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Dallying with Demons #1
Dating a Demon
Brandon had gone his whole life without experiencing the kind of connection that he’d always wanted. So when his best friend offers to set him up on a blind date, he decides it can’t hurt to try. He never expected Callum. He’s bigger, taller, and more dominant, and exactly what Brandon had always hoped for. He's also a demon.
Callum didn’t usually date humans. It was a rule he and his friends had followed since the integration. But one night with Brandon wasn’t enough for him. And there’s more to their connection than what happens in bed. Something he’d only ever heard about, and never dreamed would be his.
But when the outside world starts poking at their budding relationship, they both need to decide if the feelings stirring in their chest are worth the fight. Or if this was always meant to be one night.
Shy giants, Sexy Demons, Brandon finally isn’t the biggest guy in the room, experimenting, flirting, pet names, Brandon gets to be the little spoon, mates, sassy oracles know too much, jealous best friends, brothers are annoying, Callum makes them regret it, cuddles, sixty nines, adorable fluff, a little bloodshed, and lots of spice
Callum didn’t usually date humans. It was a rule he and his friends had followed since the integration. But one night with Brandon wasn’t enough for him. And there’s more to their connection than what happens in bed. Something he’d only ever heard about, and never dreamed would be his.
But when the outside world starts poking at their budding relationship, they both need to decide if the feelings stirring in their chest are worth the fight. Or if this was always meant to be one night.
Shy giants, Sexy Demons, Brandon finally isn’t the biggest guy in the room, experimenting, flirting, pet names, Brandon gets to be the little spoon, mates, sassy oracles know too much, jealous best friends, brothers are annoying, Callum makes them regret it, cuddles, sixty nines, adorable fluff, a little bloodshed, and lots of spice
196 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 6, 2024
303 people are currently reading
335 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 108 reviews
March 13, 2024
Ooey gooey warm heart!!! I loved it!
Brandon is a big boy that craves to be dominated. But, all his hook up’s think he’s the dominant one. So, his friend sets him up with a 7 foot demon.
I LOVED THE COMMUNICATION. No games.
my favorite part was Callum calling Brandon “little” he turned to goo 🤭
Spicy parts were hot, esp the “claiming”.
Can’t wait for Felix’s book! 4/2
“Say good night to your friend. You’re coming home with me.”
“I know you’re shy, baby, but you deserve to know how much you’re loved. Especially by me.”
🥺
Brandon is a big boy that craves to be dominated. But, all his hook up’s think he’s the dominant one. So, his friend sets him up with a 7 foot demon.
I LOVED THE COMMUNICATION. No games.
my favorite part was Callum calling Brandon “little” he turned to goo 🤭
Spicy parts were hot, esp the “claiming”.
Can’t wait for Felix’s book! 4/2
“Say good night to your friend. You’re coming home with me.”
“I know you’re shy, baby, but you deserve to know how much you’re loved. Especially by me.”
🥺
May 18, 2024
3.5/5
The good: Cast of characters. I’m excited to meet the other paranormals in Callum’s friend group. Loved Callum’s family. 🥰
The bad: Lots of telling, not enough showing. Too much sex at the beginning, I understand that was the whole reason they met but I wish it was spread out with the rest of the stuff cos I was bored enough to skim some of the sex because it was so frequent 🙈
Because of the telling instead of showing it didn’t seem like they spent any quality time together other than when they had sex so the progression of their feelings didn’t feel organic to me.
Brandon has lots of hook ups, he never gets to bottom but he apparently keeps taking twinks back to his place thinking it’ll be different ?
Isn’t interested in anything other than casual sex because he’s never been able to find anyone to fulfill his needs, of being a bottom/dominated.
Callum apparently doesn’t hook up often but apparently the day he’s supposed to have a blind date he wakes up with his hook up arguing with his roommate which turns out to enjoy hooking up even more than our MCs cos Felix apparently has a schedule of getting a new conquest Mon-Sat 🙄
I would’ve liked this a lot better if it didn’t feel SO FOCUSED on the sex but I did enjoy Callum being a caretaker and Brandon being needy for his affection, caretaking / hurt /comfort are my crack 🙈
Also,
"I believe humans use the term soul mates. With paranormals, it's a bond that goes beyond simple romantic relationships.
We're drawn to our mates and once we've found our person, that bond lasts forever.
• Things like adultery don't exist for a mated pair, because you are built for only one per-son. You won't even see any other options."
AMAZING. Give me that for all fated mates stories 🥰 BUT ALSO, How do they become a ‘mated pair’ ? There was no special bonding or ceremony, we get a proposal during the epilogue but I was expecting more!
The good: Cast of characters. I’m excited to meet the other paranormals in Callum’s friend group. Loved Callum’s family. 🥰
The bad: Lots of telling, not enough showing. Too much sex at the beginning, I understand that was the whole reason they met but I wish it was spread out with the rest of the stuff cos I was bored enough to skim some of the sex because it was so frequent 🙈
Because of the telling instead of showing it didn’t seem like they spent any quality time together other than when they had sex so the progression of their feelings didn’t feel organic to me.
Brandon has lots of hook ups, he never gets to bottom but he apparently keeps taking twinks back to his place thinking it’ll be different ?
Isn’t interested in anything other than casual sex because he’s never been able to find anyone to fulfill his needs, of being a bottom/dominated.
Callum apparently doesn’t hook up often but apparently the day he’s supposed to have a blind date he wakes up with his hook up arguing with his roommate which turns out to enjoy hooking up even more than our MCs cos Felix apparently has a schedule of getting a new conquest Mon-Sat 🙄
I would’ve liked this a lot better if it didn’t feel SO FOCUSED on the sex but I did enjoy Callum being a caretaker and Brandon being needy for his affection, caretaking / hurt /comfort are my crack 🙈
Also,
"I believe humans use the term soul mates. With paranormals, it's a bond that goes beyond simple romantic relationships.
We're drawn to our mates and once we've found our person, that bond lasts forever.
• Things like adultery don't exist for a mated pair, because you are built for only one per-son. You won't even see any other options."
AMAZING. Give me that for all fated mates stories 🥰 BUT ALSO, How do they become a ‘mated pair’ ? There was no special bonding or ceremony, we get a proposal during the epilogue but I was expecting more!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 7, 2024
DNF @ 14%.
It’s giving ‘meh’. I like the premise, but the execution and the characters are just not doing it for me.
Kudos to the author for including TWs in the front matter and giving them a page of their own.
It’s giving ‘meh’. I like the premise, but the execution and the characters are just not doing it for me.
Kudos to the author for including TWs in the front matter and giving them a page of their own.
July 26, 2025
Me ha gustado. Ha sido un libro corto pero intenso.
Recomendado.
Recomendado.
October 15, 2024
Awww, this was sweet! I ended up skipping some of the later sex scenes because they just got excessive, and I wanted to get back to the actual story 😅 Definitely a pleasant surprise by a new-to-me author though, and I'm looking forward to binging the whole series!
did-not-finish
January 11, 2025DNF at 22%.
It's fine but I don't care.
It's fine but I don't care.
July 25, 2024
**4.5 Stars**
This was a new to me author so there were no expectations going in and I have to say I was more than pleasantly surprised! So surprised I quickly went to Amazon and purchased the next 2 books in the series. Here's hoping they work as well or better than this one at entertaining me and allowing me to immerse myself in a fantasy world for a few hours a day.
As for this story... I'm in love. In love with the MCs, the world, the friends and found family! This had just the right amount of drama, sweetness mix. I'm not a fan of a lot of sex, I want more story than sex and even though Brandon and Callum couldn't keep their hands off each other the amount in this story worked. I wasn't left feeling like the sex was just added for sex sake. So expect spicy but spicy that truly belongs. I can't wait to start Taming a Demon.
● Paranormal/Fantasy
● Demon/human pairing
● Magic
● Really sweet
● Drama
● A big guy that wants to be cuddled🥰
● A bigger guy that loves being the cuddler 😍
● Spicy but spicy that belongs
● Soul mates
● Great friends
● A loving family & found family
● One family member that isn't accepting
● Loved the MCs
● Very satisfying and happy HEA
● Trigger warning Homophobia and an assault
February 3, 2024
This was a fun, quick and enjoyable read full of heart, humor an steam. there is a lot of talk and actions revolving around misconceptions, bigotry, homophobia and personal insecurities. These are things that both of the MCs deal with and they are stronger for dealing with it all together. Callum and Brandon are cute together, and I hope we get to see more of them as the series progressed. I wish that there were maybe a little more world building as well as more relationship building that happens outside of bedroom type activities.
August 18, 2025
August 2025
Kindle edition
This one got darker than I expected. What started off as a blind date and size insecurity turned into shitty-ish family and homophobic work colleagues. The work situation was predictable and I saw the danger coming, the family situation was better than expected and I'm glad that he only lost one of them. Glad the friends and Cal's parents were the opposite. There's a bit of sweetness in there but mostly worries and the battle for acceptance.
Kindle edition
This one got darker than I expected. What started off as a blind date and size insecurity turned into shitty-ish family and homophobic work colleagues. The work situation was predictable and I saw the danger coming, the family situation was better than expected and I'm glad that he only lost one of them. Glad the friends and Cal's parents were the opposite. There's a bit of sweetness in there but mostly worries and the battle for acceptance.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 5, 2025
Paranormal/ demon/ BDSM/ hurt/comfort/ MM/ HEA
Trigger warning: assault/ homophobia/ violence/ hate crimes/ trauma
This was so good! Both MCs were well rounded and they complimented each other perfectly. This was emotional and spicy and I really liked all of the side characters as well.
Trigger warning: assault/ homophobia/ violence/ hate crimes/ trauma
This was so good! Both MCs were well rounded and they complimented each other perfectly. This was emotional and spicy and I really liked all of the side characters as well.
May 15, 2024
Big, strong Brandon meets even bigger and stronger Callum. Which is great, since Brandon longs to be on the receiving end of the loving, but all his former hookups have denied taking charge, expecting him to be the domineering one because of his size.
So, being manhandled by a 7 ft tall red, domineering demon is a dream come true for this awkward, partly closeted construction worker.
Callum is a bit pissy and quick to take offence, both on behalf of himself and of Brandon, but given how well he treated our boy is was easy to forgive him.
Next up: Taming a Demon, about Callum's slutty friend Felix. He spent a lot of this book teasing both of our MCs (he and Callum were roommates before Brandon,) so I'm looking forward to him getting his comeuppance :)
So, being manhandled by a 7 ft tall red, domineering demon is a dream come true for this awkward, partly closeted construction worker.
Callum is a bit pissy and quick to take offence, both on behalf of himself and of Brandon, but given how well he treated our boy is was easy to forgive him.
Next up: Taming a Demon, about Callum's slutty friend Felix. He spent a lot of this book teasing both of our MCs (he and Callum were roommates before Brandon,) so I'm looking forward to him getting his comeuppance :)
February 7, 2024
Promising beginning for a new author. Some parts took me a while to get into and understand where the author was headed, but by the finish, it was wrapped up nicely. Leaving the reader curious to see how this series will be headed in the future.
The dynamic of the couple just took me longer than I like for a book under 200 pages. But as I said, once they clicked for me, it worked well. Especially for a debut novel well done, and I will try more from this author in the future to see how they grow into their voice and writing style.
The dynamic of the couple just took me longer than I like for a book under 200 pages. But as I said, once they clicked for me, it worked well. Especially for a debut novel well done, and I will try more from this author in the future to see how they grow into their voice and writing style.
May 30, 2025
Fun PNR romance with some deeper themes. The story touches on issues of prejudice and bigotry along with strong sexy romance.
The focus is on the heroes; human Brandon is a big guy, and all his hookups expect him to top and take charge, when all he wants is to submit and be thrown around and fucked. His bestie Isla (she's great!) sets him up on a blind date...with a demon. Brandon's never really hung out with the paranormals that now populate the world, but he's open to it... and wow, demons are BIG. YESSSSS.
Callum is anti-dating-humans due to some crap actions attempted against him and his friends, lures who intended only to beat on paranormals (or gay guys, or both). So when his blind date turns out to be one, he fully intends to walk away...but...Brandon turns those pleading, needy eyes on him, and he's kind of a goner. Just one night can't hurt? 😁
Ha ha ha you know what happens. Once is never enough, and these two are so fascinated and turned on by each other and compatible they're both in it from the start. Super hot sexy times, but also fun getting-to-know-you dating ensues. Also...Callum has a very talented tail. 😈🔥
The human-demon dilemma is there; both sides have issues to work through and unaccepting or very skeptical people in their lives. Brandon's dad is a homophobic and anti-demon prick, and that doesn't change, but seeing Brandon and Callum work through Brandon's issues with his brothers is rewarding and satisfying, and his mom's a queen. Callum's family is far more open and delighted to see Callum finally with someone important to him, and they live in the Other Realm (forget what it's actually called?! Something like that!).
They face Brandon coming out at work/in the rest of his life, and that goes extremely poorly at one point but winds up bringing them even closer together overall, and yes...the baddies get what's coming to them. Too bad it was off page...! Allies support Brandon and Callum, and all is well in the end.
I enjoyed it a lot!
I didn't like the book opening with the morning after one of Callum's rando hookups, because he brings Brandon home with him THAT NIGHT, and that never sits well for me. I'm like...are the sheets clean...? It later says they are, but, when/why did he think to change them?! And still...he was JUST with someone there, it's...blech just not for me kinda interfered with my enjoyment. Whatevs. No one else will care. Callum's roommate is a total manho, and they've slept with a lot of the same people just because it's hard to run into someone Felix hasn't been with (which was kinda funny but still just not my Thing). But Felix has been badly burned by humans so the crossover-sex-partners of course isn't an issue when Callum falls for one. Having to tell his friends he's dating a human and serious about it...heh heh well he can't avoid it for long!
HEA, develops into a fated-mates sensibility, which I love! Human-demon pairing, big guy needs someone bigger to top him (first time bottoming), paranormals are out in the open. No OM drama; the guy in the opening is a nonentity and never reappears. No cheating or others in any way, just two guys being a great match and falling harder every day. TWs for homophobia, including a vicious assault. Highly recommended for good old-fashioned PNR fun, but mind the TWs.
The focus is on the heroes; human Brandon is a big guy, and all his hookups expect him to top and take charge, when all he wants is to submit and be thrown around and fucked. His bestie Isla (she's great!) sets him up on a blind date...with a demon. Brandon's never really hung out with the paranormals that now populate the world, but he's open to it... and wow, demons are BIG. YESSSSS.
Callum is anti-dating-humans due to some crap actions attempted against him and his friends, lures who intended only to beat on paranormals (or gay guys, or both). So when his blind date turns out to be one, he fully intends to walk away...but...Brandon turns those pleading, needy eyes on him, and he's kind of a goner. Just one night can't hurt? 😁
Ha ha ha you know what happens. Once is never enough, and these two are so fascinated and turned on by each other and compatible they're both in it from the start. Super hot sexy times, but also fun getting-to-know-you dating ensues. Also...Callum has a very talented tail. 😈🔥
The human-demon dilemma is there; both sides have issues to work through and unaccepting or very skeptical people in their lives. Brandon's dad is a homophobic and anti-demon prick, and that doesn't change, but seeing Brandon and Callum work through Brandon's issues with his brothers is rewarding and satisfying, and his mom's a queen. Callum's family is far more open and delighted to see Callum finally with someone important to him, and they live in the Other Realm (forget what it's actually called?! Something like that!).
They face Brandon coming out at work/in the rest of his life, and that goes extremely poorly at one point but winds up bringing them even closer together overall, and yes...the baddies get what's coming to them. Too bad it was off page...! Allies support Brandon and Callum, and all is well in the end.
I enjoyed it a lot!
I didn't like the book opening with the morning after one of Callum's rando hookups, because he brings Brandon home with him THAT NIGHT, and that never sits well for me. I'm like...are the sheets clean...? It later says they are, but, when/why did he think to change them?! And still...he was JUST with someone there, it's...blech just not for me kinda interfered with my enjoyment. Whatevs. No one else will care. Callum's roommate is a total manho, and they've slept with a lot of the same people just because it's hard to run into someone Felix hasn't been with (which was kinda funny but still just not my Thing). But Felix has been badly burned by humans so the crossover-sex-partners of course isn't an issue when Callum falls for one. Having to tell his friends he's dating a human and serious about it...heh heh well he can't avoid it for long!
HEA, develops into a fated-mates sensibility, which I love! Human-demon pairing, big guy needs someone bigger to top him (first time bottoming), paranormals are out in the open. No OM drama; the guy in the opening is a nonentity and never reappears. No cheating or others in any way, just two guys being a great match and falling harder every day. TWs for homophobia, including a vicious assault. Highly recommended for good old-fashioned PNR fun, but mind the TWs.
January 28, 2024
3.5/5 This book came together for me by the end. I liked how things were resolved and was left feeling hopeful for the rest of this new series. I wasn’t totally sure in the beginning about some of Brandon and Callum’s relationship dynamic. I enjoyed that Brandon demonstrated that physical body type doesn’t determine sexual preferences. It was wonderful to see the way that he responded so well to Callum giving him what he needed. He clearly enjoyed his time with Callum, and Callum clearly enjoyed caring for him. (I also appreciated the additional knowledge that Brandon would do little things to care for Callum, though we don’t see many of them.)
The two of them seem fine with their relationship and its dynamic, but for me, it seemed like Callum occasionally took the “in control” approach a little far. I may be a little over sensitive about it, but as an example, Brandon is uncomfortable about something but doesn’t want to talk about it. Callum approaches this as “I hate dishonesty. Tell me or we’re done.” I absolutely believe in communication in a relationship, and given Brandon’s insecurities, the demand might have been all that actually got the communication going, but it’s the *way* that Callum approached it sometimes, like Brandon couldn’t want to keep anything private or have some time to process things that made me a bit uncomfortable sometimes. I would have liked to see a bit more dating and less sex to help even out their dynamic.
Similarly, when it came to Brandon coming out at work, it felt most of the time like Callum was putting pressure on him to do it in a really uncool way. I agree 100% that Brandon should have the right to be out and proud, but that’s unfortunately not the reality in all spaces, as we saw here. It ended up feeling a lot like Brandon did it for Callum more than himself. I’m glad that it ultimately led to better things, but it was really close to tragic.
I liked the way things ultimately worked out with Brandon’s family, I loved the visit to the Other Realm, and I liked Isla a lot. I found Felix pretty annoying, but I trust that we’ll get to know him better in book 2. We only saw a little of Callum’s friend group here, but they seem like they’ll be fun to learn more about.
I received an ARC from the author. This is my honest review.
The two of them seem fine with their relationship and its dynamic, but for me, it seemed like Callum occasionally took the “in control” approach a little far. I may be a little over sensitive about it, but as an example, Brandon is uncomfortable about something but doesn’t want to talk about it. Callum approaches this as “I hate dishonesty. Tell me or we’re done.” I absolutely believe in communication in a relationship, and given Brandon’s insecurities, the demand might have been all that actually got the communication going, but it’s the *way* that Callum approached it sometimes, like Brandon couldn’t want to keep anything private or have some time to process things that made me a bit uncomfortable sometimes. I would have liked to see a bit more dating and less sex to help even out their dynamic.
Similarly, when it came to Brandon coming out at work, it felt most of the time like Callum was putting pressure on him to do it in a really uncool way. I agree 100% that Brandon should have the right to be out and proud, but that’s unfortunately not the reality in all spaces, as we saw here. It ended up feeling a lot like Brandon did it for Callum more than himself. I’m glad that it ultimately led to better things, but it was really close to tragic.
I liked the way things ultimately worked out with Brandon’s family, I loved the visit to the Other Realm, and I liked Isla a lot. I found Felix pretty annoying, but I trust that we’ll get to know him better in book 2. We only saw a little of Callum’s friend group here, but they seem like they’ll be fun to learn more about.
I received an ARC from the author. This is my honest review.
June 12, 2024
old post reposted
I was recently introduced to Amy Padilla and her Dallying with Demons series. The first book is "Dating a Demon."
["Brandon had gone his whole life without experiencing the kind of connection that he’d always wanted. So when his best friend offers to set him up on a blind date, he decides it can’t hurt to try. He never expected Callum. He’s bigger, taller, and more dominant, and exactly what Brandon had always hoped for. He's also a demon.
Callum didn’t usually date humans. It was a rule he and his friends had followed since the integration. But one night with Brandon wasn’t enough for him. And there’s more to their connection than what happens in bed. Something he’d only ever heard about, and never dreamed would be his.
But when the outside world starts poking at their budding relationship, they both need to decide if the feelings stirring in their chest are worth the fight. Or if this was always meant to be one night."]
And the bonus tags (because they're arguable better than the blurb itself): ["shy giants, Sexy Demons, Brandon finally isn’t the biggest guy in the room, experimenting, flirting, pet names, Brandon gets to be the little spoon, mates, sassy oracles know too much, jealous best friends, brothers are annoying, Callum makes them regret it, cuddles, sixty nines, adorable fluff, a little bloodshed, and lots of spice."]
How can a book be this cute and adorable be as spicy as it was?!?! D: Holy hell, this book was fantastic.
Neither of them wanted something serious, and yet, here we are. Neither of them were sure about crossing species' lines, and yet, here we are. Neither of them wanted out of the honeymoon bubble, and yet, here we are.
I would have looooved to have lingered more on the mates things, learned more about how that works and what that entails and what it all means, but overall, this book was a homerun in my opinion. A great debut for Amy!!
Trigger Warnings: homophobia, species-phobia, assault, violence, and more
#datingademon #tamingademon #claimingademon #lovingademon #savingademon #dallyingwithdemons #dallyingwithdemonsseries #amypadilla #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks
I was recently introduced to Amy Padilla and her Dallying with Demons series. The first book is "Dating a Demon."
["Brandon had gone his whole life without experiencing the kind of connection that he’d always wanted. So when his best friend offers to set him up on a blind date, he decides it can’t hurt to try. He never expected Callum. He’s bigger, taller, and more dominant, and exactly what Brandon had always hoped for. He's also a demon.
Callum didn’t usually date humans. It was a rule he and his friends had followed since the integration. But one night with Brandon wasn’t enough for him. And there’s more to their connection than what happens in bed. Something he’d only ever heard about, and never dreamed would be his.
But when the outside world starts poking at their budding relationship, they both need to decide if the feelings stirring in their chest are worth the fight. Or if this was always meant to be one night."]
And the bonus tags (because they're arguable better than the blurb itself): ["shy giants, Sexy Demons, Brandon finally isn’t the biggest guy in the room, experimenting, flirting, pet names, Brandon gets to be the little spoon, mates, sassy oracles know too much, jealous best friends, brothers are annoying, Callum makes them regret it, cuddles, sixty nines, adorable fluff, a little bloodshed, and lots of spice."]
How can a book be this cute and adorable be as spicy as it was?!?! D: Holy hell, this book was fantastic.
Neither of them wanted something serious, and yet, here we are. Neither of them were sure about crossing species' lines, and yet, here we are. Neither of them wanted out of the honeymoon bubble, and yet, here we are.
I would have looooved to have lingered more on the mates things, learned more about how that works and what that entails and what it all means, but overall, this book was a homerun in my opinion. A great debut for Amy!!
Trigger Warnings: homophobia, species-phobia, assault, violence, and more
#datingademon #tamingademon #claimingademon #lovingademon #savingademon #dallyingwithdemons #dallyingwithdemonsseries #amypadilla #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks
April 12, 2025
'Meeting this guy may have officially broken my brain.'
I adored this book, it hit a lot of favourite themes for me and while heavy on the spice it's really sweet too! Has a lot of heart and emotional hitting moments, especially towards the end.
Callum & Brandon are stunning together, the instant chemistry and well suited to each others needs. I adored their dynamic, all of the hurt/comfort vibes and adoration - Brandon finally getting what his wanted for so long.
Callum's love for who he truly is and wanting to support him, their heat is off the charts but it's the little details that grabbed my heart. The lingering looks, holding hands and seeking affection they fit together perfectly.
The first date in the market, meeting each others parents and friends - the found family vibes are strong here. I adored Isla and the demons from the glimpses we got of them, Felix is so fun and they all are intriguing I may try their stories some time.
Honestly the second half stunned me with what happens to Brandon, it was horrific and tragic in how his fears come to life. The way he seeks out and falls into Callum's arms, the heartache on both sides. I'm glad the guys get what they deserve though and are not simply allowed to get away with it.
Also Brandon's fathers actions, but I'm glad that there was positives in his brother's once able to communicate and clear things up with Callum's support. Get another perspective and that they all had things to work on, build towards better relationships in future as shown in the end which was lovely.
It led to these two finally being completely free and open to be together, having been themselves at last with those they truly care for. The ending is so sweet ✨
I adored this book, it hit a lot of favourite themes for me and while heavy on the spice it's really sweet too! Has a lot of heart and emotional hitting moments, especially towards the end.
Callum & Brandon are stunning together, the instant chemistry and well suited to each others needs. I adored their dynamic, all of the hurt/comfort vibes and adoration - Brandon finally getting what his wanted for so long.
Callum's love for who he truly is and wanting to support him, their heat is off the charts but it's the little details that grabbed my heart. The lingering looks, holding hands and seeking affection they fit together perfectly.
The first date in the market, meeting each others parents and friends - the found family vibes are strong here. I adored Isla and the demons from the glimpses we got of them, Felix is so fun and they all are intriguing I may try their stories some time.
Honestly the second half stunned me with what happens to Brandon, it was horrific and tragic in how his fears come to life. The way he seeks out and falls into Callum's arms, the heartache on both sides. I'm glad the guys get what they deserve though and are not simply allowed to get away with it.
Also Brandon's fathers actions, but I'm glad that there was positives in his brother's once able to communicate and clear things up with Callum's support. Get another perspective and that they all had things to work on, build towards better relationships in future as shown in the end which was lovely.
It led to these two finally being completely free and open to be together, having been themselves at last with those they truly care for. The ending is so sweet ✨
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 27, 2024
This was so good!!!
This was a new to author and I am so excited I tried this book! I absolutely loved this and I am beyond excited for the next book in the series. This was such a sweet story. Both characters were sweethearts and had both a rough time for different reasons but were so willing to take a leap and try something deeper than just hooking up. My heart bled for Brandon. He just wanted someone who understood him and didn’t judge him for who he was. Callum was perfect for him not just because they were a great match but because he didn’t judge Brandon for his fears. Seeing Brandon find his way forward, with the calm support of Callum, was so good. He found the people who really mattered, the people who really cared and would stick by him and he found family. Callum was such an interesting character. He was just as vulnerable as Brandon but in a different way. I liked that he wasn’t macho about his vulnerabilities either. It’s nice to see a character who is dominant written in a way that doesn’t suggest they’re invulnerable or incapable of expressing emotions. The story arc was dealt with really well. It felt organic and was well paced. I also loved the secondary characters. Isla was awesome and Felix was hilarious (I am so excited for his book - I feel like there’s a lot more to Felix than the jokey brother attitude he’s got going on). I’m looking forward so much to getting to learn more about Callum’s friends and the demon realm!
This was a new to author and I am so excited I tried this book! I absolutely loved this and I am beyond excited for the next book in the series. This was such a sweet story. Both characters were sweethearts and had both a rough time for different reasons but were so willing to take a leap and try something deeper than just hooking up. My heart bled for Brandon. He just wanted someone who understood him and didn’t judge him for who he was. Callum was perfect for him not just because they were a great match but because he didn’t judge Brandon for his fears. Seeing Brandon find his way forward, with the calm support of Callum, was so good. He found the people who really mattered, the people who really cared and would stick by him and he found family. Callum was such an interesting character. He was just as vulnerable as Brandon but in a different way. I liked that he wasn’t macho about his vulnerabilities either. It’s nice to see a character who is dominant written in a way that doesn’t suggest they’re invulnerable or incapable of expressing emotions. The story arc was dealt with really well. It felt organic and was well paced. I also loved the secondary characters. Isla was awesome and Felix was hilarious (I am so excited for his book - I feel like there’s a lot more to Felix than the jokey brother attitude he’s got going on). I’m looking forward so much to getting to learn more about Callum’s friends and the demon realm!
February 7, 2024
Brandon is used to being the biggest guy in the room. This has always prevented him from having the type of relationship he's always wanted. Brandon's friend sets him up on a blind date in hopes that he will finally meet someone who will be his perfect match. That night, Brandon meets Callum, a tall, handsome, dominant demon that is everything he's always wanted. Callum doesn't date humans, but after one night with Brandon, he's hooked. As Brandon and Callum's relationship turns serious, they begin to get pushback from those around them. They have to decide if what they have was truly meant to last or if they were really only meant to be a one night fling.
Dating A Demon is Amy Padilla's debut novel, and it is phenomenal. Brandon is a man who has never found his perfect partner because all he wants is another man who will just hold him and take care of him, but his huge size says he should be the dominant one. Callum is a demon who doesn't date humans, but for some reason, he is addicted to Brandon, and he can't stop taking care of him. These two men shouldn't work, but they fit together so perfectly. Callum treats Brandon with such tender care and affection. There are so many heart-melting moments in this book. I couldn't stop reading because the relationship between these two men was just so beautiful. I can't wait to read Felix's story!
Dating A Demon is Amy Padilla's debut novel, and it is phenomenal. Brandon is a man who has never found his perfect partner because all he wants is another man who will just hold him and take care of him, but his huge size says he should be the dominant one. Callum is a demon who doesn't date humans, but for some reason, he is addicted to Brandon, and he can't stop taking care of him. These two men shouldn't work, but they fit together so perfectly. Callum treats Brandon with such tender care and affection. There are so many heart-melting moments in this book. I couldn't stop reading because the relationship between these two men was just so beautiful. I can't wait to read Felix's story!
February 12, 2024
This is the first book that I have read by this author and it certainly won't be the last! I absolutely loved this book. This is book 1 in the Dallying with Demons series. This is the story of Brandon and Callum. Brandon is a human and works in construction. He is built large and looks intimidating. In reality, he is warm and kind. He is looking for someone to take charge for him but he hasn't been successful. That is why he agrees to the blind date arranged by his best friend. Callum is a large, dominant, Demon. He doesn't date humans. But he changes his mind about having a one night stand with Brandon. He finds it adorable how shy and overwhelmed he becomes around Callum. The two happily agree to a one night stand. The problem becomes how to change the rules as they both want more. This is their story. I really enjoyed this book. I loved the interaction between Callum and Brandon. How sweet they were to each other and the honesty they showed to each other. How while Callum was being aggressive and forceful, he still took care to not hurt Brandon. Both Brandon's and Callum's best friends brought fun to the story. The book is very well written and easy to read. You will not be disappointed. I am looking forward to the next book in this series.
I received an advanced review copy from the author for free and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received an advanced review copy from the author for free and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 6, 2024
Amy Padilla is a new-to-me author, I don't think I've read anything from this author previously. Upon reading this book, I found that I quite enjoy her writing style. The way she wrote Callum and Brandon's character was done quite well, and I love the world she created! The concept of paranormals merging with the human world is something I found quite cool.
Even though Callum is a demon and everyone assumes he's a monster, he is anything but that. He cares deeply for his friends and family, and he especially cares for Brandon. I really enjoyed the dynamic between Callum and Brandon, I thought their relationship was written really well.
All of the side characters were great! They each added their own contribution to the overall story, which I really liked and enjoyed. I wish we got to know what exactly happened to the humans who were so cruel to Brandon, but alas, we are left to wonder about that.
Overall I found the book quite good, I do wish that there weren't as many steamy scenes as there are, but I do understand why there were so many. Considering these two met on the premise of being a hookup I get why this is a high steam story, I just personally enjoy when there's more story and less steam. But that's just a personal preference!
Even though Callum is a demon and everyone assumes he's a monster, he is anything but that. He cares deeply for his friends and family, and he especially cares for Brandon. I really enjoyed the dynamic between Callum and Brandon, I thought their relationship was written really well.
All of the side characters were great! They each added their own contribution to the overall story, which I really liked and enjoyed. I wish we got to know what exactly happened to the humans who were so cruel to Brandon, but alas, we are left to wonder about that.
Overall I found the book quite good, I do wish that there weren't as many steamy scenes as there are, but I do understand why there were so many. Considering these two met on the premise of being a hookup I get why this is a high steam story, I just personally enjoy when there's more story and less steam. But that's just a personal preference!
August 20, 2025
The book is short but cute and fluffy, although the beginning sounded bit rushed.. And some parts in the story sounded a bit ridiculous... It was a nice read. Not my usual, not because of the setting but because of the writing...
This story is about callum a demon who has a no humans dating Rule. And Brandon a tall human who is shy and sweet and just wants cuddles and a partner he can be himself , he wants to be the one who submits and someone who tales care of him. When they booth meet it's kinda cute and a bit awkward because with only one look at callum Brandon is a blubbering mess of shyness and is besotted with him ,the same goes for callum , he finds Brandon so cute and makes him want to protect him and just be with him, their love is like instant tbh. Sexual chemistry is good. Also since Brandon is super tall for a human, callum is like way taller than him and he likes that. It's cute when callum calls him "little one " lol.
Would I read again? Idk Iike a great story and plot development, not only the romance, I love the story being all magic beings and other realms tbh, but this only touched the surface ,the world building could have been better.
Maybe I'll read it again, who knows but for now it served it's purpose. To entertain and make me smile with the fluffiness.
This story is about callum a demon who has a no humans dating Rule. And Brandon a tall human who is shy and sweet and just wants cuddles and a partner he can be himself , he wants to be the one who submits and someone who tales care of him. When they booth meet it's kinda cute and a bit awkward because with only one look at callum Brandon is a blubbering mess of shyness and is besotted with him ,the same goes for callum , he finds Brandon so cute and makes him want to protect him and just be with him, their love is like instant tbh. Sexual chemistry is good. Also since Brandon is super tall for a human, callum is like way taller than him and he likes that. It's cute when callum calls him "little one " lol.
Would I read again? Idk Iike a great story and plot development, not only the romance, I love the story being all magic beings and other realms tbh, but this only touched the surface ,the world building could have been better.
Maybe I'll read it again, who knows but for now it served it's purpose. To entertain and make me smile with the fluffiness.
January 21, 2024
"I was wrong when I said that I wasn't going to meet my soulmate on a blind date. He wasn't what I was expecting, but he's everything I never knew I needed..."
As a freshman novel from Padilla, I was impressed overall with this book. The writing is smooth and easy to read. The MCs are both interesting and relatable. Their chemistry and relationship is insta-attraction vs personal trauma + growth and development in a supportive place. Both MCs have a great found family friends network which I enjoyed!
Given the page count and the trope of 'blind date' human x demon romance I was not expecting the book to get quite as heavy with the themes of acceptance and trauma. Definitely worth checking the CW/TW before diving in if you're just hoping for open door demon/human spice!
Looking forward to seeing the series develop and seeing Padilla grow in the author craft.
MM Human x Demon
Open door spice
Friends as found family
Low to mid level relationship angst, Higher angst from outside sources
CW: On page homophobia (from family and co-workers)
CW: On page physical violence in form of a hate crime
CW: On page homophobic slur
*ARC review*
As a freshman novel from Padilla, I was impressed overall with this book. The writing is smooth and easy to read. The MCs are both interesting and relatable. Their chemistry and relationship is insta-attraction vs personal trauma + growth and development in a supportive place. Both MCs have a great found family friends network which I enjoyed!
Given the page count and the trope of 'blind date' human x demon romance I was not expecting the book to get quite as heavy with the themes of acceptance and trauma. Definitely worth checking the CW/TW before diving in if you're just hoping for open door demon/human spice!
Looking forward to seeing the series develop and seeing Padilla grow in the author craft.
MM Human x Demon
Open door spice
Friends as found family
Low to mid level relationship angst, Higher angst from outside sources
CW: On page homophobia (from family and co-workers)
CW: On page physical violence in form of a hate crime
CW: On page homophobic slur
*ARC review*
February 7, 2024
Thank you for the ARC read, I voluntarily give this book an honest review.
Really curious, how Felix has been going to the paranormal bars and not ran into the people he used that fib on? Brandon just about malted goo on the floor at one look at Callum. Who asks for complete honesty but how far can you true what is supposed to be a causal thing?
Meeting Brandon had Callum breaking the no human rule that was put in place to keep the kinkster at bay. As a demon Callum fails To see why Brandon is so reluctant to ask for what he was seeking in a relationship.
Humans are so weird, why does everything as to be placed in a stereotype. But it's not just the humans that are hypocrite it seems. Which leads to the negativity that brings on the hurtful event. Wow. Just wow the nerves on Brandon's family to lay that guilty trip just feels like a boost to their own ego but damme if that scene didn't pack a shocker.
Really curious, how Felix has been going to the paranormal bars and not ran into the people he used that fib on? Brandon just about malted goo on the floor at one look at Callum. Who asks for complete honesty but how far can you true what is supposed to be a causal thing?
Meeting Brandon had Callum breaking the no human rule that was put in place to keep the kinkster at bay. As a demon Callum fails To see why Brandon is so reluctant to ask for what he was seeking in a relationship.
Humans are so weird, why does everything as to be placed in a stereotype. But it's not just the humans that are hypocrite it seems. Which leads to the negativity that brings on the hurtful event. Wow. Just wow the nerves on Brandon's family to lay that guilty trip just feels like a boost to their own ego but damme if that scene didn't pack a shocker.
February 9, 2024
Steamy and sweet debut novel
For a debut novel, this flowed well right from the start and had me hooked by the end of the first chapter. Amy's writing was very easy to read and I was easily able to picture both Brandon and Callum from her descriptions. I loved how distinct her characters were, with sweet and insecure Brandon, fierce and caring Isla, confident and adoring Callum and flighty and flirty Felix. They were a pleasure to spend time with.
Brandon stole my heart from the beginning, desperately wanting something he never thought he'd be lucky enough to have and then not believing he deserved it when it was within his grasp. Both Callum and I were charmed by him and his adorable blushes.
The world-building was very good and I loved the Other Realm and Callum's family. Brandon's family? Not so much, apart from his lovely mum, as Amy intended.
I thoroughly enjoyed this high heat book, and I'm almost gleeful that Felix is going to meet his match in the next book.
For a debut novel, this flowed well right from the start and had me hooked by the end of the first chapter. Amy's writing was very easy to read and I was easily able to picture both Brandon and Callum from her descriptions. I loved how distinct her characters were, with sweet and insecure Brandon, fierce and caring Isla, confident and adoring Callum and flighty and flirty Felix. They were a pleasure to spend time with.
Brandon stole my heart from the beginning, desperately wanting something he never thought he'd be lucky enough to have and then not believing he deserved it when it was within his grasp. Both Callum and I were charmed by him and his adorable blushes.
The world-building was very good and I loved the Other Realm and Callum's family. Brandon's family? Not so much, apart from his lovely mum, as Amy intended.
I thoroughly enjoyed this high heat book, and I'm almost gleeful that Felix is going to meet his match in the next book.
July 26, 2024
DATING A DEMON was a quick read with high heat and likable characters but overall it was simple and not a book I'll remember forever. I liked the idea of the integrated world where paranormal beings are known to humans but this ultimately didn't feel like a PNR read. Callum is supposed to be a demon but for most of the book he felt like a regular human man. His more demon aspects only really came into play or were mentioned during the sex scenes. In some ways it felt like the demon side of the story wasn't even needed and it could have just been left at the storyline surrounding Brandon's struggles with his family and his fears over coming out at work. Brandon's sexuality was more a point of contention than him dating a demon.
Content Warning: homophobic parent; on page assault after MC is outed at work
Content Warning: homophobic parent; on page assault after MC is outed at work
February 5, 2025
Amo cuando los libros parecen sencillos pero realmente no lo son.
Aquí tenemos la historia de Brandon, un ser humano grande que está un poco desesperado porque no ha encontrado una pareja sexual qué lo satisfaga, ya que por su tamaño todas sus parejas lo encasillan como activo y no quieren invertir los roles, su amiga Isa le sugiere probar algo nuevo, una pareja que no sea humano y allí conoce a Callum, un demonio que está más qué encantado de cubrir la necesidad de Brandon.
Sin embargo, el tema central del libro son las inseguridades de Brandon, ya que por su orientación sexual se ha aislado de su familia y se esconde en el trabajo, y vive su vida prácticamente aislado, así que conocer a Callum le cambia la vida por completo, ya que lo ayudó a salir de ese círculo de miseria en el que él sólito se encerró. La verdad no esperaba mucho y me sorprendió para bien.
Aquí tenemos la historia de Brandon, un ser humano grande que está un poco desesperado porque no ha encontrado una pareja sexual qué lo satisfaga, ya que por su tamaño todas sus parejas lo encasillan como activo y no quieren invertir los roles, su amiga Isa le sugiere probar algo nuevo, una pareja que no sea humano y allí conoce a Callum, un demonio que está más qué encantado de cubrir la necesidad de Brandon.
Sin embargo, el tema central del libro son las inseguridades de Brandon, ya que por su orientación sexual se ha aislado de su familia y se esconde en el trabajo, y vive su vida prácticamente aislado, así que conocer a Callum le cambia la vida por completo, ya que lo ayudó a salir de ese círculo de miseria en el que él sólito se encerró. La verdad no esperaba mucho y me sorprendió para bien.
August 7, 2025
My reviews are my own. If you liked this book, I’m glad you enjoyed it. This is merely my opinion, so let's keep it courteous.
I loved Callum, but hated the other MC, too much of a whimp for my taste. I also don't get the need to share everything with everyone...but that is more of a "me" thing. I don't share the need to let people know when I yawn and why. It was ok overall, and I'm glad the bigots got punished. I wish that would happen IRL. I disliked the whole caveman scene at the end, thought. This was the second time in the book that they used sex as a solution to a problem, and that is a big no-no for me. Also, just because a being is not human, they don't need to act like an animal. If that is going to be the case, then don't humanize them to begin with.
On to my next adventure, Happy Readings!!!
I loved Callum, but hated the other MC, too much of a whimp for my taste. I also don't get the need to share everything with everyone...but that is more of a "me" thing. I don't share the need to let people know when I yawn and why. It was ok overall, and I'm glad the bigots got punished. I wish that would happen IRL. I disliked the whole caveman scene at the end, thought. This was the second time in the book that they used sex as a solution to a problem, and that is a big no-no for me. Also, just because a being is not human, they don't need to act like an animal. If that is going to be the case, then don't humanize them to begin with.
On to my next adventure, Happy Readings!!!
August 31, 2025
📖 BOOK REVIEW 📖
𝓓𝓪𝓽𝓲𝓷𝓰 𝓪 𝓓𝓮𝓶𝓸𝓷 𝓫𝔂 𝓐𝓶𝔂 𝓟𝓪𝓭𝓲𝓵𝓵𝓪
𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠: ⭐️⭐️⭐️ - Blind date with tons of smutt
𝐒𝐩𝐢𝐜𝐞: 🌶 🌶 🌶 - so so much smutt
𝐆𝐨𝐚𝐥: 78/12
I have been on an Amy Padilla kick and reading all her books! I plan to read her barbarian series next, because who doesn’t love the sound of that!
This book was cute. There wasn’t much plot, but I am here for the smutty fluff anyway! This one was a much smaller book than the other ones I have read (182-ish pages) so it’s such a nice and easy read.
There are also a lot more heavy topics in this book than I am used to, so please be aware of that (being beaten to near death due to homophobia).
I may or may not already have the second book in the series downloaded 🤭
This book has:
🌑 Monsters
🌑 LGBTQ+
🌑 homophobia (on page jumping)
🌑 sex exploring
𝓓𝓪𝓽𝓲𝓷𝓰 𝓪 𝓓𝓮𝓶𝓸𝓷 𝓫𝔂 𝓐𝓶𝔂 𝓟𝓪𝓭𝓲𝓵𝓵𝓪
𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠: ⭐️⭐️⭐️ - Blind date with tons of smutt
𝐒𝐩𝐢𝐜𝐞: 🌶 🌶 🌶 - so so much smutt
𝐆𝐨𝐚𝐥: 78/12
I have been on an Amy Padilla kick and reading all her books! I plan to read her barbarian series next, because who doesn’t love the sound of that!
This book was cute. There wasn’t much plot, but I am here for the smutty fluff anyway! This one was a much smaller book than the other ones I have read (182-ish pages) so it’s such a nice and easy read.
There are also a lot more heavy topics in this book than I am used to, so please be aware of that (being beaten to near death due to homophobia).
I may or may not already have the second book in the series downloaded 🤭
This book has:
🌑 Monsters
🌑 LGBTQ+
🌑 homophobia (on page jumping)
🌑 sex exploring
April 2, 2024
I enjoyed Callum and Brandon. The two are good together and it was nice to see the way their relationship develops. Even though Brandon is human Callum cannot resist the attraction between them. Both men are dealing with issues of their own as they navigate their relationship and they will learn that having each other helps. Brandon is a sweetheart and goes through a lot in this story. It was nice to see Brandon grow with the support of Callum. Their story is a sweet and sexy one that is full of emotions and I was pulled into their story right from the start. The author has created an interesting world full of strong characters. Not only do Brandon and Callum shine but the supporting characters have a lot to say and I am eager to see what will happen next in this series.
May 9, 2025
Amy is a new to me author and so far I am loving her! This was such a good read! Brandon has been trying for years to get his needs met, but due to his large size everyone assumes he likes to be in charge. I love how sweet and precious Brandon is, and how Callum just loves this about him. Callum is even bigger than Brandon, but more importantly he is more than willing to take charge and give Brandon exactly what he needs. While Callum is more dominant, he still loves absolutely spoiling Brandon. They definitely hit bumps along the way to their HEA, they don’t always agree on what the right course of action is. But their love for one another is deep and real and only continues to grow as they conquer each obstacle. So good and can’t wait to read more!
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