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Kara Gillian #6
Fury of the Demon
Demon summoner Kara Gillian bears the scars of Rhyzkahl’s treachery, but she refuses to let them slow her down. She and the demonic lord Mzatal have not rested in their efforts to recover Idris—Mzatal’s summoner protégé who was kidnapped by enemy lords—but now their search has brought them back to Earth.
With the help of FBI agents Ryan Kristoff and Zack Garner, they begin to track down summoners who are working with Rhyzkahl. However, Kara knows Ryan’s true identity, and questions of loyalty threaten to tear apart this group of allies. When Kara intervenes to help a brilliant young computer expert and his bodyguard after an accidental shooting, she quickly learns that Rhyzkahl’s machinations run deeper than she could have ever imagined. The search for Idris takes on a desperate edge as their enemies increase in number, and Kara realizes that an old homicide case may hold the key to their success—or their doom.
With the very fabric of the universe at stake, Kara must rely on her skills, wit, and luck to save her friends and her world, yet ancient vows will have to be broken if she is to have any hope.
But the price of breaking those vows may be her own blood.
With the help of FBI agents Ryan Kristoff and Zack Garner, they begin to track down summoners who are working with Rhyzkahl. However, Kara knows Ryan’s true identity, and questions of loyalty threaten to tear apart this group of allies. When Kara intervenes to help a brilliant young computer expert and his bodyguard after an accidental shooting, she quickly learns that Rhyzkahl’s machinations run deeper than she could have ever imagined. The search for Idris takes on a desperate edge as their enemies increase in number, and Kara realizes that an old homicide case may hold the key to their success—or their doom.
With the very fabric of the universe at stake, Kara must rely on her skills, wit, and luck to save her friends and her world, yet ancient vows will have to be broken if she is to have any hope.
But the price of breaking those vows may be her own blood.
416 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 7, 2014
109 people are currently reading
2920 people want to read
About the author
Diana Rowland
28 books2,851 followersDiana Rowland worked as a bartender, a blackjack dealer, a pit boss, a street cop, a detective, a computer forensics specialist, a crime scene investigator, and a morgue assistant, which means that she's seen a lot of weird crap. She won the marksmanship award in her Police Academy class, has a black belt in Hapkido, has handled numerous dead bodies in various states of decomposition, and can't rollerblade to save her life.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 263 reviews
January 9, 2014
When this series first started out I really liked them, however the last book was tough for me, I didn't care that we were in the demon realm. When this one started out there was disappointed and it took me a long time to read the first 100 pages. I stopped and read something else. When I went to pick this one back up I found myself to be still bored and that was after Kara made it back to earth. I made it 150 pages, but I'm giving up with the series. I find that I don't care any more, don't care if Kare goes Rowan, don't care if Ryan finds out just who he is, don't care if they find out why any more. In the end, this series just isn't for me any longer.
November 5, 2017
It's really kinda amazing that Rowland decided to go with her gut and change the series as much as she did. Police procedurals and all have a huge place in the world now and it's fine and stuff, but I get the distinct impression that everyone's going WAY OVERBOARD with the whole genre.
Enter Kara Gillian.
The last book allowed us to explore the demon world. I was enraptured. This book brought Kara back to Earth.
Kara isn't working for law enforcement anymore, but she does have friends. What's more, she's back with demon lord friends and more power than you shake a stick at. We're also introduced to new (and fun) characters as she attempts to save a number of demon thralls, save Idris, and we even get a Roadtrip novel. (Yes, it's a thing.) But here's the best part of these books: They're all character driven. The plots are more than decent and Rowling is smart about where she takes the stories, the betrayals, and the powerups. Even the magic system is becoming WORTHY.
But at the core, it's the characters that really drive everything in her novels. The story is always going where they want to go. It flows in just that way, and it's right and good. This is something beyond my saying that I love it. I'm saying the tale couldn't go any other way. It feels genuine. Everyone's reacting to their nature or striving against it in dynamic ways. The reveals transform our way of thinking about everything.
Yes, to Zack. Yes, to Ryan. I'm starting to love these guys. It took some time, but I'm finally on board. How many times do I have to like villains in Rowland's books before I get the clue? lol Who is the villain? Well, that's most of the fun. We're dealing with demon lords here and they are indeed very crafty.
Do I miss the police procedural bits?
Nope. *shrug* If I wanted more police procedural magic, I can get it anywhere. What I don't often see is truly dynamic and huge change in these UF's, and I'm just going to have to say bravo. :)
Enter Kara Gillian.
The last book allowed us to explore the demon world. I was enraptured. This book brought Kara back to Earth.
Kara isn't working for law enforcement anymore, but she does have friends. What's more, she's back with demon lord friends and more power than you shake a stick at. We're also introduced to new (and fun) characters as she attempts to save a number of demon thralls, save Idris, and we even get a Roadtrip novel. (Yes, it's a thing.) But here's the best part of these books: They're all character driven. The plots are more than decent and Rowling is smart about where she takes the stories, the betrayals, and the powerups. Even the magic system is becoming WORTHY.
But at the core, it's the characters that really drive everything in her novels. The story is always going where they want to go. It flows in just that way, and it's right and good. This is something beyond my saying that I love it. I'm saying the tale couldn't go any other way. It feels genuine. Everyone's reacting to their nature or striving against it in dynamic ways. The reveals transform our way of thinking about everything.
Yes, to Zack. Yes, to Ryan. I'm starting to love these guys. It took some time, but I'm finally on board. How many times do I have to like villains in Rowland's books before I get the clue? lol Who is the villain? Well, that's most of the fun. We're dealing with demon lords here and they are indeed very crafty.
Do I miss the police procedural bits?
Nope. *shrug* If I wanted more police procedural magic, I can get it anywhere. What I don't often see is truly dynamic and huge change in these UF's, and I'm just going to have to say bravo. :)
January 9, 2014
Kara Gillian is one of my favourite urban fantasy series and this book didn't disappoint.
We kick off where the last book ended, with Kara still in the demon realm, but the action soon moves to Earth where the team try to track down abducted Idris. We learn that Rhyzkahl hasn't given up on his plans for Kara and there's more fall-out from the torture scene in the last book.
If you can't remember much of the earlier books, I'd highly recommend a reread of the previous book (Touch of the Demon) at the very least before tackling this one. It's not that the book is hard to follow (it isn't, and DR explains important events well enough for those with hazy memories) but I think readers will get more out of the book if recent events are fresh in their minds. The main action is the rescue of Idris, but it's the greater story arc that makes this series so compelling to me. I find Diana Rowland to be an incredibly clever (and sneaky!) author, and there are tiny hints dotted throughout the previous books, and quite a few instances where a random comment from two books ago suddenly becomes important. I love it when authors do this! But never mind the previous books; this one is FULL of teasers! We get more information about the demon lords, their counsellors and their origins, and some juicy background on Kadir, Tessa and Zack. I feel that I want to immediately read the book again to try to figure it all out!
DR has said there should be nine books in the series and Book 7, Vengeance of the Demon, should be out in about a year (probably January 2015). I cannot wait!
We kick off where the last book ended, with Kara still in the demon realm, but the action soon moves to Earth where the team try to track down abducted Idris. We learn that Rhyzkahl hasn't given up on his plans for Kara and there's more fall-out from the torture scene in the last book.
If you can't remember much of the earlier books, I'd highly recommend a reread of the previous book (Touch of the Demon) at the very least before tackling this one. It's not that the book is hard to follow (it isn't, and DR explains important events well enough for those with hazy memories) but I think readers will get more out of the book if recent events are fresh in their minds. The main action is the rescue of Idris, but it's the greater story arc that makes this series so compelling to me. I find Diana Rowland to be an incredibly clever (and sneaky!) author, and there are tiny hints dotted throughout the previous books, and quite a few instances where a random comment from two books ago suddenly becomes important. I love it when authors do this! But never mind the previous books; this one is FULL of teasers! We get more information about the demon lords, their counsellors and their origins, and some juicy background on Kadir, Tessa and Zack. I feel that I want to immediately read the book again to try to figure it all out!
DR has said there should be nine books in the series and Book 7, Vengeance of the Demon, should be out in about a year (probably January 2015). I cannot wait!
August 11, 2016
Actual rating: 4.5 stars
This is NOT a spoiler free review, although I've hidden/put spoilers on the more juicy tidbits.
In the last installment, Idris was kidnapped by enemies of Mzatal. Now, Kara, Mzatal and her posse are desperately trying to free Idris from the clutches of enemy lords and their summoners. All the while; Kara struggles not to lose her grip on herself and turn into Rowan.
Along the way, and with the help of Mzatal, they recruit new and interesting and arcanely gifted individuals who’ve been forcibly drafted into the service of the Mraztur.
Let me start by saying that whatever lingering sympathy I might have had for Rhyzkahl is TOTALLY gone. G.O.N.E! Not only because of what he did to Kara in the previous novel, but his involvement in a sinister trading business from the time he was first summoned, his past involvement with someone close to Kara, and let’s not forget the Mraztur’s plan for world domination. Not that I (or at least, some small part of me) can blame the lords for wanting a connection to Earth, given their background, and how long they've been cut off, but still… The way I see it, Rhyzkahl has only contributed to one positive thing in this story. And it’s a big one.
While the search for Idris remains the focus throughout the book, this is the book of BIG reveals. One such secret concerns Idris himself. He’s in a tough spot in this book. Dealing with traumatizing events- And oh boy, is he going to have daddy issues… Then there’s Zack.
But while some secrets are revealed, others remain shrouded in mystery: Like why is the ptarl/lord bond is considered so inviolate by both parties, and breaking it would bring such heartbreak to everyone involved.
Who are the Eikiri really, and are they in any way responsible for the creation of the lords?
There’s plenty of pain, loss and upheaval present here as well. Not all demons and humans in this book make it out alive, and some of those who do, are painfully broken. Others remain alive, but irrevocably changed. It’s clear that Kara will be dealing with the gradual death of a dear friend, only to give room for the suppressed individual beneath the artificial overlay. An individual who's still largely unknown to her, and might not have her best interests at heart. However, I can't wait to see the survivors rise from the ashes, because I care deeply about some of them. Others, not so much, but I am betting their loss, too, will have a huge impact on the continuation of this story. For better or worse. Probably both.
While things go from bad to worse for Kara and posse, there's still room for tender moments. I’ll admit, for a time, I did mourn Rhyzkahl’s treachery, but I’ve come to treasure the connection Mzatal and Kara have. Their love is obviously so much deeper, it has moved past the point of just mindblowing sex, and let me tell, you: It would break my heart to see them torn apart. Equally tender was the scene where Zack finally revealed his demon form to Jill, despite their fears of rejection. Loved it, and their still unborn child’s obvious joy as well. Then there was the genuine friendship between Mzatal and Elofir. Long broken, only recently reaffirmed. It was good to see that there could be friendship, not just power struggles between those eleven powerful men. Kara’s posse was another plus. Their growing alliance had to deal with deep trust issues, feelings of hurt and betrayal, they really had to work a few things out... There was even time for some cute and cuddly cat/demon luvin’ ;-) I may be a dog person, but Eilahn and her demon buddies (and shockingly; even one lord) are such softies when it comes to animals. Daaaaww;-P
One thing I didn’t see coming was how demonic oaths can have the strangest consequences. Being a stickler for those (pesky)rules, actually came in handy for once.
The way I see it, though, those essence blades are bad news. They give me a creepy “precioussssssss” feeling. Everyone covets them, yet they seem to bring out the worst in the wielder. And bring about nothing but ghastly consequences. (Well, there’s one notable exception, of course.)
I’m beginning to think the lords will need their very own Mount Doom.
As for Rhyzkahl: I wonder who hid from him. There's no reason for his summoners to hide the fact IMO, and that leads me to believe it was someone else, or possibly a "double agent". So naturally I am curious...
But most of all: I really want to know what Nadir’s mention of Kara being Mzatal’s Shik-Natahr is all about.
Does it have anything to do with the shikihr, or is it, as Rowland seems to imply, something more? Perhaps even a big deal, and something the grove connection chose not to reveal to her. To say that I am curious, and anxiously awaiting a new book, is an understatement. I hope we won't have to wait too long.
This is NOT a spoiler free review, although I've hidden/put spoilers on the more juicy tidbits.
In the last installment, Idris was kidnapped by enemies of Mzatal. Now, Kara, Mzatal and her posse are desperately trying to free Idris from the clutches of enemy lords and their summoners. All the while; Kara struggles not to lose her grip on herself and turn into Rowan.
Along the way, and with the help of Mzatal, they recruit new and interesting and arcanely gifted individuals who’ve been forcibly drafted into the service of the Mraztur.
Let me start by saying that whatever lingering sympathy I might have had for Rhyzkahl is TOTALLY gone. G.O.N.E! Not only because of what he did to Kara in the previous novel, but his involvement in a sinister trading business from the time he was first summoned, his past involvement with someone close to Kara, and let’s not forget the Mraztur’s plan for world domination. Not that I (or at least, some small part of me) can blame the lords for wanting a connection to Earth, given their background, and how long they've been cut off, but still… The way I see it, Rhyzkahl has only contributed to one positive thing in this story. And it’s a big one.
While the search for Idris remains the focus throughout the book, this is the book of BIG reveals. One such secret concerns Idris himself. He’s in a tough spot in this book. Dealing with traumatizing events- And oh boy, is he going to have daddy issues… Then there’s Zack.
But while some secrets are revealed, others remain shrouded in mystery: Like why is the ptarl/lord bond is considered so inviolate by both parties, and breaking it would bring such heartbreak to everyone involved.
Who are the Eikiri really, and are they in any way responsible for the creation of the lords?
There’s plenty of pain, loss and upheaval present here as well. Not all demons and humans in this book make it out alive, and some of those who do, are painfully broken. Others remain alive, but irrevocably changed. It’s clear that Kara will be dealing with the gradual death of a dear friend, only to give room for the suppressed individual beneath the artificial overlay. An individual who's still largely unknown to her, and might not have her best interests at heart. However, I can't wait to see the survivors rise from the ashes, because I care deeply about some of them. Others, not so much, but I am betting their loss, too, will have a huge impact on the continuation of this story. For better or worse. Probably both.
While things go from bad to worse for Kara and posse, there's still room for tender moments. I’ll admit, for a time, I did mourn Rhyzkahl’s treachery, but I’ve come to treasure the connection Mzatal and Kara have. Their love is obviously so much deeper, it has moved past the point of just mindblowing sex, and let me tell, you: It would break my heart to see them torn apart. Equally tender was the scene where Zack finally revealed his demon form to Jill, despite their fears of rejection. Loved it, and their still unborn child’s obvious joy as well. Then there was the genuine friendship between Mzatal and Elofir. Long broken, only recently reaffirmed. It was good to see that there could be friendship, not just power struggles between those eleven powerful men. Kara’s posse was another plus. Their growing alliance had to deal with deep trust issues, feelings of hurt and betrayal, they really had to work a few things out... There was even time for some cute and cuddly cat/demon luvin’ ;-) I may be a dog person, but Eilahn and her demon buddies (and shockingly; even one lord) are such softies when it comes to animals. Daaaaww;-P
One thing I didn’t see coming was how demonic oaths can have the strangest consequences. Being a stickler for those (pesky)rules, actually came in handy for once.
The way I see it, though, those essence blades are bad news. They give me a creepy “precioussssssss” feeling. Everyone covets them, yet they seem to bring out the worst in the wielder. And bring about nothing but ghastly consequences. (Well, there’s one notable exception, of course.)
I’m beginning to think the lords will need their very own Mount Doom.
As for Rhyzkahl: I wonder who hid from him. There's no reason for his summoners to hide the fact IMO, and that leads me to believe it was someone else, or possibly a "double agent". So naturally I am curious...
But most of all: I really want to know what Nadir’s mention of Kara being Mzatal’s Shik-Natahr is all about.
Does it have anything to do with the shikihr, or is it, as Rowland seems to imply, something more? Perhaps even a big deal, and something the grove connection chose not to reveal to her. To say that I am curious, and anxiously awaiting a new book, is an understatement. I hope we won't have to wait too long.
January 21, 2020
Still fun, although maybe not as engaging as the previous book.
There are a lot of reviews on this book, so I won't bore you with the details.
What's worth mentioning is that the fun goes on, the plot thickens, and Kara is just as fun as ever (although I still like Jill more).
If you've been reading this series, go on and read it.
If you haven't, it's still worth a try.
There are a lot of reviews on this book, so I won't bore you with the details.
What's worth mentioning is that the fun goes on, the plot thickens, and Kara is just as fun as ever (although I still like Jill more).
If you've been reading this series, go on and read it.
If you haven't, it's still worth a try.
December 30, 2013
Wow, where to start in this review. Too much stuff happens so this review might be a bit lacking since a lot of what happens later in the book is based on things that happen earlier in the book so no spoilers.
At the end of the last book Kara zipped off to the demon realm sounding like the hero to the rescue, but we find her months later getting in better shape to take on the search for Idris but after a bit of a run-in with Rhyzkahl & Friends she does leave for Earth and finds that since she is no longer a cop, Ryan and Zack have somehow made her a kind of consultant to the FBI so she gets called in on a grisly murder case that becomes part of the overall Idris kidnapping and links to some new villains in league with her old enemies.
Kara’s home is fast becoming a compound and her posse is getting larger as this story progresses. The usual murder and mayhem occur along with a few mysteries along the way.
There is some concern about betrayal that has to be addressed and that adds to the overall stress of the situations leading up to the big battle scene towards the end.
Much of the problems we see have to do with Kara’s own problems that still are frustrated by the sigils that have been carved into her skin and still have to be dealt with on a more permanent basis or Kara won’t be Kara anymore.
Let me be a bit clearer with the fact that the prime purpose of the book is still to get Idris back no matter what, but it is not going to be easy even with the help she has.
A bit of tragedy, introspection/realization at the end with the final sentence in the book to give you something to think about until the next installment.
Bottom Line: Great book, kept me involved in the story, multifaceted plot and characters you care about although some you just get glancing pictures of their persona. 5 Star reading for me and still things left to wonder about in the next book.
At the end of the last book Kara zipped off to the demon realm sounding like the hero to the rescue, but we find her months later getting in better shape to take on the search for Idris but after a bit of a run-in with Rhyzkahl & Friends she does leave for Earth and finds that since she is no longer a cop, Ryan and Zack have somehow made her a kind of consultant to the FBI so she gets called in on a grisly murder case that becomes part of the overall Idris kidnapping and links to some new villains in league with her old enemies.
Kara’s home is fast becoming a compound and her posse is getting larger as this story progresses. The usual murder and mayhem occur along with a few mysteries along the way.
There is some concern about betrayal that has to be addressed and that adds to the overall stress of the situations leading up to the big battle scene towards the end.
Much of the problems we see have to do with Kara’s own problems that still are frustrated by the sigils that have been carved into her skin and still have to be dealt with on a more permanent basis or Kara won’t be Kara anymore.
Let me be a bit clearer with the fact that the prime purpose of the book is still to get Idris back no matter what, but it is not going to be easy even with the help she has.
A bit of tragedy, introspection/realization at the end with the final sentence in the book to give you something to think about until the next installment.
Bottom Line: Great book, kept me involved in the story, multifaceted plot and characters you care about although some you just get glancing pictures of their persona. 5 Star reading for me and still things left to wonder about in the next book.
August 25, 2016
I tried. I really did.
I don't know exactly what's happened with this series. I really dislike the last book, but this one...this one I disliked and was bored by. There's a whole lot of telling rather than showing. And what feels like 100 pages of filler.
Moreover, Kara increasingly behaves out of character, at least as established in books 1-4 and even 5. (You may argue that all her development and the changed relationships have taken place "off-screen." Maybe. Maybe that would have made an interesting book. But it's not this book.) Her relationship with Mzatal still seems incredibly forced with undertones of creepy. Ryan is now her bestie, and though he probably has the most interesting plot arc of the series, not much really happens with it in this installment. I think the cat has an equal amount of development.
I no longer have any idea what's even going on in the overall plot. Kara also is not a cop anymore, which she mourned for about 4.5 seconds. It's probably actually good that she's off the force, because the police skills she showed in 1-4 are still painfully MIA.
After re-reading the whole series, I feel like the author got bored with the story she was telling in Books 1-4 and just shifted to something completely different (possibly with Zack as the male protagonist). Maybe this was the intended development all along. If so, I don't think it was plotted, paced, or revealed well.
And that officially concludes my run with one of my formerly favorite series.
I don't know exactly what's happened with this series. I really dislike the last book, but this one...this one I disliked and was bored by. There's a whole lot of telling rather than showing. And what feels like 100 pages of filler.
Moreover, Kara increasingly behaves out of character, at least as established in books 1-4 and even 5. (You may argue that all her development and the changed relationships have taken place "off-screen." Maybe. Maybe that would have made an interesting book. But it's not this book.) Her relationship with Mzatal still seems incredibly forced with undertones of creepy. Ryan is now her bestie, and though he probably has the most interesting plot arc of the series, not much really happens with it in this installment. I think the cat has an equal amount of development.
I no longer have any idea what's even going on in the overall plot. Kara also is not a cop anymore, which she mourned for about 4.5 seconds. It's probably actually good that she's off the force, because the police skills she showed in 1-4 are still painfully MIA.
After re-reading the whole series, I feel like the author got bored with the story she was telling in Books 1-4 and just shifted to something completely different (possibly with Zack as the male protagonist). Maybe this was the intended development all along. If so, I don't think it was plotted, paced, or revealed well.
And that officially concludes my run with one of my formerly favorite series.
November 5, 2017
This was more like 2-1/2 stars, but I'm going to be generous and round up to 3.
It's been three years since I read the last book in this series, and now I remember why. When this series started it was a nice mix of police procedural storyline mixed with a bit of paranormal. Now these books have completely crossed the line into all demon stuff, all the time and has really lost its charm for me.
On top of that, this book was entirely too long for the type of story it is. For God's sake, where were the freaking editors on this sucker?! Too much unnecessary crap and repetition of the same old issues from the past book just irritated me. Any progression to the story this book DID make could have easily been accomplished with about 200 pages less.
There are some characters I really like in these books, and at this point wanting to know what eventually happens to them is probably about the only thing that will get me to read the next book. However, after the length of this one, it may just be another three years until I pick up the next book!
If you want a better example of this author's work that flawlessly blends a "normal" storyline/mystery with a "paranormal" thread, I recommend you dive into her White Trash Zombie series (and highly recommend you read them in order). THAT is quite an engaging series.
It's been three years since I read the last book in this series, and now I remember why. When this series started it was a nice mix of police procedural storyline mixed with a bit of paranormal. Now these books have completely crossed the line into all demon stuff, all the time and has really lost its charm for me.
On top of that, this book was entirely too long for the type of story it is. For God's sake, where were the freaking editors on this sucker?! Too much unnecessary crap and repetition of the same old issues from the past book just irritated me. Any progression to the story this book DID make could have easily been accomplished with about 200 pages less.
There are some characters I really like in these books, and at this point wanting to know what eventually happens to them is probably about the only thing that will get me to read the next book. However, after the length of this one, it may just be another three years until I pick up the next book!
If you want a better example of this author's work that flawlessly blends a "normal" storyline/mystery with a "paranormal" thread, I recommend you dive into her White Trash Zombie series (and highly recommend you read them in order). THAT is quite an engaging series.
January 15, 2014
I loved Fury of the Demon! I’d rate it 4.8 out of 5 – with a couple very minor quibbles (see below). It was a great read!
A little history – I started the Kara Gillian series about 2 years ago and read the first 4 books all together over a month. Then I waited impatiently for book 5 and again, waiting for this book. In a way, I think it provided a good separation between the Earthbound Kara of the first 4 books, and the Realm-hopping Kara of the later ones and a great way to see Kara’s growth as a summoner and a person.
After I finished book 5 I had a few speculations and a confirmation:
Confirmed - that Rhyzkahl was up to no good all along and was using Kara for ulterior motives… However, I could really feel Kara's sickened sense of betrayal, discovering how deeply Rhyzkahl had mollified her with affection and sex,.
Confirmed:
Confirmed:
I was most surprised by Lord Creepy - Kadir, and the important role he played in the book. I was pleased that we got more background on
I love the way Diana Rowland is putting the pieces together – weaving in bits from earlier books that may have seemed unimportant, in a way that connects seemingly unrelated Earthbound events into the big picture of demon realm power plays and politics. I loved seeing Kara use her detective skills with her greater arcane abilities and understanding. I love her new posse!
I was stunned by the extreme actions Szerain took to
Idris is badass. I LOVE that guy and I can’t wait to see what means for his future. I also love strong, fierce badass Eilahn and her soft spot for Fuzzykins.
The new secondary characters seemed a bit much at first but I came to care about them in the end. That being said, one of my quibbles, while learning more about them, was the disappearance for several chapters and seemingly days in the story of both Ryan and Mzatal... I could do with a bit less awkward banter about how stinky Kara and her sweaty friends are and their constant need to take a bath.
But quibbles aside, the story was deeply satisfying and I’ll read this book and the whole series again as I wait impatiently for the next book.
A little history – I started the Kara Gillian series about 2 years ago and read the first 4 books all together over a month. Then I waited impatiently for book 5 and again, waiting for this book. In a way, I think it provided a good separation between the Earthbound Kara of the first 4 books, and the Realm-hopping Kara of the later ones and a great way to see Kara’s growth as a summoner and a person.
After I finished book 5 I had a few speculations and a confirmation:
Confirmed - that Rhyzkahl was up to no good all along and was using Kara for ulterior motives… However, I could really feel Kara's sickened sense of betrayal, discovering how deeply Rhyzkahl had mollified her with affection and sex,.
Confirmed:
Confirmed:
I was most surprised by Lord Creepy - Kadir, and the important role he played in the book. I was pleased that we got more background on
I love the way Diana Rowland is putting the pieces together – weaving in bits from earlier books that may have seemed unimportant, in a way that connects seemingly unrelated Earthbound events into the big picture of demon realm power plays and politics. I loved seeing Kara use her detective skills with her greater arcane abilities and understanding. I love her new posse!
I was stunned by the extreme actions Szerain took to
Idris is badass. I LOVE that guy and I can’t wait to see what means for his future. I also love strong, fierce badass Eilahn and her soft spot for Fuzzykins.
The new secondary characters seemed a bit much at first but I came to care about them in the end. That being said, one of my quibbles, while learning more about them, was the disappearance for several chapters and seemingly days in the story of both Ryan and Mzatal... I could do with a bit less awkward banter about how stinky Kara and her sweaty friends are and their constant need to take a bath.
But quibbles aside, the story was deeply satisfying and I’ll read this book and the whole series again as I wait impatiently for the next book.
never-to-read
January 15, 2014DNF.
I don't know what happened with this book. I didn't understand what was happening. And I didn't really care for what I vaguely understood was happening. I managed to force myself to read about 100 pages, but then I just couldn't. I used to really like this series. I liked the last book, especially, because of the shocking revelation. But I feel like Kara has changed completely as a person and I don't care for who she is now. I don't care for her new demonic love interest. He gives me a mentor-ish vibe that renders me unable to imagine him as a love interest. I don't like how Kara calls him Boss. During normal conversations. I mean really, you are sleeping with this guy. Plus, she seems more involved with the demonic realm now, than she does with the human world.
I probably won't be continuing this series.
I don't know what happened with this book. I didn't understand what was happening. And I didn't really care for what I vaguely understood was happening. I managed to force myself to read about 100 pages, but then I just couldn't. I used to really like this series. I liked the last book, especially, because of the shocking revelation. But I feel like Kara has changed completely as a person and I don't care for who she is now. I don't care for her new demonic love interest. He gives me a mentor-ish vibe that renders me unable to imagine him as a love interest. I don't like how Kara calls him Boss. During normal conversations. I mean really, you are sleeping with this guy. Plus, she seems more involved with the demonic realm now, than she does with the human world.
I probably won't be continuing this series.
January 8, 2014
When I first stumbled upon this series it was so incredibly interesting because of the police procedure aspects, mystery, suspense and hot sex. Unfortunately, for me this series has taken a serious turn for the worst with all of the convoluted demon realms. What happened to all of the police drama and characters I've grown to love? Additionally, I am so tired of Kara's fickled mind/ hormones when it comes to love.One minute she us love with Jeff, then it us Lord Ryschal and now it is Mzyal. I'm so over this series and definitely will be moving on to something else.
January 27, 2016
4.5 stars
After being incredibly underwhelmed by the fifth book, I wasn't that excited going into this one. I'm happy to say the thick book has improved a lot since it's last sequel.
While in the last book Kara had become unlikeable, she tones it down in here, acting with a more compassionate and less raunchy side as she splits her time between the demon realm and Earth. Most of her time is spent here, so it was a welcome change to see Ryan and everyone again.
Even more delightful is the fact that she brings some of the demon side here to help, including Lord Mzatal. In the past book his mentor vibe was strong and the chemistry made little sense, but here I enjoyed their relationship a lot. His personality shined through the pages brightly and he stole scenes whenever he was around. There were two new characters that held an intriguing history and personalities, I loved their intro into the story.
There is a major change with Ryan so fans of him should be happy. I never cared much for him, he seemed lackluster in Rhyzkahl's shadow in the earlier books, but now the character is more fascinating and I can't wait to see what develops with him.
It's not just fighting on the demonic level, as Kara is back to detective work (even if she's not exactly a detective anymore), and uncovering the mystery with scenes and surprises was a delight and similar to the first books. By doing this the author returned to the her roots but she didn't skip continuing on the demon realm level from the last one, as that's here too (hate when authors do that.) She focuses on everything still and much happens in both worlds to make me excited about the next one.
Plenty of depressing grit and dark stuff that befits Urban Fantasy series like this, and of course there is humor present when it's needed again (have to love Fuzzykins the cat and the humorous areas of the books). It's a nice break through with the grim stuff and taking a break. The characters seemed fully alive and developing at realistic rates - with a rich story that was nearly impossible to put down and gripping with its tension, I am again in love with this series.
Redemption, thy name is "fury of the demon."
Read
May 26, 2016Mon avis en Français
My English review
It’s been a while since I have this novel but it’s true that I have not taken the time to get into the story. Yet I had such a good time with the previous volumes, so I did not think it could be different this time … I quickly realized my mistake. Indeed, from the beginning of the story I struggled to hold on the events or to be interested in Kara or the other characters. I must say that we spend half of the novel (yes because I stopped a little after a half of it) seeing Kara trying to recover from the changes, once back on earth and this is long … very long. I do not know … the book is about 500 pages so it’s true that it is quite big but I expected a little more action, an investigation more present maybe or something a little livelier compared to the other demons but it is far from the case. Over pages 277, I think everything could have been fused quickly enough.
It is true that I am quite disappointed but I did not expect such a drop of enthusiasm especially after 5 very good volumes, I even enjoyed the change of intrigue that many had hardly appreciated previously… But now as Nyx who managed to finish it, I am disappointed not to have what I expected. I saw that others had loved the story too so this is a very personal feeling, but I wonder what will result. I count on you to tell me for the sequel Nyx!
My English review
It’s been a while since I have this novel but it’s true that I have not taken the time to get into the story. Yet I had such a good time with the previous volumes, so I did not think it could be different this time … I quickly realized my mistake. Indeed, from the beginning of the story I struggled to hold on the events or to be interested in Kara or the other characters. I must say that we spend half of the novel (yes because I stopped a little after a half of it) seeing Kara trying to recover from the changes, once back on earth and this is long … very long. I do not know … the book is about 500 pages so it’s true that it is quite big but I expected a little more action, an investigation more present maybe or something a little livelier compared to the other demons but it is far from the case. Over pages 277, I think everything could have been fused quickly enough.
It is true that I am quite disappointed but I did not expect such a drop of enthusiasm especially after 5 very good volumes, I even enjoyed the change of intrigue that many had hardly appreciated previously… But now as Nyx who managed to finish it, I am disappointed not to have what I expected. I saw that others had loved the story too so this is a very personal feeling, but I wonder what will result. I count on you to tell me for the sequel Nyx!
January 16, 2014
I started this book kind of nervous over the direction it might take, but I LOVED it. It was a BEAST of a book, so much happened that after waiting a year for it, I felt satisfied. I am dying to know what happens next from here???? I'm so pleased with what she's done with Rhyzkahl, I always hated that **ck*r!
September 29, 2016
my review on number 5 will explain why it wasn't finished, so sad about this series
September 9, 2015
Wow. Or maybe that should be more like WOW! So much happened in this book, so many secrets were revealed, there was so much pain and struggle, but there was the soothing undercurrent of friends and most importantly, family.
Kara leaves the demon realm in hopes of finding Idris, who was taken in the last book. She enlists the help of Ryan and Zack, and they manage to recruit a couple more allies along the way. Mzatal is also helping, although being on Earth drains him significantly.
There was so much struggle in this book that parts were really depressing. Kara is still dealing with the rakkuhr virus that Rhyzkahl had tortured her with. She has many tense moments where she has to be reminded of who she is, and her identity is slowly slipping away and becoming that of Rowan. Zack is struggling with his status of ptarl to one of the lords. His loyalties certainly lie with "Kara and Krew", but his oath and his bond keep him from totally turning his back on said lord. The most interesting struggle was that of Ryan/Szerain, which is actually twofold. Ryan is fighting with himself as Szerain wants to surface more and more. Kara is realizing that "her" Ryan is just a mirage and she may someday not have her Ryan around. That part was pretty tough because I really like Kara and Ryan as besties.
The ending is also a downer and just leaves me with more questions. Mzatal and Kara receive help from an unlikely source and there is certain information revealed about said source that can kind of shed some light on the character. Another thing I really liked is all of the "forbidden" secrets that Kara learns. Previously, knowing anything like that would end up in "memory wiping". Now, the people who tell her these demon/lord secrets are merely "blocking" so that others who can access her thoughts won't discover what she knows. She retains full memory of these secrets and I want to know why she is now allowed. What changed?
So begins the long wait until book #7.
Kara leaves the demon realm in hopes of finding Idris, who was taken in the last book. She enlists the help of Ryan and Zack, and they manage to recruit a couple more allies along the way. Mzatal is also helping, although being on Earth drains him significantly.
There was so much struggle in this book that parts were really depressing. Kara is still dealing with the rakkuhr virus that Rhyzkahl had tortured her with. She has many tense moments where she has to be reminded of who she is, and her identity is slowly slipping away and becoming that of Rowan. Zack is struggling with his status of ptarl to one of the lords. His loyalties certainly lie with "Kara and Krew", but his oath and his bond keep him from totally turning his back on said lord. The most interesting struggle was that of Ryan/Szerain, which is actually twofold. Ryan is fighting with himself as Szerain wants to surface more and more. Kara is realizing that "her" Ryan is just a mirage and she may someday not have her Ryan around. That part was pretty tough because I really like Kara and Ryan as besties.
The ending is also a downer and just leaves me with more questions. Mzatal and Kara receive help from an unlikely source and there is certain information revealed about said source that can kind of shed some light on the character. Another thing I really liked is all of the "forbidden" secrets that Kara learns. Previously, knowing anything like that would end up in "memory wiping". Now, the people who tell her these demon/lord secrets are merely "blocking" so that others who can access her thoughts won't discover what she knows. She retains full memory of these secrets and I want to know why she is now allowed. What changed?
So begins the long wait until book #7.
March 5, 2014
I was really disappointed in this book. I enjoyed the others, and it was beneficial that I read them all at once, back-to-back. The wait for this one meant that I forgot a lot. Unfortunately, the author didn't take any time reintroducing where we were in the story like most other series authors do. In fact, it was almost like the publisher randomly picked a break in an already finished work, and this book was the other half. I couldn't remember what a "ptarl" was, and there was no mention of a glossary till the last page so that was no help (I read it on an ipad so don't know if that problem is universal).
Also, the aspects I originally liked about the story seem to be missing. The combination of hotness and mystery solving was fun...but there was no hotness in this installment, unless you are super into cheek caressing. There was a LOT of cheek caressing between Mzatal and Kara. Not hot.
For me this was a really disjointed story. Yes, I understand that there needs to be a cliffhanger in order to continue, but the ending was abrupt and unsatisfying. I'll give the next one a try...hopefully it won't be a yearlong wait because I am finding it hard to remember this one already.
Also, the aspects I originally liked about the story seem to be missing. The combination of hotness and mystery solving was fun...but there was no hotness in this installment, unless you are super into cheek caressing. There was a LOT of cheek caressing between Mzatal and Kara. Not hot.
For me this was a really disjointed story. Yes, I understand that there needs to be a cliffhanger in order to continue, but the ending was abrupt and unsatisfying. I'll give the next one a try...hopefully it won't be a yearlong wait because I am finding it hard to remember this one already.
November 8, 2018
Dear pretties,
So, it has taken me three attempts to get into the plot of this installment. Automatic 1 star deduction.
After getting into the book I started to become horridly annoyed. The plot; well, I just keep having this reaction.
The magic system has almost advanced to beyond comprehension. Then there's a roller coaster of drama just like this. Questions are answered just to give you fifteen more questions!
Lot's of Love,
shizuku
So, it has taken me three attempts to get into the plot of this installment. Automatic 1 star deduction.
After getting into the book I started to become horridly annoyed. The plot; well, I just keep having this reaction.
The magic system has almost advanced to beyond comprehension. Then there's a roller coaster of drama just like this. Questions are answered just to give you fifteen more questions!
Lot's of Love,
shizuku
Want to read
January 14, 2014SPOILERS ahead....
I'm putting this series on hold. I was very disappointed with last book. This series had a slow build up of Ryan and Kara with a heartbreaking scene ( that was cliffhanger) with Them a couple of books ago. I thought we would have a continuation of their story last book, but almost entire book is in demon realm and she had a new demon lord lover. Now, I read that that relationship continues with nothing of her and Ryan. So so disappointed.
I'm putting this series on hold. I was very disappointed with last book. This series had a slow build up of Ryan and Kara with a heartbreaking scene ( that was cliffhanger) with Them a couple of books ago. I thought we would have a continuation of their story last book, but almost entire book is in demon realm and she had a new demon lord lover. Now, I read that that relationship continues with nothing of her and Ryan. So so disappointed.
July 20, 2016
ummm I'm not sure how to review this book without giving away all kinds of spoilers! In this installment of the Kara Gillian series team Kara-Mzatal are determinedly searching for the kidnapped summoner Idris and Kara is still in danger of losing her identity and becoming Rhyzkhal's thrall. Of course there are still mysteries and murder cases for Kara to solve and she's no longer a cop but a FBI 'consultant' - thanks to Zack the demon ptarl in human disguise!
We get to meet some new and unique human's that are 'arcane sensitive' and they join up with Kara to help find Idris :) Of course by the end of the book the baddies are thwarted again, but then Ms Rowland drops a bomb on us pertaining to the origins of the demonic lords!
We get to meet some new and unique human's that are 'arcane sensitive' and they join up with Kara to help find Idris :) Of course by the end of the book the baddies are thwarted again, but then Ms Rowland drops a bomb on us pertaining to the origins of the demonic lords!
January 11, 2014
If there's an UF series I don't think gets nearly enough love, it's Diana Rowland's Kara Gillian series. All of the characters are drawn incredibly well.. and the subtlety of the writing is magnificent. You don't see it in book 1, 2, or even # 3. But the journey that she takes you on right up til Touch of the Demon (book 5) where she turns everything up on end is downright marvelous.
I don't have complete and utter faith in too many authors. I've read too many series where the character arcs take a turn for the worse, and you get the "rinse, wash, and repeat" feel of the continuing books. This is not the case here. Everything that happens has a specific purpose and even if I feel a little lost, I have faith that the author will have complete control over the end game when it comes to future novels. *MOAR pls*
I don't have complete and utter faith in too many authors. I've read too many series where the character arcs take a turn for the worse, and you get the "rinse, wash, and repeat" feel of the continuing books. This is not the case here. Everything that happens has a specific purpose and even if I feel a little lost, I have faith that the author will have complete control over the end game when it comes to future novels. *MOAR pls*
February 28, 2016
Really great! The one thing I absolutely love about this series is that it always keeps me guessing; keeps me on my toes. The story is always growing, expanding, and everything connects, and fits together like a puzzle. Some of the twists and turns of this series has generally shocked me and I think the specific direction the story has gone in the last two books is really brave. However, I get that some readers might feel a disconnect, as this series breaks away from the typical UF formula during book five and is not going away anytime soon if the way the last book ended to is any indication. Personally, I happen to like the standard storytelling found in UF, (or I wouldn't be reading the genre so often obviously) as long as there's plenty of characters growth and the plot keeps moving along. However, sometimes it's nice to take a break, and discover something that breaks the mold a little. I admit, this series does require some patience. But if you stick with it, it's totally worth it and rewarding. The characters feel beyond real and three-dimensional. There are so many bonds, so many unique kinds of relationships between characters, it's really wonderful. Not to mention, the world is one of the most fleshed out ones I've ever read. Rowland's talent is beyond apparent.
[SPOILERS AHEAD]
I have to say that out of everything, my ultimate favorite thing about this series Kara's journey as a character. Kara pretty much started off this series very lonely, with little support system. She seemed to have incredibly low self-esteem, and while I'm not saying you need to have people in your life in order to feel complete, sometimes having the right people in your life does help you become the person you want and need to be. In this case we see how much Kara has thrived, how much she's come into herself, by having all the right people by her side, supporting her unconditionally. She has people that will be there for her at the drop of a hat. A family. And you can see how damn good and happy that makes her feel. At the same time, Kara has thrived in so many ways on her own. I'm not saying she was weak at the beginning of the series, but there's no denying the vast ways she's blossomed over the past six books, especially in the last two. A weaker person would have laid down and died after all she had went through, but she's come
back, a more fiercer, more determined Kara, and I dearly love her, and want nothing but her happiness.
The one thing I find truly conflicting about this series (and not in a bad way) is how I feel about Kara's love life. It's definitely one of the most unique ones I've seen in UF. Forget about Rhyzkahl. I never trusted him anyway and while his treachery was a spectacular twist it didn't exactly shock me to my core, because I never liked the guy. Though my heart ached for Kara, as the amount of pain he caused her is just beyond the worst betrayal you could ever cause someone. (I did feel like however what she went through because of him made her a much stronger person, as I hinted above) Anyway, Rhyzkahl was never an option for me when it came to Kara, no matter how much good sex they had. From the start, I wanted Kara/Ryan, as I really loved their friendship and fun banter, even though the mystery surrounding his character could threaten any potential at a relationship. Then when I learned who Ryan really was (Szerain), my feelings sadly started to shift and I really did feel it was impossible/doomed before it even begun, even more so with the introduction of Mzatal. Who for the record really surprised me. There is a deep, tender, strong love between him and Kara, and it's fantastic to see Kara have a true partnership with someone. However, just when I thought I saw no more potential for Kara/Ryan(Szerain), I feel like the the ending of the most recent book leveled the playing field a lot. With Mzatal giving into his rage & very close to closing his walls off to everyone forever including Kara, and Ryan/(Szerain) saving Kara, I think there might be hope for Ryan/(Szerin) just yet, (not to mention, I foresee him having a HUGE role to play in the next book) but the interesting thing is I'm not really sure which way its going to go, and you know what? I'm not sure how I want it to go, and that's why I love this series. The unpredictability really works in this series, and it's all very exciting. I absolutely can't wait to see what happens next.
[SPOILERS AHEAD]
I have to say that out of everything, my ultimate favorite thing about this series Kara's journey as a character. Kara pretty much started off this series very lonely, with little support system. She seemed to have incredibly low self-esteem, and while I'm not saying you need to have people in your life in order to feel complete, sometimes having the right people in your life does help you become the person you want and need to be. In this case we see how much Kara has thrived, how much she's come into herself, by having all the right people by her side, supporting her unconditionally. She has people that will be there for her at the drop of a hat. A family. And you can see how damn good and happy that makes her feel. At the same time, Kara has thrived in so many ways on her own. I'm not saying she was weak at the beginning of the series, but there's no denying the vast ways she's blossomed over the past six books, especially in the last two. A weaker person would have laid down and died after all she had went through, but she's come
back, a more fiercer, more determined Kara, and I dearly love her, and want nothing but her happiness.
The one thing I find truly conflicting about this series (and not in a bad way) is how I feel about Kara's love life. It's definitely one of the most unique ones I've seen in UF. Forget about Rhyzkahl. I never trusted him anyway and while his treachery was a spectacular twist it didn't exactly shock me to my core, because I never liked the guy. Though my heart ached for Kara, as the amount of pain he caused her is just beyond the worst betrayal you could ever cause someone. (I did feel like however what she went through because of him made her a much stronger person, as I hinted above) Anyway, Rhyzkahl was never an option for me when it came to Kara, no matter how much good sex they had. From the start, I wanted Kara/Ryan, as I really loved their friendship and fun banter, even though the mystery surrounding his character could threaten any potential at a relationship. Then when I learned who Ryan really was (Szerain), my feelings sadly started to shift and I really did feel it was impossible/doomed before it even begun, even more so with the introduction of Mzatal. Who for the record really surprised me. There is a deep, tender, strong love between him and Kara, and it's fantastic to see Kara have a true partnership with someone. However, just when I thought I saw no more potential for Kara/Ryan(Szerain), I feel like the the ending of the most recent book leveled the playing field a lot. With Mzatal giving into his rage & very close to closing his walls off to everyone forever including Kara, and Ryan/(Szerain) saving Kara, I think there might be hope for Ryan/(Szerin) just yet, (not to mention, I foresee him having a HUGE role to play in the next book) but the interesting thing is I'm not really sure which way its going to go, and you know what? I'm not sure how I want it to go, and that's why I love this series. The unpredictability really works in this series, and it's all very exciting. I absolutely can't wait to see what happens next.
July 27, 2015
I’ll admit, I am still kind of reeling from the hard left turn Diana Rowland took with this series in the last book. I still miss the police angle. I still mourn what could have been with Ryan. But either you have to embrace what the books have become or you need to let them go. Even though I am kind of bummed out, I am trying to roll with it. The bottom line, these are still good books. They’re just good in a different way. That being said, however, this is probably my least favorite so far in the series.
As the story begins, Kara is back in the demon realm, having spent the past four months training with Mzatal to become stronger in the arcane. They are looking for an opportunity to get Idris back, since he has been kidnapped by the evil demon lords. Kara and Mzatal are deeply connected in just about every way. And while I am glad she has found someone she can love and trust, I am not feeling them. I don’t hate the pairing, I’m just very lukewarm about it. (She was supposed to be with Ryan, dammit! And the deeper we get into the story, the more Rowland beats us over the head with fact that that is never going to happen.)
Anyway, Kara finally makes her way back to earth and essentially the book is about her and Mzatal trying to track down where the bad guys have taken Idris and who the lords are working with in the human realm. The world continues to grow, with the introduction of even more new characters and deeper backstory to Rhyzkahl’s machinations on earth. Rowland also ties in elements from the previous books to build into what’s happening here, giving the events a more connected feel, which I appreciate.
The best things, though, for me came in development of the characters I already know and care about. Like Zach. He’s got big stuff happening here and honestly, his scenes and revelations had more impact on me than any other in the book. Ryan, of course, though I clearly have issues there. And Kara. She is really struggling and it’s all tied in to what Rhyzkahl did to her in the last book. I also appreciate that Rowland acknowledges the massive shift her life has taken. Kara has changed, but so has everything else in her absence: her home, her friends, even her car. It all plays in to the massive identity crisis Rhyzkahl has laid the groundwork for.
I feel like we are building for more Big Picture developments and revelations –about demonkind and humanity. And of course, Kara will be smack dab in the middle of it all. Remember when she was a cop who ate too many donuts and just summoned demons on the side? (*sigh*)
Before I wrap up, I do have to give Rowland big props for a massive betrayal fake out that really made me believe that the entire world had turned upside down. Well played. And thank you for not taking the story the way that it seemed.
Rating: B/B-
As the story begins, Kara is back in the demon realm, having spent the past four months training with Mzatal to become stronger in the arcane. They are looking for an opportunity to get Idris back, since he has been kidnapped by the evil demon lords. Kara and Mzatal are deeply connected in just about every way. And while I am glad she has found someone she can love and trust, I am not feeling them. I don’t hate the pairing, I’m just very lukewarm about it. (She was supposed to be with Ryan, dammit! And the deeper we get into the story, the more Rowland beats us over the head with fact that that is never going to happen.)
Anyway, Kara finally makes her way back to earth and essentially the book is about her and Mzatal trying to track down where the bad guys have taken Idris and who the lords are working with in the human realm. The world continues to grow, with the introduction of even more new characters and deeper backstory to Rhyzkahl’s machinations on earth. Rowland also ties in elements from the previous books to build into what’s happening here, giving the events a more connected feel, which I appreciate.
The best things, though, for me came in development of the characters I already know and care about. Like Zach. He’s got big stuff happening here and honestly, his scenes and revelations had more impact on me than any other in the book. Ryan, of course, though I clearly have issues there. And Kara. She is really struggling and it’s all tied in to what Rhyzkahl did to her in the last book. I also appreciate that Rowland acknowledges the massive shift her life has taken. Kara has changed, but so has everything else in her absence: her home, her friends, even her car. It all plays in to the massive identity crisis Rhyzkahl has laid the groundwork for.
I feel like we are building for more Big Picture developments and revelations –about demonkind and humanity. And of course, Kara will be smack dab in the middle of it all. Remember when she was a cop who ate too many donuts and just summoned demons on the side? (*sigh*)
Before I wrap up, I do have to give Rowland big props for a massive betrayal fake out that really made me believe that the entire world had turned upside down. Well played. And thank you for not taking the story the way that it seemed.
Rating: B/B-
February 23, 2014
3 1/2
It seems to me that the last book made a difference in my enjoyment of this series. I liked the sixth book, too. But I can't forget what happened prior to it, and that the betrayal and torture should have serious consequences. And unfortunately I don't see them. Oh, yes Kara has some temper tantrums, but nothing more. In this story she should have learned not to trust, and the demons keep showing her that honor has a different concept and time line. But she still doesn't learn her lessons. All of them show her some form of betrayal, even her friends.
It made one hell of frustrating read. I kept reading and I simply couldn't believe the lack of growth, or rather depth to the character. Same with the love story. We are told they love each other, but I'm still wondering how? Plus, as I wasn't that engaged I thought some things were purely fantastic, like the incredible powers of the FBI agents. They can grandfather an ex-cop, send into protective custody a family without any reasonable cause and have no one to justify it to.
If you put all of this aside, there's a nice action UF waiting to be read and enjoyed. I will be buying the next book, but I don't think I will keep buying a paperback copy too, as I did in the past.
It seems to me that the last book made a difference in my enjoyment of this series. I liked the sixth book, too. But I can't forget what happened prior to it, and that the betrayal and torture should have serious consequences. And unfortunately I don't see them. Oh, yes Kara has some temper tantrums, but nothing more. In this story she should have learned not to trust, and the demons keep showing her that honor has a different concept and time line. But she still doesn't learn her lessons. All of them show her some form of betrayal, even her friends.
It made one hell of frustrating read. I kept reading and I simply couldn't believe the lack of growth, or rather depth to the character. Same with the love story. We are told they love each other, but I'm still wondering how? Plus, as I wasn't that engaged I thought some things were purely fantastic, like the incredible powers of the FBI agents. They can grandfather an ex-cop, send into protective custody a family without any reasonable cause and have no one to justify it to.
If you put all of this aside, there's a nice action UF waiting to be read and enjoyed. I will be buying the next book, but I don't think I will keep buying a paperback copy too, as I did in the past.
January 21, 2014
Filler. :(
Still love the series.
Still love the series.
March 3, 2015
This was probably the slowest book in the series so far for me, but I still enjoyed it. I think this book has been in a lot of ways a set up for the next book.
January 19, 2014
WARNING: There will be spoilers from Touch of the Demon
Fury of the Demon is Diana Rowland's latest Kara Gillian novel and it was quite the read. Like nearly 500 pages, but it was still a pretty good read!
I think a lot of what slows me down at times are all the names. Names of demons, realms, spells, Arcane magic things...so many names. I know Diana directs us to use her dictionary on her website but sometimes stopping to try to look up the name and pronunciation can be time consuming and I was eager to see where this novel took us.
Kara has been in the demon world with Mzatal, training. Training to be better in body and mind and Arcane abilities. And the story pretty much leads us right into a battle with Rhyzkahl. And I don't know about you guys, but I am still reeling with his betrayal to Kara from last go around. I mean seriously, that blew my mind. I knew at times Rhyzkahl couldn't be trusted. He was a demon. A demon lord. But he and Kara grew to have some sort of relationship and when he betrayed her it totally shattered my trust in him and pretty much demons in general in this series.
I am left wondering, why does Kara now feel so comfortable with Mzatal. Their relationship has progressed, as we saw anyway. They're lovers, they've bonded and all that jazz, but here I am thinking...can we trust him? I thought I could trust Rhyzkahl but looked how that turned out. So, skeptic me is going to wonder if Mzatal is going to betray us somewhere down the line. Guess I might have to ask Diana if it's okay to trust Mzatal! Really though, I am left to wonder why Kara trusts any demon. Demons are known to be liars when it suits them and be self-serving...but I digress.
Anyway, Kara goes back to Earth and her friends to see many things have changed. Pretty much with just her house. There's also a murderer on the loose, someone who killed a young woman in much the way Symbol Man did. Is it a copycat killer? Or something much more sinister?
Then of course, we still have Rhyzkahl wanting to claim Kara again and finish what he started. Basically destroying what makes her Kara. And naturally a few other problems get linked in and Kara becomes very busy over the next several hundred pages.
Though, it's not all bad. There were some slower moments, but they were coupled with some pretty funny, normal moments. There's a great deal of action in it as well. Plus more delving into the demon Szerain. I think I've finally come to understand the Szerain/Ryan situation a bit more now. Before I only thought I knew what was going on, now things have been cleared up a bit, but there's still a wonder of what will happen with Szerain now?
Overall it was a decent read. I was readily addicted to this series in the beginning. I found it intriguing and different with Kara being a bit unlike the other Urban Fantasy heroines. And I still do enjoy it. Kara has definitely grown over the course of these last six novels and that's always something I want to see as a reader; character growth. I am definitely eager to see how this series will eventually tie up, but in the meantime I am still enjoying the adventures and problems that are thrown Kara's way.
Overall Rating 3.5/5 stars
Fury of the Demon is Diana Rowland's latest Kara Gillian novel and it was quite the read. Like nearly 500 pages, but it was still a pretty good read!
I think a lot of what slows me down at times are all the names. Names of demons, realms, spells, Arcane magic things...so many names. I know Diana directs us to use her dictionary on her website but sometimes stopping to try to look up the name and pronunciation can be time consuming and I was eager to see where this novel took us.
Kara has been in the demon world with Mzatal, training. Training to be better in body and mind and Arcane abilities. And the story pretty much leads us right into a battle with Rhyzkahl. And I don't know about you guys, but I am still reeling with his betrayal to Kara from last go around. I mean seriously, that blew my mind. I knew at times Rhyzkahl couldn't be trusted. He was a demon. A demon lord. But he and Kara grew to have some sort of relationship and when he betrayed her it totally shattered my trust in him and pretty much demons in general in this series.
I am left wondering, why does Kara now feel so comfortable with Mzatal. Their relationship has progressed, as we saw anyway. They're lovers, they've bonded and all that jazz, but here I am thinking...can we trust him? I thought I could trust Rhyzkahl but looked how that turned out. So, skeptic me is going to wonder if Mzatal is going to betray us somewhere down the line. Guess I might have to ask Diana if it's okay to trust Mzatal! Really though, I am left to wonder why Kara trusts any demon. Demons are known to be liars when it suits them and be self-serving...but I digress.
Anyway, Kara goes back to Earth and her friends to see many things have changed. Pretty much with just her house. There's also a murderer on the loose, someone who killed a young woman in much the way Symbol Man did. Is it a copycat killer? Or something much more sinister?
Then of course, we still have Rhyzkahl wanting to claim Kara again and finish what he started. Basically destroying what makes her Kara. And naturally a few other problems get linked in and Kara becomes very busy over the next several hundred pages.
Though, it's not all bad. There were some slower moments, but they were coupled with some pretty funny, normal moments. There's a great deal of action in it as well. Plus more delving into the demon Szerain. I think I've finally come to understand the Szerain/Ryan situation a bit more now. Before I only thought I knew what was going on, now things have been cleared up a bit, but there's still a wonder of what will happen with Szerain now?
Overall it was a decent read. I was readily addicted to this series in the beginning. I found it intriguing and different with Kara being a bit unlike the other Urban Fantasy heroines. And I still do enjoy it. Kara has definitely grown over the course of these last six novels and that's always something I want to see as a reader; character growth. I am definitely eager to see how this series will eventually tie up, but in the meantime I am still enjoying the adventures and problems that are thrown Kara's way.
Overall Rating 3.5/5 stars
July 31, 2022
Fury of the Demon
3 Stars
The tone of the series has changed drastically from the first five books. While some of the developments are intriguing, others are exceedingly disappointing and as such I’ve ended up rather ambivalent about the next installment.
The story begins with Kara once again in the demon realm. Thankfully, this situation doesn’t last long and the majority of the narrative takes place in the human world. The problem with the demon realm is the abundance of confusing jargon and terminology: Arcane, potency, sigils, nexus, valves …. not to mention all the exotic sounding demon names, which are virtually impossible to keep straight.
Although the basic plot revolving around Kara’s search for the missing Idris is compelling with an exciting climax, it takes far too long for Rowland to get to the point. The writing is excessively drawn out and the story good have been cut down by at least 100 pages.
Despite the gripping revelations interspersed throughout the book and the compelling questions that have me interested in continuing, such as , there are just as many unappealing elements.
The most significant of these is the evolution of Ryan’s character and the direction his relationship with Kara is moving in. The chemistry between Ryan and Kara has always be one of the most engaging aspects of the series, but it is quite obvious that my hopes for their HEA are doomed. Similarly, Kara’s romance with Mzatal is unsatisfying. Although he is likable as a hero, their chemistry has definitely waned and they have yet to form a believable connection. Moreover, Kara tendency toward calling Mzatal “boss” is exceedingly irritating. There is something not quite right about a woman calling her lover by a term that implies an employer/employee relationship...
All in all, I’m conflicted about the direction the series is going and the next installment might be my last.
3 Stars
The tone of the series has changed drastically from the first five books. While some of the developments are intriguing, others are exceedingly disappointing and as such I’ve ended up rather ambivalent about the next installment.
The story begins with Kara once again in the demon realm. Thankfully, this situation doesn’t last long and the majority of the narrative takes place in the human world. The problem with the demon realm is the abundance of confusing jargon and terminology: Arcane, potency, sigils, nexus, valves …. not to mention all the exotic sounding demon names, which are virtually impossible to keep straight.
Although the basic plot revolving around Kara’s search for the missing Idris is compelling with an exciting climax, it takes far too long for Rowland to get to the point. The writing is excessively drawn out and the story good have been cut down by at least 100 pages.
Despite the gripping revelations interspersed throughout the book and the compelling questions that have me interested in continuing, such as , there are just as many unappealing elements.
The most significant of these is the evolution of Ryan’s character and the direction his relationship with Kara is moving in. The chemistry between Ryan and Kara has always be one of the most engaging aspects of the series, but it is quite obvious that my hopes for their HEA are doomed. Similarly, Kara’s romance with Mzatal is unsatisfying. Although he is likable as a hero, their chemistry has definitely waned and they have yet to form a believable connection. Moreover, Kara tendency toward calling Mzatal “boss” is exceedingly irritating. There is something not quite right about a woman calling her lover by a term that implies an employer/employee relationship...
All in all, I’m conflicted about the direction the series is going and the next installment might be my last.
January 13, 2014
Book 6 picks up a few months from the cliffhanger ending of book 5. Kara and her new demon lord mentor are continuing to search for their summoner friend kidnapped by the bad guys. It also continues on with the major changes to Kara and the world around her that started in book 5. Well, technically in book 4 when she was forcefully summoned to the demon realm. At the same time, the format of the story shifts yet again.
In this book Kara gets herself a posse. A full-formed Scooby Gang. Take that, Buffy!
I love, love, loved the police procedural theme of the first four entries in this series. It was one of the best examples I had of real world elements integrated into a paranormal novel. At the same time, I equally love the evolution of Kara, the setting, and her abilities. Between the changes and the amount of time spent on the demon realm, I find myself wondering more and more about the nature of the Lords. It also has raised plenty of questions about Kara. She definitely seems to be a potent strain of demon-lord-nip.
What Fury of the Demon really excels in from my point of view (other than giving me a theory that anyone sitting down to play Author D&D with Pat Rotfuss will automatically add 30% more pages to their next novel), is to blend the new abilities and setting aspects of Kara with the real world police procedural elements that were lacking in the last novel.
If you are a fan of detective novels, or like a little buddy cop with your supernatural story, you will love this novel as much as I do. There’s snark, mystery, sidekicks and sexy times in it. A little something for everyone.
Additionally, I also picked up the audiobook version so my wife could have access to it as well. The narrator for this series does it plenty of justice. Not to mention it is over 20 hours of audiobook goodness.
Overall I give this book…
5 stars out of 5
In this book Kara gets herself a posse. A full-formed Scooby Gang. Take that, Buffy!
I love, love, loved the police procedural theme of the first four entries in this series. It was one of the best examples I had of real world elements integrated into a paranormal novel. At the same time, I equally love the evolution of Kara, the setting, and her abilities. Between the changes and the amount of time spent on the demon realm, I find myself wondering more and more about the nature of the Lords. It also has raised plenty of questions about Kara. She definitely seems to be a potent strain of demon-lord-nip.
What Fury of the Demon really excels in from my point of view (other than giving me a theory that anyone sitting down to play Author D&D with Pat Rotfuss will automatically add 30% more pages to their next novel), is to blend the new abilities and setting aspects of Kara with the real world police procedural elements that were lacking in the last novel.
If you are a fan of detective novels, or like a little buddy cop with your supernatural story, you will love this novel as much as I do. There’s snark, mystery, sidekicks and sexy times in it. A little something for everyone.
Additionally, I also picked up the audiobook version so my wife could have access to it as well. The narrator for this series does it plenty of justice. Not to mention it is over 20 hours of audiobook goodness.
Overall I give this book…
5 stars out of 5
January 17, 2014
I thoroughly enjoyed this book! Even though there is no event as shocking as the big one in the last book, it is like there is less of what happens that can be revealed in a review because one event and revelation relates to another and specifically reviewing the action would be a spoiler. So, in general terms, Kara gets back to Earth and and hooks up with the old gang, and a lot is revealed about two of them. Even Pellinni and Boudreaux make an appearance. Tessa isn't on the page a lot, but there are some big questions raised surrounding her. Conventional law enforcement overlaps with the arcane and Kara faces some shades of grey moments. Characters we know and love show new dimensions, and specific names and events are all spoilers. :)
Overall a great read that I didn't want to put down, and I can't wait for the next installment.
Update: I am now listening as an audiobook and picking up things I missed in reading!
Overall a great read that I didn't want to put down, and I can't wait for the next installment.
Update: I am now listening as an audiobook and picking up things I missed in reading!
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