The Devil Likes It Here

by Elias Khalil

Lily and Mateo are settling into a new house but to pay off his debt to the Devil — Theo can't let that happen.

When Theo died, he found he'd accidentally sold his soul during a drunken night out and now he owes the Devil a favor. The job? Haunt a house until it's empty. Simple enough, except Theo's not exactly demon material. With only an absent coach for guidance, he fumbles through the job — especially since he starts to like the new homeowners. Turns out, even a friendly ghost is still a demon with a deadline.
Mateo and Lily are trying to build a future. After a big career change, they've moved into Lily's quiet hometown, hoping to settle down. But the house has other plans. Lights flicker. Doors open. The coffee machine turns on by itself. And Lily's the only one who notices — or believes anything's wrong. Because how can you feel safe, let alone happy, when your home doesn't feel like your own?

150 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 23, 2025

Reviews

[Léa Lombard · Rating 3 out of 5]

A very original idea that really surprised me. The author imagines what a “deal with the devil” might actually involve: Theo, newly arrived in hell, is assigned to the “haunting section” and tasked with emptying a house by terrifying its occupants. The concept of a ghost just starting out, clumsy in his new role yet still deeply human in his emotions, is genuinely interesting.

I enjoyed the blend of dark humor and tragedy, and the way Theo, despite his infernal mission, grows attached to Lily and Matteo. His moral conflict gives the story a real depth, and the ending leaves a bittersweet but memorable impression.

However, the pacing sometimes feels too rushed: certain events unfold quickly, without giving the story or the emotions enough room to fully develop. Some dialogues also felt a bit empty, without adding much to the narrative. I also noticed a small error (Maria instead of Lily, page 61), though it doesn’t hinder understanding.

Overall, a creative and promising concept that could have benefited from more development. Still, it was a one-sitting read, with a fluent writing style that makes it easy and enjoyable to get through.

[JulieAnn Crane · Rating 4 out of 5]

The premise of this book hooked me right away - a demon meant to haunt a home, until he realizes he’s fallen for the couple who lives there. Theo is a great character, and I enjoyed following him through desperation, frustration, and love. There were hillarious moments and some touching ones too. The author has a way of building the story that kept me engaged from start to finish.

The one thing I would have enjoyed is more detail and longer time spent in certain areas. We get amazing world building (hell and it’s hierarchies), fabulous emotional toggles from Theo, and really interesting side interactions (like Theo with a young child). Spending a bit more time in these areas would have added more depth to the story and the characters.

Overall, this book is one I would highly recommend for its fresh premise and engaging story. The ending takes a risky turn that won’t work for everyone, but for me it was a fitting conclusion worked beautifully.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Kim · Rating 3 out of 5]

If you're looking for a novel with a truly unique premise and don't mind a story that sacrifices some depth for broad appeal, then The Devil Likes it Here by Elias Khalil might be for you. However, if you're seeking a more fleshed-out world and thoroughly explored characters, you might find yourself wanting more substance from this otherwise promising read.

[Dan Mckeithan · Rating 3 out of 5]

An engaging story with an original premise. Elias introduces us to Theo, who must haunt a house. But what happens when he falls for the people in it? The story moves you but feels like it needs more meat on it's bones. If it was more drawn out, the tale would have been more powerful. I loved the idea and Theo is spot on as a specter.