Title: Demons Not Included
Author: Cheyenne McCray
First published June 2, 2009
334 pages, Paperback
ISBN: 9780312949600 (ISBN10: 031294960X)
Rating: 3.73
Overview
Introducing Nyx, a tough and independent half-human, half-Drow private detective who spends her days solving paranormal crimes and her nights as an elite demon Tracker. But when a series of brutal murders terrorize the city, leaving demonic symbols in their wake, Nyx takes the case personally.
As her fellow Trackers are being killed off one by one, Nyx must navigate the city’s dangerous supernatural underworld to catch the killer. Adding to the chaos is Torin, a mysterious and seductive new Tracker with powers Nyx can’t quite decipher.
With time running out and the threat of hell on Earth looming, Nyx must put everything on the line – even her own life – to save the city and those she loves. Can Nyx trust anyone in a world where demons are not included?
About the Author
At a young age, Cheyenne McCray found a passion for reading and writing. She knew from kindergarten that she wanted to become an author, and now she is a successful one.
With over 100 published novels and novellas in various genres such as contemporary and paranormal romance, urban fantasy, and romantic suspense, Cheyenne has become a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author who has sold millions of books globally. She has recently begun writing cozy mysteries under the pseudonym Deb Ries.
Cheyenne grew up on a ranch in southeastern Arizona and takes pleasure in crafting stories that captivate her readers with their characters and worlds. She weaves tales of love, suspense, and redemption that her readers can easily lose themselves in.
Cheyenne and her husband, who shares her passion for geekery, reside in a small Arizona town with their two dogs, half a dozen ducks (who are popular in the neighborhood), and a small flock of chickens. In her free time, Cheyenne enjoys gardening, creating crazy quilts, and, of course, writing.
If you’re interested in learning more about Cheyenne, you can find information about her and her books on her website.
Editoral Review
In Cheyenne McCray’s Demons Not Included, readers are transported into a world where magic and myth merge with the modern-day hustle and bustle of Arizona. This urban-fantasy novel, first published in 2009, features a cast of supernatural characters navigating a web of deceit, betrayal, and danger.
McCray, a prolific writer of romance novels, effortlessly blends the paranormal with the everyday. The result is a book that keeps readers hooked from beginning to end.
The urban-fantasy genre is not new, but McCray’s writing style, creativity, and well-defined characters make this book stand out. At the heart of the story is Lili Bordelon, a half-demon and half-human private investigator.
Lili is pragmatic, tough, and sharp; she’s the kind of protagonist that readers will root for. Lili’s world is turned upside down when she is asked to investigate a serial killer who seems to be targeting the supernatural community.
Along the way, she meets a cast of characters that are both charming and complex, such as her human love interest, Sean, and her demon boss, Luc. McCray masterfully balances the supernatural elements of the story with the everyday struggles and emotions of her characters.
Readers are quickly drawn into Lili’s world, living and breathing alongside her. The world-building is impressive, with McCray creating a rich and vivid universe full of intricate details and compelling lore.
The setting of Arizona provides a refreshing and unique backdrop that adds another layer of intrigue to the story. One of the strengths of Demons Not Included is McCray’s ability to address real-world issues through the lens of fantasy.
The book explores themes such as prejudice, discrimination, and the struggles of marginalized communities. By weaving these issues into the narrative, the book becomes more than just a simple urban-fantasy novel; it becomes a thought-provoking commentary on society.
While Demons Not Included has many strengths, there are a few flaws. The plot can seem convoluted at times, with too many subplots vying for attention.
The pacing can also be slow in places, which may deter readers looking for a fast-paced, action-packed book. However, the character development and world-building more than make up for any deficiencies.
Overall, Demons Not Included is an impressive and captivating read. McCray’s writing style is engaging, her characters are multi-dimensional, and the world she has created is immersive.
This book will appeal to fans of urban-fantasy, paranormal romance, and anyone looking for a fascinating and thought-provoking read. I give it a solid four out of five stars.
