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Demon Dagger
A Demon Hunter with a gift that becomes a curse. A Demon that hunts the hunter. A thrilling tale of darkness and vengeance for fans of the TV series 'Supernatural'."A thrilling game of supernatural cat and mouse." - Publishers Weekly"A fast-paced thriller filled with all the gore of a disemboweled beast. In the world of demon-slaying tales, this novel is unique." - City Book ReviewDrew Price has a gift, or perhaps a curse. When a demon possesses a person, Drew can see the horrific-looking demon that dwells within. This ability has made him a demon hunter, armed with the one weapon that can send these fiends back to Hell; the demon dagger.A demon named Nicobar sets its sights on punishing this hunter. It starts by taking the soul of Drew’s son, condemning the boy to life as a psychopath.This fast-paced, chilling novel follows Drew’s attempt to save his son’s soul and then use the blade to end Nicobar’s time on Earth.FLAME TREE PRESS is the imprint of long-standing independent Flame Tree Publishing, dedicated to full-length original fiction in the horror and suspense, science fiction & fantasy, and crime / mystery / thriller categories. The list brings together fantastic new authors and the more established; the award winners, and exciting, original voices. Learn more about Flame Tree Press at www.flametreepress.com and connect on social media @FlameTreePress
319 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 16, 2022
7 people are currently reading
113 people want to read
About the author
Russell James
48 books216 followersRussell R. James was raised on Long Island, New York and spent too much time watching Chiller, Kolchak: The Night Stalker, and Dark Shadows, despite his parents’ warnings. Bookshelves full of Stephen King and Edgar Allan Poe didn’t make things better. He graduated from Cornell University and the University of Central Florida.
After a tour flying helicopters with the U.S. Army, he now spins twisted tales best read in daylight.
His wife reads what he writes, rolls her eyes, and says “There is something seriously wrong with you.”
He has published the novels DARK INSPIRATION, SACRIFICE, BLACK MAGIC and DARK VENGEANCE, the compilations OUT OF TIME and TALES FROM BEYOND, as well as numerous short stories. He founded the Minnows Literary Group.
He and his wife share their home in sunny Florida with two cats.
Drop by the website to kill some time with some short stories.
After a tour flying helicopters with the U.S. Army, he now spins twisted tales best read in daylight.
His wife reads what he writes, rolls her eyes, and says “There is something seriously wrong with you.”
He has published the novels DARK INSPIRATION, SACRIFICE, BLACK MAGIC and DARK VENGEANCE, the compilations OUT OF TIME and TALES FROM BEYOND, as well as numerous short stories. He founded the Minnows Literary Group.
He and his wife share their home in sunny Florida with two cats.
Drop by the website to kill some time with some short stories.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
September 4, 2022
"Flame Tree Press" is the "go to" publisher when you are looking for a fine assortment of the best horror books written by well known and also new authors.
In 1995 Drew Price was only thirteen years old when he started seeing terrifying monsters and when he told his mother she immediately brought him to a few different psychiatrists which didn't help of course until one who said he believed Drew and there were others who have seen these monsters so he introduced him to Lincoln (demon hunter), the man who would change Drew's life.
Twenty-five years later Drew works for the Los Angeles Sheriff's department and is married and has a seven year old son (Kenny) whom he adores and he is very happy and content with his life especially since he hasn't seen a demon again since 1995. Drew has never shared his demon past with his wife thinking he was protecting her and also knowing she would think he had severe mental issues. Now, he comes across a demon and realizes more and more people are losing their souls to these abominations. After a demon takes a soul, the person will have no moral compass left in his conscience and they become true psychopaths who become the worst humans living because they will hurt, maim, kill without any remorse and will never stop. When the archdemon (the top gun and the most powerful of all demons) hears of Drew, it decides to target little Kenny since this will bring Drew down to his knees knowing his son will be a a soulless psychopath the rest of his life. Literally, at this point "All hell breaks loose".
This book was such an enjoyable and fast-paced horror story and not your typical " good versus evil " either. Don't expect priests or exorcism in this book or you will be disappointed. The creative writing and storytelling by "Russell James" made this story extra fun and entertaining as a horror novel and I certainly hope there will be a sequel because Drew is a character I would love to see in more books. The demons are very frightening characters especially their physical appearance which I loved reading about but I definitely would never want to have the "gift or curse" that Drew had. I also loved that this was a contemporary novel, relatable and easy to read and understand. There is subtle humor throughout which helps break up the tension of the horrific deeds and situations that the demons bring to this book. I wasn't a fan of the wife, not very likeable, although she did improve (imo) by the end of the story. I highly recommend this book to any horror lover who would like to read a really, entertaining and lighter fare than the devastatingly dark and morbid ones that are out there.
I want to thank the publisher "Flame Tree Press" and Netgalley for the opportunity to read this horror novel and any thoughts or opinions expressed are unbiased and mine alone!
I have given this fantastic horror book a rating of 4 EXCITING AND DEMONIC 🌟🌟🌟🌟 STARS!!
In 1995 Drew Price was only thirteen years old when he started seeing terrifying monsters and when he told his mother she immediately brought him to a few different psychiatrists which didn't help of course until one who said he believed Drew and there were others who have seen these monsters so he introduced him to Lincoln (demon hunter), the man who would change Drew's life.
Twenty-five years later Drew works for the Los Angeles Sheriff's department and is married and has a seven year old son (Kenny) whom he adores and he is very happy and content with his life especially since he hasn't seen a demon again since 1995. Drew has never shared his demon past with his wife thinking he was protecting her and also knowing she would think he had severe mental issues. Now, he comes across a demon and realizes more and more people are losing their souls to these abominations. After a demon takes a soul, the person will have no moral compass left in his conscience and they become true psychopaths who become the worst humans living because they will hurt, maim, kill without any remorse and will never stop. When the archdemon (the top gun and the most powerful of all demons) hears of Drew, it decides to target little Kenny since this will bring Drew down to his knees knowing his son will be a a soulless psychopath the rest of his life. Literally, at this point "All hell breaks loose".
This book was such an enjoyable and fast-paced horror story and not your typical " good versus evil " either. Don't expect priests or exorcism in this book or you will be disappointed. The creative writing and storytelling by "Russell James" made this story extra fun and entertaining as a horror novel and I certainly hope there will be a sequel because Drew is a character I would love to see in more books. The demons are very frightening characters especially their physical appearance which I loved reading about but I definitely would never want to have the "gift or curse" that Drew had. I also loved that this was a contemporary novel, relatable and easy to read and understand. There is subtle humor throughout which helps break up the tension of the horrific deeds and situations that the demons bring to this book. I wasn't a fan of the wife, not very likeable, although she did improve (imo) by the end of the story. I highly recommend this book to any horror lover who would like to read a really, entertaining and lighter fare than the devastatingly dark and morbid ones that are out there.
I want to thank the publisher "Flame Tree Press" and Netgalley for the opportunity to read this horror novel and any thoughts or opinions expressed are unbiased and mine alone!
I have given this fantastic horror book a rating of 4 EXCITING AND DEMONIC 🌟🌟🌟🌟 STARS!!
June 3, 2022
Russell James has been around for a while. Writing perfectly serviceable if unremarkable genre stories. This is a fine example of it. A story of demonic possession with the titular object heavily featured as a killing object. Not exclusively, but the best one for a book title.
So you have your protagonist Drew who as a boy learned to see demon-possessed people (psst…they cast no shadow) and became an apprentice to a demon slayer. As an adult, Drew just wants to have a normal life but those demons just won’t leave him alone. So he does the normal adult thing by day and slays demons by night until his diurnal and nocturnal activities eventually bleed into each other. Notice the use of bleed for it is a bloody business.
And so, alternating between past and present, alternating between character drama and demon-slaying action, the novel rolls on at a fairly steady pace, unfolding much as one might expect. You can just see a tagline for a B-movie adaptation – Demons. This time it’s personal.
Drew has a cute kid but a terrible wife. Seriously, what’s with Drew’s wife? For all their supposed lurv, she’s constantly on a verge of a divorce; all too willing to believe the worst of her dearly beloved and all too willing to boot him out. Terrible, really.
The rest of the characters are ok. The writing’s ok. Toward the end it gets sillier and cheesier, but the backstory kind of offsets it, balancing out the overall tone. The entire thing is ok. That’s sort of the author’s base level – ok. Like write by numbers sort of thing with all the boxes checked, but nothing special offered. And yet, he continues to have a productive career and being featured by publishers like Flame Tree Press so either he’s doing something right or the audience has a certain yen for mediocrity.
Anyway, a thoroughly decent thoroughly average read of demons and demon-slayers…and daggers. Thanks Netgalley.
This and more at https://advancetheplot.weebly.com/
So you have your protagonist Drew who as a boy learned to see demon-possessed people (psst…they cast no shadow) and became an apprentice to a demon slayer. As an adult, Drew just wants to have a normal life but those demons just won’t leave him alone. So he does the normal adult thing by day and slays demons by night until his diurnal and nocturnal activities eventually bleed into each other. Notice the use of bleed for it is a bloody business.
And so, alternating between past and present, alternating between character drama and demon-slaying action, the novel rolls on at a fairly steady pace, unfolding much as one might expect. You can just see a tagline for a B-movie adaptation – Demons. This time it’s personal.
Drew has a cute kid but a terrible wife. Seriously, what’s with Drew’s wife? For all their supposed lurv, she’s constantly on a verge of a divorce; all too willing to believe the worst of her dearly beloved and all too willing to boot him out. Terrible, really.
The rest of the characters are ok. The writing’s ok. Toward the end it gets sillier and cheesier, but the backstory kind of offsets it, balancing out the overall tone. The entire thing is ok. That’s sort of the author’s base level – ok. Like write by numbers sort of thing with all the boxes checked, but nothing special offered. And yet, he continues to have a productive career and being featured by publishers like Flame Tree Press so either he’s doing something right or the audience has a certain yen for mediocrity.
Anyway, a thoroughly decent thoroughly average read of demons and demon-slayers…and daggers. Thanks Netgalley.
This and more at https://advancetheplot.weebly.com/
August 29, 2022
Why this book has not won a lot of fan readers is the unanswered question without answer.
A bit confusing my first statement right? But it is the ugly and beautiful truth!
What Russell James brings in "Demon Dagger"... Holly Motherf*ck Incredible!!!
Just give a try and read it!
ps: i still don't know how to better classify this one... it's a thriller, a fiction?
A bit confusing my first statement right? But it is the ugly and beautiful truth!
What Russell James brings in "Demon Dagger"... Holly Motherf*ck Incredible!!!
Just give a try and read it!
ps: i still don't know how to better classify this one... it's a thriller, a fiction?
May 28, 2022
Drew Price has a rare gift. He can spot a demon where most of us would see a normal human being. A blessing? A curse? It certainly doesn’t make for an easy life but it does make for a highly entertaining, suspenseful read. I am a great fan of Russell James’s stories. He creates great atmosphere, authentic settings and characters, and cool plots. Demon Dagger is no exception.
Drew is a man with a wife and child – both of whose lives are in danger and, worse than that, their souls are at risk. With the help of a seemingly insignificant dagger that possesses extraordinary powers, he is able to dispatch one demon, only to be confronted with something far worse – an Archdemon. The story moves at a fast pace and kept me with it all the way to the end. Or…was it the end? Somehow, I have the feeling the demons aren’t finished yet.
Great story. Don’t miss it.
May 10, 2022
Who knows what evil lurks in the hearts of people? Well, I suppose Russel James does. In his latest offering, Demon Dagger, we find our hero, Drew, who has been gifted or maybe plagued with the ability to see through the meat skins they wear to the demon who inhabits the body.
Complicating matters even further, Drew suffers from a complicated marital situation. Throw in an unfortunate event where a demon he is chasing turns its attention to the one thing Drew loves more than anything in the world. His son.
To be fair, I like most books. I like reading in general and this one was a fast read in terms of flow. You dedicated readers out there will know what I mean. This was a fun and fast read.
To me the mark of a good book is if I like the central characters or not and I really did enjoy Drew and his mentor Lincoln. I also really enjoyed the character of Marvin. I thought he was fun.
So, why did I not give it a fifth star? I really did not care for his wife. She came off as cold, and overly given to anger issues to the point that she felt just annoying. I did not really get why she was so perpetually angry all the time. Her anger could be said to lack context and I really needed to see that context before I was thrown into the world where she was so perpetually angry at him all the time.
There was also too much made of her rheumatism, but nothing really came of it in the crescendo of the story line. I kind of expected that to play in and I did not see that. I was a little disappointed in that.
I want to see a second book in this series. It would be great fun to examine how Drew and Marvin are sucked back into hunting demons as they pop up. Maybe this is a world where, like Marvin, there are different gradients of demons here and there who can be as fun as Marvin with different restrictions and abilities. Marvin has the capacity to have some amazing lines and I really want to see him come into his own.
All-in-all, Demon Dagger is a fun read and I think you are going to enjoy it just as much as I did.
-Bryan
Complicating matters even further, Drew suffers from a complicated marital situation. Throw in an unfortunate event where a demon he is chasing turns its attention to the one thing Drew loves more than anything in the world. His son.
To be fair, I like most books. I like reading in general and this one was a fast read in terms of flow. You dedicated readers out there will know what I mean. This was a fun and fast read.
To me the mark of a good book is if I like the central characters or not and I really did enjoy Drew and his mentor Lincoln. I also really enjoyed the character of Marvin. I thought he was fun.
So, why did I not give it a fifth star? I really did not care for his wife. She came off as cold, and overly given to anger issues to the point that she felt just annoying. I did not really get why she was so perpetually angry all the time. Her anger could be said to lack context and I really needed to see that context before I was thrown into the world where she was so perpetually angry at him all the time.
There was also too much made of her rheumatism, but nothing really came of it in the crescendo of the story line. I kind of expected that to play in and I did not see that. I was a little disappointed in that.
I want to see a second book in this series. It would be great fun to examine how Drew and Marvin are sucked back into hunting demons as they pop up. Maybe this is a world where, like Marvin, there are different gradients of demons here and there who can be as fun as Marvin with different restrictions and abilities. Marvin has the capacity to have some amazing lines and I really want to see him come into his own.
All-in-all, Demon Dagger is a fun read and I think you are going to enjoy it just as much as I did.
-Bryan
August 15, 2022
Demon Dagger by Russell Jones.
Drew Price has a gift, or perhaps a curse.
When a demon possesses a person, Drew can see the horrific-looking demon that dwells within. This ability has made him a demon hunter, armed with the one weapon that can send these fiends back to Hell; the demon dagger.
A demon named Nicobar sets its sights on punishing this hunter. It starts by taking the soul of Drew’s son, condemning the boy to life as a psychopath.
A brilliant read. Read in one sitting. I loved Drew. 5*.
Drew Price has a gift, or perhaps a curse.
When a demon possesses a person, Drew can see the horrific-looking demon that dwells within. This ability has made him a demon hunter, armed with the one weapon that can send these fiends back to Hell; the demon dagger.
A demon named Nicobar sets its sights on punishing this hunter. It starts by taking the soul of Drew’s son, condemning the boy to life as a psychopath.
A brilliant read. Read in one sitting. I loved Drew. 5*.
July 24, 2022
Russell James new novel, the Demon Dagger is an entertaining and worth read fiction that travels back and forth between the main character Drew as a teenager and Drew today who is married with a wife and child whilst past catches up to him.
The book is extremely well written and James is able to balance the jumping back and forth with his narrative like a pro. He is able to balance the two without losing the narrative or pacing which give an exciting payoff. He plays around with Demon lore and plays around it whilst rooting everything in his world’s reality. James has a real knack at plotting, pacing and keeping the reader on their toes with every page turn.
The characters are very strong though his wife, on a personal biase, irritated me as she seemed to be in a bad mood and not very understanding through most of the book but I did warm to her by the last third of the book. Drew is extremely well drawn out and is very three dimensional in the approach. The main villain of the piece is frightening and without given anything away, I love the person the demon has decided to take over.
This is quite difficult to write a review about because I want to gush about so much but at the same time, not reveal any of the surprises that in store for the reader. Overall, this is a gem of a book from the author and Flame Tree Press and I highly urge people with the love of dark fiction to pick this up as they will not be disappointed. This is one of the best this year.
The book is extremely well written and James is able to balance the jumping back and forth with his narrative like a pro. He is able to balance the two without losing the narrative or pacing which give an exciting payoff. He plays around with Demon lore and plays around it whilst rooting everything in his world’s reality. James has a real knack at plotting, pacing and keeping the reader on their toes with every page turn.
The characters are very strong though his wife, on a personal biase, irritated me as she seemed to be in a bad mood and not very understanding through most of the book but I did warm to her by the last third of the book. Drew is extremely well drawn out and is very three dimensional in the approach. The main villain of the piece is frightening and without given anything away, I love the person the demon has decided to take over.
This is quite difficult to write a review about because I want to gush about so much but at the same time, not reveal any of the surprises that in store for the reader. Overall, this is a gem of a book from the author and Flame Tree Press and I highly urge people with the love of dark fiction to pick this up as they will not be disappointed. This is one of the best this year.
June 23, 2022
Another entertaining read by Russell James
For a full review, please go to https://areviewerdarkly.blogspot.com/... and follow me on Twitter @josenher
For a full review, please go to https://areviewerdarkly.blogspot.com/... and follow me on Twitter @josenher
September 21, 2022
Imagine a world where people you meet on the street where actually grotesque demons that smelled like fire and sulphur walking around using someone elses body just waiting for someone to sell their soul. Then imagine that there are some people that can see the real face of these terrifying creatures and that there is a dagger that can kill them and send them back to hell. Sound good? Then you will love this book.
It is fast paced, creepy and intense and I couldn't put it down i read it in almost one sitting.
The storyline is engaging and atmospheric and is full of vivid descriptions and I was totally gripped all the way through, this is the first book I've read by this author but it wont be the last.
I am definitely going to be more aware of what I'm wishing for in the future just incase the person next to me is a demon 😉
It is fast paced, creepy and intense and I couldn't put it down i read it in almost one sitting.
The storyline is engaging and atmospheric and is full of vivid descriptions and I was totally gripped all the way through, this is the first book I've read by this author but it wont be the last.
I am definitely going to be more aware of what I'm wishing for in the future just incase the person next to me is a demon 😉
August 16, 2022
Russell James newest horror novel is a hauntingly beautiful struggle of good vs. evil. Demons walk among us and only a special few can see when they have taken the souls of humans and exert control of their bodies. Our main character Drew, has dealt with this horrifying ability his whole life and has assumed a mantle of protecting the unsuspecting world from these evil beings.
I really enjoyed this book overall. It is fast paced read told with various flashbacks of our main character learning from his mentor. When Drew's family is threatened by the biggest bad that he has ever faced, it really is a race to figure out who will come out on top and not without some loss along the way. This universe although unique and new felt familiar and I would love to hear more stories about Drew and Kenny.
Don't miss out on the newest scary Flame Tree Press novel!
**Thank you to NetGalley and Flame Tree Press for my arc.**
I really enjoyed this book overall. It is fast paced read told with various flashbacks of our main character learning from his mentor. When Drew's family is threatened by the biggest bad that he has ever faced, it really is a race to figure out who will come out on top and not without some loss along the way. This universe although unique and new felt familiar and I would love to hear more stories about Drew and Kenny.
Don't miss out on the newest scary Flame Tree Press novel!
**Thank you to NetGalley and Flame Tree Press for my arc.**
September 17, 2022
Demon Dagger by Russell James is a fast paced thrilling ride. It is under the horror genre, but I would say this is leaning more toward a thriller with some horrorish scenes. There is a lot of thrilling action about the last three-fourths of the book. But it is a fun and exciting adventure!
The story starts out with a young kid, Drew Price, going into therapy because he sees monsters. His mother has been trying to find a therapist that can help him, until they finally find the right therapist. As the story progresses, Drew learns how to become a demon hunter. The story shifts between Drew’s younger years of training, to his older years of becoming a husband and father. During a family trip to a theme park, Drew’s son loses his soul. Thus begins the long road and process of getting his son’s soul back and ridding the world of a demon.
Overall, this is a solid read. I did get bored with it occasionally and felt like skipping ahead. It has a lot of words for a simple story.
Thank you #NetGalley and Flame Tree Press for sending me a copy of #DemonDagger by Russell James.
The story starts out with a young kid, Drew Price, going into therapy because he sees monsters. His mother has been trying to find a therapist that can help him, until they finally find the right therapist. As the story progresses, Drew learns how to become a demon hunter. The story shifts between Drew’s younger years of training, to his older years of becoming a husband and father. During a family trip to a theme park, Drew’s son loses his soul. Thus begins the long road and process of getting his son’s soul back and ridding the world of a demon.
Overall, this is a solid read. I did get bored with it occasionally and felt like skipping ahead. It has a lot of words for a simple story.
Thank you #NetGalley and Flame Tree Press for sending me a copy of #DemonDagger by Russell James.
September 27, 2022
Demon Dagger is a combination of horror and thriller set around demon hunter Drew Price, which is billed as ‘being good for those that enjoyed the TV series Supernatural’.
Now to be honest, I haven’t seen this TV series, but I can basically envision the style.
The book is an introduction to the world of Drew Price and feels like it is an introduction to a series. However, it is a stand-alone novel that is quite self contained.
I have to say that the blurb and the story didn't match up for me. The blurb gives the impression that Drew is an established Demon Hunter, but that is not the case. In all fairness this seems like it is the inaugural tale of how he becomes a Demon Hunter and that this is the first adventure.
This is not to say that it affects the story in any way, but it is not what I was expecting from the blurb.
The book itself is an enjoyable adventure story. At the beginning we see how Drew, initially seen as a troubled teenager who meets his mentor Lincoln and how he learns about his ability to see demons. We learn about Drew and his past through a series of flashbacks. Initially, whilst this gives the necessary backstory to how Drew got to where he was, it also provides the opportunity for world and lore building, During this first act of the book the story has a lot of information as Lincoln gives the history and other things that Drew needs to know about the Demons that walk the earth, and how best to rid the world of evil.
In addition to this the story focuses on the difficulties that present Drew is having with his marriage and adjusting to his powers now that he is grown up and has a family.
The story really takes off in the second act when the main protagonist of the story, the Arch Demon Nicobar, is introduced, who really causes problems for Drew and his family.
From this point , the story really picks up the pace as the story hurtles towards the third act.
I have to say that when we get past the initial world building and we get to the crux of the story, everything seems to gel a lot more and seems more focussed with the book becoming more like I was expecting it to be.
When we are in the first act and are being introduced to the characters, it took me a while to warm to them, particularly Drew's wife who seems to be on the edge of angry throughout. And I think one of the problems was that whilst I could see reasons for her difficulties, such as chronic pain, some issues in the past with her father etc, there seemed to be a bit of disconnect between these reasons and she just came across as unreasonable for no apparent reason.
However, again she improved in the second act, particularly when the half demon Marvin is introduced.
Marvin, the half demon (or Cambion as he is referred to in the book) was one of my favourite characters in the story and he was instantly likeable. His partnership with Drew really adds to the story and gives the book that extra depth.
On the whole this is an enjoyable book and is a good introduction to the world. I would definitely like to see a series and the world expanded, because I think it would make a good urban horror series.
Now to be honest, I haven’t seen this TV series, but I can basically envision the style.
The book is an introduction to the world of Drew Price and feels like it is an introduction to a series. However, it is a stand-alone novel that is quite self contained.
I have to say that the blurb and the story didn't match up for me. The blurb gives the impression that Drew is an established Demon Hunter, but that is not the case. In all fairness this seems like it is the inaugural tale of how he becomes a Demon Hunter and that this is the first adventure.
This is not to say that it affects the story in any way, but it is not what I was expecting from the blurb.
The book itself is an enjoyable adventure story. At the beginning we see how Drew, initially seen as a troubled teenager who meets his mentor Lincoln and how he learns about his ability to see demons. We learn about Drew and his past through a series of flashbacks. Initially, whilst this gives the necessary backstory to how Drew got to where he was, it also provides the opportunity for world and lore building, During this first act of the book the story has a lot of information as Lincoln gives the history and other things that Drew needs to know about the Demons that walk the earth, and how best to rid the world of evil.
In addition to this the story focuses on the difficulties that present Drew is having with his marriage and adjusting to his powers now that he is grown up and has a family.
The story really takes off in the second act when the main protagonist of the story, the Arch Demon Nicobar, is introduced, who really causes problems for Drew and his family.
From this point , the story really picks up the pace as the story hurtles towards the third act.
I have to say that when we get past the initial world building and we get to the crux of the story, everything seems to gel a lot more and seems more focussed with the book becoming more like I was expecting it to be.
When we are in the first act and are being introduced to the characters, it took me a while to warm to them, particularly Drew's wife who seems to be on the edge of angry throughout. And I think one of the problems was that whilst I could see reasons for her difficulties, such as chronic pain, some issues in the past with her father etc, there seemed to be a bit of disconnect between these reasons and she just came across as unreasonable for no apparent reason.
However, again she improved in the second act, particularly when the half demon Marvin is introduced.
Marvin, the half demon (or Cambion as he is referred to in the book) was one of my favourite characters in the story and he was instantly likeable. His partnership with Drew really adds to the story and gives the book that extra depth.
On the whole this is an enjoyable book and is a good introduction to the world. I would definitely like to see a series and the world expanded, because I think it would make a good urban horror series.
October 23, 2022
Drew Price can see demons. When he tells his mother, she takes him to seek help. Drew’s counselor matches him with Lincoln, a tough demon-hunting car buff. Lincoln teaches Drew everything about the Chevy Chevelle and demons. Drew learns how to slay the monsters using the Demon Dagger. But after he finds Lincoln’s destroyed body, Drew takes the dagger and swears revenge. Unable to find Lincoln’s killer, Drew settles into a quiet life. Years later, Drew discovers a demon and slays it. Nicobar, the archdemon, sets his sites on Drew for killing his minion. Now the demon hunter becomes the hunted.
Demon Dagger is the latest novel by award-winning horror writer Russell James. This is a fast-paced thriller filled with all the gore of a disemboweled beast. James paints a grotesque and fowl picture of the demon’s descriptions and characteristics. In the world of demon-slaying tales, this novel is unique. James does not use the typical hero type seeking out danger, but a nine-to-five working stiff more worried about bills and his family. This is an excellent book for readers looking for a reluctant protagonist. Join Drew in sending evil back to hell in Demon Dagger.
This review was originally published at https://manhattanbookreview.com/produ...
Demon Dagger is the latest novel by award-winning horror writer Russell James. This is a fast-paced thriller filled with all the gore of a disemboweled beast. James paints a grotesque and fowl picture of the demon’s descriptions and characteristics. In the world of demon-slaying tales, this novel is unique. James does not use the typical hero type seeking out danger, but a nine-to-five working stiff more worried about bills and his family. This is an excellent book for readers looking for a reluctant protagonist. Join Drew in sending evil back to hell in Demon Dagger.
This review was originally published at https://manhattanbookreview.com/produ...
September 25, 2022
This book took me into the story straight away, seeing the city of Los Angeles through the eyes of an old man before taking me 25 years into the past and meeting Drew Price as a child. From then on I knew I was in for fantastic read. Drew is a man drawn between two worlds and I really felt his misery as those worlds collide when the demon steals his son’s soul. The transformation of Kenny is terrifying in its simplicity and the confusion and fear his mother feels made me feel so sorry for her. The flashbacks are brilliant as I found out more about Drew’s early years. For me though I loved Marvin.
Whilst I didn’t find this book to be particularly fast paced until about half way through, it definitely drew me in as I could not put it down. This book has everything I love in a story, action, drama, a few heart stopping moments and of course an absolutely terrifying demon. As a massive fan of the tv series Supernatural, Demon Dagger for me was the perfect read and I’m looking forward to reading more from Russell James.
Whilst I didn’t find this book to be particularly fast paced until about half way through, it definitely drew me in as I could not put it down. This book has everything I love in a story, action, drama, a few heart stopping moments and of course an absolutely terrifying demon. As a massive fan of the tv series Supernatural, Demon Dagger for me was the perfect read and I’m looking forward to reading more from Russell James.
September 20, 2022
Today, is my spot on ZooloosBookTours blog tour for Demon Dagger by Russell James. I read this fantasy novel/thriller as an ebook for this tour and I’m so delighted that I took part on this blog tour as I really liked reading this novel. Demon Dagger tells a story of a demon catcher, demons who take over people’s bodies and a dagger used to slay these frightening creatures from hell.
This thriller is fast-paced, thrilling, exciting, suspenseful and action-packed. I couldn’t stop reading this novel once I started it. This novel is quite unputdownable. I also thought it was a great read, and I really liked the author’s writing style, character development and the location for this thriller. I like travelling to exotic locations via novels, and I really liked Los Angeles as a location.
I’m giving Demon Dagger 5 stars as I really liked it and I think that other readers will like it also especially if they like reading fantasy novels and thrillers.
This thriller is fast-paced, thrilling, exciting, suspenseful and action-packed. I couldn’t stop reading this novel once I started it. This novel is quite unputdownable. I also thought it was a great read, and I really liked the author’s writing style, character development and the location for this thriller. I like travelling to exotic locations via novels, and I really liked Los Angeles as a location.
I’m giving Demon Dagger 5 stars as I really liked it and I think that other readers will like it also especially if they like reading fantasy novels and thrillers.
September 20, 2022
Demon Dagger is a little different to my frequent reads but I always like to read different genres because it introduces me to new genres and authors.
With this one I found the story to be well written and it was strong enough to hold my interest throughout.
The author is a new one for me but thanks to this story they are one I would try again.
The story follows main character Drew and takes place both in present day and when Drew is younger. It is always clear when the time changes though and it's a good way to really connect to the character throughout his life.
If you enjoy stories in this genre Demon Dagger might be one you'd enjoy. The book is available for purchase now.
With this one I found the story to be well written and it was strong enough to hold my interest throughout.
The author is a new one for me but thanks to this story they are one I would try again.
The story follows main character Drew and takes place both in present day and when Drew is younger. It is always clear when the time changes though and it's a good way to really connect to the character throughout his life.
If you enjoy stories in this genre Demon Dagger might be one you'd enjoy. The book is available for purchase now.
September 28, 2022
I read somewhere that fans of the TV series Supernatural would enjoy this, and I can clearly see the legacy in this book without it being copycat. And yes, I think a fan of that show will enjoy this.
Lots of evil demonic action but without the religious content that can swamp these types of stories. This is human vs evil, which for me makes it more relatable. Good pacing, nice twists, and the flashbacks are well placed and fit well with the flow of the book.
Lots of evil demonic action but without the religious content that can swamp these types of stories. This is human vs evil, which for me makes it more relatable. Good pacing, nice twists, and the flashbacks are well placed and fit well with the flow of the book.
October 21, 2022
For someone who isn't a fan of demon themed stories, I sure as heck enjoyed this book. I thought Drew was a cool character and I connected with him pretty quickly. His time with Lincoln, his mentor, was a great side story as young Drew learns to fix a classic car. The story has a fast pace and the thrills are plentiful. Russell does a great job turning an innocent day at a theme park into a day from hell as his son Kenny's soul is snatched from under his nose.
The demon lore created by Russell was cool. From the weapons to the magic book and the symbols used to trap demons. The synopsis says 'for fans of Supernatural' and that couldn't be more true. Demon Dagger is fun and I couldn't put it down. Thanks for the fun thrill ride, Russell!
The demon lore created by Russell was cool. From the weapons to the magic book and the symbols used to trap demons. The synopsis says 'for fans of Supernatural' and that couldn't be more true. Demon Dagger is fun and I couldn't put it down. Thanks for the fun thrill ride, Russell!
December 17, 2022
Demonilicious.
Ahhh. Russell James knows how to tell a damn good story. Some people see demons, and Drew is one of them. This is his story about how he finds out, who he meets to help him, his family and the nasty demons that make his life hell. There is a lot of heart in this book, along with action and brutality. It was all just so...satisfying. I loved it.
Ahhh. Russell James knows how to tell a damn good story. Some people see demons, and Drew is one of them. This is his story about how he finds out, who he meets to help him, his family and the nasty demons that make his life hell. There is a lot of heart in this book, along with action and brutality. It was all just so...satisfying. I loved it.
October 11, 2022
Supernatural Thriller!!
Drew Price when told her mother he can see monsters, she took him to psychiatrists and one of them believed him, this depicts how the society nullifies any thoughts or ideas of something different and consider it as mental disorder, this kind of belief makes the person skeptical rather than understand the truth behind it.
Even after being married and having a kid, Drew hid the truth about him from his wife. Author has touched many cruel aspects of the society and portrayed them so well and beautifully.
Fast paced writing style will keep you engulfed and keep you hooked.
One fine day, an archdemon targets Drew and his family and Drew's life topple upside down, the journey to save his son and vengeance towards the demon and their cruel acts towards humanity, separates this book from the regular horror stories.
To suffice my thoughts: Supernatural/demonic thriller, underworld crime (literal underworld or hell), fast paced, creative and refreshing writing style. Overall a 4 star read. Not a regular horror story grab your chairs and wait for the story to take you on a roller coaster ride. It would be great to have a sequel, a beautifully written saga. Thoroughly enjoyable and spellbinding writing style.
Drew Price when told her mother he can see monsters, she took him to psychiatrists and one of them believed him, this depicts how the society nullifies any thoughts or ideas of something different and consider it as mental disorder, this kind of belief makes the person skeptical rather than understand the truth behind it.
Even after being married and having a kid, Drew hid the truth about him from his wife. Author has touched many cruel aspects of the society and portrayed them so well and beautifully.
Fast paced writing style will keep you engulfed and keep you hooked.
One fine day, an archdemon targets Drew and his family and Drew's life topple upside down, the journey to save his son and vengeance towards the demon and their cruel acts towards humanity, separates this book from the regular horror stories.
To suffice my thoughts: Supernatural/demonic thriller, underworld crime (literal underworld or hell), fast paced, creative and refreshing writing style. Overall a 4 star read. Not a regular horror story grab your chairs and wait for the story to take you on a roller coaster ride. It would be great to have a sequel, a beautifully written saga. Thoroughly enjoyable and spellbinding writing style.
August 26, 2022
A good novel, gripping and with the right horror level. It kept me reading and entertained.
Recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine
Recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine
December 6, 2022
FINALLY, A Good Supernatural to Read
If you like books with Demons against the Good, this is a Must Read!!!
So many of the books coming out now with the evil versus good premise are just silly bubblegum reads and I could write a book, pun intended, on the many silly vampire, witches books.
Mr James, thank you for giving me a story that kept me reading until the end. I am 72 years old and have read some really good books in this genre and many many bad. You sir have told a compelling story that I would recommended to anyone.
After finishing this review I am going to see what other stories you have penned
If you like books with Demons against the Good, this is a Must Read!!!
So many of the books coming out now with the evil versus good premise are just silly bubblegum reads and I could write a book, pun intended, on the many silly vampire, witches books.
Mr James, thank you for giving me a story that kept me reading until the end. I am 72 years old and have read some really good books in this genre and many many bad. You sir have told a compelling story that I would recommended to anyone.
After finishing this review I am going to see what other stories you have penned
August 8, 2022
Russell James’ Demon Dagger is billed as a book for fans of Supernatural.
But even they’d have a tough time with this middling supernatural thriller about a demon hunter who must juggle his days as a family man and night taking down demons.
It’s not that this one is particularly bad. It just isn’t particularly good either.
But even they’d have a tough time with this middling supernatural thriller about a demon hunter who must juggle his days as a family man and night taking down demons.
It’s not that this one is particularly bad. It just isn’t particularly good either.
May 7, 2022
A wuick and easy read that I read in one very short sitting. It was fast paced and atmospheric but it definitely lacked something. I excpected to feel creeped out by this book especially after reading the blurb but it just kind of fell flat sadly.
September 29, 2022
A damn good read! I’ve been on a contemporary fiction roll for a while and this ticked boxes - demons, fantasy, some horror and great writing. It’s an easy recommendation and an author I’ll be coming back to see what comes next!
February 1, 2023
Great book.
July 4, 2023
Loved this!!! Kept me on the edge of my chair as I read the last quarter of the book!
February 14, 2024
Demons and hunters - and how far would you go to save someone you love? The hunter and hunted are after each other, the stakes are high, the dagger is ready - and the action just keeps going.
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