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My K-9 is a Demon #1
How To Tell If Your K-9 Is A Demon
⭐ Reader Reactions💬 “Laugh-out-loud funny with witty, slightly unhinged banter.”
💬 “Lighthearted and gritty with twists I didn’t see coming.”
💬 “Perfect rom-com energy with just enough spice.”
💬 “If you love the TV show Lucifer vibes, this absolutely delivers.”
She went to adopt a K-9 partner.
She did not mean to adopt a demon.
Officer Kelly “Chuck” Charles thought choosing her new K-9 would be straightforward.
Obedient. Loyal. Not possessed by ancient evil.
She was wrong.
Her new K-9 partner growls in dead languages, smirks like he’s plotting world domination, and reacts to holy water like it personally insulted his ancestors.
Because Malachi isn’t just a dog.
He’s a centuries-old demon trapped in a canine body — morally black, dangerously clever, and very annoyed about it.
The problem?
Chuck doesn’t know any of that yet.
She’s just a cop trying to survive long shifts, bad coffee, and a partner who may or may not be judging her soul.
She definitely doesn’t know she’s part angel.
And she absolutely isn’t prepared for the supernatural chaos headed straight for her life.
When a well-meaning witch gives Malachi his body back, everything goes from “weird dog behavior” to full-blown celestial disaster.
Redeem him.
Banish him.
Or fall for the demon who was never meant to have a heart.
How To Tell If Your K-9 Is A Demon is a laugh-out-loud paranormal romantic comedy packed demon adoptionSnarky banter and slow-burn tensionA morally black demon with opinionsA strong female cop who didn’t sign up for destinyCelestial HijinksIf you love paranormal rom-coms with heart, humor, and just enough hellfire — this book will have you laughing, swooning, and side-eyeing every dog you meet.
💬 “Lighthearted and gritty with twists I didn’t see coming.”
💬 “Perfect rom-com energy with just enough spice.”
💬 “If you love the TV show Lucifer vibes, this absolutely delivers.”
She went to adopt a K-9 partner.
She did not mean to adopt a demon.
Officer Kelly “Chuck” Charles thought choosing her new K-9 would be straightforward.
Obedient. Loyal. Not possessed by ancient evil.
She was wrong.
Her new K-9 partner growls in dead languages, smirks like he’s plotting world domination, and reacts to holy water like it personally insulted his ancestors.
Because Malachi isn’t just a dog.
He’s a centuries-old demon trapped in a canine body — morally black, dangerously clever, and very annoyed about it.
The problem?
Chuck doesn’t know any of that yet.
She’s just a cop trying to survive long shifts, bad coffee, and a partner who may or may not be judging her soul.
She definitely doesn’t know she’s part angel.
And she absolutely isn’t prepared for the supernatural chaos headed straight for her life.
When a well-meaning witch gives Malachi his body back, everything goes from “weird dog behavior” to full-blown celestial disaster.
Redeem him.
Banish him.
Or fall for the demon who was never meant to have a heart.
How To Tell If Your K-9 Is A Demon is a laugh-out-loud paranormal romantic comedy packed demon adoptionSnarky banter and slow-burn tensionA morally black demon with opinionsA strong female cop who didn’t sign up for destinyCelestial HijinksIf you love paranormal rom-coms with heart, humor, and just enough hellfire — this book will have you laughing, swooning, and side-eyeing every dog you meet.
370 pages, Paperback
Published February 6, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 196 reviews
February 15, 2026
RECENZIJA
How to tell if your K-9 is a demon - Trista Ricketts
5⭐️
Ako ste se zaželili dobre stare policijske akcije sa mješavinom humora, romantike i odlicnog prepucavanja sa hrpom smiješnih i nepredvidljivih situacija ovo je knjiga za vas.
Prva knjiga koju citam od ove autorice, ali zaista jedan odlican roman ako ste ljubitelj serije Lucifer i takve smiješne tematike.
Reena mi je bila odlicna. A Glenda, vjestica je unijela toliko željenu promjenu u dinamiku između glavnih likova. Kada tu još dodate pokusaje ubojstava, opsjednutost, romantiku i zezanciju - dobili ste hit.
#mojapreporuka
How to tell if your K-9 is a demon - Trista Ricketts
5⭐️
Ako ste se zaželili dobre stare policijske akcije sa mješavinom humora, romantike i odlicnog prepucavanja sa hrpom smiješnih i nepredvidljivih situacija ovo je knjiga za vas.
Prva knjiga koju citam od ove autorice, ali zaista jedan odlican roman ako ste ljubitelj serije Lucifer i takve smiješne tematike.
Reena mi je bila odlicna. A Glenda, vjestica je unijela toliko željenu promjenu u dinamiku između glavnih likova. Kada tu još dodate pokusaje ubojstava, opsjednutost, romantiku i zezanciju - dobili ste hit.
#mojapreporuka
February 13, 2026
DNF @ 24% / 11 chapters read
Look, it isn't bad, but I am bored. The humor isn't to my taste-- I'm not laughing-- and this is going much faster than anticipated. Like, she believes he isn't just a dog right off the bet, but then doesn't try to help or look into it more for 3 months? He also isn't doing a good job of keeping his not-dog status from other people.
I will say these are complex characters??? He's a demon, he's trying to corrupt people, but is also happy when she's noble or taking down bad guys. He cares for the little dog, Reena. He... doesn't actually seem evil? The FMC is nice, sweet, a cop, but flows with her emotions. Actually, she feels really young to me...
This book is also told from Malachi's point of view, which might be why this feels weird.
Anyhow, I wouldn't turn anyone away from this book, it just wasn't for me. Maybe if the humor hit me right I wouldn't have found it as bland.
Look, it isn't bad, but I am bored. The humor isn't to my taste-- I'm not laughing-- and this is going much faster than anticipated. Like, she believes he isn't just a dog right off the bet, but then doesn't try to help or look into it more for 3 months? He also isn't doing a good job of keeping his not-dog status from other people.
I will say these are complex characters??? He's a demon, he's trying to corrupt people, but is also happy when she's noble or taking down bad guys. He cares for the little dog, Reena. He... doesn't actually seem evil? The FMC is nice, sweet, a cop, but flows with her emotions. Actually, she feels really young to me...
This book is also told from Malachi's point of view, which might be why this feels weird.
Anyhow, I wouldn't turn anyone away from this book, it just wasn't for me. Maybe if the humor hit me right I wouldn't have found it as bland.
March 17, 2026
inane tryhard copaganda DRIVEL. if i hadn't chosen this goddamn book for book club for the LAUGHS i would've dnf'd at 1% it was so horrifically bad
January 19, 2026
Omg!!!!! How to Tell if your K-9 is a Demon is a 10/10! It has everything you could want in a book and more.
The banter between Malachi and Chuck is perfect, the relationship between them and the way it grows throughout the book was so natural and so fun to read. There’s moments where you laugh out loud and then you have moments where you’re waiting to see what happens next, and of course, there are a couple of spicy moments too😉
Having a demon trapped inside a dog and having the story from his point of view is very interesting to read, you see Malachi grow from being a full on demon to changing for the better and the consequences of that happening.
As much as I love Malachi and Chuck, Reena stood out from the start, I mean, who doesn’t want a dog who’s obsessed with reality tv?😂
The pacing of the book was honestly so easy to read, the plot throughout makes you not want to stop reading, you just want to keep seeing what will happen next.
How to Tell if Your K-9 is a Demon comes out February 6th and I really recommend getting it ASAP!!!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🌶️🌶️
The banter between Malachi and Chuck is perfect, the relationship between them and the way it grows throughout the book was so natural and so fun to read. There’s moments where you laugh out loud and then you have moments where you’re waiting to see what happens next, and of course, there are a couple of spicy moments too😉
Having a demon trapped inside a dog and having the story from his point of view is very interesting to read, you see Malachi grow from being a full on demon to changing for the better and the consequences of that happening.
As much as I love Malachi and Chuck, Reena stood out from the start, I mean, who doesn’t want a dog who’s obsessed with reality tv?😂
The pacing of the book was honestly so easy to read, the plot throughout makes you not want to stop reading, you just want to keep seeing what will happen next.
How to Tell if Your K-9 is a Demon comes out February 6th and I really recommend getting it ASAP!!!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🌶️🌶️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 12, 2026
I was initially captivated by How To Tell If Your K‑9 Is A Demon by Trista Ricketts. The early chapters hook you with a fun and intriguing premise: a police officer adopts a dog from the pound who turns out to be a centuries‑old demon, reacting to holy water, ancient languages, and supernatural forces. Around the middle, though, the story begins to meander. Endless demon and angel politics, celestial hierarchies, witch subplots, and inter-cop politics/relationship drama take over, and the mystery surrounding her father loses its impact. What starts as a fascinating paranormal story slowly becomes weighed down by exposition and distractions, leaving the original hook largely unresolved.
Rating: 2.5⭐
Rating: 2.5⭐
March 7, 2026
Ai cover
Ai cover art combined with super long winded passages tends to make me believe ai was probably used to write this book too. For that reason alone I cannot recommend
Ai cover art combined with super long winded passages tends to make me believe ai was probably used to write this book too. For that reason alone I cannot recommend
Review of advance copy
This book was much cuter then I thought it would be. Police officer meets a demon stuck in a k-9 body. Only she doesn't know he is a demon. She does know there is something different about him. I don't want to post any spoilers. So ill just leave it at this. Cute rom-com with witty banter and mystery. Small amounts of spice added into the story
April 28, 2026
When I picked up this book, I could tell by the colorful cover and cover art that this book would make me laugh and make me want to talk to my own doggy, I really didn’t know what I was going to get into besides something police related and some fantasy with a demon dog.
As I was reading, the demon dog’s dialogue really caught my attention because it made me feel like I was in his head, hearing his thoughts. I really could picture what was going on from the way the words were written…. A real movie behind my eyes!!
I loved the way that this book was written from a dog’s POV but also as a human!!! Kind of a dual POV that you really did not expect but came to love as the story unfolded.
I loved the way Malachi is so protective over Chuck and learns to overcome his prior notions of feelings in order to break new barriers and feel new FEELINGS!
The attention to police-related background and knowledge was much appreciated as I am someone who has knowledge of law enforcement.
Overall, such a great book. Even brought it to my book club to recommend to my friends! Can’t wait for any future publications relating to this book… hehehe
As I was reading, the demon dog’s dialogue really caught my attention because it made me feel like I was in his head, hearing his thoughts. I really could picture what was going on from the way the words were written…. A real movie behind my eyes!!
I loved the way that this book was written from a dog’s POV but also as a human!!! Kind of a dual POV that you really did not expect but came to love as the story unfolded.
I loved the way Malachi is so protective over Chuck and learns to overcome his prior notions of feelings in order to break new barriers and feel new FEELINGS!
The attention to police-related background and knowledge was much appreciated as I am someone who has knowledge of law enforcement.
Overall, such a great book. Even brought it to my book club to recommend to my friends! Can’t wait for any future publications relating to this book… hehehe
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Read
July 11, 2026How to Tell if your K-9 is a Demon 🐾
Written by Trista Rickets
🎧Narrated by Corvin King
📖10h 42m
Adult • PNR
🗓️Audiobook coming July 14
🐾chaotic paranormal romcom
🐾demons and humans
🐾slow burn
🐾supernatural disaster
🐾sharp banter
My favorite color is also black, my dear demon.
But I also love lavender and blush pink. Kind of like this book. Sure, Malachi’s soul was a dark one (albeit hilarious), but its physical form was this adorable little “good boy” doggy. haha
The premise of this book immediately caught my attention. And requesting this ALC was an extremely smart decision on my part!
How to Tell if your K-9 is a Demon was sweet and cozy with an easy going humor. The narration did it all the justice in the world.
Written by Trista Rickets
🎧Narrated by Corvin King
📖10h 42m
Adult • PNR
🗓️Audiobook coming July 14
🐾chaotic paranormal romcom
🐾demons and humans
🐾slow burn
🐾supernatural disaster
🐾sharp banter
My favorite color is also black, my dear demon.
But I also love lavender and blush pink. Kind of like this book. Sure, Malachi’s soul was a dark one (albeit hilarious), but its physical form was this adorable little “good boy” doggy. haha
The premise of this book immediately caught my attention. And requesting this ALC was an extremely smart decision on my part!
How to Tell if your K-9 is a Demon was sweet and cozy with an easy going humor. The narration did it all the justice in the world.
Review of advance copy received from Author
How To Tell Your K-9 Is A Demon - Five stars
Summary: A book that kept me giggling from the very first page. The perfect mix of urban fantasy, mystery, romance and humor with characters who actually communicate and respect each other. The plot kept me guessing, the slowburn romance slowburned just the way I like it, it was fun and the twists were well executed. HTTIYK9IAD is clever, heartfelt and very, very entertaining. I loved every page and could read a dozen more books about this trio.
I was invested in this book even before the story begun. An author that manages to write serious content warnings as well as a few humorous content warnings? I loved that. I was giggling. Trista Ricketts knows how to begin a story with humor! We have to talk chapter titles as well. Hilarious - I was constantly cackling.
The book felt like more than a story about a demon trapped in a dog's body (and it was!). It is an urban fantasy, mystery, romance and humor all neatly packed into one delicious entertainment package. I liked the worldbuilding and the mythology. The plot kept me guessing and the pacing was spot on.
I love how the characters communicate with honesty and respect, I didn't need to find my spray bottle for the dreaded miscommunication trope. The romance is a slowburn done very well with lots of fun while feeling refreshing without relying on overused tropes. It had me giggling, the tension hooked me in and the mysteries kept me turning pages well into the night.
The balance in which the book is written was great. Witty (A LOT) dialogue, clever twists, emotional depth and just the right amount of romantic tension. This is a book made to make you smile, gasp and swoon at the same time. The author has definitely won me over with Chuck, Malachi and the most wonderful little Chuglet (I love you Reena).
Summary: A book that kept me giggling from the very first page. The perfect mix of urban fantasy, mystery, romance and humor with characters who actually communicate and respect each other. The plot kept me guessing, the slowburn romance slowburned just the way I like it, it was fun and the twists were well executed. HTTIYK9IAD is clever, heartfelt and very, very entertaining. I loved every page and could read a dozen more books about this trio.
I was invested in this book even before the story begun. An author that manages to write serious content warnings as well as a few humorous content warnings? I loved that. I was giggling. Trista Ricketts knows how to begin a story with humor! We have to talk chapter titles as well. Hilarious - I was constantly cackling.
The book felt like more than a story about a demon trapped in a dog's body (and it was!). It is an urban fantasy, mystery, romance and humor all neatly packed into one delicious entertainment package. I liked the worldbuilding and the mythology. The plot kept me guessing and the pacing was spot on.
I love how the characters communicate with honesty and respect, I didn't need to find my spray bottle for the dreaded miscommunication trope. The romance is a slowburn done very well with lots of fun while feeling refreshing without relying on overused tropes. It had me giggling, the tension hooked me in and the mysteries kept me turning pages well into the night.
The balance in which the book is written was great. Witty (A LOT) dialogue, clever twists, emotional depth and just the right amount of romantic tension. This is a book made to make you smile, gasp and swoon at the same time. The author has definitely won me over with Chuck, Malachi and the most wonderful little Chuglet (I love you Reena).
Review of advance copy received from Author
Laugh, laugh, laugh. It was a fun read. It's probably how every dog owner must have imagined what their dog would say if it could talk. I highly recommend this book. Thanks to the author for sharing this amazing book.
January 15, 2026
*thank you to Trista Ricketts for allowing me to review this arc*
Malachi a shelter pooch meets Chuck a police officer. Malachi is a demon being punished in a Malinois body. Chuck is a fearless cop surviving grief of her father who was murdered a year ago. There’s also Jaxson, another cop friend who came to the shelter with Chuck. These 3 are so much fun in the story. I wasn’t sure what to expect with this book but what I got was a beautiful rom-com full of laughs and a light hearted, easy read.
Go along on the journey to solve the whodunit and watch a demon find his soul. Through love all is possible.
As an owner of a SD shepherd, this just was so funny & endearing. Totally got the shepherd vibes right & I loved that in public that the dog didn’t have to be perfect. Shepherds are so “human like” in personality that it’s not hard to imagine one being a demon shifter with the best of intentions but still sowing minor chaos.
Everything about this story was amazing and I appreciate the opportunity being able to be an arc reader for this story. It truly was a light read that was a lot of fun! The spice level was extremely mild compared to my normal romantasies. But, it wasn’t missed. If a hallmark story met a paranormal romance this would be the IT story!
PS: if you like the show Lucifer, this gives those fun, snarky vibes..
And I am not sure if there will be spin offs of the other characters but I’d be here for it! There’s definitely been left an opening to see more stories in this universe!
Malachi a shelter pooch meets Chuck a police officer. Malachi is a demon being punished in a Malinois body. Chuck is a fearless cop surviving grief of her father who was murdered a year ago. There’s also Jaxson, another cop friend who came to the shelter with Chuck. These 3 are so much fun in the story. I wasn’t sure what to expect with this book but what I got was a beautiful rom-com full of laughs and a light hearted, easy read.
Go along on the journey to solve the whodunit and watch a demon find his soul. Through love all is possible.
As an owner of a SD shepherd, this just was so funny & endearing. Totally got the shepherd vibes right & I loved that in public that the dog didn’t have to be perfect. Shepherds are so “human like” in personality that it’s not hard to imagine one being a demon shifter with the best of intentions but still sowing minor chaos.
Everything about this story was amazing and I appreciate the opportunity being able to be an arc reader for this story. It truly was a light read that was a lot of fun! The spice level was extremely mild compared to my normal romantasies. But, it wasn’t missed. If a hallmark story met a paranormal romance this would be the IT story!
PS: if you like the show Lucifer, this gives those fun, snarky vibes..
And I am not sure if there will be spin offs of the other characters but I’d be here for it! There’s definitely been left an opening to see more stories in this universe!
January 16, 2026
5⭐️ 3🌶️
**ARC review**
❣️Girls furry best friend 🐶 meets Lucifer Morningstar 😈
❣️Touch her and 🔪
❣️“A demon with a bondage fetish and a half-angel police officer. What a pair we are.” - Chuck
I knew I would love this book just from the title and the blurb, but this was so much better than I thought! It really does give Lucifer (tv show) vibes! It will have you laughing and kicking your feet with a giant smile on your face. Kelly “Chuck” Charles is such a funny and badass FMC, I wish I could read more of her. When she goes to adopt a new K-9 partner she is expecting to find a rescue dog.. not a rescue demon (not that she knows that). I LOVE the fact that they are supposed to be sworn enemies- light vs dark, demon vs ..police officer, and somehow they still end up friends. I love a book with dogs, and not only do we get Malachi the (loveable?) K-9, but my girl Re-Re is a STAR. Reena the Chugglet is the real FMC of the series. ✨The humans are good too- wait until you meet Evan. Now that’s an MMC. 🤤❤️🔥 I don’t give out 5🌟often, but this adorable supernatural romcom truly deserves it! Thank you Trista Ricketts for the ARC, it was wonderful!
**ARC review**
❣️Girls furry best friend 🐶 meets Lucifer Morningstar 😈
❣️Touch her and 🔪
❣️“A demon with a bondage fetish and a half-angel police officer. What a pair we are.” - Chuck
I knew I would love this book just from the title and the blurb, but this was so much better than I thought! It really does give Lucifer (tv show) vibes! It will have you laughing and kicking your feet with a giant smile on your face. Kelly “Chuck” Charles is such a funny and badass FMC, I wish I could read more of her. When she goes to adopt a new K-9 partner she is expecting to find a rescue dog.. not a rescue demon (not that she knows that). I LOVE the fact that they are supposed to be sworn enemies- light vs dark, demon vs ..police officer, and somehow they still end up friends. I love a book with dogs, and not only do we get Malachi the (loveable?) K-9, but my girl Re-Re is a STAR. Reena the Chugglet is the real FMC of the series. ✨The humans are good too- wait until you meet Evan. Now that’s an MMC. 🤤❤️🔥 I don’t give out 5🌟often, but this adorable supernatural romcom truly deserves it! Thank you Trista Ricketts for the ARC, it was wonderful!
April 27, 2026
This book was decent and entertaining. Started out strong, but by the end, I was just skimming. This book is 372 pages long, which I felt was too long for the plot. It was a lot of back and forth and who dunnits and a lot of repeat scenes that left several plot holes. I felt that if we cut out several of the chapters and tightened up the details, it would have had a better flow. Instead, I was left wondering what the point of certain scenes and chapters were because they had no effect on the plot.
Things I liked about this book:
The humor, for starters. This book had several funny moments. For the most part, I enjoyed every character. I also enjoyed how the book's POV was from Malachi instead of Chuck. It's not often we get a story from exclusively the male's POV, and I thought this book was better for it because no offense to Chuck, but she kinda got on my nerves most of the time. The plot itself had potential and was a decent story.
Things I did not like:
I've already mentioned how this book had too many repetitive scenes that didn't help the plot. It gave us so many details about some things while almost no details about others. For example, it's implied that Chuck was already aware of magic and the supranatural world, but how? It specifically mentions how her father raised her completely human & even put up spells to protect her and prevent her from learning about his world. So, how does she just "know and accept" that Malachi was more than a dog? She doesn't question anything about it. She doesn't question much of anything really. She gets exposed to a lot and just appears to be unshakable. Secondly, Jaxon spent the entire book hard core lusting over Chuck & then at the end, he's like "oh she's like a sister, she's my only family". Another thing I didn't like is how angels could only be blond and blue eyed.
Overall though, the banter in the beginning of the story was great, but eventually it just turned into massive googly eyes, the tension didn't tension and, the ending was super anticlimactic.
Still a very lighthearted read, it was fun if you didn't get to in depth with it. 3.2 stars.
Things I liked about this book:
The humor, for starters. This book had several funny moments. For the most part, I enjoyed every character. I also enjoyed how the book's POV was from Malachi instead of Chuck. It's not often we get a story from exclusively the male's POV, and I thought this book was better for it because no offense to Chuck, but she kinda got on my nerves most of the time. The plot itself had potential and was a decent story.
Things I did not like:
I've already mentioned how this book had too many repetitive scenes that didn't help the plot. It gave us so many details about some things while almost no details about others. For example, it's implied that Chuck was already aware of magic and the supranatural world, but how? It specifically mentions how her father raised her completely human & even put up spells to protect her and prevent her from learning about his world. So, how does she just "know and accept" that Malachi was more than a dog? She doesn't question anything about it. She doesn't question much of anything really. She gets exposed to a lot and just appears to be unshakable. Secondly, Jaxon spent the entire book hard core lusting over Chuck & then at the end, he's like "oh she's like a sister, she's my only family". Another thing I didn't like is how angels could only be blond and blue eyed.
Overall though, the banter in the beginning of the story was great, but eventually it just turned into massive googly eyes, the tension didn't tension and, the ending was super anticlimactic.
Still a very lighthearted read, it was fun if you didn't get to in depth with it. 3.2 stars.
July 15, 2026
4.5⭐️
I was fucking cackling the whole time!
Demon gets trapped in doggo form as punishment, then gets rescued by a police officer and becomes a K9 officer… (her also adopts his own dog too). Malachi is tasked with corrupting this human, but instead she corrupts him to the side of good(ish)!
Demons vs angels with goofy puppy antics!
“What the actual fuck, Nicorette?” 😂 all the versions of Nick were fucking gold!
🫑/5
Slow burn that does finally get there… more naughty things hinted at so maybe more kinky fun in book 2?
I was fucking cackling the whole time!
Demon gets trapped in doggo form as punishment, then gets rescued by a police officer and becomes a K9 officer… (her also adopts his own dog too). Malachi is tasked with corrupting this human, but instead she corrupts him to the side of good(ish)!
Demons vs angels with goofy puppy antics!
“What the actual fuck, Nicorette?” 😂 all the versions of Nick were fucking gold!
🫑/5
Slow burn that does finally get there… more naughty things hinted at so maybe more kinky fun in book 2?
June 5, 2026
June 2026
Kindle edition
Took a while to get through. Cover looked fun. This was sickly sweet. Syrupy. There were moments where a demon plays tormentor, but other than that mostly light hearted with a growing supporting cast. I liked that Chuck wasn't a damsel in distress. The no struggle acceptance was a bit weird. Will probably read the next one.
Kindle edition
Took a while to get through. Cover looked fun. This was sickly sweet. Syrupy. There were moments where a demon plays tormentor, but other than that mostly light hearted with a growing supporting cast. I liked that Chuck wasn't a damsel in distress. The no struggle acceptance was a bit weird. Will probably read the next one.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 23, 2026
Think of the show Lucifer and instead of a human consultant, he is a K9.
June 24, 2026
4.5 stars.
It was hilarious, heartwarming, ended on a good note, and I love to see a baddie dip into good things and the goodie two shoes be a little bad. It is amazing.
It was hilarious, heartwarming, ended on a good note, and I love to see a baddie dip into good things and the goodie two shoes be a little bad. It is amazing.
April 10, 2026
DNF. I tried, I really did. But I actually regret not stopping earlier. The writing was just flat and it just kept going.
July 26, 2026
Title: How to Tell If Your K-9 Is A Demon: A Paranormal Romantic Comedy
Series: My K-9 is a Demon Series Book 1
Author: Trista Ricketts
Genre: Paranormal Romantic Comedy
Subgenres:
• Paranormal Romantic Comedy
• Urban Fantasy Romance
• Supernatural Romance
• Slow-Burn Romance
• Law-Enforcement Romance
• Demon Romance
• Lighthearted Fantasy
⭐My Rating: 4/5
🌶️My Spice: 3/5
Tropes:
• Accidental demon adoption
• K9 Partner with a Supernatural Secret
• Human-Demon Romance
• Morally Gray Demon MMC
• Strong Female Cop FMC
• Forced Proximity
• Slow-Burn Romance
• Snarky Witty Banter
• Grumpy x Stubborn Pairing
• He Falls First
• Angels vs Demons
• “I Didn’t Sign Up for This” Heroine
• “Who Did This to You?” Energy
• Laugh-Out-Loud Paranormal Romance
• Romantic Comedy with Hellfire
Content/Trigger Warnings:
• Law-enforcement themes
• Police work and criminal investigations
• Supernatural violence
• Demons, angels, witches, and religious imagery
• Possession or confinement within an animal’s body
• Threats and dangerous supernatural situations
• Magical attacks
• References to ancient evil
• Morally gray behavior
• Discussions of banishment and redemption
• Identity revelations
• Emotional manipulation
• Strong language
• Sexual attraction and romantic content
• Life-threatening situations
• Animal peril or concern for a canine character
As always, I recommend checking the author’s complete list of content warnings if you have specific sensitivities.
The Quick & Dirty Rundown
Officer Kelly “Chuck” Charles believes she is choosing a new K-9 partner. She expects an obedient, professionally trained dog who will help her survive difficult shifts and not a centuries-old demon trapped inside a canine body.
Malachi is intelligent, morally gray, deeply opinionated, and understandably irritated by his current circumstances. Unfortunately for Chuck, she initially has no idea that her new partner’s unusual behavior is evidence of something far more supernatural than canine stubbornness despite his uncanny intelligence.
Chuck is also unaware that she is part angel or that her existence is connected to an approaching celestial disaster. When a well-intentioned witch restores Malachi’s original body, Chuck’s strange K-9 situation transforms into a much larger supernatural problem. Now she must navigate magical threats, questions of redemption, and an increasingly complicated attraction to the demon who was never supposed to possess a heart.
The Neurospicy Perspective: Okay…Hear Me Out…
How To Tell If Your K-9 Is a Demon is exactly the kind of paranormal romantic chaos its title promises. The premise is absurd in the best possible way: a police officer accidentally chooses a centuries-old demon as her K-9 partner and interprets his suspiciously intelligent behavior as an extreme canine personality problem. How much more ridiculously cute and fun could this read have gotten…I have no idea, but it was a great read.
In my opinion the humor comes from the gap between what Chuck thinks is happening and what Malachi actually knows to be happening. Chuck thinks she just has a difficult to train dog. Malachi knows he is a powerful demon trapped in a canine body being forced to participate in police work while being unable to communicate with a human woman about his circumstances. Personally, I could understand the frustration on this aspect. I often wonder what my Australian Cattle dog would say in English to me if he could speak and usually, I don’t think he’s possessed by a demon…only usually though.
I found that underneath the ridiculous circumstances, a story about identity, trust, redemption and whether a dark or evil history permanently determines who they are and who they are allowed to become. Malachi may be a demon, but his growing connection to Chuck really challenges his belief that all supernatural creatures can be evenly divided neatly into good versus evil.
The book’s greatest charm, the part that made me smile and giggle the most I think comes from balancing celestial danger with the everyday frustrations of humanity. Chuck is dealing with supernatural forces, but she is also an exhausted police officer surviving long shifts, disappointing coffee, and a K-9 partner who appears to be silently judging every choice she makes. That combination keeps the story playful even when the stakes begin to rise.
From my neurodivergent perspective, Chuck’s story taps into the unsettling experience of realizing that everyone else seems to understand rules you yourself were never given. She believes that she is navigating an “ordinary world” unfortunately major pieces of information have been withheld from her. Most late diagnosed neurodivergent feel this way and wish they could go back armed with so much more knowledge about themselves.
The FMC: Kelly “Chuck” Charles
I found Chuck to be a capable, grounded heroine who had a practical personality that makes supernatural absurdity even funnier for me. She initially enters into the storyline expecting a run of the mill normal professional responsibility i.e. choose a K-9 partner and get to work. Instead, she adopts a demon with century on century of baggage and intelligence to spare making any kind of training she attempts overwhelmingly difficult for her.
The best thing about Chuck was her strength in the plot did not depend on her understanding it all immediately. She was observant, competent and analytical in a way that I respect but also was able to operate efficiently despite not knowing all the details. Describes similar personality types required to become an emergency medicine physician. To me her overall reactions made genuine sense, were not outlandish nor overdramatized.
She also works well as the emotional anchor of the book. When the plot begins expanding into demons, witches, celestial conflict, and magical destiny, Chuck’s grounded perspective prevents the story from floating away into mythology. She remains recognizably human in her frustrations, confusion, and determination to protect the people and creatures she considers hers.
The MMC: Malachi…Demon K-9
Malachi is the kind of morally gray paranormal hero who arrives with ancient power, dangerous secrets, questionable ethics, and an impressive collection of loud obnoxious opinions. That makes him even funny when he is stuck as the dog. His initial canine form creates a wonderfully unusual introduction to his character. Even before Chuck knows what he is, his intelligence and attitude are unmistakable. His growling in dead languages, offended response to holy water, and apparent plans for world domination make it increasingly difficult not to laugh out loud. Yet Chuck’s inability to understand the full meaning of his behavior gives Malachi’s irritation an extra layer of comedy as well.
Once Malachi regains his body, the dynamic changes without losing his personality established though his canine behavior. He is still clever, dangerous, sarcastic and resistant to being controlled. His morally gray nature is NOT merely aesthetic; it DIRECTLY complicates the question of whether he can or even wants to be redeemed. This was just such an unknowingly complicated story that I was not expecting.
The Chemistry Check: Malachi & Chuck
I have to say that Chuck and Malachi’s relationship begin with one of the strangest partnership arrangements imaginable. Human police officer K-9 handler versus ancient demon trapped in a dog’s body. This imbalance created immediate comedic tension but laid the foundation for a weird and unexpected bond between them. I am still figuring that one out.
Chuck is more complicated than a supposedly angelic destiny would suggest, while Malachi is capable of more loyalty and tenderness than his demonic identity should theoretically allow.
The slow burn works because their relationship must undergo a fundamental transformation. Chuck cannot simply transition from viewing Malachi as her K-9 partner to viewing him as a potential romantic partner without confusion, adjustment, and probably several moments of existential horror.
Their banter is a major source of chemistry. Malachi’s arrogance collides beautifully with Chuck’s practical refusal to be intimidated by him. She may discover that he is a powerful demon, but he is still the creature who judged her coffee, ignored her expectations/commands, and made her question every dog she has ever met.
Beneath the teasing is a more serious conflict: Chuck may eventually have to decide whether Malachi deserves redemption, banishment, or something neither heaven nor hell anticipated.
The Author’s Pen
Trista Ricketts uses a playful, accessible style that embraces the ridiculousness of the premise while still treating the characters’ emotional journeys sincerely. The humor is driven by personality, misunderstandings, supernatural complications, and sharp observations rather than relying exclusively on isolated jokes.
The writing appears designed for readers who enjoy fast-moving paranormal stories with clear imagery, lively dialogue, and a conversational tone. The celestial mythology adds structure to the plot without burying the romantic comedy beneath excessive world-building.
The banter is especially important because it establishes both character and romantic tension. Malachi’s sarcastic superiority and Chuck’s grounded stubbornness create a natural rhythm that keeps their interactions entertaining. The contrast between supernatural danger and ordinary police-work frustrations gives the story its distinctive personality.
The pacing favors momentum and entertainment. Strange K-9 behavior develops into a demonic revelation, which then expands into angelic heritage, magical interference, and a celestial-level threat. Each discovery increases the stakes while maintaining the comedic foundation.
The Dopamine Hits:
• Hilariously original accidental-demon-adoption premise
• Chuck’s competent yet relatable personality
• Malachi’s morally gray, sarcastic character
• Transformation from a K-9 partnership into a paranormal romance
• Contrast between everyday police work and celestial chaos
• Slow-building banter and romantic tension
• Chuck’s hidden angelic heritage
• Malachi’s reluctant emotional development
• Themes involving choice, identity, loyalty, and redemption
• A supporting cast capable of making an already chaotic situation worse
• The balance between paranormal mystery and romantic comedy
The Dopamine Deficits:
Because the premise is deliberately exaggerated, some developments may feel more convenient than carefully explained. The restoration of Malachi’s body is necessary for the romantic storyline, but readers who prefer rigidly constructed magical systems may want more detail surrounding how and why certain supernatural transformations occur.
The book also has several major ideas competing for attention: police work, K-9 partnership, demonic imprisonment, angelic heritage, witches, redemption, romance, and celestial conflict. At times, I wanted individual revelations or emotional transitions to have more space before the next supernatural complication arrived.
Before You Add It to Your TBR:
The tonal balance may not work for readers who prefer their demons genuinely terrifying or their police-centered stories realistic. This is intentionally a paranormal rom-com, so humor and romantic chaos take priority over procedural accuracy or dark theological horror.
The unusual progression from dog-shaped partner to human-shaped love interest may require some mental adjustment. The book clearly establishes that Malachi is a demon trapped in a canine body rather than an actual dog, but the setup may still feel too strange for some readers.
Readers should also be prepared for a deliberately bizarre romantic setup. Malachi begins the story physically trapped in a canine form and is initially understood by Chuck to be her K-9 partner. He later regains his true body before the romantic relationship develops. That distinction will matter to many readers, but the concept may remain outside some people’s comfort zones.
The Neurodivergent Bottom Line:
How To Tell If Your K-9 Is a Demon is a hilarious, chaotic, surprisingly heartfelt paranormal romance built around one irresistible question: what happens when a police officer accidentally adopts an ancient demon and mistakes his existential rage for a K-9 attitude problem?
Chuck provides grounded competence, Malachi supplies morally gray supernatural sarcasm, and their partnership creates a delightful collision between police work, romantic tension, and celestial disaster.
The unusual premise will not be for everyone, but readers willing to embrace its absurdity will find plenty of banter, magical chaos, reluctant tenderness, and demonically inconvenient feelings.
This is a strong beginning to the My K-9 Is a Demon series.
Stay tuned for my ARC of Book #2 in the series!
Archive Status:
Officially filed under supernatural chaos, accidental demon adoption, and one K-9 partner desperately in need of an exorcist—not a trainer.
Until next time…remember…if your dog starts growling in a dead language, smirking during an exorcism, or acting personally offended by holy water, perhaps obedience school is no longer the appropriate next step.
-Dr. Neurospicy
Curator of All Things Neurospicy After Dark Archive
Disclaimer:
I am leaving this review voluntarily and received no incentive or compensation to do so. s always, every thought, emotional breakdown, happy sigh, and rating expressed here is entirely my own.
Every reader has different preferences, boundaries, and interpretations. Please consult the author’s official content-warning list before reading if you have specific triggers or sensitivities.
March 31, 2026
cute but predictable and too long
Rating: 3.25⭐️
How To Tell If Your K-9 Is A Demon by Trista Ricketts is the first book by the author and it’s a cute little story. If you like the cover, then you have a great idea of what the story is about.
The author wrote a note telling the reader what prompted her writing this book, and I remember that meme. It was a good one.
The story about a K-9 officer who inadvertently adopts a demon made dog as part of his punishment is pretty cute. However, the writing doesn’t really live up to the potential of the theme.
The demon dog doesn’t really act like a rescue dog but like a demon in a dog’s body, carrying out duties and activities a rescue animal wouldn’t be able to perform. And the K-9 Officer, Chuck, isn’t bothered by the fact she’s got a paranormal being instead of a rescue dog.
This happens almost immediately into the story. Would have been more interesting had the dog and Chuck had time to develop a relationship and working partnership. But no, immediately into a bond and recognition process. And there’s a pug who watches daily tv with them who appears to be something else.
There’s a mystery about Chuck’s dad, a police officer who died while on duty, and Malachi who has been charged by his own hellish command with corrupting Chuck’s soul. Which is never believable. A golden retriever is more believable in this role than Malachi.
It all works out in the end. Cute and happily funny.
The reader will be able to know what will happen from page 1. It’s cute but predictable. If this is something you enjoy, then grab it up.
Cover Art: White Rose Publishing Service
Rating: 3.25⭐️
How To Tell If Your K-9 Is A Demon by Trista Ricketts is the first book by the author and it’s a cute little story. If you like the cover, then you have a great idea of what the story is about.
The author wrote a note telling the reader what prompted her writing this book, and I remember that meme. It was a good one.
The story about a K-9 officer who inadvertently adopts a demon made dog as part of his punishment is pretty cute. However, the writing doesn’t really live up to the potential of the theme.
The demon dog doesn’t really act like a rescue dog but like a demon in a dog’s body, carrying out duties and activities a rescue animal wouldn’t be able to perform. And the K-9 Officer, Chuck, isn’t bothered by the fact she’s got a paranormal being instead of a rescue dog.
This happens almost immediately into the story. Would have been more interesting had the dog and Chuck had time to develop a relationship and working partnership. But no, immediately into a bond and recognition process. And there’s a pug who watches daily tv with them who appears to be something else.
There’s a mystery about Chuck’s dad, a police officer who died while on duty, and Malachi who has been charged by his own hellish command with corrupting Chuck’s soul. Which is never believable. A golden retriever is more believable in this role than Malachi.
It all works out in the end. Cute and happily funny.
The reader will be able to know what will happen from page 1. It’s cute but predictable. If this is something you enjoy, then grab it up.
Cover Art: White Rose Publishing Service
April 1, 2026
DNF
Didn’t even make it past chapter one.
Possible it’s a decent story, maybe even something I wouldn’t mind.
But too many cringe, implausible moments right from the start.
Just rubbed me wrong. Maybe I can try again another time? 🤷♀️
But I hate stories, where the author ignores the very premise they introduce.
Have you EVER met a person who introduces themself to a dog, first & last name?
Talks in full sentences, not just passing on info, but asking questions? In detail.
Just read as ridiculous. Obviously info dumping within the story, but gave it a fake feel.
Especially when it was followed by her being suspicious when the dog simply nodded or shook his head. Not acting like a dog…
The two ideas didn’t work side by side.
Left me with the strong sense I wasn’t going to enjoy.
Better luck to other readers, it’s an awesome concept.
Didn’t even make it past chapter one.
Possible it’s a decent story, maybe even something I wouldn’t mind.
But too many cringe, implausible moments right from the start.
Just rubbed me wrong. Maybe I can try again another time? 🤷♀️
But I hate stories, where the author ignores the very premise they introduce.
Have you EVER met a person who introduces themself to a dog, first & last name?
Talks in full sentences, not just passing on info, but asking questions? In detail.
Just read as ridiculous. Obviously info dumping within the story, but gave it a fake feel.
Especially when it was followed by her being suspicious when the dog simply nodded or shook his head. Not acting like a dog…
The two ideas didn’t work side by side.
Left me with the strong sense I wasn’t going to enjoy.
Better luck to other readers, it’s an awesome concept.
May 2, 2026
I really enjoyed the idea of this book and then the author went in a totally different direction and I just lost interest.
I enjoyed the writing and the concept but it got a bit too dark for me. Just not for me right now.
I enjoyed the writing and the concept but it got a bit too dark for me. Just not for me right now.
May 6, 2026
I really wanted to like this more than I did but it felt like it was lacking. The ending felt rushed and the plot not enough. The idea was interesting but it just did hit the spot for me.
March 27, 2026
I battled a bit through this book.
It started out really promising but fizzled out a bit for me.
The writing was good, and there were very few spelling errors.
For me, this book could have been quite a bit shorter.
Things just dragged on, and the characters spoke in circles- a lot.
e.g., when Malachi was doing the grand reveal that he is a demon, it took like a whole chapter as he just kept talking around the issue, saying, "We'll come back to that," etc.
It wasn't adding to the story; I feel it actually detracted from it.
It felt like the author started off with a good mystery in the plot and was working their way to a grand finale (albeit super slowly, being sidetracked along the way), but it lost steam along the way and eventually fell flat.
The ending was too neatly wrapped up with everyone loving everyone, and the ending was anticlimactic.
The characters confused (and annoyed) me.
There was no reverence for/between the species, i.e., angels, demons, witches, and humans.
Everyone was "humanised" which didn't make any sense for the storyline.
At the end, everyone was apparently "shaking in their boots" for the knight of hell, but... they were basically having an outdoor bonding session instead of an epic showdown.
Even the "tension" between characters was just resolved neatly and suddenly, and everyone just accepted everything. Unfortunately, it flattened the characters from fully rounded to just a 2D, cardboard version.
No hate to the author; I think this story just wasn't for me.
I might give the author's other books a go, as the writing was good.
Series: Standalone
HEA: Yes
Spice Level: 1 / 5
It started out really promising but fizzled out a bit for me.
The writing was good, and there were very few spelling errors.
For me, this book could have been quite a bit shorter.
Things just dragged on, and the characters spoke in circles- a lot.
e.g., when Malachi was doing the grand reveal that he is a demon, it took like a whole chapter as he just kept talking around the issue, saying, "We'll come back to that," etc.
It wasn't adding to the story; I feel it actually detracted from it.
It felt like the author started off with a good mystery in the plot and was working their way to a grand finale (albeit super slowly, being sidetracked along the way), but it lost steam along the way and eventually fell flat.
The ending was too neatly wrapped up with everyone loving everyone, and the ending was anticlimactic.
The characters confused (and annoyed) me.
There was no reverence for/between the species, i.e., angels, demons, witches, and humans.
Everyone was "humanised" which didn't make any sense for the storyline.
At the end, everyone was apparently "shaking in their boots" for the knight of hell, but... they were basically having an outdoor bonding session instead of an epic showdown.
Even the "tension" between characters was just resolved neatly and suddenly, and everyone just accepted everything. Unfortunately, it flattened the characters from fully rounded to just a 2D, cardboard version.
No hate to the author; I think this story just wasn't for me.
I might give the author's other books a go, as the writing was good.
Series: Standalone
HEA: Yes
Spice Level: 1 / 5
April 28, 2026
How To Tell If Your K-9 Is A Demon by Trista Ricketts was such a fun, chaotic ride. This book fully understood the assignment when it comes to paranormal rom-com energy, funny, weird, flirty, and packed with supernatural mayhem.
Officer Kelly “Chuck” Charles was an easy heroine to root for. She’s competent, tough, and just trying to do her job, only to end up with the most unhinged K-9 partner imaginable. Watching her try to rationalize Malachi’s increasingly suspicious behavior had me laughing the entire first half of the book. The dead-language growling, attitude problems, and absolute disdain for authority made him instantly entertaining.
Malachi completely stole the show. A centuries-old demon trapped in a dog’s body is already hilarious, but once he regains his human form, the banter and chemistry between him and Chuck really take off. He’s morally questionable, arrogant, and dramatic in the best way, but there are hints of vulnerability underneath all the hellfire and sarcasm that made him surprisingly lovable.
The slow-burn romance was sweet and satisfying, and I liked how Chuck’s own hidden identity added another layer to the story without overwhelming the humor. The angel/demon dynamics, witchy interference, and celestial chaos kept the plot moving while still letting the characters shine.
Overall, this was a really good time lighthearted, clever, and perfect if you want a paranormal romance that doesn’t take itself too seriously. I’ll definitely side-eye every dog I meet from now on.
Officer Kelly “Chuck” Charles was an easy heroine to root for. She’s competent, tough, and just trying to do her job, only to end up with the most unhinged K-9 partner imaginable. Watching her try to rationalize Malachi’s increasingly suspicious behavior had me laughing the entire first half of the book. The dead-language growling, attitude problems, and absolute disdain for authority made him instantly entertaining.
Malachi completely stole the show. A centuries-old demon trapped in a dog’s body is already hilarious, but once he regains his human form, the banter and chemistry between him and Chuck really take off. He’s morally questionable, arrogant, and dramatic in the best way, but there are hints of vulnerability underneath all the hellfire and sarcasm that made him surprisingly lovable.
The slow-burn romance was sweet and satisfying, and I liked how Chuck’s own hidden identity added another layer to the story without overwhelming the humor. The angel/demon dynamics, witchy interference, and celestial chaos kept the plot moving while still letting the characters shine.
Overall, this was a really good time lighthearted, clever, and perfect if you want a paranormal romance that doesn’t take itself too seriously. I’ll definitely side-eye every dog I meet from now on.
May 4, 2026
I thought this book was wonderful! Was it perfect in its writing? No. But you want to know what? It doesn't matter! The story was fun, the characters were incredibly well written, and it was FUN!
A few of my favorite things!
1. The story is in the POV of our demon MMC! I thought it was incredibly refreshing to have a story like this from a male perspective, and Malachi was HILARIOUS in my opinion.
2. The snark and banter between the MMC and FMC had me giggling pretty much from the get go. They were fun to watch grow together!
3. The surprise at the end was beautifully written! I fully enjoyed it and it was a wonderfulinnuendo,
4. The content warning at the beginning of the book was perfectly descriptive, as well as hilarious!
5. Our FMC is a freaking boss babe! She was never painted as weak or like a damsel in distress, but she allowed others to help her so long as they allowed her to help them in return. It was great!
A few things I didn't love:
1. The sudden wrap up of one plot point at the end. It was made to be "less than" in the grand view of things, and I didn't much care for how it was written. I get why it was, I just didn't love it.
2. .... honestly, it was just the one mild complain.
In terms of spice- there was one full chapter of open door explicit stuff, multiple innuendos, and many passionate kisses. Overall I'd put it at a 1/5 spice scale for my personal preferences, but I can see how someone else might view it higher.
Language- MULTIPLE uses of the "F" word as well as a few "lower level" swears. I'd call it medium to high level language.
A few of my favorite things!
1. The story is in the POV of our demon MMC! I thought it was incredibly refreshing to have a story like this from a male perspective, and Malachi was HILARIOUS in my opinion.
2. The snark and banter between the MMC and FMC had me giggling pretty much from the get go. They were fun to watch grow together!
3. The surprise at the end was beautifully written! I fully enjoyed it and it was a wonderfulinnuendo,
4. The content warning at the beginning of the book was perfectly descriptive, as well as hilarious!
5. Our FMC is a freaking boss babe! She was never painted as weak or like a damsel in distress, but she allowed others to help her so long as they allowed her to help them in return. It was great!
A few things I didn't love:
1. The sudden wrap up of one plot point at the end. It was made to be "less than" in the grand view of things, and I didn't much care for how it was written. I get why it was, I just didn't love it.
2. .... honestly, it was just the one mild complain.
In terms of spice- there was one full chapter of open door explicit stuff, multiple innuendos, and many passionate kisses. Overall I'd put it at a 1/5 spice scale for my personal preferences, but I can see how someone else might view it higher.
Language- MULTIPLE uses of the "F" word as well as a few "lower level" swears. I'd call it medium to high level language.
July 14, 2026
What to say about this book... I was drawn to it because what a fun premise. As a pet photographer, lover of demons and rom coms I figure it couldn't hurt to try it. I would recommend this as something to read when you need a light hearted quick read that isn't going to win a Pulitzer. I think some people want every book to be some GREAT work and don't leave room for something to just be exactly what it says it is. Think early 2000s rom com, with a foul mouth funny demon, saving his angel. It basically writes itself I can almost see Hugh Jackman when he was in Someone Like You but you know... Demon.
Admittedly, the beginning was a bit of a struggle. There is a lot of inconsistencies in narrative, timing, jumps to thing, typos and a myriad of other things. At one point I seriously thought about DNFing it. However, the overarching story and Malachi being hilarious kept me going. I am glad I made it through and for sure had a few laughs along the way.
Spice scale its 2-3, its a lot of kissing and swooning, with one or two sexy time scenes that aren't dramatically intense. I mean it says it in the description its a rom com not depraved. Although when your demon is an incubus general... I would want more than a handcuff and good boy kink. I just wish I didn't have to wait till like 75% of the book before Malachi scored one for team demon. Also he feels more Golden Retriever demon than Malinois.
Admittedly, the beginning was a bit of a struggle. There is a lot of inconsistencies in narrative, timing, jumps to thing, typos and a myriad of other things. At one point I seriously thought about DNFing it. However, the overarching story and Malachi being hilarious kept me going. I am glad I made it through and for sure had a few laughs along the way.
Spice scale its 2-3, its a lot of kissing and swooning, with one or two sexy time scenes that aren't dramatically intense. I mean it says it in the description its a rom com not depraved. Although when your demon is an incubus general... I would want more than a handcuff and good boy kink. I just wish I didn't have to wait till like 75% of the book before Malachi scored one for team demon. Also he feels more Golden Retriever demon than Malinois.
July 22, 2026
📚 ALC REVIEW 📚
5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“𝙱𝚎𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚏𝚘𝚛𝚌𝚎𝚍 𝚒𝚗𝚝𝚘 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚋𝚘𝚍𝚢 𝚘𝚏 𝚊𝚗 𝚊𝚗𝚒𝚖𝚊𝚕 𝚝𝚑𝚊𝚝 𝚕𝚒𝚌𝚔𝚜 𝚒𝚝𝚜 𝚘𝚠𝚗 𝚐𝚎𝚗𝚒𝚝𝚊𝚕𝚜 𝚠𝚊𝚜𝚗'𝚝 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚖𝚘𝚜𝚝 𝚍𝚒𝚐𝚗𝚒𝚏𝚢𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚠𝚊𝚢 𝚝𝚘 𝚛𝚎𝚌𝚕𝚊𝚒𝚖 𝚖𝚢 𝚙𝚘𝚜𝚒𝚝𝚒𝚘𝚗 𝚒𝚗 𝚑𝚎𝚕𝚕, 𝚋𝚞𝚝 𝚒𝚝 𝚠𝚊𝚜𝚗’𝚝 𝚝𝚑𝚊𝚝 𝚋𝚊𝚍, 𝚊𝚜 𝚙𝚞𝚗𝚒𝚜𝚑𝚖𝚎𝚗𝚝𝚜 𝚠𝚎𝚗𝚝.”
‼️ANGELS, DEMONS & WITCHES OH MY‼️ 🐾 How to Tell if your K-9 is a Demon is a paranormal rom-com about a demon that is cursed to be a dog, as a punishment from hell, adopted by a spunky officer to be a police dog and must decide if he’s willing to corrupt or protect his new partner. This was probably the funniest book I've read all year. Malakai's antics of pretending to be a dog and internal thoughts on how he should/shouldn't act, were so freakin funny - I was kicking my feet the entire time & almost fell out of my chair laughing!!
🐾 I loved the romantic tension that built up between Kelly (Chuck) & Makakai (because who doesn't love a romance with a demon). It's full of intrigue, TRUST, snarky banter, playful laughs and communication. I really enjoyed seeing two MCs actually communicate with each other, build on trust and only support one another.
🎧 The audiobook published by Simon Maverick is absolutely amazing and Corvin King, who narrates our dog/human/demon Malakai, only elevated the experience with the deep, growly voice we EXPECT & LOVE as Corvin. He delivered the perfect amount of sass, sultry charm and "don't touch what's mine” attitude needed for the MMCs multiple personas. I was absolutely swooning and squealing the entire way!!
✨️ Perfect if you love: ✨️
🖤 Morally gray Demon MMc
👮♀️ Police Officer FMC
🔥 Slow Burn
🤫 Twists & Secrets
🤝 Workplace Romance
🪽 Angels, Demons & Witches
🫂 Found Family
🩸 Touch Her & ☠️
😶🌫️ Hidden Identity
5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“𝙱𝚎𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚏𝚘𝚛𝚌𝚎𝚍 𝚒𝚗𝚝𝚘 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚋𝚘𝚍𝚢 𝚘𝚏 𝚊𝚗 𝚊𝚗𝚒𝚖𝚊𝚕 𝚝𝚑𝚊𝚝 𝚕𝚒𝚌𝚔𝚜 𝚒𝚝𝚜 𝚘𝚠𝚗 𝚐𝚎𝚗𝚒𝚝𝚊𝚕𝚜 𝚠𝚊𝚜𝚗'𝚝 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚖𝚘𝚜𝚝 𝚍𝚒𝚐𝚗𝚒𝚏𝚢𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚠𝚊𝚢 𝚝𝚘 𝚛𝚎𝚌𝚕𝚊𝚒𝚖 𝚖𝚢 𝚙𝚘𝚜𝚒𝚝𝚒𝚘𝚗 𝚒𝚗 𝚑𝚎𝚕𝚕, 𝚋𝚞𝚝 𝚒𝚝 𝚠𝚊𝚜𝚗’𝚝 𝚝𝚑𝚊𝚝 𝚋𝚊𝚍, 𝚊𝚜 𝚙𝚞𝚗𝚒𝚜𝚑𝚖𝚎𝚗𝚝𝚜 𝚠𝚎𝚗𝚝.”
‼️ANGELS, DEMONS & WITCHES OH MY‼️ 🐾 How to Tell if your K-9 is a Demon is a paranormal rom-com about a demon that is cursed to be a dog, as a punishment from hell, adopted by a spunky officer to be a police dog and must decide if he’s willing to corrupt or protect his new partner. This was probably the funniest book I've read all year. Malakai's antics of pretending to be a dog and internal thoughts on how he should/shouldn't act, were so freakin funny - I was kicking my feet the entire time & almost fell out of my chair laughing!!
🐾 I loved the romantic tension that built up between Kelly (Chuck) & Makakai (because who doesn't love a romance with a demon). It's full of intrigue, TRUST, snarky banter, playful laughs and communication. I really enjoyed seeing two MCs actually communicate with each other, build on trust and only support one another.
🎧 The audiobook published by Simon Maverick is absolutely amazing and Corvin King, who narrates our dog/human/demon Malakai, only elevated the experience with the deep, growly voice we EXPECT & LOVE as Corvin. He delivered the perfect amount of sass, sultry charm and "don't touch what's mine” attitude needed for the MMCs multiple personas. I was absolutely swooning and squealing the entire way!!
✨️ Perfect if you love: ✨️
🖤 Morally gray Demon MMc
👮♀️ Police Officer FMC
🔥 Slow Burn
🤫 Twists & Secrets
🤝 Workplace Romance
🪽 Angels, Demons & Witches
🫂 Found Family
🩸 Touch Her & ☠️
😶🌫️ Hidden Identity
March 10, 2026
I loved the premise, and I did enjoy the book!
Chuck was a police officer who had to adopt a dog from a shelter to train to become a K-9 for a publicity stunt her bosses planned. The dog she picked didn't behave like a dog, and she quickly suspected that there was something weird about him. She cared for the dog, and later the man she believed to be stuck as a dog. When she learned he was a demon, it didn't change her feelings, but their life became even more unhinged than it was before.
Malachi was a demon punished by his commander to be a dog. He was terrified when a slight woman with an angelic halo around her wanted to adopt him, but his curiosity won when she was kind to him and didn't smite him on the spot. He knew there was something special about her, and he fought with his demonic nature and orders from his commander, because he didn't want to hurt her.
I enjoyed this weird mix of buddy-cop, paranormal, mystery, and rom-com elements. It was a little like Lucifer, if he were stuck in a dog form for months ;) I didn't like the emotional manipulation Mal sometimes used on Chuck, but with him being a demon, conflicted between his orders and his emotions, I got through these moments, and I'm glad I did, because he got better.
Chuck was a police officer who had to adopt a dog from a shelter to train to become a K-9 for a publicity stunt her bosses planned. The dog she picked didn't behave like a dog, and she quickly suspected that there was something weird about him. She cared for the dog, and later the man she believed to be stuck as a dog. When she learned he was a demon, it didn't change her feelings, but their life became even more unhinged than it was before.
Malachi was a demon punished by his commander to be a dog. He was terrified when a slight woman with an angelic halo around her wanted to adopt him, but his curiosity won when she was kind to him and didn't smite him on the spot. He knew there was something special about her, and he fought with his demonic nature and orders from his commander, because he didn't want to hurt her.
I enjoyed this weird mix of buddy-cop, paranormal, mystery, and rom-com elements. It was a little like Lucifer, if he were stuck in a dog form for months ;) I didn't like the emotional manipulation Mal sometimes used on Chuck, but with him being a demon, conflicted between his orders and his emotions, I got through these moments, and I'm glad I did, because he got better.
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