Not-so-skilled magical apprentice Iris Bennett has one to save the world from a spell gone wrong…an accident that is kinda her fault. She has only three days left to fix it, or all hell is going to break loose…maybe literally.
It's bad enough when she discovers her last chance to undo the spell is dead on the floor next to her crystal ball, but when she realizes that the dangerously sexy man standing beside the body might be the murderer, things get even more complicated.
Does she accept his magical help, or run as fast as she can from this devilishly sexy hottie who has secrets darker than the darkest recesses of hell? The problem is, she's pretty sure he's one of the good guys…until she discovers that he might not be after all…
But by then, she's already in over her head, and honestly, he really is such a temptation.
S.A. Bayne is a freaking gift to the universe, at least according to her dogs, and everyone knows dogs are world-class judges of people. She was taught to play by the rules, but after suffering numerous apoplectic breakdowns, she realized that she had to ditch the rules, figure out her own way to live, and then turn that into high-octane, irreverent, unpredictable-as-hell, supernatural fiction that will make your day so much better just by reading it. She also is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of paranormal, contemporary, and cowboy romance, writing under the name Stephanie Rowe.
Three and a half I first discovered this author several years ago when I read Date Me Baby One Me Time so I was very interested in this which is in many ways a prequel. Iris is a woman on a mission and that mission is to save her friend from spending eternity as a goblet and let me just say that goblet is far from ordinary ! So getting caught up with a hunk who is anything but angelic really isn’t on her to do list but it looks like Iris is about to find love only to realise that actions have consequences. Fun, zany and totally over the top describes this book perfectly. It made me smile, it made me roll my eyes but alas for this reader as much as I enjoyed the snark I just didn’t find the male lead character in any way attractive. I adored the insane interaction between these two in the earlier story but here I really found him pathetically weak ! I realise that others will probably be delighted by the adorable mayhem but unfortunately I just wanted a much more alpha type man for Iris who was such a plucky protagonist. Obviously my feelings affect my rating so it’s three and a half from me which rises to a four only because the plot was good and I’d really like to see what Iris gets up to next. This voluntary take is of an advance copy and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair
Not Quite a Devil is a hilarious story of how Satan and Iris first met. If you read Immortally Cursed you would have already met these characters and this prequel novella gives us the background and introduction into their meeting, in addition to how Mona was created. The story will have you laughing non stop at the banter between Satan and Iris and you will meet a couple of additional characters who greatly added to the story and even have their own bonus story. Not Quite a Devi was well written and descriptive and you will enjoy every moment of it. It was a fun quick read, I loved it and would highly recommend it to all lovers of fantasy romance.
This book is so good it will have you laughing one minute and crying the next. You will feel sorry for the Son of Satan. Then you will want to know where in Canada they might of landed. LOL.
Sometimes I feel like I give out too many 5 star reviews, but when I read books like this, what else am I to do?
Stephanie has really nailed the comedic storyline. She obviously has stepped out of her usual wheelhouse of paranormal romance (re: The Order of the Blade series) and into something very different; the romantic comedy. And boy has she done it well!
In her new comedic tragedy (? tragic comedy?) Not Quite a Devil, we are introduced to such characters as Satan, who has spent his entire reign defying his now dead father by curbing his desire to murder, rape and pillage. His love-interest and the guardian of Mona, Iris, who is mortified by yet unable to curb her attraction to Satan. Her best friend Linnea, who's sole purpose in life is to guard and protect Iris and Mona to the exclusion of all else. Satan's bodyguard Ted, who was Satan's father's bodyguard before him and is a warrior supreme. And, of course, Iris's friend, Arabella, who was trapped in the Goblet of Eternal Youth by an evil witch named Desdemona (hence the nickname for the goblet of Desdemona's Temptation, or just Mona for short) and needs Iris to find way to break the spell that has trapped her.
What do they all add up to? A recipe for hilarity! Between the X-rated attempts at seduction that occupies all of Satan's time, the attempts Iris makes to ignore her rebellious girly parts, and the immediate attraction between Linnea and Ted's weapons...ok, and Ted too, there's enough goofiness to keep you going for a long time to come. Even when you know there's a serious story here, a poor girl trapped in a goblet, possibly for eternity if Iris can't break the spell, you still can't help but laugh your butt off through the entire telling!
Then, if that's not enough for you, you get bonus scenes. First one will explain what happens with Linnea and Ted (and I'm not going to hint at anything cause it will just ruin it for you!) and a bit about Linnea's beginnings and the other will let you in on what happens to Iris and Satan after Not Quite a Devil ends. But you'll never find out any of that if you don't buy the book, since sneaky Stephanie has included those short stories only in the copies of Not Quite a Devil. Great tactic, if you ask me!
This book, while more a novella than a novel, had me giggling so often I felt silly reading it. I actually felt like maybe I should be reading it in private so no one would hear what a hyena it was making me! I mean, "like they always did in the movies (which of course, hadn't been invented yet, but someday...(I'm not finishing that comment cause the ending is too funny and you need to read it for yourself!). It's like watching the show Supernatural and having the First Vampire say to the boys "see you next season". Unexpected comments out of nowhere that so take you by surprise that you just have to crack up!
Yes, Stephanie Rowe, aka S.A. Bayne, you did it again. You are definitely on a roll and I can't wait for the next venture into silliness that you decide to produce. Who knew you were that crazy? I'm so glad you decided to share this with us cause everyone can always use a laugh, and you deliver them with aplomb!
Excellently done, S.A. Bayne! Most excellently done, indeed!
I received this as an ARC with the understanding that if I wrote a review it would be in my own words and of my own volition, which this most definitely is. Because, frankly, I couldn't fake this kind of enjoyment!
If you need cheering or something to turn your frown upside down, then grab this book now. From beginning to end Iris endeavors to save her friend and protect Mona from the hands of evil, or greed. A serious quest indeed...
Along the way, she is met with many challenges. Evil, greed, lust, Satan, hunger, loneliness, and did I mention Satan?
Action, fighting, laughing, lust, some denying, more lusting. Not your normal quest. For all the laughing, eye rollong, grabbing your side from laughing to much, there is an underlying story of growth and loyalty.
The storyline keeps you turning the page, the characters are hilariously, and the story well written. But I have to say that Satan was a little to campy for me to see as a serious love interest. But this is a Romantic Comedy and therefore completely exceptably. I found him adorable and he is extremely qualified to give the best orgasms. He came across as someone who was still growing into himself.
Overall I recommend this book to anyone who likes a lusty, fun read. I had a smile on my face 95% of the time it took me to enjoy this book.
I voluntarily reviewed this advance readers copy. My opinions are mine own, unbiased and honest.
ONE FABULOUS TREAT!!! Oh man! Talk about hard hitting with a bang. All the angst, treachery and speculation along with all that drama, tension and intrigue go hand-in-hand. Throw in a little humor and you have one prize winning delight. Twixt and twined and put through the wringer brings this piece of perfection bursting to life flawlessly. Bayne and Rowe really nailed this bad boy and kept me on a razors edge from start to finish. Twists and turns abound along with a few bumps and bruises make for one exceptional experience. One gripping storyline and turbulent plot catapults this bad boy to a whole new level. One fantastic, smooth flowing, heart pounding, pulse racing wonder that brings this little baby together splendidly. The characters are authentic, animated and realistic with such depth and individualism you get immersed so deep until nothing else matters. The scenes are vividly descriptive with such colorful detail its easy to picture each scenario as they play off one another in perfect balance. Outstanding job guys, thanks for sharing this amazing little jewel with us.
This is a review for a book that was kindly gifted to me by the author in exchange for a honest review. All opinions here are my own. This novel was wonderful, emotional, and down right hilarious at times. It is the story of how Iris and Satan first met. It had me outright laughing at parts, and the crying at the next. I loved Iris and her personality really spoke to me. I will say that this novel was really good but not a new favorite of mine. I did not really care for Satan as a main love interest. I did not find his personality attractive. I do want to reread this story in another format other than e-book. I think that I will get more out of it if I do. I might actually purchase this novel for a reread. This book is a 3-star read for me.
Instantly you are completely and totally consumed by this story! The pace is quick, but the characters are solid. They don't feel contrived or stereotypical; they thrive with a life force of their own. And not only are the main characters strong, but the supporting characters have their own depth, so you know they've got their own story coming. But seriously: who would have thought that the son of Satan would be so likable, so endearing?? I cannot wait for the next installment!
*Reader was provided an ARC copy in return for an honest review.*
I have only read a few books by this author but have discovered I really enjoy reading her world with the characters she breathes life into with words. The added humor balances it out to make it a very satisfying read. Iris has a full agenda you could say with us coming right up behind her. Oh not to forget the one who could melt our you know whats with others to give us one that if full of so much deliciousness. This author has captured my attention again and at this rate she will be one of those drop what you are reading to open up again.
This is a NON-SPOILER REVIEW. Not Quite A Devil by S. A. Bayne (Stephanie Rowe) is the first book in her Devilishly Sexy series. What a light and delicious romp! I absolutely loved that the characters are so well thought out. Backstories drag you into the characters frame of mind and have you laughing along at this comedy of errors. My only issue was that the story doesn't resolve! I wanted more....
I received an ARC copy of this book for an honest review. This is the first book that I have read by this author, but it won't be the last. This book is really well written and I thoroughly enjoyed it. The characters are fantastic, and the way that they are described is great, it helps to build the world and them into real people. I like the way the characters interact with each other throughout the book, it makes you smile because of the naivety of Ted and Balthazar, and the way that Linnea and Iris try to fight there advances off. All in all I would recommend this book, the only reason I haven't given it 5 star's is because it ends on a cliffhanger.
This story is about how Iris met Satan and it is laugh out loud hilarious. Satan's dialogue is so over the top. He calls her his love pancake. I love that we are being given their background and how it all came down regarding Mona. They were in the previous book about Justine. We are also introduced to Linnea and Ted. After the story you can get access to the Super Secret Bonus scenes and both were so sweet and funny. I can't wait to read more about these two couples.
I received an ARC of this book and voluntarily reviewed it.
Oh my I love this story. I feel kinda guilty going to sleep dreaming about the devil! But that doesn't stop me from wanting more! This novella tells the story of Iris and others but most especially a sexy as heck Satan. It is funny, sexy and left me really anxious for more. I received an Advanced copy of this book for an honest review. I recommend to anyone who loves paranormal with a side of laughs to read this book.
Ever wonder the story of Justine's mother? Wonder no more. Not Quiet A Devil, is the story of Iris (Justine's Mother). Being hunted by many is not great fun. Having to hide to protect Mona to get the spell broken can only last for sometime. Iris is in looking for the witch that can break the spell and end this hiding business. Oh wait, Iris just found the witch but there is only one problem. The witch is dead and standing there is a man who is evil. Iris meets her friend and it is time to move to place b. There is just one problem. The man is the one and only Satan. He cannot stop going after Iris, who is his light to his darkness. Will Iris give in to temptation? Will Satan forget about Iris as he realize she has Mona?
Read Not Quiet a Devil to find out. You don't want to miss it. Don't forget the special bonus at the end of the book to find out what happens to Iris friend.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
This author has done it again. Her books are just so much fun! Iris is back, and we get a glimpse of her past. We learn how Justine came to be, and how Iris ended up where she did. Oh, and you must grab the bonus scenes. I have to admit I’m not a fan of additional scenes, but these were just a great addition to the overall plot. You don’t need to have read the previous book in the series, but if you have, this is a great look into the past. If you haven’t read the previous one, you can jump right in after reading this one to see what happens next. Great romantic comedy; give this author’s books a try! I highly recommend this novella! I was provided the e-book which I voluntarily reviewed.
Please do not eat or drink while reading this, I'm asking nicely because I don't want you to ruin your reader!! From the beginning the author has you laughing and needing more! From girlie parts and the way he talks you just smile until your face hurts! You get to know the characters and the story isn't missing anything, except for maybe needing to be longer. Get comfy and tell everyone to leave you alone and enjoy!
This is a quick, fun read. It gives you background on some of the twists from the other book featuring Iris's daughter.
You learn how Iris became involved in the battle to protect Mona. The devil is very tempting to her but she tries to stay strong.
I enjoyed learning more about her and smiled at the dialogue which definitely is written with humor in mind. I was hoping we would get a little more about her later years but this ends with her daughter as a baby.
Yes I know another 5 star. Why Because its freaking S.A. Bayne aka Stephanie Rowe hahaha and I just love the humor and the fun action that she adds into her books . In every book that she has written that I have read and I have read them all that I got my hands. She does know how to bring the light in times of darkness well for me anyways she makes my heart smile when it needs one . Anyway the book well I think you will like this one we start off with one heck of a sexy man that can say just about anything to get your pants off hahaha but we have a headstrong woman that is on a mission and Iris is determined to stick with it come Hell or HIGH water and that water can melt your heart. In comes the best friend who is there when you need her but she gets thrown away by the devil himself and then she has to find her own way back to Iris to help keep the item they are hiding out of the devils hands . So come and read the store of Iris and Satan . While he tries to talk her into letting him have her Girly bits for all time. I'ts a fun laugh out loud adventure that keeps you wanting more even after the Secret bonus parts Oh didnt I mention them ? Yes you have to get them and read them cause they are so much part of the story you cant miss out on . We really need to keep them in the books . So go forth and read and laugh and aww heck root for the devil in this one I did . MUWAHAHAHAHAHA
Who says the devil isn't worth a little romancing? He's hot, he's utterly charming, and when he falls for a woman, he falls oh-so-hard. He's willing to go all in to win her heart, which can be adorable and a little terrifying, all at the same, delicious time.
Not-so-skilled magical apprentice Iris Bennett has one goal: to save the world from a spell gone wrong…an accident that is kinda her fault. She has only three days left to fix it, or all hell is going to break loose...maybe literally.
It's bad enough when she discovers her last chance to undo the spell is dead on the floor next to her crystal ball, but when she realizes that the dangerously sexy man standing beside the body might be the murderer, things get even more complicated.
Does she accept his magical help, or run as fast as she can from this devilishly sexy hottie who has secrets darker than the darkest recesses of hell? The problem is, she's pretty sure he's one of the good guys…until she discovers that he might not be after all…
But by then, she's already in over her head, and honestly, he really is such a temptation.
P.S. See that gold medallion on the cover? That means it contains Super Secret Bonus Scenes, which are extremely cool.
This book is for romance readers who like their stories funny, hot, fast-paced, and with badass female characters instead of damsels-in-need-of-men.
Not Quite a Devil is part of a new spinoff series called "Devilishly Sexy" by S.A. Bayne. This series is an outgrowth of another series called "Immortally Cursed." I highly recommend you read Immortally Cursed (the book) before reading Not Quite a Devil, as it will provide context for the setting and characters.
Like S.A. Bayne's other works, one of my favorite parts of her writing is how the lead female character does not need anyone to save her. She is quite capable on her own, although help is always appreciated. This means characters can do things and go places you don't see coming, making the reading experience more fun. I found this to be especially true in the Super Secret Bonus Scene #2, as you find out the lead female is making things work on HER terms and not anyone else's. That's definitely refreshing!
My next favorite aspect of the book is the best friend, and how she is more than just comedic relief or a way to provide exposition for the romance. As a reader, you quickly understand there is a lot of history that has forged their bond, and no matter what is happening on the passion end of the spectrum, the friendship refuses to take a backseat. I found it provided a better, more fun narrative with plenty of places and stories yet to explore for future books. Case in point? Super Secret Bonus Scene #1.
I have two minor quibbles, and they are definitely minor. a) The book is too short! The author does a masterful job at setting the scene yet keeping you engrossed right up until the end. I immediately had to visit their website to check out when the next book is coming out. b) Fits in a bit with a; I wish there were more books available in a single series, instead of multiple series being launched around the same time. I can understand why this book is being published under a different series name and not under the original Immortally Cursed series, but it DOES make keeping track of which books fit where, a bit more confusing.
This book is absolutely worth your time and the purchase price. I'm definitely looking forward to seeing where the characters and this story go from here!
Bit of a mixed bag review. Loved the story and the characters however some of the dialogue just made my brain hurt. I get that it's set way back when but sometimes it was just damn right discombobulating!
Iris and Linnea are on a mission to protect a magical goblet and try and extricate their highly magical friend from the same said goblet. But add in Balthazar and his mate Ted (not his real name - that was downright unpronounceable!) and the hormones start to fly.
Balthazar is hunk on a stick but a bit of a one-track mind once he meets Iris. He uses every cheese line in the book! But is he irredeemably evil? Just a misunderstood playboy with a douche of a father?
Totally whackadoodle fun and as long as you can switch your sensible brain off, a really enjoyable read! Reminds me a bit of Terry Pratchett Discworld as in modern-day conveniences with a kind of Medieval/Renaissance twist!
Wow!!! I loved this quick read. Be warned it does end rather abruptly, but there are also bonus scenes. Set in almost an alternate world a few hundred years ago, yet mentions our iPhones and other current items also occur 😊. Iris and her friend are guardians of a goblet they dubbed "Mona" for safety. Since its the soul and magic of an extremely powerful witch, they don't want her name known. In their search of freeing Mona from her prison Iris comes upon an odd man who becomes besotted with her. Even after fleeing he somehow finds her and her friend in the cave they're currently staying in. Here begins the crazy 😉. For he isn't just any guy....he's the son of Satan?!? WTH?! Iris fights her own feelings and her need to protect Mona above all else. All kinds of hilarity ensues, and a few surprises along the way. What's the end result? Guess you need to read and find out! I always enjoy books by this brilliant author. I'm hoping we still see more of these characters in the future.
Iris, Beautiful ,single minded ,with a laser like determination to protect her friend Arabella, who has been trapped , with time running out! Along with her friend Linnea they are searching for a way to release their friend. In the search for someone to break the spell that Desdemona had placed upon Arabella turning her into a goblet. Iris meets the man who disrupts her focus. A veritable Golden god Who is willing to give her anything just for a chance to be with her . In the meantime Linnea has her own issues of attraction with Ted the bodyguard. I started the book, couldn’t put down the book, found something to laugh about on each page,! This offer is someone to put in your keep pile. I’ve already found myself re-reading some of her other books. I also have a smile on face after each read Go ahead! I dare you!
What can I say? I wasn’t sure what to expect, but this was delicious. While short, I’m already committed to these characters and the stories that will unfold for them. I’m left with several questions - how does the immortality of some work with others that aren’t? Will they reconnect even with the distance and time separating them? And just SO many other things I want to know. S.A. Bayne has me on the edge of my seat in anticipation and has me overflowing with anticipation for what is coming next!
S.A. Bayne has a way of drawing you in and this book is no different!! Satan is very witty, fun and exciting with all the romance that we all dream of!! All four main characters are fantastic! The super secret scenes are awesome to see what happens to Linnea and “Ted” and what is to come later with Iris and Satan. Haha. I love how Ted gets this name!! This is a wonderful short love story that leaves you wanting so much more!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
I loved this story! The characters are hilarious! Such a great read. Make sure to get the copy that has the gold seal. There are bonus scenes at the end of the book that add to the story.
Iris is determined fix a problem that she created. While searching for answers, she runs in to the most handsome, charming man she has ever met. The devil is besotted with the sassy Iris. He will do anything to win her, even play dirty.
This is not the Iris I first encountered! Not Quite a Devil tells the tale of a young Iris that leads with her brawn and her determined heart. Then there is the tango with that sexy man that just can't seem to win her over. The scenes with this couple are laugh out loud. You've never had so much fun with the devil!
While I loved Iris and Satan in Immortally Cursed, I loved them better here. You can read their stories in any order.
These books are hilarious. Satan has found the woman who is the light to his dark. He calls her his “love pancake”. Iris’ job is to protect”Mona”, but it is the very thing he wants. Needless to say this crazy story had me laughing and smiling. I can’t wait for more of these stories. They are very fast reads, but they pack a punch.
The SSBS scenes had Linnea and Ted paired up, and ready to go into battle. I would have loved more of these two.
They also had Satan appearing to Iris as he tries to pick up what’s left of himself. He warns her he coming, and she gets to packing.
I absolutely adored reading this book! The words came off the page like I was listening to a conversation! The story was not your typical historical paranormal tale, too many modern references, but it so works! Getting to know more about Iris and Mona was great! Loved the bonus scenes with their juicy tidbits. So many questions left though. When do we get some answers?
Not Quite A Devil (Devilishly Sexy #1) by S.A. Bayne , Stephanie Rowe is a wonderful story that I have read. This is book number one in this wonderful start to a brand new series and I loved reading it very much. I highly recommend this story to everyon who lovs reading about magic in their stories.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book