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Brimstone Inferno
Undertaker Jean has a secret…
She can speak to the dead.
Ever since she lost her husband on their wedding day, her priority is to keep their son safe.
But when she finds him murdered on his sixteenth birthday, Jean’s world is shattered.
She descends into the underworld, determined to bring her son home.
Meanwhile in the land of the living, Detective Taura is investigating the boy’s death. Dark secrets that have been following her are brought to the surface.
The murder is only the beginning.
Supernatural forces are stirring in London.
Will the two women save their loved ones and the living world?
She can speak to the dead.
Ever since she lost her husband on their wedding day, her priority is to keep their son safe.
But when she finds him murdered on his sixteenth birthday, Jean’s world is shattered.
She descends into the underworld, determined to bring her son home.
Meanwhile in the land of the living, Detective Taura is investigating the boy’s death. Dark secrets that have been following her are brought to the surface.
The murder is only the beginning.
Supernatural forces are stirring in London.
Will the two women save their loved ones and the living world?
302 pages, Paperback
Published October 1, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
October 7, 2026
Brimstone Inferno is an extremely ambitious debut, drawing on death, the Underworld, love, religion and family.
It speaks to the enduring, heartfelt drive that we have for those that mean the world to us. A mother, desperate to find and save her son. A detective, jaded and cast out, striving to find the only person who has ever truly accepted her for who and what she is.
I can't recollect another modern lit / contemporary lit book that I have personally read, that uses such explicit and on-the-nose Christian lore and storytelling to build out a magical and monstrous system of the world. Think Paradise Lost, but set in a gritty London, focused on Undertakers and Detectives.
I think, being raised in a heavily Christian (and CofE) society (despite being Atheistic) - it's easy to confuse the mythological aspects of this story, with preachiness. There was a point mid-way through the book where I had to double take, and tell myself that no - this isn't preachy - it's doing what any book that draws on a culture's religious storytelling does. Would I have that same assumption if this was using Pagan, Grecian, or Slavic/Eastern European mythology? No.
So from that point the book and story sat much better with me - and that's entirely on me and my lens through which I read this book. Just being honest - expect a lot of religious imagery in this one.
Also expect some quite traumatic events. Death is very openly and explicitly featured, and especially the death of children. That can be quite jarring, as can some of the other themes Tom explores in this.
But all of that is more to frame your expectations of Brimstone Inferno. It isn't to detract, but to prepare.
The world and characters that Tom has crafted for his story is - as I said - ambitious, and unique. He is deeply rooted in both, and it is very clear to see that he has a profound love, care and knowledge for his story. The way in which he was able to interweave the deeply niche religious imagery into the fantastical, was seamless.
Magic is a used sparingly, but when it is, it feels like a natural extension of the characters, and their skill matches their personality and character so well. It doesn't feel "magical", it fees cohesive, it feels embedded in who they are.
But not only did he create a spellbinding and unique world, but he illustrated the book himself, bringing that world and his characters to light. Seeing an author pour so much of what they love and enjoy into their story, is truly beautiful, and it feels that he and Jean both represent the same thing.
That deep-rooted immersion from Tom does, on occasion work against him though. I think the assumption is that the layperson would come to this with that same depth of knowledge of Christian storytelling. It often means that extremely minor, or contrastingly, leftfield developments can leave the reader feeling like they missed something, or need to go and take time out to connect the dots - bringing people out of the story.
And secondly, I think that the ambition of what is being done here is rushed. This is a sub-300 page book and it tries to deal with multiple character POVs through a variety of timelines (present day and flashbacks), a number of locations in our world and in others, it brings in a whole host of themes dealing with love, loss, family, acceptance, death and more. For me, it needed another 100 pages to get the full experience across, taking a bit of time to slow down and make the reader work for the high stakes and fast paced moments.
This was a strong debut, and I am really keen to see how Tom hones his craft for his next story.
3.5/5.0
It speaks to the enduring, heartfelt drive that we have for those that mean the world to us. A mother, desperate to find and save her son. A detective, jaded and cast out, striving to find the only person who has ever truly accepted her for who and what she is.
I can't recollect another modern lit / contemporary lit book that I have personally read, that uses such explicit and on-the-nose Christian lore and storytelling to build out a magical and monstrous system of the world. Think Paradise Lost, but set in a gritty London, focused on Undertakers and Detectives.
I think, being raised in a heavily Christian (and CofE) society (despite being Atheistic) - it's easy to confuse the mythological aspects of this story, with preachiness. There was a point mid-way through the book where I had to double take, and tell myself that no - this isn't preachy - it's doing what any book that draws on a culture's religious storytelling does. Would I have that same assumption if this was using Pagan, Grecian, or Slavic/Eastern European mythology? No.
So from that point the book and story sat much better with me - and that's entirely on me and my lens through which I read this book. Just being honest - expect a lot of religious imagery in this one.
Also expect some quite traumatic events. Death is very openly and explicitly featured, and especially the death of children. That can be quite jarring, as can some of the other themes Tom explores in this.
But all of that is more to frame your expectations of Brimstone Inferno. It isn't to detract, but to prepare.
The world and characters that Tom has crafted for his story is - as I said - ambitious, and unique. He is deeply rooted in both, and it is very clear to see that he has a profound love, care and knowledge for his story. The way in which he was able to interweave the deeply niche religious imagery into the fantastical, was seamless.
Magic is a used sparingly, but when it is, it feels like a natural extension of the characters, and their skill matches their personality and character so well. It doesn't feel "magical", it fees cohesive, it feels embedded in who they are.
But not only did he create a spellbinding and unique world, but he illustrated the book himself, bringing that world and his characters to light. Seeing an author pour so much of what they love and enjoy into their story, is truly beautiful, and it feels that he and Jean both represent the same thing.
That deep-rooted immersion from Tom does, on occasion work against him though. I think the assumption is that the layperson would come to this with that same depth of knowledge of Christian storytelling. It often means that extremely minor, or contrastingly, leftfield developments can leave the reader feeling like they missed something, or need to go and take time out to connect the dots - bringing people out of the story.
And secondly, I think that the ambition of what is being done here is rushed. This is a sub-300 page book and it tries to deal with multiple character POVs through a variety of timelines (present day and flashbacks), a number of locations in our world and in others, it brings in a whole host of themes dealing with love, loss, family, acceptance, death and more. For me, it needed another 100 pages to get the full experience across, taking a bit of time to slow down and make the reader work for the high stakes and fast paced moments.
This was a strong debut, and I am really keen to see how Tom hones his craft for his next story.
3.5/5.0
July 31, 2026
Brimstone Inferno is the perfect example that a book can be exceptionally well written without going through traditional publishing.
I don't usually read this genre—in fact, this is only my second time—because I'm not particularly interested in Christianity. That said, I grew up rewatching Constantine over and over, so I'm very selective when it comes to stories about demons and angels. However, the author executed the concept in a way that never feels overwhelming with biblical references.
Even as someone who's only familiar with the basics, I found it easy to follow. The story kept me engaged with its emotional twists and compelling plot.
I almost wish I could give it another ⭐️ just for the artwork. The cover and chapter headers were beautifully designed by the author himself, and every detail reflects the years of dedication he poured into creating this story.
I don't usually read this genre—in fact, this is only my second time—because I'm not particularly interested in Christianity. That said, I grew up rewatching Constantine over and over, so I'm very selective when it comes to stories about demons and angels. However, the author executed the concept in a way that never feels overwhelming with biblical references.
Even as someone who's only familiar with the basics, I found it easy to follow. The story kept me engaged with its emotional twists and compelling plot.
I almost wish I could give it another ⭐️ just for the artwork. The cover and chapter headers were beautifully designed by the author himself, and every detail reflects the years of dedication he poured into creating this story.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I wish I could read this again for the very first time!
The author's writing style is spectacular. It's vivid, poetic, and he has a way with words that just hits you. He doesn't reveal everything all at once. Instead, he drops small details that slowly grow into something much bigger as the story unfolds. I absolutely love books that are written like that.
We follow an undertaker whose son dies on his sixteenth birthday. Determined to bring him back, she travels to the underworld. Meanwhile, a detective tries to uncover what really happened to her son.
I don't want to give anything away because this is one of those books you simply have to experience for yourself.
I could never have guessed where Brimstone Inferno would take me. I had goosebumps more than once, and there were several moments where tears were streaming down my face. The plot twists completely caught me off guard! I never saw any of them coming and I absolutely loved that!
Tom, the author, is also the illustrator behind everything in this book. He created the stunning cover as well as the beautiful illustrations at the beginning of each chapter. I genuinely wish more books included hand-drawn artwork like this. It adds so much to the reading experience. The whole book is truly a work of art and its so clear that much time and love has been poured into this story.
I wish I could give this book more than five stars because it deserves every single one. And now I need book two! That ending is going to haunt me for a long time.
This book is incredibly well crafted and beautifully written. I loved every single second of it!
The author's writing style is spectacular. It's vivid, poetic, and he has a way with words that just hits you. He doesn't reveal everything all at once. Instead, he drops small details that slowly grow into something much bigger as the story unfolds. I absolutely love books that are written like that.
We follow an undertaker whose son dies on his sixteenth birthday. Determined to bring him back, she travels to the underworld. Meanwhile, a detective tries to uncover what really happened to her son.
I don't want to give anything away because this is one of those books you simply have to experience for yourself.
I could never have guessed where Brimstone Inferno would take me. I had goosebumps more than once, and there were several moments where tears were streaming down my face. The plot twists completely caught me off guard! I never saw any of them coming and I absolutely loved that!
Tom, the author, is also the illustrator behind everything in this book. He created the stunning cover as well as the beautiful illustrations at the beginning of each chapter. I genuinely wish more books included hand-drawn artwork like this. It adds so much to the reading experience. The whole book is truly a work of art and its so clear that much time and love has been poured into this story.
I wish I could give this book more than five stars because it deserves every single one. And now I need book two! That ending is going to haunt me for a long time.
This book is incredibly well crafted and beautifully written. I loved every single second of it!
Review of advance copy
Listened via Spotify
Very interesting new world and new author for me. As a debut, this is ambitious and sweeping in its scope. Religion focused and centered on the characters experience of traumatic grief, the emotion runs high. The language is lyrical and beautiful. A highlight for me is all the original art done by Tom himself and the fact that he did the narration for the audiobook and he provided a PDF of the gorgeous chapter heading art with the audio. Really happy with that!
Highly recommend giving this dual POV fantasy story a try.
Very interesting new world and new author for me. As a debut, this is ambitious and sweeping in its scope. Religion focused and centered on the characters experience of traumatic grief, the emotion runs high. The language is lyrical and beautiful. A highlight for me is all the original art done by Tom himself and the fact that he did the narration for the audiobook and he provided a PDF of the gorgeous chapter heading art with the audio. Really happy with that!
Highly recommend giving this dual POV fantasy story a try.
September 14, 2026
I'm so glad I found this book and gave it a chance. The premise of an undertaker going into the underworld for her son intrigued me. The story grabbed my attention from the first page and I read this pretty quickly. I listened to most of the book via audible and the author is also the narrator. He did a fantastic job telling his story and his voice was very pleasant to listen to. While not religious myself, I do find religious imagery to be beautiful and I enjoyed the Christian mythology. And the epilogue left me excited for the next book!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Action packed and beautifully written. Plenty of twist and turns to keep you engaged wondering what’s going to happen. Very cool concept. Artwork beautiful
Review of advance copy received from Author
I absolutely loved it!
Arc given by the author himself!
Where do I begin. I did not expect the book to hit me strong emotionally from the first chapters. Did I tear up? Absolutely. And when I thought I was in the safe zone I was hit again. Jean became easily one of my favorite characters. She even inspired me to draw her. She is not only a mother, she is a person who loves, who suffered and who won't give up. I truly enjoyed reading from her perspective and see what else would happen. Taura was absolutely amazing. She was strong, full of secrets and very badass.
Jean and Taura made the story so enjoyable and so compeling. I was rooting for both of them.
There are a ton of aspects I like about the book in general. The imagery and how vivid and detailed it was, really helped me get into the story. Then the illustrations. The author did an incredible job at illustrating the chapters and the cover as well. They went into the theme and made it such a unique experience.
The action was there, the feelings were there, the plot twists were there. The one fact I love the most is that the plot tied around the characters and their choices. It was entertaining and fun. I can't wait for the next book cuz what was that epilogue??? Chills, literal chills. I am so invested in what is to come.
Side note, there is one character I hate with my entire heart and I wish them a hot pillow for every heated summer night full of mosquitoes.
I don't know what else to add but my congratulations to the author for his debut novel and how great it turned out.
Arc given by the author himself!
Where do I begin. I did not expect the book to hit me strong emotionally from the first chapters. Did I tear up? Absolutely. And when I thought I was in the safe zone I was hit again. Jean became easily one of my favorite characters. She even inspired me to draw her. She is not only a mother, she is a person who loves, who suffered and who won't give up. I truly enjoyed reading from her perspective and see what else would happen. Taura was absolutely amazing. She was strong, full of secrets and very badass.
Jean and Taura made the story so enjoyable and so compeling. I was rooting for both of them.
There are a ton of aspects I like about the book in general. The imagery and how vivid and detailed it was, really helped me get into the story. Then the illustrations. The author did an incredible job at illustrating the chapters and the cover as well. They went into the theme and made it such a unique experience.
The action was there, the feelings were there, the plot twists were there. The one fact I love the most is that the plot tied around the characters and their choices. It was entertaining and fun. I can't wait for the next book cuz what was that epilogue??? Chills, literal chills. I am so invested in what is to come.
Side note, there is one character I hate with my entire heart and I wish them a hot pillow for every heated summer night full of mosquitoes.
I don't know what else to add but my congratulations to the author for his debut novel and how great it turned out.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Engaging and exciting, seriously good read
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received this from the author Tom D. Han and I'm really glad I did. This is a book totally different to what I usually read and I really enjoyed it. This did for me what Between Two Fires couldn't, it took a difficult and emotive subject (Christianity/religion etc) and made a compelling story
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
Amazing to read a fantasy novel based on Christian mythology. The action picks up quickly and I was immediately connected to the 2 main characters. Plenty of twists and turns to keep you guessing and an ending that has stuck with me!
July 18, 2026
e-ARC provided by the author himself!
Since this is a debut, I will write a review after a while. My rating is based on the entertainment that the novel brought to me.
Although I’m not well versed in the fantasy genre (I don’t read that much fantasy but still try to) this novel was entertaining enough but I think my literary tastes are differing on what I think about it.
This is a book with 2 POVs, Jean and Taura.
We open with an emotional prologue which lead me to think that this novel would go in a more emotional way but I was wrong. The direction of this novel went into full action mode and, relatively, a lot of plot twists for my liking.
One point in favor is the description of sceneries but for me, it lacked in creating the atmosphere. It felt beautiful but empty (if that makes any sense).
Since the author uses 3rd POV for both characters, I’m conflicted if the voice used affected my perception of how it is being executed.
I liked the scenery with the scenes with The Ferryman!
When it comes to the main characters, again, I think this is more so about my preferences, I found them lacking profoundness a little bit. I wanted more of their thoughts, their feelings… And will say, that maybe the choice of voice was also affected by this (again, by my taste).
When it comes to side characters… I see it as… Since this is a novel focusing a lot on the action and plot, I felt like they were kind of “damaged” too.
We are treating mostly with side characters that should have more mythological feeling rather than, of what I feel, “characters with supernatural elements”.
I would have given such characters more importance in describing their presence rather than just go along with it in simple sentences. I mean, you can definitely do it with simple sentences but again, that goes hand in hand with the lack of profoundness within the main characters.
The ending of the epilogue actually gave me chills so I’ll give it that!
At entertainment value this is a 4⭐️ but I can’t give that rating as I’d rather be honest with my own preferences.
Final words: I recommend this for people who like their fantasy action packed that includes religion, grief!
Also loved every illustration at the beginning of every chapter! Really talented!
Since this is a debut, I will write a review after a while. My rating is based on the entertainment that the novel brought to me.
Although I’m not well versed in the fantasy genre (I don’t read that much fantasy but still try to) this novel was entertaining enough but I think my literary tastes are differing on what I think about it.
This is a book with 2 POVs, Jean and Taura.
We open with an emotional prologue which lead me to think that this novel would go in a more emotional way but I was wrong. The direction of this novel went into full action mode and, relatively, a lot of plot twists for my liking.
One point in favor is the description of sceneries but for me, it lacked in creating the atmosphere. It felt beautiful but empty (if that makes any sense).
Since the author uses 3rd POV for both characters, I’m conflicted if the voice used affected my perception of how it is being executed.
I liked the scenery with the scenes with The Ferryman!
When it comes to the main characters, again, I think this is more so about my preferences, I found them lacking profoundness a little bit. I wanted more of their thoughts, their feelings… And will say, that maybe the choice of voice was also affected by this (again, by my taste).
When it comes to side characters… I see it as… Since this is a novel focusing a lot on the action and plot, I felt like they were kind of “damaged” too.
We are treating mostly with side characters that should have more mythological feeling rather than, of what I feel, “characters with supernatural elements”.
I would have given such characters more importance in describing their presence rather than just go along with it in simple sentences. I mean, you can definitely do it with simple sentences but again, that goes hand in hand with the lack of profoundness within the main characters.
The ending of the epilogue actually gave me chills so I’ll give it that!
At entertainment value this is a 4⭐️ but I can’t give that rating as I’d rather be honest with my own preferences.
Final words: I recommend this for people who like their fantasy action packed that includes religion, grief!
Also loved every illustration at the beginning of every chapter! Really talented!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Tom D. Han’s debut novel was a delight to read. Not only did he write the actual words but he drew the cover and illustrations that grace the pages throughout. For that alone I must commend him!
Jean is an undertaker who has the ability to control a supernatural fire and to converse with the recently departed. For the most part, she enjoys her life and finds great fulfillment in caring for her teenage son. But everything upends when she returns home one day to find that her son has unexpectedly died…
There are many things to admire about this book. First and foremost was the utter delight I felt with how deeply Mr. Han delved into different aspects of Christian mythology and remixed them into something completely new and fresh. I greatly enjoyed was not knowing where the plot was going, nor what the characters were going to do. It is rare to see something fresh and new in a genre so laden with predictable tropes.
That being said, there were a few points in the book where I struggled. It’s clear that Mr. Han had poured an extensive amount of time and energy into developing his writing craft. However, I struggled a bit with a shallower POV in several places. I feel that this will work itself out as he continues to write, but there were a few moments where it pulled me out of the story.
The second piece that sometimes pulled me out of the narrative was when the author presented a plot or worldbuilding reveal… and I feel like I had to set the book down for a moment to fully understand what the reveal was. However, I could tell that *the author* deeply understood his world and characters, so with a little noodling, I was usually able to fill in the gap. Smoothing this craft-level skill (ie - honing the writing delivery so the reader goes, ‘OH! That’s what’s going on!’) will come in time, especially since it’s clear Mr. Han is only getting started in his writing career.
All in all, even with the rougher patches, I found reading Brimstone Inferno a wonderful experience. I loved diving into a world that was so different from any other I’ve read in quite a while, and I look forward to following along on Mr. Han’s future work and projects.
Jean is an undertaker who has the ability to control a supernatural fire and to converse with the recently departed. For the most part, she enjoys her life and finds great fulfillment in caring for her teenage son. But everything upends when she returns home one day to find that her son has unexpectedly died…
There are many things to admire about this book. First and foremost was the utter delight I felt with how deeply Mr. Han delved into different aspects of Christian mythology and remixed them into something completely new and fresh. I greatly enjoyed was not knowing where the plot was going, nor what the characters were going to do. It is rare to see something fresh and new in a genre so laden with predictable tropes.
That being said, there were a few points in the book where I struggled. It’s clear that Mr. Han had poured an extensive amount of time and energy into developing his writing craft. However, I struggled a bit with a shallower POV in several places. I feel that this will work itself out as he continues to write, but there were a few moments where it pulled me out of the story.
The second piece that sometimes pulled me out of the narrative was when the author presented a plot or worldbuilding reveal… and I feel like I had to set the book down for a moment to fully understand what the reveal was. However, I could tell that *the author* deeply understood his world and characters, so with a little noodling, I was usually able to fill in the gap. Smoothing this craft-level skill (ie - honing the writing delivery so the reader goes, ‘OH! That’s what’s going on!’) will come in time, especially since it’s clear Mr. Han is only getting started in his writing career.
All in all, even with the rougher patches, I found reading Brimstone Inferno a wonderful experience. I loved diving into a world that was so different from any other I’ve read in quite a while, and I look forward to following along on Mr. Han’s future work and projects.
October 5, 2026
A book I wish I could read again for the first time…Fantastically written, engrossing read that plays with genre in such a refreshing and unique way. Loved that we follow two protagonists who are so different from each other but have so much vulnerability and strength to overcome a great deal of strife and betrayal! The pacing felt exciting, everything takes place in one night and we really see events escalate dramatically. The twists are turns are very much unexpected and subverts genre in a way that made it hard to put down.
The author plays with Christian mythology and tales but alongside a very modern setting that’s quite surprising. There’s a lot of mystery that gets resolved in very unexpected but satisfying ways, but I also believe this book is the first of a series so looking forward to what comes next after that mean cliffhanger!
The author plays with Christian mythology and tales but alongside a very modern setting that’s quite surprising. There’s a lot of mystery that gets resolved in very unexpected but satisfying ways, but I also believe this book is the first of a series so looking forward to what comes next after that mean cliffhanger!
September 17, 2026
I really enjoyed this one! 💙
Brimstone Inferno is a dark fantasy/supernatural thriller with an intriguing storyline, some really interesting characters, and plenty of twists to keep you guessing.
What I enjoyed most was how all the characters were connected. As the story unfolded, I loved discovering how their stories tied together and seeing the bigger picture slowly come together. There were definitely a few twists that I didn’t see coming!
I also really liked the ending. It left me wanting more and set things up so well for the sequel, which means I’m definitely curious to see what happens next!
One thing I have to mention is the artwork. Tom D. Han did all of his own illustrations as well as the book cover, and they are fantastic! I think they really add to the atmosphere of the story and make the book feel even more unique.
Overall, this was a really enjoyable read with a great storyline, interesting characters, twists I loved, and a dark supernatural vibe. Definitely a solid 4 ⭐️ read for me!
Brimstone Inferno is a dark fantasy/supernatural thriller with an intriguing storyline, some really interesting characters, and plenty of twists to keep you guessing.
What I enjoyed most was how all the characters were connected. As the story unfolded, I loved discovering how their stories tied together and seeing the bigger picture slowly come together. There were definitely a few twists that I didn’t see coming!
I also really liked the ending. It left me wanting more and set things up so well for the sequel, which means I’m definitely curious to see what happens next!
One thing I have to mention is the artwork. Tom D. Han did all of his own illustrations as well as the book cover, and they are fantastic! I think they really add to the atmosphere of the story and make the book feel even more unique.
Overall, this was a really enjoyable read with a great storyline, interesting characters, twists I loved, and a dark supernatural vibe. Definitely a solid 4 ⭐️ read for me!
October 9, 2026
From cover to cover, this book is filled with the authors passion and care. The ability to weave Christian mythos into a more modern setting, combining that with a quite 'gothic' feel to London was great.
I really enjoyed the first half of the book, I almost couldn't put it down. The POV switches between an undertaker with the ability to speak to the dead, and a detective with some dark secrets really had me wanting more. The main two characters were really well established so that I cared for their motives and results, which had me wanting to come to a resolution as I read on.
As the book introduced a wider scope, and more Christian mythos and fantasy elements came in, it became alot more exciting in terms of plot, but for me all came a little fast. The depth of reveal and reaction between the characters and the events that happened felt at times like they were brushed off as normal - which I guess was part of the plot - but I would've maybe liked to slow down and really take in the impact of certain events, increase the detective aspect and lower the fights.
I enjoyed reading this greatly and I look forward to see what Tom has in store for us next
I really enjoyed the first half of the book, I almost couldn't put it down. The POV switches between an undertaker with the ability to speak to the dead, and a detective with some dark secrets really had me wanting more. The main two characters were really well established so that I cared for their motives and results, which had me wanting to come to a resolution as I read on.
As the book introduced a wider scope, and more Christian mythos and fantasy elements came in, it became alot more exciting in terms of plot, but for me all came a little fast. The depth of reveal and reaction between the characters and the events that happened felt at times like they were brushed off as normal - which I guess was part of the plot - but I would've maybe liked to slow down and really take in the impact of certain events, increase the detective aspect and lower the fights.
I enjoyed reading this greatly and I look forward to see what Tom has in store for us next
October 15, 2026
1st half: 4 stars
2nd half: 2 stars
I’m so sad I didn’t love this more!!
The first half was absolutely amazing albeit somewhat slow. The prose was beautiful and vivid and made me feel like I was standing next to the characters as part of the scene. I could smell the cigarette smoke, feel the rain, hear the sirens and feel the grief. The fact that the cover/chapter illustrations were drawn by the author himself is also really cool!
Unfortunately it started losing me around the halfway mark where it went absolutely balls-to-the-wall biblical.
I think this was an ambitious project that would have benefitted from an extra 100 pages or so to better pace out the story. Action scenes and plot twists happened back-to-back so quickly that it caused me to just fully stop caring about what was going on. Attacked by creature A in one scene. Narrowly survive. Immediately attacked by creature B next scene. Narrowly survive. Plot twist. Almost dying. Another plot twist. Repeat. There was absolutely not one second in the second half to let the story breathe for a moment.
I also felt like the author had to rely on “tell-don’t-show” exposition a bit too much sometimes to get all the information across in under 300 pages.
The first half still shows a lot of potential for possible future releases. I will definitely not be continuing this trilogy but if he writes anything outside of this I would definitely still check it out.
2nd half: 2 stars
I’m so sad I didn’t love this more!!
The first half was absolutely amazing albeit somewhat slow. The prose was beautiful and vivid and made me feel like I was standing next to the characters as part of the scene. I could smell the cigarette smoke, feel the rain, hear the sirens and feel the grief. The fact that the cover/chapter illustrations were drawn by the author himself is also really cool!
Unfortunately it started losing me around the halfway mark where it went absolutely balls-to-the-wall biblical.
I think this was an ambitious project that would have benefitted from an extra 100 pages or so to better pace out the story. Action scenes and plot twists happened back-to-back so quickly that it caused me to just fully stop caring about what was going on. Attacked by creature A in one scene. Narrowly survive. Immediately attacked by creature B next scene. Narrowly survive. Plot twist. Almost dying. Another plot twist. Repeat. There was absolutely not one second in the second half to let the story breathe for a moment.
I also felt like the author had to rely on “tell-don’t-show” exposition a bit too much sometimes to get all the information across in under 300 pages.
The first half still shows a lot of potential for possible future releases. I will definitely not be continuing this trilogy but if he writes anything outside of this I would definitely still check it out.
October 28, 2026
Attempting to tell a story set in Hell is such a monumental undertaking that few authors would even consider the attempt. Not only did Brimstone Inferno succeed, but it created the foundation for what I hope will become a long lived series. Read this if you have ever considered what a stroll through Hell might look like, or what you might feel if you could see the spiritual warfare raging around you and being waged on a very personal level. This story imagines exactly that, in such vivid detail that it rates as one of the top world building novels I have read in a long time.
September 27, 2026
3.5⭐️
It feels like this rating is lower than it deserves but the reasoning behind it is mainly due to the pacing. This book is incredibly fast paced, so much is packed into these pages that it never feels like you get to take a breath and absorb what is happening.
That being said, I did really enjoy the story. Told from dual POVs of Jean and Taura, we take an unnerving trip into the underworld with angels, behemoths and all manner of beasties.
Both Jean and Taura have intriguing powers and learning more about them as the story progresses is really fun.
The side characters don’t really seem to get established as much, due to the pacing, but there are some really great characters.
The final chapter is heartbreaking and did not go where I was expecting it, and I’m hoping there will be more to come from this epic story!
It feels like this rating is lower than it deserves but the reasoning behind it is mainly due to the pacing. This book is incredibly fast paced, so much is packed into these pages that it never feels like you get to take a breath and absorb what is happening.
That being said, I did really enjoy the story. Told from dual POVs of Jean and Taura, we take an unnerving trip into the underworld with angels, behemoths and all manner of beasties.
Both Jean and Taura have intriguing powers and learning more about them as the story progresses is really fun.
The side characters don’t really seem to get established as much, due to the pacing, but there are some really great characters.
The final chapter is heartbreaking and did not go where I was expecting it, and I’m hoping there will be more to come from this epic story!
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