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Demon Mates #1
Demon's Wish
Finding love is hard—especially when you’re a demon and your potential mate is your sacrifice… Sammy is content with running his bookshop and leading a book club consisting solely of paranormal creatures. Despite the persistence of his friends, he has resolved himself to a life without romance, since he doesn’t think anybody could find him and his tendency to spill useless knowledge whenever he gets nervous attractive. Dresalantion is a demon prince and slightly—make that majorly—annoyed when somebody persistently tries to summon him. He finally decides to show up and put the fear of Dresalantion into his summoners but finds himself rescuing their sacrifice instead. Sammy intrigues him from the get-go, and when Dre realizes that Sammy can get him the manga he’s been hunting for months—not to mention that he refuses a wish he offered him—the sexy demon decides to get to know this fascinating man better. Much better.
214 pages, Paperback
First published January 5, 2021
142 people are currently reading
368 people want to read
About the author
Xenia Melzer
189 books95 followersXENIA MELZER was born and raised in a small village in the south of Bavaria. As one of nature’s true chocoholics, she’s always in search of the perfect chocolate experience. So far, she’s had about a dozen truly remarkable ones. Despite having been in close proximity to the mountains all her life, she has never understood why so many people think snow sports are fun. There are neither chocolate nor horses involved and it’s cold by definition, so where’s the sense? She does not like beer either and has never been to the Oktoberfest—no quality chocolate there.
Even though her mind is preoccupied with various stories most of the time, Xenia has managed to get through school and university with surprisingly good grades. Right after school she met her one true love who showed her that reality is capable of producing some truly amazing love stories itself.
While she was having her two children, she started writing down the most persistent stories in her head as a way of relieving mommy-related stress symptoms. As it turned out, the stress relief has now become a source of the same, albeit a positive one.
When she’s not writing, she translates other authors’ manuscripts to German, enjoys riding and running, spending time with her kids, and dancing with her husband.
Even though her mind is preoccupied with various stories most of the time, Xenia has managed to get through school and university with surprisingly good grades. Right after school she met her one true love who showed her that reality is capable of producing some truly amazing love stories itself.
While she was having her two children, she started writing down the most persistent stories in her head as a way of relieving mommy-related stress symptoms. As it turned out, the stress relief has now become a source of the same, albeit a positive one.
When she’s not writing, she translates other authors’ manuscripts to German, enjoys riding and running, spending time with her kids, and dancing with her husband.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
January 8, 2021
The Good:
This is a seriously sweet, low angst story. Two men meet, are instantly attracted, fall in love quickly, and spend the whole book making each other happy, with no drama. Both characters are likeable. And the big, hulking demon just wanting to find his one special love breaks the alpha-asshole cliche. There's also some appreciable diversity in the side characters. It's an enjoyable read and is quite well edited.
The Meh:
The book got quite a few chuckles out of me. But some of that humor ran on the juvenile side. I think I cringed or rolled my eyes as often as I laughed. No demon should ever ask, "Do you have to go number one or two" if the author wants him to be taken seriously. just sayin'
Some of the dialogue was clunky, especially around saying names too often to feel natural. And I got bored with all the recitations of random facts and, even more so, with the lengthy book club discussions. They slowed the plot down.
The bad:
Let's talk sex. The sex in this book is fairly graphic (if not particularly impassioned), with quite a lot of emphasis on penetrative sex and what's going to go where and do what. Now, I have no problem with sex. I love me a raunchy sex scene. But I have a couple complaints here.
First, and probably most importantly, the books reads as if it's written for and about teens. Sammy is in his mid-twenties and Dre is 800 years old, but you'd never know it from the writing. So, to read a book that feels quite young and then have sex scenes focused heavily on accommodating a monster cock (both in the sense that it belongs to a demon and is monster-huge) felt out of place. This book would have done better with fade-to-black sex, sweet sex, or simply to have brought the tone of the rest of the book up a few years, IMO.
Secondly, the author made a point to include an asexual character, so they're aware not everyone loves sex or the same sort of sex. But then wrote a story that reinforced the myth that penetrative sex is the only real sex. It had to be had to for the plot and love to progress, whether the characters wanted it or not. And considering one character has a penis that is physically too large to be accommodated by the human body (and that's not at all cliched, *eyeroll*), not wanting it would have made sense. Plus, it's would have been a significantly more interesting exploration of the compromises mixed species relationships have to face. Instead the "special moment" was all about the mechanics of how to get one character's cock inside another. *boring*
I could probably also address here how the smaller, more feminized character had to endure a painful physical transformation to be with the larger, more manly one. As well as how there was never any doubt or discussion about what role both would play in bed (though I'll grant it was at least mentioned that the larger one was grudgingly willing to try switching in the future). And probably too that the mechanics of claiming a mate leaves no room for female demons to claim theirs, only to be claimed (not that that is at all addressed, there are no female demons in the book).
I feel like I had one more point to add here, but I've forgotten it apparently. All in all, I'd say that this is a sweet book let down by it's sex. In fact, I feel like the sex was written by someone who'd either never had it or had been told they had to include it to get published and did so reluctantly. It feels that silted and focused on the least important parts of the sex act. But outside of that, it's a fun little book.
This is a seriously sweet, low angst story. Two men meet, are instantly attracted, fall in love quickly, and spend the whole book making each other happy, with no drama. Both characters are likeable. And the big, hulking demon just wanting to find his one special love breaks the alpha-asshole cliche. There's also some appreciable diversity in the side characters. It's an enjoyable read and is quite well edited.
The Meh:
The book got quite a few chuckles out of me. But some of that humor ran on the juvenile side. I think I cringed or rolled my eyes as often as I laughed. No demon should ever ask, "Do you have to go number one or two" if the author wants him to be taken seriously. just sayin'
Some of the dialogue was clunky, especially around saying names too often to feel natural. And I got bored with all the recitations of random facts and, even more so, with the lengthy book club discussions. They slowed the plot down.
The bad:
Let's talk sex. The sex in this book is fairly graphic (if not particularly impassioned), with quite a lot of emphasis on penetrative sex and what's going to go where and do what. Now, I have no problem with sex. I love me a raunchy sex scene. But I have a couple complaints here.
First, and probably most importantly, the books reads as if it's written for and about teens. Sammy is in his mid-twenties and Dre is 800 years old, but you'd never know it from the writing. So, to read a book that feels quite young and then have sex scenes focused heavily on accommodating a monster cock (both in the sense that it belongs to a demon and is monster-huge) felt out of place. This book would have done better with fade-to-black sex, sweet sex, or simply to have brought the tone of the rest of the book up a few years, IMO.
Secondly, the author made a point to include an asexual character, so they're aware not everyone loves sex or the same sort of sex. But then wrote a story that reinforced the myth that penetrative sex is the only real sex. It had to be had to for the plot and love to progress, whether the characters wanted it or not. And considering one character has a penis that is physically too large to be accommodated by the human body (and that's not at all cliched, *eyeroll*), not wanting it would have made sense. Plus, it's would have been a significantly more interesting exploration of the compromises mixed species relationships have to face. Instead the "special moment" was all about the mechanics of how to get one character's cock inside another. *boring*
I could probably also address here how the smaller, more feminized character had to endure a painful physical transformation to be with the larger, more manly one. As well as how there was never any doubt or discussion about what role both would play in bed (though I'll grant it was at least mentioned that the larger one was grudgingly willing to try switching in the future). And probably too that the mechanics of claiming a mate leaves no room for female demons to claim theirs, only to be claimed (not that that is at all addressed, there are no female demons in the book).
I feel like I had one more point to add here, but I've forgotten it apparently. All in all, I'd say that this is a sweet book let down by it's sex. In fact, I feel like the sex was written by someone who'd either never had it or had been told they had to include it to get published and did so reluctantly. It feels that silted and focused on the least important parts of the sex act. But outside of that, it's a fun little book.
January 8, 2021
There’s just something about a book club consisting of paranormal creatures that is very appealing to me. Sure, this one can cast a spell on you and that one can drain you dry, and the other one over there might eat you—or maybe just your brains—if given half the chance. But later on they’ll meet up to discuss the role of the hero in modern literature or tropes that no longer work in the modern day. Or maybe they’re all just as friendly outside the club as in.
What I loved was that even with their differences, they still get along and ALL of them consider Sammy family, even if he’s just a human. And I also loved Sammy owning a bookstore—yeah, I’m a sucker for bookstore owners and librarians…it’s a book nerd thing.
The introduction of Dre, a demon, to the group is really the logical progression, Gotta add diversity, right? Dre is a great character, and he fits right in. The undeniable connection between him and Sammy doesn’t hurt either, and that’s another thing I’m a sucker for—fated mates.
There is really no angst in the story, it’s primarily Sammy and Dre falling for each other and the development of their relationship. Usually I thrive on relationship development so that was a good thing, but I could have used a touch of excitement too. I still enjoyed the story though, and I’m looking forward to more in this series…like oh, say Dre’s brother ;-)
Demon’s Wish was a 4-star read for me, and if you’re a paranormal romance fan looking for a no-angst story this one will fit the bill.
What I loved was that even with their differences, they still get along and ALL of them consider Sammy family, even if he’s just a human. And I also loved Sammy owning a bookstore—yeah, I’m a sucker for bookstore owners and librarians…it’s a book nerd thing.
The introduction of Dre, a demon, to the group is really the logical progression, Gotta add diversity, right? Dre is a great character, and he fits right in. The undeniable connection between him and Sammy doesn’t hurt either, and that’s another thing I’m a sucker for—fated mates.
There is really no angst in the story, it’s primarily Sammy and Dre falling for each other and the development of their relationship. Usually I thrive on relationship development so that was a good thing, but I could have used a touch of excitement too. I still enjoyed the story though, and I’m looking forward to more in this series…like oh, say Dre’s brother ;-)
Demon’s Wish was a 4-star read for me, and if you’re a paranormal romance fan looking for a no-angst story this one will fit the bill.
January 5, 2021
A Joyfully Jay review.
3.5 stars
I was intrigued by the blurb on this one. A demon who falls in love with a human who was intended to be his sacrifice is a really interesting premise. And while there were definitely fun and funny moments, and it’s a relatively low angst book, I have to admit that there were parts that didn’t work for me.
There were definitely things I enjoyed about this book. The characters are all fun and unique, and add to the story in their own way. Both Sammy and Dre, as the MCs, are particularly well drawn. It was easy to see their connection, and I liked all the little things the author used to connect them. They had a lot of common interests and that worked to cement their instant attraction, and very quick descent into love. So as a romance, this mostly worked. Even if Dre, and his entire family, aren’t what you would normally think of as demons.
Read Kris’ review in its entirety here.
3.5 stars
I was intrigued by the blurb on this one. A demon who falls in love with a human who was intended to be his sacrifice is a really interesting premise. And while there were definitely fun and funny moments, and it’s a relatively low angst book, I have to admit that there were parts that didn’t work for me.
There were definitely things I enjoyed about this book. The characters are all fun and unique, and add to the story in their own way. Both Sammy and Dre, as the MCs, are particularly well drawn. It was easy to see their connection, and I liked all the little things the author used to connect them. They had a lot of common interests and that worked to cement their instant attraction, and very quick descent into love. So as a romance, this mostly worked. Even if Dre, and his entire family, aren’t what you would normally think of as demons.
Read Kris’ review in its entirety here.
May 11, 2022
DNF @ 5%.
The writing for this is… off. It’s very clunky. The way some things are worded makes me think English is not the author’s first language.
One example was Sammy describing two chaises he had in his store:
I think, He reupholstered them would be less redundant, and more commonly what people would say. Generally, if someone is saying they reupholstered something, they are talking about the cushioning and the fabric. Even the choice of “cloth” versus “fabric” is odd.
And having the book opening with a book club meeting with Sammy, two witches, two werewolves, a banshee, a zombie, and a vampire was not the best choice. After being bogged down with the description all the vintage finds in the store, we are bogged down with all these characters who I already can’t keep straight, having a discussion about a book we know nothing about.
And the amount of pop culture and fandom references on the first 15 pages is insane: Drogon, Smaug, IKEA, Terry Pratchett, dwarf bread, Pride & Prejudice, Chronicles of Corum, Skyrim…. But I should have gotten the hint of that when the author had a Trademark Acknowledgments list 4 pages long.
The writing for this is… off. It’s very clunky. The way some things are worded makes me think English is not the author’s first language.
One example was Sammy describing two chaises he had in his store:
He has upholstered them and given them each a new cloth as well..
I think, He reupholstered them would be less redundant, and more commonly what people would say. Generally, if someone is saying they reupholstered something, they are talking about the cushioning and the fabric. Even the choice of “cloth” versus “fabric” is odd.
And having the book opening with a book club meeting with Sammy, two witches, two werewolves, a banshee, a zombie, and a vampire was not the best choice. After being bogged down with the description all the vintage finds in the store, we are bogged down with all these characters who I already can’t keep straight, having a discussion about a book we know nothing about.
And the amount of pop culture and fandom references on the first 15 pages is insane: Drogon, Smaug, IKEA, Terry Pratchett, dwarf bread, Pride & Prejudice, Chronicles of Corum, Skyrim…. But I should have gotten the hint of that when the author had a Trademark Acknowledgments list 4 pages long.
May 2, 2021
This was a very sweet paranormal with a human man, Sammy, and a demon prince called Dresalantion. It’s low angst, with most of the story focusing on the developing romance between these two, which happens quite fast. My favorite part was the cast of quirky friends who comprise Sammy’s Book Club – two werewolves, two witches, a zombie, a banshee and a vampire. There’s not a lot of world-building which is the only negative I can see, as there was potential for more external conflict. However the MCs are so utterly adorable I ended up enjoying their story. The bantering and all the traveling they did together was fun and unique.
October 14, 2022
I really liked the meet-cute.
Writing so many detailed opinions about tv shows and movies will make it dated in a few years.
The book group and all its members are great.
I’m not sure if I’ll read the next one but I’ll think about it.
Writing so many detailed opinions about tv shows and movies will make it dated in a few years.
The book group and all its members are great.
I’m not sure if I’ll read the next one but I’ll think about it.
dnf
June 7, 2024DNF @15%
February 17, 2021
A good read! I have to admit the first half of the book was way too cloyingly sweet for me. But once the book group witches show up to interrogate demon Dre, the story become more interesting. Besides the sugar sweet romance, the book was full of nerdy trivia, from historical to TV and book. Overall, not a bad read, just not the greatest.
January 2, 2021
4.5 stars. A second read for this author with this book for me. A good start as a debate about what makes a hero amongst the book club.
Set in the paranormal world for witches, vampires, zombie, werewolves and Sammy a human. A first meeting with Sammy and Dre was a great meeting, but not for either of them. (sorry no spoilers from me)
Right of I loved Dre's humor with his brother.. This includes bits of a history game from both MCs, Sammy is a huge info nerd. Adventures of Rome and Canada fit in with their romancing. Things progress between them and get a lot hotter which fits in with a demon. Sammy still holds the V card. The size of the Dre and little Sammy they take it slow, well sort of. A great story to read and I enjoyed this and loved the characters. Hot sexy scenes included, a sad moment and concludes with a HEA.
Sammy 25 yrs had his book shop, he'd started a book club 6 months ago.
Dresalantion aka Dre was a demon prince feed up with people summing him, he'd do something about it hmm. Annd Fate steps in.
*I received an Pride Publishing advanced readers copy and this is my honest review.
Set in the paranormal world for witches, vampires, zombie, werewolves and Sammy a human. A first meeting with Sammy and Dre was a great meeting, but not for either of them. (sorry no spoilers from me)
Right of I loved Dre's humor with his brother.. This includes bits of a history game from both MCs, Sammy is a huge info nerd. Adventures of Rome and Canada fit in with their romancing. Things progress between them and get a lot hotter which fits in with a demon. Sammy still holds the V card. The size of the Dre and little Sammy they take it slow, well sort of. A great story to read and I enjoyed this and loved the characters. Hot sexy scenes included, a sad moment and concludes with a HEA.
Sammy 25 yrs had his book shop, he'd started a book club 6 months ago.
Dresalantion aka Dre was a demon prince feed up with people summing him, he'd do something about it hmm. Annd Fate steps in.
*I received an Pride Publishing advanced readers copy and this is my honest review.
January 9, 2021
This book is intriguing and a fun read.
Sammy is the owner of a bookstore which fits his inquisitive and knowledgably character perfectly, He is also socially awkward and finds his mouth spurts off random trivia when he is anxious, sometimes with funny outcomes. He also aware that humans are not the only humanish Species on earth. Although not widely known the supernatural seem to come to Sammy. He even runs a book club made up of Vampire’s, Witches, Werewolves and even a Zombie.
Dre is a Demon Prince who is bored with his immortal life and especially being summoned by humans, that is until he is summoned by some silly young men who have no idea of what they are doing. The group of men have even kidnapped Sammy as a sacrifice for the demon.
After scaring the group of men away Dre helps drugged Sammy find his way home.
There is an instant connection between the two, but Sammy is rightly very wary of dating a Demon. As are his friends, especially the two witches who try and talk Sammy out of seeing the Demon again.
They say opposites attract, well in this case it is different as both Sammy and Dre share many interests from music and films to knowledge. As they get to know each other they have knowledge battles when they visit places. Which I found fun and cute at the same time.
I liked the way we are introduced to the story world, which is vivid, I feel like I have visited Sammy’s mismatch bookstore.
I love the characters in this book from the cute adorkable Sammy, to Dre the not as you expect Demon. Though Dre’s brother is a lot more demolish in his mischievous behaviour. I also like the way the author shows us what a Demon is and what their powers are and that it is an integral part of the story.
The group of misfits that are the book club each have their very vivid personalities, I especially liked the vampires but the shy and timid zombie intrigues me and I have a feeling we may get to know him in book 2 at least I am hopeful.
A around great story and a unique take on the supernatural world, filled with colourful characters, and a great start to a new series
Sammy is the owner of a bookstore which fits his inquisitive and knowledgably character perfectly, He is also socially awkward and finds his mouth spurts off random trivia when he is anxious, sometimes with funny outcomes. He also aware that humans are not the only humanish Species on earth. Although not widely known the supernatural seem to come to Sammy. He even runs a book club made up of Vampire’s, Witches, Werewolves and even a Zombie.
Dre is a Demon Prince who is bored with his immortal life and especially being summoned by humans, that is until he is summoned by some silly young men who have no idea of what they are doing. The group of men have even kidnapped Sammy as a sacrifice for the demon.
After scaring the group of men away Dre helps drugged Sammy find his way home.
There is an instant connection between the two, but Sammy is rightly very wary of dating a Demon. As are his friends, especially the two witches who try and talk Sammy out of seeing the Demon again.
They say opposites attract, well in this case it is different as both Sammy and Dre share many interests from music and films to knowledge. As they get to know each other they have knowledge battles when they visit places. Which I found fun and cute at the same time.
I liked the way we are introduced to the story world, which is vivid, I feel like I have visited Sammy’s mismatch bookstore.
I love the characters in this book from the cute adorkable Sammy, to Dre the not as you expect Demon. Though Dre’s brother is a lot more demolish in his mischievous behaviour. I also like the way the author shows us what a Demon is and what their powers are and that it is an integral part of the story.
The group of misfits that are the book club each have their very vivid personalities, I especially liked the vampires but the shy and timid zombie intrigues me and I have a feeling we may get to know him in book 2 at least I am hopeful.
A around great story and a unique take on the supernatural world, filled with colourful characters, and a great start to a new series
March 8, 2022
⭐ 3.5 STARS ⭐
The premise of the story is cute and I loved watching the development between the Sammy and Dre, but there's so much I wanted from the story and didn't receive.
I wished there was more to the summonsizing, especially after we discover who abducted Sammy and why.
I wished there was more interaction with the secondary characters, the few opportunities outside of the book club meeting where minimal and very short.
I wished there was more involvement in Sammy and Dre's dating then what was offered. We spend the first few days watching as Dre romances Sammy, but then we jump forward in time and loss out on watching them fall further in love.
I wish there was a bit less trivia, at times I felt this over shadowed Sammy and Dre's dates.
And I wish we didn't spend large portions of the story focusing on the book club topics. Which was also a perfect plot opportunity for the author given the "heroes" topic for the first half of the story... Dre "saved" Sammy from being sacrificed, but that was all, there was no challenges to over come - unless you count the opinions of Sammy's friends - and no personal sacrifices or inner struggles. It was instalove and nothing more. I really wanted more.
The premise of the story is cute and I loved watching the development between the Sammy and Dre, but there's so much I wanted from the story and didn't receive.
I wished there was more to the summonsizing, especially after we discover who abducted Sammy and why.
I wished there was more interaction with the secondary characters, the few opportunities outside of the book club meeting where minimal and very short.
I wished there was more involvement in Sammy and Dre's dating then what was offered. We spend the first few days watching as Dre romances Sammy, but then we jump forward in time and loss out on watching them fall further in love.
I wish there was a bit less trivia, at times I felt this over shadowed Sammy and Dre's dates.
And I wish we didn't spend large portions of the story focusing on the book club topics. Which was also a perfect plot opportunity for the author given the "heroes" topic for the first half of the story... Dre "saved" Sammy from being sacrificed, but that was all, there was no challenges to over come - unless you count the opinions of Sammy's friends - and no personal sacrifices or inner struggles. It was instalove and nothing more. I really wanted more.
January 15, 2023
Saccharine sugary sweetness
Sammy is a sweet shy bookstore owner. His life is quiet order. Well, other than his book club meetings. Until he gets kidnapped and was presented as a sacrifice for a demon. Plot twist: the demon rescued him from the humans. And then asked him out.
Spoilers ahead.
Sammy and Dre were the absolute sweetest slow burn ever. I adored every bit of the story. From the book discussions, geek outs, the trivia dares, the romantically geeky dates, how they both circled their emotions but didn't deny them. It had everything you want in a romance: the zing at meeting, the common interests that build a friendship, sweetness, consent, bonding moments, and genuine affection that continues to build towards more. And steam that has all the odd things that happen in real life, including laughter. No over the top angst and deliberate miscommunication. No contrived drama. No cliche mean girl. This was an unexpected gem I found as a suggestion after finishing another book and I think I've found a new author.
Sammy is a sweet shy bookstore owner. His life is quiet order. Well, other than his book club meetings. Until he gets kidnapped and was presented as a sacrifice for a demon. Plot twist: the demon rescued him from the humans. And then asked him out.
Spoilers ahead.
Sammy and Dre were the absolute sweetest slow burn ever. I adored every bit of the story. From the book discussions, geek outs, the trivia dares, the romantically geeky dates, how they both circled their emotions but didn't deny them. It had everything you want in a romance: the zing at meeting, the common interests that build a friendship, sweetness, consent, bonding moments, and genuine affection that continues to build towards more. And steam that has all the odd things that happen in real life, including laughter. No over the top angst and deliberate miscommunication. No contrived drama. No cliche mean girl. This was an unexpected gem I found as a suggestion after finishing another book and I think I've found a new author.
January 14, 2021
4.5 Stars!
This story was fun, and I loved the different take on demons. Sammy runs a bookstore and, through there, he has built a group of loyal friends that are all part of the supernatural world. I loved how protective his friends were of Sammy and how they all got along and teased each other, even when they shouldn't get along normally. When Sammy meets Dre, he finds someone that he connects with under the strangest of circumstances.
Dre and his brother were fun, and their interactions were humorous. I loved how annoyed Dre was with the summoning that led him to meeting Sammy. I also enjoyed how he spent time getting to know Sammy and taking him traveling. Their contests, over trivia, were fun to follow and proved how well matched they were. I'm looking forward to seeing Dre's brother find his mate.
If you're looking for a fun, easy read with demons who are nicer than expected, and aren't nearly as scary as they seem, give this one a try.
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
This story was fun, and I loved the different take on demons. Sammy runs a bookstore and, through there, he has built a group of loyal friends that are all part of the supernatural world. I loved how protective his friends were of Sammy and how they all got along and teased each other, even when they shouldn't get along normally. When Sammy meets Dre, he finds someone that he connects with under the strangest of circumstances.
Dre and his brother were fun, and their interactions were humorous. I loved how annoyed Dre was with the summoning that led him to meeting Sammy. I also enjoyed how he spent time getting to know Sammy and taking him traveling. Their contests, over trivia, were fun to follow and proved how well matched they were. I'm looking forward to seeing Dre's brother find his mate.
If you're looking for a fun, easy read with demons who are nicer than expected, and aren't nearly as scary as they seem, give this one a try.
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
December 14, 2020
I received a copy of Demon’s Wish by Xenia Melzer from Pride Publishing in exchange for an honest review. I have a soft spot for people who own bookstores. In another world, I would have wanted to make that my career. Sammy is perfect for the job, loving books, his paranormal book club, and useless knowledge. It’s fun that he lives over the bookstore, which leads to his kidnapping as a demon sacrifice. Of course the demon Dre is nothing like demons are envisioned, being basically kind and worldly. These two are meant for each other. I enjoyed the new take on demons and look forward to Dre’s brother finding his own mate in the future.
February 12, 2021
I am sorry but the first line of the blurb seems extremely misleading - this was an achingly (like almost cringe-level-amount) sweet, sweet soulmate romance. With nerds and dorks and vampires and werewolves and witches and a great, sooooo great family and friends and gosh, I just had to take a breather there to finish it.
Also, a bigger problem, the writing is... okay, would it be less insulting if I said weird or inexperienced? The first scene where they argued about the concept of hero felt sooooo prearranged and slapped together (I am an English major, I was a part of similar debates) and this one felt like someone was making a recording or notes from a real debate and then made a proper academic paper and used THAT in a book, as a debate.
I am also a fan - not die-hard but I am moving around the fan world and liked or knew several referenced works/books/films/games and... look, there are times mentioning things like that can be cute, can make you feel heard, can make you go "aww"... or make you feel a bit awkward. Like here. I have this second-hand embarrassment going on where hard fans and fangirling is concerned and this book had that for me, unfortunately. That is if I was not trying to argue with. I was, as fate would have it, just playing Skyrim, mentioned in that first scene in a few cases and seeing I played it and play it, I don't exactly agree with some points and that also didn't help.
I have, in some review, explained how different books display (or not) the reason behind the writing. Some combine known elements or situations to see "what if...", some like the intellectual challenge, some need to get the stories out of their heads... some write the book they wish they could read. And it might turn awkward. I know - and really, if you think about it, reading a written account of our "deepest desires and wishes", where we have great people around us, great job, we are happy and extraordinary things happen? It's kind of like hearing someone signing in the shower. I am glad it makes that person happy but... do I really want to be a direct witness to that?
And yes, I am saying this book gave off that feeling but that is my impression, yadda, yadda... Really, the only way this could have been more obvious and straightforward would be only if HE summed the demon himself and fell in love with him.
Anyway, If you're not afraid of eating pure sugar, you can give this a chance.
Also, a bigger problem, the writing is... okay, would it be less insulting if I said weird or inexperienced? The first scene where they argued about the concept of hero felt sooooo prearranged and slapped together (I am an English major, I was a part of similar debates) and this one felt like someone was making a recording or notes from a real debate and then made a proper academic paper and used THAT in a book, as a debate.
I am also a fan - not die-hard but I am moving around the fan world and liked or knew several referenced works/books/films/games and... look, there are times mentioning things like that can be cute, can make you feel heard, can make you go "aww"... or make you feel a bit awkward. Like here. I have this second-hand embarrassment going on where hard fans and fangirling is concerned and this book had that for me, unfortunately. That is if I was not trying to argue with. I was, as fate would have it, just playing Skyrim, mentioned in that first scene in a few cases and seeing I played it and play it, I don't exactly agree with some points and that also didn't help.
I have, in some review, explained how different books display (or not) the reason behind the writing. Some combine known elements or situations to see "what if...", some like the intellectual challenge, some need to get the stories out of their heads... some write the book they wish they could read. And it might turn awkward. I know - and really, if you think about it, reading a written account of our "deepest desires and wishes", where we have great people around us, great job, we are happy and extraordinary things happen? It's kind of like hearing someone signing in the shower. I am glad it makes that person happy but... do I really want to be a direct witness to that?
And yes, I am saying this book gave off that feeling but that is my impression, yadda, yadda... Really, the only way this could have been more obvious and straightforward would be only if HE summed the demon himself and fell in love with him.
Anyway, If you're not afraid of eating pure sugar, you can give this a chance.
February 23, 2021
Interesting premise but the story was a bit of a let down.
It’s a pity; I really liked the premise of this story. I have a particular weakness for stories where demons are summoned ‘accidentally’ and end up falling in love/being mates with the summoner, so the idea of a demon ending up with his ‘sacrifice’ was definitely right up my alley!
Unfortunately, the book dragged. Dre and Sammy almost instantly hit it off (which I don’t have a problem with - insta love can be great) but then stagnate. Yes, they want to take it slowly (again, not something I have a problem with if done well) but they don’t actually seem to get to know each other. We don’t learn much about Sammy beyond what we already knew from the beginning of the book and the same happens with Dre. The concept of them loving to trade facts was cute and could have been executed well, but came across as dry and (at times) like filler. The book club was a great idea but, again, the conversations were dry and seemed like padding. They simply didn’t add much to the story. In all honesty I also didn’t really feel all the passion that allegedly existed between these two. It was more we were told they were on fire for each other rather than actually seeing it.
It wasn’t a terrible book, but it wasn’t a great one either. Really, it was average at best. I think this could have been amazing if it was half the length and we got more actual character development and showing as opposed to telling.
It’s a pity; I really liked the premise of this story. I have a particular weakness for stories where demons are summoned ‘accidentally’ and end up falling in love/being mates with the summoner, so the idea of a demon ending up with his ‘sacrifice’ was definitely right up my alley!
Unfortunately, the book dragged. Dre and Sammy almost instantly hit it off (which I don’t have a problem with - insta love can be great) but then stagnate. Yes, they want to take it slowly (again, not something I have a problem with if done well) but they don’t actually seem to get to know each other. We don’t learn much about Sammy beyond what we already knew from the beginning of the book and the same happens with Dre. The concept of them loving to trade facts was cute and could have been executed well, but came across as dry and (at times) like filler. The book club was a great idea but, again, the conversations were dry and seemed like padding. They simply didn’t add much to the story. In all honesty I also didn’t really feel all the passion that allegedly existed between these two. It was more we were told they were on fire for each other rather than actually seeing it.
It wasn’t a terrible book, but it wasn’t a great one either. Really, it was average at best. I think this could have been amazing if it was half the length and we got more actual character development and showing as opposed to telling.
October 14, 2023
It's absolutely ridiculous!
I will have to retell the whole book to tell you how stupid some of the stuff was.
What I'd like to point out is the fact that Sammy was talking to his dead parents while he was in oblivion after sex and had a monster dick in him. wtf? really? THIS is the moment to say goodbye?
I will have to retell the whole book to tell you how stupid some of the stuff was.
What I'd like to point out is the fact that Sammy was talking to his dead parents while he was in oblivion after sex and had a monster dick in him. wtf? really? THIS is the moment to say goodbye?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 9, 2022
‘Demon’s Wish’ is a low angst, highly sweet, and very lighthearted urban-fantasy-paranormal story with a fun group of secondary characters. The basic plot revolves around Dre (800-year-old demon) and Sammy (human) both lamenting they will never find their true love/mate. Until they do.
What *I* enjoyed about this story is it’s just… happy. No major angst, no huge dramas, no big misunderstanding. While Dre strongly suspects they are mates, he acquiesces to Sammy wishing to take it slow to get to know each other, and they embark upon two weeks of globe-trotting dates. I appreciated that slower approach to an already fast-moving romance. I found Sammy’s verbal trivia when nervous endearing and fun and a nice way to showcase a character trait.
I greatly enjoyed the secondary characters as introduced through the book group – a set of elderly lesbian witches, an ancient vampire, two alpha werewolves who are business partners (and maybe more?), an asexual banshee and one shy zombie. They have formed a close-knit group, almost a second family, with all the concerns, overprotectiveness, and bickering that comes with such comfortable closeness.
Where I stumbled with the book was when Dre and Sammy finally decided to take the plunge and see if they were truly mates via sex and the mating bite. Why does mating nearly always involve penetrative sex by the perceived “dominant” character on the (usually) smaller character? In this instance, the size of Dre’s demon “form” was unrealistic for a virgin human’s first time. The scene had me going eeee! AND shaking my head in disbelief, then I skimmed because the dynamic was uncomfortable, and I wanted to get back to the happy bits.
So aside from my quirk with the first-time sex, this is a fun, feel-good, humorous cuppa hot cocoa with loads of flavored marshmallows type of read. And when it’s -30*F (0*C) out and the world seems like it’s going to hell in a hand basket without a gorgeous demon for company, it’s the perfect way to zone out for a while.
NOTE: This book was provided by Pride Publishing for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
What *I* enjoyed about this story is it’s just… happy. No major angst, no huge dramas, no big misunderstanding. While Dre strongly suspects they are mates, he acquiesces to Sammy wishing to take it slow to get to know each other, and they embark upon two weeks of globe-trotting dates. I appreciated that slower approach to an already fast-moving romance. I found Sammy’s verbal trivia when nervous endearing and fun and a nice way to showcase a character trait.
I greatly enjoyed the secondary characters as introduced through the book group – a set of elderly lesbian witches, an ancient vampire, two alpha werewolves who are business partners (and maybe more?), an asexual banshee and one shy zombie. They have formed a close-knit group, almost a second family, with all the concerns, overprotectiveness, and bickering that comes with such comfortable closeness.
Where I stumbled with the book was when Dre and Sammy finally decided to take the plunge and see if they were truly mates via sex and the mating bite. Why does mating nearly always involve penetrative sex by the perceived “dominant” character on the (usually) smaller character? In this instance, the size of Dre’s demon “form” was unrealistic for a virgin human’s first time. The scene had me going eeee! AND shaking my head in disbelief, then I skimmed because the dynamic was uncomfortable, and I wanted to get back to the happy bits.
So aside from my quirk with the first-time sex, this is a fun, feel-good, humorous cuppa hot cocoa with loads of flavored marshmallows type of read. And when it’s -30*F (0*C) out and the world seems like it’s going to hell in a hand basket without a gorgeous demon for company, it’s the perfect way to zone out for a while.
NOTE: This book was provided by Pride Publishing for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
February 16, 2021
I have to admit I loved this plot and all the wonderful characters with all their different personalities. Also, most of the Demon lore that many authors use in their stories is not present. In fact, I don’t think there is a single one from other books I have read.
Sammy is a wonderful, quirky character that everyone who meets him can’t help but love. Unfortunately, he is incredibly shy, seen as a geek and has a bad habit of spewing strange facts when he is nervous, so his dating life is rather pathetic. His parents’ love had kept him going but he lost them a few years ago in a car crash and still mourns them. I love how he takes everything paranormal in stride, not seeming to mind the strange things that happen around him.
Dre is another wonderful, well developed character who does everything in his power to make Sammy happy. He also loves and enjoys the company of his family. When Dre is able to pay more attention to Sammy, they are almost instantly attracted to each other. Dre was struck by Sammy’s boyish, innocent face with bi-colored eyes.
I really enjoyed watching them go on several dates, going anywhere Sammy’s heart desired. In fact, their first date was to Rome where they went to Dre’s favorite restaurant which is owned by a witch and she makes it obvious that she approves of their relationship. Dre is able to create a hole that allows them to go wherever he wants in an instant. It was cute as they had a contest at each place they visited. Whoever could name the strangest facts won.
There is only one thing I wish could have been changed. The romance took a rather long time to develop. I loved these characters and couldn’t wait for them to express their love on a deeper level.
I adore the fun and adventure that goes along with the obvious connection between these two characters. A wonderful paranormal romance with lots of funny moments and geek trivia thrown around.
Sammy is a wonderful, quirky character that everyone who meets him can’t help but love. Unfortunately, he is incredibly shy, seen as a geek and has a bad habit of spewing strange facts when he is nervous, so his dating life is rather pathetic. His parents’ love had kept him going but he lost them a few years ago in a car crash and still mourns them. I love how he takes everything paranormal in stride, not seeming to mind the strange things that happen around him.
Dre is another wonderful, well developed character who does everything in his power to make Sammy happy. He also loves and enjoys the company of his family. When Dre is able to pay more attention to Sammy, they are almost instantly attracted to each other. Dre was struck by Sammy’s boyish, innocent face with bi-colored eyes.
I really enjoyed watching them go on several dates, going anywhere Sammy’s heart desired. In fact, their first date was to Rome where they went to Dre’s favorite restaurant which is owned by a witch and she makes it obvious that she approves of their relationship. Dre is able to create a hole that allows them to go wherever he wants in an instant. It was cute as they had a contest at each place they visited. Whoever could name the strangest facts won.
There is only one thing I wish could have been changed. The romance took a rather long time to develop. I loved these characters and couldn’t wait for them to express their love on a deeper level.
I adore the fun and adventure that goes along with the obvious connection between these two characters. A wonderful paranormal romance with lots of funny moments and geek trivia thrown around.
February 9, 2021
I loved this book so much! It was a great find and i need more demon romances in my life, i adored Dre here. Although Sammy has to be my favourite, he was just so sweet and i enjoy the bookclub along with his shop.
The discussions about heroes in the bookclub was fascinating, i liked how in depth they went and every character shines even in their short scenes. Such as Mavis & Maribel with their spells, Declan & Troy wanting their coffee or Jon with his questions just stole my heart. Of course Amber & Emilia are wonderful too.
I enjoyed the development between Sammy and Dre, their trips together were a lot of fun - i was especially fond of their trip to rome, that first date feels and exploring the city. Competing over their knowledge and getting to know more about each other, it was just really sweet and the kissing with fangs.
Must say i appreciated how much it looked at how that would work and the book idea was hilarious, the pair of them getting flustered and figuring things out together was beautiful. It wasn't perfect and i loved that!
Also mating, those tattoos and bite - all of the steam and their chemistry was stunning.
I must mention Dre's brother Barion because he was awesome in his scenes and i'm curious what shall be next for the series.
Overall a wonderful read, interesting world building and a fun romance with a happy ending! 💕
The discussions about heroes in the bookclub was fascinating, i liked how in depth they went and every character shines even in their short scenes. Such as Mavis & Maribel with their spells, Declan & Troy wanting their coffee or Jon with his questions just stole my heart. Of course Amber & Emilia are wonderful too.
I enjoyed the development between Sammy and Dre, their trips together were a lot of fun - i was especially fond of their trip to rome, that first date feels and exploring the city. Competing over their knowledge and getting to know more about each other, it was just really sweet and the kissing with fangs.
Must say i appreciated how much it looked at how that would work and the book idea was hilarious, the pair of them getting flustered and figuring things out together was beautiful. It wasn't perfect and i loved that!
Also mating, those tattoos and bite - all of the steam and their chemistry was stunning.
I must mention Dre's brother Barion because he was awesome in his scenes and i'm curious what shall be next for the series.
Overall a wonderful read, interesting world building and a fun romance with a happy ending! 💕
February 27, 2021
Demon sweethearts
A really interesting start to a series! In this world humans and paranormals mix together with varying degrees of knowledge. However, even amongst paranormal demons are an unknown. When they have been encountered they are violent and follow whims as they please. So when Sammy gets "sacrificed" to a demon summoning, meeting the demon Dreselantion is unusual and holds plenty of risk.
Sammy is human but knows paranormals. He fell into the knowledge and now has a whole group of friends in them that are unusual. Though he has never met a demon, when Dre saves his life he is willing to get to know the demon. Dre is intrigued by Sammy with his lack of fear and not asking for anything of Dre. The two hit it off which can mean something more for paranormals.
This is a fairly low angst book, very sweet and fluffy with the relationship even with the demon "risk". It presents a new paranormal world and there is possibility of other demon matches in the future. It was a fun book and could lead to an interesting series!
A really interesting start to a series! In this world humans and paranormals mix together with varying degrees of knowledge. However, even amongst paranormal demons are an unknown. When they have been encountered they are violent and follow whims as they please. So when Sammy gets "sacrificed" to a demon summoning, meeting the demon Dreselantion is unusual and holds plenty of risk.
Sammy is human but knows paranormals. He fell into the knowledge and now has a whole group of friends in them that are unusual. Though he has never met a demon, when Dre saves his life he is willing to get to know the demon. Dre is intrigued by Sammy with his lack of fear and not asking for anything of Dre. The two hit it off which can mean something more for paranormals.
This is a fairly low angst book, very sweet and fluffy with the relationship even with the demon "risk". It presents a new paranormal world and there is possibility of other demon matches in the future. It was a fun book and could lead to an interesting series!
January 15, 2022
I enjoyed spending time with this mismatched group of slightly off (lol) paranormal characters
This was a light angst smexy feel-good romance
Filled with all kinds of mushy sweet moments - I liked the way Declan was so attuned to Sammy
Lots of laughs as well as some juvenile humor that just fit the moment
All kinds of trivia - little competition between these two
Off the charts chemistry
Sammy comes off a bit naive - Not blind or dumb more accepting? of what is not the norm?
He is highly intelligent, sweet as all get, and thoughtful to a fault
Then we had Declan - he is weirdly nice for a demon - who has dreamed of a forever mate but is weary
When he finds Sammy waiting to be his sacrifice he finds he is compelled to do everything in his power to make him his forever
Fun secondary characters
I look forward to the next in series
This was a light angst smexy feel-good romance
Filled with all kinds of mushy sweet moments - I liked the way Declan was so attuned to Sammy
Lots of laughs as well as some juvenile humor that just fit the moment
All kinds of trivia - little competition between these two
Off the charts chemistry
Sammy comes off a bit naive - Not blind or dumb more accepting? of what is not the norm?
He is highly intelligent, sweet as all get, and thoughtful to a fault
Then we had Declan - he is weirdly nice for a demon - who has dreamed of a forever mate but is weary
When he finds Sammy waiting to be his sacrifice he finds he is compelled to do everything in his power to make him his forever
Fun secondary characters
I look forward to the next in series
February 21, 2021
Really enjoyed the book club discussions and bits of random trivia. The secondary characters were great and I loved the whole "found family" theme. The relationship was sweet and angst-free and generally refreshingly open and communicative, though it was all very rushed in my opinion and I wouldn't have minded a few more butterflies as the relationship developed.
However,
However,
March 23, 2021
I’ll be honest, the dialog was not my cup of tea; most of the conversations are just characters congratulating themselves and each other at length for making references to popular movies and TV shows. Like, not even talking about the show or book or movie so much as derailing the conversation about it to say “Ah, you’re referencing ___ show! You must be a real nerd!” “And you noticed that I was referencing it. You must also be a nerd. You have passed the nerd test.” (Also, more knotting than I personally care for, but that’s me.)
Still, I can’t give it less then four stars because I’m just so starved for low stakes queer romance, and this had it in spades. Absence of homophobia? Check. Characters who actually like each other and want to form a healthy relationship? Check.
Still, I can’t give it less then four stars because I’m just so starved for low stakes queer romance, and this had it in spades. Absence of homophobia? Check. Characters who actually like each other and want to form a healthy relationship? Check.
December 31, 2022
Ok, Lots of fillers, little meat
This story has a great premise. The side characters were fun. The first chapter had a lot of fluff with the discussion going on in the book club. The 2 mc fall in love at first sight. I enjoyed their date scenes. Half way through it got boring and I read something else for a while. Then, I came back and skimmed through to the HEA ending. The story could have been half the length if some of the pretentious book club discussion and some of the interactions between the demon mc and his brother were trimmed. Maybe they were needed to set up for the next book. I read it on kindle unlimited. I will probably read the next book also on Kindle unlimited but I would not pay for it.
This story has a great premise. The side characters were fun. The first chapter had a lot of fluff with the discussion going on in the book club. The 2 mc fall in love at first sight. I enjoyed their date scenes. Half way through it got boring and I read something else for a while. Then, I came back and skimmed through to the HEA ending. The story could have been half the length if some of the pretentious book club discussion and some of the interactions between the demon mc and his brother were trimmed. Maybe they were needed to set up for the next book. I read it on kindle unlimited. I will probably read the next book also on Kindle unlimited but I would not pay for it.
January 24, 2025
"Demon’s Wish" received TWO AND A HALF stars.
I enjoyed all the characters, but the true mate plot thread was not enough, though. I found myself bored quite often without a true conflict moving the story forward.
The novel gained *stars* for these items:
* gained for: "The book caught my interest in the first five pages."
1/2 * gained for: "I thought about the book when I was forced to set it down and re-enter society."
1/2 * gained for: "There were no info dumps, poor writing, or copy edit mistakes that jerked me out of the story."
1/2 * gained for: "I was sad when the book ended. I wanted more!"
The novel failed to gain stars for this item:
NO STAR gained for: "That's it. I'm hooked on this author. I will automatically try anything she/he/they writes."
I enjoyed all the characters, but the true mate plot thread was not enough, though. I found myself bored quite often without a true conflict moving the story forward.
The novel gained *stars* for these items:
* gained for: "The book caught my interest in the first five pages."
1/2 * gained for: "I thought about the book when I was forced to set it down and re-enter society."
1/2 * gained for: "There were no info dumps, poor writing, or copy edit mistakes that jerked me out of the story."
1/2 * gained for: "I was sad when the book ended. I wanted more!"
The novel failed to gain stars for this item:
NO STAR gained for: "That's it. I'm hooked on this author. I will automatically try anything she/he/they writes."
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 3, 2021
The world building with paranormal entities such as werewolves, vampires, zombies, and witches is perfect in this story. I loved how Sammy built a place for himself and others to feel safe, and I love it's a bookstore where he can share his knowledge. But when Dre, a demon, meets Sammy, he's taken by the shy man who spouts information when he's nervous. The relationship between Dre and Sammy is sweet and as they get to know each other, the fall harder. A great read with wonderful characters, a detailed world, and a sweet HEA. I can't wait for the next one!!
April 27, 2022
🍍 Read for the 2022 Weaponized Bingo of Pineapple-y Doom™ (WBoPD™) challenge at Weaponized Pineapples 🍍
Bingo Images:
•• 3. Feels Like Sulfur & Brimstone ••
🌟 3.5 Stars 🌟
Bingo Images:
January 21, 2021
Wow, it would be wonderful to date a demon who can take you anywhere in the world in a flash and that's exactly how dating Dre (demon) was for Sammy (human). I loved Sammy's personality and how he was always running off so much information about so much (I've learned a lot reading this book) and Dre loved it and did the same. I also appreciated Sammy's easy acceptance of Dre since he was a demon. The characters were well portrayed and the story was truly enjoyable. Impressive read.
September 3, 2021
Im sure this is an ok book, but not for me. I'm 33 pages in and so far all that's happened has been a description of what the book club is discussing. That on it's own wouldn't bother me if it was done well, but I found the subject matter to be both uninteresting and very surface level analysis. It also didnt help that I wasnt familiar with the book they were discussing.
I just couldn't get past it.
I just couldn't get past it.
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