of the Underworld series! Housing the demon of narcissism would suck for anyone but for someone like viola who was neglected and hidden away and later imprisoned because mommy dearest took a walk on the wild side with a cat shifter its a perfect fit for the demon to control her, but under all the many claims of being the most beautiful and self love is the little girl who nobody loved until viola saved fluffy. She will do whatever it takes to save her child and if that means taking a immortals mortality to keep her fur baby alive she'll do it. That's where Brochan comes in. From the moment he saw viola walking across the room he wanted her to be his. But when Voila takes McCadden's mortality away he is enraged that she would sentence someone he thinks of as a son to a early death and he will stop at nothing to get the goddess of the afterlife to pay for what she's done. Brochan with his beautiful blue skin full of muscle's with silver eyes was awesome but Gena went a step further gave him beautiful hornies that are curled to his head but when he gets aroused they go straight up!!!! I've said it a thousand times and I'll say it again a guy with hornies gives Kat the hornies!!! What a magnificent beast as viola say's! And I couldn't agree with her more. Their was lots of hot and steamy pages full of these two and my girl viola was enjoying every hot moment. Gena showalter is a excellent storyteller and besides giving us a sexy read we get characters that are not only likeable but who from time to time pull at your heart strings like viola did to mine. With all her bravo and self love it would be easy to not like such a self absorbed character but in the past I've seen brief moments when I saw through viola's masquerade and saw the pain and loneliness she felt and knew she was so much more. Thank you Gena for giving her not only a awesome beastie like Brochan who was the only one to pass her test but also heal her heart and give her a truly happily everafter. Until next time Luv's💗💋
December 8, 2021
It has been far too long since I've taken a dive into the world of the Lords, and The Darkest Destiny has reminded me of all that I love and miss about this author's writing. This story was bloody brilliant!
Viola was a riot! She was the type of character I happen to love to read about.
🙀 hilariously irreverent
🙀 irritating and kinda ruthless - remember, she's possessed (oppressed) by Narcissus
🙀 vulnerable and vain - good luck making sense of that!
🙀 absolutely, positively gorgeous
🙀 completely irresistible
And the way she connected with Brochan... the way she truly saw him and all that made him glorious... I'm in love with this couple.
I happened to love every moment of this story. From Brochan's first glimpse of Viola, to her perceived betrayal, to his mission to kill and protect her, to the moment she beheaded him (don't even ask), to their declarations of all they found worthy in each other... I loved it all!
And now I only want to read more of this series!!
Find more on the blog
Viola was a riot! She was the type of character I happen to love to read about.
🙀 hilariously irreverent
🙀 irritating and kinda ruthless - remember, she's possessed (oppressed) by Narcissus
🙀 vulnerable and vain - good luck making sense of that!
🙀 absolutely, positively gorgeous
🙀 completely irresistible
Forget her stunning beauty and brilliant mind. If possible. She had so many magnificent qualities. So much more to offer. Her sparkling wit and magical laugh delighted all who heard her—and also those who didn't. Intelligent beyond words, she'd even helped her own mother birth her. And Viola had done most of the work! Forget Helen of Troy. Viola had launched two thousand ships with a wink.
And the way she connected with Brochan... the way she truly saw him and all that made him glorious... I'm in love with this couple.
In battle, he was magnificent, full stop. Fierce and unrelenting. Utterly savage. Such strength! He was determined to reach her, whatever the cost. Did he even know how sexy that was?
I happened to love every moment of this story. From Brochan's first glimpse of Viola, to her perceived betrayal, to his mission to kill and protect her, to the moment she beheaded him (don't even ask), to their declarations of all they found worthy in each other... I loved it all!
And now I only want to read more of this series!!
Find more on the blog
August 17, 2021
Review to come.
December 19, 2021
3 - 3.5 stars!
Ok...I know what you're thinking...
All these 5 star reviews and you give it 3 - 3.5 stars?!
Yeah yeah yeah...I know. BUT this just wasn't Showalter material. Or LOTU material.
Brochan was very one dimensional and I don't know where the f*ck his balls went but they weren't there. I'm all for a strong woman (gimme all day) but her male has to match her or be stronger and I felt like he was all talk and no bite. Worst of all, I felt this in and out of the bedroom and....
Viola, Keeper of the demon Narcissism was completely ridiculous and annoying as hell. The fact that she was both vulnerable and arrogant was weird. Her and Brochan just didn't work for me and I neither felt or cared about their chemistry or relationship. There is a lot happening in this story and I think it had some good bones but it was too short to really bring everything together. I still love Showalter but this missed the mark for me...especially after William's story. Swoon. If you like Showalter and the Lords world then definitely read this one but don't expect it to blow your socks off.
Ok...I know what you're thinking...
All these 5 star reviews and you give it 3 - 3.5 stars?!
Yeah yeah yeah...I know. BUT this just wasn't Showalter material. Or LOTU material.
Brochan was very one dimensional and I don't know where the f*ck his balls went but they weren't there. I'm all for a strong woman (gimme all day) but her male has to match her or be stronger and I felt like he was all talk and no bite. Worst of all, I felt this in and out of the bedroom and....
Viola, Keeper of the demon Narcissism was completely ridiculous and annoying as hell. The fact that she was both vulnerable and arrogant was weird. Her and Brochan just didn't work for me and I neither felt or cared about their chemistry or relationship. There is a lot happening in this story and I think it had some good bones but it was too short to really bring everything together. I still love Showalter but this missed the mark for me...especially after William's story. Swoon. If you like Showalter and the Lords world then definitely read this one but don't expect it to blow your socks off.
Read
December 14, 2021Kısa bir kitap olduğu için söylenecek çok bir şey yok... Merakımı giderdim sadece. Daha iyi olabilirdi elbette ama yazar aradan çıksın istedi herhalde.
Yazarın oluşturduğu evreni bilmesem çok garipseyeceğim ve anlamlandıramadığım şeyler olurdu sanırım. Onun dışında okundu ve bitti. Söylenecek pek bir şey yok.
Yazarın oluşturduğu evreni bilmesem çok garipseyeceğim ve anlamlandıramadığım şeyler olurdu sanırım. Onun dışında okundu ve bitti. Söylenecek pek bir şey yok.
September 6, 2024
It's more of a 2.5 stars rating.
Not a bad choice to kill time with but the main couple is kinda boring. The world setting is going though.
Not a bad choice to kill time with but the main couple is kinda boring. The world setting is going though.
December 7, 2021
Read this review on Got Fiction? Book Blog
I have been itching for good PNR lately, and when I got the chance to read a Lords of the Underworld book early, you know I jumped at it! Right off the bat, let me tell you that you do not need to be caught up in the Lords of the Underworld series to read this book. It can be read as a standalone. It is a longish novella.
Okay so Viola is a goddess of the afterlife, however she became keeper of the demon Narcissism while she was trapped in Tartarus. This means she must be adored to keep it fed, or else the demon feeds on her. It blocks her most traumatic memories to use against her in times like this. She has several powers, but she can steal immortals’ souls, or kill the deathless. She is a goddess of the afterlife, after all.
Brochan is a Sent One (think an angel that kills demons). He is very staid, buttoned up, responsible, and a rule follower. One night, he sees a woman walk into a bar and his world stops. He knows without a doubt, that she is his mate…except she doesn’t even glance at him and walks on to meet his brother. He can’t bear it and goes back into Nevaeh, when his brother comes crashing in…minus his immortality. He decides right then and there to Fall. He will find his mate, but only to force her to fix his brother, or to kiss her, uh kill her, definitely not kiss.
Viola is not the capricious girl he took her for. She’s so much more. And when he captures her, she’s going to make him realize it.
Viola has to steal immortal souls to feed Fluffy, her immortal pet. Fluffy is the only one in all of the worlds who has never betrayed her or let her down. So she has to hunt for souls. She, being a goddess of the afterlife, can see auras. She doesn’t just pick any handsome immortal, she has criteria. And she refuses to share that with the Forsaken One her angel is slowly becoming. He’s slowly gaining horns, talons, blue skin…he’s changed since his Fall. And as beastly as he feels, Viola never makes him feel like one. She almost seems to prefer him with horns. He can’t believe it.
The two of them have more trials to face than just his brother’s mortality, or her sweet little Fluffy. His anger gets in the way of so much, and it isn’t until something big happens that Brochan realizes how much Viola means to him. The two of them are wonderful together. I haven’t loved a heroine this much in a long time. Viola is amazing, and just so likeable.
This book is a case of I opened it up to read a couple of pages and wound up reading the whole thing that afternoon. With fun, loyal, protective, interesting characters, you really can never go wrong with a Gena Showalter book, but with this one especially, I can’t boost it enough. You need this book in your eyes.
Gena Showalter’s writing is addictive. Do yourself a favor and grab The Darkest Destiny today.
***ARC provided courtesy of the author’s publicist
I have been itching for good PNR lately, and when I got the chance to read a Lords of the Underworld book early, you know I jumped at it! Right off the bat, let me tell you that you do not need to be caught up in the Lords of the Underworld series to read this book. It can be read as a standalone. It is a longish novella.
Okay so Viola is a goddess of the afterlife, however she became keeper of the demon Narcissism while she was trapped in Tartarus. This means she must be adored to keep it fed, or else the demon feeds on her. It blocks her most traumatic memories to use against her in times like this. She has several powers, but she can steal immortals’ souls, or kill the deathless. She is a goddess of the afterlife, after all.
Brochan is a Sent One (think an angel that kills demons). He is very staid, buttoned up, responsible, and a rule follower. One night, he sees a woman walk into a bar and his world stops. He knows without a doubt, that she is his mate…except she doesn’t even glance at him and walks on to meet his brother. He can’t bear it and goes back into Nevaeh, when his brother comes crashing in…minus his immortality. He decides right then and there to Fall. He will find his mate, but only to force her to fix his brother, or to kiss her, uh kill her, definitely not kiss.
Viola is not the capricious girl he took her for. She’s so much more. And when he captures her, she’s going to make him realize it.
Viola has to steal immortal souls to feed Fluffy, her immortal pet. Fluffy is the only one in all of the worlds who has never betrayed her or let her down. So she has to hunt for souls. She, being a goddess of the afterlife, can see auras. She doesn’t just pick any handsome immortal, she has criteria. And she refuses to share that with the Forsaken One her angel is slowly becoming. He’s slowly gaining horns, talons, blue skin…he’s changed since his Fall. And as beastly as he feels, Viola never makes him feel like one. She almost seems to prefer him with horns. He can’t believe it.
The two of them have more trials to face than just his brother’s mortality, or her sweet little Fluffy. His anger gets in the way of so much, and it isn’t until something big happens that Brochan realizes how much Viola means to him. The two of them are wonderful together. I haven’t loved a heroine this much in a long time. Viola is amazing, and just so likeable.
This book is a case of I opened it up to read a couple of pages and wound up reading the whole thing that afternoon. With fun, loyal, protective, interesting characters, you really can never go wrong with a Gena Showalter book, but with this one especially, I can’t boost it enough. You need this book in your eyes.
Gena Showalter’s writing is addictive. Do yourself a favor and grab The Darkest Destiny today.
***ARC provided courtesy of the author’s publicist
February 23, 2024
Loved reading this book again, I love these two and their story was so entertaining!
*First Read December 7th, 2021*
This was such a great read, loved their story, and that they got their happy ending!
*First Read December 7th, 2021*
This was such a great read, loved their story, and that they got their happy ending!
December 8, 2021
This book was really good. I was never a huge fan of Viola when she showed up in the other books but that was purely because of her narcissistic behavior. But she couldn’t help that for sure. I really liked getting to know her backstory and how she became a host of the demon and how she got Fluffy. I thought Brochan was an awesome character as well. He definitely had the most growth throughout the Novella but that was really to be expected. I highly recommend this for any LOTU fans.
*I received an ARC for an honest review*
*I received an ARC for an honest review*
January 6, 2022
4.5 Stars
I really liked this book. In fact, I shocked myself by finishing it in one sitting because I didn’t want to put it down! I loved the banter between Brochan and Viola and their love/hate relationship had me hooked! I understand why this was just a novella, but I would have loved a longer, whole book on them.
What I Didn’t Like- The prologue of this book, while informative, was info dumpy and a bit cringey with its pacing. I really wish that chapter would have been spread out because it really didn’t come off good for the start of the book. Luckily, chapter one immediately started off better.
I really liked this book. In fact, I shocked myself by finishing it in one sitting because I didn’t want to put it down! I loved the banter between Brochan and Viola and their love/hate relationship had me hooked! I understand why this was just a novella, but I would have loved a longer, whole book on them.
What I Didn’t Like- The prologue of this book, while informative, was info dumpy and a bit cringey with its pacing. I really wish that chapter would have been spread out because it really didn’t come off good for the start of the book. Luckily, chapter one immediately started off better.
December 5, 2021
It's been a while since I've read a LOTU book and it was such a pleasure to dive back into that world again.
I am absolutely in love with Viola!! Keeper of the Demon Narcissism. The way her mind works is fascinating and hilarious.
Then we have Brochan. Torn between his obsession with Viola and his need to avenge his brother. Gena's Alpha males are always swoon-worthy and he is no different.
Although this story is a novella, it's not lacking in what it has to offer. You still get the suspense, the challenges they have to face on the road to their HEA, the tragedies, and the hot as hell chemistry.
This makes me want to do a re-read!! I loved it!!
Definitely recommend it, especially for those who have already dipped their toes into the LOTU!
**I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review**
I am absolutely in love with Viola!! Keeper of the Demon Narcissism. The way her mind works is fascinating and hilarious.
Then we have Brochan. Torn between his obsession with Viola and his need to avenge his brother. Gena's Alpha males are always swoon-worthy and he is no different.
Although this story is a novella, it's not lacking in what it has to offer. You still get the suspense, the challenges they have to face on the road to their HEA, the tragedies, and the hot as hell chemistry.
This makes me want to do a re-read!! I loved it!!
Definitely recommend it, especially for those who have already dipped their toes into the LOTU!
**I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review**
January 1, 2022
Another great story Brochen and Viola are matched well and Brochan's conflict between the brother he raised and his mate is well thought out and delivered. The story was engaging the character interaction is exciting and makes compelling reading. I look forward to what comes next from this author
January 8, 2024
* For reference it would be useful to read the entire series first.
Forsaken and unable to be killed, Brochan's only purpose in life is to punish the possessed goddess Viola for what she did to his brother. She took his immortality and fed it to her demon dog Fluffy. However, Brochan has one problem as Viola is his mate and thereffore he has a very hard time in actually hurting or punishing her. He has to be smart, otherwise he can lose his brother or his fledgling relationship with Viola.
This story is bit weird, as I felt it would have made more sense to put this on the timeline earlier in the series? Now it felt like a bit of an afterthought and since there is no tie in to the original story this novella felt very weird. It is nice that there is an ending for Viola, but I could have done without this. I hope the next series in this world feels a bit less disjointed.
Forsaken and unable to be killed, Brochan's only purpose in life is to punish the possessed goddess Viola for what she did to his brother. She took his immortality and fed it to her demon dog Fluffy. However, Brochan has one problem as Viola is his mate and thereffore he has a very hard time in actually hurting or punishing her. He has to be smart, otherwise he can lose his brother or his fledgling relationship with Viola.
This story is bit weird, as I felt it would have made more sense to put this on the timeline earlier in the series? Now it felt like a bit of an afterthought and since there is no tie in to the original story this novella felt very weird. It is nice that there is an ending for Viola, but I could have done without this. I hope the next series in this world feels a bit less disjointed.
February 10, 2023
“She’s possessed by the demon of Narcissism. To capture her, I had only to hold up this mirror. Within seconds, she stopped fighting.”
What do you get when you get a scarred, grumpy fallen angel with the Demon of Narcissism? A really great novella that has all of the charm, wit, and banter we know and love from Gena! I only wish this book could be longer!!
Beauty and the Beast, where Viola is stunning on the outside but very self centered on the inside, and where Brochan is very scarred, horned, and ugly on the outside but has a kind and loyal soul
❤️🎧📖❤️
Book: The Darkest Destiny
Demon: Viola, Demon of Narcissism
Forsaken: Brochan, self inflicted
Couple: Brochan and Viola
Series: Lords of the Underworld, novella standalone
Author: Gena Showalter
Narrated by: Max Bellmore
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Kindle Unlimited: ❌
Audio Whispersync: ✅
Author Playlist: ❌
🗣 Narration 🗣: fantastic as always!
📖 Tropes 📖: fantasy, E2L, humorous, series, scarred grumpy hero, sassy sunshine heroine, traumatic pasts
⚠️ Safety Squad ⚠️: safe
📚 Similar Books 📚: Kresley Cole IAD
🎵 Katie’s Song Rec 🎵: Princess Nokia’s Harley Quinn
What do you get when you get a scarred, grumpy fallen angel with the Demon of Narcissism? A really great novella that has all of the charm, wit, and banter we know and love from Gena! I only wish this book could be longer!!
Beauty and the Beast, where Viola is stunning on the outside but very self centered on the inside, and where Brochan is very scarred, horned, and ugly on the outside but has a kind and loyal soul
❤️🎧📖❤️
Book: The Darkest Destiny
Demon: Viola, Demon of Narcissism
Forsaken: Brochan, self inflicted
Couple: Brochan and Viola
Series: Lords of the Underworld, novella standalone
Author: Gena Showalter
Narrated by: Max Bellmore
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Kindle Unlimited: ❌
Audio Whispersync: ✅
Author Playlist: ❌
🗣 Narration 🗣: fantastic as always!
📖 Tropes 📖: fantasy, E2L, humorous, series, scarred grumpy hero, sassy sunshine heroine, traumatic pasts
⚠️ Safety Squad ⚠️: safe
📚 Similar Books 📚: Kresley Cole IAD
🎵 Katie’s Song Rec 🎵: Princess Nokia’s Harley Quinn
September 1, 2022
What a story !! I loved it, so much hatred, bitterness, and revengeful feelings.
Viola is possessed by the demon of Narcissism, with the only goal to ensure that her beloved pet survived and has the best life ever. Brochan has fallen, devastated with hatred and resentment against Viola, he became a Forsaken and will avenge his brother who lost his immortality because of her.
Despite everything, Brochan wants her and will do anything to ensure that she gives him what he wants. As Viola faces challenges, she admits that she’s attracted to this beast who desires her and will claim her.
Really loved this book ! The demon of Narcissism is more complex than I thought and that made him truly interesting. Just love this series so much, I will never recommend it enough 😍
Viola is possessed by the demon of Narcissism, with the only goal to ensure that her beloved pet survived and has the best life ever. Brochan has fallen, devastated with hatred and resentment against Viola, he became a Forsaken and will avenge his brother who lost his immortality because of her.
Despite everything, Brochan wants her and will do anything to ensure that she gives him what he wants. As Viola faces challenges, she admits that she’s attracted to this beast who desires her and will claim her.
Really loved this book ! The demon of Narcissism is more complex than I thought and that made him truly interesting. Just love this series so much, I will never recommend it enough 😍
November 29, 2021
It's been a minute since I've been in the LOTU world but I very much remember Viola and Fluffy, so to see her get her own story was a bit of a throwback. I kinda sped through it because I so easily get lost in this world I know no other choice. It takes you on a bit of a rollercoaster, emotionally. But it was worth it. Brochan was a mighty hero! A return to form! I volunteered to read and review an early copy of this. All opinions are my own.
November 29, 2021
What can I say? I think I waited for this book for *so long* that I sped read through this quickly. And what a read! I love how Gena takes us through a whirlwind of emotions. You can’t help but fall in love with the characters, Brochan and Viola. You want them to succeed in their love. I mean, I know I did!
December 7, 2021
I am always amazed at how much I love this authors books every time.
Brochan the Undeterred sees her across a crowded room and knows she’s his mate. Things don’t go so well and he’s out for revenge but his heart is torn.
Every fiber of his being stood at attention and shouted, MINE! My mate.
Viola, goddess of the Afterlife she also carries the demon of narcissism. Deep down she still wants to be loved for herself.
“Brochan?” she said, her voice slurred once more, fighting sleep. “Yes, kitten?” “You are in love with me.” “I…might be,” he croaked. “I must be pretty special then,” she said and exhaled slowly, drifting away at last.
I have been waiting a long time for this one and it certainly did not disappoint. Just another reason why I love this author so much.
Brochan the Undeterred sees her across a crowded room and knows she’s his mate. Things don’t go so well and he’s out for revenge but his heart is torn.
Every fiber of his being stood at attention and shouted, MINE! My mate.
Viola, goddess of the Afterlife she also carries the demon of narcissism. Deep down she still wants to be loved for herself.
“Brochan?” she said, her voice slurred once more, fighting sleep. “Yes, kitten?” “You are in love with me.” “I…might be,” he croaked. “I must be pretty special then,” she said and exhaled slowly, drifting away at last.
I have been waiting a long time for this one and it certainly did not disappoint. Just another reason why I love this author so much.
December 17, 2021
I can't believe how quickly I read this one :( I've been waiting so long and it was over too soon! I NEED MORE!!! This series will forever be one of my top 10 favorites!
January 13, 2022
Wow that was CRAZY intense with so many laughs, tears, and so much heat. Can't wait for more
January 16, 2022
I have missed the characters in this series! Viola was a late addition to the series and I found the writing fun and snarky and the perfect way to start the new year. The chemistry between her and Brochan was fab and I am glad because his brother was not for Viola. A nice quick read and the cameos were wonderful.
May 29, 2023
A short, fun read.
December 12, 2021
I've been waiting for this story forever and it didn't disappoint. I love the enemies to lovers love story, and this one is crazy funny too.
Want to read
December 23, 2020wow, I thought it ended up in William's book, I hope this is a great story, since the last one disappointed me.
January 18, 2025
LAST READ OF THE YEAR 2021, REMINISCING:
2021 was one of the most challenging years for me, but I enjoyed it so much... Lara Adrian started this year with Micah's book. This book is one-before-the last of the Midnight Breed Series. Can't wait to see how it all wraps up. Larissa Ione reintroduced Tracker and Stacey to us and I was charmed by their story. Cassandra Clare blessed us with the 2nd book in The Last Hours series. This book was a rollercoaster, and I am preparing myself for the pain I am going to feel when my faves don't get the happy ending in the next book. The Secrets of the Blackthorn Hall were nice recurring sneak peaks into Clare's characters' lives. J. R. Ward gave us three very good reads with Lover Unveiled, Claimed, and The Wolf and some interesting plotlines. Maggie Stiefvater with her Mister Impossible just missed the mark for me. On the other hand, Nalini Singh gave us Anchor pair with the Last Guard and FINALLY paired Illium and Aodhan with Archangel's Light. I am very excited for the second part of their story, though. Rick Riordan published an anthology of short stories featuring other great authors in the Rick Riordan Presents - I completely fell in love with his take on the Celtic myths. Gena Showalter decided to tell us the stories of Taliyah, Viola, and Brochan finally. Unfortunately, she started a new series called the Warlords, where guys from Astra Planeta are the main leads. This does not make any sense with the continuity of the Lords of the Underworld series, and I decided to stop reviewing this series in the future. Original Lords and Ladies got their stories, and I think it is totally fine to call it a wrap. Before finishing, I started to read Grishaverse by Leigh Bardugo this year, and I am hooked. This is my 7th reminiscing on the last book of the year, and the last reminiscing intro I will make - thanks for reading.
AFTER READING:
I waited for Viola's book for a long time now, and I was glad she is the one with whom I am saying goodbye to this series. In the novella's usual style, this was a little bit rushed but I enjoyed it because the book focused on the Keepers and Angels.
I would recommend this book to anyone that is a fan of the Lords of the Underworld/Angels of the Dark series but do not read this as a standalone because you will get confused.
2021 was one of the most challenging years for me, but I enjoyed it so much... Lara Adrian started this year with Micah's book. This book is one-before-the last of the Midnight Breed Series. Can't wait to see how it all wraps up. Larissa Ione reintroduced Tracker and Stacey to us and I was charmed by their story. Cassandra Clare blessed us with the 2nd book in The Last Hours series. This book was a rollercoaster, and I am preparing myself for the pain I am going to feel when my faves don't get the happy ending in the next book. The Secrets of the Blackthorn Hall were nice recurring sneak peaks into Clare's characters' lives. J. R. Ward gave us three very good reads with Lover Unveiled, Claimed, and The Wolf and some interesting plotlines. Maggie Stiefvater with her Mister Impossible just missed the mark for me. On the other hand, Nalini Singh gave us Anchor pair with the Last Guard and FINALLY paired Illium and Aodhan with Archangel's Light. I am very excited for the second part of their story, though. Rick Riordan published an anthology of short stories featuring other great authors in the Rick Riordan Presents - I completely fell in love with his take on the Celtic myths. Gena Showalter decided to tell us the stories of Taliyah, Viola, and Brochan finally. Unfortunately, she started a new series called the Warlords, where guys from Astra Planeta are the main leads. This does not make any sense with the continuity of the Lords of the Underworld series, and I decided to stop reviewing this series in the future. Original Lords and Ladies got their stories, and I think it is totally fine to call it a wrap. Before finishing, I started to read Grishaverse by Leigh Bardugo this year, and I am hooked. This is my 7th reminiscing on the last book of the year, and the last reminiscing intro I will make - thanks for reading.
AFTER READING:
I waited for Viola's book for a long time now, and I was glad she is the one with whom I am saying goodbye to this series. In the novella's usual style, this was a little bit rushed but I enjoyed it because the book focused on the Keepers and Angels.
I would recommend this book to anyone that is a fan of the Lords of the Underworld/Angels of the Dark series but do not read this as a standalone because you will get confused.
December 8, 2021
It’s been a while since I’ve read this author (I tend only to read her lords of the underworld series) so I was excited to find out she’s written another short story in this series.
Viola has the demon Narcissism contained inside her body (many centuries ago a group of warriors were guarding Pandora’s box, they were foolish enough to open it, all the demons escaped! As punishment those guards were made to live with a demon inside of them, prisoners of the gods were also punished with the demons)
So your wondering if Viola is a warrior or an enemy of the Gods?! (Read the book and you’ll find out 😉
She is also the keeper of the Afterlife (you’ll find out how in the book)
Viola cares for nothing except herself, (well that the definition of narcissism) until her pet fluffy enters her life. (She thinks of her pet as a child)
She lives only to entertain and amuse herself and care for fluffy, by taking immortal souls.
I wasn’t a big lover of this character when she was first introduced into the LOTU (lords of the underworld) but in this book my opinion changes.
Brochan doesn’t house a demon inside himself. But he certainly comes with enough of his own issues!
The more I read of him, the more I felt sorry for him (and to be honest, most of the characters in this series have a pretty horrible life) he was an angel until he fell (due to Viola! And now he made it his mission to find answers, then take her head!
This pairing was just great.
How they meet had me chuckling, which turned into amazement, which soon morphed into shock!
Although a short story, it packs a whole lot into it….
Betrayal, laughter, suspense and a few steamy moments.
I understand the character a lot more after reading her background, she’s still not one of my favourite characters, but I like her a whole lot more now.
Brochan was a great character he had so much potential and excelled beyond even his own expectations.
It’s not necessary to read all the previous books in this series (15 books and a few novellas!) as this book will happily stand on its own.
🦋
Viola has the demon Narcissism contained inside her body (many centuries ago a group of warriors were guarding Pandora’s box, they were foolish enough to open it, all the demons escaped! As punishment those guards were made to live with a demon inside of them, prisoners of the gods were also punished with the demons)
So your wondering if Viola is a warrior or an enemy of the Gods?! (Read the book and you’ll find out 😉
She is also the keeper of the Afterlife (you’ll find out how in the book)
Viola cares for nothing except herself, (well that the definition of narcissism) until her pet fluffy enters her life. (She thinks of her pet as a child)
She lives only to entertain and amuse herself and care for fluffy, by taking immortal souls.
I wasn’t a big lover of this character when she was first introduced into the LOTU (lords of the underworld) but in this book my opinion changes.
Brochan doesn’t house a demon inside himself. But he certainly comes with enough of his own issues!
The more I read of him, the more I felt sorry for him (and to be honest, most of the characters in this series have a pretty horrible life) he was an angel until he fell (due to Viola! And now he made it his mission to find answers, then take her head!
This pairing was just great.
How they meet had me chuckling, which turned into amazement, which soon morphed into shock!
Although a short story, it packs a whole lot into it….
Betrayal, laughter, suspense and a few steamy moments.
I understand the character a lot more after reading her background, she’s still not one of my favourite characters, but I like her a whole lot more now.
Brochan was a great character he had so much potential and excelled beyond even his own expectations.
It’s not necessary to read all the previous books in this series (15 books and a few novellas!) as this book will happily stand on its own.
🦋
February 9, 2022
3.5 stars
Revenge never turns out the way we think it’s going to turn out, does it? Brochan wants to make Viola pay for taking his brother’s immortality. Nobody is more important to Brochan than his brother, the man he raised from a young boy. But Viola guards her beast Fluffy just as fiercely. With good reason; Fluffy is the only being who has ever been loyal to Viola and shown her unconditional love.
These two are more alike than they can even fathom. They’re also both extremely stubborn and don’t take the time to figure out they why of the other’s actions. They just react when they feel threatened which causes many interesting fights. Some violent, some frustrating, all sexy.
There is a test Viola gives all of her “victims” before taking their essence. Nobody has passed that test. It’s quite easy to figure it out, but seeing Brochan struggle with what the test may be and what he has to do to pass the test is interesting. As much as he can be quite the brute, his reasoning for the things he does keeps him a sympathetic character. Especially since we also know he fell for Viola before she even set her sights on…his brother. And Viola’s narcissism can border on annoying, but knowing her internal struggle helps her stay on the right side of annoying. Also, finding out how Viola chooses who to steal from helped to redeem her in my eyes.
It’s always great to see old “friends”. These novellas seldom have a lot of facetime with the Lords of the Underworld, but I have a bit of an infatuation with the Sent Ones who own Downfall and we got to visit with them a bit in this story.
While I did enjoy this story, the pacing felt different than most of this author’s novellas so it was a bit of a slower read than I was expecting. I enjoyed the characters, the plot, the story overall…it was just a bit off somehow.
You can find more of my reviews at All In Good Time.
Revenge never turns out the way we think it’s going to turn out, does it? Brochan wants to make Viola pay for taking his brother’s immortality. Nobody is more important to Brochan than his brother, the man he raised from a young boy. But Viola guards her beast Fluffy just as fiercely. With good reason; Fluffy is the only being who has ever been loyal to Viola and shown her unconditional love.
These two are more alike than they can even fathom. They’re also both extremely stubborn and don’t take the time to figure out they why of the other’s actions. They just react when they feel threatened which causes many interesting fights. Some violent, some frustrating, all sexy.
There is a test Viola gives all of her “victims” before taking their essence. Nobody has passed that test. It’s quite easy to figure it out, but seeing Brochan struggle with what the test may be and what he has to do to pass the test is interesting. As much as he can be quite the brute, his reasoning for the things he does keeps him a sympathetic character. Especially since we also know he fell for Viola before she even set her sights on…his brother. And Viola’s narcissism can border on annoying, but knowing her internal struggle helps her stay on the right side of annoying. Also, finding out how Viola chooses who to steal from helped to redeem her in my eyes.
It’s always great to see old “friends”. These novellas seldom have a lot of facetime with the Lords of the Underworld, but I have a bit of an infatuation with the Sent Ones who own Downfall and we got to visit with them a bit in this story.
While I did enjoy this story, the pacing felt different than most of this author’s novellas so it was a bit of a slower read than I was expecting. I enjoyed the characters, the plot, the story overall…it was just a bit off somehow.
You can find more of my reviews at All In Good Time.
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