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My Soul For A Donut
He owns her soul … but she’s stealing his heart.
Satan Junior Lucifer, reluctant Crown Prince of Hell, has a lot on his shoulders. In the face of a soul famine, his father the King has tasked him with finding a way to lure more souls to Hell.
With the help of his Hell Hounds, he invents a devious new way of tricking humans into selling their soul for whatever frivolous thing their heart desires, under the assumption that they can earn it back in four payments.
But before he can present his ground-breaking idea to Daddy, he really should test it out on an unwitting human … and he’s got his eye on one in particular …
***
Jemma Bliss, volunteer art therapist and cosplay crocheter to the local ferret population, enjoys the simple things in life. A ride-or-die bestie, a bookshelf of monster romance novels, and indulging in a gluten free donut after a hard day’s work running her market stall.
But when a giant, smirking, annoyingly sexy man purchases every last donut on a particularly stressful Saturday—and won’t even share a single one with her—Jemma goes home alone to drown her sorrows.
One too many wines, some very odd text messages, and suddenly Jemma finds her soul is the property of the son of Satan … and she’s caught up in a battle to win it back from him.
Her plan? Well, the devil seems quite enraptured by her, so maybe she could take a leaf out of her monster books, and shag her way out of this little pickle she’s found herself in?
As long as pesky feelings don’t get in the way, that is …
Satan Junior Lucifer, reluctant Crown Prince of Hell, has a lot on his shoulders. In the face of a soul famine, his father the King has tasked him with finding a way to lure more souls to Hell.
With the help of his Hell Hounds, he invents a devious new way of tricking humans into selling their soul for whatever frivolous thing their heart desires, under the assumption that they can earn it back in four payments.
But before he can present his ground-breaking idea to Daddy, he really should test it out on an unwitting human … and he’s got his eye on one in particular …
***
Jemma Bliss, volunteer art therapist and cosplay crocheter to the local ferret population, enjoys the simple things in life. A ride-or-die bestie, a bookshelf of monster romance novels, and indulging in a gluten free donut after a hard day’s work running her market stall.
But when a giant, smirking, annoyingly sexy man purchases every last donut on a particularly stressful Saturday—and won’t even share a single one with her—Jemma goes home alone to drown her sorrows.
One too many wines, some very odd text messages, and suddenly Jemma finds her soul is the property of the son of Satan … and she’s caught up in a battle to win it back from him.
Her plan? Well, the devil seems quite enraptured by her, so maybe she could take a leaf out of her monster books, and shag her way out of this little pickle she’s found herself in?
As long as pesky feelings don’t get in the way, that is …
498 pages, Paperback
First published April 29, 2025
99 people are currently reading
375 people want to read
About the author
Layla Pine
10 books178 followersLayla has been writing stories ever since she could pick up a pencil and shape words. The most memorable works of her tween and teen years included a rap version of 'Little Red Riding Hood' and an embarrassingly spicy high school camp/murder mystery (which was possibly a sign of things to come).
Layla studied Communications at Newcastle University in NSW, Australia, and worked as a buyer and marketing coordinator in the education sector, before joining her husband in the family retail business. That's still her day job (she's very lucky her boss is pretty lenient, or she'd never get any writing done).
Layla lives on an acreage in regional NSW with her husband, two rambunctious children, four mostly feral cats, and an ancient German Shepherd who still thinks he's a puppy. Oh, and some angry Plovers that swoop her every spring without fail.
Layla studied Communications at Newcastle University in NSW, Australia, and worked as a buyer and marketing coordinator in the education sector, before joining her husband in the family retail business. That's still her day job (she's very lucky her boss is pretty lenient, or she'd never get any writing done).
Layla lives on an acreage in regional NSW with her husband, two rambunctious children, four mostly feral cats, and an ancient German Shepherd who still thinks he's a puppy. Oh, and some angry Plovers that swoop her every spring without fail.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 166 reviews
April 3, 2025
I loved this book! Layla strikes again with the fantastic story filled with witty banter and delicious spice. Not to mention such a unique concept with dating the devil. I loved all of the side characters, especially the B team and all the quirky little changes to how they would refer to Home rather than Hell. Special mention to SJs 'trick' it's definitely one I'd love to experience for myself 😂🙈
November 11, 2025
A fun, quirky, gluten free paranormal romance.
“Sometimes good beings must do things that in isolation seem wicked in order to serve the greater purpose.”
I am keen to read more from Australian author Layla Pine!
“Sometimes good beings must do things that in isolation seem wicked in order to serve the greater purpose.”
I am keen to read more from Australian author Layla Pine!
April 6, 2025
I received this book as an ARC. Thank you so much to Layla Pine for trusting me with this book 😊
I signed up to ARC read this book because the cover looked fun, and I love donuts! Before diving in, I noticed the content warnings. I read them and decided to give it a go.
That said, this experience really showed me how a story can surprise and delight even if you know a bit going in. If I’d avoided this book based on the warnings alone, I would’ve missed out on something truly special.
We meet Jemma, who not only loves reading but shares a hobby I’m passionate about too! Her best friend is amazing, and there’s even a Draco fanfic reference (yes please, I’ve written loads myself!). Everything about this beginning felt like it was made for me.
The story brings heaps of humour and fluffy romcom vibes, and then, bam! We dive into something darker: the idea of losing your soul to the devil. The shift is powerful, but the way it’s written kept me hooked. There are familiar tropes, but they’re handled with such care and creativity that I just kept falling deeper in love with this story, the characters, and the world they’re in.
The B Team? ICONIC. I want to wrap them all in a big warm hug, but you’ll have to read it to understand why.
There are some spicy scenes, but honestly, I was here for the plot and the emotional journey. The ending wasn’t what I expected, but it was so satisfying.
Jemma is surrounded by people who truly see her, believe in her, and support her, especially when she needs it most. That kind of connection and loyalty hit me right in the feels.
If there’s ever a book I wish I could experience again for the first time, it’s this one. I adored every moment.
I signed up to ARC read this book because the cover looked fun, and I love donuts! Before diving in, I noticed the content warnings. I read them and decided to give it a go.
That said, this experience really showed me how a story can surprise and delight even if you know a bit going in. If I’d avoided this book based on the warnings alone, I would’ve missed out on something truly special.
We meet Jemma, who not only loves reading but shares a hobby I’m passionate about too! Her best friend is amazing, and there’s even a Draco fanfic reference (yes please, I’ve written loads myself!). Everything about this beginning felt like it was made for me.
The story brings heaps of humour and fluffy romcom vibes, and then, bam! We dive into something darker: the idea of losing your soul to the devil. The shift is powerful, but the way it’s written kept me hooked. There are familiar tropes, but they’re handled with such care and creativity that I just kept falling deeper in love with this story, the characters, and the world they’re in.
The B Team? ICONIC. I want to wrap them all in a big warm hug, but you’ll have to read it to understand why.
There are some spicy scenes, but honestly, I was here for the plot and the emotional journey. The ending wasn’t what I expected, but it was so satisfying.
Jemma is surrounded by people who truly see her, believe in her, and support her, especially when she needs it most. That kind of connection and loyalty hit me right in the feels.
If there’s ever a book I wish I could experience again for the first time, it’s this one. I adored every moment.
April 23, 2025
My Soul for a Donut by Layla Pine was such a wild, heartfelt surprise! This was my first monster romance, and I honestly didn’t expect to fall so hard for it—but here I am, emotionally wrecked in the best way.
From laugh-out-loud moments to scenes that had me genuinely tearing up, this story masterfully balances humor, heart, and heat. Layla Pine brings an incredible blend of tenderness and chaos to her characters, making them feel so real, even when they’re monstrous (literally). I came for the donuts and stayed for the feelings I didn’t know I’d have.
If you’re on the fence about monster romance, let this be your sign—go for it. You won’t regret it.
From laugh-out-loud moments to scenes that had me genuinely tearing up, this story masterfully balances humor, heart, and heat. Layla Pine brings an incredible blend of tenderness and chaos to her characters, making them feel so real, even when they’re monstrous (literally). I came for the donuts and stayed for the feelings I didn’t know I’d have.
If you’re on the fence about monster romance, let this be your sign—go for it. You won’t regret it.
May 16, 2025
There were so many elements that I loved about this book! It has humour, great friendships, solid protagonists, crochet, markets, ferrets, gluten-free doughnuts, and art, among much more. The story flows well, and the various relationships and characters are well developed. For me, the MMC stole the show, and his progression for me was the highlight of the book.
The only aspect I struggled with personally was the portrayal of the FMC as a "volunteer art therapist," despite having no formal qualifications (this was highlighted). Yes, I KNOW this is fiction, but as an art psychotherapist myself, I was uncomfortable at times with the implication that anyone can step into that role without proper training (It's not just about being paid; it's about having the education and experience required to practice safely and ethically). Fiction can certainly take creative liberties, but given how central that part of the FMC’s journey is, I wish a little more care was taken in that aspect. After all, you wouldn't call yourself a volunteer psychologist before becoming qualified as one. I think for me, it was something that stood out more because Registered Art Psychotherapists in Australia are constantly having to advocate for our profession.
All that aside, I think this is a great book that is worth the read. I want some doughnuts now 🍩
The only aspect I struggled with personally was the portrayal of the FMC as a "volunteer art therapist," despite having no formal qualifications (this was highlighted). Yes, I KNOW this is fiction, but as an art psychotherapist myself, I was uncomfortable at times with the implication that anyone can step into that role without proper training (It's not just about being paid; it's about having the education and experience required to practice safely and ethically). Fiction can certainly take creative liberties, but given how central that part of the FMC’s journey is, I wish a little more care was taken in that aspect. After all, you wouldn't call yourself a volunteer psychologist before becoming qualified as one. I think for me, it was something that stood out more because Registered Art Psychotherapists in Australia are constantly having to advocate for our profession.
All that aside, I think this is a great book that is worth the read. I want some doughnuts now 🍩
May 4, 2025
3⭐️2🌶️
This was fun and good for a palette cleanser read. I do think it was way too long for what it is (it’s a monster romance, not a fantasy epic), and the overuse of the FMC’s nickname bothered me.
This was fun and good for a palette cleanser read. I do think it was way too long for what it is (it’s a monster romance, not a fantasy epic), and the overuse of the FMC’s nickname bothered me.
April 27, 2025
A devilishly delectable morsel!
I honestly wish I could read it for the first time again.
Funny and spicy in all the right ways.
I honestly wish I could read it for the first time again.
Funny and spicy in all the right ways.
May 13, 2025
Fun little read!
July 5, 2025
This book is a 500 page monster romance with major pacing issues, a discursive plot and unbearably cringey dialogue.
April 27, 2025
I wasn’t sure what to expect going in to this but I was excited nonetheless, and what I found did not disappoint.
If you are looking for a rom-com monster-esque romance then this is for you!
If you are looking for a rom-com monster-esque romance then this is for you!
July 21, 2025
3.5 Stars
I loved the premise of this as I’m sure you could make me sell my soul for a donut (probably not a gluten-free one) given I had enough of a craving. There was also plenty about this that I liked in the way that the above and below worlds were framed, but as a whole the story didn’t work for me personally.
SJ was cool, and I liked the supporting cast including Joe, but I just wasn’t that much of a fan of Jemma. She did get better as the story went on but I just found her a bit frustratingly immature at points - like the ferret costumes were her sole source of income? Really? I also think she could have benefited from therapy, possibly with her brother and solo.
I also just am so curious about how popular ferrets actually are as pets - I’m sure this was set in a Australia (because that’s where Layla Pine is from like me) and half the states don’t actually permit ferrets as pets. I’ve met one person my whole life who’s had a ferret. But then, considering this is a fantasy story it’s probably not that important.
I’m glad they addressed the immortality factor at the end (kind of) but the romance was the part that worked the least for me. Totally just my personal preferences though (I’m not generally a monster lover). This is really a love letter to the monster lovers.
I loved the premise of this as I’m sure you could make me sell my soul for a donut (probably not a gluten-free one) given I had enough of a craving. There was also plenty about this that I liked in the way that the above and below worlds were framed, but as a whole the story didn’t work for me personally.
SJ was cool, and I liked the supporting cast including Joe, but I just wasn’t that much of a fan of Jemma. She did get better as the story went on but I just found her a bit frustratingly immature at points - like the ferret costumes were her sole source of income? Really? I also think she could have benefited from therapy, possibly with her brother and solo.
I also just am so curious about how popular ferrets actually are as pets - I’m sure this was set in a Australia (because that’s where Layla Pine is from like me) and half the states don’t actually permit ferrets as pets. I’ve met one person my whole life who’s had a ferret. But then, considering this is a fantasy story it’s probably not that important.
I’m glad they addressed the immortality factor at the end (kind of) but the romance was the part that worked the least for me. Totally just my personal preferences though (I’m not generally a monster lover). This is really a love letter to the monster lovers.
August 18, 2025
So I'm a monster/devil/demon/anything that isnt human smüt virgin if that makes sense. I don't know what you call the genre. Monster smüt?😅 Anyway, this is the first book I have read where there was a devil with a big slong and let me tell you, for anyone that hasn't dipped your toes into Monster Smüt? (Am i getting the name right? Please educate me!) before, this is a great starting point.
Our girl Jemma sells her soul for a box of gluten free donuts and my god 🥵 I have never wanted to sell my soul for some donuts so badly in my life as well if it comes with a obsessed, gorgeous devil. The thoughts I had 🫢... unspeakable my friends... unspeakable.
You know whay else I done with this book I have never done before? Laugh 😂.... full belly laugh. Wit and Banter are my weak spots but the sexual tension as well was so hot and I loved it so much! The characters were just playing with each other in more ways then one 😏 and I actually wanted to see more of it just a little because I honestly thought it was great!
I really did enjoy this book so much. It was such a fun, easy read. The characters were great apart from Ratty-man and the professor (they deserve everything they get). I highly recommend it. It's on Kindle Unlimited now! Brilliant job @laylapine_author! I can not wait to read more of your books!
Our girl Jemma sells her soul for a box of gluten free donuts and my god 🥵 I have never wanted to sell my soul for some donuts so badly in my life as well if it comes with a obsessed, gorgeous devil. The thoughts I had 🫢... unspeakable my friends... unspeakable.
You know whay else I done with this book I have never done before? Laugh 😂.... full belly laugh. Wit and Banter are my weak spots but the sexual tension as well was so hot and I loved it so much! The characters were just playing with each other in more ways then one 😏 and I actually wanted to see more of it just a little because I honestly thought it was great!
I really did enjoy this book so much. It was such a fun, easy read. The characters were great apart from Ratty-man and the professor (they deserve everything they get). I highly recommend it. It's on Kindle Unlimited now! Brilliant job @laylapine_author! I can not wait to read more of your books!
April 17, 2025
Ferret costume maker slash art therapist volunteer, Jemma finds herself accidentally selling her soul to the son of Satan. Jemma, our monster smut & Draco Malfoy fanfiction lover FMC needs to find her way out of this situation - but feelings make this more complicated. A slow burn, enemies to lovers romance, reimagines the way Heaven and Hell are run. With tyrannical gods, semi-evil plans, and of course, all the gluten free donuts you want, this book will make you laugh and make you feel like you want to shake all the main characters. It is first and foremost a romance novel, and the back plot is definitely designed around standard romance tropes. But it’s fun, easy and light.
I would recommend checking triggers.
Other tropes: cute nicknames, he falls first, 3rd act breakup, slow burn, f with her and find out.
I would recommend checking triggers.
Other tropes: cute nicknames, he falls first, 3rd act breakup, slow burn, f with her and find out.
April 27, 2025
What fun this was to read! Who doesn’t love a FMC who is confident in who she is, with a sassy gay BFF along with her fur side kick Luci-fur the ferret.
Jemma our FMC runs a crafting Etsy store, runs a stall at markets on weekend and on Thursday’s she volunteers at the children’s oncology ward with 3 giggly little girls who bring so much fun to the story.
Satan Junior or SJ for short is our MMC and as his name denotes he is the son of Satan. He has 2 hellhound side kicks who are a bundle of laughs. He is trying to boost soul numbers to hell.
I love how this story has been brought into the 21st century with ‘Fiend Pay’ such a fun spin on things.
If you love enemies to lovers, fun side characters and an all around good time, than this book is for you!
Jemma our FMC runs a crafting Etsy store, runs a stall at markets on weekend and on Thursday’s she volunteers at the children’s oncology ward with 3 giggly little girls who bring so much fun to the story.
Satan Junior or SJ for short is our MMC and as his name denotes he is the son of Satan. He has 2 hellhound side kicks who are a bundle of laughs. He is trying to boost soul numbers to hell.
I love how this story has been brought into the 21st century with ‘Fiend Pay’ such a fun spin on things.
If you love enemies to lovers, fun side characters and an all around good time, than this book is for you!
July 9, 2025
My first Layla Pine read and I absolutely loved it!!! The banter in this book is so funny and the detail to the FMCs gluten allergy was so accurate I couldn’t help but laugh at the whole situation while also cringing for her. SJ was so adorable coming to terms with his feelings for Jemma and their spicy moments I gobbled up like it was a bowl of buttered popcorn! Aghhh where can I get my own big devil?
I am moving on to find more of Layla’s books! Oh and did I mention she’s an Australian author!!! WINNING!
I am moving on to find more of Layla’s books! Oh and did I mention she’s an Australian author!!! WINNING!
April 14, 2025
Quirky and a little different, but you know what, this was really enjoyable! Layla has a fantastic ability to set a scene perfectly and have you hooked right from the start. I enjoyed the character development, the solid plot with a nice amount of spice, even if it was monster p*Rn it was well written, and if only all men could have such a trick 😉 IYKYK
Thank you Layla for allowing me an ARC, and it just goes to show that if something is well written, you can find yourself really enjoying something that you may not have ever considered before.
Thank you Layla for allowing me an ARC, and it just goes to show that if something is well written, you can find yourself really enjoying something that you may not have ever considered before.
April 15, 2025
WHAT A RIDE! This spicey, humorous, perfectly paced and plotted storyline had me hooked!
The characters all had their own voices, personalities, challenges and growth — even the side characters which I loved.
There were little plot twists that I didn’t see coming, which contributed to the depth of the storyline, making it near impossible to put the book down!
I can officially say my Layla Pine cherry has been popped and now I need to go and read EVERYTHING she’s ever written!
The characters all had their own voices, personalities, challenges and growth — even the side characters which I loved.
There were little plot twists that I didn’t see coming, which contributed to the depth of the storyline, making it near impossible to put the book down!
I can officially say my Layla Pine cherry has been popped and now I need to go and read EVERYTHING she’s ever written!
April 5, 2025
I don’t know where to begin. This was absolutely amazing, the characters were well developed and was the setting, the storyline everything was 5stars. I loved how Luci-fer, Bub and Beezle were given page time and personality. I need to get better at reviews to get my point across about how much I loved this book.
Do check your trigger warnings because there’s a few.
Do check your trigger warnings because there’s a few.
May 15, 2025
Amazing!
This was the first book of Layla and I'm mad at myself for not reading her work sooner.
This book made me giggle and blush. I loved the MMC and MMF. Their storyline and character development were so well written.
It was hot, spicy, swoonworthy and had me hooked from page 1.
Highly highly recommend this book.
This was the first book of Layla and I'm mad at myself for not reading her work sooner.
This book made me giggle and blush. I loved the MMC and MMF. Their storyline and character development were so well written.
It was hot, spicy, swoonworthy and had me hooked from page 1.
Highly highly recommend this book.
June 17, 2025
3/5 ⭐️
I wish I liked this more, I was so ready for it after seeing the hype but meh.. I feel it could have been like half the length and lose nothing… SORRY !
I did like the heaven and hell parts, that was pretty cool, I just found it a bit lacklustre..
I wish I liked this more, I was so ready for it after seeing the hype but meh.. I feel it could have been like half the length and lose nothing… SORRY !
I did like the heaven and hell parts, that was pretty cool, I just found it a bit lacklustre..
November 7, 2025
Oh my gosh! I absolutely loved this book! This is my first book by Layla Pine and it definitely is not the last. I absolutely loved every second of this book. I wasn’t ready for it to be over. I could have ready another 500+ pages of this book and never have enough. I love this couple. The way SJ was with Jemma was melting my heart. I loved the whole thing. This was exactly what I needed and I don’t know how the next book I read is going to compare
April 13, 2025
Omg this book was amazing. SJ is the son of Satan. Jemma is a human. She likes gluten-free donuts. She is a ferret mumma. Absolutely everything about this book is 5 stars. Layla u have done it again!! Just wow well done Layla ❤️🍩😈
October 19, 2025
I LOOOOOOVED IT! I had so many moment of giggling like a school girl for cute moments! I loved the mmc and fmc so much 😭💕 I want to erase it from my brain and read it for the first time again
April 10, 2025
I was lucky to get an ARC for 'My Soul for a Donut' and let me tell you this is a delightfully quirky and surprisingly engaging read that blends the seemingly disparate worlds of small-town charm and shadowy supernatural dealings with a generous sprinkle of dark humor.
From the moment you dive in, you're swept into the peculiar life of Jemma Bliss and SJ and do not forget Beezle and Bub, whose existence takes a decidedly bizarre turn with the arrival of a tempting, soul-infused GF Donut.
The introduction of the supernatural elements feels organic, starting with a subtle unease that gradually escalates into full-blown paranormal chaos.
What truly shines in My Soul for a Donut is the witty and engaging narrative, with a dry sense of humor that permeates even the most tense or bizarre situations. The internal monologue of the Jemma is particularly enjoyable, filled with relatable anxieties and humorous observations that make her instantly likeable, even as she navigates the increasingly surreal circumstances.
The plot, while seemingly centered around a cursed (or perhaps blessed?) donut, delves into the temptation to get a taste of the blissful GF sugary goodness, but it comes with a price! Like most things in life ;)
The pacing is generally well-managed, building suspense and intrigue as the mystery of the donut and its consequences unravel. There were moments where the narrative perhaps lingered slightly on certain details, but these never detracted significantly from the overall enjoyment.
While the "dark" elements might not reach the depths of truly grim dark fantasy, there's a definite undercurrent of the sinister and the potentially dangerous, particularly as the stakes surrounding the donut and its power become clearer. Layla definitely mastered the balance of this book with the lightheartedness and humor, creating a reading experience that is both intriguing and entertaining.
Overall, My Soul for a Donut is a refreshing read. Layla Pines has crafted a story that is both bizarrely humorous and surprisingly captivating. Those chapter titles had me in fits of giggles and was a good way to start the book!
If you're looking for something unique, quirky, and thoroughly enjoyable, with a touch of the supernatural and a whole lot of heart (and possibly a sugar rush), then I highly recommend sinking your teeth into this delightful debut.
Book Tropes:
Enemies to Lovers
Monster romance
He falls first
Fake dating
Monster smut
Slow burn
Dark humour
Trigger Warnings:
Death/murder (past)
Sex that involves horns and tails
From the moment you dive in, you're swept into the peculiar life of Jemma Bliss and SJ and do not forget Beezle and Bub, whose existence takes a decidedly bizarre turn with the arrival of a tempting, soul-infused GF Donut.
The introduction of the supernatural elements feels organic, starting with a subtle unease that gradually escalates into full-blown paranormal chaos.
What truly shines in My Soul for a Donut is the witty and engaging narrative, with a dry sense of humor that permeates even the most tense or bizarre situations. The internal monologue of the Jemma is particularly enjoyable, filled with relatable anxieties and humorous observations that make her instantly likeable, even as she navigates the increasingly surreal circumstances.
The plot, while seemingly centered around a cursed (or perhaps blessed?) donut, delves into the temptation to get a taste of the blissful GF sugary goodness, but it comes with a price! Like most things in life ;)
The pacing is generally well-managed, building suspense and intrigue as the mystery of the donut and its consequences unravel. There were moments where the narrative perhaps lingered slightly on certain details, but these never detracted significantly from the overall enjoyment.
While the "dark" elements might not reach the depths of truly grim dark fantasy, there's a definite undercurrent of the sinister and the potentially dangerous, particularly as the stakes surrounding the donut and its power become clearer. Layla definitely mastered the balance of this book with the lightheartedness and humor, creating a reading experience that is both intriguing and entertaining.
Overall, My Soul for a Donut is a refreshing read. Layla Pines has crafted a story that is both bizarrely humorous and surprisingly captivating. Those chapter titles had me in fits of giggles and was a good way to start the book!
If you're looking for something unique, quirky, and thoroughly enjoyable, with a touch of the supernatural and a whole lot of heart (and possibly a sugar rush), then I highly recommend sinking your teeth into this delightful debut.
Book Tropes:
Enemies to Lovers
Monster romance
He falls first
Fake dating
Monster smut
Slow burn
Dark humour
Trigger Warnings:
Death/murder (past)
Sex that involves horns and tails
April 24, 2025
we follow our FMC Jemma Bliss as she navigates a life she was thrust into by no choice of her own. Trauma can be an overwhelming thing to overcome, whilst she is a happy and go lucky woman, with an amazing best friend, a cheeky little ferret named Luci-fer (Lucy) and a cute little crocheting business, she is only just surviving. The bills pile up, the fridge is not as full as it can be, and her weekly highlight is the girls she's helping with her art to overcome their own obstacles.
What else in her life could go wrong?
Enter a big beautiful blond hair mystery man that throws draco fan fiction vibes.
Our MMC SJ is a misunderstood monster, walking amongst humans, who also has two tiny little sidekicks, beezle and bub.
SJ has some pretty big responsibility's being next in line for the throne of his withering palace. He's found a way to save his home... but can the gentle giant go through with what needs to be done?
Layla has done a fantastic job with the character developments in this book; we are taken on a journey with our two main characters of course, but I think it's absolutely adorable that we get to see so much of the mains cute AF sidekicks, and the fact there is more than one love story happening was a great surprise.
It was a great story, and I really enjoyed it
!!TROPES!!
● Dual POV
● Age GAp
● Betrayal and Redemption
● Blackmail to love
● Enemies to lovers
● Fake Dating/Fake Relationship
● Forbidden love
● Forced Betrayal
● Grumpy/Sunshine
● Hurt/Comfort
Insta Love / Love at first
● Opposites Attract
● Secret Royalty
● Who did this to you?
● Good Vs Evil
● Hidden World
● Magic System
● Magical Creatures
● Magical Transformation
● Portal to Another REalm
● Reluctant Hero
● Dealing with Loss/ Grief
Outsider
● Self Discovery Journey
● Animal Sidekick
● Immortality
● Plot Twist
● Shapeshifters
● Unlikely Hero.
!!TRIGGERS!!
● Abandonment
● Anxiety
● Bad Debts
● Blood
● Bodily Fluids
● Cancer
● Cheating
● Confinement
● Control
● Death
● Death of a Loved One
● Decapitation
● Emotional Abuse
● Family Conflict
● Fear
● Fighting
● Forced Actions
● Gangs
Gaslightin
g
● Ghosts
● Gore
● Graphic Death
● Graphic Sex
● Guns
● Hospitalisation
● Illness
● Injury
● Medical Problems
● Mental Health Issues
● Murder
● Mutilation
● Nudity
● Physical Abuse
● PTSD
● Religious Discrimination
● Robbery
● Screaming
● Slavery
● Stabbing
● Stalking
● Threats
● Torture
● Verbal Abuse
● Victim Blaming
● Violence
● War
What else in her life could go wrong?
Enter a big beautiful blond hair mystery man that throws draco fan fiction vibes.
Our MMC SJ is a misunderstood monster, walking amongst humans, who also has two tiny little sidekicks, beezle and bub.
SJ has some pretty big responsibility's being next in line for the throne of his withering palace. He's found a way to save his home... but can the gentle giant go through with what needs to be done?
Layla has done a fantastic job with the character developments in this book; we are taken on a journey with our two main characters of course, but I think it's absolutely adorable that we get to see so much of the mains cute AF sidekicks, and the fact there is more than one love story happening was a great surprise.
It was a great story, and I really enjoyed it
!!TROPES!!
● Dual POV
● Age GAp
● Betrayal and Redemption
● Blackmail to love
● Enemies to lovers
● Fake Dating/Fake Relationship
● Forbidden love
● Forced Betrayal
● Grumpy/Sunshine
● Hurt/Comfort
Insta Love / Love at first
● Opposites Attract
● Secret Royalty
● Who did this to you?
● Good Vs Evil
● Hidden World
● Magic System
● Magical Creatures
● Magical Transformation
● Portal to Another REalm
● Reluctant Hero
● Dealing with Loss/ Grief
Outsider
● Self Discovery Journey
● Animal Sidekick
● Immortality
● Plot Twist
● Shapeshifters
● Unlikely Hero.
!!TRIGGERS!!
● Abandonment
● Anxiety
● Bad Debts
● Blood
● Bodily Fluids
● Cancer
● Cheating
● Confinement
● Control
● Death
● Death of a Loved One
● Decapitation
● Emotional Abuse
● Family Conflict
● Fear
● Fighting
● Forced Actions
● Gangs
Gaslightin
g
● Ghosts
● Gore
● Graphic Death
● Graphic Sex
● Guns
● Hospitalisation
● Illness
● Injury
● Medical Problems
● Mental Health Issues
● Murder
● Mutilation
● Nudity
● Physical Abuse
● PTSD
● Religious Discrimination
● Robbery
● Screaming
● Slavery
● Stabbing
● Stalking
● Threats
● Torture
● Verbal Abuse
● Victim Blaming
● Violence
● War
April 10, 2025
You know that moment where you read a book by a new-to-you author for the first time, and once you finish it, you immediately go and find all of their previous works because that first one was just so good?
And then, when you have finished reading their back catalogue, you wait somewhat patiently for their next one?
When each new book is released, it's like opening a Christmas present from Santa - the excitement to dive in and lose yourself in their world is immediate and overwhelming?
See, I know exactly how that feels. That happened to me when I picked up a copy of Hating Dr. Fox by Layla Pine, who was a new-to-me author, what feels like forever ago. Since then, I've read everything she has published, and couldn't wait to get my hands on this one.
The story of Jemma Bliss and Satan Junior had me feeling so many emotions, and desperately wanting to hug the B Team so hard. The B Team, you ask? I'll let you figure that out while you read the book.
And badness, did she deliver with this one!
I love the chemistry between the two MCs and the emotional attachment that Jemma has with her friends, her customers, her ferret, and especially with the three precious young, giggle-filled girls in her life. She and her pet ferret, Luci-Fur, are loved by so many people.
Then there's Satan Junior who is beginning to learn so much about the human realm, but also about himself. His relationship with his hellhounds is just priceless. I loved every bit of it.
Everything about this book was magnificent and it has already been added to my re-read list for later.
Do I want to tell you more? Yes, yes I do. Will I though? Nope. You are going to have to pick up a copy for yourself and devour it like I did.
Check the trigger warnings before you start, as there are a few.
5 cinnamon dusted, gluten-free stars ⭐️
Tropes: Enemies to lovers, devil / human, heaven vs underworld, he falls first, monster romance, paranormal romance, paranormal romcom, fake dating, dual POV, spice, demons, shapeshifters.
Triggers: kidnapping, murder (in past), death of parents (in past), psychological torture, confinement, mild violence, mild gore, fictionalised and alternative interpretation of the Christian concepts of God, Satan, Heaven and Hell, vocal threats, vomit and bowel movements, punishments, sex involving tails & horns.
And then, when you have finished reading their back catalogue, you wait somewhat patiently for their next one?
When each new book is released, it's like opening a Christmas present from Santa - the excitement to dive in and lose yourself in their world is immediate and overwhelming?
See, I know exactly how that feels. That happened to me when I picked up a copy of Hating Dr. Fox by Layla Pine, who was a new-to-me author, what feels like forever ago. Since then, I've read everything she has published, and couldn't wait to get my hands on this one.
The story of Jemma Bliss and Satan Junior had me feeling so many emotions, and desperately wanting to hug the B Team so hard. The B Team, you ask? I'll let you figure that out while you read the book.
And badness, did she deliver with this one!
I love the chemistry between the two MCs and the emotional attachment that Jemma has with her friends, her customers, her ferret, and especially with the three precious young, giggle-filled girls in her life. She and her pet ferret, Luci-Fur, are loved by so many people.
Then there's Satan Junior who is beginning to learn so much about the human realm, but also about himself. His relationship with his hellhounds is just priceless. I loved every bit of it.
Everything about this book was magnificent and it has already been added to my re-read list for later.
Do I want to tell you more? Yes, yes I do. Will I though? Nope. You are going to have to pick up a copy for yourself and devour it like I did.
Check the trigger warnings before you start, as there are a few.
5 cinnamon dusted, gluten-free stars ⭐️
Tropes: Enemies to lovers, devil / human, heaven vs underworld, he falls first, monster romance, paranormal romance, paranormal romcom, fake dating, dual POV, spice, demons, shapeshifters.
Triggers: kidnapping, murder (in past), death of parents (in past), psychological torture, confinement, mild violence, mild gore, fictionalised and alternative interpretation of the Christian concepts of God, Satan, Heaven and Hell, vocal threats, vomit and bowel movements, punishments, sex involving tails & horns.
April 14, 2025
Tropes:
- enemies to lovers
-he falls first
-forbidden love
-found family
-fake dating
-quirky FMC
-touch her and die (aka f with her and find out)
-ferrets in cosplay 😂
My soul for a doughnut is pure genius. Only Layla can come up with a concept as random as AfterPaying your soul for a box of gluten free doughnuts, and then turn it into a funny, beautiful, emotional, and quirky love story between a ferret mum and the crown prince of hell.
As usual Laylas writing is incredible, she gets you hooked from the first word and holds your attention until the very end.
The characters are relatable and loveable (yes, even Satan Junior). Jemma is so unapologetically herself, even in the face of everything she’s been through. She’s quirky, funny, kind, loving, and resilient. SJ is the biggest marshmallow you’ll ever meet, his inner battle between what is expected of him and what he feels is the right thing to do is heartwarming and heartbreaking at the same time. Anyone who has had to fight through the expectations of others to find who they really are will empathise deeply with SJ’s struggles.
The side characters might be some of my favourite (who would have thought that two ferret hell-hounds would make me laugh and cry as much as Beezle and Bub did?!) I don’t know how she manages to pull these characters out of her brain but Layla seems to have a never ending supply of loveable side characters stored up there.
There are some really heavy topics discussed in MSFAD (family loss, PTSD, and childhood cancer to name a few), and (again) as usual Layla approaches each topic with a level of understanding and care that has obviously come from careful research. You can tell she has done her due diligence as an author to ensure that she is doing each topic justice, and not misrepresenting people’s experiences.
The spice in MSFAD was amazing, this is one for the monster romance girlies! The dynamic between Jemma and SJ, and SJ’s physical attributes were elements I hadn’t seen Layla work with before this. For something that was clearly new for her she really nailed it, I loved every second! My favourite thing about Layla’s spicy writing is that she doesn’t use language that makes me cringe and takes me out of the scene.
As you can tell, this was an easy five star read for me! I love Layla’s writing and I will recommend her to anyone who will listen until my last breath!
- enemies to lovers
-he falls first
-forbidden love
-found family
-fake dating
-quirky FMC
-touch her and die (aka f with her and find out)
-ferrets in cosplay 😂
My soul for a doughnut is pure genius. Only Layla can come up with a concept as random as AfterPaying your soul for a box of gluten free doughnuts, and then turn it into a funny, beautiful, emotional, and quirky love story between a ferret mum and the crown prince of hell.
As usual Laylas writing is incredible, she gets you hooked from the first word and holds your attention until the very end.
The characters are relatable and loveable (yes, even Satan Junior). Jemma is so unapologetically herself, even in the face of everything she’s been through. She’s quirky, funny, kind, loving, and resilient. SJ is the biggest marshmallow you’ll ever meet, his inner battle between what is expected of him and what he feels is the right thing to do is heartwarming and heartbreaking at the same time. Anyone who has had to fight through the expectations of others to find who they really are will empathise deeply with SJ’s struggles.
The side characters might be some of my favourite (who would have thought that two ferret hell-hounds would make me laugh and cry as much as Beezle and Bub did?!) I don’t know how she manages to pull these characters out of her brain but Layla seems to have a never ending supply of loveable side characters stored up there.
There are some really heavy topics discussed in MSFAD (family loss, PTSD, and childhood cancer to name a few), and (again) as usual Layla approaches each topic with a level of understanding and care that has obviously come from careful research. You can tell she has done her due diligence as an author to ensure that she is doing each topic justice, and not misrepresenting people’s experiences.
The spice in MSFAD was amazing, this is one for the monster romance girlies! The dynamic between Jemma and SJ, and SJ’s physical attributes were elements I hadn’t seen Layla work with before this. For something that was clearly new for her she really nailed it, I loved every second! My favourite thing about Layla’s spicy writing is that she doesn’t use language that makes me cringe and takes me out of the scene.
As you can tell, this was an easy five star read for me! I love Layla’s writing and I will recommend her to anyone who will listen until my last breath!
April 17, 2025
•ARC REVIEW • Thank you so much Layla for the opportunity to read this awesome book!
Demons are starving. There's barely enough souls arriving in Hell to sustain them. The Devil has become lazy and complacent. His son is tasked with finding the demons sustenance. Satan Jr develops a Soul Token, a way of trapping a piece of a human soul and harvesting their misery for the demons to feed on, until that human dies and their entire soul becomes the property of Hell... unless they can win it back by completing 4 hellish tasks.
Jemma Bliss is a feisty, creative 28 year old who volunteers in the children's cancer ward and makes crochet costumes for ferrets. She sells her creations at local markets and loves the gluten-free donuts available at another stall. After a particularly busy day, she rushes to grab her donut fix, desperate for a hit of warm, cinnamony goodness, but someone has completely cleaned them out. 80 donuts. All sold to one guy. A tall, gorgeous 'fan-fiction Draco Malfoy' guy.
Later that evening, drunk on cask wine and losing her takeaway thai to the living room rug, she wishes she had just one donut... or six. A mysterious text message offers to solve her problem...
I loved this read. If you're after a fun paranormal Rom-Com with big feelings, a devilish devil and a great female lead, look no further! I lost count of how many times I found myself smirking. There's great back-and-forth between Jemma and SJ, an adorable ferret named Luci-Fur, two shape-shifting hell hounds, a judgemental brother, a hellish sister, an asshole ex and a lovable gay best friend. There's even a disastrous date with too much gluten. Jem is a big fan of Monster romance and I love that she calls out all the tropes throughout their budding relationship - and also gives SJ a smutty book to study.
To sum up in the words of Jems BFF Ezra:
"Jemma's blondie is the son of Satan and they met when she accidentally bargained her soul for a box of donuts and now she has to do these tasks to try and win it back but I think they're both actually falling in love for real and just neither of them is prepared to admit it to the other, but Jemma still has to win her soul back from him and we have to help her!"
Demons are starving. There's barely enough souls arriving in Hell to sustain them. The Devil has become lazy and complacent. His son is tasked with finding the demons sustenance. Satan Jr develops a Soul Token, a way of trapping a piece of a human soul and harvesting their misery for the demons to feed on, until that human dies and their entire soul becomes the property of Hell... unless they can win it back by completing 4 hellish tasks.
Jemma Bliss is a feisty, creative 28 year old who volunteers in the children's cancer ward and makes crochet costumes for ferrets. She sells her creations at local markets and loves the gluten-free donuts available at another stall. After a particularly busy day, she rushes to grab her donut fix, desperate for a hit of warm, cinnamony goodness, but someone has completely cleaned them out. 80 donuts. All sold to one guy. A tall, gorgeous 'fan-fiction Draco Malfoy' guy.
Later that evening, drunk on cask wine and losing her takeaway thai to the living room rug, she wishes she had just one donut... or six. A mysterious text message offers to solve her problem...
I loved this read. If you're after a fun paranormal Rom-Com with big feelings, a devilish devil and a great female lead, look no further! I lost count of how many times I found myself smirking. There's great back-and-forth between Jemma and SJ, an adorable ferret named Luci-Fur, two shape-shifting hell hounds, a judgemental brother, a hellish sister, an asshole ex and a lovable gay best friend. There's even a disastrous date with too much gluten. Jem is a big fan of Monster romance and I love that she calls out all the tropes throughout their budding relationship - and also gives SJ a smutty book to study.
To sum up in the words of Jems BFF Ezra:
"Jemma's blondie is the son of Satan and they met when she accidentally bargained her soul for a box of donuts and now she has to do these tasks to try and win it back but I think they're both actually falling in love for real and just neither of them is prepared to admit it to the other, but Jemma still has to win her soul back from him and we have to help her!"
May 20, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - 5 Star Rating
Multi First Person POV (Gemma & )
Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Age Rating: 18+
🖤 𝓻𝓮𝓿𝓲𝓮𝔀 🖤
This was a sweet and spicy perfect little slow-burn introduction for beginners wanting to start reading some monster smut. It’s adorable. It’s sexy. It’s a cute little romcom that dives into a darker edge of losing your soul to the devil. Layla Pine writes characters that you sympathize with and grow attached to throughout the story. If you were ever interested in getting into a little monster smut, this is the perfect way to edge yourself into the spice with a plot that will stay with you long after you reach the end.
🖤 𝓹𝓵𝓸𝓽 🖤
Gemma loves to read romance and create unique costumes for her loving pet ferret, Lucy-fer. She runs an Etsy-type craft store, runs a space at the markets, and volunteers at the local children’s oncology ward. Satan Junior is a little misunderstood as he is producing new ideas to take more human souls and tells his father about his plans in the human world, but wants to gather data before explaining his full length plan. But after a night of drinking, Gemma accidentally summons him and signs away her soul. In order to retrieve it back, she must go through certain tasks aka dates with him in this cozy little monster romance. I absolutely devoured this book! It had the right amount of plot with right amount of spice.
🖤 𝓬𝓱𝓪𝓻𝓪𝓬𝓽𝓮𝓻𝓼 🖤
Jemma Bliss is a gluten-free loving donut eater/ferret companion who is just so innocently cute. Satan Junior is the son of Satan who is trying his best to impress his father. And don’t even get me started on the infamous creatures in this book. Little Lucy-fer the most cutest ferret. Then there’s Beezle and Bub, SJs little hounds that are his greatest companions.
🖤 𝓽𝓻𝓸𝓹𝓮𝓼 🖤
🖤 slow burn
🖤 enemies to lovers
🖤 monster smut intro
🖤 ferrets in cosplay
🖤 fake dating
🖤 𝓬𝓸𝓷𝓬𝓵𝓾𝓼𝓲𝓸𝓷 🖤
This is the perfect combination of cute romcom and monster romance. Because I was so indulged in this book, I went back to my kindle and started adding other titles by Pine because I needed to know if they were all going to be this good! This story had me going through all the emotions and if you haven’t already added this to your TBR, you should do it immediately.
Multi First Person POV (Gemma & )
Spice Level: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Age Rating: 18+
🖤 𝓻𝓮𝓿𝓲𝓮𝔀 🖤
This was a sweet and spicy perfect little slow-burn introduction for beginners wanting to start reading some monster smut. It’s adorable. It’s sexy. It’s a cute little romcom that dives into a darker edge of losing your soul to the devil. Layla Pine writes characters that you sympathize with and grow attached to throughout the story. If you were ever interested in getting into a little monster smut, this is the perfect way to edge yourself into the spice with a plot that will stay with you long after you reach the end.
🖤 𝓹𝓵𝓸𝓽 🖤
Gemma loves to read romance and create unique costumes for her loving pet ferret, Lucy-fer. She runs an Etsy-type craft store, runs a space at the markets, and volunteers at the local children’s oncology ward. Satan Junior is a little misunderstood as he is producing new ideas to take more human souls and tells his father about his plans in the human world, but wants to gather data before explaining his full length plan. But after a night of drinking, Gemma accidentally summons him and signs away her soul. In order to retrieve it back, she must go through certain tasks aka dates with him in this cozy little monster romance. I absolutely devoured this book! It had the right amount of plot with right amount of spice.
🖤 𝓬𝓱𝓪𝓻𝓪𝓬𝓽𝓮𝓻𝓼 🖤
Jemma Bliss is a gluten-free loving donut eater/ferret companion who is just so innocently cute. Satan Junior is the son of Satan who is trying his best to impress his father. And don’t even get me started on the infamous creatures in this book. Little Lucy-fer the most cutest ferret. Then there’s Beezle and Bub, SJs little hounds that are his greatest companions.
🖤 𝓽𝓻𝓸𝓹𝓮𝓼 🖤
🖤 slow burn
🖤 enemies to lovers
🖤 monster smut intro
🖤 ferrets in cosplay
🖤 fake dating
🖤 𝓬𝓸𝓷𝓬𝓵𝓾𝓼𝓲𝓸𝓷 🖤
This is the perfect combination of cute romcom and monster romance. Because I was so indulged in this book, I went back to my kindle and started adding other titles by Pine because I needed to know if they were all going to be this good! This story had me going through all the emotions and if you haven’t already added this to your TBR, you should do it immediately.
April 28, 2025
A Devilishly Delightful Ride! 🍩🔥
He owns her soul … But she’s stealing his heart.
This quirky, steamy paranormal rom-com absolutely delivered everything I hoped for and more! As a monster romance lover, I was immediately hooked by the premise, and this story was the perfect light, hilarious, and spicy escape I didn't know I needed.
We meet Satan Junior Lucifer (yes, that Lucifer), the reluctant Crown Prince of Hell, who’s under immense pressure from Daddy Dearest to solve a soul famine. His solution? A devilish version of Afterpay where humans "sell" their souls for a frivolous wish... and then have to complete four mysterious tasks to earn it back. Genius, right? But first, he needs a guinea pig to test his idea — and his sights land on one unsuspecting, cinnamon-roll-hearted human.
Enter Jemma Bliss: volunteer art therapist, ferret cosplay crocheter, and monster romance reader extraordinaire. She’s living her best cozy life — until a devastating encounter with a smirking, giant, unfairly hot man who buys every last donut at her local market stall (rude). Cue a few too many wines, some extremely questionable texting, and suddenly... Jemma’s soul is in the devil's hands.
But Jemma has a plan: if Lucifer is so smitten with her, maybe she can seduce her way out of this pickle... assuming, of course, that her heart doesn't get involved.
This book leans into all the romance tropes we love — enemies to lovers, slow-burn tension, fake dating, and even the hilarious dynamic of a heroine who schools the son of Satan in the art of monster romance. It’s quirky, cozy, and packed full of nerdy goodness like crochet, cosplay, and a strong friendship vibe.
First and foremost a romance, the backplot is fun and creative without weighing down the story. It's light, funny, and just the right amount of spicy — perfect for readers looking for something playful and heartwarming with a side of devilish charm.
If you’re looking for a story that makes you laugh, blush, and root for a crocheting, donut-loving heroine to seduce the literal son of Satan, this one’s for you.
He owns her soul … But she’s stealing his heart.
This quirky, steamy paranormal rom-com absolutely delivered everything I hoped for and more! As a monster romance lover, I was immediately hooked by the premise, and this story was the perfect light, hilarious, and spicy escape I didn't know I needed.
We meet Satan Junior Lucifer (yes, that Lucifer), the reluctant Crown Prince of Hell, who’s under immense pressure from Daddy Dearest to solve a soul famine. His solution? A devilish version of Afterpay where humans "sell" their souls for a frivolous wish... and then have to complete four mysterious tasks to earn it back. Genius, right? But first, he needs a guinea pig to test his idea — and his sights land on one unsuspecting, cinnamon-roll-hearted human.
Enter Jemma Bliss: volunteer art therapist, ferret cosplay crocheter, and monster romance reader extraordinaire. She’s living her best cozy life — until a devastating encounter with a smirking, giant, unfairly hot man who buys every last donut at her local market stall (rude). Cue a few too many wines, some extremely questionable texting, and suddenly... Jemma’s soul is in the devil's hands.
But Jemma has a plan: if Lucifer is so smitten with her, maybe she can seduce her way out of this pickle... assuming, of course, that her heart doesn't get involved.
This book leans into all the romance tropes we love — enemies to lovers, slow-burn tension, fake dating, and even the hilarious dynamic of a heroine who schools the son of Satan in the art of monster romance. It’s quirky, cozy, and packed full of nerdy goodness like crochet, cosplay, and a strong friendship vibe.
First and foremost a romance, the backplot is fun and creative without weighing down the story. It's light, funny, and just the right amount of spicy — perfect for readers looking for something playful and heartwarming with a side of devilish charm.
If you’re looking for a story that makes you laugh, blush, and root for a crocheting, donut-loving heroine to seduce the literal son of Satan, this one’s for you.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 166 reviews