From Hell to Breakfast

The Case Files of Dr. Matilda Schmidt, Paranormal Psychologist #8

by Cynthia St. Aubin

You loved this big-hearted, bad boy demigod in the Dr. Matilda Schmidt, Paranormal Psychologist series. Now see what happens when he gets a story of his own!

Crixus is a supernatural bounty hunter with a broken heart and a loose zipper. Lavinia is a succubus with a smart mouth and a long rap sheet. When her crimes become his problem, they're in for one hell of a ride.

Genres: Romance, Paranormal, Humor, Novella, Fantasy, Paranormal Romance, Mythology

ebook

First published July 27, 2015

About the author

USA Today bestselling author Cynthia St. Aubin wrote her first play at age eight and made her brothers perform it for the admission price of gum wrappers. A steal, considering she provided the wrappers in advance. Though her early work debuted to mixed reviews, she never quite gave up on the writing thing, even while earning a mostly useless master's degree in art history and taking her turn as a cube monkey in the corporate warren.

Because the voices in her head kept talking to her, and they discourage drinking at work, she started writing instead. When she's not standing in front of the fridge eating cheese, she's hard at work figuring out which mythological, art historical, or paranormal friends to play with next. She lives in Colorado with the love of her life and three surly cats.

Reviews

[Madison Warner Fairbanks · Rating 4 out of 5]

From Hell to Breakfast by Cynthia St Aubin
The Case Files of Dr. Matilda Schmidt, Paranormal Psychologist series, #8. Humorous and lusty paranormal romp.
While Matilda deals with new baby duties and messes, Crixus is sent to take care of a problem for Hades. A former lover, Lavinia, remembers Crixus, but she’s on a mission of her own. Since he broke her heart the first time, she’s not willing to just roll over. Well…maybe roll over would be ok, but she’s not giving up on her own mission.

A short look back on the past of Crixus as he works as Satan’s bounty hunter.
I enjoyed getting to know him a little better with this book but mostly it’s the ridiculous humor and situations that keep me reading this series.
Short, steamy, hilarious and pure escape.

[Marta Cox · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a new author to me and I have to admit it's clearly connected to other books she has written but I just couldn't resist a succubus story as they seem so rare . It's quite short but it is fast paced ,very funny and had a twist I hadn't expected.
Crixus is kind of arrogant if honest but what saves him are his genuine feelings Matilda who is someone he realises he can never be with. He is trying to move on but when Hades offers him a way to protect Matilda and her unborn child it's not the straight forward job that he expects. Ok I won't lie bringing the succubus Vinnie in was never going to be a piece of cake but Crixus is about to get so much more then he bargained for! Still if Vinnie is draining people before their time then she really has to be stopped because hey fate can be a cruel mistress!
I cannot say too much obviously but I will say it's very funny. Crixus is repeatedly bested by Vinnie and keeps bouncing back for more! Vinnie can be quite creative at times but fear not Crixus is about to get help or is that hindrance ? I found myself trying to imagine just what this help/ hindrance looked like and confess I'm still a little undecided ( OK make that bewildered and yet wearing a huge smile!) but whatever it looks like it certainly added hugely to the entertainment value .
I think I liked Crixus slightly more as a character as he has a dry sense of humour and even a sense of honour . Vinnie and I can't say too much here but I didn't feel she was fleshed out enough but then it is a short book. The resolution when it came seemed too pat and far too quick and as for the big secret , well if something momentous happens to a couple wouldn't they both know it?
So my final thoughts are I'd definitely read more by this author but hopefully something longer with more backstory and world building . If humourous paranormal appeals to you and you have an hour or so to kill then this book might just wet your appetite too . I've discovered a new author to look for so I'm off to see what else is available
Three and a half from me for story but four for making me laugh!
I was gifted a copy in exchange for an honest review

[Jonel · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved the mix of mythology, modernity, and comedy in this one. The melding of mythologies in this intricately crafted novella has created a wonderful backdrop for this fun and exciting story. I loved how easily St. Aubin drew me into this larger than life world. It definitely left me with an “awww-girly squeal’ at the end.

Crixus and Vinnie made for an interesting and fun main couple for this novella. The natural banter and centuries of history between the two were gripping, as was the hidden secret between them. Calliope was a priceless addition to the story. Her comic overreactions and surprising secrets kept me on my toes.

This was my first read by St Aubin, but it definitely won’t be my last. And I definitely need to get myself a badger hat *Giggle-Snort* enough said.

Please note that I received a complimentary copy of this work in exchange for an honest review.

[Samantha · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have thoroughly enjoyed this series so far and was eager to dive into Crixus's story this time around. The wit, banter, and humor in St. Aubin's books always blows me away. I just love her author voice and how she brings her characters to life.

[Meigan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Going in to this novella, I was unfamiliar with both the author, and the series that this ties in to. While some of the backstory concerning Crixus and his lost love were a little fuzzy, that didn't impact my enjoyment of this short story in any way. If anything, it made me eager to start this series from the beginning.

Funny and sweet at times, From Hell to Breakfast tells the tale of Crixus, a supernatural bounty hunter working for Satan, tasked with bringing in out-of-control succubus, Lavinia "Vinnie". Fast-paced and fun, Vinnie manages to elude him for quite some time but eventually, Crixus gets his girl :)

After finishing this novella, I'm excited to start this series from the beginning and see more of Crixus. If this novella is anything to go by, I have a feeling this series is going to be one fun ride.

**eARC received via NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion.

[Ashley Yungbluth · Rating 5 out of 5]

"From Hell to Breakfast" by Cynthia St. Aubin is book eight in "The Case Files of Dr. Matilda Schmidt, Paranormal Psychologist" series. This book focuses on Crixus and his feelings. I have fallen in love with Crixus in the last seven books, and to have a book in his world was absolutely amazing. My favorite scene was when he showed up at Matilda's office and was telling her how he feels. This is one series that I am happy that I started reading because the storyline and humor have me wanting more and not wanting to read anything else until I am done.

[Marianne · Rating 2 out of 5]

Hmm, tough book to rate since I'm obviously missing the background story that would have made this novella more enjoyable.

All that aside: the dialogue between Vinnie; the renegade succubus and Crixus; the unfortunate demigod bounty hunter tasked with bringing her in, was hilarious (need proof? See my status updates) but the world building was minimal even for a novella. The twist felt weird. I agree with some of the other reviewers: wouldn't both the involved parties have realised what had happened to them?

If you're interested in this world I wouldn't recommend that you start here. Go back to the beginning (wherever that is) - then work your way up to this one, I think you'll enjoy it more if you do.

[Beebs · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 rounded up to 4 stars.

Fast paced, funny and aptly titled but very short. I think I might have enjoyed this more if I had read the author's "The Case Files of Dr. Matilda Schmidt" series first as I believe the hero played a large part in those books.

I liked the main characters and their interactions were hilarious as Lavinia came up with some very interesting and inventive ways of killing Crixus but I found their HEA a little sudden and would have liked a bit more. Still it as I said it was fun and perfect for a rainy afternoon.


*Received from Netgalley

[Louisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another wonderful read from one of my favourite authors.

Couldn't put i down and is full of the funniness and twist you have come from to expect from Cynthia. Thank you Cynthia for giving Crixus's some more page time and a happy ending despite the exploding head and other torture he has to endure

[Kathy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the eighth book in the series. They should be read in order. This book focuses on Crixus. He is broken hearted after cutting off ties with Matilda. He is focusing on his bounty hunter job. Hades has a job for him. Lavinia is the last of her kind. She is succubus with an insatiable appetite. She has gone a bit to far and no needs to reigned in. Crixus and Lavinia have a history but only one of them remembers it very well. Will Crixus be able to do his job. More is at stake than just him. I loved this book. I love Crixus. He is funny and has trouble keeping it in his pants. He only showed a different side to Matilda. I was great getting to read about Crixus without Matilda. I really love this series. The books are funny and interesting. Great job Cynthia. Can’t wait to the next book.

[Valeria Spencer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hell to Breakfast (title made clear i the end) is a novella featuring Crixus, a demigod from the other books in "The Case Files of Dr. Matilda Schmidt, Paranormal Psychologist series. He is an arrogant bastard who gets his comeuppance while chasing down a succubus, Lavinia. Very funny story that of course ends in love (and lots of breakfast ;).

[Laura · Rating 1 out of 5]

I could not get into this one at all. Maybe it's because this was apparently a number 8 in a series? which i did not know. Or maybe it's because it was super over the top ridiculous and not in a charming way. Whichever the case, this was definitely not for me.

[Heather · Rating 3 out of 5]

My rating scale:
5☆ - I loved this book and it brought out true emotion in me (laughter, anger, a good cry, etc)
4☆ - I loved this book.
3☆ - I liked this book.
2☆ - I didn't really care for this book.
1☆ - I did not like this book at all and probably did not finish it.

[Anne · Rating 2 out of 5]

Sooo, fans got so upset about Mathilda choosing Liam over Crixus in the main series, the author decided to pair up Crixus with ... basically a serial killer? Yeah, that checks out.
Not in any way as charming or funny as its predecessors. The badger was a good touch, though.

[Brittany · Rating 2 out of 5]

I typically enjoy Cynthia’s reads but this one was just okay. Not over the moon.

[Fos · Rating 4 out of 5]

Audiobook
Cricksus

[Tash · Rating 3 out of 5]

Although I’m happy he found a happy ending (no pun intended) I just don’t think this story was necessary

[Fizza · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another great read! :)

[Penny · Rating 5 out of 5]

Crixus, as Satan’s bounty hunter and a demi-god, has been ordered to bring in Lavina, AKA Vinnie, the succubus/muse who is causing Calliope many problems. What he gets in return is the assurance that his ill-fated love’s life will not come to an end with the birth of her first child, as is prophesized. Since he can’t be with Matilda, he wants her happiness and a long-life with Liam assured. He’s had run-ins with Vinnie before and knows this will not be easy….Vinnie knows that she will soon run into Crixus again, even if he does not remember the horrible thing he did to her millennia ago, only their run-in hundreds of years ago. She is having too much fun draining the much-needed life force from all kinds of artists to worry about him. When he comes calling, she knows she’ll have to defend herself because she can’t go to Satan until things are settled, because nothing is really as it seems.

This novella is a story centered on a character from the Dr. Matilda Schmidt, Paranormal Psychologist series. Crixus was in love with Matilda but lost her to Liam. As an aside, please don’t think you need to read the previous series to enjoy this one. Very little is lost in reading this novella without reading the preceding series, at the most a few subtleties. This novella was well-written, engaging, and fast-paced and I really enjoyed the by-play between Crixus and Vinnie. There were only two things that bothered me a little about this novella. I thought the HEA was a little rushed, and it didn’t feel completely resolved to me (I can’t say much because I don’t want to spoil it). And, the novella did seem almost too short; I would have liked a little more backstory to their past. However, please don’t let that deter you from getting this novella; it’s sweet, funny, and totally worth it!

Thanks to NetGalley and Red Coat PR for the free ebook in exchange for an honest review. This review will also be posted on NetGalley.

[Magda · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's funny, it's fast and it's worth your time. A story about a succubus and a demigod gladiator whose fates entwine... again.

Well... I know the blurb might not be very appealing to some of you, but it's an enjoyable read, perfect if you need a mood raising book or if you want something light and funny to read.

This book is somehow connected to other stories by Cynthia St. Aubin, but I haven't read them, so I can't tell you how. There is a hint about Crixus' past at the beginning of the book, but no specific information. Even though I'd like to know what happened this knowledge isn't needed to enjoy this story.

Don't expect any major character development here. It's a fast-paced story and it concentrates on Lavinia's and Crixus's past, their relations and some action due to Crixus's job. You'll read about all of the creative ways Vinnie destroys the poor gladiator over and over again. You'll see quite a good blend of ancient mythology and contemporary action-romance. You'll find out how to use a crowd of mimes to steal something you want...

I loved the plot twist at the end. It really surprised me and it's not that easy after so many stories I've read. True, most of the time I don't mind a little predictability, but it's always nice to read something original.

This story is full of surprises, good humor, and sexual tension. Add a talking ancient badger hat to the mix and laugh is guaranteed! I'd love to read another, maybe a longer story about these two :).


I received a copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

Check my reviews at https://maginibooks.wordpress.com

[Paul Franco · Rating 3 out of 5]

Semi-immortal human—or something like that—is tasked by the god of the underworld to retrieve a succubus who escaped from Hell. . . I think. Don’t worry, it’s a rom-com. . . I think.
First of all, it took me a while to realize the main character was male, considering the cover and the fact it’s written in first person. More importantly, it didn’t take long at all for me to jump on Vinnie’s side, even though she’s the villain of the piece; Crixus is simply too much of a jerk to root for. That’s with the caveat that there’s a lot of backstory here I’m missing, as this appears to be part of a series, and not the first part.
I don’t know if this was meant to be a light comedy or a dark comedy; the main character gets killed over and over, in increasingly painful ways, but it’s treated as a joke. The worst part is, no matter what flavor of chocolate, I didn’t find that funny. It wasn’t the subject matter; it just wasn’t humorous. On the other hand, the rest of the writing, especially the dialog, is hilarious; there’s a lot of funny little moments that sneak up on you. Too bad it took looking through my notes to write this review to remember that.
2.5 pushed up to 3/5

[Seraphia Bunny · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a copy of this book for free in exchange for my unbiased review of it.
I have to say that I really enjoyed reading this book. I literally laughed out loud, giggled and shook my head. Crixus is a gladiator given a task to bring a succubus in for killing of her hosts. It is just down right hilarious how he just keeps stumbling through things even though he is supposed to be the best that Hades has to bring in errant souls.
This is definitely a fun read and I devoured it quickly. I started to get worried at points about Crixus but all in all things manage to work themselves out in the end when a few things are explained to him by Vinnie.
I would have liked more of this story for sure and I maybe there will be more in the future but this is definitely an author that I will be reading more of her work in the future.

[Nikki Brooks · Rating 4 out of 5]

Crixus, our favourite demi-god, is still feeling the loss of Matilda to Liam (the hitman). He is surly and nursing hard feelings. But he still would do anything for her or to keep her safe. He is given a simple retrieval job by Hades. Return Lavinia to Hell. The Succubus has been taking her feeding a bit too far and there are a string of bodies in her wake.

Lavinia, kick ass Succubus, is nursing unidentified hatred for Crixus. The reason for the hatred is slowly revealed and you kind of get why she wants to explode his brains!!!

There are sheer moments of comic genius. The various ways Lavinia (AKA Vinnie) gets Crixus off her tale are hilarious!!! So glad to see more of him and can't wait to see what happens next!!!

[lovestoread · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wow talk about a hell of a ride! Very interesting characters and I loved the story. A woman out for revenge dating back thousands of years...you do not want to be the target. A succubus, a demigod and Hades! What more could you want in a story? Oh how about a human that the demigod is in love with but he can't have her? This was a fast paced read and totally enjoyable. Lots of laughs and a twist that came out of no where. I am looking forward to reading more. I found out after the fact that there was a series related to this story...but it is most definitely a book you can read as a stand alone.

[Jeri · Rating 3 out of 5]

This short little book was just okay for me. Perhaps if I had read the other books pertaining to the characters I would've had more of a backstory to go off of. But anyway, Crixus is a demi-god who is tasked with bringing in Lavinia (Vinnie) when she is suspected of killing off artists to survive. The catch is, if Crixus doesn't bring her in his human love interest, Matilda, will die. Crixus is a bit of a womanizer who tends to think with what is between his legs instead of what is between his shoulders, which gets him in a fair bit of trouble.

I was given a copy of this ebook from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great Book!
This is a great book by Cynthia St. Aubin. Crixus is a supernatural bounty hunter, he is tasked by Hades to bring in Lavina who is a succubus. When her crimes become his problem they are in for a wild ride. If you are looking for a great funny paranormal romance, then you need to read this book. I am looking forward to reading the next book by this author.
A Review copy was provided to me in exchange for a fair and honest review. The free book held no determination on my personal review.

[Dedi · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book probably would have gotten a higher rating but I felt like I had no clue what I was reading; like I had just plopped into the middle of a book and told to figure it out.
Now, that said, it was good though what I read and could figure out, which wasn't too hard, just a little disconcerting at times, but now I do want to go back and read the books that came before this.
I like the sense of humor and I definitely like Crixus.

**Copy received from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**

[Lorena · Rating 5 out of 5]

I saw the cover and looked like an interesting book and I was not wrong. Fast-faced, humorous and romantic; this book contains all the features I like. For being a short-story, it left me wanting more. Between the action and the mystery, it kept me on my toes from beginning, middle and end. I highly recommend it, if your at the airport, waiting at a doctors office or during your lunch break. The romance between Crixus and Lavinia is just sizzling.

**Copy received from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**

[Cathy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Crixus is a former Roman Gladitor and now a demigod...he's sexy and has a big heart....he just didn't know it till now.
Lavinia is a succubus and has been looking for the home she was always meant to have.
Together their combustible.
This story is fast paced with witty zingers, steamy scenes and a lot of humor.
I enjoyed the word play and the visuals the dialogue presented.
Crixus and Lavinia are great , fun characters surrounded by even more interesting characters. Good story, enjoyable read.

I did receive an arc for an honest review.

[Elizabeth Robbins · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this as part of an anthology, and don't own it separately.

Lavinia, a succubus, is accused of murdering her recent victims.
Cryxus, a demigod, is tasked with bringing her in to Hades. In exchange, Hades will bargain with the Fates to save a woman that Cryxus once loved. The problem is that "vinnie" keeps killing him! This was a witty tale replete with some fabulous one-liners! I can't wait to read more!