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Cocktails in Hell #2
A Shake of Succubus
Violet is the newest Potionsmaster, Guardian of the Hell Gates, and Lucifer has his eye on her . . .
With her life a weird mess right now, Violet has no one to turn to. Az is still in hiding, and she's never been able to trust Max. Lucifer has offered a shoulder, but Violet knows better than to trust the original Serpent and her brand spanking new employer.
Doesn't she?
As the hunt for the creature who escaped the boundaries continues, more Potionsmasters meet their ends. But when someone she definitely shouldn't trust offers her a cryptic clue, Violet has to decide if her life is worth the truth. Can she endanger everyone she loves and the entire world to save her own hide?
Or will she make the ultimate sacrifice and take her secret to the grave?
With her life a weird mess right now, Violet has no one to turn to. Az is still in hiding, and she's never been able to trust Max. Lucifer has offered a shoulder, but Violet knows better than to trust the original Serpent and her brand spanking new employer.
Doesn't she?
As the hunt for the creature who escaped the boundaries continues, more Potionsmasters meet their ends. But when someone she definitely shouldn't trust offers her a cryptic clue, Violet has to decide if her life is worth the truth. Can she endanger everyone she loves and the entire world to save her own hide?
Or will she make the ultimate sacrifice and take her secret to the grave?
Audible Audio
First published July 26, 2023
328 people are currently reading
68 people want to read
About the author
S.E. Babin
91 books404 followersS.E. Babin has a passion for writing books with a paranormal twist. Whether it's romance or mystery, she loves taking the norm and turning it into the extraordinary. Her love of reading turned into a curious exploration to see whether or not she could write her own novel.
Beginning with random, terrible poetry and a slightly popular reimagining of Beowulf's Grendel in her high school English class, Sheryl spent way too much time in the library, killing any chance of her becoming a cheerleader or anything even remotely cool. Find her on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/SEBabin. She loves to hear from readers!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
June 23, 2024
The Devil, a demon, and a hybrid something walked out of the bar and headed down the streets of New Orleans in order to catch a rogue angel.
Our favourite paranormal "something", Violet, is a potionmaster and Guardian of the portal in New Orleans. Her bar, Swan's Noveltini's has been moved to the portal, along with her bartender, Landry, and her fairies, Keelie and Olive. However, hosting demons every night brings lot of challenges, and none of them quiet. Especially when someone is killing Guardians and Violet could very well be the next one targeted.
I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE this series. It's so different from what I've been reading lately and the first book, A Twist of Demons, absolutely hooked me! I was all ready for more adventures with Violet. We definitely find out more about Violet in this second adventure, and meet new characters... some of them angelic and some of them demon persuasion!
A Shake of Succubus builds on the first story and is so good! I really don't want to give too much away but a war is brewing and I can already tell I'm going to want to read the rest of the series very quickly!!! With it's sharp wit and memorable characters this is a series that I need more, more, more of!
"I do not like cheese." What the fuck kind of monster doesn't like cheese? "Lactose intolerance?" The demon sniffed. "Demons do not suffer human ailments." "Oh. Forgive me. Then you're a pyscho".
Cocktails in Hell is part Lucifer, part Good Omens and part Dresden Files and 100% awesome! If you like demons, angels and sexy characters then you really need to be reading this series! Trust me you won't be disappointed.
Our favourite paranormal "something", Violet, is a potionmaster and Guardian of the portal in New Orleans. Her bar, Swan's Noveltini's has been moved to the portal, along with her bartender, Landry, and her fairies, Keelie and Olive. However, hosting demons every night brings lot of challenges, and none of them quiet. Especially when someone is killing Guardians and Violet could very well be the next one targeted.
I LOVE, LOVE, LOVE this series. It's so different from what I've been reading lately and the first book, A Twist of Demons, absolutely hooked me! I was all ready for more adventures with Violet. We definitely find out more about Violet in this second adventure, and meet new characters... some of them angelic and some of them demon persuasion!
A Shake of Succubus builds on the first story and is so good! I really don't want to give too much away but a war is brewing and I can already tell I'm going to want to read the rest of the series very quickly!!! With it's sharp wit and memorable characters this is a series that I need more, more, more of!
"I do not like cheese." What the fuck kind of monster doesn't like cheese? "Lactose intolerance?" The demon sniffed. "Demons do not suffer human ailments." "Oh. Forgive me. Then you're a pyscho".
Cocktails in Hell is part Lucifer, part Good Omens and part Dresden Files and 100% awesome! If you like demons, angels and sexy characters then you really need to be reading this series! Trust me you won't be disappointed.
September 21, 2025
I came away from this book with mixed feelings. At its heart, the story follows Violet, a guardian to the gates of Hell who quickly finds herself hunted because of what she is. Layered into her journey are hints of her complex parentage and the shadow of powerful figures who’ve shaped her fate — elements that raise the stakes beyond simple survival and place her at the center of a struggle between worlds.
Where the book may challenge readers is in its source inspiration. Some of the characters and events lean on Biblical figures and mythology, only to turn them upside down — the supposedly holy are portrayed in darker shades, while those traditionally condemned come across as sympathetic. From a believer’s standpoint, that inversion could easily feel offensive. But if taken as wholly fictional worldbuilding, drawing on the familiar only for resonance and relatability, the story unfolds as an inventive paranormal tale filled with intrigue, power struggles, and a heroine caught between forces larger than herself.
For me, viewing it through that second lens made it an engaging read. The tension of Violet’s pursuit, the mysteries of her past, and the complex supernatural society Babin builds all kept the story moving. It’s atmospheric, morally ambiguous, and not afraid to push boundaries — qualities that will appeal to readers who like their paranormal fiction to provoke as well as entertain.
Where the book may challenge readers is in its source inspiration. Some of the characters and events lean on Biblical figures and mythology, only to turn them upside down — the supposedly holy are portrayed in darker shades, while those traditionally condemned come across as sympathetic. From a believer’s standpoint, that inversion could easily feel offensive. But if taken as wholly fictional worldbuilding, drawing on the familiar only for resonance and relatability, the story unfolds as an inventive paranormal tale filled with intrigue, power struggles, and a heroine caught between forces larger than herself.
For me, viewing it through that second lens made it an engaging read. The tension of Violet’s pursuit, the mysteries of her past, and the complex supernatural society Babin builds all kept the story moving. It’s atmospheric, morally ambiguous, and not afraid to push boundaries — qualities that will appeal to readers who like their paranormal fiction to provoke as well as entertain.
June 9, 2025
good
Picking up from where book one left off, we see that Violet has a new job, and it’s put her into regular contact with Lucifer, and in the crosshairs of a killer.
Fortunately, she has a few tricks up her sleeves, but when archangels get involved and some unfinished business raises its head, Violet knows trouble is only just beginning.
This book reveals a lot of secrets, as we finally learn what Violet is, and just why she has to keep her head down,
It’s an impossible job though, and Violet finds herself risking it all for the chance to be herself.
This is an exciting read, as all sorts of things are set up for the future. It’s definitely not a standalone story, as the book starts when the first left off, and ends with some unfinished business that is not-quite-a-cliffhanger in nature.
I’m looking forward to seeing where Violet heads, as she starts the training that this book promises!
This is a fast paced, action filled story, with an intriguing heroine, and a variety of very interesting secondary characters. With a few interesting twists and turns, this is an enjoyably entertaining read for urban fantasy lovers.
Picking up from where book one left off, we see that Violet has a new job, and it’s put her into regular contact with Lucifer, and in the crosshairs of a killer.
Fortunately, she has a few tricks up her sleeves, but when archangels get involved and some unfinished business raises its head, Violet knows trouble is only just beginning.
This book reveals a lot of secrets, as we finally learn what Violet is, and just why she has to keep her head down,
It’s an impossible job though, and Violet finds herself risking it all for the chance to be herself.
This is an exciting read, as all sorts of things are set up for the future. It’s definitely not a standalone story, as the book starts when the first left off, and ends with some unfinished business that is not-quite-a-cliffhanger in nature.
I’m looking forward to seeing where Violet heads, as she starts the training that this book promises!
This is a fast paced, action filled story, with an intriguing heroine, and a variety of very interesting secondary characters. With a few interesting twists and turns, this is an enjoyably entertaining read for urban fantasy lovers.
July 24, 2025
Just a warning, if you’re overly religious this book might not be for you. Lucifer, the Fallen and the demons are not all evil, but Michael, Gabriel and other angels aren’t all good. Quite the opposite at times.
Violet is the newest Potionsmaster, Guardian of the Hell Gates and her life is not safe. Her foster parents are still in hiding, Max has betrayed her once so can’t be trusted, Lucifer is both good and evil, and Michael is coming to town.
Violet has an unknown background that she needs to keep hidden but she is much more powerful than anyone realizes.
Someone is still killing Guarians, she doesn’t really know who to trust except Az and Ellie and she is torn between many options.
This book has a bit of action, interesting characters and story, a fair amount of humour, some mystery, suspense and surprises.
Violet is a snarky, sometimes reckless and does some stupid things but she is also feisty and brave.
This is an easy reading, fun enjoyable book and I’m loving it.
I will definitely recommend it.
Violet is the newest Potionsmaster, Guardian of the Hell Gates and her life is not safe. Her foster parents are still in hiding, Max has betrayed her once so can’t be trusted, Lucifer is both good and evil, and Michael is coming to town.
Violet has an unknown background that she needs to keep hidden but she is much more powerful than anyone realizes.
Someone is still killing Guarians, she doesn’t really know who to trust except Az and Ellie and she is torn between many options.
This book has a bit of action, interesting characters and story, a fair amount of humour, some mystery, suspense and surprises.
Violet is a snarky, sometimes reckless and does some stupid things but she is also feisty and brave.
This is an easy reading, fun enjoyable book and I’m loving it.
I will definitely recommend it.
August 27, 2025
Violet is shaking up some new drinks
Their is some excitement that is unfolding in the wild world of Violet. Now that she has officially donned the dual hats of Guardian and Potionsmaster, her life has turned into a swirling blend of chaos and charm that’s nothing short of exhilarating!
If you’re on the lookout for a rollicking tale that serves up humor and action in generous portions, then this is the story for you. Picture this: fairies fluttering around, shifters morphing into their beastly best, and demons causing delightful mischief—all congregating at Violet’s Bar/bookstore. It's the perfect recipe for fun, with a dash of danger thrown in for good measure. And let’s not forget about Lucifer, who seems to have taken a liking to sitting at one of the tables, adding his own unique flavor to the mix.
So, grab a potion (or perhaps a cocktail?), sit back, and prepare for an adventure that promises more twists than a rollercoaster and more laughs than a comedy club. This is not just a story; it's an experience you won’t want to miss!
Their is some excitement that is unfolding in the wild world of Violet. Now that she has officially donned the dual hats of Guardian and Potionsmaster, her life has turned into a swirling blend of chaos and charm that’s nothing short of exhilarating!
If you’re on the lookout for a rollicking tale that serves up humor and action in generous portions, then this is the story for you. Picture this: fairies fluttering around, shifters morphing into their beastly best, and demons causing delightful mischief—all congregating at Violet’s Bar/bookstore. It's the perfect recipe for fun, with a dash of danger thrown in for good measure. And let’s not forget about Lucifer, who seems to have taken a liking to sitting at one of the tables, adding his own unique flavor to the mix.
So, grab a potion (or perhaps a cocktail?), sit back, and prepare for an adventure that promises more twists than a rollercoaster and more laughs than a comedy club. This is not just a story; it's an experience you won’t want to miss!
January 10, 2024
brilliant and insightful
Violet moves to hell and gets to work closely for Lucifer. And while it sounds like a death knell, it’s brilliant and insightful on the writers part, to give us such a keen insight into the inner workings of the main cast of characters choices and motivations.
I’ve never loved Violet more than when she has the smackdown with the new guardian in her bar and puts him in his place - hooooooorah! I despise bully and he is the biggest baddest of them all, so go girl!
Powerfully written, this is a powerhouse story and a dynamite series be an absolutely worthwhile read
Violet moves to hell and gets to work closely for Lucifer. And while it sounds like a death knell, it’s brilliant and insightful on the writers part, to give us such a keen insight into the inner workings of the main cast of characters choices and motivations.
I’ve never loved Violet more than when she has the smackdown with the new guardian in her bar and puts him in his place - hooooooorah! I despise bully and he is the biggest baddest of them all, so go girl!
Powerfully written, this is a powerhouse story and a dynamite series be an absolutely worthwhile read
June 12, 2024
Not quite as good as the first
It was still interesting and engaging, but I felt like there were so many twists and turns just to be twisty and turny…and instead of it being mysterious and engaging, it was just a bit confusing.
I did enjoy the plot and the characters and the forward progress of the storyline, but I’m disappointed in the lack of romance. That’s why I picked this book series up. Perhaps I was misinformed, which would make it my mistake and not something I should hold against the author.
For now, I’ll head into book 3 and see where it goes and how I feel and whether I finish the book and move forward through the series or not.
It was still interesting and engaging, but I felt like there were so many twists and turns just to be twisty and turny…and instead of it being mysterious and engaging, it was just a bit confusing.
I did enjoy the plot and the characters and the forward progress of the storyline, but I’m disappointed in the lack of romance. That’s why I picked this book series up. Perhaps I was misinformed, which would make it my mistake and not something I should hold against the author.
For now, I’ll head into book 3 and see where it goes and how I feel and whether I finish the book and move forward through the series or not.
March 6, 2024
Demons, guardians, & secrets.
Not what I expected. I have read her other series however, this one is altogether different. Violet is forced to become a guardian. In this book you will learn what Landry is thanks to Lam. I really like her. Michael or daddy dearest comes to town. He's insufferable! Violet knocks him down a peg. However, all she did was place a bigger target on her back. Violet finally gets to meet her mother. Lilith is wonderful. Everything that Violet would have wanted in a mom if they had been allowed to stay together. Lucifer learns who & what Violet is. His reaction is priceless.
Not what I expected. I have read her other series however, this one is altogether different. Violet is forced to become a guardian. In this book you will learn what Landry is thanks to Lam. I really like her. Michael or daddy dearest comes to town. He's insufferable! Violet knocks him down a peg. However, all she did was place a bigger target on her back. Violet finally gets to meet her mother. Lilith is wonderful. Everything that Violet would have wanted in a mom if they had been allowed to stay together. Lucifer learns who & what Violet is. His reaction is priceless.
July 29, 2023
S E Sabin has created a world where what if leads the way
In this series, the characters are full of hidden backgrounds, powers, and plot twists. Heaven and Hell with all others parties abound.
One caveat .. This series is a full on cliff hanger. There is a beginnng, details of what is happening, and ...nothing till the next book.
In this series, the characters are full of hidden backgrounds, powers, and plot twists. Heaven and Hell with all others parties abound.
One caveat .. This series is a full on cliff hanger. There is a beginnng, details of what is happening, and ...nothing till the next book.
August 18, 2023
I like Violet. She's not your typical star of an urban fantasy. She's not an action hero, master of weapons or throwing fire balls around, but her potions do pack a punch. And some of them have quite amusing effects. There are truths discovered and new secrets to be revealed. And, quite a bit of action.
I look forward to reading more about her adventures.
I look forward to reading more about her adventures.
January 2, 2024
A Shake of Succubus, book two of the Cocktails in Hell series, is an ebook I borrowed through Kindle Unlimited (KU). This series has a wonderful, eclectic cast of characters-- but what would you expect from a series about a hell portal that opens up into a bar? Imaginative, witty, and a heck (er, hell?) of a lot of fun.
December 6, 2024
Chapter 1 to Chapter 4 = 9 times. Someone has rolled their eyes 9 times. Be it the FC or some millennia old demon, eye rolling was an actual thing done 9 separate times. I don’t care if this is a fantasy book, nobody not even children actually rolls their damn eyes.
Also this is an eye rolling young adult book. Please stop adding the adult tag.
Chapter 4 to 8 = eye rolling was done 12 times.
Also this is an eye rolling young adult book. Please stop adding the adult tag.
Chapter 4 to 8 = eye rolling was done 12 times.
May 26, 2025
A truly rip-roaring continuation of the series. Violet is finally sort-of coming out of her identity closet. Az is going to have a conniption, I can tell. Ellie is awesome and Lucifer is going through a lot of changes, indeed. (Or perhaps not, I am sure there will be more twists and turns to come).
Well worth reading.
Well worth reading.
July 28, 2023
Absolutely amazing
Oh my goodness this book was absolutely amazing. I love these characters and the story they are telling I can’t wait to see what happens next it promises to be incredible.
Oh my goodness this book was absolutely amazing. I love these characters and the story they are telling I can’t wait to see what happens next it promises to be incredible.
July 29, 2023
What a story!
I just finished it and I'm wowed at the power. This is a different look at the paranormal world. My few words of praise don't do justice to such a powerful concept and the excellence with which it was written.
I just finished it and I'm wowed at the power. This is a different look at the paranormal world. My few words of praise don't do justice to such a powerful concept and the excellence with which it was written.
October 27, 2023
3.5 rounded up
I really liked book 1, yet this one felt far more disjointed. Plot points and events were tossed in with little explanation and there were continuity issues. That said, it’s still an entertaining read, if sometimes confusing.
I really liked book 1, yet this one felt far more disjointed. Plot points and events were tossed in with little explanation and there were continuity issues. That said, it’s still an entertaining read, if sometimes confusing.
January 28, 2024
More kick ass fun from se babin
The series really kicks off in the second book. Snark, sass, and the ability to back it up with hilariously on-point magic are the hallmarks of our heroine in this volume - she really hits her stride.
The series really kicks off in the second book. Snark, sass, and the ability to back it up with hilariously on-point magic are the hallmarks of our heroine in this volume - she really hits her stride.
April 7, 2024
so very good
There is much excitement and many secrets revealed. A war is declared. The characters will pull you into the story and you will not want to leave it. One is lost forever. One reveals their power and one loses hope. Outstanding. Enjoy. Highly recommend.
There is much excitement and many secrets revealed. A war is declared. The characters will pull you into the story and you will not want to leave it. One is lost forever. One reveals their power and one loses hope. Outstanding. Enjoy. Highly recommend.
June 24, 2024
weird and fascinating
A whole new look at Angels and demons. I am thoroughly enjoying these stories. I find it very amusing for the angels to be the bad guys. Lucifer is a fabulous character, and Violet is awesome
A whole new look at Angels and demons. I am thoroughly enjoying these stories. I find it very amusing for the angels to be the bad guys. Lucifer is a fabulous character, and Violet is awesome
July 9, 2024
Okay but could be better
The story had potential. The issues I have is that situations are not explained as they happen which leaves holes in the story. Some of the situations do not make sense.
The story had potential. The issues I have is that situations are not explained as they happen which leaves holes in the story. Some of the situations do not make sense.
August 4, 2024
It's good
My only complaint is sometimes it seems like the story cuts off at the end of the chapter and just pops up later on in the next chapter with no explanation of what happened in between. Otherwise a great read
My only complaint is sometimes it seems like the story cuts off at the end of the chapter and just pops up later on in the next chapter with no explanation of what happened in between. Otherwise a great read
September 15, 2024
Very good book very interesting I'm on to the next book
Book one was good but in book two it got even more interesting and I can't wait to see what happens in the final book just have to read them all to find out
Book one was good but in book two it got even more interesting and I can't wait to see what happens in the final book just have to read them all to find out
September 30, 2024
With the first book, I was unsure, but intrigued. There was a lot going on I really liked, especially Keelie! Now I’m on the 5th book. I’ve been reading them quickly back to back. I’m loving it! I very much wish I could watch this play out on a show- it’s perfect! How can we make this happen!?! So thankful I randomly found these! I’d read 20 of these back to back! Thank you for such an enjoyable read <3!
November 13, 2024
New take on the “fallen”
Great world building! New Orleans is unique, add magic, angels, anger, uncontrollable power, great love and mixed emotions and a dynamic read is born! Fun books.
Great world building! New Orleans is unique, add magic, angels, anger, uncontrollable power, great love and mixed emotions and a dynamic read is born! Fun books.
February 12, 2025
This was as good as the first. I'm really enjoying the cast of characters. Each addition adds to the story rather than mudding things up. Things are progressing nicely. I'm super happy I stumbled onto this series!
July 30, 2025
Violet comes to the party
Her father, foster father, mother and foster mother are in town. But it's not for a family reunion. The arch angels are plotting, the fallen are just trying to keep status quo. And Lucifer, he's making deals. What could go wrong?
Her father, foster father, mother and foster mother are in town. But it's not for a family reunion. The arch angels are plotting, the fallen are just trying to keep status quo. And Lucifer, he's making deals. What could go wrong?
February 9, 2026
Great ending
I borrowed this book from Kindle Unlimited. I am voluntarily reviewing this book. This is the 2 nd in a series, and while it can be read as a sand alone, I think its better to read them in order. I am enjoying the characters . Violet is so interesting. 4 stars
I borrowed this book from Kindle Unlimited. I am voluntarily reviewing this book. This is the 2 nd in a series, and while it can be read as a sand alone, I think its better to read them in order. I am enjoying the characters . Violet is so interesting. 4 stars
September 25, 2023
my only complaint…
Literally my only complaint is that this book wasn’t longer. Ehh that’s a lie I’m pretty upset that the next book isn’t out yet too.
Literally my only complaint is that this book wasn’t longer. Ehh that’s a lie I’m pretty upset that the next book isn’t out yet too.
October 21, 2023
DNF…story just kept going round and round..hit my biggest pet peeve of double standards…check mark the done 1 star…
Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews