The Outlaw Demon Wails

Obviously a take-off on the title of the old Clint Eastwood movie, The Outlaw Josey Wales, although I am at a loss to explain what connection there might be. Published originally in 2008, this is about the 10th installment in "The Hollows" series (there are about 2 dozen novels and novellas). I have read a couple of Kim Harrison's other books--a prior installment in "The Hollows" series, also a take-off on a Clint Eastwood title, For a Few Demons More; and one in her YA series, Something Deadly This Way Comes-- and really enjoyed them, but was little disappointed in this one and not exactly sure why. I usually love anything with kick-ass paranormal women protagonists, but witch Rachel just did not engage me this time. I like the pixie family, Jenks and brood, that lives in her converted church and graveyard. Rachel's vampire roommate, Ivy, seemed curiously flat as a character.
Rachel and her mom are shopping for enhancements to Rachel's planned Halloween costume--like a bust-enhancing charm--when the store explodes. Having crossed paths with the demon Algaliarept--Al for short--Rachel is shocked that he has escaped demon jail and is not only ready to break his promise not to harm her but is, in fact, out to kill her. She is trying to solve the murder of former boyfriend Kisten, which still torments her, but has to stay out of Al's grasp. She learns a few secrets about her spell casting mom, has a new love interest, etc. There is a more informative plot summary at the Love Vampires web site which has a favorable take on the book, but recommends reading them in order--which I have not done.