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The Devil's Advisor
A pacy, twisting, supernatural comedy of the everyday and the devilish, in the tradition of Gaiman and Pratchett's Good Omens.
Lucy, the Devil, wants to retire. Brian, the Business Advisor, hates his job. When Brian’s jealous co-workers put him in Lucy’s crosshairs, she makes him an offer he can’t work for her and increase the productivity in Hell by 50% or suffer the cruel fate planned by his peers. To sweeten the deal, Lucy offers Brian the chance to be her successor if he pulls it off. Brian reluctantly agrees and dives in with both feet to the bureaucratic nightmare of Hell. To make it out alive, Brian faces Death, God, and Lucy’s own twin children.
Lucy, the Devil, wants to retire. Brian, the Business Advisor, hates his job. When Brian’s jealous co-workers put him in Lucy’s crosshairs, she makes him an offer he can’t work for her and increase the productivity in Hell by 50% or suffer the cruel fate planned by his peers. To sweeten the deal, Lucy offers Brian the chance to be her successor if he pulls it off. Brian reluctantly agrees and dives in with both feet to the bureaucratic nightmare of Hell. To make it out alive, Brian faces Death, God, and Lucy’s own twin children.
241 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 21, 2023
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
March 6, 2023
High-concept comedy is hard, and dark satire even harder. You have to keep the reader interested while explaining the rules of your world which you have almost certainly peopled with terrible characters. Peopled is a misnomer here as the Devil's Advisor mainly takes place in Hell with various demons, hellions, the Devil, and the Devil's kids. And Bryan.
The gag at the heart of The Devi;'s Advisor is that a modern US Middle-Management employee could run hell better than the Devil. This isn't a new joke, its basically at the heart of Colin Robinson in What We Do In The Shadows and plenty of workplace satires, and unfortunately for its core joke The Devil's Advisor missed the mark. It gets to its point pretty quickly, with Bryan being installed in the first five chapters, and then a pleasant trip around the operations of Hell. But the for the plot of the book to work the author has to sell a financial model to run hell, so Bryan can set and beat targets, and both the process of this is not much fun, and the system itself doesn't seem to make much sense. And then there is the big problem with many high-concept books, you've built a world, now what are you going to do with it? The answer, a romance and power struggles are fine, but seems to squander the opportunity available. Abdul seems to not want to get too into Judeo-Christian mythology if he can help it, and there just aren't enough gags to make it work. So there is a nicely ironic tone of voice, and it clips along, but didn't work for me.
The gag at the heart of The Devi;'s Advisor is that a modern US Middle-Management employee could run hell better than the Devil. This isn't a new joke, its basically at the heart of Colin Robinson in What We Do In The Shadows and plenty of workplace satires, and unfortunately for its core joke The Devil's Advisor missed the mark. It gets to its point pretty quickly, with Bryan being installed in the first five chapters, and then a pleasant trip around the operations of Hell. But the for the plot of the book to work the author has to sell a financial model to run hell, so Bryan can set and beat targets, and both the process of this is not much fun, and the system itself doesn't seem to make much sense. And then there is the big problem with many high-concept books, you've built a world, now what are you going to do with it? The answer, a romance and power struggles are fine, but seems to squander the opportunity available. Abdul seems to not want to get too into Judeo-Christian mythology if he can help it, and there just aren't enough gags to make it work. So there is a nicely ironic tone of voice, and it clips along, but didn't work for me.
February 10, 2023
Something Different...................
The Devils Advisor by Brad Abdul offers a plate full of satire and humor. I liked the idea of a modern hell full of Hellions. But, the most attractive thing for me was that the author has portrayed both God and Devil as women. It was really a light read full of satire. But, I could not find much humor in it. The plot held my interest right from the start with a satisfying climax. I hope to read more from the author.
I would like to give the book 4 stars. Thanks to Random Things Tours and Netgalley for providing me with an opportunity to be a part of the blog tour.
Read more on https://bibliophileverse.blogspot.com...
The Devils Advisor by Brad Abdul offers a plate full of satire and humor. I liked the idea of a modern hell full of Hellions. But, the most attractive thing for me was that the author has portrayed both God and Devil as women. It was really a light read full of satire. But, I could not find much humor in it. The plot held my interest right from the start with a satisfying climax. I hope to read more from the author.
I would like to give the book 4 stars. Thanks to Random Things Tours and Netgalley for providing me with an opportunity to be a part of the blog tour.
Read more on https://bibliophileverse.blogspot.com...
December 4, 2023
What a book. I laughed so much at this book, really did love it. The authors dark sense of humour really makes this book. The story is based in hell and the description of hell is brilliant. You might think this is your normal boring office job type book but it’s far from it. Absolutely recommend this book
January 11, 2023
Devilishly slick. A fiery novel that breathes new life into religion inspired novels!
Don’t be put off by the very office working, business person sound of this novel. It is a dark, humorous tale that is so much more than its blurb! I myself was worried going into reading this but I was so pleasantly surprised!
I am no religious man and I always worry about that aspect when reading books like this but honestly, this book is in line to be one of my stand out favourites of the year! It’s certainly my surprise book of 2022/2023! Brad Abdul tackles religion in this book with hilarity and intelligence! It is by no means a joke or mockery of religion but rather offers an alternate point of view, almost like a parallel universe idea of heaven and hell. SPOILER ALERT - MOVE ON TO THE NEXT PARAGRAPH TO BE SAFE! … FAIR WARNING … HERE IT COMES … MY absolute favourite part of this view is the angel of death, Gabrielle. When Brian questions if she is in fact arc angel Gabriel, Gabrielle replies in a way that slaughters the misogynist view of the most powerful beings, being male. It is a sublime moment on a topic that I've always been confused about!
Right, Spoiler free now! You're safe! Brad Abdul has a wonderfully dark sense of humour it seems and that flows through this book like the river Styx! Don’t worry though, Brad can also portray serious events with expert craftsmanship and some of the intense scenes are wonderfully mapped out, but still retain a pinch of the beautiful dark humour.
The Devil’s Advisor is a refreshing view of hell! Full of humour, darkness and good ol’ torment and despair! You will not be disappointed if you choose to read this! Thank you so much Anne at Random Things Tours and Flame Tree Press for the NetGalley ARC. I think I need this physically now!
Don’t be put off by the very office working, business person sound of this novel. It is a dark, humorous tale that is so much more than its blurb! I myself was worried going into reading this but I was so pleasantly surprised!
I am no religious man and I always worry about that aspect when reading books like this but honestly, this book is in line to be one of my stand out favourites of the year! It’s certainly my surprise book of 2022/2023! Brad Abdul tackles religion in this book with hilarity and intelligence! It is by no means a joke or mockery of religion but rather offers an alternate point of view, almost like a parallel universe idea of heaven and hell. SPOILER ALERT - MOVE ON TO THE NEXT PARAGRAPH TO BE SAFE! … FAIR WARNING … HERE IT COMES … MY absolute favourite part of this view is the angel of death, Gabrielle. When Brian questions if she is in fact arc angel Gabriel, Gabrielle replies in a way that slaughters the misogynist view of the most powerful beings, being male. It is a sublime moment on a topic that I've always been confused about!
Right, Spoiler free now! You're safe! Brad Abdul has a wonderfully dark sense of humour it seems and that flows through this book like the river Styx! Don’t worry though, Brad can also portray serious events with expert craftsmanship and some of the intense scenes are wonderfully mapped out, but still retain a pinch of the beautiful dark humour.
The Devil’s Advisor is a refreshing view of hell! Full of humour, darkness and good ol’ torment and despair! You will not be disappointed if you choose to read this! Thank you so much Anne at Random Things Tours and Flame Tree Press for the NetGalley ARC. I think I need this physically now!
April 24, 2023
The Devil’s Advisor
Brad Abdul
Publisher: Flame Tree Press
Page count: 241pp
Release date: 21st Feb 2023
We’ve all been there; hate the job, the colleagues, life in general.
Well, for Brian it’s a bit different.
You see, he is the thing – or person – most hated by all of the staff where he works.
He can’t help that he’s meticulous with paperwork or an overachiever.
Lucky for him, Brian’s name comes across Lucy’s desk by way of an email survey completed by his jealous colleagues.
Lucy – aka Lucifer, the devil – wants to retire, but cant do so without a viable heir. The thing is, she has two children, Dallas and Dahlia, but for reasons revealed layer, that won’t work out.
Enter Brian – Lucy’s new advisor and potential replacement.
All he has to do is increase the productivity in Hell by 50% or suffer ...
It’s a work match made in Hell.
As Brian learns more about how Hell operates and meets some of the hellions like young Jeremy plus spends time with Lucy’s kids, those pesky feelings get in the way of business planning. Dahlia in particular is intriguing, not to mention attractive.
In fact, everything Brian thought he knew, well, let’s just say it’s certainly a learning experience for him.
Fans of Bentley Little’s ‘The Consultant’ and Claudia Lux’s ‘Sign Here’ will enjoy this, I think. The dry humour, the author’s relish at their world, the dark elements plus the ridiculous bureaucracy, all come into play here. The scenes with Sal are quite fun and I think a few readers might figure out why he’s in Hell.
Dallas is also a highlight of the novel, from his cheerful bro image to his tempestuous and conniving nature, he’s a great character.
Though Brian is our main character and our POV, it’s his reactions and what he sees, who he sees, that make the novel work. He’s the random boring human thrown into chaos he can’t always control.
The world building is fantastic and I thoroughly enjoyed my journey to Dante’s playground.
Brad Abdul
Publisher: Flame Tree Press
Page count: 241pp
Release date: 21st Feb 2023
We’ve all been there; hate the job, the colleagues, life in general.
Well, for Brian it’s a bit different.
You see, he is the thing – or person – most hated by all of the staff where he works.
He can’t help that he’s meticulous with paperwork or an overachiever.
Lucky for him, Brian’s name comes across Lucy’s desk by way of an email survey completed by his jealous colleagues.
Lucy – aka Lucifer, the devil – wants to retire, but cant do so without a viable heir. The thing is, she has two children, Dallas and Dahlia, but for reasons revealed layer, that won’t work out.
Enter Brian – Lucy’s new advisor and potential replacement.
All he has to do is increase the productivity in Hell by 50% or suffer ...
It’s a work match made in Hell.
As Brian learns more about how Hell operates and meets some of the hellions like young Jeremy plus spends time with Lucy’s kids, those pesky feelings get in the way of business planning. Dahlia in particular is intriguing, not to mention attractive.
In fact, everything Brian thought he knew, well, let’s just say it’s certainly a learning experience for him.
Fans of Bentley Little’s ‘The Consultant’ and Claudia Lux’s ‘Sign Here’ will enjoy this, I think. The dry humour, the author’s relish at their world, the dark elements plus the ridiculous bureaucracy, all come into play here. The scenes with Sal are quite fun and I think a few readers might figure out why he’s in Hell.
Dallas is also a highlight of the novel, from his cheerful bro image to his tempestuous and conniving nature, he’s a great character.
Though Brian is our main character and our POV, it’s his reactions and what he sees, who he sees, that make the novel work. He’s the random boring human thrown into chaos he can’t always control.
The world building is fantastic and I thoroughly enjoyed my journey to Dante’s playground.
December 3, 2022
Bland, not funny and so much foreshadowing this was a complete disappointment of a book.
I normally love anything Flame Tree Press publishes but this is the exception.
It changed from being fast paced to glacially slow then fast and slow and so on.
It was cliched, corny and I really struggled to finish it.
I normally love anything Flame Tree Press publishes but this is the exception.
It changed from being fast paced to glacially slow then fast and slow and so on.
It was cliched, corny and I really struggled to finish it.
December 31, 2023
*3.5 stars*. This was a fun, fast-paced, entertaining read! Well developed characters and loved the world-building. Lucy the Devil, wants to retire and brings Brian the Business Advisor (and a human) to help her improve Hell’s efficiency and profits…..chaos ensues! Interesting twist at the end. One of my faves of the year!
July 8, 2025
Absolutely HILARIOUS! Brad, what a great book! It was enjoyable to rethink hell in a modern day corporate America-esque structure with an absolute hilarious protagonist, and very creative characters!
November 13, 2022
I would like to thank Net Galley for giving me an ARC for this book:
This book was decent. I was very intrigued by the first half of it. However, as the book moved on I lost a little bit of my drive to read it. 1) I think the formatting of the ARC really took me out of it. Every couple pages there would be a "STRICTLY NOT FOR SALE" or a "FOR ADDRESSEE ONLY". These inputs kind of ruined the flow of reading. They would mess up the formatting of the text around it and really take you out of being able to fully immerse yourself in the story. 2) I think that the book moved at a strange rate of really fast and then random spots would be detailed and drag on and then move really fast again and brush over things. It was just a touch confusing. 3) I think the story lost me. I love the business plan / aspect of it. I thought it was equally entertaining and fun. however, the whole plot with Dallas lost me. That was the part where all the sudden it moved so fast and skimmed over stuff. By the time we got to the climax of that plot line, I was over it. I just honestly didn't really care.
All this being said, it was an enjoyable story. I thought it was clever and fun and a decent read for a few days.
This book was decent. I was very intrigued by the first half of it. However, as the book moved on I lost a little bit of my drive to read it. 1) I think the formatting of the ARC really took me out of it. Every couple pages there would be a "STRICTLY NOT FOR SALE" or a "FOR ADDRESSEE ONLY". These inputs kind of ruined the flow of reading. They would mess up the formatting of the text around it and really take you out of being able to fully immerse yourself in the story. 2) I think that the book moved at a strange rate of really fast and then random spots would be detailed and drag on and then move really fast again and brush over things. It was just a touch confusing. 3) I think the story lost me. I love the business plan / aspect of it. I thought it was equally entertaining and fun. however, the whole plot with Dallas lost me. That was the part where all the sudden it moved so fast and skimmed over stuff. By the time we got to the climax of that plot line, I was over it. I just honestly didn't really care.
All this being said, it was an enjoyable story. I thought it was clever and fun and a decent read for a few days.
January 4, 2025
Funny, smart, very easy read!
March 26, 2023
So this sentence got my attention and sparked the desire to review the book:
"A pacy, twisting, supernatural comedy of the everyday and the devilish, in the tradition of Gaiman and Pratchett's Good Omens."
Unlike when I read Good Omens, I experienced multiple times when I was on the verge of just quitting the novel. The premise was promising, but the delivery left a lot to be desired. I did not feel a connection to any of the characters, which is often the thing that can really hook a reader. The plot occasionally felt forced and the author was just throwing things at the reader to keep things moving.
I did persevere to finish the novel but have to wonder if my time would have been better spent on a different book.
"A pacy, twisting, supernatural comedy of the everyday and the devilish, in the tradition of Gaiman and Pratchett's Good Omens."
Unlike when I read Good Omens, I experienced multiple times when I was on the verge of just quitting the novel. The premise was promising, but the delivery left a lot to be desired. I did not feel a connection to any of the characters, which is often the thing that can really hook a reader. The plot occasionally felt forced and the author was just throwing things at the reader to keep things moving.
I did persevere to finish the novel but have to wonder if my time would have been better spent on a different book.
October 28, 2023
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher,I appreciate the chance to read this books. Unfortunately I wasn't a fan of it. I did not finish it. I found it boring and it put me in a reading slump. I will try to get back to it but for now, it will have to remain a mystery.
June 6, 2023
Abdul’s new novel is an interesting premise with some well-drawn characters that keeps the reader interested until the half point mark. Then the story tone and pacing shifts giving a forced tone with plot and development.
The characters are well written and very three dimensional. The reader is truly invested but unfortunately the plotting lets the reader down which it feels that the writer may have thought that less is more when in fact, could have used a few extra chapters to give it a worthwhile ending that did not seem forced.
Saying this, I feel that this may be down to the fact that a thicker book may not be as marketable as a thinner book in today’s climate. I feel Abdul has a lot of talent and he is on to something amazing and interesting, and I am invested to read his next novel. The novel is interesting and lots of great ideas and the beginning to the middle was excellent, but the ending lets it down though. I would recommend reading as this is well written and the start of a promising career. I would give this a strong 3.5 star rating.
The characters are well written and very three dimensional. The reader is truly invested but unfortunately the plotting lets the reader down which it feels that the writer may have thought that less is more when in fact, could have used a few extra chapters to give it a worthwhile ending that did not seem forced.
Saying this, I feel that this may be down to the fact that a thicker book may not be as marketable as a thinner book in today’s climate. I feel Abdul has a lot of talent and he is on to something amazing and interesting, and I am invested to read his next novel. The novel is interesting and lots of great ideas and the beginning to the middle was excellent, but the ending lets it down though. I would recommend reading as this is well written and the start of a promising career. I would give this a strong 3.5 star rating.
February 18, 2023
I love the idea of this - Hell as a business, calling in a business consultant - but the execution fell a little short for me.
I love the imagination here. Things appearing as needed, the descriptions of the rooms, the way Hell is laid out and works - all fantastic, and not things I've read anywhere else. It's clearly all been carefully thought out and planned, and it all makes sense as you read.
I did find some of the descriptions overly wordy; I know that's a personal preference, but for me it was a bit too much. Plus, as other reviewers have noted, the formatting is odd, with huge FOR YOUR EYES ONLY inserted every couple of pages and messing up the font sizes. That won't apply to the finished book, of course, but it did make things harder as I was reading.
It's a really clever idea, though, with some great twists and good writing. I'll be watching out for Brad's work in future, because I think he's only going to get better.
I love the imagination here. Things appearing as needed, the descriptions of the rooms, the way Hell is laid out and works - all fantastic, and not things I've read anywhere else. It's clearly all been carefully thought out and planned, and it all makes sense as you read.
I did find some of the descriptions overly wordy; I know that's a personal preference, but for me it was a bit too much. Plus, as other reviewers have noted, the formatting is odd, with huge FOR YOUR EYES ONLY inserted every couple of pages and messing up the font sizes. That won't apply to the finished book, of course, but it did make things harder as I was reading.
It's a really clever idea, though, with some great twists and good writing. I'll be watching out for Brad's work in future, because I think he's only going to get better.
March 3, 2023
A light (in one sense of the word) and amusing read.
Plot - I was expecting this to be a bit darker, but the story was good, matched the blurb, and was funny. I like the idea of your soul being x% corrupt and changing over time - I wonder what mine would be?
Characters - I did like Brian and thought his co-workers could go suck it. I enjoyed what each of the other characters brought to the story.
Believability - I could totally imagine this happening. But I also liked the other elements that were drawn in as the story progressed - such as God and Death and how they're involved.
Pace - It's not quick paced, but then it isn't a book to rush through.
Ending - I enjoyed the crescendo at the end, but I do feel it's been left open slightly for a sequel...
*I received a complimentary copy of the e-book from RandomThingsTours and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Plot - I was expecting this to be a bit darker, but the story was good, matched the blurb, and was funny. I like the idea of your soul being x% corrupt and changing over time - I wonder what mine would be?
Characters - I did like Brian and thought his co-workers could go suck it. I enjoyed what each of the other characters brought to the story.
Believability - I could totally imagine this happening. But I also liked the other elements that were drawn in as the story progressed - such as God and Death and how they're involved.
Pace - It's not quick paced, but then it isn't a book to rush through.
Ending - I enjoyed the crescendo at the end, but I do feel it's been left open slightly for a sequel...
*I received a complimentary copy of the e-book from RandomThingsTours and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
February 17, 2023
This is somewhere between 3.5 and 4 stars but I rounded it up to 4.
Short, fun story and a creative take on running hell. I enjoyed all the characters and their stories, especially that in such a short book author managed such complex personalization of everyone. If you're looking for a light read on hell as a corporation and an interesting take on hell, heaven, and what happens in between, I'd recommend this!
Short, fun story and a creative take on running hell. I enjoyed all the characters and their stories, especially that in such a short book author managed such complex personalization of everyone. If you're looking for a light read on hell as a corporation and an interesting take on hell, heaven, and what happens in between, I'd recommend this!
March 3, 2023
As someone who always liked the idea of gods and demons interacting with regular folk, this was an easy sell to me. I really liked that in the end I was rooting for Hell. Because as we all know, the good guys are very rarely the good guys.
I will admit that it took a little to get into it, but after the first 30% I was in for the ride.
An enjoyable read.
Thank you to Netgalley and Flame Tree Press for an early copy in exchange for an honest review.
I will admit that it took a little to get into it, but after the first 30% I was in for the ride.
An enjoyable read.
Thank you to Netgalley and Flame Tree Press for an early copy in exchange for an honest review.
October 14, 2023
I wasn't too impressed by the novel's opening chapters...but then it went in unexpected & interesting directions that suddenly had me hooked. My only real misgiving in this fantastic reinterpretation of heaven & hell is that potential Devil replacement Brian is the least interesting of all the characters on offer...at least until the climax. Perhaps a second book to rectify this...?
February 11, 2023
I really liked this book. The idea that you'd be hired by the devil out of everyday mundane life is definitely an interesting premise.
The author certainly runs with it too.
Definitely worth checking out if you like a little bit of wacky in your fiction.
The author certainly runs with it too.
Definitely worth checking out if you like a little bit of wacky in your fiction.
April 5, 2023
Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC;
It really didn't capture my attention like I thought it would. I liked the corporate setting but the whole thing was either rushed or really slow to read. Intriguing concepts but less than stellar execution.
It really didn't capture my attention like I thought it would. I liked the corporate setting but the whole thing was either rushed or really slow to read. Intriguing concepts but less than stellar execution.
March 13, 2023
I think there's potential and I found some moments very funny. Unfortunately it didn't keep my attention and fell flat.
Not my cup of tea.
Many thanks to the publisher for this arc, all opinions are mine
Not my cup of tea.
Many thanks to the publisher for this arc, all opinions are mine
March 6, 2023
For a book about the Devil, God, and Death, the last thing I expected was for it to be boring. Unfortunately, this book ended up being incredibly predictable for me - the plot was unsurprising, the characters felt flat and indistinct, and - while the premise was intriguing (conceptualizing Hell as a business operation) - it ultimately didn't land for me.
The story is about Brian, who is a business strategy person who winds up in Hell. It so turns out Hell is not doing so hot these days, having failed to modernize their operations to keep up with the times. Brian makes a deal with the Devil - he makes Hell more efficient, and the Devil retires and leaves him her kingdom. As with all jobs, the description and reality don't quite line up - we discover along with Brian how Hell works, the weird family dynamics with the Devil and her kids, and learn a lot about all the different business departments.
A thing that really didn't work for me was how flat the characters are. Brian felt very unmotivated - he has such a passion for business, and that's why he makes the deal with the Devil? He always succeeds and never encounters any serious setbacks, challenges, or moral conflicts during the course of the story, and this made it hard to connect with him and invest emotionally in his journey. I also didn't like how female characters are written in this story. All three of the supposedly powerful immortals in this story (Devil, Death, God) are female, and yet for the most part, they just felt incompetent. (Death was described as "mousey". And seriously _how_ had the Devil sat on her throne for millennia without having an ounce of cleverness in her?). Most of them are basically set pieces, with the most cursorily explored backstory and inserted to further Brian's story along as the love interest or the foil against his brilliance. This was really a lost opportunity in my opinion.
Because of the comp to Good Omens (one of my favorite books), I went into this book very excited and expecting something clever and subversive. I was disappointed to find that this book contained neither. The setup presented such a great opportunity to comment on the morality of our times and what it means to be human, but the take was utterly uninspired and caters to the most conventional of sensibilities (Jealous coworkers are assholes! Adult entertainment is run by Hell! Sins are forgiven by repentance, which is a snap of the finger by God!).
I picked up this book with high expectations, but unfortunately the story failed to deliver on its intriguing premise.
The story is about Brian, who is a business strategy person who winds up in Hell. It so turns out Hell is not doing so hot these days, having failed to modernize their operations to keep up with the times. Brian makes a deal with the Devil - he makes Hell more efficient, and the Devil retires and leaves him her kingdom. As with all jobs, the description and reality don't quite line up - we discover along with Brian how Hell works, the weird family dynamics with the Devil and her kids, and learn a lot about all the different business departments.
A thing that really didn't work for me was how flat the characters are. Brian felt very unmotivated - he has such a passion for business, and that's why he makes the deal with the Devil? He always succeeds and never encounters any serious setbacks, challenges, or moral conflicts during the course of the story, and this made it hard to connect with him and invest emotionally in his journey. I also didn't like how female characters are written in this story. All three of the supposedly powerful immortals in this story (Devil, Death, God) are female, and yet for the most part, they just felt incompetent. (Death was described as "mousey". And seriously _how_ had the Devil sat on her throne for millennia without having an ounce of cleverness in her?). Most of them are basically set pieces, with the most cursorily explored backstory and inserted to further Brian's story along as the love interest or the foil against his brilliance. This was really a lost opportunity in my opinion.
Because of the comp to Good Omens (one of my favorite books), I went into this book very excited and expecting something clever and subversive. I was disappointed to find that this book contained neither. The setup presented such a great opportunity to comment on the morality of our times and what it means to be human, but the take was utterly uninspired and caters to the most conventional of sensibilities (Jealous coworkers are assholes! Adult entertainment is run by Hell! Sins are forgiven by repentance, which is a snap of the finger by God!).
I picked up this book with high expectations, but unfortunately the story failed to deliver on its intriguing premise.
December 11, 2022
What would you do if the Devil pulled you down to hell—only to ask you to help run the place?
This is the simple, but very alluring plot of Brad Abdul’s debut novel, The Devil’s Advisor. I’ve been excited to read this ever since I heard about it and was very happy to be able to pick up an ARC via NetGalley. Thanks to Flame Tree Press for that.
The story kicks off with a bang. It doesn’t take many pages before we learn who our protagonist Brian is, where he works and why he’s so good at it, and why the devil needs his help. Turns out that Hell is a business, a business that deals in corrupting souls—and lately, they haven’t been doing a very good job of it.
Abdul’s brilliance is in his world building. If you liked the TV show Supernatural you’re going to love this, and I really enjoyed exploring the way Hell worked, how the Devil operated, and all the interesting concepts around the “business”. Of course, various Biblical characters make an appearance, and Abdul has really managed to make his own spin on it.
The formatting of the book occasionally pulled me out of the story—but I think that issue can be blamed mainly on the advanced reader copy—and sometimes certain parts felt a bit overdrawn and the pace stalled. Quickly becoming a fan of Abdul’s world building I often wished he’d step outside the plot to give me more backstory and more details, but that’s probably a ‘me’ issue.
I think this is branded as a supernatural comedy, but it should be noted that it’s also a mystery, a thriller and a romance, all baked into one. There’s layers of story here, with a little bit for everyone, and again—if you’re into the show Supernatural, you’re going to enjoy this!
This is the simple, but very alluring plot of Brad Abdul’s debut novel, The Devil’s Advisor. I’ve been excited to read this ever since I heard about it and was very happy to be able to pick up an ARC via NetGalley. Thanks to Flame Tree Press for that.
The story kicks off with a bang. It doesn’t take many pages before we learn who our protagonist Brian is, where he works and why he’s so good at it, and why the devil needs his help. Turns out that Hell is a business, a business that deals in corrupting souls—and lately, they haven’t been doing a very good job of it.
Abdul’s brilliance is in his world building. If you liked the TV show Supernatural you’re going to love this, and I really enjoyed exploring the way Hell worked, how the Devil operated, and all the interesting concepts around the “business”. Of course, various Biblical characters make an appearance, and Abdul has really managed to make his own spin on it.
The formatting of the book occasionally pulled me out of the story—but I think that issue can be blamed mainly on the advanced reader copy—and sometimes certain parts felt a bit overdrawn and the pace stalled. Quickly becoming a fan of Abdul’s world building I often wished he’d step outside the plot to give me more backstory and more details, but that’s probably a ‘me’ issue.
I think this is branded as a supernatural comedy, but it should be noted that it’s also a mystery, a thriller and a romance, all baked into one. There’s layers of story here, with a little bit for everyone, and again—if you’re into the show Supernatural, you’re going to enjoy this!
February 16, 2023
‘Lucy, the Devil, wants to retire. Brian, the Business Advisor, hates his job. When Brian’s jealous co-workers put him in Lucy’s cross-hairs, she makes him an offer he can’t refuse: work for her and increase the productivity in Hell by 50% or suffer the cruel fate planned by his peers. To sweeten the deal, Lucy offers Brian the chance to be her successor if he pulls it off. Brian reluctantly agrees and dives in with both feet to the bureaucratic nightmare of Hell. To make it out alive, Brian faces Death, God, and Lucy’s own twin children.’
In his satirical fantasy novel The Devil's Advisor, Brad Abdul presents a fascinating twist on our perception of Hell. He portrays it as a family firm with fluctuating resources, profits which must be balanced against losses and a truculent workforce. Legends about people selling their souls to the devil to satisfy their earthly desires take on a whole new meaning, as does the nature of damnation.
The humour in Abdul's tale arises from his comparison of the way Hell functions with the operational methods of an earthly business. In one hilarious chapter he is taken on a tour of the various departments of Hell, including sales and finance, to be introduced to his new colleagues. The character sketches are brilliant, especially Danika from marketing who is faced with the challenging task of making Hell sexy.
The Devil’s Advisor will be published this month by Flame Tree Press. I was given an advance review copy in return for an honest review. If I’m being honest, fantasy is not my favourite genre, but I enjoyed Abdul’s entertaining premise and dry humour. Fantasy enthusiasts will adore it.
In his satirical fantasy novel The Devil's Advisor, Brad Abdul presents a fascinating twist on our perception of Hell. He portrays it as a family firm with fluctuating resources, profits which must be balanced against losses and a truculent workforce. Legends about people selling their souls to the devil to satisfy their earthly desires take on a whole new meaning, as does the nature of damnation.
The humour in Abdul's tale arises from his comparison of the way Hell functions with the operational methods of an earthly business. In one hilarious chapter he is taken on a tour of the various departments of Hell, including sales and finance, to be introduced to his new colleagues. The character sketches are brilliant, especially Danika from marketing who is faced with the challenging task of making Hell sexy.
The Devil’s Advisor will be published this month by Flame Tree Press. I was given an advance review copy in return for an honest review. If I’m being honest, fantasy is not my favourite genre, but I enjoyed Abdul’s entertaining premise and dry humour. Fantasy enthusiasts will adore it.
January 6, 2023
Thank you to NetGalley, Flame Tree Press and Brad for this eARC.
The Devil's Advisor is a short & sweet story about Brian, a bored management employee, or should I say, genius, since he's lost all his enthusiasm for his job because it's just too easy. His coworkers hate him and his boss is using him for her own better salary. Then Brian receives an invite to a surprising job interview: a position has opened in place of the devil's management advisor. Unsure for a short time, he accepts, since he hasn't got a lot to lose. But his employment in hell and his proficiency at his work upset certain people.
The plot is solid and entertaining for the length of the novel, while it is not the most creative book I've ever read, it's length is perfect for it's story. It never feels stretched out and the plot has a fairly fast pace. Another plus is the writing, which is also solid and smooth to read. We get all the necessary information without any useless descriptions or metaphors.
All that being said, the novel and it's characters are superficial and could almost work as a model for a classic fantasy tale with it's bad guys and good guys and the beautiful woman as the award for the good guys. The last 50 pages are completely predictable and pretentious. It got me rolling my eyes at some of the clichés. While the women get some freedom to their actions, most of them feel fetishised and sexualised if the reader looks a bit further from the words presented on paper.
Overall, it's an okay book. Not something I would recommend to a serious reader, but a fun read.
The Devil's Advisor is a short & sweet story about Brian, a bored management employee, or should I say, genius, since he's lost all his enthusiasm for his job because it's just too easy. His coworkers hate him and his boss is using him for her own better salary. Then Brian receives an invite to a surprising job interview: a position has opened in place of the devil's management advisor. Unsure for a short time, he accepts, since he hasn't got a lot to lose. But his employment in hell and his proficiency at his work upset certain people.
The plot is solid and entertaining for the length of the novel, while it is not the most creative book I've ever read, it's length is perfect for it's story. It never feels stretched out and the plot has a fairly fast pace. Another plus is the writing, which is also solid and smooth to read. We get all the necessary information without any useless descriptions or metaphors.
All that being said, the novel and it's characters are superficial and could almost work as a model for a classic fantasy tale with it's bad guys and good guys and the beautiful woman as the award for the good guys. The last 50 pages are completely predictable and pretentious. It got me rolling my eyes at some of the clichés. While the women get some freedom to their actions, most of them feel fetishised and sexualised if the reader looks a bit further from the words presented on paper.
Overall, it's an okay book. Not something I would recommend to a serious reader, but a fun read.
February 8, 2023
The Devil’s Advisor by Brad Abdul is a satirical take on Hell, and what happens there? Abdul’s version of hell is unlike anything we have seen or read.
Brian, a Business Advisor, is a workaholic who feels his job has become monotonous. His co-workers hate him and he doesn’t have any special feelings for them either. One day, someone comes to his office and takes him for a job interview. Intrigued by the visitor’s unexpected arrival, Brian goes along. Much to his surprise, he finds himself in Hell, facing Lucy, the Devil herself. His new job requires him to get the place running efficiently and cost-effective.
Brian finds himself accepting her tempting job offer. If he can increase productivity in Hell, he could become the Devil’s successor. Of course, the job is anything but simple!
The writing is pacy, even wickedly humorous at times. I enjoyed the world-building and exploring this unique version of Hell. Abdul views the relationship between God, the Devil, and Death through an unusual lens, and I found it interesting.
Conceptually, it was interesting and creative. The excessive foreshadowing removed any and all elements of surprise.
The Devil’s Advisor is a short fun read. It has a blend of drama, romance, sex, and humour. Pick it up if you are looking for a fast-paced fantasy.
Wordsopedia Rating 3.45/5
Brian, a Business Advisor, is a workaholic who feels his job has become monotonous. His co-workers hate him and he doesn’t have any special feelings for them either. One day, someone comes to his office and takes him for a job interview. Intrigued by the visitor’s unexpected arrival, Brian goes along. Much to his surprise, he finds himself in Hell, facing Lucy, the Devil herself. His new job requires him to get the place running efficiently and cost-effective.
Brian finds himself accepting her tempting job offer. If he can increase productivity in Hell, he could become the Devil’s successor. Of course, the job is anything but simple!
The writing is pacy, even wickedly humorous at times. I enjoyed the world-building and exploring this unique version of Hell. Abdul views the relationship between God, the Devil, and Death through an unusual lens, and I found it interesting.
Conceptually, it was interesting and creative. The excessive foreshadowing removed any and all elements of surprise.
The Devil’s Advisor is a short fun read. It has a blend of drama, romance, sex, and humour. Pick it up if you are looking for a fast-paced fantasy.
Wordsopedia Rating 3.45/5
February 19, 2023
Everyone’s office has a Brian. He’s smart but obnoxious as well as the office suck up. One day, Brian gets a chain letter. You know, the kind you answer a question and forward to ten other people. This letter is an actual email from Hell. It asks the recipient who would they like to punish. Brian forwards it to his co-workers, who resoundingly respond with Brian’s name. Hell listens and calls Brian down. However, instead of punishing him, they interview him to replace the current Devil (but she prefers being called Lucy). Brian needs a new work challenge, but should he become The Devil's Advisor, and eventually The Devil himself?
This book has a great plot idea. But unfortunately, it fails a bit with the delivery. It is surprisingly boring in hell. It has the same office politics and family drama as life on Earth. Ho hum.
Depicting Heaven, Hell, God and The Devil in a non-religious way is sure to offend the most likely readers of this book. While The Devil's Advisor is an interesting concept, I don’t see it having much universal appeal. To be honest, I’m not even sure what genre it is. Definitely not a thriller or a mystery. It wasn’t humorous once the setting was in place. Maybe fantasy? 2 disappointed stars.
Thanks to Flame Tree Press and NetGalley for a digital review copy of the book.
This book has a great plot idea. But unfortunately, it fails a bit with the delivery. It is surprisingly boring in hell. It has the same office politics and family drama as life on Earth. Ho hum.
Depicting Heaven, Hell, God and The Devil in a non-religious way is sure to offend the most likely readers of this book. While The Devil's Advisor is an interesting concept, I don’t see it having much universal appeal. To be honest, I’m not even sure what genre it is. Definitely not a thriller or a mystery. It wasn’t humorous once the setting was in place. Maybe fantasy? 2 disappointed stars.
Thanks to Flame Tree Press and NetGalley for a digital review copy of the book.
January 16, 2023
Thank you Netgally & Flame Tree Press for this ARC
I did not intend to read this in one sitting.... but that is definitely what happened. This took me a minute to get into, but once I did, I couldn't put it down.
Brian comes off aloof at and 'better' than all his co-workers... But I guess that's why they all put his name down in the chain letter to be punished. Turns out, this is not the worst thing that can happen to Brian as it lands him the job interview of a lifetime. Fixing Hell! You would not expect a story that's based around the idea of Hell being run like a corporation (that's in desperate need of an overhaul before they go bankrupt) to be this much fun, but it was. This was funny, exciting, and a little bit romantic, with a dash of war between Heaven and Hell to keep things interesting.
Overall, this was a great way to spend a day, it's not super deep and doesn't have any profound message, but it was fun, and what more can you ask for on a lazy Sunday
I did not intend to read this in one sitting.... but that is definitely what happened. This took me a minute to get into, but once I did, I couldn't put it down.
Brian comes off aloof at and 'better' than all his co-workers... But I guess that's why they all put his name down in the chain letter to be punished. Turns out, this is not the worst thing that can happen to Brian as it lands him the job interview of a lifetime. Fixing Hell! You would not expect a story that's based around the idea of Hell being run like a corporation (that's in desperate need of an overhaul before they go bankrupt) to be this much fun, but it was. This was funny, exciting, and a little bit romantic, with a dash of war between Heaven and Hell to keep things interesting.
Overall, this was a great way to spend a day, it's not super deep and doesn't have any profound message, but it was fun, and what more can you ask for on a lazy Sunday
December 11, 2024
The devil wants to retire, but hell needs to get out of debt first.
In walks Brian, a financial exec that is conned into a meeting with Lucy (devil). She hires him on the stop and he begins his work to fix Hell. As he learns the ins and outs of Hells' operations, he begins realizing that some folks will stop at nothing to see Brian fail. Why? Because hell isn't all torture, Lucy has brought in beauty and some want fire and brimstone back.
This was a very fun read. It was very detailed and unique compared to other afterlife books I have read. I have never seen Hell as a business with financial systems and I loovedddd the concept and how souls were incorporated. The lore behind Lucy and Alladah (lucifer and god) was ALSO unique and creative. Especially Death's role in their lives. Also, everyone being women was like a little treat.
Overall rating: 3.75/5
In walks Brian, a financial exec that is conned into a meeting with Lucy (devil). She hires him on the stop and he begins his work to fix Hell. As he learns the ins and outs of Hells' operations, he begins realizing that some folks will stop at nothing to see Brian fail. Why? Because hell isn't all torture, Lucy has brought in beauty and some want fire and brimstone back.
This was a very fun read. It was very detailed and unique compared to other afterlife books I have read. I have never seen Hell as a business with financial systems and I loovedddd the concept and how souls were incorporated. The lore behind Lucy and Alladah (lucifer and god) was ALSO unique and creative. Especially Death's role in their lives. Also, everyone being women was like a little treat.
Overall rating: 3.75/5
January 2, 2023
What would you do if the Devil dragged you to Hell and asked you to help her manage the place so she could retire peacefully?
Brian is excellent at his job; he turns things around and blitzes his targets every time, which is why the Devil wants him to help her. As it happens, Hell is a corporation whose primary business is the corruption of human souls, and recently they haven't been doing a very good job of it.
Getting a glimpse into the “inner workings of Hell”, the Devil's methods of operation and the fascinating ideas surrounding their "business" was very engaging and funny.
Although this book is marketed as a supernatural comedy, it is also a mystery, a thriller, and a romance. This story has many depths, so there's something here for everyone.
Brian is excellent at his job; he turns things around and blitzes his targets every time, which is why the Devil wants him to help her. As it happens, Hell is a corporation whose primary business is the corruption of human souls, and recently they haven't been doing a very good job of it.
Getting a glimpse into the “inner workings of Hell”, the Devil's methods of operation and the fascinating ideas surrounding their "business" was very engaging and funny.
Although this book is marketed as a supernatural comedy, it is also a mystery, a thriller, and a romance. This story has many depths, so there's something here for everyone.
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