Review of Hell’s Most Incompetent Demon (Supernatural Suckers, #1)
When I stumbled across Hell’s Most Incompetent Demon by the delightful author name, I couldn’t resist—after all, who could say no to a rom-com featuring a bumbling demon trying to help an endearing librarian find love? The premise was too tantalizing to ignore. As someone who adores tales that blend the supernatural with humor and heartfelt moments, I was eager to dive in, and let me tell you, it was quite the ride!
The story revolves around Ethan, a shy librarian who has long harbored a crush on his co-worker. The tension and angst of this unrequited love come to a head when he learns she’s going on a coffee date with someone else. This moment is the much-needed push for Ethan to take action, leading him to the ridiculous, yet charming, decision to summon Cupid using a book he finds. But instead of the love-struck mythological figure he intended to call, he brings forth Malphas, Hell’s most incompetent demon—whose penchant for rescuing souls instead of corrupting them sets the stage for some delightful chaos.
I adored the interplay between Ethan and Malphas. Their dynamic evolves in a way that is both humorous and touching, even if I wished for more time and depth dedicated to their romance. There’s a spark between them that is hard to resist; however, I found myself craving additional interactions to fully believe in the love blossoming between them. Despite this, the sweetness of their moments together was enough to leave me smiling more often than not.
The writing style flows effortlessly, making it a fast-paced and enjoyable read. The humor hits the right notes, particularly during the outlandish scenarios that arise from Mal’s misunderstood attempts to help Ethan. From accidental transformations to off-the-wall shenanigans that come from having a demon at your side, the comedic threads weave through the story beautifully. Highlights like Ethan’s best friend, Noah, provide an amusing reality check, often nudging Ethan away from Mal’s more questionable efforts.
However, while much of the book delivered joy, there is a particular event regarding Ethan’s attempt to extricate himself from the deal with Mal that left me feeling unsettled. It felt a bit off for Ethan not to be the one calling the shots in that moment, and though I appreciate the character involved had a good moral compass, it still left a sour taste in my mouth—something I hope others might view differently.
In the end, Hell’s Most Incompetent Demon fits the mold of a lighthearted rom-com, complete with the promise of a happy ending, Hellish hijinks, and a little underlying angst. It’s a solid pick for anyone seeking a charming escape filled with magical mayhem and love. Fans of quirky supernatural stories, like those from authors such as T.J. Klune and A.J. Sherwood, will find a lot to love here. Personally, I left the book feeling uplifted, and I can’t wait to see what the author has in store for the next installment!
With a warm thanks to the author for the ARC, I wholeheartedly encourage readers to check out this whimsical tale. If you’re looking for a fun escape, you might just find yourself swept away by Ethan, Mal, and their raucous journey toward love. A solid 3.5 stars, rounding up—because this book truly managed to steal my heart, even while it was busy stealing souls!
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