Book Review: City of Gods and Monsters: House of Devils, Book 1 by Kayla Edwards
When I first stumbled across City of Gods and Monsters: House of Devils, Book 1, it felt like fate had paved the way. Being an avid fan of urban fantasy, I was instantly intrigued by the premise of a world where humans navigate a treacherous landscape dominated by supernatural beings. The author, Kayla Edwards, promised an engaging tale featuring an ordinary character thrust into chaos—a narrative that I can never get enough of. Little did I know how utterly hooked I would become!
Set in the bustling city of Angelthene, we follow Loren Calla, a human working hard to carve out a place in a society that caters to everything but ordinary humans. The kickoff to her extraordinary journey occurs when she narrowly escapes abduction by the sinister Darkslayers, only to find herself plunged deeply into a world of demons, vampires, and a complex network of supernatural politics. What I appreciated most was Loren’s gradual evolution from an anxious mortal into a determined warrior for her friend’s safety. She embodies resilience and selflessness that resonate strongly with readers, leaving us cheering for her as she faces unimaginable odds.
Darien Cassel, the enigmatic leader of the Seven Devils, paints a vivid picture of a tortured soul trying to balance his darker instincts with an emerging tenderness. There’s an undeniable chemistry between him and Loren, encapsulated beautifully in the tension that unfolds at a leisurely pace—something readers have dubbed the slow burn. As someone who revels in build-up, I found their relationship refreshing. One memorable quote that resonated, "You’re wrecking me is what you’re doing. You’re wrecking me for anyone else," perfectly encapsulated Darien’s vulnerability, inviting a deeper emotional connection.
Edwards imbues her narrative with rich world-building and intricate character development. The dual points of view offer a profound glimpse into both Loren’s and Darien’s thoughts, allowing us to feel every moment of tension, excitement, and heartbreak intimately. While some readers noted pacing issues, I found the rhythm comfortably matched the unfolding drama. The book is lengthy at over 700 pages, yet I never felt weighed down; every chapter left me eager for more.
The side characters, though sometimes underutilized, emerged with their unique quirks and potential for future growth, weaving a tapestry that hints at an expansive series ahead. The found family trope is beautifully realized, which adds warmth to the darker themes of the book.
In wrapping up, if you relish fantasy with a romantic core, relatable characters, and acknowledgment of the complexities of strength, City of Gods and Monsters will not disappoint. Edwards’ storytelling delivers both emotional depth and thrilling escapades, making it a worthy addition to your reading list. Personally, I came away transformed; I felt each high-stakes moment, laughed, gasped, and nearly cried alongside Loren and Darien. This book is a whirlwind of emotion, and I cannot wait to see where their journey will take us next!
So grab a cozy blanket, prepare for twists and turns, and dive into the odyssey that is the world of Angelthene—you won’t regret it.
You can find City of Gods and Monsters: House of Devils, Book 1 here >>