Painted Devils

Painted Devils is a thrilling young adult fantasy sequel that follows Vanja Schmidt, a former jewel thief attempting to go straight, who inadvertently creates a cult around a Low God, the Scarlet Maiden. When her romantic interest, Emeric, arrives to investigate the fraud, the Scarlet Maiden claims him as a virgin sacrifice, propelling Vanja on a dangerous quest to find an alternative. The story delves into themes of identity, redemption, the conflict between duty and love, and the consequences of past actions. Parents should be aware of prominent peril and danger, including monsters, gods, and the threat of sacrifice, alongside a developing romantic subplot. It is suitable for mature young adult readers aged 12-18 who enjoy complex fantasy worlds and morally gray protagonists.

Let’s get one thing straight—Vanja Schmidt wasn’t trying to start a cult. After taking down a corrupt margrave, breaking a deadly curse, and finding romance with the vexingly scrupulous Junior Prefect Emeric Conrad, Vanja had one great mystery left: her long-lost birth family… and if they would welcome a thief. But in her search for an honest trade, she hit trouble and invented a god, the Scarlet Maiden, to scam her way out. Now, that lie is growing out of control—especially when Emeric arrives to investigate, and the Scarlet Maiden manifests to claim him as a virgin sacrifice. For his final test to become a prefect, Emeric must determine if Vanja is guilty of serious fraud, or if the Scarlet Maiden—and her claim to him—are genuine. Meanwhile, Vanja is chasing an alternative sacrifice that may be their way out. The hunt leads her not only into the lairs of monsters and the paths of gods, but the ties of her past. And with what should be the simplest way to save Emeric hanging over their heads, he and Vanja must face a more dangerous question: Is there a future for a thief and a prefect, and at what price?