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Trick or Tempt Me: A spicy demon halloween novella
Trick or Tempt A Wickedly Spicy Demon Novella for Halloween Night.
What if your favorite fictional man stepped out of the pages and knocked on your door at midnight?
Aurora never believed in monsters or miracles. But on Halloween night, while battling the flu and her noisy upstairs neighbors, a knock at the door changes everything.
He stands six feet of sin wrapped in leather, with glowing horns, a carved jack-o’-lantern grin, and a voice that sounds like temptation itself. Behind him flickers another world, it's a realm of haunted pumpkins, black candles, and shadows that whisper her name.
Who is he? A trick? A fantasy? Or the devil she’s been waiting for?
Tonight, Aurora will learn that not all nightmares want to scare you…
Some just want to worship you.
A wickedly hot, darkly funny Halloween novella about temptation, fantasy, and one unforgettable night with the demon of your dreams.
P.S. you probably won't be the same with Pumpkin Spice Latte after reading this ;)
THIS BOOK CONTAINS MATURE CONTENT. NOT SUITABLE FOR YOUNGER READERS.
This novella can be read as standalone.
What if your favorite fictional man stepped out of the pages and knocked on your door at midnight?
Aurora never believed in monsters or miracles. But on Halloween night, while battling the flu and her noisy upstairs neighbors, a knock at the door changes everything.
He stands six feet of sin wrapped in leather, with glowing horns, a carved jack-o’-lantern grin, and a voice that sounds like temptation itself. Behind him flickers another world, it's a realm of haunted pumpkins, black candles, and shadows that whisper her name.
Who is he? A trick? A fantasy? Or the devil she’s been waiting for?
Tonight, Aurora will learn that not all nightmares want to scare you…
Some just want to worship you.
A wickedly hot, darkly funny Halloween novella about temptation, fantasy, and one unforgettable night with the demon of your dreams.
P.S. you probably won't be the same with Pumpkin Spice Latte after reading this ;)
THIS BOOK CONTAINS MATURE CONTENT. NOT SUITABLE FOR YOUNGER READERS.
This novella can be read as standalone.
122 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 22, 2025
About the author
Dari A. Malaunt
19 books107 followersDari A. Malaunt writes fantasy and romance that blur the line between light and darkness.
Her stories explore love, power, and redemption through characters shaped by their inner battles, some born from the darkest corners of the soul, others reaching for something softer. No matter the world, she writes with intention: to make you feel, to make you question, and to leave a mark that doesn’t fade with the final page.
She is the author of the "Horns Unveiled" romantasy duology, "Unrequited Love" dark romance trilogy, "Divine Destinies" dark romantasy series, "Worshipped by Darkness" paranormal romance series, and "Blades & Hearts" sports romance.
When she’s not writing, she’s learning, evolving, and chasing the next story that refuses to be forgotten.
To find out more, follow @dariamalaunt on Instagram and @dariamalauntwrites on TikTok.
Her stories explore love, power, and redemption through characters shaped by their inner battles, some born from the darkest corners of the soul, others reaching for something softer. No matter the world, she writes with intention: to make you feel, to make you question, and to leave a mark that doesn’t fade with the final page.
She is the author of the "Horns Unveiled" romantasy duology, "Unrequited Love" dark romance trilogy, "Divine Destinies" dark romantasy series, "Worshipped by Darkness" paranormal romance series, and "Blades & Hearts" sports romance.
When she’s not writing, she’s learning, evolving, and chasing the next story that refuses to be forgotten.
To find out more, follow @dariamalaunt on Instagram and @dariamalauntwrites on TikTok.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 100 reviews
October 21, 2025
I've finished reading 'Trick or Tempt me' written by Dari A. Malaunt. This is a spicy demon Halloween novella in the same world as 'Where the Dark Knelt'.
"Trick you or tempt you, Kitten."
I love Dari's writing and I was very curious about this "light and fun story" as she said herself. It's very refreshing and it's kinda like what she normally writes, but also very casual and I loved it.
"Was it strange to flirt dangerously with a stranger like this?"
What would you do if your perfect fictional man came to life? Aurora the FMC of this story gets to experience it. Aurora is a human living a mediocre life. And her perfect man? That's Shai a demon being whatever she wants him to be. Will Aurora live every dark romance readers dream?
"This is what you've wanted for so long, in your wet dreams, right, baby? I can fulfill them all -- every fantasy."
This story is fast paced and is indeed a novella, but I don't feel like it misses something. Even though it's fast and short, it's actually a complete and fun story to read. Although it doesn't feel like I missed something, I definitely wouldn't have minded to read more of Shai and Aurora, cause I love them.
"I'm a girl who reads dark romance and all this book p*rn, so trust me, you'll be the one who's shocked by my fantasies."
I can't say anything other than that this is a great story to read around Halloween. I enjoyed it very much and I'm looking forward to the next story in this world. I give it five stars.
"Trick you or tempt you, Kitten."
I love Dari's writing and I was very curious about this "light and fun story" as she said herself. It's very refreshing and it's kinda like what she normally writes, but also very casual and I loved it.
"Was it strange to flirt dangerously with a stranger like this?"
What would you do if your perfect fictional man came to life? Aurora the FMC of this story gets to experience it. Aurora is a human living a mediocre life. And her perfect man? That's Shai a demon being whatever she wants him to be. Will Aurora live every dark romance readers dream?
"This is what you've wanted for so long, in your wet dreams, right, baby? I can fulfill them all -- every fantasy."
This story is fast paced and is indeed a novella, but I don't feel like it misses something. Even though it's fast and short, it's actually a complete and fun story to read. Although it doesn't feel like I missed something, I definitely wouldn't have minded to read more of Shai and Aurora, cause I love them.
"I'm a girl who reads dark romance and all this book p*rn, so trust me, you'll be the one who's shocked by my fantasies."
I can't say anything other than that this is a great story to read around Halloween. I enjoyed it very much and I'm looking forward to the next story in this world. I give it five stars.
October 18, 2025
Ok, while the book is short and leans heavily on fantasy and spice, it’s not meant to be a deep character study or complex narrative. Instead, it delivers EXACTLY what the author promised: a YUMMY dark, seductive Halloween treat. And this is not your average paranormal romance. It’s unapologetically steamy. We already know Dari doesn’t shy away from spice, making it ideal for fans of spicy reads. As a novella, it’s a fast read—perfect for a one-night indulgence.
October 14, 2025
HAPPY RELEASE DAY!
UPD. I JUST SAW THE ART AND WOW, DARI, YOU DID SO WELL BY DRAWING THE CHARACTERS!
Seriously, if you have not read it, please do! It's available now on KU and Kindle! And if you leave both reviews on GR and AMAZON, she's gonna send you an EXCLUSIVE SPICY ART! OH GOSH! THAT MAKES MY REVIEW MILLION STARS NOW, YEAH, I SAID IT!
Okay, so to the review we go!!!!!!!!!
The author was so right about thus book in the description! Because now I will never look at a pumpkin spice latte the same way again. After reading this, I’m officially obsessed and craving more. It’s the Halloween novella I didn’t know I needed, and now I’m in full festive mode. I literally dragged my hubby to the holiday store right after finishing it to grab new decorations and get our place all spooky-cute. If you know, you know. Wink-wink.
Trick or Tempt Me is a deliciously spicy Halloween demon romance that had me hooked from the first page. Aurora is sick because, let’s be real, who isn’t sick this fall? And after a long, draining day, there’s a knock at her door. Entered a tall, leather-clad stranger with a pumpkin on his head and yes, you read that right and oh my god, it’s hot. Like, really hot.
The chemistry? Immediate.
The tension? Off the charts.
I rarely feel that kind of spark in short stories, but Dari absolutely nailed it.
The passion was intense, the vibes were so so so so so good as I was living for every second of it. I’m seriously impressed!!!
And now I’m devastated because it’s only 54 pages.
I need more.
MORE PLEASE!!!
I need more of this couple.
Dari, if you’re reading this please I’m begging you give us a full-length book of them in the Worshipped by Darkness series.
I’m not ready to say goodbye to them yet!
Would recommend to everyone who loves Halloween, demons and spice altogether!!!
UPD. I JUST SAW THE ART AND WOW, DARI, YOU DID SO WELL BY DRAWING THE CHARACTERS!
Seriously, if you have not read it, please do! It's available now on KU and Kindle! And if you leave both reviews on GR and AMAZON, she's gonna send you an EXCLUSIVE SPICY ART! OH GOSH! THAT MAKES MY REVIEW MILLION STARS NOW, YEAH, I SAID IT!
Okay, so to the review we go!!!!!!!!!
The author was so right about thus book in the description! Because now I will never look at a pumpkin spice latte the same way again. After reading this, I’m officially obsessed and craving more. It’s the Halloween novella I didn’t know I needed, and now I’m in full festive mode. I literally dragged my hubby to the holiday store right after finishing it to grab new decorations and get our place all spooky-cute. If you know, you know. Wink-wink.
Trick or Tempt Me is a deliciously spicy Halloween demon romance that had me hooked from the first page. Aurora is sick because, let’s be real, who isn’t sick this fall? And after a long, draining day, there’s a knock at her door. Entered a tall, leather-clad stranger with a pumpkin on his head and yes, you read that right and oh my god, it’s hot. Like, really hot.
The chemistry? Immediate.
The tension? Off the charts.
I rarely feel that kind of spark in short stories, but Dari absolutely nailed it.
The passion was intense, the vibes were so so so so so good as I was living for every second of it. I’m seriously impressed!!!
And now I’m devastated because it’s only 54 pages.
I need more.
MORE PLEASE!!!
I need more of this couple.
Dari, if you’re reading this please I’m begging you give us a full-length book of them in the Worshipped by Darkness series.
I’m not ready to say goodbye to them yet!
Would recommend to everyone who loves Halloween, demons and spice altogether!!!
October 26, 2025
Sorry, this is a DNF.
November 8, 2025
I DNF’d this on page 15 I was over it before that. The plot and the pet names just no thanks!!!
October 27, 2025
This novella was fun, spicy, and full of Halloween vibes, definitely the kind of quick read you can finish in one sitting 🎃🔥. The author’s writing is super descriptive and creative, and her word choice gives the story a smooth, almost velvety feel that fits the paranormal mood really well. Also, Shai calling Aurora kitten? Loved that 🐱.
That said, the writing sometimes felt too descriptive , lots of repetition and filler that didn’t always add much depth, plus a few small grammar mistakes here and there. I liked the imagery, but I wished the pacing was a little tighter and the details more purposeful.
Plot-wise, I expected something with a bit more tension or mystery. Maybe a story where they share one magical Halloween night and she’s left waiting for him each year, or an ending that leaves you wondering what choice she ultimately makes. Instead, everything wraps up really quickly with her basically leaving the human world to be with him after just one night. It could’ve used more of that “will-they-won’t-they” anticipation to balance out all the spice.
Also, the story references a few characters from previous novellas — which might be fun for returning readers but confusing for new ones since this one was described as a standalone. It left me feeling like I was missing some context.
And while the spooky atmosphere worked perfectly, I did think it was odd that most of the action happens the day after Halloween instead of on it. For a "Halloween Novella", I was expecting a little more of that midnight-ON-Halloween magic.
Still, the spicy scenes absolutely deliver — creative, fun, and fitting for the “demon romance” theme. The concept of a shifting jack-o’-lantern-headed demon was original and surprisingly charming, and I’d still check out another novella by this author, maybe even the first one to get a better feel for Shai’s story (if he is mentioned).
Overall, 3⭐ — a fun, steamy Halloween read with great atmosphere and potential, but I wish it had more tension, tighter pacing, and a bit more emotional depth to match the heat.
That said, the writing sometimes felt too descriptive , lots of repetition and filler that didn’t always add much depth, plus a few small grammar mistakes here and there. I liked the imagery, but I wished the pacing was a little tighter and the details more purposeful.
Plot-wise, I expected something with a bit more tension or mystery. Maybe a story where they share one magical Halloween night and she’s left waiting for him each year, or an ending that leaves you wondering what choice she ultimately makes. Instead, everything wraps up really quickly with her basically leaving the human world to be with him after just one night. It could’ve used more of that “will-they-won’t-they” anticipation to balance out all the spice.
Also, the story references a few characters from previous novellas — which might be fun for returning readers but confusing for new ones since this one was described as a standalone. It left me feeling like I was missing some context.
And while the spooky atmosphere worked perfectly, I did think it was odd that most of the action happens the day after Halloween instead of on it. For a "Halloween Novella", I was expecting a little more of that midnight-ON-Halloween magic.
Still, the spicy scenes absolutely deliver — creative, fun, and fitting for the “demon romance” theme. The concept of a shifting jack-o’-lantern-headed demon was original and surprisingly charming, and I’d still check out another novella by this author, maybe even the first one to get a better feel for Shai’s story (if he is mentioned).
Overall, 3⭐ — a fun, steamy Halloween read with great atmosphere and potential, but I wish it had more tension, tighter pacing, and a bit more emotional depth to match the heat.
October 19, 2025
Well, this was fun - absolutely delicious. You even get a little sneak peek at two characters from another series, which made me grin like a fool when I realised who they were. The story itself? Short, spicy, and perfectly Halloween. Less than 100 pages. I absolutely love how Dari can include characters from other series so easily, it makes everything feel like it’s always interconnected.
A pumpkin-headed man who's equal parts terrifying and tempting, a heroine who matches him beautifully - they were made for each other. If you're in the mood for something seasonal, filthy, and fast, Trick or Tempt Me is worth every page.
Verdict: deliciously weird, spicy, and surprisingly sweet.
A pumpkin-headed man who's equal parts terrifying and tempting, a heroine who matches him beautifully - they were made for each other. If you're in the mood for something seasonal, filthy, and fast, Trick or Tempt Me is worth every page.
Verdict: deliciously weird, spicy, and surprisingly sweet.
October 22, 2025
Spice, spice, spice! Pumpkin spice lattes, spicy beads of you-know-what, and just spicy... pumpkins with horns!
I loved how lighthearted and carefree this story felt while reading. It’s a must-read for a cozy evening - candlelight flickering, your favorite drink in hand, and this novella to top it all off. The author never disappoints! Loved every bit of it from the first to the last page, from the fishnets to main characters' earning!!!
I loved how lighthearted and carefree this story felt while reading. It’s a must-read for a cozy evening - candlelight flickering, your favorite drink in hand, and this novella to top it all off. The author never disappoints! Loved every bit of it from the first to the last page, from the fishnets to main characters' earning!!!
October 14, 2025
Check the trigger warnings. This spicy short novella had me hooked from the start. I read it in just a couple of hours and it helped me out of a reading slump. If you like demons, spice, and pumpkin spice then you will love this book!
October 24, 2025
amazingly spicy
Trick or Tempt Me was everything I wanted in a Halloween read — wickedly hot, darkly fun, and full of devilish charm. Dari A. Malaunt serves up a spicy demon you can’t resist, surrounded by candlelight, pumpkins, and sinful temptation. It’s fast, fiery, and perfectly Halloween. I devoured it in one sitting and grinned the whole way through.
Trick or Tempt Me was everything I wanted in a Halloween read — wickedly hot, darkly fun, and full of devilish charm. Dari A. Malaunt serves up a spicy demon you can’t resist, surrounded by candlelight, pumpkins, and sinful temptation. It’s fast, fiery, and perfectly Halloween. I devoured it in one sitting and grinned the whole way through.
October 27, 2025
Don't judge, ok?! I was in the mood 😅
I don't want to shame an indie author, but this novella seemed like a bunch of scenes slapped together without any edits. But maybe I should read the main story to enjoy it better.
The best part of it? Definitely the cover art 🥵
I don't want to shame an indie author, but this novella seemed like a bunch of scenes slapped together without any edits. But maybe I should read the main story to enjoy it better.
The best part of it? Definitely the cover art 🥵
October 27, 2025
I actually really enjoyed this.. was just what I needed after an emotional read..
definitely want to read the others now!
definitely want to read the others now!
October 29, 2025
“𝒜𝓃𝒹 𝓉𝒽𝑒𝓃 𝓉𝒽𝑒𝓇𝑒 𝓌𝒶𝓈 𝓂𝑒, 𝓈𝒾𝓉𝓉𝒾𝓃𝑔 𝒾𝓃 𝒶 𝓉𝓇𝑒𝑒𝒽𝑜𝓊𝓈𝑒 𝓌𝒾𝓉𝒽 𝓂𝓎 𝓅𝑒𝓇𝒻𝑒𝒸𝓉 𝒻𝒶𝓃𝓉𝒶𝓈𝓎 𝑜𝒻 𝒶 𝓂𝒶𝓃 𝓌𝒽𝑜 𝒽𝒶𝒹 𝓈𝑜𝓂𝑒𝒽𝑜𝓌 𝒷𝑒𝒸𝑜𝓂𝑒 𝓇𝑒𝒶𝓁”
your halloween fantasy wrapped in a novella! perfect for spooky szn 🤭🎃
your halloween fantasy wrapped in a novella! perfect for spooky szn 🤭🎃
November 13, 2025
Yes. All of the yes.
Did Not Finish
October 30, 2026Physically recoiled from the nickname “kitten”, and it’s not the worst thing about this book. Gave up after 20%
Did Not Finish
November 1, 2026This just have me the ick
And it made zero sense
And it made zero sense
October 24, 2025
Dari! You’ve done it again!
Anyone order a hot demon for Halloween?? Well Mr Shai will come anyway at midnight! I loved this novella, hot , sweet and everything you want on a cool October night!
Anyone order a hot demon for Halloween?? Well Mr Shai will come anyway at midnight! I loved this novella, hot , sweet and everything you want on a cool October night!
October 24, 2025
A demon that just knocks on your door and is every woman's dream.... count me in. also pumpkin spice latte for the win, if only it worked like that in real life ;)
October 25, 2025
This was the perfect little novella for spooky season. It was pumpkin spicy, hella hot, and every Halloween fans dream!
October 18, 2026
My first demon romance & I fear it won’t be my last 😅
October 17, 2025
The perfect novella for October. If you're a lover of all things Halloween then you should get this book on your TBR. It has plot, spice-multiple kinds and MCs that will undoubtedly make you chuckle. Not to mention a brief cameo from previously loved characters. Absolutely worth a read.
October 20, 2025
I had the pleasure of being an ARC reader for this book, and man it kept me eager for more. I loved this short Halloween novella and getting a glimpse at these two characters that are present in one of the authors other series!
The characters and the chemistry they had were on fire! We have a mmc who is a mysterious pumpkin-headed demon and an FMC who matches his energy beautifully and willing to risk leaving her entire world. Totally worth the read!
The characters and the chemistry they had were on fire! We have a mmc who is a mysterious pumpkin-headed demon and an FMC who matches his energy beautifully and willing to risk leaving her entire world. Totally worth the read!
October 23, 2025
A quick Halloween read. Very spicy!
October 23, 2025
Fantasy Meets Reality
When life drags you through the depths of despair on Halloween, let an incubus fulfill your every fantasy. Nothing is off limits.
When life drags you through the depths of despair on Halloween, let an incubus fulfill your every fantasy. Nothing is off limits.
October 21, 2025
This book delivers everything it promises, a spicy Halloween romp. If you’re looking for an intriguing storyline, then this is not for you. But if you are looking for spicy escapism with a Halloween theme, then this is exactly what you need.
October 1, 2026
It’s so bad I wanna give you a 0 but that’s not possible so I give you a 1. This was a mess of not good things. Not a vibe. I do not want your pumpkin spice flavored cum. Thank u though.
November 1, 2026
This book was spicy, fun and full of Halloween vibes.
One of my favorite things about this time of year is we see an increase in romances like this. The seasonal kind that aren't going to change your life or impact the way you think about love or life, but that are just fucking bonkers!
What I can say for certain is the reviews are right to a point; you will never look at another Pumkin Spice Latte the same way again.
Dari will take you on a festive journey; it is just up to you whether you have fun with it or try to take it too seriously.
One of my favorite things about this time of year is we see an increase in romances like this. The seasonal kind that aren't going to change your life or impact the way you think about love or life, but that are just fucking bonkers!
What I can say for certain is the reviews are right to a point; you will never look at another Pumkin Spice Latte the same way again.
Dari will take you on a festive journey; it is just up to you whether you have fun with it or try to take it too seriously.
October 29, 2026
My curiosity got the best of me again😮💨
October 31, 2025
Spicy and fairly low on plot, but it’s a quick little novella so I can overlook that. However, I had a harder time overlooking multiple editing errors. 3⭐️
Displaying 1 - 30 of 100 reviews