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Bird Brain
Ruby to the Rescue
Smart Books for Smart Kids (Loving Birds Helps Too) - For Kids 3-8 Years Old
Ruby, a young phoenix, has always been captivated by the people living in nearby cities. Unfortunately, ancient law states that phoenixes and people must remain separate in order to maintain the world's magical balance.
When a little boy needs rescuing, however, Ruby decides saving a life is more important than upholding an outdated superstition. The Phoenix Council says that if Ruby grants her new friend his heart's true wish that he will forget their encounter and order will be restored, but what about Ruby's heart? Is she ready to lose the best friend she's ever had?
Ruby to the Rescue by Emlyn Chand (Illustrated by Noelle Giffin)Evolved Publishing brings you another children's picture book from the "Bird Brain Books" series by Emlyn Chand, featuring full-color illustrations by artist Noelle Giffin. Join Ruby in her tale of magic, friendship, and adventure in this special edition for children aged 3-8.[DRM-Free]
[Children’s Picture Books, Birds, Animals, Values, Friendship, Courage, Magic, Adventure] Discover the Full Bird Brain Books SeriesCourtney Saves Christmas; Davey the Detective; Honey the Hero; Izzy the Inventor; Larry the Lonely; Polly Wants to be a Pirate; Poppy the Proud; Ricky the Runt; Ruby to the Rescue; Sammy Steals the Show; Tommy Goes Trick-or-Treating; Vicky Finds a Valentine.
NOTE FROM THE AUTHORHave you noticed that dogs, cats, and teddy bears get all the attention in kids’ books? I have, and while I love these furry creatures, I’ve made it my mission to give our feathered friends the spotlight they so rightly deserve.
And so the "Bird Brain Books" were born. Twelve are now available (or will be soon), and who knows what the future may bring. I just can’t get enough of my favorite feathery goofballs.
What’s more, these books teach important lessons in entertaining, beak-sized bites: remember to say thank you when someone does something nice for you; know that who you are—rather than what you look like—is what makes you special; appreciate love, friendship, and beauty wherever you can find it; and enjoy the simple bliss of being a kid.
I love to chirp about my books with anyone who will listen, and have special sections on my website for readers, parents, teachers, librarians, and more. My pet Sun Conure, Ducky, also writes a weekly blog just for kids.
68 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2015
169 people are currently reading
99 people want to read
About the author
Emlyn Chand
26 books1,154 followersMelissa Storm is a mother first, and everything else second. She used to write under the pseudonym Emlyn Chand, but finally had the confidence to come out as herself to the world. Her fiction is highly personal and often based on true stories. Writing is Melissa's way of showing her daughter just how beautiful life can be, when you pay attention to the everyday wonders that surround us.
Melissa loves books so much, she married fellow author Falcon Storm. Between the two of them, there are always plenty of imaginative, awe-inspiring stories to share. Melissa and Falcon also run the business Novel Publicity together, where she works as publisher, marketer, editor, and all-around business mogul. When she's not reading, writing, or child-rearing, Melissa spends time relaxing at home in the company of her two dogs, five parrots, and rescue cat. She never misses an episode of The Bachelor or her nightly lavender-infused soak in the tub.
Learn more about Melissa's business at www.NovelPublicity.com. Learn more about her other author alias at www.EmlynChand.com. Learn more about her life on Facebook, Pinterest, Twitter, or Google+.
Got a question? Send her a message here.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews
November 4, 2018
“The truth is hard to find, but it’s always worth the effort. But, some truths should remain hidden.”
This has been a great read! My first of Jeff Altabef’s work and I’m glad to have accepted the ARC. The story construction is very plausible, shredded with doubts over the main protagonist, it doesn’t help that he is initially presented as a bit of a suspect character and we're never quite sure how crazy grief has made him. A battle between good and bad faced with his own inner demons, the choices to make...The plot unravels bit by bit, a mix of mystery, thriller and supernatural in a dystopian near future, governed by the Originalists, and if that’s not enough, a secret cult with deadly and evil intentions dominates the game! I was totally immersed into the book from the beginning, so credible and well written it is. A totally unique and original angel/demon story, entertaining, with some cruel, gritty and gruesome twists and characters. Add to it a witty dialogue to lighten the mood. I’m definitely going to continue with this series! Hopefully soon!
I am voluntarily leaving a review with no obligation of an advance copy I received from the author.
This has been a great read! My first of Jeff Altabef’s work and I’m glad to have accepted the ARC. The story construction is very plausible, shredded with doubts over the main protagonist, it doesn’t help that he is initially presented as a bit of a suspect character and we're never quite sure how crazy grief has made him. A battle between good and bad faced with his own inner demons, the choices to make...The plot unravels bit by bit, a mix of mystery, thriller and supernatural in a dystopian near future, governed by the Originalists, and if that’s not enough, a secret cult with deadly and evil intentions dominates the game! I was totally immersed into the book from the beginning, so credible and well written it is. A totally unique and original angel/demon story, entertaining, with some cruel, gritty and gruesome twists and characters. Add to it a witty dialogue to lighten the mood. I’m definitely going to continue with this series! Hopefully soon!
I am voluntarily leaving a review with no obligation of an advance copy I received from the author.
August 27, 2018
What a great book! Devil’s Den, is the first book in a new series. This book is set in the future and is definitely a thriller!
Well-written with great characters. Highly Recoommend!
Well-written with great characters. Highly Recoommend!
November 12, 2018
What an interesting...yet disturbing story. While it was a great story, well written with believable characters, I hate to think of where the author got an idea like this. But guess what....I'll read book 2 for sure!!
November 7, 2018
I am a huge fan of Jeff Altabef’s, so when I get a chance to read one of his books, I hop on it. His writing is captivating, making it easy to get lost in the story, and I did.
She ignored her instincts….and the hook is set.
Fantastic. Fear and dread ooze off the pages and I love the sense of danger and despair…with a breath of hope.
Angels and demons.
The end of days…or the Great Struggle, depends on what side of the fence you sit on.
What is Steve’s place in the upcoming war?
He joined the army after his mother killed his father and threatened to kill him. She had seen demons, and now he can see them too. Was his father the demon she claimed he was? Now, he’s home, looking for her to find answers to his questions. Well, let me tell you…better yet, grab a copy of the book and find out for yourself. I don’t think you will have any regrets.
The apocalyptic/dystopian vibe keeps me reading on, waiting and wondering what will happen next.
Kate and Steve have a past, and they come back together when she asks for his help in finding her daughter, Megan.
Then…I meet Megan, and I’m off on an adventure that caught me by surprise. I love when an author can do that and Jeff Altabef does it very well. He has a way of catching me offguard. When I think I know where I’m going, the road takes a sharp turn and I hold on for dear life.
I love the scene where Kate and Steve are sitting in the diner, people watching, making up stories for them…what’s their job, are they married, are they a serial killer…I have been there and done that. Have you? It is scenes like this that give the book that something extra I am always looking for.
Steve hears voices, sees demons, and is in love with knives, sharp, pointy knives. The dark is calling him and this dark is of the most evil kind, persistent, using trickery and temptation. A lesser man may have already yielded.
The characters, some I loved, some I hated, some I didn’t know what to think, but as I read along, their personalities became clearer, their motives exposed, and some questions were still left to be answered.
At 71% Jeff Altabef dealt me a super shocker! I never saw that coming, but in hindsight, I can see the hint given. I was so engrossed in the story that I missed it. That goes to show how great his writing is…
I love deep, dark, twisted stories, and Jeff Altabef has delivered. I was riveted, engrossed in the story, and, when I reached the end, I felt a bit let down…because I WANT MORE!
I voluntarily reviewed a free copy of Devil’s Den by Jeff Altabef.
See more at : fundinmental
She ignored her instincts….and the hook is set.
Fantastic. Fear and dread ooze off the pages and I love the sense of danger and despair…with a breath of hope.
Angels and demons.
The end of days…or the Great Struggle, depends on what side of the fence you sit on.
What is Steve’s place in the upcoming war?
He joined the army after his mother killed his father and threatened to kill him. She had seen demons, and now he can see them too. Was his father the demon she claimed he was? Now, he’s home, looking for her to find answers to his questions. Well, let me tell you…better yet, grab a copy of the book and find out for yourself. I don’t think you will have any regrets.
The apocalyptic/dystopian vibe keeps me reading on, waiting and wondering what will happen next.
Kate and Steve have a past, and they come back together when she asks for his help in finding her daughter, Megan.
Then…I meet Megan, and I’m off on an adventure that caught me by surprise. I love when an author can do that and Jeff Altabef does it very well. He has a way of catching me offguard. When I think I know where I’m going, the road takes a sharp turn and I hold on for dear life.
I love the scene where Kate and Steve are sitting in the diner, people watching, making up stories for them…what’s their job, are they married, are they a serial killer…I have been there and done that. Have you? It is scenes like this that give the book that something extra I am always looking for.
Steve hears voices, sees demons, and is in love with knives, sharp, pointy knives. The dark is calling him and this dark is of the most evil kind, persistent, using trickery and temptation. A lesser man may have already yielded.
The characters, some I loved, some I hated, some I didn’t know what to think, but as I read along, their personalities became clearer, their motives exposed, and some questions were still left to be answered.
At 71% Jeff Altabef dealt me a super shocker! I never saw that coming, but in hindsight, I can see the hint given. I was so engrossed in the story that I missed it. That goes to show how great his writing is…
I love deep, dark, twisted stories, and Jeff Altabef has delivered. I was riveted, engrossed in the story, and, when I reached the end, I felt a bit let down…because I WANT MORE!
I voluntarily reviewed a free copy of Devil’s Den by Jeff Altabef.
See more at : fundinmental
December 28, 2016
Ruby to the Rescue is an adorable story about a brave little phoenix who refuses to let others tell her what's right and what's wrong. When Ruby sees a little boy facing off against a wolf in the forest, she intervenes against the wishes of her teacher. Because of this, she is taken before the Council to face punishment for doing what she thought was right. However, the story has a happy ending, and there's also a really good moral/lesson to be learned by the end. Basically, Ruby teaches us, the readers, that everyone is important, no matter what. In the story, it's the lesson that magical birds are not any better than humans, and both species matter, even though the phoenixes believe humans and phoenixes should never mingle. In real life, the lesson is to never judge someone based on race, gender, sexuality, etc. At least that was what I took away from it. It's a good lesson for both kids and adults. I quite enjoyed Ruby. It was a cute, quick read that my 22 month old son (named Phoenix) also enjoyed. He especially liked the pictures. I would definitely recommend Ruby to the Rescue to kids and parents alike.
August 28, 2018
I enjoyed this book! I haven't read any others by this author so wasn't sure what to expect, far exceeded any expectations. Read it in less than 24 hours! It was an engaging, fast moving tale, with a few twists and turns along the way to a satisfying conclusion.(of this story, definitely set up for more of the series) Believable characters, intrigue, well told action scenes and the battle of good and evil all play their role in making this a very enjoyable read.
November 5, 2018
Steven Cabbot, former Army and spy is fighting with demons. He feels as if they are taking him over. He goes back to his childhood home looking for his mother, not forgetting she killed his father, saying he was a demon. Not locating, her, he fights demons and humans who wish to harm him, until he gets a text from someone from his past. Kate-his childhood crush. The address is close by and after he arrives, he discovers someone has kidnapped Kate's daughter, Megan. Delving into the search for Megan, Steve encounters demons, honest people, and killers. He locates Megan, but can he rescue her? This story has twists and you will not want to put it down. I highly recommend it and I will be checking out other books he has written.
I received a advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
I received a advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
March 1, 2019
This is a raw glimpse into a future world that is dark and seemingly without hope. But the ties of love and one's word still means something to Steven Cabott. The text read "help", and Steve immediately seeks out his former love, even though it has been sixteen years since they parted. Her daughter is missing.
Thus begins a taut thriller, as Steve struggles with the satanic demons who try to claim him as theirs while battling human demons intent on creating a revolutionary "end of days" and ushering in a new world under their rule by enslaving the best and brightest of our youth. Plotting is complex and outstanding, characters far too real. And the world is hauntingly familiar but frightfully different.
Jeff Atabef has mastered his craft with nail-biting suspense. His humans, coldly more insidious than Satan's minions are opposed by a man whose simple humanity makes him heroic.
Thus begins a taut thriller, as Steve struggles with the satanic demons who try to claim him as theirs while battling human demons intent on creating a revolutionary "end of days" and ushering in a new world under their rule by enslaving the best and brightest of our youth. Plotting is complex and outstanding, characters far too real. And the world is hauntingly familiar but frightfully different.
Jeff Atabef has mastered his craft with nail-biting suspense. His humans, coldly more insidious than Satan's minions are opposed by a man whose simple humanity makes him heroic.
June 19, 2025
This Christian urban fantasy (I guess) novel is the first I've read in this genre, although calling it Christian is a misnomer. It is about God and the devil, good v. evil, but so far nothing said about the resurrection of Christ, so not technically Christian in my mind.
Be that as it may, it was an entertaining tale. A mix of urban fantasy, mystery and crime/intrigue keeps the story moving along with enough content to keep me engaged and thinking about what's happening in the book. I like the characters and think they are what I would imagine to be true to form. In other words, nothing rings false or out of sync with the story and premise.
The way the story is told gives us a gentle entry into this world of spiritual beings while not being gentle at all about introducing the main storyline of a girl being kidnapped. The whole concept of the devil being active in the world builds at a slow, steady pace until we are at the point of accepting this reality because it has been quietly imbedding itself in our minds. I hadn't heard the distinction between demons and fallen angels before and the way it is presented makes a lot of sense.
The major struggle of our protagonist is woven throughout and I found it easy to empathize with him and wonder where this struggle would end up. Of course, by the end we don't really know because we are left with a bit of a cliff hanger and our main character is left looking at the contrasts between good and evil knowing the need for him to choose is imminent.
Be that as it may, it was an entertaining tale. A mix of urban fantasy, mystery and crime/intrigue keeps the story moving along with enough content to keep me engaged and thinking about what's happening in the book. I like the characters and think they are what I would imagine to be true to form. In other words, nothing rings false or out of sync with the story and premise.
The way the story is told gives us a gentle entry into this world of spiritual beings while not being gentle at all about introducing the main storyline of a girl being kidnapped. The whole concept of the devil being active in the world builds at a slow, steady pace until we are at the point of accepting this reality because it has been quietly imbedding itself in our minds. I hadn't heard the distinction between demons and fallen angels before and the way it is presented makes a lot of sense.
The major struggle of our protagonist is woven throughout and I found it easy to empathize with him and wonder where this struggle would end up. Of course, by the end we don't really know because we are left with a bit of a cliff hanger and our main character is left looking at the contrasts between good and evil knowing the need for him to choose is imminent.
August 28, 2018
Devil's Den hooks you from the start and doesn't let go until the very end. The characters are in depth and extremely relatable so you quickly become invested in their story. The paranormal world the author has created is a fresh approach and does not take over the story - there is a perfect blend of paranormal, action, thriller, suspense and romance. Seriously this book has it all!! I am excited to see where the author takes the story in book 2.
September 1, 2018
A very enjoyable tale with lots of suspense and action. A tale of a future where the major cities in each State are split by wealth and class. The main character Steven, comes back home looking for his mother, and wishes he never found her. The characters are well developed with just enough detail so you understand them, but not get bored. This fast paced plot will keep you turning pages wondering what will happen next. I'm looking forward to the next book.
August 26, 2018
Oh my gosh, what a roller coaster of a book. From page one I was hooked the story was mesmerising I did not want to put the book down and read it in one day. Megan doesn’t trust her gut, gets kidnaped, then life gets complicated. Kate reaches out to Steve who she hasn’t seen for 16 years. Together they are going to rescue Megan. Except their is more to the kidnaping than meets the eye. In a classic good versus evil the Angels fight the Demons. Grab your copy you won’t be disappointed. Highly recommend.
October 23, 2018
Fantastic book
This is the first book in a new series of Nephilim. Who doesn’t love Nephilim. It really showcases the dark and the light, Angels and demons. It is a fast pace, can’t put down read. I was hooked from the start. I cannot wait until the next installment comes out. If you love supernatural thrillers, then this book is for you. Please pick it up you won’t be sorry.
This is the first book in a new series of Nephilim. Who doesn’t love Nephilim. It really showcases the dark and the light, Angels and demons. It is a fast pace, can’t put down read. I was hooked from the start. I cannot wait until the next installment comes out. If you love supernatural thrillers, then this book is for you. Please pick it up you won’t be sorry.
February 28, 2019
For a first-in- series, 'Devil's Den' delivers what every first-in-series should; an entertaining thrill ride that is sure to keep you coming back and wanting more.
This has all the elements in the making of a really good series. I enjoyed all the paranormal, action, mystery, suspense and bada**ery that ensues in every chapter. a must read.
This has all the elements in the making of a really good series. I enjoyed all the paranormal, action, mystery, suspense and bada**ery that ensues in every chapter. a must read.
November 6, 2018
Very different, in the best way possible.
Wasn't expecting such a clever interweaving of special ops and the paranormal that results in this page-turner of a book.
Strong, likeable and well drawn characters. The paranormal component just adds to the tautly woven intrigue, suspense and the unfolding mystery. Some really unexpected twists, well handled.
Very much looking forward to seeing where this series goes.
I received an eARC of this book and have no hesitation in writing a review; it's a ripper of a read!
Wasn't expecting such a clever interweaving of special ops and the paranormal that results in this page-turner of a book.
Strong, likeable and well drawn characters. The paranormal component just adds to the tautly woven intrigue, suspense and the unfolding mystery. Some really unexpected twists, well handled.
Very much looking forward to seeing where this series goes.
I received an eARC of this book and have no hesitation in writing a review; it's a ripper of a read!
November 11, 2018
To quietly into the night, not so, what an ambitious, commanding and at times overwhelming storytelling! Just when you think things can get any worse, the story floors you. Such great writing, vivid characters and imagination out of this world. Great book!
August 30, 2018
It was heart wrenching , inspiring and loving all in one.
September 18, 2018
Steven sees demons, this is why they’ve shown an interest in him. A girl who’s in the middle of everything. An intriguing story that has you wishing for more. Another great read by a superb author.
November 5, 2018
A futuristic book that has all the twists and turns a good thriller needs. You'll enjoy it.
April 10, 2019
DEVIL'S DEN will make you open your eyes and wonder what is really out there lurking amongst us all... Who is Mother and what are her intentions and who exactly is Father Paul...
August 22, 2018
This is my honest and unbias opinion of the story. This is one of those books you can't put down till you are finished with it. Jeff Altabef deliverd a very well pace action packe story. I am so glad I read this book I have found another new author to read now YAY. I highly recommend this book to everyone who loves books like this.
April 14, 2019
This is my 1st read and review for this author and what an amazing story story, this is an exciting paranormal thriller and I absolutely loved it. When Steven was young his mother killed his father saying that he was a demon and Steven thought that his mother was crazy but 16 years later he thinks that it might of been true. The woman he loved all of those years ago that he left behind Kate sent him a message that she needs his help Katie’s daughter has gone missing and she needs him but Steven is literally fighting demons of his own. So will Steven get to Kate’s daughter in time?. Wow just wow that is an amazing story I definitely can’t wait to read more from this author and I highly recommend this book it’s definitely well worth the read.
April 14, 2016
Ruby to the Rescue was by far my favorite Bird Brained Book! The illustrations were wonderful and the story was beautiful. I absolutely loved this story and I personally think it's the best so far! This is a must read!
Ruby is a Phoenix who is forced to follow the rules, even though she doesn't believe them. Humans aren't allowed to see them, and they aren't allowed to go out of the castle without a chaperone. When she is forced to choose between saving a boys life or following the rules, she goes against her teacher and saves the boy. She is brought before the council so that they can decide what to do to restore the magical balance. When she is asked to say goodbye to her friend forever, she has a very tough decision to make.
Ruby is a Phoenix who is forced to follow the rules, even though she doesn't believe them. Humans aren't allowed to see them, and they aren't allowed to go out of the castle without a chaperone. When she is forced to choose between saving a boys life or following the rules, she goes against her teacher and saves the boy. She is brought before the council so that they can decide what to do to restore the magical balance. When she is asked to say goodbye to her friend forever, she has a very tough decision to make.
December 11, 2016
I read this book as part of a challenge I joined.
The first thing I have to say about this volume in the Bird Brain series, is THANK YOU to the author for including a book about Phoenixes! I love them! Ruby is a phoenix who follows her own moral compass to do what she knows is right, regardless of the rules and judgment she faces from her peers. This is such an important lesson for kids to learn, because it can be so easy to fall victim to peer pressure and do things that you know in your heart is wrong, or even ignore wrong behavior in order to fit in.
I've really enjoyed reading the Bird Brain books as part of a reading challenge. I think they are great books for kids and will be recommending them to friends who have younger children.
The first thing I have to say about this volume in the Bird Brain series, is THANK YOU to the author for including a book about Phoenixes! I love them! Ruby is a phoenix who follows her own moral compass to do what she knows is right, regardless of the rules and judgment she faces from her peers. This is such an important lesson for kids to learn, because it can be so easy to fall victim to peer pressure and do things that you know in your heart is wrong, or even ignore wrong behavior in order to fit in.
I've really enjoyed reading the Bird Brain books as part of a reading challenge. I think they are great books for kids and will be recommending them to friends who have younger children.
September 24, 2018
It's always exciting for me to receive an advanced copy of a Jeff Altabef novel. Unlike many authors who fall in love with a world of their own creation and pump out multiple books with similar plot lines or characters, Jeff Altabef's novels never cease to whisk me away to places I've never been, introducing me to characters who's lives I can't wait explore.
Devil's Den, the first book in the Nephilim Thriller series, finds us in a not too distant future built around intense social injustice. The world is divided into districts with the wealthy living behind high walls patrolled by armed guards, while the rest of the population lives in varying degrees of crippling poverty. Enter Steven, an ex-soldier turned demon hunter, a man on a mission to find out the truth behind his mother's disappearance so many years ago. When Steven receives a text from an old flame simply saying "Help!", he drops everything to come to her aid. Megan, Kate's 16 year old daughter is missing. When a surveillance video surfaces showing two men in a white van kidnapping Megan on her way home from school, Steven knows he'll do what ever it takes to bring Kate's daughter safely home.
I've never been much on suspense thrillers, supernatural or not, but this book drew me in quickly and kept me hooked. The language of the book flows nicely. The characters are well written. Their backstories are cleverly woven into the plot in such a way that it gives each one depth without taking away from the tale as a whole. The action was a slow, simmering build with the perspective changing every few chapters from Steven to Megan and back again. The plot twists bordered on maddening but it only added to the suspense. If I had to complain about something with Devil's Den it would have to be the ending. I found it to be quite abrupt. I understand that this book is meant to be the first in a series but after spending so many pages getting to know the characters and experiencing the ever mounting level of intensity each page provided, I was expecting an explosive ending. For me it seemed to be more of a sizzle than a blaze. I'm not saying it wasn't a good book. The ending presents a nice wrap-up that sets up for the next installment of the series and I am most definitely looking forward to the next book. Overall, this is a really good read.
Devil's Den, the first book in the Nephilim Thriller series, finds us in a not too distant future built around intense social injustice. The world is divided into districts with the wealthy living behind high walls patrolled by armed guards, while the rest of the population lives in varying degrees of crippling poverty. Enter Steven, an ex-soldier turned demon hunter, a man on a mission to find out the truth behind his mother's disappearance so many years ago. When Steven receives a text from an old flame simply saying "Help!", he drops everything to come to her aid. Megan, Kate's 16 year old daughter is missing. When a surveillance video surfaces showing two men in a white van kidnapping Megan on her way home from school, Steven knows he'll do what ever it takes to bring Kate's daughter safely home.
I've never been much on suspense thrillers, supernatural or not, but this book drew me in quickly and kept me hooked. The language of the book flows nicely. The characters are well written. Their backstories are cleverly woven into the plot in such a way that it gives each one depth without taking away from the tale as a whole. The action was a slow, simmering build with the perspective changing every few chapters from Steven to Megan and back again. The plot twists bordered on maddening but it only added to the suspense. If I had to complain about something with Devil's Den it would have to be the ending. I found it to be quite abrupt. I understand that this book is meant to be the first in a series but after spending so many pages getting to know the characters and experiencing the ever mounting level of intensity each page provided, I was expecting an explosive ending. For me it seemed to be more of a sizzle than a blaze. I'm not saying it wasn't a good book. The ending presents a nice wrap-up that sets up for the next installment of the series and I am most definitely looking forward to the next book. Overall, this is a really good read.
September 1, 2025
Sixteen years ago Steven fled his home city. What was left for him? His mother was aggressive, obsessed with demons she was seeing everywhere. He he no prospects. There was no way he was good enough for his girlfriend. So why not seek an opportunity with a secret ops program?
Now he's back in town carrying new shadows. His service has left him with his own ghosts. There's a build up of feelings, things he's seen, that make him question his sanity. And wonder if maybe there had been something to his mother's ravings.
None of that matters, though. His childhood sweetheart is in touch and her teenage daughter has gone missing. He has to focus on that now. Not the potential existence of evil on earth from up above, faith, or the life of possibilities he left behind. That was the past. All that matters now is finding a missing girl.
“Devil's Den” is everything you'd expect from an urban fantasy like this...and maybe not quite. I'm always a little skeptical when I hear that a subgenre for a book is based in a faith, not that it is only an element of the story. Such stories usually travel off into a mission of preaching more than delving into the set up. This book never went there, bringing up earnest feelings of doubts and leaving room for characters to explore the concept and practice of Christianity without turning it into a sermon.
While certain plot points are rather predictable, and one not quite so much, and how the cult and supernatural elements tended to almost the campy side, I appreciated the rest of the world building. The near future setting makes it very easy to see how the social framework this is in could be plausible not just speculative. It contains queer characters. That's something that at best is usually at best ignored in others I've read of this subgenre, though admittedly those haven't been many. It is also sex positive, which I don't see even in some of the romance ones I've stumbled into. And, to be honest, I loved some of the characters and the banter.
I don't know if I was invested enough to continue on. It took a while for me to take to the writing style. But I did enjoy the ride this one took me on for what it was.
Now he's back in town carrying new shadows. His service has left him with his own ghosts. There's a build up of feelings, things he's seen, that make him question his sanity. And wonder if maybe there had been something to his mother's ravings.
None of that matters, though. His childhood sweetheart is in touch and her teenage daughter has gone missing. He has to focus on that now. Not the potential existence of evil on earth from up above, faith, or the life of possibilities he left behind. That was the past. All that matters now is finding a missing girl.
“Devil's Den” is everything you'd expect from an urban fantasy like this...and maybe not quite. I'm always a little skeptical when I hear that a subgenre for a book is based in a faith, not that it is only an element of the story. Such stories usually travel off into a mission of preaching more than delving into the set up. This book never went there, bringing up earnest feelings of doubts and leaving room for characters to explore the concept and practice of Christianity without turning it into a sermon.
While certain plot points are rather predictable, and one not quite so much, and how the cult and supernatural elements tended to almost the campy side, I appreciated the rest of the world building. The near future setting makes it very easy to see how the social framework this is in could be plausible not just speculative. It contains queer characters. That's something that at best is usually at best ignored in others I've read of this subgenre, though admittedly those haven't been many. It is also sex positive, which I don't see even in some of the romance ones I've stumbled into. And, to be honest, I loved some of the characters and the banter.
I don't know if I was invested enough to continue on. It took a while for me to take to the writing style. But I did enjoy the ride this one took me on for what it was.
April 2, 2019
Steven is a former spy who can see demons. The love of his life, Kate, asks for his help in retrieving her daughter from a mysterious cult that kidnaps teenagers. As Steven gets deeper into this, he finds it is a much larger operation than he imagined.
Will Steven be successful? What of his relationship with Kate? Does Steven himself have demons to confront?
I found this book difficult to get into. It first alternates between a third-person present-tense perspective and Stevens first-person present-tense perspective. I always find it a little tricky to move between third person and first person in a novel, and I'm not a fan of present-tense writing. It seems like it should be more immediate, but I find it more distancing. The first person sections, too, were written in an overblown style that tried too hard to be both describing what was going on and offering supposedly pithy thoughts. Also, I thought many sections went on too long narrative went on for too long without breaking for dialogue.
Will Steven be successful? What of his relationship with Kate? Does Steven himself have demons to confront?
I found this book difficult to get into. It first alternates between a third-person present-tense perspective and Stevens first-person present-tense perspective. I always find it a little tricky to move between third person and first person in a novel, and I'm not a fan of present-tense writing. It seems like it should be more immediate, but I find it more distancing. The first person sections, too, were written in an overblown style that tried too hard to be both describing what was going on and offering supposedly pithy thoughts. Also, I thought many sections went on too long narrative went on for too long without breaking for dialogue.
November 10, 2019
Strangely inp....
Steven got a text all of a sudden from Kate , a long time ago girlfriend. He hasn't seen her in sixteen years. He had walked out then. And although he regretted his actions over the years, he was surprised. Steven is a bad guy. He has demons in his head and doesn't understand why. His mother killed his father years ago saying he was a demon. Steven didn't know then what he knows now. Kate's daughter has been kidnapped. She needs help.
Steven is a killer. He worked with an organization who did very bad things. Now he feels he has no redemption. But could he be wrong?? This turns out to be a battle between good and evil. And his mother is right in the middle of it. Can he rescue Kate's kid and save himself??
It's an interesting story set in a time years from now, where the one percent own everything and everyone else lives in squalor. I found it interesting and sad. But I likes the story and the battle has just begun. Lucifer wants Steven. Can he resist the temptation??
Read on my friends
Steven got a text all of a sudden from Kate , a long time ago girlfriend. He hasn't seen her in sixteen years. He had walked out then. And although he regretted his actions over the years, he was surprised. Steven is a bad guy. He has demons in his head and doesn't understand why. His mother killed his father years ago saying he was a demon. Steven didn't know then what he knows now. Kate's daughter has been kidnapped. She needs help.
Steven is a killer. He worked with an organization who did very bad things. Now he feels he has no redemption. But could he be wrong?? This turns out to be a battle between good and evil. And his mother is right in the middle of it. Can he rescue Kate's kid and save himself??
It's an interesting story set in a time years from now, where the one percent own everything and everyone else lives in squalor. I found it interesting and sad. But I likes the story and the battle has just begun. Lucifer wants Steven. Can he resist the temptation??
Read on my friends
July 14, 2021
Firstly, this series is self-described religious supernatural. I stumbled across this series in my library Fantasy section.😳 Don't let the "R," word turn you away. This series may be about The Coming End of Days but it's a long battle of Good versus Evil, Lucifer, Archangels, Where in the F÷ck is God?, and the author has gone in some very original directions. There's tons of violence but there's no one preaching through the book, there's no bible verses.
Now: Our Hero in the coming End of Days. He's perfect for those that want a severe anti-hero. A killer; and likes it, no loves it. I'd call him a redneck with mad killing skills but he's a city boy.
This first book is pretty rehashed territory but necessary to get through for the rest of the series. Books 2 and 3 are definitely original and well worth the pain of getting through this first one.
Narrator: Timothy G. Little brings this series to life. He does a great job bringing the sarcasm, disbelief, annoyance of the Main Character nicely.
Now: Our Hero in the coming End of Days. He's perfect for those that want a severe anti-hero. A killer; and likes it, no loves it. I'd call him a redneck with mad killing skills but he's a city boy.
This first book is pretty rehashed territory but necessary to get through for the rest of the series. Books 2 and 3 are definitely original and well worth the pain of getting through this first one.
Narrator: Timothy G. Little brings this series to life. He does a great job bringing the sarcasm, disbelief, annoyance of the Main Character nicely.
October 11, 2020
I found this book difficult to get into. supposed black ops trained but felt he couldn't fight his way out of a kindergarten school yard being picked on by bullies. the description's of what's happening to who what and where were too long for the dialogue. at least the words are spelled correctly and the grammar is acceptable. I barely slogged my way through the book. Issues were never resolved. Like a few readers I just had too skip to the end to find out what happened and even then it wasn't worth the time I wasted reading the book. I'm glad others liked it but considering the number of books this author has written he would know how to write a story better. There was nothing "gripping or thrilling" about the book. The "supernatural" part was only apparent because the character was a "nephilim". This should have been labeled for YA because of the way the characters were written and the way the author had them acting.
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