New York City, NY -- (SBWIRE) -- 03/28/2014 -- In Mark William Hammond’s popular novel, ‘M in the Demon Realm’, the author introduces fans to Emma Ricci – a young woman who embodies the idea of an “unlikely hero” and “spiritual journey”. A spunky Korean waitress, Emma is more interested in starting her own fashion line than saving the world. However, when a hell-gate threatens to annihilate Manhattan, Emma realizes she has two choices: accept her destiny, or die.

“We are all on our own hero’s journey,” says Hammond. “It’s possible to be inspired and discover courage we didn’t know we had through characters in heroic tales. Emma has no desire to be someone that people would look up to, but she eventually plumbs depths within herself that she didn’t know were there. She sheds her old, small self and becomes a warrior capable of the ultimate sacrifice to save others. It’s a universal truth – we all so much bigger, so much more than we know.”

Exhilarating, searing and sensual, ‘M in the Demon Realm’ is an unforgettable voyage of blood, loss and transformation as Emma discovers who she truly is.

Synopsis:

Korean adoptee Emma Ricci has big plans. A graduate of New York's Fashion Institute of Technology, Emma dreams of starting her own fashion line and marrying her boyfriend, Adam. For now, she waits tables in a Korea Town restaurant.

When two masters of Chinese mysticism tell Emma she's the last in a long line of demon hunters, she assumes she's met two of New York City's crazier inhabitants. Her opinion changes quickly when she and Adam are targeted by wendigos, flesh-eating Native American demons. Emma survives the attack. Adam doesn't.

With the help of Chinese masters Li Bai and Zhan Ziquian, Emma discovers her heritage and past lives as a demon slayer. She also comes to the attention of Anthony DeAngelo, the NYPD detective assigned to the wendigo killings. DeAngelo obviously finds Emma attractive, but isn't going to let his feelings interfere with his investigation.

As demonic activity increases, it becomes apparent someone—or something—plans to open a hell-gate in Lower Manhattan. Emma's the only one capable of closing the portal to the demon realm. Unfortunately, closing a gate kills the demon slayer.

Starting her own fashion line is beginning to look real unlikely…

Since it’s publication, the book has earned a five star rating on Amazon and rave reviews.

“Not your usual bug-eyed demon schlock. This book has a soul and a message! It shows us that by facing our fears and destiny, we can grow and become all that we were meant to be! All of this packaged in a compelling, exciting, and well crafted story. It is one of those "I can't put it down" reads. Enjoy!” wrote Hilary Wright.

“Mark Hammond manages, unlike many in this genre, to instill some humor and heart into the pulse-raising adventure. I found myself rooting for Emma, and pulled into a storyline that was very outside the box for me. Reading a book should be a fun escape, and this certainly was. I highly recommend it, and am hopefully there will be more to come! I have to find out what happens to Emma next!” wrote Candace L.

Calling the book “a great read!” wonderwoman wrote: “I could not put it down once I started. Funny and terrifying at the same time. For me, it really resonated....a young woman working as a waitress in New York with big dreams and an even bigger mission that is thrust upon her. And the incredible journey she takes. I loved it. I think it would make a terrific film!”

“Thrilling, powerful and smart. Emma Ricci is one of those characters that just keeps the pages turning. M in the Demon Realm takes us to another place and makes us long for more. Author Mark William Hammond has married modern day with mysticism with New York City as the incredible backdrop - a New York City we have never seen before. A must read!” wrote Tamsen Fadal.

‘M in the Demon Realm’ is available now: http://amzn.to/1jrjo5m

About Mark William Hammond
Mark William Hammond currently lives and writes in New York City.