A review by bethteva
A Demon in the Desert by Ashe Armstrong

4.0

This one's been in my "to read" pile for way too long and I regret taking as long as I did to read it.
It kept me sane and happy during a long day of flying and layovers.
The story isn't anything revolutionary, but it doesn't need to be. It's fun and fast enough, and with just the right mix of different genre elements that I came away satisfied.
This is one of those books that makes me love Fantasy. Especially fantasy that isn't afraid to bend the rules. Because of course orcs are badass, revolver toting demon hunters.
Speaking of badass orcs, Grimluk is definitely that. From the opening pages we're shown this, and it's just confirmed with every new trial he faces.
Now, I have to admit, I am not an expert in every genre that's been folded into this story, but I feel like everything is represented pretty well. You've got same great quickdraw action, one shootout early on is very satisfying. There's some good horror in there, too. Needs to be when you're dealing with demons.
Then the fantasy. Elves, dwarves, and halflings running around. Every time a new character was introduced I could see every d&d session ever when the players insist on hearing every npc's heritage and backstory.
So, to sum it up: really, really enjoyed the read. Very much looking forward to the next one.