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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
Expected publication September 24, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 105 reviews
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.
January 27, 2024
A heart pounding thrill ride from first to final page, DEVILS KILL DEVILS grabs you by the throat and refuses to let go. Johnny Compton has made vampires terrifying again!
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.
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 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.
Want to read
March 25, 2024ARC received!! Thank you so much, Tor Nightfire!!
I'm excited for more from Johnny Compton. This sounds different. I'm looking forward to seeing how it plays out!!
I'm excited for more from Johnny Compton. This sounds different. I'm looking forward to seeing how it plays out!!
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 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!
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
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.
June 21, 2024
The concept and title of this book gripped me instantly. When I first dove in, I was vibing with the story, the characters, and the 'religious' aspect of it. It all felt so very dark and had me feeling gross as I got into it (which I loved). However, there was hardly any dialogue. The constant inner monologues of whoever's POV we were on and the pacing really racked my brain. The ride was inconsistently bumpy. The 'vampires' that were introduced into the story as well felt chaotic and messy. Once we hit vampires, I was confused and felt as though I was trying to swim underwater in mud. I think I would have enjoyed this much more if there were some pacing changes, more dialogue among everyone, and perhaps less monsters? The monsters also felt a bit overwhelming.
All in all, I didn't hate it, it just needed some tweaks. But I'm sure there is the perfect person for this read.
All in all, I didn't hate it, it just needed some tweaks. But I'm sure there is the perfect person for this read.
May 20, 2024
3.5
The story opens with our main character, Sarita, witnessing her husband's brutal murder. His murderer is someone she has trusted with her life up until now - her guardian angel. Sarita is determined to figure out why this happened.
From the beginning of this story I was gripped, I needed to know more about her guardian angel and his motives. The direction this story takes I could have never predicted and I'm still not sure how I feel about it. The vampire elements were very unique and different from the typical vampires you read about, which kept this story fresh. I did find it lost me a little in the second half with all of the new characters and history introduced. Overall an enjoyable read!
The story opens with our main character, Sarita, witnessing her husband's brutal murder. His murderer is someone she has trusted with her life up until now - her guardian angel. Sarita is determined to figure out why this happened.
From the beginning of this story I was gripped, I needed to know more about her guardian angel and his motives. The direction this story takes I could have never predicted and I'm still not sure how I feel about it. The vampire elements were very unique and different from the typical vampires you read about, which kept this story fresh. I did find it lost me a little in the second half with all of the new characters and history introduced. Overall an enjoyable read!
June 21, 2024
Really loved Compton’s unique riff on vampire lore. His combination of mythologic and folkloric delivery combined with layered Texas rooted legends really made this story something that sets itself apart from the current vampire renaissance/resurgence in the best way.
The structure of the story telling wasn’t one that I super enjoyed at first and took me a little to fall into but once I switched over to the audiobook (around chapters 6/7) then everything started to fall into place and become a much more enjoyable experience for me.
The structure of the story telling wasn’t one that I super enjoyed at first and took me a little to fall into but once I switched over to the audiobook (around chapters 6/7) then everything started to fall into place and become a much more enjoyable experience for me.
July 7, 2024
3.5 stars
I really enjoyed this. I loved the story and the characters, and I was hooked from the very first chapter. I liked all the multiple POVs and really enjoyed how they all came together. I didn't like how, at times, it seemed like he used every big word he could think of in one sentence. It really hindered the flow of the story. There were also a few plot holes that just took me out of the story. Overall, it was a decent read.
I really enjoyed this. I loved the story and the characters, and I was hooked from the very first chapter. I liked all the multiple POVs and really enjoyed how they all came together. I didn't like how, at times, it seemed like he used every big word he could think of in one sentence. It really hindered the flow of the story. There were also a few plot holes that just took me out of the story. Overall, it was a decent read.
July 5, 2024
Devils Kill Devils
By Johnny Compton
Thank you so much @macmillanaudio @tornightfire for the gifted ALC and ARC. #MacAudio2024
Blurb:
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
✨ My thoughts:
What did I just read?! I swear books about vampires are starting to be my favorite kind of books. When I get so into a book and I can’t put it down, I always feel the need to find the audiobook so that I won’t need to stop consuming it and that’s exactly what I did with this book. Physical books will always be my favorite format but damn did this audiobook hit just right! The violence, the carnage, the HORROR… I loved it and I want more. I inhaled Johnny Compton’s book The Spite House, so when Devils Kill Devils was announced I just about screamed. The first chapter will hook you and there’s no other way to enjoy this except to devour it. Unable to stop reading, unable to stop listening, this novel is just too good. You need to read it, and I need to get my hands on a finished copy to keep forever. Gothic horror lovers, get ready! Devils kill Devils hits shelves 9/24/24, just in time for spooky season!
Happy reading 📖 🩸
By Johnny Compton
Thank you so much @macmillanaudio @tornightfire for the gifted ALC and ARC. #MacAudio2024
Blurb:
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
✨ My thoughts:
What did I just read?! I swear books about vampires are starting to be my favorite kind of books. When I get so into a book and I can’t put it down, I always feel the need to find the audiobook so that I won’t need to stop consuming it and that’s exactly what I did with this book. Physical books will always be my favorite format but damn did this audiobook hit just right! The violence, the carnage, the HORROR… I loved it and I want more. I inhaled Johnny Compton’s book The Spite House, so when Devils Kill Devils was announced I just about screamed. The first chapter will hook you and there’s no other way to enjoy this except to devour it. Unable to stop reading, unable to stop listening, this novel is just too good. You need to read it, and I need to get my hands on a finished copy to keep forever. Gothic horror lovers, get ready! Devils kill Devils hits shelves 9/24/24, just in time for spooky season!
Happy reading 📖 🩸
July 16, 2024
Audio ARC review~
Devils, guardian angels, and… vampires? Sarita has been protected since childhood by a man she assumes is a guardian angel, until he murders someone she loves.
This wasn’t quite what I was expecting but was still intriguing nonetheless. The first few chapters had me hooked but I lost my steam about halfway through. I found the author’s take on vampires to be interesting and it definitely allowed for more gore and violence than a more traditional vampire tale would. The ending felt somewhat rushed and the overall pacing of the book was a little off. The narration was clear and easy to follow, and the audio quality was consistent throughout.
3/5 ⭐️
Devils, guardian angels, and… vampires? Sarita has been protected since childhood by a man she assumes is a guardian angel, until he murders someone she loves.
This wasn’t quite what I was expecting but was still intriguing nonetheless. The first few chapters had me hooked but I lost my steam about halfway through. I found the author’s take on vampires to be interesting and it definitely allowed for more gore and violence than a more traditional vampire tale would. The ending felt somewhat rushed and the overall pacing of the book was a little off. The narration was clear and easy to follow, and the audio quality was consistent throughout.
3/5 ⭐️
June 3, 2024
Johnny Compton proves once again he is a MASTERFUL storyteller!
Devils Kill Devils started out as such a mystery to me. It was seemingly full of a colorful cast of characters all with various backstories and motives. Sarita in particular was such a conundrum to me because I couldn't figure out whether or not I was going to actually LIKE her. However, at about the 25% mark of this book, everything takes a twist for the rather unexpected and that was when I knew I was HOOKED. This story does indeed follow Sarita and her mysterious protector since birth. The machinations that seem to revolve around these seemingly simple plot points just created a story that I could not put down.
As I mentioned, this book takes a minute (medium-paced) to built the setting and to truly frame the world. However, when you meet the mysterious woman in red..... ALL HELL BREAKS LOOSE. I really wish that I could put into words just how spectacularly this set up. Each character's story follows a full arc and I just really enjoyed how Compton wove these stories together. I just told a story in the way that Stephen King crafts his novels. Each seemingly random piece of information becomes useful eventually.
I cannot say enough good things about this story and I know readers are going to devour this! Mark my words, Johnny Compton is an author you need to keep your eye on! This is perfect for fans of Fever House & The Devil By Name by Keith Rosson!
Devils Kill Devils started out as such a mystery to me. It was seemingly full of a colorful cast of characters all with various backstories and motives. Sarita in particular was such a conundrum to me because I couldn't figure out whether or not I was going to actually LIKE her. However, at about the 25% mark of this book, everything takes a twist for the rather unexpected and that was when I knew I was HOOKED. This story does indeed follow Sarita and her mysterious protector since birth. The machinations that seem to revolve around these seemingly simple plot points just created a story that I could not put down.
As I mentioned, this book takes a minute (medium-paced) to built the setting and to truly frame the world. However, when you meet the mysterious woman in red..... ALL HELL BREAKS LOOSE. I really wish that I could put into words just how spectacularly this set up. Each character's story follows a full arc and I just really enjoyed how Compton wove these stories together. I just told a story in the way that Stephen King crafts his novels. Each seemingly random piece of information becomes useful eventually.
I cannot say enough good things about this story and I know readers are going to devour this! Mark my words, Johnny Compton is an author you need to keep your eye on! This is perfect for fans of Fever House & The Devil By Name by Keith Rosson!
May 5, 2024
[received an arc from tor publishing group, thank you!]
not really for me! started off with a bang, then unfortunately suffered from meandering pacing and stream of consciousness that kept the book from maintaining the tempo it needed to keep me engaged. this book struggled to balance its elements and often spent too long lingering on reactions and internal musings--i felt as though the author wanted to elevate the impact of the monsters through how much people weren't able to comprehend or contend with them, but the gimmick began to drag after the third or fourth time.
not really for me! started off with a bang, then unfortunately suffered from meandering pacing and stream of consciousness that kept the book from maintaining the tempo it needed to keep me engaged. this book struggled to balance its elements and often spent too long lingering on reactions and internal musings--i felt as though the author wanted to elevate the impact of the monsters through how much people weren't able to comprehend or contend with them, but the gimmick began to drag after the third or fourth time.
May 10, 2024
Sarita has always had a guardian angel watching over her, but when that angel commits a horrific act, Sarita is forced to confront the darkness that has been lurking in the shadows. In Devils Kill Devils, author Johnny Compton tells a fast-paced, unrelenting and a heart-pounding thrill ride of a novel.
Johnny Compton's writing in Devils Kill Devils is extremely violent and intense, creating a sense of urgency that propels the story forward at a fast pace. Compton expertly weaves together elements of horror, suspense, and supernatural intrigue to create a truly gripping tale that had us quickly turning the page.
Devils Kill Devils is not only a graphic and violent horror story it explores grief and revenge. Sarita's journey is driven by her desire for justice and her need to confront her own inner demons. As she delves deeper into the darkness surrounding her, she discovers a strength within herself that she never knew existed.
Compton's writing style in Devils Kill Devils is distinctly different from his previous work, The Spite House, of which we are huge fans. With this novel, he demonstrates his versatility as a writer and his ability to tackle different styles of horror with equal skill. Fans of The Spite House may be surprised by the darker tone and more intense action in this book, but they will undoubtedly be impressed by Compton's skillful storytelling and vivid imagination.
Additionally, Compton's vampires are a unique creation that set themselves apart from others in vampire style novels. They are part creature, part human, part animal and are wonderfully described.
Devils Kill Devils is a pulse-pounding thriller and a solid followup novel to The Spite House. Johnny Compton has crafted a thrilling and terrifying tale that will keep readers on the edge of their seats from start to finish. It has compelling characters, gripping plot twists, and graphic horror that is sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone who dares to dive in.
Johnny Compton's writing in Devils Kill Devils is extremely violent and intense, creating a sense of urgency that propels the story forward at a fast pace. Compton expertly weaves together elements of horror, suspense, and supernatural intrigue to create a truly gripping tale that had us quickly turning the page.
Devils Kill Devils is not only a graphic and violent horror story it explores grief and revenge. Sarita's journey is driven by her desire for justice and her need to confront her own inner demons. As she delves deeper into the darkness surrounding her, she discovers a strength within herself that she never knew existed.
Compton's writing style in Devils Kill Devils is distinctly different from his previous work, The Spite House, of which we are huge fans. With this novel, he demonstrates his versatility as a writer and his ability to tackle different styles of horror with equal skill. Fans of The Spite House may be surprised by the darker tone and more intense action in this book, but they will undoubtedly be impressed by Compton's skillful storytelling and vivid imagination.
Additionally, Compton's vampires are a unique creation that set themselves apart from others in vampire style novels. They are part creature, part human, part animal and are wonderfully described.
Devils Kill Devils is a pulse-pounding thriller and a solid followup novel to The Spite House. Johnny Compton has crafted a thrilling and terrifying tale that will keep readers on the edge of their seats from start to finish. It has compelling characters, gripping plot twists, and graphic horror that is sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone who dares to dive in.
Shelved as 'dnf'
July 22, 2024Devils Kill Devils is a slow-building horror story surrounding Sarita and her guardian angel, Angelo. Angelo has saved Sarita’s life many times but when he murders someone she loves right in front of her very eyes, Sarita begins to question Angelo’s motive and overall presence in her life.
I’ll admit I was off to a confusing start with this one. With the different characters and other-worldly introductions, I had to buckle my attention down. I think what threw me was that it began to sound very “fantasy” rather than “horror” and a fantasy fan, I am not.
The book begins with a bang and then immediately backs off in order to provide an intensely layered background. Unfortunately, I couldn’t bring myself to care about any of the characters.
The audiobook narration is mostly enjoyable but it is not without flaws. There are a few instances where the narration, just for a sentence or two, sound like they are in a different voice, almost robotic; almost like it didn’t turn out the way the producers wanted it to the first time so they went back to re-record it but in an entirely different voice and audio quality. Otherwise, I enjoyed the narration performed by Imani Jade Powers.
I am super interested in vampire stories so I was surprised to not like this one. Between the non-compelling characters, slow pacing, and fantasy elements I couldn’t bring myself to finish it. From what I did read, I knew this book wasn’t going to get a good rating from me so I chose to stop reading at around the 50% mark.
Thank you Macmillan Audio and NetGalley for the audiobook in exchange for an honest review! Available 09/24/2024
I’ll admit I was off to a confusing start with this one. With the different characters and other-worldly introductions, I had to buckle my attention down. I think what threw me was that it began to sound very “fantasy” rather than “horror” and a fantasy fan, I am not.
The book begins with a bang and then immediately backs off in order to provide an intensely layered background. Unfortunately, I couldn’t bring myself to care about any of the characters.
The audiobook narration is mostly enjoyable but it is not without flaws. There are a few instances where the narration, just for a sentence or two, sound like they are in a different voice, almost robotic; almost like it didn’t turn out the way the producers wanted it to the first time so they went back to re-record it but in an entirely different voice and audio quality. Otherwise, I enjoyed the narration performed by Imani Jade Powers.
I am super interested in vampire stories so I was surprised to not like this one. Between the non-compelling characters, slow pacing, and fantasy elements I couldn’t bring myself to finish it. From what I did read, I knew this book wasn’t going to get a good rating from me so I chose to stop reading at around the 50% mark.
Thank you Macmillan Audio and NetGalley for the audiobook in exchange for an honest review! Available 09/24/2024
July 21, 2024
Thank you to Netgalley and Macmillan Audio for sending me an early copy of this audiobook! All opinions are my own!
This is going to be such a difficult review because I feel like everything I loved about this book would be a spoiler!
From the uniqueness of the worldbuilding to the complexity of the world itself, I really enjoyed how fresh this book was from start to finish. It had me hooked from the beginning with the total mystery of the supernatural elements, but even once you figure that piece out, it has its claws in you already and you end up never wanting it to let go!
I did feel that the start was a bit slow as far as actually building up the world and the scenario that it was going to place the characters in. But once the ball really got rolling, I absolutely needed to know more!
I don't want to say much more than that, but if you like the premise, then definitely give this a try because it's more than you could ask for!
This is going to be such a difficult review because I feel like everything I loved about this book would be a spoiler!
From the uniqueness of the worldbuilding to the complexity of the world itself, I really enjoyed how fresh this book was from start to finish. It had me hooked from the beginning with the total mystery of the supernatural elements, but even once you figure that piece out, it has its claws in you already and you end up never wanting it to let go!
I did feel that the start was a bit slow as far as actually building up the world and the scenario that it was going to place the characters in. But once the ball really got rolling, I absolutely needed to know more!
I don't want to say much more than that, but if you like the premise, then definitely give this a try because it's more than you could ask for!
April 1, 2024
*I received an ARC via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Thanks for the free book.*
"Devils Kill Devils" sounded quite promising as tapping into southern gothic and noir but I could not get into it at all. I did not find any of the characters well rounded or interesting, plot and world building made little sense and felt rushed, and the book lacked atmosphere. It was uselessly violent and in parts confusing. After reading half of it, I started skim-reading and even that left me feeling bored.
Maybe I wasn't in the right mood for this one but I did not enjoy any aspect of this book. I'm sorry.
1 star
"Devils Kill Devils" sounded quite promising as tapping into southern gothic and noir but I could not get into it at all. I did not find any of the characters well rounded or interesting, plot and world building made little sense and felt rushed, and the book lacked atmosphere. It was uselessly violent and in parts confusing. After reading half of it, I started skim-reading and even that left me feeling bored.
Maybe I wasn't in the right mood for this one but I did not enjoy any aspect of this book. I'm sorry.
1 star
July 5, 2024
I would like to thank NetGalley for giving me an audio-arc in exchange for an honest review.
I really liked this one. The horror was spot on.I loved the way the vampires were written and the mythology surrounding them. I also loved the gorey action and super intense scenes
I honestly thought this book was going in one direction and I was wrong. But it was a good wrong. I'll definitely reread this one down the road. It pulled me right in from chapter 1 and had me binging just to see where it was going.
Definitely helps that the audiobook was very well produced and the narrator did a fantastic job with this one.
Actual Rating: 4.5 stars
I really liked this one. The horror was spot on.I loved the way the vampires were written and the mythology surrounding them. I also loved the gorey action and super intense scenes
I honestly thought this book was going in one direction and I was wrong. But it was a good wrong. I'll definitely reread this one down the road. It pulled me right in from chapter 1 and had me binging just to see where it was going.
Definitely helps that the audiobook was very well produced and the narrator did a fantastic job with this one.
Actual Rating: 4.5 stars
July 14, 2024
Devils Kill Devils was quite a bloody, pulpy mess, and I loved that about it. I really liked Compton’s rendition of a vampire, and also liked hearing his reasoning behind it in the Author’s Notes. Coming in just under 300 pages, this one reads fast and is straight to the point right from the beginning without venturing off from the main event. I liked the characters and enjoyed the narration in the audiobook. I can’t wait to read what Compton puts out next. If you enjoy reading novels based on cults, dark magic and vampires, I think you’d like this one. Thanks to Tor Nightfire and Macmillan Audio for my advanced audiobook. Devils Kill Devils will be published just in time for spooky season, 9/24.
Read
April 24, 2024I absolutely hate that this was a DNF (about 50%) for me. I loved Spite House - I loved everything about it.
This one is a VERY different read. I think that some people will love it, but I simply didn't connect with the plot or the characters.
I will absolutely read the author again in the future - just not this one for me.
This one is a VERY different read. I think that some people will love it, but I simply didn't connect with the plot or the characters.
I will absolutely read the author again in the future - just not this one for me.
Want to read
June 20, 2024A huge thank you to the author and publisher for providing an e-ARC via Netgalley. This does not affect my opinion regarding the book.
March 10, 2024
Listen, I’m as devastated as you are. Thank you NetGalley and Tor for the digital ARC.
As much as I didn’t enjoy this novel, I have to give it some credit- it’s ambitious. It squeezes a lot in to these pages, vampires, celestial beings, angels, devils, Gods. But that’s also where its weakness lies.
This was such a strong start, and immediately caught my attention. And this attention was caught until the introduction of the “God-maker,” Cera, whose narrative we followed every 3 or 4 chapters. I read on, hoping that when the protagonist figures it out, I would too. I did not, and maybe that’s on me? Which is why I’m not going to write a full review up.
1) I couldn’t tell you what actually happened.
2) That’s likely my fault.
As much as I didn’t enjoy this novel, I have to give it some credit- it’s ambitious. It squeezes a lot in to these pages, vampires, celestial beings, angels, devils, Gods. But that’s also where its weakness lies.
This was such a strong start, and immediately caught my attention. And this attention was caught until the introduction of the “God-maker,” Cera, whose narrative we followed every 3 or 4 chapters. I read on, hoping that when the protagonist figures it out, I would too. I did not, and maybe that’s on me? Which is why I’m not going to write a full review up.
1) I couldn’t tell you what actually happened.
2) That’s likely my fault.
March 18, 2024
3 stars
"The flood she had pictured arrived, but was internalized."
First let me share the things I loved about this book. The first chapter was incredible. I absolutely loved it. There were a few other chapter endings that were really good at leaving me with that cliff-hanger feeling that forced me to start the next chapter rather than putting the book down. There were some lines in this book that were simply beautiful and I highlighted a few that I will go back to and re-read again and again. I also really appreciated that the author attempted to tell a different kind of vampire story, not relying on old tried and true tropes but creating something new.
Unfortunately, I just did not enjoy this one as much as I'd hoped. The writing style did not work well for me. There was so little dialogue and we remained in the head of whichever character's point of view we were currently reading from. There were countless times when what could have been dialogue was just thought by a character, actually going through "I should have asked......I would have said" but instead, remains just thoughts. A few times, it actually took me right out of the story to realize the scene was a room full of people that never said a single word to each other.
I also felt like we simply had too many points of view. I wasn't always clear whose head I was in or why. Initially, the tone of the writing was clearly very different when we were in the head of one of the vampire/god/other being characters as opposed to the human characters, but a few times that got mixed up and the tone of one of the non-human characters carried into a human character and that threw me off.
Finally, the story was told with so much exposition and came more "after the fact" to explain something that just happened rather than setting the stage ahead of time. This type of storytelling caused me to get really lost on multiple occasions, resulting in my re-reading sections sometimes 3 to 4 times just to try to understand. In the end, there was a lot I just didn't get.
I would still recommend this book to anyone who is interested in an original vampire story that includes heavy exposition and light dialogue. There is clearly an audience for this book and I'm confident they will find it and love it.
Thank you to Tor/Forge and NetGalley for the eArc of this book in exchange for an honest review.
"The flood she had pictured arrived, but was internalized."
First let me share the things I loved about this book. The first chapter was incredible. I absolutely loved it. There were a few other chapter endings that were really good at leaving me with that cliff-hanger feeling that forced me to start the next chapter rather than putting the book down. There were some lines in this book that were simply beautiful and I highlighted a few that I will go back to and re-read again and again. I also really appreciated that the author attempted to tell a different kind of vampire story, not relying on old tried and true tropes but creating something new.
Unfortunately, I just did not enjoy this one as much as I'd hoped. The writing style did not work well for me. There was so little dialogue and we remained in the head of whichever character's point of view we were currently reading from. There were countless times when what could have been dialogue was just thought by a character, actually going through "I should have asked......I would have said" but instead, remains just thoughts. A few times, it actually took me right out of the story to realize the scene was a room full of people that never said a single word to each other.
I also felt like we simply had too many points of view. I wasn't always clear whose head I was in or why. Initially, the tone of the writing was clearly very different when we were in the head of one of the vampire/god/other being characters as opposed to the human characters, but a few times that got mixed up and the tone of one of the non-human characters carried into a human character and that threw me off.
Finally, the story was told with so much exposition and came more "after the fact" to explain something that just happened rather than setting the stage ahead of time. This type of storytelling caused me to get really lost on multiple occasions, resulting in my re-reading sections sometimes 3 to 4 times just to try to understand. In the end, there was a lot I just didn't get.
I would still recommend this book to anyone who is interested in an original vampire story that includes heavy exposition and light dialogue. There is clearly an audience for this book and I'm confident they will find it and love it.
Thank you to Tor/Forge and NetGalley for the eArc of this book in exchange for an honest review.
May 23, 2024
Devils Kill Devils by Johnny Compton
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4/5 stars)
Johnny Compton’s latest, Devils Kill Devils, ups the spooky ante from his previous novel, Spite House. This time, we dive into a world of angels, demons, vampires, and ancient wonders, leaving you questioning who the real villains are. Are the angels truly the devils?
Sarita, the main character, navigates complex relationships and immense trauma as she fights to save her family—and possibly all of humanity. Her journey through this morally ambiguous world is both harrowing and thought-provoking. Compton masterfully blurs the lines between good and evil, making you reconsider your assumptions about these ancient beings.
With its chilling atmosphere and richly detailed mythos, Devils Kill Devils is a must-read for horror fans. Compton keeps you hooked with suspense and dark beauty, proving once again he’s a powerhouse in the genre.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4/5 stars)
Johnny Compton’s latest, Devils Kill Devils, ups the spooky ante from his previous novel, Spite House. This time, we dive into a world of angels, demons, vampires, and ancient wonders, leaving you questioning who the real villains are. Are the angels truly the devils?
Sarita, the main character, navigates complex relationships and immense trauma as she fights to save her family—and possibly all of humanity. Her journey through this morally ambiguous world is both harrowing and thought-provoking. Compton masterfully blurs the lines between good and evil, making you reconsider your assumptions about these ancient beings.
With its chilling atmosphere and richly detailed mythos, Devils Kill Devils is a must-read for horror fans. Compton keeps you hooked with suspense and dark beauty, proving once again he’s a powerhouse in the genre.
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