Two men from different worlds, thrust together by fate.
Demon king and all-around perfect specimen, Claus is the only ruler of the underworld to have stopped an apocalypse. He’s earned a break, and his job in hell can wait for him to explore the pleasures and delights of the human world.
County sheriff and mediocre fisher, Jake lives a quiet existence. His life goals are to protect his town and not end up like his father, whose obsession with the paranormal cost him his life. He’s never had issues keeping his gaze straight until Claus. The charming man explodes into his world, forcing Jake to confront the feelings brewing in his heart.
He has no idea that Claus has a purpose, one that can’t be fulfilled in the human realm. Jake was always more than a notch on his bedpost, but the human’s effortless knack for making Claus feel like more than a demon makes him dread the one-way journey he must eventually take home.
When an enemy demon king attacks, determined to bring about Jake’s painful death, he’s forced into the only pair of arms that have any chance of protecting him. But, as their fight for survival takes them across the country, the two uncover an evil plot that puts all they hold dear in mortal danger.
Diabolical is a paranormal, gay romance spin-off from the Wolves of Royal Paynes series and may be read as a standalone but would be better enjoyed read in order.
Books in the Wolves of World: Wolves of Walker County Truth Hope Faith Love
Wolves of Royal Paynes Hero Ruler Lovers Outlaw Oblivion Diabolical
CLAUS ❤️ As soon as we were introduced to him I just craved his story and definitely enjoyed wasn’t disappointed. Claus was cocky but also so much more than that and it took a certain human who used to think he was straight to show him his humanity. The world Kiki has created in the Wolves of Walker County and the Wolves of Royal Paynes series is growing and just getting more detailed and interesting with every book Kiki writes. This one takes us back to Walker County but also to hell where there are demon kings, lost souls, and so much more!
This is the exciting addition to Kiki Burrelli's Wolves of the World universe. Claus, the demon we met at the end of the Royal Paynes series, has been hanging out in Walker County with Nana and the crew. He flirts with local human sheriff Jake. As a result, when a demon king arrives to hunt down Claus, Jake becomes a target by association. I was really looking forward to Claus's story because he was extremely amusing from the moment we met him. Also, I was interested in learning more about demons. It didn't disappoint on either front. Plus, I liked Jake. His personality was a good contrast with Claus--I liked how Claus would tease him sometimes, and then get growly and possessive at others. Good stuff. This was a radical departure from the previous 2 series in this world (which, btw, YOU MUST READ FIRST). Neither of the two main character are wolf shifters. There isn't mpreg. And--to be perfectly frank--there are a bunch of elements at the end thrown at me that I didn't totally understand. For example, a certain mystery about Jake's family wasn't solved to my satisfaction (I won't give you further details in the name of spoilers). Readers who haven't read "Oblivion" might be extra confused because they don't have background on what's going on with Dog and the wraiths. Anyone who has read pretty much all of Kiki Burrelli's work (guilty as charged) will know that the author can write a multi-series saga and yet still let each series be independent enough to understand on their own more or less. This time that didn't totally happen, which left me a little confused by the announcement of another series about the Soul Warriors. I really thought the next book would be about Dante. Anyway, as a reader I was left confused about what's happening next with the series and wishing that certain plot points had been wrapped up better. Ultimately, most of the book is very entertaining, well-written, sexy, and romantic. I liked Claus and Jake, so read it for them. **I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review**
Claus demon king of missed opportunities?? More like the demon king of humor.
First I liked the story but Claus making everything a joke well wasn't funny. I liked Jake as a character, enjoyed being with the Walkers again and Nana. Looking forward for Dog's story.
This story started out a bit chaotically for someone who hasn't read any of the other books in this series, but I'm glad I stuck with it because Claus and Jake's romance was incredible. Despite not having any clue about what was going on in the beginning, something about Claus made me so curious. To all outside appearances, he was a heartless demon biding his time before returning home to Hell, but around Jake I saw an entirely different side of him. Sure, their romance started out as an irresistible desire to get each other into bed, but it quickly morphed into so much more. Whether it was the dangerous enemies coming for Claus that brought them closer together or their fiercely protective instincts for each other, the truth is that Claus and Jake wanted much more than a no-strings-attached fling. The intensity of their connection, the deliciously primal moments of passion they shared, and the shiver-inducing possessiveness they had for each other was enthralling, and I quickly became addicted to their unique brand of love. Though the progression of their romance was enough to keep me captivated, once I actually figured out what was going on I really enjoyed the feuding demons storyline as well. Maybe it's because I was unfamiliar with most of the characters, but I found the plotline exciting and unexpected, with satisfying twists and turns that led to a happy ending I didn't think would be possible for a demon and his very human lover. I enjoyed this book so much that I'm actually going to go back and catch up on all the stories that I missed, which is something I almost never do!
**I voluntarily read an ARC of this book. This review expresses my honest thoughts and opinions.
This was an interesting spin on it. It has an unusual take of the hierarchy of hell and how demon kings are made, which was quite fascinating. It is however a spin-off from another series, which mean there were a lot of character come-backs and overlapping, which made me a bit dizzy at times. I mean it is nice and all to see beyond the whole HAE part, but then again, I wanted to focus on this particular couple not the others. It might be read as a standalone, but reading previous books might be a good idea so it is not so confusing to encounter all these reoccurring characters all over the place.
I liked the story and I liked the main characters. Claus was a real hoot and his banter with Jake was funny. They were a cute couple and I liked them going on their adventures. However, I felt like there were too many plot lines going. The one with Jake's father, the one with the escaped demons, the one with "what the hell is happening to hell" and the bits and pieces about the wolf pack. It was a lot. It was very packed and sometimes the things just didn't fit for me. I still enjoyed it, because it was entertaining enough, mostly due to Claus and his awesome personality, I just wish it was a bit more straightforward about one thing not a bunch of things at the same time. It was still a nice, fun read though and I might check out the rest of the stories about the wolves later.
**I was provided an ARC of this book from the GRR for an honest review**
The images created by Ms. Burrelli swirled in my mind as the twists of angst, danger, suspense and emotional ups and downs took this reader in and out of hell as Sheriff Jake Maslow searches for his father's soul and the significance of his father's suspicious death. Jake has always believed himself weak and unloved as his father mourned his other son's death. Now along comes Claus, the demon of missed opportunities, to the Walker's where he meets up with Jake who gives him the brush-off. Claus has returned from hell after annihilating Thalasso and just wanted a little down time for fun. His ego is battered by the rejection but only makes Claus more determined to be with Jake (in the physical sense only) but inside Claus' abyss he had a silver of a heart that his wraiths protected with a vengeance. As a second demon, Canker by name, enters the earthly realm bent on revenge guilt by association throws Jake under the bus of this situation. There is an undeniable drawn btw Jake and Claus and thus the spinning plot begins. All of the Walker County and Wolves of Payne make appearances as supporting characters. The beauty of the soul tree at the ending is remarkably beautiful. And I can't forget to mention Dante, demon king of vanity, who adds much to this story. I hope to see a story about Dante in the future. And the ending holds a promise of more to come involving Dog in Pride: Wolves of Resurrection Road.
When I finished the Wolves of Royal Paynes series I was sad. Not only because I enjoyed them so much, but I also wanted to learn more about Claus and being a demon king. Cue me seeing this book pop up and squealing like a little girl! Claus was even better than I thought. He's super funny on top of being such a fun and seemingly carefree demon. He's used to getting what he wants, and what he wants is the sheriff. One look at Jake and Claus knows he has to have him. I sure as hell bet that he didn't expect that leading to a demon falling in love.
I enjoyed the story line and the bits we get of what Hell is like. It was an interesting take. We also see quite a bit of the Walkers which was a great surprise, yet I should have known since Jake is the sheriff of Walkerton. The humor and snark is always fun in this universe and the steam wasn't bad either. I don't know if this is going to be an entire spinoff series, or just a one off, but I would like to officially petition for Dante's story please!! He is just a such a loveable demon.
" Idle hands are the devil's playground."
" I've been to the devils playground, and it isn't two empty palms doing nothing."
Ok wow. I have love both series that came before this book, the Wolves of Walker County and the Wolves of Royal Paynes. If you haven’t read those two series first, parts of this book won’t make sense. Don’t worry though. Those are both good series. This story is a direct follow up. Claus is the demon king who came through the portal and Jake is the sheriff of Walker County. These two couldn’t be more different. Jake doesn’t know who or what to believe when he suddenly and shockingly discovers that the supernatural exists, but that is the least of his worries as a demon is actively trying to kill him to get to Claus. I loved this story. Jake has to learn to trust again and Claus struggles with feeling more human and less like a demon king. I also really enjoyed seeing the guys of the Walker pack again. The next book should be really cool too, explaining where some missing characters have been. I look forward to it. If you are a fan of this author’s books, don’t miss this one!
Can a demon king find love with a human? Hell yes!
I love the Royal Paynes books! While this book features Claus from Royal Paynes, it takes place mostly with the Walker pack. The cousins are here, along with Nana. I felt right at home. Demon king Claus wants Sheriff Jake from the moment he sees him. Jake is drawn to Claus, too. Finding out there is a demon out to kill him, and that shifters exist, shatters his world. But as the danger increases, the bond between them grows deeper. Even the minions of Hell can't pull them apart. Mysteries are solved, secrets are revealed, old friends turn up, good souls are saved, and a good demon king will gain a heart & win his wings. You are gonna love this book! I can't wait for the next book! This is the newest series. Please, read the Wolves of Royal Paynes, and the Wolves of Walker County. You will be glad you did. This book contains adult themes and language, mm sex and is intended for mature readers only.
Jake is the local sheriff. His brother went missing when they were young and his father went crazy, ranting about paranormals. When Jake finds out his father wasn't crazy after all, he's hurt and angry that those he thought of as friends had been lying to him for years.
Claus is a demon who has the ability to move from hell to earth. The feather that allows this won't last forever, so he's enjoying time on earth for now. When a demon wants to hurt him by hurting Jake, he must protect Jake at all costs.
This is a well written story with no notable errors in punctuation, grammar or spelling. The chemistry between Jake and Claus is good but at times it felt slow and dragged out. The supporting characters are from previous books and I had trouble keeping up with all of them. This is definitely not a standalone, as it builds on characters from other books. It was a day well spent reading.
The author notes suggest that Diabolical can be read as a standalone, however, I would definitely suggest that both Wolves of Walker County series and Wolves of Royal Paynes series are read to fully appreciate this book.
We met Demon King Claus in Wolves of Royal Paynes book 4, Outlaw, and immediate loved him!! I was so happy to get his story. County Sheriff Jake has been a side character in the Wolves of Walker County series, always in the background, trying to solve the mystery that is the Walker family.
The pairing between Claus and Jake was unexpected, but worked well. This book is more paranormal and less wolfy than other books in both series. It is well written and takes the reader deep into the world of supernatural of hell and demons. The author introduces us to another character who I'm hoping get his story told.
I have been eagerly awaiting this book since we first got the first reveal of the cover. I knew it would be amazing and it truly was. Over the years, this author has grown and her writing is just exceptional now. Few mpreg authors can weave a plot more intricate and well done than Kiki.
This book was perfection from start to finish. Claus is a spectacular character, so watching his development was a true treat for the reader. I really enjoyed seeing Jake find his way into this side of Walkerton after getting to know him through all the prior books. The details in the places and people described were stellar. I could picture Kiki’s version of hell like I was watching a movie.
Claus is a demon king who stopped an apocalypse. Now he plans on enjoying some time on earth as a reward. He sets his sight on the Sheriff, Jake. Jake has no clue what Claus is but soon learns when a rival demon king attacks. The only arms safe belong to Claus and now he must confront his feelings for the demon.
Claus was a demon king who would actually do good things. Jake wanted to protect his town. He had no idea that Claus wanted that as well. They both realized that being together was more than one night stand but they must fight in order for that to become a reality. I did not read the other books in the series but in no way did it diminish my enjoyment of Diabolical. In fact, it made me eager for more from this author. It is an amazing thing!!
If you've read any of the previous series, you may remember Jake. and Claus (he brother of Quinn from Wolves of Walker County). Nice to see them have their own HEA.
As the county sheriff, Jake is charged with protecting the community. Being human may make that job a little harder against the supernatural. Ironically, it is a demon, who places Jake in trouble.
Claus has an interesting personality. As a demon, you wouldn't expect to end up liking the guy, but alas... Because of a mistake, he is now all in to protect Jake.
Lots of twists and turns. Not being able to guess what was coming next, made this book that much more exciting. Nice integration of details from a previous series.
**I received this ARC via Gay Romance Reviews for my honest feedback.**
I really enjoyed Claus and Jake’s story. Once again readers are treated to the world where the paranormal exists and love is something worth fighting for. This is a great adventure and a wonderful addition to the world of the Wolves of Royal Paynes. Claus and Jake are both strong characters and work well together. The sparks are there right from the start and it was nice to see the road that they take to find their happy ever after. The story is full of strong characters and moves along at a good pace. I enjoyed all the interaction and banter between everyone showing the love and strong friendships that they have.
Jake is the county sheriff and human. We’ve seen snippets of him in past Wolves of Walker County stories. Claus is a Demon king and Quinn’s brother from Wolves of Royal Paynes series. I freakin love Claus!! His attitude is the best. Claus seemed so heartless, only out for himself, but he wanted Jake. When Jakes life is put in danger because of Claus he steps up and protects him. This was an amazing integration with the Wolves of Walker County. Loved how we got to see the progression of all the couples. Overall fantastic!! I cannot wait for Dog and Quinn’s wraiths!! I’m voluntarily reviewing from an advanced copy that I received.
I absolutely loved it. Kiki pulled a little switcheroo with the title, making you think it's set at the Royal Paynes hotel but it's actually set mostly in Walkerton. The title gave away Claus as a main character but I purposefully didn't read any blurbs so I would be surprised when I learned who Claus's love interest was. I was both surprised and delighted. The Walker County and Royal Paynes series are in my favorites list and I can't wait to read what comes next.
Jake is the local sheriff. His brother went missing when they were young and his father went crazy or so he thought. Claus is a demon who has the ability to move from hell to earth. When Jake finds out his father wasn't crazy after all, he's hurt and angry that those he thought of as friends had been lying to him for years. When a demon wants to hurt him by hurting Jake, he must protect Jake at all cost. This story was well written and the chemistry between Jake and Claus is good.
I received an ARC of this book for my honest review.
Claus and Jake’s story was interesting. A demon and a human, so very different, yet meant to be together.
This was a spin-off set in the Royal Payne’s and Walker County universe. The history is already there so not much backstory needed. However, reading this book by itself might be a bit confusing because of all the characters involved.
The author imbues her characters with a lot of snark and an unusual amount hot sexiness. I liked the characters and am looking forward to more books in the series.
I wasnt sure how this story would go. But there was a constant ebb and flow to the story.
Claus and Jake are so unlikely a couple that you are routing for them to get together. Jake has sooo little self confidence yet he wants to he the protecter of his town. Claus the demon king, meets his mate and is willing to do anything to provide for him.
I hope we get a story for Dante and that theres a bit more to Jake and Claus' story to come.
I cant wait to see what dog and the wraiths have been up to.
Jake was the sheriff in Walker County, and he was used to hearing strange sounds coming from Walker land. His father believed in the supernatural it drove him to his death. Paying a visit to Walker land he meets Claus. Claus a demon king from hell was on earth after helping his half-brother. Claus felt an attraction to Jake during their first meeting, Jake shot him down confessing he was straight. Never say never because things happen to change Jake's mind. I enjoyed their journey.
Are the roads to hell still paved with good intentions? Claus is on a short term vacation from Hell. He plans on kicking up his heels and enjoying himself. Then he meets Sheriff Jake. Demon Claus, has a purpose but Jake affects him enough to make him slow his roll. Jake is surprised he finds Claus, perfect. Claus, doesn't use his power to take advantage, he just enjoys his moments. How does Jake handle Claus' reveal? Do they become Team Claus/Jake to vanquish the baddies? Good story. Jake and Claus are adorable, considering. I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I didn’t know what to expect from the Claus story but it was amazing. Claus was such a great character and I loved seeing Jake again. Seeing everyone in the packs again was good, too. And Dante. I can’t wait until they get him out of hell. I wonder who he will end up with. Someone we already know? A new character? And then seeing Dog and the wraiths at the end. Having read Oblivion, I thought for sure they had told Faust and Quin what happened, but it seems they didn’t? Can’t wait for the next series!
A definite improvement from where we were left with the Wolves before now and I'm glad I came back for more. I didn't have too much hope because the other stories just kept getting more and more convoluted and dissatisfying, but this story was all I hoped for when I read the synopsis.
The MC's were engaging and amusing as much as they were sometimes frustrating. I liked them individually and enjoyed them together as well. While not super deep, it wasn't a cheesy sweet story either so it kind of had enough balance to be worth the read. 3.5 stars.
I was so happy that Claus get his happiness. Jake is so perfect for him and the way they interact is so sweet and entertaining that will warm your heart. The story is full of unexpected dangers, adrenaline and action that confers the book a dangerous edge. The characters will have to face many hardships and struggling to achieve the happiness they were dreaming about but didn't know if they deserve it.
Claus, half brother of Quinlan of the Royal Payne pack, and Demon King of Regrets, takes one look at the sheriff of Walkerton Island, Jake, and falls into instant lust. Convincing the man to let him into his life is complicated when another Demon, Canker, sets out to kill him. Keeping Jake alive is going to be difficult. And when he develops feelings for the human, he'll fight hell itself to keep him alive. Sometimes fun, sometimes serious. Always engaging. And fast moving.
I was very taken with Claus and Jake’s story and enjoyed reading it. The blurb said it’s a standalone and it can definitely be read on its own, but there are references that will make more since if you’re read the other series. Claus has such an irreverent humor and is an awesome character as are all of the other characters. Funny, exciting and action filled are just a few of the words I would use to describe this book.
I received an advanced copy of this book and this is my honest review.
Wow! All I can say is.... I wasn't ready! Kiki Burrelli knocked it out of the park. The book was amazing and it had everything you could want! Great writing, strong emotional characters, characters from previous stories engaged in the current story in ways that make sense, action driven with a compelling story. Claus and Jake's story is a killer and I loved it! I read an advanced copy and this is my unbiased review!
I voluntarily read an ARC for this book. It was great to see that Jake finally got his story - even if it was not one that was expected. You can't help but love Claus and how under his rough, brash, confident exterior and great age his still unsure about his place in the world. This book just proves how powerful and wonderful love truly is. It was also great to see back characters from both series of Wolves of the Worlds. Can't wait for Kiki's next book
I’ve been looking forward to reading Claus’s story from the moment he made his appearance. He was cocky but there was so much more to him and Jake unlocked every part of him.
Fantastic book with a few surprises along the way.
“I voluntarily read this book. All opinions stated are solely my own and no one else's*