What do you think?
Rate this book
Devils Kill Devils
Devils Kill Devils is perfect for fans of Silvia Moreno-Garcia's Certain Dark Things and Southern gothic horror. Johnny Compton brings his trademark terror and dread that readers fell in love with in The Spite House to a new roster of monsters—angels, devils, vampires—and a heart-pounding race to save the world.
When all hell breaks loose, you need a devil on your side
Sarita has been watched over by a guardian angel her entire life. She calls him Angelo, and keeps him a secret. But secrets can’t stay buried forever… When Angelo murders someone she loves, Sarita begins to see what's really been lurking in the shadows surrounding her. And she will have to embrace the evil within if she hopes to make it out alive.
Johnny Compton, critically acclaimed author of The Spite House and master of dread, takes you on a terrifying race of one woman against the hordes of hell. At the Publisher's request, this title is being sold without Digital Rights Management Software (DRM) applied.
When all hell breaks loose, you need a devil on your side
Sarita has been watched over by a guardian angel her entire life. She calls him Angelo, and keeps him a secret. But secrets can’t stay buried forever… When Angelo murders someone she loves, Sarita begins to see what's really been lurking in the shadows surrounding her. And she will have to embrace the evil within if she hopes to make it out alive.
Johnny Compton, critically acclaimed author of The Spite House and master of dread, takes you on a terrifying race of one woman against the hordes of hell. At the Publisher's request, this title is being sold without Digital Rights Management Software (DRM) applied.
288 pages, Hardcover
First published September 24, 2024
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 320 reviews
November 7, 2024
After a promising beginning, Devils Kill Devils took a nosedive off a cliff, Thelma and Louise-style, for me.
I respect this author for their creativity, but I think someone should have reined this in and given it more focused perspectives. It was extremely difficult to follow.
I was excited for more from Johnny Compton after really enjoying The Spite House last year. This one sounded different content-wise, but I was looking forward to returning to Compton's captivating storytelling.
While I can say I still enjoyed the quality of Compton's writing: his word choices, the rhythm of his sentences, his descriptions in the Horror bits, the complex fantastical elements in this were not for me.
I won't attempt to summarize what this story contains, because honestly, I only truly understood one perspective, Sarita, and by the end, even she'd lost me.
Admittedly, Horror Fantasy isn't my fave subgenre, but this was strange, even for me, and I like some weird stuff.
I kept pushing on though, even once I stopped enjoying it, because I was waiting for the other shoe to drop; for the light-bulb moment where it would suddenly make sense.
Unfortunately, that never happened, and the further I got, the more disheartened I felt about the whole experience. Before you call me names, or trash me in the comments, I did read this with a friend and we both struggled to make sense of it, so I'm confident it's not just me.
It almost felt like it was trying to do too much without an easily understandable structure. It was all over the place.
Jarring jumps between POVs, staying for long periods of time within character's thoughts, which became boring, and huge info dumps regarding the world/concepts, are just a few of my complaints.
The later bits dragged for me as well and by the end, I couldn't wait for it to be over.
With all this being said, this isn't the end of the road for my relationship with Compton. Even though this one didn't work for me, I will be picking up his next book.
I am hoping it goes back more to The Spite House territory than this, but only time will tell.
Thank you to the publisher, Tor Nightfire and Macmillan Audio, for providing me with copies to read and review.
The audiobook narration from Imani Jade Powers was excellent and I do recommend that format if you are going to pick this one up.
Finally, a little reminder, just because this didn't work for me, doesn't mean it won't work for you. If the synopsis sounds intriguing, give it a go. You've got nothing to lose and you could just find a new favorite!
I respect this author for their creativity, but I think someone should have reined this in and given it more focused perspectives. It was extremely difficult to follow.
I was excited for more from Johnny Compton after really enjoying The Spite House last year. This one sounded different content-wise, but I was looking forward to returning to Compton's captivating storytelling.
While I can say I still enjoyed the quality of Compton's writing: his word choices, the rhythm of his sentences, his descriptions in the Horror bits, the complex fantastical elements in this were not for me.
I won't attempt to summarize what this story contains, because honestly, I only truly understood one perspective, Sarita, and by the end, even she'd lost me.
Admittedly, Horror Fantasy isn't my fave subgenre, but this was strange, even for me, and I like some weird stuff.
I kept pushing on though, even once I stopped enjoying it, because I was waiting for the other shoe to drop; for the light-bulb moment where it would suddenly make sense.
Unfortunately, that never happened, and the further I got, the more disheartened I felt about the whole experience. Before you call me names, or trash me in the comments, I did read this with a friend and we both struggled to make sense of it, so I'm confident it's not just me.
It almost felt like it was trying to do too much without an easily understandable structure. It was all over the place.
Jarring jumps between POVs, staying for long periods of time within character's thoughts, which became boring, and huge info dumps regarding the world/concepts, are just a few of my complaints.
The later bits dragged for me as well and by the end, I couldn't wait for it to be over.
With all this being said, this isn't the end of the road for my relationship with Compton. Even though this one didn't work for me, I will be picking up his next book.
I am hoping it goes back more to The Spite House territory than this, but only time will tell.
Thank you to the publisher, Tor Nightfire and Macmillan Audio, for providing me with copies to read and review.
The audiobook narration from Imani Jade Powers was excellent and I do recommend that format if you are going to pick this one up.
Finally, a little reminder, just because this didn't work for me, doesn't mean it won't work for you. If the synopsis sounds intriguing, give it a go. You've got nothing to lose and you could just find a new favorite!
May 30, 2024
My complete review is published at Grimdark Magazine.
Devils Kill Devils is Johnny Compton’s sophomore horror novel, a southern Gothic brimming with vampirism and religious occultism. I thoroughly enjoyed Compton’s debut novel, The Spite House, and waited in eager anticipation to see what this talented new voice in horror would deliver next.
Devils Kill Devils opens on Sarita’s wedding night. She senses a third party in the room, a pale figure enshrouded in shadows, who brutally murders her new husband, Frank, no questions asked. The murderer? Sarita’s guardian angel, nicknamed Angelo:
“Angelo stood at the foot of the bed, dressed in black. Strands of his long, flaxen hair hung over his face. Through the thin curtain of hairs he met Frank’s gaze with an ash-hot stare.”
While the underlying reason for Frank’s murder is unclear, Angelo has saved Sarita’s life on at least four previous occasions. Devils Kill Devils alternates between the present-day narrative and flashbacks that provide the history of Sarita’s near-death encounters.
Sarita’s long history with Angelo began when she was nine years old and nearly drowned in the Gulf of Mexico while playing in the waves with her older brother. Sarita’s mother prayed to God for a miracle, and right on cue, Angelo appeared to drag her limp body from the water.
Sarita has little memory of this experience and is doubtful of Angelo’s existence, despite the strong devotion her mother places in him. Her skepticism, however, vanishes during subsequent encounters with her guardian angel, as recounted in the first part of Devils Kill Devils.
These opening chapters of Devils Kill Devils are absolutely brilliant in their setup and the restrained way that Johnny Compton builds up layers of intrigue and horror. However, the tone of the novel shifts drastically with the introduction of a new point-of-view character, Cela, known as the Godmaker. While the beginning of the novel focuses on Sarita in a very personal way, Cela’s entrance causes the scope of the novel to blow up in a convoluted disarray of plotlines involving vampires, religious occultism, and the Book of Tobit. The latter part of the novel often struggles to maintain coherence, making me wish for a return to the more restrained approach.
To conclude, I love the premise of Devils Kill Devils and had high hopes based on the excellent first part of the novel. Unfortunately, the story loses focus as it expands its scope to an unmanageable extent, which also compromises the emotional impact of the novel.
Devils Kill Devils is Johnny Compton’s sophomore horror novel, a southern Gothic brimming with vampirism and religious occultism. I thoroughly enjoyed Compton’s debut novel, The Spite House, and waited in eager anticipation to see what this talented new voice in horror would deliver next.
Devils Kill Devils opens on Sarita’s wedding night. She senses a third party in the room, a pale figure enshrouded in shadows, who brutally murders her new husband, Frank, no questions asked. The murderer? Sarita’s guardian angel, nicknamed Angelo:
“Angelo stood at the foot of the bed, dressed in black. Strands of his long, flaxen hair hung over his face. Through the thin curtain of hairs he met Frank’s gaze with an ash-hot stare.”
While the underlying reason for Frank’s murder is unclear, Angelo has saved Sarita’s life on at least four previous occasions. Devils Kill Devils alternates between the present-day narrative and flashbacks that provide the history of Sarita’s near-death encounters.
Sarita’s long history with Angelo began when she was nine years old and nearly drowned in the Gulf of Mexico while playing in the waves with her older brother. Sarita’s mother prayed to God for a miracle, and right on cue, Angelo appeared to drag her limp body from the water.
Sarita has little memory of this experience and is doubtful of Angelo’s existence, despite the strong devotion her mother places in him. Her skepticism, however, vanishes during subsequent encounters with her guardian angel, as recounted in the first part of Devils Kill Devils.
These opening chapters of Devils Kill Devils are absolutely brilliant in their setup and the restrained way that Johnny Compton builds up layers of intrigue and horror. However, the tone of the novel shifts drastically with the introduction of a new point-of-view character, Cela, known as the Godmaker. While the beginning of the novel focuses on Sarita in a very personal way, Cela’s entrance causes the scope of the novel to blow up in a convoluted disarray of plotlines involving vampires, religious occultism, and the Book of Tobit. The latter part of the novel often struggles to maintain coherence, making me wish for a return to the more restrained approach.
To conclude, I love the premise of Devils Kill Devils and had high hopes based on the excellent first part of the novel. Unfortunately, the story loses focus as it expands its scope to an unmanageable extent, which also compromises the emotional impact of the novel.
March 24, 2024
Wooooooowwwwwww. I need to take a step back and process the sheer amount of violence in this novel. Haha, it ain’t for the faint of heart! I requested this on NetGalley because I liked Johnny Compton’s other book, “The Spite House”, which I read last year. Mr. Compton certainly knows his horror, and he did extensive research on certain creatures that have inspired scary stories for centuries.
I like the main character, Sarita, a lot. She’s a strong woman, and many people would break down if they experienced only the *first* horrific event that happens to her. I definitely was rooting for her and her loved ones.
There’s a TON of carnage, as I mentioned earlier. Don’t say I didn’t warn you. 😄
If you enjoy slasher movies, this will be right up your alley.
I look forward to seeing what Compton comes up with next! He’s a very talented storyteller.
I received an advance copy from NetGalley and Tor Nightfire (thank you!!), which did not affect my review in any way.
I like the main character, Sarita, a lot. She’s a strong woman, and many people would break down if they experienced only the *first* horrific event that happens to her. I definitely was rooting for her and her loved ones.
There’s a TON of carnage, as I mentioned earlier. Don’t say I didn’t warn you. 😄
If you enjoy slasher movies, this will be right up your alley.
I look forward to seeing what Compton comes up with next! He’s a very talented storyteller.
I received an advance copy from NetGalley and Tor Nightfire (thank you!!), which did not affect my review in any way.
August 1, 2024
I loved this author's debut novel, but unfortunately this one was a miss for me. Despite a strong start, it devolved into a lot of telling rather than showing, character perspectives through the middle who I was not invested in, and a plot that was kind of all over the place. I'm sure this was fun to write, but I think it needed some serious tightening of plot and perspectives. I was bored through much of the second half of the book, which is not something I should be saying about a horror novel offering a different sort of take on vampires.
Devils Kill Devils follows a woman who has been protected throughout her life from death by a mysterious man than her mother believes is her guardian angel. But on her wedding night, he appears in their hotel room and brutally kills her husband. The reasons why are connected with a cult, a prophecy, and powerful monsters...
It's a great start to the story and the concept has potential, but it meanders off, includes things that bear little relevance to the central plot, and then goes kind of off the rails without laying the groundwork for it to land. I'm all for a bonkers plot, but you have get buy-in from the reader and I didn't feel I had that here. Your experience may differ and I would try future books from this author (sophomore slump is a real thing!) but sadly this one didn't hit for me. The audio narration is pretty well done though. I received an audio review copy of this book for review via NetGalley, all opinions are my own.
Devils Kill Devils follows a woman who has been protected throughout her life from death by a mysterious man than her mother believes is her guardian angel. But on her wedding night, he appears in their hotel room and brutally kills her husband. The reasons why are connected with a cult, a prophecy, and powerful monsters...
It's a great start to the story and the concept has potential, but it meanders off, includes things that bear little relevance to the central plot, and then goes kind of off the rails without laying the groundwork for it to land. I'm all for a bonkers plot, but you have get buy-in from the reader and I didn't feel I had that here. Your experience may differ and I would try future books from this author (sophomore slump is a real thing!) but sadly this one didn't hit for me. The audio narration is pretty well done though. I received an audio review copy of this book for review via NetGalley, all opinions are my own.
October 15, 2024
We need a new genre called Borror.... aka boring "horror"
Borror - adjective
bor-ror also bôrər
: the genre used to describe a horror book that is actually super boring.
Used in a sentence: This was so borror.
Borror - adjective
bor-ror also bôrər
: the genre used to describe a horror book that is actually super boring.
Used in a sentence: This was so borror.
September 7, 2024
Devils Kill Devils is yet another ARC I received at San Diego Comic Con 2024!
There were definitely some interesting aspects to this book, but I was just so bored while reading it. I found the prophecy and religious aspects interesting, but the actual plot never gripped me.
There were definitely some interesting aspects to this book, but I was just so bored while reading it. I found the prophecy and religious aspects interesting, but the actual plot never gripped me.
September 26, 2024
Dnfing this book at page 100.
• Repetitive with Sarita getting drunk & sleeping around (girl needs more hobbies)
• The Angel is boring for being one that kills people
• Sarita is boring
• Book is slow & boring
Book feels so monotone
• Repetitive with Sarita getting drunk & sleeping around (girl needs more hobbies)
• The Angel is boring for being one that kills people
• Sarita is boring
• Book is slow & boring
Book feels so monotone
March 16, 2024
Vampire stories are making quite the comeback recently and I love how different interpretations of this legendary creature are keeping it fresh and unique. In this novel, you're going to read about vampires in a way you never have before.
Vampires as devils. Or, perhaps, devils as vampires. Whichever way you think about it, this is the basis of this epic, terrifying, gothic story of a woman who has been chosen to be worshipped without her consent or knowledge.
With a first chapter that will have your jaw dropping, this book at first appears to be about a psychopathic guardian angel. But it's so much more. We'll learn about Sarita's (the main protagonist) past and how she has been saved from death throughout her life by this "angel". But on her wedding night, everything changes.
Sleeping old gods, timeless prophecies, betrayels, vampires, and lots of stunning blood fueled action sequences will have you on the edge of your seat as you're reading. The exploration of the vampire mythos and how it can be a lot darker and more viscious than what you think is on full display here.
You definitely don't want to miss this one and I highly recommend it. I received this book as an ARC through Netgalley with no consideration. This review is voluntary and is my own personal opinion.
Vampires as devils. Or, perhaps, devils as vampires. Whichever way you think about it, this is the basis of this epic, terrifying, gothic story of a woman who has been chosen to be worshipped without her consent or knowledge.
With a first chapter that will have your jaw dropping, this book at first appears to be about a psychopathic guardian angel. But it's so much more. We'll learn about Sarita's (the main protagonist) past and how she has been saved from death throughout her life by this "angel". But on her wedding night, everything changes.
Sleeping old gods, timeless prophecies, betrayels, vampires, and lots of stunning blood fueled action sequences will have you on the edge of your seat as you're reading. The exploration of the vampire mythos and how it can be a lot darker and more viscious than what you think is on full display here.
You definitely don't want to miss this one and I highly recommend it. I received this book as an ARC through Netgalley with no consideration. This review is voluntary and is my own personal opinion.
July 9, 2024
First off, I truly enjoy this author and loved The Spite House. That said, this book was a miss for me. I had a hard time getting into the characters and DNFd a little over halfway through the book. I truly tried to stay with it but it just did not hold my interest. I struggled with internal monologues that went on too long for me. If you like the idea of vampire gods meddling in human affairs with a healthy dose of gore, this is the book for you! I would absolutely try this author again in the future.
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
August 31, 2024
3.5 stars
There's a definite 5-stars read in here if you have the patience, reading Devils Kill Devils was a constant whiplash, switching between complete engagement to groaning at its unnecessary wordiness. In the end I was glad I pressed on despite the book's monotonous first half (other than the attention-grabbing opening), because the finale was an emotionally potent, fantastically imaginative gore fest that left me in awe (and reaffirmed why I was such a fan of Johnny Compton's writing to begin with).
In some ways Devils Kill Devils comes across more like a debut than his actual debut, The Spite House, due to its obvious inconsistencies. The premise of realizing the entity one identified as a 'guardian angel' having ulterior, more sinister motive is such an intriguing starting point, and I appreciate Johnny Compton's intricate storytelling, fusing elements of vampiric lore, exploration on religion/cult, and grief into an unique modern horror fantasy.
But the absence of a vigorous editing is this novel's ultimate undoing: way too much stagnant train-of-thought passages when the plot should be developing. There are moments where consecutive paragraphs containing the same information, written differently as if the author was testing out options, somehow ended up all appearing in the final manuscript. For a short novel that's below the 300 page count, this definitely feels like a more laborious experience.
I don't think I've ever been so unsure on how to rate a novel, but Devils Kill Devils is that rare instance: there are obvious objective flaws where I know will turn readers off, yet I'm still compelled by the author's ambition, because when it is working, it works brilliantly. This might be one you'll have to try out for yourself, but Johnny Compton is still on my radar as a must-read author.
**This ARC was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Much appreciated!**
There's a definite 5-stars read in here if you have the patience, reading Devils Kill Devils was a constant whiplash, switching between complete engagement to groaning at its unnecessary wordiness. In the end I was glad I pressed on despite the book's monotonous first half (other than the attention-grabbing opening), because the finale was an emotionally potent, fantastically imaginative gore fest that left me in awe (and reaffirmed why I was such a fan of Johnny Compton's writing to begin with).
In some ways Devils Kill Devils comes across more like a debut than his actual debut, The Spite House, due to its obvious inconsistencies. The premise of realizing the entity one identified as a 'guardian angel' having ulterior, more sinister motive is such an intriguing starting point, and I appreciate Johnny Compton's intricate storytelling, fusing elements of vampiric lore, exploration on religion/cult, and grief into an unique modern horror fantasy.
But the absence of a vigorous editing is this novel's ultimate undoing: way too much stagnant train-of-thought passages when the plot should be developing. There are moments where consecutive paragraphs containing the same information, written differently as if the author was testing out options, somehow ended up all appearing in the final manuscript. For a short novel that's below the 300 page count, this definitely feels like a more laborious experience.
I don't think I've ever been so unsure on how to rate a novel, but Devils Kill Devils is that rare instance: there are obvious objective flaws where I know will turn readers off, yet I'm still compelled by the author's ambition, because when it is working, it works brilliantly. This might be one you'll have to try out for yourself, but Johnny Compton is still on my radar as a must-read author.
**This ARC was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Much appreciated!**
June 19, 2024
If you like vampires, religious horror & gore- this book is meant for you.
The dread, violence, and unsettling aspects of this story create a horrifying atmosphere. The descriptions of the different vampires and their transformations are unlike anything I have ever read before- the author’s note regarding his inspirations and research about vampires is also very interesting.
Thank you to NetGalley for sending me an arc of this book!
The dread, violence, and unsettling aspects of this story create a horrifying atmosphere. The descriptions of the different vampires and their transformations are unlike anything I have ever read before- the author’s note regarding his inspirations and research about vampires is also very interesting.
Thank you to NetGalley for sending me an arc of this book!
March 11, 2024
Okay so remember listening to the radio and you would almost get a station but you couldn’t QUITE get it. I swear that’s the experience of reading this book. I’m DOA, grab the paddles.
Good premise but? Put the thesaurus down and worry about the flow of your story. All together confusing and wanes throughout the book. Just a rough read.
Thanks to NetGalley and Tor Nightfire for this ARC!
Good premise but? Put the thesaurus down and worry about the flow of your story. All together confusing and wanes throughout the book. Just a rough read.
Thanks to NetGalley and Tor Nightfire for this ARC!
April 24, 2024
3.5 stars rounded up.
Sure, the climax and ending were very B-grade SyFy movie, but I didn't think it was as bad as everyone else made it out to be. It's classic Tor Nightfire (which has been a mixed bag for me), so depending on your love for outlandish horror, this might or might not work for you.
It kind of reminds me of how absurd Scott Hawkins's The Library at Mount Char was, so if you liked that one, you might like this one too.
While I did like the story with its vampire/demon cult, vampiric/demonic godlike entities, and the three MC's arcs, I agree with reviewers who said that it tried to tackle on too much at once, especially in the second half of the book.
While I was still wrapping my head around demon vampire god creatures and a religious cult waiting for their messiah, the author throws in a ghost, dormant but powerful god entities, magic/prayers, etc. If these elements weren't included, the story would've been a lot tighter and more understandable.
But honestly, I've read books that were much more convoluted, so this wasn't a huge deal for me. But ofc, YMMV.
I did actually love each MC's story arcs. Sarita, Cela, and Harrah each had their own distinctive voices and their own separate journeys that it wasn't difficult to figure out whose chapter I was reading. Each also had such different thought processes and actions that it made for compelling character arcs. I also really appreciated how the author included both the hero's journey and villain origin story.
All in all, I had a good time with this and I'm eager to check out the author's debut.
Thank you to Tor Nightfire and NetGalley for this arc.
Sure, the climax and ending were very B-grade SyFy movie, but I didn't think it was as bad as everyone else made it out to be. It's classic Tor Nightfire (which has been a mixed bag for me), so depending on your love for outlandish horror, this might or might not work for you.
It kind of reminds me of how absurd Scott Hawkins's The Library at Mount Char was, so if you liked that one, you might like this one too.
While I did like the story with its vampire/demon cult, vampiric/demonic godlike entities, and the three MC's arcs, I agree with reviewers who said that it tried to tackle on too much at once, especially in the second half of the book.
While I was still wrapping my head around demon vampire god creatures and a religious cult waiting for their messiah, the author throws in a ghost, dormant but powerful god entities, magic/prayers, etc. If these elements weren't included, the story would've been a lot tighter and more understandable.
But honestly, I've read books that were much more convoluted, so this wasn't a huge deal for me. But ofc, YMMV.
I did actually love each MC's story arcs. Sarita, Cela, and Harrah each had their own distinctive voices and their own separate journeys that it wasn't difficult to figure out whose chapter I was reading. Each also had such different thought processes and actions that it made for compelling character arcs. I also really appreciated how the author included both the hero's journey and villain origin story.
All in all, I had a good time with this and I'm eager to check out the author's debut.
Thank you to Tor Nightfire and NetGalley for this arc.
Read
October 11, 2024Dnf 57%
Loved this authors debut and enjoyed this at the beginning but we’ve taken a turn in to a fantasy world I cannot get behind.
Loved this authors debut and enjoyed this at the beginning but we’ve taken a turn in to a fantasy world I cannot get behind.
October 26, 2024
This book is a “slow burn” for sure… I’m talking turtles in peanut butter slow. However, the last 10% of the book really took off and saved it! 3 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️!
October 16, 2024
Johnny Compton won my reading affection with Spite House, taking a haunted house trope and turning it into something wonderfully unique.
Devils Kill Devils is a completely different creature. Almost the entire first half of the book really heavily focuses on the characters dwelling on the incidences that propel the story forward. Each major player in the book is placed under the microscope and shows in detail the mental thoughts and struggles born from the aftermath. Revisiting decisions, playing the dangerous 'what if' game allowing us to really get a solid feel for their true natures. I'm usually totally fine with a slow burn build, but I often found myself reading the same information over and over, just worded ever slightly different, and this made it a bit sluggish for me.
Now, don't get me wrong, after the second big mystery happens, there are some pretty intense graphic scenes and tense moments when our unusual creatures make their appearances. Think of The Prophecy moments when angels and devils get involved, that kind of chaos. You are essentially dealing with the, holy shit what other planes of existence are out there, and, what is even real anymore?!
There's a really cool concept of religious turmoil, self driven prophecies, and major existential apocalyptic crisis. The execution needs to be paired down, drawn more concisely like his first novel, and the tone overall can be greatly improved. Compton still manages to take a typical trope and make something truly unique, but this one is coming off a bit rough around the edges.
Devils Kill Devils is a completely different creature. Almost the entire first half of the book really heavily focuses on the characters dwelling on the incidences that propel the story forward. Each major player in the book is placed under the microscope and shows in detail the mental thoughts and struggles born from the aftermath. Revisiting decisions, playing the dangerous 'what if' game allowing us to really get a solid feel for their true natures. I'm usually totally fine with a slow burn build, but I often found myself reading the same information over and over, just worded ever slightly different, and this made it a bit sluggish for me.
Now, don't get me wrong, after the second big mystery happens, there are some pretty intense graphic scenes and tense moments when our unusual creatures make their appearances. Think of The Prophecy moments when angels and devils get involved, that kind of chaos. You are essentially dealing with the, holy shit what other planes of existence are out there, and, what is even real anymore?!
There's a really cool concept of religious turmoil, self driven prophecies, and major existential apocalyptic crisis. The execution needs to be paired down, drawn more concisely like his first novel, and the tone overall can be greatly improved. Compton still manages to take a typical trope and make something truly unique, but this one is coming off a bit rough around the edges.
July 8, 2024
Review in the July 2024 issue of Booklist magazine and on the blog [Link live on 7/9/24 at 7 am central]: https://raforall.blogspot.com/2024/07...
Three Words That Describe This Book: Epic in Scope, Vampires, Violent
Good news here, the plot summary does not contain spoilers, in fact it underplays the opening scenes. I will not give any either because that opening sequence is A LOT-- in a good way. It sets the meaning and violent tone from the start and then Compton can run with it. But know, it does expand to be more Epic in scope. the opening scene sets the tone but it expands from Sarita's person connection to her guardian angel to the reason she has one.
100% recommend to your Sookie Stackhouse fans who do are good with more violence and don't need the romance. I know that sounds counterintuitive but Sarita reminded me of a more mature, less lovesick Sookie but still caught up in a fight between supernatural creatures-- with slasher levels of carnage. Bodies fall in this book.
Pacing is fast considering how much world building needs to be done. It starts brisk and has to slow down a bit to build the epic world, but the reader wants to know what is going on as much as Sarita does, so it doesn't feel slow.
The overall narration is omniscient but Sarita drives the story. There are others but I don't want to give plot details away. Just know this has some "villain" POV which helps to ratchet up the tension and increase the threat even before Sarita knows what is happening-- the reader is more anxious which makes the reading experience better.
This title is part of a the idea of reimagining the terrifying Vampire story. No sparkly, love interest vampires here. They are ancient and hate people, even use them as pawns in their games.
To that end, this book is great for fans of Butler's classic Fledgling and also newer titles such as Nestlings by Nat Cassidy. I have a review of that one here: https://raforall.blogspot.com/2023/08...
The epic world building with a human protagonists caught up in a dark fantasy/horror fight between supernatural creatures that rise to the level of Gods (at least in their own minds here) reminded me of American Gods by Neil Gaiman. This is darker and more violent, but I definitely felt the similarities while reading this title.
Three Words That Describe This Book: Epic in Scope, Vampires, Violent
Good news here, the plot summary does not contain spoilers, in fact it underplays the opening scenes. I will not give any either because that opening sequence is A LOT-- in a good way. It sets the meaning and violent tone from the start and then Compton can run with it. But know, it does expand to be more Epic in scope. the opening scene sets the tone but it expands from Sarita's person connection to her guardian angel to the reason she has one.
100% recommend to your Sookie Stackhouse fans who do are good with more violence and don't need the romance. I know that sounds counterintuitive but Sarita reminded me of a more mature, less lovesick Sookie but still caught up in a fight between supernatural creatures-- with slasher levels of carnage. Bodies fall in this book.
Pacing is fast considering how much world building needs to be done. It starts brisk and has to slow down a bit to build the epic world, but the reader wants to know what is going on as much as Sarita does, so it doesn't feel slow.
The overall narration is omniscient but Sarita drives the story. There are others but I don't want to give plot details away. Just know this has some "villain" POV which helps to ratchet up the tension and increase the threat even before Sarita knows what is happening-- the reader is more anxious which makes the reading experience better.
This title is part of a the idea of reimagining the terrifying Vampire story. No sparkly, love interest vampires here. They are ancient and hate people, even use them as pawns in their games.
To that end, this book is great for fans of Butler's classic Fledgling and also newer titles such as Nestlings by Nat Cassidy. I have a review of that one here: https://raforall.blogspot.com/2023/08...
The epic world building with a human protagonists caught up in a dark fantasy/horror fight between supernatural creatures that rise to the level of Gods (at least in their own minds here) reminded me of American Gods by Neil Gaiman. This is darker and more violent, but I definitely felt the similarities while reading this title.
March 12, 2024
This was a surburban gothic horror in the same vein as The Southern Book Club's Guide to Slaying Vampires but with a lot more bite 👀 If you enjoy religious horror with lots of false prophecies, ancient evils, devils, angels and a plot to enslave humanity grab a cup of tea and a snack and get ready, cos this sh*ts about to get heavy (Eminem stan) Compton immerses us in this unique story through his melodic prose that seems to constantly be building to a crescendo, the atmosphere of this book felt quiet, you know that feeling you get when a room suddenly becomes too quiet, devoid of sound your imagination runs wild and you regret watching so many horror movies, the prose sucks you into a supernatural vortex of suspense and terror, I was constantly kept on the edge of my seat throughout, the writing style reminds me of authors such as Catriona Ward in that as the reader were not fully privy to the events unfolding (lots of *WHAT 👏 IS 👏 HAPPENING 👏 moments) little snippets of illumination are peppered along the way that only further propel the narrative forward and the readers drive to know what is happening, Comptons terrifyingly vivid descriptions left me in awe of how simultaneously beautiful and disturbing they were, the vampires in this novel are scary, the descriptions were unlike anything I've read in vampire fiction before (and I've read my fair share 👁) genuinely made me get goosebumps, theres a lot explored in this, love, death, grief, racism, family dynamics, revenge and obsession, using a supernatural backdrop Compton sinks the reader into a world of magic and murder where when all hell breaks loose its best to have a devil on your side, this is predominantly a horror novel but I'd also say it nudges up against Epic Fantasy too with room for further books in the universe thankyou to netgalley and Tor for the eARC
August 25, 2024
2.0 Stars
After really enjoying The Spite House last year, I was hopeful I would also enjoy the new book by the same author.
The premise of this one sounded great but I found myself disappointed by the execution. My issue was that I found the character flat and the narrative surprisingly dry. I wanted to love this one, but it left me cold.
Disclaimer I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
After really enjoying The Spite House last year, I was hopeful I would also enjoy the new book by the same author.
The premise of this one sounded great but I found myself disappointed by the execution. My issue was that I found the character flat and the narrative surprisingly dry. I wanted to love this one, but it left me cold.
Disclaimer I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
October 30, 2024
Devils Kill Devils has one of the best opening scenes ever! Sarita has always had a guardian angel, Angelo, watching over her, ever since he saved her from drowning when she was little. She has lived her life differently, knowing that Angelo is there watching over her and would never let anything happen to her. When Angelo kills a loved one, Sarita starts to question Angelo's intentions and what he really is. The beginning of the book is focused on Sarita and her living her life with this "angel" on her shoulder. But then the book opens up on a whole different level! It's like we were looking at it with blinders on at first. Enter Cela, the Godmaker. It's hard to discuss without spoilers, which I really don't want to ruin the delightful and surprising direction this book goes in, but we dive into demonology, the occult, vampires and the reality that Sarita's fate was written long ago. I personally love demon lore and I love the way Johnny Compton weaves this into a vampire story like no other I've read before. I enjoy horror with a religious angle. It's clear to me that Compton did some research before writing this book, not only in the demonology and religious aspect, but there are clearly real places referenced and incorporated. It's funny reading some reviews and seeing how some of the reasons people didn't enjoy the book, are the same exact reasons why I did enjoy it! I like that it goes in a wildly different direction than the initial feel! I like that I'm in one lane, thinking I know what's going on, only for my view to expand and realize I'm actually on a five lane highway to hell. Expect gore, expect vampires, expect a wild ride!
September 23, 2024
Devils Kill Devils begins with an inexplicable death and then propels forward and touches upon religious conspiracies, sleeping eldritch beings, the deep pain caused by loss and regret and a unique interpretation of the demon/vampire mythos.
On Sarita’s wedding night, her husband is brutally murdered by the mysterious Angelo, a being who has served as her protector ever since she nearly drowned as a child and who she viewed as something of a “guardian angel.” With his apparent betrayal, her impression of the world is thrown into a tailspin. Adding to her uncertainty, Sarita eventually learns that she is a part of a much larger and meticulously planned destiny.
Devils Kill Devils has a strong beginning, as the mystery surrounding Angelo and his actions give way to a much larger and meticulously constructed religous conspiracy. The story does slow down considerably towards the middle, with more exposition than action, before ramping up again towards the very end.
I appreciated the multiple perspectives of the novel as Sarita, her mother-in-law Harrah and the vampire Cela begin and complete a journey that leaves each of them irrevocably changed. Sarita’s relationship with her brother David is also a highlight, their strong bond and their desire to protect one another, provides a more warm and grounded element amidst the grief and violence.
Devils Kills Devils is a gory novel and its interpretation of demon/vampire lore and the creative ways in which they exist and attack their victims makes them feel all the more dangerous and uncanny. There were also characters I wanted to see more of: such as the mysterious Angelo, an exiled vampire that was formerly loyal to Cela and even the nightmarish creature that he feared awakening.
The narration by Imani Jade Powers is excellent and while she voiced multiple characters, the shift between the commanding confidence of Cela’s voice and the slight Southern twang of Harrah’s is a particular standout aspect of her performance.
Although the pacing was a bit uneven and the resolution of the story’s conflict seemed slightly rushed, I enjoyed Devils Kill Devils. I appreciated the research into the mythology of various types of vampires that the author compiled and discussed in his Author’s Note as well.
Thank you to Tor Nightfire, Macmillan Audio, and NetGalley for access to this audiobook. All opinions expressed are solely my own.
On Sarita’s wedding night, her husband is brutally murdered by the mysterious Angelo, a being who has served as her protector ever since she nearly drowned as a child and who she viewed as something of a “guardian angel.” With his apparent betrayal, her impression of the world is thrown into a tailspin. Adding to her uncertainty, Sarita eventually learns that she is a part of a much larger and meticulously planned destiny.
Devils Kill Devils has a strong beginning, as the mystery surrounding Angelo and his actions give way to a much larger and meticulously constructed religous conspiracy. The story does slow down considerably towards the middle, with more exposition than action, before ramping up again towards the very end.
I appreciated the multiple perspectives of the novel as Sarita, her mother-in-law Harrah and the vampire Cela begin and complete a journey that leaves each of them irrevocably changed. Sarita’s relationship with her brother David is also a highlight, their strong bond and their desire to protect one another, provides a more warm and grounded element amidst the grief and violence.
Devils Kills Devils is a gory novel and its interpretation of demon/vampire lore and the creative ways in which they exist and attack their victims makes them feel all the more dangerous and uncanny. There were also characters I wanted to see more of: such as the mysterious Angelo, an exiled vampire that was formerly loyal to Cela and even the nightmarish creature that he feared awakening.
The narration by Imani Jade Powers is excellent and while she voiced multiple characters, the shift between the commanding confidence of Cela’s voice and the slight Southern twang of Harrah’s is a particular standout aspect of her performance.
Although the pacing was a bit uneven and the resolution of the story’s conflict seemed slightly rushed, I enjoyed Devils Kill Devils. I appreciated the research into the mythology of various types of vampires that the author compiled and discussed in his Author’s Note as well.
Thank you to Tor Nightfire, Macmillan Audio, and NetGalley for access to this audiobook. All opinions expressed are solely my own.
September 25, 2024
Big thanks to Macmillan Audio for the ALC copy of this very strange book!
This opened up seemingly normal with a gruesome act, but then it kind of just went crazy with the characters... I think it was interesting, and absolutely different than what I am used to, but it still intrigued me.
As usual, the audio was done wonderfully & really kept me engaged with this wild tale!
I'm not sure if I recommend this one or would not... I think it's a weird story that some may like, but it isn't for everyone for sure.
This opened up seemingly normal with a gruesome act, but then it kind of just went crazy with the characters... I think it was interesting, and absolutely different than what I am used to, but it still intrigued me.
As usual, the audio was done wonderfully & really kept me engaged with this wild tale!
I'm not sure if I recommend this one or would not... I think it's a weird story that some may like, but it isn't for everyone for sure.
September 10, 2024
I think Johnny Compton and I are psychically linked and he knows what I like: gruesome and violent AF horror, super unique vampires, and a straight up cult. I also love a book that gives me room to form my own theories about what’s going on, and Devils Kill Devils did that from the start, then opened up a little and gave me more room for even more outlandish theories, which is so much fun.
I did find myself a little bored during Harrah’s early chapters and a tiny bit lost during Cela’s early chapters, but their later chapters were just as good as the rest and I loved the stark difference in prose between each character’s POV. The way they spoke, thought, acted… it was always obvious which character the story was following because the writing actually changed very organically. And oh my god the foreshadowing drove me crazy in the very best way, like I knew something was being alluded to and I wanted to know what it was SO BADLY. In a couple spots, I had to stop myself from skimming, not because I was bored or didn’t want to read it but because I was so desperate to know what was going to happen.
I liked most of the characters and that stories of their pasts were included to give context to their actions and motivations (especially The Northman). Sarita is a great main character and she has a lot of strengths but one of my favorite things about her is that she isn’t your standard Chosen One. I like the idea that a Chosen One isn’t necessarily more special than anyone else, that it’s more like “well, someone had to be chosen,” and happenstance is what gives the Chosen One their power.
The author’s note at the end was really cool - I always love when authors include information about their inspiration and influences. It’s very interesting. Don’t skip it!
Thank you NetGalley and Tor Nightfire for the ARC of Devils Kill Devils.
I did find myself a little bored during Harrah’s early chapters and a tiny bit lost during Cela’s early chapters, but their later chapters were just as good as the rest and I loved the stark difference in prose between each character’s POV. The way they spoke, thought, acted… it was always obvious which character the story was following because the writing actually changed very organically. And oh my god the foreshadowing drove me crazy in the very best way, like I knew something was being alluded to and I wanted to know what it was SO BADLY. In a couple spots, I had to stop myself from skimming, not because I was bored or didn’t want to read it but because I was so desperate to know what was going to happen.
I liked most of the characters and that stories of their pasts were included to give context to their actions and motivations (especially The Northman). Sarita is a great main character and she has a lot of strengths but one of my favorite things about her is that she isn’t your standard Chosen One. I like the idea that a Chosen One isn’t necessarily more special than anyone else, that it’s more like “well, someone had to be chosen,” and happenstance is what gives the Chosen One their power.
The author’s note at the end was really cool - I always love when authors include information about their inspiration and influences. It’s very interesting. Don’t skip it!
Thank you NetGalley and Tor Nightfire for the ARC of Devils Kill Devils.
September 18, 2024
"She will kill you."
Sarita is freshly married and has finally landed with her new husband in their hotel for the night. It's a sweet night, as they revel in how happy they are, how much fun they had, how silly and tipsy they are. It isn't until Angelo appears that Sarita realizes she should have been more cautious, more worried. She should have been more honest about what Angelo had done in her life.
The start to this story was so well done. I was hooked - this story of Angelo, the pulse-pounding moments, the shocking first chapter and murder. But, quickly, the story slowed way down. It piled on POV, ones that were confusing and scope was huge and unexplained. The chapters became quiet storytelling instead of any dialogue or action. Huge info dumps replaced plot and I quickly became disengaged. Once I hit halfway, I was almost completely lost in the story, who was who, and why anyone was doing anything. The ending was a bit of a letdown after all the explaining and build up.
I even read this with a friend and we both struggled to try to understand some of the motivation and storyline. I really wanted to love this one more, but it was a miss for me.
A huge thank you to the author and publisher for providing an e-ARC via Netgalley. This does not affect my opinion regarding the book.
Sarita is freshly married and has finally landed with her new husband in their hotel for the night. It's a sweet night, as they revel in how happy they are, how much fun they had, how silly and tipsy they are. It isn't until Angelo appears that Sarita realizes she should have been more cautious, more worried. She should have been more honest about what Angelo had done in her life.
The start to this story was so well done. I was hooked - this story of Angelo, the pulse-pounding moments, the shocking first chapter and murder. But, quickly, the story slowed way down. It piled on POV, ones that were confusing and scope was huge and unexplained. The chapters became quiet storytelling instead of any dialogue or action. Huge info dumps replaced plot and I quickly became disengaged. Once I hit halfway, I was almost completely lost in the story, who was who, and why anyone was doing anything. The ending was a bit of a letdown after all the explaining and build up.
I even read this with a friend and we both struggled to try to understand some of the motivation and storyline. I really wanted to love this one more, but it was a miss for me.
A huge thank you to the author and publisher for providing an e-ARC via Netgalley. This does not affect my opinion regarding the book.
August 16, 2024
Sarita and Frank are in their room after their wedding, checked in, hunkered down as their first night as husband and wife comes to an abrupt end. Someone or something is in the room with them!
Guardian angels, demons, vampires, and family ties that bind. A war ensues between good and evil, and vampires!
I am not a big vampire fan, and somehow, this slipped my mental notes prior, so I was surprised and even more surprised that I was totally invested and enjoyed it!
Perfectly balanced with some gore and horror as a thread of religion is woven through tastefully. Very likable characters and definitely would recommend!
"The past, no matter how recent, never autocorrects to a better alternative. Life can not be undone, and death is even more stubborn. "
Guardian angels, demons, vampires, and family ties that bind. A war ensues between good and evil, and vampires!
I am not a big vampire fan, and somehow, this slipped my mental notes prior, so I was surprised and even more surprised that I was totally invested and enjoyed it!
Perfectly balanced with some gore and horror as a thread of religion is woven through tastefully. Very likable characters and definitely would recommend!
"The past, no matter how recent, never autocorrects to a better alternative. Life can not be undone, and death is even more stubborn. "
October 26, 2024
There was a lot going on here, and I’m not sure half of it was necessary. It was otherwise engaging and easy to get through, but I’d still recommend The Spite House over this.
November 5, 2024
No, Johnny, no! I was expecting so much from you.
While I didn't love his debut, I saw a ton of potential in Compton and could not wait to get my hands on Devils Kill Devils, his sophomore release.
And then I did and I knew by page 36 that this was a stinker.
There are good ideas here somewhere, I think. But they quickly get lost in a mess of characters, convoluted lore, POV changes, unnecessary dialogue, uneven pacing, and SO many goddamn words that, when you get down to it, said very little.
I'm really sad about this one. It's a horror fantasy about vampires (aka devils) and I can tell Compton tried to breathe new life into the subgenre. Unfortunately, vampires are vampires and instead of a breath of life, this ended up being just plain, old long-winded.
1.5 out of 5 stars.
I'll try one more by this author because he's a talented writer. With his next book, I hope he will prove himself to also be a talented storyteller. Cause this was... a mess.
While I didn't love his debut, I saw a ton of potential in Compton and could not wait to get my hands on Devils Kill Devils, his sophomore release.
And then I did and I knew by page 36 that this was a stinker.
There are good ideas here somewhere, I think. But they quickly get lost in a mess of characters, convoluted lore, POV changes, unnecessary dialogue, uneven pacing, and SO many goddamn words that, when you get down to it, said very little.
I'm really sad about this one. It's a horror fantasy about vampires (aka devils) and I can tell Compton tried to breathe new life into the subgenre. Unfortunately, vampires are vampires and instead of a breath of life, this ended up being just plain, old long-winded.
1.5 out of 5 stars.
I'll try one more by this author because he's a talented writer. With his next book, I hope he will prove himself to also be a talented storyteller. Cause this was... a mess.
October 21, 2024
3.5, rounded up. Fun book/premise. Elaborate worldbuilding that fans of Clive Barker's novels would appreciate. Would read more by the author.
September 29, 2024
This book was atmospheric to the point of grimdark, relying heavily on mood-setting to guide the story. Because the tone was so heavy, the pacing got really bogged down at several points throughout. There were chapters that flew by and chapters that were a bit of a slog to get through. Key characters had repetitive inner monologues so long it derailed the momentum of the story. Mixed with the unsatisfactory and abrupt resolution of the story, I had difficulty maintaining interest.
Overall this book is A+ for vibes but a difficult read.
Thank you to NetGalley, Johnny Compton, and Tor Nightfire for a review copy.
Overall this book is A+ for vibes but a difficult read.
Thank you to NetGalley, Johnny Compton, and Tor Nightfire for a review copy.
September 24, 2024
So at the beginning of the story, I liked how he set up with this mysterious being coming in on her wedding night and took out her husband. Then we see when she starts seeing this being after that it gets hazy. It just didn’t hold my interest anymore.
Thank you to NetGalley and Tor for providing me with a free ebook in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to NetGalley and Tor for providing me with a free ebook in exchange for an honest review.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 320 reviews