Book Review: The Demon Prince by Ann Aguirre

The Demon Prince
Author: Ann Aguirre
Series: Ars Numina Book 2
Publication: Self-Published (March 23, 2017)

Description: Charming. Irreverent. Haunted.

Alastor Vega is the sole challenger in a brutal battle for succession. Against all odds, he must stop his power-mad brother, Tycho, before he destroys the Numina. Though he never wanted to rule, he must claim the throne and liberate his people, or the consequences will be calamitous. Yet only the surprising support of a beautiful Animari doctor gives him the fortitude to fight.

Focused. Analytical. Solitary.

Dr. Sheyla Halek has always been more interested in research than personal contact, but family ties—and the needs of her pride—keep her in Ash Valley, deferring her dreams. Brusque and abrasive at the best of times, she never expected to bond with anyone, let alone Golgoth royalty. Strangely, Alastor seems to need her as no one has before, and not only for her medical skills.

Their attraction is forbidden, likely doomed beyond the wildness of wartime, but these fires burn too hot and sweet to be contained…

My Thoughts: This was an engaging paranormal romance that didn't get off to a good start for either character. Alastor doesn't want to be king of his people but he wants to get rid of his brutal and evil brother to protect his people. He also suffers from a genetic illness that is only partially controlled by the physicians under his brother's control.

After an attack by his brother on Ash Valley which is hosting the renewal of the peace accords, he feels he has no choice but to take the war to his brother. Unfortunately, his brother has the army and he has only a very loyal group of guards. He does manage to convince the other participants in the peace process to become his allies but trust is difficult to come by.

Dr. Sheyla Halek is very reluctantly trying to keep him alive. She has enough to do taking care of those wounded when Ash Valley was attacked. Sheyla is an interesting character who doesn't have very good people skills and really doesn't care about that. She would be perfectly content doing her scientific research all day.

At first, Alastor and Sheyla don't really like each other. He thinks she is humorless; she thinks he is too flippant. However, as they get to know each other traveling to Hallowell which is his brother's next target, they come to appreciate each other.

The romance certainly isn't a smooth or easy one. He should be forming an alliance with an Eldritch princess and her family is certain that he and his people are demonkind.

I enjoyed the romance which is certainly on the spicy side and loved the military action and battles in the book. This is the second book in the Ars Numina series. I recommend reading the series in order. Book one helps set the big picture and introduces Alastor. This book provides a lot more depth on his life and what his culture it like.

Favorite Quote:

"History is full of great battles where a minuscule defense force faced a monstrous invading army."

Sheyla spoke through clenched teeth. "And the one thing those stories have in common? Crushing defeat."

"I'm glad I got to see you before our departure. Your pop talks are so bracing."

I bought this one. You can buy your copy here.