The beginning is discombobulating because we are given very little to go on making it incredible difficult to understand what is happening. Eventually we do learn a little bit more as the story progresses but this should be happening from the beginning otherwise its just frustrating. It has some very disturbing scenes wherein a character has to have sex with someone while not being completely willing. This happens several times. This is a dark and heavy themed book but these things just seemed very unnecessary and uncomfortable to read.

Very unfortunately wasn't for me. Plot didn't go anywhere, the characters were very bland and no world building whatsoever.

I couldn't get into the story line at all. There were a few bits and pieces that were interesting, but other than that, the book fell completely flat to me.

Insidious really, just how easily Mary enticed the reader in with her deliciously constructed prose. Daemon Seer is a delightfully dark fantasy that follows protagonist Lu(anda) through the paces of getting her life on track after a vicious attack that happened in her past.

Said attack is covered in the prequel to this book (Talion) that I haven't read, (I am adding it to my TBR right now!), this doesn't take anything from the story if you haven't read it. I can only imagine it would add to it.

The gritty crime/thriller story could have worked well on its own, but Mary added in an interesting speculative thread that gave the story a much deeper reach.

With aspects of religion, paranormal entities and supernatural powers, the story lends itself to a thing of pure fantasy, yet the grotesque stalker thread and harrowing history of the protagonist kept pulling the fantastical back into the harsh light of reality and held it there, writhing, for the reader to dissect piece by piece.

This is not a light-hearted story, and certainly not suitable for younger audiences. Elements of physical violence, rape and other nefarious deeds, Daemon Seer, is unlikely to leave you with warm fuzzy feelings (unless you're in league with the stalker/psycho). It will, however, likely trigger your gag reflex and possibly challenge some delicate sensitivities.

I thoroughly enjoyed the complex and dirty plot, the way Mary let things lie as the story progressed and how flawless the writing is. It only missed the mark for me on one point. Daemon Seer pushes the realms of dark fantasy, it takes the reader to a gloomy and creepy place, but why take us there and then not push the envelope? I was ready for more, to be truly horrified. There were a couple of scenes that nearly got there, but not quite.

For this reason, I can't give 5 stars, but it was damn close! Excellent read, one I recommend to those who dare to give in to their slightly darker side.

**Note: I was provided with and electronic copy of this book through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.**