Skip to main content

Member Reviews

So excited for this book!! I am loving this whole series! All the characters are great and lovable. Can't wait for all the rest and the deluxe editions are look so great, they will look so beautiful on the shelf

Was this review helpful?

I think Meph and Iris might be my favorite couple yet.

They’re relatable in a way that hit. Iris is guarded, snarky, and totally closed off—until she and Meph strike up a little deal to be… frenemies? Or better yet, frenemies with benefits.

Meph has always been the one I was most drawn to—cocky, charming, covered in tattoos, and hiding his trauma behind a sharp wit and an even sharper smile. So to learn that his demon form is considered the worst? That twist had me intrigued

And Iris’s growth? Absolute perfection. It’s not instant. It builds slowly and then—boom. I can’t say more without ruining the fun, but trust me, you’ll feel it.

Enemies-to-lovers? Check.
Adorable hellhound pet? Double check. (Loved Faust!)
Monstrous spice with real emotional depth? Triple check.

This one’s bloody, sexy, and unexpectedly tender. If you love monster spice, emotional depth, and two broken people who claw their way toward something real—this one’s for you!

Was this review helpful?

I absolutely love this whole series and was over the moon to find out Meph and Iris have got their own book.
The banter in this book has me giggling the whole way through.
I loved seeing Mephs background story and seeing why he is the way he is.
I love paranormal romance books and this series ticks all the boxes.
These books are technically interconnected standalone but I would definitely recommend reading them in order to get the full benefit.
If you want paranormal romances with banter and comedy definitely pick up these books

Was this review helpful?

Demon x witch smut with a plot?? Sign me upppp, this was so fun to read, I read it in less than 2 days

Was this review helpful?

Iris is feeling like an outsider in her own life. Riddled with guilt from secrets exposed, past behaviour towards and demons in her life, and hiding their existence from her coven - she's nothing short of withdrawn. The only one that seems to draw out a spark in her is Meph, and the feelings mutual. Unaware what to do about it, they decide to strike up a casual hookup arrangement built on chemistry and mutual aggravation.

*****

This was my first book in the series despite it being book three. It can absolutely be read as a standalone, but I did feel like I was missing out on a lot of depth of relationships that would have come from previous novels, so I would absolutely recommend reading them first.

That being said, this novel dove right into the world and the atmosphere without holding back. We were thrown into the cast of characters and not only got their chemistry, but their simmering animosity cloaked in desire. It was fast-paced, interesting, and full of spice and deep conversations that kept the book flowing.

I loved how Meph had an artistic side that he slowly grew through. Having Jacqui as a support was the perfect character to really bring him into his own and give him the maternal care he'd never had. He was able to open up, even if slowly, and that allowed him to blossom personally and professionally over time.

Iris was one of my favourite characters. Prickly, full of self-loathing and hiding such a soft and genuine core that Meph would sometimes get peeks of. Together they were perfect! I loved seeing Irish embrace Meph's demonic side despite them both being so afraid of feeling anything for the longest time.

Also, as a Canadian myself, I loved that this book was set in both Quebec and British Columbia!

*****

Thank you to Hambright PR for the Advanced Reader Copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Was this review helpful?

This is a 4.25 for me and I had such a great time reading this book! I was really curious how these two characters were going to come together as they seemed like such oil and water from previous interactions in the other books. What I mean by that is both characters are bogged down from some real trauma in their own way and are dealing with it in their own ways that aren't the healthiest.

For Meph the torture and treatment he received in Hell left a mark in its own way and tries to play it off with a non-serious jokester attitude and just allows everyone to treat him and think him as a screw up. But like all the demons he has turned that buried down pain and funneled it into some type of art form and for Meph that is building sculptures mostly depicting the tortures he went through.

For Iris she has the trauma of knowing and witnessing a demon killing her parents and going on the run with her sister when they were 18 to a new country and living under the fear of someday being found and what could happen to them all while keeping everything a secret from her sister so that she could have peace. She justifiably hates demons and is just filled with so much pent-up anger, fear, and even resentment that she hasn't always made the best decisions especially when it came to men which just built up her walls even higher. Then to find out her sister is with a demon and his brothers are also demons and she is just expected to let all is just fueling her anger even more and at times she just lashes out usually at Meph who she does feel an attraction for but that just seems to make her angrier.

But like everyone says it is a fine line between anger and passion and eventually the two give into their passion and become a sort of friends with benefits (working on the friend's portion) because they recognize they are not emotionally in the place to have a real relationship with each other. Now for some this would be a backwards way of going about a relationship but for these two characters it made sense, and it allowed them to eventually start to work past their issues because they are being intimate with each other and start to open up to each other and become friends. I enjoyed their progression from taking swipes at each other, to essentially hate fucking, to friend fucking to realizing their feelings where yes there were some missteps but that eventually they get to a really strong place in their relationship where they truly have let their guards down and laid everything about themselves bare and have a really strong relationship. I just again really enjoyed that progression and it made sense for these characters.

For the plot I loved the story, and everything made sense for the story and the characters involved and the pacing was great. Now I think this is technically a standalone I am not sure I personally would recommend reading the series in order because there are some other plot points going on in the background from previous books as well as there are easter eggs in this book that I think will play out in future books. Had a blast reading this book and can't wait to see what happens in the next book.

Overall, these are two damaged characters that were deserving of love and were standing in their own way they eventually found their way past their issues to find love and acceptance not just with each other but also their rag tag family of demons, witches, angels and everything in between.


This book is about Meph who jokester amongst his demon brothers is but behind his grins and jokes is a lot of pain that he uses as a mask. But lately it's been harder and harder to keep up the facade especially with Iris around taking jabs at him all the time. Iris who is the twin sister to his brothers GF and she is just vicious with her anger towards him and his demon brothers. But still, something about her just calls to and soothes the darkness deep within him. But he is not going to have some blue haired witch try and save him from that darkness because there is no way to save him after everything he has done. But Meph is not the only dealing with pain and darkness as Iris is haunted with her own past where her parents were murdered by demons to keep her and her sister safe and hidden from his kind. So, you can imagine it's been a little hard for her to accept the demons that are now in her life. But with Meph who with his devilish smile and jokester attitude and sexy as sin tattooed body it's hard to not give into her attraction. But she is done with relationships and commitments especially after her last toxic relationship she is not looking for any more Mr. damaged. At least that was the plan until their denied desire gets the best of them one night where they end up kissing and it's off to the races as they give into their passions with the understanding that this is just a friend with benefits situation as they are not good for one another. But eventually all good things have to come to an end especially when enemy from both their pasts come knocking and they are forced to confront not just their pain but also the feelings they have been suppressing in order to make it out alive of the situation they are in. But that will mean Meph exposing all his darkness to avoid being swallowed by it while Iris overcoming her own fears. If she is unable to overcome those fears and embrace darkness in him or she will lose him forever.

I received an ARC Copy from netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

Was this review helpful?

I did not realize this book was in a series but can absolutely be read as a standalone which is amazing! It makes wanting to read the first two books more exciting. I found this to be a fun read even though Iris is not my favorite. She has great character growth through the book which I greatly appreciated. Even though it was great as a standalone, I'd recommend others to start with the first two before jumping into this one. I think it would help with understanding the character dynamics and relationships more.

Was this review helpful?

I've been wanting to read Meph's story in the Hell Bent series and it didn't disappoint. Each of the demons have had a rough past, but learning about Meph's history tugged at my heartstrings. I always have a soft spot for the men with tortured souls in stories. Both Meph and Iris had a lot of personal growth in this book. There is of course great chemistry between them, even though they tried to resist it, and a lot of banter. There were a few times I just wanted to shake Iris though.

I love how this group of demons have formed their own family and found a way to accept each other's...quirks. I'm looking forward to reading Raum and Belial's stories. Thank you Netgalley and Kensington Publishing for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Was this review helpful?

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Demon with Benefits - Hell Bent #3
by Aurora Ascher

This paranormal romance follows Iris, a blood born witch, and Meph, a rogue demon on their journey to self-acceptance and love. It has everything you could possibly need: grumpy/sunshine, excellent banter, seriously spicy scenes, found family vibes, and a bit of mystery/suspense. It's a fast-paced and easy read that had me both laughing and tearing up.

I actually own books one and two of this series, but I haven't read them yet. At this point, my TBR is practically a library. 🤣 A quick internet search advised me that I could read this as a stand-alone and not be too lost. I'm super glad I went ahead and read this one. Now I know that I have two more good reads waiting for me when I'm ready!

I received an ARC of this book, but these opinions are my own. I would like to thank the author, Aurora Ascher, Kensington Books, and Net Galley for allowing me the privilege of reading her work. ❤️

Was this review helpful?

This book (and series) is sinfully good. The demons have heart and everyone has emotional baggage and trauma that they work through to find true love. I think Meph and Iris are my favorite couple so far in the series because Meph has the golden retriever vibes but also he deserved to find happiness. Iris took a little time to be likable but once she got out of her own way she was much better. The spice was spicy and there was tons of emotion and plot.

Was this review helpful?

This book was as entertaining as the previous two. I enjoyed that it followed two misunderstood characters. Iris and Meph were misunderstood in different ways. Meph was regarded as the easygoing, lighthearted one. While Iris was regarded as the serious, mean one. They both used their facades as defense mechanisms. I liked that they were able to lower their defenses to each other. I recommend this book to fantasy romance fans who are looking for a new couple to root for.

Was this review helpful?

This book was such a fun read! I've really been enjoying this series. I loved books one and two but three has by far been my favorite! It’s got the perfect mix of humor, spice, and supernatural charm. Characters are lovable and delightfully chaotic! The pacing keeps things moving, and the romance is just the right level of steamy without taking it to the extreme, though I am a dark romance reader so to me this was pretty mild. I loved ever bit of this book and definitely think others should read it!

Was this review helpful?

Demon with Benefits picks up right where we left off in book 2, diving back into the chaotic and irresistible world of demons who have escaped from hell—and the humans (or not-so-humans) they can’t seem to stay away from. This installment focuses on Meph and Iris, whose snarky, tension-filled dynamic has been brewing since book two. Their enemies-to-lovers arc really hits its stride here, fueled by biting banter, clashing ideals, and undeniable chemistry. The friction between them is electric, and watching that slow-burn shift into something deeper was completely satisfying.

What really stood out to me was the emotional growth both characters undergo. Meph reveals a much more complex and vulnerable side through his artwork, giving us a glimpse beneath his cocky exterior. Iris, meanwhile, is on her own path of growth—learning how to confront her fears, question her biases, and ultimately open herself up to a world she once rejected. Their journeys are messy, heartfelt, and surprisingly tender. If you've been loving the mix of sass, spice, and supernatural tension in this series, book three is where it all pays off.

Was this review helpful?

Iris is a hard pill to swallow. But worry not, she will grow up and grow on you. While beautiful Meph is pulling all the stops and doing things just right.
I thought this was going to be just another YA book, but boy, was I wrong!!! The characters are thought out and well developed. All the demon boys are fun to read, see how they live, and banter amongst themselves. Iris and Meph are so grown up and are dealing with past traumas and emotional issues, and Iris remains a witch while Meph is what he is, a demon.
I will go back to read the previous books and I look forward to the new book!
Thank you, Netgalley and Kensington Publishing, for this ARC. All opinions are entirely my own.

Was this review helpful?

First, I want to say thank you so much to @hambright_pr and @aurora.ascher.author for the chance to read this early—I was screaming when it landed in my mailbox!

This book was devilishly good 😈 from start to finish. Aurora Ascher does not miss! Meph is the perfect combo of broody and broken (yes, I fell hard), and Iris? That girl—sorry, witch—is fierce, loyal, and absolutely ride-or-die. Their chemistry was off the charts. Their banter, the healing, and the action scenes were chef’s kiss. And let’s not forget the spice… 🌶️🌶️🌶️ HOT. This one had me questioning motives of different characters and trying to figure things out. Even though this is a series and flows really well if its read together in order, you really don't have to as there is a lot of background info given to help you get caught up and understand side characters.

Also… who wouldn’t want a cute little hellhound as a pet?! I just love Faust 🥰
Aurora Ascher nailed it again, and I already can’t wait for the next book in the series!

Was this review helpful?

Rate: 4.25!
Aurora Ascher showcases her exceptional writing skills, crafting a narrative that is both captivating and effortless to read. I devoured the book in one sitting, fully immersed in the story, and am eager for the next book.

Demon With Benefits, is the third installment in the Hell Bent series, it’s a paranormal romance that seamlessly blends humor and emotional depth.

The story follows Meph, a witty yet emotionally guarded demon. Iris, a witch with her own share of troubles. Their undeniable chemistry and engaging 'enemies-to-lovers' dynamic make for a captivating read. The story is imaginative world-building, fast-paced, and has relatable characters. Iris's tenacity and emotional growth are particularly noteworthy, while Meph's transformation from a traumatized artist to a vulnerable individual is both gradual and fulfilling.

I received this ARC copy from NetGalley and I am leaving an honest review.

Was this review helpful?

A fun easy read with lots of spice.

There was a decent plot with Meph and Iris and the drama that comes with a demon and a witch fighting the underworld. Meph is a Chandler type character that uses humour to hide his troubles. Where Iris also has her issues she's trying to fight.

There's no slow burn here, they are intimate at about 15-20% in and then we follow their friends with benefits drama.

The plot is essentially Meph being captured and Lily is also taken. Lily has to convince Meph in his demon form not to devour her soul and to turn on his master.

There are lots of little side plots which clearly interlink with other books and more to come. But you don't need to have read any of these to enjoy this book.

There is a lot of spice in this book. So if you're looking for a deeper plot book this isn't it. But all in all an enjoyable, easy, fun read.

Was this review helpful?

Every book in this series tops the last. This installment was definitely spicier and hilarious, love Meph & Iris. Anyone who likes paranormal romance will fall for these adorable demons.

Was this review helpful?

Another great demon story. While I think the over arching story of the Hell Bent series is being sidelined to include more spice, I still think this series is such a fun smutty read. I’m anxious to read the next story and see if we get closer to an epic finale.

Was this review helpful?

Meph was always destined to be my favorite Demon in this series — I mean, full-body tattoos and golden retriever energy? Come on, how could he not be?! But what really surprised me was the spark that lit up between him and Iris. 🔥

Iris is the first love interest who’s NOT chill about having demons all up in her personal life. After a decade of hiding herself and her twin from the Demon who killed their parents, she’s understandably suspicious. She’s trying to give these Demon rebels a chance, but Meph? He pushes all her buttons.

Meph’s nonchalant, devil-may-care vibe had me cracking up. It makes him very straightforward and enthusiastic during the spice scenes (like bossy, but in a good way) 🥵 Yet beneath all the banter and heat, there’s real emotional depth. Neither of them want to really open up, but just feeling more “seen” by the other person is transformative. If you love a “save-the-bad-boy” arc, Meph’s tortured past with deliver the heart ache you crave.

One of my favorite details? The way he treated their friend’s mom like his own because she encouraged his darker artistic side and made him feel seen. Sweet, sweet Meph 🥹

READ THESE IN ORDER because the demon political plot is thickening and I’m curious as to where it goes. It’s reminding me of “Good Omens” while incorporating incredible romantic relationships.

Was this review helpful?