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Demonic Disasters and Afterlife Adventures #4

A Beginner's Guide to Ghosts, Fallen Angels, and Other Afterlifers

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Cassius is a quirky book shop owner who seems to see quite a bit of the paranormal world, including uptight angels, troublesome demons, and more than a few grumpy ghosts. Not many people are aware of his gift, however, but he always uses it to help those in need.

When Cassius gets a message that he needs to pair up with a mysterious gray angel to set the afterlife to rights, he discovers Kushiel, an angel who is apparently a bit of a heavenly outcast, Beneath the angel's gruff and guarded exterior, however, lies a tender and beautiful heart, and Cassius is determined not just to save the afterlife (and possibly the entire universe), but also to save one very sexy angel along the way.

258 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 19, 2024

245 people are currently reading
278 people want to read

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Shannon Mae

24 books415 followers

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 131 reviews
Profile Image for Zee.
103 reviews
Read
December 16, 2025
5 flowery ⭐️
I loved this book with its hurt/comfort vibes. Cassius was a spitfire of a human. With his small little hands and his adorable freckles, he didn’t shy away from anyone and anything that might have hurt Kushiel.
Oh and Kushiel, you tortured sweet sweet soul 🥹 Kushiel has been sacrificing pieces of himself since the beginning of his existence. He is such a tender and bright soul, it was inevitable that he will find his own happiness ❤️
Kushiel was the embodiment of loneliness, his job forcing him to go into different realms, made him almost used to being by himself.

He called the demons his brothers, but really, he was alone. He was not fully angelic anymore, but nor was he in any way a demon.
He was an only child of the universe.


Oufff that hits in the chest 💔
He was also sooo touch starved that he flinched at every touch coming his way. The angel’s have a lot of colorism/shadism against him that nobody even bothered to pat the gray angel on the shoulder 🥹

Kushiel barely moved. It was like a beautiful and rare butterfly had landed on his arm, and he was afraid if he even twitched Cass’s hand would take flight, and he would lose that gentle touch against his skin.

Cass and Kushiel’s love for each other ran deep. Cass noticed and SAW Kushiel from the start, and even with Kushiel’s insecurities and hesitation, Cass didn’t falter, and finally K found his new purpose ❤️‍🩹

He would gladly drown for Cassius.

He had Cass to exist for.

Ohhh and I LOVED the little splash of submission from Kushiel. Cass says something, and “Kush” just obeys. It was sooo hot 🥵

Kushiel had to suppress a shudder. It shouldn’t be so… attractive that Cass was chastising him.
🤤
Also, I absolutely adore Aunt Ro. The woman always had the worst timing, but she added so much charm and wittiness to the story. She was an amazing secondary character, her and her flowers 🤣

“Are we interrupting?” she giggled, and Cass noticed her dress now featured honeysuckle and red roses.
Cass just rolled his eyes. He loved Aunt Ro, really he did, but she was about as subtle as a hammer and had the worst timing ever, and death hadn’t improved those traits.


All in all, I loved this book, and all its sweetness and warmth. The way Cassius kept lifting Kushiel up until K started believing him, how K just gave his entire heart to Cass. It was so beautiful ❤️
Cass was a protector and a true lover, and Kushiel was so pure, he just deserved all the fluff and happiness coming his way ✨

“Why me? Why was I chosen for this work?” he asked Yah.
“Oh, my child. Don’t you know? You were the only one who could do it. You were the brightest of us all.”


So that’s it, it was heartwarming reading about these two. I have been waiting for Kushiel’s book for a while, and I got what I wanted ❤️ On to the next one!
Profile Image for Elena Rodríguez.
1,225 reviews491 followers
January 6, 2025
Reseña breve:

Poco he de decir de esta saga que no haya dicho ya. Esta bien. Con cada libro la prosa de la autora mejora. Esta novela en concreto esta el doble de mejor que su anterior entrega. Me han gustado mucho los protagonistas y sus interacciones.

¿La recomendaría? De primeras no, pero para pasar el rato está bien y eso es lo que he hecho.
Profile Image for Bekka.
1,288 reviews167 followers
August 9, 2024
Sad touched starved boi finds his soulmate who gives him everything he needs, makes him feel beautiful and adored.
Aww, very in keeping with the other books in this series this is a paranormal OTT, cuddly romance.
Kushiel deserved everything that Cassius thought he did and I enjoyed reading this even if I was maybe not in the right frame of mind after two grittier reads.

"Cassius is a quirky book shop owner" - Goodreads blurb
Also I thought he owned a café, did I misread? :D

NSFW infos:
- smaller human tops, more dominant
- bigger angel bottoms, more submissive
- praise
- one line referring to them having feedback loop sex once mated

Nicknames:
Kushiel -> K, Kush, my angel
Profile Image for Kashonna Shaw.
494 reviews4 followers
June 23, 2024
Kushiel's story was one I was anticipating. He had intrigued me from the moment he appeared. His whole sad boy persona made me want to hug him and take away all his pain. And learning what his actual job is and how he goes about fulfilling it makes me love him even more. It also makes me not like the angels even more. Cass was so good for him. He saw the true goodness in him that the other angels tefuse to see. I was so happy that he made it his mission to show Kushiel that he was worthy.
Profile Image for Saskia Veldhuis .
1,963 reviews15 followers
June 21, 2024
4.5 stars. Another enthralling episode in this unusual and unique world. Kushiel is the most beautiful character so far, so lonely but still so sweet. Very different to the extroverted demons that dominate a lot of the other books (which are excellent but it's nice to have very different types).The mystery was interesting and all the characters just as enjoyable as always.
Profile Image for Molly Otto.
1,501 reviews32 followers
June 19, 2024
The latest installment to Shannon Maes Demonic Disasters and Afterlife Adventures has a heavier feel to its predecessors for a very good reason. Kushiel (the gray angel) has the task of helping spirits atone for their past mistakes to be able to move on and try again in their next life. Cassius has the sight to see ghosts on the mortal plane and is able to help them move on. When mischief is afoot in hell, Kushiels and Cassius path must be crossed to save those lost souls. Once they meet, they are undeniably perfect for each other. They give the other hope and a reason to keep doing what they do.
Past characters are brought back to help our men with their quest, and you just smile at their ever crazy antics. The overall background plot continues to unfold for us to eventually see the balance that needs to be restored. What a beautiful series that has such a promise for future installments.
Profile Image for Abigail Beckwith.
1,703 reviews
June 12, 2024
I'm trying to tackle and fight myself into a new path in life. In doing so, I've adding more things to my To Do lists and more things to my TBR lists. BUT that also means more ARCs for me! :D Here's Shannon Mae's "A Beginner's Guide to Ghosts, Fallen Angels, and Other Afterlifers." is the fourth novel in her Demonic Disasters and Afterlife Adventures series. It debuts June 19, 2024.
["Cass has always had the sight. Although his official job may be to run his coffee shop, in reality he deals with grumpy ghosts, troublesome demons, uptight angels, and all sorts of paranormal issues. When the archangel Gabriel gives him a message that he has to help a gray angel, it’s just par for the course for Cassius. But who could predict that Kushiel would be the brightest soul Cassius had ever met, even if the angel can’t see that about himself? Cassius is determined not just to save the afterlife (and possibly the entire universe), but also to save one very sexy angel (who just might be his soulmate) along the way.

Kushiel’s work is his life, and if angels shun him and he feels like he never quite fits in with demons, at least he has the souls he redeems. That is, until someone steals his entire purpose in the afterlife. Some vague clues from a demon seer send him straight into Cass’s coffee shop, where he learns some surprises about afterlife rules. With a little help from Cass, Kushiel is sure they can solve the mystery, especially since the coffee shop owner is the kindest, sweetest, sexiest human he’s ever met. Now if only he could figure out how to respond to all the compliments Cass keeps sending his way, because surely someone as wonderful as Cassius couldn’t be interested in a gray angel."]

And the bonus tags (because they're arguable better than the blurb itself): ["Kushiel is hurting, and Cass is happy to offer comfort and compliments; afterlife rules are more complicated than angels or demons knew; Aunt Ro keeps trying to not-so-subtly send messages through flowers; Cass runs into demons, angels, ghosts, a sea monster, and a hellhound; messages from seers and through oracles are annoyingly mysterious; Kushiel likes being told what to do, and Cass likes taking charge; Kushiel will finally get his own happily-ever-after (Cass will make sure of it)."]

These book seriously just continue to get better and better. Shannon must have a deal with some hellhound or lesser demon, because this series just keeps one-upping itself. The love, the lust, the trust, the Feels in general?! The plot, the characters, the backstories, the side-plots, the potential for more (more stories, more novellas, more everything). I can't. I have to go fan-girl-swoon now.

We have two Quotes of the Day again today.
1) Cass asking his ghost aunt what the villain-of-the-day is doing "'Oh, he's monologuing.'"
2) And our dear, sweet, misunderstood (but still cheeky) Luce: "'Yes, there is pain. There is torment. There is grief and sadness, and there are those who are lost. But there is also love, there is also hope, and joy, and happiness.'"

Also, a new dark(ish) romance with hellhounds (serial killers with a moral code)?!?! Yes. PLEASE. And as Shannon said, there are sooooo many books left in this series of demons and humans who need (and deserve) a happily ever after.

#gayromancereviews #arcs #arcteammember
#abeginnersguidetodeathdemonsandotherafterlifedisasters #abeginnersguidetomistakenlysummoneddemonsandothermisadventures #abeginnersguidetorevengechaosandotherabsurdescapades #abeginnersguidetothecareandfeedingofdemons #abeginnersguidetochristmasmiracles #abeginnersguidetoghostsfallenangelsandotherafterlifers #demonicdisastersandafterlifeadventures #demonicdisastersandafterlifeadventuresseries #shannonmae #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks
2,875 reviews3 followers
June 21, 2024
we got a heartfelt romantic journey, and a great couple. As well as Aunt Ro

Rating: 4.25🌈

Cassius, the coffee shop running oracle and the wounded grey angel Kushiel get their romance and journey to HEA finally. It’s full of the other characters we’ve met, a terrifying, heartbreaking mystery, a lovely nosy family ghost, and a plot that is extremely complex in layers.

The best part is the characters here. Cass is a great character, with his well defined personality and deep family history , we get to know him and his Aunt Ro (and all her dresses) in heartwarming ways. Btw, don’t miss out on the author’s notes on flower language at the end of the book. Fantastic touch of knowledge.

Then there’s Kushiel, who we have met in previous books. Such a great light of a angel, giving to the point of hurting himself, wounded and touch deprived, the layers to Kush and the need that finds his answers in Cass makes this book such a beautiful story.

The imaginative elements of the lost souls is one that I wish was better developed. That one we see (sorta) is intriguing so the potential for the plot to further explore this aspect is huge but it does so in a way that takes away from the emotional element rather than boosts it. In its place, other scenes and side trips occur.

When the villain is exposed and the plot mystery resolves into a quick action that takes relatively short amount of time, it feels like a let down of sorts. It’s has some interesting moments and a new character that will drive a sequel series to come. That looks great. But I feel like a tad more something/exploration could have been fit in rather than the villain monologuing about his reasons for the deeds here.

At any rate, we got a heartfelt romantic journey, and a great couple. As well as Aunt Ro.

This is just such a favorite series of mine. Shannon Mae has come up with some really amazing stories and unique and unexpected ideas about love and romance. They aren’t to be missed. Read them all and see who are your favorites!

Fabulous covers.

Demonic Disasters and Afterlife Adventures: (Paranormal Romance 🔷 A Beginner’s Guide to Death, Demons, and Other Afterlife Disasters #1
🔷A Beginner’s Guide to Mistakenly Summoned Demons and Other Misadventures #2
🔷A Beginner’s Guide to Revenge, Chaos, and Other Absurd Escapades #3
🔷A Beginner’s Guide to Ghosts, Fallen Angels, and Other Afterlifers #4

Demonic Disasters and Afterlife Adventures Novellas:
🔷A Beginner’s Guide to Christmas Miracles (A Holiday Novella)
🔷A Beginner’s Guide to the Care and Feeding of Pet Demons
🔷A Beginner’s Guide to Demonic Possessions

Demonic Disasters and
Afterlife Adventures Collections: 🔷Demonic Disasters and Afterlife Adventures Collection 1

Hellhounds of Paradise Falls -sequel series:
- [ ] How to Flirt with a Hellhound #1 - (Coming Soon)
Profile Image for LC.
779 reviews9 followers
June 14, 2024
I have been waiting for this book for so long. In my heart, I knew that Kushiel would get a book. He had to. He is an angel able to traverse both heaven and hell. He is considered a brother to the demons and is ostracized by the angels. He is dark to their light and they do not talk to him or give him comfort. How??

In A Beginner's Guide to Ghosts, Fallen Angels, and Other Afterlifers, we find out the how and the why of Kushiel. My heart hurt for this angel. His job is to help redeem souls, in order to do this he travels into hell, up the mountain of Erebus, taking their pain and paying the toll that is necessary for redemption. In his heart, Kushiel feels lost and alone, that he has lost his glow. One day he climbs up the mountain to find all of his souls gone and his heart is broken, his flock has been stolen from him and he is without purpose.

Cassius is a seer, an oracle, he communicates with ghosts and helps out where he can with Michael and Arioch and any afterlifer that needs him. He receives a message from Gabriel, that he is supposed to help bring balance back to the universe. This is where he enters Kushiel's life. He sees him for the bright light he is and he is determined to help Kushiel see himself this way as well.

This story is perfectly paced. I think I could have read it in one sitting if I had the time to do so. I was engaged in the story from opening my ebook until the end. I liked seeing Gabe, Grams, and Paz again. I liked that Michael and Ari were the main ones to help Kushiel especially as he helped them in their story. My favorite part of the story? Cassius and how he looks beyond Kushiel's appearance and sees his light, sees how wonderful he truly is, and is determined to fight for him. This is a love story with a side of what the heck happened and a dose of justice. While I still can't wait to hear more about Luce and Yah and Leviathan, what really peeked my interest was the Hellhound!! All in all, the Beginner's Guide is a wonderful series and Kushiel's book is my favorite.
Profile Image for Demian Grimm.
275 reviews3 followers
June 17, 2024
4.5 ⭐️

A Beginner's Guide to Ghosts, Fallen Angels, and Other Afterlifers is the fourth instalment in the Demonic Disasters and Afterlife Adventures series. While it can be read as a standalone, reading the series in order provides a better understanding of recurring characters and the story’s overarching plot.

Set in the familiar world of the series, this book offers a unique blend of sweetness and a “heavier”, more introspective tone compared to its predecessors. Kushiel, really a cinnamon roll of a character, is an angel tasked with helping lost souls in Hell redeem themselves. His mission has altered his appearance, making him stand out and feel out of place in both Heaven and Hell, leading to a lonely and painful existence.

Cassiel, a human seer and oracle, has the ability to communicate with ghosts and perceive the true forms of afterlifers. While running his coffee shop, he uses his many talents to assist where he can. When new trouble brews in Hell, Kushiel and Cassiel's paths cross, and Cassiel must help Kushiel solve the mystery of souls kidnapped from Hell.

Both Kushiel and Cassiel have appeared in previous stories, allowing readers to delve deeper into their characters in this instalment. Their relationship is beautifully portrayed, with each complementing the other's strengths and accepting each other as they are. It's heartwarming to see their bond grow throughout the story, particularly how Cassiel immediately recognises the purity and brightness in Kushiel and becomes protective of him. Cassiel's patience and dedication in helping Kushiel overcome his insecurities and recognise his own worth is especially touching.

The mystery is engaging and well-crafted, with additional world-building that enriches the series' universe. The characters are well-developed, and their struggles are relatable. Recurring characters like Michael and Ari make appearances, and new, intriguing characters such as Aunt Ro add to the delight of the narrative. The story also introduces new characters who will have their own series, adding to the anticipation for future books.

All in all, I'm looking forward to the next instalments in the series, as well as the introduction to the spin-off series.

I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my unbiased review.
Profile Image for GreenwingReads.
341 reviews2 followers
June 22, 2024
Cassius is a human with the "sight" and can see and speak to ghosts and other afterlifers - angels and demons. Kushiel is a gray angel, one who has a bright soul but takes on the darkness of others and shares his light with souls struggling to move on from their pasts.

When the souls Kushiel is tasked with helping go missing, he is sent to Cassius for help. Cassius receives a divine message telling him to help Kushiel solve the mystery of the missing souls, thus they are brought together.

Cassius sees in Kushiel what all other beings seem to miss: his bright soul and kind heart. It will take a lot of effort to help Kushiel see himself the way that Cassius does. Luckily for both of them, Cassius is more than up for the task.

I really enjoyed this story, the first I've read from Shannon Mae. I had no idea this series existed prior to reading this book and I am hooked. Safe to say this one can be read as a standalone. I didn't feel lost at all having not read the prior books yet. Shannon is a talented writer and world builder. I loved all the characters and the romance was so sweet. The subplot with the missing souls was intriguing and entertaining. It kept the story moving and the mystery was engaging.

I wanted to wrap Kushiel in a blanket and feed him treats while telling him how wonderful he is, but I think Cassius has it well in hand. Kushiel sees himself as less-than compared to the other angels, but he is so much more. I found Shannon's portrayal of angels and demons to be interesting and unique. The demons are far more accepting of Kushiel, but he is still often made to feel isolated. No one quite knows what to do with him until he meets Cassius, who sees him for the beautiful, selfless being that he is. Cassius is an all around great guy and exactly the cheerleader that Kushiel needs.

Overall, I enjoyed this book immensely and look forward to reading the other books in the series.
Profile Image for C..
377 reviews
June 22, 2024
I have read the “Demonic Disasters and Afterlife Adventures” series by Shannon Mae since the first book was released. That first book was cute and fun, steamy and humorous and is a favorite reread. Since then this series has taken on a natural evolution into something great. Each book explores new aspects of its world and characters and a bit more becomes known.

All the books have had humor and interesting characters with some books having a bit more action or a bit of "danger," but, none have really been too serious in theme or feel. Kushiel and Cassius have a different tale to tell. While their book (“A Beginner's Guide to Ghosts, Fallen Angels, and Other Afterlifers,”) isn't as "tongue in cheek" as the other books, there is still humor and the general aspects of the book are similar, but Kushiel, by his very nature, required a bit more care. This book has a strong hurt/comfort component as Cass helps Kushiel realize his worth and we discover what kind of an angel he is.

Cass is perfect for Kushiel. As someone who can see ghosts, afterlifers and is an oracle, he is able to truly see Kushiel and see the the things needed to help his soulmate thrive.

This book opens up the world in new and exciting ways. It introduces more beings on the mortal plane and in the afterlife with plenty of hope for further soulmate matchups.

I received a copy of this book and this is my honest review.
Profile Image for Jacqueleen the Reading Queen♡.
1,558 reviews103 followers
June 14, 2024
"So good for me. My sexy angel, shining so beautifully for me."

I was so excited when Mae announced that the next book in this series was going to be about Kushiel and Cass! Having already met them in previous books, I couldn't wait for their story and subsequent HEAs. Both of these men have been kind enough to be helpful to our favorite past demons, so I knew they both had good hearts. I just didn't realize how good they truly were. Both Kushiel and Cass had such empathy for others. They cared, even about strangers. They really did suit one another beautifully.

It made my heart hurt with how low Kushiel's self-esteem was at the start of this book. How could he not see how lovely he was? But fear not! Cass definitely had that covered. It didn't take him long to realize this and he made it his mission to show Kushiel just how wonderful he thought he was. It was very sweet and always made me smile when he made Kushiel blush with his compliments. I just adore a blushing MC.

Seeing Lucifer and Yah together for a scene again is always a treat. It's killing me not knowing the story behind those two!!! But I understand. It isn't time for those two yet. We also meet the MC of a new series that Mae is starting, and he seems like he is going to be fun from the little sneak we got. Actually his love interest does too! I'm looking forward to both the new series and the next Beginner's Guide immensely.
Profile Image for Debby.
1,744 reviews76 followers
June 19, 2024
In addition to running his coffee shop, Cassius deals with many other things, such as angels, ghosts and demons to name a few. The archangel Gabriel appears to him and tells him he needs to help a gray angel. Kushiel is not quite what he expected. Kushiel’s duties require him to spend some time in the underworld where he also works to help redeem some souls. Now, some of those souls are missing and Kushiel needs to accept help from Cassius if he is to resolve the mystery surrounding their disappearance and to allow their rehabilitation to continue.

Kushiel is a very kind angel who seems to be unaccepted by other angels because he deals with less than pure souls. He wants to do a good job but feels as if he is unworthy of anything more. Cass on the other hand sees an amazing angel with whom he wants so much more, but first he has to convince Kushiel. The plot involved a rather devious individual with thoughts of grandeur. Kushiel and Cass had to work together to discover his identity and found so much more along the way. This story turned out to be very romantic and the two amazing heroes deserved a happily ever after. To find out if they achieve that, pick up this book and find out for yourself. You will be glad you did.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book and this is my unbiased opinion.
Profile Image for Theresa Derwin.
1,149 reviews44 followers
June 23, 2024
A Ghost of a Chance

Kushiel might be an angel but given he can't enter heaven and his job is in hell and Limbo, and he's, well, completely grey with black wings, he's not a normal angel.
He deals with those souls in hell who are not beyond redemption, and he lends them his light that they might be reincarnated.
Sometimes it involves punishing them, and he feels every single hurt along the way.
When he arrives on mount Erebus to start his work again, all of his souls have been stolen.
Crying on a bench is where he's found by Ari and Michael, and Ari gives him a message.
There is someone who can help him find those souls.
Of course when he turns up to the coffee shop Cass works owns and is asked if there's anything Cass can help with, he mistakes the offer for flirting. Which it also is.
It isn't long though before Cass and Kushiel with the help of ghostly Aunt Ro form an unlikely Scooby style gang to find the one who has stolen the souls.
And along the way, there is hand holding, kissing, affection, and more.
It's another fun installment and I particularly like the epilogues with Yah and Luce.
Levis is a great character I'd like to see more of, as well as hellhounds in general.
And Aunt Ro is a firecracker.
There's a great hook at the end that might lead to a cute angel.
Great fun. And spicy too.
456 reviews6 followers
June 12, 2024
I have really enjoyed the Demonic Disasters/Afterlife Adventure series by Shannon Mae and this book was no exception. I think this story was probably the sweetest of them all, with Cassius and Kushiel. We have met both characters in previous stories. Cass is a multi talented Oracle who is tasked with helping Kushiel find some lost souls that were basically soul-napped from Hell. I loved how Cass immediately saw in Kushiel what Kushiel was unable to see in himself and just wanted to make him realize what a wonderful person he was. There are people in life who are just so beat down that they are unable to see any good or positivity in themselves after a while, and though Kushiel knows he is doing good things, he never believes anyone else actually sees it. Cass, through constant reinforcement is able to finally help Kushiel see the incredible person/Angel that he is. Their relationship just made me smile throughout the entire story. It was nice revisiting with some old friends from previous books. I do hope someday we get a fitting story for Luce and Yah but the new Hellhound series mentioned at the end looks to be a great start with a new character that we got to meet in this story.
Profile Image for Nina Diab.
5,328 reviews51 followers
July 8, 2024
'Despite the cost, he had faith still. He was not the pure being he had once been, but the price he paid was worth saving souls.'

I absolutely loved this book! Only a few pages in and it was already so much fun! Great world building and wonderful characters. I loved both Cassius and Kushiel. I really enjoyed that Cass could see paranormal beings- be they ghosts or angels. As much as I liked him from the start. It was Kushiel who won my heart. I was sad for his loneliness. Sad for the emptiness he felt. But he still had faith in his work helping souls and compassion. I loved the others that tried to help him. There was a found family kind of feel.

Cass and Kushiel's first meeting was pretty funny. Cass was offering to help. Kushiel thought he was flirting. Only after Kush left did Cass realize he sounded like he'd been flirting, and Kushiel realized the man was really offering to help him. So cute! But Kushiel's task is a dire one as souls in hell have gone missing- the souls he was helping redeem themselves so they could be reborn into a new life. Cass didn't know how he could help, but they would do it together.

This was such a unique wonderful story with endearing characters and a beautiful couple. I loved it. 5 stars
234 reviews
September 9, 2024
Heartwarming read.

Kushiel and Cassius were made for each other. They were such complementary soulmates.

MVPs of the Story - The Oak Trees. I love oak trees, and the role they played in the story was actually kind of cool.

The author included an excerpt from a new series she is writing that features one of the characters who made an appearance in this story. The chapter was quite interesting for a few different reasons, so I think I will give the new series a shot.

Notable Quotes:

“I’m keeping him,” Cass said, answering his aunt’s unspoken question. “Forever.”

“Forever, forever?” she whispered.

“Yup,” he replied, and they both looked over at his angel, who was bent over the sink, his glorious black wings folded up behind him, his head bent to the task at hand. “Forever forever. Even if he doesn’t know it yet.”
++++++++++++++++

“What is [*insert delusional villain's name here*] doing?” Cass asked.

“Oh, he’s monologuing,” Aunt Ro answered.

Cass looked over at her questioningly.

“You know, going over his evil plot and how great he is, insert evil laughter here, blah blah blah,” Aunt Ro said.
++++++++++++++++

Chapter 23 - Levithan, Bob, and Patrick... Now that I write this out, I wonder if this is a nod to SpongeBob SquarePants. 🤣
Profile Image for Sheena.
816 reviews14 followers
June 21, 2024
- paranormal
- soulmates
- angels

This is the 4th in the Demonic Disasters series, but can be read as a standalone although there are recurring characters. This is Cassius and Kushiel's story, and I've been waiting for Kushiel to get his HEA, because of any of the characters in this series, he really deserves it. This ties together a lot of threads on the way to Cass and Kush getting their HEA. These two were just so perfect together, I loved how Cass was always building up Kush, as his confidence has been crushed after years of not really fitting in anywhere, and then thinking he wasn't worthy.

I liked Cass too, and how he knew straight away that Kush was his soulmate, but didn't pressure him right away, and instead let him come to it on his own. It's pretty much insta-love but with these two, that made sense. I liked the story of the missing souls too, and it was a fine resolution and intro to the author's next series.

I loved Cass and Kush and this was sweet, hot, and perfect.

I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
Profile Image for Flick.
1,019 reviews8 followers
June 22, 2024
Sweet, fun and full of all the feels!

This was such a sweet story! I think it actually ties for favourite with Ari’s book (because how can you not love a demon of chaos!). Kushiel was the gentlest, sweetest soul and I wanted to wrap him in bubble wrap and look after him forever. Given I can’t do that, I was very happy Cass was there to show him all the love and tenderness he deserved. These two were so adorable together. Kushiel’s sweet blushes and Cass’ unwavering support and love was beautiful. I love that we finally met a hellhound in person too and I’m kind of hoping a certain tentacled demon gets a book because he was awesome. I adore this series because even when there are some aspects of the stories that are heavier (Kushiel has been through a lot and was emotionally scarred from literally hundreds of years of suffering) the story itself is always so full of light and love and hope. These books never fail to leave me smiling and desperately excited for what comes next. I’m thinking now actually that really what I need is a full reread of the series!
Profile Image for Bookreader87(Amanda).
1,168 reviews44 followers
June 23, 2024
3.25 stars

Kushiel is an angel that spends his time in Erebus to his job which is helping lost souls find redemption. His job takes a lot out of him and since he spends so much time in hell angels tend to stay away from him. He is used to being alone and not being helped with his job. That is until he meets Cassius.

Cassius is a human who owns a bakery. However, he is not an ordinary human. He is able to communicate with ghost. He sees them and speaks to them. One day Gabriel, the angel, comes to deliver a message to him saying someone will come to him for help. Shortly after Kushiel appears in his life.

These two work together to find lost souls who were stolen from Erebus by a demon.

I am still in the firm belief that each installment of the series shows improvement. This one did start off slow. It is also a slow burn. Kushiel has not been used to touch for years. Cassius was sweet and gentle with him. He was caring and constantly built Kushiel up. I liked them together and I am glad they got a HEA.
Profile Image for Paige.
81 reviews19 followers
July 6, 2024
the gray Angel finally gets his HEA!

I loved this book sooooo much!
I’ve been wondering about Kushiel since he first made an appearance, and I’m so glad he finally got his happy ending!
He struggled so much being the only angel in hell, and it was so sad how he was always in pain and felt like he didn’t belong. Cass helping him manage that and just seeing how bright he really is and accepting him made me so happy because Kushiel deserved to be seen and loved.
And Cass was adorable! I loved his sass and his snark, and his aunt was hilarious. The addition of the ghosts was an interesting caveat to the world that had already been created.
And gahhhh Luce and Yah. I literally cannot wait for them to get together. And the hug! My whole heart is melting.
I swear this series gets better and better with each book, and I love it so much.
And I can’t wait for more of the hellhounds! They’re so different and I can’t wait for their stories. Or the one of the mysterious Angel dude who is helping with the soulmates issue.
894 reviews6 followers
June 16, 2024
4.5/5 I’m so glad that Kushiel got his HEA! It was definitely well deserved. He and Cass made a great match, and it was lovely to see them come together, solve a mystery, and be a whole lot happier. I liked how Cass accepted Kushiel just as he was, and how he so obviously saw Kushiel’s goodness where others made the mistake of judging his physical appearance. Kushiel is a total sweetheart, and I really liked the idea that souls could be redeemed over time. It was fun to see more about how Cass’s gifts work.

Aunt Ro was entertaining, I enjoyed meeting the new hellhound, and I liked the visits from Ari and Michael—always fun to see them again. I was amused to see how Luce goes about things compared to Yah. Very fitting, I think, lol.

Looking forward to the new series but definitely still want to see what happens with everyone here!

I received an ARC from GRR. This is my honest review.
Profile Image for Leigh Gaskill.
847 reviews34 followers
June 17, 2024
We finally have Kushiel’s story! This selfless angel has been devoting himself to the souls in limbo for eons all while not being fully accepted by either angels or demons and has been relegated to an existence of pain and loneliness. WHAT! Not on our watch! Or Cassius’!

After a rather confusing but admittedly adorable meeting between the two Cass quickly realizes who and what Kush is to him, but he has to play the long and slow game with Kush as the angel doesn’t believe very highly of himself. Cass is willing to do whatever it takes to make his angel believe in himself and their soulmate bond, as well as defending him against any perceived threat. Cass is exactly what and who Kushiel needs on his side.

The side characters introduced are intriguing and I’m looking forward to our hellhounds story. It also seems that Yah and Luce’s story is getting closer and closer (hopefully? Fingers crossed!)

*I received an advanced copy from GRR in exchange for my honest review.*
Profile Image for brownsoda.
288 reviews3 followers
July 3, 2024
This is the first is time this author and I was pleasantly surprised. I haven't read the previous novels in this series, but I didn't feel like I missed anything. Cassius living his life of incredible power helping those who live in the different plains of life, death, and everything in-between. Running his coffee shop around his otherworldly tasks, he is told a grey angel is needs his help. He comes in the form of Kushiel. The great angel that needs his help to restore missing souls from hell. I don't want to go in to do much detail about the plot because I think it's best enjoyed. I did love the world that this author has created as well as all of the characters. I felt like the MCs were fleshed out and I wanted them to be soulmates that doesn't always happen, but in this case it did. There was also an excellent level of spice. I would definitely recommend reading the author. I look forward to more of their books
Profile Image for Sonal.
1,082 reviews5 followers
January 9, 2026
Shannon Mae is my one-click author. I don't even read what the book is about before getting it. I absolutely love her mystical world. Gods, demons, Angels, hellhounds and all other afterlifers. All her books are M/M so be aware.

This book was another addition to already a fantastic series. You can read it as a standalone but I would highly suggest giving all her books a try.

This one was about a grey fallen angel Kushiel and his human seer, an oracle human soulmate Cassius. Cassius have visions and he helps ghosts in the human world. Kush helps souls in hell. Souls have been taken from hell and now Kush and Cass are tasked by Gods to find them together. All the side characters are so much fun to read about as well. I absolutely loved hilarious ghost Aunt Ro.

This book had it all. Interesting characters, Devils with tails, Angels with wings, Gods, hellhounds and sizzling hot bedroom sessions. Absolutely a full five stars.
Profile Image for Demetra Roussakis.
1,525 reviews14 followers
June 14, 2024
I am so happy that I had started reading this author’s books and this one did not disappoint. I was sooo looking forward to reading Kushiel’s book and it did not disappoint. Kushiel has been helping lost souls redeem themselves for many millennia and has been shunned by the angels. As he needs to enter hell to go to Erebus, he feels more at home. When the souls at Erebus have disappeared, he doesn’t know what to do. Cassius is a seer, oracle and human. When he gets a visit from Gabriel telling him he is to help a gray angel, he is intrigued. When Kushiel walks into his coffee shop, he tells him he is the one he is looking for. This is the start of their friendship and relationship as to how they figure out what happened to the lost souls and to their happy ever after. Loved this and cannot wait to read more.
Profile Image for Jeanette Waters.
2,050 reviews5 followers
June 18, 2024
Shannon Mae's Demonic Disasters and Afterlife Adventures books are absolute delights. The titles are fun, the cover art really pulls you in. I downloaded book one without reading the blurb and am so glad I did. Her characters, humans and demons, are snarky and fun. And then we come to Cassius and Kushiel.
No two characters in Mae's universe deserved a HEA more than these two. Kushiel was being taken advantage of and ignored by the folks upstairs. Cassius plans to tell him he's beautiful inside and out, even if it takes forever.
I love Mae's take on heaven/hell. It's sarcastic and original. Each book adds layers to the worldbuilding. But this book, it pulled on my heartstrings. I really wanted to give Kushiel a hug, and I'm so glad that Cassius will.
I received an advance copy of this book and this is my review.
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