Beauty and the Demon (Hell Bent, #5) by Aurora Ascher

Beauty and the Demon (Hell Bent, #5) Reviews

• 
  Kate V

  4.75 Call me Witchling Anytime Stars!
  
  Since the day I found romance there has always been one type of hero that just does it for me. Call him what you may but I call him...
  
  

  Murmur

  
  
  From the moment I met this mysterious villain, I knew I needed his story and I'm so glad Aurora gave it to us. Murmur is a complex and captivating necromancer with secrets and motivations buried so deep that each moment a new layer is peeled back, the more I fell in love with him.
  
  

  "Power always comes at a cost."

  
  
  Murmur knew better than most that the power and choices he's made in his very long life have cost him many things. He has never needed anyone but himself to shoulder the burden of what he knows shall come to pass but kidnapping Suyin sets a path in motion he is ill prepared for. His self preservation and desperation to see his plans come to fruition are now tested because Suyin isn't merely just an ingredient to his plan.
  
  

  "Funny things, emotions. Invisible and intangible, they cut deeper than any blade, and they left wounds one might never recover from."

  
  
  I was fascinated and intrigued by Murmur's road to redemption. Aurora took a character that most probably loved to hate and made him vulnerable and relatable. I found Murmur to be such a magnetic character and my heart hurt for him for many reasons but I adored the way he slowly changed and grew emotionally.
  
  

  "I'd gotten so good at sealing parts of myself away, I didn't even realize what I was doing anymore..."

  
  
  While Murmur definitely found his way into my heart, Suyin was also a force to be reckoned with. She saw behind the sarcasm and snark to Murmur's soul and accepted him just the way he was despite their rocky beginning. Suyin was tenacious and vibrant and didn't back down. I loved her boldness and femininity. I especially loved that she was dominant everywhere but the bedroom. She relinquished control to Murmur and it was a decadent pairing.
  
  

  "You're so good, bent over my desk, begging to be fucked. I'd kill anyone you asked me to. I'd start another fucking war to reward you."

  
  
  Murmur and Suyin had a wonderful enemies-to-lovers tension and the slow burn to their hellfire intimacy was super well done. Aurora did a great job at building a solid foundation for the two of them before letting them leap off the pages with their chemistry and I really appreciated that. Their banter was top notch brilliance and was comedic relief to heavier moments. Their love was believable and their turmoil and passion tangible. I loved everything about their fall into one another - tail and ghostly hands included.
  
  While I was completely engrossed in all things Murmur and Suyin, I can't forget to talk about the action packed plot and the explosive moment that everything changes for Hell and our demons and their better halves. Bel's future is now steam rolling forward to his inevitable destiny and I am salivating to get my hands on his story. I'll add if you're a sucker for a good grovel...look no further. Murmur excels at this particular action and you'll be sure to find yourself swooning.
  
  The world that Aurora has built is fresh in so many ways with no plot holes and every character has defining characteristics that are uniquely them and not recycled. I love that Aurora puts her heroes and heroines through the ringer before they rise from the ashes but I especially like that she never faults or diminishes the path they've walked to get to where they currently reside physically or mentally.
  
  

  "Mortal or immortal, we are all the sum of our experiences--on Earth or in Hell."

  
  
  Beauty and the Demon was a wonderful installment to this series and I find myself getting sad knowing that we are nearing the end of this world. However, I look forward to reading all things Bel and how he gets his HEA. If you haven't read this series yet, make no mistake...you'll regret not diving headfirst into this passionate and a little depraved world.
  
  Side note: Can we talk about how beautiful this cover is?!
• 
  AvidReader

  Wow, what a book it was!
  Dear Murmy, when you were first introduced in Lily’s book I wasn’t even sure if you were evil or on good side but I hoped you will be on our side and I’m so glad it FINALLY happened.
  
  A grumpy, surly, cunning Demon who only bends his rule for her, who overcome his centuries old trauma for her, who only shows his vulnerabilities to her and compromises with her- I introduce you, Murmur, King of loopholes!
  
  First of all, characterisation was bomb 💣! I loved how every character retained their core. Everyone was unique and stayed true to their nature and together they were a hoot. These bunch definitely have a piece of my heart.
  
  Suyin was such a strong witch. I loved how her and Murmur’s relationship progressed from indifference to enemies to lovers.
  Their every interaction was fascinating to read.
  My heart broke for Bel in this book. I can’t wait to read his book. And please Aurora, don’t end this series anytime soon.
  Writing as usual was flawless and I flew through the chapters. Only this author can make me laugh wildly at inappropriate moments.
  
  I can’t recommend this series enough (it just get better and better) and the first book is currently free.
  
  Included in KU, safe, kinky and extraordinary.
  
  P.s did I mention that I love Murmur?
  
  -Demon x witch
  - morally grey hero.
  -grumpy x grumpy
  - enemies to lovers.
• 
  MissClo

  Who knew death could look so good?
  
  “He was stupidly gorgeous. He looked like an angel. He was almost too pretty, and she squinted, trying to find at least one flaw”
  
  I was intrigued by Murmur since he first graced our pages in all of his villainous glory and this book didn’t disappoint.
  
  Murmur:
  He is every bit the villain we expect him. He has no remorse, isn’t empathetic and is totally selfish. Yes, I agree- all the best features to make up a yummy MMC.
  
  Suyin:
  She is tough, independent and powerful. She isn’t going to go down easy and despite being only five foot something, she’s a big big character.
  
  Why did I love this book?
  
  “Murmur caught the ingredient as she slumped in his arms, unconscious.”
  
  I read a lot of enemies to lovers, I admit and was a little worried about how the relationship was ever going to develop from purely mean and tolerant to steamy and soft. However, if there is one thing you can trust, that’s Aurora’s skills as a writer.
  
  “She had never met anyone who could match her will. Man, woman, or otherwise. Not until now.”
  
  The relationship doesn’t develop overnight, and is all the better for it. Murmy definitely isn’t aware of the fact that he’s falling and falling hard and almost makes a massive mistake due to his emotional constipation but thankfully remembers he’s got a brain last minute. It makes him all the more endearing. As for Suyin, she’s one of the most emotionally intelligent FMCs I’ve read in a while. She doesn’t make rash decisions and is sensible and it was so refreshing.
  
  Once the two overcome their hatred and dislike, the fireworks fly and honestly, their first time together is memorable (perhaps for all the wrong, funny reasons!)
  
  “Frowning, she crawled up beside his large naked form to peer at his face. A laugh burst out of her. “You’re kidding me,” she muttered. The fuc**r had passed out cold.”
  
  Not only that, the cameos, the overarching plot and how it hints at Belial’s story and the friendship dynamics were amazing.
  
  What I like about this series is that it never makes the characters appear as something they are not. From Suyin’s perspective, Iris has been an awful friend and I love that all of these characters are multi dimensional. They’re not perfect and that’s what’s makes them such wonderful, memorable characters.
  
  So…if you’re looking for some of the following tropes, look no further:
  
  🔥 Grump/Grump
  🔥 Enemies to lovers
  🔥 Womannapping
  🔥 Tail play
  🔥 Phantom hands
  🔥 Grovel
  
  Another wonderful addition to the Hell Bent family. I can’t wait for Belial’s story. I’m team Naiamah 🥳
• 
  Amanda

  A million stars and my whole heart.
  
  Since key smashing and screeching isn't an appropriate review, here goes nothing.
  
  I loved this book beyond my capabilities as a review writer. It was beautiful and heart wrenching and hilarious and filthy. The characters are all so fully realized and uniquely themselves. The plot is rock solid and interesting as fuck. I want to scream from the rooftops about how amazing this book is and how talented of a writer Aurora Ascher is.
  
  She gives us a romance novel actually filled with romance. With two very flawed people actually getting to know each other and falling in love. Okay. First, there's a lot of hate (it is enemies to lovers, after all) and fighting and indifference (like the mmc calling the fmc an "ingredient") but when we get to the love, hooooooo boy, it's good shit.
  
  Murmur, our 7 foot tall demon who desperately needs a nap, has a PLAN. It's an important plan to stir some shit up in Hell. We've gotten snippets of him in previous books and he was so enigmatic. He's evil and very much looking out only for himself. But is that all that's to him? Definitely not. The growth he goes through in this book is so perfectly done. It's believable. It's realistic. It's perfect.
  
  Suyin is my favorite kind of fmc. She's believably bad ass and excels at pushing people away. She thinks she's protecting herself and the people around her but soon learns that letting people get close is worth the risk of the heartache that can come with it.
  
  There's something truly special about this series and Aurora Ascher is at the top of my Drop Everything Now list of authors.
  
  ARC provided and read in exchange for an honest review.
• 
  Teela (bookdragontee)

  "He's creepy as hell. He looks like a vampire. He's like a giant, undead goth elf, with that white hair and those freaky eyes, and - Okay, never mind. I totally get why you're attracted to him. But still!"
  
  Suyin shrugged. "it wasn't planned, trust me." ...
  
  "I'm having a hard time picturing it. I've only seen him once, but all I remember is him decapitating a shitload of gargoyles, being totally covered in blood and wielding a sword, acting like a complete lunatic, and making a bargain with Mist that he wouldn't come after us - which he promptly ignored."
  
  "You're only making him sound hotter to me."
  
  "You're fucked in the head." But Iris laughed.
  
  "So are you."

  
  
  (4.5 ⭐)
  
  I'll admit, I went into this book not knowing if I would be capable of vibing with Murmur. Did I find him entertaining or intriguing as a villain/antagonist in the earlier books? Yeah, but I wasn't totally sold on him.
  
  I am absolutely sold on him now.
  
  Thus is the power of Aurora Ascher.
  
  Beauty and the Demon is not at all what I had anticipated going into it. I expected the homage paid to Beauty and the Beast, and I expected enemies-to-lovers goodness... but Aurora really managed to subvert damn near all of my other expectations, especially once all of Murmur's secrets were revealed. Dude has been out here playing 5D chess for centuries while our favorite demon bros are out breaking rules and falling in love. Needless to say, I'm so very excited for all of the implications that will now come because of the events in this book, and the fact that its all leading to Bel?
  
  MY BODY IS READY.
  
  Since our FMC, Suyin, is a very powerful witch, and our demon MMC of the evening, Murmur, is known as the Necromancer, we get a lot of demystification when it comes to Sheolic magic and necromancy in particular, and I found their discussions on the topic endlessly fascinating. I also just love the way Aurora takes something that for several millenia has been so black and white, and she has you questioning the nature of what makes evil truly evil, or good, good - and how critical free will is in making the distinction between the two. I love it when authors have me reexamining principles or beliefs I grew up with, forcing me to expand the way I look at the world and humanity and even the nature of souls. It makes my inner philosophy nerd geek out hard.
  
  

  "Lily once told me, when I was first getting to know Meph and his brothers, that I shouldn't make the mistake of ascribing too many human attributes to them. It sounds bad, but when you're an immortal being who's survived what they have, shit just takes on a different meaning... death and violence mean something different for demons than they do for us. On top of that, you and I were born with souls, and we had parent who taught us right and wrong. But guys like Murmur were created to be soulless forces of evil. For longer than we can imagine, they've just been existing as harbingers of darkness, and then suddenly, they start developing a conscience and emotions, and they have no idea what they mean or how they're supposed to act. No one ever showed them what it means to be good..."

  
  
  The fact that this book basically has all of the spicy goodness, banter, sexual tension, and demons having souls and consciences and redemptive qualities? Love. Love. LOVE.
  
  This isn't my favorite book in the series, but its still absolutely solid. I have such an appreciation for Murmur now (which has me wanting to go back to reread the earlier books); his character arc, as well as Suyin's, was excellent. I am a sucker for enemies-to-lovers, yes, but grumpy and grumpier? I need more of that, please. That whole emotionally constipated "what are these feelings? You made me feel, damn you!" never gets old. Just pour that good shit directly into my veins.
  
  Speaking of Suyin, I loved getting to explore her character more, and I'm especially glad we got to see more of her relationship with Iris. I love their friendship.
  
  But the best part of the book for me? We got so much Belial in this installment, I am so happy, I could weep. That 7+ foot tall demon with legendary rage issues has been my fave since book 1, and the way Aurora has been basically edging us for years now by holding out on his book ... I am so ready for Fallen Demon. I needed it in my hands yesterday.
  
  I am also 1000% on board for everything Aurora has been setting up in regards to Bel's story. The deeper insights into his character, the implications of Murmur's actions and what that means for Bel and his brothers and the residents of Hell in general... I am so freaking STOKED, LET'S GOOOOO.
  
  And, as always, the banter and antics between the demon bros is like a shot of pure dopamine. The scene where Meph is being Meph and Bel looses his shit for a minute and chops off his fingers in a fit of rage had me cackling. And Iris momentarily freaking out when she thought she had gotten pregnant because she and Meph have been having all of the unprotected sex... and then her tangible relief when the scare passes and she admits that Meph being a man-child is the only baby she can handle right now - I'm still smiling like an idiot just thinking about it. I love this found family goodness. It just makes me so happy.
  
  All in all, Beauty and the Demon is a solid entry in the Hell Bent series... but let's be real, y'all. I'm ready for Bel. I've been ready - more so than ever after this book. BRING ON OUR FAVORITE KING OF HELL!
  
  Tropes & Things:
  - Enemies to Lovers
  - Beauty and the Beast references for days (complete with a library and everything)
  - Grumpy/Grumpier
  - Emotionally constipated couple that has to come to terms with the whole "feelings" thing
  - MMC is villainous, brilliant, and certifiably insane
  - Shadow play... or is it ghost play?
  - Light bondage
  - Orgasmic scorpion sting (IYKYK)
  - Found family
  
  ... and lots of Bel, seriously, I can't wait for his book. I need it, Aurora. I NEED IT ASAP.
• 
  Meghan

  As someone who adores anything remotely related to Beauty and the Beast, I knew this was going to be right up my alley! I also was so excited to finally see Murmur get his HEA - I do love a good redemption arc, and he had so many layers to him that you could see from the start. There was definitely a lot of dark emotions in this book, and I would say this may be the darkest book in the series with some of the themes included throughout the story. The enemies-to-lovers factor is taken very seriously, so if you're someone who likes to quibble over the use of the word "enemies" in that trope, fear not. This is truly a story where enemies grow to love each other. I'll include some triggers at the end of the review, so be sure to check those before reading. I would highly recommend reading the first four books before diving in this one, as it switches from the main couple to another character's POV frequently, and if you haven't read previous books, you'll get lost.
  
  Murmur can't wait much longer to complete his plan, or else he will die and suffer a fate that is unimaginable. To finish what he has started, he must have the blood of a very specific witch - Suyin, leader of the Montreal coven. Suyin has been worried for a while about the creepy stalker outside her apartment building. So it's not much of a surprise when she is suddenly abducted and kept in a dark dungeon, one lorded over by a white-haired demon with a scorpion tail and a penchant for blood. Convincing him to allow her some freedom around his home is the easy part. The hard part is keeping herself from falling for this demon they call the Necromancer, who loves to torment her but also shows a soft side when it comes to his library and teaching her more about magic. Things get more complicated when Murmur realizes that he needs more than just Suyin's blood to realize his long-held dream...and it may be too late to accomplish without losing the person who means more to him than she should.
  
  The angst was strong in this book, so if you love angst, dive in. Murmur and Suyin hate each other, for good reason, but they also can't help but be drawn to each other as each day they spend together passes. I loved how bookish Murmur ended up being, hating Suyin's invasion of his space at first but then becoming so engrossed in telling her all about the books she was reading. Against his will, he became more and more attached to Suyin, and she to him as well. Suyin was a fighter and had been for a long time. She was older than she looked, and she never knew why. Her thirst for knowledge of not just magic but her own past drove her into Murmur's arms more than anything. He was someone in her life who she could be her whole self with, and she accepted him for who he was as well. Their chemistry was amazing, and even though things started out a bit rough (Murmur choked Suyin a few times before they got past the enemies stage), it was so obvious that they walked the very thin line between lust and hate. After they came together, things were great...until Suyin gave him her trust and Murmur didn't know what to do with it. Betrayal, grief, the decision between holding a grudge and helping the man who hurt you...those are the things Suyin faced towards the end of the book. She didn't let Murmur get off easily, and he had to accept that and work for her trust again. It was definitely a love worth fighting for.
  
  Now for some specific triggers that may be a no-go for you...animal sacrifice (off-page, mentioned on-page), blood magic involving skin carving, traumatic amputation of fingers. You know...the usual in a demon romance.
  
  **I received a free copy from the author and this is my honest review.**
• 
  Amanda

  I absolutely loved reading Murmurs and Suyin’s love story. I wasn’t sure about Murmur after reading the other books in the series but he quickly grew on me and stole my heart. As thick as the story was I didn’t want it to end, I am so happy I am signed up to Aurora’s Patron so I get some more behind the scenes stories. I am so excited for Fallen Demon and Bell’s story next although it will be bittersweet to say goodbye to these characters. Definitely recommend giving this story and series a try 10/10💜💙
• 
  Morgan

  Title: Beauty and the Demon
  Series: Hell Bent
  # in series: 5
  Author: Aurora Ascher
  Genre: Paranormal Romance
  Tropes/Keywords: Beauty and the Beast, Demon Romance, Monster Romance, Demon Contract, Enemies to Lovers, Kidnapped, Witches, Wings, Powers, Captor/Captive, Ghosts, Groveling, Horns, Powers, Protective Hero, Sex Friends, Work Relations
  Rep: Chinese Canadian FMC
  Pages: 463
  Steam: Open Door
  Spice: 🌶🌶/5
  Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
  
  Review:
  
  We finally have the story for our favorite madman Murmur and the goth-ballerina Suyin. I am weak for a Beauty and the Beast retelling, so when I learned that was what Aurora was giving us, I was unwell. I feel this was a fantastic BatB story (with the proper ending style of them staying beastly), and the use of the library *chefs kiss*. Overall, I think they worked together well as a couple, they are both grumpy and don’t really have much interest in interacting with others. Of course, we had Murmur fighting his feelings *eww feelings* because that has been pretty standard for our Hell Bent demon boys, but once he finally gave in, he was in sooo much trouble. For her part, Suyin was pretty stubborn herself when it came to feeling, but she was surprisingly go-with-the-flow when it came to being a prisoner/willing spell ingredient. For the continued series plot, we have known for a while that Murmur has been working in the background putting all of his desired pieces into place, but we finally got the full scale and WOW he has been a busy boy. I cannot wait to do another series reread to connect all of the dots.
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  CW/TW: Blood. Gore. Kidnapping. Manipulation. Lying. Dismemberment. Sacrificial Suicide.
  
  
  **ARC provided by the author. All thoughts are my own**
• 
  Marianne

  Excellent paranormal/demon romance!! I absolutely loved it.. Definitely a surprise... right? But when a demon finds love, he might possibly be adorable.. Dark, dangerous, witty, and delicious..
• 
  Bookloversofantastic

  I received an ARC Copy of this book, this review is from my own thought 😍
  
  This book was freaking AWESOME !!! I loved everything about it ! Murmur's personality was a major surprise and I loved it, he’s so complex, psycho, definitely crazy but he has a goal and will do anything or reach it. It’s another level of craziness, and Suyin just accepts him as he is, recognising his genius and she’s impressed about all he can accomplish with the mess his head is !
  
  We dive right into the plot, everything Murmur have done in the previous was for a reason… Now he has the last ingredient for his spell and he’s ready to accomplish his life’s goal. Suyin has been abducted without understanding why, his captor needs her but she has no idea how special she is and why she’s part of his plan. She knows that she has to survive and come back, and for this, she is ready to bargain with her captor and learn anything she can about Sheoul magic !!
  
  I am truly amazed at how Aurora Ascher wrote this book, because many elements could lead to a retail of the Beauty and the Beast, but it’s not how I felt about this book. It’s so much darker and more complex, so yes she was kidnapped and he has a freaking huge library but that’s all 🤣 Murmur is sooo much more, he’s the Necromancer of and has developed an impressive knowledge of Sheoul magic, he’s manipulative, he likes to find loopholes in his pacts and he still has an impact on Suyin as much as she has one on him. Suyin is a blood-born witch who doesn’t really understand herself, she feels like an outsider among her own kind.
  
  This series is sooooo worth it, I just need to read them all over again and I just cannot wait to read Belial’s book. He always was my favourite and he has his own tribulations coming.
• 
  Danielle

  Beauty and the Demon by Aurora Ascher was another fun, pleasant ride through the Hell Bent series. It’s filled with funny moments, tons of spice, and the kind of hot tension you might expect from a demon and his witch. This might have ended up being my favourite couple yet, much to my own surprise.
  
  Suyin is a witch with powers even she doesn’t understand, and someone who has a hard time letting people fully in. She is Iris’ friend, a character who has appeared in a previous book in the Hell Bent series, but even Iris doesn’t get all the details about Suyin and her life. I really liked Suyin, she’s a strong, independent witch who really seems like she doesn’t need anyone, which is both admirable and also sad, and her biggest flaw. I found her very relatable though, which is why I enjoyed reading from her perspective so much.
  
  Suyin is kidnapped by a demon, in this case Murmur, who has made previous appearances in the series as one of the main villains the brotherhood of demons has faced. This was why I was so surprised to end up enjoying this book and this pairing so much. I never thought I would end up liking Murmur as much as I ended up doing so, so I went into this book expecting to enjoy it less. But alas, here I am, eternally drawn to the villainous characters it seems. Murmur is very similar to Suyin in certain ways, he lets no one in and much prefers to be left on his own. He’s very focused on his studies and completing whatever project he’s most focused on at the time, and it’s one of these projects that brings him to kidnap Suyin.
  
  Something that pleasantly surprised me about this book was that there was actually more than just two point of views the story was told from. Of course there was the main two, or the couple to be, but there were also chapters from Bel’s point of view which I really enjoyed. It was nice to have another story being told, especially because it kept the reader connected with this brothers and their partners, otherwise known as the characters from the previous books in this series. Considering Murmur and Suyin only really had a passing connection to this group, it was great having that chance to see what was going on in their lives. Not least because Bel is left struggling so hard with his anger issues and trying to fit into the human world and the reader gets to experience this with him.
  
  All in all this was a very enjoyable read, as with previous entries in the Hell Bent series. I’m very much looking forward to Bel’s story next, especially after getting a look inside his head in various chapters throughout this book. Fans of this series are going to love this latest entry!
• 
  Samantha

  Finally!!!! Finally... I get my hands on my beloved Murmur. From the first moment he was introduced into this series,  I have been dying to get more information about him... Since this nefarious necromancer came into the picture with his long silver hair, pale skin, horns, tail, and let's not forget the soul "shadows" withering around his feet, I was a goner. While everyone cheered for one of the demon brothers,  I was waiting for additional bits and pieces of Murmur to trickle into the stories. I finally got my dose of Murmur, and it did not disappoint 🙌 👏.
  
  This is the 5th book in the Hell Bent series, and it makes me very sad that we are nearing the end of these delicious demons.  This book features (obviously) Murmur and the snarky,  badass of a witch, Suyin.
  
  To me, Murmur just stole the show. He was everything I ever wanted in a Hero/Villain. He had this diabolical genius plan, and gosh, it was just amazing how the pieces of what he has been doing in the other books just come together. There were so many times I had to pause and say, "No way" in awe as the plan puzzled itself together.  He is such a villain on the outside, but on the inside, he actually has a heart. I seriously think this book represents his metamorphosis and how Suyin brings it out of him.
  
  Suyin is one of the witches that has had magic for a long time. She is also represented as the most powerful one in that small Coven. Well, we find out she is a lot more than that, and getting to her story was shocking. I actually didn't see it coming, but now that I think about it, it totally makes sense 🤔.  She was a good fit for Murmur. The way she saw beyond his shell and saw the genius underneath.  She gave him a chance, and we were able to experience Murmur because of it. I really enjoyed her character even if she has my Murmur.
  
  If you haven't read the Hell Bent series. I highly recommend getting it. It is totally worth it, and these demons are just deliciously amazing. I am hooked!!! I can't wait for the next book and finally get Bel's story. Now I just need to patiently wait....
• 
  Geraldine

  good!
  
  Like the rest of this series, this was a good read. It’s compelling and the spice is hot.
  
  However, and this is just a personal preference, I couldn’t quite get behind Murmer and Suyin as I had the others in this series. Their relationship didn’t reel me in as much and I wasn’t as invested in them, either as a couple or as themselves. I also wasn’t keen on his internal voice and the language he sometimes used about his ’madness’ could be taken as quite derogatory towards schizophrenic people, which I found hard to digest at times. If this is a trigger for you, take heed please. I understand that this wasn’t the intention behind his language, because he’s an ancient demon with a fractured mind, not mentally ill, however, I wanted to highlight in case, like me, anyone is sensitive about this topic as the similarities were clear to me.
  
  With all that being said, I still enjoyed reading this book and the glimpses of the other characters in this world.
  
  I’m really looking forward to Belial’s story!
• 
  Chantel

  Demons.
  Bloodthirsty soulless Demons that can form a soul, become empathetic & even fall in love! YEEES!
  
  I cannot stress enough how much I love this whole series. This was definitely my fav story far. Meph is still my favorite man but this book was the best. Aurora can really write a book. Such a great plot.
  
  When Aurora announced she was writing a book for Murmur I was skeptical. He wasn’t my fav & a completely terrible demon. Wow, just wow, my mind was changed. The character development in this book is exceptional. Suyin is such a badass & I loved how this book ended. I have been in such a book rut for a couple months. This was just what I needed. Now I’m worried nothing will compare! 🖤
  
  Oh and the lead up to Bels story! Ahhhhhh I can’t friggin wait for the next book.
• 
  Sabine

  4.5 cambion stars
  I was very sceptical about a Murmur book, but I shouldn't have been, Aurora Ascher made it work. At first I thought Suyin and Murmur would not make likeable characters. But even though they're both grumps, they love learning and are smart and focused.
  I can't wait for Belial's book.
• 
  Thundercat (iread_romance)

  I was intrigued when I heard this would be Murmur's book because he’s the crazy genius type who has never shown any interest in anything sexual-related before.
  
  Suyin is the Ice Queen bestie of book 3's heroine, and she is equally very... unkind. While Iris is the loud, aggressive type, Suyin is the silent type who ends you with a look. I wonder why they are besties 😀 Both girls hated demons with a passion because, as witches, demons are their mortal enemies. Then Meph came into Iris’ life, and her opinion changed. Since keeping the demon branch’s identity a secret is a must, Iris and Suyin kind of drifted away. Suyin has her secrets too, and while she doesn’t understand the sudden distance between her and her friend, she’s okay with being alone. Or would be, were it not for her foreboding dreams and her stalker.
  Time is of the essence, and Murmur knows he has to acquire the last ingredient for his grandiose plan to succeed, and since his target is more isolated than before, nobody will realise if she disappears.
  
  Imagine a completely manic, icy, sleep-deprived, unhinged genius Necromancer demon who has the coolest library in a creepy castle, decorated with equally creepy statues, and an icy, detached heroine as his captive, who just wants to get away from him... and also read his books.
  Both MCs are grumpy and antisocial. He is constantly weaving his little net, and everyone gets tangled in it. He’s a control freak and manipulates everyone, including Suyin. Everything is fair game for him. He never cared for anyone in his life, and his only goal is to succeed with his plan. His task is too important, so he keeps his eyes on the prize at all times. His walk on ye olde Redemption Road was a journey of moral transformation.
  
  These two didn’t like each other at all in the beginning. Suyin had every reason to hate him, and Murmur was totally uninterested. He’s not good at sharing, but he still tolerates her being in his library…not interested, huh? I love that the first thing they found attractive in each other was their intellect, and everything grew from there. They awakened the sensual and the playful in each other, and that iciness I was earlier talking about was not present in the bedroom 👏 at 👏 all
  
  The overarching plot is very interesting! Murmur is a puppet master, and where we left off at the end of this book, thanks to his machinations, fills me with excitement! I can’t see where the story will take us in the final book, but I’m sure it’s going to be epic.
  
  I’m always grateful that the books are never about just one couple. We get to see how the rest of the demon gang keeps changing after falling in love without losing the characteristics that make them special. I loved the extra Belial time! Oh, and one more thought while we are gathered around this cosy campfire: DIBS ON BEL!!
• 
  Nevena

  💜 “I see you. I see you and I have you. You’re mine, and I’ll never let you go. Fall and I will catch you.”
  ~~~
  Suyin is the leader of the Montreal cover and a powerful blood-born witch. She’s always kept everyone at arm’s length and has spent most of her life on her own, trying to find answers about everything happening in her life. But despite everything, Suyin is one strong, brave and fiercely protective woman. And I adored her resilience and her constant hunger for knowledge. Suyin is a badass and I loved that tiny but ferocious witch so much!
  
  And then we have the Necromancer! Murmur is one wicked, dark, reclusive and twisted demon with a fractured mind and voices in his head never giving him a break. Even more, he’s manipulative, dangerous, possessive and prideful and doesn’t trust anyone. But there is more to him than meets the eye. Because there’s a reason behind his every action. And he’s thoughtful, caring and protective… in his own way. I couldn’t help but adore every single thing about him!
  
  I absolutely loved everything that happened between Suyin and Murmur! Suyin is the last ingredient of Murmur’s grand plan but the tiny witch is not easily subdued or one to back down from a challenge. Ohh, talk about tension with those two! I loved all the bickering and bargaining. And I just adored those two together! For a demon and a witch, they were so similar - both were paranoid, closed off and stubborn. And I think grumpy/grumpy might be one of my favorite tropes now! Even more, I loved how their relationship progressed throughout the story - from indifference and animosity, through sympathy and tolerating each other’s company, to passionate, epic and everlasting love. I also loved that Suyin accepted Murmur as he is - in all his demonic and unhinged glory. And the spice… So. Damn. Hot! Yup, the biker goth babe and her undead dark elf were so perfect for each other and I couldn’t get enough of either of them!
  
  In addition, the storyline was phenomenal! This story was such an outstanding Beauty and the Beast retelling. And yes, there’s a library of course, in Hell. Even more, Murmur’s plans are so vast and span over centuries of careful planning and manipulations. And now, the wheels are in motion and the war in Hell is inevitable. And do you know what comes up next?! Yup, you guessed it! Our most favorite grumpy Demon Daddy with anger management problems! Ohhh, I’m so excited!
  
  Overall, Beauty and the Demon is another remarkable addition to the series! It’s filled with magic, danger, suspense, violence, twists, betrayals, humor, life-changing revelations, blazing hot passion and spectacular characters!
  
  I couldn’t put it down and absolutely loved every page of it!
  
• 
  JaywhyGee Reads

  QUICKIE:
  * 2 grumpy loners who don’t trust easily and have a passion for knowledgeable and reading …but make it paranormal
  * ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
  * 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
  * extreme tail play 🦂
  * Heartbreak ❤️‍🩹 - I CRIED 😭 at many points during the last 1/3 of the book (but romance has gotta have that HEA, don’t worry 🫶)
  
  Not sure how Aurora Ascher does it, but every new book of the Hell Bent series I find I love each MMC more than I loved the previous book’s MMC. All the characters are so layered; just when you get so frustrated at one Aurora flips the switch and then you find yourself rooting for them or having compassion towards them unexpectedly. In addition to following Murmur’s and Suyin’s journey we have another plot line with the demon brothers & their respective sweethearts. It’s setting up for Bel’s book and I already can’t wait for his story.
  
  The Breakdown:
  
  MMC: Murmer THE Necromancer, who I became obsessed with in book number 4. In Beauty and the Demon, book 5, Murmur cemented his spot as top demon boyfriend (but Meph from book 3 will always have a spot in my heart). Has scorpion tail. Driest sense of unintentional humor and void of all emotion and feelings… because Necromancy. Also has a whole army of souls who he controls indefinitely.
  
  - He was like the witch boogeyman, a cautionary tale to warn against dabbling in black magic. Don’t mess with demons or the Necromancer will steal your soul.
  
  - Murmur began to feel mild concern. “Suyin,” he said gently. “As fascinating as the sight of your mental breakdown is, might I suggest you speed up the process a little? I’m rather bored.”
  
  FMC: Suyin, the Ingredient and the baddest witch of them all. We start out with Suyin who is having a rough time. She’s dealing with her own scary demon dreams, worriying about her mysterious “ailment”, and bummed about her fractured friendship with bestie Iris 😢. Oh yeah, and add to that she has a creeper stalker 👀 Suyin is the local coven leader and owner of an occult shop, and more importantly the rightful owner of the highly coveted & recently stolen grimoire The Book of Gamigin.
  
  - It was the last thing in their collection she would’ve guessed a demon would want. Supposedly written by a father she’d never met, the book had been her mother’s most prized possession, though Suyin had never understood why.
  
  - She would have punched his perfect, dead face if she could have reached that high.
  
  - He bent to grab her, but before he could get a proper grip, she reached to her boot, pulled out a switchblade, and fucking stabbed him with it. Right in the neck.
  
  Words cannot express how much I love Murmur. I think I highlighted everything he said and commented because I am so charmed by this type 😅 you know, the “I have no feelings but touch her and die and harm will come to you and your family for eternity” vibes.
  
  - He secured the witch, cradling her carefully in his arms. Not because he was concerned for her wellbeing, but because he didn’t want to damage his ingredient.
  
  There is solving the mystery of why Murmur had to abduct Suyin and the importance of the grimoire. There is the big love and the undeniable pull Murmur and Suyin have towards each other. There is big feelings, big laughs, big betrayal, and big redemption. Ten outta ten would recommend 💜
• 
  LaurenReads

  
  ARC was provided in exchange for an honest review.
  
  5!!!!!
  
  I've been trying not to make my reviews too long so here are some notes I took while reading and some of my favourite quotes.
  
  "Men were dicks everywhere in life"
  
  -I'm not mad at Suyin for being angry at Iris especially when she felt that Iris wasn't taking her seriously.
  -They need to leave Bel alone, they just keep stressing and harassing him. LOL
  -Love the chapter names, which I've rarely seen in books.
  
  "Alright. I'll bite, Let's bargain, witch."
  
  -The tension between Suyin and Murmur was blazing at 32% in and I couldn't wait for the first touch or kiss.
  
  "Suyin," he said gently. "As fascinating as the sight of your mental breakdown is, might I suggest you speed up the process a little? I'm rather bored." LMAO
  
  -The spice (MY GAWD) the spice.
  
  "Keep struggling, I enjoy it"
  
  -I don't know eh but if my best friend said she's gonna be taking some time off to practice wards in a quiet place away from interference and I don't hear from her in a couple of days or weeks after, I'll be texting down her phone. A whole month passed and not a text from anyone not even her best friend.
  But it's okay because they made up in the end.
  -Find me a man like Murmur who can do what he did with his scorpion tail.
  
  More of my favourite quotes can be found on my bookstagram.
  
  The plot as well as the worldbuilding in all of Aurora's books are always so good (the plot is plotting), she is really talented and I'm really glad that I joined her ARC Angels in the beginning.
  
  Beauty and the Demon is the 5th instalment in the Hell Bent series and it follows Suyin and Murmur. The series is nearing to an end with Belial book next and I'm excited about that book as I've been waiting to read it since book one.
  
  I advise that you read the books in order as they all lead up to the final book.
  
  
  Bookstagram
• 
  Sevyn Wynters

  A story I didn’t know I needed
  
  Murmur has been a conniving pain in the ass crack since day one. An evil mastermind who I never thought in a million years would get his romantic moment, because….HOW? He’s always too busy scheming and whatnot. How could his mostly undead self find the time or the wherewithal to fall in love?
  
  Then enters Suyin - who more or less was a female Murmy. Maybe a little less cold, heartless, and evil. But still.
  
  It took a minute for me to really fall in step with their romance. Something was missing. It wasn’t like they didn’t have chemistry, because they did. But maybe I needed more time, more build up of said chemistry. I wasn’t really in love with them until the third act. Another thing that maybe threw me off was the Belial chapters that were in the first and second acts. I’m so annoyingly invested in Bel’s story that when it was his chapter, and something shitty happened (Chapter 16 😤) I was more concerned about that than Murmur and Suyin. I get why we got a lot of Bel in this story. But it was messing me up, man. Anyways this story was a solid 4.5 I loved seeing all of Murmur's meticulous plans come to fruition, he’s such a genius it’s scary. I love how he redeemed himself, and how Suyin had that unconditional love for her psychotic demon.
  
  The storytelling is top-notch, and the blending of characters is superb, as always. I’m getting sad it’s all coming to an end. But that sadness is eclipsed by the anxiety I have for what is going to go down in Bel’s book. Because I feel like I see where it’s going….and ion know if I like it. I will be over here on pins and needles waiting to see if the big dude’s story goes the way I hope or if it goes the way I fear. Either way, it’s going to be a good one. Thanks for another fire read Ms. Aurora!
• 
  E. R.

  This latest HELL BENT book is focused on a villain who falls in love with a sassy witch that changed his world. The hero has a plan that required a certain ingredient that only the heroine can provide. When the hero captured the heroine, his life is overturned as the heroine isn't making it simple for him to continue with his plan. As the enemies become closer, the villain must decide if he should let the heroine into his life or continue on with his master plan.
  
  This is the fifth book in the HELL BENT series featuring a demon with a tail and a strong witch in charge of a coven. This paranormal romance series should be read in order since there is an overall series plot that is continued in this latest addition to the series. This book also has multiple viewpoints, which is highly appreciated in enriching the whole story. The various characters in this book are entertaining to read, especially the interactions between the brotherhood of demons. And the romance between the main couple is a genuine enemies-to-lovers relationship with a nice progression in the story. Though the focus in mainly on the book's couple, it was nice to see another perspective showing how other characters are doing at the same time.
  
  Each addition to this Aurora Ascher series has been thoroughly enjoyable reading. The author has a delightful writing style, and each book has a story vibe that is pleasant to read. In conclusion, this latest HELL BENT book is a solid addition to the series, and I look forward to reading the next one in the future.
  
  
  ** Thanks to the author for the review copy. All opinions and thoughts in the review are my own. **
• 
  Alessia

  just finished the 5th book in this series, and to quote my dear friend Stefani Germanotta it was: talented, brilliant, incredible, amazing, show stopping, spectacular, never the same, totally unique, completely not ever done before.
  
  Aurora Ascher never misses. This book was excellent - the tension, the character development, the plot, the romance, the spice, the side characters. I am just so into this whole universe that i can't even put it into words properly.
  
  Murmur was such a good morally (and physically) gray main character and Suyin was also an incredibly strong lead. I think that when authors want to write about the "badass fmc" they often fall into the trap of making her a pick me, as isolating her from the rest of the girlies seems to be the only option available to them, but Aurora Ascher definitely didn't do this with Suyin. She was so strong and vulnerable at the same time, such a well rounded character.
  
  When I started reading the Hell Bent series, I never expected the author to be able to grow the plot to this extent. I think all her books have such a strong and emotional narrative that if demon romances are your thing, it's nearly impossible to not be obsessed.
  
  Now I will sit here and patiently waiting to read about Belial (also known as the best demon). She set such a good scene for his book, I'm dying to see how his story develops.
• 
  Allison

  The world spun like they’d fucked on a Tilt-A-Whirl. Every stroke of his dick was like fucking heaven, and she swore his cum was a healing elixir, because the hot wetness suddenly spilling out of her soothed the aches of being stretched.

  
  
  5 Demon Stars
  
  The Good:
  - This line:

  “Look at you. You’re so wet you’d have made a puddle on the floor if I didn’t lick it up.”

  
  - The foot pop moment always makes a book for me!
  - The character development was strong
  - Suyin and Iris' relationship is so real. I love how they grew, how they push and pull, and the forgiveness between the two
  - The lore and world feel so real because by book 5, we are still incredibly consistent
  - The side story between Bel and Meph is so good!
  - Belial makes me want to cry because I love him so much. That's how hard I'm falling for him. I am scared for the next book since its his book because I have built it up so high!
  - Murmur was so authentic!
  - This series actually keeps me on my feet! There are things that are predictable, sure, but there is always some really big surprise that I could have never guessed.
  
  The Bad:
  - This line:

  All he felt was an unquenchable desire of epic proportions erupting from the center of his being.

  
  
  The Ugly:
  - Nothing
  
• 
  Brittany ( BookWyvernLovesTea )

  I swear I love this series more with every book. Auto buy series, auto buy author. 🫶
  .
  We've gotten glimpses of the mysterious Necromancer in previous books, but now we get to delve right into his fractured but genius mind. Nothing is going to stop him from achieving his centuries long ambition-- no matter how many times he must tell himself to shut up. 😂 Seriously though, his arguments with himself were so entertaining. 🤣🤣🤣
  .
  Suyin has always kept the world at arm's length, but apparently a demon that looks like an undead goth elf with an enormous library might finally get her walls to crumble.
  .
  Ascher has one again woven a beautiful romance. This time her characters are closed off and compartmentalized bad asses that somehow turn each other to mush, and it was the most adorable bloody thing ever. Feet kicking in the air and squealing adorable.
  .
  I also love how the storyline and atmosphere continue to intensify and unfold. The hellscape is changing, revelations are unfolding, and a war is coming. I'm in love with this book and I can't wait for the next one!
• 
  Ashley-Anne

  Closer to 3.5 A solid addition to the Hell Bent Universe
  
  As always, Aurora's world building is spectacular. She weaves in so many complex threads and story elements and it makes the story really immersive. Her world is vibrant and real. I loved learning more about Hell, I loved the library, I loved the relationship between the brothers. And I can't wait for Belial's book to tie it all up (also I think he is my new fave).
  
  That being said, Murmer was not for me. I wasn't attracted to him, I didn't find him redeemable, I didn't believe in his love for Suyin. None of this is the fault of bad writing or characterization, I think this type of hardcore villain to hero just doesn't work for me personally. If you are the kind of reader who really loves a reprehensible hero, you will love him. He's a fantastic villain. He just wasn't my hero.
  
  BTW, if Meph drives you nuts (or if you love him), you're going to want to read this one, because what Belial does to him is freaking amazing.
  
• 
  Stella

  3,5*
  
  I liked Murmur! He's neurotic and borderline insane. Super smart, secretly plotting, highly skeptical and suspicious of everyone. But there's also a bit of a golden retriever heart inside the Necromancer. He problably has some heavy scorpio placements. Bad b* on the outside, squishy inside.
  
  The characters were very well written, Murmur's epic library is swoon worthy, there are surprisingly sweet moments of affection (Murmur sends his minions to Earth to bring a bag of carrots 🥕🥕🥕for Su like she's a bunny🐰😂).
  
  We meet the whole family again YAY!! and I'm happy to report, most are well and very happy except our BabyBel. He's unfortunately on the brink of depression. He needs purpose, maybe more hobbies and probably therapy. Give him a project. A female one preferably!! ♀️💕
  
  So excited for Belial's book 🔥🔥🔥
  I'm also excited to meet LUCIFERRRRRR! he-he
• 
  Jd

  So much growth
  
  Murmur evolved so much from the previous books to the end of this one. He started off hating humans and thinking they were beneath him. He didn't even like most demons nor cared about them. By the end of this book, he is in love and he is ensuring the safety of the demons who work for him.
  Suyin also grows a person. She has always distrusted people, kept most people at arms length and didn't like demons. By the end, she realizes how she isolated herself from everyone around her. She falls in love and realizes she has never been in love.
  It was fun "watching" the change in Murmur and the banter between the two.
  Part of this book focuses on Bel. I suspect it is setting up for the final book in the series. This book shows how much he is struggling with his rage. He also hints that he would like to have what HR brothers have, a companion.