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The Demon Within
Updated cover edition found here.
Joe grew up listening to the voice in his head. It helped him through school, helped him gain wealth in his career.
The final temptation of power was too much. He hadn't considered the cost.
Now he must find a way to defeat The Demon Within.
Little does he know, his every move is being recorded. Every misstep is being judged. As he gets ever closer to winning over his demon, heavenly eyes watch from above. Some root for his success while others hope he'll fail.
While Joe fights his demon on the battlefront, the angel Michael fights for his Soul.
Will Joe win out? Will Michael be able to save Joe's soul?
Or will the Demon win and thrust Joe into the Abyss.
Joe grew up listening to the voice in his head. It helped him through school, helped him gain wealth in his career.
The final temptation of power was too much. He hadn't considered the cost.
Now he must find a way to defeat The Demon Within.
Little does he know, his every move is being recorded. Every misstep is being judged. As he gets ever closer to winning over his demon, heavenly eyes watch from above. Some root for his success while others hope he'll fail.
While Joe fights his demon on the battlefront, the angel Michael fights for his Soul.
Will Joe win out? Will Michael be able to save Joe's soul?
Or will the Demon win and thrust Joe into the Abyss.
218 pages, Paperback
First published February 3, 2015
1 person is currently reading
20 people want to read
About the author
Joshua Gagnier
1 book6 followersJosh has had a knack for writing from a young age; mostly poetry. 'The Demon Within' is his debut novel and, according to Josh, nearly wrote itself. He is a US Army veteran and has been deployed to the Balkans and Middle East. He has been an IT professional for about a decade.
Many of the events in 'The Demon Within' were taken from Josh's life and "put through the fiction blender" as he puts it. When pressed for more details, he said he couldn't give specifics for fear of "giving spoilers," but, he did say the book includes fictional spins on things ranging from childhood bullying to being placed in the Las Vegas foster care system.
He currently lives in Columbus OH with his family and is working on book two of his 'The Last War' series.
Many of the events in 'The Demon Within' were taken from Josh's life and "put through the fiction blender" as he puts it. When pressed for more details, he said he couldn't give specifics for fear of "giving spoilers," but, he did say the book includes fictional spins on things ranging from childhood bullying to being placed in the Las Vegas foster care system.
He currently lives in Columbus OH with his family and is working on book two of his 'The Last War' series.
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
February 7, 2018
The concept of good versus evil isn’t as black and white as we like to think. Take Joe for instance, who had an inner voice that made him a success in life, but was it more than his own calculations, his own thoughts? Was it temptation luring him to go just one step too far or was it a demon vying for control? Are demons real and do they exist within us, along with our soul? Is the playing field level? Are they part of a spiritual “test’’ to determine our eternal fate? What if judgement day was a spiritual courtroom and our earthly body housed a soul to be tested by a demon and our actions were on trial, Perry Mason style?
THE DEMON WITHIN by Josh Gagnier is a fascinating tale of one man, being judged throughout his life as he faces life and its choices head on. Will he be tempted to go one step too far for his soul to be redeemed? As Joe lives his life, on another plane of existence, court is in session but not everyone will know the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth about Joe or the importance the verdict will carry.
Josh Gagnier has told a masterful tale that engages readers while doling out just enough information to allow us to think ahead, only to discover we “didn’t see that coming” or even suspect where we would be taken. Alternating between Joe’s life and those participating in his trial was a fascinating way to lay out the puzzle pieces that make up this tale!
Great characters, nothing is black and white and the suspense is killer! Great writing, great reading and certainly a standout for those looking for something colored just a little outside the lines of predictable reading.
I received a complimentary copy from Josh Gagnier!
Series: The Last War - Book 1
Publisher: PorterMouth (February 3, 2015)
Publication Date: February 3, 2015
Genre: Fantasy | Sci-fi
Print Length: 212 pages
Available from: Amazon
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
THE DEMON WITHIN by Josh Gagnier is a fascinating tale of one man, being judged throughout his life as he faces life and its choices head on. Will he be tempted to go one step too far for his soul to be redeemed? As Joe lives his life, on another plane of existence, court is in session but not everyone will know the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth about Joe or the importance the verdict will carry.
Josh Gagnier has told a masterful tale that engages readers while doling out just enough information to allow us to think ahead, only to discover we “didn’t see that coming” or even suspect where we would be taken. Alternating between Joe’s life and those participating in his trial was a fascinating way to lay out the puzzle pieces that make up this tale!
Great characters, nothing is black and white and the suspense is killer! Great writing, great reading and certainly a standout for those looking for something colored just a little outside the lines of predictable reading.
I received a complimentary copy from Josh Gagnier!
Series: The Last War - Book 1
Publisher: PorterMouth (February 3, 2015)
Publication Date: February 3, 2015
Genre: Fantasy | Sci-fi
Print Length: 212 pages
Available from: Amazon
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
March 28, 2018
First…I must say…HOLY CANNOLI. This was not AT all what I was expecting. When I closed this book I was blinking and had to reflect what I had just read.
The story follows Joe who is battling his demon and his goodness. He stumbles into this world of witches, demons, and so much more. Poor guy has had some tough breaks for sure. It seems like no matter what he does the people he loves either get killed or hurt. The story goes along and you learn things that you do not expect. I had no idea what was going to happen next!
I will admit it took me a little while to really get into the story. Honestly, I feel like I was confused the first few pages. Once I got a grasp on the world and what was going on, I was able to really enjoy the story. Maybe this was done on purpose? Joe is confused too. Sooo it makes sense.
This was short and I wanted more. There was a cliffhanger, but it was a good one. Not too cliffhanger-ish if you get what I mean. It was done well and I do want to read the next one!!
I felt bad for Joe…hopefully he catches a break in the next one.
I adored his “monitor” Belath. Hopefully, we learn more about him in the future!! Maybe someday get a short story about his past ;)
In the end, this was really good. The beginning was a little rocky, but once I got my footing in this world I was able to enjoy the journey. I had NO clue what was going to happen next. I tried to guess, but all my guesses were wrong. It was nice! I’m usually good at guessing. I do recommend this! I’ll stamp this with 4 stars.
The story follows Joe who is battling his demon and his goodness. He stumbles into this world of witches, demons, and so much more. Poor guy has had some tough breaks for sure. It seems like no matter what he does the people he loves either get killed or hurt. The story goes along and you learn things that you do not expect. I had no idea what was going to happen next!
I will admit it took me a little while to really get into the story. Honestly, I feel like I was confused the first few pages. Once I got a grasp on the world and what was going on, I was able to really enjoy the story. Maybe this was done on purpose? Joe is confused too. Sooo it makes sense.
This was short and I wanted more. There was a cliffhanger, but it was a good one. Not too cliffhanger-ish if you get what I mean. It was done well and I do want to read the next one!!
I felt bad for Joe…hopefully he catches a break in the next one.
I adored his “monitor” Belath. Hopefully, we learn more about him in the future!! Maybe someday get a short story about his past ;)
In the end, this was really good. The beginning was a little rocky, but once I got my footing in this world I was able to enjoy the journey. I had NO clue what was going to happen next. I tried to guess, but all my guesses were wrong. It was nice! I’m usually good at guessing. I do recommend this! I’ll stamp this with 4 stars.
March 15, 2018
If you like books containing plot twist after plot twist after plot twist, then this is the book for you. You want to keep reading until you find out what is going on.
It starts out as a courtroom drama – of the sort that involves judging whether a soul is to enter Paradise or be thrown into the Abyss. It seems, on further investigation, however, that the worlds involved are neither the physical world as we know it nor the after-death judgments of any of the religions with which we are familiar – despite a certain similarity of names among the characters involved in the judgment council.
In this world system, every person is born with both a soul – a good part – and what is called a Diabolus Entos, or inner demon. Normally a person is born with a soul and a Diabolus Entos that have lived approximately the same number of lives already so that they are of similar strength. With each life lived both get stronger. They go along together until one definitely overcomes the other. If the soul is judged to be worthy, it is granted Paradise. If the demon is judged to have won, the soul is cast into the Abyss. If the judgment council can’t make a definitive decision, the soul is returned to the physical dimension with the same Born-in until one overcomes the other.
The person under judgment in this trial has a Diabolus Entos twenty times stronger than his soul.
The soul tries heroically, but by the time he reaches adulthood, it seems every time he tries to do what he thinks is good, people around him get hurt.
But who is this soul? And why has there been so much involvement by the Council in his life? What at first starts out as a person getting help from his inner demon to defeat his enemies and help people out rapidly dissolves into scenes involving attacks by witches and a search for a mysterious Demon Orb that is supposed to remove a person’s Diabolus Entos – if the person can pass all the tests required to use the Orb. But the more that is revealed of the soul’s life, the more confusing it all becomes. Until finally even good and evil become twisted up.
Thanks to the author and Teddy Rose at Virtual Author Book Tours.com for a review copy of this book.
I read this book for a blog tour. You can visit the post on my website ( https://www.ettria.com/?p=1589 ) for an expanded version of this review. You can also access a giveaway for a copy of the book and a gift card there. The giveaway ends April 27.
It starts out as a courtroom drama – of the sort that involves judging whether a soul is to enter Paradise or be thrown into the Abyss. It seems, on further investigation, however, that the worlds involved are neither the physical world as we know it nor the after-death judgments of any of the religions with which we are familiar – despite a certain similarity of names among the characters involved in the judgment council.
In this world system, every person is born with both a soul – a good part – and what is called a Diabolus Entos, or inner demon. Normally a person is born with a soul and a Diabolus Entos that have lived approximately the same number of lives already so that they are of similar strength. With each life lived both get stronger. They go along together until one definitely overcomes the other. If the soul is judged to be worthy, it is granted Paradise. If the demon is judged to have won, the soul is cast into the Abyss. If the judgment council can’t make a definitive decision, the soul is returned to the physical dimension with the same Born-in until one overcomes the other.
The person under judgment in this trial has a Diabolus Entos twenty times stronger than his soul.
The soul tries heroically, but by the time he reaches adulthood, it seems every time he tries to do what he thinks is good, people around him get hurt.
But who is this soul? And why has there been so much involvement by the Council in his life? What at first starts out as a person getting help from his inner demon to defeat his enemies and help people out rapidly dissolves into scenes involving attacks by witches and a search for a mysterious Demon Orb that is supposed to remove a person’s Diabolus Entos – if the person can pass all the tests required to use the Orb. But the more that is revealed of the soul’s life, the more confusing it all becomes. Until finally even good and evil become twisted up.
Thanks to the author and Teddy Rose at Virtual Author Book Tours.com for a review copy of this book.
I read this book for a blog tour. You can visit the post on my website ( https://www.ettria.com/?p=1589 ) for an expanded version of this review. You can also access a giveaway for a copy of the book and a gift card there. The giveaway ends April 27.
June 30, 2018
There's nothing I love more than a good sci-fi/fantasy novel that I can sink my teeth into on a cold day. I bought this one on a whim and I'm so glad I did because I loved it!
I couldn't put it down! I read through in about two days and I'm desperate for the next book in the series now.
The basic premise is that the main character, Joe grows up with a voice in his head. Joe feels that the voice helps him to make decisions and makes him a success in the business world. But was it just his intuition or something darker? Joe is faced with the choice to take a final step toward his inner demon that will potentially change him forever and make his soul irredeemable.
Little does Joe know, his every action is being watched by a council of angels whose job it is to decide what will ultimately become of him.
I can honestly say I've never read another book quite like this one. It was so original and inventive. I loved the story device of the angels watching Joe on earth and judging his actions. When it came down to the climax of the book I was actually really tense about what Joe's choice would be.
Gagnier's writing was descriptive without adding a lot of unnecessary details or using any cheap literary devices. I was surprised to see that this is his debut novel because he writes like an author with a lot of experience under his belt. I definitely intend to follow his career from now on.
Would definitely recommend this book if you're on the fence about reading it. It's worth it. I hope the author is planning on releasing the next one soon! I'll be checking up daily until he does.
I couldn't put it down! I read through in about two days and I'm desperate for the next book in the series now.
The basic premise is that the main character, Joe grows up with a voice in his head. Joe feels that the voice helps him to make decisions and makes him a success in the business world. But was it just his intuition or something darker? Joe is faced with the choice to take a final step toward his inner demon that will potentially change him forever and make his soul irredeemable.
Little does Joe know, his every action is being watched by a council of angels whose job it is to decide what will ultimately become of him.
I can honestly say I've never read another book quite like this one. It was so original and inventive. I loved the story device of the angels watching Joe on earth and judging his actions. When it came down to the climax of the book I was actually really tense about what Joe's choice would be.
Gagnier's writing was descriptive without adding a lot of unnecessary details or using any cheap literary devices. I was surprised to see that this is his debut novel because he writes like an author with a lot of experience under his belt. I definitely intend to follow his career from now on.
Would definitely recommend this book if you're on the fence about reading it. It's worth it. I hope the author is planning on releasing the next one soon! I'll be checking up daily until he does.
April 25, 2018
We all are born with a demon inside of us. Its power depends on several factors but what we do with this demon determines if you go to heaven or hell. This is the story of Joe. He grew up hearing voices and one day decided to listen to them. What follows is him learning about his demon and the abilities he has when he works together with his demon. But not everything the demon has is good news and Joe is going to learn the hard way that the demon cannot be trusted.
At the same time we follow along as Joe is tried on all of his actions and the repercussions. But there is more to this trial than just if Joe wins or the demon. The counsel has more roles to Joe’s story than just judgment. This decision could affect everything we know of heaven and hell.
This was an interesting read. I didn’t know what to expect when I started this book and I admit that it took me a little bit to figure out what was really happening. I still don’t know if I fully understand the ending but it wrapped everything up while creating a step to the next book in the series.
This is one of those books that I think you need to check out to decide for yourself. It’s hard to classify it and it really depends on the reader.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I voluntarily chose to read and post an honest review.
At the same time we follow along as Joe is tried on all of his actions and the repercussions. But there is more to this trial than just if Joe wins or the demon. The counsel has more roles to Joe’s story than just judgment. This decision could affect everything we know of heaven and hell.
This was an interesting read. I didn’t know what to expect when I started this book and I admit that it took me a little bit to figure out what was really happening. I still don’t know if I fully understand the ending but it wrapped everything up while creating a step to the next book in the series.
This is one of those books that I think you need to check out to decide for yourself. It’s hard to classify it and it really depends on the reader.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. I voluntarily chose to read and post an honest review.
December 7, 2017
Every soul is judged by events throughout his or her life. Some souls have lived many lives, and each soul that is born has a demon within. Usually, one that has lived similar amount of lives to the soul but that’s not always the case.
Joe has heard a voice inside his head since he was a child. After a little guidance from a teacher, he finds that he can also converse with this voice within his head. The voice knows things and can help him to defend himself and to help others.
Michael is defending Joe’s soul in front of the council to decide the soul's fate; Paradise or the Abyss? This soul seems different but Michael has no idea why. It seems like Prophecy is trying to help Michael win his case but Michael is unsure whether that’s even possible.
This was a very different read than I’ve had in a while. Well written and constructed, if you are looking for something original this is the book for you. There were times that I was a little confused on what was happening but I think that was the point.
Joe has heard a voice inside his head since he was a child. After a little guidance from a teacher, he finds that he can also converse with this voice within his head. The voice knows things and can help him to defend himself and to help others.
Michael is defending Joe’s soul in front of the council to decide the soul's fate; Paradise or the Abyss? This soul seems different but Michael has no idea why. It seems like Prophecy is trying to help Michael win his case but Michael is unsure whether that’s even possible.
This was a very different read than I’ve had in a while. Well written and constructed, if you are looking for something original this is the book for you. There were times that I was a little confused on what was happening but I think that was the point.
March 24, 2018
When violence is used in a film or a book, I hope it’s use will bring something to the story, not only to show how ‘bad’ or ‘serious’ the villain or threat is, but to bring something else, some depth to the story, and this is the approach I was hoping to see one day.
Fighting your demons, it’s easier to say it than to get it done, but it’s not impossible, and this time, not only Joe will have to fight against his demons but also the angels will aid him, but how far can he get?
I was completely blown away with how amazing and unique the story is, yes I know, the plot is not that unique but the approach is, and I didn’t expect any of the twists to really happen, everything caught off guard in this book and that’s why I enjoyed so much, the gore action and violence serves as a fundamental bridge to develop the characters and move forward with the plot, everything has a meaning, a purpose, and if you think something is not right, you were probably right, read again to catch those clues undetected.
Fighting your demons, it’s easier to say it than to get it done, but it’s not impossible, and this time, not only Joe will have to fight against his demons but also the angels will aid him, but how far can he get?
I was completely blown away with how amazing and unique the story is, yes I know, the plot is not that unique but the approach is, and I didn’t expect any of the twists to really happen, everything caught off guard in this book and that’s why I enjoyed so much, the gore action and violence serves as a fundamental bridge to develop the characters and move forward with the plot, everything has a meaning, a purpose, and if you think something is not right, you were probably right, read again to catch those clues undetected.
March 22, 2018
The Demon Within (The Last Waar, #1) by Joshua Gagnier is not your typical horror/fantasy book. This is an engaging tale of one soul's fight for survival amidst incredible odds. The book opens with a courtroom drama, another realm, and moves into the physical world, the one we all live in. This story is beautifully written, which is somewhat of a surprise, but the author does a admirable job of creating scenes and making them memorable. There are many themes running concurrently in this book, from redemption to the afterlife, to the ultimate judgment and compassion. Re-incarnation is the prevalent theme though, and is handled with care, making the premise believable. Joe, a troubled character must fight his demon within, or be relegated to the abyss for an eternity. Multiple points of view makes the reading challenging at times, but beyond that the story works. Compelling reading that will make you question how you live your life, as well as how you perceive the afterlife.
March 2, 2018
Complex and Fascinating
This book is not what I expected it to be. I expected a run of the mill horror story, maybe a justification for some sort of psychopath...But I got so much more: an alternate mythology. This is a story within a story, with many episodes. At first, it can feel a bit too complicated, but I assure you that it straightens out soon enough and becomes a multi-layered hero story. I cannot really offer a synopsis of the plot without giving too much away. Let me just say: read the book. It is worth it, and you will find genuine affection for several of the characters. I am looking forward to reading future installments. Oh, and the writing is excellent! Those who read my reviews know that 1. I am a sucker for a great story (and this IS one!) And 2. I am a stickler about good writing. This is good writing, well written. Bravo! A+
This book is not what I expected it to be. I expected a run of the mill horror story, maybe a justification for some sort of psychopath...But I got so much more: an alternate mythology. This is a story within a story, with many episodes. At first, it can feel a bit too complicated, but I assure you that it straightens out soon enough and becomes a multi-layered hero story. I cannot really offer a synopsis of the plot without giving too much away. Let me just say: read the book. It is worth it, and you will find genuine affection for several of the characters. I am looking forward to reading future installments. Oh, and the writing is excellent! Those who read my reviews know that 1. I am a sucker for a great story (and this IS one!) And 2. I am a stickler about good writing. This is good writing, well written. Bravo! A+
April 1, 2018
A well written fantasy book that does a wonderful job of engaging the reader. From the very start this book pulled me in. The details were well written and provided making this an easy read that really came to life for me. The author, Josh Gagnier, really creates a wonderful fantasy world that feels as if it was real. I found that I not only understood the main characters struggle but I felt that I too had my own personal struggle as I read this book. This was the type of series opener that really makes for a wonderful series and makes the reader want to follow along and find out what is going to happen in the next book and how can the author make this anymore better. Honestly, I looked to see when the next book would be release once I completed this book. I highly recommend giving this book a chance.
April 2, 2018
The Demon within (The last war book 1) by Josh Gagnier is the first in a fascinating series.
From the first couple of chapters the readers interest is captured. The book opens with a court scene in another realm. The reader follows the hero of the story Joe. As he grew up he listened to the voices in his head, however it helped him through his school life and also to gain a great career. Unfortunately with power all must pay a price, sadly Joe hadn't considered this. Although his demons doesn't realise that every step he takes is being judged. Above beings are pro Joe and some are hoping he fails.
What I liked is that although some books portray a person's demons and angels on their shoulders this was more realistic. Everyone has both inside them and often have to battle their inner demons to survive. A fab start to the series I hope the 2nd is released soon.
From the first couple of chapters the readers interest is captured. The book opens with a court scene in another realm. The reader follows the hero of the story Joe. As he grew up he listened to the voices in his head, however it helped him through his school life and also to gain a great career. Unfortunately with power all must pay a price, sadly Joe hadn't considered this. Although his demons doesn't realise that every step he takes is being judged. Above beings are pro Joe and some are hoping he fails.
What I liked is that although some books portray a person's demons and angels on their shoulders this was more realistic. Everyone has both inside them and often have to battle their inner demons to survive. A fab start to the series I hope the 2nd is released soon.
April 14, 2018
Have you always had this little voice whispering in your head about what o do in certain situations? Has this voice actually helped you through life? Ever wondered where it came from? This book takes a new twist on the story of Satan whispering in humanities ear and twisting them to his own purpose. Our main character Joe has had a voice in his head that has helped him time and time again, and Joe never realized that each time he listened to it, he lost a little piece of his soul. When Joe finally starts to resist and fight the whisperings of the voice, he finds surprising help from the Angel Michael who is battling for Joes soul.
Even though this story has in some form or another been told, this author is able to give his own unique twist on it which keeps this story refreshing and new. The writing style is great and we are treated to some wonderful worldbuilding
Even though this story has in some form or another been told, this author is able to give his own unique twist on it which keeps this story refreshing and new. The writing style is great and we are treated to some wonderful worldbuilding
April 18, 2018
An interesting take on the daily battles we face and battling our inner demon to choose the good vs. the bad. The story was well-constructed and although the fist few chapters are a bit confusing and it takes some effort to understand what is going on, it smooths out after that. There are a LOT of twists I did not see coming which kept it exciting and intriguing. Joe is a man who has tried to make the right decisions all his life but things just keep happening. Joe also has an Angel known as Michael who is fighting for Joe too. The story drifts between both characters and I thought it was well-written and original. This book was short, but it has a unique take on timeless good versus evil plot, and it was exceptional!
April 26, 2018
This was a very intriguing book. Well written, well thought out and stunningly executed, it took me by surprise. I've read books before about angels, demons and gods and goddesses overseeing the fate of mankind, but this book takes it to another level and adds something different to the mix. While being a story full of bloody fights and action, it also asks you to think on a subliminal level. There is also a follow-up book coming in which the story continues, which I didn't expect, but I'm very glad it does. This story, and these characters, have beguiled me such that I want to continue on their journey with them. If you like lots of action, and something a bit different, this ride is for you.
March 22, 2018
A fantasy supernatural story of inner battles we face
The demon within is a good story about Joe who has spent his life trying to battle his inner demons and move in a positive direction in life. As he is fighting his personal battle, the angel Michael is fighting another battle for Joe. The story moves from Joe to Micheal as the story unfolds. The transitions are seamless and the story is well written with great character development. A easy great read for anyone who likes the fantasy supernatural genre.
The demon within is a good story about Joe who has spent his life trying to battle his inner demons and move in a positive direction in life. As he is fighting his personal battle, the angel Michael is fighting another battle for Joe. The story moves from Joe to Micheal as the story unfolds. The transitions are seamless and the story is well written with great character development. A easy great read for anyone who likes the fantasy supernatural genre.
April 1, 2018
“The Demon Within (Last War Book 1) is a very intricate tale about the good and bad within all of us and individuals’ constant fight to keep a balance to prevent one from overcoming the other. The care of our soul is pretty much the centre piece of this story, with Joe the one burdened with picking good over evil.
His constant attempts to do only good which then derails into a whole catastrophe I think mimics most of our own attempts to live our lives. However, in everything Joe does, his soul runs the risk of being sent to the Abyss.
A very good read that has the real story running parallel which really keeps you involved.
His constant attempts to do only good which then derails into a whole catastrophe I think mimics most of our own attempts to live our lives. However, in everything Joe does, his soul runs the risk of being sent to the Abyss.
A very good read that has the real story running parallel which really keeps you involved.
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews