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Cocktails in Hell #3
A Stir of Fairies
Violet's secret is out. Now comes the fun part…
It's time to train.
With Violet's identity revealed to her closest allies, the time has come for her to embrace who she is.
But who is she anyway? Witch? Angel? Demon? None of the above?
Meanwhile, Daddy Dearest is busy gathering a powerful force to stage a coup in Heaven, while Violet and the crew have to harness her powers and teach her to use them before he succeeds.
Between slinging drinks for Hell's finest, training for a potential world-ending war, and trying to figure out why the new brooding bar guest keeps giving her funny looks, Violet has her hands full. And then came the dragons...
Unfortunately, Violet ain't seen nothing yet.
It's time to train.
With Violet's identity revealed to her closest allies, the time has come for her to embrace who she is.
But who is she anyway? Witch? Angel? Demon? None of the above?
Meanwhile, Daddy Dearest is busy gathering a powerful force to stage a coup in Heaven, while Violet and the crew have to harness her powers and teach her to use them before he succeeds.
Between slinging drinks for Hell's finest, training for a potential world-ending war, and trying to figure out why the new brooding bar guest keeps giving her funny looks, Violet has her hands full. And then came the dragons...
Unfortunately, Violet ain't seen nothing yet.
1 pages, Audio CD
First published October 10, 2023
299 people are currently reading
53 people want to read
About the author
S.E. Babin
90 books398 followersS.E. Babin has a passion for writing books with a paranormal twist. Whether it's romance or mystery, she loves taking the norm and turning it into the extraordinary. Her love of reading turned into a curious exploration to see whether or not she could write her own novel.
Beginning with random, terrible poetry and a slightly popular reimagining of Beowulf's Grendel in her high school English class, Sheryl spent way too much time in the library, killing any chance of her becoming a cheerleader or anything even remotely cool. Find her on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/SEBabin. She loves to hear from readers!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
October 10, 2023
3.5
Short, funny and just enough of a story to enjoy.
Short, funny and just enough of a story to enjoy.
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February 14, 2024Have you ever been so riveted by a dumpster fire that you cannot take your eyes away from it?
that is essentially how I feel about this book. It is entertatining, yes. It is full of hot guy, yes. Is there anyone she meets that isnt hot? No
Has the plot progressed much from the first book? Yes-ish but not in a cohesive manner.
Like the last book, I was so sure I was not going to continue this series and then a series of events unfolded in the last 20% that made me think I want to see where the dumpster fire is headed next.
that is essentially how I feel about this book. It is entertatining, yes. It is full of hot guy, yes. Is there anyone she meets that isnt hot? No
Has the plot progressed much from the first book? Yes-ish but not in a cohesive manner.
Like the last book, I was so sure I was not going to continue this series and then a series of events unfolded in the last 20% that made me think I want to see where the dumpster fire is headed next.
September 21, 2025
A Stir of Fairies by S.E. Babin
This installment kicks off with Violet needing to understand and gain control of her full powers. Enter the dragons, who arrive with their own agenda—and a need to find their missing. From there, quests, deal-brokering, and hidden agendas unfold.
This is exactly the kind of fantasy I enjoy: paranormal flair, plenty of snark, and a heroine who, no matter what chaos hits her, finds a way to come out on top. Traditional high fantasy often leans on endless wars and the subjugation of the powerless, weighed down by rigid political systems. Here, the structures of power are far more fluid—questionable at best—its rules doled out only as the world unfolds and shifts with each new supernatural player.
One of the more intriguing aspects is the revelation that Violet mostly functions on the darker side of things. That twist forces both her and the reader to look for reasoning and character motivation in a more positive light—as she tries, however imperfectly, to build something resembling a functional society.
⚠️ Warning for the biblically minded: this book is especially blatant in twisting scripture. Judas comes off as a poor, misunderstood soul, while Jesus isn’t aligned with God. If this story were meant as serious theology, I’d have strong objections. But framed as dragons, alternate universes, and Violet’s struggle to simply exist, I found myself accepting the premise and enjoying the challenges that keep unfolding.
This installment kicks off with Violet needing to understand and gain control of her full powers. Enter the dragons, who arrive with their own agenda—and a need to find their missing. From there, quests, deal-brokering, and hidden agendas unfold.
This is exactly the kind of fantasy I enjoy: paranormal flair, plenty of snark, and a heroine who, no matter what chaos hits her, finds a way to come out on top. Traditional high fantasy often leans on endless wars and the subjugation of the powerless, weighed down by rigid political systems. Here, the structures of power are far more fluid—questionable at best—its rules doled out only as the world unfolds and shifts with each new supernatural player.
One of the more intriguing aspects is the revelation that Violet mostly functions on the darker side of things. That twist forces both her and the reader to look for reasoning and character motivation in a more positive light—as she tries, however imperfectly, to build something resembling a functional society.
⚠️ Warning for the biblically minded: this book is especially blatant in twisting scripture. Judas comes off as a poor, misunderstood soul, while Jesus isn’t aligned with God. If this story were meant as serious theology, I’d have strong objections. But framed as dragons, alternate universes, and Violet’s struggle to simply exist, I found myself accepting the premise and enjoying the challenges that keep unfolding.
June 9, 2025
good
Note: not a standalone, go read the first two books first!
Picking up from the ending of book two, book three has Violet ready to start training.
At least, that was the plan… Lucifer wants her to train with the dragons, and that means dealing with their King.
Meanwhile, Violet has to learn to actually use her magic, instead of hiding it, and that puts her into some very interesting situations, meeting some fascinating people, and getting into even more danger.
It only gets more complicated, as Violet and the rest figure out what Michael is up to, and what they need to do to stop him. Every step she takes seems to put her in contact with powerful people, and in potential danger.
It’s an enjoyable story nonetheless, with some interesting twists and turns I didn’t see coming. I’m looking forward to seeing where they all head!
This is an engaging urban fantasy, featuring angels, demons and more, and sure to be enjoyed by those urban fantasy lovers who like them.
Note: not a standalone, go read the first two books first!
Picking up from the ending of book two, book three has Violet ready to start training.
At least, that was the plan… Lucifer wants her to train with the dragons, and that means dealing with their King.
Meanwhile, Violet has to learn to actually use her magic, instead of hiding it, and that puts her into some very interesting situations, meeting some fascinating people, and getting into even more danger.
It only gets more complicated, as Violet and the rest figure out what Michael is up to, and what they need to do to stop him. Every step she takes seems to put her in contact with powerful people, and in potential danger.
It’s an enjoyable story nonetheless, with some interesting twists and turns I didn’t see coming. I’m looking forward to seeing where they all head!
This is an engaging urban fantasy, featuring angels, demons and more, and sure to be enjoyed by those urban fantasy lovers who like them.
July 24, 2025
So far, this series has angels, demons, witches, fairies, a couple of shifters and now there are Dragons!
Violet’s secret is out, now a few people know she is the daughter of Lilith and Michael. Because of her unusual magic, she is in the process of being trained.
Then the dragons show up, everyone wants something so a bargain is made for her break into the dragons’ hoard and steal something and if she does it, the dragons will assist in her training.
Things of course do not go as planned.
There is a bit more action in this book, lots of magic, big surprises and suspense. There is also the usual humour.
One of my favourite lines is when Violet says that she is like a cat after a laser when she finds something interesting – she just goes for it. I really related to that since I have a new kitten who goes after the laser with no thought of what might be in the way.
I am really enjoying this series, it keeps surprising me.
An easy, fairly light at times, enjoyable read.
Violet’s secret is out, now a few people know she is the daughter of Lilith and Michael. Because of her unusual magic, she is in the process of being trained.
Then the dragons show up, everyone wants something so a bargain is made for her break into the dragons’ hoard and steal something and if she does it, the dragons will assist in her training.
Things of course do not go as planned.
There is a bit more action in this book, lots of magic, big surprises and suspense. There is also the usual humour.
One of my favourite lines is when Violet says that she is like a cat after a laser when she finds something interesting – she just goes for it. I really related to that since I have a new kitten who goes after the laser with no thought of what might be in the way.
I am really enjoying this series, it keeps surprising me.
An easy, fairly light at times, enjoyable read.
January 15, 2026
There is more action in this one. And, a hard left from the bar and Guardian duties. Dragons get involved and that gets pretty convoluted. There is a huge section with the bargains, thievery, questionable old friends, and attempted murder. A new (main) player is introduced that is a huge surprise and twists the storyline a bit. Violet finally learns how to work with her magic only to end up in a very unexpected location. For me, it felt like there were some plot holes. Things that shouldn't have worked out without just suddenly having someone or something fix it. There are some theological discussions that could be a hard pass for some - both dealing with Judas and Jesus. Also, I'm still trying to figure out how every single new male Violet meets is the most absolutely gorgeous man ever. It's a bit much. There are some funny sections though and I do think I'll continue with the series. It's entertaining at least.
March 7, 2024
Violet gets a trainer.
The ending is hilarious! Wait till you hear who Violet kissed & tricked. In this book she sneaks into a dragon's hoard because she made a bargain with a dragon. Lucifer insisted she needed a trainer. The rules change several times. Turns out the dragon king is a cheating jerk. So Violet changes who will be training her in the contract to Jude. Who once she figures out who he is she shows massive prejudice against. You would think with her parentage that she would be more understanding. Everyone tells her to ask him but she doesn't. Its frustrating! I hope she & Jude get together. They are already drawn to each other. He sounds great!
The ending is hilarious! Wait till you hear who Violet kissed & tricked. In this book she sneaks into a dragon's hoard because she made a bargain with a dragon. Lucifer insisted she needed a trainer. The rules change several times. Turns out the dragon king is a cheating jerk. So Violet changes who will be training her in the contract to Jude. Who once she figures out who he is she shows massive prejudice against. You would think with her parentage that she would be more understanding. Everyone tells her to ask him but she doesn't. Its frustrating! I hope she & Jude get together. They are already drawn to each other. He sounds great!
July 16, 2024
good
I love Violet. I just can’t seem to get enough of her and her circle of friends. I also like the humor in this book there’s definitely a lot of that. Unfortunately, I think Violet might’ve got herself into a bind in this book. She decided to make a bargain with the dragon king, and he irritated her so bad that she probably bargained for things that she shouldn’t have bargained for. I also like Violet fairy companion she is very smart. Not only does she have to deal with the dragons, but she got herself a new trainer and possibly an ally. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series.
I love Violet. I just can’t seem to get enough of her and her circle of friends. I also like the humor in this book there’s definitely a lot of that. Unfortunately, I think Violet might’ve got herself into a bind in this book. She decided to make a bargain with the dragon king, and he irritated her so bad that she probably bargained for things that she shouldn’t have bargained for. I also like Violet fairy companion she is very smart. Not only does she have to deal with the dragons, but she got herself a new trainer and possibly an ally. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series.
June 1, 2025
I am not going to give a blow-by-blow of the plot.
Really more like 4.5 stars, because there are way too many convenient escapes and evasions and surprises.
But the characters are great, the plot keeps moving along, the new characters really add things, the banter is all sorts of fun, etc. All in all, a very satisfying quick read.
Basically the book left me wanting to pick up the next book immediately, so I am not going to complain.
Really more like 4.5 stars, because there are way too many convenient escapes and evasions and surprises.
But the characters are great, the plot keeps moving along, the new characters really add things, the banter is all sorts of fun, etc. All in all, a very satisfying quick read.
Basically the book left me wanting to pick up the next book immediately, so I am not going to complain.
July 31, 2025
In for the ride
Violet keeps surprising everyone, adding new acquaintances both enemies and family. The dragon king has,tried to kill her. Michael has found her. The only thing besides her powers that save her is her friends.
I've read six books by this author now and still have not lost interest. The storyline, the editing, and the world building is spot on. There's no politics, nothing uncomfortable or unsavory. It's escapism at its best.
Violet keeps surprising everyone, adding new acquaintances both enemies and family. The dragon king has,tried to kill her. Michael has found her. The only thing besides her powers that save her is her friends.
I've read six books by this author now and still have not lost interest. The storyline, the editing, and the world building is spot on. There's no politics, nothing uncomfortable or unsavory. It's escapism at its best.
January 2, 2024
A Stir of Faries, book three of the Cocktails in Hell series, is an ebook I borrowed through Kindle Unlimited (KU). There's almost too much going on in this installment of the series, but with all the chaos comes some great character stories. Not my favorite of the series, but a thrill ride, none-the-less.
September 17, 2024
onTo book 4
I just finished book 3 and each book gets me more interested in the Saga now I'm on to book four and I think there are seven books in the series but I hope there are a lot more coming can't wait to find out the next book is when I start reading I can't put them down unfortunately I have to because I have to sleep
I just finished book 3 and each book gets me more interested in the Saga now I'm on to book four and I think there are seven books in the series but I hope there are a lot more coming can't wait to find out the next book is when I start reading I can't put them down unfortunately I have to because I have to sleep
September 30, 2024
With the first book, I was unsure, but intrigued. There was a lot going on I really liked, especially Keelie! Now I’m on the 5th book. I’ve been reading them quickly back to back. I’m loving it! I very much wish I could watch this play out on a show- it’s perfect! How can we make this happen!?! So thankful I randomly found these! I’d read 20 of these back to back! Thank you for such an enjoyable read <3!
July 30, 2025
Getting Weird
There is a point in most paranormal/UF series when the author decides there are no more sensible crises and decides to take a hard left into the weird and chaotic. This book went there and far earlier in the series than one would expect. Still pretty good. Probably setting up for something big, but still pretty chaotic.
There is a point in most paranormal/UF series when the author decides there are no more sensible crises and decides to take a hard left into the weird and chaotic. This book went there and far earlier in the series than one would expect. Still pretty good. Probably setting up for something big, but still pretty chaotic.
November 24, 2025
I think this is it for this series. I liked the first 2 books, they really made me laugh. However, while still funny the MC is getting more stupid and acting so rashly it doesn’t make sense. Not to mention the foreshadowing is very obvious. She ignores obvious things and makes a ridiculous deal. It’s too much, I’m done.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 9, 2026
3rd in series
I borrowed this from Kindle Unlimited. I am voluntarily reviewing this book. This is the 3rd in a series, and I think would be best to read in order. I truly like Violet and her unusual mix of friends. She just can't seem to catch a break. Interesting ending. 3.5 stars
I borrowed this from Kindle Unlimited. I am voluntarily reviewing this book. This is the 3rd in a series, and I think would be best to read in order. I truly like Violet and her unusual mix of friends. She just can't seem to catch a break. Interesting ending. 3.5 stars
November 26, 2023
I got a little frustrated with this one. I think I wished by this point that the main characters were all unknowns and the power scale wasn't so imbalanced. Things got a little wobbly for me by this point. I might be opting out of the next. Not certain yet.
December 26, 2023
3 1/2 stars. This isn't as light-hearted as the first two in the series, but considering what happens in the story (not giving away any spoilers) that isn't a surprise. I look forward to the next one. Things are definitely heating up the main character and her allies.
March 21, 2024
This book was ok until the dumpster fire that is the last 10%. Gotta love omnipotent enemies jumping out of literally nowhere who can perfectly counter you with no good explanation. Without them an author might actually have to work out some sort of plot.
April 8, 2024
intriguing
This was a good read. Lots of action, bargains and training. There is even a kidnapping. This one kept me reading just to find out what happened. Enjoyed this one. Now onto reading book 4.
This was a good read. Lots of action, bargains and training. There is even a kidnapping. This one kept me reading just to find out what happened. Enjoyed this one. Now onto reading book 4.
November 13, 2024
This series just gets better and better
Massive mix up of pantheons, known immortals, myths and legends that somehow start to weave this intriguing story together! What a glorious mess! I can’t wait for the next book!
Massive mix up of pantheons, known immortals, myths and legends that somehow start to weave this intriguing story together! What a glorious mess! I can’t wait for the next book!
October 11, 2023
This series keeps getting better. Love it!
October 12, 2023
Oh my goodness!
Oh my goodness that was a wild ride. I loved this book from beginning to end and want more as soon as possible. I can’t wait to see what happens next.
Oh my goodness that was a wild ride. I loved this book from beginning to end and want more as soon as possible. I can’t wait to see what happens next.
October 16, 2023
so invested
I cannot wait for the next book in the series. It just keeps getting better and better. Such interesting characters and twists and turns.
I cannot wait for the next book in the series. It just keeps getting better and better. Such interesting characters and twists and turns.
January 29, 2024
4⭐️
I have been laughing my ass off this whole series. It’s been a while since a read a series with so many WTF moments 😂
I have been laughing my ass off this whole series. It’s been a while since a read a series with so many WTF moments 😂
February 19, 2024
I do like how there are romantic interests but the main character is not dragged around by her love life or some sort of fated bond. Very refreshing.
October 5, 2024
fun quick read
A great heroine and fun characters. She struggles with uniting her various sides of her magic. She always saves herself through quick thinking and clever bargains.
A great heroine and fun characters. She struggles with uniting her various sides of her magic. She always saves herself through quick thinking and clever bargains.
October 21, 2024
Excellent reading. A different way to look at the "other world" Talk about family using family!! A bit of "does anybody actually knows what's going on and family always knows beast...NOT!
November 17, 2024
Great fun
Take a ride with Violet and her friends as she tends to her bar that currently houses a gate to hell.
Take a ride with Violet and her friends as she tends to her bar that currently houses a gate to hell.
August 30, 2025
good
More trouble awaits the gang but this time we get dragons. Great story enjoyed it and can’t wait to read more. It seems to get more and more exciting.
More trouble awaits the gang but this time we get dragons. Great story enjoyed it and can’t wait to read more. It seems to get more and more exciting.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews