Angels, demons, and forbidden love interlace in this dark fantasy of Dantalion, a condemned demon from an ancient seventeenth century grimoire. He seduces a mortal college girl and practitioner of the occult named Laurel, who summons his true demonic form in the Courtyard of the Undead, creating an unexplainable relationship of love, obsession and redemption.
Assessment:
Plot: Actually a trilogy of books in one collection, this unique story tells of the fall and redemption of a biblical demon, and of his love with a human woman.
Prose/Style: The writing is clear and easy to follow, though the biblical diction can sometimes feel stilted. The dialogue reads naturally and enhances the already meticulously detailed characterization.
Originality: This story is original and rare. The author clearly researched Christian occultism during writing and used that knowledge to great effect, creating an authentic mythos that allows for an intriguing and unique plot.
Character Development: Dantalion is a complex character and is well-developed over the course of the conflicts between the three books. Laurel, the human to whom Dantalion is bound, goes through tremendous transformation, although her interior journey is less dynamic.
Date Submitted: May 18, 2020
"Good and evil, love and hate are such obsolutes in a non-absolute world. Tina M.E. weaves a unique story of love, corruption, redemption,and what it means in our search for something greater. 'Dantalion Of The Goetia' is a truly unique and fascinating read, very much recommended."
