Cat's Chance in Hell: An MM Paranormal Romance

Charm City Chronicles #2

by Meghan Maslow

When a feline fatale meets his magical match, Baltimore might just go up in flames.

Carter Strike here. Siamese shifter extraordinaire, Tommy Tittoti’s right-hand cat . . . and the star of this book. Don’t let the author whatsherface tell you otherwise. That’s why its 113k. I’ve got A LOT to say.

Terrible things are afoot in Charm City. Snark happens. Bad guys die. And I have a new favorite donut. But I promise it’s also an epic romance with a very happily-ever-after. And Gods, we’ve earned it.

I know you’re going to find this hard to believe, but Bengal Damon-Cowles and I don’t hit it off right away. I mean, you’d think an arrogant Rakshasa would be insane to turn all of this down. *waves at self* But you’ll find that Bengal is nothing if not frustratingly contrary, all wrapped up in a too sexy package.

So, buckle up, dear readers, we’re going for a wild ride . . . Hmm, did I mention that I don’t know how to drive?

Cat’s Chance in Hell is a snarktastic, roller coaster of a romance with a guaranteed happy ending and lots of steam. Shenanigans include: a catnapping gone very, very wrong, a hot pot incident that will go down in infamy, and a Rakshasa with more layers than a Smith Island Cake.

Genres: Paranormal, M M Romance, Shapeshifters, Fantasy, Magic, Demons, Urban Fantasy

438 pages, Paperback

First published December 29, 2022

About the author

MEGHAN MASLOW is truly a rare breed. No, not a unicorn (although that would be sooo cool). She’s a—gasp!—extroverted writer.

She believes that life is meant to be lived. Preferably with lots of people around. Every day is an adventure, or should be. She’s spent a large portion of her life working and living in various countries in Africa. She’s multitalented, having perfected the art of eavesdropping in bars around the world while chugging local brews, and gabbing with anyone who isn’t quick enough to elude her grasp. She believes kindness is contagious, and learning to laugh at yourself is one of life’s greatest gifts (and challenges). She advocates for social justice, believes storytelling can be transformative, and surprisingly isn’t a misanthrope. She loves travel, reading, world music, Moscow Mules, awkward dancing, dreadlocks, her family, and um… writing.

Reviews

[Cæsar · Rating 5 out of 5]

Steamy!

A very joyful story, with interesting action scenes, I had a lot of fun!
The main characters are adorable, the plot was entertaining, and the sex scenes were boiling hot!
I enjoy fated mates stories so I was pleased with this book, it was light and at the same time exciting!

I have this book on Audible too, another great performance from Greg Boudreaux, fully committed, superb acting and incredible technique, congratulations!!!

Beautiful art cover!

5⭐️

[☆ Todd · Rating 4 out of 5]

This second book in the series was fun, but Carter and Ben weren't quite as entertaining and engaging as Poe and Tommy were in the first story.

Also, with my preference toward fairly vanilla in the steam department, I could've done with the kinkier stuff, like the "cock warming", penis barbs, and butt plugs. Just not my jam.

The book did have a few unexpected twists and turns, which I appreciated, although, my dubious feelings toward Kennedy were still there at the end of the book, when I'd really liked her in Poe's story. Her level of selfishness and careless manipulation didn't sit well with me.

I'd still rate it at around 3.75 stars and will definitely read the next book, which I'm kind of assuming will be Ollie's story.

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[Mom Needs Coffee · Rating 1 out of 5]

TWs For CSA, Dubcon, Assault- This Story Is Potentially Not For Survivors of SA.
Spoiler Free Review on top, Review with Spoilers at bottom.

Low/mild relationship angst
Insta-lust turned insta-love
Forced proximity
Opposites attract (kinda)
Hurt/Comfort (kinda)
Light BDSM
Separation at 3/4 mark, because of course
Single first person POV

CONTENT WARNING: trauma/ remembered prolonged childhood sexual abuse (CSA), physical aggression/assault of a survivor disguised as BDSM, dubious consent.

My advice - not for survivors of CSA/SA. Spoiler free review for those who still have triggers; review with spoilers at the bottom.

*** Spoiler free review***
I feel like an absolute monster but I cannot in good conscience simply rate this book and walk away. Survivors deserve fair warning before deciding whether or not they can read this book. Do I want to coddle the author? I do, I like her other books, but there wasn't enough care taken with this story to warrant any coddling. This review is for those who may be triggered by the book.

Let's start by examining why everyone else loved this book. The SMUT. Normally, I'm more than happy to have smut, too, but not this time. This book is about a survivor abuse entering a toxic relationship with a D/s dynamic he didn't consent to.

I don't recommend this book to survivors of any form of abuse but especially SA or CSA, nor to those who are looking for healthy adult romantic relationships. This relationship idealizes almost all of the negative qualities that are often exhibited in relationships experienced by survivors whether they still struggle or not - possessiveness, control, shaming, idealizing your partner, even intimidation at the beginning. It's like the author searched "unhealthy intimate relationship of a survivor of abuse" and then wrote it as some twisted attempt at romance.

When I take into consideration our two lead characters- men who struggled to be nice to one another before the sex became a driving force in their relationship- and I see how linear their relationship is because they failed to build on that foundation, I really don't like the relationship. There just wasn't any balance between the men and I never felt the love. The relationship was not one I'd support if Carter was my friend. Excusing Bengal's high-handedness because he's an "apex predator" and unused to people who push back (metaphorically) was basically my breaking point. Please don't ever tell yourself there's a good reason for letting someone walk all over you. There is never a good reason for acting as someone's doormat. Especially if that someone is supposed to love you.

There is a lot of author manipulation to make these qualities seem attractive and to divert reader attention to the contradictions that make these qualities appealing - "oh he's so strong yet gentle with me..." "he's not possessive but protective, I knew the difference... "to others it might look wrong but..." "I had let Bengal walk all over me, even if it was for a good reason..." Irrational thinking and idealizing a partner is in full effect here. Add in the side characters rationalizing Bengals behaviors to Carter and I was very unhappy. A total power imbalance.

Without giving too much away, there's an event where Carter is in a dangerous situation. He knew it would be, not the magnitude, but he knew. He CHOSE to go and even lies to get there. Bengal tells Carter, "--- is NOT your friend" and Carter then holds a grudge against this person for the entire book. Later, Carter enters another dangerous situation knowingly but this time he is the one bringing along a friend. The friend chooses to stay and, yup, even lies to someone in the process. No lectures for Carter. No slap on the wrist for "not" being a friend to this person. Guess it only applies when Bengal says it about others. Great job making Carter doubt his friendships 6 days into the relationship, Bengal. I bet that will really come in handy when you need Carter to doubt others or himself in the future. Huge red flag for me.

Side Note- Around 50% Poe asks Carter if Bengal makes him feel bad about himself and Carter responds, "...not anymore, we talked about it and he had his reasons." First of all, no thank you with the excuses. Secondly, I reread the book and couldn't find that conversation - or it wasn't clear enough which is the same as it not happening in my book. Either way, no apology from Bengal to be found for any of his negative behaviors.

Later in the book, Carter verbalizes that he "doesn't actually get a say about anything" in their relationship yet the story continues... and no big discussion anywhere to rectify this, NO APOLOGIES. Just falling back into bed without any communication yet again. Why is a book with BDSM missing one of it's most important components?

I'll admit that in the past I've had a problem with the author using sex instead of communication to build her characters' relationships-- resulting in very little/ no character development. However, as long as the overall story was enjoyable I simply deducted a star and moved on. Unfortunately, this book features a survivor of prolonged CSA so I STRUGGLED with way more than ill placed sex scenes due to so many elements of this story. Without the sex, this was extremely low on the hurt/comfort aspect and heavily romanticized a toxic relationship. It also really fed into the stigmatized perspective that BDSM is for victims of abuse.

The BDSM was sloppy at best. The 3 C's of BDSM can be found with a basic internet search- Communication, Care, and Consent. All 3 were almost non-existent here. I can't tell you how insulting that is (on top of everything else). Also, there is an instance of aggression between the MCs that is treated as BDSM but in reality is ASSAULT. Carter even says, "Let go" and attempts to get away but instead Bengal takes it a step further! Let's be loud and clear here. PAIN THAT IS NOT PRE-NEGOTIATED IS NOT BDSM!!! Even when followed by sex. No, just no.

Side Note-- I don't know why anyone would think aggression between lovers is sexy but apparently that's the way this relationship is supposed to begin. An unhealthy dynamic right from the beginning.

The author uses shame and possible triggers from Carter's own past to make this a sexy (yuck) moment when Carter thinks "I hate him so much" while submitting to what is obviously becoming a sexual situation. Survivors carry around A TON of shame- this was so beyond insensitive and demonstrated the lack of education the author took while writing this.

Finally, people in subspace cannot consent. Consent and communication need to occur before everything else. Even if a Dominant asks his/her partner "may I....?" and the partner says "yes", it is not consent if the sub is in subspace/ potentially in subspace/ entering subspace. I'm not nitpicking - this is a fact - and it's a rule put in place for safety. The author really did a disservice to both survivors and members of the BDSM community here.

I honestly wanted to like this! I actually did like the first 30%. Unfortunately, the author chose to go the "healing through sex" route except failed to execute anything properly. Sex can be part of the healing process, but it shouldn't be the primary focus- I would have liked to see Carter develop alternate coping skills that could be generalized to all aspects of his life and not just focus on losing himself in pleasure. I also would have liked some better communication and more mindfulness in general. Carter had a negative mindset and irrational thinking for most of the book and Bengal made decisions for Carter well past the 80% mark. The span of the relationship was 14 days and 6 of those days were spent apart. So, all of this basically happened in 8 days (referring to shame, sex, and unhealthy relationship dynamic described above).

It also bothered me that certain events from the beginning were basically forgotten until they needed to be resurrected at the end for the conflict resolution. I would have preferred a fluffy book of snark and sex, what I got was a few attempts at depth that didn't have any follow through and contradictions that had me internally screaming "you two need to actually TALK to one another." Add to all of this the author manipulation (telling us how to think or feel through Carter's irrational thinking which was very unhealthy) and I do not recommend. Overall, a real struggle to finish this book.



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SPOILERS BELOW, MAY CONTAIN TRIGGERS
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I read the beginning of this book- with Carter telling us he has coping and survival skills - and assumed this was going to be a story of a survivor falling in love and getting his HEA. Instead what we got was someone who uses sarcasm to deflect, inappropriate skills to gain attention, and has a negative mindset/irrational thinking. Even when he tells Bengal his story- on day 2 of knowing him and after being humiliated by Bengal several times that morning alone- Carter is FLIPPANT about the prolonged childhood abuse he endured. Then he "heals" through sex with Ben over the next week. I'm not saying that physical nearness and sensitivity from a loved one can't be healing, but it's not HOW one heals. He needs to change his mindset, gain some more adaptive skills, be an active participant in his recovery. This is not a story about survival and love, it's a story about sex between two men who like to "argue" (it's actually Carter being mouthy and Ben staring at him before taking control of the situation) and have a clear power imbalance in their relationship.

Side Note- What really made it awful for me was hearing about Kitt and knowing he never got his HEA but gave Carter the opportunity to get his, and this (relationship) is what Carter accepts.

Spoiler for BDSM and consent-

*My questions- If this was between Carter and a random man in power would it be acceptable? What makes it acceptable between two men who are strangers but also lovers?

⚠️ Warning for TWs ⚠️
At the 30% mark we have the assault and dubious consent, along with several instances of Bengal humiliating Carter. It's literally day 2 of Carter's stay in Bengals home and this is what we have when Carter is in an emotionally vulnerable state due to certain circumstances---
Bengal and Carter are arguing and Bengal intimidates Carter, backing him up against a wall using his much larger size. Bengal insinuates Carter is a wh0re while he has Carter caged against the wall, Carter slaps Bengal, Bengal puts Carter over his knee and spanks him. Carter literally yells, "Let go!" but instead Bengal unzips and lowers Carter's pants so he can smack Carter's bare bottom (WITHOUT CONSENT). Carter struggles the entire time. Then Bengal turns Carter, holds Carter on his lap, and shoves his fingers into Carter's mouth while saying he assumed Carter had an oral fixation. Carter begins to fall into subspace. THEN Bengal asks for consent to engage in sex. Carter says yes ***while in subspace*** and after being assaulted. Sex occurs. Bengal again insinuates Carter is a wh0re, Carter leaves room feeling embarrassed and hears the guards laughing which adds to his humiliation.

Side Note- Holy sh!t Do you know how much SHAME is experienced by people who experience sexual assault? And it's used as a... tool for contradiction?... so Carter can think "I hate him" even as he has sexual responses to Bengal. THIS IS NOT SEXY. I struggled A LOT with this and I am an extremely well adapted individual.

The author attempted to make this a consensual BDSM sex scene. In this universe, shifters are allowed to be harmed by their Alphas/Rogers so Bengal has situational permission to hit Carter after Carter strikes him. However, to a survivor of any abuse, the last thing I'd call this is consensual, especially after being shamed by Bengal. Reminder that any pain not pre-negotiated in BDSM is not consensual. Then no consent for lowering Carter's pants or for initiating sex which, to be clear, begins with the oral fixation maneuver and not the sex that comes after Bengal's too late request for permission. To be clear- no consent for striking and oral fixation, dubious consent for the other stuff because Carter was already experiencing subspace. But, sure, it's so sexy, right? Let's add that later in the book Carter thinks about how he "doesn't usually like pain mixed with (my) pleasure..." yet he never once says this aloud to Bengal and random bouts of spanking occur. Because there is no communication between these two men! EVER!!!

Also, why anyone would think it's sexy for a man in power to strike someone under his care is beyond me. In book one, Poe's stepdad is clearly a bad guy and his abuse of Poe is an obvious abuse of his power. Bengal and Carter are still strangers at this point so as far as I'm concerned this is pretty parallel to that and not a sexy little segue into BDSM. I found it to be incredibly distasteful to have Bengal strike his lover.


A book about spanking I could have just sighed at and enjoyed. But the author chose to delve deeper - sub space, sub drop, pain free controlled pleasure, pain mixed with pleasure, delayed gratification, oral fixation... Since this was about actual elements of BDSM then I couldn't help but consider all the separate elements demonstrated. And I was disappointed because the most IMPORTANT elements of BDSM were practically non-existent. Don't get me wrong, eventually we got about 3 lines of communication, none of which discussed limits or safety and happened way too late, and one aftercare scene that was minimal and easy to miss.

Worst part? Not once does Bengal ask Carter, "What do you want?"

Spoiler for Bengals behaviors-
*My questions - I mean, how am I the only one able to see this? Are people really that interested in the smut that this is worth overlooking? I think possessiveness is sexy sometimes, too, but not like this.

Fact- Rakshasa, the catlike thing Bengal is, can control other cat shifters with just his voice. The only person we actually see Bengal try to control this way is Carter. How messed up is that?

Bengal still makes unilateral decisions for Carter at 80% in the book. Carter acknowledges in conversation that Bengal controls the relationship yet all of the discussions with side characters circle around to tell us Bengal is "complicated." Whenever Bengal acts possessive, the author points us in the direction of "protective" and has Carter preening. Carter even thinks "oh well" thoughts, while accepting Bengal's behaviors. When Ben gets angry and physically harms someone he's known for decades, Carter's thoughts were "he was doing that for me..?" making the scene romantic through author manipulation.

Bengal also insists he's skilled at understanding the nature of others because he's 400+ years old yet he is an absolute d!ck half the time. He doesn't observe his surroundings in the donut shop, is rude to his guards, and uses inappropriate social skills. He's also conceited AF.

Bengal is a Roger for roughly a century but what does he actually do? He hadn't been paying attention to his district according to a scene with Carter early on, so apparently he doesn't do anything but get his behind kissed all day. We never saw Bengal do anything but deal with his yes-people and entertain his lover. Even Tommy cuts hair! I don't get it.

Spoilers for Carter's behaviors -
Aside from the negative mindset and irrational thinking, sarcasm is basically Carter's only coping mechanism. His consent to some interactions came from the line of thinking that he was now owed a punishment and it was **deserved** This broke my heart. Survivors of abuse often experience gaslighting and develop this "I deserve what's happening to me" mindset; it made me ache to see Carter think this way and have a partner who did not build him up. Like I said above, the hurt/comfort aspect is definitely missing.

The author attempts to add depth to Carter but never follows through. He is Ollie's BFF and secretly comforts Ollie while at home but once he's in Bengals house he doesn't actively worry about Ollie. Not a single, "I wonder if Ollie is OK" or "I wonder if Ollie had a nightmare last night." Another time, Carter is so overwhelmed by the poverty of one character he becomes emotional but after the scene is over and Bengal knows Carter's story, whoosh outta sight, outta mind until the very end when loose ends are tied.

At one point after a certain event, Bengal tells Carter that ----- is NOT his friend because this friend roped him into a situation that put his life in danger. Carter accepts this immediately and holds a grudge against ----- while forgiving himself for his own role (he CHOSE to go and used manipulation/ lies to get there). What a disappointment. Especially since everyone else is just as high handed yet no grudges are held with them (cue doormat situations). Sure, let's make your friend the bad guy and your new controlling love interest some sort of hero.

Later, Carter puts --- in a similar situation but doesn't see the parallel. Carter knows it's a dangerous situation and still accepts ---'s help. When --- admits he lied about something to help Carter, Carter laughs! But sure, friend A is a terrible friend, not you Carter. Friend B is in great hands! It is absolutely hypocritical.

Loose ends-
We never get the full story about the text about N.

We're never told J's story. Who exactly did that? How did it happen where it happened without any kind of surveillance or witness?

Overall, this story had great potential (it is still a mystery) but the dynamic of the relationship and all of the unhealthy rationalized behaviors really ruined it. Honestly, I like possessive, gentle lovers so I am truly disappointed with this story. If this had been two sweet guys without all the negative thinking, I probably would have enjoyed the book, sloppily executed BDSM included. I hope the author takes better care with Ollie and the other men. I am a resilient creature but not a very forgiving one.

[Kaity · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars

Greg B you did it again! Made another book amazing haha!

But this book what a ride, Carter was a sassy cat shifter in the first book and that carried through this one. While his hot and cold attitude was annoying at times I got it…sometimes…

Bengal you were a man of few words but loved how you warmed up to Carter and let him still be himself when I think many would try and snuff him out.

Kennedy..I don’t think I like you anymore… you took it a little too far in this book with how you let the power you obtain change you in a way… she was way cooler in book one.

There were a lot of twists in this book that I didn’t expect and that made it hard to book this book down, and that’s saying something since this is over 400+ pages! There were parts where it felt repetitive with the internal dialogue but other than that it was a great read! I do always wish for a dual POV… that would have bumped up my rating for sure!

Now I am hoping for Ollie’s book next or maybe Niki’s…? Hahah either way I am excited to see where this series goes!

[Cadiva · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this just as much as book one

Ooh Meghan weaves a clever tale in this one with so much hidden until the right time to reveal it.

It's impossible to try and sum up everything that goes on, and I wouldn't want to spoil the plot twists anyway, but I was absorbed by Carter and Bengal from the off.

There's so many amazing characters in this world that we must have at least three more books to come, if not more!

[Ami · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is probably the first time I didn't fully enjoy Maslow's books.

In addition to the politic landscape of Charm City in which I have NO MEMORY of from the first book (and I still grappled over everything after I reached the last page) - I feel uneasy about the relationship.

See, there is a dub/con tone to it when it comes to the smut, and with Carter being a survivor, I wonder if it's a healthy relationship between Bengal and him. Also everyone is pretty much keeping Carter either (1) in the dark or (2) leaving him behind when things get heavy. So how's that making Carter feel appreciated and being part of the group?

But I still enjoy Carter's sass... the whole universe of this book is refreshing... and Kennedy the gun-crazy woman still kicks everyone's asses. That helps my rating scale.

[Joyfully Jay · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Joyfully Jay review.

4.5 stars

It’s been quite a while since I read The Demons in the Details, the first book in this series. But Carter is a character that stuck with me, so I was eager to his book. I definitely think these books, and any that come after it, are best read in order. While the plot of the first book was wrapped up well, this story deals with events that are directly related to what happened in the first, and I think if you haven’t read it, you’ll feel a bit lost reading this one. This book also opens the door for a sequel, and I have high hopes for what is to come.

Carter is full of sass and snark. Some of that is just his personality, which comes naturally as a Siamese cat shifter. But some of it is cultivated to hide his past trauma. Carter is a more complex character that originally shown, and I really enjoyed the way the author peeled back his layers and let the reader in. As Carter had his own revelations, so too the reader learns more. It was well done and well paced throughout the story.

Read Kris’ review in its entirety here.

[Caz · Rating 4 out of 5]

A bit over-long, this one - I liked the story overall, and of course, the narration was fantastic, but
I wasn't completely convinced by the romance. I liked the pairing, but didn't feel the emotional connection was there. Still, it was entertaining and the set up for the next book at the end was very intriguing!

[BeckieLouLou · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 very well written urban fantasy vibe with a paranormal romance. Shifters! Major world building and character introductions happened in book 1 of this series and they are pretty firmly tied together. While you could read this book on its own, you will not understand half of the political maneuvering or the significance of the demon bargaining and loyalties that play out in this book, which is book 2. Very large book at 400+pages but it kept moving and stayed interesting with great snark and banter between the characters. Very descriptive writing, I felt like I could imagine everything that was happening.

Paranormal, cat shifter, tiger half shifter, m/m, kinky, medium spice, HEA.

[Ronie Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

More please! Shifters, Demons, Mage, Vampires what a lovely menagerie of creatures.

[Kathleen]

DNF 29%

Just not my cuppa. Didn’t care for either protagonist. Bordering on silly. I loved this author’s Starfig series but this leaves me nonplussed. Moving on.

[Heather · Rating 2 out of 5]

I was sure I would love this book, because I've never not liked a Meghan Maslow book, but I did not love it. The style of it was really strange. There were a lot of sentence fragments throughout and I get that maybe that was a style that she chose for the Carter character, but it was horrible to have to read those throughout the whole thing. The book just seemed a bit rushed to me and maybe not edited the best...or maybe she wanted it to read like an English teacher's nightmare. It's hard to say, really. The content was also a bit weird/ icky with the awkward BDSM stuff and the frankly unlikable main character that was Bengal. Read at your own risk because it's just as triggery for abuse survivors as the Starfig books are when it comes to slavery/human trafficking. I'm not sure why this author thinks it's okay to gloss over these serious issues and use them as plot devices. It's disturbing, though.

[Achim · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5
It's a long time since I read about this alternate Baltimore in Fables Retold so I like to start with my usual query in such cases where I can't remember all the necessary details: a short summary about what happened in the previous book and a rough outline about the world would be appreciated. Because I like the first book it didn't take too much time to reconcile with the main characters but the political situation was a bit more difficult.

That said, Carter's story is a worthy 2nd book although I liked the first one better. The world we find ourselves in is still captivating and the main characters have some depth and are not only stereotyped paranormal species. I also can't complain about the romance (except maybe that D/s scene in Justin's apartment, that was leastwise dubious), so why no higher rating? It's Carter respectively how he's treated by the others. He's characterized as Tommy's right hand, the one to turn to when you need to get information and Carter believes that but do we see that, are the main players allow Carter to shine? No, he can preen, throw his sass, show his cockiness, his steadfast loyalty, his remarkable sense of friendship and his sharp focus but in the end he's treated like a small cat. Kennedy is only using him, Tommy pretends but treats him like a pet while Poe falls for his act. The jury is still out on Bengal's behavior because he has his own issues but I'm not so sure if Carter doesn't end as the loved eye-candy at Bengal's arm. Seems in the end Carter only can rely on Ollie and that's not enough for a guy like him.

Might have been a nice touch if Maslow again would have referenced a fairytale like she did with Rumpelstiltskin in the first book but of course Cat's Chance in Hell works without that but what I really hope is that we get an explanation for this logical lapse at the end of the book about the Washington announcment.

[Courtney Bassett · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic and snarky

Oh, this was an absolute joy to read. Lots of action, snark, humor, and smexy times. Can’t wait for some of the side characters to also get books!

[leisce ᓚᘏᗢ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tbh, I had absolutely no idea what was going on for the first 30% of the book since I started the series with book 2 (my mistake). I’m going to start the first book asap. That being said, I thoroughly enjoyed the romance between Bengal and Carter and I was heavily intrigued by the plot/society.

Such a unique blend of popular ideas on shifters and Maslow’s own spin on the paranormal. I visited Baltimore a few months ago so it was entertaining hearing the characters mention locations (like Fort McHenry) in the city that I’d seen/visited.

Adored this book. Excellent introduction to Maslow’s works - will be reading more of her novels in the near future.🫶🏽🫶🏽




New Year’s resolution: start series the way the author intended. With chapter one of book one.

[Janet Hunt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cat’s chance in Hell is the second in the Charm City chronicles. Carter is such a sassy and snarky Siamese shifter. He was sooo much fun to read and had a lot to say! Lol He meets his match in Bengal Damon-Cowles, a Bengal shifter. Ben is so opposite than what Carter expects. Carter’s loyalty’s lie with Tommy, the demon of Baltimore. He does whatever is necessary to help Tommy. Tommy needs him to stay with Ben. Their story was masterfully woven together, and I could not stop reading it! Who needs sleep anyway? Sass, snark, danger, demons, political intrigue, magic and sooo much banter! Overall, a phenomenal read! Well written with addicting pacing that kept me engaged and hooked into the story.

[Mercedes · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars

I love Meghan Maslow’s writing! I am yet to find a book of hers I have not enjoyed. Her ideas are just so fresh and entertaining. Highly recommend you pick up these series or any of her previous ones. Even if you are not a great fantasy fan I can guarantee you she will keep you reading until the end.

[Stephanie Windon · Rating 3 out of 5]

Sorry and quite surprised to say I didn't love this. Book 1 is one of my favorite books so I really expected to love this but didn't. I still enjoyed the world building and of course seeing Tommy and Poe so it gets 3 stars for that. Honestly though I hated Carter and Bengal together felt very toxic d/s relationship that the sub didn't get a say in being in. I definitely will still be excited for book 3 and hope the author takes that main couple in a sweeter direction.

[Christine · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Do you ever practice being quiet?” Damon-Cowles frowned.
“No. I even talk to myself.”
“That fails to surprise me.”
I shrugged. “I always talk to the most interesting person in the room.”
——
He stepped away, breaking our kiss. His gaze roamed over me like a caress, and then he ruined it all by smirking. “So this is what it takes to quiet your viperous tongue. I’ll keep that in mind.”
——

May 2023. M/M romance urban fantasy in modern Baltimore, book 2 of a series. It is about two characters who were side characters in the first book, so it’s a fun return to the same world and characters.

This one is between a bratty and resourceful cat shifter who works for the first book’s demon, and a dignified and reserved Rakshasa (tiger shifter from Hindi mythology) who start as enemies but become begrudging allies as they investigate a rumored plot to murder and send the neighborhood into upheaval.

This was a blast, really enjoyed it. Different neighborhoods and factions with different alliances and magical beings, likable characters, interesting choices, steamy scenes, and humor made this a delight.

Found this series from someone recommending it goodreads, and glad I checked it out! I’m not into the cover so I probably wouldn’t have taken a look at it on my own, but I ended up loving it.

“Cat’s Chance in Hell” by Meghan Maslow.

[Rozanna's fantasy romance & smut corner · Rating 4 out of 5]

Love the Siamese cat attitude, i kept Invisioning the obnoxious aristocats Siamese twin song and their attitude.
Also the rakshasa and his demon host where fun.
the kink came out of left field and didn't truly go anywhere.. but then again the cat is a brat so a good spanking could be just what he need but there wasn't a buildup or convo of boundaries limits wants needs desires etc benny just did as he pleased and that rubbed me the wrong way. But the story is fun i liked the drama the intrigue and betrayals etc its fun

[Kaylee · Rating 3 out of 5]

A tiny purr started in my chest. Normally, I'd stifle it. Now, I let it rip. Just seemed right. It picked up volume as our lips continued to explore each other.
Bengal broke the kiss, his gaze soft, his own louder purr joining mine. "Oh, beloved. You honor me."

Overall, I really enjoyed this. I liked the different cat nuances as far as their behavior and mannerisms, and truly appreciated how that was added throughout this. The above, though... Love.
During the worst of his nightmares, I snuck into his room in my cat form. I'd hop on his pillow and purr for him. I never purred anyone.
At some point, I moved my hands to his thighs and kneaded them, being careful to keep my claws retracted.
I hissed at him. Simple. To the point.
"Shh, beloved. It will be fine, I promise. Our venom is just making sure you're well and truly mated. Besides, barbs are holding us in place, so I can't pull out until they retract.

There were certain things throughout that weren't so great. Things were super hypocritical at points with Carter and Bengal. Multiple points. They were both very contrarian and, at times, it really threw off the story. I didn't like the first spanking bit. I get that it ends up being something Carter does enjoy and the way the scene goes makes it seem like he almost even "needed" it but I don't like how it came out of nowhere regardless of the reasons surrounding it. Just wish it had been handled differently. Especially when Carter brought his brother into the mix.
I'd been beaten bloody more than a few times in my life. I'd watched my older brother die right in front of me, and I'd had much worse done to my body than these rough spanks, but somehow this was the most humiliating experience that I could remember. Having Bengal Damon-Cowles mete out punishment as if I were an unruly child was truly a new low. I bet my lip hard to stop the tears. I wouldn't give him the satisfaction. But I couldn't hide a pained hiccup.

It was also annoying how it was so back and forth between Carter and Bengal for most the book. It made sense with Bengal's predicament but was also just annoying since they were both too stubborn to do anything about anything until one was dying (sometimes literally).

And Carter's so untrusting (and definitely don't blame him) that practically everything was blamed on Bengal cuz of it. Like when he was locked in his room by "The Terrible Trio" and blamed Bengal on doing so (which, also, can't really fault too much) but how he just assumed and thought nothing more of it. I was glad of how it was address and how pissed Bengal was about the situation.
Fuck. Him. I should have known better. Of course he used my past against me. That's what creatures like him did.
"I certainly did not confine you to your room. I'd never. Not after what you shared about your past. I granted you run of the house."

Kennedy. Wow. She was beyond shitty here. I liked parts of that aspect (like making her a Roger) but how she treated Carter... Wasn't okay. Especially since she barely shows up after.

I really liked the way things are handled between Carter, Bengal and Cowles! The hurt/comfort shown, too...!
I shrugged. "Maybe not this time, but if he's a permanent resident, I should get used to him, too, right?"
Bengal stared at me, his expression unreadable. Had I said something wrong? I mean, it wasn't any different from a threesome, right? And Cowles might be a separate being, but he also kinda wasn't. As Bengal said, they were entwined. They shared a body and maybe even a soul. Did he think it was weird I wouldn't mind? That I would make room in my life for Cowles, too, if it meant I could have Bengal?
Before I stammered a "never mind," he twisted, taking us both to the mattress, me splayed out and him pressed to my side.

Really liked this overall and will continue with this series and this author. Carter could be annoying at times as other characters were as well, but it was more of a facade for him, how he "needed" to be to be okay and to carry out whatever plans he was trying to accomplish. I liked his back-story and how things worked out. It was good having Ollie, Poe and Tommy around too.

Also, side bar: I appreciated how Ollie and Carter have such a close friendship but it didn't stray into sexual interest as so often happens... Also, also: Bengal. Could have just named Carter "Siamese" while at it...

3.5 stars rounded down. On my abuse and dubcon-noncon shelves because of past events and while a child.

[Melanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Magical, well written, but has a cliffhanger

Rating: 4.75🌈

It was so easy to fall back into Meghan Maslow’s rich paranormal universe of Charm City Chronicles. Baltimore or if you’re local then it’s “Bawlmer" or "Bawl-ah-mur." A city so rich in varied cultures, a startling variety of architectural styles, and history that it’s a place to overwhelm your senses. In good and, *cough* bad ways.

Maslow’s setting is both a love letter and an acknowledgment of the reality of life in every aspect and area of that old (by American standards) city. Resting place of Poe, birthplace of the nation’s anthem, with the wildness of the Bay at its side, surely magic must exist there.

As it does in the series. Vampires, werewolves, shifters, and a Demon! Oh my!

In Demon’s In The Details, our initial introduction to the Demon Tommy Tittoti and his mate, the Raven shifter, Poe Dupin, we met Tommy’s assistant, Carter Strike.

Sassy, snarky, sexy Siamese shifter, Carter Strike. Exceptionally gifted when it comes to gathering information about Tommy’s enemies, he’s not afraid to take risks to get what he’s looking for.

We instantly adored him. And wanted more.

We get it when he runs through and smack into Bengal Damon-Cowles, the Roger or head of the South-West Baltimore territory. That starts an explosive relationship between him and Damon-Cowles, a Rakshasa, a powerful being of secretive origins.

Maslow’s story has launched a new storyline with this book that’s full of mystery, packed with potential dread and suspense for all our favorite characters going forward, and yes, there’s a bit of a cliffhanger at the end.

There’s just no way to go into any aspect of this book without giving away some secrets or important information that would spoil something for the reader.

I will say I wasn’t expecting the romance elements and that turned out to be so very satisfying.

Now I need that all important next installment. Asap!

I’m definitely recommending this. But if cliffhangers make you crazy, you decide if you want to wait until the next book is released and then read one after the other.

I’ve listed the books in the order below.

Charm City Chronicles:
- [x] Demon’s In The Details
- [x] Cat’s Chance In Hell

[SophiaH · Rating 4 out of 5]

***3.7***

I really like this new series of Meghan Maslow, it is strange, fun and has a dark humor that is just right.

Carter is adorable and just as I would have imagined my cat to have been like if he could transform into a man. Still, the relationship between Carter and Bengal sometimes didn't sit right with me. So much wasn't said and at some points I could have punched Bengal. In Carter's shoes I would have felt so used and dirty I wouldn't have been able to be in Bengal's presence without sneering. Maybe, even though they don't really believe or have hardly ever seen any fated pairs, the bond truly is strong, because if my love interest would have touched me intimately and then turned around and said that he didn't want my touch because I seem to be indiscriminate with my affections - effectively calling me a wh*** - I wouldn't let him touch me again with a ten foot pole.

I also am a little perturbed by how Carter is treated/seen by those closest to him. Especially because he is supposed to be Tommy's second. I sometimes got the feeling as though they saw him as a joke or just the little crazy neighborhood cat and not the capable man he is, who survived a really traumatic upbringing. It was kind of sad to me that he, in all his action even though he tries to pretend otherwise, was looking for acceptance, love and friendship everywhere he went (especially because of his dark past) and I only got the feeling that the only ones who returned that love and friendship were Ollie for the most part and to a smaller extend Poe and Bengal near the end. Tommy I was never truly sure about as he is ruthless and would send Carter into a vipers nest if it benefited him and Kennedy... well who needs foes if one has friends like her who invite you to a murder fest with no guarantee of coming out the other side alive.

That being said, I liked the overall premise of the story and enjoyed the read and am looking forward to the next story. I hope to see Carter all loved up and happy in the future and for Ollie to get ALL the love!

[Shelby · Rating 4 out of 5]

Well wasn't that a whole lot of fun. I have to admit while I loved Carter, Bengal had to grow on me. He was just such a dick at first, and sure he has his reasons and all, but I wasn't sure I was going to want him for the awesomeness that is Carter. Even a Carter when he's in one of his sulks. But, ultimately his devotion to Carter became clear and his growly, overbearing demeanor leveled out some. He was charmed without meaning to be by all of Carter's sass.

I'm thoroughly enjoying this series. It's a wonderfully interesting and inventive world that has been created. The characters are lots of fun with unswerving loyalty to those they consider dear. I am enjoying the little alliance that Tommy's building here. :) I can't wait for the next book in this series. I have a feeling I know who's next...or at least who I'd like it to be...one little daywalker doesn't even know what's coming at him.

[Natalie H · Rating 4 out of 5]

May 2025
Kindle edition

Oof, tough times for Tommy ahead. Bengal and Carter took some work to get where they were. I'm surprised it was Poe that gave him the push, then again I don't see Kennedy getting trusted for a while. Something going on with the bodyguards. Something happening to Ollie again, and a new couple set up right before closing. Certainly wasn't a dull send off for Carter. Would've liked more alone time with the demon. Surprisingly MMM.

[Theresa · Rating 1 out of 5]

Started out great and then became boring. The back and forth between Tommy and Bengal became tiresome. After each altercation, their interaction lost its spark. Relationship didn't develop. DNF @ 45%. Disappointed, because first book was great.

[Nan · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really like this world and want MORE

[Aki · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really love it. I need more of Cat and Poe and all of them...Nikis Story next?

[Sara Emme · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mi è piaciuto tanto. Ogni personaggio è davvero ben delineato ed è facile affezionarsi a tutti! ❤️
Spero di leggere presto altri libri di questa serie!

[The Word Nerd Reviews Blog · Rating 5 out of 5]

8/8/23 - If you haven't listened Cat's Chance in Hell in audio yet, run don't walk, to do so. I loved the book, but the audio is next level. Meghan Maslow and Greg Boudreaux work beautifully together!

I strongly recommend that you read/listen to Demon's in the Details first, otherwise you'll be a bit lost. Demon's in the Details is my absolute FAVOURITE audio ever, highly highly recommended!!!!!

*********(

Meghan Maslow has done it again!

A Cat's Chance in Hell is everything I could have asked for in the second book of the Charm City Chronicles.

All the humour, romance, SNARK, and great characters from the first book, with a few additions to make you wonder if they'll have their own book at some stage. Nothing like keeping your readers guessing! I loved getting to know Carter better, as well as unravelling the mysterious Bengal.

Lots of twists and turns, and since I refuse to spoil anything, I can't actually talk about the book all too much. Just know that it's an addictive ride filled with laughs, snarky humour, and all the romance I could possibly want!

I LOVED that Tommy and Poe featured heavily in this story, I wasn't ready to let them go yet.

The action is building, alliances are being made and broken.... Who is friend and who is foe? Let's just say this book sets up what looks to be an absolute rollercoaster of a series!

I can't wait for the audio to be released! I've listened to Greg Boudreaux's narration of Demon's in the Details numerous times, and I think it speaks to the impact of his performance that I heard his voices for the main cast in every word. I wasn't even consciously doing it. I was about 10 chapters in before I realised what I was doing!

Cat's Chance in Hell CANNOT be read as standalone as it takes off pretty much from the end of Demon's in the Details. While there is a little bit of backtracking and explanation, it's not enough to really understand all the characters, friendships, and alliances (or not) that reoccur in this book. Book 1 is such a good read, I don't know why you'd want to miss it anyway!

Demon's in the Details was one of my favourite books of early 2022 (I found it long after it was released) and the audio --- *chef's kiss* it remains the only book I listened to twice in as many months, I just never do re-listens that closely together, but for this book ... I'm now on fourth or fifth listen!

Cat's Chance in Hell is a wild ride with all the characters you've grown to love (and hate) from the first book. So take a chance and get to know everyone's favourite snarky Siamese and learn the mysteries of the Rakshasa with an attitude!

Highly, Highly Recommended!!!



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