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Hell on Earth #1
Hell's Belles
She's A Hot Demon On The Run From Hell--
Which Isn't Easy To Do In Heels. Once upon a time, Jezebel was a powerful succubus, capable of seducing men and sucking out their souls. But that was before Hell put a bounty on her head. Now her only chance to escape a fate far worse than death is to live as a mortal, losing herself in a sea of unfamiliar humanity, in a place where sinners walk hand-in-hand with saints--a place like Belle's strip club in New York City.
Working as an exotic dancer is a piece of cake for a former demon who once specialized in sex. Taking money from men? Please. It's like leading lawyers to the Lake of Fire. Plus the lingerie is great. But she hadn't counted on meeting sexy Paul Hamilton, a man haunted by his past. Good-bye, succubus;hello, lovestruck. Learning all about how complicated--and pleasurable--love can be, Jezebel thinks she's turned her back on Hell.
But Hell hasn't stopped looking for her. The secrets Jezebel holds are the most dangerous of all, the kind every demon in the Underworld would do their worst to protect. Demons are closing in, which is enough to make Jezebel shiver in her G-string. But it's her love for Paul that's going to have deadly consequences. . .
Which Isn't Easy To Do In Heels. Once upon a time, Jezebel was a powerful succubus, capable of seducing men and sucking out their souls. But that was before Hell put a bounty on her head. Now her only chance to escape a fate far worse than death is to live as a mortal, losing herself in a sea of unfamiliar humanity, in a place where sinners walk hand-in-hand with saints--a place like Belle's strip club in New York City.
Working as an exotic dancer is a piece of cake for a former demon who once specialized in sex. Taking money from men? Please. It's like leading lawyers to the Lake of Fire. Plus the lingerie is great. But she hadn't counted on meeting sexy Paul Hamilton, a man haunted by his past. Good-bye, succubus;hello, lovestruck. Learning all about how complicated--and pleasurable--love can be, Jezebel thinks she's turned her back on Hell.
But Hell hasn't stopped looking for her. The secrets Jezebel holds are the most dangerous of all, the kind every demon in the Underworld would do their worst to protect. Demons are closing in, which is enough to make Jezebel shiver in her G-string. But it's her love for Paul that's going to have deadly consequences. . .
302 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2007
24 people are currently reading
1803 people want to read
About the author
Jackie Kessler
27 books335 followersSome kids want to grow up to be doctors, or movie stars, or political assassins. Me, I wanted to draw comic books. Not Archie comics, either—superhero comic books. Maybe it was all the heavily muscled guys in spandex…
Around the time I was 15, I realized that as much as I enjoyed drawing (note that I’m saying nothing about the quality of those pics), it was a lot of fun putting words in the characters’ mouths. I didn’t know the term “fanfic” back then, but I started writing stories about the X-Men, Alpha Flight, and the Teen Titans. Didn’t do anything with those stories, other than horrify my mother. She asked why I couldn’t write nice stories, you know, about bunnies. Nope—me, I wanted to write about power. About magic. About hot guys in spandex. And about beating those guys bloody and senseless. (In retrospect, maybe I really did want to horrify my mother. Hey, not my fault. When I was a kid, I busted her doodling on the cover of New Teen Titans #6. Argh!)
So maybe it’s ironic that the book I wound up writing had nothing to do with overly muscled men and everything to do with scantily clad women. (Well, temporarily scantily clad.) Oh, right, and demons.
Previously, I was the fantasy editor for Wild Child Publishing. Along with working with terrific authors and editors, I’d been fortunate enough to interview a number of fabulous people for WCP, including Margaret Weis (I think Raistlin was my first crush).
In case you’re wondering, I live in Upstate New York, along with my Loving Husband and two Precious Little Tax Deductions, two cats, and about 9,000 comics. (But actually, that number is now closer to 8,000, thanks to a flooded basement. Alas!)
Around the time I was 15, I realized that as much as I enjoyed drawing (note that I’m saying nothing about the quality of those pics), it was a lot of fun putting words in the characters’ mouths. I didn’t know the term “fanfic” back then, but I started writing stories about the X-Men, Alpha Flight, and the Teen Titans. Didn’t do anything with those stories, other than horrify my mother. She asked why I couldn’t write nice stories, you know, about bunnies. Nope—me, I wanted to write about power. About magic. About hot guys in spandex. And about beating those guys bloody and senseless. (In retrospect, maybe I really did want to horrify my mother. Hey, not my fault. When I was a kid, I busted her doodling on the cover of New Teen Titans #6. Argh!)
So maybe it’s ironic that the book I wound up writing had nothing to do with overly muscled men and everything to do with scantily clad women. (Well, temporarily scantily clad.) Oh, right, and demons.
Previously, I was the fantasy editor for Wild Child Publishing. Along with working with terrific authors and editors, I’d been fortunate enough to interview a number of fabulous people for WCP, including Margaret Weis (I think Raistlin was my first crush).
In case you’re wondering, I live in Upstate New York, along with my Loving Husband and two Precious Little Tax Deductions, two cats, and about 9,000 comics. (But actually, that number is now closer to 8,000, thanks to a flooded basement. Alas!)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews
November 4, 2007
When I first read the synopsis of this book I thought that it would be great. Succubus turned human with a job as a stripper with hell on the hunt to drag her back. Unfortunately everything that could have made this book good was drowned in cliches, made up curses, and the use of the words sweetie and yummy a couple thousand times. I understand that this book isn't a literary award contester and that it fits a certain niche in the book market. But this book has already been done several times. No action, no character development, tired overused heroine stereotype (bitchy, take it or leave it, crass and foul mouthed) and boring/vulgar sex scenes. There was not one thing to like about the main character. It was as if the author went out of her way to make her as unlikable as possible. And don't get me started on the sex scenes. They seemed to be written by some horny truck driver who hasn't had a girlfriend in 5 years.
To sum up the only reason I can suggest to anyone to pick up this book is if they're going to be sitting in a doctors office for 3 hours and there's no magazines to read. Otherwise pick something else because honestly you're going to be wasting your time.
To sum up the only reason I can suggest to anyone to pick up this book is if they're going to be sitting in a doctors office for 3 hours and there's no magazines to read. Otherwise pick something else because honestly you're going to be wasting your time.
February 3, 2022
Jezebel is a Succubus, one of the charges assigned to collect the souls of men to bring to hell. Jessie really enjoys her job, but something happens to shift her world upside down and now she is on the run from hell. And it’s demons that are sent to collect her.
She finds a way with the help of a witch to become mortal, but without a soul, in hopes of tricking the demons hot on her tail. And with that she starts a new life as a stripper in New York, a great job for a former succubus trying to stay off the radar, not. But low and behold she meets Paul, and things start to change. She starts thinking less about running and more about him, just like a mortal woman.
I really liked Jessie's character, she was a sarcastic but funny bad girl that was starting to be a somewhat "good" girl. The book had some steamy sex scenes, guess that comes with the territory of a succubus, but nothing too raunchy. I wanted to get to know Paul a little better but there is going to be time for that later in the series I'm sure. Also I'm hoping Duan will be a continuing character. I know Jessie's heart is with Paul but I feel a connection there too.
One of things I didn't like was the build up about why Jezebel left hell. You find out as the book progresses in pieces, which was a nice build up, but I expected something bigger when I actually did find out her reason for taking off.
I'd give this book about a 3.5. It definitely wasn't a deep read. It was an entertaining, guilty pleasure that kept my attention and has me interested in continuing the series.
She finds a way with the help of a witch to become mortal, but without a soul, in hopes of tricking the demons hot on her tail. And with that she starts a new life as a stripper in New York, a great job for a former succubus trying to stay off the radar, not. But low and behold she meets Paul, and things start to change. She starts thinking less about running and more about him, just like a mortal woman.
I really liked Jessie's character, she was a sarcastic but funny bad girl that was starting to be a somewhat "good" girl. The book had some steamy sex scenes, guess that comes with the territory of a succubus, but nothing too raunchy. I wanted to get to know Paul a little better but there is going to be time for that later in the series I'm sure. Also I'm hoping Duan will be a continuing character. I know Jessie's heart is with Paul but I feel a connection there too.
One of things I didn't like was the build up about why Jezebel left hell. You find out as the book progresses in pieces, which was a nice build up, but I expected something bigger when I actually did find out her reason for taking off.
I'd give this book about a 3.5. It definitely wasn't a deep read. It was an entertaining, guilty pleasure that kept my attention and has me interested in continuing the series.
February 8, 2011
Hell’s Belles by Jackie Kessler is a dirty little book. The sex scenes are hot. Geez, even the heroine’s daydreams are smokin’! But then again, what else would you expect from a book that tells the story of Jezebel, a succubus running from Hell’s Hunters who asks a witch to make her mortal then moves to New York City and becomes an exotic dancer to pay the rent. It does have all the elements for one sizzling tale….and it really does deliver on those elements.
It’s not just a hot book though. It’s a good book too! Jezebel is a succubus who is kind of going though an identity crisis of sorts. You see, she’s developing feelings. And demons don’t have feelings. That’s worst than having cooties! We don’t really know what happened that made her run. We just know she’s afraid and needs to get away. By becoming mortal, she figures she has a better chance of slipping under Hell’s radar. She is such a cute and charming character, full of conflicting emotion yet not too serious. She’s been around humans for 4,000 years, but she’s never been one. As you witness her trying to fit in, you can’t help but want her to be okay. And Jezabel is a funny gal. Her one liners are hilarious!
While waiting at the train station, she meets Paul. Paul is sweet and sexy and nice. And he doesn’t care when Jezebel cries because she’s been hurt or is confused. Yes, I said he doesn’t mind. Can there be a more perfect man?! Through the book we slowly learn about Paul, but for most of the book we only know that he’s a great guy who cares for our Jesse (the name Jezebel goes by). But don’t worry. You never feel lost and you will eventually get all the info you want.
The way the story is written is great. You know Jesse is running but you don’t know why. Actually, you don’t really know from whom exactly either. I learned the hard way that reading the titles of the chapters is very important in this book. I must admit that sometimes I don’t so much do that. I am too anxious to get to the story. (Am I really the only one?) So I’m reading away at this book and suddenly, I find myself lost. I don’t know why Jesse is in the bar at the end of the last chapter and in Hell in this chapter. Then I noticed that the chapters’ titles actually tells you when that particular part of the story is going to take place, whether it be now or before. Yep. Sort of important. *smacks forehead*
Through the story you are sent from the present to the past, from the hotel she’s staying at to Hell to the club. Jackie does this very well. The bouncing around never feels forced or awkward. The story is told as the story is supposed to be told, and everything falls in place at the end. And even though there is a happy at the end, there is also a lot of “but but but…” So it’s a good thing that there is another book in this series and lots and lots of novellas.
I am glad I finally picked up this book. I originally bought it because the reviews that I’d read said it was a good story with fun characters with a wicked sense of humor. And they were right. I really enjoyed this book. I laughed many times and giggled many others. I have the second book The Road to Hell in my book closet and I am going to pick it up because I really want to know where Jesse and Paul end up. They are an endearing, funny and hot couple. And really, is there a better combination?
It’s not just a hot book though. It’s a good book too! Jezebel is a succubus who is kind of going though an identity crisis of sorts. You see, she’s developing feelings. And demons don’t have feelings. That’s worst than having cooties! We don’t really know what happened that made her run. We just know she’s afraid and needs to get away. By becoming mortal, she figures she has a better chance of slipping under Hell’s radar. She is such a cute and charming character, full of conflicting emotion yet not too serious. She’s been around humans for 4,000 years, but she’s never been one. As you witness her trying to fit in, you can’t help but want her to be okay. And Jezabel is a funny gal. Her one liners are hilarious!
While waiting at the train station, she meets Paul. Paul is sweet and sexy and nice. And he doesn’t care when Jezebel cries because she’s been hurt or is confused. Yes, I said he doesn’t mind. Can there be a more perfect man?! Through the book we slowly learn about Paul, but for most of the book we only know that he’s a great guy who cares for our Jesse (the name Jezebel goes by). But don’t worry. You never feel lost and you will eventually get all the info you want.
The way the story is written is great. You know Jesse is running but you don’t know why. Actually, you don’t really know from whom exactly either. I learned the hard way that reading the titles of the chapters is very important in this book. I must admit that sometimes I don’t so much do that. I am too anxious to get to the story. (Am I really the only one?) So I’m reading away at this book and suddenly, I find myself lost. I don’t know why Jesse is in the bar at the end of the last chapter and in Hell in this chapter. Then I noticed that the chapters’ titles actually tells you when that particular part of the story is going to take place, whether it be now or before. Yep. Sort of important. *smacks forehead*
Through the story you are sent from the present to the past, from the hotel she’s staying at to Hell to the club. Jackie does this very well. The bouncing around never feels forced or awkward. The story is told as the story is supposed to be told, and everything falls in place at the end. And even though there is a happy at the end, there is also a lot of “but but but…” So it’s a good thing that there is another book in this series and lots and lots of novellas.
I am glad I finally picked up this book. I originally bought it because the reviews that I’d read said it was a good story with fun characters with a wicked sense of humor. And they were right. I really enjoyed this book. I laughed many times and giggled many others. I have the second book The Road to Hell in my book closet and I am going to pick it up because I really want to know where Jesse and Paul end up. They are an endearing, funny and hot couple. And really, is there a better combination?
June 5, 2010
I loved this one! If you like sarcastic, strong, slightly funny female heroines in urban fantasy, this is a good choice. Jezebel is a succubus who has run away from hell. (Her reason for leaving is a big secret slowly revealed throughout the book.) She gets a witch to turn her human enough to keep the demons who hunt her off her back, and goes to New York where she gets a job as an exotic dancer and starts to fall for a guy.
For an "evil" creature, you can't help but love Jezebel. She's the bad girl you really want to be friends with because she's just that fun to be around! Really enjoyable - I can't wait to read the next one.
For an "evil" creature, you can't help but love Jezebel. She's the bad girl you really want to be friends with because she's just that fun to be around! Really enjoyable - I can't wait to read the next one.
February 17, 2011
Short N Sweet review: I loved this book so much! The Heroine is such a lovable snarky mess and so so endearing. I am so sad to hear there were only 3 books in this series published but I am definitely moving on to the next one.
August 4, 2019
Loads of fun with a sizzling plot!
May 10, 2018
This is a hard book for me to judge, because I had a good deal of fun reading it and I see that a number of other readers really liked it, so why do I give it a bumpy two stars ("bumpy" meaning that it just misses being rounded up to three)?
It's an exciting, imaginative adventure told in the first person by a demon--a 4000-year-old succubus named Jezebel--who desperately tries to escape horrible punishment in Hell by becoming a mortal named Jesse, which she does in the first two chapters. The story proceeds to describe her adjustment to mortal life (much of which is quite amusing) and her increasingly scary encounters with denizens of Hell, with lots of flashbacks to her life as a demon that eventually reveal why she got into so much trouble in the first place.
Other writers have pulled off this technique of alternating present & past action with incomplete references to important material until everything is pulled together at the end, but there were three main problems I had with this one.
First and least important, what's fun to read at first gets boring with too much repetition--not the explicit sex scenes so much as seemingly endless sharing of every little thing in between them that turned her on. Many readers will probably want to avoid this book because it's so heavily erotic, as you might expect from a tale told by a succubus from Hell who becomes a stripper in a New York night club and has enthusiastic sex in both the main timeline and the flashbacks. But you should also be warned that the seduction of sinners and their subsequent torture in Hell seem to give equal pleasure to Jezebel the succubus, and humane feelings come very slowly to Jesse the rather sarcastic human. Hard to relate to, maybe, but she's an interesting character who gives good one-liners.
A bigger problem for me is the incongruity of Jesse's persistent focus on minor sexual stimulation when she's in terrible danger of attack from the Queen of Hell and one of the Furies, among others. The action doesn't add up between the different parts of the storyline.
The biggest problem I had is hard to express outside of spoiler tags, but I'll try. There aren't just plot holes here. Main parts of the plot seem to me to be swimming around disjointedly in a wide open space. I felt that the author had some very interesting ideas, but they were never developed into a coherent world or story. Lots of detailed descriptions and welcome humor, but it was supposed to come together at the end of all the flashbacks and it didn't. Not that it leaves you hanging--the ending is quite definite and clear in itself, but the motives for it aren't and elements in it don't fit well with the rest of the story .
It's an exciting, imaginative adventure told in the first person by a demon--a 4000-year-old succubus named Jezebel--who desperately tries to escape horrible punishment in Hell by becoming a mortal named Jesse, which she does in the first two chapters. The story proceeds to describe her adjustment to mortal life (much of which is quite amusing) and her increasingly scary encounters with denizens of Hell, with lots of flashbacks to her life as a demon that eventually reveal why she got into so much trouble in the first place.
Other writers have pulled off this technique of alternating present & past action with incomplete references to important material until everything is pulled together at the end, but there were three main problems I had with this one.
First and least important, what's fun to read at first gets boring with too much repetition--not the explicit sex scenes so much as seemingly endless sharing of every little thing in between them that turned her on. Many readers will probably want to avoid this book because it's so heavily erotic, as you might expect from a tale told by a succubus from Hell who becomes a stripper in a New York night club and has enthusiastic sex in both the main timeline and the flashbacks. But you should also be warned that the seduction of sinners and their subsequent torture in Hell seem to give equal pleasure to Jezebel the succubus, and humane feelings come very slowly to Jesse the rather sarcastic human. Hard to relate to, maybe, but she's an interesting character who gives good one-liners.
A bigger problem for me is the incongruity of Jesse's persistent focus on minor sexual stimulation when she's in terrible danger of attack from the Queen of Hell and one of the Furies, among others. The action doesn't add up between the different parts of the storyline.
The biggest problem I had is hard to express outside of spoiler tags, but I'll try. There aren't just plot holes here. Main parts of the plot seem to me to be swimming around disjointedly in a wide open space. I felt that the author had some very interesting ideas, but they were never developed into a coherent world or story. Lots of detailed descriptions and welcome humor, but it was supposed to come together at the end of all the flashbacks and it didn't. Not that it leaves you hanging--the ending is quite definite and clear in itself, but the motives for it aren't and elements in it don't fit well with the rest of the story .
January 3, 2009
Hell’s Belles by Jackie Kessler
Hell on Earth series #1
“A former succubus on the run from hell, turned mortal stripper in The Big Apple”. Jackie Kessler’s premise for her new book, Hell’s Belles caught my attention and totally perked my interest.
Reading the book in just one day, first of the new year at that, it tells the tale of Jesse, former sex demon, whose former job allows her to seduce men and take souls, is due to some major management changes in Hell, decides to go AWOL. Turning to a witch for help, she got herself changed to a mortal, and with nothing but desperation and her inherent skill sets, ventured towards the Big Apple, where on the train she meets Paul, a hunky mortal who makes her wants to get back into the seducing business. So what does a former succubus do? Become a stripper. Now, complete with all mortal problems of financial issues and love dilemmas, Jesse also had to hide from bounty hunters from hell, an irate demon queen, and a incubus friend who has the “hots” for her, Jesse’s earthly adventure couldn’t be more filled with humor and danger.
Told through Jesse’s point in view, I got totally sucked into this book, and couldn’t put it down. Written in a light, humorous manner, complete with silly clichéd expression that somehow added to its charm, I found myself rooting for the main character, as she navigate her escape from hell and her hiding out in Earth.
Kessler’s description of Hell is ingenious, and I like her use of “corporate business” terms as her metaphor for its management issues. Her demon with a heart was an endearing heroine, and the plot was fast-paced enough to keep my attention. And that incubus Daun intrigues me and I’m eager to read his book, which is the third in the series. The ending is a little pat, although with some interesting revelations on why Jesse did run, making me want to read the next book immediately.
If you like paranormal books that are funny and a little bit raunchy, pick up Hell’s Belles for a fun ride in hell.
Hell on Earth series #1
“A former succubus on the run from hell, turned mortal stripper in The Big Apple”. Jackie Kessler’s premise for her new book, Hell’s Belles caught my attention and totally perked my interest.
Reading the book in just one day, first of the new year at that, it tells the tale of Jesse, former sex demon, whose former job allows her to seduce men and take souls, is due to some major management changes in Hell, decides to go AWOL. Turning to a witch for help, she got herself changed to a mortal, and with nothing but desperation and her inherent skill sets, ventured towards the Big Apple, where on the train she meets Paul, a hunky mortal who makes her wants to get back into the seducing business. So what does a former succubus do? Become a stripper. Now, complete with all mortal problems of financial issues and love dilemmas, Jesse also had to hide from bounty hunters from hell, an irate demon queen, and a incubus friend who has the “hots” for her, Jesse’s earthly adventure couldn’t be more filled with humor and danger.
Told through Jesse’s point in view, I got totally sucked into this book, and couldn’t put it down. Written in a light, humorous manner, complete with silly clichéd expression that somehow added to its charm, I found myself rooting for the main character, as she navigate her escape from hell and her hiding out in Earth.
Kessler’s description of Hell is ingenious, and I like her use of “corporate business” terms as her metaphor for its management issues. Her demon with a heart was an endearing heroine, and the plot was fast-paced enough to keep my attention. And that incubus Daun intrigues me and I’m eager to read his book, which is the third in the series. The ending is a little pat, although with some interesting revelations on why Jesse did run, making me want to read the next book immediately.
If you like paranormal books that are funny and a little bit raunchy, pick up Hell’s Belles for a fun ride in hell.
February 17, 2009
This was light, fun, and incredibly smutty. It throws most of the romantic conventions (girl is a virgin until she meets her One True Love, for example) right out the window. I'm actually surprised it was in the romance section; though it had a strong romantic plot thread, I thought other portions were more important to the story.
July 30, 2011
Once upon a time, Jezebel was a powerful succubus, capable of seducing men and sucking out their souls. But that was before Hell put a bounty on her head. Now her only chance to escape a fate far worse than death is to live as a mortal, losing herself in a sea of unfamiliar humanity, in a place where sinners walk hand-in-hand with saints--a place like New York City.
Working as an exotic dancer is a piece of cake for a former demon who once specialized in sex. But she hadn't counted on meeting sexy Paul Hamilton, a man haunted by his past. Good-bye, succubus; hello, lovestruck.
But Hell hasn't stopped looking for her. The secrets Jezebel holds are the most dangerous of all, the kind every demon in the Underworld would do their worst to protect. Demons are closing in, which is enough to make Jezebel shiver in her G-string. But it's her love for Paul that's going to have deadly consequences. . .
____________________________________________________________________________________________________
jessie meets paul when she ran away.
jessie auditions to work in a strip club(belles).
jessie use to be a succubus.but now shes mortal.
jessies nickname:Jezebel
one of the seven most powerful entities in all the planes : best friend of jessies, the Fury Megaera(meg)
jazebel takes bad people to the lake of fire.
jazebel's pal:incubi Daun
Queen Lyssa is meg's ruler.
Lillith:queen of succbi
Caitlin:the convetor
jessie remembered what king lucifer told her when jessie told him along time ago that meg would never betray her: "If only you were right".
Roman:guy that owns delles(i think)-nickname:dickhead.or dick for short.
Joey:a belles bouncer,has a full heart(really nice),is full-gay.
ben:Friend of joeys, also a bouncer at belles.
lyle:dj player at belles.
paul was at belles when he heard that jessie was working there.
dalton-bouncer at belles.
paul:a mortal that jessie falls for.
daun posesses people's bodys to go visit jessie for either sex, or sex and something else.
jessie wears a stone that protects her from any evil finding her(unless they already know her location or still have a bond with her).
if jessie takes off her stone, her powers kick in and she could seduce people like she use to do.
King Asmodai-king of succbi
lillith is watching over jesse.
when lilith finds jesse and posesses someones body to try and kill her, jesse was only so lucky when a goth chick saved her.now jessie knows that she is #1's on hell's most wanted list..and that meant one thing...that she had to run.
jesse finds out that paul use to have an ex-fiance. paul and tracy were happy together and next thing paul knew he and tracy were setting a date to be married.and everything went great until one day he went to work early like always, and tracy went for her regular morning jog when there was an accident and she died.
jesse was stupid enough to go hang out with a hobo on the street and he ends up stealling all her money(about 1000 bucks), her amulet that was suppose to protect her against evil, and her whole suitcase of clothes.
a girl named faith that works also at belles as a dancer was nice enough to let jesse keep some of her clothes and candy(a dancer at belles) giving jesse a loan and Circe donated an old purse, two pairs of shoes (one for work, one for play), and a trench coat.
daun starts watching jesse's back and protecting her from afar(he's staying in romans body for the time being).
Hell Hounds: That was code for the Furies.
meg was later sent to execute jesse.but when meg went to jesse, she couldnt do it.all jesse felt was a soft brush of lips and then nothing.and when jesse opened her eyes, meg was gone. which means that jesse is free.but what consequences will meg be suffering because meg didnt do her assignment and kill jesse?
paul arrestes roman because he's been running a prostitution ring.which is illegal.but roman gets away and the next thing jesse knew he was standing a few feet infront of paul and jesse with a gun pointed at them.or at paul-specifically. but jesse wont let roman shoot paul.so she throws herself to roman and gets shot.
King Lucifer was reassigned to the almighty's side for reassignment.so hell's new king would be The Archangel Michael.which means that now heaven controlled hell.
now jesse is going to be a nightmare.
nightmare:people who go scare the shit out of mortals.
michael replaced all of the succbi with angels.now the angels have to be the people that do seduction to motrals and bring their soul to the lake of fire.
meg sees lucifer-now Morning Star. Bringer of Light.-and thats when jesse found out that meg didnt kill her, because she was ganna die anyways.which means that meg led jesse to her death.which means that meg put her duty over their friendship-as lucifer would say.
lucifer then said that since jesse sacrificed her life for love.she would get a chance to survive because of love.and jesse accepted.("Your sacrifice entitles you to a soul, if you wish it. A chance to be truly human in every way".-lucifer).so now jesse will be human.and before lucifer disappeared, he said that he will be seeing her when its jesse's time to die(As a regular human would).
so jesse wakes up in the hospital, with paul at her side.everything is great, and jesse knows that one day she has to tell paul about her past and who she really is.but for now, all she wants is a relationship with paul.
pg.399
Working as an exotic dancer is a piece of cake for a former demon who once specialized in sex. But she hadn't counted on meeting sexy Paul Hamilton, a man haunted by his past. Good-bye, succubus; hello, lovestruck.
But Hell hasn't stopped looking for her. The secrets Jezebel holds are the most dangerous of all, the kind every demon in the Underworld would do their worst to protect. Demons are closing in, which is enough to make Jezebel shiver in her G-string. But it's her love for Paul that's going to have deadly consequences. . .
____________________________________________________________________________________________________
jessie meets paul when she ran away.
jessie auditions to work in a strip club(belles).
jessie use to be a succubus.but now shes mortal.
jessies nickname:Jezebel
one of the seven most powerful entities in all the planes : best friend of jessies, the Fury Megaera(meg)
jazebel takes bad people to the lake of fire.
jazebel's pal:incubi Daun
Queen Lyssa is meg's ruler.
Lillith:queen of succbi
Caitlin:the convetor
jessie remembered what king lucifer told her when jessie told him along time ago that meg would never betray her: "If only you were right".
Roman:guy that owns delles(i think)-nickname:dickhead.or dick for short.
Joey:a belles bouncer,has a full heart(really nice),is full-gay.
ben:Friend of joeys, also a bouncer at belles.
lyle:dj player at belles.
paul was at belles when he heard that jessie was working there.
dalton-bouncer at belles.
paul:a mortal that jessie falls for.
daun posesses people's bodys to go visit jessie for either sex, or sex and something else.
jessie wears a stone that protects her from any evil finding her(unless they already know her location or still have a bond with her).
if jessie takes off her stone, her powers kick in and she could seduce people like she use to do.
King Asmodai-king of succbi
lillith is watching over jesse.
when lilith finds jesse and posesses someones body to try and kill her, jesse was only so lucky when a goth chick saved her.now jessie knows that she is #1's on hell's most wanted list..and that meant one thing...that she had to run.
jesse finds out that paul use to have an ex-fiance. paul and tracy were happy together and next thing paul knew he and tracy were setting a date to be married.and everything went great until one day he went to work early like always, and tracy went for her regular morning jog when there was an accident and she died.
jesse was stupid enough to go hang out with a hobo on the street and he ends up stealling all her money(about 1000 bucks), her amulet that was suppose to protect her against evil, and her whole suitcase of clothes.
a girl named faith that works also at belles as a dancer was nice enough to let jesse keep some of her clothes and candy(a dancer at belles) giving jesse a loan and Circe donated an old purse, two pairs of shoes (one for work, one for play), and a trench coat.
daun starts watching jesse's back and protecting her from afar(he's staying in romans body for the time being).
Hell Hounds: That was code for the Furies.
meg was later sent to execute jesse.but when meg went to jesse, she couldnt do it.all jesse felt was a soft brush of lips and then nothing.and when jesse opened her eyes, meg was gone. which means that jesse is free.but what consequences will meg be suffering because meg didnt do her assignment and kill jesse?
paul arrestes roman because he's been running a prostitution ring.which is illegal.but roman gets away and the next thing jesse knew he was standing a few feet infront of paul and jesse with a gun pointed at them.or at paul-specifically. but jesse wont let roman shoot paul.so she throws herself to roman and gets shot.
King Lucifer was reassigned to the almighty's side for reassignment.so hell's new king would be The Archangel Michael.which means that now heaven controlled hell.
now jesse is going to be a nightmare.
nightmare:people who go scare the shit out of mortals.
michael replaced all of the succbi with angels.now the angels have to be the people that do seduction to motrals and bring their soul to the lake of fire.
meg sees lucifer-now Morning Star. Bringer of Light.-and thats when jesse found out that meg didnt kill her, because she was ganna die anyways.which means that meg led jesse to her death.which means that meg put her duty over their friendship-as lucifer would say.
lucifer then said that since jesse sacrificed her life for love.she would get a chance to survive because of love.and jesse accepted.("Your sacrifice entitles you to a soul, if you wish it. A chance to be truly human in every way".-lucifer).so now jesse will be human.and before lucifer disappeared, he said that he will be seeing her when its jesse's time to die(As a regular human would).
so jesse wakes up in the hospital, with paul at her side.everything is great, and jesse knows that one day she has to tell paul about her past and who she really is.but for now, all she wants is a relationship with paul.
pg.399
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 25, 2022
2.5
The first half of this book is terrible. Bad writing, bad characterizations, no world building. It was truly a struggle.
The second half of the book was very enjoyable. Everything improved. Everything. I don't understand how it was the same author.
The last ~3 chapters were great. My heart felt things.
I might actually read the sequel. Maybe this is just the book version of Stockholm Syndrome.
The first half of this book is terrible. Bad writing, bad characterizations, no world building. It was truly a struggle.
The second half of the book was very enjoyable. Everything improved. Everything. I don't understand how it was the same author.
The last ~3 chapters were great. My heart felt things.
I might actually read the sequel. Maybe this is just the book version of Stockholm Syndrome.
April 1, 2012
3.5/5 (C+)
Review: I like the book and I was pleasantly surprised. Sure, I read the back blurb and wanted to read it for awhile, but that didn't guarantee that I would like the book right? Also, succubus are a bit out of my comfort zone. Another pleasant surprise was the beginning of the book. From reading the black blurb, I thought she was already settled and everything. Instead, we accompany Jezebel on her run and learns about the reasons through flashbacks. All in all, I thought the series had good potential, enjoyed the book which made me want to read more. However, the writing style takes a bit of getting use to and Paul is not developed enough ^^;
The Characters - I like Jezebel and I like how she stood up and decided to take her life in her hands when she was unhappy, even if it put her in danger. She definitively has more depth than you'd think a demon has and she's something :D I'm also happy that she's not entire clueless as how to behave like a human, since as a succubus, she did have to appear human.
Now Paul is yummy :D No wonder Jezebel falls for him so quickly :D He's a cop who has lost his fiancee to a hit-and-run a few years ago. Because he couldn't handle the pressure his soon-to-be-in-laws were putting on him, he moved to New York. There's an instant connection between Jezebel and him and he's determined to pursue it. I have to say, although he's yummy, there was something that bothered me: he was hanging out in a strip-club ^^; Not usually an attractive trait in a hero, but then, at the end it made sense. Also, I liked how he tried to understand and help Jezebel. I know that I did say that he was not developed enough, but I guess that given the fact that Jezebel is the main character, it is understandable that the focus is on her and so, the author did a good job.
Other characters we get to meet are Jezebel's best friend - a fury, Daun - an incubus and also, Jezebel's friend and Lilith - queen of Hell. There's also a few of Jezebel's co-workers, but really, the book mainly focused on Jezebel, which is good :D
The Style & Writing - This is where it started getting tricker. Basically, I didn't have any problem with her writing style, as in how she formulates her sentences, dialogue and so on. What took a bit more of getting used was how Ms Kessler broke down the book. Basically, Hell's Belles is divided into many parts (I think 6) and each part is given the name of a character. First was Jezebel, than the fury friend, Paul and etc. So the story is told, but in each part, there'll be a flashback of Jezebel and whoever is the character of this part. This wasn't a bad idea, but the problem was the transition between the parts. The transition wasn't always smooth, which results in breaking the flow, and it was a bit confusing at first. So it took a little bit getting used to, but still, I was able to enjoy the book.
The Cover - I think the cover is nice :D I guess there's a leg fetish going on in the cover industry, but I don't mind. I think it's better than a man's torso ^^;
Am I keeping this book? Yep, I am. I'm also going to buy the next one when it comes out :D
Review: I like the book and I was pleasantly surprised. Sure, I read the back blurb and wanted to read it for awhile, but that didn't guarantee that I would like the book right? Also, succubus are a bit out of my comfort zone. Another pleasant surprise was the beginning of the book. From reading the black blurb, I thought she was already settled and everything. Instead, we accompany Jezebel on her run and learns about the reasons through flashbacks. All in all, I thought the series had good potential, enjoyed the book which made me want to read more. However, the writing style takes a bit of getting use to and Paul is not developed enough ^^;
The Characters - I like Jezebel and I like how she stood up and decided to take her life in her hands when she was unhappy, even if it put her in danger. She definitively has more depth than you'd think a demon has and she's something :D I'm also happy that she's not entire clueless as how to behave like a human, since as a succubus, she did have to appear human.
Now Paul is yummy :D No wonder Jezebel falls for him so quickly :D He's a cop who has lost his fiancee to a hit-and-run a few years ago. Because he couldn't handle the pressure his soon-to-be-in-laws were putting on him, he moved to New York. There's an instant connection between Jezebel and him and he's determined to pursue it. I have to say, although he's yummy, there was something that bothered me: he was hanging out in a strip-club ^^; Not usually an attractive trait in a hero, but then, at the end it made sense. Also, I liked how he tried to understand and help Jezebel. I know that I did say that he was not developed enough, but I guess that given the fact that Jezebel is the main character, it is understandable that the focus is on her and so, the author did a good job.
Other characters we get to meet are Jezebel's best friend - a fury, Daun - an incubus and also, Jezebel's friend and Lilith - queen of Hell. There's also a few of Jezebel's co-workers, but really, the book mainly focused on Jezebel, which is good :D
The Style & Writing - This is where it started getting tricker. Basically, I didn't have any problem with her writing style, as in how she formulates her sentences, dialogue and so on. What took a bit more of getting used was how Ms Kessler broke down the book. Basically, Hell's Belles is divided into many parts (I think 6) and each part is given the name of a character. First was Jezebel, than the fury friend, Paul and etc. So the story is told, but in each part, there'll be a flashback of Jezebel and whoever is the character of this part. This wasn't a bad idea, but the problem was the transition between the parts. The transition wasn't always smooth, which results in breaking the flow, and it was a bit confusing at first. So it took a little bit getting used to, but still, I was able to enjoy the book.
The Cover - I think the cover is nice :D I guess there's a leg fetish going on in the cover industry, but I don't mind. I think it's better than a man's torso ^^;
Am I keeping this book? Yep, I am. I'm also going to buy the next one when it comes out :D
February 24, 2010
The story starts right off with Jezebel on the run looking for the witch who can help her become mortal to keep her off the radar of the underworld creatures who will be out to take her back in, one way or another. Jezebel, a succubus who feels is good no great at her job and loves it, now is mortal. What was the horrible thing happened in the underworld to make her feel she has to leave the life she loves so much? Through the book you get hints but in the end you get all the pieces connected together.
The story started off with the action right away. Even though there was movement forward in the book, I had felt it was a little slow moving. But, by the time I hit half way through the book we were of full speed forward. This is a great start to a series. The world is set, both in mortal earth and in hell.
I enjoyed the connection with Jezebel and Paul. The teasing and tension between them was great from the moment they met. There is definitely romance in this story, as Jezebel takes a job as a stripper and with the feel from her and Paul. There are a few great secondary characters added in the book whom could be expanded on greatly in future books and I look forward to seeing more of. There is a complete story here and there are setting planted for the future books. Very nicely done.
However, in the end of the book I felt there was a moral to be seen. I felt there are things we have done in which maybe as a whole we could change and there is hope for us all.
I am looking forward to reading more of this series to see where Jezebel will be and what she will do.
The story started off with the action right away. Even though there was movement forward in the book, I had felt it was a little slow moving. But, by the time I hit half way through the book we were of full speed forward. This is a great start to a series. The world is set, both in mortal earth and in hell.
I enjoyed the connection with Jezebel and Paul. The teasing and tension between them was great from the moment they met. There is definitely romance in this story, as Jezebel takes a job as a stripper and with the feel from her and Paul. There are a few great secondary characters added in the book whom could be expanded on greatly in future books and I look forward to seeing more of. There is a complete story here and there are setting planted for the future books. Very nicely done.
However, in the end of the book I felt there was a moral to be seen. I felt there are things we have done in which maybe as a whole we could change and there is hope for us all.
I am looking forward to reading more of this series to see where Jezebel will be and what she will do.
June 21, 2015
I have to say I enjoyed this book. It started out with a sense that it was building the foundation for the series, but then you get to the middle and then it just takes off. Originally, I thought it was going to take me a little bit longer to get through since I’m still settling in at the new house, but that was all put to the side and I just couldn’t put this novel down. We get to watch Jezebel’s character develop throughout the novel from raging sexual deviant (she is a succubus) to a mortal with feelings and a conscience. Watching her go through the motions of learning to be human is truly amazing considering she doesn’t always understand the way humans think or has that much experience dealing with the human world. I’m trying to think of a series I could compare Hell on Earth to and I’m really having a hard time. It’s definitely in a class of it’s own. It has the humor of Betsy Taylor (MJ Davidson) and Sookie Stackhouse (Charlaine Harris); the action misadventures of Rachel Morgan (Kim Harrison); and the atmosphere of the Morgan Kingsley series (Jenna Black). All I can really say is, if you’re looking for something new and a great new character to become attached to, then get your hands on Hell’s Belles.
For my full review, click here.
For my full review, click here.
March 29, 2008
Wow. I don't think I knew entirely what I was getting into with this book, but I enjoyed it all the same. Our heroine is a demon on the run from Hell. She's a creature of Lust, a succubus, whose job for millenia has been to seduce mortal men in order to bring their souls to Hell - not exactly soft and cuddly. But some changes in the management of Hell occur that leave her less than satisfied, and she realizes that she is unique in the demon world because she cares about the mortals, and she runs. She ends up in NYC as an exotic dancer in a mortal body with a horde of demons on her heels. And she falls in love a mortal, and some of her friends from Hell are trying to help her out, but there's still a lot of big, bad uglies after her. It's an interesting story in the chick-lit world, raucous and more than a little naughty, but well-written for all of that. I had fun with it, and while it wouldn't appeal to everyone I know, I would definitely recommend it to anyone who wouldn't take it too seriously.
September 23, 2007
I freaking loved this book.
Hell's Belles is about Jezebel, a succubus who leaves hell in an angry fit and tries to escape detection by other bounty-hunter demons by taking on a human form. So what does a succubus with no job skills do for money? She starts dancing at a strip club, naturally! Throw in a human love interest and an incubus with the hots for her and Jezebel's got her hands full.
This book made me laugh. I thoroughly enjoyed it. The sex scenes were good, not fabulous, but I wasn't really reading it for the sex. (Although the scenes with the incubus were really something else!)
I will probably re-read this book at some point. The next book is coming out soon and I will definately pick that one up.
Hell's Belles is about Jezebel, a succubus who leaves hell in an angry fit and tries to escape detection by other bounty-hunter demons by taking on a human form. So what does a succubus with no job skills do for money? She starts dancing at a strip club, naturally! Throw in a human love interest and an incubus with the hots for her and Jezebel's got her hands full.
This book made me laugh. I thoroughly enjoyed it. The sex scenes were good, not fabulous, but I wasn't really reading it for the sex. (Although the scenes with the incubus were really something else!)
I will probably re-read this book at some point. The next book is coming out soon and I will definately pick that one up.
July 25, 2018
Absolutely brilliant! It was that good that I read it in two days! I loved the character of Jezebel, and her witty and funny comments. The book itself was looking at the whole 'devil/horror/evil' in a totally different perspective, which is what made this book so unique and brilliant. Instead of being gloomy and the girl falling for the 'vampire boy' or whatever, here was a seductive woman/demon from the pits of hell having sex with men to take their souls to hell! How many can say they've read books like that!
When Jezebel decides to leave her immortal demon life behind and become a mortal human, the twists and turns this brings upon her life just get more and more exciting! A must read(:
When Jezebel decides to leave her immortal demon life behind and become a mortal human, the twists and turns this brings upon her life just get more and more exciting! A must read(:
February 22, 2008
After reading the reviews for this book, I was really excited to read it. I thought the subject was unique and would make for an interesting read.
It was a unique story and it was interesting, but the ending of the book was lame. I guessed what the ending would be from two chapters in, but I hoped that the author wouldn't go for such an obvious ending. I was disappointed... after all the build-up to have such a sappy, happy ending.
Also, it seemed like the main character, Jezebel, said "sweetie" about once every page. It got old quick. Are there no other terms of affection that the author could come up with? It grated on my nerves.
Overall, it was a good book until the ending.
It was a unique story and it was interesting, but the ending of the book was lame. I guessed what the ending would be from two chapters in, but I hoped that the author wouldn't go for such an obvious ending. I was disappointed... after all the build-up to have such a sappy, happy ending.
Also, it seemed like the main character, Jezebel, said "sweetie" about once every page. It got old quick. Are there no other terms of affection that the author could come up with? It grated on my nerves.
Overall, it was a good book until the ending.
May 7, 2011
This one started off well, Jezebel is running for her life she becomes a stripper, as a succubus it makes sense, but then it started to fall off it is all about her day to day life, she is attracted to a human, she is still a stripper, her boss is total scum (yeah I know surprise stripper boss is scum), a couple of demons find her and on and one. The back and forth between past and present got confusing at times and I never understood why it was necessary. After a while I just skimmed through it the parts about the past. The other issue is I did not care about the love interest. I will give the author credit for being original.
February 11, 2014
Got off shelf 4 years ago and for whatever reason never finished past 2nd chapter. Devoured today as once started could not stop reading about Jezebel and her totally tantalizing predicament. On to book 2, am now hooked!
September 29, 2018
I wanted to like this book because the back made it sound appealing to me. Jezebel has run away from hell, and she is trying to live in the real world, hiding from those who wish to take her back. Now she has to survive in the world of humans, as a human, and how does she do this? The succubus works as a stripper, and she has to be careful not to use her powers otherwise hell will find her.
The problem with this book, and there were several, but I only had one big one, which has also been mentioned by several other people who have reviewed this book. The problem I had was with Jesse (Jezebel). It seemed like very other word from her mouth was either sweetie or yummy, and I really would thing a centuries old succubus would have a variety of linguistic skills. Instead she is crass and uses only basic words from the English language. Her character, being the main character in the story, did not interest me, and I had a hard time finishing this book.
Of course, as I said this wasn't my only problem. The ending of the book was predictable, again, other people have said this in their reviews as well. So, sorry, I did not enjoy this book, and honestly I felt that the back of the book lied a little, and made this more interesting than it was.
I would not recommend this book, unless you like basic erotica, because that is really what this was.
The problem with this book, and there were several, but I only had one big one, which has also been mentioned by several other people who have reviewed this book. The problem I had was with Jesse (Jezebel). It seemed like very other word from her mouth was either sweetie or yummy, and I really would thing a centuries old succubus would have a variety of linguistic skills. Instead she is crass and uses only basic words from the English language. Her character, being the main character in the story, did not interest me, and I had a hard time finishing this book.
Of course, as I said this wasn't my only problem. The ending of the book was predictable, again, other people have said this in their reviews as well. So, sorry, I did not enjoy this book, and honestly I felt that the back of the book lied a little, and made this more interesting than it was.
I would not recommend this book, unless you like basic erotica, because that is really what this was.
July 3, 2024
Honestly this book series is now exactly how I view Hell and Heaven. Despite being billed as a chicklit the entire series goes so deep by the end of it. Jesse is such a likable protagonist despite being a former succubus who is escaped from Hell itself. The writing is hilariously witty but also with some exceptionally deep moments- especially when Lucifer comes into it. It also doesn't hurt that the sex scenes are great and that the author has clearly done her research into how sex clubs and sex workers function. She really gives a realistic look at that kind of job without sugar coating it, but equally showing the women to be real human beings.
January 1, 2019
Jezebel is attempting to lay low, working as a stripper. As a succubus currently hiding from the bounty on her head, stripping is an easy way to earn a little money and the wardrobe isn't half bad. But when Paul enters the picture suddenly this demon is struck by cupid's arrow. When her past comes to call can Jezebel not only save her own hide but the man she's fallen in love with? A really sexy, fast paced read!
abandoned
January 21, 2022This is extremely bad. Like "Haha, are you fucking kidding me, you think I'm going to read this shit? More like Hell's Nope." I raised a sexy eyebrow and smirked as I say that. STOP IT. It's going in the trash I say in a sing song voice as fire lit up my eyes.
October 29, 2023
All around, it was cringy, predictable, & very stereotypical. Which for the stereotypical, would have liked to see the author make succubus character her own, but not. It was just a lot of "sweetie, loves" & "faking it till you make it crap that was hard for me to endear to.
May 23, 2020
Hot and steamy, I really liked the storyline, even though I am more of sword and sorcery, blood and gore kinda guy.
July 4, 2024
First book in a series of 4. Pure laughs and Jessie's character is the bomb! Really great read! 2 people I know read before me and loved it, too.
June 22, 2011
Jezebel is a succubus who has spent thousands of years collecting men's souls and taking them to hell but now she is on the run. It's not easy to go AWOL from Hell though and her only chance of escaping the demons who are after her is to hide amongst mortals. Finding a job as a stripper in New York Jesse tries desperately to remain hidden but how long will it be before Hell is on her heels?
When we are first introduced to Jezebel (or Jesse for short) she isn't an easy character to like, she is selfish, bitchy and does some really unpleasant things to someone that was trying to help her. I did start to wonder if I wanted to continue reading but I'm glad I stuck it out because as she starts to settle into her new life we do get to see a nicer side to Jesse. It was quite funny watching her settle into her new life as a human, she may have spent the last 4,000 years seducing men but she obviously hasn't spent much time in the human world and is easily confused by things that we wouldn't even have to think about.
I did have a few issues with the book though, the first of which was the use of flashbacks. I don't actually mind flashbacks in general and I was very interested in the glimpses of hell that we got through them but I found the way they were inserted into the story was jarring. The first time it happened I was completely thrown out of the story and had to flick back a few pages to see if I'd missed something and try to figure out what was going on. You do get used to this as you continue reading though so it's just a case of getting used to a different writing style.
I didn't feel the romance between Jesse and Paul, we don't know enough about Paul for me to care much about him and I didn't really think there was much of a connection between the two of them. It was obvious that they had the hots for each other but it didn't seem like anything more than that for me. I was also about ready to throw the book across the room if Jesse used the words "sweetie" or "bless me" one more time. I just couldn't get my head around a succubus saying "bless me" - what self-respecting demon would want to be blessed? It didn't sit right with a character as crude as Jesse could be and really bugged me while I was reading.
Although this wasn't the strongest start to a series compared to others I have read I'm still curious enough about the revelations at the end to want to find out what happens next. I also really want to find out more about Meg and Daun (2 of Jesse's friends from hell) and hope we see a lot more of them in the next installment. Considering this was a debut novel I think the series has potential and I'll be interested to see how Jackie Kessler's writing style has developed over time. If you enjoy an erotic paranormal story it might be worth giving this a try.
When we are first introduced to Jezebel (or Jesse for short) she isn't an easy character to like, she is selfish, bitchy and does some really unpleasant things to someone that was trying to help her. I did start to wonder if I wanted to continue reading but I'm glad I stuck it out because as she starts to settle into her new life we do get to see a nicer side to Jesse. It was quite funny watching her settle into her new life as a human, she may have spent the last 4,000 years seducing men but she obviously hasn't spent much time in the human world and is easily confused by things that we wouldn't even have to think about.
I did have a few issues with the book though, the first of which was the use of flashbacks. I don't actually mind flashbacks in general and I was very interested in the glimpses of hell that we got through them but I found the way they were inserted into the story was jarring. The first time it happened I was completely thrown out of the story and had to flick back a few pages to see if I'd missed something and try to figure out what was going on. You do get used to this as you continue reading though so it's just a case of getting used to a different writing style.
I didn't feel the romance between Jesse and Paul, we don't know enough about Paul for me to care much about him and I didn't really think there was much of a connection between the two of them. It was obvious that they had the hots for each other but it didn't seem like anything more than that for me. I was also about ready to throw the book across the room if Jesse used the words "sweetie" or "bless me" one more time. I just couldn't get my head around a succubus saying "bless me" - what self-respecting demon would want to be blessed? It didn't sit right with a character as crude as Jesse could be and really bugged me while I was reading.
Although this wasn't the strongest start to a series compared to others I have read I'm still curious enough about the revelations at the end to want to find out what happens next. I also really want to find out more about Meg and Daun (2 of Jesse's friends from hell) and hope we see a lot more of them in the next installment. Considering this was a debut novel I think the series has potential and I'll be interested to see how Jackie Kessler's writing style has developed over time. If you enjoy an erotic paranormal story it might be worth giving this a try.
June 16, 2011
There are many reasons to love Hell's Belles by Jackie Kessler (Zebra Books, 2007). One is its heroine, Jezebel, who is literally a cloven-footed demon spawned in the depths of Hell. When Hell undergoes a change in management, succubus Jezebel is forced to give up her career of seducing the souls from mortal men and become a nightmare. Jezebel doesn't adapt well to the change, fleeing the Lake of Fire to become a mortal. And, since mortals have to pay the rent, she becomes a stripper.
Lacking a soul, Jezebel certainly isn't planning on falling in love. Still, when she meets Paul Hamilton, she's more fascinated by him than an ex-demon should be. Paul is beautiful, to be sure, but with his "poet's eyes" and boxer's broken nose, he's also a sweet and sensitive soul.
Other characters in this book are also well-written and interesting. There's Daun, the incubus. He gets his own book, Hotter Than Hell, two more volumes into Kessler's Hell on Earth series. Then there's Lucifer himself, who's given perhaps the most sympathetic and romantic portrayal since Milton's Paradise Lost. I was delightfully surprised by Kessler's reinterpretation of Lucifer.
Another wonderful surprise awaiting readers of Hell's Belles is the music. Kessler animates Jezebel's strip club with with classic Melissa Etheridge, new INXS ("Pretty Vegas," with JD Fortune as lead singer), The Bloodhound Gang and, best of all, a U2 medley with "Desire" and "Mysterious Ways." I wanted to stick a five dollar bill into the paperback to tip the dj.
A fellow reviewer of Hell's Belles found the ending "a bit pat," but I disagree. The ending made me cry, with its poignant blend of sadness and hope. I highly recommend Hell's Belles to all lovers of paranormal and fantasy romance.
Lacking a soul, Jezebel certainly isn't planning on falling in love. Still, when she meets Paul Hamilton, she's more fascinated by him than an ex-demon should be. Paul is beautiful, to be sure, but with his "poet's eyes" and boxer's broken nose, he's also a sweet and sensitive soul.
Other characters in this book are also well-written and interesting. There's Daun, the incubus. He gets his own book, Hotter Than Hell, two more volumes into Kessler's Hell on Earth series. Then there's Lucifer himself, who's given perhaps the most sympathetic and romantic portrayal since Milton's Paradise Lost. I was delightfully surprised by Kessler's reinterpretation of Lucifer.
Another wonderful surprise awaiting readers of Hell's Belles is the music. Kessler animates Jezebel's strip club with with classic Melissa Etheridge, new INXS ("Pretty Vegas," with JD Fortune as lead singer), The Bloodhound Gang and, best of all, a U2 medley with "Desire" and "Mysterious Ways." I wanted to stick a five dollar bill into the paperback to tip the dj.
A fellow reviewer of Hell's Belles found the ending "a bit pat," but I disagree. The ending made me cry, with its poignant blend of sadness and hope. I highly recommend Hell's Belles to all lovers of paranormal and fantasy romance.
September 11, 2015
Jezebel ist ein Sukkubus, ein Geschöpf der Hölle und stiehlt den Menschen mittels Sex die Seele. Nun aber ist sie auf der Flucht - wieso, das erfährt der Leser im Verlauf des Buches. Mit Hilfe der Hexe Caitlin aus Salem kann Jez einen Handel eingehen. Gegen einen Gefallen von ihr verwandelt Caitlin sie in eine Sterbliche um so vom Radar der Hölle zu verschwinden, die mittlerweile ein Kopfgeld auf sie ausgesetzt hat. Soweit klappt alles ganz gut und auf der Reise/Flucht von Boston nach New York lernt sie den süßen Paul kennen. Mit Hilfe der geklauten Kreditkarten von Caitlin hat Jez in New York erstmal ein Dach über den Kopf und findet in einem Striplokal auch direkt einen Job als Tänzerin. Auch Paul trifft sie wieder und verliebt sich in ihn. Bis sie eines Tages von der Hölle gefunden wird.
Hm, also das war kein einfaches Lesen. Das Buch springt zwischen Gegenwart und Vergangenheit und so langsam erfährt man, wieso Jez eigentlich abgehauen ist. Manche Kapitel sind sehr langwierig, da ausführlich die Ebenen der Hölle und der Wesen die dort leben beschrieben wird. Ich fand auch Jez teilweise sehr anstrengend, die jeden mit "Süßer" anredet und einerseits die Femme Fatale spielt und andererseits so naiv ist, sich von einem Penner ausrauben zu lassen. Paul ist für meinen Geschmack etwas zu blass geblieben. Außerdem fand ich es merkwürdig, wie er so anstandslos hinnahm, dass seine Angebetete sich jeden Abend in einem Striplokal nakig macht und gegen Bares jedem Beliebigen einen Lap Dance offeriert. Es war nette Unterhaltung aber ich glaube mehr von der Reihe (Band 2 erscheint im Dezember bei LYX) muss ich nicht haben. Daher auch nur 2 Sterne für teilweise ganz witzige Dialoge.
Hm, also das war kein einfaches Lesen. Das Buch springt zwischen Gegenwart und Vergangenheit und so langsam erfährt man, wieso Jez eigentlich abgehauen ist. Manche Kapitel sind sehr langwierig, da ausführlich die Ebenen der Hölle und der Wesen die dort leben beschrieben wird. Ich fand auch Jez teilweise sehr anstrengend, die jeden mit "Süßer" anredet und einerseits die Femme Fatale spielt und andererseits so naiv ist, sich von einem Penner ausrauben zu lassen. Paul ist für meinen Geschmack etwas zu blass geblieben. Außerdem fand ich es merkwürdig, wie er so anstandslos hinnahm, dass seine Angebetete sich jeden Abend in einem Striplokal nakig macht und gegen Bares jedem Beliebigen einen Lap Dance offeriert. Es war nette Unterhaltung aber ich glaube mehr von der Reihe (Band 2 erscheint im Dezember bei LYX) muss ich nicht haben. Daher auch nur 2 Sterne für teilweise ganz witzige Dialoge.
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