A Christmas Demon For Clara

Candy For Demons #1

by Chloe Alice Balkin

Locke has been a very good demon.

Most hellspawn are banned from Earth, but not glut demon Locke. His favorite indulgence is earthly pastries, so he's always on his best behavior. When he hears about a bakery supposedly selling the best lemon bars in the world, he has his doubts, but he must have them.

Clara has been a very good (slightly supernatural) human.

Clara can see ghosts. She loves her ghost friends, but knowing they're always around her, even in the bedroom, has put a serious damper on her love life. The good news? When the seriously hot – and definitely demon – strolls into her shop, demanding she bake her famous lemon bars out of season, his undeniable charm is no match for her celibacy.

Locke's new favorite indulgence? Sexy, curvy, way-too-innocent Clara.

He knows exactly how to seduce women. Sure, a virgin is more difficult to seduce. A virgin who knows he's a demon? Uncharted territory. But he has to have her. And her lemon bars.

Then the homicidal angel shows up, and all Hell breaks loose.

Genres: Romance, Paranormal, Christmas, Paranormal Romance, Holiday, Fiction, Novella

197 pages, Kindle Edition

First published December 10, 2019

About the author

Chloe Alice Balkin makes cakes pretty for a living. In the spare time she no longer has because of the writing thing, she enjoys a wide range of crafting, including quilting and painting Bob Ross artworks on her walls.

Reviews

[Angela Panayotopulos · Rating 5 out of 5]

In a bowl, thoroughly mix together elements of your favorite romantic Christmas-time, feel-good Hallmark movies with the sexy, dark-fantasy appeal of that urban fantasy TV show "Lucifer". Mixed them well? Good. Now add a dash of Neil Gaiman and Terry Prachett's "Good Omens". Be merciless when it comes to eliminating monster angels if you spot them in the batter. Insert as many tablespoons of humor as you can stomach (remember, you can stomach a lot). Later on, sift in some hefty helpings of erotica. A little more. Nice. Bake for as long as it takes you to get through a chapter (it's quick, I promise), and indulge in a deliciously raunchy story. Too hot for you? Wait and let it cool. Serves one, and serves her pretty damn well. Enjoy!



If you're looking for something deep and existential and lyrical and a great pick to read aloud at (or recommend to) your book club, you should probably move on. If you're looking for something fun and light and sweet and spicy, you'll find the recipe within these pages.

P.S. love the use of the Greek word "aionia" (eternity/forever). What a nice touch!

[Mary Lou Hoffman · Rating 5 out of 5]

A CHRISTMAS DEMON FOR CLARA is the first book in the Candy for Demons series. Though each is meant to stand on its own, you’ll better enjoy the series if you read them in the order of release.

Who would think that a demon could be a hero? Well, apparently Chloe Alice Balkin not just thought about it, but came up with a whole series based on the idea. Now don’t go thinking these are cute and fluffy demons, but somehow Locke and a few of his friends have wormed their way into my heart. The angels were the bad guys! Talk about twisting your reality!

The story was entertaining with a great juxtaposition of the Christmas merriment as background for the fight for Clara’s life. The fierce (and bloody) battles contrasting with the innocence and sweetness of Clara, her sisters, and their shops – a bakery, a candy shop, and a florist. I enjoyed it and would recommend it for a bit of escape.

I was first drawn in by the incredible cover art and the demon-horned element is going to be repeated. This time as a gingerbread and next time as an Easter peep. I can’t wait to see what is done for Halloween and Valentine’s Day.

Note: While I received this book as a gifted ARC, my opinions are my own and are given freely.

Title: A CHRISTMAS DEMON FOR CLARA
Series: Candy for Demons #1
Category /Genre: Paranormal Romance
Recommended for: 18+ due to sexual content
Grammar/editing: received as an unedited ARC / errors excused
Received from: Chloe Alice Balkin

[Jordan · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Christmas Demon for Clara was far more adorable than I was anticipating! I was expecting the somewhat typical brooding, dominant demon male who comes in and dramatically sweeps the human female off her feet (with maybe a good dose of hatred at the start) but instead I got this ridiculously quirky, adorable glut demon who just really wants Clara's lemon bars and won't let anyone or anything get in the way of that.

I loved Locke so much, and seeing him kind of fumble his way through sorting out what he actually desires was cute! I don't often see the male, more dominant character floundering, so this was a very welcome change. I also really enjoyed reading Clara interacting with her sisters; they were such vibrant characters and really fun to learn about.

I do wish that I'd have gotten a little more information about the world the characters live in. Are magic, creatures, and paranormal happenings known about and generally accepted amongst the population? Do most people have magic or some sort of power? I didn't get to learn as much about the surroundings and the setting, and I think the missing information would have rounded out my reading experience.

I had a great time with the book, though, and I'll definitely be reading more of the series!

[Kelly (AndKellyReads) · Rating 4 out of 5]

way cuter than I anticipated

Ummm have we found my favorite Christmas monster (demon) romance? I think we have!! A gluttony demon who goes to earth simply for lemon bars and comes away in love with the baker?

Yes, please.

It was so funny, it was cute, it had just enough steam for a short little book, and was oh so festive, and I never wanted it to end.

Also I’ve never identified with a hero so closely in my life. Wants to literally just eat snacks and baked goods all day while hiding in the pantry??? Sign me up.

This was adorable I loved it I want more.

[Sarandah chrysalis · Rating 3 out of 5]

Several funny bits and intriguing world building, but it meandered in many areas. Clara is definitely a Mary Sue.

[Alejandra Guerrero · Rating 1 out of 5]

DNF 26%
I didn't like it, angels and demons make no sense, and people aren't described very well. I was confused half of the time, and sometimes I didn't even know if the characters were alive or ghosts. The sisters powers make no sense, and I couldn't for the life of me figure out why the angels wanted to kill Clara but not her sisters. So I stopped trying.

[MissClo · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really really enjoyed this!

I wanted to read this as my last book of 2021 but life got in the way and I ended up enjoying it a lot and finished on the first day of the new year.

This is a heartwarming, funny story and I can’t wait to read book 2!

[Kyla Lockwood · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it

Absolutely loved this,it was a fun and quirky ready. I also found it to be a page turner. I love the Jubilee sisters and their very define personalities.
Locke, for a demon sounds hot as hell and you cannot but hope for whatever will come of the relationship between him and Clara.
Loved it....cannot wait to read the next book...will we find out more about Hazel? What about Killian? What does the Boss want so badly? FYI this is a stand alone it doesn't leave you hanging it has an ending. Yes,its open for more books but its for the other charcters.

[Allie McCormack · Rating 5 out of 5]

I almost passed this by, because I thought it would be scary (there aren't that many demon romances out there, right?). Instead it was an absolute treat! I loved every minute of it. It was funny, it was charming, it was steamy... just a FUN read! I couldn't put it down until I'd finished the last page, and then I rushed to my computer to order the next book in the series! Really, do yourself a favor and get this book. You'll enjoy it tremendously, I promise!

[TC · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book so much I could hardly put it down to go into work! My actual star rating would be 4.5 stars if I could, since the author did a couple of things I thought could be better, but the overall story and characters were so entertaining that I'm forgiving it.

The book is funny, the banter between the characters was outstanding, the plot was intriguing and different and Locke... well I could gush on about Locke for a while, let's just say he was a very good (although unlikely) hero. All of the characters were likeable though and the author has a few scenes which tease a relationship for a future book that I'm quite excited about.

Again I want to stress that the story was so good I'm overlooking the minor things I didn't like as much, but I will list them here.
-The first two chapters I was a little lost because there was no world-building so I didn't know if demons/ghosts/angels were something everyone was used to or something special. Also there were a lot of characters introduced quickly. But then the book settled down and flowed at a good pace.
-There are some missing/added/wrong words. I will admit I notice those very easily and am easily annoyed by it. Not so very many and the editing overall was fine.
-There are some violent scenes in the book, not super graphic but descriptive enough. This wouldn't be a problem for me (and actually, I can see the author's use of them for plot points) but since the overall tone of the book was so light and funny, they just seemed a little out of place.

It still kept me thoroughly entertained and is a complete story, some steaminess and strong language. Picked up through KU and absolutely worth the read. I will be looking out for the rest of the series.

Available on Kindle Unlimited at time of review.

[Tara Heilman · Rating 5 out of 5]

This has got to be one of the most amazing books I have been given the privilege of reading this year. I know, it's early, but I read a lot. (I easily read at least 3-4 books a day) This is my first from this author and will not be my last. I went through so many emotions. Of course I laughed, it is hysterical. But I also shed a few tears. It had a handful of heartfelt moments, between both the main couple and the sisters, that caught me off guard. In a good way. It was also very unique, like nothing I have come across before. As the first in a series, there is a lot of info kind of thrown at you, but it works. Ms. Balkin has such a way with creating a world to lose yourself in. Locke and Clara, from first look, had no future past lemon bars. However, looks can be deceiving. Demons, ghosts, angels, sweets and Christmas are mixed perfectly and wrapped up with a bow. And the romance, nailed it! A read that any PNR lover would not only enjoy, but quickly become enthralled with. I received an advanced copy and this is my honest opinion. I will am anxiously awaiting book 2.

[Carla · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hunted by an angel

Clara Jubilee has a houseful of ghosts, all her friends who want to be there. Some are slated for heaven, others not. Heaven has decided that she is holding them to earth against their will and has issued an execution order. The ghosts protect her from the cheribs sent to kill her.

Meanwhile in Hell, Locke has read an article about Clara's lemon bars and, being a glut demon, has decided he needs to try them. Locke arrives in time to save her from a cherib.

There are no lemon bars, it is Christmas after all, and Locke takes Clara to Hell to keep her safe until she makes him the lemon bars he craves. Things go sideways from there.

Will Clara get back to earth? Will Locke get his lemon bars? Will the angels kill Clara? Will the ghosts be reaped and sent where they belong?

Interesting story line. Characters you come to care for. Action and laughs. All make this a good read.

[Tabitha · Rating 4 out of 5]

Took me a bit to get into it, but once I did, I loved it. The sense of humor is very matter-of-fact, and the jokes come from the things that the characters think are obvious and don’t warrant explaining—like the way that the demon MMC just randomly comes across cherubim warriors of Heaven and slays them without a second thought, only half-concerned as to why the FMC is being pursued by angels in the first place. Nor is the FMC surprised that the MMC is a demon wandering into her shop demanding out-of-season baked goods, nor that he kinda-sorta kidnaps her to hell to protect her from the aforementioned heavenly host. The book is packed with baking and holiday decorating fun. I love the oblivious demon not realizing he’s fallen in love with his human plaything until long after everyone around him has figured it out. I love the demisexual FMC whose relative inexperience/disinterest is casually accepted by her sex-positive family.

[Colleen Downey · Rating 5 out of 5]

I met this author at a local ish book event. They were fantastic to speak with, I did not buy a physical copy of her book. As she had told me and my friend they were in KU. I read more online , that being said if I do really enjoy a book I have been buying physical copy's so that even if an ebook get removed I will still have it . It is a 5 star for me but I am trying to see if it's more. As I was living the story, I think the overall story is fantastic, that fact most of the issues have all been from a really stupid angle and miss information ( which was a dead give away the whole book ) however the conflict just stops no apologies just like oh your ok now. I will be reading the next books as I really want to know what Hazel is hiding ! And maybe that's also some of the odd lest down as I don't have enough information. Like who was saying Clara was the bad person.... I know that's going to come up but I kind of what to know now 😂.

[SapphireRose26 · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thought this was going to be a quick, cheesy holiday read. I was pleasantly surprised by the depth of the world building and the characters, especially Locke. It was absolutely cheesy, but in a good way. I really enjoyed the story so much, and I look forward to reading the next one at Easter.

Side note to say that the book does need some significant editing, so if that bothers you, just be aware. It did distract from the story at times, when the wrong pronoun was used or when extra words were thrown in that made me pause to figure out what the author was trying to say, but I still loved the story enough not to subtract any stars.

[Courtney K.R · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a quick, joy-filled, heartwarming, and swoon-inducing read! A Christmas Demon For Clara doesn't take itself too seriously. It flickers from bright and silly to heart-wrenching and steamy in one seamless beat, leaving the reader breathless in the best way possible. The romance is a perfect blend of passion and plays that will leave you drooling for more-- and it's all topped with a cherry of tension that satisfies every craving. If you're looking for a book that will leave a smile on your face, this is it. Prepare yourself for a deliciously sweet adventure that will take your heart to unexpected places!

[Lynn_G · Rating 2 out of 5]

Ok if you’re into virginal heroines I guess

Couldn’t finish Clara & Locke’s story. The bit about her being a sexually reticent virgin but then suddenly deciding she wanted to bang Locke only to be interrupted by his hell buddy & his mate was what kills it for me. I guess this was the author’s way of trying to build tension? But it was not very well done, and we really don’t get much insight into Clara’s thought processes, what motivates her, why Locke feels protective of her despite being a demon, etc.

[Ilene G> · Rating 5 out of 5]

A good story with humor.

I enjoyed this story. Lots of humor and steam. Locke is a gluten demon who wants Clara to make him lemon bars. I like Locke, who likes to have control . There are times he realizes he does not always have to control something or someone.

I like Clara's relationship with her sisters. Clara has a good relationship with the ghosts who are in her home.

The Christmas party is good. I like their version of pin the tail on the donkey.

I would like to know more about the worlds in which the characters live. I will be reading the series.

[Jeanne Richardson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the 1st book I've read written by Chloe Alice Balkin; she has done a great job at writing a good book; I can’t wait to read more of her books.

The story line caught my attention at the very beginning and kept me interested throughout the entire book.

I loved the chemistry between the characters.

I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and I’m voluntarily leaving a review.

[Charde Jackson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fun and Happy Read!

Super cute and fun take on angels and demons. Loved that Locke was a glut demon and he was singularly focused on getting lemon bars! Enter super sweet and wholesome Clara who bakes amazing treats and has angels trying to kill her. This was a great afternoon read. Loved their houae and how quirky the sisters were in this book. Definitely recommend that you read this book!

[Dynamyt76 · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fun story

Sometimes you just want to read a fun story that isn't too serious, with just enough plot to keep you interested. This certainly ticks that box.

The characters were very likeable. Locke and Clara were sweet and worked well together. There are some cute steamy scenes with some fun action scenes as well. So glad the other books are already available, as I'm keen to see how the sisters' stories go. Cute and entertaining read.

[Bookie McBookFace · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hilarious Demony Holiday Fun

So, I came across this book randomly and immediately one clicked because, I mean, demons + holidays + bakery = yes, please and thank you. I want to go to there. 😂

It did not disappoint. This is a delightful and quirky holiday story complete with demons who utilize Yelp, rogue angels, and quests for the perfect lemon bars. 😍

[Sandra Lopez · Rating 3 out of 5]

Story of a wholesome, kind woman and a demon from Hell. Not exactly a match made in Heaven. There’s such contrast between the characters, and the story is so quirky with its stylized blend of jolly cheer and gruesome goth. It’s like The Nightmare before Christmas.

Interesting love match, although the details are not always clear. An odd, little Christmas love story.

[Heather_Readsalot · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a quick and fun read. The Jubilee sisters were great and I'm looking forward to reading Eloise's and Hazel's stories. This was Locke and Clara's story.

This is a hard book to categorize...a small town Christmas romance + angels vs. demons battling + ghosts not wanting to cross over + triplets with crazy powers + a glut demon obsessed with desserts (I mean, who isn't?!).

[Rieki Van Den Heuvel · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is Locke and Clara's story. It is a funny story and I like the part where Locke and Clara meet. She knows he is a demon and she can see and talk to ghosts. The story is around Christmas time, and you can feel the Christmas spirit growing bigger and bigger, so is the bond between Locke and Clara.

[Marie-Lyne (Gonewithflynn) · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book wasn't what I expected at all 😂. I thought this would be a short, quick smutty read but there's actual world building and plot, which was much cuter than expected. This book has several chuckle worthy moments and there is spice but the romance is a tad slow burn. I also found the story meandered and lulled a few times.

[Marianne · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a really cute and funny romance. I really enjoyed it! It is unique and inventive, quirky with likeable characters.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Josette Thomas · Rating 5 out of 5]

What will a demon do for love?

Locke is a glut demon just looking to feed his hunger. He does not expect to meet his mate at the sweet shop he gets his treats from. Come along on a journey to help a human and a demon discover what it takes to make a relationship work.

[Gail · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my.

I've never thought a demon would love cakes as much as I!

Does this mean I'm a glut demon 🤔🤔😁

I'm glad he got his lemon bars 😁😁

Great book, fab characters, brill writing!

With a demon I wouldn't mind finding under my Christmas tree 😈😈

[Tora · Rating 4 out of 5]

What did I just read? I'm not really sure, but I liked it! I thoroughly enjoyed myself reading this book, it's got a bit of everything thrown in, it's definitely quirky and different and you kinda just have to go with the flow. I'm off to read the next book in this series!