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The Devil's Assistant #1
Dark Hope
After five years of working for the Devil, Claire Cooper believes she lives an otherwise normal life. Until she finds herself in jeopardy for a murder she did not commit. Desperate to save her life and soul, she enters Purgatory, but runs afoul of the Devil's sister, Pagan Queen Mab. Mab has her own agenda and uses Claire to get even with the Devil. Claire learns each ruler is in a race to discover "the girl" in the prophecy to fix time. As Claire peels away clues to the real killer, she realizes she must outwit the Devil's children or end up a prisoner in Purgatory forever.
269 pages, ebook
First published March 2, 2014
About the author
H.D. Smith
13 books443 followersHD Smith is a software developer by day and an author of kick-ass Urban Fantasy at night. She grew up in South Carolina, but has called the Sunshine State home since 1997. She has a Masters degree in Computer Science, but her love of writing has really unleashed the creative siren in her soul. For more information, visit HD's website at http://www.hdsmithauthor.com/.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 106 reviews
March 15, 2015
4.5 stars actually.
This book is one of the more unique books I've read in a while. I do sort of a check list for each part of a book that's a deal breaker or a deal closer so I'll kind of wing it in my own format.
1. The main character, strong or not?
Claire is one of very few main characters that didn't make me want to pray that they'll find a backbone. I can't tell you how many times authors have promised me a strong heroine and have given me a whiny twit. Nor can I count the times when thestupid stubborn heroine is immature and throws herself into a dangerous situation and damn the consequences. Claire was strong, but she knew when to play it smart and wait to rebel. Great heroine.
2. Is the plot predictable or not?
Not in the slightest. I constantly found myself trying to figure out what the hell was going to happen without being too unbearably confused. There were so many things going on that I found myself on the edge of my seat and reading on my phone when I was supposed to be socializing with my friends in my dorm...oops.
3. Did it have any romance? Was is sappy?
There was underlying romance and it was not overwhelming or too nauseating. She did have a lot of male characters after her but the love took a major backseat.I kind of hoped for a little more from her boyfriend, but perhaps in the next book?
Overall, I found this book to be really entertaining and unique. There was definitely a lot going on so you have to be into it, but I really did like it and am most likely going to pick up the second book soon.
*I was given a free copy for a review, but it has in no way swayed my honest judgement of the book* -Thank you HD Smith!-
This book is one of the more unique books I've read in a while. I do sort of a check list for each part of a book that's a deal breaker or a deal closer so I'll kind of wing it in my own format.
1. The main character, strong or not?
Claire is one of very few main characters that didn't make me want to pray that they'll find a backbone. I can't tell you how many times authors have promised me a strong heroine and have given me a whiny twit. Nor can I count the times when the
2. Is the plot predictable or not?
Not in the slightest. I constantly found myself trying to figure out what the hell was going to happen without being too unbearably confused. There were so many things going on that I found myself on the edge of my seat and reading on my phone when I was supposed to be socializing with my friends in my dorm...oops.
3. Did it have any romance? Was is sappy?
There was underlying romance and it was not overwhelming or too nauseating. She did have a lot of male characters after her but the love took a major backseat.I kind of hoped for a little more from her boyfriend, but perhaps in the next book?
Overall, I found this book to be really entertaining and unique. There was definitely a lot going on so you have to be into it, but I really did like it and am most likely going to pick up the second book soon.
*I was given a free copy for a review, but it has in no way swayed my honest judgement of the book* -Thank you HD Smith!-
March 29, 2015
Let's face it, most of us think our boss is the devil sometimes, Claire's problem is that her boss is indeed the demon king himself. She's been bound to him for the last five years due to a deal her deceased mother made with him before Claire was even born.
Now she is the heartless bastard's assistant, running errands in the underworld; dodging oversexed pagans, murderous druids, and Lucifer's vengeful and/or surprisingly amorous demon spawn. Her only consolation is her loving boyfriend, Jack, who is blissfully unaware of her predicament.
When Lucifer's oldest son, Junior, unexpectedly turns up dead, all clues lead to Claire as the murderer, even her friend, a seer, seems to think she's guilty. Her only hope is to that her boss' s hellspawn quad, will be able to help her.. Or perhaps the other way around. As long as they don't kill her first, or that annoying voice in her head manages to drive her insane.
I admit, this book was a slow starter for me, as in 40% slow. But once I got past the 40% mark, things got a little more interesting, much thanks to Mace, the youngest quad, with daddy issues and *lovely* sociopathic tendencies. What a charmer.
Poor Claire is thrown headfirst into an age old family feud that has already claimed one sibling's life and may still claim more. Queen Mab, ruler in Purgatory wants her, even the elusive Druid King seems to think of her as a pet project. But they have one thing in common; no-one will disclose why she's so damn special. The secret may very well lie with that annoying voice in her head, and a man who calls himsef Death.
One thing's for certain; nobody's motives can be trusted. Loyalties, like lovers are not always what or who they seem, and Claire's salvation may very well lie in a future that has already happened. But when all is said and done, life still manages to deal her a craptastic blow...
As I said, this book didn't quite manange to hold my interest at first, which led me start - and finish - 2 other books before I got back to this one. But the last half was interesting enough for me to want to read the continuation. Would I recommend it? I don't know. I could have done without it, personally, but you know how it is, once you start, you want to know how it all ends.
When all is said and done, I think 3.5 is a fair rating.
Now she is the heartless bastard's assistant, running errands in the underworld; dodging oversexed pagans, murderous druids, and Lucifer's vengeful and/or surprisingly amorous demon spawn. Her only consolation is her loving boyfriend, Jack, who is blissfully unaware of her predicament.
When Lucifer's oldest son, Junior, unexpectedly turns up dead, all clues lead to Claire as the murderer, even her friend, a seer, seems to think she's guilty. Her only hope is to that her boss' s hellspawn quad, will be able to help her.. Or perhaps the other way around. As long as they don't kill her first, or that annoying voice in her head manages to drive her insane.
I admit, this book was a slow starter for me, as in 40% slow. But once I got past the 40% mark, things got a little more interesting, much thanks to Mace, the youngest quad, with daddy issues and *lovely* sociopathic tendencies. What a charmer.
Poor Claire is thrown headfirst into an age old family feud that has already claimed one sibling's life and may still claim more. Queen Mab, ruler in Purgatory wants her, even the elusive Druid King seems to think of her as a pet project. But they have one thing in common; no-one will disclose why she's so damn special. The secret may very well lie with that annoying voice in her head, and a man who calls himsef Death.
One thing's for certain; nobody's motives can be trusted. Loyalties, like lovers are not always what or who they seem, and Claire's salvation may very well lie in a future that has already happened. But when all is said and done, life still manages to deal her a craptastic blow...
As I said, this book didn't quite manange to hold my interest at first, which led me start - and finish - 2 other books before I got back to this one. But the last half was interesting enough for me to want to read the continuation. Would I recommend it? I don't know. I could have done without it, personally, but you know how it is, once you start, you want to know how it all ends.
When all is said and done, I think 3.5 is a fair rating.
July 7, 2020
Dark Hope is an engrossing book, with incredible world building. I couldn’t put it down, but found myself confused at times by the sheer amount of things happening. I kept reading because I needed to know how Claire got stuck working as the Devil’s assistant and what her real place and purpose there was.
The book is very fast paced, with enough tension, that you won’t want to put it down for a second. I look forward to reading the next book in the series to see what happens. While most things were tied up at the end. You are still left with the need to find out what happens in the next chapter of Claire's life, or unlife.
As for Dental. There are always the exceptions, but for the most part. No one gets Dental!
I recommend this to other Urban Fantasy lovers, but not “romance only” readers. This is an adventure, one hell of an adventure, but definitely not a love story.
The book is very fast paced, with enough tension, that you won’t want to put it down for a second. I look forward to reading the next book in the series to see what happens. While most things were tied up at the end. You are still left with the need to find out what happens in the next chapter of Claire's life, or unlife.
As for Dental. There are always the exceptions, but for the most part. No one gets Dental!
I recommend this to other Urban Fantasy lovers, but not “romance only” readers. This is an adventure, one hell of an adventure, but definitely not a love story.
May 27, 2015
ABR's full Dark Hope audiobook review and many others can be found at Audiobook Reviewer.
Dark Hope by HD Smith is an amazing urban fantasy. The main character, Claire, is the Devil’s personal assistant, but she quickly becomes wrapped up in the politics of the non-human world around her. Sent on a quest to save her life, she encounters troubles in the form of magic, beings that hate her, and mysteries. This quest takes her all over the human and non-human world as she not only has to try to save herself, but also beings that she dislikes as she tries to solve the mystery of who is trying to get her killed, or so she thinks.
I pretty much loved everything about this book. The beginning sucked me in, and I was constantly trying to figure out what was going on as Claire discovered new clues and questions. Claire herself is a spunky 21-year-old with a deep well of sarcasm and skepticism to draw from which she wields with rebellious attitude even when perhaps she shouldn’t. Every character from the big three non-human world rulers: the Devil, Mab, and Harry, to their children and lackeys, are fantastic and have depth. While some characters are definitely evil, many are in a gray area – at least to the reader, which makes trying to figure out motives even more fun. Other than Claire, who is the main character, I didn’t specifically have a favorite character, but I think that I loved and hated, and was unsure about all the right characters. While some of the magic/dream states were a little difficult to follow, other settings were easy to imagine. The end of the novel had a clear wrap-up, but left a healthy amount of questions and openings to lead to future novels. The world building is rich with many different avenues to explore and I can’t wait to keep reading/listening to them.
Lauren Fortgang did an amazing job with the narration. The characterization of each of the different characters, male or female, was spot on. The voices and tones of voice for the characters changed and were well-suited. It was easy forget that someone was even reading the book and to be engrossed with the storyline. The production quality was great. I one hundred percent recommend this book to anyone who likes urban fantasy with strong central female characters.
Audiobook provided for review by the author.
Dark Hope by HD Smith is an amazing urban fantasy. The main character, Claire, is the Devil’s personal assistant, but she quickly becomes wrapped up in the politics of the non-human world around her. Sent on a quest to save her life, she encounters troubles in the form of magic, beings that hate her, and mysteries. This quest takes her all over the human and non-human world as she not only has to try to save herself, but also beings that she dislikes as she tries to solve the mystery of who is trying to get her killed, or so she thinks.
I pretty much loved everything about this book. The beginning sucked me in, and I was constantly trying to figure out what was going on as Claire discovered new clues and questions. Claire herself is a spunky 21-year-old with a deep well of sarcasm and skepticism to draw from which she wields with rebellious attitude even when perhaps she shouldn’t. Every character from the big three non-human world rulers: the Devil, Mab, and Harry, to their children and lackeys, are fantastic and have depth. While some characters are definitely evil, many are in a gray area – at least to the reader, which makes trying to figure out motives even more fun. Other than Claire, who is the main character, I didn’t specifically have a favorite character, but I think that I loved and hated, and was unsure about all the right characters. While some of the magic/dream states were a little difficult to follow, other settings were easy to imagine. The end of the novel had a clear wrap-up, but left a healthy amount of questions and openings to lead to future novels. The world building is rich with many different avenues to explore and I can’t wait to keep reading/listening to them.
Lauren Fortgang did an amazing job with the narration. The characterization of each of the different characters, male or female, was spot on. The voices and tones of voice for the characters changed and were well-suited. It was easy forget that someone was even reading the book and to be engrossed with the storyline. The production quality was great. I one hundred percent recommend this book to anyone who likes urban fantasy with strong central female characters.
Audiobook provided for review by the author.
February 18, 2014
Dark Hope was amazing to the last word. I didn’t want it to end and I simply couldn’t put it down. I was instantly sucked into the world HD Smith created and became so invested in Claire that I had to keep reading.
Claire is both smart and strong but she has been dealt a raw deal. I love the way she kept her head and solved problems, learning to use her emerging powers. I felt her hurt and betrayal; my heart ached for her each time she learned a new truth. The action never stops or slows. I think it would be a spectacular movie! The ending was fantastic--everything was tied up perfectly. I cannot remember the last time I enjoyed a book this much. I can’t wait for the sequel!
Claire is both smart and strong but she has been dealt a raw deal. I love the way she kept her head and solved problems, learning to use her emerging powers. I felt her hurt and betrayal; my heart ached for her each time she learned a new truth. The action never stops or slows. I think it would be a spectacular movie! The ending was fantastic--everything was tied up perfectly. I cannot remember the last time I enjoyed a book this much. I can’t wait for the sequel!
March 19, 2015
I don't read much fantasy so I'm new to the urban fantasy genre. But this was a good introduction for me by new author HD Smith. I enjoyed the world (realms)created by Smith, and especially the main character of Claire. Claire is a strong protagonist placed in several perilous situations in this book. I enjoyed her humor, interactions with other characters, and the way she was slowly learning her true powers as the novel progressed. I look forward to rest of series to see what Claire decides to do and where she ultimately fits into the larger scheme of things. And I want her watch...!!
January 23, 2016
It was so good!!! Even after the end I still don't know everything that's going on, but it's still really good! It was so twisty and I got emotionally involved with the characters. Also this doing this "Best of 2014" thing in December is some bullsh*t. It makes me all paranoid and crazy. I start to *agonize* over "oh noes what happens if I read a better book?!?" "Okay, only read books that are crappy." "That's the solution." No, that is NOT THE SOLUTION!!! THAT IS BULLSH*T!!!!!! Next year, Jan 1st 2016 my list goes up. JANUARY FIRST!!!!! Until then なんとかなるさ~
March 16, 2014
Druids and Pagans and Demons Oh My!! Great book with a lot of twist and turns that you do not expect! Looking forward to reading more from this author!!!
March 23, 2014
Loved it - I cared about Claire and wanted her to succeed - getting me to care about a character is not easy - especially for a new author - I will look for her next book - I want to know more!
November 28, 2021
Audiobook Review:
Overall – 5
Performance – 5
Story – 4
I feel like I keep saying this over and over…😊 Dark Hope isn’t my usual type of story to read but I’m attending a conference and the author will be there so I wanted to read one of her books before then.
I have to admit that I had a difficult time getting into the story. There could be a couple of reasons for that: I was listening to the audiobook performed by Lauren Fortgang so I was multitasking and not as focused on the story as I probably should have been. The other reason is most likely because this just isn’t my favorite genre to read.
Having said those things, I also have to say that I really enjoyed listening to Lauren Fortgang. As far as I know this is the first book I’ve listened to that she performed and I would definitely be willing to listen to more by her. The story picked up for me and it finished strong. There wasn’t exactly a cliffhanger but it definitely left me wanting to know more about what happens next with Clair. I purchased the Omnibus edition of the audiobook (a fantastic value, over 38 hours of audio for only one credit) so it’s likely that I will listen to the rest of the series at some point.
Overall – 5
Performance – 5
Story – 4
I feel like I keep saying this over and over…😊 Dark Hope isn’t my usual type of story to read but I’m attending a conference and the author will be there so I wanted to read one of her books before then.
I have to admit that I had a difficult time getting into the story. There could be a couple of reasons for that: I was listening to the audiobook performed by Lauren Fortgang so I was multitasking and not as focused on the story as I probably should have been. The other reason is most likely because this just isn’t my favorite genre to read.
Having said those things, I also have to say that I really enjoyed listening to Lauren Fortgang. As far as I know this is the first book I’ve listened to that she performed and I would definitely be willing to listen to more by her. The story picked up for me and it finished strong. There wasn’t exactly a cliffhanger but it definitely left me wanting to know more about what happens next with Clair. I purchased the Omnibus edition of the audiobook (a fantastic value, over 38 hours of audio for only one credit) so it’s likely that I will listen to the rest of the series at some point.
September 7, 2014
Full review can be found at: http://oneguysguidetogoodreads.blogsp...
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My Thoughts:
I was approached a few weeks ago by the author about reviewing her first full length novel, Dark Hope. After reading the synopsis I was intrigued, but confused. I took a chance and jumped in hoping to clear up the confusion and in the end, ended up even more confused. But in the good way that time! Regardless of what Goodreads (and some of the reviewers there) has to say about it, I am placing Dark Hope in the New Adult, Paranormal-Fantasy genre. There was not a romance in this novel. Sorry, but I don’t believe it can be classified as a romance at all. Which is fantastic, in my opinion.
As my readers will tell you, I have a slight obsession with New Adult Paranormal novels. Why? Because there is nothing better than a kick ass paranormal story where you can explore adult elements. I love a good YA, but sometimes you just have to read some words that aren’t YA appropriate. HD Smith hits her target audience right on the head. The book follows the path of Claire, The Boss’ assistant, in her journey to clear her name (ish) in the wake murder after The Boss’ son was shot down. Who is this “Boss”, you ask? None other than Satan himself. Yep. Intrigued now? I was.
Let me get some of my negative comments out of the way before I hit on all the good points. My biggest negative about this book is that it really was just too much story for 270 pages. I don’t know that I have ever said that about a book before. HD Smith fits her story into those pages, but I feel like it’s just too much plot, too much action, and too much happens. This book shouldn’t have taken me long to read, but it really did seem like forever because I kept having to backtrack to remind myself what was going on. There was more action in this one novel than some entire series I have read. It was a seriously a heart-palpitating adventure because the action never lets up. Why is this a bad thing you ask? Well.. Maybe it isn’t bad, per-se. I just feel like HD Smith is an excellent author who gets excited when she writes (which is awesome) and then bombarded the novel with lots of action and not so much explanation. I was all involved and glued to the page but once I would get to a breaking point I would say “wait… what happened” or “why did that happen?”. Not necessarily a bad thing by any means, I just think that looking back this novel could have been very easily split up!
Another negative aspect I found kind of ties into the one listed above. This book features a huge cast of characters. I mean a huge cast of characters. From cover to cover there were probably ~30 characters who played a large role and I really found myself super confused when the ones from the beginning started popping up at the end. I had no idea who they were and, again, had to backtrack to the beginning and remind myself. The story goes so fast that I really was having a hard time believing the stuff at the beginning of the novel was the same book as the end of the novel. I can’t really elaborate on that front without spoiling anything, but at least that part has an explanation.
Aside from those two negative critiques, I really liked most everything else about the novel. I will admit that at times the plot line was a little hard to follow. I mentioned this above, but there were more than a few times I had to re-read a chapter to understand what on earth was going on!
The story seriously kept me on the edge of my seat the entire time. I had a pretty good idea how it would come together in the end the entire time, but then, guess what? Smith stumped me. I didn’t see the ending coming, which I really enjoyed! There were lots of loose ends that were wrapped up, but just as many that I hope will be expanded upon in future novels in this series!
Smith has a beautiful writing style and crafts her words with elegance. It seriously reads like she just sat down one day and decided to tell us this entire story. In some books there are very obvious points where the author struggled with writers block or didn’t know where to take the story, not here! Smith starts the action on page one and keeps the story flowing until the very last page!
After finishing Dark Hope and sitting on this review for a few days I realize how much it stuck with me. Some of it makes a little more sense after some time, but I am really hoping that the next book in the series answers the rest of my lingering questions. I am really interested in learning more about Claire's background!
All in all, even with my lengthy critiques, I found Dark Hope to be a new twist to an ever-changing genre. Between the interesting storyline and Smith's great writing style, I was really wanting more by the end of the novel! I will be anxiously awaiting book 2 in the series! I am granting Dark Hope a well deserved 4-Star review!
Thank you Mrs. Smith for supplying me with a copy of this awesome novel in exchange for an honest review!
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My Thoughts:
I was approached a few weeks ago by the author about reviewing her first full length novel, Dark Hope. After reading the synopsis I was intrigued, but confused. I took a chance and jumped in hoping to clear up the confusion and in the end, ended up even more confused. But in the good way that time! Regardless of what Goodreads (and some of the reviewers there) has to say about it, I am placing Dark Hope in the New Adult, Paranormal-Fantasy genre. There was not a romance in this novel. Sorry, but I don’t believe it can be classified as a romance at all. Which is fantastic, in my opinion.
As my readers will tell you, I have a slight obsession with New Adult Paranormal novels. Why? Because there is nothing better than a kick ass paranormal story where you can explore adult elements. I love a good YA, but sometimes you just have to read some words that aren’t YA appropriate. HD Smith hits her target audience right on the head. The book follows the path of Claire, The Boss’ assistant, in her journey to clear her name (ish) in the wake murder after The Boss’ son was shot down. Who is this “Boss”, you ask? None other than Satan himself. Yep. Intrigued now? I was.
Let me get some of my negative comments out of the way before I hit on all the good points. My biggest negative about this book is that it really was just too much story for 270 pages. I don’t know that I have ever said that about a book before. HD Smith fits her story into those pages, but I feel like it’s just too much plot, too much action, and too much happens. This book shouldn’t have taken me long to read, but it really did seem like forever because I kept having to backtrack to remind myself what was going on. There was more action in this one novel than some entire series I have read. It was a seriously a heart-palpitating adventure because the action never lets up. Why is this a bad thing you ask? Well.. Maybe it isn’t bad, per-se. I just feel like HD Smith is an excellent author who gets excited when she writes (which is awesome) and then bombarded the novel with lots of action and not so much explanation. I was all involved and glued to the page but once I would get to a breaking point I would say “wait… what happened” or “why did that happen?”. Not necessarily a bad thing by any means, I just think that looking back this novel could have been very easily split up!
Another negative aspect I found kind of ties into the one listed above. This book features a huge cast of characters. I mean a huge cast of characters. From cover to cover there were probably ~30 characters who played a large role and I really found myself super confused when the ones from the beginning started popping up at the end. I had no idea who they were and, again, had to backtrack to the beginning and remind myself. The story goes so fast that I really was having a hard time believing the stuff at the beginning of the novel was the same book as the end of the novel. I can’t really elaborate on that front without spoiling anything, but at least that part has an explanation.
Aside from those two negative critiques, I really liked most everything else about the novel. I will admit that at times the plot line was a little hard to follow. I mentioned this above, but there were more than a few times I had to re-read a chapter to understand what on earth was going on!
The story seriously kept me on the edge of my seat the entire time. I had a pretty good idea how it would come together in the end the entire time, but then, guess what? Smith stumped me. I didn’t see the ending coming, which I really enjoyed! There were lots of loose ends that were wrapped up, but just as many that I hope will be expanded upon in future novels in this series!
Smith has a beautiful writing style and crafts her words with elegance. It seriously reads like she just sat down one day and decided to tell us this entire story. In some books there are very obvious points where the author struggled with writers block or didn’t know where to take the story, not here! Smith starts the action on page one and keeps the story flowing until the very last page!
After finishing Dark Hope and sitting on this review for a few days I realize how much it stuck with me. Some of it makes a little more sense after some time, but I am really hoping that the next book in the series answers the rest of my lingering questions. I am really interested in learning more about Claire's background!
All in all, even with my lengthy critiques, I found Dark Hope to be a new twist to an ever-changing genre. Between the interesting storyline and Smith's great writing style, I was really wanting more by the end of the novel! I will be anxiously awaiting book 2 in the series! I am granting Dark Hope a well deserved 4-Star review!
Thank you Mrs. Smith for supplying me with a copy of this awesome novel in exchange for an honest review!
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July 30, 2020
Wow. There is a LOT in this book. This is the first book of a series so there is a lot of world building that is occurring. One has to pay close attention to catch all of the clues. I am definitely completing this series because I want to know how it all unwinds. Great work by the author with pulling me in. A must read.
July 29, 2020
Dark Hope is an Urban Fantasy with more twists and turns then I could count. I'll admit to having been a little confused through the first part of the book as there's a lot going on and we don't know all the pieces to put together the puzzle that is Claire's life. Just go with the story and trust the author. She knows what she's doing! It was a great book and I'm already on the third book before I could write a review for the first!
July 4, 2019
I had no idea what to expect from Dark Hope, the first book in HD Smith’s The Devil’s Assistant series. The blurb sounded great … cool concept, murder mystery, and the Devil. But having met the author, also known under the pen name Sloane Savage, I wondered if our main character would be in any real danger because Ms. Smith is just soooo nice.
But not to worry. Her girl Claire was a bad-ass. She was such a cool, big character that I had no trouble believing that she held her own against the Devil and his family tree. She is much more than she knows, and watching her discover all that she is was at times both awesome and heartbreaking.
The overall story was exciting and unique. Not only was it darker than I originally expected, but it never let up. The action started early and kept on going. I listened to the audiobook, and the narrator’s performance reinforced the fast pace and high tension. There were no breaks, no quick fixes, and no damsel-in-distress moments. Just one tough situation after another.
And the world Ms. Smith created? Brilliant. It’s vivid and well-populated, with culture and hierarchy and rules. There was a bit of a “Rat-Pack, mob era” Vegas feel, which I appreciated, mixed with some ethereal moments. Made for a dynamic backdrop in which to set these bold, classic characters. The Devil, or The Boss as he’s called in the book, isn’t anything like I imagined. Which ended up making perfect sense because his family tree was even more chaotic and dangerous than he was.
The romance elements were light, but pure in its inclusion. I can’t say much without spoilers, but I’ll admit that this part of the storyline went to completely unexpected places. I can’t even begin to guess what would happen next. And I love that!
I’ll definitely be continuing with the series. Probably in audiobook form since Lauren Fortgang, the narrator, did such a great job with book 1. The in-the-moment thoughts and feelings are still with me days later.
But not to worry. Her girl Claire was a bad-ass. She was such a cool, big character that I had no trouble believing that she held her own against the Devil and his family tree. She is much more than she knows, and watching her discover all that she is was at times both awesome and heartbreaking.
The overall story was exciting and unique. Not only was it darker than I originally expected, but it never let up. The action started early and kept on going. I listened to the audiobook, and the narrator’s performance reinforced the fast pace and high tension. There were no breaks, no quick fixes, and no damsel-in-distress moments. Just one tough situation after another.
And the world Ms. Smith created? Brilliant. It’s vivid and well-populated, with culture and hierarchy and rules. There was a bit of a “Rat-Pack, mob era” Vegas feel, which I appreciated, mixed with some ethereal moments. Made for a dynamic backdrop in which to set these bold, classic characters. The Devil, or The Boss as he’s called in the book, isn’t anything like I imagined. Which ended up making perfect sense because his family tree was even more chaotic and dangerous than he was.
The romance elements were light, but pure in its inclusion. I can’t say much without spoilers, but I’ll admit that this part of the storyline went to completely unexpected places. I can’t even begin to guess what would happen next. And I love that!
I’ll definitely be continuing with the series. Probably in audiobook form since Lauren Fortgang, the narrator, did such a great job with book 1. The in-the-moment thoughts and feelings are still with me days later.
August 12, 2014
Rating: B-
Narration: A
First Thought
Lauren Fortgang is the narrator? Hell yeah sign me up!
What I liked
Dark Hope started out as a kind of light UF story that turned into a complex story that had me wondering where the roller coaster was going to stop. I liked the fact that I couldn't easily figure the plot out by chapter 5 like other books I've read. Dark Hope is an audio you need to listen carefully to because you can find yourself lost if you check out from time to time. A lot of plot twists happen.
What Didn’t Quite Work For Me
I actually took a break with only 2 hours left in the audio because I was as lost and pissed as Claire and just wanted to know what the heck was going on. After I took a break and came back to Dark Hope I was glad I did.
Will I continue the series?
Yes. I enjoyed the plot and Claire enough to give a second book a go. Especially if it's on audio and narrated by Lauren Fortgang. Plus I NEED to know who was taking Claire home at the end. H.D. Smith you left me hanging. LOL
Why I listened
Lauren. Freaking. Fortgang. Seriously if I see her name as the narrator I'm going to give it a try. I could listen to Lauren read the phone book. Lauren nailed Dark Hope's 1st person POV through Claire.
I received this book for free from Author in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Narration: A
First Thought
Lauren Fortgang is the narrator? Hell yeah sign me up!
What I liked
Dark Hope started out as a kind of light UF story that turned into a complex story that had me wondering where the roller coaster was going to stop. I liked the fact that I couldn't easily figure the plot out by chapter 5 like other books I've read. Dark Hope is an audio you need to listen carefully to because you can find yourself lost if you check out from time to time. A lot of plot twists happen.
What Didn’t Quite Work For Me
I actually took a break with only 2 hours left in the audio because I was as lost and pissed as Claire and just wanted to know what the heck was going on. After I took a break and came back to Dark Hope I was glad I did.
Will I continue the series?
Yes. I enjoyed the plot and Claire enough to give a second book a go. Especially if it's on audio and narrated by Lauren Fortgang. Plus I NEED to know who was taking Claire home at the end. H.D. Smith you left me hanging. LOL
Why I listened
Lauren. Freaking. Fortgang. Seriously if I see her name as the narrator I'm going to give it a try. I could listen to Lauren read the phone book. Lauren nailed Dark Hope's 1st person POV through Claire.
I received this book for free from Author in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
March 29, 2016
Dark Hope is a unique read. Our protagonist Claire is employed as the Devil/Summer Kings assistant. This isn’t exactly a job you can just quit; that could land you in hell. The Boss is prickly, impatient and will not provide Dental, and he’s serious about no Dental! Claire is pretty sure the Boss actually hates her but so far she manages to keep her job and her soul in one piece. That is until someone decides to interfere with Claire’s life.
This urban fantasy is gritty. Frankly Claire’s life kinda sucks; she handles it pretty well but man you really feel like she drew the short straw in life. You really do hope that the fates give her a break because wow she deserves one. Her goal in Dark Hope is just to survive the next few days, try and figure out what is going on, why she’s being set up, and who is doing the setting up. After this week is all said and done her life is never going to be like it was, for better or worse.
Dark Hope was entertaining; the topics are fairly dark and it does have a bit of violence, much of it is against Claire. There is no romance and no sex scenes; only some attempted ones. Probably to mature of subject matter for most YA and more of a new adult to adult novel.
This urban fantasy is gritty. Frankly Claire’s life kinda sucks; she handles it pretty well but man you really feel like she drew the short straw in life. You really do hope that the fates give her a break because wow she deserves one. Her goal in Dark Hope is just to survive the next few days, try and figure out what is going on, why she’s being set up, and who is doing the setting up. After this week is all said and done her life is never going to be like it was, for better or worse.
Dark Hope was entertaining; the topics are fairly dark and it does have a bit of violence, much of it is against Claire. There is no romance and no sex scenes; only some attempted ones. Probably to mature of subject matter for most YA and more of a new adult to adult novel.
April 3, 2014
Claire had not asked to be serving her life as the Devil's assistant, but in order to repay her mothers debt that is exactly what she is doing. She is branded and her boss, the Devil, is as harsh as you would assume. Five years into her job, Claire knows that she can't go to her boss unless he requests it. The problem is one of his children is murdered and Claire is looking like the culprit.
Claire begins a journey trying to solve the murder only to find she is not the fragile human she always believed. As if it wasn't enough to deal with the pendulum of impending death once the Devil discovers the truth, she finds her life in constant parallel not to mention that one of his hellspawns is eager to claim her as his.
I thoroughly enjoyed this story, very unpredictable and difficult to anticipate what happens next, which is always a good thing. Claire is an intriguing character, everything she thought she knew is not quite true and I have to say even though Mace is a jerk by all extremes, you kind of like him. I cannot wait for the next book in series, eager to figure out what is going to happen to Claire.
February 15, 2019
Full Review posted on Book Lovin' Mamas
H.D. Smith is a new to me author, and I’m glad I was introduced to her latest release, Dark Hope through a blog tour. The synopsis alone caught my attention, and the fact it’s Urban Fantasy is why I wanted to read it.
This book is like no other story I’ve read before, and I love when authors can create something that takes me on a wild ride I’ve never been before. Here we have the main character, Claire who is the Devil’s assistant. She has his mark due to her taking her mother’s debt to the Demon King.
I look forward to the next book now, especially how H.D. Smith left me hanging at the end. (Yup, warning there is a cliffhanger.)
I give this book 4 full moons and recommend it to urban fantasy readers out there. This is a book that has demons, druids, and pagans that you don’t want to piss off.
H.D. Smith is a new to me author, and I’m glad I was introduced to her latest release, Dark Hope through a blog tour. The synopsis alone caught my attention, and the fact it’s Urban Fantasy is why I wanted to read it.
This book is like no other story I’ve read before, and I love when authors can create something that takes me on a wild ride I’ve never been before. Here we have the main character, Claire who is the Devil’s assistant. She has his mark due to her taking her mother’s debt to the Demon King.
I look forward to the next book now, especially how H.D. Smith left me hanging at the end. (Yup, warning there is a cliffhanger.)
I give this book 4 full moons and recommend it to urban fantasy readers out there. This is a book that has demons, druids, and pagans that you don’t want to piss off.
April 21, 2015
Really enjoyed this. It's clever, unusual, complex and builds well. Importantly for me at the moment, the protagonist wasn't annoying, dumb or whiny.
I just really wish that the author would learn the difference between exacerbated and exasperated (or whatever word it is they actually want) e.g.. "She said in an exacerbated tone"...... "Harry blew out an exacerbated sigh" --It's repeated several times, is never used correctly and is very jarring in the audio version where it's obvious the narrator can't believe she's reading this either :-) There are some other grammatical errors but they could be typos/proofing errors but this one is just wrong .... And irritating it threw me out of the story twice in quick succession.
That apart I recommend it highly and am off to read the next one.
The narrator incidentally is Lauren Fortgang and I should mention that she does her usual brilliant job.
I just really wish that the author would learn the difference between exacerbated and exasperated (or whatever word it is they actually want) e.g.. "She said in an exacerbated tone"...... "Harry blew out an exacerbated sigh" --It's repeated several times, is never used correctly and is very jarring in the audio version where it's obvious the narrator can't believe she's reading this either :-) There are some other grammatical errors but they could be typos/proofing errors but this one is just wrong .... And irritating it threw me out of the story twice in quick succession.
That apart I recommend it highly and am off to read the next one.
The narrator incidentally is Lauren Fortgang and I should mention that she does her usual brilliant job.
May 7, 2014
Dark Hope was awesome and I'm sad it's done. Being inside Claire's head, the author did the most amazing job of having the reader truly experience everything right through Claire's eyes. I loved every twist and turn. Even when I thought I knew the direction the novel was headed, HD Smith took a zigzag and surprised me. I would highly recommend this book to anyone who loves fantasy/paranormal. Dark Hope
April 11, 2014
I received this book as a gift from the author.
Clair is the devil's assistant. She deals with demons, pagans and humans. When she goes to get something for her boss, her whole life turns topsy turvy. She is told that she is going to be the one that changes things. A trip down to Purgatory unlocks some special gifts that had been hidden, but opened up a whole other can of worms.
H.D. Smith definitely keeps the reader on their toes. The way she left the ending with some unanswered questions, I hope to see the next book out soon!
Clair is the devil's assistant. She deals with demons, pagans and humans. When she goes to get something for her boss, her whole life turns topsy turvy. She is told that she is going to be the one that changes things. A trip down to Purgatory unlocks some special gifts that had been hidden, but opened up a whole other can of worms.
H.D. Smith definitely keeps the reader on their toes. The way she left the ending with some unanswered questions, I hope to see the next book out soon!
September 17, 2019
Ok, so... This started out like any other predictable urban fantasy. Then it took a hard left and had me on the edge of my seat. It does get a bit confusing in the end. The description of how the main character sees and uses magic is not the clearest. Neither is the backstory which seems to be the main driving force of the story. But all in all a good read and I will probably read more in the series.
June 26, 2014
“Dark Hope” is an imaginative urban fantasy with a noir-esque tone.
Read full review in the 2014 May issue of InD’tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2014 May issue of InD’tale Magazine.
March 21, 2014
A good start to an interesting series and a great start for this author. I loved the writing and am definitely looking forward to the next book. Definitely give this one a read!
March 29, 2017
New Cover ... Same Kick-Ass Heroine!
May 30, 2014
I read a book and I know the author! How cool is that!?? Still waiting for my autographed copy Heather...
June 7, 2016
This was an amazing UF book. Like on the Kate Daniels level of goodness. Can't wait to read more!
June 3, 2018
A fascinating and unique who-done-it dark urban fantasy!
“I’d like to say it could have been worse. I’m sure lots of people hate their job, or their boss, or the people they work with. I just couldn’t relate to those people. They have options. They can quit their job, move out of town, or drop off the grid. The only option I had was a guaranteed one-way ticket to Hell when I died, and that didn’t include dental.”
H.D. Smith’s The Devil’s Assistant dark urban fantasy series is one that I’ve wanted to delve into for a long time. Earlier this year, I finally took the plunge deciding to go with the audio edition and am kicking myself for not starting the series earlier! The tale was so good that I ended up listening to the first three books back-to-back. The only reason I didn’t jump right into the fourth book right away, was that it wasn’t yet released in audio. (It has since been released in audio.) Dark Hope is the first amazing installment and the subject of this review. Claire is the devil’s assistant -but not by her choice.
This story revolves around Claire’s quest to save her own life after witnessing a murder that she will be blamed for. In doing so, she encounters troubles galore in both the human and the non-human world as she tries to solve the mystery as to who has targeted her for termination. She quickly learns that she will need to save beings she dislikes, to have a chance to save herself.
Dark Hope is told in the first person from Claire's point of view. The story pulled me in from the beginning. Claire is a savvy, smart, quick-thinking heroine blessed with innovative problem-solving skills. She doesn’t hesitate to speak her mind and to do what she feels is necessary and right - even when it puts her in harm’s way. She has in her possession some neat tools which allow her to do her job well.
Supporting characters include the three rulers in the non-human world. The Devil is one. He is a complex multi-faceted character. He is overbearing, demanding and cruel. Yet, he has a protective side too. The other two rulers are Mab and Harry. In addition, there are children of the rulers and lackeys. Some supporting characters seemed clearly to be villainous; but appearances can be deceiving.
Following please find a few of my favorite quotes from Dark Hope:
The Underworld was the place between the three realms and Earth. I remember thinking it sounded so exotic.
It turned out to look a lot like New York City.
---
I eyed the sheriff. “So I better be breathing when He finds me.”
“Who the hell are you talking about?” the sheriff blurted.
I chuckled.
The postman sneered at the sheriff. “She means the Demon King. The Devil. This is a phone from Hell—the real one.”
---
With his nose in my hair, he inhaled deeply before putting a light kiss on my cheek. “Have you come to play?” he asked then kissed me again.
“No.” I cringed when he drew my earlobe into his mouth. “I came to help you. That’s all. I swear.”
“I’d rather play.”
---
“You have your orders,” Mab shouted at the guards. “To the Deeps with her.”
The men led me from the great hall, taking me along a series of corridors to the back of the castle, then winding through another long corridor and into a spiraling stairwell that appeared to have no end. We went further and further down until finally it ended so deep in the ground it felt like a grave.
My pulse quickened as we reached the bottom.
A single dark door lay ahead.
Lauren Fortgang is the narrator for the entire series. I’d never listened to any of her performances previously. She did an excellent job, capturing the essence of Claire and each of the other characters in a consistent, unique and well-suited way. Her voice was clear and easy to understand throughout and the production was professional. The story is quite detailed and there are scenes which transpire rapidly. Therefore, I did listen to some parts multiple times so as to understand what was happening. This in no way reflects badly on Lauren’s performance. Yes, the story is complicated. But, listening to it is totally worth it. Just give yourself time to go back if needed. You’ll be glad you did. Unquestionably, Lauren’s performance enhanced my enjoyment of the book as she positively brought the story to life.
The story is well-written. The pacing is, at times, roller-coaster fast and the action never stops. I had worried that the book would end with a nightmare of a cliffhanger. That worry was for naught as it absolutely does not. The ending is really good with unexpected surprises and a clear wrap-up. That said, there is a situation-that-won’t-keep-you-up-at-night which will be taken up in the next installment. You should know that there is no real romance to speak of; but, the story was so captivating, I didn't miss it.
H.D. Smith has written a fascinating and unique who-done-it tale. I pretty much loved everything about it. If you enjoy dark urban fantasies with a strong central female protagonist and plenty of plot twists, don’t miss Dark Hope.
My full review is posted at Reading Between the Wines Book Club. Please check it out there: http://www.readingbetweenthewinesbook...
Suggested Reading Order:
The Devil’s Assistant series:
Dark Hope (Book #1)
Dark Awakened (Book #2)
Dark Forsaken (Book #3)
Dark Contender (Book #4)
“I’d like to say it could have been worse. I’m sure lots of people hate their job, or their boss, or the people they work with. I just couldn’t relate to those people. They have options. They can quit their job, move out of town, or drop off the grid. The only option I had was a guaranteed one-way ticket to Hell when I died, and that didn’t include dental.”
H.D. Smith’s The Devil’s Assistant dark urban fantasy series is one that I’ve wanted to delve into for a long time. Earlier this year, I finally took the plunge deciding to go with the audio edition and am kicking myself for not starting the series earlier! The tale was so good that I ended up listening to the first three books back-to-back. The only reason I didn’t jump right into the fourth book right away, was that it wasn’t yet released in audio. (It has since been released in audio.) Dark Hope is the first amazing installment and the subject of this review. Claire is the devil’s assistant -but not by her choice.
This story revolves around Claire’s quest to save her own life after witnessing a murder that she will be blamed for. In doing so, she encounters troubles galore in both the human and the non-human world as she tries to solve the mystery as to who has targeted her for termination. She quickly learns that she will need to save beings she dislikes, to have a chance to save herself.
Dark Hope is told in the first person from Claire's point of view. The story pulled me in from the beginning. Claire is a savvy, smart, quick-thinking heroine blessed with innovative problem-solving skills. She doesn’t hesitate to speak her mind and to do what she feels is necessary and right - even when it puts her in harm’s way. She has in her possession some neat tools which allow her to do her job well.
Supporting characters include the three rulers in the non-human world. The Devil is one. He is a complex multi-faceted character. He is overbearing, demanding and cruel. Yet, he has a protective side too. The other two rulers are Mab and Harry. In addition, there are children of the rulers and lackeys. Some supporting characters seemed clearly to be villainous; but appearances can be deceiving.
Following please find a few of my favorite quotes from Dark Hope:
The Underworld was the place between the three realms and Earth. I remember thinking it sounded so exotic.
It turned out to look a lot like New York City.
---
I eyed the sheriff. “So I better be breathing when He finds me.”
“Who the hell are you talking about?” the sheriff blurted.
I chuckled.
The postman sneered at the sheriff. “She means the Demon King. The Devil. This is a phone from Hell—the real one.”
---
With his nose in my hair, he inhaled deeply before putting a light kiss on my cheek. “Have you come to play?” he asked then kissed me again.
“No.” I cringed when he drew my earlobe into his mouth. “I came to help you. That’s all. I swear.”
“I’d rather play.”
---
“You have your orders,” Mab shouted at the guards. “To the Deeps with her.”
The men led me from the great hall, taking me along a series of corridors to the back of the castle, then winding through another long corridor and into a spiraling stairwell that appeared to have no end. We went further and further down until finally it ended so deep in the ground it felt like a grave.
My pulse quickened as we reached the bottom.
A single dark door lay ahead.
Lauren Fortgang is the narrator for the entire series. I’d never listened to any of her performances previously. She did an excellent job, capturing the essence of Claire and each of the other characters in a consistent, unique and well-suited way. Her voice was clear and easy to understand throughout and the production was professional. The story is quite detailed and there are scenes which transpire rapidly. Therefore, I did listen to some parts multiple times so as to understand what was happening. This in no way reflects badly on Lauren’s performance. Yes, the story is complicated. But, listening to it is totally worth it. Just give yourself time to go back if needed. You’ll be glad you did. Unquestionably, Lauren’s performance enhanced my enjoyment of the book as she positively brought the story to life.
The story is well-written. The pacing is, at times, roller-coaster fast and the action never stops. I had worried that the book would end with a nightmare of a cliffhanger. That worry was for naught as it absolutely does not. The ending is really good with unexpected surprises and a clear wrap-up. That said, there is a situation-that-won’t-keep-you-up-at-night which will be taken up in the next installment. You should know that there is no real romance to speak of; but, the story was so captivating, I didn't miss it.
H.D. Smith has written a fascinating and unique who-done-it tale. I pretty much loved everything about it. If you enjoy dark urban fantasies with a strong central female protagonist and plenty of plot twists, don’t miss Dark Hope.
My full review is posted at Reading Between the Wines Book Club. Please check it out there: http://www.readingbetweenthewinesbook...
Suggested Reading Order:
The Devil’s Assistant series:
Dark Hope (Book #1)
Dark Awakened (Book #2)
Dark Forsaken (Book #3)
Dark Contender (Book #4)
October 10, 2021
This book is not at all what I expected. It is much darker in tone. Claire is a kick-a$$ heroine. She takes whatever is thrown at her and keeps on moving, and a lot is thrown at her. Claire, the devil's assistant, is trying to solve a murder before she becomes the prime suspect. The world building is excellent. The main story is brought to conclusion but there is so much information left to discover. I look forward to continuing the series. My only issue with the book is I prefer at least a bit of romance with my urban fantasy and paranormal books. That is definitely missing here. Otherwise, it is a great read.
July 12, 2020
This book was picked for a group read discussion. I heard a lot of readers say how amazing this book was. I tried reading it without luck. Then switched to audible. Unfortunately this was not for me. There was a lot going, a lot of characters and a lot of back and forth through realms. Also, I am not a Claire fan. I found her very, very annoying. While this book didn't appeal to me, I can definitely see why it would appeal to other readers.
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