Legacy of Temptation is a story SMACKED full of adventure, drama, and more. I was originally drawn to this book because of the Title, Cover, and then of course, the description. Angels/Demons grabbed my attention, but the son of one of the Four Horsemen really had me hooked. It wasn't something I see very often in my books, and I was itching to branch out from the fantasy realm I was already familiar with.

Overall this book was a solid 3 star read for me! It was a quick, fast paced read and when I said it was smacked with adventure earlier, I was not exaggerating. No spoilers here, but some of the twists/turns I saw coming and some really took me by surprise. I found myself getting more and more drawn into the plot (plots?) as the book continued on. There were a few things that fell short for me - the start of the book had me confused and thrown in all sorts of directions. Some of the details mentioned seemed.. unnecessarily added in, particularly when we're dealing with any type of sex demon and I wish I would have known that a family member would go after another family member in a sexual manner (regardless of if they're sex demons or not) because that's just really not my cup of tea.

Again, I thought this was a good read & I definitely read the sneak peak into book two and will pick that up when it comes out as well.

I started this book without any history of reading the authors prior books set in the same world. I didn’t find that reading them was a requirement as the author plugged in small summaries to bring the reader up to speed. I definitely got the sense that A LOT happened in that series that developed the mentioned supporting characters considerably, which peaked my interest but again, it didn’t detract from the story to not have read those other books.
Overall I felt this was a good casual read. I loved the premise of the conflict between organizations and the prejudices that guided (or misguided) the characters actions. I did find the depth of the story to be only moderate - for some of the more intense themes, the characters felt like they have an appropriate reaction but then it sort of fizzled out. I can’t tell if that may have been an intentional tribute to the fact that they have all experienced so much loss that they compartmentalize it though. Seems plausible given the extreme history or war and violence the characters experienced.
The main characters - Logan and Eva, were cute but inconsistent. I felt like their opinions on demons, angels, etc would vary between extreme, or moderate, to extreme, sometimes within the same chapter which made their resolve feel a bit inconsistent. This would make sense if put into the context of their growth as they build relationships with the people they once despised, but it wasn’t quite framed that way so it just felt a bit inconsistent.
Either way, this seemed to have been the kind of read I was in the mood for people I enjoyed it despite these this and it didn’t make me connect with the characters any less.
I would say the writing was good. It was descriptive and given the amount of catch-up world building it needed to accomplish to set the stage for those who hadn’t read the other series, it didn’t get overly ‘tell-y’.
While this felt like a casual read, I am not sure I am ready to move on to another series yet as I do find myself invested in the story and looking forward to reading more.

I must also commend the authors creativity….. dick swords. A very WTF LOL moment.

In Larissa Ione’s Legacy of Temptation (Demonica Birthright #1), Eva Tennant, an Aegis Guardian, becomes a fugitive from justice with a demonic target on her back after a murder and is assigned Logan, a demon-fighting DART agent and son of the Horseman of the Apocalypse Death, to protect her.

I am so excited to get back into the Demonica world—one of my favorite paranormal romance series—even though I am incredibly behind. So, I couldn’t resist the chance to read Legacy of Temptation. I had to do a little reading to catch up and read this. Ione has expanded the world a lot since I read the first books in the Demonica series, and it’s even more thrilling and entertaining. Demonica Birthright focuses on the second generation of Demonica. I love that we see the children of the Demonica characters and world grown up.

Ione’s vibrant, detailed description and lush, imaginative worldbuilding are two of the best things about her novels. Furthermore, she creates and excellently develops and evolves complex, fallible, fascinating, conflicted, likable—and detestable— protagonists and villains. Her snarky, witty, colorful, and natural-sounding dialogue fits her characters, stories, and themes, making them larger than life. Ione’s multilayered, suspenseful, emotional, and action-packed story drew me in from the first scene, keeping me turning the pages until the end came too soon.

Deputy Spokesperson for the Aegis, Eva hates demons—like all of the global demon-slaying organization. She loves her job and hopes to get promoted to the Chief Spokesperson position if things go well with the two-week exchange program with The Aegis’s rival agency, the Demon Activity Response Team. Unfortunately, a murder at DART headquarters makes that unlikely.

Logan loves three things: females, fighting, and Cujo, his pet hellhound. He’s dedicated his life to battling demons with his DART colleagues. When he’s ordered to protect an Aegis Guardian associated with the deaths of his friends, he’s less than thrilled, especially since Aegis’ leadership tried to murder him at birth.

Eva and Logan’s lives become even more complicated when an old, deadly enemy unexpectedly rises from the ashes. Meanwhile, they grow closer, and their attraction becomes hard to resist. When they give into temptation, they sacrifice what they love the most.

Ione’s action sequences are well-constructed, tense, and sometimes incredibly creepy. Her description in these scenes is so visceral that it creates a fantastic, dark, threatening atmosphere. She makes you feel like you are right there with the characters fighting lethal demons in the most unpleasant places imaginable and keeps you on the edge of your seat because sometimes you legit wonder if the protagonists will make it out of dangerous situations alive. I love how she perfectly mixes humor, horror, action, fantasy, romance, and emotional stories about family without affecting the novel’s pacing. She explores the dangers and impact of prejudice and bigotry through the division and strife between the Aegis, DART, and the Angels in Heaven.

Ione wonderfully develops the interactions between her hero and heroine, the protagonists with the secondary characters, and among the secondary characters. She does a great job of exploring and comparing family dynamics among the demons, Angels, and Aegis. I love the interactions between Logan and his teammates, who are essentially family.

Logan and Eva share an intense and fiery attraction from the moment they first meet. They start as classic enemies-to-lovers based on a lifetime of societal teachings (Eva) and personal experiences (Logan). However, as they are forced to spend time together, Eva and Logan must confront their preconceived notions of one another, and they find themselves reevaluating what they want from their lives. Their interactions are full of snark, banter, and heat as they clash and initially fight the attraction. Though truthfully, the snark and banter never fade from their relationship. Both control freaks are an excellent match that makes each other’s lives better, balancing their lives and personalities. I love the sexy, funny, steamy, emotional, passionate, and intimate interactions and love scenes that Ione uses to transition their relationship from enemies to lovers to falling for each other.

I cannot wait for Book 2! Until then, I’ll re-read Demonica and catch up on the series. Suspenseful, Suspenseful, steamy, funny, sexy, emotional, and romantic Legacy of Temptation is a fast-paced, action-packed, paranormal romance highly recommended for fans of the Demonica series, enemies-to-lovers, forced proximity, opposites attract, action/adventure, steamy PNR, and family-centered stories.

Blue Box Press provided an advanced review copy via Netgalley for review.

4 1/2 stars

I really enjoyed this book. The age old good versus evil is a little more muddled that usual. When you have angels who seem to take sides against one another and demons that aren't bad as opposed to those that are, it's tough to see a clear good and a clear evil. But it all makes for a more intriguing read.

Our main character, Eva comes from a global demon-slaying organization known as Aegis. She is a Deputy spokesperson for the organization and is well-known for her open hatred for demons. When her organization decides to work with another demon hunting organization known as DART, she meets Logan. He's the son of a human and one of the four horseman of the Apocalypse. But she doesn't realize that at first. As the story progresses, Eva gets to know many of the demons that work for DART and realizes that are good and dedicated to many of the same things she is. As she spends more time there and then researching, she will come to see things may not be as they seem.

Meanwhile, Logan will uncover some things himself that will make him look at things a bit differently than he has in the past. He's always had a grudge against Aegis because he believes they tried to have him killed as a child. There's always a bit more to the story. Throw in a demonic grandmother, Lilith, who is trying to bring about destruction and it's the recipe for trouble all around.

Such a creative plot, I was glued to this book whenever I had a spare minute. Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC.

I went into this book with no background knowledge of the authors previous books and I now I am in love! I've love a good enemies to lovers romantacy. And now I have her other books to read that are in the same universe and in so excited. This book has me gripped from the start. The characters are written so well.

⚠️ Disclaimer
Thank you to Bluebox Press, Larissa Ione, & NetGalley for giving me access to this novel in return for an honest review. As always, the opinions expressed are my own.

▪️ Speedy synopsis:
Eva has been sent on a mission to work alongside an opposing organisation, and when sh*t hits the fan, realises where the real evil lies.

🔺 What I liked:
Good world building. I like the spin on biblical creatures and the politics / contention between them.

Although I think it would have been better if I had read the authors previous books set in this world, it’s ok to jump in on this book as previous events were described.

The plot moved along quite quickly.

I enjoyed that most characters were flavoured with grey; some demons were good, some angels were bad, and many were a bit of both.

🔻 What I didn’t like as much:
I didn’t fall in love with any of the characters so I didn’t feel emotionally invested, but I enjoyed the novel regardless. I feel that the emotion of losing a close friend was skimmed over. It was an opportunity to create more of an emotional connection that I feel was missed.

The spice wasn’t spicing for me.

📚 Summary:
A decent read. Nice worldbuilding, but lacked the emotional impact that I require to become invested.

Highlights:

Demonica series spin-off
Angels and demons
Enemies to lovers
Forced proximity

Legacy of Temptation is the first book in a spin-off series of popular Demonica books by Larissa Ione. It can be read a stand-alone, but I think it's more enjoyable if you've read the Demonica series. I haven't read Demonica books, so I was a little confused in the beginning. There are a lot of characters from previous books and many references to prior events. Once I got familiar with all the characters, it became easier to follow the story. Logan and Eva had great chemistry, and I liked their enemies-to-lovers romance. The second half of the book was more action-packed, and I enjoyed it more than the first half. Legacy of Temptation is a promising start to a new fantasy romance series, and I recommend it to paranormal romance readers and Larissa Ione fans.

I received a free ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.

This was an entertaining book and I loved the premise of it. It is a unique modern/futuristic fantasy set in a society where demons are living on Earth with humans. Some people are sympathetic to the demons and think that not all of them are evil, while others think all demons should die or be banished from Earth. There is decent romance and a little spice that was enjoyable. I will also note that I have not read any of the books set in this same world and I had no issues understanding the story. The book does a good job of standing on its own while also slowly introducing us to the backstory of the world.

I have a couple reasons why this is only a 3 star review. First, I found quite a few typos and punctuation errors. I am hoping the publisher can correct these, but I am disappointed that this version made it to publication. Second, there was some weird phrasing that took me out of the story sometimes. For example, the FMC describes someone as a "studmuffin," which made me cringe. Another time, the MMC says he was "too balls-deep in his own pain," which is just such a weird way to say that because it is used in a completely non-sexual context. Overall, it is a good story that just needs some better editing. I would still recommend it to people who enjoy modern or futuristic fantasy.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for sending me an e-ARC of this book!

I hadn't read any of Larissa's prior books before now, so I don't have the same background as other readers do for this series. However, I was glued to this from the first page.

I love a good paranormal romance between a human and a paranormal race. The story had me gripped with how gritty the world feels and how much Larissa pulls you in with her writing style.

I really enjoyed this introduction into this world and I just couldn’t get enough of it. I just so thoroughly enjoyed meeting these new characters and getting to go on their journey. I will most definitely be reading more wonderful books from this author.

I am so happy to have been able to re-immerse myself in this world that the author has invented functioning inside our modern society. I found it interesting to read about how the human world was coping with the discovery that demons were out in the world. Both Logan and Eva were strong, relatable, likeable characters and their chemistry was extremely spicy. Over the many books in this series, a family /found family had developed and the offspring of all of these couples grew up with Logan and continued to be closely present in each others’ lives. I loved seeing the families these beloved characters created. I love the ongoing story that started about fifteen years ago. While having read all the books that came before this one would certainly help place all the players in context for readers, it is possible to pick up this new series at this point. The author offers enough background to follow along without feeling entirely lost. I definitely recommend this book for readers who enjoy paranormal romance. I am voluntarily submitting this honest review after reading an advanced complementary copy of his book thanks to Netgalley, Blue Box Press, and Larissa Ione.

Thank you to netgalley and the publisher.

WOW I was instantly hooked and could barely put the book down. I seriously loved this book!

I always enjoy when a book starts with a interesting flash from the past that will come into play later in the book. The writing was phenomenal, I felt like I was in the book and felt what these characters were feeling.
The rival demon hunting agencies was a great idea. A small part of me wishes we could have had some pov of the agents from DART, I think it would have been interesting. The tension between Logan and Eva kept my attention as well! I was rooting for them the whole time before they finally gave in! I also really liked that most were just demons trying to not break the seal on their demon side, I was sad they couldn't save Draven but it definitely made sense for the story.

I can't wait for the next one! Will definitely be suggesting this book!

What can I say? I have loved Larissa Ione’s books for ages and now a new series/spinoff/set in the Demonica world?! Read this book! That’s what I need to say!!

If you are a new reader to Ione’s world or a longtime fan - Legacy of Temptation drags you into the exciting and dangerous Demonica world and doesn’t let you go. Yes this story heavily relies on past characters from her Demonica/Horsemen series so if you are looking for a longer series start there for the full background and a host of fantastic characters and HEAs.

A fantastic enemies to lovers story hasa demon hunter and a demon who ends up having to be her bodyguard. Lots of high stakes action and spice. Be prepared to be shocked because Larissa Ione does not shy away from killing off characters! Great addition to the Demonica world. Can’t wait for more

“I’d rather be with you in hell than without you in paradise.”

“Legacy of Temptation,” by Larissa Lone

I loved this book so much. It’s a perfect balance of the story but also sexy. The amount of supernatural’s in the book was great especially the unique characters like the horsemen which makes the book stand out in my head. I absolutely cannot wait to read more books in the series. 5 out of 5 stars, so good.

-Demons
-Angels
-Shifters
-Gods
-Four Horsemen
-Forced Proximity
-Enemies To Lovers
-Demon X Demon Hunter

Thank you for the ARC!

📖: Legacy Of Temptation
🖋️: Larissa Ione
⭐️: 5 of 5
🌶️: 5 of 5
💬: “I’d rather be with you in hell than without you in paradise.”

Tropes & Themes:
✨Paranormal romance
✨Magical Creatures
✨Enemies to Lovers
✨Morally Grey
✨Dual POV
✨Secrets and lies

Where evil lurks, revenge is fought for, truth is manipulated, betrayal is unforgivable, and lives are lost.

Larissa takes us on a wild ride where the legacy continues three decades after Reaper.

From an event that occurred when Eva was younger, she has grown to hate demons. Wanting to see justice served and her community protected. She works as a spokesperson at The Aegis, a demon-slaying organization.

Logan, who is also known as the son of Death, works with his friends and family at DART.

When The Aegis and DART work together. Lines get blurred, secrets come out, an enemy returns, and temptation rises.

Will Eva be able to gather all the information that is being asked of her?
Can Logan and his family avoid the danger that is after them?

Find out in the Legacy of Temptation

This was my first book by Larissa and I’ve been missing out! I devoured this book🔥. From the hilarious banter, the fast-paced action, the tension, and spice. This book gave me a little bit of everything. As always, my review is my opinion and thoughts.

This was such an awesome read and I cannot wait to read more of this new series. Eva and Logan had me right on the edge of my seat, up late and hanging on every word. Action, emotion, drama, twists and steam fuel a seductive and potent story that I loved while entangling me in a world I need more of.

Legacy of Temptation is book 1 in the Demonica Birthright spin-off series. The story is set thirty years after the events of Reaper, with Logan the son of Thanatos who works for DART and Eva who works for the Aegis agency. Before I start this review, IMO this is not a standalone. There are so many past characters and mentions of different events and now their children that if you're not familiar with this world I believe it can be very confusing and take away from the enjoyment of the story. Now for me I loved this book from beginning to end. I loved seeing a lot of my favorite characters and what wonderful parents they are. I really liked Logan right away, but Eva took time for me to warm up to because she was a typical Aegis member and was brainwashed. They had a great connection and I feel Eva will be a great member of the family. There are so many loose ends that I can't wait for the next book.

4.5 -⭐⭐⭐⭐💫

"This is probably really stupid," he said against her mouth.
"Agreed." She grinned. "But it's gonna be fun."

Legacy of Temptation is the first novel in the Adult Paranormal Romance series, Demonica Birthright, which is a spin-off to the Demonica/Four Horsemen series. I HIGHLY recommend dabbling in that series to truly get the best experience while reading but it isn't necessary. Following the aftermath of a near Armageddon and the now co-mingling of a world with demons, angels, humans, and other supernaturals, we follow Eva and Logan. Eva works as the deputy spokesmen for The Aegis, a government organization meant to ensure all supernatural beings toe the line...or else. Logan, on the other hand, works for DART, their rival organization, and he also happens to be the son of one of the four horsemen of the Apocalypse. Their two teams are seeking to mend ways with a 2 week exchange program...until things take a turn for the worse and the realize the past is rising up again..sacrifices are inevitable but will it be their lives or the hearts?

Eva and Logan were it for me. I found Eva to be a level headed character who may have been brainwashed in many ways by the organization she works for but she has a capacity to listen and rationalize which I think was key. Logan plays into this confidence and determined character and together the steamy banter between these two is ON FIRE! The rivalry, the forced proximity as they seek to unravel what is happening and stop things has me devouring this in one sitting.

I also want to give a shout out to the nostalgia of this book. I adored seeing old characters from the previous series and also our beloved Cujo being back again (though I wanted more time with him to be honest). So much has changed over the thirty years and I loved unraveling the new family ties and connections.

This book continues the spice level I enjoyed in this series, around 3 spicy pepper out of 5 spicy pepper. The attraction between Logan and Eva is immediately but the angst between them was delicious! Spice begins around the 30% but don't let that make you feel comfortable with their romance being all settled. The spice itself is feral and detailed and I thought it was well done. The romance between these two progresses smoothly and while the charater do have the asine conflict towards the end, it is resolved quickly and it made sense in the grand sceheme of things.

In terms of story and world, I want to highlight again reading the previous books in the series gives you a lot more context of the world BUT Larissa does an excellent job providing context in the mean time. I felt the new generations world has a promising start and the looming overarching conflict is already piquing and has me VERY excited. The story here is an investigative one alongside a race against the clock. I felt so much for the characters here and it reminded me the stakes are high here. Throw in conflict among angels, old villains rising up, and animosity between species and you have a powder keg.

Overall I felt this was an excellent renewal of my love of this series and I immediately dove back into the original series (just finished book 4!). If you love gritty adult paranormal worlds with great spicy, sassy characters, and high steaks this series will be right up your alley!

Thank you Blue Box Press and Netgalley for this e-ARC!

Eva Tennant is the Deputy Spokesperson for the AEGIS organization. She has worked hard for this position and is looking forward to being promoted. She is told that she will be part of a two week exchange program with the Demon Activity Response Team, a group she feels are their enemies. While there, she meets and trains with Logan who is the son of one of the Horsemen of the Apocalypse, Death. Logan isn’t any happier working with her. An incident occurs in the cafeteria resulting in the death of a member of the DART group. Eva escapes, but is caught by Logan. Eva is blamed for the death and Logan is assigned to protect her because someone is taking out those AEGIS members involved in the murder of the Dart member. Old enemies surface and Logan as well as the other children of the Horsemen and Angels, must figure out how to defeat them. I loved this next gen story. I laughed, cried and at times, wanted to shake Eva. Both Logan and Eva have to work through preconceived notions of what each group represents. They soon realize that things are not always what they seem. There are many twists, turns, and revelations throughout this story. I can’t wait for the next books in the series.

I enjoyed this story so much. It was good to go back to this world and familiar characters, who now have families of their own, and we are now following the second generation.
Logan and Eva are on opposite sides of the supernatural divide, with both thinking that their side is the only right side. When they are tasked to work together, sparks fly even though they do not trust each other. When tragedy strikes, Eva has to turn to Logan for protection and to find a way to stop even more dire consequences.
This was action packed, with lots of twists and turns as we saw multiple POVs, and not just Logan's and Eva's.