The Rundown
What does a recent college graduate and a gal who sends demons back to hell have in common? A whole lot more than one may think. Haalim Arison, who is still recovering from the death of his sixteen-year-old sister, has lost his faith in God—quite ironic since he holds a degree in theology. Haalim has no idea that his spiritual beliefs (or lack thereof) are about to be challenged when he offers to help a complete stranger by taking pictures of a woman (Abigail Dressler) the man believes to be his stalker. In a series of unnerving events, Haalim finds himself face to face with none other than Abigail. The situation only gets weirder when Abigail protects Haalim from a cult that is stalking him.
Abigail is trained to kill demons. Although her next assignment is to go to a remote town called Raven’s Peak, she also has a personal agenda in locating her mentor Arthur, who was taken by a demon. Unfortunately, she’s not going to be able to accomplish her tasks alone. After learning about Haalim’s family connections and realizing that his life may be in grave danger, Abigail bring Haalim along on the trip. Once they arrive, Abigail immediately recognizes that something deeply sinister is lurking about within this isolated area—an evil that not only goes beyond anything that Abigail has ever had to face, but also has the potential of overtaking the world. And though Abigail determines to nail whatever this evil is, it is uncertain whether she and Haalim will be able to make it out of the little town alive.
Cole’s latest is the first book of his World on Fire series. Cole’s plot is replete with everything demonic. Yet placed front and center amid a flurry of malevolent scenes is Cole’s featured character: an underdog named Haalim. Haalim spends much of his time appearing absolutely clueless in the middle of horrific situations. While Haalim and Abigail are often surrounded with gore, Cole breaks up these moments by weaving in uproariously funny dark comedic scenes. Plenty of twists and turns to keep readers absorbed to the very end.
The Recommendation
A unique twist to the demonic realm, paranormal audiences are certainly in for a treat with this first book in a promising new series.
