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The Demon Universe #1
A Demon for Midwinter
Kris Starr used to be famous. Rock and roll. Sold-out shows. Literal magic. Empathic talents and screaming fans.
But he has a problem or two. He's having a hard time writing new music. It's Midwinter, which means he's surrounded by depressing holiday cheer. And he's in love with Justin, his manager, who has a talent for rescuing almost- or once-famous bands ... and who's hiding secrets of his own.
Justin Moore, on the other hand, is very good at keeping those secrets -- he's had to be for years. One secret involves a demonic inheritance that would make him a target of suspicion. Another involves his past.
And the third involves Justin's feelings for Kris Starr, rock and roll icon and now his client ... and a powerful empath of his own.
But he has a problem or two. He's having a hard time writing new music. It's Midwinter, which means he's surrounded by depressing holiday cheer. And he's in love with Justin, his manager, who has a talent for rescuing almost- or once-famous bands ... and who's hiding secrets of his own.
Justin Moore, on the other hand, is very good at keeping those secrets -- he's had to be for years. One secret involves a demonic inheritance that would make him a target of suspicion. Another involves his past.
And the third involves Justin's feelings for Kris Starr, rock and roll icon and now his client ... and a powerful empath of his own.
346 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 10, 2018
18 people are currently reading
210 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
April 28, 2018
I adored this book. It was sweet and charming. It's set in a fun urban fantasy world, although I would definitely call it gay paranormal romance. It's nice to see solid worldbuilding in a PNR.
It has some tropes I love (May/December romance, hidden identity) and some I tend to avoid (rockstar). I'm not sure why I still gave this a try but I am really glad I did. One of those where I spent the second half of the book grinning like an idiot.
It has some tropes I love (May/December romance, hidden identity) and some I tend to avoid (rockstar). I'm not sure why I still gave this a try but I am really glad I did. One of those where I spent the second half of the book grinning like an idiot.
October 15, 2018
I could not stop smiling while reading this M/M age gap rock star urban fantasy romance - and I was sick at the time! That's how warm and fuzzy it is! It begins when Kris Starr, bisexual projective empath and washed-up rock singer, realizes with a start that he's fallen in love with his manager, Justin Moore, who is the cutest and most adorable and kindest and Kris just wants to touch his hair and make him happy forever. This plan hits a snag when Kris finds out that Justin has a boyfriend. A jerk boyfriend. But when Justin's biggest secret comes out, he turns to Kris for support. And Kris works so hard to be there for Justin! He has zero experience with a real relationship, but he asks friends for help when he doesn't know something, and he properly prioritizes Justin's needs over his own wants. It's two people connecting who are huge fans of each other for all the right reasons. The world-building is also fascinating, a "contemporary" world so different from our own, where everyone has at least a little magic talent and the existence of parallel magical realms is a given.
Content warnings: Domestic violence, being outed in the press.
If you read this and like it, you should know there are three follow-up stories as well! Two are about Kris and Justin. The other, Lightning in a Bottle, is one of my FAVE short stories, though I don't know how well it would work if you don't already know Kris and Justin. A songwriter pining for the lead singer of his band, a little encouragement to share his feelings... so sweet! And the author's note at the end that says it's not an epilogue is one of my favorite epilogues in romance.
Content warnings: Domestic violence, being outed in the press.
If you read this and like it, you should know there are three follow-up stories as well! Two are about Kris and Justin. The other, Lightning in a Bottle, is one of my FAVE short stories, though I don't know how well it would work if you don't already know Kris and Justin. A songwriter pining for the lead singer of his band, a little encouragement to share his feelings... so sweet! And the author's note at the end that says it's not an epilogue is one of my favorite epilogues in romance.
September 29, 2024
4.5 stars.
This is incredibly sweet and beautifully written.
The imagery and emotion and sensuality the author is able to convey... sigh. Perfection.
The only thing I'm not a fan of is how much both of them talk about sex with prior partners.
This is incredibly sweet and beautifully written.
The imagery and emotion and sensuality the author is able to convey... sigh. Perfection.
The only thing I'm not a fan of is how much both of them talk about sex with prior partners.
March 30, 2024
K.L. Noone's developed a highly distinctive style. I can't think of another author who's got such a feeling for colour.
"Those eyes were huge, gazing back at him. Carnation and cinnamon, rose-stripes and wonder, lush and bottomless."
Her worlds are sometimes unsettlingly anthropomorphic.
"The afternoon wrapped itself around him as he left, clear and bracing as autumn diamonds. Sunbeams bit like glass underwater: transparent, inviting, pointed....As always, the offices made him feel shabby and inadequate. Tall walls sniffed at his jeans and leather with glass and steel disdain; spiky modern lines pulled color out of the universe and turned it grey and white."
Where the richness of the writing's matched with a plot (as here), it's magical. Her characters are (generally) kind, tolerant, humane, in love. Reading a K.L. Noone book is like falling into velvet cushions in front of a dancing fire.
"Those eyes were huge, gazing back at him. Carnation and cinnamon, rose-stripes and wonder, lush and bottomless."
Her worlds are sometimes unsettlingly anthropomorphic.
"The afternoon wrapped itself around him as he left, clear and bracing as autumn diamonds. Sunbeams bit like glass underwater: transparent, inviting, pointed....As always, the offices made him feel shabby and inadequate. Tall walls sniffed at his jeans and leather with glass and steel disdain; spiky modern lines pulled color out of the universe and turned it grey and white."
Where the richness of the writing's matched with a plot (as here), it's magical. Her characters are (generally) kind, tolerant, humane, in love. Reading a K.L. Noone book is like falling into velvet cushions in front of a dancing fire.
April 13, 2018
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.25 stars
I wasn’t quite sure what I was in for when I picked up this book, but the blurb was intriguing enough to have me interested, so even though I’d never read this author before, I was happy to give it a try. It fit in well with Paranormal Week, considering this is a near realistic world in which all sorts of creatures and psychic abilities are common place. There was a lyrical poeticism to the book that worked really well and the author has created two likeable and believable characters…for all that they are supernatural. The world building is solid and immersive.
I enjoyed both Justin and Kris, though we definitely get to know Kris better as this story his told solely through his third person narration. I loved the journey he went on and watching the way he viewed the world slowly change and evolve. It wasn’t all because of Justin, but more that he wanted to be a person worthy of Justin. I really enjoyed the realness that laced this entire story.
The two MCs had insane chemistry together, and that, more than anything else, made this a good read. Their banter is fun and playful and they balance each other nicely. They support one another, though definitely Justin ends up needing it more as the story goes on. And there was a great slow build toward their relationship, first them becoming solid friends and then so much more. I actually liked the slower pace of this—especially given things that happen to Justin—so on the relationship end, it worked really well.
Read Kris’ review in its entirety here.
4.25 stars
I wasn’t quite sure what I was in for when I picked up this book, but the blurb was intriguing enough to have me interested, so even though I’d never read this author before, I was happy to give it a try. It fit in well with Paranormal Week, considering this is a near realistic world in which all sorts of creatures and psychic abilities are common place. There was a lyrical poeticism to the book that worked really well and the author has created two likeable and believable characters…for all that they are supernatural. The world building is solid and immersive.
I enjoyed both Justin and Kris, though we definitely get to know Kris better as this story his told solely through his third person narration. I loved the journey he went on and watching the way he viewed the world slowly change and evolve. It wasn’t all because of Justin, but more that he wanted to be a person worthy of Justin. I really enjoyed the realness that laced this entire story.
The two MCs had insane chemistry together, and that, more than anything else, made this a good read. Their banter is fun and playful and they balance each other nicely. They support one another, though definitely Justin ends up needing it more as the story goes on. And there was a great slow build toward their relationship, first them becoming solid friends and then so much more. I actually liked the slower pace of this—especially given things that happen to Justin—so on the relationship end, it worked really well.
Read Kris’ review in its entirety here.
August 20, 2023
Lush, lyrical prose.
Everything’s sentient and
romantic AF.
3.5 rounded up, because the world building’s great and I was surprised I liked it so much.
Everything’s sentient and
romantic AF.
3.5 rounded up, because the world building’s great and I was surprised I liked it so much.
Read
October 19, 2023DNF ~41%
I really tried with this one but it is too. damn. long. Jesus, the chapters are monstrous (3 chapters roughly equaled 141 pages, which is absolutely bananas, especially for a romance) and the pacing is just horrendous. I like the characters, and even the concept/plot, but basically the entire summary has already been revealed by the end of chapter 2, and I'm not even sure what the hell we're supposed to be doing for the rest of the book other than read 200 more pages of excruciatingly drawn-out pining. This read to me like a really indulgent fanfic, the kind where the author just wallows in their story for way too fucking long, but you stick around because the writing is decent, and so is the plot, and you love these characters. Except, I don't have the connection to these characters that I do to the ones in fanfic, so it's just not sustainable for me. This is a problem I've seen in a few of her other books, but not all of them, so I know she's capable of reigning herself in and tightening thing up. It's a shame, because I've absolutely LOVED some of Noone's books, and this had the potential, but I was just exhausted by how drawn out and repetitive everything was.
I really tried with this one but it is too. damn. long. Jesus, the chapters are monstrous (3 chapters roughly equaled 141 pages, which is absolutely bananas, especially for a romance) and the pacing is just horrendous. I like the characters, and even the concept/plot, but basically the entire summary has already been revealed by the end of chapter 2, and I'm not even sure what the hell we're supposed to be doing for the rest of the book other than read 200 more pages of excruciatingly drawn-out pining. This read to me like a really indulgent fanfic, the kind where the author just wallows in their story for way too fucking long, but you stick around because the writing is decent, and so is the plot, and you love these characters. Except, I don't have the connection to these characters that I do to the ones in fanfic, so it's just not sustainable for me. This is a problem I've seen in a few of her other books, but not all of them, so I know she's capable of reigning herself in and tightening thing up. It's a shame, because I've absolutely LOVED some of Noone's books, and this had the potential, but I was just exhausted by how drawn out and repetitive everything was.
February 28, 2024
MM romance between a cantankerous has-been rock star and a half-demon trying to hide the fact that he’s not entirely human. I’m not a fan of rock star romances or age-gap romances, but I thoroughly enjoyed A DEMON FOR MIDWINTER and went on the read the whole series. Engaging characters and beautiful writing. My brain delights in the way Noone anthropomorphizes pretty much everything—the weather, furniture, hair. It’s a technique that enriches the word pictures she paints and brings the story alive in a way that stories usually aren’t alive.
December 15, 2021
This is a 300-page book that should have been a 200-page book, and I'm not sure how I feel about the writing style. I'm going to hope it's specific to this book of magical beings and try something else from the author just in case.
November 19, 2019
Adorable! I loved every second of this rock-n-roll romance about a fading rock star and his younger manager. It was absolutely sweet and I went out and bought all the short stories right after because I wasn't ready to let go of Kris and Justin. Lovely.
April 4, 2018
“Keeping secrets will always lead to unhappiness and communication is the key to love.” ~ Laura Esquivel
It is not possible to live a fulfilling life if you have to hide a huge part of who you are. Justin Moore, of 'A Demon for Midwinter', is living a double life. It's not that he's gay, but it is still something he thinks will ruin his life and career if it comes to light. Unless Justin finds someone with whom he feels secure enough to share his secret, he will never be happy.
Kris Starr depends on Justin for just about everything. Technically Justin is in public relations and promotion of his record company, but, in truth, he's Kris's personal assistant, aka babysitter, constantly keeping him from or getting him out of trouble. He is attracted to Justin but tries not to think of him in a romantic way. He works with Justin, Kris is terrible at relationships, and Justin is fifteen years younger. Lately Justin's age is even more of a problem, because Kris is feeling terribly old, wondering if he has lost his ability to write and sing songs. Kris needs inspiration but does not intend to use anyone to get it. As much as Justin tries to cheer him up, it doesn't help. Even though it's close to Midwinter when everyone is supposed to be full of good cheer, Kris is determined to be pessimistic.
Kris decides he needs to apologize to Justin for his bad behavior the last time they were together. Kris goes into the building he hates, to Justin's office carrying a delicious drink, one he knows is his favorite. Justin is pleasantly surprised and they begin a conversation. While Kris is there, Justin's current boyfriend, David, comes in. Kris doesn't like him from the start; not just because he cares about Justin. Kris can see, from the short time he's there, that David is overbearing, controlling, condescending, and not at all the kind of person that sweet Justin deserves. Not that he is, but Kris would never treat him that way. Later, when Kris and Justin are alone, working on music, Kris, feeling protective, asks Justin how he feels about David and his fears are confirmed. Everything is David's way or no way at all. Justin is stressed because David is pushing him to move in with him and Justin doesn't want to. Kris is disconcerted with this information and warns Justin of the danger of being with someone so aggressive; he fears David's anger may become escalated and, in that case, Justin will be his target. Justin tries to reassure Kris, telling him that David has never resorted to physical violence. Kris has no choice but to accept his decision. This is all well and good, until Justin literally pops into Kris's living room bruised and bleeding. Kris is ready to do bodily harm to David, who is taking over more of Kris's heart every day.
I have to say that this book is nothing like I thought it would be from the cover; it was so much more than I expected. Instead of a dark story about frightening entities, it was an endearing love story, although a bit offbeat. K.L. has created an amazing alternate world where it's Wintertide instead of Christmas, although with the same trimmings (like presents), Wintertide music, family gatherings, etc. It's familiar, yet it is not. In this world, magic is a normal thing with certain people having it and others not. Fantastical individuals are everywhere doing extraordinary things, which makes the book super interesting and unpredictable. I loved the slow burn between Kris and Justin as they overcame their own baggage and learned to trust themselves as well as each other. Thanks, K.L., for a creative, entertaining story that I thoroughly enjoyed. If you like alternate worlds with imaginative settings, demons, unicorns, elves, empaths, and love, you may enjoy this story as well.
NOTE: This book was provided by JMS Books for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
It is not possible to live a fulfilling life if you have to hide a huge part of who you are. Justin Moore, of 'A Demon for Midwinter', is living a double life. It's not that he's gay, but it is still something he thinks will ruin his life and career if it comes to light. Unless Justin finds someone with whom he feels secure enough to share his secret, he will never be happy.
Kris Starr depends on Justin for just about everything. Technically Justin is in public relations and promotion of his record company, but, in truth, he's Kris's personal assistant, aka babysitter, constantly keeping him from or getting him out of trouble. He is attracted to Justin but tries not to think of him in a romantic way. He works with Justin, Kris is terrible at relationships, and Justin is fifteen years younger. Lately Justin's age is even more of a problem, because Kris is feeling terribly old, wondering if he has lost his ability to write and sing songs. Kris needs inspiration but does not intend to use anyone to get it. As much as Justin tries to cheer him up, it doesn't help. Even though it's close to Midwinter when everyone is supposed to be full of good cheer, Kris is determined to be pessimistic.
Kris decides he needs to apologize to Justin for his bad behavior the last time they were together. Kris goes into the building he hates, to Justin's office carrying a delicious drink, one he knows is his favorite. Justin is pleasantly surprised and they begin a conversation. While Kris is there, Justin's current boyfriend, David, comes in. Kris doesn't like him from the start; not just because he cares about Justin. Kris can see, from the short time he's there, that David is overbearing, controlling, condescending, and not at all the kind of person that sweet Justin deserves. Not that he is, but Kris would never treat him that way. Later, when Kris and Justin are alone, working on music, Kris, feeling protective, asks Justin how he feels about David and his fears are confirmed. Everything is David's way or no way at all. Justin is stressed because David is pushing him to move in with him and Justin doesn't want to. Kris is disconcerted with this information and warns Justin of the danger of being with someone so aggressive; he fears David's anger may become escalated and, in that case, Justin will be his target. Justin tries to reassure Kris, telling him that David has never resorted to physical violence. Kris has no choice but to accept his decision. This is all well and good, until Justin literally pops into Kris's living room bruised and bleeding. Kris is ready to do bodily harm to David, who is taking over more of Kris's heart every day.
I have to say that this book is nothing like I thought it would be from the cover; it was so much more than I expected. Instead of a dark story about frightening entities, it was an endearing love story, although a bit offbeat. K.L. has created an amazing alternate world where it's Wintertide instead of Christmas, although with the same trimmings (like presents), Wintertide music, family gatherings, etc. It's familiar, yet it is not. In this world, magic is a normal thing with certain people having it and others not. Fantastical individuals are everywhere doing extraordinary things, which makes the book super interesting and unpredictable. I loved the slow burn between Kris and Justin as they overcame their own baggage and learned to trust themselves as well as each other. Thanks, K.L., for a creative, entertaining story that I thoroughly enjoyed. If you like alternate worlds with imaginative settings, demons, unicorns, elves, empaths, and love, you may enjoy this story as well.
NOTE: This book was provided by JMS Books for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
September 22, 2024
I liked this book so much that when I finished it in one day, I put down my kindle and just murmured "wow" to myself over and over. I might even like it more than Magician, my other KL Noone favorite. It must be a top 10 read for me.
I love Noone's writing anyway, because it seems more like poetry than writing in tge way it includes metaphors. The 2 characters were adorable, and even though I don't particularly care for rockstar romances, I do love music and how music makes us feel. I think it was applied well in the story.
The hurt/comfort took me by surprise, and I think it was a great way to show Kris caring for Justin instead of the other way around. Healing from the trauma led to lots of lovely pining and time for the 2 MCs to get to know each other as friends.
The magic system was cool, and a demon was unique enough that it helped keep the story from being boring.
Lastly, the side characters really made the story feel real. There were so many fun family members, and each felt unique and contributed something to the story.
I can't wait to read more in this universe!
I love Noone's writing anyway, because it seems more like poetry than writing in tge way it includes metaphors. The 2 characters were adorable, and even though I don't particularly care for rockstar romances, I do love music and how music makes us feel. I think it was applied well in the story.
The hurt/comfort took me by surprise, and I think it was a great way to show Kris caring for Justin instead of the other way around. Healing from the trauma led to lots of lovely pining and time for the 2 MCs to get to know each other as friends.
The magic system was cool, and a demon was unique enough that it helped keep the story from being boring.
Lastly, the side characters really made the story feel real. There were so many fun family members, and each felt unique and contributed something to the story.
I can't wait to read more in this universe!
January 20, 2023
Loved the urban fantasy setting and I really liked the writing, will read more from this author.
March 19, 2023
trigger warnings for D/V and D/A, excellent character development and storylines development
Rating: 4.75🌈
First thing. This book should come with a trigger warning for domestic assault/violence. While the assault happens off page the immediate physical damage and emotional effects upon the victim ,a main character, is on page . The resulting trauma and continuing aftermath, for the victim, his family and the man who loves him is a major part of the storyline. It’s just one of several elements that readers might not be aware of from reading the description.
Another potentially triggering storyline is one where Noone explores the devastating consequences of outing a person, no matter why, by using Justin Moore’s genetic makeup instead of his sexuality to demonstrate just how dangerous and devastating outing a person can be. It’s realistic, especially when some States now are trying to roll back rights for LGBTGIA , non-white races , and Women (no order involved). Jobs lost, housing lost, even more. So this becomes even more involved with bullying and harassment.
Both the D/A , D/V, and outing storylines are well written and handled with sensitivity and respect.
Readers who find these are triggering elements should consider whether this is a book they should read.
Having dealt with the warnings, onto the main characters and narratives. It’s a very well written story and the characters have depth and dimension I hadn’t anticipated.
In fact, the entire story surprised me.
It begins with a famous, has been rocker, Kris Starr, trying and failing to come out with a holiday album of his ex-bands hits. It’s familiar story territory . It gets more so with the addition of a beautiful young music record company assistant , Justin , who’s been working with Kris to produce it.
Justin Moore, the young music assistant, has had a long time crush on the older singer. This also isn’t new ground. But it’s what Noone does with these easily recognizable character models that elevates their personalities and relationship.
I would love to say it’s done in tandem, that Noone builds the characters to their final depths together. And to a degree, that happens. But as Starr pulls out of his depression and stasis as a person and musician , it’s a path he’s started on . He wants a recovery of the soul, as he’s reconnecting with the people important to him. It’s Justin that helps with his continued emergence, and it will be Kris in turn who will join in committing to helping another’s survival and restoration.
However, as Kris and Justin wobble along a obstacle strewn path, the author surrounds both with a veritable banquet of memorable multi layered people and scenes of heart searing moments. Jason’s family is superb.
From the many siblings, the scarily wonderful twins being my favorite, the parents, and yes, those Aunts, to the emotional support that Kris is shown to be able to bring, Noone swings the characters from one dramatic twist to another , often with heart wrenching detail. The author lets the readers feel fully immersed and invested in the lives and emotions as the events unfold through the pages.
Does this sounds like that simplistic, perhaps humorous synopsis written for this book? No it does not, and it is not.
There’s light hearted moments here as it needs to because otherwise the pain and trauma the person and characters are experiencing would be overwhelming. As they acknowledge. Doesn’t matter what species you are, trauma is trauma.
There’s a section at the end that might give some people pause. But again, it’s all about asking for permission, it’s about control, and no matter what, think about perspective.
Another great example of how this book tilts one way when you’d expect to go another.
I was unaware of The Demon Universe until I read Snowed In: Kit and Harry, a superb book about a magical Regency mystery. That seems to have no bearing on this, so perhaps they are all standalones.
I intend to find out. This one and Snowed In set the bar high indeed.
I’m highly impressed and recommending both.
Pls do read my trigger warnings.
The Demon Universe (nine books):
- [x] A Demon for Midwinter #1
- [ ] Lightning in a Bottle #2
- [ ] Love Songs for Everyday #3
- [ ] Sunlight and Gold #4
- [x] Snowed In: Kit and Harry #5
- [ ] A Demon Forever #6
- [ ] A Demon’s Choice #7
- [ ] Bedknobs and Brimstone #8
- [ ] A Demon’s Very Good Morning #9
Rating: 4.75🌈
First thing. This book should come with a trigger warning for domestic assault/violence. While the assault happens off page the immediate physical damage and emotional effects upon the victim ,a main character, is on page . The resulting trauma and continuing aftermath, for the victim, his family and the man who loves him is a major part of the storyline. It’s just one of several elements that readers might not be aware of from reading the description.
Another potentially triggering storyline is one where Noone explores the devastating consequences of outing a person, no matter why, by using Justin Moore’s genetic makeup instead of his sexuality to demonstrate just how dangerous and devastating outing a person can be. It’s realistic, especially when some States now are trying to roll back rights for LGBTGIA , non-white races , and Women (no order involved). Jobs lost, housing lost, even more. So this becomes even more involved with bullying and harassment.
Both the D/A , D/V, and outing storylines are well written and handled with sensitivity and respect.
Readers who find these are triggering elements should consider whether this is a book they should read.
Having dealt with the warnings, onto the main characters and narratives. It’s a very well written story and the characters have depth and dimension I hadn’t anticipated.
In fact, the entire story surprised me.
It begins with a famous, has been rocker, Kris Starr, trying and failing to come out with a holiday album of his ex-bands hits. It’s familiar story territory . It gets more so with the addition of a beautiful young music record company assistant , Justin , who’s been working with Kris to produce it.
Justin Moore, the young music assistant, has had a long time crush on the older singer. This also isn’t new ground. But it’s what Noone does with these easily recognizable character models that elevates their personalities and relationship.
I would love to say it’s done in tandem, that Noone builds the characters to their final depths together. And to a degree, that happens. But as Starr pulls out of his depression and stasis as a person and musician , it’s a path he’s started on . He wants a recovery of the soul, as he’s reconnecting with the people important to him. It’s Justin that helps with his continued emergence, and it will be Kris in turn who will join in committing to helping another’s survival and restoration.
However, as Kris and Justin wobble along a obstacle strewn path, the author surrounds both with a veritable banquet of memorable multi layered people and scenes of heart searing moments. Jason’s family is superb.
From the many siblings, the scarily wonderful twins being my favorite, the parents, and yes, those Aunts, to the emotional support that Kris is shown to be able to bring, Noone swings the characters from one dramatic twist to another , often with heart wrenching detail. The author lets the readers feel fully immersed and invested in the lives and emotions as the events unfold through the pages.
Does this sounds like that simplistic, perhaps humorous synopsis written for this book? No it does not, and it is not.
There’s light hearted moments here as it needs to because otherwise the pain and trauma the person and characters are experiencing would be overwhelming. As they acknowledge. Doesn’t matter what species you are, trauma is trauma.
There’s a section at the end that might give some people pause. But again, it’s all about asking for permission, it’s about control, and no matter what, think about perspective.
Another great example of how this book tilts one way when you’d expect to go another.
I was unaware of The Demon Universe until I read Snowed In: Kit and Harry, a superb book about a magical Regency mystery. That seems to have no bearing on this, so perhaps they are all standalones.
I intend to find out. This one and Snowed In set the bar high indeed.
I’m highly impressed and recommending both.
Pls do read my trigger warnings.
The Demon Universe (nine books):
- [x] A Demon for Midwinter #1
- [ ] Lightning in a Bottle #2
- [ ] Love Songs for Everyday #3
- [ ] Sunlight and Gold #4
- [x] Snowed In: Kit and Harry #5
- [ ] A Demon Forever #6
- [ ] A Demon’s Choice #7
- [ ] Bedknobs and Brimstone #8
- [ ] A Demon’s Very Good Morning #9
June 21, 2025
I know I’m in the minority here, but I struggled with this book. Justin and his family were wonderful. The love and support every member demonsrated towards Justin was very heartwarming. Kris, was, well, let’s say an acquired taste. Most of the time I found him to be rather annoying and I hate when characters are written so that they need alchohol to justify their existance. While I feel the premise for this story was good, the execution was sub par. The writing style drove me crazy. It was like one very long poem. You know, the kind you studied in high school and could never understand what the the author was saying. This was 300 pages of word salad and clearly there isn’t any word that is exempt from slapping on an apostrophy followed by a contracting. And the world building? One reviewer praised the solid world buiding. Huh? Did I miss something? There was absolutely no world building. We’re told humans have magic, non humans, like pixies and sprites exisit and that demons are bad. That’s the extent of the world building. And the dialogue…. the dressing for this 300 page word salad was Kris’s non-stop pining and Kris and Justing endlessly apologizing to each other for every little thing. Ugh!
October 22, 2023
The beginning of the book, as with more books by this author, is quite good. Potential for a good story. But incredibly quickly in this case, it bogs down in clichés and the characters remain hugely two-dimensional and no development in them at all.
Also the standard tough guy and fragile, sweet boy.
Moreover, the tough guy is constantly called old, but is 43 which is thus grossly exaggerated, has had a wild life (which is not evident in his behaviour), was/is famous, but is constantly stuttering and apologising like a teenager.
The vulnerable, pretty boy is towards 30, so not so young either, but seems rather 18 in his behaviour and is a shrewd businessman who is oh-so-innocent.
Sigh.
The amount of hyphenated sentences "I don't even-this's only playing with-it's rough as-um, yes, okay", the countless number of times 'sorry' is said, and mostly for no reason at all, makes it a pretty tedious book. And a DNF, which I don't do easily.
It reminded me of ´a taste of gold and iron' by Rowland, which I did finish reading but with difficulty. That one had at least no broken sentences on every page.
Also the standard tough guy and fragile, sweet boy.
Moreover, the tough guy is constantly called old, but is 43 which is thus grossly exaggerated, has had a wild life (which is not evident in his behaviour), was/is famous, but is constantly stuttering and apologising like a teenager.
The vulnerable, pretty boy is towards 30, so not so young either, but seems rather 18 in his behaviour and is a shrewd businessman who is oh-so-innocent.
Sigh.
The amount of hyphenated sentences "I don't even-this's only playing with-it's rough as-um, yes, okay", the countless number of times 'sorry' is said, and mostly for no reason at all, makes it a pretty tedious book. And a DNF, which I don't do easily.
It reminded me of ´a taste of gold and iron' by Rowland, which I did finish reading but with difficulty. That one had at least no broken sentences on every page.
March 31, 2020
Read this because of a recommendation from a friend. This book on the whole was very charming. It's all told from the point of view of Kris, who discovers to his dismay that he's fallen for his younger manager, Justin. After Justin suffers domestic abuse for revealing his secret, Kris supports Justin to recovery, making them both better men in the process.
I liked the way the author showed how Kris changed over the story, from dwelling on feeling like a washed-up has-been to his feelings of overflowing love. It was poetic and ebullient.
The thing I did not like about this novel was that it needed editing. Small things here and there could have been cleaned up for easy of reading. The big thing, though, was that the author had no sense of scene breaks. I didn't need to read 10K+ chapters without a single scene break in them. That's mentally tiresome even if I am enjoying the story.
The things that bothered me may not bother others, and in general this was an enjoyable romance.
I liked the way the author showed how Kris changed over the story, from dwelling on feeling like a washed-up has-been to his feelings of overflowing love. It was poetic and ebullient.
The thing I did not like about this novel was that it needed editing. Small things here and there could have been cleaned up for easy of reading. The big thing, though, was that the author had no sense of scene breaks. I didn't need to read 10K+ chapters without a single scene break in them. That's mentally tiresome even if I am enjoying the story.
The things that bothered me may not bother others, and in general this was an enjoyable romance.
May 21, 2021
A wonderfully sweet and heartbreaking hurt/comfort romance novel with magic and demons. I loved Kris and Justin’s relationship and how they both made mistakes but learned from them—it showed a truly normal and healthy relationship. I thought Kris Starr was such a fun character—a middle aged rock star with empathetic abilities whose hopelessly in love with his younger manager. Justin was such a sweet character—his struggle between wanting to be loved but being afraid to show his true self. I totally fell in love with these characters while reading this book. Also Justin’s family was so fun!! A great novel!
January 16, 2023
I'm a huge fan of K.L. Noone's stories, so I can't believe I've missed out on this wonderful series so far!
I loved the setting of an alternative paranormal NYC, where psychic gifts are commonly accepted. Kris Starr, the projective empath rockstar with a waning career was a wonderful portrayal of a man who had made recent efforts to conquer his inner demons, only to find he's fallen for an actual demon!
Justin, his manager, is adorable and the dynamic they have, especially when Justin reveals his big secret is beautifully told. Great world-building, romantic and unashamedly hot, this is a gorgeous read!
I loved the setting of an alternative paranormal NYC, where psychic gifts are commonly accepted. Kris Starr, the projective empath rockstar with a waning career was a wonderful portrayal of a man who had made recent efforts to conquer his inner demons, only to find he's fallen for an actual demon!
Justin, his manager, is adorable and the dynamic they have, especially when Justin reveals his big secret is beautifully told. Great world-building, romantic and unashamedly hot, this is a gorgeous read!
March 26, 2023
i really hate third person point of view books. i was kind of hopeful going into this, because the cover and the blurb seemed kind of intriguing and interesting, but i was sorely disapointed when i continued. i didnt care for the plot, and i did not like the writing style, and i just really didnt connect wiht any of the characters. while there wasnt anything i could pick out in particular that i didnt like, it was just overall not for me. i think it was a mix of the writing style, narrative voice, and a bunch of other things that left me feeling a bit deflated and uninteresed after reading. if you really want to read it, give it a go, but i didnt really care for it. love yall!
May 18, 2018
I don't remember the last time I feel so hard and so fast for any characters before. It took less then twenty pages for Justin and Kris to rocket up there into the top ten of my favourites.
This book has it all, the fantasy world of magic and demons, set in the modern times in my favourite city of New York. It has rock 'n' roll and a passion for writing (character AND author). It has gentle kink and an explosion of love and feelings. It has drama but it also has strong characters and long conversations.
I loved everything about this book and I'm such a fangirl for Kris and Justin now!
This book has it all, the fantasy world of magic and demons, set in the modern times in my favourite city of New York. It has rock 'n' roll and a passion for writing (character AND author). It has gentle kink and an explosion of love and feelings. It has drama but it also has strong characters and long conversations.
I loved everything about this book and I'm such a fangirl for Kris and Justin now!
September 20, 2023
Third Person POV
Hurt/Comfort
Age gap
Friends to lovers
Nonsense near the end
TW- Domestic Abuse (off page)
Short-
Kris is actually really great and Justin was sweet so I enjoyed them together- until I didn't. Unfortunately, the domestic abuse is inconsequential apart from 1) bringing the men together and 2) giving Justin the opportunity to break Kris's heart by pulling the "I'm a survivor" card (she says while also sharing that she too is a survivor). Justin is completely fine for 90% of the story until he freaks out- hypocritically I might add- so I'm livid. I can appreciate a light touch on a heavy topic but this was definitely "DV is a literary device because that'll make nonsense behavior forgivable." This survivor calls B.S. and is disappointed by such disregard.
---------------------------------------------------------
Long-
This book starts strong, in typical Noone fashion. Rather fluffy and right to the realization that our MC has feelings of some nature towards his manager. Then the book moves into a bit of an angsty, not-quite-a-love-triangle territory which I didn't mind since it was obvious the boyfriend was a jerk. Ok, I thought, let's see how Kris handles this and wins over Justin. Fast forward through some lovely plot and beautiful writing to a climax that had me wanting to snuggle Justin and keep him safe from the world. This story had amazing potential.
But it had flaws. Major flaws that simply added to the angst but did not add to the plot or character development/depth.
#1- Jealousy. Initially I appreciated this. Weird, but it was nice to hear that Justin had a healthy sex life and wasn't some almost -virgin while Kris was a rockstar who has lives the crazy rock star life. Kris felt some jealousy when meeting the boyfriend and again when he had to acknowledge that Justin was having sex with this guy. However, this jealousy occasionally flamed to life throughout the ENTIRE story. Granted, the story was the span of a week at most but if these guys are ready to be together and say I love you, then the jealous streak should really insta-disappear with the insta-love. By the end of the book I was exasperated. The jealousy didn't add depth to Kris and the constant reminders that Justin had all kinds of sex and experiences wasn't adding anything either. It's almost like every time we felt all warm and gooey inside because our MCs were being sweet and open with one another, BAM we got hit with a reminder that Justin was part incubus. Why? It was already a working point that Justin was part demon, did it really matter that he had sex with so many others prior to Kris? It didn't add depth to either man after the initial information drop at the beginning of the book. This took a 4 star book and dropped it to a 3.
#2 Abuse. As a survivor I actually like reading stories with characters who have experienced and overcome abuse. It makes me feel connected to that character, especially when I know this person has found someone better and will have a HEA. So abuse is not what I'd consider a trigger for myself. Initially, I accepted the abusive relationship as something that added a layer to the storyline. It definitely gave Kris depth- he showed so much compassion and care, such thoughtfulness and patience. Kris definitely demonstrated that he was more than some worn down rockstar. He was truly wonderful throughout the entire book and I loved his softness. Justin... I know this story was over the course of a few days, some of which were spent with the abuser, but the abuse did not add a single scrap of anything to Justin. Did it make him hurt? Yes. Did it make him wary? Sort of. I mean, he was always kinda in love with Kris so I understood Justin's easy move into a romance with him, but in just a few days they were sleeping together... Some other things happen and Justin shows an incredible amount of strength and resilience while Kris shows his patience and love.
Then came something big.
Something that should have been beautiful and wonderful and absolutely romantic but was ruined by the forced angst. It was in that moment that I realized the abuse had been nothing more than a literary device used to make *that* moment happen. A completely unnecessary moment of sadness and desolation. And 100% hypocritical considering a claim Justin made THE SAME EXACT CLAIM to his Aunt a few days earlier regarding Kris. Ohmygod did I cry. I mean, I put the book down and SOBBED. I felt so let down by this. The abuse was simply a ploy to eventually make Kris hurt and that hurt me. I'm always willing to suspend disbelief when I read but, c'mon, putting someone in an abusive relationship so they have an excuse to hurt someone later is absolutely not OK. I can't even say that's not how a victim would act because it very well could be. It's simply that the behavior is so INCONSISTENT with that character's behavior from the entire book, especially the behavior demonstrated after the climax. So it was obvious the behavior was forced to cause a miscommunication and pain. I hated it. Zero character development for Justin and forced angst at the very end of the book- no thank you.
5 pages left until the epilogue and I almost did not finish. Who does that, quits a book at the very end? Not me, not ever. But there I was in tears, closing my app and telling myself I'd read the book later. Then later came and I re-read the last few pages again, even more angry than I had been originally. Ugh. 2/5 stars simply because I love KL Noone even though this book falls into my "never again" pile.
Hurt/Comfort
Age gap
Friends to lovers
Nonsense near the end
TW- Domestic Abuse (off page)
Short-
Kris is actually really great and Justin was sweet so I enjoyed them together- until I didn't. Unfortunately, the domestic abuse is inconsequential apart from 1) bringing the men together and 2) giving Justin the opportunity to break Kris's heart by pulling the "I'm a survivor" card (she says while also sharing that she too is a survivor). Justin is completely fine for 90% of the story until he freaks out- hypocritically I might add- so I'm livid. I can appreciate a light touch on a heavy topic but this was definitely "DV is a literary device because that'll make nonsense behavior forgivable." This survivor calls B.S. and is disappointed by such disregard.
---------------------------------------------------------
Long-
This book starts strong, in typical Noone fashion. Rather fluffy and right to the realization that our MC has feelings of some nature towards his manager. Then the book moves into a bit of an angsty, not-quite-a-love-triangle territory which I didn't mind since it was obvious the boyfriend was a jerk. Ok, I thought, let's see how Kris handles this and wins over Justin. Fast forward through some lovely plot and beautiful writing to a climax that had me wanting to snuggle Justin and keep him safe from the world. This story had amazing potential.
But it had flaws. Major flaws that simply added to the angst but did not add to the plot or character development/depth.
#1- Jealousy. Initially I appreciated this. Weird, but it was nice to hear that Justin had a healthy sex life and wasn't some almost -virgin while Kris was a rockstar who has lives the crazy rock star life. Kris felt some jealousy when meeting the boyfriend and again when he had to acknowledge that Justin was having sex with this guy. However, this jealousy occasionally flamed to life throughout the ENTIRE story. Granted, the story was the span of a week at most but if these guys are ready to be together and say I love you, then the jealous streak should really insta-disappear with the insta-love. By the end of the book I was exasperated. The jealousy didn't add depth to Kris and the constant reminders that Justin had all kinds of sex and experiences wasn't adding anything either. It's almost like every time we felt all warm and gooey inside because our MCs were being sweet and open with one another, BAM we got hit with a reminder that Justin was part incubus. Why? It was already a working point that Justin was part demon, did it really matter that he had sex with so many others prior to Kris? It didn't add depth to either man after the initial information drop at the beginning of the book. This took a 4 star book and dropped it to a 3.
#2 Abuse. As a survivor I actually like reading stories with characters who have experienced and overcome abuse. It makes me feel connected to that character, especially when I know this person has found someone better and will have a HEA. So abuse is not what I'd consider a trigger for myself. Initially, I accepted the abusive relationship as something that added a layer to the storyline. It definitely gave Kris depth- he showed so much compassion and care, such thoughtfulness and patience. Kris definitely demonstrated that he was more than some worn down rockstar. He was truly wonderful throughout the entire book and I loved his softness. Justin... I know this story was over the course of a few days, some of which were spent with the abuser, but the abuse did not add a single scrap of anything to Justin. Did it make him hurt? Yes. Did it make him wary? Sort of. I mean, he was always kinda in love with Kris so I understood Justin's easy move into a romance with him, but in just a few days they were sleeping together... Some other things happen and Justin shows an incredible amount of strength and resilience while Kris shows his patience and love.
Then came something big.
Something that should have been beautiful and wonderful and absolutely romantic but was ruined by the forced angst. It was in that moment that I realized the abuse had been nothing more than a literary device used to make *that* moment happen. A completely unnecessary moment of sadness and desolation. And 100% hypocritical considering a claim Justin made THE SAME EXACT CLAIM to his Aunt a few days earlier regarding Kris. Ohmygod did I cry. I mean, I put the book down and SOBBED. I felt so let down by this. The abuse was simply a ploy to eventually make Kris hurt and that hurt me. I'm always willing to suspend disbelief when I read but, c'mon, putting someone in an abusive relationship so they have an excuse to hurt someone later is absolutely not OK. I can't even say that's not how a victim would act because it very well could be. It's simply that the behavior is so INCONSISTENT with that character's behavior from the entire book, especially the behavior demonstrated after the climax. So it was obvious the behavior was forced to cause a miscommunication and pain. I hated it. Zero character development for Justin and forced angst at the very end of the book- no thank you.
5 pages left until the epilogue and I almost did not finish. Who does that, quits a book at the very end? Not me, not ever. But there I was in tears, closing my app and telling myself I'd read the book later. Then later came and I re-read the last few pages again, even more angry than I had been originally. Ugh. 2/5 stars simply because I love KL Noone even though this book falls into my "never again" pile.
July 17, 2023
This author’s descriptive writing skills are fantastic but this is still only a 3 star for me. This is one of those hurt/comfort books where the hurt is like 5% and the rest is sticky-sweet comfort. Which is definitely something one can be in the mood for sometimes, but it felt cloying to me.
As an older reader, it was odd to hear the 42 year old hero refer to himself as ‘old’ like elderly continually. Honey, 42 ain’t all that. Also, it was a little weird for him to be hanging out in his boyfriend’s childhood bedroom with parents no more than in their 50s in the same house. I would find that a super awkward dynamic but it’s written like it’s kind of no biggie…which nope.
As an older reader, it was odd to hear the 42 year old hero refer to himself as ‘old’ like elderly continually. Honey, 42 ain’t all that. Also, it was a little weird for him to be hanging out in his boyfriend’s childhood bedroom with parents no more than in their 50s in the same house. I would find that a super awkward dynamic but it’s written like it’s kind of no biggie…which nope.
July 13, 2022
Content warning: one abusive partner, but he pays for it.
Amazingly good. The worldbuilding's terrific, the older rock star main character is wonderful, his love interest the half-demon is fascinating, all the characters are great, the plot is very good, and, it ends well. You'll enjoy it too if you're a music fan, even in this alternate world's history that is a fun element.
Amazingly good. The worldbuilding's terrific, the older rock star main character is wonderful, his love interest the half-demon is fascinating, all the characters are great, the plot is very good, and, it ends well. You'll enjoy it too if you're a music fan, even in this alternate world's history that is a fun element.
March 17, 2018
Wonerful read
I read this in bits and peices on-line as it was being written and I loved it. Getting to read the story polished and complete was great.
Its a world just a half a step off from ours where as it turns out just about anything is possible.
I read this in bits and peices on-line as it was being written and I loved it. Getting to read the story polished and complete was great.
Its a world just a half a step off from ours where as it turns out just about anything is possible.
April 26, 2018
Rock and roll and feelings
Great characters, both main and supporting. I loved almost all of them. Very fun, in-depth world. I really enjoyed how the story progressed and how the relationship grew. Well written and penguins are indeed cute.
Great characters, both main and supporting. I loved almost all of them. Very fun, in-depth world. I really enjoyed how the story progressed and how the relationship grew. Well written and penguins are indeed cute.
March 25, 2021
I already can't wait to reread...
I'm a little bit at a loss for words... Imagine, if you will, till I come back and edit this, that Lady Gaga gif of "amazing, FANTASTIC, resplendent, wonderful, groundbreaking, incredible"
I'm a little bit at a loss for words... Imagine, if you will, till I come back and edit this, that Lady Gaga gif of "amazing, FANTASTIC, resplendent, wonderful, groundbreaking, incredible"
January 24, 2022
I have fallen in love
I've fallen in love with this writer. Her books leave me feeling like I've spent hours deep in meditation in a jungle rainstorm. Like ... at peace and all romantic and s$%#
I've fallen in love with this writer. Her books leave me feeling like I've spent hours deep in meditation in a jungle rainstorm. Like ... at peace and all romantic and s$%#
May 31, 2018
Light, charming paranormal romance. Very enjoyable, not too much angst or melodrama, just enough to keep things entertaining.
July 29, 2018
Fun and just utterly joyful. Even the minor characters were delightful.
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