What do you think?
Rate this book
Fire & Brimstone
For years, Akuma had been pining after his coworker, Cara. But just hours before the date of his dreams, a pair of demons brutally murder him. Death offers him a rare choice: rest in peace, or return as a Reaper and risk becoming enslaved to anyone who discovers his true name.
Now a disfigured, masked specter, Akuma watches over Cara from the shadows to protect her from demons and discovers his death wasn’t random, and Cara is also a target.
Cara’s parents honed her as a weapon throughout her childhood without revealing the purpose of her training or the truth of her lineage. As an adult, Cara traded the sword for a nine-to-five at a prestigious corporation for normalcy. But since Akuma’s death, she can’t seem to shake the unwanted attention of another employee, move past her grief, or escape the demons that haunt her dreams and eventually—her reality.
As demons close in to destroy the veil between the supernatural and mortal realms, Akuma must free himself of his enslavement, and Cara must unlock her strength and embrace her legacy before they’re both sacrificed to shatter the gates of Hell.
***For content warnings, please visit the author's website.
Now a disfigured, masked specter, Akuma watches over Cara from the shadows to protect her from demons and discovers his death wasn’t random, and Cara is also a target.
Cara’s parents honed her as a weapon throughout her childhood without revealing the purpose of her training or the truth of her lineage. As an adult, Cara traded the sword for a nine-to-five at a prestigious corporation for normalcy. But since Akuma’s death, she can’t seem to shake the unwanted attention of another employee, move past her grief, or escape the demons that haunt her dreams and eventually—her reality.
As demons close in to destroy the veil between the supernatural and mortal realms, Akuma must free himself of his enslavement, and Cara must unlock her strength and embrace her legacy before they’re both sacrificed to shatter the gates of Hell.
***For content warnings, please visit the author's website.
Unknown Binding
First published January 1, 2026
About the author
Talia Wall
5 books10 followersTalia spent most of her life in North Carolina and had the lifelong dream of becoming an author since she was five. She not only loves to write but also to draw and paint. She has a loving husband and Persian cat named Thor who often interrupts her writing and painting sessions. She writes young and new adult, supernatural, fantasy, and dystopian genres with the intent to send powerful, relevant messages and warnings through fiction.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
📚Arc review 📚
I was lucky in meeting Talia Walls at a book fair where I saw a backdrop of the cover of this book at her booth. I was instantly intrigued by the premise. I love reading tropes with ~he thinks he’s unlovable because of his past with resulting physical scars but finds love anyway~ type vibes. Almost Beauty and the Beast type but more evolved? Anyway, that’s what got me hooked in the first place. I’m also honored to write this review in advance of the upcoming publication of this book for it to help gain traction. With that being said, I’m going to write my honest thoughts about the book. Hold on folks it’s going to be a long one!
I’d start by classifying this book as modern fantasy with he-falls-first romance, excellent pining 😜, office romance?, MMC grumpy but actually a Cinnamon roll, Christian religious themes tied to Angels Vs Demons, and good vs. evil but not black-and-white in terms of character morality. It has a fresh take on Angels Vs Demons that I haven’t read before, bringing in the religious aspect but still maintaining heavy fantasy. I will say this is not a book of spice or dark romance, more YA in that sense. Overall I would rate 3.5 stars here’s why:
What I think was well done:
-MMC character development was A+!! I enjoyed Akuma’s story arch the most and felt his anguish, frustrations, and regrets deeply. He was a 3D character with cinnamon roll vibes in conjunction with the right amount of darkness to round out his personality. Throughout the book I both loved and hated him based on his decisions (like dude wtf were you thinking half of the time?? But also it makes sense given what you knew at the time)
-One of the antagonists, IYKYK, I won’t say for spoilers but his point of view in chapters added depth to his character which I appreciated. I always love a good villain who isn’t just pure evil and destruction but has meaning behind their malicious actions (even if I disagree with the actions I can understand WHY they did it).
-I applaud the author in the twists and turns in the book. I had no idea how it would end, or how it would get there. She wrapped it up nicely while also leaving room for a sequel if she had wanted. The ending felt justified and not last-minute-put-together rushed (pacing might have been fast near the end but still well done overall).
-Iris was the best side character, I could picture her perfectly! Amazing best friend trope, I fell in love with her instantly! Total ride or die but in a smart way. She handled Cara’s troubles and weird situations in stride. A Queen 👑
-Death as a character was so beautifully written and well done. I love that she was neutral, even if a bit frustrating at times, and her purpose really played well with Akuma’s character. Such an interesting and fresh take on Death and how she plays in Heaven vs H*ll dynamic.
-the last 20% of the book for the FMC, she had developed her character and grown in her own empowerment both physically and mentally. She was staying true to her inner self while stepping into her metaphorical power. A powerful woman without her being changed into a cold heartless person. I thought it was well done. I wish it would have happened earlier in the book, but you’ll see what I mean in the next section of my review.
What I think could be improved:
-trigger warnings for child abuse and neglect, stalking, sacrifices, descriptions of death, gore.
-For 80% of the book I was honestly not a fan of the FMC, Cara. I think I was anticipating a real bada** woman from the start but instead she felt incredibly naive and weak. Initially, she was the stereotype of the first person to die in a horror film. You can’t help but scream at the screen and say “Don’t go down that scary dark hallway with the sound of chainsaws and maniacal laughter you dumba**!”. And yet she goes forth and is surprised when it turns out to be a guy in a clown suit with blood dripping down his chainsaw instead of salvation. Ok but in all seriousness, I don’t mind having sweet women as the female main lead and hero if done well. It just seemed that she had never learned from her mistakes and had terrible miscommunication with most of the other characters. And perhaps that was the intent, but I wish that particular character flaw didn’t last as long as it did.
-the pacing of the book could be improved. It felt fast in the beginning and at the end, but the middle seemed to drag a little.
-the development of the FMC and MMC relationship could have been built up more in the beginning. Like I felt their chemistry but I had trouble understanding WHY they liked each other. I know he was smitten for a while (very cute and love that btw) but what about her? From the initial perspective, it seemed as though this guy she casually knew at work asked her out and then he died. Which is disturbing, don’t get me wrong, but why did she feel so deeply for him? She did grieve a LOT more about his death than anything or anyone else. Maybe more behind the scenes from her POV could have helped.
-her parental relationship could use more background information. They just seemed like apathetic characters but I couldn’t understand why they acted that way. It made it difficult to fully appreciate Cara’s past.
Ok lastly I wanted to dive a little deeper on the religious themes because I think it was important. Parts of me wished there was some heads up on how deep into the Christian faith the book goes into but another part is glad it wasn’t put in the description. If it was in the description, I might not have read the book and that’s a shame. As someone with a complicated history with Christianity in particular, I find books with heavy religious beliefs to be sometimes triggering and difficult to read. I recognize this is 100% a personal issue, not at all reflecting on the author’s writing style or the book quality itself. Please please please let that be the main takeaway if nothing else from this last paragraph. However, I wanted to talk about it in my review in case someone else like me has similar complicated feelings surrounding this topic. If you’re reading this and can relate to religious trauma in your past, know that I thought the book was well written and not “in your face preachy”. There are heavy topics surrounding Christianity, as can be somewhat expected from an Angel Vs. Demon themed book. However, religion was not the central theme of the book but instead just a part of it. Furthermore, Death as a neutral entity really made the religious aspects more intriguing and less “you’re going to H*ll” vibes I worry about when religion is heavily involved in a book. Again this is just something I wish I knew about the book before I read it so I could be in the right headspace. It was worth it and I would read this book again even knowing the level of religion involved.
I was lucky in meeting Talia Walls at a book fair where I saw a backdrop of the cover of this book at her booth. I was instantly intrigued by the premise. I love reading tropes with ~he thinks he’s unlovable because of his past with resulting physical scars but finds love anyway~ type vibes. Almost Beauty and the Beast type but more evolved? Anyway, that’s what got me hooked in the first place. I’m also honored to write this review in advance of the upcoming publication of this book for it to help gain traction. With that being said, I’m going to write my honest thoughts about the book. Hold on folks it’s going to be a long one!
I’d start by classifying this book as modern fantasy with he-falls-first romance, excellent pining 😜, office romance?, MMC grumpy but actually a Cinnamon roll, Christian religious themes tied to Angels Vs Demons, and good vs. evil but not black-and-white in terms of character morality. It has a fresh take on Angels Vs Demons that I haven’t read before, bringing in the religious aspect but still maintaining heavy fantasy. I will say this is not a book of spice or dark romance, more YA in that sense. Overall I would rate 3.5 stars here’s why:
What I think was well done:
-MMC character development was A+!! I enjoyed Akuma’s story arch the most and felt his anguish, frustrations, and regrets deeply. He was a 3D character with cinnamon roll vibes in conjunction with the right amount of darkness to round out his personality. Throughout the book I both loved and hated him based on his decisions (like dude wtf were you thinking half of the time?? But also it makes sense given what you knew at the time)
-One of the antagonists, IYKYK, I won’t say for spoilers but his point of view in chapters added depth to his character which I appreciated. I always love a good villain who isn’t just pure evil and destruction but has meaning behind their malicious actions (even if I disagree with the actions I can understand WHY they did it).
-I applaud the author in the twists and turns in the book. I had no idea how it would end, or how it would get there. She wrapped it up nicely while also leaving room for a sequel if she had wanted. The ending felt justified and not last-minute-put-together rushed (pacing might have been fast near the end but still well done overall).
-Iris was the best side character, I could picture her perfectly! Amazing best friend trope, I fell in love with her instantly! Total ride or die but in a smart way. She handled Cara’s troubles and weird situations in stride. A Queen 👑
-Death as a character was so beautifully written and well done. I love that she was neutral, even if a bit frustrating at times, and her purpose really played well with Akuma’s character. Such an interesting and fresh take on Death and how she plays in Heaven vs H*ll dynamic.
-the last 20% of the book for the FMC, she had developed her character and grown in her own empowerment both physically and mentally. She was staying true to her inner self while stepping into her metaphorical power. A powerful woman without her being changed into a cold heartless person. I thought it was well done. I wish it would have happened earlier in the book, but you’ll see what I mean in the next section of my review.
What I think could be improved:
-trigger warnings for child abuse and neglect, stalking, sacrifices, descriptions of death, gore.
-For 80% of the book I was honestly not a fan of the FMC, Cara. I think I was anticipating a real bada** woman from the start but instead she felt incredibly naive and weak. Initially, she was the stereotype of the first person to die in a horror film. You can’t help but scream at the screen and say “Don’t go down that scary dark hallway with the sound of chainsaws and maniacal laughter you dumba**!”. And yet she goes forth and is surprised when it turns out to be a guy in a clown suit with blood dripping down his chainsaw instead of salvation. Ok but in all seriousness, I don’t mind having sweet women as the female main lead and hero if done well. It just seemed that she had never learned from her mistakes and had terrible miscommunication with most of the other characters. And perhaps that was the intent, but I wish that particular character flaw didn’t last as long as it did.
-the pacing of the book could be improved. It felt fast in the beginning and at the end, but the middle seemed to drag a little.
-the development of the FMC and MMC relationship could have been built up more in the beginning. Like I felt their chemistry but I had trouble understanding WHY they liked each other. I know he was smitten for a while (very cute and love that btw) but what about her? From the initial perspective, it seemed as though this guy she casually knew at work asked her out and then he died. Which is disturbing, don’t get me wrong, but why did she feel so deeply for him? She did grieve a LOT more about his death than anything or anyone else. Maybe more behind the scenes from her POV could have helped.
-her parental relationship could use more background information. They just seemed like apathetic characters but I couldn’t understand why they acted that way. It made it difficult to fully appreciate Cara’s past.
Ok lastly I wanted to dive a little deeper on the religious themes because I think it was important. Parts of me wished there was some heads up on how deep into the Christian faith the book goes into but another part is glad it wasn’t put in the description. If it was in the description, I might not have read the book and that’s a shame. As someone with a complicated history with Christianity in particular, I find books with heavy religious beliefs to be sometimes triggering and difficult to read. I recognize this is 100% a personal issue, not at all reflecting on the author’s writing style or the book quality itself. Please please please let that be the main takeaway if nothing else from this last paragraph. However, I wanted to talk about it in my review in case someone else like me has similar complicated feelings surrounding this topic. If you’re reading this and can relate to religious trauma in your past, know that I thought the book was well written and not “in your face preachy”. There are heavy topics surrounding Christianity, as can be somewhat expected from an Angel Vs. Demon themed book. However, religion was not the central theme of the book but instead just a part of it. Furthermore, Death as a neutral entity really made the religious aspects more intriguing and less “you’re going to H*ll” vibes I worry about when religion is heavily involved in a book. Again this is just something I wish I knew about the book before I read it so I could be in the right headspace. It was worth it and I would read this book again even knowing the level of religion involved.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Firstly, a huge thank you to Talia for giving me early access as an ARC reader! It's always such a privilege to be trusted with an author's work, and Talia is the loveliest lady! Talia draws her own cover art by the way, and this one really is gorgeous. They say don't judge a book by its cover, but we all do it...
Fire and Brimstone pulled me in right from the start. I prefer a slower pace when characters and a world are introduced, because as a reader, I crave immersion. I was fully immersed and quickly became invested. Akuma, Cara and Liam are fully fleshed out characters, with clear motivations. I also fell for Cara's best friend, Iris. The relationship between Cara and Iris is so grounding and honest, I loved the scenes with them together.
Akuma is the ultimate cinnamon roll, but he quickly warps into a fabulous "touch her and die" badass MMC. His development was well thought out and very enjoyable! Gruesome at times, but in the best ways. Some of the darker scenes were what kept me locked into the story.
Liam gave me "the ick" in the best ways. He was a fun and disturbing villain, and made my skin crawl...
There are religious themes from the outset, but as someone who studies mythology and modern religions I found it an interesting take, and it gives weight to the prose. I think it added texture and depth of meaning. It reminded me a little of His Dark Materials - The Amber Spyglass, in terms of context and interpretation. That's my opinion.
So why four stars and not five? There were a couple of scenes that didn't hit the mark and seemed a bit disjointed. Selah is a character introduced a little later in the prose, but I felt she ought to have featured much earlier. There was a lack of context that made me blink and frown, but the writing was still able to pull me back in.
There were some small hiccups, but this is a first edition print and the release date isn't until later this year, so these may be amended by the author prior to that release. Very minor edits needed, but as a fellow author I'm exactly the same! This is why we have ARC readers as indie authors! More eyes on the manuscript are super duper helpful.
I cannot wait to get my hands on a physical copy of this book, to hold it and sniff it! I'm a paperback lover. I had this copy as an E-book in exchange for my honest review. Again, massive thank you to Talia!
Fire and Brimstone pulled me in right from the start. I prefer a slower pace when characters and a world are introduced, because as a reader, I crave immersion. I was fully immersed and quickly became invested. Akuma, Cara and Liam are fully fleshed out characters, with clear motivations. I also fell for Cara's best friend, Iris. The relationship between Cara and Iris is so grounding and honest, I loved the scenes with them together.
Akuma is the ultimate cinnamon roll, but he quickly warps into a fabulous "touch her and die" badass MMC. His development was well thought out and very enjoyable! Gruesome at times, but in the best ways. Some of the darker scenes were what kept me locked into the story.
Liam gave me "the ick" in the best ways. He was a fun and disturbing villain, and made my skin crawl...
There are religious themes from the outset, but as someone who studies mythology and modern religions I found it an interesting take, and it gives weight to the prose. I think it added texture and depth of meaning. It reminded me a little of His Dark Materials - The Amber Spyglass, in terms of context and interpretation. That's my opinion.
So why four stars and not five? There were a couple of scenes that didn't hit the mark and seemed a bit disjointed. Selah is a character introduced a little later in the prose, but I felt she ought to have featured much earlier. There was a lack of context that made me blink and frown, but the writing was still able to pull me back in.
There were some small hiccups, but this is a first edition print and the release date isn't until later this year, so these may be amended by the author prior to that release. Very minor edits needed, but as a fellow author I'm exactly the same! This is why we have ARC readers as indie authors! More eyes on the manuscript are super duper helpful.
I cannot wait to get my hands on a physical copy of this book, to hold it and sniff it! I'm a paperback lover. I had this copy as an E-book in exchange for my honest review. Again, massive thank you to Talia!
August 6, 2026
Spice: Closed Door
Words can’t describe how much I love this book! Talia perfectly weaved yearning, the balance of good vs evil, free will, redemption and forgiveness. I couldn’t put this book down and I loved Akuma and Cara.
In all honesty, I couldn’t blame Akuma for choosing the path of vengeance/rage. His death was premature and it wasn’t random. To lose everything at the tips of your fingers is enough to make anyone blind with rage. I think it’s easy to point finger and judge Akuma’s action but if we’re being so for real, many of us would act rash in a fit of rage. He was the good guy. Respectful and kind and you know what, some people and beings don’t like that and would try to ruin them. He was just starting to advance with his crush and BOOM, snatch away like his life didn’t matter. And I guess it didn’t to some people. However, his devotion to Cara even in death was so beautiful.
Akuma’s death greatly affected Cara and I love how she still tried to get justice for him. Even when it seems like no one else cared. In the land of the living, Cara devoted herself to Akuma. So much so, that it made one of multiple reasons demons were after her. Now was I happy with her choices? No, but I think what I can take away from Cara mistakes, is listen to your intuition! If you see warning bells go off, RUNNNNNN FAR AWAY! Too bad my girl missed the memos and just waive them off like flies!💀🤣 I still love her no matter how much she frustrated me. But I couldn’t blame her too much bc she wanted to give people the benefit of the doubt. What how much benefit can we give!🫣
This book had me going through so many emotions and I would gladly experience this book for the first time again. I was a sobbing mess. I was angry and thirsty for justice. I laughed and giggled. The yearning between Akuma and Cara was worth it. The heartache was worth it. In the end justice was served to those who deserved it in that moment and I hope we get to see more.
I hope Talia knows just how good this book is and I am gonna recommend it to everyone! It has made it into one of my favorite books of this year and I can’t wait to see what else she has in store for us!
Words can’t describe how much I love this book! Talia perfectly weaved yearning, the balance of good vs evil, free will, redemption and forgiveness. I couldn’t put this book down and I loved Akuma and Cara.
In all honesty, I couldn’t blame Akuma for choosing the path of vengeance/rage. His death was premature and it wasn’t random. To lose everything at the tips of your fingers is enough to make anyone blind with rage. I think it’s easy to point finger and judge Akuma’s action but if we’re being so for real, many of us would act rash in a fit of rage. He was the good guy. Respectful and kind and you know what, some people and beings don’t like that and would try to ruin them. He was just starting to advance with his crush and BOOM, snatch away like his life didn’t matter. And I guess it didn’t to some people. However, his devotion to Cara even in death was so beautiful.
Akuma’s death greatly affected Cara and I love how she still tried to get justice for him. Even when it seems like no one else cared. In the land of the living, Cara devoted herself to Akuma. So much so, that it made one of multiple reasons demons were after her. Now was I happy with her choices? No, but I think what I can take away from Cara mistakes, is listen to your intuition! If you see warning bells go off, RUNNNNNN FAR AWAY! Too bad my girl missed the memos and just waive them off like flies!💀🤣 I still love her no matter how much she frustrated me. But I couldn’t blame her too much bc she wanted to give people the benefit of the doubt. What how much benefit can we give!🫣
This book had me going through so many emotions and I would gladly experience this book for the first time again. I was a sobbing mess. I was angry and thirsty for justice. I laughed and giggled. The yearning between Akuma and Cara was worth it. The heartache was worth it. In the end justice was served to those who deserved it in that moment and I hope we get to see more.
I hope Talia knows just how good this book is and I am gonna recommend it to everyone! It has made it into one of my favorite books of this year and I can’t wait to see what else she has in store for us!
August 7, 2026
Thank you to the author for sending me an advanced reader copy of Fire and Brimstone, all opinions are my own.
It’s as if this is the love child of the movies The Crow (1994), Ghost (1990), and even Constantine (2005). Those were the main vibes that I got from it.
This was a solid three star book for me. I had debated shelving as DNF but pushed through against my better judgement because this was LENGTHY. I just wasn’t completely hooked and I felt more neutral about it. I will say my favorite thing about it is how much Akuma is so head over heels for Cara. I mourned his mortal life and the dreams he had for them.
“You were all he ever thought about, everything he dreamed of.” 🥲😭😭
I had read the synopsis, and I should have known, but truthfully I was caught off guard/ surprised by the amount of religion in this book. There’s mentions of God (though the character doesn’t actually show up), supernatural entities (such as demons, angel of death, reaper(s)), religious paraphernalia and even bible passages are quoted under some chapter headings. Occasional dialogue to be aware of ““If you don’t trust me, then trust God,” he said. “Everything happens for a reason.”
My overall rating is not related to the religion aspect, I’m just trying to inform other readers who might be put off by this. I’m not religious and the book does not specify their religious denomination. My rating is based on the overall inconsistent pacing of the story: some parts dragged, didn’t feel like some scenes helped the story move along, and it would occasionally speed up when things could have been elaborated better. Towards the end of the book, I thought it was going to end on a cliffhanger but no, the story wrapped up completely (arguably too fast).
Idk, take my review with a grain of salt and read it for yourself , happy reading!
It’s as if this is the love child of the movies The Crow (1994), Ghost (1990), and even Constantine (2005). Those were the main vibes that I got from it.
This was a solid three star book for me. I had debated shelving as DNF but pushed through against my better judgement because this was LENGTHY. I just wasn’t completely hooked and I felt more neutral about it. I will say my favorite thing about it is how much Akuma is so head over heels for Cara. I mourned his mortal life and the dreams he had for them.
“You were all he ever thought about, everything he dreamed of.” 🥲😭😭
I had read the synopsis, and I should have known, but truthfully I was caught off guard/ surprised by the amount of religion in this book. There’s mentions of God (though the character doesn’t actually show up), supernatural entities (such as demons, angel of death, reaper(s)), religious paraphernalia and even bible passages are quoted under some chapter headings. Occasional dialogue to be aware of ““If you don’t trust me, then trust God,” he said. “Everything happens for a reason.”
My overall rating is not related to the religion aspect, I’m just trying to inform other readers who might be put off by this. I’m not religious and the book does not specify their religious denomination. My rating is based on the overall inconsistent pacing of the story: some parts dragged, didn’t feel like some scenes helped the story move along, and it would occasionally speed up when things could have been elaborated better. Towards the end of the book, I thought it was going to end on a cliffhanger but no, the story wrapped up completely (arguably too fast).
Idk, take my review with a grain of salt and read it for yourself , happy reading!
June 24, 2026
🌻✨Arc Review🌻✨
First of I would love to thank the author for giving me an ARC for this novel! I am beyond grateful that you trusted me with this story before it gets released out in the public! I am beyond grateful for the opportunity! 💗
Review time!
I went into this book blind, no information, no expectations, just a pretty cover with an interesting summary. And my expectations were definitely blown away. 🤯🤯🤯
THIS BOOK WAS SO GOOD!!!!
I really loved how each character, even the villain was fleshed out. It was amazing to read and it really made me feel like I was a part of their story. I loved Akuma so much 🫶🏻🫶🏻🫶🏻 he goes from this soft good boy to like this bad ass “touch her and you die” character and i am so here for it!!!!
Cara was so bad ass too but she made me so upset sometimes cause I was like the whole novel, “girl the red flags are right in front of you!!!” But she is an icon and we love that for her. She was so bad ass!!!
I also adored Iris what you did to her was so so so cruel!!! We need more good friendships in books and Cara’s and Iris’s friendship was so special and I loved it lots!
I loved also the whole supernatural touch to this story. The vibes were on point!!!! I even liked the biblical touches to everything as well it really fit this story perfectly!
If you are looking for your next read and don’t know where to look. Look no further because the book felt like the Shadowhunter realm and V.E. Schwab’s book Gallant had a baby and produced this stunning novel!!!! Loved it lots!!!
This better become your new favorite urban fantasy cause it has definitely become mine!!!!
First of I would love to thank the author for giving me an ARC for this novel! I am beyond grateful that you trusted me with this story before it gets released out in the public! I am beyond grateful for the opportunity! 💗
Review time!
I went into this book blind, no information, no expectations, just a pretty cover with an interesting summary. And my expectations were definitely blown away. 🤯🤯🤯
THIS BOOK WAS SO GOOD!!!!
I really loved how each character, even the villain was fleshed out. It was amazing to read and it really made me feel like I was a part of their story. I loved Akuma so much 🫶🏻🫶🏻🫶🏻 he goes from this soft good boy to like this bad ass “touch her and you die” character and i am so here for it!!!!
Cara was so bad ass too but she made me so upset sometimes cause I was like the whole novel, “girl the red flags are right in front of you!!!” But she is an icon and we love that for her. She was so bad ass!!!
I also adored Iris what you did to her was so so so cruel!!! We need more good friendships in books and Cara’s and Iris’s friendship was so special and I loved it lots!
I loved also the whole supernatural touch to this story. The vibes were on point!!!! I even liked the biblical touches to everything as well it really fit this story perfectly!
If you are looking for your next read and don’t know where to look. Look no further because the book felt like the Shadowhunter realm and V.E. Schwab’s book Gallant had a baby and produced this stunning novel!!!! Loved it lots!!!
This better become your new favorite urban fantasy cause it has definitely become mine!!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 5, 2026
I started this book a few days ago but only finished it yesterday—I tried reading two things at the same time and failed hahaha 😭 I seriously don’t know how you do it… yes, you, the ones reading two or three books at the sama tieme🫢
Anyway, I went into this book with zero expectations, just pulled in by the blurb… and OMG. This book is incredible. Did it destroy me? Yes. Did I cry? Also yes.
This is a slow-burn kind of story, but it keeps you hooked, constantly craving more. The writing style really pulled me in, and the mix of good vs. evil, supernatural elements, and religious undertones made the plot super interesting. I think our FMC is such a badass—even if she doesn’t always listen to her instincts, which honestly just makes her feel more human. And something I really loved was the relationship between Cara (FMC) and Iris, her best friend—their bond is so genuine and special.
On the other hand, our MMC Akuma goes from being that shy guy to the bad boy. I get that his circumstances shaped him into that, and I feel like his emotions control him a lot of the time—which, given the twists in his storyline, makes total sense. As for the main relationship, I do feel like we were missing a bit more background on Cara’s feelings toward Akuma.
From the very beginning, Liam gave me such bad vibes… and yep, I was right 👀
Also, the fact that the book has 3 POVs? Big plus.
At the end of the day, I have to say this book was really good—entertaining and, for me, even refreshing. I don’t think I’ve ever read an urban fantasy before (at least not that I remember), and I actually really enjoyed it.
This is 100% a book that deserves a chance ✨📚
Anyway, I went into this book with zero expectations, just pulled in by the blurb… and OMG. This book is incredible. Did it destroy me? Yes. Did I cry? Also yes.
This is a slow-burn kind of story, but it keeps you hooked, constantly craving more. The writing style really pulled me in, and the mix of good vs. evil, supernatural elements, and religious undertones made the plot super interesting. I think our FMC is such a badass—even if she doesn’t always listen to her instincts, which honestly just makes her feel more human. And something I really loved was the relationship between Cara (FMC) and Iris, her best friend—their bond is so genuine and special.
On the other hand, our MMC Akuma goes from being that shy guy to the bad boy. I get that his circumstances shaped him into that, and I feel like his emotions control him a lot of the time—which, given the twists in his storyline, makes total sense. As for the main relationship, I do feel like we were missing a bit more background on Cara’s feelings toward Akuma.
From the very beginning, Liam gave me such bad vibes… and yep, I was right 👀
Also, the fact that the book has 3 POVs? Big plus.
At the end of the day, I have to say this book was really good—entertaining and, for me, even refreshing. I don’t think I’ve ever read an urban fantasy before (at least not that I remember), and I actually really enjoyed it.
This is 100% a book that deserves a chance ✨📚
Review of advance copy received from Author
First, I would like to thank the author for an advanced reader’s copy of their next book, Fire and Brimstone. I loved the uniqueness of the main character names, Cara and Akuma. This book had angels and demons but not in the typical way most are written. It wasn’t the whole angels versus demons storyline. This revolved mostly around Cara and Akuma verses the demons. Cara and Akuma having been dragged into this situation. I also liked how Akuma was portrayed as this quiet, soft spoken, nervous, and polite gentleman and Cara falling for the nerdy guy. Akuma does wear a mask *wink, wink*. Iris was the best friend we all wish we had. The author also did a great job getting the reader to hate Liam. Liam being the creepy stalker coworker. There were a few times were I had to figure out who the villain was though which I think fit perfectly. If you are a reader who likes to read multiple points of view, there are 3 POVs in Fire and Brimstone.
As a reader who unfortunately does judge a book by its cover, the cover caught my attention and was I very excited to find out it was designed by the author herself. The characters were depicted to perfection by their creator. I had to preorder a physical copy for the cover.
Favorite quotes without spoilers:
“I found comfort in silence and invisibility.”
“Is the brother hot at least? I mean… it would suck to get killed by a troll.”
“She was the only light I had access to, and I was starved of it.”
“He didn’t see me as some pretty bird to put in a cage. I was the lioness free to do as I pleased.”
Favorite quotes without spoilers:
“I found comfort in silence and invisibility.”
“Is the brother hot at least? I mean… it would suck to get killed by a troll.”
“She was the only light I had access to, and I was starved of it.”
“He didn’t see me as some pretty bird to put in a cage. I was the lioness free to do as I pleased.”
August 6, 2026
Akuma is a nice guy. He does everything right, but he's basically invisible to everyone but Cara and Liam. Liam picks on him relentlessly, and Cara is kind to him. He finally asks he out on a date, but before they can go he's murdered. He's given a choice by Death, and ends up as a Reaper. Cara is more than she seems. She's kind and quiet, but she is also harboring a secret she doesn't know herself.
This is such an interesting book. Very different, and I really enjoyed how the author put it all together. She did a great job at building her characters, they all had more layers to them than we saw and first, and she also did a great job at showing that humans in general have so many layers to them. None of us are all good, or all bad. Akuma was a wonderful character. He is a complete cinnamon roll, something we don't see enough of in my opinion. Even after he dies, he somehow holds onto his beautiful heart which guides his actions even has he is full of rage from the unfairness of it all/ My heart hurt for him with every bad thing happened, and all I wanted for him was a happy ending. He thought he was nothing, while he as actually the best of them. I feel like this happens too often in life as well, the best people think they are nothing.
The book did feel a little preachy at the end, and although I understand that it went with the theme, it was a bit of a turnoff for me, and the main reason it was a four star instead of five. But I definitely recommend this book if you are looking for something different.
This is such an interesting book. Very different, and I really enjoyed how the author put it all together. She did a great job at building her characters, they all had more layers to them than we saw and first, and she also did a great job at showing that humans in general have so many layers to them. None of us are all good, or all bad. Akuma was a wonderful character. He is a complete cinnamon roll, something we don't see enough of in my opinion. Even after he dies, he somehow holds onto his beautiful heart which guides his actions even has he is full of rage from the unfairness of it all/ My heart hurt for him with every bad thing happened, and all I wanted for him was a happy ending. He thought he was nothing, while he as actually the best of them. I feel like this happens too often in life as well, the best people think they are nothing.
The book did feel a little preachy at the end, and although I understand that it went with the theme, it was a bit of a turnoff for me, and the main reason it was a four star instead of five. But I definitely recommend this book if you are looking for something different.
July 28, 2026
📚ARC Read📚
This was somehow a slow but also fast-paced story. It’s very descriptive which makes it feel like it’s slow paced and longer than it actually is. Just when you think the story is developing some traction… it slows down.
Maybe I didn’t read the warnings of this book thoroughly, so I wasn’t aware that religion played such a heavy part in this book. Which is totally fine, just didn’t expect it.
The amount of times these characters have irritated me… like suddenly no one knows how to act like an adult? no one knows to think rationally? everyone just wants to act impulsively and blame other people for not telling them the consequences before hand, when they’re literally told “don’t do this”.
Like it was just sad to see Akuma be this normal logical guy and suddenly becomes impulsive when he becomes a reaper (is that part of the job description?). he’s always jumping head first into everything and ruining things and complications his dead life to become free.
Don’t even get me started on Cara. girl be sososo fr, why are you making up excuses that Liam couldn’t be a stalker or a bad guy??? listen to your instincts!!! you’ve been trained in combat and you decide to ignore warning signs?? multiple of them?? even her dad pmo, why is he victim blaming her? he definitely has a low EQ, hope his wife divorces him or something.
Loved Iris, she was the only tolerable sane character.
This was somehow a slow but also fast-paced story. It’s very descriptive which makes it feel like it’s slow paced and longer than it actually is. Just when you think the story is developing some traction… it slows down.
Maybe I didn’t read the warnings of this book thoroughly, so I wasn’t aware that religion played such a heavy part in this book. Which is totally fine, just didn’t expect it.
The amount of times these characters have irritated me… like suddenly no one knows how to act like an adult? no one knows to think rationally? everyone just wants to act impulsively and blame other people for not telling them the consequences before hand, when they’re literally told “don’t do this”.
Like it was just sad to see Akuma be this normal logical guy and suddenly becomes impulsive when he becomes a reaper (is that part of the job description?). he’s always jumping head first into everything and ruining things and complications his dead life to become free.
Don’t even get me started on Cara. girl be sososo fr, why are you making up excuses that Liam couldn’t be a stalker or a bad guy??? listen to your instincts!!! you’ve been trained in combat and you decide to ignore warning signs?? multiple of them?? even her dad pmo, why is he victim blaming her? he definitely has a low EQ, hope his wife divorces him or something.
Loved Iris, she was the only tolerable sane character.
Review of advance copy received from Author
okay this one WRECKED me and i mean that as the highest possible compliment.
the WRITING. it puts you so far inside a feeling that you forget you're reading. i wasn't watching these characters go through it, i was going through it with them. the grief, the longing, all OF IT.
i need everyone to know about Akuma. he starts as the softest, most quietly devoted cinnamon roll, pining after his coworker for YEARS and finally getting his shot, and then the book takes it away from him in the most brutal way possible before he can even have it. what he becomes after that is the whole reason to read this. the arc from gentle to protective-and-terrifying is A+, genuinely one of the better male lead developments i've read. he falls first, he falls hard, and the masked reaper Beauty and the Beast energy did something to me.
IRIS GIRL YES!!!! The bestie we all deserve and never shut up about. Liam gave me the ick in the exact way a good creepy-coworker villain should, and i loved that the antagonists actually have reasons instead of being evil for the plot's sake. Death written as a neutral entity was such a smart choice, and the angels vs demons setup felt fresh instead of the usual.
The FMC is badass and kind and everything
Genuinely loved this one and is a strong contender for best read of the year.
the WRITING. it puts you so far inside a feeling that you forget you're reading. i wasn't watching these characters go through it, i was going through it with them. the grief, the longing, all OF IT.
i need everyone to know about Akuma. he starts as the softest, most quietly devoted cinnamon roll, pining after his coworker for YEARS and finally getting his shot, and then the book takes it away from him in the most brutal way possible before he can even have it. what he becomes after that is the whole reason to read this. the arc from gentle to protective-and-terrifying is A+, genuinely one of the better male lead developments i've read. he falls first, he falls hard, and the masked reaper Beauty and the Beast energy did something to me.
IRIS GIRL YES!!!! The bestie we all deserve and never shut up about. Liam gave me the ick in the exact way a good creepy-coworker villain should, and i loved that the antagonists actually have reasons instead of being evil for the plot's sake. Death written as a neutral entity was such a smart choice, and the angels vs demons setup felt fresh instead of the usual.
The FMC is badass and kind and everything
Genuinely loved this one and is a strong contender for best read of the year.
August 17, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐½
Fire & Brimstone was such an intriguing and refreshing read! I was completely engrossed from the beginning and loved the supernatural elements woven throughout the story.
The MMC, Akuma, is killed on the very night he's supposed to finally go on a first date with Cara, his crush from work. But Death gives him a choice: return to the living world as a Reaper or move on to the afterlife and never see Cara again. And of course, the choice he makes sets him on one heck of a journey.
I really enjoyed the way the story unfolded and how everything slowly unraveled. There were plenty of twists and turns that kept me invested, and I loved discovering where the story was going as I read. The Japanese references and influences were also such a great addition and gave the book a unique feel.
There is definitely tension between the characters, but this is not a spicy romance, so if you're looking for a book with lots of spice, this probably isn't the one for you. That said, I didn't need the spice to keep me hooked. The supernatural storyline and the way everything came together were more than enough to keep me turning the pages.
Overall, this was a really fun and refreshing read that took me on a wild ride. 4.5 stars! ✨
If you enjoy supernatural stories, intriguing mythology, romance with tension, and a plot that keeps you guessing, definitely give Fire & Brimstone a try!
Fire & Brimstone was such an intriguing and refreshing read! I was completely engrossed from the beginning and loved the supernatural elements woven throughout the story.
The MMC, Akuma, is killed on the very night he's supposed to finally go on a first date with Cara, his crush from work. But Death gives him a choice: return to the living world as a Reaper or move on to the afterlife and never see Cara again. And of course, the choice he makes sets him on one heck of a journey.
I really enjoyed the way the story unfolded and how everything slowly unraveled. There were plenty of twists and turns that kept me invested, and I loved discovering where the story was going as I read. The Japanese references and influences were also such a great addition and gave the book a unique feel.
There is definitely tension between the characters, but this is not a spicy romance, so if you're looking for a book with lots of spice, this probably isn't the one for you. That said, I didn't need the spice to keep me hooked. The supernatural storyline and the way everything came together were more than enough to keep me turning the pages.
Overall, this was a really fun and refreshing read that took me on a wild ride. 4.5 stars! ✨
If you enjoy supernatural stories, intriguing mythology, romance with tension, and a plot that keeps you guessing, definitely give Fire & Brimstone a try!
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐ ARC Review ⭐
Thank you to the wonderful author for letting me read an arc of this book! 🫶
Oh boy this was a fun read! I'll be honest, I haven't read many urban fantasies lately, so this was the perfect book to get me back into the genre! The character arcs were well done and felt true to the story, both the MCs and the antagonists felt like real people in their imperfections. Every choice felt like one a real human would make in that situation, I tend to stay away from the super perfect protagonists who never make mistakes.
I think it's a little funny that it was marketed to me as an office romance, when the majority of the plot occurs not in an office. But I loved it! The last fifty pages or so had me on the edge of my seat, I was so afraid for the characters and how the story would wrap up, but it was so well done. The world building, oh gosh, I was so surprised to find that I really enjoyed it! The concepts of heaven and hell can be hit or miss for me, but the way it was done here was fresh. And I would love a whole new book just exploring the world and its creatures.
Overall, the book is a little rough around the edges, but it is an enjoyable read for any fans of urban fantasy, religious themes, redemption, and the supernatural.
Thank you to the wonderful author for letting me read an arc of this book! 🫶
Oh boy this was a fun read! I'll be honest, I haven't read many urban fantasies lately, so this was the perfect book to get me back into the genre! The character arcs were well done and felt true to the story, both the MCs and the antagonists felt like real people in their imperfections. Every choice felt like one a real human would make in that situation, I tend to stay away from the super perfect protagonists who never make mistakes.
I think it's a little funny that it was marketed to me as an office romance, when the majority of the plot occurs not in an office. But I loved it! The last fifty pages or so had me on the edge of my seat, I was so afraid for the characters and how the story would wrap up, but it was so well done. The world building, oh gosh, I was so surprised to find that I really enjoyed it! The concepts of heaven and hell can be hit or miss for me, but the way it was done here was fresh. And I would love a whole new book just exploring the world and its creatures.
Overall, the book is a little rough around the edges, but it is an enjoyable read for any fans of urban fantasy, religious themes, redemption, and the supernatural.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I picked up Fire and Brimstone because the cover immediately caught my attention. Going into it, I didn’t have many expectations, but I was pleasantly surprised by how quickly I became immersed in its world of reapers, demons, and the supernatural.
The author’s writing creates a vivid and atmospheric story that pulls you into a realm filled with mystery, darkness, and spiritual elements. The world building was intriguing, the twists kept me engaged, and the supernatural aspects brought something unique to the story.
While I appreciated watching Cara discover her strength and identity, I found myself wanting more of that growth throughout the story. I also wanted more time spent developing her relationship with Akuma early on. Their connection had a lot of potential, but I would have loved to experience more of the moments that shaped their bond and deepened their relationship.
The themes of faith, redemption, and the battle between good and evil were woven throughout the story, adding depth to the characters and their choices. These elements, combined with the supernatural world, created a unique reading experience that will resonate with readers who enjoy stories exploring spirituality alongside fantasy.
Thank you to the author for the ARC.
The author’s writing creates a vivid and atmospheric story that pulls you into a realm filled with mystery, darkness, and spiritual elements. The world building was intriguing, the twists kept me engaged, and the supernatural aspects brought something unique to the story.
While I appreciated watching Cara discover her strength and identity, I found myself wanting more of that growth throughout the story. I also wanted more time spent developing her relationship with Akuma early on. Their connection had a lot of potential, but I would have loved to experience more of the moments that shaped their bond and deepened their relationship.
The themes of faith, redemption, and the battle between good and evil were woven throughout the story, adding depth to the characters and their choices. These elements, combined with the supernatural world, created a unique reading experience that will resonate with readers who enjoy stories exploring spirituality alongside fantasy.
Thank you to the author for the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Author
THIS BOOK WAS DEVASTATING IN THE BEST WAY POSSIBLE
Firstly, thank you to the author for letting me read an ARC of this book!
The ONLY reason I knocked a star off my rating was because I felt like this book took quite a while to draw me in, like roughly 1/3 of the book. After the initial shock in the beginning of the book, it felt a little mundane reading about their office lives.
GRANTED, once I got passed that I was hooked and on the edge of my seat. The book takes twists and turns very quickly, and you never know where you might end up.
The characters were brought to life so well, including the side characters which I love.
I’ve read plenty of books that involve angels and demons, but none that really leaned into the actual religious aspects of it, and I feel like the author did an absolutely phenomenal job bringing the concept to life in this book.
I was sort of worried about how the book was going to end, but was pleasantly surprised with how it tied together in a little bow, not enough to necessarily be a cliffhanger but just enough to leave wiggle room for a sequel (which hopefully the author gives us!)
Firstly, thank you to the author for letting me read an ARC of this book!
The ONLY reason I knocked a star off my rating was because I felt like this book took quite a while to draw me in, like roughly 1/3 of the book. After the initial shock in the beginning of the book, it felt a little mundane reading about their office lives.
GRANTED, once I got passed that I was hooked and on the edge of my seat. The book takes twists and turns very quickly, and you never know where you might end up.
The characters were brought to life so well, including the side characters which I love.
I’ve read plenty of books that involve angels and demons, but none that really leaned into the actual religious aspects of it, and I feel like the author did an absolutely phenomenal job bringing the concept to life in this book.
I was sort of worried about how the book was going to end, but was pleasantly surprised with how it tied together in a little bow, not enough to necessarily be a cliffhanger but just enough to leave wiggle room for a sequel (which hopefully the author gives us!)
Review of advance copy received from Author
A great read with an interesting plot and storyline. It definitely gave me nostalgic vibes and reminded me of Charmed and Supernatural in some ways. I was hooked from the very beginning.
At first, Akuma and Cara seemed an unlikely pair of main characters, but the depth of their individual background and character helped moved the story forward. It became impossible not to root for them.
The pacing felt a little slower at times, but it never took away from my overall enjoyment of the book. I also wasn’t sure how the ending would play out, whether we would be left on a cliff hanger or how all the logistics of the plot would come together but I was pleasantly surprised by how satisfied I felt with the resolution.
I wish that there could be a book two in the future because I would love to continue in this world and find out what happens next!
At first, Akuma and Cara seemed an unlikely pair of main characters, but the depth of their individual background and character helped moved the story forward. It became impossible not to root for them.
The pacing felt a little slower at times, but it never took away from my overall enjoyment of the book. I also wasn’t sure how the ending would play out, whether we would be left on a cliff hanger or how all the logistics of the plot would come together but I was pleasantly surprised by how satisfied I felt with the resolution.
I wish that there could be a book two in the future because I would love to continue in this world and find out what happens next!
Review of advance copy
⭐️ARC REVIEW⭐️
it took me a while to get into the story, but when I did, I thought it was pretty good. A couple things are that the pacing can be a little odd, it’s really fast in the beginning and the end, but the middle was slightly confusing and felt long. A note to readers, know that this follows some Christian faith ideas, it wasn’t overly in your face, but if you’re uncomfortable with that kind of thing, just be aware. I thought that it was balanced out with some of the world building of angels v. demons.
Throughout the story, you can really see the characters evolve, especially Cara at the end. Another small thing is that I wish we had seen more internal thought prior to the story or from other characters aside from the MMC FMC and others (this thought is mainly about Cara’s parents) as some moments felt off.
Overall a pretty good book. Excited to see this whenever it is published!
it took me a while to get into the story, but when I did, I thought it was pretty good. A couple things are that the pacing can be a little odd, it’s really fast in the beginning and the end, but the middle was slightly confusing and felt long. A note to readers, know that this follows some Christian faith ideas, it wasn’t overly in your face, but if you’re uncomfortable with that kind of thing, just be aware. I thought that it was balanced out with some of the world building of angels v. demons.
Throughout the story, you can really see the characters evolve, especially Cara at the end. Another small thing is that I wish we had seen more internal thought prior to the story or from other characters aside from the MMC FMC and others (this thought is mainly about Cara’s parents) as some moments felt off.
Overall a pretty good book. Excited to see this whenever it is published!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Early reader thanks to this wonderful author!!
A humble accountant in his 30s that works his 9-5 no questions asked is brutally killed by demons. He finally worked up the courage to ask his crush out on a date and little did she know he was not going to show due to his unforseen death. But when death confronts him and gives him an option to come back for revenge, should he take it? Well guess what he does and becomes a Reeper.
From the beginning I was hooked, this book started off quick and there was no turning back. I love the main characters, I was not a fan of how timid and shy he was in the beginning but man once he chose to come back as a Reeper his character and attitude completely change. The depth of the story and all the ins and outs with the demons and angels was really awesome. It kept me going wondering what was going to happen next. I was expecting some form of romance which there was none but it was great to see how both Cara and Akuma's relationship blossomed from a crush to partners.
So in a nutshell the devil is trying to use 2 lost souls to help create the Apocalypse... how bad can it get 😳😂
A humble accountant in his 30s that works his 9-5 no questions asked is brutally killed by demons. He finally worked up the courage to ask his crush out on a date and little did she know he was not going to show due to his unforseen death. But when death confronts him and gives him an option to come back for revenge, should he take it? Well guess what he does and becomes a Reeper.
From the beginning I was hooked, this book started off quick and there was no turning back. I love the main characters, I was not a fan of how timid and shy he was in the beginning but man once he chose to come back as a Reeper his character and attitude completely change. The depth of the story and all the ins and outs with the demons and angels was really awesome. It kept me going wondering what was going to happen next. I was expecting some form of romance which there was none but it was great to see how both Cara and Akuma's relationship blossomed from a crush to partners.
So in a nutshell the devil is trying to use 2 lost souls to help create the Apocalypse... how bad can it get 😳😂
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received an Advance Reader Copy (ARC) of this book! Thank you for the opportunity to read it early!
Fire & Brimstone by Talia Wall is a wild ride that completely changes the game partway through.
This book completely exceeded my expectations! Talia Wall has built a phenomenal world that seamlessly blends urban fantasy with reapers and demons.
I absolutely loved the transition from a cozy workplace romance into a dark, high stakes world of demons, reapers, and death. Even though I suspected it, it still caught me off guard and completely wrecked me in the best way! I can’t explain how thrilling and exciting theses shifts were to me. One minute you’re having a cute shopping date and the next a demon is waiting to possess your soul.
Watching Akuma’s reality shift so drastically kept me glued to the pages. He is such a magnetic character, his inner struggles and past conflicts with his present actions in ways that is morally challenging. His situation is impossible to navigate and I think Talia succeeded in portraying a realistic and relatable plight for him. I rooted for Akuma so hard from start to finish!
Cara’s journey is just as complex and intense. I had so much anxiety discovering her past and navigating her present. She is just a girl who feels deeply and loves hard but is also formidable and incredibly head strong. There were several moments I wanted to reach into the book and shake her, but her shortcomings and mistakes humanize her and make her wins that much more rewarding. She grows exponentially by the end of the book but maintains her light and honest nature which was incredibly satisfying to read.
If you love dark fantasy with morally gray characters, and a beautiful and chaotic storyline you need to read this!
Fire & Brimstone by Talia Wall is a wild ride that completely changes the game partway through.
This book completely exceeded my expectations! Talia Wall has built a phenomenal world that seamlessly blends urban fantasy with reapers and demons.
I absolutely loved the transition from a cozy workplace romance into a dark, high stakes world of demons, reapers, and death. Even though I suspected it, it still caught me off guard and completely wrecked me in the best way! I can’t explain how thrilling and exciting theses shifts were to me. One minute you’re having a cute shopping date and the next a demon is waiting to possess your soul.
Watching Akuma’s reality shift so drastically kept me glued to the pages. He is such a magnetic character, his inner struggles and past conflicts with his present actions in ways that is morally challenging. His situation is impossible to navigate and I think Talia succeeded in portraying a realistic and relatable plight for him. I rooted for Akuma so hard from start to finish!
Cara’s journey is just as complex and intense. I had so much anxiety discovering her past and navigating her present. She is just a girl who feels deeply and loves hard but is also formidable and incredibly head strong. There were several moments I wanted to reach into the book and shake her, but her shortcomings and mistakes humanize her and make her wins that much more rewarding. She grows exponentially by the end of the book but maintains her light and honest nature which was incredibly satisfying to read.
If you love dark fantasy with morally gray characters, and a beautiful and chaotic storyline you need to read this!
August 5, 2026
ARC REVIEW
HUGE THANKS TO THE TALIA ! For trusting me and sending me this book to give it a review
Spice: No spice at least in my opinion. But love the gradual relationship between mmc and fmc
Pacing: fast paced was hooked on it immediately
MMC: lovable he's such a lover boy but watch out can kill you ! So sweet love his dynamic with fmc
FMC: kind and Capable she is awesome !
Love love the idea of demons angels and reapers and the battle of good vs evil !
I don't want to give to much away that why I do my reviews in bullet points but trust this one you will want to read ! Its very hard for me to give a full 5 stars but a 4 is pretty good in my opinion.
HUGE THANKS TO THE TALIA ! For trusting me and sending me this book to give it a review
Spice: No spice at least in my opinion. But love the gradual relationship between mmc and fmc
Pacing: fast paced was hooked on it immediately
MMC: lovable he's such a lover boy but watch out can kill you ! So sweet love his dynamic with fmc
FMC: kind and Capable she is awesome !
Love love the idea of demons angels and reapers and the battle of good vs evil !
I don't want to give to much away that why I do my reviews in bullet points but trust this one you will want to read ! Its very hard for me to give a full 5 stars but a 4 is pretty good in my opinion.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This new standalone novel by Talia Wall will have you wishing it wasn’t a standalone! The characters are so vividly written that you feel like you truly know them. I found myself rooting the entire time for Akuma, the sweet, shy, and somewhat nerdy boy, and Cara, his beautiful, equally kind coworker.
From the very beginning, the odds are stacked against them, with outside forces shaping their fate before they even have a chance to fully know each other.
Blending themes of good vs. evil and God vs. Satan, the story related elements like reapers, angels of death, and venators, adding depth and intrigue to the world.
This book will hook you from the first page and keep you completely entranced until the very end.
From the very beginning, the odds are stacked against them, with outside forces shaping their fate before they even have a chance to fully know each other.
Blending themes of good vs. evil and God vs. Satan, the story related elements like reapers, angels of death, and venators, adding depth and intrigue to the world.
This book will hook you from the first page and keep you completely entranced until the very end.
June 28, 2026
Review of advanced readers copy
This is my first book by this author and first book regarding a reaper. I was so enthralled by the story I couldn’t put it down. There is no spice, but the plot was great (engaging). The theme of this book seems very relatable on a day to day with the foundation being good v evil. I will say the FMC was frustrating at times. Like how many red flags do you need to be thrown at your face in order to trust your gut instinct girl?! The character building started off great. Glad that love and good won.
This is my first book by this author and first book regarding a reaper. I was so enthralled by the story I couldn’t put it down. There is no spice, but the plot was great (engaging). The theme of this book seems very relatable on a day to day with the foundation being good v evil. I will say the FMC was frustrating at times. Like how many red flags do you need to be thrown at your face in order to trust your gut instinct girl?! The character building started off great. Glad that love and good won.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Review of Advanced Reader Copy Recieved by Author
So this was something new i tried i chose to sign up without reading the blurb, no tropes just on what the author promoted i wanted to be surprised and I was suprised !!!! Definitely not what i expected, but this was so good it definitely needs a whole new genre, because it had bible verses as chapters not your typical contents right!?!I was so lost in it with the Angels of death,Reapers and a school for exorcisism. It was a slow burn love with no spice but honestly it was packed with so much action. Definately shocked 😲
So this was something new i tried i chose to sign up without reading the blurb, no tropes just on what the author promoted i wanted to be surprised and I was suprised !!!! Definitely not what i expected, but this was so good it definitely needs a whole new genre, because it had bible verses as chapters not your typical contents right!?!I was so lost in it with the Angels of death,Reapers and a school for exorcisism. It was a slow burn love with no spice but honestly it was packed with so much action. Definately shocked 😲
Review of advance copy received from Author
I throughly enjoyed this read. I absolutely loved the unique characters Cara and Akuma. The vividness and accuracy of the world building and the actions of the characters will have you fully immersed in this read with no troubles. I enjoyed the the concept of heaven and hell within this book adding a vivid and detailed world build throughout the story. The only thing I couldnt get past was the slowness of it but with that being said its still a very well written book with a great storyline. I highly recommend if you love urban fantasy, redemption, and the supernatural genre. Highly Recommend!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I absolutely loved this book. I’m so thankful that I got the opportunity to be a beta reader and was able to share my thoughts with the author. I was hooked within the first few chapters of the book, to the point that I couldn’t put it down and finished it in one day. The plot kept me on the edge of my seat, I liked the connections between the characters, and can safely say that this will become one of my favorite fantasy books. I can’t wait for future books from this author.
June 18, 2026
Akuma and Cara have a small part of my soul. Having the opportunity to ARC read this book gave me the ability to learn and grow along with the characters. Well written and it will have you hooked from the first chapter. I didn’t want to put it down because I wanted to know what was next. 10/10 recommended if you want your heart ripped out and stitched back together in a good way.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I love it when there’s quotes for the chapters; it adds a personal touch to it. The story is so good with religious themes! I actually like the writing style and the characters. All the characters had their own agenda. I actually clocked the villains in the book, but you really have to pay attention to the details and all.
July 19, 2026
**received this as an ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own**
Wow. I went into this book thinking it would be a star crossed lovers but man did the author take it to a new level. Angels and demons and religion all brought together in an amazing way to tell an amazing story. Akuma and Cara face things no other person will ever see or know about. Wow. All the feels. Amazing.
Wow. I went into this book thinking it would be a star crossed lovers but man did the author take it to a new level. Angels and demons and religion all brought together in an amazing way to tell an amazing story. Akuma and Cara face things no other person will ever see or know about. Wow. All the feels. Amazing.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was very interesting. Cara and Akuma did a lot of impulsive actions that both benefited and hindered them. They were so quick to move, they didnt heed warnings nor listen to instructions. Bless their hearts they got a happy ending... or did they ??
Review of advance copy received from Author
I thoroughly enjoyed this book! It was absolutely amazing. I couldn't put it down, I loved seeing the story for the MMC and FMC
I will say, I was devastated with what happened to Iris but I am so happy that things kind of worked out for everyone else, in a way, especially Akuma.
I will say, I was devastated with what happened to Iris but I am so happy that things kind of worked out for everyone else, in a way, especially Akuma.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Highly recommend 10/10! This was amazing! The MMC was likable and my heart felt for him so much.😭
I wish the MFC was a little more battle hardened, but femme fatales have to start somewhere right? I am so glad I found this book and will be adding this author to my list!
I wish the MFC was a little more battle hardened, but femme fatales have to start somewhere right? I am so glad I found this book and will be adding this author to my list!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews