A Shake of Succubus: A Spirited Dive into the Underworld
When I first picked up A Shake of Succubus by A.J. McCarthy, I was drawn in by an irresistible combination of humor, paranormal intrigue, and a setting as vibrant as New Orleans itself. As a dedicated fan of the series, Cocktails in Hell, I had been eagerly anticipating Violet’s next escapade. After the cliffhanger of A Twist of Demons, how could I resist diving back into a world where the Devil, demons, and even rogue angels roam?
Shake of Succubus picks up right where we left off, plunging us back into the chaotic life of Violet, a potion master and Guardian of the portal in New Orleans. I adore the complexity of her character; she’s not just our protagonist but a multifaceted being dealing with the gritty realities of running a bar that serves up spirits not only in a literal sense but also to creatures of the night. One of my favorite moments comes when Violet’s bar, Swan’s Noveltini’s, relocated to the portal. The atmosphere is bustling, filled with the intoxicating scent of potent potions mingling with the mysteries of the underworld.
The stakes heighten quickly as Violet grapples with the looming threat of someone targeting Guardians. The author deftly balances tension with the sharp, witty dialogue that first drew me into this series. One exchange that had me chuckling was between Violet and a demon about cheese—"What the fuck kind of monster doesn’t like cheese?" It’s lines like these that encapsulate the book’s playful tone, making even the dire situations feel vibrantly alive.
Throughout the narrative, McCarthy introduces a colorful cast of characters, each more intriguing than the last—some angelic, others delightfully devilish. Landry, her steadfast bartender, and her fairy companions, Keelie and Olive, enhance Violet’s world, providing both support and comic relief. This book offers deeper insights into Violet’s backstory, making the reader appreciate her complexities even more.
The writing style is refreshingly sharp, with a clever pacing that compels you to keep turning the pages. The narrative weaves seamlessly from high-stakes confrontation to heartfelt moments, allowing readers to connect with the characters on multiple levels. McCarthy’s world-building is nothing short of exquisite; every scene feels rich with detail, painting a picture of both beauty and chaos vividly.
I can’t help but echo my previous sentiments: I LOVE this series! A Shake of Succubus is a spectacular continuation that raises the bar, building tension as we head towards a brewing war. It’s part Lucifer, part Good Omens, and part Dresden Files—with its unique twist that makes it stand out in the crowded paranormal genre.
If you enjoy clever banter, supernatural shenanigans, and characters that feel like old friends, then you need to pick up this book. Violet’s adventures will not only entertain but might just leave you craving more—even after the final page.
In summary, the experience of reading A Shake of Succubus captivated me with its blend of humor, danger, and magic. It left me longing for the next installment in Violet’s rollercoaster journey through both the hellish and the heavenly. Grab your cocktail and settle in; you won’t want to miss this wild ride!
Discover more about A Shake of Succubus (Cocktails in Hell, #2) on GoodReads >>