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Devil Music
She called for vengeance. Hell answered.
Rowan Pierce never stopped grieving. Not after the trial. Not after the guilty verdict. Not after seven long years of waking up to the same cold truth—her daughter, Lily, was gone. Murdered by two teenage classmates obsessed with the occult lyrics of the notorious heavy metal band, Haruspex. The world moved on. Rowan never did.
That all changes when Cole Abel, Haruspex’s infamous frontman, comes to her with a chilling offer—a way to make Lily's killers suffer the way she did. To bring them pain beyond death. To make it right.
But the unholy force they summon cannot be controlled, and once the door is open, it won’t close. As the line between vengeance and damnation blurs, Rowan and Cole soon find themselves in a fight for survival against the very darkness they unleashed... and the price of revenge may be their very souls.
From the author of the best-selling Book of Shadows series, an edge-of-your-seat horror that demands to be devoured. Get your copy now and sink into a story so gripping, you’ll forget to breathe!
Rowan Pierce never stopped grieving. Not after the trial. Not after the guilty verdict. Not after seven long years of waking up to the same cold truth—her daughter, Lily, was gone. Murdered by two teenage classmates obsessed with the occult lyrics of the notorious heavy metal band, Haruspex. The world moved on. Rowan never did.
That all changes when Cole Abel, Haruspex’s infamous frontman, comes to her with a chilling offer—a way to make Lily's killers suffer the way she did. To bring them pain beyond death. To make it right.
But the unholy force they summon cannot be controlled, and once the door is open, it won’t close. As the line between vengeance and damnation blurs, Rowan and Cole soon find themselves in a fight for survival against the very darkness they unleashed... and the price of revenge may be their very souls.
From the author of the best-selling Book of Shadows series, an edge-of-your-seat horror that demands to be devoured. Get your copy now and sink into a story so gripping, you’ll forget to breathe!
- GenresHorror
222 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 29, 2025
8 people are currently reading
43 people want to read
About the author
Michael Penning
12 books130 followersMichael Penning is a bestselling author and award-winning screenwriter of horror and dark fiction, crafting stories so chilling they could make a ghost shiver. He has been weaving nightmares since before he could finish his own sack of trick-or-treat candy. When he's not conjuring new ways to make readers sleep with one eye open, he enjoys traveling, photography, and brewing beer. He lives in Montreal with his wife and daughter, who have yet to flee in terror. For free giveaways and updates on new releases, visit www.michaelpenning.com and sign up for Michael's newsletter.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
June 5, 2025
How Far Would You Go to See Justice Done?
Small backstory:
Rowan Pierce wants revenge any way she can for the murder of her daughter as two classmate boys took her daughter's life.
She blames some of the murder on the metal band Haruspex for their song lyrics, but when Rowan goes to confront the lead singer Cole Abel for what he did to her daughter she finds out that Cole can help her tap into her raw emotions through the metal music and the occult to make the murderers pay for their crimes another way - though that will lead her on a path into hell - but does she want to follow that path?
That is about all I can hand out with a small backstory so if you are intrigued then go read this book!
Thoughts:
This book was one "hell of a ride" into terror as the character Rowan seeks revenge for her daughter. The author weaves an emotional story of just how far a mother will go to get vengeance for her child. The author, Michael Penning taps into deep emotions in this story and brings everything to a crescendo boil as the story goes deep into the heart of the character Rowan.
I have been reading this author for awhile now as I am reading a series of books by him and his stories always capture the essence of what is happening within the story. He brings raw emotions to the table in this book and goes deep into the occult theme showing just how far anyone would go to see justice done.
The pace was fast in this book as I would find myself reading it late into the night as I could not put the book down! Another great book by this author! Giving this book five "Hell Ride Horror" stars!
Small backstory:
Rowan Pierce wants revenge any way she can for the murder of her daughter as two classmate boys took her daughter's life.
She blames some of the murder on the metal band Haruspex for their song lyrics, but when Rowan goes to confront the lead singer Cole Abel for what he did to her daughter she finds out that Cole can help her tap into her raw emotions through the metal music and the occult to make the murderers pay for their crimes another way - though that will lead her on a path into hell - but does she want to follow that path?
That is about all I can hand out with a small backstory so if you are intrigued then go read this book!
Thoughts:
This book was one "hell of a ride" into terror as the character Rowan seeks revenge for her daughter. The author weaves an emotional story of just how far a mother will go to get vengeance for her child. The author, Michael Penning taps into deep emotions in this story and brings everything to a crescendo boil as the story goes deep into the heart of the character Rowan.
I have been reading this author for awhile now as I am reading a series of books by him and his stories always capture the essence of what is happening within the story. He brings raw emotions to the table in this book and goes deep into the occult theme showing just how far anyone would go to see justice done.
The pace was fast in this book as I would find myself reading it late into the night as I could not put the book down! Another great book by this author! Giving this book five "Hell Ride Horror" stars!
May 25, 2025
"𝐒𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐞𝐬 𝐝𝐚𝐦𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐢𝐬 𝐚 𝐬𝐦𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐩𝐚𝐲 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐩𝐞𝐚𝐜𝐞."
Rowan Pierce survived a mother's worst fear, but she's no longer living. She's stuck in that hellscape of 'before' when her daughter Lily was alive. Rowan made it through the trial and faced her teenage daughter's killers who snuffed out the girl's life because of an obsession with the occult lyrics of the heavy metal band Haruspex. She made it through the trial details and hearing what was done to her daughter, how she suffered, and even her awful final words.
But it's now seven years later, and Rowan can't move on. A surprise early release for one of the killers breaks her, and she shows up in the crowd of curious onlookers with one thing on her mind: vengeance. But she sees someone she hates just as much, Cole Abel, the frontman of Haruspex. And when he confronts Rowan and presents her with a chilling offer—a way to make Lily's killers suffer the way she did--she finds herself agreeing. Neither one has any idea of the strength of the dark force they will evoke in the name of retribution. Brimming with tension and atmosphere, this was a cautionary tale of what happens when you are blinded by the need for punishment in the mortal world.
As a proud member of Gen X, I was instantly drawn to this book as it evoked memories of coming home with albums I'd have to hide from my parents. Imagine being a teen when the PMRC (Parents Music Research Center) was created and having your favorite music slapped with a clear warning label. Judas Priest and Ozzy Osbourne were being sued, with parents claiming their 'satanic' messages drove their children to suicide. That nostalgia, coupled with the 'sell your soul to the devil for revenge' trope made this book an easy read. Many thanks to the author for the early copy. Look for this title on May 29, 2025.
Rowan Pierce survived a mother's worst fear, but she's no longer living. She's stuck in that hellscape of 'before' when her daughter Lily was alive. Rowan made it through the trial and faced her teenage daughter's killers who snuffed out the girl's life because of an obsession with the occult lyrics of the heavy metal band Haruspex. She made it through the trial details and hearing what was done to her daughter, how she suffered, and even her awful final words.
But it's now seven years later, and Rowan can't move on. A surprise early release for one of the killers breaks her, and she shows up in the crowd of curious onlookers with one thing on her mind: vengeance. But she sees someone she hates just as much, Cole Abel, the frontman of Haruspex. And when he confronts Rowan and presents her with a chilling offer—a way to make Lily's killers suffer the way she did--she finds herself agreeing. Neither one has any idea of the strength of the dark force they will evoke in the name of retribution. Brimming with tension and atmosphere, this was a cautionary tale of what happens when you are blinded by the need for punishment in the mortal world.
As a proud member of Gen X, I was instantly drawn to this book as it evoked memories of coming home with albums I'd have to hide from my parents. Imagine being a teen when the PMRC (Parents Music Research Center) was created and having your favorite music slapped with a clear warning label. Judas Priest and Ozzy Osbourne were being sued, with parents claiming their 'satanic' messages drove their children to suicide. That nostalgia, coupled with the 'sell your soul to the devil for revenge' trope made this book an easy read. Many thanks to the author for the early copy. Look for this title on May 29, 2025.
April 2, 2025
Okay, can we first talk about this cover? It’s so badass—I was instantly drawn to it! As a mom, this book was tough to read. Rowan’s pain hit me hard. You feel it from page one, and it never lets go. Her grief, her rage, her desperation—it’s raw and real. I found myself completely wrapped up in her story, unable to put the book down.
The premise alone gave me chills. A mother teaming up with the lead singer of the band tied to her daughter’s murder? That twist alone was enough to hook me—but what followed was intense, haunting, and unexpectedly emotional. There’s horror, yes, but also heart. It’s about vengeance, grief, and how far someone will go to make things right—or at least, feel like they are.
This book had me flipping pages late into the night. It’s dark, gritty, and unrelenting… and I loved every second of it. If you're into horror that makes you feel something, this one's for you
The premise alone gave me chills. A mother teaming up with the lead singer of the band tied to her daughter’s murder? That twist alone was enough to hook me—but what followed was intense, haunting, and unexpectedly emotional. There’s horror, yes, but also heart. It’s about vengeance, grief, and how far someone will go to make things right—or at least, feel like they are.
This book had me flipping pages late into the night. It’s dark, gritty, and unrelenting… and I loved every second of it. If you're into horror that makes you feel something, this one's for you
June 6, 2025
Book Title: Devil Music
Author(s): Michael Penning
Publisher(s): Independent
🍿 𝘍𝘪𝘳𝘴𝘵 𝘐𝘮𝘱𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘴𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴: It is amazingly easy for me to get pulled into a Michael Penning novel, and Devil Music sucked me in immediately. I sped through this book lighting quick and didn’t hit a single dull moment.
🤩 𝚃͏𝚑͏𝚎͏ 𝙱͏𝚎͏𝚜͏𝚝͏ 𝙱͏𝚒͏𝚝͏𝚜͏: There are a lot of deliciously creepy scenes throughout the book and sometimes my heart was quite literally racing. I love the way Penning writes and it is detailed in a way that makes every character and scene come alive. There is a lot of focus on grief in the story and I felt my heart breaking for Rowan. Cole is damaged as well and the pair made for quite the demon fighting couple. This is a very dark read, and definitely not for the faint of heart!
💭 𝘊𝘭𝘰𝘴𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘛𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩𝘵𝘴: Devil Music is incredibly atmospheric and the vibe is a very gloomy and sad one. The focus on revenge in the midst of grief sticks out and I would definitely check triggers prior to picking this up. It is gripping from start to finish while being heartbreaking and so incredibly powerful at the same time. There is some repetition, but it doesn’t take away from the meat of the story at all. This is a great book to pick up if you want something eerie and emotional!
T͏h͏i͏s͏ B͏o͏o͏k͏ i͏n͏ 5͏ E͏m͏o͏j͏i͏’s͏ o͏r͏ L͏e͏s͏s͏: 🎸👿🪞😰⛈️
𝙱𝚘𝚘𝚔 𝚁𝚊𝚝𝚒𝚗𝚐: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Author(s): Michael Penning
Publisher(s): Independent
🍿 𝘍𝘪𝘳𝘴𝘵 𝘐𝘮𝘱𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘴𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴: It is amazingly easy for me to get pulled into a Michael Penning novel, and Devil Music sucked me in immediately. I sped through this book lighting quick and didn’t hit a single dull moment.
🤩 𝚃͏𝚑͏𝚎͏ 𝙱͏𝚎͏𝚜͏𝚝͏ 𝙱͏𝚒͏𝚝͏𝚜͏: There are a lot of deliciously creepy scenes throughout the book and sometimes my heart was quite literally racing. I love the way Penning writes and it is detailed in a way that makes every character and scene come alive. There is a lot of focus on grief in the story and I felt my heart breaking for Rowan. Cole is damaged as well and the pair made for quite the demon fighting couple. This is a very dark read, and definitely not for the faint of heart!
💭 𝘊𝘭𝘰𝘴𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘛𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩𝘵𝘴: Devil Music is incredibly atmospheric and the vibe is a very gloomy and sad one. The focus on revenge in the midst of grief sticks out and I would definitely check triggers prior to picking this up. It is gripping from start to finish while being heartbreaking and so incredibly powerful at the same time. There is some repetition, but it doesn’t take away from the meat of the story at all. This is a great book to pick up if you want something eerie and emotional!
T͏h͏i͏s͏ B͏o͏o͏k͏ i͏n͏ 5͏ E͏m͏o͏j͏i͏’s͏ o͏r͏ L͏e͏s͏s͏: 🎸👿🪞😰⛈️
𝙱𝚘𝚘𝚔 𝚁𝚊𝚝𝚒𝚗𝚐: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
May 29, 2025
This is a fine supernatural revenge tale, building on the satanic panic of the '80s and the early '90s (associated with heavy music and the artists making it) and the "Faustian bargain" horror trope - with a huge dose of death metal music! Figuring centrally is Rowan, a very strong female character, actually a grieving mum who's lost her teenage daughter to the murdering whim of two boys obsessed with the demonic promises supposedly hidden in the lyrics and the music of heavy metal. Rowan teams up with the last person she expected, in order to exact revenge on her daughter's murderers. But the plan goes awry when her bargain with the demonic force she's summoned turns against her.
The book thrives on character development and adventure. Although more than a couple of scenes feel repetitive, implying that the story might have been better handled as a novella, it's hard not to enjoy the story, especially the dark and explosive ending. Recommended!
The book thrives on character development and adventure. Although more than a couple of scenes feel repetitive, implying that the story might have been better handled as a novella, it's hard not to enjoy the story, especially the dark and explosive ending. Recommended!
May 26, 2025
Thank you @michaelpenningauthor for gifting this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I've always loved horror that explores deeper subjects and that's exactly what Penning did with Devil Music. Grief is a hard theme to write about and from the first page this book had me in the feels. Right from the beginning you can feel the desperation, rage and pain that leads Rowan to believe that vengeance is the only way to heal. When she teams up with Cole Abel, the lead singer of the heavy metal band that inspired her daughter's killers, she has no idea what lessons she's about to learn the hard way.
Devil Music is packed with action from start to finish. The perfect balance between action, emotions and gore, Devil Music is sure to keep your attention. I particularly loved how Penning approached metal music and how some of us aren't compelled by its violence but listen to it as a way to let our pain and rage out.
This book makes you asks yourself the ethical question: Does avenging a loved one can really make things right? Or are you just becoming the monster you seek revenge from?
I've always loved horror that explores deeper subjects and that's exactly what Penning did with Devil Music. Grief is a hard theme to write about and from the first page this book had me in the feels. Right from the beginning you can feel the desperation, rage and pain that leads Rowan to believe that vengeance is the only way to heal. When she teams up with Cole Abel, the lead singer of the heavy metal band that inspired her daughter's killers, she has no idea what lessons she's about to learn the hard way.
Devil Music is packed with action from start to finish. The perfect balance between action, emotions and gore, Devil Music is sure to keep your attention. I particularly loved how Penning approached metal music and how some of us aren't compelled by its violence but listen to it as a way to let our pain and rage out.
This book makes you asks yourself the ethical question: Does avenging a loved one can really make things right? Or are you just becoming the monster you seek revenge from?
May 29, 2025
I finished “Devil Music” a couple of days ago and wow… this was such an unsettling, eerie, and twisted horror story that I could NOT put down.
Quick synopsis: a grieving mother joins forces with a former lead singer of a popular heavy metal band to summon a demon and avenge her daughter’s murder.
One thing I love about Michael Penning’s writing is that he has this crazy storytelling ability and it pulls me right into the pages. I’m very big on setting and wanting to visualize what I’m reading and his stories always captivate me in that way.
Even though this book deals with evil and the occult, it’s so much more than that! It’s about grief, revenge, love, and forgiveness. And as a lover of heavy metal music, I really appreciated that this touched on how heavy metal can be misunderstood and there are very deep meanings in the lyrics.
So for my fellow horror lovers, I would highly recommend giving this one a read (along with his other books). You can order it on Amazon. Happy reading! 🖤🎸🤘🏽
Quick synopsis: a grieving mother joins forces with a former lead singer of a popular heavy metal band to summon a demon and avenge her daughter’s murder.
One thing I love about Michael Penning’s writing is that he has this crazy storytelling ability and it pulls me right into the pages. I’m very big on setting and wanting to visualize what I’m reading and his stories always captivate me in that way.
Even though this book deals with evil and the occult, it’s so much more than that! It’s about grief, revenge, love, and forgiveness. And as a lover of heavy metal music, I really appreciated that this touched on how heavy metal can be misunderstood and there are very deep meanings in the lyrics.
So for my fellow horror lovers, I would highly recommend giving this one a read (along with his other books). You can order it on Amazon. Happy reading! 🖤🎸🤘🏽
May 23, 2025
Music is a powerful thing, can heal, can comfort us and also open the gates of hell
to summon ancient demons for vengeance.
Rowan Pierce never stopped grieving. Not after the trial. Not after the guilty verdict. Not after seven long years of waking up to the same cold truth—her daughter, Lily, was gone. Murdered by two teenage classmates obsessed with the occult lyrics of the notorious heavy metal band, Haruspex. The world moved on. Rowan never did.
That all changes when Cole Abel, Haruspex’s infamous frontman, comes to her with a chilling offer—a way to make them suffer. To bring them pain beyond death. To make it right, but the price of revenge may be their very souls.
I read this book in one sitting, the idea of ancient demons, possession, satanized music and vengeance, definitely called my name. Is a nicely written story and something I loved was the descriptions, how the author managed his way to make you feel truly persecuted by a malevolent and unholy force, how well build this eerie atmosphere was, and how every single detail makes you feel immerse in the story; btw I want to live in the mansion of Cole Abel, literally a dream for any goth girl 🖤
The plot is well executed, for me was very fast paced, the scrips of the trial are a nice touch to the plot development and without spill to much I just really enjoyed it; also I always appreciate good music references and a cool heavy metal story 🤘🏻🎸⚡️
Thank you to the author for this ARC in exchange of my honest thoughts.
to summon ancient demons for vengeance.
Rowan Pierce never stopped grieving. Not after the trial. Not after the guilty verdict. Not after seven long years of waking up to the same cold truth—her daughter, Lily, was gone. Murdered by two teenage classmates obsessed with the occult lyrics of the notorious heavy metal band, Haruspex. The world moved on. Rowan never did.
That all changes when Cole Abel, Haruspex’s infamous frontman, comes to her with a chilling offer—a way to make them suffer. To bring them pain beyond death. To make it right, but the price of revenge may be their very souls.
I read this book in one sitting, the idea of ancient demons, possession, satanized music and vengeance, definitely called my name. Is a nicely written story and something I loved was the descriptions, how the author managed his way to make you feel truly persecuted by a malevolent and unholy force, how well build this eerie atmosphere was, and how every single detail makes you feel immerse in the story; btw I want to live in the mansion of Cole Abel, literally a dream for any goth girl 🖤
The plot is well executed, for me was very fast paced, the scrips of the trial are a nice touch to the plot development and without spill to much I just really enjoyed it; also I always appreciate good music references and a cool heavy metal story 🤘🏻🎸⚡️
Thank you to the author for this ARC in exchange of my honest thoughts.
June 26, 2025
3.5
This is a solid occult horror novel. A little slower here and there but nothing that fully drags. I really enjoyed the inserts from the court trial throughout the book, it was a nice touch. This was a good balance of vengeance and grief horror. I really felt for Rowan and thought her character development was really good. I found myself genuinely invested in her journey.
If you’re a fan of occult horror with a strong emotional core this one is definitely worth your time.
This is a solid occult horror novel. A little slower here and there but nothing that fully drags. I really enjoyed the inserts from the court trial throughout the book, it was a nice touch. This was a good balance of vengeance and grief horror. I really felt for Rowan and thought her character development was really good. I found myself genuinely invested in her journey.
If you’re a fan of occult horror with a strong emotional core this one is definitely worth your time.
April 15, 2025
Rowan is haunted by the violent ritualistic murder of her teenage daughter, Lily in 1990z The two teenage killers, Daley who is being released after 7yrs and Troy incarcerated in an asylum the main targets for her fury. But, Cole Abel, lead singer of Haruspex, has been her main mission, she feels his songs drove the teens to commit the crime. When Cole offers to help Rowan get revenge on Daley and Troy they perform a ritual that allows a demon entry but at what price?
I love Michael’s writing and the All Hallows trilogy is one of my favourite reads but this is incredible. Fast paced, exciting, gruesome and challenging. Aside from being a great story it lays bare the very human struggles of grief, regret, revenge and anger.
Rowan is a mother consumed with grief, it is a relentless beat in her heart, she blames herself for not being present enough for Lily, she blames the killers, she blames the rock band, she is wrathful and single minded.
Cole has his own demons, his own trauma that he has poured out into his music, the death of Lily and the subsequent court case blaming his songs, has ruined his career but he also wants to make amends, to make peace.
The theory that the power of vibrations at the right frequency can open a portal to another dimension, that it can be a doorway to hell, seems so logical when you think about it. Music has the ability to change our mood, speak to us when we suffer, comfort us in our pain and fill us with joy, it is a potent cocktail.
The occult references are wonderful and the demonic is truly horrific, I could not put this down, my favourite story by the author, so far!
I love Michael’s writing and the All Hallows trilogy is one of my favourite reads but this is incredible. Fast paced, exciting, gruesome and challenging. Aside from being a great story it lays bare the very human struggles of grief, regret, revenge and anger.
Rowan is a mother consumed with grief, it is a relentless beat in her heart, she blames herself for not being present enough for Lily, she blames the killers, she blames the rock band, she is wrathful and single minded.
Cole has his own demons, his own trauma that he has poured out into his music, the death of Lily and the subsequent court case blaming his songs, has ruined his career but he also wants to make amends, to make peace.
The theory that the power of vibrations at the right frequency can open a portal to another dimension, that it can be a doorway to hell, seems so logical when you think about it. Music has the ability to change our mood, speak to us when we suffer, comfort us in our pain and fill us with joy, it is a potent cocktail.
The occult references are wonderful and the demonic is truly horrific, I could not put this down, my favourite story by the author, so far!
May 18, 2025
Boy, did Devil Music have a lot of good things going for it. But it had an equal amount that didn't quite work for me.
First of all, I'm a sucker for the whole "sell your soul to the devil to get ahead" trope, and it's so much fun when combined with music. That's what first drew me to the book, but as much as I wanted to completely love Devil Music, it did get a touch predictable by the end.
I loved the character development throughout the book, especially Rowan. She really went through it and changed her entire outlook. I loved that she finally came to understand why some people listen to heavy music (and dropped the whole 'metal music encourages violence' idea). Cole grew a lot also, and I enjoyed reading his journey.
However, parts of this book dragged and made it hard for me to really throw myself behind these characters. I felt enough for them that I wanted them to win over the demon, but I kept getting distracted away from what they were doing by all the other little details that were included. I also felt like I was reading certain descriptions a lot, which also limited my enjoyment of the book.
Devil Music isn't a bad book by any stretch. A bit predictable and tedious to read at times, but still an interesting read for anyone who likes the trope.
First of all, I'm a sucker for the whole "sell your soul to the devil to get ahead" trope, and it's so much fun when combined with music. That's what first drew me to the book, but as much as I wanted to completely love Devil Music, it did get a touch predictable by the end.
I loved the character development throughout the book, especially Rowan. She really went through it and changed her entire outlook. I loved that she finally came to understand why some people listen to heavy music (and dropped the whole 'metal music encourages violence' idea). Cole grew a lot also, and I enjoyed reading his journey.
However, parts of this book dragged and made it hard for me to really throw myself behind these characters. I felt enough for them that I wanted them to win over the demon, but I kept getting distracted away from what they were doing by all the other little details that were included. I also felt like I was reading certain descriptions a lot, which also limited my enjoyment of the book.
Devil Music isn't a bad book by any stretch. A bit predictable and tedious to read at times, but still an interesting read for anyone who likes the trope.
June 3, 2025
An absolutely killer story. As a metalhead I was totally hooked by the concept and stayed for the haunting gothic writing style and the complex characters. The music element was beautifully woven into the book. I'd kill for a movie version of this story both for the visuals and for the absolutely stellar soundtrack this story conjures that I swear I could hear reading certain scenes. This is also one of the best works of grief horror I've read. Rowan's emotions drip from every word and the heavy descriptions engulf the reader in the shadows of her tortured mind. And without any spoilers, I love the ending, love that this book is the kind of horror that offers catharsis and leaves you feeling powerful for having experienced it. Love it.
May 26, 2025
Devil Music was a quick read tying together grief horror, true crime elements, and the occult. I really enjoyed the snippets of Troy and Daley’s trial throughout the book and the inclusion of Haruspex’ lyrics as “evidence.” Penning’s writing style had an easy flow that kept me entertained but I felt some of the occult parts dragged a little bit. Overall, I highly recommend Devil Music, especially if you like horror novels centered around making a deal with the devil.
Thank you to Michael Penning for giving me a free ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Thank you to Michael Penning for giving me a free ARC in exchange for an honest review!
April 14, 2025
First of all, amazing cover. A very beautiful grief horror. This book takes us through the stages of grief, blended with the occult, possession, and the depth of metal music. The addition of the court proceedings was a great touch.
Thanks for the arc copy!
Thanks for the arc copy!
June 19, 2025
This book was a jumbled mess. Rowan's daughter was brutally murdered by two teenagers who blamed the heavy metal music they listened to, especially the band Haruspex. According to them if they committed this crime the devil would make their band "super awesome bro", and they would be famous. Understandably Rowan is overwhelmed by grief and does blame the band's lead singer Cole Abel and sues him, essentially ruining his career. Safe to say these two hate each other a smidge. Fast forward 7 years and one of the teenagers has been paroled which puts Rowan over the edge. Suddenly Cole shows up and says he has a way to make the boys pay and invites her to his mansion which she accepts because how else will this story move forward. Rowan shows up and it takes about 3 minutes for Cole to tell her that his band had made a deal with the devil to become famous AND he wants to help her summon a demon to get revenge to which she immediately says yup to. To summon said demon Rowan learns how to play the guitar like Slash from Guns n' Roses in about 15 minutes (suuuure). Demon arrives after her cool riff and this book turns into a mish-mash episode of Supernatural, Evil Dead with a dash of Scooby Doo. The rest of the book is spent with these two idjits trying to undo what they did (ruh-roh!). Eyerolls (on my part) and poor writing (on the author's part) ensue until the end. Skip this one.
April 29, 2025
Devil Music by Michael Penning is an action-packed horror novel about a grieving mother, who, summons a demon to avenge her young daughter’s senseless murder.
The story follows Rowan, a woman desperate for retribution against the two young men who brutally took the life of her teenage daughter Lily as part of an occult ritual. To achieve this end, she forms an unlikely alliance with Cole Abel, the ex-front man of a notorious heavy metal band, whose music Rowan believes is partly responsible for inspiring her daughter’s killers. With Cole’s help, Rowan summons a vicious demon to avenge Lily’s death. But summoning a demon rarely comes without consequences and soon the two of them are on the run for their own lives.
The story is set during the early 90s, a time when the dark lyrical content and imagery of heavy metal music came under renewed fire for glorifying suicide and acts of murder. The inclusion of court documents early in the narrative adds to this historical context. But it’s the story, told primarily from Rowan’s perspective that makes the novel work on a real emotional level. The violent details involved in Lily's murder could be triggering for some but are key to understanding the gravity of Roan's loss and her subsequence thirst for revenge.
Parts of the story are also told through Cole’s perspective which provides the reader with insight into his motivations. Like Rowan, Cole is burdened with a sense of loss and guilt. Penning does a great job of revealing how similar these two characters actually are despite outward appearances. Both Rowan and Cole seek redemption and some measure of peace. I only wish the novel was just a little longer. Providing a little more detail about the relationship between Rowan and her daughter could have added even more emotional weight to her journey. Still, Rowan's situation is very relatable and the gut-wrenching.
Overall, this novel really has it all. Creepy moments, gore, fast-paced actions, and some great twists. And there is also the fantastic cover art which is truly show-stopping! Although the horror elements in this novel revolve around a demon, this is really a story about dealing with grief and feelings of guilt. It poses an interesting question: How far would you actually go to avenge a loved one?
Thanks for the arc!
The story follows Rowan, a woman desperate for retribution against the two young men who brutally took the life of her teenage daughter Lily as part of an occult ritual. To achieve this end, she forms an unlikely alliance with Cole Abel, the ex-front man of a notorious heavy metal band, whose music Rowan believes is partly responsible for inspiring her daughter’s killers. With Cole’s help, Rowan summons a vicious demon to avenge Lily’s death. But summoning a demon rarely comes without consequences and soon the two of them are on the run for their own lives.
The story is set during the early 90s, a time when the dark lyrical content and imagery of heavy metal music came under renewed fire for glorifying suicide and acts of murder. The inclusion of court documents early in the narrative adds to this historical context. But it’s the story, told primarily from Rowan’s perspective that makes the novel work on a real emotional level. The violent details involved in Lily's murder could be triggering for some but are key to understanding the gravity of Roan's loss and her subsequence thirst for revenge.
Parts of the story are also told through Cole’s perspective which provides the reader with insight into his motivations. Like Rowan, Cole is burdened with a sense of loss and guilt. Penning does a great job of revealing how similar these two characters actually are despite outward appearances. Both Rowan and Cole seek redemption and some measure of peace. I only wish the novel was just a little longer. Providing a little more detail about the relationship between Rowan and her daughter could have added even more emotional weight to her journey. Still, Rowan's situation is very relatable and the gut-wrenching.
Overall, this novel really has it all. Creepy moments, gore, fast-paced actions, and some great twists. And there is also the fantastic cover art which is truly show-stopping! Although the horror elements in this novel revolve around a demon, this is really a story about dealing with grief and feelings of guilt. It poses an interesting question: How far would you actually go to avenge a loved one?
Thanks for the arc!
May 26, 2025
🅳🅴🆅🅸🅻 🅼🆄🆂🅸🅲
ʀᴇʟᴇᴀꜱᴇꜱ: ᴍᴀʏ 𝟤𝟫, 𝟤𝟢𝟤𝟧
𝓣𝓲𝓶𝓮 𝓽𝓸 𝓯𝓪𝓬𝓮 𝓽𝓱𝓮 𝓶𝓾𝓼𝓲𝓬…
“‘Violence begins in hearts and minds that are lost and broken. Let's focus on healing those hearts and minds before tragedy strikes again,’” (p. 25).
Rowan Pierce’s 14-year-old daughter, Lily, was brutally murdered on Halloween by Daley Banks, 15, and Troy Chapman. Now, one of her killers—Banks—has just been released on parole. The other, Chapman, remains in a mental health institution. Rowan wants revenge. She wants to take back what was taken from her.
Devil Music by Michael Penning is a fast-paced, twisted horror story that I couldn’t put down. The writing pulls you in and doesn’t let go—but it’s the plot that truly consumes you.
It’s a fascinating dive into music some believed to be the devil’s. I loved how the author made that theme central to the story - it’s rich, dark, and thought-provoking. The kind of story that sparks debates long after the final page.
The question the story forces you to ask is chilling: do you become the monster you hate in your quest for revenge?
Told from Rowan’s perspective and alternating with the courtroom drama of the boys’ trial and musical lyrics, the structure was perfection. I’m a sucker for a good courtroom narrative - and horror? Even better. This book blends both in the most gripping way. Exactly my kind of read.
Will def be checking out the author’s other books and can’t wait to see what he has brewing.
𝕋𝕣𝕚𝕘𝕘𝕖𝕣𝕤:
Murder
Stabbing
R-a-p-e (spoke of no actual scene)
Violence
𝔽𝕚𝕟𝕒𝕝 𝕋𝕙𝕠𝕦𝕘𝕙𝕥𝕤: When revenge is all you can see, you may not notice you’ve become the very thing you hate.
ʀᴇʟᴇᴀꜱᴇꜱ: ᴍᴀʏ 𝟤𝟫, 𝟤𝟢𝟤𝟧
𝓣𝓲𝓶𝓮 𝓽𝓸 𝓯𝓪𝓬𝓮 𝓽𝓱𝓮 𝓶𝓾𝓼𝓲𝓬…
“‘Violence begins in hearts and minds that are lost and broken. Let's focus on healing those hearts and minds before tragedy strikes again,’” (p. 25).
Rowan Pierce’s 14-year-old daughter, Lily, was brutally murdered on Halloween by Daley Banks, 15, and Troy Chapman. Now, one of her killers—Banks—has just been released on parole. The other, Chapman, remains in a mental health institution. Rowan wants revenge. She wants to take back what was taken from her.
Devil Music by Michael Penning is a fast-paced, twisted horror story that I couldn’t put down. The writing pulls you in and doesn’t let go—but it’s the plot that truly consumes you.
It’s a fascinating dive into music some believed to be the devil’s. I loved how the author made that theme central to the story - it’s rich, dark, and thought-provoking. The kind of story that sparks debates long after the final page.
The question the story forces you to ask is chilling: do you become the monster you hate in your quest for revenge?
Told from Rowan’s perspective and alternating with the courtroom drama of the boys’ trial and musical lyrics, the structure was perfection. I’m a sucker for a good courtroom narrative - and horror? Even better. This book blends both in the most gripping way. Exactly my kind of read.
Will def be checking out the author’s other books and can’t wait to see what he has brewing.
𝕋𝕣𝕚𝕘𝕘𝕖𝕣𝕤:
Murder
Stabbing
R-a-p-e (spoke of no actual scene)
Violence
𝔽𝕚𝕟𝕒𝕝 𝕋𝕙𝕠𝕦𝕘𝕙𝕥𝕤: When revenge is all you can see, you may not notice you’ve become the very thing you hate.
May 17, 2025
I don't know how he does it every time, but Michael Penning crafted another phenomenal dark novel and was awesome enough to send me a copy for review.
All hell breaks loose in 'Devil Music'.
Get ready to dive into a magnificent, fast paced, epic revenge story steeped in magic rituals, demonic activity, heavy metal and impeccably beautiful dark atmosphere.
When a grieving mother joins forces with a notorious heavy metal singer to summon a demon and avenge her daughter’s murder, their ritual unleashes a nightmare far beyond their control—and their thirst for revenge may cost them their very souls.
What you get is brilliant storytelling, abundance of mystery interwoven with fast paced action, great characters and edge of your seat plot with the right amounts of horror to make you fall in love with this spine-chilling roller-coaster of an adventure.
An utterly cinematic portrayal of a mother's grief that turns to sweet and furious vengeance within the pages of this book;one that got me spellbound and eager to devour it in one sitting.
Satisfying and heartbreaking, this novel will pin you on your reading seat and keep you there till the wonderful end.
I said it before and I'll say it again : If you want to lose sleep and be happy about it, if you want to fall in love with reading horror again, then dive into the wonderfully dark worlds that Michael Penning creates with such impeccable craftsmanship.
'Devil Music', is out on May the 29th so make sure to get your fangs around it the soonest.
All hell breaks loose in 'Devil Music'.
Get ready to dive into a magnificent, fast paced, epic revenge story steeped in magic rituals, demonic activity, heavy metal and impeccably beautiful dark atmosphere.
When a grieving mother joins forces with a notorious heavy metal singer to summon a demon and avenge her daughter’s murder, their ritual unleashes a nightmare far beyond their control—and their thirst for revenge may cost them their very souls.
What you get is brilliant storytelling, abundance of mystery interwoven with fast paced action, great characters and edge of your seat plot with the right amounts of horror to make you fall in love with this spine-chilling roller-coaster of an adventure.
An utterly cinematic portrayal of a mother's grief that turns to sweet and furious vengeance within the pages of this book;one that got me spellbound and eager to devour it in one sitting.
Satisfying and heartbreaking, this novel will pin you on your reading seat and keep you there till the wonderful end.
I said it before and I'll say it again : If you want to lose sleep and be happy about it, if you want to fall in love with reading horror again, then dive into the wonderfully dark worlds that Michael Penning creates with such impeccable craftsmanship.
'Devil Music', is out on May the 29th so make sure to get your fangs around it the soonest.
July 10, 2025
3.75, rounded up because I love this author and that cover
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again—if Michael Penning puts out a new book, I’m reading it. I loved his Book of Shadows series, so I was all in when I saw he had a new occult horror novel, especially one drenched in heavy metal vibes and rocking that badass cover. SIGN ME UP.
The story follows Rowan Pierce, a grieving mother who’s never recovered from the murder of her daughter, Lily—killed by two classmates obsessed with the dark lyrics of the band Haruspex. Years later, Rowan gets an offer from the band’s frontman, Cole Abel: a chance to make the killers suffer beyond death. But vengeance comes at a cost, and what they summon doesn’t stay under control.
I really enjoyed the occult elements, and the courtroom scenes scattered throughout were some of my favorite parts—I actually wish there had been more of that or a deeper dive into the events that led to Lily’s death. Rowan’s grief felt raw and real, and her emotional growth was probably the strongest part of the book.
That said, the story didn’t grip me quite as much as I hoped it would. It dragged in places, felt a little jumbled, and I found myself skimming toward the end just to see how it wrapped up. Also… if I never read another description of Cole’s neck tattoos, I’ll be just fine.
Still, I liked the concept, and I’ll always show up for Penning’s work. Even when a story doesn’t fully hit for me, I really enjoy his style and the way he builds his worlds. Not my favorite one, but I’ll always stick around for whatever he writes next.
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again—if Michael Penning puts out a new book, I’m reading it. I loved his Book of Shadows series, so I was all in when I saw he had a new occult horror novel, especially one drenched in heavy metal vibes and rocking that badass cover. SIGN ME UP.
The story follows Rowan Pierce, a grieving mother who’s never recovered from the murder of her daughter, Lily—killed by two classmates obsessed with the dark lyrics of the band Haruspex. Years later, Rowan gets an offer from the band’s frontman, Cole Abel: a chance to make the killers suffer beyond death. But vengeance comes at a cost, and what they summon doesn’t stay under control.
I really enjoyed the occult elements, and the courtroom scenes scattered throughout were some of my favorite parts—I actually wish there had been more of that or a deeper dive into the events that led to Lily’s death. Rowan’s grief felt raw and real, and her emotional growth was probably the strongest part of the book.
That said, the story didn’t grip me quite as much as I hoped it would. It dragged in places, felt a little jumbled, and I found myself skimming toward the end just to see how it wrapped up. Also… if I never read another description of Cole’s neck tattoos, I’ll be just fine.
Still, I liked the concept, and I’ll always show up for Penning’s work. Even when a story doesn’t fully hit for me, I really enjoy his style and the way he builds his worlds. Not my favorite one, but I’ll always stick around for whatever he writes next.
May 27, 2025
I had tired of horror for a little bit and just wasn’t finding anything that grabbed me. I tend to read in cycles and I am slowly making my way back around to it and Devil Music by @michaelpenningauthor really helped.
What if you could have justice for a loved one’s murder? How high would the price be? Rowan is at that point. Angry and reeling over the murder of her daughter by two classmates and placing some of the blame on the metal band Haruspex for their occult song lyrics that the killers worshipped, Rowan is stuck in her need for retribution.
Fast forward seventeen years and not much has changed- Rowan wants revenge. Then a chance encounter with the lead singer of Haruspex she discovers that there is a way. A deal to make. She can make the killers suffer, so she agrees. But Rowan had no concept of the nature of the dark power she was summoning and exactly what it was capable of.
I loved the darkness of this story. It tackled so many things, grief, revenge, the occult and even an homage to true crime. I was sucked in for the duration. I love when music is part of a plot line and having metal and the occult combine seemed so natural and I loved it. I also loved Rowan. I rooted for her, suffered with her and loved watching her evolve. There are a few sections that dragged a bit, but I usually got pulled back in very quickly. This one was a lot of fun and produced a lot of feelings and was just so damn fun to read. Well done Mr Penning!
What if you could have justice for a loved one’s murder? How high would the price be? Rowan is at that point. Angry and reeling over the murder of her daughter by two classmates and placing some of the blame on the metal band Haruspex for their occult song lyrics that the killers worshipped, Rowan is stuck in her need for retribution.
Fast forward seventeen years and not much has changed- Rowan wants revenge. Then a chance encounter with the lead singer of Haruspex she discovers that there is a way. A deal to make. She can make the killers suffer, so she agrees. But Rowan had no concept of the nature of the dark power she was summoning and exactly what it was capable of.
I loved the darkness of this story. It tackled so many things, grief, revenge, the occult and even an homage to true crime. I was sucked in for the duration. I love when music is part of a plot line and having metal and the occult combine seemed so natural and I loved it. I also loved Rowan. I rooted for her, suffered with her and loved watching her evolve. There are a few sections that dragged a bit, but I usually got pulled back in very quickly. This one was a lot of fun and produced a lot of feelings and was just so damn fun to read. Well done Mr Penning!
April 2, 2025
One song. One pact. One hell of a price to pay.
Every arc I've read so far this year, I've loved each one. However, the last two arcs truly played with my emotions. But this one? This one is a new addiction.
When Michael reached out to me to do a cover reveal for this story, I jumped on it. First, because Michael is one of the best story tellers, and second, just look at that amazing cover! 😍 Plus, the synopsis really caught my attention. Michael also created my new book boyfriend, Cole Abel, a tall, muscular, tattooed rockstar with a tortured past. No smut necessary 😉
The story follows a heavy metal singer and a mother who has endured one of the worst losses imaginable. Together, they summon a demon through music to seek revenge on those who tortured and killed her daughter. With the gut wrenching description of Rowan's daughter's death, to the unlikely friendship that develops between Cole and Rowan as they fight to send the demon back to hell, and with all of the action and terror in between, you are drawn into this heartbreaking and insane tale of loss, grief, revenge, and horror from the very beginning. When it ends, you'll feel a loss, too. It's just that damn good.
Every arc I've read so far this year, I've loved each one. However, the last two arcs truly played with my emotions. But this one? This one is a new addiction.
When Michael reached out to me to do a cover reveal for this story, I jumped on it. First, because Michael is one of the best story tellers, and second, just look at that amazing cover! 😍 Plus, the synopsis really caught my attention. Michael also created my new book boyfriend, Cole Abel, a tall, muscular, tattooed rockstar with a tortured past. No smut necessary 😉
The story follows a heavy metal singer and a mother who has endured one of the worst losses imaginable. Together, they summon a demon through music to seek revenge on those who tortured and killed her daughter. With the gut wrenching description of Rowan's daughter's death, to the unlikely friendship that develops between Cole and Rowan as they fight to send the demon back to hell, and with all of the action and terror in between, you are drawn into this heartbreaking and insane tale of loss, grief, revenge, and horror from the very beginning. When it ends, you'll feel a loss, too. It's just that damn good.
May 9, 2025
First, I'd like to thank the author for sending me an ARC. Devil Music was an enjoyable read overall. It was a bit of a slow burn and it took me several days to finish but it was well worth the read!
Devil Music follows Rowan. She has been grieving her daughters death for 7 LONG years. Her daughter was horrifically murdered by two of her former classmates. Their actions were inspired by a heavy metal band and their lyrics. The lead singer of the band comes to Rowan and offers her the chance to get vengeance by making the two young men who killed her daughter, suffer just like she did. However, some doors can't be closed once open.
The writing was well done and I really liked how atmospheric it was. I also liked the court proceedings in between chapters. If you enjoy the occult and supernatural horror then this is a must read for you. And that cover is to die for!
Devil Music releases May 29th, 2025.
Devil Music follows Rowan. She has been grieving her daughters death for 7 LONG years. Her daughter was horrifically murdered by two of her former classmates. Their actions were inspired by a heavy metal band and their lyrics. The lead singer of the band comes to Rowan and offers her the chance to get vengeance by making the two young men who killed her daughter, suffer just like she did. However, some doors can't be closed once open.
The writing was well done and I really liked how atmospheric it was. I also liked the court proceedings in between chapters. If you enjoy the occult and supernatural horror then this is a must read for you. And that cover is to die for!
Devil Music releases May 29th, 2025.
May 27, 2025
🎸 Book Review 🎸
First, this cover is absolutely incredible. Second, this story was heartbreaking, horrifying, and makes you question what’s wrong, whats right, and how far you would go to avenge your child who was murdered. This was such a compelling read. Thank you so much to @michaelpenningauthor for the review copy! Publication Date May 29th, 2025
A woman has lost her 14 year old daughter in the most brutal and horrific way. She’s given an opportunity to exact revenge on her killers. What she doesn’t know is that she’s unleashing the wrath of hell, not only on the men she wants brought to justice, but on herself as well. Will she survive this trip into hell?
Summary:
She called for vengeance. Hell answered.
Rowan Pierce never stopped grieving. Not after the trial. Not after the guilty verdict. Not after seven long years of waking up to the same cold truth—her daughter, Lily, was gone. Murdered by two teenage classmates obsessed with the occult lyrics of the notorious heavy metal band, Haruspex. The world moved on. Rowan never did.
That all changes when Cole Abel, Haruspex’s infamous frontman, comes to her with a chilling offer—a way to make Lily’s killers suffer the way she did. To bring them pain beyond death. To make it right.
But the unholy force they summon cannot be controlled, and once the door is open, it won’t close. As the line between vengeance and damnation blurs, Rowan and Cole soon find themselves in a fight for survival against the very darkness they unleashed... and the price of revenge may be their very souls.
#bookstagram #bookstagrammer #horrorbookstagram #horrorbooks #indieauthorsofinstagram #supportindieauthors #bookrecs #bookreview #devilmusic #revenge #justice
First, this cover is absolutely incredible. Second, this story was heartbreaking, horrifying, and makes you question what’s wrong, whats right, and how far you would go to avenge your child who was murdered. This was such a compelling read. Thank you so much to @michaelpenningauthor for the review copy! Publication Date May 29th, 2025
A woman has lost her 14 year old daughter in the most brutal and horrific way. She’s given an opportunity to exact revenge on her killers. What she doesn’t know is that she’s unleashing the wrath of hell, not only on the men she wants brought to justice, but on herself as well. Will she survive this trip into hell?
Summary:
She called for vengeance. Hell answered.
Rowan Pierce never stopped grieving. Not after the trial. Not after the guilty verdict. Not after seven long years of waking up to the same cold truth—her daughter, Lily, was gone. Murdered by two teenage classmates obsessed with the occult lyrics of the notorious heavy metal band, Haruspex. The world moved on. Rowan never did.
That all changes when Cole Abel, Haruspex’s infamous frontman, comes to her with a chilling offer—a way to make Lily’s killers suffer the way she did. To bring them pain beyond death. To make it right.
But the unholy force they summon cannot be controlled, and once the door is open, it won’t close. As the line between vengeance and damnation blurs, Rowan and Cole soon find themselves in a fight for survival against the very darkness they unleashed... and the price of revenge may be their very souls.
#bookstagram #bookstagrammer #horrorbookstagram #horrorbooks #indieauthorsofinstagram #supportindieauthors #bookrecs #bookreview #devilmusic #revenge #justice
May 22, 2025
Rowan has been grieving her daughter’s death for seven years and wants
justice. She is ready to take matters into her own hands.
Rowan’s teenage daughter was killed by two boys she considered friends. The boys claimed they were influenced by heavy metal music written by Cole Abel, frontman of a heavy metal band. Rowan can’t stop blaming herself, but she also blames the author and singer of the music the two boys claim influenced them. Rowan wants justice and is ready to make those who committed the heinous acts that took her daughter’s life, pay. An eye for an eye.
However, Rowan gets more than she bargained for and it may end up costing her, her life. She has summoned a demon from hell and the demon is not willing to let Rowan go.
I really enjoyed this story! I enjoy descriptive & visceral books. Penning is amazing at describing vivid images and smells.
I looked forward to reading more from Michael Penning.
justice. She is ready to take matters into her own hands.
Rowan’s teenage daughter was killed by two boys she considered friends. The boys claimed they were influenced by heavy metal music written by Cole Abel, frontman of a heavy metal band. Rowan can’t stop blaming herself, but she also blames the author and singer of the music the two boys claim influenced them. Rowan wants justice and is ready to make those who committed the heinous acts that took her daughter’s life, pay. An eye for an eye.
However, Rowan gets more than she bargained for and it may end up costing her, her life. She has summoned a demon from hell and the demon is not willing to let Rowan go.
I really enjoyed this story! I enjoy descriptive & visceral books. Penning is amazing at describing vivid images and smells.
I looked forward to reading more from Michael Penning.
June 4, 2025
The setup: Rowan, bereaved mother of a teenage girl killed by two devil worshipping metalheads, yearns for vengeance. When the lead singer of the thrash metal band her daughter’s killers idolized makes her an offer that will seemingly fulfill her desires, she accepts. But, as we all learned from The Monkey’s Paw, one needs to be careful what they wish for.
On the plus side, this book brought together a lot of elements I like. Heavy metal. Occult worship. Creepy demons that take on the appearance of loved ones. And some twists and turns I did not see coming.
On the downside, I found the prose thick with too many adjectives and extraneous, sometimes repetitive clauses. That’s not my bag, but some people seem to really love that gothic flair.
All that said, it had some fun moments and I give it four stars.
On the plus side, this book brought together a lot of elements I like. Heavy metal. Occult worship. Creepy demons that take on the appearance of loved ones. And some twists and turns I did not see coming.
On the downside, I found the prose thick with too many adjectives and extraneous, sometimes repetitive clauses. That’s not my bag, but some people seem to really love that gothic flair.
All that said, it had some fun moments and I give it four stars.
April 21, 2025
Great read that took me back to the 80s-90s where ‘Devil Music’ was a big fear and the panic shaped the culture. Penning’s writing is fluid, well paced and perfectly descriptive. Rowan’s daughter is murdered by two classmates who were influenced by Cole’s music. Rowan and Cole are brought together for retribution; to make Lily’s killers suffer the way she did and redemption; to make things right. I found myself holding my breath at times! I was concerned that the buildup would lead to an anticlimactic showdown but Penning brought the intensity through to the last page! This book had everything I expected from death, possession, demons, rituals, grief, fear, and horror. When you make a deal with the devil, there will be hell to pay.
May 17, 2025
Wow, what a ride! A mother consumed by grief after her daughter's brutal murder seven years prior, by her own classmates, is approached by the lead singer of a heavy metal band. This band essentially inspired the attack by the two classmates who took her daughter's life. When she is offered a path to vengeance, a chance to make them suffer as she has, there’s no slowing down. From the very start, I was immersed. The author is skilled in world-building, really bringing everything to life. The deep pain, heavy desperation, and pure drive for retribution make for a gripping journey. This one really makes you think, makes you wonder — how far would you go to make someone pay, and how far into the dark side of existence would you travel to make it happen?
May 5, 2025
A grotesque, fast-paced demon novel to kick off the summer of '25! Temperatures will be soaring soon, but i was freezing when I read "Devil Music." It's presented through court transcripts, violent doppelgangers, and killer guitar riffs that summon all kinds of evil shit. The New England setting presented here is flawless in writing and was a highlight for me; if you're looking for something with a cold and rainy atmosphere (think Tessier) for the Halloween season, I can't recommend this enough. If you're someone who's looking for a throwback that references various death metal bands and some songs from the 80s/90s, you will leave feeling highly dissapointed.
June 22, 2025
A dark, emotional supernatural revenge story which utilizes the heavy metal and the dark undertones it can sometimes contain to great effect.
The story follows Rowan Pierce, a mother whose life has been forever change by two boys when they end her daughter's life Lilly after being influenced by their favorite bands lyrics in a ritualistic killing. Years later, she has reached a point where she wants to end the two boys, one of which is released from jail early but she find herself unable to pull the trigger when she has the opportunity.
Its then that she meets Cole Abel, the frontman of the band the two boys had worshipped and she ends up partnering with him to exact revenge, using the power of music to bring forth a dark power that they enlist to end the two men and bring justice to Lilly.
But the thing they bring forth isn't what it seems and soon the pair of them find themselves fighting for survival against the evil they have unleashed.
The story is super dark, especially at the beginning. The way emotions are written in this book really bring this to light, especially the grief and hatred Rowan feels. The way music is utilized in this one is unique and the descriptions of its use is top notch. The pacing is a little bit slower than I'd like as it gets a little bogged down in overly descriptive scenes and the occassional repetitive thought processes and the prose is quite heavy but I enjoyed it nonetheless.
Overall, its a quality read and would recommend it to anyone who enjoys a bit of metal with their horror.
The story follows Rowan Pierce, a mother whose life has been forever change by two boys when they end her daughter's life Lilly after being influenced by their favorite bands lyrics in a ritualistic killing. Years later, she has reached a point where she wants to end the two boys, one of which is released from jail early but she find herself unable to pull the trigger when she has the opportunity.
Its then that she meets Cole Abel, the frontman of the band the two boys had worshipped and she ends up partnering with him to exact revenge, using the power of music to bring forth a dark power that they enlist to end the two men and bring justice to Lilly.
But the thing they bring forth isn't what it seems and soon the pair of them find themselves fighting for survival against the evil they have unleashed.
The story is super dark, especially at the beginning. The way emotions are written in this book really bring this to light, especially the grief and hatred Rowan feels. The way music is utilized in this one is unique and the descriptions of its use is top notch. The pacing is a little bit slower than I'd like as it gets a little bogged down in overly descriptive scenes and the occassional repetitive thought processes and the prose is quite heavy but I enjoyed it nonetheless.
Overall, its a quality read and would recommend it to anyone who enjoys a bit of metal with their horror.
July 9, 2025
Devils music is a supernatural tale of grief, pain, desperation and the need for revenge focused around the panic around heavy metal aka devils music in the late 80’s early 90’s. A story
Rowan a mother consumed with grief who's lost her teenage daughter 7 years prior to two male classmates obsessed with the demonic promises. That are supposedly hidden in the lyrics of heavy metal if they give him a virgin sacrifice. She wants revenge on these boys and teams up with the last person she expected. Only her plan goes wrong when she bargain with the demonic force she's summoned turn against her.
Rowan a mother consumed with grief who's lost her teenage daughter 7 years prior to two male classmates obsessed with the demonic promises. That are supposedly hidden in the lyrics of heavy metal if they give him a virgin sacrifice. She wants revenge on these boys and teams up with the last person she expected. Only her plan goes wrong when she bargain with the demonic force she's summoned turn against her.
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