Caitlin Diggs is a fascinating character. She is an ex-FBI agent turned psychic P.I. after an incident with a special crystal that gave her paranormal abilities. I really liked her, as she struggled to cope with her new-found talents. She is feisty and has a tendency to be rather reckless; I'm surprised she hadn't been kicked out of the FBI for it! Being pulled into an alternative reality, she finds herself thrown into a dangerous cat and mouse game with a sadistic and deranged killer.
Demon Inhibitions takes the reader through a magical portal into a alternative universe where demons, vampires, lycans and other paranormal beings live along side humans. This story grabbed me from the first page! There are some intriguing characters brought to life in this story. Caitlin's alternative self is not exactly the same person, as she has had different experiences, but their lives are very similar in other ways and is still an FBI Agent, working in the Preternatural Crime Division. However, when she is killed, Caitlin steps into her life to catch the killer.
I love my cat, but I would love a cat similar to Bastet. Who wouldn't want a cat that could change from a house cat to a panther, as a protector? There are also other paranormal beings that intrigued me; witches, incubi and a girl with the ability to tame the bloodlust of vampires and demons with song. The story has a few references to the previous book, Extreme Liquidation, which I have not read. I found these flashbacks (for lack of a better word) helpful, as they helped me understand why Caitlin acted a certain way in different situations, and how she came into her powers. The ending had me wondering if there was another book to come, as it did not finish on a cliffhanger. However, if there were to be another book, I would definitely love to read it!
Gary Starta has written a fantastic science fiction/paranormal mystery story that kept me hooked from beginning to end! I enjoyed his writing style, which flowed wonderfully. I look forward to reading more of his work in the future.
*
I've been a fan of Caitlin Diggs' intelligent, spiritual and compelling, kick-ass style since I started reading the series (which includes "Blood Web," published in 2007).
I was super eager to see what Starta did with his character, FBI agent Caitlin Diggs, when she traveled to a parallel universe.
Well, I certainly wasn't disappointed, as it's one step beyond the "Fringe" episodes, in my opinion, as the characters aren't as similar to their counterparts in the other dimension that Starta created. For instance, in the protagonist Caitlin's universe, Celeste is her domestic cat, who happens to be attuned to protecting Caitlin; whereas, in the other universe, Celeste is Bastet who is able to morph into a big, non-domestic cat, who actually attacks Caitlin at their first meeting.
Also, Starta has done a great job of showing different values in his alternate universes. For instance, in the universe the original Caitlin we're introduced to is not from, about six out of 10 beings is a demon.
Demons are classified as vamps, lycanthropes, incubi, goblins, etc. and most of them mind their own business, without causing harm to others. So, full-blooded humans are certainly the minority there, and therefore so are their values to some degree.
Aside from interesting plot lines, there is the attention to detail in his descriptions that Starta always manages to bring to the plate--even in a fictional world, and I can't help thinking that this may spring from his having been a journalist at one point. It probably also aids in his writing of believable, non-stilted dialogue.
Target Audience Reviews
From the Author
CAITLIN DIGGS - STATS
Age - 38
Eyes - Sapphire
Hair - Black
Ht - 5'11'
Wt - Negotiable
Disposition - Inquisitive, Suspicious, Doubtful
Work History: LA Field Office FBI, FBI Washington DC Bureau
Private Investigator - Salem, MASS
Fashion Sense - Conservative
Goals - Deal with my newly acquired paranormal abilities, decrease junk food, catch more villains, get over death my partner/boyfriend, make a new home in alternate universe...
BASTET - The Tonkinese Cat
AKA Celeste in other universe
Eyes - Blue
Fur - White
Wt - 1 lb. of fury
Favorite Food - Salmon
Conversation Starter - 'Food's Ready'
CAITLIN'S HAPHAZARD JOURNAL FROM THE ALTERED UNIVERSE:
* Don't fight the preternaturals with conventional weapons. Use your wits and paranormal abilities if available.
* It's hard to date in a parallel world. Some will see you as your other self. Being social in an alt world is tricky.
* So far I trust the Witch and Mage, but the Incubus is another story. How can you trust someone with such a sexual appetite?
* Enjoying the upgrades. Yes, my home and car are classier along with my wardrobe.
* Fearing the supernatural shoe will drop. Yes, the super demon is on my mind.
* Enjoying the entertainment. A singing mage keeps demon urges at bay. But not everyone is singing her tune. I've got to protect her.
*How will I get home? I may have to plan for an extended stay in this universe. My new boss seems attracted to me but he thinks I'm the 'other' Caitlin.
*Warning: be careful of portals. They can be everywhere. Even in New Jersey.
http://www.amazon.com/Demon-Inhibitions-Caitlin-Diggs-Starta-ebook/dp/B00BVAYAVI