Mammon

Mammon by J.B. Thomas (Random House)

HB RRP $18.95

ISBN 978-1-7427-5074-3

Reviewed by Oliver Phommavanh

Mammon is the debut novel from J.B. Thomas, the first in a series for older readers. Mammon kicks off the Ferryman Chronicles. A brother and sister discover that they’re ‘Sarsareh’-demon hunters. When their parents get killed by a deadly demon, they vow revenge and train up for battle with a group of mercenaries. This is where they have to gain respect and skills. 

Joe is a headstrong boy who holds a trump card. He’s a ferryman who can create a rift to send demons straight to hell. It’s a rare ability is sort after by both sides of the war. Mammon is a high-level demon who wants Joe for his own ambitious plans. 

Grace tries to keep her brother in order. She’s a telepath who wants to prove that mind over firepower works against demons. Both main characters get equal footing in this novel. There’s also a massive cast that come and go. Politics plague the group of mercenaries who are mostly in their teens. Sometimes there’s more action in the words than against the demons themselves.

Thomas sets up a contemporary and supernatural setting that is ripe for action and suspense. A world where demons hide themselves among humans is pretty cool. Joe and Grace learn the ropes of demon hunting and guide the reader through all the nuts and bolts of this dangerous war. There are some gruesome scenes here that make you want to read more in the Ferryman Chronicles. Mammon is a promising novel that will attract readers who love their supernatural thrillers. Recommended for ages 13 and up.