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Deal with a Devil
Devil at the Crossroads
A Deal with a Devil Story The devil covets more than his soul.... Six years ago, Logan Hart sold his soul to the devil to become the greatest bluesman of all time — and now the devil has come to collect. The irony is that Logan squandered his gift. High on fame, money, and drugs, he ignored his muse and neglected his music. And despite escaping showbiz in a moment of clarity, it’s too late to redeem himself. All that’s left is to try to go out with some dignity. Alas, the prospect of an eternity in Hell isn’t helping much with that goal. But Farfarello, the devil who bought Logan’s soul, isn’t ready to drag him down to Hell quite yet. He’s just spent six years working his ass off to whip a bluesman into shape, and he refuses to let that—or the opportunity for more sinful pleasures with Logan — go to waste. * * * * * * * Word 19,100; page 72
75 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 21, 2013
3 people are currently reading
226 people want to read
About the author
Cornelia Grey
15 books106 followersCornelia Grey is a creative writing student fresh out of university, with a penchant for fine arts and the blues. Born and raised in the hills of Northern Italy, where she collected her share of poetry and narrative prizes, she is now based in London, and she is thoroughly enjoying the cultural melting pot that is the City.
Her interests vary from painting to photography, from sewing to acting; when writing, she favors curious, surreal poems and short stories involving handsome young men seducing each other.
After graduating with top grades, she is now busy with internships - literary agencies, publishing houses, and creative departments handling book series, among others. She also works as a freelance translator.
You can contact Cornelia at corneliagrey@yahoo.com.
Her interests vary from painting to photography, from sewing to acting; when writing, she favors curious, surreal poems and short stories involving handsome young men seducing each other.
After graduating with top grades, she is now busy with internships - literary agencies, publishing houses, and creative departments handling book series, among others. She also works as a freelance translator.
You can contact Cornelia at corneliagrey@yahoo.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
September 24, 2013
I feel like I must put a disclaimer that I LOVE Cornelia Grey’s stories. I think she is underrated and I would love to see her getting more popularity. So there might be biases when it comes to her stories. Having said that, I truly think this one is another winner.
The start of this short story was like that episode of Supernatural, when Dean was waiting for the hellhounds to drag him to Hell. Six years ago, Logan Hart made a deal with the devil. That in exchange for fame and glory and money in music world, he would give himself to the devil of the crossroads, Farfarello. Tonight, it was time for Farfarello to collect.
And to collect he was. But the thing was, Farfarello never said that he wanted Logan’s soul. His exact words were “And at the stroke of midnight, six years from now, I will come for you. You will be mine, then, for me to do with as I please”.
Cue some really SENSUALLY HOT and CAPTIVATING scenes of Logan and Farfarello; which drove me to the edge of excruciating need to fan myself. This is one of Ms. Grey’s strengths … she has a wonderful way in creating sensual scenes that are really hot without being too erotic. And I am simply in awe with that (PS: If you never read her short story, “Benjamin Pepperwhistle and the Fantabulous Circus of Wonders” in Weight of a Gun II, you truly miss something great).
Unfortunately, since this was a short story, I didn’t get enough background information about how Logan managed to waste his ‘gift’ from the deal with Farfarello. What happened to him? How did he go astray from the path of becoming a great bluesman? Was it really money and fame? When did he manage to truly mess everything up?
The ending, however, will probably be unsatisfying for some readers. It is not a Happily-Ever-After or even Happy-For-Now. But I think it fits. Besides, if you’re familiar with Cornelia Grey’s work, this will come as no surprise since she usually ends her stories in similar way. All in all, it was another sexy and captivating short story from Ms. Grey….
The book is provided by the publisher in exchange for honest review
The start of this short story was like that episode of Supernatural, when Dean was waiting for the hellhounds to drag him to Hell. Six years ago, Logan Hart made a deal with the devil. That in exchange for fame and glory and money in music world, he would give himself to the devil of the crossroads, Farfarello. Tonight, it was time for Farfarello to collect.
And to collect he was. But the thing was, Farfarello never said that he wanted Logan’s soul. His exact words were “And at the stroke of midnight, six years from now, I will come for you. You will be mine, then, for me to do with as I please”.
Cue some really SENSUALLY HOT and CAPTIVATING scenes of Logan and Farfarello; which drove me to the edge of excruciating need to fan myself. This is one of Ms. Grey’s strengths … she has a wonderful way in creating sensual scenes that are really hot without being too erotic. And I am simply in awe with that (PS: If you never read her short story, “Benjamin Pepperwhistle and the Fantabulous Circus of Wonders” in Weight of a Gun II, you truly miss something great).
Unfortunately, since this was a short story, I didn’t get enough background information about how Logan managed to waste his ‘gift’ from the deal with Farfarello. What happened to him? How did he go astray from the path of becoming a great bluesman? Was it really money and fame? When did he manage to truly mess everything up?
The ending, however, will probably be unsatisfying for some readers. It is not a Happily-Ever-After or even Happy-For-Now. But I think it fits. Besides, if you’re familiar with Cornelia Grey’s work, this will come as no surprise since she usually ends her stories in similar way. All in all, it was another sexy and captivating short story from Ms. Grey….
The book is provided by the publisher in exchange for honest review
September 26, 2013
You make a deal with the devil? You better listen!
I have a thing for people (aka authors) who are able to describe music with words - making me feel it...hear it.
And a story that fits the feeling of the music...the blues? Oh my...
This little gem of a story really made my day. It doesn`t have a Happy Ever After or a Happy For Now, BUT it does have a happy end! Made me smile and a little blues-ey.
Oh, Cornelia, the crumbs you feed me are delicious, but can I have a cake now? Pretty please? :)
I have a thing for people (aka authors) who are able to describe music with words - making me feel it...hear it.
And a story that fits the feeling of the music...the blues? Oh my...
This little gem of a story really made my day. It doesn`t have a Happy Ever After or a Happy For Now, BUT it does have a happy end! Made me smile and a little blues-ey.
Oh, Cornelia, the crumbs you feed me are delicious, but can I have a cake now? Pretty please? :)
May 7, 2014
It amazes me how hard, fast, and deep Cornelia Grey hit my favorites list and heart. Just one story and BOOM! She instantly became one of my favorite voices and cravings to hunt down. Her way with words and descriptions just fits and makes sense in my head and heart. And Devil at the Crossroads only reinforces that love.
One dark, dusty still night in the middle of nowhere, Logan sits and waits. Waits at a crossroads to make a deal with a devil. A deal that will make him a rich and famous bluesman. But once the deal is struck, things don’t quite go as expected with the sexy devil. Haha…This devil is full of surprises! You’re going to have to drop by the crossroads to find out what happens because saying much more would spoil all the fun. The only reason this gorgeous tale didn’t get my 5 star love was that I have bumped into a lot of deal-with-the-devil stories and movies in my life. The idea is not new to me, so it felt familiar at times. The story does twist and turn though. Some very HOT twists and turns. *grins*
Grey’s men always seem to have a ‘hold over me. A sexy pull and power you have to experience. The energy and electricity she puts on the page with her words is intoxicating! But that wasn’t even my favorite part here. My love was found in the music. How Ms. Grey talks about music spoke right to me. Notes and sounds vibrated, sang, and moved in the night air. I could feel the music on my finger tips and in my head and heart. Listen to this….
”There was something oddly fascinating in playing an unplugged electric guitar. It wasn’t mute, wasn’t useless, as people thought. It had a different, secret voice that only a few could know and appreciate, short, heavy notes without an echo. He had to press and hit the strings harder than he normally would, strain his fingers, exert himself, an eminently physical effort to coax sounds out of the instrument. Low, guttural notes, a harsh twang, a bitten-off melodic moan. It was tough, having to play without relying on the drawn-out notes he preferred, the ones he could endlessly tweak as they unraveled like a ribbon.”
Loved that part! The moan! I read it over and over. I can feel that guitar in my hands. The weight of it in my lap. Very sexy!
This devil and music inspired me to sit down with my headphones and a few songs I haven’t heard in a long, long time.
Come make a deal with the devil. You won’t regret it.
Highly recommended.
September 27, 2013
TWO MINUTES TO MIDNIGHT
Devil at the Crossroads. I didn't even know that it was a MM book at first. The title itself was enough. Southern gothic as its finest!
Then I realised it's MM "romance". No need to explain my interest.
Cornelia Grey reinterpretated, even demithyfied the classic faustic myth of making the pact with the Devil. The main character is so similar to (in)famous Robert Johnson (there's a legend that he went to Dockery Plantation crossroads, the devil himself tuned his guitar and he sang of his dealings with the Devil untill he was six feet deep - yes, there were hellhounds on his trail, of course) - he's the musican, he wants to play blues, he wants the major changes. He gets it, he makes a deal sealed with the kiss (that's the Supernatural influence, I bet). Expect, contrary to the legends, the kiss is hot, passionate and erotic, since the Devil appears to be the very, very handsome rockman with the red eyes.
Like I said, Devil at the Crossroads is the deconstrucionist (I dare not to say hermaneutical) story. And I liked the twists.
I liked the split narrative, the naturalistic descriptions - who ever dare to say that the spit of his character gathered at the corner of his mouth?
That's right.
Devil at the Crossroads. I didn't even know that it was a MM book at first. The title itself was enough. Southern gothic as its finest!
Then I realised it's MM "romance". No need to explain my interest.
Cornelia Grey reinterpretated, even demithyfied the classic faustic myth of making the pact with the Devil. The main character is so similar to (in)famous Robert Johnson (there's a legend that he went to Dockery Plantation crossroads, the devil himself tuned his guitar and he sang of his dealings with the Devil untill he was six feet deep - yes, there were hellhounds on his trail, of course) - he's the musican, he wants to play blues, he wants the major changes. He gets it, he makes a deal sealed with the kiss (that's the Supernatural influence, I bet). Expect, contrary to the legends, the kiss is hot, passionate and erotic, since the Devil appears to be the very, very handsome rockman with the red eyes.
Like I said, Devil at the Crossroads is the deconstrucionist (I dare not to say hermaneutical) story. And I liked the twists.
I liked the split narrative, the naturalistic descriptions - who ever dare to say that the spit of his character gathered at the corner of his mouth?
That's right.
October 25, 2013
This was another unique take on the classic Faustian tale of selling one's soul to the devil in exchange for power/fame. I fairly recently read The Devil's Metal, and I couldn't help bringing that book to mind while reading this one, though they are two very different books.
I think I appreciated this book more than I enjoyed it. I liked the author's style but I didn't feel a personal connection to the characters. Maybe part of that was the length of the story and maybe another part was due to the unconventional romantic aspect (I don't classify this book as a romance). It is more of a spiritual journey than a romantic one. This book felt introspective to me.
All in all, a nicely written short but not something I would revisit.
**Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
I think I appreciated this book more than I enjoyed it. I liked the author's style but I didn't feel a personal connection to the characters. Maybe part of that was the length of the story and maybe another part was due to the unconventional romantic aspect (I don't classify this book as a romance). It is more of a spiritual journey than a romantic one. This book felt introspective to me.
All in all, a nicely written short but not something I would revisit.
**Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
September 23, 2013
I received this story as an ARC through Net Galley in exchange for an honest review.
An interesting take on Robert Johnson's legendary tale. The writing is compelling, and even though the story is short I felt like a got a good feeling for the characters and their situation. I loved the slight twists on the tale, and the implications that things might not be quite as bad as feared.
An interesting take on Robert Johnson's legendary tale. The writing is compelling, and even though the story is short I felt like a got a good feeling for the characters and their situation. I loved the slight twists on the tale, and the implications that things might not be quite as bad as feared.
June 22, 2017
This was a nice twist or retelling of the classic story of selling one's soul in exchange for getting their heart's desire. Of course the bill collector eventually comes to get his payment with some unexpected "consequences".
And let me just say those consequences were freakin hot!! Holy smokes! I wasn't expecting such a surprise! Seriously. *fans self*
I know that wasn't the take home message of the story. And like some reviewers have said, this really wasn't a romance - but who cares?? I need a cold shower!
Read this - it's short and easy and you won't regret it! Well... I sure as hell didn't.
And let me just say those consequences were freakin hot!! Holy smokes! I wasn't expecting such a surprise! Seriously. *fans self*
I know that wasn't the take home message of the story. And like some reviewers have said, this really wasn't a romance - but who cares?? I need a cold shower!
Read this - it's short and easy and you won't regret it! Well... I sure as hell didn't.
November 28, 2013
The crossroads in Logan Hart’s life signal a turning point for the musician. He made a deal with the devil six years ago, demanding an out from the coal miner legacy of his family. He wanted out of that life and his guitar is the ticket. He lives for his music. But the gig is up, six years later and payment is due.
I’m left confused as to why six years… and how that could possibly be long enough for Logan.
And Logan seems quite capable of making his own special hell, no help needed, thank you very much. He asked for fame and fortune, squandered his gift, and wallows in the knowing of it…
“… six years had passed quickly and all he had to show for it was… a dusty motel room, cheap whiskey… and a crumpled packet of Marlboros. And no one, to call…”
What happens when you make a deal with the devil? The usual take is that it’s all doom and gloom when it’s time to pay up. Logan is expecting fire and brimstone and the trade-in of his soul. What he gets is something very different and unexpected. The blurb gives it away already, so no spoilers here…
Logan is very lucky, in fact, to have made his pact with Farfarello. Not only does he get special tutoring in the soul-making of a real blues musician, he gets some good fucking included and a promise of more to come. The HFN ending clearly points for something more fulfilling in Logan’s life than his previous unenlightened worship of fame and fortune.
I’m confused again though, Farfarello comes off more as impresario or mentor, than a soul harvesting devil. I’d really like to know much more about him, a fallen angel who steals sensual connection where he can…
In the end, what we get here is a deftly written short story. It’s not really a romance, maybe it’s a cautionary tale? It’s too bad I didn’t have enough time to cozy up to either character, and their story is over almost as soon as it’s begun. Still, there’s something in the writing… I’d like to read more from this author.
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September 7, 2016
Antes de leer a Cornelia Grey me costaba considerar como premisa válida por sí misma la idea de que muchas veces los cuentos o relatos cortos poseen -en la mano de un sabio escritor- muchísima más intensidad y carga argumental que una novela larga. Históricamente me ha costado empatizar con los cuentos, la verdad. Claro que cualquier formato depende casi exclusivamente de la mano que le da vida, pero ahora más que nunca creo que un excelente relato es mucho más difícil de realizar y conseguir que una historia muy larga, donde hay espacio para rellenar.
Cornelia logra en sus obras un nivel de profundidad emocional, una carga de sentidos tan redonda que te pasa por encima como un huracán y cuando te das cuenta y querés agarrarte para apreciarlo mejor, ya pasó de largo. Devil..se conecta con el lector desde el más puro instinto. Es factible sentir los olores, vivir la pesadumbre de su protagonista; el lugar entre realidad y fantasía en el que se encuentra. Y no es solamente por la detallada descripción: es también la precisa elección de palabras, ideas y conceptos la que logran transmitir ese ambiente oscuro y áspero. La autora toma la vieja idea faustiana del pacto con el diablo para contar una historia de pasión, de desesperanza, de olvido, de oportunidades perdidas y de posibilidades futuras. En 70 páginas!!!!
Jorge Luis Borges nunca escribió una novela. Él decía que los cuentos eran un género esencial, y que los relatos largos obligaban al relleno. Que un cuento permitía que se apreciaran todos sus detalles, que pudiera vérselo como un todo, pero que en una novela esto era solo posible si se olvidaban muchos detalles. De hecho en el prólogo de El jardín de los senderos que se bifurcan, afirma: "Desvarío laborioso y empobrecedor el de componer vastos libros; el de explayar en quinientas páginas una idea, cuya perfecta exposición oral cabe en pocos minutos. Mejor procedimiento es simular que esos libros ya existen y ofrecer un resumen, un comentario".
Y Cornelia es una clara exponente de esto. Incluso he leído varias reseñas de este mismo libro, donde usuarios destacan su talento pero lamentan que no escriba novelas más largas, como si ese fuera el paraíso de cualquier autor, el objetivo perfecto y deseable por antonomasia. Devil es como una foto: la captura de un momento que ella nos quiere compartir, un pequeño recorte de una historia que puede haber existido antes y después. Si decidiera continuarla, sería muy feliz, pero sino, me quedo con las miles de sensaciones y con todos aquellos posibles escenarios que se me ocurrieron para el futuro de Logan y Farfarello.
Cornelia logra en sus obras un nivel de profundidad emocional, una carga de sentidos tan redonda que te pasa por encima como un huracán y cuando te das cuenta y querés agarrarte para apreciarlo mejor, ya pasó de largo. Devil..se conecta con el lector desde el más puro instinto. Es factible sentir los olores, vivir la pesadumbre de su protagonista; el lugar entre realidad y fantasía en el que se encuentra. Y no es solamente por la detallada descripción: es también la precisa elección de palabras, ideas y conceptos la que logran transmitir ese ambiente oscuro y áspero. La autora toma la vieja idea faustiana del pacto con el diablo para contar una historia de pasión, de desesperanza, de olvido, de oportunidades perdidas y de posibilidades futuras. En 70 páginas!!!!
Jorge Luis Borges nunca escribió una novela. Él decía que los cuentos eran un género esencial, y que los relatos largos obligaban al relleno. Que un cuento permitía que se apreciaran todos sus detalles, que pudiera vérselo como un todo, pero que en una novela esto era solo posible si se olvidaban muchos detalles. De hecho en el prólogo de El jardín de los senderos que se bifurcan, afirma: "Desvarío laborioso y empobrecedor el de componer vastos libros; el de explayar en quinientas páginas una idea, cuya perfecta exposición oral cabe en pocos minutos. Mejor procedimiento es simular que esos libros ya existen y ofrecer un resumen, un comentario".
Y Cornelia es una clara exponente de esto. Incluso he leído varias reseñas de este mismo libro, donde usuarios destacan su talento pero lamentan que no escriba novelas más largas, como si ese fuera el paraíso de cualquier autor, el objetivo perfecto y deseable por antonomasia. Devil es como una foto: la captura de un momento que ella nos quiere compartir, un pequeño recorte de una historia que puede haber existido antes y después. Si decidiera continuarla, sería muy feliz, pero sino, me quedo con las miles de sensaciones y con todos aquellos posibles escenarios que se me ocurrieron para el futuro de Logan y Farfarello.
September 28, 2013
4.5 Stars
A "Live Your Life, Buy The Book" Review
My first thought when reading the description of Devil at the Crossroads was of the Faustian tale surrounding legendary blues guitarist Robert Johnson. Ms. Grey has taken this story and made it her own. It is gritty and dark and so vividly described that I could almost smell the cigarette smoke, feel the dingy carpet beneath my feet and taste the coal dust in the air.
Logan Hart worked at a coal mine. It was bleak and miserable. The only joy he found was playing his guitar. His nights were spent hitchhiking to play at one ratty bar or another; it didn’t matter where as long as he could play. Eventually even that was not enough.
One night he decides to travel to the crossroads to make a deal with the devil. Logan is not sure he truly believes until a man appears out of nowhere and introduces himself as Farfarello, from Malebolge, in the eighth circle of hell. Logan is taken aback but decides to strike a deal with Farfarello. He asks to become a great bluesman and have fame and fortune. Farfarello contemplates this and agrees to Logan’s wishes. He tells him that in six years he will come to collect his part of the bargain. Logan will be his, to do with as he pleases.
Unfortunately, this is one of those be careful what you wish for stories. Logan squanders his fame and fortune, loses sight of his music, and finds himself a wretched mess by the time his six years are up. Logan is determined if this is the end, and the devil is coming to take his soul, he will at least try to die with some dignity. What he does not anticipate is what Farfarello really has in mind.
The chemistry between Fafarello and Logan is intense and passionate. The setting is one that is filled with all the despair, regret, lost hope and broken dreams that fill blues music. It gets under your skin and makes you feel a little bit uncomfortable, a bit more introspective. I thoroughly enjoyed it. It is a novella length book that had me captivated from the first sentence. Give it a try.
A "Live Your Life, Buy The Book" Review
My first thought when reading the description of Devil at the Crossroads was of the Faustian tale surrounding legendary blues guitarist Robert Johnson. Ms. Grey has taken this story and made it her own. It is gritty and dark and so vividly described that I could almost smell the cigarette smoke, feel the dingy carpet beneath my feet and taste the coal dust in the air.
Logan Hart worked at a coal mine. It was bleak and miserable. The only joy he found was playing his guitar. His nights were spent hitchhiking to play at one ratty bar or another; it didn’t matter where as long as he could play. Eventually even that was not enough.
One night he decides to travel to the crossroads to make a deal with the devil. Logan is not sure he truly believes until a man appears out of nowhere and introduces himself as Farfarello, from Malebolge, in the eighth circle of hell. Logan is taken aback but decides to strike a deal with Farfarello. He asks to become a great bluesman and have fame and fortune. Farfarello contemplates this and agrees to Logan’s wishes. He tells him that in six years he will come to collect his part of the bargain. Logan will be his, to do with as he pleases.
Unfortunately, this is one of those be careful what you wish for stories. Logan squanders his fame and fortune, loses sight of his music, and finds himself a wretched mess by the time his six years are up. Logan is determined if this is the end, and the devil is coming to take his soul, he will at least try to die with some dignity. What he does not anticipate is what Farfarello really has in mind.
The chemistry between Fafarello and Logan is intense and passionate. The setting is one that is filled with all the despair, regret, lost hope and broken dreams that fill blues music. It gets under your skin and makes you feel a little bit uncomfortable, a bit more introspective. I thoroughly enjoyed it. It is a novella length book that had me captivated from the first sentence. Give it a try.
November 22, 2014
4.25
Wonderful, visceral, moody writing. I really got into this short novella, and it certainly cemented my feelings about Cornelia Grey being one of my favorite writers!
This story really gripped my emotions, and I really liked Logan for his acceptance that he'd fucked things up and his ability to hold his head up and admit his failures and bear the consequences.
It's a sexy story too, and I enjoyed that as well--but it was not (thankfully, since I've read The Circus of the Damned) a romance. It had a pleasant ending, though.
My main problem was Farfarrello (whose name I never remember how to spell). Firstly, he appears differently in this book (it is explained that he can look as he pleases, but of course it makes me wonder what he looks like without the disguises. So far, I feel he looks as the character seeing him most wants him to look).
Secondly, since I'd read The Circus of the Damned first, I kept thinking about his story with Jesse, which there wasn't a hint of in here and so I couldn't believe any real depth of emotion from him toward Logan. (On some level, yes. There was an emotional connection, but not THE connection, you know.)
Also, in this book Farfarrello mentions how little worth a soul has and that there are so many in hell to sort out and deal with that it's almost problematic. That seems to conflict with what we learn in Circus of the Damned, and it kinda weakens that story's premise, if this thing about the souls in book one is true.
Hmmm.
Regardless of my nitpicking, I really, really think Cornelia Grey is incredibly talented at writing, and I am turning into such a fan-girl . . .
She seems to be underrated at the moment! This author needs more readers. She's so good.
Wonderful, visceral, moody writing. I really got into this short novella, and it certainly cemented my feelings about Cornelia Grey being one of my favorite writers!
This story really gripped my emotions, and I really liked Logan for his acceptance that he'd fucked things up and his ability to hold his head up and admit his failures and bear the consequences.
It's a sexy story too, and I enjoyed that as well--but it was not (thankfully, since I've read The Circus of the Damned) a romance. It had a pleasant ending, though.
My main problem was Farfarrello (whose name I never remember how to spell). Firstly, he appears differently in this book (it is explained that he can look as he pleases, but of course it makes me wonder what he looks like without the disguises. So far, I feel he looks as the character seeing him most wants him to look).
Secondly, since I'd read The Circus of the Damned first, I kept thinking about his story with Jesse, which there wasn't a hint of in here and so I couldn't believe any real depth of emotion from him toward Logan. (On some level, yes. There was an emotional connection, but not THE connection, you know.)
Also, in this book Farfarrello mentions how little worth a soul has and that there are so many in hell to sort out and deal with that it's almost problematic. That seems to conflict with what we learn in Circus of the Damned, and it kinda weakens that story's premise, if this thing about the souls in book one is true.
Hmmm.
Regardless of my nitpicking, I really, really think Cornelia Grey is incredibly talented at writing, and I am turning into such a fan-girl . . .
She seems to be underrated at the moment! This author needs more readers. She's so good.
September 22, 2013
My goodness, I enjoyed this! There weren't any surprises, any new twists of a way to write a story, any fancy writing to make it edgy and supposedly new, just some good, solid, story-telling. It felt brief and I guess at a little under 20K words, it is, but it was definitely rich with atmosphere and two characters that I quite enjoyed; definitely how I would expect a tale of a bluesman and a devil to read. And the sex was steamy, steamy hot. :)
This is the first work I've read by Cornelia Grey and I would totally read her again. :)
This is the first work I've read by Cornelia Grey and I would totally read her again. :)
September 22, 2013
3.75 stars rounded up. A very gripping and engaging take on the Faustian tale, although far too brief. The intense chemistry between the protagonists made up for the lack of a 'conventional' romance. The length probably fit and poignantly conveyed the desired message, yet my love of the writing, plot and characters wanted so much more...
July 5, 2014
This story is quite obviously intended to be a parable, complete with the maxim at the end. As such, there are some moments where the preachiness goes a little over the top for my taste, hence the 4 stars and not 5.
However... it is very well written, with the kind of descriptive prose I enjoy. The setting in particular was very well done, it felt tangible, like I was right in the middle of it. The imagery was by turns stark then garish, and all very imaginatively painted.
My first read by Ms. Grey certainly won't be my last.
However... it is very well written, with the kind of descriptive prose I enjoy. The setting in particular was very well done, it felt tangible, like I was right in the middle of it. The imagery was by turns stark then garish, and all very imaginatively painted.
My first read by Ms. Grey certainly won't be my last.
November 10, 2013
I liked it because it honored the music. Too many musician romance things are only about...I dunno. The aftermath caused by being a musician? Something like that. It honored the music, but also didn't make it out to be some stupid sentient, mythical, magical force that can manifest and shit. It honors the music, but speaks of it casually enough that it seems the author truly has internalized the music instead of doing a "ooooh look at me. I can play music. Aren't I amazing and awesome? It's a magic power of mine; the Music Speaks to me, and me alone, and I commune with the magical muse of music" sort of thing. I've always thought those were really annoyingly gimmicky.
I liked the romance aspect between the two, also. It's bittersweet, almost, but no more than life is. The good, the bad, the ugly, but also, the beauty of hope.
There were a couple of parts where the turn of phrase seemed rather odd (like dude. if you feel the dude's dick against you, we're already going to assume it's hard. no need to draw us a picture and give live demonstrations on this concept of "erection"). Still, I'd say it's one of my favorites.
It's interesting because the blurb is right. That's exactly what happened. Except it's not. The author didn't just tell us about it, though. The author led us through his journey.
I liked the romance aspect between the two, also. It's bittersweet, almost, but no more than life is. The good, the bad, the ugly, but also, the beauty of hope.
There were a couple of parts where the turn of phrase seemed rather odd (like dude. if you feel the dude's dick against you, we're already going to assume it's hard. no need to draw us a picture and give live demonstrations on this concept of "erection"). Still, I'd say it's one of my favorites.
It's interesting because the blurb is right. That's exactly what happened. Except it's not. The author didn't just tell us about it, though. The author led us through his journey.
September 25, 2013
Though this novella is short on word count it's long on its emotional impact. In the span of 75 pages Ms. Grey has managed to create a thought-provoking story about the price of fame and being careful what you ask for as all that glitters is not always gold. We see a character rising from the bottom to reach the highest pinnacles to end up even lower than where he started. It leaves the reader grateful for what they have and never willing to squander any chance they have for something better.
Logan is a talented bluesman tired of his dreary and dismal life working in a factory that is slowly killing him. Music is his only bright spot and one night an exotic stranger offers him the chance of a lifetime. This compelling stranger offers him fame, wealth, and all the sex he wants in exchange for Logan giving himself over to this stranger in six years. Those six years aren't what Logan expected though and we see a man now lost and confused, faking his own death to get away from what he thought he wanted. He's frightened of his end quickly approaching and just wants to face it without cowardice. I ached for how low he's fallen as he's worse off mentally now than he was six years ago. He's lonely with no hope but help soon comes from an unexpected source.
The stranger, the Devil himself, soon arrives but what he demands in repayment is unexpected and extremely erotic. Farfarello looks nothing like the stereotypical images of the Devil we've all seen as there's a sensuality surrounding him. He's engaging, sexy, and it's easy to see why you'd give your soul to him with a smile. He's always been drawn to Logan and watched over him throughout the last six years. He found his music compelling and more expressive than any words uttered. Though it's his soul you'd expect Farfarello to want there's something more intense that he wants from Logan. Instead of taking him to Hell he takes him on an erotic journey full of sweat and surrender. Farfarello still believes in him and gives him one last chance to be with his one true love...music...if only Logan has truly learned from his mistakes and doesn't make the same poor choices again.
Ms. Grey has created an atmospheric story that takes you to the darkest parts of a person's soul. It's a gritty and intense read that's also thought-provoking in the message it leaves the reader with. The steamy sexual interludes of m/m love ground the story in reality and bring two lost souls together for a moment of comfort. I was completely immersed in this story from the first word to the last and look forward to where this author takes us next.
Logan is a talented bluesman tired of his dreary and dismal life working in a factory that is slowly killing him. Music is his only bright spot and one night an exotic stranger offers him the chance of a lifetime. This compelling stranger offers him fame, wealth, and all the sex he wants in exchange for Logan giving himself over to this stranger in six years. Those six years aren't what Logan expected though and we see a man now lost and confused, faking his own death to get away from what he thought he wanted. He's frightened of his end quickly approaching and just wants to face it without cowardice. I ached for how low he's fallen as he's worse off mentally now than he was six years ago. He's lonely with no hope but help soon comes from an unexpected source.
The stranger, the Devil himself, soon arrives but what he demands in repayment is unexpected and extremely erotic. Farfarello looks nothing like the stereotypical images of the Devil we've all seen as there's a sensuality surrounding him. He's engaging, sexy, and it's easy to see why you'd give your soul to him with a smile. He's always been drawn to Logan and watched over him throughout the last six years. He found his music compelling and more expressive than any words uttered. Though it's his soul you'd expect Farfarello to want there's something more intense that he wants from Logan. Instead of taking him to Hell he takes him on an erotic journey full of sweat and surrender. Farfarello still believes in him and gives him one last chance to be with his one true love...music...if only Logan has truly learned from his mistakes and doesn't make the same poor choices again.
Ms. Grey has created an atmospheric story that takes you to the darkest parts of a person's soul. It's a gritty and intense read that's also thought-provoking in the message it leaves the reader with. The steamy sexual interludes of m/m love ground the story in reality and bring two lost souls together for a moment of comfort. I was completely immersed in this story from the first word to the last and look forward to where this author takes us next.
September 24, 2013
Devil at the Crossroads. Cornelia Grey.
Arc supplied via Netgalley.
Short read, but packed with story. Logan has sold his soul, and we start where he meets Farfello, when he's twenty one ( I think – around that anyway ) and as with many youths, he thinks everything is a huge drama, and he wants to short-cut the place in music history. He's the talent but not the patience to wait it out. He wants to become the greatest blues-man, and he wants it Now. Of course he adds in fortune along with the fame, and when we meet him next he's waiting for Farfello and looking back at the drug and drugs laden years he's spent, where the fame and fortune over rode the music, where he squandered his talent and now its too late. Farfello has other ideas though :) and Logan doesn't get what he expects.
Its a fun read, short and sweet and with a couple of hot, carnal, sultry sex scenes. As with most gay romance its quite expensive at £1.93 for 58 pages/441kb but its all plot and story, no wasted fluff filler, and it's an enjoyable tale. I'm not really a short story fan but did enjoy this, the wondering just what Farfello was going to do, how things would work out for Logan, and I was totlally surprised by the result and Farfello's plans... :) I'd re read this one again.
Stars: I wish it was longer...but its not so i'm giving it four stars.
Arc supplied via Netgalley.
Short read, but packed with story. Logan has sold his soul, and we start where he meets Farfello, when he's twenty one ( I think – around that anyway ) and as with many youths, he thinks everything is a huge drama, and he wants to short-cut the place in music history. He's the talent but not the patience to wait it out. He wants to become the greatest blues-man, and he wants it Now. Of course he adds in fortune along with the fame, and when we meet him next he's waiting for Farfello and looking back at the drug and drugs laden years he's spent, where the fame and fortune over rode the music, where he squandered his talent and now its too late. Farfello has other ideas though :) and Logan doesn't get what he expects.
Its a fun read, short and sweet and with a couple of hot, carnal, sultry sex scenes. As with most gay romance its quite expensive at £1.93 for 58 pages/441kb but its all plot and story, no wasted fluff filler, and it's an enjoyable tale. I'm not really a short story fan but did enjoy this, the wondering just what Farfello was going to do, how things would work out for Logan, and I was totlally surprised by the result and Farfello's plans... :) I'd re read this one again.
Stars: I wish it was longer...but its not so i'm giving it four stars.
October 25, 2013
A legend says that Robert Johnson had sold his soul to the Devil to become a great blues musician. He spent his life traveling from town to town and, through only a handful of recordings, influenced generations of blues, rock 'n' roll and rock musicians. Very little is known of his life outside music.
Cornelia Grey tells a story of Logan Hart, a man whose story is similar to Johnson legend. But, this is the story behind the legend, behind the music. It's a seduction that doesn't end in the fiery pit but in learning - of one's true desires, of one's true destiny, of one's true happiness. Farfarello is more Lucifer, the light bringer, than Satan, a liberator rather than enslaver. He is a devil, not the Devil. He comes from the eight circle of Hell, which, according to Dante, holds those who committed frauds without malicious intent - including counterfeiters, hypocrites, grafters and seducers. One has to wonder about him and his own sins. I wish Ms. Grey would tell us his story one day.
The story is sensual beyond words and strangely nostalgic. The ending fits the story perfectly, although it might not satisfy the readers who prefer traditional endings. It is a hopeful ending - for both Logan and Farfarello.
Cornelia Grey tells a story of Logan Hart, a man whose story is similar to Johnson legend. But, this is the story behind the legend, behind the music. It's a seduction that doesn't end in the fiery pit but in learning - of one's true desires, of one's true destiny, of one's true happiness. Farfarello is more Lucifer, the light bringer, than Satan, a liberator rather than enslaver. He is a devil, not the Devil. He comes from the eight circle of Hell, which, according to Dante, holds those who committed frauds without malicious intent - including counterfeiters, hypocrites, grafters and seducers. One has to wonder about him and his own sins. I wish Ms. Grey would tell us his story one day.
The story is sensual beyond words and strangely nostalgic. The ending fits the story perfectly, although it might not satisfy the readers who prefer traditional endings. It is a hopeful ending - for both Logan and Farfarello.
Read
November 16, 2013A surprisingly lovely story, moody and magical, with a surprisingly endearing, even unforgettable character -- and I mean Farfarello. I was enchanted by him.
There are few nits for me to pick. The central sex scene was, I think, disproportionately long, given the brevity of the tale. "Further" was once mistakenly used instead of "farther." And sometimes the similes flew a little too fast and thick.
But I'm straining here, primarily because I don't believe there's any such thing as the perfect work of fiction. I felt the story's length was just right, as was its tone; the settings, richly atmospheric; the ending, poignant but hopeful. And I'm so, so glad the various plot points weren't over-explained.
This one will go into my "little gems" folder along with a couple of other Riptide shorts: Portside and The Heart's Greater Silence. Whoever acquired these pieces has my gratitude.
There are few nits for me to pick. The central sex scene was, I think, disproportionately long, given the brevity of the tale. "Further" was once mistakenly used instead of "farther." And sometimes the similes flew a little too fast and thick.
But I'm straining here, primarily because I don't believe there's any such thing as the perfect work of fiction. I felt the story's length was just right, as was its tone; the settings, richly atmospheric; the ending, poignant but hopeful. And I'm so, so glad the various plot points weren't over-explained.
This one will go into my "little gems" folder along with a couple of other Riptide shorts: Portside and The Heart's Greater Silence. Whoever acquired these pieces has my gratitude.
October 13, 2013
Knowing his time has come to pay up for his debt to the devil, Logan retreats to a beaten-down motel where he tries to drown his regrets in alcohol. Counting the seconds until the moment comes, he makes himself crazy, remembering the day he made the deal and what became of his life.
In appears Farfarello, but what he wants from Logan is not what Logan expects.
Cornelia Grey packed a punch in this short novella. It was gritty and dark and completely enthralling. Story-telling at its best!
I was completely enraptured in Logan's degradation and his surroundings. It was as if I could smell the smoke of the cigarettes and taste the liquor Logan ingested. And that's not even counting the sensual and carnal sex scenes that were both a surprise and truly appreciated.
All in all, Devil at the Crossroads was a great story with a compelling lead, a sinfully-sexy devil, an interesting plot and a couple of steamy yet completely necessary sex scenes. I loved it!
I received this title from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange of my honest opinion.
In appears Farfarello, but what he wants from Logan is not what Logan expects.
Cornelia Grey packed a punch in this short novella. It was gritty and dark and completely enthralling. Story-telling at its best!
I was completely enraptured in Logan's degradation and his surroundings. It was as if I could smell the smoke of the cigarettes and taste the liquor Logan ingested. And that's not even counting the sensual and carnal sex scenes that were both a surprise and truly appreciated.
All in all, Devil at the Crossroads was a great story with a compelling lead, a sinfully-sexy devil, an interesting plot and a couple of steamy yet completely necessary sex scenes. I loved it!
I received this title from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange of my honest opinion.
September 27, 2013
4.5 Stars
This is a be-careful-what-you-wish-for cautionary tale that absolutely hit all the right notes for me, my only caution being that the story ends rather ambiguously, so don’t go into this one expecting a tidied up and traditional happy ending. What I hope this means, when the final notes have faded away, is that Ms. Grey is planning a sequel to the life and times of blues musician Logan Hart and his demon lover Farfarello. Or, to the death and times, whatever the case may be.
Bottom line, I’m chalking this one up as another one for the win column in Cornelia Grey’s collection.
The full review can be found at The Novel Approach
This is a be-careful-what-you-wish-for cautionary tale that absolutely hit all the right notes for me, my only caution being that the story ends rather ambiguously, so don’t go into this one expecting a tidied up and traditional happy ending. What I hope this means, when the final notes have faded away, is that Ms. Grey is planning a sequel to the life and times of blues musician Logan Hart and his demon lover Farfarello. Or, to the death and times, whatever the case may be.
Bottom line, I’m chalking this one up as another one for the win column in Cornelia Grey’s collection.
The full review can be found at The Novel Approach
October 17, 2013
Have you ever started reading a book, expecting it to be one thing? And then finding out that it is something completely different. That was the case with this book.
I will be completely honest here and say that I thought this was going to be a smutty type book, so you can imagine my surprise when I started reading the book and found out what it was really about.
This is going to be one of those crazy things to say, but as I was reading this book a certain “scene” that takes place it reminded me of something that my mom always told me when I was younger.
The book caught me completely off guard and while it does have the smut factor to it, this book goes above and beyond that. It can actually teach you something about life.
I will be completely honest here and say that I thought this was going to be a smutty type book, so you can imagine my surprise when I started reading the book and found out what it was really about.
This is going to be one of those crazy things to say, but as I was reading this book a certain “scene” that takes place it reminded me of something that my mom always told me when I was younger.
The book caught me completely off guard and while it does have the smut factor to it, this book goes above and beyond that. It can actually teach you something about life.
September 25, 2013
4.5/5.0
My first thought when reading the description of Devil at the Crossroads was of the Faustian tale surrounding legendary blues guitarist Robert Johnson. Ms. Grey has taken this story and made it her own. It is gritty and dark and so vividly described that I could almost smell the cigarette smoke, feel the dingy carpet beneath my feet and taste the coal dust in the air.
To read the full review please go to:
http://liveyourlifebuythebook.wordpre...
My first thought when reading the description of Devil at the Crossroads was of the Faustian tale surrounding legendary blues guitarist Robert Johnson. Ms. Grey has taken this story and made it her own. It is gritty and dark and so vividly described that I could almost smell the cigarette smoke, feel the dingy carpet beneath my feet and taste the coal dust in the air.
To read the full review please go to:
http://liveyourlifebuythebook.wordpre...
February 9, 2017
Cornelia Grey is quickly becoming one of my favorite authors. Never mind the fact that the two stories of hers that I've read so far, dealt with m/m relationships. With some serious scorching sex. Generally, I get irritated by books that seem to be based only on sex, or use sex as an anchor. With Grey's stories, one actually gets a beautifully woven tale that lingers long after the reading is done. She is that good!
4.5 stars!
4.5 stars!
October 21, 2013
So excited for this one!
EDITED TO ADD:
This was one of those shorts that was so complete and still left you wanting more, but in the really good way. Like, I want sequels. This was like my fav show Supernatural (again, in a good way, because Cornelia took this and made it all her own...) Go read it!
EDITED TO ADD:
This was one of those shorts that was so complete and still left you wanting more, but in the really good way. Like, I want sequels. This was like my fav show Supernatural (again, in a good way, because Cornelia took this and made it all her own...) Go read it!
November 18, 2014
Logan made some poor life choices and like so many superstars he lost himself in drugs sex and alcohol. When the devil came to collect his due, Logan got a surprise. You don't just become a bluesman you need to have lived the pain you sing.
September 21, 2013
4.5 stars. Excellent writing. Really enjoyed the story. And it is hot as hell :-).
March 12, 2017
4.1 Stars
This book is WAY under-rated.
Sure, the story isn't a typical "romance" but OMG the prose was beautiful, the message amazing. I simply adore the last 10%.
(3 pages in I also might have started my Stevie Ray Vaughan playlist, which definitely set the mood.)
This book is WAY under-rated.
Sure, the story isn't a typical "romance" but OMG the prose was beautiful, the message amazing. I simply adore the last 10%.
(3 pages in I also might have started my Stevie Ray Vaughan playlist, which definitely set the mood.)
January 9, 2017
Reviewed for Rainbow Gold Reviews
Devil at the Crossroads is a very quick read. There isn't a lot of content, however, I felt like this book left me with lingering thoughts when it was over. In my opinion, it was well written, and I am looking forward to reviewing the next book in the series if it is anything like this one.
The story is told in a now and then format, flashing back from Logan's reckoning to the time he first made the deal with the devil and a couple of other moments in between. Following in the footsteps of urban legends, Logan makes a deal with Farfarello to become a famous and wealthy blues musician. He was seeking to escape a job and lifestyle that had killed his father before his time. I can understand Logan's needs to get out of that situation, and music is already an escape for him.
But be careful what you wish for. The deal Logan makes isn't necessarily the one that will bring him real happiness either. The constant pressures of fame have him wasting his gifts for the six year time frame in a haze of sex and drugs. When Farfarello comes to claim his prize, Logan has nothing to show for the deal. In the end, the bargain he made wasn't quite what he thought it was going to be, either.
There is a little bit of sex in this story and I marked it as bisexual because Logan seems to have no preference of who he is with. It's definitely not a romance, though there may be a possible devil with benefits relationship between Logan and Farfarello going forward from this story. I didn't really feel a sense of evil coming from the "bad guy" of this story, especially since he seems to really want Logan to succeed. It made me question the ideas of good and evil as the world knows it. I am curious where the author will take the other stories in this series, especially as they contain a lot more pages.
For a short read that might make the reader think, I definitely recommend Devil at the Crossroads.
8/10 Pots of Gold (80% Recommended) – Compares to 4/5 Stars
Devil at the Crossroads is a very quick read. There isn't a lot of content, however, I felt like this book left me with lingering thoughts when it was over. In my opinion, it was well written, and I am looking forward to reviewing the next book in the series if it is anything like this one.
The story is told in a now and then format, flashing back from Logan's reckoning to the time he first made the deal with the devil and a couple of other moments in between. Following in the footsteps of urban legends, Logan makes a deal with Farfarello to become a famous and wealthy blues musician. He was seeking to escape a job and lifestyle that had killed his father before his time. I can understand Logan's needs to get out of that situation, and music is already an escape for him.
But be careful what you wish for. The deal Logan makes isn't necessarily the one that will bring him real happiness either. The constant pressures of fame have him wasting his gifts for the six year time frame in a haze of sex and drugs. When Farfarello comes to claim his prize, Logan has nothing to show for the deal. In the end, the bargain he made wasn't quite what he thought it was going to be, either.
There is a little bit of sex in this story and I marked it as bisexual because Logan seems to have no preference of who he is with. It's definitely not a romance, though there may be a possible devil with benefits relationship between Logan and Farfarello going forward from this story. I didn't really feel a sense of evil coming from the "bad guy" of this story, especially since he seems to really want Logan to succeed. It made me question the ideas of good and evil as the world knows it. I am curious where the author will take the other stories in this series, especially as they contain a lot more pages.
For a short read that might make the reader think, I definitely recommend Devil at the Crossroads.
8/10 Pots of Gold (80% Recommended) – Compares to 4/5 Stars
February 1, 2014
Ah, another taste of Cornelia Grey’s lovely, atmospheric prose: she can create such a scene with words you can practically reach in and pick things up. Here she’s using the language of despair, because Logan’s at the moment of reckoning.
Logan, desperate to escape his grimy coal town, makes a Faustian bargain with the devil he summons. Starting with nothing but a guitar and otherworldly help, he’s bought six years of what he wants most, or what he thinks he wants most. Staring down into red, red eyes at the moment of collection can make a man rethink his priorities.
The story is well contained in the blurb, so it’s the execution that makes the tale. Ms. Grey’s writing might as well be chocolate, sinfully rich and very smooth, so this story is all about how she drapes detail on that framework and brings Logan into some sort of redemption in his own eyes. Farfarello, of course, knows more than he’s saying.
This isn’t a romance, nor are the players equals, but there is understanding, there is hot sex, and there is the whiff of hope. The initial grimness has both a purpose and beauty, and the end has all the promise of sunrise.
Let’s just say that Dan’l Webster wouldn’t have come to this sort of resolution with Old Scratch, nor would Mephistopheles have said or done what Farfarello accomplishes here, but then, neither of those old devils ever heard Logan play the blues.
Logan, desperate to escape his grimy coal town, makes a Faustian bargain with the devil he summons. Starting with nothing but a guitar and otherworldly help, he’s bought six years of what he wants most, or what he thinks he wants most. Staring down into red, red eyes at the moment of collection can make a man rethink his priorities.
The story is well contained in the blurb, so it’s the execution that makes the tale. Ms. Grey’s writing might as well be chocolate, sinfully rich and very smooth, so this story is all about how she drapes detail on that framework and brings Logan into some sort of redemption in his own eyes. Farfarello, of course, knows more than he’s saying.
This isn’t a romance, nor are the players equals, but there is understanding, there is hot sex, and there is the whiff of hope. The initial grimness has both a purpose and beauty, and the end has all the promise of sunrise.
Let’s just say that Dan’l Webster wouldn’t have come to this sort of resolution with Old Scratch, nor would Mephistopheles have said or done what Farfarello accomplishes here, but then, neither of those old devils ever heard Logan play the blues.
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