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Nick Englebrecht #1
The Devil You Know
Praise for The Devil You
"The first in a series, K.H. Koehler does a fantastic job of introducing a dynamic set of characters, tweaking the usual concept of good versus evil just enough to make it interesting, thus setting the stage for much-anticipated future installments." ~BookFetish
"...filled with characters that really come alive, with a fast paced storyline that will keep you fully enveloped in the story and will probably be the most fun you have reading this summer." ~Literary Mayhem
"Fans of the Dresden Files I think you will really enjoy this book. I am a big fan, and I can't wait for the next book." ~Jaime (Goodreads Review)
About The Devil You
Not only does the devil have an only begotten son, but he's currently residing in the rural town of Blackwater in northeast Pennsylvania.
Semi-retired from law enforcement, the handsome, if cynical, Nick Englebrecht becomes quickly caught up in a local missing child case that seems mundane on the outside, but when the sheriff requests his help as a psychic detective to help find the missing girl, his off-the-books investigation quickly leads him to some terrible truths about life, love and the universe as we know it.
And if that isn't bad enough, the angels have begun an ethnic cleansing of all beings with demonic blood. Of course, Nick is at the top of their to-do list.
Like a bad detective novel, it started with a woman.
Not just a woman. The woman.
In the Dashiell Hammet books, it's always some curvalicious widow in black trailing behind her own particular brand of crawling chaos. I got the exact same feeling from the redhead, though she wasn't wearing the traditional black dress and veil when she barged into the shop, the door clomping shut behind her. Rather, she was dressed in the watery blue uniform of Molly's Steakhouse six blocks down on what's locally known here in Blackwater as The Strip. They serve overpriced porterhouse steaks and underpriced beer, which is its main attraction. You can drink yourself silly, and the bill won't hurt as bad.
I didn't know her, but the redhead lurched to a stop in front of the display counter, looked me straight in the eyes, and said, "There's a man following me."
I immediately knew a few things about 1. she was out too late, 2. she wasn't local because locals have more sense than to walk alone on the Strip at 11:15 at night, and 3. she was curvalicious.
Number 3 is irrelevant to this story, but I figured I'd mention it anyway.
Emergencies have a way of solidifying a relationship between strangers. I felt responsible for her. The red hair and curves didn't hurt at all.
"Is he coming?" I asked.
"Yes," she answered. She was breathless and disheveled from what was likely a brisk, terror-filled, six-block jog."Did he see you come in here?"
"Maybe. I don't know!"
Before she could say another word, I slipped around the counter, snagged her by the wrist, then dragged her down into the kneehole beneath the counter where my partner Morgana and I keep the late-night shop essentials--keys, flashlight, special orders, the lock box, bottles of Aquafina, and a dented aluminum baseball bat.
Don't ask about the bat; that's a rather grim and uneventful story for another day.
The redhead fit like she was made for the kneehole. She started to protest, but I sat on the stool behind the counter, resumed piecing together the set of Egyptian bezel that Morgana had been ragging me about all day, and said in a casual whisper, "Here he comes."
Within seconds the hulking shadow of a man slowed outside the shop.
"The first in a series, K.H. Koehler does a fantastic job of introducing a dynamic set of characters, tweaking the usual concept of good versus evil just enough to make it interesting, thus setting the stage for much-anticipated future installments." ~BookFetish
"...filled with characters that really come alive, with a fast paced storyline that will keep you fully enveloped in the story and will probably be the most fun you have reading this summer." ~Literary Mayhem
"Fans of the Dresden Files I think you will really enjoy this book. I am a big fan, and I can't wait for the next book." ~Jaime (Goodreads Review)
About The Devil You
Not only does the devil have an only begotten son, but he's currently residing in the rural town of Blackwater in northeast Pennsylvania.
Semi-retired from law enforcement, the handsome, if cynical, Nick Englebrecht becomes quickly caught up in a local missing child case that seems mundane on the outside, but when the sheriff requests his help as a psychic detective to help find the missing girl, his off-the-books investigation quickly leads him to some terrible truths about life, love and the universe as we know it.
And if that isn't bad enough, the angels have begun an ethnic cleansing of all beings with demonic blood. Of course, Nick is at the top of their to-do list.
Like a bad detective novel, it started with a woman.
Not just a woman. The woman.
In the Dashiell Hammet books, it's always some curvalicious widow in black trailing behind her own particular brand of crawling chaos. I got the exact same feeling from the redhead, though she wasn't wearing the traditional black dress and veil when she barged into the shop, the door clomping shut behind her. Rather, she was dressed in the watery blue uniform of Molly's Steakhouse six blocks down on what's locally known here in Blackwater as The Strip. They serve overpriced porterhouse steaks and underpriced beer, which is its main attraction. You can drink yourself silly, and the bill won't hurt as bad.
I didn't know her, but the redhead lurched to a stop in front of the display counter, looked me straight in the eyes, and said, "There's a man following me."
I immediately knew a few things about 1. she was out too late, 2. she wasn't local because locals have more sense than to walk alone on the Strip at 11:15 at night, and 3. she was curvalicious.
Number 3 is irrelevant to this story, but I figured I'd mention it anyway.
Emergencies have a way of solidifying a relationship between strangers. I felt responsible for her. The red hair and curves didn't hurt at all.
"Is he coming?" I asked.
"Yes," she answered. She was breathless and disheveled from what was likely a brisk, terror-filled, six-block jog."Did he see you come in here?"
"Maybe. I don't know!"
Before she could say another word, I slipped around the counter, snagged her by the wrist, then dragged her down into the kneehole beneath the counter where my partner Morgana and I keep the late-night shop essentials--keys, flashlight, special orders, the lock box, bottles of Aquafina, and a dented aluminum baseball bat.
Don't ask about the bat; that's a rather grim and uneventful story for another day.
The redhead fit like she was made for the kneehole. She started to protest, but I sat on the stool behind the counter, resumed piecing together the set of Egyptian bezel that Morgana had been ragging me about all day, and said in a casual whisper, "Here he comes."
Within seconds the hulking shadow of a man slowed outside the shop.
198 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 1, 2012
9 people are currently reading
226 people want to read
About the author
K.H. Koehler
82 books55 followersK.H. Koehler is the author of various novels and novellas in the genres of horror, SF, dark fantasy, steampunk and young and new adult. She is the owner of KH Koehler Books and KH Koehler Design, which specializes in graphic design and professional copyediting. Her books are widely available at all major online distributors and her covers have appeared on numerous books in many different genres. Her short work has appeared in various anthologies, and her novel series include The Kaiju Hunter, The Mrs. McGillicuddy Mysteries, Anti-Heroes, Planet of Dinosaurs, The Nick Englebrecht Mysteries, and The Archaeologists. She is the author of multiple Amazon bestsellers, and was also one of the founders and chief editors of KHP Publishers, which published genre fiction from 2001 to 2015. She has over fifteen years experience in the publishing industry as a writer, ghostwriter, copyeditor, commercial book cover designer, formatter and marketer. Visit her website at https://khkoehler.net
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
November 1, 2013
Book Info: Genre: Urban Fantasy
Reading Level: Adult
Recommended for: fans of urban fantasy, fast-paced and fun stories
Trigger Warnings: Child abuse, child molestation (implied, and in the past)
My Thoughts: This is a really fun book. I really enjoyed the premise that the son of Satan co-owns an occult shop in a small town in Pennsylvania and used to be a cop in NYC. I also love how the book opens in such a typical, pulp-fiction way, but self-consciously. I really enjoyed Nick himself—he has a wry but funny way of expressing himself that I really enjoyed. For instance: “The thing about angels is, they’re a little bit like Cthulhu and the Outer Gods.” Which doesn’t make a whole lot of sense by itself, but trust me—it’s hilarious in context.
The editing could have used some work. There were a lot of misused words, for instance, like “canvas” for “canvass,” “gleam” for “glean,” and “rapport” for “report,” among others. However, the story itself moves fast enough, and is fun enough, that I was mostly able to ignore that and enjoy the tale.
Another Nick Englebrecht book is scheduled for publication, The Devil Dances. I’m not sure exactly when, but I know I’ll be watching for it. Despite any problems—and there were problems—I really enjoyed this book a lot.
Disclosure: I received an e-galley edition from Curiosity Quills via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Synopsis: Not only does the devil have an only begotten son, but he’s currently residing in the rural town of Blackwater in northeast Pennsylvania.
Semi-retired from law enforcement, the handsome, if cynical, Nick Englebrecht becomes quickly caught up in a local missing child case that seems mundane on the outside, but when the sheriff requests his help as a psychic detective to help find the missing girl, his off-the-books investigation quickly leads him to some terrible truths about life, love and the universe as we know it.
And if that isn’t bad enough, the angels have begun an ethnic cleansing of all beings with demonic blood. Of course, Nick is at the top of their to-do list
Reading Level: Adult
Recommended for: fans of urban fantasy, fast-paced and fun stories
Trigger Warnings: Child abuse, child molestation (implied, and in the past)
My Thoughts: This is a really fun book. I really enjoyed the premise that the son of Satan co-owns an occult shop in a small town in Pennsylvania and used to be a cop in NYC. I also love how the book opens in such a typical, pulp-fiction way, but self-consciously. I really enjoyed Nick himself—he has a wry but funny way of expressing himself that I really enjoyed. For instance: “The thing about angels is, they’re a little bit like Cthulhu and the Outer Gods.” Which doesn’t make a whole lot of sense by itself, but trust me—it’s hilarious in context.
The editing could have used some work. There were a lot of misused words, for instance, like “canvas” for “canvass,” “gleam” for “glean,” and “rapport” for “report,” among others. However, the story itself moves fast enough, and is fun enough, that I was mostly able to ignore that and enjoy the tale.
Another Nick Englebrecht book is scheduled for publication, The Devil Dances. I’m not sure exactly when, but I know I’ll be watching for it. Despite any problems—and there were problems—I really enjoyed this book a lot.
Disclosure: I received an e-galley edition from Curiosity Quills via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Synopsis: Not only does the devil have an only begotten son, but he’s currently residing in the rural town of Blackwater in northeast Pennsylvania.
Semi-retired from law enforcement, the handsome, if cynical, Nick Englebrecht becomes quickly caught up in a local missing child case that seems mundane on the outside, but when the sheriff requests his help as a psychic detective to help find the missing girl, his off-the-books investigation quickly leads him to some terrible truths about life, love and the universe as we know it.
And if that isn’t bad enough, the angels have begun an ethnic cleansing of all beings with demonic blood. Of course, Nick is at the top of their to-do list
January 22, 2013
I wanted to like this book, but there were too many small issues to tolerate.
The Characters
+ the hero
The only noteworthy thing about Nick was that he was bi. Other than that, he was a stereotypical Urban Fantasy protagonist. He has a destiny he doesn’t want to face, a power he doesn’t practice to attain mastery, and a tendency to jump into trouble without preparation.
I had a hard time believing the character was an ex-cop, a psychic detective, and a prince of Hell. He frequently let the bad guys get the upper hand. He solved mysteries slowly and often late so shit was already happening, and he’s scrambling to save himself and others. He pissed off his allies and physically hurt his best friend when she warned him against Vivian. Worst of all, he allowed himself to be seduced by Vivian.
+ the romantic interest
The biggest issue I had with the book was Vivian. I didn’t like it when she was introduced as a damsel in distress, and I outright hated her when she developed into a femme fatale. She wasn’t entirely unpitiable, but 97% of the time, it was all “Nick, save me,” “Nick, fuck me,” “Nick teach me magic so that I may later use it for evil purposes in future books.” Nick wasn’t Vivian’s white knight; he was her stooge.
The Plot
+ the beginning
The beginning would have better off starting at chapter 3. Chapter 1 tried to parody a mystery novel; the first line was “Like a bad detective novel, it started with a woman.” But it quickly felt flat and became the cliche it was parodying. Go figure.
Worse, when Nick told Vivian about magic being real stuff, trying to do that hide-in-plain-sight, tongue-in-cheek thing, he came off as creepy and an incredibly obvious mouthpiece for info-dumping worldbuilding.
On another issue, Nick didn’t ping Vivian as part daemon immediately, yet it was told multiple times how he had an above-average radar of sensing the supernatural. Either Nick was deluding himself which I don’t think is the case or the story contradicted itself which I think is the case.
+ the middle
The middle dragged. Many seemingly unrelated things were happening, and I doubted their relevancy to the plot multiple times. I felt that Nick should strongly reconsider his priorities and focus on helping the people he could actually help instead of taking every case that entered his door.
The sex scene was unexpected and admittedly hot but nevertheless I didn’t like it because it was with Vivian. Any scene with Vivian had me going red. She was a like a fly I couldn’t waved away.
+ the ending
The ending was fast-paced but done in a clunky manner. I didn’t like how Malach and Nick buddied up like cops to confront the bad guys. It discredited the multiple tellings of the mutual, supposedly sustaining enmity that was established for the reader in the beginning of the story.
On the bright side, the conflict was nicely wrapped up, and I liked the foreshadowing of a war between Heaven and Hell where the lines between evil and good are super blurry. In spite of the incohesiveness, all the little plotlines that I thought that were irrelevant were finally given relevance.
In Conclusion
I rate The Devil You Know 2-stars for it was okay. Nick needed a cold slap to common sense, and Vivian needed to fuck off. The pacing was uneven, and the story had many unignorable inconsistencies. Still, the series has potential, and I do sincerely look forward to the sequel.
The Characters
+ the hero
The only noteworthy thing about Nick was that he was bi. Other than that, he was a stereotypical Urban Fantasy protagonist. He has a destiny he doesn’t want to face, a power he doesn’t practice to attain mastery, and a tendency to jump into trouble without preparation.
I had a hard time believing the character was an ex-cop, a psychic detective, and a prince of Hell. He frequently let the bad guys get the upper hand. He solved mysteries slowly and often late so shit was already happening, and he’s scrambling to save himself and others. He pissed off his allies and physically hurt his best friend when she warned him against Vivian. Worst of all, he allowed himself to be seduced by Vivian.
+ the romantic interest
The biggest issue I had with the book was Vivian. I didn’t like it when she was introduced as a damsel in distress, and I outright hated her when she developed into a femme fatale. She wasn’t entirely unpitiable, but 97% of the time, it was all “Nick, save me,” “Nick, fuck me,” “Nick teach me magic so that I may later use it for evil purposes in future books.” Nick wasn’t Vivian’s white knight; he was her stooge.
The Plot
+ the beginning
The beginning would have better off starting at chapter 3. Chapter 1 tried to parody a mystery novel; the first line was “Like a bad detective novel, it started with a woman.” But it quickly felt flat and became the cliche it was parodying. Go figure.
Worse, when Nick told Vivian about magic being real stuff, trying to do that hide-in-plain-sight, tongue-in-cheek thing, he came off as creepy and an incredibly obvious mouthpiece for info-dumping worldbuilding.
On another issue, Nick didn’t ping Vivian as part daemon immediately, yet it was told multiple times how he had an above-average radar of sensing the supernatural. Either Nick was deluding himself which I don’t think is the case or the story contradicted itself which I think is the case.
+ the middle
The middle dragged. Many seemingly unrelated things were happening, and I doubted their relevancy to the plot multiple times. I felt that Nick should strongly reconsider his priorities and focus on helping the people he could actually help instead of taking every case that entered his door.
The sex scene was unexpected and admittedly hot but nevertheless I didn’t like it because it was with Vivian. Any scene with Vivian had me going red. She was a like a fly I couldn’t waved away.
+ the ending
The ending was fast-paced but done in a clunky manner. I didn’t like how Malach and Nick buddied up like cops to confront the bad guys. It discredited the multiple tellings of the mutual, supposedly sustaining enmity that was established for the reader in the beginning of the story.
On the bright side, the conflict was nicely wrapped up, and I liked the foreshadowing of a war between Heaven and Hell where the lines between evil and good are super blurry. In spite of the incohesiveness, all the little plotlines that I thought that were irrelevant were finally given relevance.
In Conclusion
I rate The Devil You Know 2-stars for it was okay. Nick needed a cold slap to common sense, and Vivian needed to fuck off. The pacing was uneven, and the story had many unignorable inconsistencies. Still, the series has potential, and I do sincerely look forward to the sequel.
December 3, 2012
Goddammit. That pretty much sums up my feelings on a book that started out awesome and then took a sharp turn into weirdness territory. I was getting pretty bored by the usual Dresden Files type of protagonist, so when the main character here turned out to be a bi dude who also had a friends with benefits situation going on I was intrigued. But then things just went from interesting to what-the-hell when the sex scenes just sprung out of nowhere and went on for pages and pages. They just seemed unnecessary to me and they took away from (what I thought was) the plot. I don't know, I was just disappointed. I picked up the book after hearing that it was urban fantasy but realized it was basically chick lit.
Though props to the female author for writing the book from a man's point of view (and in the style of noir films, too.) There aren't enough of you out there these days and it's a shame.
Though props to the female author for writing the book from a man's point of view (and in the style of noir films, too.) There aren't enough of you out there these days and it's a shame.
October 25, 2012
I suspect this book will appeal more to fans of Fifty Shades of Grey than those of the Dresden files. And I have read every book in the Dresden series. Call me crazy or old-fashioned but, when it comes to fantasy (even urban fantasy), I prefer adventure and great world-building to new age hipster sex and snark. If I want sex and snark, I'll read Gore Vidal.
February 4, 2013
I am not one for the procedural ex-cop turned "insert here" story line. I find it to be an easy out. There are a multitude of ex-cop this and ex-cop that novels in the fantasy/sci-fi genre, of which most I find to be a bore. However K.H. Koehler's, The Devil You Know, piqued my interest.
What makes this particular story interesting is the main character Nick Englebrecht, his hellish and heavenly associates and his moral juggling act. See...Nick is many things: ex-cop, bi-sexual, chain smoker, junk food eater, witch, co-owner of a pagan curio shop for tourists and also just happens to be the half-man, half-demon heir of the Devil himself with a moral compass and daddy issues.
I will admit thinking, "Oh no, another ex-cop/witch/demon hunter procedural thingy" during the first few chapters, but I am glad I continued to read on. Koehler's writing style is narration-conversational, with just enough description to make for a crisp easy read. The author's take on heaven, hell, angels, demons and how they behave and interact amongst themselves and humans was quite interesting. The love interest left a little to be desired, but overall an enjoyable read.
I look forward to the second novel and the further adventures of Nick Englebrecht, ex-cop Prince of Hell.
What makes this particular story interesting is the main character Nick Englebrecht, his hellish and heavenly associates and his moral juggling act. See...Nick is many things: ex-cop, bi-sexual, chain smoker, junk food eater, witch, co-owner of a pagan curio shop for tourists and also just happens to be the half-man, half-demon heir of the Devil himself with a moral compass and daddy issues.
I will admit thinking, "Oh no, another ex-cop/witch/demon hunter procedural thingy" during the first few chapters, but I am glad I continued to read on. Koehler's writing style is narration-conversational, with just enough description to make for a crisp easy read. The author's take on heaven, hell, angels, demons and how they behave and interact amongst themselves and humans was quite interesting. The love interest left a little to be desired, but overall an enjoyable read.
I look forward to the second novel and the further adventures of Nick Englebrecht, ex-cop Prince of Hell.
July 9, 2013
WOW, just wow. This is an awesome story. It’s original and very twisty turny.. love it! I highly recommend this book, but be prepared to read it all in a few hours like I did. I could not put it down. I am looking forward to read more in this series. This book was given to me for an honest review.
October 14, 2012
Review to come!
December 28, 2019
Loved the beginning! Hated the middle and was disappointed by the Ending!
Overall an average short adventure story which didn't meet my expectations in the end.
Overall an average short adventure story which didn't meet my expectations in the end.
Read
April 15, 2014by GZM
Angels... angels of light, angels of darkness, messengers of God or fallen angels. You know the old stories about the good and evil, about those who lead you on the right path and about those who lead you into temptation. But the author K.H. Koehler in her two novels of Nick Englebrecht series proposes us a little imagination exercise (let’s say it’s a fun and novel one) in which we change a bit the sides and see the story from another point of view.
With these two fantasy stories she flips at 180 degrees the biblical concepts that we all know about Heaven and Hell, and the characters that we usually know as positive become negative and vice versa or at least factions of them. Don't freak out, there is nothing religious. The stories will have some mystery, detective, fantasy accents and a touch of horror, and the cop role or rather the private eye will be ... who do you think? The future Prince of Darkness himself. Nick Englebrecht is really the son of the Dark one, half human - half demon, but all he wants is to live a normal life after what he saw and suffered in his career as a cop. Which is not really possible, because his father has, as you know, the tendency to stick his tail into everything. Not to make his son's life a hell (ironic, right?), but because it is in his nature and also to protect his hereditary investment.
What changes his son's life in the first novel, The Devil You Know, is, any man should know what I mean, the eternal feminine. And when the eternal feminine appears as a demon hungry for sex, hang on, it will not just be sparks, but the flames of hell will burn at full capacity. Demonic love, what can we say!
But the main problem of the story will not be the love or rather the wild sex, but that, up in the penthouse of light, everything went haywire, and the hunting season for demons and other creatures like them opened. Permanently. Why? You will find that for yourselves. And for everything to take a damn turn (this time Nick's father has nothing to do with it), the disappearance of a little girl and the emergence of an occult group will not give any chance to the heir of the throne of Hell to live the quiet life he dreams about. Nick seems to be lucky in his sexual life, but with the life in general it is not really sure he will get through. The hunt began, the mystery deepens, fortuitous alliances arise, and his fate seems fucked up. Rough! Read the first novel and find out how the devil saved his ass, and also the natural order of things on Earth, in Heaven and in the well heated “basement” of his father's.
In the second novel, The Devil Dances, you will find out that Nick, instead to mind his own life and his loves (yes, plural), he sticks his little tail into other people's business. Not in the sense in which his daddy does, but as a knight in a shinning armor on a white horse way. The Devil as a Hero? Apparently so. The heroism comes with a great cost and that cost could be not only his own life, but the life of the loved ones. But what can be done? Everything comes with a price. And when the opponent is in a different league even for Daddy, what chance would have Daddy’s boy? Will escape the heir of Hell from this confrontation too or his place will become vacant? Even for a demon who is the Prince of Darkness, this test will be one of hell.
Two novels, two stories that will intrigue you, that will make you to be on the side of the Dark one (even if he sees himself more human than he really is), full of action, humor, and sex, sex that Nick plays for both teams. A new approach of the idea about angels, fallen or not, that will make you read with pleasure K.H. Koehler’s books. That is if you are an adult and you have an open mind.
Angels... angels of light, angels of darkness, messengers of God or fallen angels. You know the old stories about the good and evil, about those who lead you on the right path and about those who lead you into temptation. But the author K.H. Koehler in her two novels of Nick Englebrecht series proposes us a little imagination exercise (let’s say it’s a fun and novel one) in which we change a bit the sides and see the story from another point of view.
With these two fantasy stories she flips at 180 degrees the biblical concepts that we all know about Heaven and Hell, and the characters that we usually know as positive become negative and vice versa or at least factions of them. Don't freak out, there is nothing religious. The stories will have some mystery, detective, fantasy accents and a touch of horror, and the cop role or rather the private eye will be ... who do you think? The future Prince of Darkness himself. Nick Englebrecht is really the son of the Dark one, half human - half demon, but all he wants is to live a normal life after what he saw and suffered in his career as a cop. Which is not really possible, because his father has, as you know, the tendency to stick his tail into everything. Not to make his son's life a hell (ironic, right?), but because it is in his nature and also to protect his hereditary investment.
What changes his son's life in the first novel, The Devil You Know, is, any man should know what I mean, the eternal feminine. And when the eternal feminine appears as a demon hungry for sex, hang on, it will not just be sparks, but the flames of hell will burn at full capacity. Demonic love, what can we say!
But the main problem of the story will not be the love or rather the wild sex, but that, up in the penthouse of light, everything went haywire, and the hunting season for demons and other creatures like them opened. Permanently. Why? You will find that for yourselves. And for everything to take a damn turn (this time Nick's father has nothing to do with it), the disappearance of a little girl and the emergence of an occult group will not give any chance to the heir of the throne of Hell to live the quiet life he dreams about. Nick seems to be lucky in his sexual life, but with the life in general it is not really sure he will get through. The hunt began, the mystery deepens, fortuitous alliances arise, and his fate seems fucked up. Rough! Read the first novel and find out how the devil saved his ass, and also the natural order of things on Earth, in Heaven and in the well heated “basement” of his father's.
In the second novel, The Devil Dances, you will find out that Nick, instead to mind his own life and his loves (yes, plural), he sticks his little tail into other people's business. Not in the sense in which his daddy does, but as a knight in a shinning armor on a white horse way. The Devil as a Hero? Apparently so. The heroism comes with a great cost and that cost could be not only his own life, but the life of the loved ones. But what can be done? Everything comes with a price. And when the opponent is in a different league even for Daddy, what chance would have Daddy’s boy? Will escape the heir of Hell from this confrontation too or his place will become vacant? Even for a demon who is the Prince of Darkness, this test will be one of hell.
Two novels, two stories that will intrigue you, that will make you to be on the side of the Dark one (even if he sees himself more human than he really is), full of action, humor, and sex, sex that Nick plays for both teams. A new approach of the idea about angels, fallen or not, that will make you read with pleasure K.H. Koehler’s books. That is if you are an adult and you have an open mind.
July 16, 2014
3.8/5 Stars
Nick. Nicky. Englebrecht. Scratch. Devil. Diablo. Demon. Call him what you will, but the man is freaking awesome.
“The Devil you Know” follows Nick Englebrecht, a forty- four year old man who happens to be the only son of the devil, and the heir to Hell. I know what you are thinking. He’s a Demon? Does that mean that there is sex, cursing, blood, guts, and gore in this book? Yes. *grins* Yes, there is. And plenty of it. No, this book is not for the faint of heart or weak of stomach, but if you are like me and can handle some level of it, you should be fine. Honestly, I have read books with more gore. Bisexuality is mentioned in passing. There is some rough- ish sex, but nothing incredibly kinky or weird. Yes, there is inappropriate banter, sarcasm, and mentions of rutting fauns. Yes, I said fauns. Okay, you’ve been warned. The prudes and such can now go running back to their nice safe reads, now. And now that I have those warnings out of the way, I can get to the heart of the enigma that is Nick Englebrecht. (Sorry, I love his name, so I have to keep typing it out. Englebrecht...)
Nick was an awesome character. I have read a few books from solely the male character’s perspective and I always find it interesting how the author will write the male lead. I loved Nick’s voice. He is cynical, sarcastic, and funny. He loves candy, tea, and cigarettes. Oh, and he is not a bad guy. How many of you have seen the movie, Wreck it, Ralph? Call me childish (because I watch cartoons and love them or because I quote them. Whatever) but this one line from the movie popped into my head while I was reading the book: “Just because you are bad guy, does not mean you are bad.. guy” If you have not seen Wreck it, Ralph (seriously, what is wrong with you?) then this quote is from a scene where video game villains are meeting and discussing how just because they play villains in the videogame world as their “jobs”, it does not mean that they are horrible people after they leave their “jobs” for the day. Now… to bring that errant thought back to Nick. Just because Nick is a Demon and the son of the devil, etc. etc. It doesn’t mean that is a bad guy. He does not like to see people hurt and he was a fabulously flawed character, in my opinion. I mean, he is a pervert and all, but still a good person. Yep. Still good.
I absolutely love that this book reads sort of like a crime noir novel. The book stars with a beautiful girl in trouble. The ex- detective (Nick) helps the beautiful girl and more trouble soon follows- of the supernatural variety. He even wears a trench coat and smokes cigarettes. He plays the Dick/detective so well. There is a mystery and Nick is stuck in the middle of it, as every good detective should be.
Some other characters were introduced and they were pretty cool as well. They are all still very much a mystery to me while I know a lot about Nick. I hope I will be able to get to know them better in the second book.
The Angel/ Devil aspects were well thought out, and frankly I was fascinated by them. The story-line was sort of addicting. It was impossible to put the book down until the resolution.
I also liked the writing style. It was fun being in Nick's head.
3.8/5 (4)
There were some insta-love vibes and Vivian felt a little bit hollow, but I am super psyched to read book 2 and learn more about everyone.
This book was amazing, however, and I am completely pulling for Nick. I cannot wait to see what happens to him next!
Nick. Nicky. Englebrecht. Scratch. Devil. Diablo. Demon. Call him what you will, but the man is freaking awesome.
“The Devil you Know” follows Nick Englebrecht, a forty- four year old man who happens to be the only son of the devil, and the heir to Hell. I know what you are thinking. He’s a Demon? Does that mean that there is sex, cursing, blood, guts, and gore in this book? Yes. *grins* Yes, there is. And plenty of it. No, this book is not for the faint of heart or weak of stomach, but if you are like me and can handle some level of it, you should be fine. Honestly, I have read books with more gore. Bisexuality is mentioned in passing. There is some rough- ish sex, but nothing incredibly kinky or weird. Yes, there is inappropriate banter, sarcasm, and mentions of rutting fauns. Yes, I said fauns. Okay, you’ve been warned. The prudes and such can now go running back to their nice safe reads, now. And now that I have those warnings out of the way, I can get to the heart of the enigma that is Nick Englebrecht. (Sorry, I love his name, so I have to keep typing it out. Englebrecht...)
Nick was an awesome character. I have read a few books from solely the male character’s perspective and I always find it interesting how the author will write the male lead. I loved Nick’s voice. He is cynical, sarcastic, and funny. He loves candy, tea, and cigarettes. Oh, and he is not a bad guy. How many of you have seen the movie, Wreck it, Ralph? Call me childish (because I watch cartoons and love them or because I quote them. Whatever) but this one line from the movie popped into my head while I was reading the book: “Just because you are bad guy, does not mean you are bad.. guy” If you have not seen Wreck it, Ralph (seriously, what is wrong with you?) then this quote is from a scene where video game villains are meeting and discussing how just because they play villains in the videogame world as their “jobs”, it does not mean that they are horrible people after they leave their “jobs” for the day. Now… to bring that errant thought back to Nick. Just because Nick is a Demon and the son of the devil, etc. etc. It doesn’t mean that is a bad guy. He does not like to see people hurt and he was a fabulously flawed character, in my opinion. I mean, he is a pervert and all, but still a good person. Yep. Still good.
I absolutely love that this book reads sort of like a crime noir novel. The book stars with a beautiful girl in trouble. The ex- detective (Nick) helps the beautiful girl and more trouble soon follows- of the supernatural variety. He even wears a trench coat and smokes cigarettes. He plays the Dick/detective so well. There is a mystery and Nick is stuck in the middle of it, as every good detective should be.
Some other characters were introduced and they were pretty cool as well. They are all still very much a mystery to me while I know a lot about Nick. I hope I will be able to get to know them better in the second book.
The Angel/ Devil aspects were well thought out, and frankly I was fascinated by them. The story-line was sort of addicting. It was impossible to put the book down until the resolution.
I also liked the writing style. It was fun being in Nick's head.
3.8/5 (4)
There were some insta-love vibes and Vivian felt a little bit hollow, but I am super psyched to read book 2 and learn more about everyone.
This book was amazing, however, and I am completely pulling for Nick. I cannot wait to see what happens to him next!
February 27, 2013
This title is really what got me scratching my chin and thinking that this is a book I want to read. And it started out amazing. Then…I started having mixed emotions about our hero Nick.
Nick had a good voice with amazing one liners and descriptions, however, there were times that I felt that he was a little too creepy for me. And to me, he didn’t sound handsome. At one time, K.H. Koehler described him as David Bowie from the Labyrinth. I like David Bowie, but not really my cup of tea. Also, there seemed to be this really strange obsession with describing the size of hands and man parts was a little off putting. There was some sexy time between Nick and Vivian, a half demon like himself, and after reading it I felt like I really needed to take a shower…to wash away the ick factor. But then, Nick would redeem himself by doing something related to the main plot of the story in investigating the missing little girl or do some kind of awesome action scene that involved fighting some seriously badass angels. While reading this, unfortunately, I couldn’t help myself thinking that Nick is merely Diet Dresden: seems like my favorite hero Harry Dresden, but just not as satisfying.
I had an issue with how women were portrayed in this book. Vivian seemed to be more than kind of slutty, and the evil villainess was absolutely bonkers due to her thirst for ultimate power. The only female in the story that seemed stable was Morgana. She was the calm and rational force that seemed to keep Nick grounded in reality.
These issues I had to with the story didn’t prevent me from finishing the tale. I found that my favorite part of the book was the interaction between Nick and Lucifer. It seemed to me the only time where there is genuine emotion other than snark and horny. It was an honest conversation between father and son. The father delivering the worst of bad news, and advising that he is the only one who can stop what was happening, however, he better watch his ass because bad things could happen to him as well.
Nick Engelbrecht, he’s not a bad guy or a bad character, and the story and mythology of the spiritual world was interesting and it did peak my interest. I did enjoy the book for the most part. But I just felt that the things that put me off made it hard to really get behind and cheer for Nick and tell him to go kick some butt. This is the first in series, and really, not for the weak of heart. Will I read the next books? More than likely. There seems to be something up with Vivan. I mean, she was referenced as the Whore of Babylon. So that has to be important right? Right?
Go forth and read, my friends.
Nick had a good voice with amazing one liners and descriptions, however, there were times that I felt that he was a little too creepy for me. And to me, he didn’t sound handsome. At one time, K.H. Koehler described him as David Bowie from the Labyrinth. I like David Bowie, but not really my cup of tea. Also, there seemed to be this really strange obsession with describing the size of hands and man parts was a little off putting. There was some sexy time between Nick and Vivian, a half demon like himself, and after reading it I felt like I really needed to take a shower…to wash away the ick factor. But then, Nick would redeem himself by doing something related to the main plot of the story in investigating the missing little girl or do some kind of awesome action scene that involved fighting some seriously badass angels. While reading this, unfortunately, I couldn’t help myself thinking that Nick is merely Diet Dresden: seems like my favorite hero Harry Dresden, but just not as satisfying.
I had an issue with how women were portrayed in this book. Vivian seemed to be more than kind of slutty, and the evil villainess was absolutely bonkers due to her thirst for ultimate power. The only female in the story that seemed stable was Morgana. She was the calm and rational force that seemed to keep Nick grounded in reality.
These issues I had to with the story didn’t prevent me from finishing the tale. I found that my favorite part of the book was the interaction between Nick and Lucifer. It seemed to me the only time where there is genuine emotion other than snark and horny. It was an honest conversation between father and son. The father delivering the worst of bad news, and advising that he is the only one who can stop what was happening, however, he better watch his ass because bad things could happen to him as well.
Nick Engelbrecht, he’s not a bad guy or a bad character, and the story and mythology of the spiritual world was interesting and it did peak my interest. I did enjoy the book for the most part. But I just felt that the things that put me off made it hard to really get behind and cheer for Nick and tell him to go kick some butt. This is the first in series, and really, not for the weak of heart. Will I read the next books? More than likely. There seems to be something up with Vivan. I mean, she was referenced as the Whore of Babylon. So that has to be important right? Right?
Go forth and read, my friends.
May 18, 2014
This was one wild read. The author gave me angels and angel-eaters, demons and daemons. witches and the big guy himself, the Devil.
The star of this story is Nick, son of Satan. He and his partner Morgana own the Curiosities Shop, an occult shop in a small town in Pennsylvania. But he used to be a cop and he still does some psychic detective work. Big daddy Satan isn’t too pleased with that. He wants Nick to quit with the human stuff and ascend to the throne.
So do the angels. They’re not thrilled about an empty throne, even the devils. The author got real creative with that idea.
The story begins when a young woman darts into the shop. Someone is after her. It’s Malach. He’s a Seraph, a type of angel. His primary purpose is to kill demons and Nick tries to stay off his radar and have a sanctified shelter close at all times.
Once he shoos Malach out of the shop he gets to know Vivian and senses she has powers of her own, but she doesn’t know what she is, what she’s capable of, and Nick ain’t telling.
He begins to have feelings for her. Not just the horny devil kind. Can the son of the devil truly love?
I have my doubts. Afterall, Nick is the son of the devil and sin is a recreation, so anything goes in the sex department. Him and his partner have sex now and then. Friends with benefits.
You get to meet his father on occasion. This was such fun. I wish there’d been more scenes with father and son. Satan reminded me of the evil one in Constantine. Nasty and charming at the same time. You can tell the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree. Nick’s a crafty devil. Look at his dad. He’s been fooling people into believing he doesn’t exist for ages. And there’s an interesting story behind Nick’s mother and father. It would be a great side story.
I had just as much fun with Nick and his dad as I did with the investigation he gets drawn into. Weird things were happening around the disappearance of a local girl. Strange doings and beings in the woods.
Something new to me were the angel-eaters. They actually eat angels to gain power, trying to ascend to the throne. Pretty nasty beings.
There’s raw sex and violence, but this book wouldn’t be as good as it is without it. And the author did a great job of writing this in the first person, with Nick telling the story.
I’d recommend this as a noirish detective mystery with a whole lot of sexy deviltry. You’ll see the dark side in a new light.
I received this book for my honest review.
The star of this story is Nick, son of Satan. He and his partner Morgana own the Curiosities Shop, an occult shop in a small town in Pennsylvania. But he used to be a cop and he still does some psychic detective work. Big daddy Satan isn’t too pleased with that. He wants Nick to quit with the human stuff and ascend to the throne.
So do the angels. They’re not thrilled about an empty throne, even the devils. The author got real creative with that idea.
The story begins when a young woman darts into the shop. Someone is after her. It’s Malach. He’s a Seraph, a type of angel. His primary purpose is to kill demons and Nick tries to stay off his radar and have a sanctified shelter close at all times.
Once he shoos Malach out of the shop he gets to know Vivian and senses she has powers of her own, but she doesn’t know what she is, what she’s capable of, and Nick ain’t telling.
He begins to have feelings for her. Not just the horny devil kind. Can the son of the devil truly love?
I have my doubts. Afterall, Nick is the son of the devil and sin is a recreation, so anything goes in the sex department. Him and his partner have sex now and then. Friends with benefits.
You get to meet his father on occasion. This was such fun. I wish there’d been more scenes with father and son. Satan reminded me of the evil one in Constantine. Nasty and charming at the same time. You can tell the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree. Nick’s a crafty devil. Look at his dad. He’s been fooling people into believing he doesn’t exist for ages. And there’s an interesting story behind Nick’s mother and father. It would be a great side story.
I had just as much fun with Nick and his dad as I did with the investigation he gets drawn into. Weird things were happening around the disappearance of a local girl. Strange doings and beings in the woods.
Something new to me were the angel-eaters. They actually eat angels to gain power, trying to ascend to the throne. Pretty nasty beings.
There’s raw sex and violence, but this book wouldn’t be as good as it is without it. And the author did a great job of writing this in the first person, with Nick telling the story.
I’d recommend this as a noirish detective mystery with a whole lot of sexy deviltry. You’ll see the dark side in a new light.
I received this book for my honest review.
March 21, 2013
Nick is a daemon, and not just any daemon – he’s the son and heir of Lucifer himself. Yet he tries to avoid all that, focusing instead on being a witch and part owner of an occult shop with his friend and business partner Morganna.
Until Vivian enters his life, a fellow daemon, hunting by Seraphs (warrior angels with no sense of humour who would very much like to pound daemons into the dirt). Sparks quickly fly between the two daemons, even if Morganna doesn’t approve.
Nick’s also an ex-detective and is called in by local police when they need help from someone in the know and with his woo-woo – such as when a small child disappears in mysterious circumstances. Nick’s sure there’s more to the disappearance than it seems – but is also heavily distracted by the issues consuming Vivian’s life. Especially when the two appear to be linked and the enemy discovers him, Lucifer’s son, as an excellent prize.
This book has massive props for originality. Nick is a daemon, the son of a demon and a mortal woman. Actually, he’s the son of Lucifer and a mortal woman and Lucifer’s heir; not just a paperwork exercise, he’s expected to step up and take over just as his father did from his grandfather.
He and his dad don’t get on, as can be imagined – and that not getting on is rather well done. There’s a combination of revulsion and rejection of what his father is and stands for, linked with his abandoned-child desire for acceptance and respect coupled with a fear and shame of not reaching his father’s standards. And all of that is done without pages and pages of angst and moping.
Nick as a character has a lot of intriguing elements, as does Vivian, his love interest. Together they have a lot in common and not just their heritage – they’re not saints by any stretch and they don’t pretend to be. While Nick has a conscience that he does apply and lines he doesn’t cross, he’s also not a nice person and doesn’t have many illusions about that. Sometimes this goes too far into behaviour that crosses from “not a nice person” to “inexcusable arsehole” but usually doesn’t – it’s a balance that needs to be addressed. In general he’s quite deep and involved with a strong level of characterisation to make him very compelling very real, someone you want to get behind and support while, unfortunately, having moments when you want to punch him a few times.
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Until Vivian enters his life, a fellow daemon, hunting by Seraphs (warrior angels with no sense of humour who would very much like to pound daemons into the dirt). Sparks quickly fly between the two daemons, even if Morganna doesn’t approve.
Nick’s also an ex-detective and is called in by local police when they need help from someone in the know and with his woo-woo – such as when a small child disappears in mysterious circumstances. Nick’s sure there’s more to the disappearance than it seems – but is also heavily distracted by the issues consuming Vivian’s life. Especially when the two appear to be linked and the enemy discovers him, Lucifer’s son, as an excellent prize.
This book has massive props for originality. Nick is a daemon, the son of a demon and a mortal woman. Actually, he’s the son of Lucifer and a mortal woman and Lucifer’s heir; not just a paperwork exercise, he’s expected to step up and take over just as his father did from his grandfather.
He and his dad don’t get on, as can be imagined – and that not getting on is rather well done. There’s a combination of revulsion and rejection of what his father is and stands for, linked with his abandoned-child desire for acceptance and respect coupled with a fear and shame of not reaching his father’s standards. And all of that is done without pages and pages of angst and moping.
Nick as a character has a lot of intriguing elements, as does Vivian, his love interest. Together they have a lot in common and not just their heritage – they’re not saints by any stretch and they don’t pretend to be. While Nick has a conscience that he does apply and lines he doesn’t cross, he’s also not a nice person and doesn’t have many illusions about that. Sometimes this goes too far into behaviour that crosses from “not a nice person” to “inexcusable arsehole” but usually doesn’t – it’s a balance that needs to be addressed. In general he’s quite deep and involved with a strong level of characterisation to make him very compelling very real, someone you want to get behind and support while, unfortunately, having moments when you want to punch him a few times.
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December 29, 2012
A fantastic amalgam of detective novel and contemporary fantasy, with a hefty dose of the supernatural and a side order of Christian theology. Fast, well-written, and intriguing.
Honestly, the only reason this isn't a 5-star rating is because I was uncomfortable with the frequency, duration, and aggression of the sex scenes, and the diminution of the female protagonist to a mere femme fatale and sex partner. Given a little more agency for her, and less triggery backstory, this would've been a darn good read.
About that: TRIGGER WARNINGS ABOUND. Child molestation is a central theme, and not always treated in an appropriately horrified/horrifying way. Be prepared.
Nick Englebrecht really is the son of the devil, and next in line to rule Hell. The theology built up around his lineage, and the lineage of God, and the various angels and demons is very well wrought in this book, and it's clear the author's done some research into the different types of heavenly creatures. Nick is pretty well resigned to his fate, although not willing to quit struggling against it (hurrah for free will), and embraces his demonic side, working magic and doing seances, exorcisms, etc. He also happens to be an ex-cop with a traumatic past, which comes into play when he's asked to help find a missing girl. Soon enough, the femme fatale who charged into his life on the first page gets accused of murder, shit gets real, and Nick has a REAL challenge on his hands. Not to mention a breakdown in the accords that protect humans from angelic wrath, and more.
Packing all of that into what is a very short novel takes some skill, and the author manages to pull it off with aplomb. There's some repetitive phrasing and a few stilted conversations, but overall, the pacing is good and there's a distinct lack of jarring infodumps. The characterizations could have been deeper (and relied much less on sexual trauma, thanks), but I suspect that the author is holding quite a bit back for sequels.
Recommended for fans of the Dresden Files or Hellblazer who don't mind a few more graphic sex scenes than are really necessary, and who don't have trigger issues.
Honestly, the only reason this isn't a 5-star rating is because I was uncomfortable with the frequency, duration, and aggression of the sex scenes, and the diminution of the female protagonist to a mere femme fatale and sex partner. Given a little more agency for her, and less triggery backstory, this would've been a darn good read.
About that: TRIGGER WARNINGS ABOUND. Child molestation is a central theme, and not always treated in an appropriately horrified/horrifying way. Be prepared.
Nick Englebrecht really is the son of the devil, and next in line to rule Hell. The theology built up around his lineage, and the lineage of God, and the various angels and demons is very well wrought in this book, and it's clear the author's done some research into the different types of heavenly creatures. Nick is pretty well resigned to his fate, although not willing to quit struggling against it (hurrah for free will), and embraces his demonic side, working magic and doing seances, exorcisms, etc. He also happens to be an ex-cop with a traumatic past, which comes into play when he's asked to help find a missing girl. Soon enough, the femme fatale who charged into his life on the first page gets accused of murder, shit gets real, and Nick has a REAL challenge on his hands. Not to mention a breakdown in the accords that protect humans from angelic wrath, and more.
Packing all of that into what is a very short novel takes some skill, and the author manages to pull it off with aplomb. There's some repetitive phrasing and a few stilted conversations, but overall, the pacing is good and there's a distinct lack of jarring infodumps. The characterizations could have been deeper (and relied much less on sexual trauma, thanks), but I suspect that the author is holding quite a bit back for sequels.
Recommended for fans of the Dresden Files or Hellblazer who don't mind a few more graphic sex scenes than are really necessary, and who don't have trigger issues.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 6, 2013
This is a really good book with a different take on angels, daemons, demons, the devil and god. Nick is the son of the devil and therefore has to watch his back as angels are always gunning for him, even though he isn't evil or bad. Well no more bad than the next guy, he likes to smoke and have sex, nothing wrong with that.
When he meets Vivian, he finds himself falling fast for her but there is a small problem, she's like him. She's also running from Malach, an angel that is known for killing daemons. There's also the case of the missing little girl from a local, well to do family.
When Nick is called in to help, he stumbles on something much more sinister than a child gone missing. Not only is the child suffering from Tay-Sachs disease but her mother is trying to take over the Throne (in heaven) by ascending to the level of God. She's doing this by trapping and eating parts of angels and also her daughter.
The mother turns out to be Vivian's friend from child-hood, who ran away and then re-invented herself as someone else and married her father, who had sexually abused her as a child. It's totally twisted and beyond evil. It's also a little confusing at first until you get your brain around it.
I think there could have been more in the story about Nick's room-mate, Morgana and his relationship with her but I'm hoping that will be covered in the next book.
This story ticks along at a good pace and has a fantastic ending. I would recommend this to any of my friends.
When he meets Vivian, he finds himself falling fast for her but there is a small problem, she's like him. She's also running from Malach, an angel that is known for killing daemons. There's also the case of the missing little girl from a local, well to do family.
When Nick is called in to help, he stumbles on something much more sinister than a child gone missing. Not only is the child suffering from Tay-Sachs disease but her mother is trying to take over the Throne (in heaven) by ascending to the level of God. She's doing this by trapping and eating parts of angels and also her daughter.
The mother turns out to be Vivian's friend from child-hood, who ran away and then re-invented herself as someone else and married her father, who had sexually abused her as a child. It's totally twisted and beyond evil. It's also a little confusing at first until you get your brain around it.
I think there could have been more in the story about Nick's room-mate, Morgana and his relationship with her but I'm hoping that will be covered in the next book.
This story ticks along at a good pace and has a fantastic ending. I would recommend this to any of my friends.
April 14, 2014
This was an absolutely fun read and one that I think people would compare to the Dresden files at first glance. Detective novel mixed with fantasy and a dose of Christian theology (don't worry, it's not proselytizing fiction at all) and a story that will keep you turning the pages, this was an excellent read. While there are some similarities in the protagonist, Nick Englebrecht is not just a witch, but a Prince of Hell. The Prince of Hell, in fact.
Although written by a woman, the narrative is from Nick's point of view and it remains strong and true in his voice at all times. Starting off with the aftermath of sex from his business partner, Morgana, and a missing five year old child, the action and story rolls out smoothly and spins its web around you.
It's a good mystery and filled with little nods to popular culture that will make you smirk. The conversations are believable and the wry sense of humor from the characters made my own lips curl in a grin. The Devil is personable and described as a very Fey/Ethereal Jareth from Labyrinth. So now I will forever think David Bowie is the Devil! I really loved the author's take on angels and demons, hell and earth, the Throne above and the Throne below. And of course...it's pointed out that without the Devil, there would be NO free will.
Thanks to the publisher for my complimentary copy! Loved this and cannot wait to read more!
Although written by a woman, the narrative is from Nick's point of view and it remains strong and true in his voice at all times. Starting off with the aftermath of sex from his business partner, Morgana, and a missing five year old child, the action and story rolls out smoothly and spins its web around you.
It's a good mystery and filled with little nods to popular culture that will make you smirk. The conversations are believable and the wry sense of humor from the characters made my own lips curl in a grin. The Devil is personable and described as a very Fey/Ethereal Jareth from Labyrinth. So now I will forever think David Bowie is the Devil! I really loved the author's take on angels and demons, hell and earth, the Throne above and the Throne below. And of course...it's pointed out that without the Devil, there would be NO free will.
Thanks to the publisher for my complimentary copy! Loved this and cannot wait to read more!
July 11, 2013
Review: When I started this book, I did not have any expectations for it other than the normal ones like: full story, full detailed characters, and a great pace of all story lines flow smoothly.
This book did not disappoint!
Nick Englebrecht is a bisexual, chain-smoking, ill repute that wants to be known as the “Prince of Darkness” but lacks the tough exterior of it. When the local Sheriff, Ben Oswell, asks for his help to find a missing girl, he does it without much thought of it being good or bad. He was more worried about the town’s people.
Nick reminded me of the 2005 movie called “Constantine” that had my great love Kneau Reeves as John Constantine. John was trying to fix his world to get to heaven but Nick is not. He just has a soft spot in his heart.
The character development of Nick was full of one-liners and kept me, as the reader, hoping he got better respect for his good doings.
The story line did not disappoint but it felt like waiting for a pan of Jell-O in the frig. to harden up. An anticipation of what’s to come, but knowing you can’t rush perfection.
Four stars.
I was given a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
This book did not disappoint!
Nick Englebrecht is a bisexual, chain-smoking, ill repute that wants to be known as the “Prince of Darkness” but lacks the tough exterior of it. When the local Sheriff, Ben Oswell, asks for his help to find a missing girl, he does it without much thought of it being good or bad. He was more worried about the town’s people.
Nick reminded me of the 2005 movie called “Constantine” that had my great love Kneau Reeves as John Constantine. John was trying to fix his world to get to heaven but Nick is not. He just has a soft spot in his heart.
The character development of Nick was full of one-liners and kept me, as the reader, hoping he got better respect for his good doings.
The story line did not disappoint but it felt like waiting for a pan of Jell-O in the frig. to harden up. An anticipation of what’s to come, but knowing you can’t rush perfection.
Four stars.
I was given a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
April 16, 2014
I am a huge fan of paranormal novels, and this did not let me down! Nick is an awesome character with so much depth - he may be the son of the devil, but he is so much more complex than just that detail. Nick hates his father and hates who he is but accepts it while still attempting his very best to keep his humanity intact.
This is an awesome read, very intense and can get a little confusing at times so you have to keep up and be alert while reading it :)
I love Nick but I also love Vivian as a character, she is so striking and although we don't get into her mind like we do with Nick, the reader is able to see how complex her character is and her unfailing love for Nick is always there and guides her.
Just a warning - this book does have some adult themes and strong language so take that into consideration when reading :)
Overall I would definitely give this book 5 stars, a truly heart-pounding paranormal read!
**I was given a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review**
This is an awesome read, very intense and can get a little confusing at times so you have to keep up and be alert while reading it :)
I love Nick but I also love Vivian as a character, she is so striking and although we don't get into her mind like we do with Nick, the reader is able to see how complex her character is and her unfailing love for Nick is always there and guides her.
Just a warning - this book does have some adult themes and strong language so take that into consideration when reading :)
Overall I would definitely give this book 5 stars, a truly heart-pounding paranormal read!
**I was given a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review**
October 7, 2013
I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Nick is the son of Lucifer. He lives on earth with humans until he finally ascends to his father's throne, which he does not want. While on earth, he was a cop and an occult store owner. He is asked by the local precinct to assist in a search party for a missing disabled child. He tries not to live up to his father's reputation as the Devil, but he is still pursued by Angels who want to bring him before the Throne.
TO avoid giving away any of the story, I will stop here. But I thoroughly enjoyed this one and am looking forward to reading the next in the series, The Devil Dances. It was well written with strong characters, and the action kept up throughout.
Nick is the son of Lucifer. He lives on earth with humans until he finally ascends to his father's throne, which he does not want. While on earth, he was a cop and an occult store owner. He is asked by the local precinct to assist in a search party for a missing disabled child. He tries not to live up to his father's reputation as the Devil, but he is still pursued by Angels who want to bring him before the Throne.
TO avoid giving away any of the story, I will stop here. But I thoroughly enjoyed this one and am looking forward to reading the next in the series, The Devil Dances. It was well written with strong characters, and the action kept up throughout.
January 26, 2016
There's the bones of a great story here, but it really needed another edit. The wish fulfillment of the protagonist--son of Lucifer, ex-cop witch--is extremely heavy handed. (Was it really necessary to point out how well endowed he is? Repeatedly? And being repeatedly assured of the hotness of his new fling and their resulting sex also gets old, fast.) We're told instead of shown quite a bit. The whole book is a bit too brisk--we could have used a few more twists as well as a lot more character development. The relationships that are sketched out are intriguing, but that's all they are--sketches.
January 8, 2013
Curiosity Quills has a knack of finding the wierdest and strangest books to publish. As with my previous review of ‘The Last Donut Shop’, this is another crazy laugh-out-loud adventure.
Let’s start with the premise. The sone of Satan owns an occult shop. Yep. And then it gets funny!
This is a short book that just zips through. There is the odd editing issue though these can be overlooked in favour of this bonkers story. It is almost a crossover between 50 Shades and mixed with angels and devils but a lot bettwe written. The main character, Nick, likes it this way.
And so did I.
Let’s start with the premise. The sone of Satan owns an occult shop. Yep. And then it gets funny!
This is a short book that just zips through. There is the odd editing issue though these can be overlooked in favour of this bonkers story. It is almost a crossover between 50 Shades and mixed with angels and devils but a lot bettwe written. The main character, Nick, likes it this way.
And so did I.
October 25, 2012
I loved this book, and at just under 200 pages it doesn’t feel short but just right. Nick is sexy, sarcastic, and complicated. The angel’s aren’t all good, and the demon’s aren’t all bad. It was the perfect mix of magic and mystery, with some very hot sex scene’s. There is so much more to come from this world and these character’s. And I can’t wait to find out what is the deal with Vivian, like Morgana I don’t trust her. Fan’s of the Dresden Files I think you will really enjoy this book. I am a big fan, and I can’t wait for the next book.
June 11, 2014
At first I had a tough time identifying with the protag - it read a bit like a noir detective novel, but after the first few chapters I was hooked. Good, solid plot. Interesting main character. People liking my Imp-girl might want to give this one a try.
Would have been five stars, but I don't like his girlfriend at all, LOL.
Would have been five stars, but I don't like his girlfriend at all, LOL.
July 16, 2013
I loved the fact the devil runs an occult shop. He is funny as hell and sounds hot too!
This book has just the right amount of paranormal, sex, and mystery.
It was a quick read for me but I have been known to be a fast reader.
I look forward to more from this author.
This book has just the right amount of paranormal, sex, and mystery.
It was a quick read for me but I have been known to be a fast reader.
I look forward to more from this author.
March 2, 2014
Interesting look at how the son of the Devil might be if he was sympathetic, and honorable and cared about saving people from Angels. Nick is witty and charismatic and appealing. The story moves quickly and the alternate reality of angels and daemons is well desccribed
September 13, 2013
Good read, was shocked and enticed by the gruffness of the book. reminds me of the Dresden Files books series. I enjoyed reading and hope for a book two.
June 14, 2014
Review to come. After I get back home from Greece, or find a decent wi-fi connection... ;-)
February 27, 2014
Wow! What a great book! I'm usually partial to male authors, but Ms. Koehler has nailed it! Sometimes it's not such a bad thing to be home in bed with a migraine...
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