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Demonica Underworld #8
Cipher
From New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Larissa Ione comes a new story in her Demonica Underworld series�
It's been seven months since Cipher, an Unfallen angel who straddled a razor thin line between good and evil, woke up in hell with a new set of wings, a wicked pair of fangs, and a handler who's as beautiful as she is dangerous. As a laid-back cyber-specialist who once assisted guardian angels, he'd been in a prime position to earn back his halo. But now, as a True Fallen forced to use his talents for malevolence, he must fight not only his captors and his sexy handler, but the growing corruption inside him…before the friends searching for him become his enemies and he becomes his own worst nightmare.
Lyre is a fallen angel with a heart full of hate. When she's assigned to ensure that Cipher carries out their boss's orders, she sees an opportunity to take revenge on those who wronged her. All she has to do is appeal to Cipher's burgeoning dark side. But the devastatingly handsome fellow True Fallen has other ideas � sexy ideas that threaten to derail all Lyre's plans and put them in the path of an approaching hell storm.
Danger and desire explode, even as Cipher and Lyre unravel a sinister plot that will fracture the underworld and send shockwaves into Heaven itself�
**Every 1001 Dark Nights novella is a standalone story. For new readers, it's an introduction to an author's world. And for fans, it's a bonus book in the author's series. We hope you'll enjoy each one as much as we do.**
It's been seven months since Cipher, an Unfallen angel who straddled a razor thin line between good and evil, woke up in hell with a new set of wings, a wicked pair of fangs, and a handler who's as beautiful as she is dangerous. As a laid-back cyber-specialist who once assisted guardian angels, he'd been in a prime position to earn back his halo. But now, as a True Fallen forced to use his talents for malevolence, he must fight not only his captors and his sexy handler, but the growing corruption inside him…before the friends searching for him become his enemies and he becomes his own worst nightmare.
Lyre is a fallen angel with a heart full of hate. When she's assigned to ensure that Cipher carries out their boss's orders, she sees an opportunity to take revenge on those who wronged her. All she has to do is appeal to Cipher's burgeoning dark side. But the devastatingly handsome fellow True Fallen has other ideas � sexy ideas that threaten to derail all Lyre's plans and put them in the path of an approaching hell storm.
Danger and desire explode, even as Cipher and Lyre unravel a sinister plot that will fracture the underworld and send shockwaves into Heaven itself�
**Every 1001 Dark Nights novella is a standalone story. For new readers, it's an introduction to an author's world. And for fans, it's a bonus book in the author's series. We hope you'll enjoy each one as much as we do.**
197 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 9, 2019
266 people are currently reading
1,698 people want to read
About the author
Larissa Ione
111books10.1kfollowersAir Force veteran Larissa Ione traded in a career in meteorology to pursue her passion of writing. She has since published dozens of books, hit several bestseller lists, including the New York Times and USA Today, and has been nominated for a RITA award. She now spends her days in pajamas with her computer, strong coffee, and supernatural worlds. She believes in celebrating everything, and would never be caught without a bottle of Champagne chilling in the fridge…just in case. She currently lives in Wisconsin with her retired U.S. Coast Guard husband, her son, a rescue cat named Vegas, and her very own hellhounds, a King Shepherd named Hexe and a Belgian Malinois named Duvel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 123 reviews
December 29, 2019
Let the games begin!
Wow!!! Another fabulous visit to the demonica underworld !!! I Friggin love this series it's full of all kinds of bad asses. The war between heaven and hell and freeing the imprisoned satan is heating up and bael will try to use cipher to make Azagoth lead them to victory,but no one fucks with Azagoth and those he loves and cares about. With help from lyre a fallen angel bent on revenge for being kicked out of heaven and some fabulous new powers, cipher sets out to destroy bael and free lyre ,but bael has a secret that will change the game and set off events that will rock both heaven and hell !! For Azagoth and the gang this could be the beginning of the end,but who will be left standing ? Fabulous writing and characters that are so layered and unique. Larissa iones world of demonica is one of my very favorite series and my guy Azagoth is one of my fave paranormal badboys of all time!! Next up Reaper!!! My money's on Azagoth!! Until next time luv's💞💋
Wow!!! Another fabulous visit to the demonica underworld !!! I Friggin love this series it's full of all kinds of bad asses. The war between heaven and hell and freeing the imprisoned satan is heating up and bael will try to use cipher to make Azagoth lead them to victory,but no one fucks with Azagoth and those he loves and cares about. With help from lyre a fallen angel bent on revenge for being kicked out of heaven and some fabulous new powers, cipher sets out to destroy bael and free lyre ,but bael has a secret that will change the game and set off events that will rock both heaven and hell !! For Azagoth and the gang this could be the beginning of the end,but who will be left standing ? Fabulous writing and characters that are so layered and unique. Larissa iones world of demonica is one of my very favorite series and my guy Azagoth is one of my fave paranormal badboys of all time!! Next up Reaper!!! My money's on Azagoth!! Until next time luv's💞💋
September 14, 2019
Great addition to the series. Cipher is the main character � a unfallen angel computer geek who becomes a fallen angel after a betrayal. He will develop an understanding and he will fall in love with another fallen angel who is one of his captures and his main handler.
A very important enemy is after the list with the lost children of Azagoth. Cipher is the only one who can provide it, but he will not betray his friends and cooperate that easily.
Overall the love story of Cipher and Lyre was good, but short. Love-struck Azagoth and his pregnant mate definitely stole Cipher’s thunder.
The book served more like a bridge for the next full length novel “Reaper" and I would like some more alone time between Cipher and his sweetheart, but we can't have everything. Anyway I have a feeling that we will see more of these two in the upcoming war.
A very important enemy is after the list with the lost children of Azagoth. Cipher is the only one who can provide it, but he will not betray his friends and cooperate that easily.
Overall the love story of Cipher and Lyre was good, but short. Love-struck Azagoth and his pregnant mate definitely stole Cipher’s thunder.
The book served more like a bridge for the next full length novel “Reaper" and I would like some more alone time between Cipher and his sweetheart, but we can't have everything. Anyway I have a feeling that we will see more of these two in the upcoming war.
November 9, 2019
Another lengthy novella and this one is about the formerly kidnapped and dragged to Sheoul Cipher and Lyle a newish fallen Angel currently in the employ of Lord Bael.
Lyle is Ciphers new handler in the hell realm here and she wants revenge on the people who caused her fall from above and killed her beloved hence entering sheoul willingly and falling.
Cipher himself is also now truly fallen as well as a prisoner after his former-lovers betrayal.
A captive of Lord Bael his jailor wants the list he has of Azagoths Memitim children and will use all at his disposal including torture to get this information.
There are definite changes going on with Cipher but what I liked about him most is his ability to retain his trademark sense of humour against such insurmountable odds.
I also thought for a fallen Lyle had managed to retain so much of herself she still has compassion and good in her heart despite her fallen status and Cipher soon realises she is not like the others here and begins to tentatively show trust in his sheoul handler.
She in turn also realises that he might just be her shot at a different future than the one she now has.
With Ciphers serious hacker skills and new abilities and Lyles assistance, the two join forces in an attempt to escape.
We also get more Lilliana and Azagoth which is always welcome.
Their reunion was everything I'd hoped and I adore these two just so much.
There is also a lot happening here to further unfolding agendas and I am looking forward to the culmination of all the groundwork that we will get to experience in the upcoming full-length novel Reaper.
One final question I am dying to know the identity of the mysterious Jim Bob.
Cipher is yet another great addition to the series.
Reviewed By Beckie Bookworm
July 3, 2019
The audiobook quality wasn't very good.
April 25, 2019
3.5 *
April 19, 2019
I received this book for free from Publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
I've said this before and I'll just have to repeat myself. These Demonica Underworld novellas are nice to hold you over and keep you involved in the Demonica world, but they never quite blow me away. With Cipher, I didn't have much anticipation for his story but I was excited to be back in this world.Cipher was kidnapped by Bael and is being tortured to obtain the names of Azagoth's human children from him. The heroine, Lyre, is a fallen angel who volunteered to serve Bael in exchange for his help in getting revenge from the angels who betrayed her and caused her to lose her wings. I definitely liked Cipher more than Lyre, but I think both characters were developed only in the surface. That is probably because of the next point I want to make. Quite a bit of this book is laying the plot for the next full length novel in the Demonica series, Reaper.I am both a bit disappointed but mostly excited about that. I read the Azagoth novella earlier this year (out of order) and I wasn't quite so invested in that romance but I knew there was potential to be more. And I was excited to see he would be getting a full length book because there's been turmoil in his relationship with his mate. CIPHER gives us a lot more developments in that relationship as well as an imminent threat to Azagoth. All this to cause the revolt to free Satan.At this point in this world and series, you have to be reading the books in order to know what's going on. Some of the things in this novella tie back to REVENANT (and omg I was so excited that Reaver and Revenant made some cameo appearances).All that being said, I found the storyline interesting because of the connections it makes and the setup for future it gives us. But as an individual book I think it lacked in drawing me in to the romance. I liked the main characters just enough but I didn't care for them much one way or the other. And I was really expecting to love Cipher as he is a geeky fallen angel. Still, I am now itching to get my hands on REAPER!
*ARC provided by publisher
Reviewed by Francesca� � Don't want to miss any of our posts? by email! � �
April 9, 2019
Cipher’s story was pretty good! I would have liked more development with Lyre, but overall I was happy with the turn of events. Azagoth and Lilli have some page time, along with a few others including Hawkyn(who’s story I really need to go back and read). The story twist also gives a great lead into Reaper.
April 18, 2019
Let's start of by saying this is one of my favorite authors and anything she writes I just love she definitely and auto buy author for us and we are really loving this on going series and its character's. Cipher and Lyre are one of my favorite character pair especially after this current story as they turned out to be perfect for one another.
Cipher who was once an angel now Unfallen and soon to be True Fallen is coming into his own powers. He is trapped in another dimension and is being tortured over and over again to again access to information that could effect hundreds of lives but,more is in play than just that and he needs to escape before he breaks and betrays the ones he loves.
Lyre is Ciphers handler tasked by Bael to extract the information he wants at any means and she decides she is up to the job to further her own wants and desires to enact her own revenge of the wrongs done to her.
We loved this story from cover to cover.The story was gripping and suspenseful and had wonderful evil character's.We loved Cipher from the onset of the story and that he fought as hard as he did to protect the ones he loves.
A friendship was forged in the pits of hell and now Lyre is examining her own choices that she's made and fines she no longer needs to seek the vengeance on those who wronged her so long ago.
We loved Cipher and Lyre as they had some major chemistry going on between them and I found them to be perfect one another even with all the obstacles standing between them.I love the fact that Lyre was able to retain her sweetness and kindness living in and living with such evil on a daily basis.We loved how she was willing to make great sacrifices in order to help Cipher in preserving his secrets.
Cipher I found to be sexy as sin and no matter his dire circumstances retained his sense of humor that made us laugh out loud more than once.Lyre was just one of those character's that there is more than meets the eye than what's is on the surface as she has learned to mask her feelings and keep her secrets.
Overall we really loved this story it was packed with action and adventure,was intriguing,had tons of drama,healing and finding love in all the wrong places.The story kept me glued to the pages the entire time and we loved the character's both good and evil.
Cipher who was once an angel now Unfallen and soon to be True Fallen is coming into his own powers. He is trapped in another dimension and is being tortured over and over again to again access to information that could effect hundreds of lives but,more is in play than just that and he needs to escape before he breaks and betrays the ones he loves.
Lyre is Ciphers handler tasked by Bael to extract the information he wants at any means and she decides she is up to the job to further her own wants and desires to enact her own revenge of the wrongs done to her.
We loved this story from cover to cover.The story was gripping and suspenseful and had wonderful evil character's.We loved Cipher from the onset of the story and that he fought as hard as he did to protect the ones he loves.
A friendship was forged in the pits of hell and now Lyre is examining her own choices that she's made and fines she no longer needs to seek the vengeance on those who wronged her so long ago.
We loved Cipher and Lyre as they had some major chemistry going on between them and I found them to be perfect one another even with all the obstacles standing between them.I love the fact that Lyre was able to retain her sweetness and kindness living in and living with such evil on a daily basis.We loved how she was willing to make great sacrifices in order to help Cipher in preserving his secrets.
Cipher I found to be sexy as sin and no matter his dire circumstances retained his sense of humor that made us laugh out loud more than once.Lyre was just one of those character's that there is more than meets the eye than what's is on the surface as she has learned to mask her feelings and keep her secrets.
Overall we really loved this story it was packed with action and adventure,was intriguing,had tons of drama,healing and finding love in all the wrong places.The story kept me glued to the pages the entire time and we loved the character's both good and evil.
April 27, 2019
While you could read this as a standalone, I think it would be better to read the series from the beginning because a lot of this story is a continuation from the series and you won't really know what happened before this point.
Cipher gets cocky and strays a little too far from his friends when he's dragged to hell and becomes a True Unfallen. He doesn't want to be evil or help his captors but he has little choice unless he can somehow get away. He knows his friends are probably looking for him but the bad guys want him for his computer skills. So unless he gives Bael what he wants, he's gonna keep being tortured. The torture is bad and we see a lot of it right up front.
Lyre is a fallen angel and is assigned to be Cipher's handler. She's not exactly what she seems and knows she made a bad decision coming to work for Bael to get revenge for losing her angelic wings. Both Lyre and Cipher end up wanting some of the same things and they agree to work together to escape. But before they can, Cipher has to do the one thing he didn't want to do and Lyre is going to help him. While they are trying to escape they become closer and find they're attracted to each other which leads to some fun times between them, even if they are fighting for their freedom.
There are a few surprises and a couple of great twists. Bael and his brother have a secret that became a great twist by the end of the book. I love when something happens that I never saw coming and makes me want the next book right now so I can see how it will play out.
So much happened and we see a few characters that I love from this series pop up which I really loved. In the middle of everything else, there's a plot going on behind the scenes with the bag guys that could change everything and by the end of the book we get a small glimpse into the next book in this series. I can't say much more without giving away a lot of spoilers.
Cipher gets cocky and strays a little too far from his friends when he's dragged to hell and becomes a True Unfallen. He doesn't want to be evil or help his captors but he has little choice unless he can somehow get away. He knows his friends are probably looking for him but the bad guys want him for his computer skills. So unless he gives Bael what he wants, he's gonna keep being tortured. The torture is bad and we see a lot of it right up front.
Lyre is a fallen angel and is assigned to be Cipher's handler. She's not exactly what she seems and knows she made a bad decision coming to work for Bael to get revenge for losing her angelic wings. Both Lyre and Cipher end up wanting some of the same things and they agree to work together to escape. But before they can, Cipher has to do the one thing he didn't want to do and Lyre is going to help him. While they are trying to escape they become closer and find they're attracted to each other which leads to some fun times between them, even if they are fighting for their freedom.
There are a few surprises and a couple of great twists. Bael and his brother have a secret that became a great twist by the end of the book. I love when something happens that I never saw coming and makes me want the next book right now so I can see how it will play out.
So much happened and we see a few characters that I love from this series pop up which I really loved. In the middle of everything else, there's a plot going on behind the scenes with the bag guys that could change everything and by the end of the book we get a small glimpse into the next book in this series. I can't say much more without giving away a lot of spoilers.
April 9, 2019
As someone who has loved the Demonica series for years I'm always extremely excited when a new book is released and we get the chance to dive back into this world. We already know Cipher, he was Hawkyn's best friend who was captured in one of the previous Demonica Underworld books and dragged into Sheoul by Faile. Now one of the True Fallen Cipher is just trying to hold onto his sense of self as long as possible before evil takes over and he willingly gives up his friends to the demons who are holding him prisoner.
Lyre is one of Cipher's handlers and she's been tasked with getting information from him for her boss Bael. She chose to become a true fallen angel in order to get revenge on the angels who cost her both her wings and her place in heaven but even though that's been her main purpose for so long she has never quite become immune to the evil that she's now surrounded by. When she realises exactly what information Bael is looking for and what he plans to do with it suddenly her revenge doesn't seem quite as important as it did before and Lyre starts to realise that the cost may be too high.
I don't want to say much more about what happens in this novella but it's just as action packed and full of romance as you'd expect from a book in this series. Although the 1001 Dark Nights novellas are designed to work as standalone introductions to the authors I actually think this story will work far better for readers who are familiar with the Demonica Underworld books. There is a lot here that you wouldn't appreciate as much without familiarity with characters like Hawkyn, Azagoth and Lilliana and this also leads on to the next full length book in the series, Reaper, which will publish later this year. I'm such a huge fan of this world though so I'd highly recommend the entire Demonica series to anyone who loves paranormal romance.
Lyre is one of Cipher's handlers and she's been tasked with getting information from him for her boss Bael. She chose to become a true fallen angel in order to get revenge on the angels who cost her both her wings and her place in heaven but even though that's been her main purpose for so long she has never quite become immune to the evil that she's now surrounded by. When she realises exactly what information Bael is looking for and what he plans to do with it suddenly her revenge doesn't seem quite as important as it did before and Lyre starts to realise that the cost may be too high.
I don't want to say much more about what happens in this novella but it's just as action packed and full of romance as you'd expect from a book in this series. Although the 1001 Dark Nights novellas are designed to work as standalone introductions to the authors I actually think this story will work far better for readers who are familiar with the Demonica Underworld books. There is a lot here that you wouldn't appreciate as much without familiarity with characters like Hawkyn, Azagoth and Lilliana and this also leads on to the next full length book in the series, Reaper, which will publish later this year. I'm such a huge fan of this world though so I'd highly recommend the entire Demonica series to anyone who loves paranormal romance.
April 16, 2019
Reviewed for Romancing the Readers Blog:
This has been a fantastic series by Larissa Ione. She brings to you both sexy heroes and funny well-written stories.
From the first book of her Demonica series, I've been hooked. Now with this offshoot of it, I've been nothing but thrilled. The whole series has been leading up to her final book Reaper. From what I understand she's starting a new series but in the same world.
Can't wait to try that one.
Poor, poor, Cipher. He stayed so strong during all his torture. Not sure how he did it. I know I couldn't of. I get a papercut and my life is over.
Throughout the time he's being torture you pull for him and pray he'll get through it all. I think my heart would have broken if he turned bad. He wanted to stay strong so badly that you couldn't help but cheer for him.
I also liked Lyre even if at first you think of her as an uncaring bitch. You could see the struggle between wanting the revenge she wanted and protecting Cipher. It truly bothered her that she was being hurt.
These two worked together. They just matched. You liked them together and I was happy to see at the end she was there for him even if her own goals didn't happen. Her love for him was stronger than her hate.
This story also set up the next book, Reaper. It makes you want it right now! If you are a paranormal fan than you need to read this series. Once you start you won't want to stop.
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ARC received for an honest review
This has been a fantastic series by Larissa Ione. She brings to you both sexy heroes and funny well-written stories.
From the first book of her Demonica series, I've been hooked. Now with this offshoot of it, I've been nothing but thrilled. The whole series has been leading up to her final book Reaper. From what I understand she's starting a new series but in the same world.
Can't wait to try that one.
Poor, poor, Cipher. He stayed so strong during all his torture. Not sure how he did it. I know I couldn't of. I get a papercut and my life is over.
Throughout the time he's being torture you pull for him and pray he'll get through it all. I think my heart would have broken if he turned bad. He wanted to stay strong so badly that you couldn't help but cheer for him.
I also liked Lyre even if at first you think of her as an uncaring bitch. You could see the struggle between wanting the revenge she wanted and protecting Cipher. It truly bothered her that she was being hurt.
These two worked together. They just matched. You liked them together and I was happy to see at the end she was there for him even if her own goals didn't happen. Her love for him was stronger than her hate.
This story also set up the next book, Reaper. It makes you want it right now! If you are a paranormal fan than you need to read this series. Once you start you won't want to stop.
Follow me on:
ARC received for an honest review
April 16, 2019
I received this book for free from Tour Group in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
I was so excited for another book in the Demonica World! I'm missing some of our main characters from the series as we concentrate on these new ones in the novellas. However, I am enjoying these characters as well.
Cipher is not the warrior that you see in most heroes. His specialty is computers and coding. Bael knows this and has planned to be able to take advantage of it once the evil from being a fallen angel starts to take over Cipher. He also needs something from Cipher and has assigned Lyre to be his handler and try and get the information from him.
I enjoyed seeing a lead male character who was not totally focused on hand to hand combat. Not saying he wasn't good at it when needed, but it was not his main skillset and that was refreshing. I knew Lyre didn't fit in from the beginning and her reasons for becoming a fallen and signing up with Bael were going to be regrettable. She was not going to be hard to turn onto Cipher's team.
With the worry of the evil taking control, and possibly alienating himself from Azagoth, Cipher needs to get out of Bael's realm ASAP. I enjoyed seeing Cipher as he discovered his fallen angel powers. When I found out why he was struggling with flying and control, I was surprised, but not surprised in a way about the cause of the problem. Nothing is too evil for this realm.
We also get a surprise on the Azagoth front which I loved. He is still the fearsome Grim Reaper, but Lilliana is such a calming factor in his life. He just needs to learn how to be in a relationship. It's going to be interesting to see how he fares with Lilliana's surprise. I'm so glad the next book will be back to him. He really seems to be struggling and I want to see him work it out.
I really enjoyed Cipher and the adventure we are taken on between the two competing realms. Bael is crazy to try and take on Azagoth. It's going to make for an interesting fight. The side characters from Cipher, mainly his friends from Sheoul-gra are a lot of fun and persistent in their intent to rescue Cipher and make sure he hasn't turned evil while in Sheoul. I thought we got to see a good family dynamic between those in Sheoul-gra. A safe haven in the Grim Reaper's realm. Who would of guessed?! I think I would definitely recommend this read before the upcoming release from the series. There is quite a bit of Azagoth and Lilliana in Cipher and I think the background is going to be good for reading the new book. I'm so glad Larissa Ione is going back to this series.
Excerpt
Lyre watched Cipher try to get his powers and wings under control for just over twenty-four human hours.
It hadn’t gone well. His wings seemed to have minds of their own and his fallen angel gifts were powerful but unpredictable, like natural disasters spawned by a child’s imagination.
Finally, after he exploded a tree with a superheated stream of blue light and nearly fried himself with the blowback, she called down to him.
“You hungry?� she yelled. “Because I could eat.�
He let out a frustrated shout accompanied by a stomp of his foot, and a crack appeared in the ground under the sole of his boot. A deafening boom and a slow rumble started up, and within seconds the crack lengthened and began to widen as the walls collapsed and chunks of earth tumbled into the fissure.
That couldn’t be good.
“Run!� she shouted
He sprinted toward her, away from the growing gap. And then, suddenly, he spun around and ran toward it.
“Cipher! No!� What the hell was he doing?
She extended her wings, ready to go after him as he leaped across the fissure. He wasn’t going to make it to the other side of the sheer cliff face. Not if his wings wouldn’t work�
His great wings flapped, lifting him easily skyward. He banked and soared in a glorious, elegant arc. A shout of pure joy rang out as he flew toward her, reminding her of the excitement she’d felt the first time she’d tried out her fallen angel wings. Hers had taken a year to grow, but it had taken only minutes to get them working. Cipher had to be thrilled to finally have his under control.
Folding her own black leather wings against her shoulders, she watched him come in for a landing, but as he did, one wing went rogue, freezing in a closed position. He clipped a tree and went into an unrecoverable spin before hitting the ground and tumbling to a stop next to her.
She coughed at the resulting cloud of dust. “That was graceful.�
He eyed her from where he lay sprawled in the dirt. “Tell me you got that on video.�
She didn’t want to be charmed, but she laughed anyway. Humor was something she missed since entering Sheoul. No one had a sense of humor here. And those who did seemed to have found it puddled on the floor of a torture chamber.
“No such luck,� she said.
“S’okay. But I’ll bet it would have gone viral.� Wincing, he shoved to his feet and tried to push his left wing into the retraction position. “I don’t get it. I can’t control these things. It’s like they’re fighting me. They don’t feel right.�
They didn’t look right, either. Marred by what seemed to be scars and ragged edges, they weren’t like any newbie wings she’d ever seen.
“Hmm. Maybe they were damaged by the restraints.� She moved around behind him, silently admiring his broad, muscular back. It would look even better with scratch marks from her fingernails after a long, sweaty round of sex.
Trailer
January 29, 2022
This one absolutely FLEW by...
When we last left off, Cipher had been betrayed by the fallen angel, Flail, and dragged down into Sheoul (aka: Hell) against his will, forcing him from his unfallen status into full-blown fallen. For months, he endures untold (and honestly, rather creative) torture until an unexpected bond forms between him and his fallen angel handler, Lyre.
Cipher and Lyre are quite the pair, and the moral quandaries and dilemmas they face while trying to find a way out of their current predicament made for some interesting reading.
Bael & Moloc - our big bads - are what we've come to expect from Hell's nastiest minions, but the one who really got under my skin was Flail. That woman is absolutely VILE.
While Azagoth and Lillian are finally reunited (THANK. GOD.), they aren't even remotely out of the woods yet, as the universe seems determined to test the limits of Azagoth's patience. And with Lillian now pregnant, and Moloc more powerful than ever, it makes me nervous for the next installment in the series.
When we last left off, Cipher had been betrayed by the fallen angel, Flail, and dragged down into Sheoul (aka: Hell) against his will, forcing him from his unfallen status into full-blown fallen. For months, he endures untold (and honestly, rather creative) torture until an unexpected bond forms between him and his fallen angel handler, Lyre.
Cipher and Lyre are quite the pair, and the moral quandaries and dilemmas they face while trying to find a way out of their current predicament made for some interesting reading.
Bael & Moloc - our big bads - are what we've come to expect from Hell's nastiest minions, but the one who really got under my skin was Flail. That woman is absolutely VILE.
While Azagoth and Lillian are finally reunited (THANK. GOD.), they aren't even remotely out of the woods yet, as the universe seems determined to test the limits of Azagoth's patience. And with Lillian now pregnant, and Moloc more powerful than ever, it makes me nervous for the next installment in the series.
July 27, 2022
3.5 stars
Plot: 4 stars
Romance: 3 stars
The last time we saw Cipher, he had been captured and dragged to Sheoul AKA Hell. Now he's a true fallen angel, but he's living in captivity and is forced to provide intel on Azagoth in exchange for his limited freedom. His handler Lyre is also a fallen angel who is trying to get revenge on those responsible for her fall from Heaven.
I did like the romance between Cipher and Lyre, but it takes a backseat to the overarching plot. There's also development with Azagoth and Liliana. Basically, this book is setting up something big for Azagoth and with the way things ended, I'm excited to pick up Reaper and see where Larissa Ione takes this series.
Azagoth's marriage is kind of on shaky grounds, so I wonder if that's where the romance will come into play. Because right now, I can see the next book being plot-focused only.
Plot: 4 stars
Romance: 3 stars
The last time we saw Cipher, he had been captured and dragged to Sheoul AKA Hell. Now he's a true fallen angel, but he's living in captivity and is forced to provide intel on Azagoth in exchange for his limited freedom. His handler Lyre is also a fallen angel who is trying to get revenge on those responsible for her fall from Heaven.
I did like the romance between Cipher and Lyre, but it takes a backseat to the overarching plot. There's also development with Azagoth and Liliana. Basically, this book is setting up something big for Azagoth and with the way things ended, I'm excited to pick up Reaper and see where Larissa Ione takes this series.
Azagoth's marriage is kind of on shaky grounds, so I wonder if that's where the romance will come into play. Because right now, I can see the next book being plot-focused only.
November 10, 2019
4 stars
If you see my ŷ feeds, it will shown that lately I'm Demonica series reading spree. Well, I read all the remaining Demonica Underworld novellas in order to read Reaper (actually when I write this review, I already in chapter 4 of Reaper, lol). While Ione stated that all her novellas can be read as a standalone, I don't recommend read Cipher as one because his story is continuation from "Her Guardian Angel". And also you will get to know more about him in "Hawkyn". While the title is Cipher, like "Hawkyn", this novella is not just about Cipher but Azagoth as well.
Is he still brooding? Yeees.
Is he still have anger management issues? Yep.
But, at last he has sort out the problem with Lilliana, and I'm happy they are back on the track!
The story of course still mainly tell about how Cipher deal with his new condition (become a true fallen angel) and also how he tried to escape from his captor. Speaking about abduction, there's some torture scene that not for the squeamish (but still tame) and also "almost" mind rape. I'm glad that Ione didn't write in further, because I will puke. And rage. Mostly rage, because I really like Cipher and it will upset me if that's happen to him. Rape is still a rape, even its happen to man, and boy, I share the same sentiment with Cipher about Flail, a fallen angel woman that try to rape him. Talk about a very nasty, skanky character!
But don't fret since Cipher's leading lady, Lyre is still a good person. Well, a fallen angel with apparently a good heart. I like that Ione didn't go to deus ex machinae route to explain why Lyre don't feel evil, although maybe the reason why Lyre is not evil despite she is a fallen angel still left opened. I also like Cipher and Lyre's blossoming relationship even the romance maybe not that plenty (since both are try to running from Lyre's fallen angel boss, Bael). They have no angst, so if you don't like angst too much, it can be refreshing to read. Also both Cipher and Lyre have awesome abilities as a fallen angel. Alas, it just not explained thoroughly.
The event in this novella mainly connected to what happen after 'REVENANT" (another my favorite Demonica book), with Satan being imprisoned and his "minions" want to release him. So glad to see Revenant and also Reaver, and well Revenant is still a jerk himself. An adorable jerk to be exact ;3. What happen in the end of Cipher open a plot that connected to Azagoth's first full length novel, "REAPER". I can't wait to read what will happen to Azagoth, Lilliana, and Sheoul-gra in particular. Also if Satan will be released (Revenant and Reaver will be VERY, VERY pissed off, though.). There was no Jim Bob, my favorite mysterious angel, but I kinda can guess who he is. Maybe we will get the answer in REAPER.
If you see my ŷ feeds, it will shown that lately I'm Demonica series reading spree. Well, I read all the remaining Demonica Underworld novellas in order to read Reaper (actually when I write this review, I already in chapter 4 of Reaper, lol). While Ione stated that all her novellas can be read as a standalone, I don't recommend read Cipher as one because his story is continuation from "Her Guardian Angel". And also you will get to know more about him in "Hawkyn". While the title is Cipher, like "Hawkyn", this novella is not just about Cipher but Azagoth as well.
Is he still brooding? Yeees.
Is he still have anger management issues? Yep.
But, at last he has sort out the problem with Lilliana, and I'm happy they are back on the track!
The story of course still mainly tell about how Cipher deal with his new condition (become a true fallen angel) and also how he tried to escape from his captor. Speaking about abduction, there's some torture scene that not for the squeamish (but still tame) and also "almost" mind rape. I'm glad that Ione didn't write in further, because I will puke. And rage. Mostly rage, because I really like Cipher and it will upset me if that's happen to him. Rape is still a rape, even its happen to man, and boy, I share the same sentiment with Cipher about Flail, a fallen angel woman that try to rape him. Talk about a very nasty, skanky character!
But don't fret since Cipher's leading lady, Lyre is still a good person. Well, a fallen angel with apparently a good heart. I like that Ione didn't go to deus ex machinae route to explain why Lyre don't feel evil, although maybe the reason why Lyre is not evil despite she is a fallen angel still left opened. I also like Cipher and Lyre's blossoming relationship even the romance maybe not that plenty (since both are try to running from Lyre's fallen angel boss, Bael). They have no angst, so if you don't like angst too much, it can be refreshing to read. Also both Cipher and Lyre have awesome abilities as a fallen angel. Alas, it just not explained thoroughly.
The event in this novella mainly connected to what happen after 'REVENANT" (another my favorite Demonica book), with Satan being imprisoned and his "minions" want to release him. So glad to see Revenant and also Reaver, and well Revenant is still a jerk himself. An adorable jerk to be exact ;3. What happen in the end of Cipher open a plot that connected to Azagoth's first full length novel, "REAPER". I can't wait to read what will happen to Azagoth, Lilliana, and Sheoul-gra in particular. Also if Satan will be released (Revenant and Reaver will be VERY, VERY pissed off, though.). There was no Jim Bob, my favorite mysterious angel, but I kinda can guess who he is. Maybe we will get the answer in REAPER.
April 15, 2019
4.5 stars ~ Jess
I have loved this series for a LONG time and with each new book, things are still unsettled in the Underworld. There is always something at play and this book continues that story of deceit and mystery.
While this was Cipher's book there is a lot more at play than just him. Captured by brothers who might play a part in the next apocalypse he is tortured on the daily for information only he has access to. Not only that but he is coming into his Unfallen powers that are actually pretty cool.
Lyre has been put in charge of getting the information from Cipher. She is on a mission of vengeance from those who wronged her and is hoping that this "win" will get her what she seeks. Lyre should be different than what she is. She should be stronger, more evil, more hell-worthy, but she is not. She also has this troubling problem known as a heart.
Being a novella, there are aspects of this story that came together rather quickly. On the flip side, there are other parts that we have only scratched the surface on. I did enjoy this book but would have liked Lyre's character to be developed a little more. I already knew Cipher from his cameos in prior books. I already enjoyed his quirky sense of humor and nerdy yet sexy hacking skills. I did think this set us fans up nicely for Reaper and can't wait to see what kind of madness his book has in store.
I have loved this series for a LONG time and with each new book, things are still unsettled in the Underworld. There is always something at play and this book continues that story of deceit and mystery.
While this was Cipher's book there is a lot more at play than just him. Captured by brothers who might play a part in the next apocalypse he is tortured on the daily for information only he has access to. Not only that but he is coming into his Unfallen powers that are actually pretty cool.
Lyre has been put in charge of getting the information from Cipher. She is on a mission of vengeance from those who wronged her and is hoping that this "win" will get her what she seeks. Lyre should be different than what she is. She should be stronger, more evil, more hell-worthy, but she is not. She also has this troubling problem known as a heart.
Being a novella, there are aspects of this story that came together rather quickly. On the flip side, there are other parts that we have only scratched the surface on. I did enjoy this book but would have liked Lyre's character to be developed a little more. I already knew Cipher from his cameos in prior books. I already enjoyed his quirky sense of humor and nerdy yet sexy hacking skills. I did think this set us fans up nicely for Reaper and can't wait to see what kind of madness his book has in store.
April 16, 2019
I'll be honest. I'm foaming at the mouth for Reaper to come out. That said, I enjoyed the read, it's a nice tidbit to tide me over until the real, and probably amazing, book is released. I wasn't really all fired up for Lyre and Cypher, but hey, it was still a decent story. Read if you're a huge Demonica fan. You may want to skip if you're not.
November 20, 2019
This was a good installment. No real complaints. I liked the narrator in the previous installment better, but this guy is good to.
April 9, 2019
4 stars
This novella is #8 in the Demonica Underworld series, and as with all thing Demonica related, I cannot get enough!
The 1001 Nights novellas are promo’d as standalones, but given the complexity of this world, and the fact that this story is a continuation of the Demonica Underworld series, and Azagoth and Liliana’s story, I would not recommend reading this one as a standalone.
Following on from , this book picks up the story of Cipher � an Unfallen Angel who was dragged to Sheoul, instantly turning him into a True Unfallen. For years he straddled the line between good and evil, and now that he’s in hell itself, he’s just waiting for evil to truly penetrate, turning him into the monster he tried so hard not to be.
Cipher is the prisoner of one of the Underworld’s badguys, who wants him for his cyber-skills and the evil that his fall promises, and while he’s kept in captivity, he is assigned a handler � Lyre a fellow Fallen Angel who is a total badass with her own mission of vengeance.
Cipher and Lyre quickly realise that they can help each other out, and as they work on acclimatising Cipher to his new form, plan their escape and uncover the horrors of a new plot unfolding within the underworld, their attraction sizzles and they find themselves unexpectedly falling for each other.
It’s fun and adventurous, sexy and exciting, and the banter is so entertaining!
Meanwhile, in Sheoul-Gra, Cipher’s friends are searching for him and looking for a way to release him from his captivity before true evil takes hold. And Azagoth is on a mission to track down his children and take out those responsible for endangering them. It’s all happening, and with Reaver and Revenant popping in to visit with warnings for the future (and some hilarious smartassery), and the long-awaited return of Lilliana, this book is a great lead-in to the upcoming as Azagoth’s story deepens and the battle between heaven and hell awakens once again.
The plot is building, and I’m so excited for more of this series as we prepare for the next generation to take the lead and have their stories told.
Loved this one � 4 stars.
An Advanced Reader Copy was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
This novella is #8 in the Demonica Underworld series, and as with all thing Demonica related, I cannot get enough!
The 1001 Nights novellas are promo’d as standalones, but given the complexity of this world, and the fact that this story is a continuation of the Demonica Underworld series, and Azagoth and Liliana’s story, I would not recommend reading this one as a standalone.
Following on from , this book picks up the story of Cipher � an Unfallen Angel who was dragged to Sheoul, instantly turning him into a True Unfallen. For years he straddled the line between good and evil, and now that he’s in hell itself, he’s just waiting for evil to truly penetrate, turning him into the monster he tried so hard not to be.
Cipher is the prisoner of one of the Underworld’s badguys, who wants him for his cyber-skills and the evil that his fall promises, and while he’s kept in captivity, he is assigned a handler � Lyre a fellow Fallen Angel who is a total badass with her own mission of vengeance.
Cipher and Lyre quickly realise that they can help each other out, and as they work on acclimatising Cipher to his new form, plan their escape and uncover the horrors of a new plot unfolding within the underworld, their attraction sizzles and they find themselves unexpectedly falling for each other.
It’s fun and adventurous, sexy and exciting, and the banter is so entertaining!
“Okay, try extending your wing.�
Nothing happened. He let out a frustrated curse, and then, finally, the wing shot out before
folding in again.
“It shouldn’t have taken that much effort, should it? Is this normal?�
“I don’t think so.�
“You don’t think so? You’re a fallen angel, right?�
She jammed her fists on her hips. “No one is going to want to have sex with you if you’re snarky with them, you know.�
“W?�
Meanwhile, in Sheoul-Gra, Cipher’s friends are searching for him and looking for a way to release him from his captivity before true evil takes hold. And Azagoth is on a mission to track down his children and take out those responsible for endangering them. It’s all happening, and with Reaver and Revenant popping in to visit with warnings for the future (and some hilarious smartassery), and the long-awaited return of Lilliana, this book is a great lead-in to the upcoming as Azagoth’s story deepens and the battle between heaven and hell awakens once again.
The plot is building, and I’m so excited for more of this series as we prepare for the next generation to take the lead and have their stories told.
Loved this one � 4 stars.
An Advanced Reader Copy was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
November 1, 2021
A novella that is eighth in the Demonica Underworld, a continuation of the Demonica Universe (#19) dark paranormal romance. This Underworld revolves around Azagoth, the Grim Reaper and lord of Sheoul-gra. The couple focus is on Cipher and the virginal Lyre.
My Take
Wow, Ione gives us an inside look at at the war Lyre has going on with herself. Her reasons for entering Sheoul and the frustration she's experiencing with Cipher, forcing her to reconsider what she wants. Even as she wonders why she ain't feelin' the mean.
It's a third person dual protagonist point-of-view with perspectives from Lyre (see above!) and Cipher who can't decide who he hates more.
One of the overall Demonica Universe arcs is releasing Satan from his prison. Geez, I can't go to Hell . . . no one has a sense of humor! And those bad guys sure are inventive in how they intend to free Satan.
Ooh, "Cipher" has caused me to remember that angel family and friends do not stand by you, not in Ione's Heaven. You get accused of something, and they dump you so fast! Jealousy is not just a human emotion.
This is the story to read to realize why one should cool down before acting too hastily, for you might have to repent forever.
It's melodramatic, but not in a bad way with plenty of action and events in Hell that will make you resolve to be good.
The pace wavers somewhat from quick to slow; it all depends on your mood and preferences.
The Story
Lyre has been assigned to seduce Cipher, for Bael wants that list. It's a convoluted plan, but what fun is it if it's not . . . Bael always says.
The Characters
Lyre, Lyresiel when she was a top analyst for the Intelligence Department in Heaven, is now a Fallen angel, and usually Bael's errand girl. Lihandra was her betraying older sister; Bellagias was a younger sister. Dailon, a demon, had been a psychotherapist and a Somniatus, a nightmare devil.
Cipher, a Fallen, oops, no, a True Fallen angel, once used his cyberskills to work for Azagoth until he was betrayed seven months ago.
Felicia had been a primori in Fiji, an abandoned bride with Hawkyn as her Guardian Angel.
Sheoul-gra is . . .
. . .an underworld realm, a holding tank for the souls of dead demons and evil humans, ruled by Azagoth ("Azagoth", 1 (DU), 11 (Dem)). His mate, Lilliana, has been gone for nine months (and she's pregnant). A young son of his, Niclas, as well as three grown, trained Memitim have been murdered inside Sheoul-gra. Zhubaal "Z", a Fallen angel, is his Chief of Operations and chief enforcer ("Z" 3 (DU), 14 (Dem)). Hades, with his blue mohawk, is in charge of the Inner Sanctum ( Hades , 2 (DU), 13 (Dem), 6.5 (LoD)). Hawkyn, a Memitim, is one of Cipher's friends who is married to Aurora ("Hawkyn" 5 (DU), 16 (Dem)). Other Memitims include Journey, another one who's a wizard on the computer; Maddox; Suzanne; Tuvol is one of Cipher's oldest friends; Emerico; Gretchen had been kidnapped; Amelia, who was also a primori; Jasmine; and, Meera, who was killed.
Sheoul is what . . .
. . . humans call Hell. Revenant, NOT a Fallen angel, is the current king of Sheoul ( Revenant , 6 (LoD) and 11 (Dem)). The impulsively cruel Bael, an ancient fallen angel, is/was one of Satan's top generals. Moloc is Bael's twin brother and as evil as Bael. Flail has no qualms. Rancor is a female Fallen angel who has control of the Horun region. Malachi is a demon from the Islith region of Sheoul.
Underworld General Hospital (UGH) was . . .
. . . founded by three Seminus demon brothers to serve demons. One of the founders is Eidolon who's married to Tayla ( Pleasure Unbound , 1). Kynan Morgan, formerly of The Aegis, is now a doctor at UGH.
The Four Horsemen
Yep, of the Apocalypse. Arik Wagner is the husband of Limos, Famine ( Immortal Rider , 2 (LoD), 7 (Dem). Ares is War and married to Cara ( Eternal Rider , 1 (LoD), 6 (Dem)). Their baby is Aleka. Maleficent is one of Cara's hellhounds.
Heaven
Reaver is a Radiant Angel, the highest rank there is of angels, a Prince of Heaven. He's also the father of the Four Horsemen. "Jim Bob" is Azagoth's spy in Heaven. The Moirai are angelic seers who live on another plane and in all timelines.
The Demon Activity Response Team (DART) . . .
. . . fights demons for a living. Declan is an agent, Journey's brother-in-law, and his primori.
A True Fallen angel is one who was kicked out of Heaven and entered Sheoul, developing fangs and getting their powers back. And they can never return to Heaven. A Fallen angel is one who was kicked out of Heaven and entered Sheoul. An Unfallen angel is one who was kicked out of Heaven but hasn't entered Sheoul. A Memitim is a child fathered by Azagoth whose job is to be Guardian Angels to primori . Orphmages are one of the most powerful sorcerer-class demons.
An ascerdisc is made from a Fallen angel's bones to control another. Destroying a soul gives Satan power. Created from imps, griminions are Azagoth’s worker bees.
The Cover and Title
The cover has a black background with the upper two-thirds using an orange filigree of stars and trefoils texturing the background. The novella publisher's name is in a gradated orange. It's Cipher standing in profile in the first "0" with a head-down pouty look, as his right wing appears as a flash of brown and fuchsia. In the second "0" is a landscape scene from Sheoul with its mountains, red sky, and flowing lava river. In the middle is the title and the series information in a pale, pale orange. In the bottom third is the author's name in a gradated fuchsia; the middle "i" has a demonic caduceus against a filigreed background of fuchsia trefoils and stars. At the very bottom is a testimonial in a very dark fuchsia.
The title is the protagonist who discovers he's a "Cipher".
My Take
Wow, Ione gives us an inside look at at the war Lyre has going on with herself. Her reasons for entering Sheoul and the frustration she's experiencing with Cipher, forcing her to reconsider what she wants. Even as she wonders why she ain't feelin' the mean.
It's a third person dual protagonist point-of-view with perspectives from Lyre (see above!) and Cipher who can't decide who he hates more.
One of the overall Demonica Universe arcs is releasing Satan from his prison. Geez, I can't go to Hell . . . no one has a sense of humor! And those bad guys sure are inventive in how they intend to free Satan.
Ooh, "Cipher" has caused me to remember that angel family and friends do not stand by you, not in Ione's Heaven. You get accused of something, and they dump you so fast! Jealousy is not just a human emotion.
This is the story to read to realize why one should cool down before acting too hastily, for you might have to repent forever.
It's melodramatic, but not in a bad way with plenty of action and events in Hell that will make you resolve to be good.
The pace wavers somewhat from quick to slow; it all depends on your mood and preferences.
The Story
Lyre has been assigned to seduce Cipher, for Bael wants that list. It's a convoluted plan, but what fun is it if it's not . . . Bael always says.
The Characters
Lyre, Lyresiel when she was a top analyst for the Intelligence Department in Heaven, is now a Fallen angel, and usually Bael's errand girl. Lihandra was her betraying older sister; Bellagias was a younger sister. Dailon, a demon, had been a psychotherapist and a Somniatus, a nightmare devil.
Cipher, a Fallen, oops, no, a True Fallen angel, once used his cyberskills to work for Azagoth until he was betrayed seven months ago.
Felicia had been a primori in Fiji, an abandoned bride with Hawkyn as her Guardian Angel.
Sheoul-gra is . . .
. . .an underworld realm, a holding tank for the souls of dead demons and evil humans, ruled by Azagoth ("Azagoth", 1 (DU), 11 (Dem)). His mate, Lilliana, has been gone for nine months (and she's pregnant). A young son of his, Niclas, as well as three grown, trained Memitim have been murdered inside Sheoul-gra. Zhubaal "Z", a Fallen angel, is his Chief of Operations and chief enforcer ("Z" 3 (DU), 14 (Dem)). Hades, with his blue mohawk, is in charge of the Inner Sanctum ( Hades , 2 (DU), 13 (Dem), 6.5 (LoD)). Hawkyn, a Memitim, is one of Cipher's friends who is married to Aurora ("Hawkyn" 5 (DU), 16 (Dem)). Other Memitims include Journey, another one who's a wizard on the computer; Maddox; Suzanne; Tuvol is one of Cipher's oldest friends; Emerico; Gretchen had been kidnapped; Amelia, who was also a primori; Jasmine; and, Meera, who was killed.
Sheoul is what . . .
. . . humans call Hell. Revenant, NOT a Fallen angel, is the current king of Sheoul ( Revenant , 6 (LoD) and 11 (Dem)). The impulsively cruel Bael, an ancient fallen angel, is/was one of Satan's top generals. Moloc is Bael's twin brother and as evil as Bael. Flail has no qualms. Rancor is a female Fallen angel who has control of the Horun region. Malachi is a demon from the Islith region of Sheoul.
Underworld General Hospital (UGH) was . . .
. . . founded by three Seminus demon brothers to serve demons. One of the founders is Eidolon who's married to Tayla ( Pleasure Unbound , 1). Kynan Morgan, formerly of The Aegis, is now a doctor at UGH.
The Four Horsemen
Yep, of the Apocalypse. Arik Wagner is the husband of Limos, Famine ( Immortal Rider , 2 (LoD), 7 (Dem). Ares is War and married to Cara ( Eternal Rider , 1 (LoD), 6 (Dem)). Their baby is Aleka. Maleficent is one of Cara's hellhounds.
Heaven
Reaver is a Radiant Angel, the highest rank there is of angels, a Prince of Heaven. He's also the father of the Four Horsemen. "Jim Bob" is Azagoth's spy in Heaven. The Moirai are angelic seers who live on another plane and in all timelines.
The Demon Activity Response Team (DART) . . .
. . . fights demons for a living. Declan is an agent, Journey's brother-in-law, and his primori.
A True Fallen angel is one who was kicked out of Heaven and entered Sheoul, developing fangs and getting their powers back. And they can never return to Heaven. A Fallen angel is one who was kicked out of Heaven and entered Sheoul. An Unfallen angel is one who was kicked out of Heaven but hasn't entered Sheoul. A Memitim is a child fathered by Azagoth whose job is to be Guardian Angels to primori . Orphmages are one of the most powerful sorcerer-class demons.
An ascerdisc is made from a Fallen angel's bones to control another. Destroying a soul gives Satan power. Created from imps, griminions are Azagoth’s worker bees.
The Cover and Title
The cover has a black background with the upper two-thirds using an orange filigree of stars and trefoils texturing the background. The novella publisher's name is in a gradated orange. It's Cipher standing in profile in the first "0" with a head-down pouty look, as his right wing appears as a flash of brown and fuchsia. In the second "0" is a landscape scene from Sheoul with its mountains, red sky, and flowing lava river. In the middle is the title and the series information in a pale, pale orange. In the bottom third is the author's name in a gradated fuchsia; the middle "i" has a demonic caduceus against a filigreed background of fuchsia trefoils and stars. At the very bottom is a testimonial in a very dark fuchsia.
The title is the protagonist who discovers he's a "Cipher".
August 24, 2020
Lately, I've been invested in the Underworld series and with great pleasure. But there's something in this novella that didn't work with me. I don't know if it was the fact it happens mostly in Sheould or what, but I didn't feel the same way as with the previous novellas. I enjoyed very much the parts with Azagoth and the developments happening in the Underworld but not the story of Cipher and Lyre :(
Now, who is the
Now, who is the
September 15, 2024
I love Larissa Ione's writing! 😍 She is awesome! The Demonica books are my favorites by her! 🥰📚📖
September 2, 2022
Series: Demonica #18; Demonica Underworld #8
Rating: 4 stars - It was really good
After two books, we finally get Cipher's story. In Her Guardian Angel, Cipher was dragged to Hell by demons and turned into a fallen angel. It’s been months since that event and now we finally get to learn why he was taken and by whom.
Cipher has been a prisoner for months dealing with daily tortures and the constant seep of evil into him. His captures are trying to turn him to their cause or get information about Azagoth from him. I have liked Cipher since he was introduced and I loved him even more after this. He was strong, determined, and very stubborn. He doesn't give in and bends the situation in his favor to free himself. Also Cipher’s new fallen abilities are fascinating and I can’t wait to see how he applies them in future books.
Lyre is a fallen angel who is out for revenge. While overseeing Cipher’s captivity, she finds herself doubting everything about her goal for revenge. The more time she spends with Cipher the more she finds herself longing for more. Lyre was a strong, capable, and determined woman. She may have a weak power but wields it to her advantage, which I really liked. Lyre and Cipher were a great couple who worked together to escape a terrible situation.
Overall, this was another great novella for this series. I can’t wait to jump into the next one and see the continuation of Azagoth and Lilianna’s story.
Trigger warnings: torture; death of a child
You can also find my reviews at
Rating: 4 stars - It was really good
After two books, we finally get Cipher's story. In Her Guardian Angel, Cipher was dragged to Hell by demons and turned into a fallen angel. It’s been months since that event and now we finally get to learn why he was taken and by whom.
Cipher has been a prisoner for months dealing with daily tortures and the constant seep of evil into him. His captures are trying to turn him to their cause or get information about Azagoth from him. I have liked Cipher since he was introduced and I loved him even more after this. He was strong, determined, and very stubborn. He doesn't give in and bends the situation in his favor to free himself. Also Cipher’s new fallen abilities are fascinating and I can’t wait to see how he applies them in future books.
Lyre is a fallen angel who is out for revenge. While overseeing Cipher’s captivity, she finds herself doubting everything about her goal for revenge. The more time she spends with Cipher the more she finds herself longing for more. Lyre was a strong, capable, and determined woman. She may have a weak power but wields it to her advantage, which I really liked. Lyre and Cipher were a great couple who worked together to escape a terrible situation.
Overall, this was another great novella for this series. I can’t wait to jump into the next one and see the continuation of Azagoth and Lilianna’s story.
Trigger warnings: torture; death of a child
You can also find my reviews at
April 9, 2019
3.5 stars. Cipher is a good addition to one of my favorite paranormal series. This is Cipher and Lyre's story. Cipher is a fallen angel and a computer whiz. A careless mistake has landed him in hell, where Lyre is his handler. Lyre, herself, is also a fallen angel, who purposely got herself sent to hell so she could wreak revenge on her enemies. But as they spend time together, the two of them unravel an evil plot to ruin the world and have to fight to save themselves and escape hell. Along the way, they fall for each other, of course.
I enjoyed this book. I really liked both Cipher and Lyre and I definitely felt their love by the end. They are both good beings, not evil, despite their fallen status. I did feel like, for a novella, the romance between the couple did not get going for a little too long. The first half was a bit slow. I also found there is quite a bit of focus on the ongoing series story arch and not quite as much focus on the couple. Still, this is not a bad book. Cipher is a quick, easy, entertaining read. It has moments of suspense, sexiness and sweetness. I really liked the interesting story and writing. I found Cipher and Lyre to be a fun characters and well-matched.
Overall, I enjoyed this book. I am very much looking forward to the next book in the series and anything else Ms. Ione writes in the future!
*arc provided in exchange for an honest review*
I enjoyed this book. I really liked both Cipher and Lyre and I definitely felt their love by the end. They are both good beings, not evil, despite their fallen status. I did feel like, for a novella, the romance between the couple did not get going for a little too long. The first half was a bit slow. I also found there is quite a bit of focus on the ongoing series story arch and not quite as much focus on the couple. Still, this is not a bad book. Cipher is a quick, easy, entertaining read. It has moments of suspense, sexiness and sweetness. I really liked the interesting story and writing. I found Cipher and Lyre to be a fun characters and well-matched.
Overall, I enjoyed this book. I am very much looking forward to the next book in the series and anything else Ms. Ione writes in the future!
*arc provided in exchange for an honest review*
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May 17, 2020In the previous book, Her Guardian Angel, Unfallen angel Cipher is dragged to Hell to become one of the evil True Fallen angels. Months later, Cipher is still basically himself, fighting against his new instincts and against the torture he faces under the demon overlords. Lyre is his overseer, an angel who fell to get revenge on the angelic family who killed her true love and had her stripped of her wings. However, on the grand scale of things, she's not really evil either. Can their love help them escape the hellish dimension they're trapped in before Cipher is forced to do things he can't take back?
This Demonica Underworld takes us into a brand new region of Hell. Unlike Sheoul-gra, where Azagoth watches over the souls of demons and evil humans, Cipher has ended up in the land of the True Fallen, where real, live evil dwells. The relationship between Lyre and Cipher is smart and entertaining, and his dilemmas are all too real in our modern world of danger and terrorism.
This Demonica Underworld takes us into a brand new region of Hell. Unlike Sheoul-gra, where Azagoth watches over the souls of demons and evil humans, Cipher has ended up in the land of the True Fallen, where real, live evil dwells. The relationship between Lyre and Cipher is smart and entertaining, and his dilemmas are all too real in our modern world of danger and terrorism.
May 8, 2019
Larissa Ione never disappoints me with her stories. I love that her female characters are raw and flawed and have bad thoughts. I hate perfect Polly Pures who are so innocent and sweet that I just want to drown them in a bucket of honey. Her male characters are badass too.
Cipher was dragged into Hell or Sheoul and for seven months has been tortured, put in the ring to fight for his life just to entertain the demons and the evil overlord named Bael and he has been trying to watch off the evil that oozes into everyone in Bael's realm.
Lyre was put in charge of Cipher as his handler. She hates Bael but made a bargain with him that she now regrets so she's stuck in his realm. She tells herself she doesn't care what happens to Cipher yet she can't help but being attracted to him.
The main story was great but I always like the background story which is the fight for power and to keep Satan locked up and keep Armageddon from happening too soon.
I look forward to the next book.
Cipher was dragged into Hell or Sheoul and for seven months has been tortured, put in the ring to fight for his life just to entertain the demons and the evil overlord named Bael and he has been trying to watch off the evil that oozes into everyone in Bael's realm.
Lyre was put in charge of Cipher as his handler. She hates Bael but made a bargain with him that she now regrets so she's stuck in his realm. She tells herself she doesn't care what happens to Cipher yet she can't help but being attracted to him.
The main story was great but I always like the background story which is the fight for power and to keep Satan locked up and keep Armageddon from happening too soon.
I look forward to the next book.
April 17, 2019
I think what I liked most about this one was how Cipher was a secret agent, determined not to betray his friends. It's a good thing that he won over Lyre to his side. I liked that they were able to work together to the start to bring down Bael and his crew. Sure things didn't quite end the way they all wanted it, but it's a good start.
I loved that Lillian finally came home and let Azagoth know her secret. I have a feeling there will be lots of fun times to come with those two.
I loved that Lillian finally came home and let Azagoth know her secret. I have a feeling there will be lots of fun times to come with those two.
December 27, 2019
I really held off on reading this one because I just wasn't in the right head space to read about one of my faves turning into a true Fallen Angel. However, I picked it up because the library finally got Reaper.
I enjoyed the book. I wasn't overly blown away but it was still a good read.
You definitely have to read this before reading Reaper. All of these Demonica books are connected and should not be read by itself or out of order, really.
I enjoyed the book. I wasn't overly blown away but it was still a good read.
You definitely have to read this before reading Reaper. All of these Demonica books are connected and should not be read by itself or out of order, really.
April 10, 2019
I am loving how much more we are getting in this novella , we are seeing just how tremendous
The backstabbing and the betrayals go, Cipher and Lyre have an awesome story that makes you want to read all the books over again and again
The backstabbing and the betrayals go, Cipher and Lyre have an awesome story that makes you want to read all the books over again and again
October 4, 2020
I love these books, which each new one we get just a little more info into the bigger picture. But just like the very first books, they are all just layers of shades of gray.
I listened to the audio with Paul Boehmer narrating and enjoyed his performance.
I listened to the audio with Paul Boehmer narrating and enjoyed his performance.
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