The Devil You Know (Felix Castor, #1) Summary & Key Insights

Mike Carey's 'The Devil You Know' introduces Felix Castor, a cynical and somewhat reluctant exorcist operating in a London infused with the unseen world. The novel's central plot revolves around a series of seemingly unconnected events that Castor finds himself embroiled in. These include a haunting in a grand, dilapidated mansion, the unsettling discovery of a disturbingly realistic doll, and the appearance of a demonic entity manifesting as a particularly nasty case of possession.

Castor, a man haunted by his own past and grappling with his inherent magical abilities, is not your typical paranormal investigator. He's more interested in a good pint and avoiding unnecessary trouble, but his expertise is sought out by those desperate for help. His investigations often lead him down dark and twisted paths, where the lines between good and evil are blurred, and morality is a flexible concept.

A crucial character is Alice, a young woman who initially appears as a victim but reveals a far more complex role in the unfolding events. She acts as both a catalyst and a potential source of danger for Castor, adding a layer of mystery and romantic tension to the narrative. Another important figure is the enigmatic and powerful figure known only as "The Broker," a shadowy intermediary who deals in the supernatural underworld and significantly influences the events of the story. Their relationship with Castor is one of uneasy alliance, highlighting the grey areas Castor navigates.

The investigation takes Castor through various supernatural landscapes, from haunted houses to the grimy underbelly of London's occult scene. He encounters a range of supernatural entities, demonstrating Carey's skillful creation of a believable and chilling supernatural world within the mundane backdrop of contemporary London. The doll, a seemingly innocuous object, acts as a key McGuffin, revealing a deeper conspiracy linked to a powerful, ancient evil.

The overarching themes of the novel explore the nature of good and evil, the consequences of meddling with forces beyond human comprehension, and the burden of responsibility that comes with possessing supernatural abilities. Castor's internal struggle with his own demons – both literal and metaphorical – runs parallel to his external battles, making him a compelling and relatable protagonist despite his flaws. Ultimately, 'The Devil You Know' is not just a supernatural thriller; it's a character study of a man grappling with his past while fighting a war in the shadows of a city teeming with unseen horrors, setting the stage for a long-running and engaging series.