N.B. Saltsman

2/5 stars I received a copy of this book from the author as a LibraryThing Early Reviewers winner. I think this book was largely lost on me as I haven't read the rest of the series. It definitely had a lot of character development and backstory between the brothers. While the characters are well-developed, I didn't really care about them. I'm sure this is unfair of me, but I wasn't invested in their story. I also didn't find the story to have any closure. I'd imagine that this novella is set between two of the main series' books, rather than at the beginning.… (lisätietoja)

Review of eBook

As Herman Christianson recalls the horrors he has experienced in the containment zone, he continues to form his seditious plan against Lilith; eventually, he will find a way to have Kayla Winslow in his control. And, although he manages to hide his plans and his true feelings, he tries to remain patient.

Meanwhile, Kayla remains caught between accepting a professorship with North Carolina State University and starting her own research business. Cerberus Virgil remains at her side, providing protection.

But with Lilith’s attacks on Boston leaving hundreds of innocent humans dead, the Celestial army prepares for war. Will the one-time brothers find themselves on opposite sides in a war that no one can win? And what will happen when Christenson decides to overthrow Hell?

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Third in the author’s fantasy series “The Devil’s Trill,” here Lucifer’s story becomes the focus. Told in both the present and the past, the narrative provides the backstory for the character as it gives readers some insights into the relationships between the archangel brothers. [For readers wishing to follow the complete story in order, the books and novellas are: “The Devil’s Trill,” “The Master’s Court,” “The Angel’s Keep,” “The Harpy’s Lullaby,” and “Ballad of the King.” The fourth and final book in the series, "The Angel's Requiem," is scheduled for release at the end of the year.]

Readers begin the story with Herman Christenson, who uses his relationship with Lilith for his own evil purposes. Doctor Kayla Winslow plays a major role in the unfolding story, with readers gaining insight into her relationships with Lucifer, Lilith, and Christenson.

Strong characters and inventive world-building pull readers into the telling of the tale from the outset. Tensions build as it becomes clear that a confrontation looms in the very near future. As with the earlier stories in the series, the interactions are realistic. The twisty plot takes offers some unexpected turns; continually building suspense leads to a climax that may surprise readers.

With fantasy and magical elements firmly embedded in the narrative, readers will find much to appreciate here. The only downside is the use of some offensive, crude language that is certain to offend some readers. Although many of the questions readers may have had after reading the earlier stories are answered here, this story leaves readers breathless . . . as the promised conflict now seems inevitable.

Highly recommended.

I received a free copy of this book from the author… (lisätietoja)