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The Demon's Wife
Claire McMullen is just an ordinary woman -- until you look at her long, beautiful bright-red hair. She has a job she hates, a roommate she tolerates, and she spends her weekend nights bar-hopping, looking for her “Mr. Right.” One cold, rainy night she meets Samael -- tall, dark, handsome and rich -- and a romance blossoms. Claire thinks she may have found her soulmate -- until Samael informs Claire that he’s actually a demon.
Can Claire trust a demon’s claims of true love—or is he just plotting after her immortal soul? Can a demon even feel true love, and if so…
What are the consequences of such a love for both Hell and Heaven?
Can Claire trust a demon’s claims of true love—or is he just plotting after her immortal soul? Can a demon even feel true love, and if so…
What are the consequences of such a love for both Hell and Heaven?
- GenresParanormalRomanceFantasy
314 pages, Paperback
First published August 16, 2013
983 people want to read
About the author
Rick Hautala
137 books125 followersAKA A.J. Matthews
Rick Hautala has more than thirty published books to his credit, including the million copy, international best-seller Nightstone, as well as Twilight Time, Little Brothers, Cold Whisper, Impulse, and The Wildman. He has also published four novels—The White Room, Looking Glass, Unbroken, and Follow—using the pseudonym A. J. Matthews. His more than sixty published short stories have appeared in national and international anthologies and magazines. His short story collection Bedbugs was selected as one of the best horror books of the year in 2003.
A novella titled Reunion was published by PS Publications in December, 2009; and Occasional Demons, a short story collection, is due in 2010 from CD Publications. He wrote the screenplays for several short films, including the multiple award-winning The Ugly Film, based on the short story by Ed Gorman, as well as Peekers, based on a short story by Kealan Patrick Burke, and Dead @ 17, based on the graphic novel by Josh Howard.
A graduate of the University of Maine in Orono with a Master of Art in English Literature (Renaissance and Medieval Literature), Hautala lives in southern Maine with author Holly Newstein. His three sons have all grown up and (mostly) moved out of the house. He served terms as Vice President and Trustee for the Horror Writers Association.
Sadly, Rick died on March 21, 2013.
Rick Hautala has more than thirty published books to his credit, including the million copy, international best-seller Nightstone, as well as Twilight Time, Little Brothers, Cold Whisper, Impulse, and The Wildman. He has also published four novels—The White Room, Looking Glass, Unbroken, and Follow—using the pseudonym A. J. Matthews. His more than sixty published short stories have appeared in national and international anthologies and magazines. His short story collection Bedbugs was selected as one of the best horror books of the year in 2003.
A novella titled Reunion was published by PS Publications in December, 2009; and Occasional Demons, a short story collection, is due in 2010 from CD Publications. He wrote the screenplays for several short films, including the multiple award-winning The Ugly Film, based on the short story by Ed Gorman, as well as Peekers, based on a short story by Kealan Patrick Burke, and Dead @ 17, based on the graphic novel by Josh Howard.
A graduate of the University of Maine in Orono with a Master of Art in English Literature (Renaissance and Medieval Literature), Hautala lives in southern Maine with author Holly Newstein. His three sons have all grown up and (mostly) moved out of the house. He served terms as Vice President and Trustee for the Horror Writers Association.
Sadly, Rick died on March 21, 2013.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
August 4, 2013
I was hoping for the best, partly because this is a posthumous novel. Yet I found it rather tedious. I wasn't really sure who this book was geared for. It is not in the least bit horrific and only slightly humorous. I thought there may be some YA aspects to it, but the scene depicting how a demon uses his tail nixed that idea. Fantasy or urban supernatural? Getting close. Actually it reads more like a parody of romance novels. Yet there are two problems for me with that aspect; 1) I never read romances and 2) A parody of a romance is a bit redundant since today's romances have developed into a parody of themselves. It is best just to say that this novel was not my cup of brimstone.
Note: I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway. I hate giving these giveaway books a bad review since I always appreciate the gesture. But what is a honest book reviewer gonna do? Sigh.
Note: I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway. I hate giving these giveaway books a bad review since I always appreciate the gesture. But what is a honest book reviewer gonna do? Sigh.
August 11, 2013
The Demon's Wife is a romance between a demon and a human woman. There are repercussions from both worlds the lovers must face.
At times, it felt like a cheat when a supernatural character would say, "It's too complicated too explain." This left a fair amount of detail unexplained, which was both a positive and a negative. If everything was explained; the book never would have ended, while by it's frequent use and not explaining does allow the author a technique to not explain items for which the author has no explanation.
The characters are authentically written, and there are unexpected cute, sweet interactions. Throughout the story, fast paced action is present. The story is well written, easy to grasp and follow, with crisp dialogue.
Overall a fun read!
At times, it felt like a cheat when a supernatural character would say, "It's too complicated too explain." This left a fair amount of detail unexplained, which was both a positive and a negative. If everything was explained; the book never would have ended, while by it's frequent use and not explaining does allow the author a technique to not explain items for which the author has no explanation.
The characters are authentically written, and there are unexpected cute, sweet interactions. Throughout the story, fast paced action is present. The story is well written, easy to grasp and follow, with crisp dialogue.
Overall a fun read!
April 19, 2013
Claire McMullen is just an ordinary woman -- until you look at her long, beautiful bright-red hair. She has a job she hates, a roommate she tolerates, and she spends her weekend nights bar-hopping, looking for her “Mr. Right.” One cold, rainy night she meets Samael -- tall, dark, handsome and rich -- and a romance blossoms. Claire thinks she may have found her soulmate -- until Samael informs Claire that he’s actually a demon.
Can Claire trust a demon’s claims of true love—or is he just plotting after her immortal soul? Can a demon even feel true love, and if so…
What are the consequences of such a love for both Hell and Heaven?
Can Claire trust a demon’s claims of true love—or is he just plotting after her immortal soul? Can a demon even feel true love, and if so…
What are the consequences of such a love for both Hell and Heaven?
September 5, 2013
On the first page of this paranormal romance we find out that Claire, a thirty something redhead will marry Samael, a gorgeous demon, by the end of the book. Getting there is fun for the reader and the author.
Claire and her roommate Sally meet Samael in a bar. Sally practically undresses to get the attention of this hunk of a man (demon) but Samael only has eyes for Claire. They chat, he leaves. When the girls leave, Claire is accosted by a man outside. Samael comes to her rescue. This perfect knight in shining armor seals the deal by being a gentleman when he comforts her.
Sally is still jealous, but Claire is head over heels for her demon lover. Samael admits that he was once an angel, but now serves the devil. Claire doesn’t care, she is in love. But can she ever trust a demon, who appears to be hiding details about his life?
Samael starts feeling strange when he continues back to work reaping souls. Could his love for Claire be opening the door to his conscience that he shut long ago? Will he be able to denounce the devil and quit collecting souls to ensure his happiness with his new human wife?
The couple is on a fast train to marriage and an oddly happy life together when other demons intervene in any and every possible way. They retreat to the fortress of Samael’s mansion with his unusual housekeeper and Michael, who in all probability is an angel. Bees, bats and shape changing demons mix with steamy bedroom scenes, skillfully connecting the reader with earthly reality and fantasy in a perfectly paranormal way.
The classic struggle for good over evil works well in this novel. Rick Hautla wrote it with a forked tongue-in-cheek humor that is amusing and sharp. I have to admit I don’t usually pick up romance novels. That being said, I really enjoyed reading The Demon’s Wife.
Sadly, Rick Hautla passed away unexpectedly on March 21, 2013. Please see his website for more information and the list of his books and short stories. http://www.rickhautala.com/
Warning: this novel does have a few scenes that may be considered “R” rated.
Copyright © 2013 Laura Hartman
DISCLOSURE OF MATERIAL CONNECTION: I have a material connection because I received a review copy that I can keep for consideration in preparing to write this content. I was not expected to return this item after my review
Claire and her roommate Sally meet Samael in a bar. Sally practically undresses to get the attention of this hunk of a man (demon) but Samael only has eyes for Claire. They chat, he leaves. When the girls leave, Claire is accosted by a man outside. Samael comes to her rescue. This perfect knight in shining armor seals the deal by being a gentleman when he comforts her.
Sally is still jealous, but Claire is head over heels for her demon lover. Samael admits that he was once an angel, but now serves the devil. Claire doesn’t care, she is in love. But can she ever trust a demon, who appears to be hiding details about his life?
Samael starts feeling strange when he continues back to work reaping souls. Could his love for Claire be opening the door to his conscience that he shut long ago? Will he be able to denounce the devil and quit collecting souls to ensure his happiness with his new human wife?
The couple is on a fast train to marriage and an oddly happy life together when other demons intervene in any and every possible way. They retreat to the fortress of Samael’s mansion with his unusual housekeeper and Michael, who in all probability is an angel. Bees, bats and shape changing demons mix with steamy bedroom scenes, skillfully connecting the reader with earthly reality and fantasy in a perfectly paranormal way.
The classic struggle for good over evil works well in this novel. Rick Hautla wrote it with a forked tongue-in-cheek humor that is amusing and sharp. I have to admit I don’t usually pick up romance novels. That being said, I really enjoyed reading The Demon’s Wife.
Sadly, Rick Hautla passed away unexpectedly on March 21, 2013. Please see his website for more information and the list of his books and short stories. http://www.rickhautala.com/
Warning: this novel does have a few scenes that may be considered “R” rated.
Copyright © 2013 Laura Hartman
DISCLOSURE OF MATERIAL CONNECTION: I have a material connection because I received a review copy that I can keep for consideration in preparing to write this content. I was not expected to return this item after my review
August 1, 2013
I received a free copy of Rick Hautala's The Demon's Wife as a Goodreads First Reader. I was interested in the story and enjoyed it immensely, it is not my typical genre but that is the advantage of Goodreads, being able to experiment and dabble... After finishing the last page and putting it down, I fould I was less than satisfied with the ending. It felt like it just stopped without closure. Hopefully it was meant to have a sequel and the tale will continue. The story was very creative, unique, and additive, not predictable by any means. Had me cringing in spots, had me smiling in spots, was always entertained throughout. The sex had some sizzle and spice, but was not explicit. I would not recommend giving it to anyone under 16.
October 3, 2013
http://openbooksociety.com/article/th...
Brought to you by OBS reviewer Dawn
*Beware of Spoilers*
Claire has no excitement in her life. Her days are filled with the minutiae of life. She is not unhappy but nor is she happy. She exists; she treads water so to speak. That all changes when she meets Samael.
Initially, Claire feels Samael is too good to be true. He is hot; they have a serious attraction. He is wealthy, unmarried.
There are signs that all is not as is appears. At times Samael disappears with no explanation. Weird things go on around him. As each bizarre incident occurs, the look on his face makes it clear he is somehow involved. Samael enjoys the chaos; he takes pleasure in the disruptions and the pain inflicted on others. I was pretty annoyed with the things he allowed to happen to Claire. She should not have been put through that crap.
I like Claire as a character but I feel it took her too long to figure out the obvious. Once she knows she is determined to “fix” him and keep him on the straight and narrow. As women, we are told to avoid relationships in which we want to “fix” a man. It is usually a doomed relationship. I did not think Samael could change or love Claire the way she deserves. He is a demon; I figured he was inherently evil.
Claire and Samael fall in love, despite the odds. But what are the consequences? Could Samael quit being a demon? Could he change his life? I did not think so, but I underestimated the ability of love to change people.
Samael wants to be with Claire no matter what he has to endure. They both endure a lot to be together. They are tormented by other demons. They face a lot of obstacles but their love grows stronger. Claire and Samael are willing to do whatever it takes to be free to love one another.
Samael truly changed. Claire’s love inspired him to be a better person. His character development was fascinating and kept me hooked on the book. Once I began reading, I could not put it down.
The Demon’s Wife is a fun read. It is filled with humor. I laughed quite a bit, at Samael. I could easily imagine the ornery look on his face.
I think men and women will like this book. It is too detailed in the sex scenes for a young adult.
Brought to you by OBS reviewer Dawn
*Beware of Spoilers*
Claire has no excitement in her life. Her days are filled with the minutiae of life. She is not unhappy but nor is she happy. She exists; she treads water so to speak. That all changes when she meets Samael.
Initially, Claire feels Samael is too good to be true. He is hot; they have a serious attraction. He is wealthy, unmarried.
There are signs that all is not as is appears. At times Samael disappears with no explanation. Weird things go on around him. As each bizarre incident occurs, the look on his face makes it clear he is somehow involved. Samael enjoys the chaos; he takes pleasure in the disruptions and the pain inflicted on others. I was pretty annoyed with the things he allowed to happen to Claire. She should not have been put through that crap.
I like Claire as a character but I feel it took her too long to figure out the obvious. Once she knows she is determined to “fix” him and keep him on the straight and narrow. As women, we are told to avoid relationships in which we want to “fix” a man. It is usually a doomed relationship. I did not think Samael could change or love Claire the way she deserves. He is a demon; I figured he was inherently evil.
Claire and Samael fall in love, despite the odds. But what are the consequences? Could Samael quit being a demon? Could he change his life? I did not think so, but I underestimated the ability of love to change people.
Samael wants to be with Claire no matter what he has to endure. They both endure a lot to be together. They are tormented by other demons. They face a lot of obstacles but their love grows stronger. Claire and Samael are willing to do whatever it takes to be free to love one another.
Samael truly changed. Claire’s love inspired him to be a better person. His character development was fascinating and kept me hooked on the book. Once I began reading, I could not put it down.
The Demon’s Wife is a fun read. It is filled with humor. I laughed quite a bit, at Samael. I could easily imagine the ornery look on his face.
I think men and women will like this book. It is too detailed in the sex scenes for a young adult.
September 4, 2013
When I’m looking for books to review, I generally attempt to choose books from all genres, even if they aren't in my “preferred” genre reading. That’s how I came across “The Demon’s Wife” by author, Rick Hautala. At first glance, I wasn't sure what genre “The Demon’s Wife” actually fell into, other than the “Romance” genre, based on the book’s title and cover depiction. After finishing it, I’d say it still falls into the “Romance” category, but I can also add “Supernatural” and “Fantasy” to the mix. This definitely broadens the book’s appeal to readers who are looking for more than just another romance novel. While “The Demon’s Wife” has a definite romance aspect, it’s also a fast-paced, supernatural thrill read, of sorts.
In “The Demon’s Wife” we meet Claire McMullen, out on the town with her roommate, and sometimes best friend, Sally. The two of them are out for the evening at a bar and this is where they meet a demon, in human form, named Samael. Of course neither Claire, nor Sally, knows this and the three of them spend an enjoyable evening together chatting. Trouble starts for Claire the moment she walks out of the bar, yet somehow Samael is there to rescue her.
A romance between Claire and Samael begins, and Samael finally opens up to Claire about who, or should I say what, he is. I think most women would turn tail and run, (pun intended), if they found out the “guy” they were interested in was a demon that preys on humans in order to acquire their souls. Claire doesn't fall into the “most women” category though, and she decides to continue seeing Samael. What follow’s in “The Demon’s Wife” is an interesting, fast-paced and supernatural read, but I will leave it for the reader find to out for her/himself as to how it all works out in the end.
All in all, I found “The Demon’s Wife” to be a quick, fast-paced, yet fun read. Hautala writes well. His characters are believable, their various interactions are fluid, and the plot found within “The Demon’s Wife,” escalates appropriately.
In closing, “The Demon’s Wife” would be an enjoyable read for anyone who likes Romance, Supernatural or Fantasy style/genre books.
In “The Demon’s Wife” we meet Claire McMullen, out on the town with her roommate, and sometimes best friend, Sally. The two of them are out for the evening at a bar and this is where they meet a demon, in human form, named Samael. Of course neither Claire, nor Sally, knows this and the three of them spend an enjoyable evening together chatting. Trouble starts for Claire the moment she walks out of the bar, yet somehow Samael is there to rescue her.
A romance between Claire and Samael begins, and Samael finally opens up to Claire about who, or should I say what, he is. I think most women would turn tail and run, (pun intended), if they found out the “guy” they were interested in was a demon that preys on humans in order to acquire their souls. Claire doesn't fall into the “most women” category though, and she decides to continue seeing Samael. What follow’s in “The Demon’s Wife” is an interesting, fast-paced and supernatural read, but I will leave it for the reader find to out for her/himself as to how it all works out in the end.
All in all, I found “The Demon’s Wife” to be a quick, fast-paced, yet fun read. Hautala writes well. His characters are believable, their various interactions are fluid, and the plot found within “The Demon’s Wife,” escalates appropriately.
In closing, “The Demon’s Wife” would be an enjoyable read for anyone who likes Romance, Supernatural or Fantasy style/genre books.
September 7, 2013
Review Copy
On March 31st, 2012 writer Rick Hautala picked up a Bram Stoker Award for Lifetime Acheivement, no one could possibly know that just shy of a year later Rick would be gone, taken from his family and the horror writing community at large by a heart attack in March of this year.
Prior to his passing, JournalStone Publications announced a two book deal with Rick and The Demon's Wife is the first of those two books.
Clair McMullen spends her days cooped up in a small office "her only lifelines to the 'real world' were cruising Facebook and listening to WXPN, a radio station from Philly that she streamed over the computer." I loved that Clair listened to what is likely the best listener supported music station in the country that's right here in Philly. How a New England native like Rick came to know about WXPN is anyone's guess.
I was immediately drawn to the concept behind The Demon's Wife and that was solidified by Rick's smooth writing style. When Clair meets Samael she has no idea he's a demon. The reader, however, is in on the fact that what Claire believes to be happening on the night she meets Samael is not what really happened, but we can't do much about that, other than let Claire figure things out for herself and by then, she and Samael are both hopelessly and helplessly in love.
Not everyone in Samael's world is happy about what is happening to their old co-worker, and that leads to plenty of conflict for the story.
At times charming and often horrifying, The Demon's Wife is a thoroughly enjoyable read that got better and better, to where I couldn't wait to see what would happen next. Although there is no Fairy Tale ending for our happy couple, their love is strong and I wish them the best.
The official release date for The Demon's Wife is September 13, 2013, but it looks to be available now in a variety of formats from JournalStone.com and Amazon.com.
I can definitely recommend you add this one to your To Be Read list.
On March 31st, 2012 writer Rick Hautala picked up a Bram Stoker Award for Lifetime Acheivement, no one could possibly know that just shy of a year later Rick would be gone, taken from his family and the horror writing community at large by a heart attack in March of this year.
Prior to his passing, JournalStone Publications announced a two book deal with Rick and The Demon's Wife is the first of those two books.
Clair McMullen spends her days cooped up in a small office "her only lifelines to the 'real world' were cruising Facebook and listening to WXPN, a radio station from Philly that she streamed over the computer." I loved that Clair listened to what is likely the best listener supported music station in the country that's right here in Philly. How a New England native like Rick came to know about WXPN is anyone's guess.
I was immediately drawn to the concept behind The Demon's Wife and that was solidified by Rick's smooth writing style. When Clair meets Samael she has no idea he's a demon. The reader, however, is in on the fact that what Claire believes to be happening on the night she meets Samael is not what really happened, but we can't do much about that, other than let Claire figure things out for herself and by then, she and Samael are both hopelessly and helplessly in love.
Not everyone in Samael's world is happy about what is happening to their old co-worker, and that leads to plenty of conflict for the story.
At times charming and often horrifying, The Demon's Wife is a thoroughly enjoyable read that got better and better, to where I couldn't wait to see what would happen next. Although there is no Fairy Tale ending for our happy couple, their love is strong and I wish them the best.
The official release date for The Demon's Wife is September 13, 2013, but it looks to be available now in a variety of formats from JournalStone.com and Amazon.com.
I can definitely recommend you add this one to your To Be Read list.
December 30, 2013
Reviewed by Lee Ashford for Readers' Favorite.
“The Demon’s Wife” by the late, great Rick Hautala is the first story I have read which was written by Hautala, but it catapulted Rick to the top of my list of favorite authors. With a touch of humor, a touch of romance, a lot of suspense, and a whole lot of supernatural stuff going on, “The Demon’s Wife” is one of those books you don’t want to put down until you’ve finished reading it. Best of all, it is a fun read.
Roommates, Sally and Claire, are relaxing with a drink when a handsome man walks by, catching both their attention. Sally tried coming on to him, but his interest was in Claire. Later, while Sally goes to use the restroom, Claire steps outside to wait for her, when she is suddenly accosted by a knife-wielding assailant.
Suddenly the handsome man, who turns out to be called Samael, comes to her rescue and calls the police, while restraining the assailant. From this point on, Claire and Samael have a whirlwind romance… but Samael hasn’t been totally honest with Claire.
“The Demon’s Wife” is a fascinating tale of a human woman and a demon from Hell, who fall in love and get married. Samael decides, after falling so completely in love with Claire, that he wants to repent of his evil ways and earn his soul back. But Hell doesn’t let go of its demons without a fight, and they will try anything to separate Samael and Claire, knowing that without Claire, Samael would return to his evil ways with a vengeance.
The premise sounds almost absurd the way I’ve described it, but Hautala was a true master of the written word, according to everything I’ve read about him, and “The Demon’s Wife” certainly lives up to his reputation. I have obtained the two volume omnibus collection of pretty much everything Hautala ever wrote, and I can’t wait to dig in and just start reading. His writing strikes a chord with me, and I can’t recommend “The Demons’ Wife” heartily enough.
“The Demon’s Wife” by the late, great Rick Hautala is the first story I have read which was written by Hautala, but it catapulted Rick to the top of my list of favorite authors. With a touch of humor, a touch of romance, a lot of suspense, and a whole lot of supernatural stuff going on, “The Demon’s Wife” is one of those books you don’t want to put down until you’ve finished reading it. Best of all, it is a fun read.
Roommates, Sally and Claire, are relaxing with a drink when a handsome man walks by, catching both their attention. Sally tried coming on to him, but his interest was in Claire. Later, while Sally goes to use the restroom, Claire steps outside to wait for her, when she is suddenly accosted by a knife-wielding assailant.
Suddenly the handsome man, who turns out to be called Samael, comes to her rescue and calls the police, while restraining the assailant. From this point on, Claire and Samael have a whirlwind romance… but Samael hasn’t been totally honest with Claire.
“The Demon’s Wife” is a fascinating tale of a human woman and a demon from Hell, who fall in love and get married. Samael decides, after falling so completely in love with Claire, that he wants to repent of his evil ways and earn his soul back. But Hell doesn’t let go of its demons without a fight, and they will try anything to separate Samael and Claire, knowing that without Claire, Samael would return to his evil ways with a vengeance.
The premise sounds almost absurd the way I’ve described it, but Hautala was a true master of the written word, according to everything I’ve read about him, and “The Demon’s Wife” certainly lives up to his reputation. I have obtained the two volume omnibus collection of pretty much everything Hautala ever wrote, and I can’t wait to dig in and just start reading. His writing strikes a chord with me, and I can’t recommend “The Demons’ Wife” heartily enough.
August 5, 2013
The Demon’s Wife is a refreshingly multi-layered and fast-paced romp that, thankfully, is nothing like the currently unending spate of predictable supernatural/human romances. Author Rick Hautala has taken humanity’s constant struggle with personal demons and has given it flesh and bone in the form of his female protagonist Claire, who struggles with lust, envy, meanness, and a myriad of other temptations as she takes on a demon lover. But don’t think that this is a dreary allegory. Far from it. Hautala tells a really fun story. In fact, you can read The Demon’s Wife just for the sexual titillation (designed to appeal to both sexes) including the demon’s creative use of forked tongue and throbbing tail, oh my!! Enemy demons’ challenges to Claire’s human-demon love affair are reminiscent of the devil’ stunts in John Updikes’s novel The Witches of Eastwick, or perhaps more like the wonderful movie based on that novel. Nonetheless, aside from the sex and action, if you read this book a little more slowly, you’ll discern that it challenges us to consider the nature of good, evil, redemption, penance, and unconditional love. Perhaps this description of Claire’s dilemma says it best: “Maybe people dealt with literal demons all the time, and this was just her first exposure to what was a common, everyday occurrence.” Or how about this warning concerning the pervasive nature of evil: “You made a barrier you thought would keep things out, but you don’t know what you’ve already walled inside.” Makes you go, hmm, doesn’t it?
July 27, 2013
The Demon's Wife is very interesting to read. It is a "goodread" and I'll admit I was annoyed when forced to put it down. It begins as a demon on a quest for souls then turns. Won't spoil it for you. Samael is the demon, really bad evil type of demon. He "rescues" our heroine from being raped. We see that for what it is from the beginning. Claire however does not. As a matter of fact (love women in denial) she doesn't hear the truth until the end of the book. She has an interesting response considering. Grammar and spelling are a breath of fresh air with so many books being rapid fire released with horrible editing of late. The cover shown in the photo must be the cover being released and is a much better cover than the edition I was sent as an ARC. The book stands on its own (Another breath of fresh air with the hundreds of series going on right now) although if Mr. Hautala decided to continue the story it would be fun. There is definitely more story that could be told. Congratulation to Rick Hautala for a delightful read.
October 8, 2013
When Claire McMullen went out clubbing with her friend and roommate Sally, the last person she expected to meet was someone like Samael. Later that night when she was attacked in the club parking lot, Samael was the one who saved her. Then it seemed like everywhere she went, there was Samael and as they got closer she wondered if it was love or lust. Then when she found out that he was a demon and he said that he loved her and wanted to marry her and change from being evil and be good she had to wonder was it real or just a way to get her soul and if it is real will hell or for that matter heaven allow it.
When I first started reading this book I wonder about it as I thought it was kind of choppy writing but as I got onto it and in the flow of the writing I enjoyed it. The theme was somewhat new and the author did it well, not great but well. Is this a book you will pick up and not want to put down, No but it is one that you will turn to when you have some spare time and want to escape into another world.
When I first started reading this book I wonder about it as I thought it was kind of choppy writing but as I got onto it and in the flow of the writing I enjoyed it. The theme was somewhat new and the author did it well, not great but well. Is this a book you will pick up and not want to put down, No but it is one that you will turn to when you have some spare time and want to escape into another world.
August 27, 2013
I won a copy of this book through Librarything and am glad I did. This is a cute book. samael is a demon with a capitol D. He meets Claire in a bar and starts to form feelings for her. something demons don’t do. Well he does and he tries to woo her. Only Claire is wary since he is a demon.
The romantic interludes with the tail and what it does for her are so craftily written you will love it. And to watch him try to change and redeem himself for her is precious.
Samael is so adorable for a demon. He is trying so hard to change his ways and when he slips and the gleam is in his eyes its cute. He is crushed when Claire doesn’t believe him. I mean though can you blame her he is a demon.
Claire has a right to her doubts but i am glad she sees through them and gives Samael a chance.
This is a cleverly written book that will have you ahh in the end for it is so precious and funny and sweet too.
The romantic interludes with the tail and what it does for her are so craftily written you will love it. And to watch him try to change and redeem himself for her is precious.
Samael is so adorable for a demon. He is trying so hard to change his ways and when he slips and the gleam is in his eyes its cute. He is crushed when Claire doesn’t believe him. I mean though can you blame her he is a demon.
Claire has a right to her doubts but i am glad she sees through them and gives Samael a chance.
This is a cleverly written book that will have you ahh in the end for it is so precious and funny and sweet too.
October 2, 2013
I was given this book in exchange for an honest review.
Who could love a demon? Claire. Who could make demon want to redeem himself? Claire. Who can trust a demon??? No one according to demons.
Claire is a woman in her mid thirties who hates her job and has grown apart from her best friend. They go out for a girl's night and so begins the story. I was drawn in from the first paragraph and couldn't put it down. Went to bed finally at 3am and was back up at 6 finishing the story. I would love to read more on these characters and I definitely look forward to any of the authors works.
Who could love a demon? Claire. Who could make demon want to redeem himself? Claire. Who can trust a demon??? No one according to demons.
Claire is a woman in her mid thirties who hates her job and has grown apart from her best friend. They go out for a girl's night and so begins the story. I was drawn in from the first paragraph and couldn't put it down. Went to bed finally at 3am and was back up at 6 finishing the story. I would love to read more on these characters and I definitely look forward to any of the authors works.
August 26, 2013
I received a free copy of Rick Hautala's The Demon's Wife from LibraryThing. I really liked this book and totally wish there was going to be a second book! This book is a quick, exciting read. I loved the characters and was very invested in the story by the end. Definitely an adult paranormal romance with some humor! I only wish I knew there was going to be a second book. :(
July 31, 2013
An interesting twist to a love story. This is a quick, easy read (I read it in one day) and I liked the characters. Not really a horror story but more a fantasy, love conquers all story. Kind of cliche but still heart warming.
January 23, 2015
An ok read. A little long at beginning , but picked up pace. Character driven from my opinion. Sensual, disquieting . A blend of supernatural and sensuality, with hooror tipped in.
July 23, 2023
Hautala has written a lot of fun, supernatural thrillers with some genuinely scary moments. This is not one of those. The Demon's Wife is a strange romance novel in the vein of Twilight, likely an attempt to capture that audience.
September 16, 2013
Rick Hautala brings a whole new dimension to the ever popular ‘good girl meets bad boy’ plot line. In fact, The Demon's Wife is kind of hard to categorize – not quite urban fantasy, not quite romance, not quite mystery – although it has elements of all three. I’ve read a lot of urban fantasy – apparently it’s easy to fall in love with a nonhuman vampire/werewolf/shapeshifter/angel/god/dragon and live happily ever after – but what happens when you fall in love with a demon?
Thirty-something Clare McMullen doesn’t like much about herself - except for her long, curly, bright red hair. She’s stuck in a dead-end job she hates, has school loans she’ll never pay off, and lives in a dump with a roommate she barely tolerates. Oh yes, and she moved back to Maine (at least it’s Portland and not the rural area where she grew up) to be near a boyfriend who dumped her.
One night she and Sally wandered into a bar for a quick bite before a concert. Sally tried her best to attract the attention of a good looking guy sitting near them. He said his name was Samael – not Samuel, and he only had eyes for Clare. Soon after he left, Clare was attacked in the parking lot, and life as she knew it ended.
Samael isn’t just a bad boy, he’s a demon, doing what demons do, gathering souls for this boss, and Clare is on his radar scope. He rescues her from her attacker, then disappears, appears in the hospital, then disappears, helps at the police station, disappears. Since he’s attracted to her, he invites her out instead of taking her soul. She’s attracted to him, so she ignores all the obvious clues that he’s something more than human.
Since I don’t want to spoil other reader’s enjoyment of “The Demon’s Wife”, I won’t reveal any of the interesting twists and turns of this well-plotted story. I will say, you won’t believe the interesting things a demon can do with his tail!
I did enjoy reading “The Demon’s Wife”, but I have to say that I found Hautala’s habit of dropping hints really annoying. Instead of saying if only she’d known, she would have done such and such, just tell the story!
Thirty-something Clare McMullen doesn’t like much about herself - except for her long, curly, bright red hair. She’s stuck in a dead-end job she hates, has school loans she’ll never pay off, and lives in a dump with a roommate she barely tolerates. Oh yes, and she moved back to Maine (at least it’s Portland and not the rural area where she grew up) to be near a boyfriend who dumped her.
One night she and Sally wandered into a bar for a quick bite before a concert. Sally tried her best to attract the attention of a good looking guy sitting near them. He said his name was Samael – not Samuel, and he only had eyes for Clare. Soon after he left, Clare was attacked in the parking lot, and life as she knew it ended.
Samael isn’t just a bad boy, he’s a demon, doing what demons do, gathering souls for this boss, and Clare is on his radar scope. He rescues her from her attacker, then disappears, appears in the hospital, then disappears, helps at the police station, disappears. Since he’s attracted to her, he invites her out instead of taking her soul. She’s attracted to him, so she ignores all the obvious clues that he’s something more than human.
Since I don’t want to spoil other reader’s enjoyment of “The Demon’s Wife”, I won’t reveal any of the interesting twists and turns of this well-plotted story. I will say, you won’t believe the interesting things a demon can do with his tail!
I did enjoy reading “The Demon’s Wife”, but I have to say that I found Hautala’s habit of dropping hints really annoying. Instead of saying if only she’d known, she would have done such and such, just tell the story!
July 3, 2016
*(I won this book through the First Reads giveaway section on Goodreads in May 2013)*
Is it possible to enjoy a book but not form a solid, positive opinion on it?
I really liked The Demon's Wife; it wasn't the best book I've ever read but it wasn't the worst either. The story kept me reading. However, I kind of felt that it was somewhat predictable throughout, but I was hoping if I kept reading I'd be surprised by something, anything.
I never critique an author directly and having never read anything by Rick Hautala, I can't say too much. I've read reviews about him, however, that says he's an amazing horror writer. If this is considered "horror" then I need to reconsider what I read.
I did not get any sense of horror in this book! Yes, there's the concept of demons but that's as far as it goes. The little bit of scary that was thrown in was more or less just fluff. For the most part, it was like reading one of those novels with sex scenes thrown in once every few chapters. Claire has an unusual girly obsession with Samael. I admit I got irritated every time she talked about his "chiseled abs" and "steel muscles."
There were a lot of moments where Samael wanted Claire to be a certain way and vice versa. And this book, in all honesty, seemed more like it was preaching the idea of redemption. A Christian novel, so to speak, but with a twisted spin on it. I get it, I really do. Love has no boundaries, etc., but it just seemed too... unnatural. No pun intended.
The excessive use of ellipses was also a little irritating, but that's a minor detail.
May the late Rick Hautala rest in peace. I may give something else of his a try...
Is it possible to enjoy a book but not form a solid, positive opinion on it?
I really liked The Demon's Wife; it wasn't the best book I've ever read but it wasn't the worst either. The story kept me reading. However, I kind of felt that it was somewhat predictable throughout, but I was hoping if I kept reading I'd be surprised by something, anything.
I never critique an author directly and having never read anything by Rick Hautala, I can't say too much. I've read reviews about him, however, that says he's an amazing horror writer. If this is considered "horror" then I need to reconsider what I read.
I did not get any sense of horror in this book! Yes, there's the concept of demons but that's as far as it goes. The little bit of scary that was thrown in was more or less just fluff. For the most part, it was like reading one of those novels with sex scenes thrown in once every few chapters. Claire has an unusual girly obsession with Samael. I admit I got irritated every time she talked about his "chiseled abs" and "steel muscles."
There were a lot of moments where Samael wanted Claire to be a certain way and vice versa. And this book, in all honesty, seemed more like it was preaching the idea of redemption. A Christian novel, so to speak, but with a twisted spin on it. I get it, I really do. Love has no boundaries, etc., but it just seemed too... unnatural. No pun intended.
The excessive use of ellipses was also a little irritating, but that's a minor detail.
May the late Rick Hautala rest in peace. I may give something else of his a try...
November 21, 2013
disclaimer – i won an e-galley of this novel in a giveaway hosted by journalstone publishing.
what is it about supernatural creatures that makes it so easy for humans to fall in love with them? just think about it for a minute, don’t your favourite urban fantasy, fantasy, and sff series all have hints of romance in them. but what happens when a supernatural creature falls in love? is it real or just a ply?
the demon’s wife is a delightful romp through just that question. what happens when samael meets claire at a bar and pursues her (for her soul, for her hair, who actually knows?) and then falls in love? it’s obvious that rick hautala had a great deal of fun writing this love story and imagining what would happen when a demon dares to cross the line and try to change.
this is a fast and playful read; i loved the basic concept for the novel and i loved the psychological interplay between claire and samael. in the end, the question of how far we are willing to go for the one we love gets answered, but maybe not in the way we expect.
four out of five stars
what is it about supernatural creatures that makes it so easy for humans to fall in love with them? just think about it for a minute, don’t your favourite urban fantasy, fantasy, and sff series all have hints of romance in them. but what happens when a supernatural creature falls in love? is it real or just a ply?
the demon’s wife is a delightful romp through just that question. what happens when samael meets claire at a bar and pursues her (for her soul, for her hair, who actually knows?) and then falls in love? it’s obvious that rick hautala had a great deal of fun writing this love story and imagining what would happen when a demon dares to cross the line and try to change.
this is a fast and playful read; i loved the basic concept for the novel and i loved the psychological interplay between claire and samael. in the end, the question of how far we are willing to go for the one we love gets answered, but maybe not in the way we expect.
four out of five stars
August 1, 2013
Sadly, disappointing. The heroine read like a Mary Sue caricature and there was never a shred of explanation as to why the hero was so taken with her. The horror aspects began and ended with the demon hero character; I never found any part of the novel chilling,* or even mildly thrilling, although one or two parts of it were rather gory.
Best recommended for the horror-fond YA crowd. DNF at the 50% mark. Two stars.
My ecopy of this ARC was provided to me by the publisher through the LibraryThing Early Reviewers Program.
* Unless you count the speed at which the characters' relationship progressed.I had quite high hopes for this one -- Rich Hautala is a new author to me but has a solid bibliography and reputation in horror and speculative fiction. And it's worth pointing out that The Demon's Wife is a posthumous publication. For all I know, Hautala had this book finalized and completely edited well before his untimely passing, but I suspect that was not the case here and I'm rather regretful I didn't start reading him with any other of his published works instead.
Best recommended for the horror-fond YA crowd. DNF at the 50% mark. Two stars.
My ecopy of this ARC was provided to me by the publisher through the LibraryThing Early Reviewers Program.
February 19, 2015
(I won this book through the First Reads Giveaway program on Goodreads)
I really liked this book. I will admit that some parts of it were quite predictable but all in all it still was a great story.
Now let's talk about Samael and Claire. Throughout the entire book I kept asking, "Why is she still with him?" Even having finished this book I am still asking that question. A relationship built on nothing but lies and secrets. You would think that after all she's been through she wouldn't want anything to do with him.
Even though this was a great read. I just have a few complaints about: the excess use of the word "demon". Claire kept stating the fact that Samael's a demon and it's like, "Okay, I get it!" Also it was a little irritating that Claire kept forgetting to stop using the word "God" around Samael. You would think she would have remembered not to use the word after seeing how it affects him negatively. And as someone said in a previous review, the use of ellipses were a little much and a lot of the times not needed.
I really liked this book. I will admit that some parts of it were quite predictable but all in all it still was a great story.
Now let's talk about Samael and Claire. Throughout the entire book I kept asking, "Why is she still with him?" Even having finished this book I am still asking that question. A relationship built on nothing but lies and secrets. You would think that after all she's been through she wouldn't want anything to do with him.
Even though this was a great read. I just have a few complaints about: the excess use of the word "demon". Claire kept stating the fact that Samael's a demon and it's like, "Okay, I get it!" Also it was a little irritating that Claire kept forgetting to stop using the word "God" around Samael. You would think she would have remembered not to use the word after seeing how it affects him negatively. And as someone said in a previous review, the use of ellipses were a little much and a lot of the times not needed.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 14, 2013
I received a free review copy of this book. The cover art was interesting, in that it appears that the woman is actually the demon.
I agree it has a bit of a young adult bent to it, the main character far more naive than expected. She reminded me a bit of the silly litte girl from that absurd trilogy about 50 shades of something. This was an infinitely better story, written by a real writer and not a bored housewife, but it lacked a bit of finesse.
The abrupt ending left me feeling like there was no real resolution beyond the cliche that love conquers all. Except nothing was conquered at all, the story cuts off leaving the characters in limbo.
It is, nonetheless, a quick read. No real depth, though it had the potential to delve better into the battle between good and evil, the same way Lucifer's Odyssey did. I was sad to hear of the author's death earlier this year. Not knowing too much of his previous work, I would have liked to see if this story continued.
I agree it has a bit of a young adult bent to it, the main character far more naive than expected. She reminded me a bit of the silly litte girl from that absurd trilogy about 50 shades of something. This was an infinitely better story, written by a real writer and not a bored housewife, but it lacked a bit of finesse.
The abrupt ending left me feeling like there was no real resolution beyond the cliche that love conquers all. Except nothing was conquered at all, the story cuts off leaving the characters in limbo.
It is, nonetheless, a quick read. No real depth, though it had the potential to delve better into the battle between good and evil, the same way Lucifer's Odyssey did. I was sad to hear of the author's death earlier this year. Not knowing too much of his previous work, I would have liked to see if this story continued.
September 7, 2016
This was an alright read, but I never really clicked with it. I thought Samael came across as flat and, even though Claire was strong enough to stand by her man, she far too easily accepted the lack of information. I did wonder more than once, 'why Claire?' The sudden love was never explained. I also found the narrative repetitive and thought that the ending started to feel very much like a piece of Christian Fiction. There were just too many cautionary passages on the dangers of allowing evil into your life and the power go agape.
I did think the idea of demonic redemption was an interesting one and Samael's tail gave me all sorts of wicked thoughts. I also enjoyed Hautala's writing style. So, while not one of my favourites, not a bad book either.
note: I won my copy on LibraryThing
I did think the idea of demonic redemption was an interesting one and Samael's tail gave me all sorts of wicked thoughts. I also enjoyed Hautala's writing style. So, while not one of my favourites, not a bad book either.
note: I won my copy on LibraryThing
November 30, 2013
I won this in a FirstReads giveaway on Goodreads. A unique tale of love and redemption, The Demon's Wife surprises the reader with a focus on the pervasiveness of evil in the world and the possibility of change. Although the love story itself is poorly developed and the sex strange, the power of a relationship to change a person is fleshed out as the unpredictable plot proceeds. If the reader expects a light fare, he or she will get that, but also be challenged to question the role of temptation and the propensity toward bad in daily life. As a romance novel, this book lacks the spark between the couple as well as the basis for their relationship at all. As a novel of temptation, redemption, and the role of evil, this book attacks the subject matter with clarity and precision, adding humor and excitement to an interesting tale.
August 25, 2013
This book was supplied to me at no charge by the publishers for review purposes.
A tale of a man and a women denying who, or what they are, and just carrying on a normal life. Well as normal as it can be when your husband is a demon !
But does that mean he is all bad ? How can that be in that he married you didn’t he !
Is there a deeper plot here ? Is the demon really just working a very long and complicated scam or can love prevail, over his ultimate boss the devil ?
At times acerbic and at other times funny the story line flows along very well.
I would point this book to the YA audience, but enjoyed reading it myself, and I am definitely not in the YA group.
Devillishly funny. Demonically delicious. Satanically subtle. “Hades”licious.
A tale of a man and a women denying who, or what they are, and just carrying on a normal life. Well as normal as it can be when your husband is a demon !
But does that mean he is all bad ? How can that be in that he married you didn’t he !
Is there a deeper plot here ? Is the demon really just working a very long and complicated scam or can love prevail, over his ultimate boss the devil ?
At times acerbic and at other times funny the story line flows along very well.
I would point this book to the YA audience, but enjoyed reading it myself, and I am definitely not in the YA group.
Devillishly funny. Demonically delicious. Satanically subtle. “Hades”licious.
August 27, 2013
I received this book through Library Thing Early Reviewers. "The Demon's Wife" is about Claire McMullen a women in her early thirties who meets a man named Samael in a nightclub. Samael is an extremely good looking man who is very rich. Claire is surprised when he takes an interest in her. She thinks that Samael is out of her league. Claire has no idea how different Samael really is. Turns out that he is a demon. Claire wonders if it is possible for a human and a demon to have a relationship together.
This book is a quick fast paced read. I thought Claire fell in love much to quickly the romance happened way to fast. I also thought that the ending was a little abrupt.
This book is a quick fast paced read. I thought Claire fell in love much to quickly the romance happened way to fast. I also thought that the ending was a little abrupt.
October 19, 2013
I won this book in a first reads giveaway. The thing that caught my eye was the cover and then I had to laugh because when my book came in it was an entirely different cover, so much that I had to check the title to make sure it was the right book.
Falling in love with a demon is never but they seemed to make it work. Since I don't want to spoil other reader’s enjoyment of “The Demon’s Wife”, I won’t reveal any of the interesting twists and turns of this well-plotted story. I will say, you won't believe the interesting things a demon can do with his tail!
I did enjoy reading “The Demon’s Wife” and hope other's will too.
Falling in love with a demon is never but they seemed to make it work. Since I don't want to spoil other reader’s enjoyment of “The Demon’s Wife”, I won’t reveal any of the interesting twists and turns of this well-plotted story. I will say, you won't believe the interesting things a demon can do with his tail!
I did enjoy reading “The Demon’s Wife” and hope other's will too.
November 4, 2016
Seriously? You end up with him in jail for something he didn't do? I mean, I know he deserved to be in jail for all the things he certainly did do over the centuries without being caught but really? The least it could happen then would be to fast-forward to when he's released and they get together again, not some weird *ss scene of them kissing with him in his true form. Pretty flat if you ask me. After all the info dump we constantly had to deal with throughout the book we really should have had a more action filled ending. Something better for sure. It was entertaining though. I did like it enough to read it 'till the end.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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