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Bea Calloway's Fabulous Guide to Surviving Hell
When wealthy socialite Beatrice Calloway’s birthday comes to an abrupt end by the arrogant demon, Charysyllon, the unlikely duo unwillingly set out on a road trip from Hell to save her soul.
Only bad girls go to Hell.
Or at least, that’s what wealthy socialite Beatrice Calloway believed until the annoyingly handsome Soul Reposessor demon, Charysyllon, crashed her twenty-first birthday with a devastating problem: her soul has been promised to Hell and there’s nothing she can do about it.
Certain the demon has it backwards, Bea challenges him to a deal. If he allows her to prove the contract is a fraud, she will give the demon a piece of her heart, something the soulless Char desperately wants.
Plans change when a murderous biker, who looks strikingly familiar to her father’s killer, ruins her last chance at fixing her reputation. With death and Hell hot on her shiny pink heels, Bea enlists Char’s help in saving her soul.
When the two uncover a murder-for-hire plot that threatens Bea’s life and the fate of her company, it’s up to Bea to save her soul and her father’s legacy. That is, if she doesn’t give the rest of her heart to the demon first.
Only bad girls go to Hell.
Or at least, that’s what wealthy socialite Beatrice Calloway believed until the annoyingly handsome Soul Reposessor demon, Charysyllon, crashed her twenty-first birthday with a devastating problem: her soul has been promised to Hell and there’s nothing she can do about it.
Certain the demon has it backwards, Bea challenges him to a deal. If he allows her to prove the contract is a fraud, she will give the demon a piece of her heart, something the soulless Char desperately wants.
Plans change when a murderous biker, who looks strikingly familiar to her father’s killer, ruins her last chance at fixing her reputation. With death and Hell hot on her shiny pink heels, Bea enlists Char’s help in saving her soul.
When the two uncover a murder-for-hire plot that threatens Bea’s life and the fate of her company, it’s up to Bea to save her soul and her father’s legacy. That is, if she doesn’t give the rest of her heart to the demon first.
327 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 30, 2026
About the author
S.M. Bush
1 book4 followersS.M. Bush is a lover of cronuts, a Canadian Living magazine subscriber, and a (mostly) well-adjusted adult. When she isn't writing, S.M. can be found enjoying a good book, playing a cozy video game, or exploring Canada's East Coast.
S.M. Bush lives in Ontario, Canada with her husband, son, and wrinkly pug.
S.M. Bush lives in Ontario, Canada with her husband, son, and wrinkly pug.
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
April 3, 2026
Have you ever wondered what it would be like if a character like Elle Woods had to learn law because someone screwed her over and in the process she fell in love with a demon? No? Neither had I, but clearly I should have because this book takes that premise and absoloutely NAILS it.
This was a cozy adjacent and fun read that kept me turning pages all the way through. While reading I could not help but imagine this as a paranormal romcom TV show and honestly think it would translate really well to that media.
Bea was great as a FMC. Completely self aware of her faults but not overly bothered by them, yet still willing to learn to be a better person. It was nice seeing her grow and learn that not all that mattered was shopping and that responsibilities were not something to run from.
Char was an interesting MMC because he was so exhausted of his place in life and just started acting on instinct without fully thinking things through and it made him a bit chaotic which was great. I also loved his flare for the dramatic, because I mean, who doesn't wanna make a show?
This was just a fun little read from start to finish, can't recommend enough!
This was a cozy adjacent and fun read that kept me turning pages all the way through. While reading I could not help but imagine this as a paranormal romcom TV show and honestly think it would translate really well to that media.
Bea was great as a FMC. Completely self aware of her faults but not overly bothered by them, yet still willing to learn to be a better person. It was nice seeing her grow and learn that not all that mattered was shopping and that responsibilities were not something to run from.
Char was an interesting MMC because he was so exhausted of his place in life and just started acting on instinct without fully thinking things through and it made him a bit chaotic which was great. I also loved his flare for the dramatic, because I mean, who doesn't wanna make a show?
This was just a fun little read from start to finish, can't recommend enough!
March 4, 2026
I received an advance reader copy of this book and am leaving my honest review.
The Vibe:
This is a fun, fast-paced paranormal rom-com about a socialite who discovers her soul has been promised to Hell on her twenty-first birthday. The concept is incredibly creative, and the banter-driven dynamic between Bea and Char kept me hooked through the quick, snappy chapters.
My Experience:
As a mood reader, my personal reaction to this was a bit complex. While I appreciated the "glossy" and dramatic tone—which I think would translate beautifully to a supernatural TV series—I found myself craving more of the "grit" that usually comes with a literal descent into Hell. Because I’ve been gravitating toward darker, more visceral genres lately, the lighthearted energy didn't quite sync with my current headspace, though the humor frequently made me smile.
Constructive Feedback:
To have earned a full 5 stars from me, I would have loved to see the author lean further into the "survival" aspect of the title. While the rom-com energy is strong, higher stakes or a more atmospheric exploration of the underworld would have added the depth I was looking for.
Final Verdict:
Overall, an entertaining debut with a clear audience. It’s a solid pick for readers looking for a lighter paranormal romance or anyone needing a high-energy story to pull them out of a reading slump.
The Vibe:
This is a fun, fast-paced paranormal rom-com about a socialite who discovers her soul has been promised to Hell on her twenty-first birthday. The concept is incredibly creative, and the banter-driven dynamic between Bea and Char kept me hooked through the quick, snappy chapters.
My Experience:
As a mood reader, my personal reaction to this was a bit complex. While I appreciated the "glossy" and dramatic tone—which I think would translate beautifully to a supernatural TV series—I found myself craving more of the "grit" that usually comes with a literal descent into Hell. Because I’ve been gravitating toward darker, more visceral genres lately, the lighthearted energy didn't quite sync with my current headspace, though the humor frequently made me smile.
Constructive Feedback:
To have earned a full 5 stars from me, I would have loved to see the author lean further into the "survival" aspect of the title. While the rom-com energy is strong, higher stakes or a more atmospheric exploration of the underworld would have added the depth I was looking for.
Final Verdict:
Overall, an entertaining debut with a clear audience. It’s a solid pick for readers looking for a lighter paranormal romance or anyone needing a high-energy story to pull them out of a reading slump.
Review of advance copy received from Author
If you’ve ever wondered what it would look like to juggle grief, supernatural chaos, and a career in law… Bea Calloway’s Fabulous Guide to Surviving Hell delivers exactly that with plenty of humor and heart along the way.
This debut novel follows Bea Calloway after the mysterious death of her father sends her life spiraling into a world where reality and the supernatural collide. What unfolds is a witty, emotional journey filled with strange twists, sharp dialogue, and a chick you can’t help but root for.
Bea feels incredibly real. She’s grieving, doubting herself, and trying to keep it together while the world around her gets increasingly bizarre. Watching her grow and push forward despite everything makes her a compelling lead.
The banter between characters, especially Bea and Char, adds a lot of personality to the story. Their interactions are witty, sharp, and help deepen the emotional core of the book.
Bea Calloway’s Fabulous Guide to Surviving Hell is a fun, clever debut that blends humor, grief, and supernatural chaos into an entertaining ride. If you enjoy stories that mix real-life struggles with a dash of the fantastical, this one is definitely worth checking out.
This debut novel follows Bea Calloway after the mysterious death of her father sends her life spiraling into a world where reality and the supernatural collide. What unfolds is a witty, emotional journey filled with strange twists, sharp dialogue, and a chick you can’t help but root for.
Bea feels incredibly real. She’s grieving, doubting herself, and trying to keep it together while the world around her gets increasingly bizarre. Watching her grow and push forward despite everything makes her a compelling lead.
The banter between characters, especially Bea and Char, adds a lot of personality to the story. Their interactions are witty, sharp, and help deepen the emotional core of the book.
Bea Calloway’s Fabulous Guide to Surviving Hell is a fun, clever debut that blends humor, grief, and supernatural chaos into an entertaining ride. If you enjoy stories that mix real-life struggles with a dash of the fantastical, this one is definitely worth checking out.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Move over Elle Woods (and Bruiser), Bea Calloway is in town!
I could not put Bea and Char's story down - it's a fast paced romance with tons of funny, giggle-out-loud moments.
Bea is so real - she's pink and sparkly and blonde as well as kind and driven - she has a gorgeous character arc and learns real lessons, on the importance of working hard and the importance of family. She's wonderfully balanced and and easy to root for, even when she's trapped in Hell!! Go Bea, go Bea!!
Char is her opposite - grungy and dark-humored and jaded (and demonic!). But the tough guy has a soft spot for his sparkly sidekick - and is willing to sacrifice thousands of years without her so that SHE's HAPPY (currently still crying).
There's demonic animals (Bo Guest 4eva) and funny, quirky side characters and lots of fashion - I am so sad it's over.
If you're looking for Legally Blonde meets Good Omens, this is it!!
Note: I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I could not put Bea and Char's story down - it's a fast paced romance with tons of funny, giggle-out-loud moments.
Bea is so real - she's pink and sparkly and blonde as well as kind and driven - she has a gorgeous character arc and learns real lessons, on the importance of working hard and the importance of family. She's wonderfully balanced and and easy to root for, even when she's trapped in Hell!! Go Bea, go Bea!!
Char is her opposite - grungy and dark-humored and jaded (and demonic!). But the tough guy has a soft spot for his sparkly sidekick - and is willing to sacrifice thousands of years without her so that SHE's HAPPY (currently still crying).
There's demonic animals (Bo Guest 4eva) and funny, quirky side characters and lots of fashion - I am so sad it's over.
If you're looking for Legally Blonde meets Good Omens, this is it!!
Note: I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 15, 2026
Okay so I liked the first half right?
The characters reminded me of one of my favourite series (good omens) and their relationship was so cute.
At first, I didnt love Bea. She was spoiled and had too much stake in high society and such. But she got better. She learned, she changed. By the end she grew on me :)
I also liked Mikel! I was hesitant because he was creepy but it was fortunately the spooky kind rather than the evil yucky kind. Loved him by the end.
Also of course Char my probably pansexual king. I loved him the most.
Bradley I expected to hate and didn’t! He has a bit of a silly name and being her ex put him in the stereotypical place of being the hated but he wasn’t! Good surprise
I think the second half was even better than the first. I really enjoyed the description of Hell and the experiences there.
Anyway yeah that’s all for now. <33333
The characters reminded me of one of my favourite series (good omens) and their relationship was so cute.
At first, I didnt love Bea. She was spoiled and had too much stake in high society and such. But she got better. She learned, she changed. By the end she grew on me :)
I also liked Mikel! I was hesitant because he was creepy but it was fortunately the spooky kind rather than the evil yucky kind. Loved him by the end.
Also of course Char my probably pansexual king. I loved him the most.
Bradley I expected to hate and didn’t! He has a bit of a silly name and being her ex put him in the stereotypical place of being the hated but he wasn’t! Good surprise
I think the second half was even better than the first. I really enjoyed the description of Hell and the experiences there.
Anyway yeah that’s all for now. <33333
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you S.M Bush for the ARC!
(4.5⭐️ rounded up)
The banter was delicious👩🏻🍳💋
Bea and Char are total opposites, but in a way that makes their dynamic even stronger. Their differences sharpen the humour and make their connection feel that much more satisfying as it develops. I found myself laughing through most chapters, and by the end I was completely swooning over Char. I wish Bea’s journey had leaned more into the survival aspect, but I still really enjoyed this book. Even though I knew it was a romcom, I was hoping for a slightly darker tone to match the whole “hell” setting. That said, the writing was beautiful, and I absolutely loved Bea and Charysyllon and the dynamic between them.
Also wish it was first person POV, but that’s just a preference.
(4.5⭐️ rounded up)
The banter was delicious👩🏻🍳💋
Bea and Char are total opposites, but in a way that makes their dynamic even stronger. Their differences sharpen the humour and make their connection feel that much more satisfying as it develops. I found myself laughing through most chapters, and by the end I was completely swooning over Char. I wish Bea’s journey had leaned more into the survival aspect, but I still really enjoyed this book. Even though I knew it was a romcom, I was hoping for a slightly darker tone to match the whole “hell” setting. That said, the writing was beautiful, and I absolutely loved Bea and Charysyllon and the dynamic between them.
Also wish it was first person POV, but that’s just a preference.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy
Review of advance copy received from the author
From the get-go, I was really hooked on the book's premise. Although I had to adjust my expectations, having watched numerous crime shows, this was not, in fact, a thriller. I was pleasantly surprised to find it light, fun, and an overall enjoyable read.
While Bea did irritate me at the start, I do enjoy a character redemption arc. The friendship and growing chemistry between her and Char made me feel giddy.
As someone who grew up loving Legally Blonde, it was fun seeing a fictional Elle Woods come to life, except her biggest case is clearing her name from hell's records.
If you want Stephanie Plum-level shenanigans with a demon sidekick, you might get a kick out of this one.
From the get-go, I was really hooked on the book's premise. Although I had to adjust my expectations, having watched numerous crime shows, this was not, in fact, a thriller. I was pleasantly surprised to find it light, fun, and an overall enjoyable read.
While Bea did irritate me at the start, I do enjoy a character redemption arc. The friendship and growing chemistry between her and Char made me feel giddy.
As someone who grew up loving Legally Blonde, it was fun seeing a fictional Elle Woods come to life, except her biggest case is clearing her name from hell's records.
If you want Stephanie Plum-level shenanigans with a demon sidekick, you might get a kick out of this one.
Review of advance copy
Absolutely loved the chemistry between the two main characters.
The story was atmospheric and humorous, with excellent pacing. The book is great for commuting on public transport as the chapters are quick and snappy.
This might be just me, but the story read as if it was an animated series — at least that's how I had it in my head.
Now, the characters. Bea Calloway is not a very good person (if Elle Woods was more Regina George) and it's incredible. Char is a demon with a specific taste in cars and strange penchants for denim. Seemingly impossible duo really work as they try to find a way to break the contract that sells Bea's callous soul to hell.
Fun. Engaging. Snappy.
The story was atmospheric and humorous, with excellent pacing. The book is great for commuting on public transport as the chapters are quick and snappy.
This might be just me, but the story read as if it was an animated series — at least that's how I had it in my head.
Now, the characters. Bea Calloway is not a very good person (if Elle Woods was more Regina George) and it's incredible. Char is a demon with a specific taste in cars and strange penchants for denim. Seemingly impossible duo really work as they try to find a way to break the contract that sells Bea's callous soul to hell.
Fun. Engaging. Snappy.
Review of advance copy
Elle Woods but she meets a sexy demon and has to fight a binding contract from hell. If she loses her life as she knows it will be over.
This was such a fun read! I loved Legally Blonde and this book gave me that but with the element of fantasy and whimsy that I love. The mystery elements of this were so intriguing and had me trying to figure out the puzzle along with Bea. I loved the hell world that S.M Bush created and all the political systems within it. There were some really heartwarming moments that had me tearing up, and some moments that had me laughing out loud.
I also think that we all need a hell hound puppy now.
This was such a fun read! I loved Legally Blonde and this book gave me that but with the element of fantasy and whimsy that I love. The mystery elements of this were so intriguing and had me trying to figure out the puzzle along with Bea. I loved the hell world that S.M Bush created and all the political systems within it. There were some really heartwarming moments that had me tearing up, and some moments that had me laughing out loud.
I also think that we all need a hell hound puppy now.
Review of advance copy
Bea is wrongly accused (framed/setup), of murder and is sent to hell for punishment. This is the story of her attempts to get out of hell. While she's there, Bea tries to find information to release her from hell and prove her innocence. . Her journey is entertaining, scary,, unbelievable, and all consuming. . Take a read.. Bea and her mom hash things out about old wounds. Bea and Char were stupendous in their declarations of love for each other and their sacrifices. See how it ends!! I voluntarily read a free copy of this book provided by book sirens and am giving an honest review.
April 8, 2026
This was definitely a fun read - I LOVED the build up, the character development, the plot, the characters, all of it. Bea and Char both are fantastic, Bradley and Annalise too. There's plenty of fun surprises and fun twists, a fantastic reveal at the end, definitely enjoyed this read for sure - 10/10 definitely recommend!
Demons, hell, 3 year-old's soul unknowingly sold to Hell and its supposedly all-powerful Board, family secrets and drama, character growth, and more - what's not to love?
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Demons, hell, 3 year-old's soul unknowingly sold to Hell and its supposedly all-powerful Board, family secrets and drama, character growth, and more - what's not to love?
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I got this as my first ever ARC ! I devoured this book! The vibe was cute paranormal romance and I’m here for it! I found that the MCs being so opposite kept the banter fun between them. I typically read heavy dark romance so this was a nice rom com to lift my mood! I found that the author could have maybe went a little more into hell and how the inner workings of it to give more of how she “survived” it. But all together I really enjoyed this!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I love this book. It made me laugh. It moved me. Such an honour to read it before its release.
Bea might flawed, but she’s not ready to lose her soul. A handsome demon named Char shows up after a reputation ruining party. He has come to collect on a deal she never made. This meeting starts Bea off on a chaotic adventure to keep her soul and find out why it was sold in the first place.
It makes for a hilarious, entertaining read! Can't wait to read more from this author.
Bea might flawed, but she’s not ready to lose her soul. A handsome demon named Char shows up after a reputation ruining party. He has come to collect on a deal she never made. This meeting starts Bea off on a chaotic adventure to keep her soul and find out why it was sold in the first place.
It makes for a hilarious, entertaining read! Can't wait to read more from this author.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was SUCH a fun read with an incredibly original premise that was very well executed. Bea is a wonderfully refreshing FMC who was very easy to root for, and her banter with Char is delicious. If you like your books fast-paced and funny, and you enjoyed things like Legally Blonde and Buffy, you'll love this book.
I received an ARC of this book for free and am submitting this review voluntarily.
I received an ARC of this book for free and am submitting this review voluntarily.
May 7, 2026
I picked this book up randomly, just to read something out of my usual genres. It's been more than a decade since I ventured into the YA territory and this year I've decided to try a few indie authors out.
I'm glad to say I thoroughly enjoyed Bea Calloway's Fabulous Guide to Surviving Hell. It was fast, fun, and exciting to read through.
The book is exactly what was promised. It reminded me of all my teenage years spent reading TONS of YA novels.
A fabulous read indeed.
I'm glad to say I thoroughly enjoyed Bea Calloway's Fabulous Guide to Surviving Hell. It was fast, fun, and exciting to read through.
The book is exactly what was promised. It reminded me of all my teenage years spent reading TONS of YA novels.
A fabulous read indeed.
May 10, 2026
What a wonderfully fun debut novel. This was a cozy paranormal romance that I had a hard time putting down. This book was like if Elle Woods met Little Nicky and I loved every minute of it. Villain was predictable but I enjoyed it all the same. The main characters are likeable and witty, with a solid amount of banter and chemistry. Overall, 4 stars and I'm very excited to see what this author puts out next!
May 16, 2026
This was cute as hell!! Bea’s reluctance to give up her soul quietly was admirable. Char’s increasing horror at finding his new human sidekick’s company enjoyable made me giggle. Add in all the paranormal hoops they have to go through to try to prove Bea’s souls does not belong in Hell and you’ve got quite a duo. The one-liners and the banter throughout the whole book were great!! Think of a less sweet Elle Woods meeting a grungier, more emotionally adept Joe black. A truly enjoyable read!!
Review of advance copy
If you’re looking for a fast-paced rom-com with a touch of mystery, this book is a perfect pick.
I really loved it. It made me laugh, tear up, and even try to piece together the mystery alongside the characters. The dynamic between Bae and Char was especially enjoyable, adding both charm and depth to the story. It was such an engaging read that I finished it in a single sitting.
I really loved it. It made me laugh, tear up, and even try to piece together the mystery alongside the characters. The dynamic between Bae and Char was especially enjoyable, adding both charm and depth to the story. It was such an engaging read that I finished it in a single sitting.
Review of advance copy received from Author
It was a good read! It was sweet and cute with a demon twist. The FMC was so easy to imagine because I have met people who acted just like she did at the beginning. She went from kinda annoying to enjoyable and entertaining.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I was lucky enough to get an ARC of this book and I started reading it immediately, it flowed amazingly, and was easy to follow. The character development was great. The only thing is that the title didn't really relate to the book, there was no guide or anything along the lines of trying to survive hell, yes she did go to hell but she didn't really touch on how to survive when she was there. Tho I really hope this author releases a book 2.
April 8, 2026
i had SUCH a great time reading this! all of the characters were so fun, and the snarky tone and quick pacing were spot on. i cannot WAIT to see more of misery hills!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I read this so fast, I didn't even have time to tell anyone I was reading it! I'm OBSESSED! FIVE STARS!! Holy moly!! I could NOT put it down and I was LITERALLY laughing out loud. I went through a lot of emotions in this book joy, sadness, anger, back to joy. Repeat. Char is 100% book boyfriend material. This book is like Legally Blonde and Supernatural had a book baby. 1,000% recommend!!!
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews