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A City of Smoke and Demons
In a city drowning in smog and secrets, death is never the end—it’s the beginning of a war for your soul.
Analise is a death witch, raised by nuns in a world where her magic is outlawed. Content with her job at a morgue in the slums, her one friend, and the drink that silences the voices in her head, her life is thrown sideways when she encounters a ghost with a message.
Once the golden boy of the Unseen, Ezra lives life on the edge, using his fists for his gangster employer. When mysterious marks begin to appear on the flesh of the dead, Ezra is blackmailed by the church into tracking down a death witch. Uncovering a secret society and the beginning of the end of days is just part of the fun.
With the Devil's Familiars stalking the steps of the city’s most unfortunate, Analise and Ezra are forced to work together to thwart the coming apocalypse. But it’s the emotional minefield between them that might prove the most perilous.
Analise is a death witch, raised by nuns in a world where her magic is outlawed. Content with her job at a morgue in the slums, her one friend, and the drink that silences the voices in her head, her life is thrown sideways when she encounters a ghost with a message.
Once the golden boy of the Unseen, Ezra lives life on the edge, using his fists for his gangster employer. When mysterious marks begin to appear on the flesh of the dead, Ezra is blackmailed by the church into tracking down a death witch. Uncovering a secret society and the beginning of the end of days is just part of the fun.
With the Devil's Familiars stalking the steps of the city’s most unfortunate, Analise and Ezra are forced to work together to thwart the coming apocalypse. But it’s the emotional minefield between them that might prove the most perilous.
ebook
Published November 1, 2025
13 people are currently reading
478 people want to read
About the author
Kate Schumacher
9 books332 followersAuthor also writes as K.M. Schumacher
Kate Schumacher writes epic fantasy with romance subplots, complex politics and vast, sprawling worlds filled with myth and magic and faeries. These are worlds you can get lost in, worlds where you will find fierce female characters who don't need saving, and men who support them. You will find flawed, reluctant heroes, Celtic myth, power-hungry villains, complicated alliances and a cast of relatable characters.
Kate's writing is influenced by history, sociology, philosophy and mythology, and by politics. She writes multiple point of view stories with individual plot lines that interweave at different points throughout the narrative. Kate never intends this either - her characters are just bossy and rude and all have things to say.
Follow her on Instagram and TikTok @kate.schumacher.writer or visit her website: kateschumacherauthor.com for more information about her published books, her worlds, and her new works.
Kate Schumacher writes epic fantasy with romance subplots, complex politics and vast, sprawling worlds filled with myth and magic and faeries. These are worlds you can get lost in, worlds where you will find fierce female characters who don't need saving, and men who support them. You will find flawed, reluctant heroes, Celtic myth, power-hungry villains, complicated alliances and a cast of relatable characters.
Kate's writing is influenced by history, sociology, philosophy and mythology, and by politics. She writes multiple point of view stories with individual plot lines that interweave at different points throughout the narrative. Kate never intends this either - her characters are just bossy and rude and all have things to say.
Follow her on Instagram and TikTok @kate.schumacher.writer or visit her website: kateschumacherauthor.com for more information about her published books, her worlds, and her new works.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 107 reviews
November 1, 2025
Time of demise, 40%.
Gosh this is frustrating because the concept of this book is really unique and appealing. We have a Victorian era London setting, death witches who are hunted and executed unless they hand themselves over to the crown, demons, witch hunters & a secret society/order. Given I love the witch x witch hunter trope, I really had high hopes this would be a hit for me.
Unfortunately I couldn’t for the life of me connect to the writing. Instead of being immersed in the story, I felt like I was being told a bunch of information without any emotion behind it. It felt very choppy and disconnected. Because of this the main characters felt very one dimensional and extremely difficult to connect to.
The plot lost me so early on because it’s so clunky and we jump from point to point without any flow. There was no time to explore more parts of the plot before we jumped into something new.
And as we started to learn more, the characters reactions felt very robotic.
When it came to the romance, unfortunately I felt no chemistry between
Analise (death witch) and Ezra (ex witch hunter). Their ‘banter’ felt forced and awkward. Ultimately their relationship wasn’t immersive and believable.
Analise was so angry at this man - that she just met - because he was hiding secrets from her. But they had no standing relationship for him to have opened up to her prior. So her behaviour ending up coming across as very immature.
I think the idea behind this book and the journey the author wanted to take these characters on was great - but the execution didn’t work out for me. If you have a better time connecting to the writing style & the characters then I could see this being an enjoyable read for you.
I’d like to mention this is my first time reading anything from this author so this is just my experience and it doesn’t reflect their work on a whole.
I’m so grateful for the arc in exchange for my honest thoughts.
_____________
Pre-read: This caught my eye as soon as I saw the FMC was a witch & the MMC is a witch hunter - my fave!
⛥☾ Secret society's
⛥☾ Victorian era London
⛥☾ Death magic
⛥☾ Forced Proximity & one bed (hehehe)
Thanks to the author and Haus of Fables for the e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
Release date: 1st November 2025.
Gosh this is frustrating because the concept of this book is really unique and appealing. We have a Victorian era London setting, death witches who are hunted and executed unless they hand themselves over to the crown, demons, witch hunters & a secret society/order. Given I love the witch x witch hunter trope, I really had high hopes this would be a hit for me.
Unfortunately I couldn’t for the life of me connect to the writing. Instead of being immersed in the story, I felt like I was being told a bunch of information without any emotion behind it. It felt very choppy and disconnected. Because of this the main characters felt very one dimensional and extremely difficult to connect to.
The plot lost me so early on because it’s so clunky and we jump from point to point without any flow. There was no time to explore more parts of the plot before we jumped into something new.
And as we started to learn more, the characters reactions felt very robotic.
When it came to the romance, unfortunately I felt no chemistry between
Analise (death witch) and Ezra (ex witch hunter). Their ‘banter’ felt forced and awkward. Ultimately their relationship wasn’t immersive and believable.
Analise was so angry at this man - that she just met - because he was hiding secrets from her. But they had no standing relationship for him to have opened up to her prior. So her behaviour ending up coming across as very immature.
I think the idea behind this book and the journey the author wanted to take these characters on was great - but the execution didn’t work out for me. If you have a better time connecting to the writing style & the characters then I could see this being an enjoyable read for you.
I’d like to mention this is my first time reading anything from this author so this is just my experience and it doesn’t reflect their work on a whole.
I’m so grateful for the arc in exchange for my honest thoughts.
_____________
Pre-read: This caught my eye as soon as I saw the FMC was a witch & the MMC is a witch hunter - my fave!
⛥☾ Secret society's
⛥☾ Victorian era London
⛥☾ Death magic
⛥☾ Forced Proximity & one bed (hehehe)
Thanks to the author and Haus of Fables for the e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
Release date: 1st November 2025.
October 31, 2025
🪦
Declared brain dead at 25%, officially pronounced dead at 45%
I’m so sad. This had the perfect trifecta: great tropes, gorgeous prose, and a plot that could have devoured me whole.
but somewhere on the road to potential, the delivery and FMC had me DNF.
🖋️ The Writing: poetry meets screenplay
The prose is stunning. It was lush, atmospheric, poetic, and dripping with charm. It paints Victorian London beautifully.
But the flow was choppy and even mechanical at times. It reads like someone describing what happens in a scene rather than living it.
Genuinely wondering if the author a screenwriter? because it felt storyboarded instead of threaded story for me.
The beauty’s there, the bones are there, but the emotional ligaments didn’t quite hold it together for me.
🔥 The Story & the Spark
Real enemies-to-lovers? They exist.
She’s a death witch. He’s a witch-hound. They collide in a “make-me-forget” kind of night, and the attraction is thick and palpable.
Then… the plot tightens, secrets unfurl, and we land in a web of half-truths and lies.
Except there’s so much highlight and validation for Analise’s lens. Which means double standards, emotional immaturity, and a bit of self-inflicted drama.
🥃 The Character That Wasn’t
Analise is introduced as an alcoholic but we don’t really see that throughout.
No withdrawal, no agitation, no realistic portrayal of addiction. It ends up feeling like a character note that passed the check-box.
💀 Do I recommend?
The prose is beautiful, the premise is inciting and compelling, but for me it was choppy and mechanical.
I do know we don’t all connect to writing the same way and I believe some people might feel way more engaged and connected than I was. But if you find yourself noticing and bothered by what I mentioned before, then this book is probably not for you.
Thank you KM Schumacher and Haus of Fable for the ARC.
--
Pre-read:
The tropes on this and the MCs descriptions slap, with witches, nuns, ghosts, and a witch hunter who knows how to cook. Let's see if this can eat too.
☠️Death Magic based on science
🔐Secret Societies
👀Eyes on Me
🖤Enemies to lovers + Forced Proximity
I’m so sad. This had the perfect trifecta: great tropes, gorgeous prose, and a plot that could have devoured me whole.
but somewhere on the road to potential, the delivery and FMC had me DNF.
🖋️ The Writing: poetry meets screenplay
The prose is stunning. It was lush, atmospheric, poetic, and dripping with charm. It paints Victorian London beautifully.
But the flow was choppy and even mechanical at times. It reads like someone describing what happens in a scene rather than living it.
Genuinely wondering if the author a screenwriter? because it felt storyboarded instead of threaded story for me.
The beauty’s there, the bones are there, but the emotional ligaments didn’t quite hold it together for me.
🔥 The Story & the Spark
Real enemies-to-lovers? They exist.
She’s a death witch. He’s a witch-hound. They collide in a “make-me-forget” kind of night, and the attraction is thick and palpable.
Then… the plot tightens, secrets unfurl, and we land in a web of half-truths and lies.
Except there’s so much highlight and validation for Analise’s lens. Which means double standards, emotional immaturity, and a bit of self-inflicted drama.
🥃 The Character That Wasn’t
Analise is introduced as an alcoholic but we don’t really see that throughout.
No withdrawal, no agitation, no realistic portrayal of addiction. It ends up feeling like a character note that passed the check-box.
💀 Do I recommend?
The prose is beautiful, the premise is inciting and compelling, but for me it was choppy and mechanical.
I do know we don’t all connect to writing the same way and I believe some people might feel way more engaged and connected than I was. But if you find yourself noticing and bothered by what I mentioned before, then this book is probably not for you.
Thank you KM Schumacher and Haus of Fable for the ARC.
--
Pre-read:
The tropes on this and the MCs descriptions slap, with witches, nuns, ghosts, and a witch hunter who knows how to cook. Let's see if this can eat too.
☠️Death Magic based on science
🔐Secret Societies
👀Eyes on Me
🖤Enemies to lovers + Forced Proximity
October 31, 2025
"Death was stronger than life, and the power in her blood wanted to kill things...." (Ch 29)
Dystopian Magical Realism | Paranormal/Supernatural | Romantasy
"People didn’t like to look death in the face, even though they claimed to understand it." (Ch 1)
Two broken individuals who can't seem to shake their pasts. Strong-willed with a temper and bad attitude Analise — a death witch — meets ex witch-hound who likes pain — Ezra. They were meant to be enemies. Though Ezra is the fighter, Analise throws the verbal punches like it's second nature to her. Lots of back and forth love-to-hate and need-to-want push and pull with unmistakable sexual tension.
"The heat from his body and that spark between them, whatever it was, whatever it meant, surged through her blood, settling in her stomach, where it smouldered and then blazed." (Ch 37)
They're forced to work together against the threat of the devil and his demons. But more than that, they fight their own inner demons. Fight through their pain and vulnerabilities, giving them something more in common. I found it was a more realistic approach to a relationship between two people who have had a past such as theirs. The need for escape into something, a diversion, a distraction. Using each other as that means until they could find something more within themselves and each other.
The story and characters slowly grow on you the more you progress through it, until you suddenly realize that you're invested and have no idea at what point it occurred. That said, I think the ending could have been a stronger lead in for the 2nd book. As it was, it was a touch flat at the end.
4🌟 eARC courtesy of Haus of Fables PR | Black-Kat Press
Dystopian Magical Realism | Paranormal/Supernatural | Romantasy
"People didn’t like to look death in the face, even though they claimed to understand it." (Ch 1)
Two broken individuals who can't seem to shake their pasts. Strong-willed with a temper and bad attitude Analise — a death witch — meets ex witch-hound who likes pain — Ezra. They were meant to be enemies. Though Ezra is the fighter, Analise throws the verbal punches like it's second nature to her. Lots of back and forth love-to-hate and need-to-want push and pull with unmistakable sexual tension.
"The heat from his body and that spark between them, whatever it was, whatever it meant, surged through her blood, settling in her stomach, where it smouldered and then blazed." (Ch 37)
They're forced to work together against the threat of the devil and his demons. But more than that, they fight their own inner demons. Fight through their pain and vulnerabilities, giving them something more in common. I found it was a more realistic approach to a relationship between two people who have had a past such as theirs. The need for escape into something, a diversion, a distraction. Using each other as that means until they could find something more within themselves and each other.
The story and characters slowly grow on you the more you progress through it, until you suddenly realize that you're invested and have no idea at what point it occurred. That said, I think the ending could have been a stronger lead in for the 2nd book. As it was, it was a touch flat at the end.
4🌟 eARC courtesy of Haus of Fables PR | Black-Kat Press
November 1, 2025
this book was incredible! every book she writes is amazing. it's so unique and different from anything I've ever read. i can't wait for the next one
October 27, 2025
This book sank its claws in from the very first page and refused to let go. 🖤
A book of darkness, danger, and slow-burn chemistry. Think Victorian London filled with smoke, secrets, and magic humming in every shadow.
Analise, a death witch haunted by the weight of her power, and Ezra, a witch hunter with guilt carved into his soul… these two absolutely own the page. The mistrust, the spark, the push and pull between them - it’s fierce, it’s messy, it’s addictive. I couldn’t get enough of their energy together.
The worldbuilding is rich and vivid but never overwhelming. You can feel the grit, smell the smoke, and sense the danger around every corner. It’s a city built on faith, corruption, science, and shadow.
What hit me hardest, though, were the emotions. Both Analise and Ezra are deeply flawed and beautifully human. Their pain, their pasts, their choices, their connection - it all feels raw and real. And those plot twists toward the end? My jaw actually dropped. 😳
I have so many theories (and suspicions 👀), but one thing’s certain, I need book two in this duology yesterday!
Thank you to Haus of Fables and KM Schumacher for my early ARC copy! ✨❤️🔥🥰
A book of darkness, danger, and slow-burn chemistry. Think Victorian London filled with smoke, secrets, and magic humming in every shadow.
Analise, a death witch haunted by the weight of her power, and Ezra, a witch hunter with guilt carved into his soul… these two absolutely own the page. The mistrust, the spark, the push and pull between them - it’s fierce, it’s messy, it’s addictive. I couldn’t get enough of their energy together.
The worldbuilding is rich and vivid but never overwhelming. You can feel the grit, smell the smoke, and sense the danger around every corner. It’s a city built on faith, corruption, science, and shadow.
What hit me hardest, though, were the emotions. Both Analise and Ezra are deeply flawed and beautifully human. Their pain, their pasts, their choices, their connection - it all feels raw and real. And those plot twists toward the end? My jaw actually dropped. 😳
I have so many theories (and suspicions 👀), but one thing’s certain, I need book two in this duology yesterday!
Thank you to Haus of Fables and KM Schumacher for my early ARC copy! ✨❤️🔥🥰
August 21, 2025
I was so fortunate to be chosen as an ARC reader for this book! (COMING NOVEMBER 2025) 🙌🏻
.
Death Witch Analise meets ex Witch Hunter Ezra; both lying to protect their identity and puppets in a game they have no control over with the devil.
Secret societies, banter that will have you kicking your feet and giggling, enemies to lovers, slow burn, magic with a sprinkle of science, easy to follow world building and mythical creatures/characters - this book has it all.
Now I love a good plot twist, and the plot twist at around 80% did not disappoint 🙌🏻
Already hanging for book 2!
.
Death Witch Analise meets ex Witch Hunter Ezra; both lying to protect their identity and puppets in a game they have no control over with the devil.
Secret societies, banter that will have you kicking your feet and giggling, enemies to lovers, slow burn, magic with a sprinkle of science, easy to follow world building and mythical creatures/characters - this book has it all.
Now I love a good plot twist, and the plot twist at around 80% did not disappoint 🙌🏻
Already hanging for book 2!
August 13, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
I was lucky enough to get an ARC copy of this book and I’m so happy I did because I loved it. I am a sucker for books with spooky/ paranormal vibes and this book did not disappoint. Death witches and hunters count me in! I love Kate’s books so I was so excited to be getting to read this ARC!
Firstly, I really enjoyed the world building in the start I like that it wasn’t an insane amount of information about magic that I wouldn’t be able to keep up with and get bored of. It was perfectly explained and super interesting. I felt like the book was paced really well and had my attention the whole time. This book had me obsessed! I loved Analise and Ezra I feel like Kate did their characters justice they were well written and I felt like all the reactions and interactions made sense. The banter was perfectly, the tension was insane! I was able to connect quickly and read this book in one go I couldn’t put it down!! The enemies to lovers was exquisitely executed! One of my favourite tropes and I loved every second of it! Also the spice in the book! WOW! 😍🌶️ I love yearning and my god it was perfect! Also him teaching her took cook! Stop too cute! 🥹
I don’t want to spoil too much but I really recommend you read this book!
✍🏻Favourite Line: “I brought pastries” you will get why when you read it I was laughing out loud!
Tropes/Vibes:
💨 Enemies To Lovers
🔮 ONE BED / Forced Proximity
💨 Dual POV
🔮 Victorian era
Blurb: A City of Smoke and Demons is about a death witch in a smog-filled, Victorian-era city who is forced to work with a former witch hunter to prevent a demon apocalypse, leading to a slow-burn romance and an unraveling of secrets.
I was lucky enough to get an ARC copy of this book and I’m so happy I did because I loved it. I am a sucker for books with spooky/ paranormal vibes and this book did not disappoint. Death witches and hunters count me in! I love Kate’s books so I was so excited to be getting to read this ARC!
Firstly, I really enjoyed the world building in the start I like that it wasn’t an insane amount of information about magic that I wouldn’t be able to keep up with and get bored of. It was perfectly explained and super interesting. I felt like the book was paced really well and had my attention the whole time. This book had me obsessed! I loved Analise and Ezra I feel like Kate did their characters justice they were well written and I felt like all the reactions and interactions made sense. The banter was perfectly, the tension was insane! I was able to connect quickly and read this book in one go I couldn’t put it down!! The enemies to lovers was exquisitely executed! One of my favourite tropes and I loved every second of it! Also the spice in the book! WOW! 😍🌶️ I love yearning and my god it was perfect! Also him teaching her took cook! Stop too cute! 🥹
I don’t want to spoil too much but I really recommend you read this book!
✍🏻Favourite Line: “I brought pastries” you will get why when you read it I was laughing out loud!
Tropes/Vibes:
💨 Enemies To Lovers
🔮 ONE BED / Forced Proximity
💨 Dual POV
🔮 Victorian era
Blurb: A City of Smoke and Demons is about a death witch in a smog-filled, Victorian-era city who is forced to work with a former witch hunter to prevent a demon apocalypse, leading to a slow-burn romance and an unraveling of secrets.
September 11, 2025
When I hear the words death witch and hunter, I'm already locked in for something I know will be a treat for me, but what this became... was so wholly unexpected. While I was lured in by the grit of a Victorian London paranormal romance, I was welcomed into the embrace of a story that has left its mark on me like the devil himself. I'm in love with the devastating nature of Schumacher's words when it comes to exploring darker themes and the less-beautiful sides of human emotions. Namely the profound need to find oneself after living so long as something else entirely. The characters will leave you with an impact that is wholly of a world created by an author that truly loves their craft.
Would I recommend? - Easily one of the most fun and intriguing reads this year. While demons and the devil are stories traversed frequently, there’s something about this one that gripped me HARD with its tension and didn’t want to let me go. So highly, HIGHLY rec this to anyone that likes the vibe of a gritty Peaky Blinders setting but the dark lure of a paranormal romance.
✧⋄⋆⋅⋆⋄✧⋄⋆⋅⋆⋄✧
The world crafted in this duology was purposeful while not being overly heavy on the world-building. You feel what it’s like to walk the dirtied cobblestones of Victorian London. The heavy fog covers you and carries you along through the viewpoints of our FMC, Analise, and our MMC, Ezra, while they traverse the paranormal unknowns of their lives. Intrinsically drawn together over whiskey and the want of forgetting the horrors of their past-selves, they’re pulled into a race of life vs the Church vs the devil himself coming to call.
Analise is a death witch, while Ezra is a reformed death witch hunter trying desperately to right the wrongs he committed when he served the Unseen. Ironic? Nah, it felt inevitable. Intense? YES. Their banter was top notch and their relationship, starting as a spin of enemies-to-lovers, becomes something profoundly tangible and culminates in a couple to fight for. After all, what’s a romance without the biting tension of two people failing epically at keeping their hands off each other?
The banter between the cast of characters, and the heads/tails of living to the fullest while death looms nearby, instantly lured me in for this one. Schumacher writes with such ferocity to her characters you feel their visceral reactions to the bone. Be it the tension of the chaos, or the depression of the slums - it all feels inexplicably human in a world that’s turning to be anything but.
An excellent debut to a duology I’m sat and ready to continue whenever the Order of the Dawn come to call!
Sending all my immense thanks to KM Schumacher for trusting me with her art and allowing me the chance to ARC review this one. It was truly, my honor!
Would I recommend? - Easily one of the most fun and intriguing reads this year. While demons and the devil are stories traversed frequently, there’s something about this one that gripped me HARD with its tension and didn’t want to let me go. So highly, HIGHLY rec this to anyone that likes the vibe of a gritty Peaky Blinders setting but the dark lure of a paranormal romance.
✧⋄⋆⋅⋆⋄✧⋄⋆⋅⋆⋄✧
The world crafted in this duology was purposeful while not being overly heavy on the world-building. You feel what it’s like to walk the dirtied cobblestones of Victorian London. The heavy fog covers you and carries you along through the viewpoints of our FMC, Analise, and our MMC, Ezra, while they traverse the paranormal unknowns of their lives. Intrinsically drawn together over whiskey and the want of forgetting the horrors of their past-selves, they’re pulled into a race of life vs the Church vs the devil himself coming to call.
Analise is a death witch, while Ezra is a reformed death witch hunter trying desperately to right the wrongs he committed when he served the Unseen. Ironic? Nah, it felt inevitable. Intense? YES. Their banter was top notch and their relationship, starting as a spin of enemies-to-lovers, becomes something profoundly tangible and culminates in a couple to fight for. After all, what’s a romance without the biting tension of two people failing epically at keeping their hands off each other?
The banter between the cast of characters, and the heads/tails of living to the fullest while death looms nearby, instantly lured me in for this one. Schumacher writes with such ferocity to her characters you feel their visceral reactions to the bone. Be it the tension of the chaos, or the depression of the slums - it all feels inexplicably human in a world that’s turning to be anything but.
An excellent debut to a duology I’m sat and ready to continue whenever the Order of the Dawn come to call!
Sending all my immense thanks to KM Schumacher for trusting me with her art and allowing me the chance to ARC review this one. It was truly, my honor!
November 2, 2025
This book had so much potential and I was really looking forward to reading it. Unfortunately for me, I did not connect with the writing nor the characters which was a shame because as I read on the plot was exactly what I was wanting but I was still struggling to connect.
In my personal opinion, I did not feel the chemistry within the romance which was a shame as I do love a bit of romance in my books.
As you can tell from the other reviews, this book is amazing and so many people have enjoyed reading it, so do give this book ago, it was just unfortunate that I didn’t connect like I would have liked.
I am so grateful to have been sent this book as an arc to read from the author and from haus of fables, and allowing me the opportunity to present my honest thoughts. 🤍
In my personal opinion, I did not feel the chemistry within the romance which was a shame as I do love a bit of romance in my books.
As you can tell from the other reviews, this book is amazing and so many people have enjoyed reading it, so do give this book ago, it was just unfortunate that I didn’t connect like I would have liked.
I am so grateful to have been sent this book as an arc to read from the author and from haus of fables, and allowing me the opportunity to present my honest thoughts. 🤍
October 31, 2025
There is a lot of potential in this plot and world but unfortunately this story was not for me. I enjoyed the premise of the Devil returning and a gritty dark London but this is primarily a romance forward story which as you can see from other reviews people really loved, it however did not work for me. I did not connect with the characters or relationships and it felt quite disconnected sadly! Thank you to Haus of Fables PR and the author for this arc opportunity
October 8, 2025
Oh Kate, you've done it again!
Totally got me hooked and this has saved magical realism for me! I had totally fallen out of love with it.
4.5 🌟🌟🌟🌟💫 rounded up
I received an ARC and all thoughts are voluntarily my own.
Set in Victorian London, this is dark and gritty in all its gothic glory.
Being from England, I had no issues in picturing the surroundings. The world building was on point and totally immersive
I loved how there weren't too many characters in this book , and can appreciate the acknowledgements at the end explaining why not and it really worked so much better.
Analiese the FMC is a Death Witch in hiding , from those who want to hunt her. She is a loner, with a huge chip on her shoulder. I struggled with her to start with but girl has layers and I understood her and her attitude in the end. Plus she is kick ass powerful.
Ezra our MMC can see Magic and is in hiding from the hunters he used to be part of. He too is a loner, full of hurt, pain and self loathing but omg , he is dreamy.
The supporting characters were loyal, funny, and I loved the LGBTQ rep.
The chemistry in the well placed spice scenes , was off the chart. Less is definitely more and no ick words in sight.
What marked it down half a star was the amount of tea that was drank, I know it's England, but was a little much. Also I felt some of the spice scenes were a bit forced.
All in all loved it 😍
I need the second book immediately 😂
Totally got me hooked and this has saved magical realism for me! I had totally fallen out of love with it.
4.5 🌟🌟🌟🌟💫 rounded up
I received an ARC and all thoughts are voluntarily my own.
Set in Victorian London, this is dark and gritty in all its gothic glory.
Being from England, I had no issues in picturing the surroundings. The world building was on point and totally immersive
I loved how there weren't too many characters in this book , and can appreciate the acknowledgements at the end explaining why not and it really worked so much better.
Analiese the FMC is a Death Witch in hiding , from those who want to hunt her. She is a loner, with a huge chip on her shoulder. I struggled with her to start with but girl has layers and I understood her and her attitude in the end. Plus she is kick ass powerful.
Ezra our MMC can see Magic and is in hiding from the hunters he used to be part of. He too is a loner, full of hurt, pain and self loathing but omg , he is dreamy.
The supporting characters were loyal, funny, and I loved the LGBTQ rep.
The chemistry in the well placed spice scenes , was off the chart. Less is definitely more and no ick words in sight.
What marked it down half a star was the amount of tea that was drank, I know it's England, but was a little much. Also I felt some of the spice scenes were a bit forced.
All in all loved it 😍
I need the second book immediately 😂
November 2, 2025
I'm so bummed I didn't LOVE this, because on paper, it's everything I love! Death witches, evil church, Victorian setting--I SHOULD have loved this!
But it just...fell flat in execution for me. The story takes forEVER to set itself up and even get an idea of what the actual plot is going to be (I'm talking around 30% of the book before anything really happens?), and then from there it's just...fine.
I think a lot of my issues come with not connecting with the characters--we get a lot of info about their pasts, what happened to them, what they're doing, what they want in the future. But we don't really get any sort of insight into their emotions or emotional connections to any of those things. Without that emotional depth, it's really hard to connect with them and why they make the decisions they did, and even harder to believe their relationship with each other.
And some threads of characterization just seem to vanish--the early part of the book talks about Analise being an alcoholic and using alcohol to self-medicate. But once the plot picks up, it's just....forgotten? She's not going through withdraws, or drinking, or looking for her next fix. It was such a large part of the first quarter of the book and then vanished when it was no longer convenient, and it felt really weird to me.
Overall the story was fine, but based on the writing style not being my vibe and not really feeling a connection to the characters, I probably won't read the second book.
Thank you Haus of Fables for the gifted ARC!
But it just...fell flat in execution for me. The story takes forEVER to set itself up and even get an idea of what the actual plot is going to be (I'm talking around 30% of the book before anything really happens?), and then from there it's just...fine.
I think a lot of my issues come with not connecting with the characters--we get a lot of info about their pasts, what happened to them, what they're doing, what they want in the future. But we don't really get any sort of insight into their emotions or emotional connections to any of those things. Without that emotional depth, it's really hard to connect with them and why they make the decisions they did, and even harder to believe their relationship with each other.
And some threads of characterization just seem to vanish--the early part of the book talks about Analise being an alcoholic and using alcohol to self-medicate. But once the plot picks up, it's just....forgotten? She's not going through withdraws, or drinking, or looking for her next fix. It was such a large part of the first quarter of the book and then vanished when it was no longer convenient, and it felt really weird to me.
Overall the story was fine, but based on the writing style not being my vibe and not really feeling a connection to the characters, I probably won't read the second book.
Thank you Haus of Fables for the gifted ARC!
August 17, 2025
K.M. Schumacher delivers a fiendishly new gaslamp fantasy adventure. I loved the way K.M. reimagined these smoggy urban city as one teeming with demons, witches, and witch hunters, and among other nefarious characters that will leaving you debating just who to trust.
When former witch hunter (our MMC) and hiding in plain sight witch (our FMC) collide following a one night stand, you you know they are on a course to slam right into the worst possible "this can't happen moment." Forced to work together, these two are a bantering and simmering pot just waiting to explode. K.M. dishes up moments of banter and tension that keeps you smirking as Analise and Ezra work to battle the king demon himself before the clock runs out for someone (literally).
I loved that K.M. builds the world ground in both religion and science, where the characters need to examine their the role, their alliances, and just who they can truly rely on as they face pressure from all sides.
K.M. does a nice job of balancing the romance with a solid plot that leaves the reader dangling off Cliffhanger Hill at the end. I cannot wait to see where she takes the second half of the duology.
4.5/5
When former witch hunter (our MMC) and hiding in plain sight witch (our FMC) collide following a one night stand, you you know they are on a course to slam right into the worst possible "this can't happen moment." Forced to work together, these two are a bantering and simmering pot just waiting to explode. K.M. dishes up moments of banter and tension that keeps you smirking as Analise and Ezra work to battle the king demon himself before the clock runs out for someone (literally).
I loved that K.M. builds the world ground in both religion and science, where the characters need to examine their the role, their alliances, and just who they can truly rely on as they face pressure from all sides.
K.M. does a nice job of balancing the romance with a solid plot that leaves the reader dangling off Cliffhanger Hill at the end. I cannot wait to see where she takes the second half of the duology.
4.5/5
July 31, 2025
A City of Smoke and Demons ARC Review.
Overview: FANTASTIC!!!! A City of Smoke and Demons should definitely be on your list as your next read. Bump it right to the top of that TBR pile! In fact, preorder your copy now. Do it.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Paranormal romance? Count me the heck in! Victorian Era London? You’ve got me hook, line and sinker.
I absolutely love anything Victorian Era London, and this book was no exception. I felt I was in the smoke filled streets as carriages rattled past. I could feel the cobblestone under my feet, and see the gas lamps flicker to life. Schumacher crafted the perfect imperfections of London during that era, and didn’t shy away from the gritty truth of what life was like.
The world that Kate built in this book felt so real, not shiny and fake that you often see in other literature. I was truly immersed in this book.
As always, the world building was fantastic. There was just enough to immerse you in the story, and would be great for anyone looking for a read that isn’t super heavy world building wise, but enough so that you can really feel like you’re in the story.
The pacing was fantastic, and the many twists and turns prevented me from putting this book down. I devoured this book, and found that if anyone tried to distract me they’d feel my wrath!
I instantly fell in love with Analise (FMC) and Ezra (MMC). I enjoyed their duel POV, seeing the world from both their perspectives.
The complexities of these characters was fantastic as they are both thrust into a new world which challenged what they believed they knew.
With Analise being a death witch, and Ezra being an ex-death witch hunter, it was certain that this was going to be a bumpy ride in the best way. This added to the complexities of their relationship, a driving force between them that resulted in the best banter, angst and pearl clutching enemies-to-lovers moments.
The other characters were fantastic, and I fell in love with each and every one of them. They added to the intriguing story, helping drive it forward.
There were times I laughed and kicked my feet, times where I sat straight up with a hand covering my mouth in shock. My heart swelled, and my heart broke throughout this book and I loved every minute of it.
I am so glad I got my hands on the ARC, because let me tell you I loved this book (if that hasn’t been made apparent already!). It took me two days to read this book, I was unable to put it down the whole time. When I reached the end, I kept trying to turn the last page, begging for more.
If you are a fan of darker stories, the paranormal, or of gothic fiction such as Gallant by V.E Schwab this will be right up your alley!
This book is a must read, and I cannot wait for book two.
Overview: FANTASTIC!!!! A City of Smoke and Demons should definitely be on your list as your next read. Bump it right to the top of that TBR pile! In fact, preorder your copy now. Do it.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Paranormal romance? Count me the heck in! Victorian Era London? You’ve got me hook, line and sinker.
I absolutely love anything Victorian Era London, and this book was no exception. I felt I was in the smoke filled streets as carriages rattled past. I could feel the cobblestone under my feet, and see the gas lamps flicker to life. Schumacher crafted the perfect imperfections of London during that era, and didn’t shy away from the gritty truth of what life was like.
The world that Kate built in this book felt so real, not shiny and fake that you often see in other literature. I was truly immersed in this book.
As always, the world building was fantastic. There was just enough to immerse you in the story, and would be great for anyone looking for a read that isn’t super heavy world building wise, but enough so that you can really feel like you’re in the story.
The pacing was fantastic, and the many twists and turns prevented me from putting this book down. I devoured this book, and found that if anyone tried to distract me they’d feel my wrath!
I instantly fell in love with Analise (FMC) and Ezra (MMC). I enjoyed their duel POV, seeing the world from both their perspectives.
The complexities of these characters was fantastic as they are both thrust into a new world which challenged what they believed they knew.
With Analise being a death witch, and Ezra being an ex-death witch hunter, it was certain that this was going to be a bumpy ride in the best way. This added to the complexities of their relationship, a driving force between them that resulted in the best banter, angst and pearl clutching enemies-to-lovers moments.
The other characters were fantastic, and I fell in love with each and every one of them. They added to the intriguing story, helping drive it forward.
There were times I laughed and kicked my feet, times where I sat straight up with a hand covering my mouth in shock. My heart swelled, and my heart broke throughout this book and I loved every minute of it.
I am so glad I got my hands on the ARC, because let me tell you I loved this book (if that hasn’t been made apparent already!). It took me two days to read this book, I was unable to put it down the whole time. When I reached the end, I kept trying to turn the last page, begging for more.
If you are a fan of darker stories, the paranormal, or of gothic fiction such as Gallant by V.E Schwab this will be right up your alley!
This book is a must read, and I cannot wait for book two.
November 5, 2025
I can always count on Kate Schumacher to give me stunning, atmospheric settings and the most SWOON-WORTHY characters. I have fallen fast and hard for Analise and Ezra.
A City of Smoke and Demons is a very cool, very unique story that I absolutely devoured. Analise is a ☠️ witch in hiding, and Ezra is a prized fighter for his gangster boss, hiding out for his own reasons. When the two of them cross paths (😏) it sets off a chain of events that have the fate of the world hanging in the balance.
The banter? 😌
The swoony romance? 🥰
The steamy chemistry?? 🫠
Alongside the romance is quite the engaging story, centered around secret societies fighting to save this alternate version of London from demons and the Devil himself, who has been slowly amassing his army to take back what was stolen from him.
I’ll forever be shouting about Kate’s books- she has such a wonderful way with words that make me fall for her writing time and time again.
A City of Smoke and Demons is a very cool, very unique story that I absolutely devoured. Analise is a ☠️ witch in hiding, and Ezra is a prized fighter for his gangster boss, hiding out for his own reasons. When the two of them cross paths (😏) it sets off a chain of events that have the fate of the world hanging in the balance.
The banter? 😌
The swoony romance? 🥰
The steamy chemistry?? 🫠
Alongside the romance is quite the engaging story, centered around secret societies fighting to save this alternate version of London from demons and the Devil himself, who has been slowly amassing his army to take back what was stolen from him.
I’ll forever be shouting about Kate’s books- she has such a wonderful way with words that make me fall for her writing time and time again.
October 18, 2025
I devoured this book in 24 hours. Kate Schumacher has gone away from her epic fantasy style in this one and it has absolutely paid off.
I loved the old London setting in the slums where the dregs of society eke out a living and are perfect for being tempted by the Devil.
Analise is a death witch in hiding. She works at the morgue and uses her powers to discover why some of the bodies are suddenly turning up with strange tattoos.
Ezra is an ex witch hunter, also in hiding, as he has been disgraced due to his refusal to hunt and kill death witches in London.
A chance meeting brings these two together and this begins a roller coaster ride of hate and infatuation mixed in with a healthy helping of secret societies and intrigue.
I am so keen to see where the next book goes. This book will be great if you loved Serpent & Dove and Lucifer.
I loved the old London setting in the slums where the dregs of society eke out a living and are perfect for being tempted by the Devil.
Analise is a death witch in hiding. She works at the morgue and uses her powers to discover why some of the bodies are suddenly turning up with strange tattoos.
Ezra is an ex witch hunter, also in hiding, as he has been disgraced due to his refusal to hunt and kill death witches in London.
A chance meeting brings these two together and this begins a roller coaster ride of hate and infatuation mixed in with a healthy helping of secret societies and intrigue.
I am so keen to see where the next book goes. This book will be great if you loved Serpent & Dove and Lucifer.
October 23, 2025
A city of smoke and demons - K.M. Schumacher
I really really enjoyed this one! It's an eerie and refreshing take on witches and witch hunters, featuring creepy vibes, demons, and the undead. The main characters were great and I was completely invested in their relationship, their individual journeys, and their great banter. The story delivered just the right amount of devastation to hurt, but not completely ruin me. The perfect book to kick off spooky season, especially for a buddy read with my beautiful friend @bookswithbrooki! I can't wait to see what happens next!
I really really enjoyed this one! It's an eerie and refreshing take on witches and witch hunters, featuring creepy vibes, demons, and the undead. The main characters were great and I was completely invested in their relationship, their individual journeys, and their great banter. The story delivered just the right amount of devastation to hurt, but not completely ruin me. The perfect book to kick off spooky season, especially for a buddy read with my beautiful friend @bookswithbrooki! I can't wait to see what happens next!
November 4, 2025
It’s been a while since I’ve read a Victorian era fantasy, and A City of Smoke and Demons did not disappoint!
Set in a gritty Victorian London, the readers are introduced to both Analise (a death witch) and Ezra (a former death witch hunter). Both are flawed, hiding out in the slums, and eager to stay hidden from those in authority.
Gaslamp paranormal romantasy is the perfect genre, and the vibes throughout the book were spot on. Think paranormal beings (demons and familiars) lurking in the shadows, with secret societies, forbidden love, found family, and forced proximity.
I really loved the science-based magic system, and how the author went into explaining how the FMC’s magic worked. It’s not a type of magic I see often in books I gravitate towards, and it really appealed to the side of me that loved to know the ‘why’ behind processes etc.
The imagery throughout was immersive and descriptive. As someone who unfortunately cannot picture books playing out in my head, even I was able to picture how haunted the demons and familiars were described to be!
Thank you to the author for an advanced copy. This review is my own honest opinion.
Set in a gritty Victorian London, the readers are introduced to both Analise (a death witch) and Ezra (a former death witch hunter). Both are flawed, hiding out in the slums, and eager to stay hidden from those in authority.
Gaslamp paranormal romantasy is the perfect genre, and the vibes throughout the book were spot on. Think paranormal beings (demons and familiars) lurking in the shadows, with secret societies, forbidden love, found family, and forced proximity.
I really loved the science-based magic system, and how the author went into explaining how the FMC’s magic worked. It’s not a type of magic I see often in books I gravitate towards, and it really appealed to the side of me that loved to know the ‘why’ behind processes etc.
The imagery throughout was immersive and descriptive. As someone who unfortunately cannot picture books playing out in my head, even I was able to picture how haunted the demons and familiars were described to be!
Thank you to the author for an advanced copy. This review is my own honest opinion.
November 7, 2025
3.75 stars - Thank you so much to Haus of Fables for this ARC copy!
This was a fun paranormal romance that follows our FMC, Analise a death witch in victorian era London. When the forced proximity comes in with her enemy, Ezra- an ex witch hunter turned paid fighter in the underground- the tension is angsty and delicious.
The forced proximity doesn’t stop there with having to bunk up with each other against those who want to hunt them, they also have to race against the clock to stop the coming apocalypse, with witches, demons, stalker familiars and a slice of the devil and Lilith - its bound to be a wild ride.
I really enjoyed Analise and Ezra’s banter, they both were so witty and had me laughing out loud.
This was an easy read but sometimes the writing took me out of the story, it wasn’t always super easy to follow what was going on but nothing that made not want to continue.
This was a fun paranormal romance that follows our FMC, Analise a death witch in victorian era London. When the forced proximity comes in with her enemy, Ezra- an ex witch hunter turned paid fighter in the underground- the tension is angsty and delicious.
The forced proximity doesn’t stop there with having to bunk up with each other against those who want to hunt them, they also have to race against the clock to stop the coming apocalypse, with witches, demons, stalker familiars and a slice of the devil and Lilith - its bound to be a wild ride.
I really enjoyed Analise and Ezra’s banter, they both were so witty and had me laughing out loud.
This was an easy read but sometimes the writing took me out of the story, it wasn’t always super easy to follow what was going on but nothing that made not want to continue.
October 31, 2025
Thank you for this gifted ARC from Haus of Fables. The story concept is really interesting, I personally enjoy reading from
Multiple POV vs reading from third person. Overall 4/5 stars.
Analise is a death wish but her magic is banned so she has lived her life trying to hide who (and what) she is. Ezra is an ex death witch hunter who was hired by the church to track down a death wish and he was led straight to Analise. Ezra soon learns of a secret society and has to team up with Analise to attempt to save the word from the Devil himself.
Tropes:
Secret societies
Forced proximity
Found family
Victorian era London
Death magic
Low-magic system based on science
Enemies to lovers
Slow burn romance
Eyes on me + one bed
He teaches her to cook + cooks for her
Banter banter banter
Fight training
Diverse cast
Introverted witch with a chip on her shoulder
Tortured, blond witch hunter with a smart mouth
Multiple POV vs reading from third person. Overall 4/5 stars.
Analise is a death wish but her magic is banned so she has lived her life trying to hide who (and what) she is. Ezra is an ex death witch hunter who was hired by the church to track down a death wish and he was led straight to Analise. Ezra soon learns of a secret society and has to team up with Analise to attempt to save the word from the Devil himself.
Tropes:
Secret societies
Forced proximity
Found family
Victorian era London
Death magic
Low-magic system based on science
Enemies to lovers
Slow burn romance
Eyes on me + one bed
He teaches her to cook + cooks for her
Banter banter banter
Fight training
Diverse cast
Introverted witch with a chip on her shoulder
Tortured, blond witch hunter with a smart mouth
September 24, 2025
✨City of Smoke & Demons✨
What an intriguing read from my first opportunity with Kate! A dark, Victorian era paranormal romance set in the slums of London, if you want something gritty, riddled with ghosts, and accompanied by two MCs that are flawed and struggling yet find the light within each other’s darkness, allowing them to finally be seen… then this first in Kate’s Daughters of Lilith duet is for you!
Ezra used to be the best witch hunter in London, until his conscience caught up to him. Now he’s in hiding from the government, working as mobster Maddog’s prized underground boxer. That is, until he begins being haunted by familiars. Dragging him into darker secrets than he thought the slummy underworld could have, Ezra finds himself recruited by a demon hunting brotherhood and the task to do what he swore he’d never do again- hunt a death witch, who just so happens to be his most recent lay. 🙈
Analise escaped the convent 5 years ago, has been haunted by death her whole life, and works in a morgue. Because of her forbidden magic, she spends more time with corpses than the living. When she’s kidnapped by the one night stand she can’t forget, she soon finds herself not only facing her (actual) demons, but also her emotional ones.
Together, Ezra and Analise have to reluctantly hide away together and deal with the hatred (and other feelings they’d rather not name) between them, while seeking a way to decrease the rise in demons and familiars. Our heroes are not sunshine and rainbows; they have many flaws and make poor choices and even poorer coping mechanisms. They are human and flawed and beautifully so as we watch them both fight for the lives they want to reclaim, yearn to be loved and cared for, and rekindle a hope that they haven’t seen in many years. And. Ezra. 🫠🥰 Is. A. GEM. I adore him so so much.
Tropes you may find in COSAD are forced proximity, demons x demon hunters, one bed, found family, enemies to lovers (one sided), death magic, secret societies, “eyes on me”, he would 💀 for her, he teaches her to cook, and medium spice.
Kate, it is an honor to get to arc read for you. I can’t wait for more. Thank you!
What an intriguing read from my first opportunity with Kate! A dark, Victorian era paranormal romance set in the slums of London, if you want something gritty, riddled with ghosts, and accompanied by two MCs that are flawed and struggling yet find the light within each other’s darkness, allowing them to finally be seen… then this first in Kate’s Daughters of Lilith duet is for you!
Ezra used to be the best witch hunter in London, until his conscience caught up to him. Now he’s in hiding from the government, working as mobster Maddog’s prized underground boxer. That is, until he begins being haunted by familiars. Dragging him into darker secrets than he thought the slummy underworld could have, Ezra finds himself recruited by a demon hunting brotherhood and the task to do what he swore he’d never do again- hunt a death witch, who just so happens to be his most recent lay. 🙈
Analise escaped the convent 5 years ago, has been haunted by death her whole life, and works in a morgue. Because of her forbidden magic, she spends more time with corpses than the living. When she’s kidnapped by the one night stand she can’t forget, she soon finds herself not only facing her (actual) demons, but also her emotional ones.
Together, Ezra and Analise have to reluctantly hide away together and deal with the hatred (and other feelings they’d rather not name) between them, while seeking a way to decrease the rise in demons and familiars. Our heroes are not sunshine and rainbows; they have many flaws and make poor choices and even poorer coping mechanisms. They are human and flawed and beautifully so as we watch them both fight for the lives they want to reclaim, yearn to be loved and cared for, and rekindle a hope that they haven’t seen in many years. And. Ezra. 🫠🥰 Is. A. GEM. I adore him so so much.
Tropes you may find in COSAD are forced proximity, demons x demon hunters, one bed, found family, enemies to lovers (one sided), death magic, secret societies, “eyes on me”, he would 💀 for her, he teaches her to cook, and medium spice.
Kate, it is an honor to get to arc read for you. I can’t wait for more. Thank you!
November 1, 2025
This is really more 4.5 stars, but good enough that I rounded it up for GR. This is a good Gaslamp romantasy. The tension between the two main characters is great, and there's a lot of fun banter between the two. I like how both of the MCs were in the dark about the things that were there, it provided a nice organic way for them and the reader to learn how the demons work, but also there was never any huge massive lore dump just a steady trickle that provided info as and when the characters needed it.
Downside of reading this book as an ARC is that I have to wait even longer for book 2. Thank you for this gifted ARC from Haus of Fables
Downside of reading this book as an ARC is that I have to wait even longer for book 2. Thank you for this gifted ARC from Haus of Fables
October 14, 2025
I had high hopes for this book as it sounded right up my alley but alas it was very dull. It follows Analise, a death witch who is hiding her magic and Ezra, a former witch hunter in Victorian England as they hide from demons/the church/the crown. The majority of the book is spend hiding out and having hate/you hide secrets from me even though we just met sex. I was lucky enough to receive an ARC from the author and the Haus of Fables.
November 1, 2025
I didn't make many notes while reading A City of Smoke and Demons as I just wanted to continue reading! I would definitely have jumped right into book 2 if I had it.
I love the set-up we have here; two broken people run into each other and realise that they can't escape their pasts (though they will work hard to try).
I really enjoyed the characters themselves, who felt generally three-dimensional and who had faults that the author didn't shy away from.
In parts, this felt reminiscent to The Foxglove King (in our lead, the set up and some of the plot) in a way that I enjoyed. It didn't feel too similar, but it reminded me that this is a vibe that I like.
This is a romantasy, which means that there is less emphasis on the world-building and politics and more on the romance.
Despite that, I liked how the magic worked, including the way that it was partially explained through science, which felt unique and was an aspect that I really enjoyed. There were also political discussions about classism and economic disparity, which were enjoyable and not too preachy - it wove in well and continued allowing the reader to escape the real world.
I couldn't feel the immediate spark between our leads, but I did feel the tension between them grow, especially during those teasing scenes (one particular tense scene was just right for me🔥).
The setting was the biggest issue for me. Around 25% of the way through, I remembered that this was historical and set in Victorian England, which I forgot because it was so far removed from its context. This very much reads as modern, but without technology, in dialogue, thoughts, clothing, food, drink, and amenities (running hot water in a bathroom and an indoor toilet in the slums?). There is also a comment about 'what use is a king if he doesn't care about his subjects', but if we are in Victorian England then the monarch is Queen Victoria. Also, saying pants instead of trousers!!!
There were some issues with grammar and unnecessary wording (e.g., 'mongrel dog') and some bits felt that they didn't make perfect sense (he's annoyed that she drank all of the tea but he doesn't look for extra tea leaves or add extra water to the old ones) but they were easy to ignore and didn't affect my enjoyment too much.
One of the reveals was too obvious to me but is difficult to describe without spoilers. Let's just say that we saw something happen to someone but they just didn't put together what had happened? Maybe if, when we saw what happened, it was more hazy, less tangible and maybe further from the bit of plot discussing what's going on (which we saw - wow describing this without spoilers is hard), it might have felt less obvious and therefore frustrating.
Despite these things, I did really enjoy this book and especially the characters. I usually dislike media with God and The Devil, but it was written in a way that didn't bother me here. I would have started book 2 immediately if I could have.
Thank you to the author and PR team for the advanced copy. This is my honest review.
I love the set-up we have here; two broken people run into each other and realise that they can't escape their pasts (though they will work hard to try).
I really enjoyed the characters themselves, who felt generally three-dimensional and who had faults that the author didn't shy away from.
In parts, this felt reminiscent to The Foxglove King (in our lead, the set up and some of the plot) in a way that I enjoyed. It didn't feel too similar, but it reminded me that this is a vibe that I like.
This is a romantasy, which means that there is less emphasis on the world-building and politics and more on the romance.
Despite that, I liked how the magic worked, including the way that it was partially explained through science, which felt unique and was an aspect that I really enjoyed. There were also political discussions about classism and economic disparity, which were enjoyable and not too preachy - it wove in well and continued allowing the reader to escape the real world.
I couldn't feel the immediate spark between our leads, but I did feel the tension between them grow, especially during those teasing scenes (one particular tense scene was just right for me🔥).
The setting was the biggest issue for me. Around 25% of the way through, I remembered that this was historical and set in Victorian England, which I forgot because it was so far removed from its context. This very much reads as modern, but without technology, in dialogue, thoughts, clothing, food, drink, and amenities (running hot water in a bathroom and an indoor toilet in the slums?). There is also a comment about 'what use is a king if he doesn't care about his subjects', but if we are in Victorian England then the monarch is Queen Victoria. Also, saying pants instead of trousers!!!
There were some issues with grammar and unnecessary wording (e.g., 'mongrel dog') and some bits felt that they didn't make perfect sense (he's annoyed that she drank all of the tea but he doesn't look for extra tea leaves or add extra water to the old ones) but they were easy to ignore and didn't affect my enjoyment too much.
One of the reveals was too obvious to me but is difficult to describe without spoilers. Let's just say that we saw something happen to someone but they just didn't put together what had happened? Maybe if, when we saw what happened, it was more hazy, less tangible and maybe further from the bit of plot discussing what's going on (which we saw - wow describing this without spoilers is hard), it might have felt less obvious and therefore frustrating.
Despite these things, I did really enjoy this book and especially the characters. I usually dislike media with God and The Devil, but it was written in a way that didn't bother me here. I would have started book 2 immediately if I could have.
Thank you to the author and PR team for the advanced copy. This is my honest review.
August 12, 2025
This was one of my top reads of the summer, and I am so lucky to have gotten to read it early! What K.M. Schumacher has done here is crate a rich and vibrant world inspired by our own, but different in just enough ways to make it exciting and novel. Her magic system--revolving around life and death, literally--is fascinating to me and I am very much looking forward to getting deeper into it in the 2nd volume of the duology.
Both of the POV characters, Ezra and Analise, are layered and complex, and the enemies-to-lovers chemistry is off the charts! That's not always one of my favorite tropes, but with this couple it was positively electric (at some points literally)! I really enjoyed the witty banter and repartee between them, and how it remained a feature of their relationship even once it was clear they were endgame. Too many authors have a dramatic shift when the enemies stop being lovers, but here it never stops; the characters absolutely grow, but they maintain their spirited, playful jibes right through to the end of the book. And the heat/steam level was absolutely perfect, and helped to advance the plot--explicit content was never used for its own sake, but to help us understand what each character was experiencing and how.
The plot itself had enough twists and turns to keep it interesting, and it avoided being just another monster-hunter novel; instead, the supernatural elements forced the reader to think about a lot of different ethical issues, right up to and including matters of life and death (understandable given the magic system). I always like when a fantasy book, especially adult fantasy, challenges the reader a little bit intellectually, and KM Schumacher delivered on that front.
I'd be remiss if I didn't also note that there is some LGBTQ rep in the form of two side characters, which is always nice to see, as well as representation of different classes and ethnicities in the Edwardian-inspired setting. If anything, I'd like to see more of Jem and Tobias in book 2, even though they are not the primary thrust of the story--the characters are that well done!
All in all, this was one of my top reads of 2025 and I really urge anyone looking for a gothic, magical, and character-driven story to add this to their TBR and place a preorder for the book. My only regret? Now I have to wait an agonizingly long time to find out what happens to our heroes!
Full disclosure: I received an eARC of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. I have received no compensation other than the eARC, and the opinions expressed in this review are mine and mine alone. Thank you to Kate for the opportunity to advance read!
Both of the POV characters, Ezra and Analise, are layered and complex, and the enemies-to-lovers chemistry is off the charts! That's not always one of my favorite tropes, but with this couple it was positively electric (at some points literally)! I really enjoyed the witty banter and repartee between them, and how it remained a feature of their relationship even once it was clear they were endgame. Too many authors have a dramatic shift when the enemies stop being lovers, but here it never stops; the characters absolutely grow, but they maintain their spirited, playful jibes right through to the end of the book. And the heat/steam level was absolutely perfect, and helped to advance the plot--explicit content was never used for its own sake, but to help us understand what each character was experiencing and how.
The plot itself had enough twists and turns to keep it interesting, and it avoided being just another monster-hunter novel; instead, the supernatural elements forced the reader to think about a lot of different ethical issues, right up to and including matters of life and death (understandable given the magic system). I always like when a fantasy book, especially adult fantasy, challenges the reader a little bit intellectually, and KM Schumacher delivered on that front.
I'd be remiss if I didn't also note that there is some LGBTQ rep in the form of two side characters, which is always nice to see, as well as representation of different classes and ethnicities in the Edwardian-inspired setting. If anything, I'd like to see more of Jem and Tobias in book 2, even though they are not the primary thrust of the story--the characters are that well done!
All in all, this was one of my top reads of 2025 and I really urge anyone looking for a gothic, magical, and character-driven story to add this to their TBR and place a preorder for the book. My only regret? Now I have to wait an agonizingly long time to find out what happens to our heroes!
Full disclosure: I received an eARC of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. I have received no compensation other than the eARC, and the opinions expressed in this review are mine and mine alone. Thank you to Kate for the opportunity to advance read!
November 2, 2025
A City of Smoke and Demons is a dark, atmospheric fantasy set in a smog-choked city where death witches, outlawed magic, and lurking demons shape the fate of its inhabitants. The story follows Analise, a “death witch” hiding from both her past and those who would destroy her, and Ezra, a former witch-hunter who’s forced back into a world he thought he’d escaped. When their paths collide, they’re drawn into a web of danger, forbidden magic, and reluctant attraction that simmers just beneath the surface.
One of the strongest aspects of this book is its world-building. Schumacher paints a vivid and moody picture of the city—its alleys, fog, and sense of decay feel tangible and immersive. The blend of gothic atmosphere, magical politics, and industrial grit gives the story a cinematic quality. The concept itself is fresh and intriguing: death witches, demons, and a society where faith and fear intertwine in complex ways. Fans of dark fantasy romance will appreciate the thought put into the setting and lore.
The romance between Analise and Ezra also works well. The “enemies-to-lovers” and “forced proximity” tropes are handled with chemistry and tension, and both characters carry emotional wounds that make their connection feel meaningful. Their banter is sharp and their relationship evolves naturally enough to be engaging, though a few emotional beats could have used a little more depth. Still, their dynamic adds warmth to an otherwise bleak and perilous world.
That said, the novel isn’t without its flaws. The pacing can be uneven—slow in the opening chapters and occasionally bogged down by exposition before the action truly picks up. Schumacher’s prose is lush and descriptive, but sometimes borders on dense, which can momentarily pull the reader out of the flow. Additionally, since this is the first book in a duology, several plot threads remain unresolved. While that builds anticipation for the sequel, it also left me wanting a stronger sense of closure by the final page.
Overall, A City of Smoke and Demons is an imaginative, sensual, and moody fantasy that will appeal to readers who love gothic settings, morally gray characters, and slow-burn romance. It may not be perfect—some stylistic choices and pacing issues hold it back—but it’s a solid and enjoyable read that lays strong groundwork for the story to come. I’d rate it 3½ stars: atmospheric and promising, with just enough magic and emotion to keep me eager for book two.
One of the strongest aspects of this book is its world-building. Schumacher paints a vivid and moody picture of the city—its alleys, fog, and sense of decay feel tangible and immersive. The blend of gothic atmosphere, magical politics, and industrial grit gives the story a cinematic quality. The concept itself is fresh and intriguing: death witches, demons, and a society where faith and fear intertwine in complex ways. Fans of dark fantasy romance will appreciate the thought put into the setting and lore.
The romance between Analise and Ezra also works well. The “enemies-to-lovers” and “forced proximity” tropes are handled with chemistry and tension, and both characters carry emotional wounds that make their connection feel meaningful. Their banter is sharp and their relationship evolves naturally enough to be engaging, though a few emotional beats could have used a little more depth. Still, their dynamic adds warmth to an otherwise bleak and perilous world.
That said, the novel isn’t without its flaws. The pacing can be uneven—slow in the opening chapters and occasionally bogged down by exposition before the action truly picks up. Schumacher’s prose is lush and descriptive, but sometimes borders on dense, which can momentarily pull the reader out of the flow. Additionally, since this is the first book in a duology, several plot threads remain unresolved. While that builds anticipation for the sequel, it also left me wanting a stronger sense of closure by the final page.
Overall, A City of Smoke and Demons is an imaginative, sensual, and moody fantasy that will appeal to readers who love gothic settings, morally gray characters, and slow-burn romance. It may not be perfect—some stylistic choices and pacing issues hold it back—but it’s a solid and enjoyable read that lays strong groundwork for the story to come. I’d rate it 3½ stars: atmospheric and promising, with just enough magic and emotion to keep me eager for book two.
October 24, 2025
Beautiful. Utterly, devastatingly beautiful.
These were my final thoughts after finishing my alpha copy of Kate's A City of Smoke and Demons. And they couldn't have been truer. I always think I won't be able to fall in love with a book and its characters more than Kate's previous ones, but somehow she still manages to prove me wrong. Every single time.
Kate is one of those writers who never ceases to amaze you, even when she switches genres. I've fallen in love with her epic fantasy series, The Fires of Aileryan and The Grail Cycle. But it seems my love for her work keeps expanding now that she's ventured into a paranormal gaslamp romance set in a low-magic Victorian London. And oh, my, she has made my heart sing. She's only broken it on numerous occasions, but I embrace that pain and carry it with pride.
So, A City of Smoke and Demons, Book 1 of Kate's Daughters of Lilith series. It's witty. It's clever and intelligent. It's perfectly executed. It's also dark and grim. It explores complex themes in a way only Kate can, one that makes you ache for the characters, understand what drives them, and feel what haunts them.
Both Ezra and Analise are deeply flawed and scarred characters, living with the demons of their past, the ones that never seem to let go. And still, they persevere. They question their surroundings and circumstances. They make questionable choices at times, as is only human. But they try.
Their first encounter may seem unorthodox to us, but to them? I wouldn't think so. The build-up of their relationship is slow and filled with obstacles, making them even more perfect for each other. I love how the spice in the book isn't overpowering; their intimacy has depth and meaning. It’s not there just to make the book spicy; it’s an essential part of them finding home in one another.
But this book is so much more than a love story. It is a tale of oppression, of dismantling preconceived ideas, of breaking the chains forged by those in power, of finding yourself.
This may not be the first witch-and-witch-hunter story you've read, but it will undoubtedly be one of the most powerful ones you'll experience. Thank you, Kate, for giving us this story and these characters.
These were my final thoughts after finishing my alpha copy of Kate's A City of Smoke and Demons. And they couldn't have been truer. I always think I won't be able to fall in love with a book and its characters more than Kate's previous ones, but somehow she still manages to prove me wrong. Every single time.
Kate is one of those writers who never ceases to amaze you, even when she switches genres. I've fallen in love with her epic fantasy series, The Fires of Aileryan and The Grail Cycle. But it seems my love for her work keeps expanding now that she's ventured into a paranormal gaslamp romance set in a low-magic Victorian London. And oh, my, she has made my heart sing. She's only broken it on numerous occasions, but I embrace that pain and carry it with pride.
So, A City of Smoke and Demons, Book 1 of Kate's Daughters of Lilith series. It's witty. It's clever and intelligent. It's perfectly executed. It's also dark and grim. It explores complex themes in a way only Kate can, one that makes you ache for the characters, understand what drives them, and feel what haunts them.
Both Ezra and Analise are deeply flawed and scarred characters, living with the demons of their past, the ones that never seem to let go. And still, they persevere. They question their surroundings and circumstances. They make questionable choices at times, as is only human. But they try.
Their first encounter may seem unorthodox to us, but to them? I wouldn't think so. The build-up of their relationship is slow and filled with obstacles, making them even more perfect for each other. I love how the spice in the book isn't overpowering; their intimacy has depth and meaning. It’s not there just to make the book spicy; it’s an essential part of them finding home in one another.
But this book is so much more than a love story. It is a tale of oppression, of dismantling preconceived ideas, of breaking the chains forged by those in power, of finding yourself.
This may not be the first witch-and-witch-hunter story you've read, but it will undoubtedly be one of the most powerful ones you'll experience. Thank you, Kate, for giving us this story and these characters.
August 19, 2025
I want to thank the author from the bottom of heart for allowing me the privilege of being able to read her book! I truly appreciate it!
If you want a book set in Victorian London my gosh was this it! I was completely and utterly transported back in time, and it still has its claws in me (pun intended)! This book was incredible! As you know the setting and imagery stole my breathe away, but the story and the characters have stolen my heart!
This is such a unique and well thoughtout story. Demon hunters and magic in London doesn't sound very unique but trust me it is! Every little detail was completely well thought out and well fleshed out, it was just pure wonder and fun. This book is exactly what it says it is and so much more! I am really glad this doesn't end on a cliffhanger, I still want and need the next one, but the relief that I feel that mostly everyone is okay and no one is in immediate danger is wonderful! Don't get me wrong I had my heart broken, I'm still on the edge of my seat wanting more and wanting to see how it ends but I've missed books that end this way in a series!
Father Blackwood is definitely up to something and if my guess is correct I can't wait to see it all play out! Analise was so incredible and strong, not strong willed just genuinely so strong and watching her grow into herself was exactly what I hoped would happen! Ezra could be my next book boyfriend! He is everything you want in a partner! Sweet, loyal, protective but not overprotective, I loved him! Maddog! That twist was amazing! When you band them all together with the rest of the characters in this story, you discover this absolutely beautiful found family. They and this story draws you in and you feel like you're right there as one of them and I just loved that feeling so much!
I honestly can't wait for the last book in this duology I need to know how this all ends! I truly can't wait to get my hands on the author's other duologies too!
Thank you so very much from the bottom of my heart again for allowing me the privilege of being able to read this book! I absolutely loved it!
If you want a book set in Victorian London my gosh was this it! I was completely and utterly transported back in time, and it still has its claws in me (pun intended)! This book was incredible! As you know the setting and imagery stole my breathe away, but the story and the characters have stolen my heart!
This is such a unique and well thoughtout story. Demon hunters and magic in London doesn't sound very unique but trust me it is! Every little detail was completely well thought out and well fleshed out, it was just pure wonder and fun. This book is exactly what it says it is and so much more! I am really glad this doesn't end on a cliffhanger, I still want and need the next one, but the relief that I feel that mostly everyone is okay and no one is in immediate danger is wonderful! Don't get me wrong I had my heart broken, I'm still on the edge of my seat wanting more and wanting to see how it ends but I've missed books that end this way in a series!
Father Blackwood is definitely up to something and if my guess is correct I can't wait to see it all play out! Analise was so incredible and strong, not strong willed just genuinely so strong and watching her grow into herself was exactly what I hoped would happen! Ezra could be my next book boyfriend! He is everything you want in a partner! Sweet, loyal, protective but not overprotective, I loved him! Maddog! That twist was amazing! When you band them all together with the rest of the characters in this story, you discover this absolutely beautiful found family. They and this story draws you in and you feel like you're right there as one of them and I just loved that feeling so much!
I honestly can't wait for the last book in this duology I need to know how this all ends! I truly can't wait to get my hands on the author's other duologies too!
Thank you so very much from the bottom of my heart again for allowing me the privilege of being able to read this book! I absolutely loved it!
August 20, 2025
I had the chance to read an ARC of A City of Smoke and Demons and I’m so glad because this book was a wild ride from start to finish! This was my first time reading anything by KM Schumacher and what an introduction it turned out to be!
I’m a sucker for anything with paranormal and gothic type vibes, so when I saw death witches and hunters, I was instantly intrigued. What I didn’t expect was just how gritty, atmospheric and layered this story would feel. The world of Victorian London came to life on the page, with the cobblestone streets and the heavy fog. It was vivid without ever being overwhelming and it perfectly set the stage for that darker more gothic energy of the book.
The dual POV between Analise and Ezra really worked for me. Analise being a death witch and Ezra being a former hunter instantly created tension and watching them navigate that complicated history made for such a compelling push and pull. Their banter had me smirking, and gave me all the angst and tension I wanted and Schumacher delivered it so well.
What stood out most to me was how human the characters felt, even in a world full of demons and death magic. The struggles, guilt and emotions they carried gave the story real weight and I found myself really connecting with them. There were times I laughed and others I was completely shocked.
The pacing was solid and fast enough to keep me hooked but still allowing for quieter, emotional beats. There were twists I didn’t see coming and the ending left me eager to dive into the next book in the duology.
Overall, this was such a strong introduction to a new duology. I loved the balance between the dark, gritty setting and the romance. I can already tell that Kate is going to be an author I’ll be keeping a very close eye on. Expect me to devour her other books in the meantime.
If you’re a fan of gothic settings, romantic tension and just the right touch of danger, A City of Smoke and Demons is one you won’t want to miss. I can’t wait to see where book two takes us!
I’m a sucker for anything with paranormal and gothic type vibes, so when I saw death witches and hunters, I was instantly intrigued. What I didn’t expect was just how gritty, atmospheric and layered this story would feel. The world of Victorian London came to life on the page, with the cobblestone streets and the heavy fog. It was vivid without ever being overwhelming and it perfectly set the stage for that darker more gothic energy of the book.
The dual POV between Analise and Ezra really worked for me. Analise being a death witch and Ezra being a former hunter instantly created tension and watching them navigate that complicated history made for such a compelling push and pull. Their banter had me smirking, and gave me all the angst and tension I wanted and Schumacher delivered it so well.
What stood out most to me was how human the characters felt, even in a world full of demons and death magic. The struggles, guilt and emotions they carried gave the story real weight and I found myself really connecting with them. There were times I laughed and others I was completely shocked.
The pacing was solid and fast enough to keep me hooked but still allowing for quieter, emotional beats. There were twists I didn’t see coming and the ending left me eager to dive into the next book in the duology.
Overall, this was such a strong introduction to a new duology. I loved the balance between the dark, gritty setting and the romance. I can already tell that Kate is going to be an author I’ll be keeping a very close eye on. Expect me to devour her other books in the meantime.
If you’re a fan of gothic settings, romantic tension and just the right touch of danger, A City of Smoke and Demons is one you won’t want to miss. I can’t wait to see where book two takes us!
October 13, 2025
A huge thank you goes to K. M. Schumacher, for letting me read an e-ARC of A City of Smoke and Demons! This gaslamp fantasy is the first book in The Daughters of Lilith duology, & is such a wonderfully dark paranormal romance—so if you love delving into tales of ghosts & shattered souls? This is the story you’ve been needing in your life!
As a death witch, Analise has always known that she must keep her powers a secret. If she doesn’t? There’s every chance that she won’t be heard from ever again. Death witches must be registered, & many have fled the regime that would witness their end. But everything changes when Analise is given a message by a ghost, sharing a mystery that desperately needs to be solved. As Analise begins to unravel the secret at the heart of it all, she soon comes to the attention of Ezra, a former Unseen who now fights for a gangster. Tasked with finding a death witch for the Church, Analise has just become Ezra’s prey. But as the mystery deepens, can Ezra & Analise find a way to work with each other? Can they save a city shrouded in smog & death? Or will their emotions prove the downfall of everyone?
This paranormal romance is a blueprint for how to create a tragic heroine with a backbone; death & an alcohol dependency are just two of the things Analise must contend with, but she does it. And I’m telling you right now, you cannot read a story by this author without witnessing the empowerment of women. Of course I’m a huge fan of that!
Within A City of Smoke and Demons, we’re warned to never get comfortable. We’re told, time & time again, that things will get worse before they get better. And I can promise you’ll be sitting on the edge of your seat, muttering to yourself, by the end of this instalment! This gaslamp fantasy claws at the heart with its intricate storyline, found family & forced proximity...
Want to know more? You can read my full review here: https://www.immersedinbooks.com/a-cit...
As a death witch, Analise has always known that she must keep her powers a secret. If she doesn’t? There’s every chance that she won’t be heard from ever again. Death witches must be registered, & many have fled the regime that would witness their end. But everything changes when Analise is given a message by a ghost, sharing a mystery that desperately needs to be solved. As Analise begins to unravel the secret at the heart of it all, she soon comes to the attention of Ezra, a former Unseen who now fights for a gangster. Tasked with finding a death witch for the Church, Analise has just become Ezra’s prey. But as the mystery deepens, can Ezra & Analise find a way to work with each other? Can they save a city shrouded in smog & death? Or will their emotions prove the downfall of everyone?
This paranormal romance is a blueprint for how to create a tragic heroine with a backbone; death & an alcohol dependency are just two of the things Analise must contend with, but she does it. And I’m telling you right now, you cannot read a story by this author without witnessing the empowerment of women. Of course I’m a huge fan of that!
Within A City of Smoke and Demons, we’re warned to never get comfortable. We’re told, time & time again, that things will get worse before they get better. And I can promise you’ll be sitting on the edge of your seat, muttering to yourself, by the end of this instalment! This gaslamp fantasy claws at the heart with its intricate storyline, found family & forced proximity...
Want to know more? You can read my full review here: https://www.immersedinbooks.com/a-cit...
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