Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

The Devil You Know #2

Dueling Shoulder Angels

Rate this book

When there's a devil on one shoulder, isn't there supposed to be an angel on the other?


Nick managed not to die, saved the day, and settled in for a comfortable career at Devil Co. That means it’s the perfect time for God to have other plans for him– and guess who shows up to try and poach Nick for Their organization? Why have one complicated job working for a personified deity, when you can have two?


Caught between worlds, and moonlighting for the “good guys,” Nick learns his deal with Lucifer might not be what it seems. Uncovering a scheme to take advantage of the Devil himself rocks Nick to his core, and makes him question everything. The line between good and evil gets blurrier by the day, and Nick doesn’t know which shoulder angel to trust.


His partner Amy, a witch growing into powers of her own, warns him of the danger he faces, but can’t stop Nick from running headlong into it. Can Nick save himself, or will Amy need to make an ally of a former foe to save him from a fate worse than decaf?

252 pages, Kindle Edition

First published June 27, 2024

16 people are currently reading
59 people want to read

About the author

Ben Schenkman

7 books35 followers
Ben Schenkman likes many things in life: his 20-pound Maine coon cat, his family, his coffee, and his eclectic hobbies—not necessarily in that order.

Ben also likes to play devil’s advocate in his urban fantasy books by exploring the gray areas of good and evil with questions like, “Does the end really justify the means? Or is it all simply black and white?” Ben leaves these questions lingering in the ether to challenge readers’ conventional thinking and delve into the complexities of moral dilemmas.

As a native of Connecticut, Ben draws inspiration from his upbringing and college years in New Haven, where his novels take place. When he wants to escape being a writer, he’s a massive foodie who goes on gastronomic adventures, an overachiever who collects degrees in Theater, Nuclear Engineering, and an MBA, or the manager/performer of the fire dance troupe, HVBRIS—you know, the basics. No big deal.

Want to know more about his work, or talk about coffee and cats? He loves hearing from readers!

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
42 (41%)
4 stars
43 (42%)
3 stars
17 (16%)
2 stars
0 (0%)
1 star
0 (0%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
Profile Image for ☕️Kimberly  (Caffeinated Reviewer).
3,594 reviews784 followers
July 22, 2025
While the author does a great job of bringing the listener up to speed, I recommend listening to this series in the order of its release. This is a light, funny fantasy series where heaven and hell are run like a corporation with offices downtown.

The narrative is split between Nick and his girlfriend Amy, a witch. She is the sounding board for Nick as he tries to meet the Devil's demand and listens to what the salesman for the man upstairs offers. He also seeks counsel from a priest.

Nick faces genuine conflict, especially when he questions the deal Lu (Lucifer, aka the devil) wants him to close on. The story offered a blend of cozy moments, action and, to my surprise, a renewed friendship with Rob. Nick is a genuinely good guy, and even as an agent of Lucifer, he still has a strong moral code. The relationship between him and Amy is one of respect. It was nice to see adults behaving like adults.

The author does a wonderful job exploring heaven and hell with some familiar tropes, but he also puts his own touches on it. We've got themes of redemption, change and respect. God (Leslie) is gender-fluid (they/them) and I loved it. Everything isn't black and white when looking at the pros and cons of heaven and hell. While the story offers a light, fast-paced fantasy with some comedic moments, it also touches on thought-provoking ideas.

Both the author and Katya Gruhala did a great job of capturing the tone, voices and personalities of the characters. I highly recommend listening.

If you are looking for light, funny, fantasy, you'll want to grab Dueling Shoulder Angels and the Devil You Know series. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
Profile Image for Sibil.
1,747 reviews76 followers
December 26, 2024
3.5 stars
Thanks to the Author. I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review

Nick continues on his path to sanctitude, with Amy helping keep him on track. I think that this can be a good summary of the book, and it is also the thing that I enjoyed less in the book. Mind me, I like Nick as MC and he and Amy are a great couple, but sometimes he is a tad too good. Not that it's really a bad thing but I usually like a tad more grey in the scale. That said, I like that Nick is the most decent guy around , and I liked that he really tries his hardest, ever.
This sometimes causes some really brilliant lateral thinking, and I loved this part! The ending was brilliant! I would have loved to see a bit more of Lu around, maybe, but I had fun with this book, it is a nice change of pace, and if you want to read something original and not too demanding, I suggest you give this series a try!
Profile Image for Anastey.
522 reviews9 followers
June 28, 2025
Thank you Indie fantasy Bookwrm Tracker, and Ben Schenkman for sending me this advanced review copy for free. I am leaving this review voluntarily.

I loved this so much! It was the perfect follow up to My Boss is the Devil. This book takes place about 2 years later, and it was nice for everyone to have some time to settle in. There were tons of cozy moments, and also some great action scenes. It had a little bit of everything, and there were lots of great unexpected twists and turns too.

Nick and Amy are still together, and have found a comfortable routine without living in the same apartment. It was really sweet, and worked so well for the both of them. I loved the little cozy morning coffee/tea rituals. It reminded me so much of making my own mug of tea every morning.

Overall this book was about Nick's personal growth, and dealing with difficult choices. Trying to decide which team to bat for between God and the Devil is insanely difficult, and each choice has it's own blessings and problems. The same can be said for navigating the ethics, and trusting his gut for his cases shows his mental growth as well. I won't spoil the ending for you, but it really surprised me! I really loved that this wasn't just about Nick, and that Amy is also growing into her own.

There is also a theme of change and forgiveness as well, but I can't get into that without spoilers.

I adore that God is non-binary, gender fluid, and a Capital "T" They/Them. The whole book is very supportive of everyone on the LGBTQ+ spectrum, and includes several very important queer side characters.

If you want a fast paced book with interesting dilemmas, and a fun take on God and the Devil, this is the book for you!
Profile Image for Amanda.
167 reviews32 followers
September 19, 2024
If the Devil is real and runs a corporation then shouldn't his counterpart?

Nick is happy working for the Devil two years later but is suddenly approached by the other side with an offer that sounds too good to be true.

I absolutely love Nick and Amy's relationship. It is so nice to see a not toxic relationship that is cute, loving, and exactly what they need. I was a little unsure of the redemention piece of one of the characters from book 1 but surprisingly it worked.

This book was just a fun, comical, amd entertaining as the first.
Profile Image for Matt Deblass.
34 reviews4 followers
June 30, 2024
If the Devil is real, even if he isn’t quite like the character in folklore, does that mean his opposite number exists as well?

Yes, as well as a whole heavenly bureaucracy, it turns out.

Ben Schenkman returns to the supernatural side of New Haven, Connecticut with this sequel to “My Boss is the Devil.” His protagonist, Nick, is still working for Lu (aka, Lucifer, Satan, Old Scratch, The Enemy, etc. But really, just Lu will be fine), and trying to do some good in the world. Then he meets a recruiter from The Other Side, and his latest client may come with some unforeseen complications, and an old frenemy may or may not be ready for a redemption arc, and… well, let’s just say he’s got a lot on his plate.

Schenkman does a great job of working with the tropes of heaven and hell in his own way, knowing when to subvert the old cliches and when to lean into them. He creates an enjoyable new urban fantasy setting without falling into the too-common trap of trying to overexplain everything, rather letting things fall into place naturally. And the story ultimately works, like the first one did, because it’s less about supernatural powers than it is about the desire to make a difference in the world, and all the frustrations, joys and compromises that come with it. Schenkman continues to grow as a writer, and his prose gotten smoother and more natural with the practice of writing multiple novels.

I’m also very happy that this novel devotes extra time to Nick’s partner Amy. Her character gets a lot more development as a character in her own right, and she has her own journey with… well, read it and see.

Overall this is a quick, fun read. The characters are likeable and well rounded, the mythos is interesting and, in spite of the sometimes heavy subject matter, it maintains the feel of a cozy adventure.

If you’ve read “My Boss is the Devil,” dive right in, if not, you’ll want to pick up the first book before starting this one. I, for one, am looking forward to a third installment.

(Disclosure: I was given an advance reader copy of this book in return for an honest review)
Profile Image for Dawn Blythe.
41 reviews
June 23, 2024
This series is very easily becoming one of my favorites!

First off, the inclusivity of the LGBTQIA+ community is done so wonderfully and easily, and made this one of my favorite books to read during pride month.

Secondly, the introduction of God, or Leslie as I will now forever call Them, was done in such a fantastic way. Not showing Them as perfect and infallible was something my little religious-trauma-riddled heart needed to see. Bravo!

Love love love! Will continue to love! Will eat up anything this author writes because Ben Schenkman has now made a fan for life.
Profile Image for Caleb Cochrane-Hall.
11 reviews1 follower
August 1, 2024
Every character in this book (except for Amy) is so stupid I love them all so much
Profile Image for Kaytee Louise.
101 reviews2 followers
May 14, 2025
I can’t believe it’s taken me so long to get around to reading this book—Ben Schenkman is such a fantastic writer, and I absolutely love being immersed in the world he’s created. From the first chapter, I was pulled right back into the witty, clever, and chaotic universe that made me fall in love with My Boss is the Devil, and somehow this sequel is even better.

Dueling Shoulder Angels takes everything I enjoyed about book one and turns it up a notch. Nick’s life, already pretty upside down after selling his soul and starting work at Devil Co., gets even more complicated when Heaven decides to step in with an offer of their own. I was laughing out loud at the divine office politics one moment and completely caught off guard by a surprisingly emotional moment the next.

Nick really shines in this instalment. His inner conflict is more prominent as he’s caught between two powerful forces trying to recruit (or manipulate) him, and the way he grapples with loyalty, morality, and his sense of identity adds a real emotional core to all the chaos. He’s still sarcastic and messy and very human, which makes him incredibly easy to root for.

And the character dynamics? Brilliant. Whether it’s old allies or new divine entities trying to lure him to their side, every interaction is packed with tension and humour. The writing is so sharp, but there’s a warmth to it too—this deep understanding of people, even in such a surreal setting.

It’s smart, funny, and packed with deeper meaning if you’re paying attention—but never preachy or heavy-handed. It’s just such a joy to read, and every time I’m in this world, I don’t want to leave.
Profile Image for Rose English.
Author 22 books183 followers
May 10, 2025
A fate worse than decaf?

I loved book one in this series and could not wait to delve into this second episode. (Reading Book one is highly recommended before starting book two). One thing I have found is that I am craving more caffination. ☕

The blurb had already hinted at God trying to poach Nick from the Devil and when the meeting came I loved the character and description the author had created. Without giving anything away 'They' were not at all what I was expecting.

This book certainly coaxed several emotions and loud outspoken comments. For example I found myself shouting to Nick "DO NOT OPEN THE DOOR" as a visitor knocked at his apartment and Odin the cat was hissing before the door was even opened.

Amy becoming a witch was a surprise to me, although again this had been hinted at in the blurb and of course the woman is a goth. Yet she loves books and research a very resourceful lady, so I really don't know why it surprised me so much. Old enemies turning up I suppose I was expecting just not quite in the way he did.

Plus poor Walter is still in need of funds to improve his church and soup kitchen. Sadly there is so much red tape and Angel Co. are certainly dragging their wings under the guise of 'we only want the best, do the job properly once to last an age'. In the meantime it appears someone might just be lining their pockets.

Off to commence book three and my fingers are crossed for Walter not having to wait too long.

3 reviews1 follower
July 2, 2024
Ben Schenkman's second novel takes us back to New Haven, Connecticut, and to our friends Nick and Amy. We pick up the story two years after the first novel's events. If you haven't read that yet, please start there.

Schenkman's trademark humor is found throughout the pages of this book and it serves the story well. Much of this story doubles as satire. The author may have intended the reader to bear witness to a duel, instead he eviscerates the opposing view. We are introduced to a bumbling, neutered facsimile of the Christian god who made the mistake of being hands-off and turning their organization over to committees who then inspired inefficiencies and introduced graft. In truth, there can be little argument over the satire and it more than holds its own weight when one simply pays attention to the constant stream of negative news.

Not to be undersold, Schenkman introduces an exquisite foreshadowing scene, bringing back an old face in a new role and - in a slick twist, drops a double cross you won't see coming.

If 'My Boss is the Devil' is a romp, 'Dueling Shoulder Angels' is a roister - a drunken revelry. While this book does not have a sell-by date, and there is no rush to complete it in short order, you will be hard-pressed to put it down. Should you need to, you will find yourself pining for the next opportunity to pick it back up.
Profile Image for Cara Blaine.
Author 16 books112 followers
August 28, 2024
Two years have passed. Nick still enjoys his job working for the devil, but then he gets a surprise new job offer with tempting perks, and he has a decision to make. Similar to the first book, I had a hard time putting it down and stayed up late one night to finish it.

I enjoyed Nick's relationship with Amy, they are super cute and the opposite of toxic, which is nice to see now and then in a fantasy romantic relationship. I also loved seeing much more of Amy in general and all of the witchy elements of the story. I wasn't sold on the redemption ARC of one of the characters initially, but I came around.

By far my favorite laugh-out-loud quote: "At that moment I realized God might be a well-meaning idiot." Nick, you and me both, my friend. hahaha
Profile Image for Joe Middleton.
75 reviews4 followers
August 5, 2024
Loving this series

I got the first book for free due to a short term kindle deal, I liked the premise and loved the book so it made sense to also get the sequel. This is as well written and enjoyable as the first with Nick's deal with the devil getting further complications. It's a trilogy and I understand the third book will be coming soon. Any one who enjoys metaphysical mysteries, comedies with cats and coffees and witches and a rollicking tale of good and evil should check out these books immediately. It's a cliche but as soon as I started these books I didn't want to read anything else until they were done. Can't wait for book three!
Profile Image for 1Moment of Truth.
9 reviews1 follower
August 19, 2025
This group of characters finds themselves in wonderfully creative chaos. Amy's character growth is especially compelling. Rob, on the other hand, is still struggling to overcome his challenges. I also enjoyed the lighthearted portrayal of the deities and their personalities. This series has become my preferred escape after a difficult day at work, providing the perfect dose of laughter. While I'd love to delve deeper, I'm wary of spoilers. Discussing this book in detail necessitates revealing plot points, so I'll refrain. However, if you appreciate sarcasm, this book is a must-read.
Profile Image for Abby Ryan.
Author 35 books26 followers
Read
August 22, 2024
reminds me a bit of the karma “my demon”

I loved it. The story was well written. I love the cat! And the moment coffee entered the scene, I couldn’t help but think of the Korean drama “My Demon”. Though, this isn’t a romance, it has a few of the ideas: “sell your soul to get something good” and “working for the devil to collect other souls”… I recommend reading this if you enjoy that kind of thing, as I do! :)
Profile Image for Hazel  Allen.
12 reviews1 follower
January 8, 2025
This was a solid sequel, though it did have some pacing issues with the plot, along with a couple minor pet peeves. And while this book is a four-star read for me, there were still many elements I enjoyed throughout! Character interactions were fun and exciting, and the ending has so much potential for what could happen in the next entry.

Overall, this is a worthwhile read, and I'm very intrigued to see what comes next from this series.
Profile Image for Micki-D.
1,332 reviews37 followers
July 1, 2024
This the second book in the Devil You Know series is even better than My Boss Is The Devil. A prefect book for pride month … A non-binary God

Welcome back to our fav barista turned agent for the devil. Only god is now trying to poach him. What will Nick do? Will he continue the work he does? Will he switch sides?
Profile Image for Valerie.
650 reviews14 followers
December 6, 2024
very good book

This was a really good read. I enjoyed the plot, the characters, and the conclusion. I had a very difficult time putting it down. I also enjoyed the description of the place(s). Dueling Shoulder Angels was different! I never guessed where it would end.
I enjoyed this book. I will be reading the next, and more by this author.
Profile Image for Coco Fischer.
90 reviews1 follower
July 1, 2024
The main character Nick is an absolute good guy he has maintained his morals consistently throughout both books.

I have enjoyed this series and can't wait for the 3rd book. Now for a little bit of a spoiler....
.
.
I love the twist of how Lucifer and God are written! Things move quickly when your working for Lu but when working for the non binary God the system is slow to grant the wishes of people.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
4,282 reviews20 followers
July 16, 2024
I enjoyed this engaging and entertaining storyline with drama, action, twists, and defined MCs, including some secondary characters,

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for David Blaylock.
1,203 reviews19 followers
August 12, 2024
Great follow-up to My Boss is the Devil.

This book is told from two points of view, so you get a new perspective in The Devil You Know world.

Title of the forthcoming third book in the series along with plot points in book two give me an idea of where the story might go next.
222 reviews10 followers
September 15, 2024
This book picks up 2 years after the first. Amy is by far the voice of reason. Nick cracks me up with his witty banter. He's just trying to do some good deeds while working for the devil. Is he finally in over his head?
52 reviews
September 23, 2024
A great continuation to the story of Nick and his devilishly fun life.
385 reviews4 followers
October 22, 2024
This is a good read. The main character has to decide who he wants to work for...the devil or his counterpart.
Profile Image for Sue :).
890 reviews13 followers
April 23, 2025
The Devil You Know Book 2

Is a little grittier but just as much fun. Leave it to Nick to figure out how to work both sides and come out alive.
9 reviews
December 12, 2025
Another Great Installment

Yet another great book in this series. I am thoroughly enjoying Mr. Schenkam’s take on gods, religions and the magics they can contain.
Profile Image for Kat M.
5,194 reviews18 followers
June 22, 2024
I had enjoyed the previous book My Boss is the Devil and was glad I was able to read its sequel. It had everything that I was hoping for from the sequel in the Devil You Know series. The plot worked overall and had that occult feel that I wanted from the description. The characters had that charm that I enjoyed from the first book and glad they were so well done. I was invested in what was going on and thought the writing style worked well overall.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
95 reviews1 follower
October 15, 2024
This is the second in a series about a man who sells his soul in order to help people. He comes across some complications, as he is approached by an angel who wants him to change sides.
Profile Image for Sivan.
307 reviews1 follower
February 12, 2025
"The record in my head screeched to a halt at the same time my limbs stopped obeying my brain. I stood there, staring at him, having blue-screened in real time. I said the only intelligent thing I could think of.
'What?'
All right, it wasn't that intelligent."

3.5 stars

Didn't like this one as much as the first. Getting a bit too spn-y for me 😅 Also just generally the plot felt a lot less compelling to me.


Overused phrases:
Book 1: "It wasn't a question."
Book 2: "[insert person] barked a laugh." I mean, with the amount of barking going on, you could get to thinking all the characters are dogs 😜🐶

Thank you to the author for signing our copy :)
Profile Image for Erin Martins.
78 reviews2 followers
December 12, 2024
Dueling Shoulder Angels by Ben Schenkman is such a fun and creative read! This is the second book in The Devil You Know series and it was just as good, if not better than the first. The story picks up with Nick after he’s been working with Lu for a while. He’s settled into his job and has a routine down. That’s when God steps in and tries to recruit Nick. The whole idea of having God poach an employee from the Devil is so unique, and the way the story is written makes it impossible to put down. The characters are relatable and funny, and I found myself laughing out loud so many times. At the same time, it has some deeper moments that really make you think, which I loved. The pacing is perfect, and it never gets boring. So far, this is one of the best series I’ve read in a while, and I recommend it to everybody. Five stars for being hilarious, original, and just overall entertaining!
Profile Image for Tiffany (areyoutellingstories).
613 reviews4 followers
July 29, 2024
3.5 stars rounded up! I really enjoyed the first book in this series, My Boss is the Devil but, was just the tiniest bit let down with this one. It is still a fun, quirky story with more kidnapping and suspense but, I found it lacked some of the humor from the first. I do appreciate the author's efforts to show us a different interpretation of what we've been taught good and evil looks like. Why does it not surprise me that dealing with Angel Co. seems like a big headache? Feels extremely realistic... I look forward to book 3 in this series!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.