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Demonic Disasters and Afterlife Adventures #2
A Beginner's Guide to Mistakenly Summoned Demons and Other Misadventures: Demonic Disasters and Afterlife Adventures, Book 2
Gabriel
Mistakenly summoning a lust demon was not on Gabe's to-do list, but with a meddling grandmother, he's gotten used to the unexpected. The real trouble begins when Gabe realizes exactly who he's summoned. What's a guy supposed to do when an Infernal King of Hell has decided he's staying and wants to follow Gabe around like a stray puppy? Add having a job as a teacher, living in a family of meddlers, and dealing with a bureaucratic underworld, and Gabe is about ready to lose his patience. When the Prince of Lust decides he's going to help Gabe figure out his sexuality, though, things really start to get interesting. Maybe mistakenly summoning a demon wasn't the worst thing to happen after all.
Asmodeus
Asmodeus has dealt with humans and their lust since they were first created, and he has never met someone immune to his powers. So when he's forcibly summoned (which should be impossible), and he realizes he has no power whatsoever over the human (which hasn't happened before), he's more than a little intrigued. No way is he going back to hell when he's found such a mystery. When he realizes that Gabe is confused about his own sexuality, Az happily decides to help him figure it out. Who better than a lust demon for the job, after all? If Az happens to get slightly obsessed with his human in the process, who's going to tell him he can't keep the guy? Now Az just needs to convince Gabe that keeping a lust demon around forever is the perfect plan.
Includes a bonus story, " A Beginner's Guide to the Care and Feeding of Demons."
Mistakenly summoning a lust demon was not on Gabe's to-do list, but with a meddling grandmother, he's gotten used to the unexpected. The real trouble begins when Gabe realizes exactly who he's summoned. What's a guy supposed to do when an Infernal King of Hell has decided he's staying and wants to follow Gabe around like a stray puppy? Add having a job as a teacher, living in a family of meddlers, and dealing with a bureaucratic underworld, and Gabe is about ready to lose his patience. When the Prince of Lust decides he's going to help Gabe figure out his sexuality, though, things really start to get interesting. Maybe mistakenly summoning a demon wasn't the worst thing to happen after all.
Asmodeus
Asmodeus has dealt with humans and their lust since they were first created, and he has never met someone immune to his powers. So when he's forcibly summoned (which should be impossible), and he realizes he has no power whatsoever over the human (which hasn't happened before), he's more than a little intrigued. No way is he going back to hell when he's found such a mystery. When he realizes that Gabe is confused about his own sexuality, Az happily decides to help him figure it out. Who better than a lust demon for the job, after all? If Az happens to get slightly obsessed with his human in the process, who's going to tell him he can't keep the guy? Now Az just needs to convince Gabe that keeping a lust demon around forever is the perfect plan.
Includes a bonus story, " A Beginner's Guide to the Care and Feeding of Demons."
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First published July 15, 2023
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December 14, 20255 glowing ⭐️
This book is absolutely amazing! Az and Gabe were perfect for each other. I read books before about demisexuality, but I haven’t read about a character finding their own way on such a journey.
Az was the perfect embodiment of Lust, and not only sexual lust, but all desires. It can be seen in the little details of his monologues, how he thought, and how he talked to others.
Gabe was an insecure ball of grumpiness, and Az was the perfect person for him 🤌🏻
Also, the heat was amazing, Az, URGHHH you really really REALLY know how to use that tail 🤤
I loved Grams and his relationship with her. It was so funny how Gabe was just done with her shenanigans 🤣
“Grams,” he yelled, “you’ve summoned a demon again.”
Az’s love and attention were wholesome ❤️ he was so attentive to Gabe and everything about him. I loved how vulnerable he was with him, how he wanted Gabe to see more than someone who could fulfill a fantasy. His love was so sincere.
“I will find a way to be with you. I will,” he vowed. Az smiled then, saying, “Without you, life is weary, stale, flat, and unprofitable; an unweeded garden…”
This one hits, makes me want someone wondering the same thing about me, makes me want to cry 😩
If this was what it meant to be in love, Az wondered at how the mortals survived such a thing. It was so all-encompassing that he wanted to cry and laugh and cum all at the same time.
Gabe’s relationship with his pet frog demon Beel was hilarious 🤣
“You know what? You are NO help whatsoever!” Gabe fumed. “You are MR. FROG! You are supposed to be my loyal pet who listens and doesn’t judge and HELPS ME! What happened to that, huh? You were NEVER this judgmental when I used to pour my heart out to you!”
Beel hunkered down a bit, croaked grumpily, and waved his foreleg in the air in a ‘carry on’ gesture.
My absolute FAVORITE scene was when Gabe was ripping one off on his brother Michael. I kind of understood Michael’s reaction though. When caring about siblings and taking in this responsibility, sometimes in our panic and fear, we take drastic decisions. I think that’s the thing about being the oldest, we just have an impulsive tendency to protect. But Michael messed up big time. I don’t think I took one breath reading the whole scene. It gave me satisfaction, like I was the one fighting for something and being angry about it. Absolutely a perfect dialogue 👏🏻
But what takes the cake was the epilogue. I can’t wait for their story (no spoilers), but I just loved that plot twist about their plans. Read it if you want to find out what I am talking about. ❤️
Anyway, I loved this book, the characters, and the writing, so obviously… on to the next one!
This book is absolutely amazing! Az and Gabe were perfect for each other. I read books before about demisexuality, but I haven’t read about a character finding their own way on such a journey.
Az was the perfect embodiment of Lust, and not only sexual lust, but all desires. It can be seen in the little details of his monologues, how he thought, and how he talked to others.
Gabe was an insecure ball of grumpiness, and Az was the perfect person for him 🤌🏻
Also, the heat was amazing, Az, URGHHH you really really REALLY know how to use that tail 🤤
I loved Grams and his relationship with her. It was so funny how Gabe was just done with her shenanigans 🤣
“Grams,” he yelled, “you’ve summoned a demon again.”
Az’s love and attention were wholesome ❤️ he was so attentive to Gabe and everything about him. I loved how vulnerable he was with him, how he wanted Gabe to see more than someone who could fulfill a fantasy. His love was so sincere.
“I will find a way to be with you. I will,” he vowed. Az smiled then, saying, “Without you, life is weary, stale, flat, and unprofitable; an unweeded garden…”
This one hits, makes me want someone wondering the same thing about me, makes me want to cry 😩
If this was what it meant to be in love, Az wondered at how the mortals survived such a thing. It was so all-encompassing that he wanted to cry and laugh and cum all at the same time.
Gabe’s relationship with his pet frog demon Beel was hilarious 🤣
“You know what? You are NO help whatsoever!” Gabe fumed. “You are MR. FROG! You are supposed to be my loyal pet who listens and doesn’t judge and HELPS ME! What happened to that, huh? You were NEVER this judgmental when I used to pour my heart out to you!”
Beel hunkered down a bit, croaked grumpily, and waved his foreleg in the air in a ‘carry on’ gesture.
My absolute FAVORITE scene was when Gabe was ripping one off on his brother Michael. I kind of understood Michael’s reaction though. When caring about siblings and taking in this responsibility, sometimes in our panic and fear, we take drastic decisions. I think that’s the thing about being the oldest, we just have an impulsive tendency to protect. But Michael messed up big time. I don’t think I took one breath reading the whole scene. It gave me satisfaction, like I was the one fighting for something and being angry about it. Absolutely a perfect dialogue 👏🏻
But what takes the cake was the epilogue. I can’t wait for their story (no spoilers), but I just loved that plot twist about their plans. Read it if you want to find out what I am talking about. ❤️
Anyway, I loved this book, the characters, and the writing, so obviously… on to the next one!
May 10, 2026
More demonic shenanigans
3.5*
This one was on course for being a 5* read but then it all went a bit flat in the final third of the book unfortunately.
I loved that this relationship was unusual as it involved lust demon Asmodeus and Gabe, a guy who was on the asexual spectrum and didn't often have sexual attraction for anyone.
For the first half of the book a really wonderful friendship built up between them as Az tried to help Gabe work out his sexuality and what desires he had outside of the bedroom.
It was interesting to see how the author worked Gabe's dawning awareness of his demisexuality and that he needed to have feelings for someone in order to think about them in any kind of sexual way.
Then there was some really sweet and still pretty hot moments between them when Gabe realised he could get off on watching someone else's intimacy if those people were in a relationship and genuinely in love.
But once Gabe decided he was in love with Az, it turned into a far more 'normal' romance and then the 'threat element' sort of jumped in without too much build up and we got some telling and a bit of exposition involving Luce and Yah, revelations about a bunch of Nephilim and Grams' real identity, all leading to a rushed ending.
Now, that's not to say I didn't enjoy it, I would have just liked things to have had more of a lead in.
3.5*
This one was on course for being a 5* read but then it all went a bit flat in the final third of the book unfortunately.
I loved that this relationship was unusual as it involved lust demon Asmodeus and Gabe, a guy who was on the asexual spectrum and didn't often have sexual attraction for anyone.
For the first half of the book a really wonderful friendship built up between them as Az tried to help Gabe work out his sexuality and what desires he had outside of the bedroom.
It was interesting to see how the author worked Gabe's dawning awareness of his demisexuality and that he needed to have feelings for someone in order to think about them in any kind of sexual way.
Then there was some really sweet and still pretty hot moments between them when Gabe realised he could get off on watching someone else's intimacy if those people were in a relationship and genuinely in love.
But once Gabe decided he was in love with Az, it turned into a far more 'normal' romance and then the 'threat element' sort of jumped in without too much build up and we got some telling and a bit of exposition involving Luce and Yah, revelations about a bunch of Nephilim and Grams' real identity, all leading to a rushed ending.
Now, that's not to say I didn't enjoy it, I would have just liked things to have had more of a lead in.
July 16, 2023
Az and Gabe were fun characters to get to know, complete opposites, but they fit together well. I appreciated the gentle way Az dealt with Gabe and his confusion around his sexuality, he put him at ease and made him feel normal, something others hadn't done. I enjoyed seeing their relationship grow from Gabe having to put up with an annoying Lust demon to them falling in love.
I enjoyed the twists about Gabe and his family later on in the book, which helped sort out the drama that Gabe's brother's meddling created.
Gabe's family were a bit over-the-top at times but added the right amount of humour to the different situations.
I feel for Lucifer and Yah, you get a glimpse at how much they want to be together yet can't until they sort out whatever plan they have designed. I really hope one day they get their HEA.
I'm looking forward to the next book and seeing what chaos ensues.
I enjoyed the twists about Gabe and his family later on in the book, which helped sort out the drama that Gabe's brother's meddling created.
Gabe's family were a bit over-the-top at times but added the right amount of humour to the different situations.
I feel for Lucifer and Yah, you get a glimpse at how much they want to be together yet can't until they sort out whatever plan they have designed. I really hope one day they get their HEA.
I'm looking forward to the next book and seeing what chaos ensues.
December 28, 2024
2.5
“Asmodeus, Lords of the Nines, Prince of Lust, Infernal King of the Underworld”.
Esto ya es otra cosa. Menos mal que no dejé de leerlo tras el primero. Sabía que tenía que darle otra oportunidad.
No es la mejor novela del siglo, pero me lo he pasado bien leyéndola y me he echado unas buenas risas.
Totalmente recomendado.
“Asmodeus, Lords of the Nines, Prince of Lust, Infernal King of the Underworld”.
Esto ya es otra cosa. Menos mal que no dejé de leerlo tras el primero. Sabía que tenía que darle otra oportunidad.
No es la mejor novela del siglo, pero me lo he pasado bien leyéndola y me he echado unas buenas risas.
Totalmente recomendado.
August 11, 2025
4.5 stars
Ohh, well this just took everything up a notch, didn't it? Not only do I love the two MC's a smidge more than the previous couple, but the overarching plot is also building significantly. And yet, despite how grave or serious it may seem, it still feels like a low-angst read. Gabe and Az are truly wonderful, honestly! I loved their story and I love them as individuals. Az is so sweet and caring, more than one might expect from a Lust Demon. There's so much depth to him. And Gabe, sweet demisexual baby. He has a surprising fierce side to him that was so much fun. (And the secret of their family? Hoo boy!) Together they're just beautiful and I want all the good things for them.
Definitely recommend this one, though I urge you to read the first book too because you should know the beginning of the overarching plot (and Adam and Minos are a ton of fun). This is promising to be a really great series, without a doubt!
Ohh, well this just took everything up a notch, didn't it? Not only do I love the two MC's a smidge more than the previous couple, but the overarching plot is also building significantly. And yet, despite how grave or serious it may seem, it still feels like a low-angst read. Gabe and Az are truly wonderful, honestly! I loved their story and I love them as individuals. Az is so sweet and caring, more than one might expect from a Lust Demon. There's so much depth to him. And Gabe, sweet demisexual baby. He has a surprising fierce side to him that was so much fun. (And the secret of their family? Hoo boy!) Together they're just beautiful and I want all the good things for them.
Definitely recommend this one, though I urge you to read the first book too because you should know the beginning of the overarching plot (and Adam and Minos are a ton of fun). This is promising to be a really great series, without a doubt!
July 16, 2023
wow. this series is actually soooooo good. so so so good. i was doubtful at first because of the cover but was completely blown away with how thought out the story was.
The main characters meshed so well and the love between them was so authentic I truly felt like the two of them were made to be with the other.
This book is truly amazing and i highly recommend it
The main characters meshed so well and the love between them was so authentic I truly felt like the two of them were made to be with the other.
This book is truly amazing and i highly recommend it
July 26, 2023
Just as fun the second time around. Gabe and Az are perfect for each other. Grams is...well Grams. We get to understand a little bit more about the dynamics between Luce and Yah and what they are trying to accomplish. The writing still reminds me a bit of Alice Winters but the characters are a bit less over the top. (not that i don't love me some OTT characters). I can't wait to see what happens next in the series
September 5, 2024
Entertaining!
I’m enjoying this series! Gabe and Az worked so well together. It was interesting to see Az help Gabe discover his sexuality. Gabe’s family was crazy, and I didn’t see the twist (at least not completely). I’m looking forward to reading the next book.
I’m enjoying this series! Gabe and Az worked so well together. It was interesting to see Az help Gabe discover his sexuality. Gabe’s family was crazy, and I didn’t see the twist (at least not completely). I’m looking forward to reading the next book.
July 13, 2023
The main characters of this story, Gabriel and Az, are almost instantly likeable. Gabriel's family is also funny, if a bit over the top at certain times. The frog is a really nice touch.
It was a very easy and sweet read. There was little action/suspense, but I didn't expect that from this book. It is mostly a witty tale about the main characters falling for each other and about Az helping Gabriel figuring out his sexuality.
Though this book is written to be funny, I found it tried too hard in certain places. There are a couple of repetitions I could have done without. I mean, I KNOW Az is a lust demon, you don't need to explain it to me every time he is saying something s*x related.
I do like to angle the author chose by pairing a lust demon with a human who is confused about his own sexuality. I won't say more about this in order to avoid possible spoilers, but it was a bit different from other stories and I liked that. I do think the author could have done more with this in order to really make the characters shine and I couldn't really wrap my head around Gabriel falling so fast for someone, but that might just be me.
Even though the couple in this book gets their HEA, we get some unanswered questions in the epilogue which set the tone for the overall story line and the next couple of books. It's not really a cliffhanger, more like a behind the scenes which explains some things and makes you wonder about others.
Not having read the previous book, I didn't feel like I was missing a lot. There are some references to the couple from the first book and considering the ending of this story, you might miss some of the overall story line, but it wasn't noticeable if you only read this book.
Each chapter is told through either Az or Gabriel's POV, third person.
No cheating.
Low angst.
Little to medium heat.
HEA.
For those who love A.J. Sherwood and Jennifer Cody's books, I would recommend this story!
It was a very easy and sweet read. There was little action/suspense, but I didn't expect that from this book. It is mostly a witty tale about the main characters falling for each other and about Az helping Gabriel figuring out his sexuality.
Though this book is written to be funny, I found it tried too hard in certain places. There are a couple of repetitions I could have done without. I mean, I KNOW Az is a lust demon, you don't need to explain it to me every time he is saying something s*x related.
I do like to angle the author chose by pairing a lust demon with a human who is confused about his own sexuality. I won't say more about this in order to avoid possible spoilers, but it was a bit different from other stories and I liked that. I do think the author could have done more with this in order to really make the characters shine and I couldn't really wrap my head around Gabriel falling so fast for someone, but that might just be me.
Even though the couple in this book gets their HEA, we get some unanswered questions in the epilogue which set the tone for the overall story line and the next couple of books. It's not really a cliffhanger, more like a behind the scenes which explains some things and makes you wonder about others.
Not having read the previous book, I didn't feel like I was missing a lot. There are some references to the couple from the first book and considering the ending of this story, you might miss some of the overall story line, but it wasn't noticeable if you only read this book.
Each chapter is told through either Az or Gabriel's POV, third person.
No cheating.
Low angst.
Little to medium heat.
HEA.
For those who love A.J. Sherwood and Jennifer Cody's books, I would recommend this story!
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December 29, 2023https://www.tumblr.com/aspeccharacter...
Gabe from A Beginner’s Guide to Mistakenly Summoned Demons and Other Misadventures is demisexual/reciprosexual!
Gabe from A Beginner’s Guide to Mistakenly Summoned Demons and Other Misadventures is demisexual/reciprosexual!
July 14, 2023
4.5 stars. Delightful quick read with lots of humour and intriguing world building. There were unexpected twists and turns all over the place, it's unusual to read something where you never find what you expect (love that). Things like "Az sincerely hoped they hadn't just started armageddon. Ooops" are great. The complications of Gabe's sexuality which more or less blocked Az's type of demon, unusual family members and Mr Frog are some of the weirdly unusual things which make this so very interesting.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and am happy to leave a voluntary review.
I received a complimentary copy of this book and am happy to leave a voluntary review.
November 9, 2023
So Lilit, Archangel Michael, Lucifer, Yahweh, a demon and an human were on a tea party in heaven...
😂😂🤣😂🤣
This wasn’t as fun as Minos and Adam story, but it was good. I knew something was up with Gabe family but I wasn’t expecting that!
Mr. Frog was my favorite character ❤️ He deserves some love
I'm looking forward to read how Kushiel finds his soulmate, but that would have to wait since Ari's book it the next
Oh, and I definitely need more info about Yah and Luce. Something is happening there!
😂😂🤣😂🤣
This wasn’t as fun as Minos and Adam story, but it was good. I knew something was up with Gabe family but I wasn’t expecting that!
Mr. Frog was my favorite character ❤️ He deserves some love
I'm looking forward to read how Kushiel finds his soulmate, but that would have to wait since Ari's book it the next
Oh, and I definitely need more info about Yah and Luce. Something is happening there!
February 8, 2026
These two walnuts fall in love, but first, let there be a struggle!
Picture a person unaffected by your one and only power; Lust. Curiosity peaked, Az tries to find something Gabe lusts for, all while developing feelings for one another, and helping find out exactly who Gabe is, how Granny is connect, and what exactly is going on, on a deeper level.
Diving deeper into the side story (the bigger story?) you see Luce and Ya yearning for eachother on a deeper level. You begin to see the bigger picture, which puts into question more things.
Picture a person unaffected by your one and only power; Lust. Curiosity peaked, Az tries to find something Gabe lusts for, all while developing feelings for one another, and helping find out exactly who Gabe is, how Granny is connect, and what exactly is going on, on a deeper level.
Diving deeper into the side story (the bigger story?) you see Luce and Ya yearning for eachother on a deeper level. You begin to see the bigger picture, which puts into question more things.
September 5, 2024
Good
When Gabes Gram asks him to dispose of a ruined potion he had no idea he was about to summon a demon . Asmodeus isn’t any demon apart from being a lust demon he’s one of the kings of hell and a summons won’t hold him but Gabe intrigues him so he stays . Not as funny as book one but still good .
When Gabes Gram asks him to dispose of a ruined potion he had no idea he was about to summon a demon . Asmodeus isn’t any demon apart from being a lust demon he’s one of the kings of hell and a summons won’t hold him but Gabe intrigues him so he stays . Not as funny as book one but still good .
July 17, 2023
A good Guide to Fun & Laughs
I adore this series. Book one was so much fun to read and Az & Gabe's story was just as much fun to read. I laughed out loud many times throughout and I can't wait for book three.
I received an ARC and this is my unbiased opinion
I adore this series. Book one was so much fun to read and Az & Gabe's story was just as much fun to read. I laughed out loud many times throughout and I can't wait for book three.
I received an ARC and this is my unbiased opinion
December 6, 2024
Another crazy read in this series. It was actually sweet of Lust wooing Gabe, the two actually falling in love. Grams has to be my favorite crazy. I still think the first book was the funniest so far. But I am loving this series.
September 17, 2025
September 2025
Kindle edition
Michael was a C. Both of them. Grams was fun. Az was along for the ride and the only one seeming to have a meltdown, at least in the beginning, was Gabe. I liked that it worked out. The frog demon was cool. A shame that secret came out, probably going to get less head pats now. Everyone was great, apart from the Michaels.
Kindle edition
Michael was a C. Both of them. Grams was fun. Az was along for the ride and the only one seeming to have a meltdown, at least in the beginning, was Gabe. I liked that it worked out. The frog demon was cool. A shame that secret came out, probably going to get less head pats now. Everyone was great, apart from the Michaels.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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April 20, 2024I can see why Beckah never finished 🤧
That was super… uh exactly what it was but nothing I wanted but the plot is actually good like????
That was super… uh exactly what it was but nothing I wanted but the plot is actually good like????
February 4, 2026
NOPE. Saying it again - Sensitivity reader
November 5, 2024
2,75 ✨
Based on first impression, I thought I was gonna love Gabe, but I didn’t… I found him kinda boring and cringy and ngl… I also skimmed some of his chapters …
I liked Az though. He was a sweetheart.
The two didn’t have all that much chemistry in my opinion so I didn’t particularly like the romance between them.
It just didn’t feel believable to me.
The over the top love confessions and stuff was just too dramatic for me when they’d only known each other for like a week…
Gabe’s words and actions just made me feel bad for his family towards the end…
And I loved his family.
Especially Grams. What an icon.
The Epilogue Though!? Tell me why that was only a couple pages but literally made me cry…
The longing!? It was so clear from just a few sentences that it legit broke my heart and made me cry actual tears.
Based on first impression, I thought I was gonna love Gabe, but I didn’t… I found him kinda boring and cringy and ngl… I also skimmed some of his chapters …
I liked Az though. He was a sweetheart.
The two didn’t have all that much chemistry in my opinion so I didn’t particularly like the romance between them.
It just didn’t feel believable to me.
The over the top love confessions and stuff was just too dramatic for me when they’d only known each other for like a week…
Gabe’s words and actions just made me feel bad for his family towards the end…
And I loved his family.
Especially Grams. What an icon.
The Epilogue Though!? Tell me why that was only a couple pages but literally made me cry…
The longing!? It was so clear from just a few sentences that it legit broke my heart and made me cry actual tears.
February 4, 2026
Gabe was a mess in the relationship/sex department, so much so his Gram sneakingly ended up making him summon a Lust Demon.
However, turns out Az doesn’t effect Gabe with his ability but that just makes Az even more intrigued. They embark on the journey of discovering what makes Gabe tick in the Sexual department.
They are cute but I did like Minos and Adam better.
Mr.Frog aka Beel is the best, love him.
I’m not a fan of brother Michael🙄 but his book is next so maybe he’s redeemable.
Steam-2ish/3 he’s a lust demon, there’s gonna be some stuff lol
However, turns out Az doesn’t effect Gabe with his ability but that just makes Az even more intrigued. They embark on the journey of discovering what makes Gabe tick in the Sexual department.
They are cute but I did like Minos and Adam better.
Mr.Frog aka Beel is the best, love him.
I’m not a fan of brother Michael🙄 but his book is next so maybe he’s redeemable.
Steam-2ish/3 he’s a lust demon, there’s gonna be some stuff lol
January 22, 2025
**This review has been electronically translated into English.
* ⭐️⭐️⭐️,5
It took me a while to read this book, it was an evolution of book 1, but it still wasn't what I expected, comparing it of course with the books in the Hellhounds of Paradise Falls series, because yes, I will continue comparing it to this series, since it is in the same niche, is by the same author and takes place in the same universe and place, and of course it was the first books by the author that I read before this series here.
I understand that these first two books in the series were also the first two by the author, he was still finding his feet, not to mention that the books weren't bad. This one is better than the first one and that's why I won't lower my rating.
This book was less about sex and more about dialogues and experiences (without sex), not that it was without it, we had some scenes that were very different from the traditional 'in and out and then just like that' sex scenes that are always in most books, which was good. This story was about discovery, not about being straight or LGBTQIAPN+, it was about the nuances of sexuality, about the weight of choices, about what is expected or not and how to deal with it, what gives pleasure or not. I don't really know the terms used in this case, but I hope you understood my POV.
We also had some twists and turns and a very unexpected revelation at the end that clarified the issue of companions a little. I definitely didn't expect that and I'm not talking about Yah and Luce's attraction.
Az was summoned by Gabe's grandmother to get him out of his self-imposed solitude, actually to help him have sex. As a demon of his category, Az could have refused the summoning, but he went anyway and found himself fascinated by the human who was not influenced by his lust. After some back and forth between them, the two "decide" to live together until the summoning is complete. During this time, they live a journey of discovery and emotional and sexual fulfillment, also discovering love. Let it be clear that this journey lasted about two weeks.
The story leans slightly towards humor, mainly with sexual connotations. The first book was almost entirely focused on humor and sarcasm. This one is a bit reflective as well. Overall, it was an average story, which would easily please many people. For me, it didn't work that much, but it didn't get to the point where I hated it or abandoned the book, it just didn't cause that excitement that I get when I read a book that hooks me.
Some annoying points were: The repetitions. Barbarity.
If not Az, there was always someone claiming that "he was a demon of lust after all", "since he was the demon of lust", being the demon of lust", "demon of lust!?". It was annoying.
And the famous and not least, repetition of names in the same paragraph. In one of them, I counted the name Az, at least 9 times. Have mercy.
Dual POV. Gabe and Az.
Demon/Human. Heaven/Hell/Limbo. Paranormal. Fantasy. Humor.
Death of parents mentioned.
Relationship difficulty.
No anguish. No suffering. No cheating. Hea.
Moderate sex. Use of tail for consensual recreational sexual purposes.
Pet frog/demon.
* ⭐️⭐️⭐️,5
It took me a while to read this book, it was an evolution of book 1, but it still wasn't what I expected, comparing it of course with the books in the Hellhounds of Paradise Falls series, because yes, I will continue comparing it to this series, since it is in the same niche, is by the same author and takes place in the same universe and place, and of course it was the first books by the author that I read before this series here.
I understand that these first two books in the series were also the first two by the author, he was still finding his feet, not to mention that the books weren't bad. This one is better than the first one and that's why I won't lower my rating.
This book was less about sex and more about dialogues and experiences (without sex), not that it was without it, we had some scenes that were very different from the traditional 'in and out and then just like that' sex scenes that are always in most books, which was good. This story was about discovery, not about being straight or LGBTQIAPN+, it was about the nuances of sexuality, about the weight of choices, about what is expected or not and how to deal with it, what gives pleasure or not. I don't really know the terms used in this case, but I hope you understood my POV.
We also had some twists and turns and a very unexpected revelation at the end that clarified the issue of companions a little. I definitely didn't expect that and I'm not talking about Yah and Luce's attraction.
Az was summoned by Gabe's grandmother to get him out of his self-imposed solitude, actually to help him have sex. As a demon of his category, Az could have refused the summoning, but he went anyway and found himself fascinated by the human who was not influenced by his lust. After some back and forth between them, the two "decide" to live together until the summoning is complete. During this time, they live a journey of discovery and emotional and sexual fulfillment, also discovering love. Let it be clear that this journey lasted about two weeks.
The story leans slightly towards humor, mainly with sexual connotations. The first book was almost entirely focused on humor and sarcasm. This one is a bit reflective as well. Overall, it was an average story, which would easily please many people. For me, it didn't work that much, but it didn't get to the point where I hated it or abandoned the book, it just didn't cause that excitement that I get when I read a book that hooks me.
Some annoying points were: The repetitions. Barbarity.
If not Az, there was always someone claiming that "he was a demon of lust after all", "since he was the demon of lust", being the demon of lust", "demon of lust!?". It was annoying.
And the famous and not least, repetition of names in the same paragraph. In one of them, I counted the name Az, at least 9 times. Have mercy.
Dual POV. Gabe and Az.
Demon/Human. Heaven/Hell/Limbo. Paranormal. Fantasy. Humor.
Death of parents mentioned.
Relationship difficulty.
No anguish. No suffering. No cheating. Hea.
Moderate sex. Use of tail for consensual recreational sexual purposes.
Pet frog/demon.
June 9, 2024
old post reposted
Another day, another paranormal read (because why the hell not?). Here's Shannon Mae's "A Beginner's Guide to Mistakenly Summoned Demons and Other Misadventures." It's a part of her Demonic Disasters and Afterlife Adventures series.
["Mistakenly summoning a lust demon was not on Gabe’s to-do list, but with a meddling grandmother, he’s gotten used to the unexpected. The real trouble begins when Gabe realizes exactly who he’s summoned. What’s a guy supposed to do when an Infernal King of Hell has decided he’s staying and wants to follow Gabe around like a stray puppy? Add having a job as a teacher, living in a family of meddlers, and dealing with a bureaucratic underworld, and Gabe is about ready to lose his patience. When the Prince of Lust decides he’s going to help Gabe figure out his sexuality, though, things really start to get interesting. Maybe mistakenly summoning a demon wasn’t the worst thing to happen after all.
Asmodeus has dealt with humans and their lust since they were first created, and he has never met someone immune to his powers. So when he’s forcibly summoned (which should be impossible), and he realizes he has no power whatsoever over the human (which hasn’t happened before), he’s more than a little intrigued. No way is he going back to hell when he’s found such a mystery. When he realizes that Gabe is confused about his own sexuality, Az happily decides to help him figure it out. Who better than a lust demon for the job, after all? If Az happens to get slightly obsessed with his human in the process, who’s going to tell him he can’t keep the guy? Now Az just needs to convince Gabe that keeping a lust demon around forever is the perfect plan."]
Az probably shouldn't have admitted to being bored lately. He really shouldn't have followed that up with saying things needed to shake up. That's how you get accidentally summon (or fate stepped in because he was being a sad and whiny (and probably jealous) demon. And of course fate gave him Gabe. Okay, so it wasn't an accident, it was Grams, but...well...Grams is actually-- You'll see. ;)
These are two of my most favorite characters. They're certainly on the list now. They fit together in an opposites attract, completing the puzzle, healing each other, totally protective/possessive kinda way. And it was fast. But not love-at-first-sight fast. Certainly not with Gabe. Fucking. Love. Gabe.
READ THIS.
#abeginnersguidetodeathdemonsandotherafterlifedisasters #abeginnersguidetomistakenlysummoneddemonsandothermisadventures #demonicdisastersandafterlifeadventures #demonicdisastersandafterlifeadventuresseries #shannonmae #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks
Another day, another paranormal read (because why the hell not?). Here's Shannon Mae's "A Beginner's Guide to Mistakenly Summoned Demons and Other Misadventures." It's a part of her Demonic Disasters and Afterlife Adventures series.
["Mistakenly summoning a lust demon was not on Gabe’s to-do list, but with a meddling grandmother, he’s gotten used to the unexpected. The real trouble begins when Gabe realizes exactly who he’s summoned. What’s a guy supposed to do when an Infernal King of Hell has decided he’s staying and wants to follow Gabe around like a stray puppy? Add having a job as a teacher, living in a family of meddlers, and dealing with a bureaucratic underworld, and Gabe is about ready to lose his patience. When the Prince of Lust decides he’s going to help Gabe figure out his sexuality, though, things really start to get interesting. Maybe mistakenly summoning a demon wasn’t the worst thing to happen after all.
Asmodeus has dealt with humans and their lust since they were first created, and he has never met someone immune to his powers. So when he’s forcibly summoned (which should be impossible), and he realizes he has no power whatsoever over the human (which hasn’t happened before), he’s more than a little intrigued. No way is he going back to hell when he’s found such a mystery. When he realizes that Gabe is confused about his own sexuality, Az happily decides to help him figure it out. Who better than a lust demon for the job, after all? If Az happens to get slightly obsessed with his human in the process, who’s going to tell him he can’t keep the guy? Now Az just needs to convince Gabe that keeping a lust demon around forever is the perfect plan."]
Az probably shouldn't have admitted to being bored lately. He really shouldn't have followed that up with saying things needed to shake up. That's how you get accidentally summon (or fate stepped in because he was being a sad and whiny (and probably jealous) demon. And of course fate gave him Gabe. Okay, so it wasn't an accident, it was Grams, but...well...Grams is actually-- You'll see. ;)
These are two of my most favorite characters. They're certainly on the list now. They fit together in an opposites attract, completing the puzzle, healing each other, totally protective/possessive kinda way. And it was fast. But not love-at-first-sight fast. Certainly not with Gabe. Fucking. Love. Gabe.
READ THIS.
#abeginnersguidetodeathdemonsandotherafterlifedisasters #abeginnersguidetomistakenlysummoneddemonsandothermisadventures #demonicdisastersandafterlifeadventures #demonicdisastersandafterlifeadventuresseries #shannonmae #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks
April 16, 2026
First half is a 4 stars; 2nd half is a 2 stars.
I was happy with the first part; it was cute and I saw myself so much in Gabe. He is a demisexual; had only 2 lovers in his 29 years of life (one woman and one man), and he has always felt weird when comparing to others because he had no interest in sex and was not sexual. It was like reading my profile or something. And to have a lust demon as a love interest, but for half of the book nothing happens because Az, the lust demon, figures pretty quickly Gabe's sexuality so he tries to get Gabe to know him and get comfortable around him first, before taking things to the sex. It was lovely.
And Az putting Gabe at ease and making him "use" Az as a masturbation material, but always making Gabe feel comfortable above everything, it was really nice. Like you can see why Gabe would slowly fall for Az.
Except the "slowly falling in love" turns into insta-love and well, everything starting to go downhill.
Starting from one of my biggest pet peeves, and all spoilers:
1. Gabe gets turn on when he watches people in love having sex. So Az takes him to a bdsm club. Now, in my list of Big No's in Romances they are: going to a bdsm and sharing. There is no touch between the 2 couples (an established gay couple + Gabe and Az) but the voyeurism (nope), the exhibitionism (nope) was a downer for me and there I realized it wasn't the book I though I would like.
2. I found Gabe's family too noisy. His Grams was fine but overall vulgar. His brother Michael as an ass, hope he never finds happiness.
3. The ILY's were too much, not believable and too fast. And all the "I would give up my life for you". A larger book would have worked better bc I was skeptical at how they fall in love so quickly.
4. Everyone raises an eyebrow at one point. Except Gabe, because he doesn't know how to. And he is envious of everyone that can **eyeroll**.
5. I started liking Gabe because I could identify myself in him. Except he has a 180° change **snaps of fingers* just like that, and then he is completely different. Ofc, bc of luuurve.
What I liked:
1. Az going to school as Gabe's teacher assistant. It was cute.
2. The other out-worldly characters. They were interesting on their own, I could even read their book.. except that the author disappointed me a little bit so I am not sure yet.
3. Az playing with his tail too when they have sex.
4. Mr Frog being with Gabe all 20 years of his life and turns out, the frog was a demon too. And the frog love to be on Earth with Gabe.
5. Every chapter is either from Gabe's POV or Az' POV, except in third person, which was refreshing.
I was happy with the first part; it was cute and I saw myself so much in Gabe. He is a demisexual; had only 2 lovers in his 29 years of life (one woman and one man), and he has always felt weird when comparing to others because he had no interest in sex and was not sexual. It was like reading my profile or something. And to have a lust demon as a love interest, but for half of the book nothing happens because Az, the lust demon, figures pretty quickly Gabe's sexuality so he tries to get Gabe to know him and get comfortable around him first, before taking things to the sex. It was lovely.
And Az putting Gabe at ease and making him "use" Az as a masturbation material, but always making Gabe feel comfortable above everything, it was really nice. Like you can see why Gabe would slowly fall for Az.
Except the "slowly falling in love" turns into insta-love and well, everything starting to go downhill.
Starting from one of my biggest pet peeves, and all spoilers:
1. Gabe gets turn on when he watches people in love having sex. So Az takes him to a bdsm club. Now, in my list of Big No's in Romances they are: going to a bdsm and sharing. There is no touch between the 2 couples (an established gay couple + Gabe and Az) but the voyeurism (nope), the exhibitionism (nope) was a downer for me and there I realized it wasn't the book I though I would like.
2. I found Gabe's family too noisy. His Grams was fine but overall vulgar. His brother Michael as an ass, hope he never finds happiness.
3. The ILY's were too much, not believable and too fast. And all the "I would give up my life for you". A larger book would have worked better bc I was skeptical at how they fall in love so quickly.
4. Everyone raises an eyebrow at one point. Except Gabe, because he doesn't know how to. And he is envious of everyone that can **eyeroll**.
5. I started liking Gabe because I could identify myself in him. Except he has a 180° change **snaps of fingers* just like that, and then he is completely different. Ofc, bc of luuurve.
What I liked:
1. Az going to school as Gabe's teacher assistant. It was cute.
2. The other out-worldly characters. They were interesting on their own, I could even read their book.. except that the author disappointed me a little bit so I am not sure yet.
3. Az playing with his tail too when they have sex.
4. Mr Frog being with Gabe all 20 years of his life and turns out, the frog was a demon too. And the frog love to be on Earth with Gabe.
5. Every chapter is either from Gabe's POV or Az' POV, except in third person, which was refreshing.
July 17, 2023
fav so far, just keeps getting better, fabulous series
Rating: 4.5🌈
I love it when the author improves upon the original themes and world building they originate in the first novel of the series. In A Beginner’s Guide to Mistakenly Summoned Demons and Other Misadventures (Demonic Disasters and Afterlife Adventures Book 2), Mae continues with the humor of humans and demons finding each other their eternal soulmate, and all that entails.
But here in Mistakenly Summoned Demons, she ups the heart factor, emphasizing the importance of emotional connections and the depth of their relationship to each other and ones family. Whatever that means.
The humor and laughter is still here, but the serious topics and larger issues are always present. Not to pull down or burden the characters or storylines, but to underline their various roles, or themes within the plot.
Gabe is a perfect example. Having his marvelous grandmother summon a lust demon for his birthday, it’s not going according to plan. Gabe’s newest companion is asking Gabe to explore his sexuality, to think about how and why he’s not had a fulfilling sexual relationship or any at all. How this is done, by letting human Gabe and the Infernal King of Hell, Prince of Lust, Asmodeus, get to know each other as friends, gradually becoming more deeply acquainted (yes, it’s not just any ol’ demon).
They do start to work on Gabe’s idea of what he finds sexually attractive (there’s some kink) and it’s very hot! However, it’s also character driven with a sharp focus on plot growth and series world building. Mae throws in some fabulous plot twists and great new character developments . She’s building a group of characters who will eventually find their soulmates too. And by doing that, add to a greater pattern.
I am so enamored of Gabe and As that I’m thrilled to hear from the author they will be popping up again in the other books. They are simply amazing and too good to contain to one story.
So far there’s three ready and more planned. I’m so excited to see what happens next.
Absolutely recommending the series. Read them in the order they are written.
Check out the great covers and dates for book three to drop!
Demonic Disasters and Afterlife Adventures:
- [x] A Beginner’s Guide to Death, Demons, and Other Afterlife Disasters #1
- [x] A Beginner’s Guide to Mistakenly Summoned Demons and Other Misadventures #2
- [ ] A Beginner’s Guide to Revenge, Chaos, and Other Absurd Escapades #3-Oct 5,2023
Rating: 4.5🌈
I love it when the author improves upon the original themes and world building they originate in the first novel of the series. In A Beginner’s Guide to Mistakenly Summoned Demons and Other Misadventures (Demonic Disasters and Afterlife Adventures Book 2), Mae continues with the humor of humans and demons finding each other their eternal soulmate, and all that entails.
But here in Mistakenly Summoned Demons, she ups the heart factor, emphasizing the importance of emotional connections and the depth of their relationship to each other and ones family. Whatever that means.
The humor and laughter is still here, but the serious topics and larger issues are always present. Not to pull down or burden the characters or storylines, but to underline their various roles, or themes within the plot.
Gabe is a perfect example. Having his marvelous grandmother summon a lust demon for his birthday, it’s not going according to plan. Gabe’s newest companion is asking Gabe to explore his sexuality, to think about how and why he’s not had a fulfilling sexual relationship or any at all. How this is done, by letting human Gabe and the Infernal King of Hell, Prince of Lust, Asmodeus, get to know each other as friends, gradually becoming more deeply acquainted (yes, it’s not just any ol’ demon).
They do start to work on Gabe’s idea of what he finds sexually attractive (there’s some kink) and it’s very hot! However, it’s also character driven with a sharp focus on plot growth and series world building. Mae throws in some fabulous plot twists and great new character developments . She’s building a group of characters who will eventually find their soulmates too. And by doing that, add to a greater pattern.
I am so enamored of Gabe and As that I’m thrilled to hear from the author they will be popping up again in the other books. They are simply amazing and too good to contain to one story.
So far there’s three ready and more planned. I’m so excited to see what happens next.
Absolutely recommending the series. Read them in the order they are written.
Check out the great covers and dates for book three to drop!
Demonic Disasters and Afterlife Adventures:
- [x] A Beginner’s Guide to Death, Demons, and Other Afterlife Disasters #1
- [x] A Beginner’s Guide to Mistakenly Summoned Demons and Other Misadventures #2
- [ ] A Beginner’s Guide to Revenge, Chaos, and Other Absurd Escapades #3-Oct 5,2023
July 19, 2023
I truly, truly thought this by the same author of "How I Stole the Princess's White Knight and Turned Him to Villainy." The covers have the same vibe, for sure. That book series is by AJ Sherwood. This is by Shannon Mae. HOWEVER, they have the same vibes. Lighthearted, funny but still sexy, while playing with tropes and flipping expectations around within those well-worn stories.
Gabe is an overworked high school English teacher with a Gran who wants to see him either fall in love or get laid. She tricks him into summoning a demon, who turns out to be Asmodeus, infernal king of the underworld and prince of lust. Az is happy to turn up the lust and show Gabe a good time. Only, his powers don't work on Gabe and Gabe isn't interested in the handsome demon anyway.
Az is determined to help Gabe figure out what DOES get his motor running so he can give him a good time (whatever that means to Gabe) and set Gabe up with a better understanding of himself for his next partner. But it turns out, Az really likes spending time with Gabe and their sexy experiments really do it for him, a demon who has seen and done a lot already. But it's all new and exciting, and even more so when Gabe begins to return his feelings and desire.
But Az is missed in the underworld, and Gabe's meddling older brother calls on heavenly intervention. Can a demon and a mortal human with mysterious parentage find their happily ever after? Will heaven and hell even let them have one?
The best part of this was the exploration of Gabe's sexuality, which is on the demisexual spectrum. He's not quite figured it out, and the book articulates the ins and outs of his attraction experiences really well. Az also is understanding and allows Gabe to feel comfortable as they explore. Voyeurism ends up being a shared interest, which is very hot on page. There's no judgement from anywhere in the book, and as demisexuality is a really underrepresented sexuality in romance especially, it was really great to see it handled so well here.
This was also funny and an easy read, with little to no angst, even with all the heaven/hell tension. It's not a very long book (maybe a bit longer than a novella), so the romantic relationship has a bit of an accelerated timeline that I don't fully by into, but it was still a quick, enjoyable read.
I'm looking forward to the next books in the series and I plan on going back and reading the first in the series.
| I received an ARC, and this is my honest, freely given review. |
Gabe is an overworked high school English teacher with a Gran who wants to see him either fall in love or get laid. She tricks him into summoning a demon, who turns out to be Asmodeus, infernal king of the underworld and prince of lust. Az is happy to turn up the lust and show Gabe a good time. Only, his powers don't work on Gabe and Gabe isn't interested in the handsome demon anyway.
Az is determined to help Gabe figure out what DOES get his motor running so he can give him a good time (whatever that means to Gabe) and set Gabe up with a better understanding of himself for his next partner. But it turns out, Az really likes spending time with Gabe and their sexy experiments really do it for him, a demon who has seen and done a lot already. But it's all new and exciting, and even more so when Gabe begins to return his feelings and desire.
But Az is missed in the underworld, and Gabe's meddling older brother calls on heavenly intervention. Can a demon and a mortal human with mysterious parentage find their happily ever after? Will heaven and hell even let them have one?
The best part of this was the exploration of Gabe's sexuality, which is on the demisexual spectrum. He's not quite figured it out, and the book articulates the ins and outs of his attraction experiences really well. Az also is understanding and allows Gabe to feel comfortable as they explore. Voyeurism ends up being a shared interest, which is very hot on page. There's no judgement from anywhere in the book, and as demisexuality is a really underrepresented sexuality in romance especially, it was really great to see it handled so well here.
This was also funny and an easy read, with little to no angst, even with all the heaven/hell tension. It's not a very long book (maybe a bit longer than a novella), so the romantic relationship has a bit of an accelerated timeline that I don't fully by into, but it was still a quick, enjoyable read.
I'm looking forward to the next books in the series and I plan on going back and reading the first in the series.
| I received an ARC, and this is my honest, freely given review. |
August 27, 2025
2.5/5 …. I liked this one more than the first one. The fact that it was set in the living world as opposed to the afterlife with its office politics probably helped (no constant, soul sucking reminders of bureaucracy in this one). Beyond that, what was nice about this one was the ace representation. While not perfect, I liked that Mae’s approach regarding Gabe’s sexuality helped bring a bit more awareness of the asexuality spectrum to readers who may not necessarily be aware of all the different identities under the ace umbrella.
Using Asmodeus’ inner dialogue, who, as a lust demon, was trying to figure out what made Gabe tick, allowed Mae to explain some concepts to the reader (e.g., demisexuality, reciprosexuality), without making it sound too much like a lesson about asexuality terminology.
On the other hand, while Gabe being unaware of his own demisexuality and potential reciprosexuality may not be an uncommon ace experience, Mae never really brought the knowledge fully to fruition for Gabe, which just sort of ends up perpetuating this idea that it’s okay to ascribe labels to others.
Gabe’s sexuality primarily being addressed through Asmodeus’ inner thoughts also made some of Asmodeus’ comments/actions seem somewhat disingenuous and/or potentially manipulative at first; I think the only reason it didn’t become as big of an issue was because Asmodeus wasn’t depicted as an amoral demon and he’d already made it clear consent was important to him (and I’d argue that manipulating someone into becoming sexually attracted to him by making fake claims to foster an emotional bond would bring them to somewhat dubious consent territory at best).
All of that aside though, this one was more enjoyable. The fact that it paired a powerful lust demon with an asexual/demisexual man helped steer it away from the smut fest orgies you would have probably expected based on some of the talk and comments made by and/or about Asmodeus in the first novella. The pace of the relationship-building was a bit choppy, but it had more of a progression than the first book/novella, and it introduced readers to a bit more of the arc storyline near the end—not much, but enough that I might give the next one in the series a try.
Using Asmodeus’ inner dialogue, who, as a lust demon, was trying to figure out what made Gabe tick, allowed Mae to explain some concepts to the reader (e.g., demisexuality, reciprosexuality), without making it sound too much like a lesson about asexuality terminology.
On the other hand, while Gabe being unaware of his own demisexuality and potential reciprosexuality may not be an uncommon ace experience, Mae never really brought the knowledge fully to fruition for Gabe, which just sort of ends up perpetuating this idea that it’s okay to ascribe labels to others.
Gabe’s sexuality primarily being addressed through Asmodeus’ inner thoughts also made some of Asmodeus’ comments/actions seem somewhat disingenuous and/or potentially manipulative at first; I think the only reason it didn’t become as big of an issue was because Asmodeus wasn’t depicted as an amoral demon and he’d already made it clear consent was important to him (and I’d argue that manipulating someone into becoming sexually attracted to him by making fake claims to foster an emotional bond would bring them to somewhat dubious consent territory at best).
All of that aside though, this one was more enjoyable. The fact that it paired a powerful lust demon with an asexual/demisexual man helped steer it away from the smut fest orgies you would have probably expected based on some of the talk and comments made by and/or about Asmodeus in the first novella. The pace of the relationship-building was a bit choppy, but it had more of a progression than the first book/novella, and it introduced readers to a bit more of the arc storyline near the end—not much, but enough that I might give the next one in the series a try.
July 6, 2023
This series keeps getting better!
I absolutely loved the first book in this series (Minos and Adam’s story) so I was suuuper excited for Gabe and Az’s turn! Boy was I not disappointed! This book was fantastic and full of sweetness, humour, a bit of excitement and some very sexy scenes. I really loved that Gabe and Az’s story took a much sweeter, slower path than Minos and Adam’s. It fit them perfectly and genuinely made sense for who they are as characters. There was an aching sweetness to this book that was just perfect and really captured the vulnerability that both Gabe and Az had. I loved that Az had that vulnerability too. It wasn’t always obvious and he was still a sweetly confident demon but he was able to trust Gabe with those softer parts of himself and that was so lovely to see. Hurray for the awesome sex positivity in this too. It is my absolute most hated thing in books for someone who has had a healthy and varied sex life to be shamed. I was 99.99% sure that Shannon wouldn’t do that to Az, but whenever I know I’m about to read a sex positive character I get a little nervous. Az was treated with such respect by Gabe and there were no ridiculous stereotypes in respect of Az. He was the sweetest, gentlest and most patient person for Gabe and because of that he gave Gabe a security that was beautiful to see. Add to that the unbelievably hot scenes between the two of them and this book has guaranteed a spot in my favourites to be read repeatedly in the future. I’m super excited for what’s to come and where the more overarching series plot is going. I have my favourites already as for who I absolutely want to see in the coming books (I’m very happy with who comes next hehe) but I love that this series has so many awesome characters that you’re going to be happy no matter whose story you see next. I am hopeful though that we might get some cameos from Minos and Adam in the next book (what can I say, I just love Minos’ grumpiness) but no matter what I know it will be just as awesome if not better than the books before. Now I just have to be good and wait patiently!
I absolutely loved the first book in this series (Minos and Adam’s story) so I was suuuper excited for Gabe and Az’s turn! Boy was I not disappointed! This book was fantastic and full of sweetness, humour, a bit of excitement and some very sexy scenes. I really loved that Gabe and Az’s story took a much sweeter, slower path than Minos and Adam’s. It fit them perfectly and genuinely made sense for who they are as characters. There was an aching sweetness to this book that was just perfect and really captured the vulnerability that both Gabe and Az had. I loved that Az had that vulnerability too. It wasn’t always obvious and he was still a sweetly confident demon but he was able to trust Gabe with those softer parts of himself and that was so lovely to see. Hurray for the awesome sex positivity in this too. It is my absolute most hated thing in books for someone who has had a healthy and varied sex life to be shamed. I was 99.99% sure that Shannon wouldn’t do that to Az, but whenever I know I’m about to read a sex positive character I get a little nervous. Az was treated with such respect by Gabe and there were no ridiculous stereotypes in respect of Az. He was the sweetest, gentlest and most patient person for Gabe and because of that he gave Gabe a security that was beautiful to see. Add to that the unbelievably hot scenes between the two of them and this book has guaranteed a spot in my favourites to be read repeatedly in the future. I’m super excited for what’s to come and where the more overarching series plot is going. I have my favourites already as for who I absolutely want to see in the coming books (I’m very happy with who comes next hehe) but I love that this series has so many awesome characters that you’re going to be happy no matter whose story you see next. I am hopeful though that we might get some cameos from Minos and Adam in the next book (what can I say, I just love Minos’ grumpiness) but no matter what I know it will be just as awesome if not better than the books before. Now I just have to be good and wait patiently!
July 17, 2023
This was a tough one for me to rate, so let me see if I can successfully break it down. I did receive a copy of this book from GRR, and this is my honest review. First off, the premise of this book is extremely creative, and honestly, I'm not sure if I've ever encountered something like this before. Without giving too much away, this book builds a really interesting world in which humans, souls, demons, angels, and deities all occasionally interact together, and seemingly follow a set of longstanding rules that maintain a balance between supernaturals and humans. I really applaud Shannon Mae for being so clever and unconventional in her take on heaven, hell, and the afterlife.
As inventive and nuanced as this story is conceptually, I had a hard time with the execution. For example, there was a lot of repetition in word choices and character descriptions, and some of the transitions were confusing and hard to follow. I did enjoy the story, but the writing style and overall flow of the book need a little more work.
I liked the MCs, Az and Gabe, and appreciated seeing a demisexual main character. It was cute to watch their relationship develop. If you enjoy books with low angst that give you all the mushy, gushy feelings in an instalove type of way-- this is definitely a book for you.
Although this story (Book 2) can be read as a standalone as it pertains to the MCs and their relationship, I actually would not recommend it. I did not read Book 1 first and I felt that I was lacking knowledge about some of the events and secondary characters that may have helped me better grasp the storyline in Book 2.
After much thought, I am giving this book 3-stars. I did appreciate the story and the author's originality, but I had issues with the writing technique. I want to stress again that I was really impressed with the author's creativity, and as such, I am looking forward to seeing her literary growth in the third book.
As inventive and nuanced as this story is conceptually, I had a hard time with the execution. For example, there was a lot of repetition in word choices and character descriptions, and some of the transitions were confusing and hard to follow. I did enjoy the story, but the writing style and overall flow of the book need a little more work.
I liked the MCs, Az and Gabe, and appreciated seeing a demisexual main character. It was cute to watch their relationship develop. If you enjoy books with low angst that give you all the mushy, gushy feelings in an instalove type of way-- this is definitely a book for you.
Although this story (Book 2) can be read as a standalone as it pertains to the MCs and their relationship, I actually would not recommend it. I did not read Book 1 first and I felt that I was lacking knowledge about some of the events and secondary characters that may have helped me better grasp the storyline in Book 2.
After much thought, I am giving this book 3-stars. I did appreciate the story and the author's originality, but I had issues with the writing technique. I want to stress again that I was really impressed with the author's creativity, and as such, I am looking forward to seeing her literary growth in the third book.
July 17, 2023
ARC received from GRR for an honest review.
Gabe is the middle of three siblings. He has the older brother (Michael) that is way too serious and the younger sister (Seraphina) that is the life of the party. He's somewhere in between and to add on he's demisexual. He himself admits that he doesn't understand what people want from him, so relationships are hard. In fact after trying twice he's just given up. Throw in a matchmaking Grams and now he has a lust demon to contend with. Falling in love isn't even on his radar.
Az is the lust demon that Grams tricked Gabe into summoning. He didn't have the power to refuse the summoning and he doesn't have any power to entice Gabe into sex and that intrigues him. He's immediately attracted to Gabe and is willing to help him out with his sexual identity and comfortability. Falling in love wasn't in the plan.
Gabe and Az spend time together getting to know each other. Az goes to school with Gabe and helps him to corral the wild teens Gabe teaches. Other demons are around for help or hindrance and an angel or two as well. Will these two figure things out or will outside forces pull them apart before they can?
This is a well written story with lots of snarky commentary. I liked Gabe's angsty personality and the way he started growing just being around Az. When he confronts Michael for his interference you see how much he's grown in his confidence. I like Gram in her wild, inhibition self. She loved to embarrass Gabe. Grandpa Michael I liked even less than brother Michael. I loved Mr. Frog. I would love for him to get a companion. We got a sneak peak at future books and it can't come soon enough IMO. What I didn't like so much was the constant reminder that Az is a lust demon and all that entailed. It was repeated too many times and dragged the story for me. I would've liked more time spent on Gabe and Az exploring Gabe's sexuality. The club scene was really nice. Looking forward to the next book.
Gabe is the middle of three siblings. He has the older brother (Michael) that is way too serious and the younger sister (Seraphina) that is the life of the party. He's somewhere in between and to add on he's demisexual. He himself admits that he doesn't understand what people want from him, so relationships are hard. In fact after trying twice he's just given up. Throw in a matchmaking Grams and now he has a lust demon to contend with. Falling in love isn't even on his radar.
Az is the lust demon that Grams tricked Gabe into summoning. He didn't have the power to refuse the summoning and he doesn't have any power to entice Gabe into sex and that intrigues him. He's immediately attracted to Gabe and is willing to help him out with his sexual identity and comfortability. Falling in love wasn't in the plan.
Gabe and Az spend time together getting to know each other. Az goes to school with Gabe and helps him to corral the wild teens Gabe teaches. Other demons are around for help or hindrance and an angel or two as well. Will these two figure things out or will outside forces pull them apart before they can?
This is a well written story with lots of snarky commentary. I liked Gabe's angsty personality and the way he started growing just being around Az. When he confronts Michael for his interference you see how much he's grown in his confidence. I like Gram in her wild, inhibition self. She loved to embarrass Gabe. Grandpa Michael I liked even less than brother Michael. I loved Mr. Frog. I would love for him to get a companion. We got a sneak peak at future books and it can't come soon enough IMO. What I didn't like so much was the constant reminder that Az is a lust demon and all that entailed. It was repeated too many times and dragged the story for me. I would've liked more time spent on Gabe and Az exploring Gabe's sexuality. The club scene was really nice. Looking forward to the next book.
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