The Saintly Imp

By Zwahk Muchoney, Indie Author

Published: September 2023

Via: Author Request

Pages: 52

Genre: No idea

Note: We received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

A tiny demon is trying to escape the pit of hell and avoid a return trip at all costs. So Jarilhil “the saintly imp” is sent to earth to “save” Francesco di Pietrodi Bernardone.

It seemed like a good idea at the time.

While “Jar” seems serious about his mission, he also knows he can’t force Francesco to behave. Choices are up to Frankie, baby. It’s called free will. So this Bible-quoting, praying “demon” winds up with Frankie in a small, unoccupied cave in a forest. Frankie sees the “imp,” recognizes him, and commands Jar dude to buzz off.

Later, Frankie comes upon a rundown church that’s falling apart. And voila! He decides to rebuild it. By stealing moola from his dad. Oops. Jar wonders if the “house” Frankie is meant to rebuild isn’t a literal building, but the man’s own self, “or even the very institution of the modern church.”

That’s a clue, by the way. It’s as subtle as a ton of bricks if you’re not up on your church history. Ditto the young French girl from Domremey (duh). Apparently Joan is Jar’s next “missionary” assignment.

You’re gonna tell me that a demon is responsible for inspiring St. Francis of Assisi and Joan of Arc? Can I sell ya a beachfront bridge in Barstow? (We’d probably be pretty offended by this if we were Catholic. We’re not. But still.)

At just over fifty pages, this is either a long short story or a little novella. It’s pretty tightly written. But the main premise -a demon becomes a missionary for Christ – is just ridiculous. In fact, it tap dances pretty darn close to the rim edge of blasphemous. And the cognitive dissonance of a demon serving God, spending “his days running errands for the angels who served God in Hell, and whenever he had a free moment he would study his Bible”?  Give me a break.

It’s just too out there. As likely as The Kimster cozying up to the neighbor’s cat. We could go on. But you get the idea. 

The Old Curmudgeon wanted to rate this book. But I, Kimber the Munificent, talked her out it. So I’ve done my good deed for the year, okay?

Ta!