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The Nature of Demons
A gruesome, compelling fusion of post-apocalyptic fiction and supernatural horror. - Kirkus Reviews
A supernatural force spreads across the globe, filling the streets of every city with maniacs consumed by their own darkest desires. In a single night, civilization plunges into chaos. Those who survive with their sanity intact soon find there is more than madness to fear. Strange creatures come out at night to make a playground of the ruins.
As the world burns, Jacob Freeman becomes something both more and less than human. Physically transformed, half-mad with strange impulses, and possessed of powers he can’t understand, he struggles to protect his family from the nightmare unfolding around them and from himself.
The Nature of Demons is a harrowing story of survival in a world where hope teeters on a blade’s edge.
Content Depictions of violence, including self harm, sexual assault, and violence against children.
A supernatural force spreads across the globe, filling the streets of every city with maniacs consumed by their own darkest desires. In a single night, civilization plunges into chaos. Those who survive with their sanity intact soon find there is more than madness to fear. Strange creatures come out at night to make a playground of the ruins.
As the world burns, Jacob Freeman becomes something both more and less than human. Physically transformed, half-mad with strange impulses, and possessed of powers he can’t understand, he struggles to protect his family from the nightmare unfolding around them and from himself.
The Nature of Demons is a harrowing story of survival in a world where hope teeters on a blade’s edge.
Content Depictions of violence, including self harm, sexual assault, and violence against children.
339 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 1, 2025
1 person is currently reading
64 people want to read
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June 23, 2025
The Nature of Demons by J.D. Carmicle
4⭐⭐⭐⭐
A defining moment in my existence hovered. Change was happening, and with it came a type of reckoning never witnessed before. In a similar eerie experience, Jacob Freeman, a lawyer with a demonic side, transforms into a literal, devil-like entity. The neighborhood becomes a playground of hysteria, and “crazies” run wild. I moved silently through the alleyways, averting attention as a means for survival. Peeking in through the living room window, I maniacally looked for satiation. Unbeknownst to me, the Freeman family was packed safely like a tin of sardines down in the basement. Strangely, I moved with an insatiable temptation for havoc and blood. Was I going mad? J.D. Carmicle concocts a special dish. A serrated knife, along its edge, gooey flesh drippings plopping along the seamstress's garment. Apocalyptic in nature, the story imagines what living alongside unleashed evil might look like.
I glanced down at my plate. My rib-eye steak stared back at me, teasing and tempting me in its seductive, flavorful way. Much like this story, there was more meat left on the bone than had first appeared. My guilt flared because I had sold this tale short. At first glance, I assumed the novel was a demonic-possession type of endeavor, and while that certainly piqued my interest, I soon learned I was in store for far more. Mashed together like peas, carrots, and mashed potatoes, the novel’s horrific nature coated my senses with a tasty and horrific-like gravy. I was confused. How were people chosen to be a demon? Seemingly, a past of moral infractions was the cause, although I was never quite sure. I mean, no one is truly exempt from shady activity under a microscope tasked with uncovering our deepest, darkest secrets. A white lie is still a white lie. Beyond Carmicle's devilish angle, a glowing light persists in the form of Jacob’s daughter, Micah. She is the outlier. Her radiance and beauty radiated a sense of deeper understanding and wisdom, belying her young age.
A sense of claustrophobia begins to stir, and Jacob, tasked with the caretaking duties of his “norm” wife and daughter, searches for a better location, one providing answers to what might be happening. Along the road to a greener pasture, as it were, the family encounters another demon who may or may not be of assistance in their fight for survival.
While I thought the plot was solid, I did have my questions. Micah seemed like the strongest character. I began to feel like she could truly fend for herself, and yet that seemed not to take shape. I wanted this little girl to rise and take control, only to be left with what could have been. I considered it a missed opportunity to expound on her character.
Not perfect, but darn entertaining. Godlike abilities infiltrate the normies. A marriage destined to crumble under the weight of a demonic love affair. Can the monsters/humans/crazies coexist in harmony? Tanks, wolves, snakes, wings, and cat-like tails await the reader in a smorgasbord of supernatural goodness.
Many thanks to Demon Mythos for the ARC through NetGalley. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion.
4⭐⭐⭐⭐
A defining moment in my existence hovered. Change was happening, and with it came a type of reckoning never witnessed before. In a similar eerie experience, Jacob Freeman, a lawyer with a demonic side, transforms into a literal, devil-like entity. The neighborhood becomes a playground of hysteria, and “crazies” run wild. I moved silently through the alleyways, averting attention as a means for survival. Peeking in through the living room window, I maniacally looked for satiation. Unbeknownst to me, the Freeman family was packed safely like a tin of sardines down in the basement. Strangely, I moved with an insatiable temptation for havoc and blood. Was I going mad? J.D. Carmicle concocts a special dish. A serrated knife, along its edge, gooey flesh drippings plopping along the seamstress's garment. Apocalyptic in nature, the story imagines what living alongside unleashed evil might look like.
I glanced down at my plate. My rib-eye steak stared back at me, teasing and tempting me in its seductive, flavorful way. Much like this story, there was more meat left on the bone than had first appeared. My guilt flared because I had sold this tale short. At first glance, I assumed the novel was a demonic-possession type of endeavor, and while that certainly piqued my interest, I soon learned I was in store for far more. Mashed together like peas, carrots, and mashed potatoes, the novel’s horrific nature coated my senses with a tasty and horrific-like gravy. I was confused. How were people chosen to be a demon? Seemingly, a past of moral infractions was the cause, although I was never quite sure. I mean, no one is truly exempt from shady activity under a microscope tasked with uncovering our deepest, darkest secrets. A white lie is still a white lie. Beyond Carmicle's devilish angle, a glowing light persists in the form of Jacob’s daughter, Micah. She is the outlier. Her radiance and beauty radiated a sense of deeper understanding and wisdom, belying her young age.
A sense of claustrophobia begins to stir, and Jacob, tasked with the caretaking duties of his “norm” wife and daughter, searches for a better location, one providing answers to what might be happening. Along the road to a greener pasture, as it were, the family encounters another demon who may or may not be of assistance in their fight for survival.
While I thought the plot was solid, I did have my questions. Micah seemed like the strongest character. I began to feel like she could truly fend for herself, and yet that seemed not to take shape. I wanted this little girl to rise and take control, only to be left with what could have been. I considered it a missed opportunity to expound on her character.
Not perfect, but darn entertaining. Godlike abilities infiltrate the normies. A marriage destined to crumble under the weight of a demonic love affair. Can the monsters/humans/crazies coexist in harmony? Tanks, wolves, snakes, wings, and cat-like tails await the reader in a smorgasbord of supernatural goodness.
Many thanks to Demon Mythos for the ARC through NetGalley. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion.
June 25, 2025
ARC:
DNF: Chapter 3 - 20%
The chapters felt so long, and I feel like if they were cut down I would have been way more interested in reading it, plus I was slightly confused on what was actually happening.
DNF: Chapter 3 - 20%
The chapters felt so long, and I feel like if they were cut down I would have been way more interested in reading it, plus I was slightly confused on what was actually happening.
July 1, 2025
ARC Review
It's a two post kind of day! Happy pub day to The Nature of Demons by @jdcarmicle. I went into this blind, as I usually do with most books. I knew that it was horror and that I loved the cover, that's it.
This story follows a small family, Jacob, Rebecca, not Becky, and their daughter Micah. Rebecca is a doctor, Jacob is a lawyer. One day, their entire world changes. Jacob begins to grow horns, and the world goes mad. Some people, norms, don't change at all. Some become demons, like Jacob. Some become crazies who are terrified of the demons. Some undergo other changes and see the light. Whether or not that's a good thing is up in the air.
I had no clue where this story was going, but it ended up having way more heart than I anticipated. I fell in love with this family, Micah being the glue that held them together even in the most trying times. This one was gory, funny, and full of action. I enjoyed the powers that the demons developed and the team dynamic, albeit reluctant at first, when another demon, Judith, joins their journey.
At 339 pages, I would say this was medium paced. There were some spots that lagged, but it never took me out of the story.
Thank you to J.D. Carmicle and @netgalley for the review copy in exchange for my honest review.
It's a two post kind of day! Happy pub day to The Nature of Demons by @jdcarmicle. I went into this blind, as I usually do with most books. I knew that it was horror and that I loved the cover, that's it.
This story follows a small family, Jacob, Rebecca, not Becky, and their daughter Micah. Rebecca is a doctor, Jacob is a lawyer. One day, their entire world changes. Jacob begins to grow horns, and the world goes mad. Some people, norms, don't change at all. Some become demons, like Jacob. Some become crazies who are terrified of the demons. Some undergo other changes and see the light. Whether or not that's a good thing is up in the air.
I had no clue where this story was going, but it ended up having way more heart than I anticipated. I fell in love with this family, Micah being the glue that held them together even in the most trying times. This one was gory, funny, and full of action. I enjoyed the powers that the demons developed and the team dynamic, albeit reluctant at first, when another demon, Judith, joins their journey.
At 339 pages, I would say this was medium paced. There were some spots that lagged, but it never took me out of the story.
Thank you to J.D. Carmicle and @netgalley for the review copy in exchange for my honest review.
June 26, 2025
3.25 rounded down to 3 stars. A good concept and strong opening bled into pacing problems and a lacking story.
The world has gone to hell...literally. A good portion of the population at random are overtaken by their innermost demons, manifesting it even outside of their bodies. People sprout horns, tails, weapons for arms, etc. at the middle of it all is a father just trying to keep his wife and daughter safe in this new world; while also harnessing the devil inside.
The opening to this story is confusing but exceptional. There are time jumps you don't understand until the POV changes, but once all the pieces fall into place you're hooked. Piecing the puzzle together between different characters was a real highlight that made you pay attention and take note, even if the most insignificant things. The problem comes about 28% in when the pacing takes a dive and the puzzle disappears as characters spend more and more time apart. By the half way point I was struggling and by 80% I was simply disappointed that so much page space had lead to such an anticlimactic end. The story is left open but I personally won't be revisiting this world. I wouldn't even really call this horror as the gore factor isn't really there and any supernatural elements are withheld and dampened.
3.25 stars simple because the beginning was astonishing. Recommended for readers 15+ for mature content. Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
The world has gone to hell...literally. A good portion of the population at random are overtaken by their innermost demons, manifesting it even outside of their bodies. People sprout horns, tails, weapons for arms, etc. at the middle of it all is a father just trying to keep his wife and daughter safe in this new world; while also harnessing the devil inside.
The opening to this story is confusing but exceptional. There are time jumps you don't understand until the POV changes, but once all the pieces fall into place you're hooked. Piecing the puzzle together between different characters was a real highlight that made you pay attention and take note, even if the most insignificant things. The problem comes about 28% in when the pacing takes a dive and the puzzle disappears as characters spend more and more time apart. By the half way point I was struggling and by 80% I was simply disappointed that so much page space had lead to such an anticlimactic end. The story is left open but I personally won't be revisiting this world. I wouldn't even really call this horror as the gore factor isn't really there and any supernatural elements are withheld and dampened.
3.25 stars simple because the beginning was astonishing. Recommended for readers 15+ for mature content. Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
June 25, 2025
thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an e-arc in exchange for an honest review! <3
DNFed at 27%
This is the second book I have DNFed in over five years, and it is for the simple reason that I was over a quarter of the way through and was yet to understand what in the world was happening.
The Nature of Demons has an interesting concept, and it is based on this concept that I requested it. In short, we follow Jacob, his wife Rebecca, and their daughter Micah, in the wake of a paranormal apocalypse in which half of the human population has either gone entirely insane or have turned into strange supernaturally-powered beings capable of wielding a ‘Darkness’ inside of them. However, excluding this surface-level premise, the book offered nothing in the way of explanation as to what was happening. Initial interest can only get you so far, and once I began reading the cracks began to show as early on as the first few chapters. The book did not explain why the apocalypse happened, nor offered an answer as to why certain people turned insane / monstrous as a result. I completely understand building suspense, but I was simply not taken enough with what was happening surrounding the apocalypse to wait-out an explanation.
The characters were one-dimensional, and lacked any charisma. Jacob was a complete degenerate, and impossible to root for, and Rebecca and Micah had zero personalities of their own, simply acting as conduits to power Jacob’s ‘character-growth’. I thought we had developed past the need to reduce female characters in horror to empty vessels, but here we are!
The writing was quite poor, and at parts juvenile. The pacing was all over-the-place, at parts so rapid I had whip-lash, and in other parts so slow I felt myself falling asleep.
Overall, The Nature of Demons was mediocre at best, and not something I felt like forcing myself to finish. 2/5 stars.
DNFed at 27%
This is the second book I have DNFed in over five years, and it is for the simple reason that I was over a quarter of the way through and was yet to understand what in the world was happening.
The Nature of Demons has an interesting concept, and it is based on this concept that I requested it. In short, we follow Jacob, his wife Rebecca, and their daughter Micah, in the wake of a paranormal apocalypse in which half of the human population has either gone entirely insane or have turned into strange supernaturally-powered beings capable of wielding a ‘Darkness’ inside of them. However, excluding this surface-level premise, the book offered nothing in the way of explanation as to what was happening. Initial interest can only get you so far, and once I began reading the cracks began to show as early on as the first few chapters. The book did not explain why the apocalypse happened, nor offered an answer as to why certain people turned insane / monstrous as a result. I completely understand building suspense, but I was simply not taken enough with what was happening surrounding the apocalypse to wait-out an explanation.
The characters were one-dimensional, and lacked any charisma. Jacob was a complete degenerate, and impossible to root for, and Rebecca and Micah had zero personalities of their own, simply acting as conduits to power Jacob’s ‘character-growth’. I thought we had developed past the need to reduce female characters in horror to empty vessels, but here we are!
The writing was quite poor, and at parts juvenile. The pacing was all over-the-place, at parts so rapid I had whip-lash, and in other parts so slow I felt myself falling asleep.
Overall, The Nature of Demons was mediocre at best, and not something I felt like forcing myself to finish. 2/5 stars.
June 26, 2025
Jacob Freeman, a devoted husband to Rebecca and father to Micah, wakes to find the world consumed by a sudden supernatural force. As monstrous creatures emerge and people fall into madness, giving in to their darkest desires, society collapses overnight. Jacob begins to change in both body and mind, forcing him to protect his family not just from the horrors outside but from the darkness rising within himself.
I loved the ominous atmosphere of this book - it was dark, chaotic, and grotesquely fascinating as humanity spiraled into its worst instincts. The gory, apocalyptic descent felt like a demonic road trip through the collapse of civilisation, and the way people transformed into monsters was a powerful reflection of inner evil brought to the surface.
The characters were genuinely compelling. At first, I was rooting for Jacob, hoping his humanity would prevail, but as the story unfolded, I began to question whether his actions were shaped by the world around him or if they revealed who he truly was all along.
While Jacob’s role was central, I found myself wanting more from Rebecca. Early on, she was shown as a sharp, capable doctor and fierce protector - a total badass and I loved her perspective. But as the story progressed, she seemed to fade into the background because of other characters in the story, and often only appearing through Jacob’s dismissive perspective. It felt like a missed opportunity to let her shine and to delve deeper into their relationship, especially given her strong potential as a leading character in her own right.
Despite that, the world-building was absolutely stellar - dark, immersive, and full of horrifying wonder. I would love Rebecca to have her own retribution kick-ass story. She deserves it! 4/5
Thanks to Demon Mythos and the author for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
I loved the ominous atmosphere of this book - it was dark, chaotic, and grotesquely fascinating as humanity spiraled into its worst instincts. The gory, apocalyptic descent felt like a demonic road trip through the collapse of civilisation, and the way people transformed into monsters was a powerful reflection of inner evil brought to the surface.
The characters were genuinely compelling. At first, I was rooting for Jacob, hoping his humanity would prevail, but as the story unfolded, I began to question whether his actions were shaped by the world around him or if they revealed who he truly was all along.
While Jacob’s role was central, I found myself wanting more from Rebecca. Early on, she was shown as a sharp, capable doctor and fierce protector - a total badass and I loved her perspective. But as the story progressed, she seemed to fade into the background because of other characters in the story, and often only appearing through Jacob’s dismissive perspective. It felt like a missed opportunity to let her shine and to delve deeper into their relationship, especially given her strong potential as a leading character in her own right.
Despite that, the world-building was absolutely stellar - dark, immersive, and full of horrifying wonder. I would love Rebecca to have her own retribution kick-ass story. She deserves it! 4/5
Thanks to Demon Mythos and the author for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
June 23, 2025
Tw: child death, child abuse, cannibalism(ish), implied SA, mentions of child SA, nudity, suicide, death, murder, self harm
Overall this was an interesting read I will say it’s probably more post apocalyptic than horror. There are definitely some gore/ horror aspects but it’s not a “scary” book. Now to get into the spoilers of the story. I feel like Jacob was difficult to like at times especially with his pawning after Judith and thus disrespecting his marriage. Maybe I just have beef with cheating but it was icky to see. Not to mention I felt bad that Judith had a bad life and then was captured again by Jacob. I was glad when he finally let her go. At the end of the book, Rebecca irritated me taking off with Micah and getting them in trouble. I feel like that was resolved rather quickly though which was disappointing and rushed. Side note: what were those dreams he had while poisoned.
Overall this was an interesting read I will say it’s probably more post apocalyptic than horror. There are definitely some gore/ horror aspects but it’s not a “scary” book. Now to get into the spoilers of the story. I feel like Jacob was difficult to like at times especially with his pawning after Judith and thus disrespecting his marriage. Maybe I just have beef with cheating but it was icky to see. Not to mention I felt bad that Judith had a bad life and then was captured again by Jacob. I was glad when he finally let her go. At the end of the book, Rebecca irritated me taking off with Micah and getting them in trouble. I feel like that was resolved rather quickly though which was disappointing and rushed. Side note: what were those dreams he had while poisoned.
June 12, 2025
A good take on apocalyptic horror. I typically do not like reading stories that follow men, BUT, this was such an interesting premise and kept me so hooked on that I overlooked that. It’s eerie and freaky throughout the entire thing and genuinely made me not want to sleep while I read it.
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC!
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC!
August 7, 2025
I had the pleasure of reading an ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) of The Nature of Demons by J.D. Carmicle, and from the very first page, it pulled me into a bold, emotionally charged, and refreshingly unique take on apocalyptic fiction. This was my first experience with Carmicle’s work, and I’m already looking forward to reading more of his literary creations.
The story kicks off with what seems to be a familiar dystopian premise—the sudden and mysterious end of the world. But it quickly pivots into something far more original: random people begin transforming into demons. Some are granted terrifying powers, others remain physically changed but powerless, and many are untouched, forced to navigate this nightmarish new world alongside those who are no longer fully human.
At the core of the narrative is the Freeman family—Jacob, his wife Rebecca, and their daughter Micah—who must fight to survive, but also to stay connected through trauma, fear, and Jacob’s own transformation. He becomes a horned demon with potent telekinetic abilities and is forced to wrestle with his dual identity: the protective father and husband versus the growing, volatile presence of something darker inside him. This internal struggle is one of the most compelling elements of the novel and adds a layer of emotional depth often missing in post-apocalyptic tales.
Rebecca and Micah remain the emotional anchor of the story, and Carmicle does a fantastic job of giving them agency and presence. Rebecca, in particular, is portrayed with a strong yet grounded resilience, a woman forced to hold her family together even as it fractures from the inside out. Micah adds vulnerability and innocence to the narrative, grounding the stakes in something profoundly human as the new world is seen through her child eyes.
One of the most fascinating dynamics in the novel emerges with the introduction of Judith, a demon with a tail and the ability to teleport. Judith’s role is far more than that of a mysterious stranger—she becomes deeply entangled with the Freeman family, particularly with Jacob. With an allure that’s both supernatural and psychological, Judith tests Jacob’s resolve in many ways. Her seductive nature tempts him toward his demon side, forcing Jacob to confront desires that threaten to unravel everything he’s fought to preserve. The tension between them crackles with danger and complexity, adding another emotional layer to Jacob’s already fractured identity. But her role isn't simple. She develops a surprisingly close bond with Micah, which begins to erode the boundaries of trust within the family. Rebecca, already burdened by fear and uncertainty, grows visibly jealous of Judith’s growing influence—not just over Micah, but over Jacob as well.
Carmicle’s prose is sharp and atmospheric, pulling readers into a vivid, terrifying world without over-explaining. The pacing is generally strong, though some chapters do run a bit long and could benefit from tighter editing to maintain momentum. Still, the slow burns are worth it for the emotional payoff they often bring.
If I had one major critique, it would be the final confrontation with the serpent demon Lamia. The book does an excellent job building tension as Lamia captures Rebecca and Micah, setting the stage for what promises to be a harrowing, climactic showdown. But the actual fight, while intense, is too brief to fully satisfy the narrative buildup. After so much emotional investment, the quick resolution left me wanting more.
That said, these issues are minor in the grand scheme. The Nature of Demons delivers a deeply original, emotionally complex, and action-packed journey. It’s not just a story about surviving the end of the world—it’s about resisting the demons within, even when they promise power, pleasure, and escape.
J.D. Carmicle has crafted a world that’s as haunting as it is thought-provoking, populated with characters you won’t forget and moral choices that cut deep. If you're a fan of supernatural dystopian fiction with real emotional stakes, this is a must-read.
Highly recommended.
The story kicks off with what seems to be a familiar dystopian premise—the sudden and mysterious end of the world. But it quickly pivots into something far more original: random people begin transforming into demons. Some are granted terrifying powers, others remain physically changed but powerless, and many are untouched, forced to navigate this nightmarish new world alongside those who are no longer fully human.
At the core of the narrative is the Freeman family—Jacob, his wife Rebecca, and their daughter Micah—who must fight to survive, but also to stay connected through trauma, fear, and Jacob’s own transformation. He becomes a horned demon with potent telekinetic abilities and is forced to wrestle with his dual identity: the protective father and husband versus the growing, volatile presence of something darker inside him. This internal struggle is one of the most compelling elements of the novel and adds a layer of emotional depth often missing in post-apocalyptic tales.
Rebecca and Micah remain the emotional anchor of the story, and Carmicle does a fantastic job of giving them agency and presence. Rebecca, in particular, is portrayed with a strong yet grounded resilience, a woman forced to hold her family together even as it fractures from the inside out. Micah adds vulnerability and innocence to the narrative, grounding the stakes in something profoundly human as the new world is seen through her child eyes.
One of the most fascinating dynamics in the novel emerges with the introduction of Judith, a demon with a tail and the ability to teleport. Judith’s role is far more than that of a mysterious stranger—she becomes deeply entangled with the Freeman family, particularly with Jacob. With an allure that’s both supernatural and psychological, Judith tests Jacob’s resolve in many ways. Her seductive nature tempts him toward his demon side, forcing Jacob to confront desires that threaten to unravel everything he’s fought to preserve. The tension between them crackles with danger and complexity, adding another emotional layer to Jacob’s already fractured identity. But her role isn't simple. She develops a surprisingly close bond with Micah, which begins to erode the boundaries of trust within the family. Rebecca, already burdened by fear and uncertainty, grows visibly jealous of Judith’s growing influence—not just over Micah, but over Jacob as well.
Carmicle’s prose is sharp and atmospheric, pulling readers into a vivid, terrifying world without over-explaining. The pacing is generally strong, though some chapters do run a bit long and could benefit from tighter editing to maintain momentum. Still, the slow burns are worth it for the emotional payoff they often bring.
If I had one major critique, it would be the final confrontation with the serpent demon Lamia. The book does an excellent job building tension as Lamia captures Rebecca and Micah, setting the stage for what promises to be a harrowing, climactic showdown. But the actual fight, while intense, is too brief to fully satisfy the narrative buildup. After so much emotional investment, the quick resolution left me wanting more.
That said, these issues are minor in the grand scheme. The Nature of Demons delivers a deeply original, emotionally complex, and action-packed journey. It’s not just a story about surviving the end of the world—it’s about resisting the demons within, even when they promise power, pleasure, and escape.
J.D. Carmicle has crafted a world that’s as haunting as it is thought-provoking, populated with characters you won’t forget and moral choices that cut deep. If you're a fan of supernatural dystopian fiction with real emotional stakes, this is a must-read.
Highly recommended.
July 7, 2025
Book Review Time 📚
⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 (3.5 rounded up)
Jacob died... maybe. Kind of. Sort of. Something happened to him—and whatever it was, it turned him into a demon. And he wasn’t the only one. Most people around him either transformed into demons or lost their minds entirely.
Somehow, his wife Rebecca and their daughter Micah were spared. Kind of. Micah may have survived the chaos, but something is happening to her, too—something no one can explain. Now Jacob and Rebecca travel through this apocalyptic nightmare in an ambulance, trying desperately to find help for their daughter. If help even exists anymore.
The premise hooked me right away—demons, madness, survival, and family—but the pacing didn’t quite land for me. It moved slowly, and at times, the chapters felt like they dragged. That said, there were surprisingly tender moments woven into the horror, which isn’t something you see too often in this genre. One scene with a demon telling a heartfelt story to a child? Weirdly endearing.
A unique concept with some emotional depth—I just wish it had picked up the pace a bit more.
⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 (3.5 rounded up)
Jacob died... maybe. Kind of. Sort of. Something happened to him—and whatever it was, it turned him into a demon. And he wasn’t the only one. Most people around him either transformed into demons or lost their minds entirely.
Somehow, his wife Rebecca and their daughter Micah were spared. Kind of. Micah may have survived the chaos, but something is happening to her, too—something no one can explain. Now Jacob and Rebecca travel through this apocalyptic nightmare in an ambulance, trying desperately to find help for their daughter. If help even exists anymore.
The premise hooked me right away—demons, madness, survival, and family—but the pacing didn’t quite land for me. It moved slowly, and at times, the chapters felt like they dragged. That said, there were surprisingly tender moments woven into the horror, which isn’t something you see too often in this genre. One scene with a demon telling a heartfelt story to a child? Weirdly endearing.
A unique concept with some emotional depth—I just wish it had picked up the pace a bit more.
August 6, 2025
5 out of 5 Slays – GIVE ME MORE
When the world ends in chaos and demons take over, Jacob will do anything to protect his wife and daughter—even if it means embracing the darkness within himself.
J.D. Carmicle delivers a gripping, gory, and emotional story full of demons, angels, battles, and love. The worldbuilding is rich, the characters unforgettable, and the balance of horror and heart is masterful. I didn’t expect to care about a ghoul who eats the dead—but here we are.
The beginning starts a little wobbly, but give it two chapters—it’s absolutely worth it. If you liked Devilman Crybaby, this is your next obsession. I need more of this world and its wild, wonderful cast.
Thanks to NetGalley and J.D. Carmicle for letting me read and review this unforgettable ride.
When the world ends in chaos and demons take over, Jacob will do anything to protect his wife and daughter—even if it means embracing the darkness within himself.
J.D. Carmicle delivers a gripping, gory, and emotional story full of demons, angels, battles, and love. The worldbuilding is rich, the characters unforgettable, and the balance of horror and heart is masterful. I didn’t expect to care about a ghoul who eats the dead—but here we are.
The beginning starts a little wobbly, but give it two chapters—it’s absolutely worth it. If you liked Devilman Crybaby, this is your next obsession. I need more of this world and its wild, wonderful cast.
Thanks to NetGalley and J.D. Carmicle for letting me read and review this unforgettable ride.
January 1, 2026
This is a creative fun story that I had a great time reading! The characters are all well written and the pacing is good. I enjoyed the setting and was drawn into the story. I would recommend this! Special Thank You to J.D. Carmicle,Demon Mythos Publishing and Netgalley for allowing me to read a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
October 7, 2025
Thank you to NetGallery and the Author for the eARC.
I really liked the story. at the beginning a bit slow but nonetheless a unique and fluent story.
I really liked the story. at the beginning a bit slow but nonetheless a unique and fluent story.
October 16, 2025
Thanks to #NetGalley for the eARC!
I’ll start with honesty: the beginning of The Nature of Demons didn’t click for me at first (I nearly DNF’d). The writing style took a while to settle in, and it took longer than I expected to find my footing in the storyline. Still, something about the premise kept me curious enough to push through.
Once I did, the book revealed a harrowing vision of apocalyptic horror. A supernatural force sweeps the globe in a single night, bathing streets in chaos as people succumb to their darkest impulses. The worldbuilding is rich and disturbingly immersive, graphic, unsettling, and driven by a creeping dread that lingers well after the chapter ends.
Highlights for me included the eerie atmosphere, the tension of survival horror, and the fraught father-daughter relationship oriented around protectiveness. Also, I appreciated the structural choice of ending each chapter with reflections from his daughter Micah, which provided a bittersweet, grounding humanity among the darkness.
The middle dragged with long and slow sections that dulled the momentum. Although the creepiness and gore were well executed, the novel at times felt like a slow burn consumed by excessive detail .
In the end, I landed at a solid 3 stars. I admire the ambition and the emotional core, but the sluggish pacing kept it from being a standout for me.
Still worth a read!
I’ll start with honesty: the beginning of The Nature of Demons didn’t click for me at first (I nearly DNF’d). The writing style took a while to settle in, and it took longer than I expected to find my footing in the storyline. Still, something about the premise kept me curious enough to push through.
Once I did, the book revealed a harrowing vision of apocalyptic horror. A supernatural force sweeps the globe in a single night, bathing streets in chaos as people succumb to their darkest impulses. The worldbuilding is rich and disturbingly immersive, graphic, unsettling, and driven by a creeping dread that lingers well after the chapter ends.
Highlights for me included the eerie atmosphere, the tension of survival horror, and the fraught father-daughter relationship oriented around protectiveness. Also, I appreciated the structural choice of ending each chapter with reflections from his daughter Micah, which provided a bittersweet, grounding humanity among the darkness.
The middle dragged with long and slow sections that dulled the momentum. Although the creepiness and gore were well executed, the novel at times felt like a slow burn consumed by excessive detail .
In the end, I landed at a solid 3 stars. I admire the ambition and the emotional core, but the sluggish pacing kept it from being a standout for me.
Still worth a read!
August 15, 2025
Thank you NetGalley and Demon Mythos for the eARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The Nature of Demons is an original take on the ever-growing dystopian genre, dealing specifically with the battle against one’s own darkness and impulses. I found it compelling and fun, even if the ending left too many loose threads.
The story follows Jacob Freeman and his family, navigating a new and terrifying world after a catastrophic supernatural event: something (unspecified) happened that transformed part of the population into supernatural -and mostly evil- beings, and another portion into violent lunatics who follow their most basic impulses.
This book is strongest at its worldbuilding. The demons’ varied abilities, natures, and occasional backstories are fascinating; the concept of powers stemming from a person’s pre-existing darkness is compelling, and Jacob’s struggle to negotiate with his own is a highlight of the story. There are also some very interesting side characters , even if they have limited page time. The pacing is well handled, balancing gore and violence with quieter moments that give the reader room to breathe.
Some elements didn’t work as well for me: .
The ending is also unsatisfying: major plot threads remain unresolved, . In addition, the use of U.S. locations without sufficient context made it harder to follow the scope of the group’s movements for a reader unfamiliar with the geography - could I do a Google Maps search? Yes, but that's going to shatter any immersion.
Despite these issues, The Nature of Demons was a fun, wild read -a different take on post-apocalyptic fiction. I’d recommend it to anyone looking for supernatural survival horror, as long as they’re in for the ride and not the conclusion.
The Nature of Demons is an original take on the ever-growing dystopian genre, dealing specifically with the battle against one’s own darkness and impulses. I found it compelling and fun, even if the ending left too many loose threads.
The story follows Jacob Freeman and his family, navigating a new and terrifying world after a catastrophic supernatural event: something (unspecified) happened that transformed part of the population into supernatural -and mostly evil- beings, and another portion into violent lunatics who follow their most basic impulses.
This book is strongest at its worldbuilding. The demons’ varied abilities, natures, and occasional backstories are fascinating; the concept of powers stemming from a person’s pre-existing darkness is compelling, and Jacob’s struggle to negotiate with his own is a highlight of the story. There are also some very interesting side characters , even if they have limited page time. The pacing is well handled, balancing gore and violence with quieter moments that give the reader room to breathe.
Some elements didn’t work as well for me: .
The ending is also unsatisfying: major plot threads remain unresolved, . In addition, the use of U.S. locations without sufficient context made it harder to follow the scope of the group’s movements for a reader unfamiliar with the geography - could I do a Google Maps search? Yes, but that's going to shatter any immersion.
Despite these issues, The Nature of Demons was a fun, wild read -a different take on post-apocalyptic fiction. I’d recommend it to anyone looking for supernatural survival horror, as long as they’re in for the ride and not the conclusion.
July 22, 2025
“The Nature of Demons” By J.D. Carmicle
Thank you to Booksirens and the author for this ARC.
In the space between one heartbeat and the next, the world and Jacob Freeman change forever. Jacob finds that his inner nature has become not only his outward appearance, but his entire existence as he grows horns and develops a mysterious power. As the world slips into preternatural darkness and demonic decay, Jacob finds himself attempting to protect his family while navigating his new reality.
The opening of the book is great. It draws the reader in and gives a good perspective into what it must be like to lose your mind in darkness. The lead character, Jacob, is very well-written, and his conflicting desires to give in to his desires while remaining the protector of his family are handled exceedingly well. Additionally, the character of Judith has depth, personality, and good writing.
The writing is atmospheric, dark, and feels apocalyptic in nature. The author does an amazing job of allowing the reader to sink into the world. It’s grimy, gritty, and inherently evil. Just as you’d expect a world of demonic nature to be. It is very skillfully written around world-building and atmosphere.
However, Rebecca is given very short shrift in the writing. She is flat, and it feels as though she is written solely to be an anchor around the neck of the story. Her decisions drive much of the conflict in the story, but we’re given very little perspective into her emotions outside of how they are perceived by Jacob. Micah, who also experiences changes from the apocalyptic event, has great potential as a story driver. But the reader is given very little information about what is happening to her or what her potential might be. This felt like a truly wasted opportunity in this story.
Overall, it’s a fun read, it’s quick, and it kept me entertained. Perhaps the author has more books planned for this storyline, and we’ll get more about additional characters later on.
Thank you to Booksirens and the author for this ARC.
In the space between one heartbeat and the next, the world and Jacob Freeman change forever. Jacob finds that his inner nature has become not only his outward appearance, but his entire existence as he grows horns and develops a mysterious power. As the world slips into preternatural darkness and demonic decay, Jacob finds himself attempting to protect his family while navigating his new reality.
The opening of the book is great. It draws the reader in and gives a good perspective into what it must be like to lose your mind in darkness. The lead character, Jacob, is very well-written, and his conflicting desires to give in to his desires while remaining the protector of his family are handled exceedingly well. Additionally, the character of Judith has depth, personality, and good writing.
The writing is atmospheric, dark, and feels apocalyptic in nature. The author does an amazing job of allowing the reader to sink into the world. It’s grimy, gritty, and inherently evil. Just as you’d expect a world of demonic nature to be. It is very skillfully written around world-building and atmosphere.
However, Rebecca is given very short shrift in the writing. She is flat, and it feels as though she is written solely to be an anchor around the neck of the story. Her decisions drive much of the conflict in the story, but we’re given very little perspective into her emotions outside of how they are perceived by Jacob. Micah, who also experiences changes from the apocalyptic event, has great potential as a story driver. But the reader is given very little information about what is happening to her or what her potential might be. This felt like a truly wasted opportunity in this story.
Overall, it’s a fun read, it’s quick, and it kept me entertained. Perhaps the author has more books planned for this storyline, and we’ll get more about additional characters later on.
August 31, 2025
An Attorney Jacob Freeman, his doctor wife, Rebecca, and their 10-year-old daughter, Micah, find their lives turned upside down when the world seems to go crazy overnight. As their neighbors—some transformed into nightmarish creatures—murder each other outside their front door, Jacob feels himself fighting the growing “Darkness” within him as horns begin sprouting from his skull. When he gets control of the evil thoughts plaguing him, he and his wife decide to take their daughter and leave their neighborhood in search of other possible survivors. After meeting Judith, a seductive young woman who now has a tail and some supernatural abilities, Jacob resolves to manipulate her into joining their group—though his very upset wife disagrees with this decision. The group of four begins “a voyage of discovery, a post-apocalyptic Lewis and Clark charting the ruins.” Along the way, they meet numerous horrific characters which includes the Ghoul and the Pale Gentleman—some of whom offer to help the travelers while others plot to kill them. Complicating matters is the intense love/hate relationship between Jacob and Rebecca, and the transformation of Micah, who begins growing wings
Is scary .
The author has written a grim and gruesome horror novel which includes the supernatural spreading through the world. The worldbuilding, excellent character development, and dynamics between the characters (particularly Jacob, Rebecca, and Micah) more than make up for these shortcomings. The chapters seem rushed and disjointed which makes me think that the author is planning a sequel? I liked the overall plot of the novel.
Disclaimer: I received an arc of this book from the author/ublisher from Netgalley. I wasn’t obligated to write a favorable review. The opinions expressed are strictly my own.
Is scary .
The author has written a grim and gruesome horror novel which includes the supernatural spreading through the world. The worldbuilding, excellent character development, and dynamics between the characters (particularly Jacob, Rebecca, and Micah) more than make up for these shortcomings. The chapters seem rushed and disjointed which makes me think that the author is planning a sequel? I liked the overall plot of the novel.
Disclaimer: I received an arc of this book from the author/ublisher from Netgalley. I wasn’t obligated to write a favorable review. The opinions expressed are strictly my own.
August 15, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley for providing a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Jacob Freeman has become victim of whatever supernatural force has taken over civilization. The community is turning into creatures that are consumed by their darkest desires. Jacob, as we know, has turned into a demon with horns and everything. It seems like the only people who haven't turned are Jacob's wife, Rebecca, and daughter, Micah. Until Micah starts changing. Despite being a demon, Jacob is doing everything in his power to not be controlled by the urges he has within and to protect his family from the rest of the "crazies." Jacob and his family encounter another demon who Jacob has decided to engage in a "contract" with in order to get some help to protect his family. This is a story of redemption and having hope in the midst of chaos.
I went into this thinking that these demons were going to be the cliche type of demons you read elsewhere - corrupted, maniacal, haunting, and dangerous. While some of the crazies that weren't central to the main characters depicted these characteristics, I was expecting something totally different and so much more. This read as a dystopian to me, and I am not a fan of dystopians. I will also admit as well that I kinda lost concentration and didn't understand what was happening for the last 30% of the book. I gave this three stars because I loved the concept, but it read too much like a Walking Dead situation, but with demons. One thing I really enjoyed was the author's ability to describe what these demons looked like and the gory details of their bodily functions and any death scene.
Jacob Freeman has become victim of whatever supernatural force has taken over civilization. The community is turning into creatures that are consumed by their darkest desires. Jacob, as we know, has turned into a demon with horns and everything. It seems like the only people who haven't turned are Jacob's wife, Rebecca, and daughter, Micah. Until Micah starts changing. Despite being a demon, Jacob is doing everything in his power to not be controlled by the urges he has within and to protect his family from the rest of the "crazies." Jacob and his family encounter another demon who Jacob has decided to engage in a "contract" with in order to get some help to protect his family. This is a story of redemption and having hope in the midst of chaos.
I went into this thinking that these demons were going to be the cliche type of demons you read elsewhere - corrupted, maniacal, haunting, and dangerous. While some of the crazies that weren't central to the main characters depicted these characteristics, I was expecting something totally different and so much more. This read as a dystopian to me, and I am not a fan of dystopians. I will also admit as well that I kinda lost concentration and didn't understand what was happening for the last 30% of the book. I gave this three stars because I loved the concept, but it read too much like a Walking Dead situation, but with demons. One thing I really enjoyed was the author's ability to describe what these demons looked like and the gory details of their bodily functions and any death scene.
Read
September 4, 2025Rating: 1.40
Jacob and his daughter Micah are brushing their teeth before bed when Rebecca hears her daughter crying out for her in terror. Rushing in, she see's her husband passed out on the floor, writhing and pained.
As the paramedics take him out to the ambulance, they are ambushed and killed, leaving Rebecca to drag her unconscious husband and her terrified pre-teen daughter into their basement. Days pass with no rescue and for some reason, her husband is growing horns.
When Jacob awakes, there is a darkness lurking within him that is dangerous.
DNF'd at 52%
I'm a very big fan of this sub-genre of horror - the type where everything goes to hell and humanity becomes the worst version of itself. However, I'd not long read The Devil Next Door by Tim Curran which follows the same theme so I suppose it's my fault for trying to follow that up with something similar, but this didn't quite hit for me.
Worlds like this are made to be horrific, I expected some truly awful stuff, especially due to the fact that things seem quite demonic. A book that should have been filled with some serious messed up stuff seemed to barely scratch the surface of anything awful.
To reiterate, this was a decent book, and if you're after something a bit horrifying and you enjoy apocalypse/end-of-the-world scenarios then you will probably love this. But I genuinely believe that this sort of plot should come with gore filled pages or death and bodily fluids and the sort of things that make you close the book for a minute to get your bearings and wonder if you can continue.
It just felt like so much lost potential (I won't use the word wasted because I truly believe the book was good - just not for me)
The reason I unfortunately had to DNF however was due to how bored I was. I hated the characters, I didn't care about them at all and I was put off completely when Micah started to become some sort of angel.
I got halfway through this and barely anything happened and that just put me in a slump. Judith's addition to the group seems completely unnecessary and if I'm honest, put the nail in the coffin for me because for me she was just as boring as the rest.
It's such a shame as the concept as well as the cover really drew me in, but what happened between the pages couldn't live up to it.
I may return to this one day - but for now, this was not working for me.
Jacob and his daughter Micah are brushing their teeth before bed when Rebecca hears her daughter crying out for her in terror. Rushing in, she see's her husband passed out on the floor, writhing and pained.
As the paramedics take him out to the ambulance, they are ambushed and killed, leaving Rebecca to drag her unconscious husband and her terrified pre-teen daughter into their basement. Days pass with no rescue and for some reason, her husband is growing horns.
When Jacob awakes, there is a darkness lurking within him that is dangerous.
DNF'd at 52%
I'm a very big fan of this sub-genre of horror - the type where everything goes to hell and humanity becomes the worst version of itself. However, I'd not long read The Devil Next Door by Tim Curran which follows the same theme so I suppose it's my fault for trying to follow that up with something similar, but this didn't quite hit for me.
Worlds like this are made to be horrific, I expected some truly awful stuff, especially due to the fact that things seem quite demonic. A book that should have been filled with some serious messed up stuff seemed to barely scratch the surface of anything awful.
To reiterate, this was a decent book, and if you're after something a bit horrifying and you enjoy apocalypse/end-of-the-world scenarios then you will probably love this. But I genuinely believe that this sort of plot should come with gore filled pages or death and bodily fluids and the sort of things that make you close the book for a minute to get your bearings and wonder if you can continue.
It just felt like so much lost potential (I won't use the word wasted because I truly believe the book was good - just not for me)
The reason I unfortunately had to DNF however was due to how bored I was. I hated the characters, I didn't care about them at all and I was put off completely when Micah started to become some sort of angel.
I got halfway through this and barely anything happened and that just put me in a slump. Judith's addition to the group seems completely unnecessary and if I'm honest, put the nail in the coffin for me because for me she was just as boring as the rest.
It's such a shame as the concept as well as the cover really drew me in, but what happened between the pages couldn't live up to it.
I may return to this one day - but for now, this was not working for me.
July 12, 2025
This apocalyptic novel describes the world when an unknown occurrence happens. All the sudden there are ‘norms’, ‘the dark’ and ‘the light’. Jacob believes himself to be a demon but lacks some of the most violent tendencies. I found this speculative work of fiction very interesting. The actions of each character were so vile yet there was great care for Rebecca and Micah. I felt the reader was made to think of Micah as an angel, so very opposite her dad and Judith. I had very mixed feelings about Jacob. He had no qualms about taking out the ‘crazies’ but could restrain himself when encountering others. I think his lawyer experience made him an excellent negotiator except when he trapped Judith into becoming his ‘indentured servant’. He must have seen some kind of redeeming qualities within her to first trap her. Their relationship changed allowing the reader to understand the constant battle within Jacob. Out of all the characters of this book, the Pale Gentleman was the most terrifying. The collection of artifacts he was amassing would someday make him a powerful entity in this future world. It will be interrogated see if there will be another book coming about these characters. I, for one,would read the book. I have more questions about Micah, does Judith continue to help Jacob, and what is next for this group.
July 11, 2025
This book grabbed me by the throat and didn’t let go. The Nature of Demons is a wild, emotional ride through apocalypse, family bonds, and the monster within us all. We follow Jacob, Rebecca, and their daughter Micah as their world shatters overnight, and yes, the stakes are high.
Jacob’s transformation into part-demon is wild and gruesome, but it’s his desperate struggle to guard his family that gave the chaos heart. Micah stole every scene she was in. Her resilience and mystery made me root for her through every shock. Rebecca shines as the calm and capable anchor in this storm. Their family dynamic is harrowing and deeply human amid the madness.
The atmosphere is intense and often brutal. There are moments that genuinely lingered in my mind like haunting echoes. That said, the pacing slowed in the middle and a few chapters drifted a bit. Tightening those would make the tension land even harder.
If you’re craving gore, apocalyptic tension, supernatural horror, and a story with emotional grit at its core, The Nature of Demons delivered. It’s chaotic, it’s dark, and it actually means something.
Jacob’s transformation into part-demon is wild and gruesome, but it’s his desperate struggle to guard his family that gave the chaos heart. Micah stole every scene she was in. Her resilience and mystery made me root for her through every shock. Rebecca shines as the calm and capable anchor in this storm. Their family dynamic is harrowing and deeply human amid the madness.
The atmosphere is intense and often brutal. There are moments that genuinely lingered in my mind like haunting echoes. That said, the pacing slowed in the middle and a few chapters drifted a bit. Tightening those would make the tension land even harder.
If you’re craving gore, apocalyptic tension, supernatural horror, and a story with emotional grit at its core, The Nature of Demons delivered. It’s chaotic, it’s dark, and it actually means something.
July 31, 2025
Read via net galley
JDC wrote a book that seems to fit in with horror stories of old. Fat people are evil, women are evil, wives are nagging bitches, and so on. There were a few errors in the text. Throughout the first 25%, I thought there was a chance JDC the author likes women. After that, I really wasn’t sure. Surprisingly, the first Rebecca chapter was the best. I think it had the best writing over all, and I really got a sense for her and she felt fleshed out. If we spent more time in her point of view I think the book would be better overall.
This book was tagged new adult, which it absolutely is not. Jacob is 38 and has a ten year old child. It’s a very run of the mill book with a run of the mill pathetic and disgusting man as the protagonist. He’s a perv, a cheater, a drunk- the list goes on. I felt misled by the blurb and wish I had read reviews before I went for it.
There were parts of the world building that I really liked. I would have loved more digging into the Light and other angels (seriously, why do they never refer to Micah as an angel?).
JDC wrote a book that seems to fit in with horror stories of old. Fat people are evil, women are evil, wives are nagging bitches, and so on. There were a few errors in the text. Throughout the first 25%, I thought there was a chance JDC the author likes women. After that, I really wasn’t sure. Surprisingly, the first Rebecca chapter was the best. I think it had the best writing over all, and I really got a sense for her and she felt fleshed out. If we spent more time in her point of view I think the book would be better overall.
This book was tagged new adult, which it absolutely is not. Jacob is 38 and has a ten year old child. It’s a very run of the mill book with a run of the mill pathetic and disgusting man as the protagonist. He’s a perv, a cheater, a drunk- the list goes on. I felt misled by the blurb and wish I had read reviews before I went for it.
There were parts of the world building that I really liked. I would have loved more digging into the Light and other angels (seriously, why do they never refer to Micah as an angel?).
June 15, 2025
Quick very high level summary.
While the world is going through some major apocalyptic changes around him or MC Jacob Freeman is struggling with some dark transformations of his own. He has to fight to protect if family from a crumbling society as well as from hisself. Have demons taken over because it is hell they are currently living in.
My Take.
Artful body gore. Is that a term? Can we make it one? The author manages to make body gore feel like an artistic depiction of bodily disfigurement with a splash of gore. These gruesome depictions are almost beautiful and mesmerizing. Highlighting the authors creativity and artistry when portraying and describing physical trauma. Overall this was a unique take on dystopian/apocalypse horror fiction that was interesting and creatively written.
While the world is going through some major apocalyptic changes around him or MC Jacob Freeman is struggling with some dark transformations of his own. He has to fight to protect if family from a crumbling society as well as from hisself. Have demons taken over because it is hell they are currently living in.
My Take.
Artful body gore. Is that a term? Can we make it one? The author manages to make body gore feel like an artistic depiction of bodily disfigurement with a splash of gore. These gruesome depictions are almost beautiful and mesmerizing. Highlighting the authors creativity and artistry when portraying and describing physical trauma. Overall this was a unique take on dystopian/apocalypse horror fiction that was interesting and creatively written.
July 6, 2025
The Nature of Demons by J.D. Carmicle is a wild story about a post-apocalyptic world. I received a review copy from Netgalley and here's my review
The story starts with a night, when people around the world lose control and turn into monsters... Demons. Strange creatures - crazies - start roaming the streets, killing anyone they come across.
At the heart of the chaos is Jacob Freeman - a lawyer turned half-demon - who must protect his family while battling the beast within.
The book is full of action and scary moments. It's dark and gory. In between, it has some touching, emotional scenes as well.
I liked the idea as well as the plot. But I couldn't finish reading the story.
The story was slow-moving, with painfully long chapters. And even after spending 5+ hours, I wasn't yet at half of it. I got impatient.
DNFed after around 40%.
The story starts with a night, when people around the world lose control and turn into monsters... Demons. Strange creatures - crazies - start roaming the streets, killing anyone they come across.
At the heart of the chaos is Jacob Freeman - a lawyer turned half-demon - who must protect his family while battling the beast within.
The book is full of action and scary moments. It's dark and gory. In between, it has some touching, emotional scenes as well.
I liked the idea as well as the plot. But I couldn't finish reading the story.
The story was slow-moving, with painfully long chapters. And even after spending 5+ hours, I wasn't yet at half of it. I got impatient.
DNFed after around 40%.
July 21, 2025
Thanks to the author for the book.
This book follows Jacob and his family when, one day, hell comes to Earth.
I loved it. The beginning was amazing, told in flashes, as if it were a screen that blinks before changing scenes. We read the whole first part through Jacob's and Rebecca's (Jacob's wife’s) eyes. I found this extremely original and well done.
At first, I couldn’t really understand what was going on, but once I caught on, it was amazing.
The rest of the book is about all of them trying to survive in a world filled with “crazies�� and demons. It was a really original story. It’s really well written, and I loved all the characters. I would love a second book set in this world. I need to know what happened to them after this story. At times, Jacob reflects on the consequences of what they're going through, and I would love to know if he was right.
This book follows Jacob and his family when, one day, hell comes to Earth.
I loved it. The beginning was amazing, told in flashes, as if it were a screen that blinks before changing scenes. We read the whole first part through Jacob's and Rebecca's (Jacob's wife’s) eyes. I found this extremely original and well done.
At first, I couldn’t really understand what was going on, but once I caught on, it was amazing.
The rest of the book is about all of them trying to survive in a world filled with “crazies�� and demons. It was a really original story. It’s really well written, and I loved all the characters. I would love a second book set in this world. I need to know what happened to them after this story. At times, Jacob reflects on the consequences of what they're going through, and I would love to know if he was right.
December 23, 2025
This review is a bit late life happens but better late than never. Thank you to NetGalley for providing a digital ARC.
The Nature of Demons had an interesting concept and a strong atmosphere, but overall it landed somewhere in the middle for me. There were moments that genuinely intrigued me, especially the darker themes and ideas it explored, but the execution didn’t always fully deliver.
The pacing felt uneven at times, and while some characters had potential, I found myself wishing for deeper development and stronger emotional investment. I never fully connected in the way I wanted to, which made parts of the story feel a bit distant.
That said, it wasn’t a bad read just one that didn’t completely hit for me. Worth checking out if the premise interests you, but it didn’t leave a lasting impression.
The Nature of Demons had an interesting concept and a strong atmosphere, but overall it landed somewhere in the middle for me. There were moments that genuinely intrigued me, especially the darker themes and ideas it explored, but the execution didn’t always fully deliver.
The pacing felt uneven at times, and while some characters had potential, I found myself wishing for deeper development and stronger emotional investment. I never fully connected in the way I wanted to, which made parts of the story feel a bit distant.
That said, it wasn’t a bad read just one that didn’t completely hit for me. Worth checking out if the premise interests you, but it didn’t leave a lasting impression.
July 4, 2025
This was an interesting book to say the least. There were lots of things going on between the norms, demons, crazies and what happened along the way. I would say, this book would’ve read a bit smoother had the chapters been shorter. That said, Jacob, a lawyer, his wife Rebecca, a doctor and their daughter Micah lives change in the blink of an eye when the world quite simply implodes around them. Micah was by far the best character, although Carmicle could’ve pursued more into Micah’s character. I was quite surprised at Judith. I loved watching the powers unfold during this journey for survival. Though confusing at times, it was truly all part of the process, POV’s and twists. The premise of people being enveloped by their darkest innermost thoughts and desires were interesting.
June 8, 2025
What a great new take on post apocalyptic horror fiction. I loved the premise and plot. The characters really came alive and I felt I loved or hated them where I should.
I hope this is the first of a series as so much is left unanswered and unaddressed. I'm itching to know how it plays out. I want to give this 5 stars but without knowing if it is to be a stand alone or not I don't feel I can as if it IS a stand alone then I'm left with too many questions.
The whole time I was reading I couldn't help but think what a brilliant TV show or film this would make too.
Honestly, I am really excited by this author and book and can't wait to hear more from them. Brilliant.
I hope this is the first of a series as so much is left unanswered and unaddressed. I'm itching to know how it plays out. I want to give this 5 stars but without knowing if it is to be a stand alone or not I don't feel I can as if it IS a stand alone then I'm left with too many questions.
The whole time I was reading I couldn't help but think what a brilliant TV show or film this would make too.
Honestly, I am really excited by this author and book and can't wait to hear more from them. Brilliant.
July 27, 2025
The Nature of Demons by J.D. Carmicle is a dark, atmospheric tale that blends supernatural intrigue with rich world-building. Carmicle has a gift for crafting morally complex characters, and the tension between good and evil is handled with nuance and depth. The pacing builds steadily, keeping the reader hooked as layers of the story unfold.
While a few moments felt slightly drawn out, the payoff was well worth it. The lore surrounding the demons is particularly fascinating, original, and haunting in the best way. This is a gripping read for fans of dark fantasy who crave both action and psychological depth.
Highly recommended, and I’ll definitely be continuing with this series!
While a few moments felt slightly drawn out, the payoff was well worth it. The lore surrounding the demons is particularly fascinating, original, and haunting in the best way. This is a gripping read for fans of dark fantasy who crave both action and psychological depth.
Highly recommended, and I’ll definitely be continuing with this series!
July 19, 2025
The Nature of Demons by J.D. Carmicle takes place at end of days. Hell has opened and the demons are now running the world. Jacob has been infected but he makes a deal with the devil, so to speak, all so he can save his daughter. The Nature of Demons is a quick disturbing story. It is everything you want in a post-apocalyptic horror story. I would love read a second in the series to see what happens next.
Thanks to NetGalley, Demon Mythos, and Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA), Members' Titles for the advanced copy.
Thanks to NetGalley, Demon Mythos, and Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA), Members' Titles for the advanced copy.
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