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Being a demon isn’t easy, but who else will prevent an apocalypse?

Maya hates being a demon. So when an opportunity arises to ditch her duties as a High Councillor in the Dome and return to the Human Realm, she takes it.

But what started off as a journey to see her old hunting partner and tell him her true feelings winds up in a battle to save humanity from an Archdemon Tanatos who also slipped through the Demon Gate. Before that demon becomes too strong, she must eliminate him. It may be a suicide mission, and she’ll willingly do it with the only man on her mind—Ben.

*This novella can be read as a standalone or as part of the series. It takes place during and after the Helena Hawthorn Series Book 3 (Crumbling Control).

**This story is NA (New Adult) in genre whereas the main series in YA (Young Adult).

102 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 6, 2017

14 people are currently reading
85 people want to read

About the author

May Freighter

27 books237 followers
May Freighter is an award-winning, internationally bestselling author from Ireland. She writes Fantasy, Urban Fantasy, Paranormal Romance, and Sci-Fi Mysteries that will keep you entertained, mystified, and hopefully craving more. Currently, she's attempting to parent two little monsters and hasn't slept in over 4 years.

Who needs sleep these days, anyway?

On days when May can join her fictional characters on an adventure, stars must align in the sky and meteors will probably rain down. So keep an eye out.

Her hobbies are photography, drawing, plotting different ways of characters' demise, and picking up toys after her kids. Not exactly in that order, either.

Sign up to May's Urban Fantasy Newsletter and get DESIRED for free here!

Sign up to May's Fantasy Newsletter and get HEART OF A THIEF for free here!

Website: https://authormayfreighter.com/
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/May-Freighter/...
FB page: https://www.facebook.com/authormayfre...
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mayfreighter/

*****
HELENA HAWTHORN SERIES:
- Alexander: Memoirs (Prequel)
- Russian Roulette
- Demon Gates
- Crumbling Control
- Desired (Spin-off Novella)
- Alexander: Monochrome Interview
- Fated Origins
- Cherished (Spin-off Novella)
- Dark Affiliations
- Blood Witch
- Twisted Truths
- TBA

*****
ANNALISE STORM CHRONICLES:
- Case: 0
- Case: 1
- Case: 2

*****
EMPIRE OF SHATTERED CROWNS
- Queen of Deception
- Queen of Ashes
- Queen of Hope
- Queen of Hearts
- Queen of Dante (Release Sept 30, 2024)
- Queen of Vows (TBA)

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5 stars
23 (62%)
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7 (18%)
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
Profile Image for Lyn Mckenzie.
874 reviews16 followers
July 25, 2017
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book.

From the moment I started this series I adored it and this book has just made me adore it even more. Saying that this book is highly addictive is an understatement!!!! I couldn't get enough of this story and really didn't want it to end, I can't wait for more in this series!

I loved the fact that this book was about Maya and I loved reading about her character. I really felt for her throughout this book, she is trying to do the right thing and make the best out of a situation that she didn't ask for and didn't want. She is still trying to do the best for and protect those that she cares about, I don't want to say too much about her so I don't give away any of the story line best rest assured if you want to read an about an amazing strong woman who wants to follow her heart but is extremely conflicted then this is the book for you. I loved seeing q different side of Ben, although he is the same man losing Maya has changed him and you see a softer side to him, not just with Maya but in other aspects too. Although being Reunited with Maya may cause more problems than he realises. I adored the addition of Eirik into this series and I can't see what more he has to bring!

This is a highly addictive read and I can't recommend it highly enough! The author's talent at creating vivid and imaginative world's shines through in this brilliant book!!!!
Profile Image for A_MOTUS.
415 reviews47 followers
July 21, 2017
I voluntary reviewed an Advance Copy of this book.
As usual with May, I slipped easily in the world of the story. Since the book is meant to be a standalone taking place in another series it was funny to replace the different events. The point of view of the different characters was more diversified than in the other books and it gave it a different flavour. As for the new characters: I loved them. And finally, we have more insight on the relationship between Maya and Ben, that was a very good thing (can't wait for the next book in the HH series to see what's coming next, especially since I got a spoiler).
So come and feel the desire of a human life for Maya.
Profile Image for Kristen Lewendon.
8,429 reviews64 followers
August 15, 2019
This may be a quick little novella, but it’s not short on conflict, passion, or intrigue. The action starts rolling as soon as the story opens, and it doesn’t stop until the very last page. I loved having this opportunity to learn more about the intricacies of the demon realm through Maya. And seeing her relationship with Ben now that they’re no longer hunter partners was both fascinating and a little heartbreaking. I can’t wait to see more of these two and learn if and how they overcome the obstacles in their path.
Profile Image for Mi.
15 reviews
July 17, 2017
Another great book written by May. I am delighted to read it. First stuff when you get a look into book you find out about the parts you wondered about - a love between two great characters. I am in love with their humor and stuff they do. It is awesome as their world spins and moves forward. They put aside their feelings and work on saving a world. Not many do it freely and unconditionaly.

I recommend this book since it keeps you excicted to see another page, another chapter and another volume to see what happens. Each book reveals more of each character that is in story involved. This book isn´t expectation. It is perfection styled into masterpiece. Souls and love, demons and vampires are your main dish. Humans are coworking with them.

Great book!!!

JOB WELL DONE MAY!!!.

I am cheering for you and your work. I am big fan of yours.
Profile Image for Linda Levine.
4,644 reviews25 followers
July 31, 2017
This is a really interesting story and will leave you wanting to read more. It has some great characters. I really enjoyed it and recommend you check out her other books as well.

I am voluntarily reviewing a copy I received.
Profile Image for Amy.
314 reviews
October 2, 2017
I loved it! I want more. I want more. I want more!!!

This short story really has made me anxious for the next installment of the Helena Hawthorn Series. I can't wait and did I mention I WANT MORE?
Profile Image for Barb VanderWel.
1,819 reviews29 followers
April 30, 2018
I love this & I can't wait for more.
I will be also leaving a review on Goodreads @ Amazon.
And letting everyone know about it.
So i gave it a 5 Stars.
Profile Image for Lene Blackthorn .
1,836 reviews7 followers
August 2, 2017
I finished this novelette in an hour. You bet I loved it.
Maya´s soul is now residing in an attractive vessel, though for a former hunter it represents quite some complications: she is a vampire, and a demon, and therefore she needs to drink blood and devour souls to sustain her existence. When an Archdemon breaks from the Gate and escapes to Human Realm to feed and wreak havoc, Maya flees, too, determined to find her former hunting partner Ben. But the reunion is not as smooth as Maya wished for, and with the quest ahead, even more complications arise.
I love this action-packed and very emotional story. I have already read Helena´s series, and now Maya & Ben´s story is a great addition to the whole world. Demons, vampires, werewolves and other supernatural creatures, magic and unthinkable powers, that´s all a strong concoction. With the brilliant writing, interesting dialogues, stunning world setup, intriguing and suspenseful situations and complex characters, there is nothing I miss in this book. Very pleasurable read.
I received an ARC and provide my honest review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Shoshanah Lila.
266 reviews
February 21, 2018
Although this is part of a series, it was a complete story. if this is an example, I would not mind reading all the stories set in this world. Maya is a nice girl caught in a bad situation and dealing with it in the best way she knows how, while trying to keep her own soul intact and as free from smut as she can. DESIRED reminds me a bit of the Hollows series by Kim Harris in that aspect. In this episode, Maya loves when and where she can, knowing that she only has the here and now, but still she hopes for more. This is in some ways part of her own soul's unfinished business and bittersweet. She knows she's on borrowed time, tracking down an escaped, truly-bad demon. Her conscience won't let her do any less.
Maya and her associates show us that there can be many shades of darkness, Gray even. What you are does not have to completely change who you are in Ms. Freighter's world. That's nice and even hopeful, as opposed to all these dark-dystopian stories, that seem to be completely lacking in hope. Thanks!
The world is in enough turmoil now-days to seem like there are demons among us. It's nice to think that like your characters, if we stay true to ourselves and allow love to guide us in this mad world, we can get through what-ever life hands us.
More please?
* This story was read using text to speech accommodations on Android hardware and my review was written with voice dictation. Both of which ENABLE and INCLUDE challenged readers to enjoy a good story and leave feedback. Thanks.*

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
150 reviews1 follower
June 2, 2018
I’m so glad the author wrote this novella for Maya! Since she’s been part of the demon world (and what a genius way to turn the path of the story), I’ve been rooting, even more, for her and Ben. Archdemon, Tanatos opens the gate to the human world Maya has to stop him before the whole gate crashes. She’s the same old Maya, running after the bad, helping her friend Helena at times of need, she’s a girl of great heart and courage. But will she be an outsider among the people she knows and loves? My heart broke out for her with everything that happened to her but I love that the author did this in a way, as it brought fresh blood, challenges, and twists to the story. As usual, new fascinating characters continue to make their entrance in this story. I’m looking forward to reading more on Eirik. I can’t get enough of this series.
Profile Image for Caroline Doig.
5,458 reviews49 followers
March 4, 2018
I loved reading May Freighter’s Helena Hawthorn series and this is a spin off to that series. Maya wants to return to the human realm and when she gets the chance she takes it. A demon goes through the gate, arch demon Tantos a very dangerous demon. Maya feels guilty for letting the demon slip through the gate so she is determined to hunt the demon down knowing it might be a suicide mission. Another fantastic read May Freighter has an amazing imagination and it shows in her books, I loved everything about this book and if you haven’t read any of May’s books I suggest you do you won’t regret it. I highly recommend this book it’s definitely well worth the read.
1,062 reviews18 followers
May 14, 2019
This novella in the Helena Hawthorn series by May Freighter is a welcome version of light-hearted evil vs more evil while also being a paranormal erotic romance. I really enjoy May's light and easy to read writing style, even though it makes the book end way too fast. In between the battles, and the sexual tension, there is of course some light humor to keep the book from going way too far into the dark side as it deals with demons, vampires, and those who hunt them. This is a voluntary review of a free copy of this book.
Profile Image for Ashley .
1,150 reviews4 followers
March 2, 2018
This has a kind of dark feel to it, but I definitely see hope and love in this story. It has a lot of complex emotions and characters. Freighter has done a great job of writing this plot to keep the reader interested all the way through and it's a good addition to this series! I'd recommend reading in order!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Erika Escariz.
111 reviews2 followers
April 6, 2018
OMG was this hot. This book was amazing. I could not put it down until I finished reading it. I definitely recommend this book to anyone who is looking to read it and aren’t sure if they want to. Trust me, you will love it.

I voluntarily read an Advanced Reading Copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Lisa Eiff.
966 reviews27 followers
July 13, 2017
I haven't read any of the other novels in this series, so I wasn't already familiar with the characters. I did find it fairly easy to follow along with the progression of the story with no issues (ie...this can be read as a standalone). I enjoyed reading this novella, and would recommend it to fans of fantasy that don't mind a bit of NA style heat.
16.7k reviews158 followers
March 2, 2018
being a demon is bad enough and she hates it so when she can go to the human world to get away she will do it. what she doesnt know is that it could lead to more trouble and she will need to do everything to save everything and everybody. can she do it? see if she can

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Kourtney.
Author 3 books242 followers
February 16, 2025
The first page has amazing voice and character. I'm hooked. I love how the author weaves humor into the hard moments. This was a quick read and I loved seeing Maya and Ben finding their way to each other.

Being a demon isn’t easy, but who else will prevent an apocalypse?

This line sold me and the book lived up to all my expectations!
Profile Image for Marlys.
1,519 reviews9 followers
July 26, 2017
I was given this book for a review. I thought this was a great short story. I have enjoyed books by May Freighter in the past and I look forward to reading more books written by her. May's stories have strong female characters that I can identify with.
141 reviews
March 3, 2018
Great book.
Loved this interesting and entertaining fantasy story. Well written plot and interesting characters. Recommend this book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Tonia Rodriguez.
305 reviews10 followers
March 5, 2018
This was another okay read for this spinoff series.Maya and Ben are cute together. I was upset that it just stopped. Thought there could have been more.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Suzanne Withers.
693 reviews4 followers
March 16, 2018
A very addictive story to read that is interesting and well written with great characters in Maya and Ben. This is a great story to read.

I received a copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Dawn M. Curtis .
26 reviews
September 19, 2023
This short story is part of a larger story. The author has given us the chance to see what happens when the characters professed their love to each other. We also meet the character that could complicate their future.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Nadea Angel.
30 reviews3 followers
March 8, 2018
Maya takes a risk and as her journey becomes difficult she keeps the man she falls in love with on her mind to pull through.
Profile Image for TheBookishK9RN.
697 reviews9 followers
March 30, 2019
This was an amazing read that packed a big punch of action for a novella. Love this look at Maya and Ben.
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews

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